WHAT IS A PARISH PLAN?
Parish Plans are about planning the future and managing change. They represent the voice of a community and they should:
Identify local problems and opportunities
Describe how residents want their community to develop in the future
Prepare an action plan to achieve this
The Parish Plan is prepared by the community for the community. It documents the past and examines the present - but is focused on the future.
Parish Plans are about action - what needs to be done and how to do it. This is contained in a report and action plan drawn up after consulting with the community.
Why produce a Parish Plan?
Parish plans give communities a voice and a means to manage change by:
Planning projects and action the local community can undertake
Bidding for funding – many funding organisations require evidence of need and community consultation
Planning and land-use issues in Parish Plans can be used as “material consideration” in planning at present and as Supplementary Planning Documents in the future
“Quality Parish” status – developing a parish plan improves the chance of accreditation
Community spirit – taps local talent and brings the community together
Who produces the Parish Plan?
The process should be carried out by a Steering Group of volunteers drawn from the wider community. This group designs and oversees the Parish Plan project, carrying out the consultation and writing the report and action which reflects the community view.
For more details about Parish Plans please contact Peter Smith
Norfolk Rural Community Council
Signpost House
Ambassador Way, Greens Road
Dereham
Norfolk NR20 3TL
Tel: 01362 698216
Email:
peter@norfolkrcc.org.uk