Local Development Framework

We are now working on the Local Development Framework (LDF) one of the key plans which will guide change in Mendip over the next 20 years. The latest news about the preparation of the Local Development Framework can be found in our newsletter. Over time, as various elements of the Local Development Framework are adopted, it will replace the Mendip District Local Plan. The Local Plan is currently used by the council to set out how and where larger scale development will be built as well as being the means to consider applications for planning permission.

The Local Development Framework will conform to the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS). This plan, currently being considered by the Secretary of State, sets out the development strategy for the South West region and looks forward to 2026.

What is the Local Development Framework?

The Framework is a collection of planning documents that will shape the future of the District. It consists of the following:

Local Development Scheme

The Local Development Scheme (LDS) is the project plan for the Local Development Framework.

The LDF will, over time, grow to include a range of documents which will be prepared for different reasons and over varying timescales. Hence, it is important people can understand what the purpose of each document is and what opportunities there are to get involved. The Local Development scheme provides a concise explanation of the components of the LDF, their role and a summary of their preparation processes.

The current Local Development Scheme came into effect on 13th March 2008.

Core Strategy

The Core Strategy is currently being prepared and represents the key document in the LDF. It sets out:

• A vision and set of objectives to guide change in the District over the next 20 years.
• A strategy for the city, towns, villages and countryside, including decisions about where new development will go.
• Core policies that will help to achieve the vision and the overall strategy for Mendip, including development management policies.

Statement of Community Involvement

The Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) sets out how the Council will involve the community both in the preparation of the Framework and in decisions on planning applications. The council intends to incorporate this part of the Local Development Framework into a comprehensive Engagement Strategy during 2009 which will look more broadly at the way in which the council engages local people and organisations in shaping policies and spending.

Supplementary Planning Documents

Supplementary Planning Documents will provide more detailed guidance on some policies in the Framework, dealing with specific issues such as affordable housing and renewable energy.

Proposals Map

The Proposal Map covers the whole of the District to illustrate which policies apply to specific areas. The Proposal Map will be updated alongside appropriate component parts of the LDF as they are prepared.

LDF Supporting Documents

Other documents ensure that the LDF achieves its objectives. These include:

Annual Monitoring Report

The LDF undergoes annual monitoring and review. The purpose of this is to assess its progress against the programme in the LDS and the implementation of the policies in the Framework. The Annual Monitoring Report is submitted to the Secretary of State every December.

Sustainability Appraisal

The Sustainability Appraisal monitors and analyses the potential social, economic and environmental impacts of the Framework. The appraisal's purpose is to help inform the choices that are made in producing the Framework to ensure it contributes towards sustainable development.

Evidence Base

An evidence base, consisting of information on social, economic and environmental issues for the District is used to inform the Framework. A number of technical studies have been undertaken as part of this work.

Contact

Last Updated

30 June 2010

Page last updated on 30 June 2010