On Tuesday 2nd April, the HRTC Planning committee used the Neighbourhood Plan (NP) in an effort to protect the development of a small part of Dog Kennel Down (DKD) in a planning application. It is thought to be the first time the Town Council has used the NP in this way.
DKD is one of the protected green spaces named in the document.
Policy GSR3: Local Green Spaces states:
“Development within the Local Green Spaces will not be supported except in very special circumstances.”
In fact, the Neighbourhood Plan has not been fully approved yet with a referendum for its adoption pending, but this episode should convince all residents that it is worthwhile turning out to vote when they get the opportunity.
Cllr Chris Slough (Chair) said that the Neighbour Plan is an example of Houghton at its best, with volunteers working together, patiently over a number of years to achieve a goal that will benefit the town in years to come. The community owe them a debt of gratitude.
You can have your say on the adoption of the Neighbourhood Plan on Thursday 2nd May. You can read a copy of the plan here: https://www.houghtonregis.org.uk/neighbourhood-plan
