What is a Neighbourhood Plan?
It is a community-led framework for guiding the future development and growth of an area.

What is a Neighbourhood Plan not?
It can't conflict with national and local planning policies.

Why do we need a Neighbourhood Plan?
Woolpit is under pressure to provide sites for house building. A plan would give us a say in what happens.

What can you do about the planning applications?
At the moment, each developer submits their plans to MSDC and the normal planning process is followed.

Why do we need more housing in Woolpit?
Woolpit's own Housing Needs Survey showed that there is a need for more affordable homes in the parish.

How can we stop more development in the village?
We can't stop it. MSDC policy currently allocates 750 houses to the 13 Key Service Centre villages (Woolpit is one). This is a minimum number.

What difference will the Neighbourhood Plan make?
Neighbourhood planning lets our community play a role in shaping the area where we live and work.

What will the Neighbourhood Plan cover?
Where and what type of development should happen in Woolpit, and related issues like transport and access; education, health and community facilities; protection of natural and historic assets; and renewable energy.

Can we do anything we want through the Neighbourhood Plan?
Everything in the plan must be based on what the community wants, backed by evidence. At the same time, it must conform to MSDC planning guidelines, and be viable and sustainable.

Who is responsible for producing our Neighbourhood Plan?
Woolpit Parish Council.

What happens next?
We have to consult the community in Woolpit, and carry out a questionnaire.

What will the questionnaire be about?
That will depend on the issues we identify as important to the community.

We should make more provision for ..., how is the Neighbourhood Plan going to do that?
The aim of the plan is to create a thriving community by making sure development is appropriate.

What is meant by sustainable development?
Sustainable development is about ensuring a better quality of life for everyone, now and for generations to come.

Why is it good for business?
Businesses can say what they need: buildings, facilities and uses.

Why is it good for residents?
The Neighbourhood Plan will help ensure Woolpit remains an attractive area to live and work.

How long will it take to produce our Neighbourhood Plan?
Probably about two years.

What will happen once a Neighbourhood Plan is adopted?
Planning applications will have to conform to our Neighbourhood Plan as well as the Local Plan.

If the plan is adopted, how will our policies be enforced?
Planning permission would normally be refused if it doesn't conform with the policies in our Neighbourhood Plan.

How can I keep in the picture as the development of the Plan progresses?
News is posted on the website. You can sign up for our mailing list. Anyone can attend the meetings of the Steering Group (4th Monday, 7.30 pm in the Institute).

How can I help?
Please sign up to join our group of volunteer helpers. Email Richard Mawhood at puffin.cix@gmail.com