Havering Conservative Councillors Say Forums Are Needed To Give Residents A Stronger Voice In Planning Matters.

Local Democracy reporter Sebastian Mann today writes:

The Havering Conservatives, who form the official opposition to the Havering Residents Association (HRA), have called for neighbourhood plans to be implemented across the borough.

Neighbourhood plans are developed by neighbourhood forums, made up of people who live and work in a certain area, with a view to improving the social, economic and environmental standing of their area. They need a minimum of 21 members and a written constitution behind them.

There are currently no such forums in the borough.

Tory councillor David Taylor said Local Plans – which are used to guide housing, commercial and infrastructure development across London boroughs – are “less democratic and a top-down document”.

He said: “Very often they are too broad and just can’t get into the detail we need. Only by implementing a neighbourhood plan can we give power to local communities, to shape development in their area.”

He added: “Residents must be given a say over whether a developer builds flats or houses, whether buildings blend in or stand out, and they must be given control over specific sites that will have an impact on their lives.”

However, the council says that neighbourhood plans would ultimately still need to conform to the wider vision for the borough.

Councillor Graham Williamson, cabinet member for regeneration, said the Tories were “suggesting it can decide what development can take place within an area,” which was “unrealistic as neighbourhood plans do not have the power to block or dictate a form of development.

“They are designed to guide development, not halt it. It’s also worth noting that the previous Conservative administration was against them so this seems like a shift in policy.”

He added: “We do not currently have any forums. However, if one was set up, with the intention of preparing a neighbourhood plan, then we would certainly offer appropriate advice and support.

Councillors approved a much-delayed ‘masterplan’ for Romford last September, which aims to revitalise the town centre by boosting its economy and retail sector. A particular emphasis has been placed on improving the High Street, attracting businesses from both Essex and London, and fostering a “safe and attractive” night-time economy.

At the time, Cllr Williamson called it a “blueprint for sustainable growth that respects our rich heritage while paving the way for a dynamic future”.

Cllr Taylor said the updated plans were “great” but “we need the fine details too”.

“The current plans just don’t go far enough,” he added.

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