Neighbourhood Planning in Cabinet Spotlight

South Tyneside Council's Cabinet will be asked to renew the East Boldon Neighbourhood Forum to allow it to continue to carry out planning activity in that part of the Borough.

Neighbourhood forums were created Under the localism Act 2011 to allow communities to produce neighbourhood plans.

The East Boldon Neighbourhood Forum was designated the Council in January 2018, however the designation only lasts five years.

Neighbourhood plans allow residents to influence the type, design and mix of new development and open spaces, however it must be in line with the Council's strategic Local Plan.

Cllr Margaret Meling, Lead Member for Economic Growth, Skills and Climate Change, said: "Neighbourhood Planning provides an opportunity for communities to actively influence the type, design, location and mix of new development in their local area, in addition to getting involved with the preparation of the Local Plan.

"However, a Neighbourhood Forum must be formally designated by the council before it can carry out any planning activity.

"The proposed Forum is considered appropriate and satisfy the legal requirements."

The report will be heard at the next meeting of South Tyneside Council's Cabinet on Wednesday 4 January.