Decision details

The Cabinet considered the report of the Chief Executive which provided details of the key issues arising from the receipt of the Inspector’s Initial Findings on the Local Plan, and sought approval to publish the proposed Modifications for 6 weeks consultation, alongside the Sustainability Appraisal and the Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Local Plan (Modifications). Any comments received would be submitted to the Inspector following the conclusion of the consultation period.

Decision Made:

That the Council be recommended to:

(1)     note the key issues arising from the Inspector’s Initial Findings;

(2)     accept the Inspector’s Initial Findings as the basis for preparing Modifications to the Local Plan;

(3)     authorise the publication of the Modifications (both Main and Additional Modifications) for comment, alongside the Sustainability Appraisal and the Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Local Plan (Modifications);

(4)     grant delegated powers to the Chief Planning Officer, in consultation with the Cabinet Member - Planning and Building Control, to make minor editorial changes and any changes required by the Planning Inspectorate or as a result of changes to Government guidance to the Modifications before they are published; and

(5)     following the end of the consultation period, authorise the proposed Modifications to be submitted to the Inspector appointed by the Secretary of State to examine the Sefton Local Plan, together with all comments received.

Reasons for Decision:

To brief Members on the issues arising from the Local Plan Inspector’s Initial Findings, and to seek approval to publish the proposed Modifications to the Local Plan for consultation, alongside the Sustainability Appraisal and the HRA of the Local Plan (Modifications).

Alternative Options Considered and Rejected:

None. This is a statutory process that has to be followed as part of the process of securing a ‘sound’ Local Plan which the Council can adopt.