District Council explores future funding options for neighbourhood plans

Neighbourhood Planning, introduced under the Localism Act 2010, gives communities a greater say in shaping development in their area. To date, eight Neighbourhood Plans have been successfully adopted across the district, with two more nearing completion.

Neighbourhood Plans have delivered tangible benefits across the district. They help ensure that development reflects local priorities, such as protecting green spaces, supporting affordable housing, and encouraging sustainable growth. By giving residents a direct voice in shaping their communities, these plans strengthen local identity and encourage collaboration between councils, businesses, and residents.

Until recently, Neighbourhood Planning Bodies (NPBs) could access up to £10,000 in government grants. However, following a national spending review, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) announced that no new neighbourhood planning support services will be commissioned from 2025 onwards.

Councillor Claire Penny, Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Economic Growth at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Neighbourhood Plans are a vital tool for local communities to influence development and protect what matters most to them. We recognise the challenges posed by the loss of government funding and we’re committed to working with Locality and NPBs to explore sustainable solutions.”

While the District Council does receive funding for Neighbourhood Plans, this is to cover its own statutory costs, such as examinations and referendums, rather than the work of NPBs.

To help close the gap in funding, the District Council will work with Locality and NPBs to agree on clear goals and estimate costs for future neighbourhood plans. They will then look to identify and secure alternative funding options.