Decision details

The Cabinet Member with the Economy Portfolio introduced the report (previously circulated) of the Chief Executive requesting that consideration be given to the revised timetable for commencing a review of the existing Local Plan rather than look to produce a separate Climate Change Development Plan Document (DPD) and to consult on an updated Design of New Development Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) alongside this process.

The submitted report stated that the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) made in December 2024, required all local planning authorities to produce an updated Local Development Scheme (LDS) by no later than 6 March 2025.  The LDS sets out the planning policy documents that the Council would prepare over the next three years; when the key stages or preparation would be; the scope of each document; and the resources available for, and risks to, their preparation.

It was reported that an up-to-date Local Plan was essential to meet the development needs of the Borough and to enable the Council to shape and maintain control of development; it was a framework for growth; it set out how Darlington would grow, adapt and change and importantly how this would be achieved and managed; provided the Council with the required spatial guidance and direction to contribute to and enable the structured development of the Borough in support of both the Council’s drive for a growing economy, building stronger communities and creating opportunities for all; stated the the current Plan had been adopted in February 2022 covering the period 2016 to 2036; and highlighted the benefits of an early review.

RESOLVED - That the Local Development Scheme (2025-2028), as appended to the submitted report, be approved to take immediate effect.

REASON - The Council is required to have an up-to-date Local Development Scheme (Planning & Compulsory Act 2004, as amended by Section 111, Localism Act 2011).