Why do I need to read this guide?

The all-important Neighbourhood Plan Roadmap describes each stage in the plan making process so that the reader understands each necessary statutory stage, without getting too bogged down in legislation.

The Roadmap also sets out good practice based on the experience of other neighbourhood planning groups.

What will I learn from this guide?

  • Learn about each of the stages and activities required to produce a neighbourhood plan
  • Understand when and how to designate a neighbourhood area,neighbourhood forum, when to submit your plan to the local planning authority, what is required for examination and referendum
  • Understand what needs to be done once the plan comes into force

When should I read this guide?

You should read it at the start of your neighbourhood planning journey and refer back to it throughout.

Further reading

We have produced a set of guides and toolkits for more specific stages in the plan making process. The can be found in the toolkits and guidance section.

The SEA Regulations (Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations, 2004) and the Habitats Regulations (Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017) previously implemented the requirements of the SEA and Habitats Directives in England. These Regulations will continue to apply unless new legislation is introduced to withdraw or amend them.

How to create a Neighbourhood Plan: Your step by step roadmap guide (1.5MB pdf) How to create a Neighbourhood Plan: Your step by step roadmap guide (Black and white printer friendly version) (326.8KB pdf)