Thanks for starting this forum. We have some serious strategic
masterplans at our Committee and the pull between Developer
microplans, resident views, employer wishes and Officer silos is very
evident. We started the Committee 2 years ago with the result that
Planning decisions at our Development Management Committee became
focused on individual site decisions
In contrast Strategic Management Committee decided on major plans
such as the Masterplans for Axminster town or the major extension to
our new town of Cranbrook. We looked at any policy changes including
Supplementary Planning Documents on village development. We changed
the CIL rates. We commissioned major studies on Employment Land and
life-stage housing requirements. We reinforced policies on affordable
and accessible homes.
so with both Committees working hard and an overlap of Councillors on
both Committees, it seems Strategy can work very effectively in
harmony with Planning delivery.
Other Council's like to take strategic decisions at Cabinet level. We
prefer to spread the numbers of people involved including opposition,
go for greater transparency, but accept that more of us get the blame
if things go wrong..
