We have a number of Neighbourhood Plans that have been examined and have been modified by the examiners. They could in theory go to referendum, as the LPA also agree with the modifications suggested. They have stalled, however, as the Parish Councils are not happy with the amount and type of modifications made (deletions of policies in many cases).
All I can find in the legislation is that LPAs should be satisfied that each of the recommended modifications made by the examiner meet the basic conditions. If they do not then they can make changes to ensure the plan or policy meets the basic conditions, inviting representations and may refer the plan to be examined again.
We work proactively with our Parishes and do not want to take plans forward that Parishes are not happy with, but we have to work within the regulations. I would be very interested to hear of any other local authorities that have or are planning to go against an examiner's recommendations (even in part) and what process you used. Do you make the agreed modifications but allow the ones in duspute to be amended by the Parish Council and go back to submission consultation stage? When do you issue a decision statement? Any help would be appreciated...
