As we are approaching half-way through the term of the Alliance Group’s time in office at County Hall, News OnTheWight approached each of the Cabinet members offering an opportunity to highlight the work of their portfolio and their hopes for the coming year.
We began with Isle of Wight council leader, Lora Peacey-Wilcox, followed by Cllr Jonathan Bacon and Cllr Julie Jones-Evans.
Up next is Cllr Paul Fuller, whose portfolio covers Planning and Enforcement. In his own words. Ed
Work continues with residents and stakeholders to issue a plan (which will be used as the development bible) that is acceptable to Isle of Wight councillors and the communities we are elected to serve.
Within the Planning Strategy there are policies that prioritises lower housing figures (Government suggests the Island should develop 730 units per year, the IPS suggests 479), affordable housing for local people and prioritising the development of brown field sites over green field sites.
Following feedback received, new policies were created and added to strengthening further infrastructure needs, the economy and our environment. Although there continues to be some items within the Strategy of concern, these need to be evidenced based, defendable and consistent to meet Government Planning Policy for the next stage of engagement with the Government Inspector.
Minister’s statement strengthens work of Planning Team
A few weeks ago, Michael Gove the Minister for Levelling Up announced through a Ministerial Statement, pending revisions in a new ‘NPPF Prospectus’. This is due to be issued before Christmas giving greater clarity on substance and timeframes for implementation.
With many of the issues being suggested, the Isle of Wight council was prepared, and has already included policies within the Strategy. From my position the welcomed minister’s statement can only strengthen the work the Planning Team have undertaken in the past few years.
Planning Peer Review
This year the Isle of Wight council’s Planning Service undertook a Local Government Association Peer Review with stakeholders to make improvements to the service.
One of the major issues highlighted, was the limited size of the team and how this impacted upon the council’s ability to process applications. As a result, through recruitment the Team are in a stronger position with backlogs (although still an issue) being reduced.
In addition, training, support for stakeholders and dialogue with applicants have improved. On a personal basis, I have requested improvements on the interface the Planning department has with the wider community.
Planning Enforcement
Planning Enforcement is another area that has been supported, through work with local town and parish councils.
Most notably, my gratitude to Newport and Carisbrooke Community Council who have offered their support for a new officer to join the team.
If this scheme proves successful, I am hoping the this can potentially be rolled elsewhere.
Best wishes for the coming year
In the meantime my continued thanks and best wishes for the coming year, to our communities, our councillors, our stakeholders and our Planning Team.
