Leeds village wins powerful new say over housing, green spaces and future development
New neighbourhood plan set to launch for north Leeds village
Villagers will get a greater say on building projects after an overwhelming vote in favour of a localised planning policy.
The Thorner Neighbourhood Plan will be used to help decide future planning applications in the east Leeds community.
A local referendum saw 92 per cent of people in the village vote in favour of the proposal.
A Leeds City Council report said the scheme was set up in collaboration with Thorner Parish Council.
It said: “It promotes opportunities for communities to get involved in and shape the development of their areas over the long term.
“Through the process, communities can influence and encourage the development of healthy places in accordance with locally-set priorities.”
Some 460 people took part in the local referendum in February, with 92.8 per cent voting in favour.
It means the Thorner Neighbourhood Plan, which sets out which sets out policies on green spaces, retail development, transport and housing. is formally made part of the overall development plan for Leeds, the report said.
It said: “As well as local consultation, the neighbourhood plan has been prepared collaboratively with the council.
“There has been an excellent working relationship throughout the preparation of the plan.”
The cost of the referendum and drawing up the plan could be recovered from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.
The report said: “A claim of £20,000 for the Thorner Neighbourhood Plan has been submitted. “