Would you like to know how development planning works and how you can help to influence it?

Do you want to know what effect the Localism Bill will have on the future of planning and development? Would you be interested in creating new neighbourhood plans to empower local communities?

The Island branch of the Campaign for the Protection of Rural England and the Island Association of Local Councils are planning a free conference on the future of development planning on Saturday November 26th at the Riverside Centre, Newport, from 10.30am to 4pm.

The morning session is intended for those who have no background in how the current planning system works. Expert speakers will provide short clear explanations of the planning application system, the conservation rules, housing and affordable housing needs and the demands of rural and urban economic development.

People attending the morning session can stay for lunch and attend the afternoon session too. There will be a display of stalls by organisations with an interest in the local planning process, a chance to find out more.

The afternoon session is intended for those curious about the potential effect of the Localism Bill an in particular the proposed Neighbourhood Plans to be drawn up at parish level. More expert speakers will talk on the current Island Plan and there will be a series of workshops to explore the issues in more detail.

Thanks to financial support from the Department of Communities and Local Government this is a free conference.

If you or your organisation is interested to be there please get in touch with John Medland on 01983 753467 or email [email protected].

Image: Will Scullin under CC BY 2.0