To consider a report on the above.

The Council considered the submitted report outlining applications for neighbourhood planning areas for Torquay, Paignton and Brixham and constitutions submitted by their respective Forums.  It was noted the Localism Act 2011 introduced neighbourhood plans as a tool for shaping the development and growth of a local area and would be part of the development plan and local plan.  A revised officer recommendation was tabled at the meeting.

It was proposed by Councillor Thomas (D) and seconded by Councillor Morey:

(i)         that the Neighbourhood Plan areas and forums of Torquay, Paignton and Brixham, and their constitutions, be approved subject to the Executive Head for Spatial Planning (in consultation with the Group Leaders and Executive Lead for Strategic Planning, Housing and Energy) being able to withdraw this approval with immediate effect in respect of any Forum in the event of any of the following applying to that Forum; 

(a)       the Forum is not able to demonstrate that they have at least 21 members who live or work in the area, or are elected councillors;

(b)       the Forum is not acting in accordance with its constitution; and

(c)        the Forum has failed to comply with a reasonable direction of the Executive Head, Spatial Planning within a reasonable period from such direction being made;

(ii)        that all Neighbourhood Forums be instructed that the Council may choose not to advertise a submitted plan or put it forward for examination, if the matters referred to in paragraph 3.9 of the submitted report  and (i) above are not addressed to the satisfaction of the Executive Head for Spatial Planning in consultation with the Group Leaders and Executive Lead for Strategic Planning Housing and Energy;  and

(iii)       that Local Councillors should take a lead role in ensuring each Neighbourhood Forum meets the terms of its constitution, the requirements of the Localism Act and National Planning Policy Framework and meets or exceeds the requirements of the new Local Plan.

On being put to the vote, the motion was declared carried (unanimous).