Neighbourhood Planning
Introduction
Acol Village is embarking on an important journey by considering the development of a Neighbourhood Plan. Let’s delve into the reasons behind this initiative:
- Maximising Influence on Development:
- The Neighbourhood Plan serves as a powerful tool for communities to shape their local area’s future. By creating one, Acol can maximise its influence on any development affecting the parish.
- While Acol currently enjoys a lack of planned or ongoing development, it’s essential not to assume that this status quo will persist. Having a Neighbourhood Plan in place ensures that the community has a say in any future changes.
- Farmland Under Siege:
- Across Thanet, the bulldozers advance, converting fertile fields into housing estates. The sacrifice of farmland is a reality.
- Acol, cocooned by this green expanse, must act. The small wedge that will separate it from Birchington after already approved development has been completed symbolises our vulnerability.
- Community Consultation and Involvement:
- Neighbourhood planning must exemplify community consultation and involvement. Other communities have faced challenges when insufficient participation led to failed Neighbourhood Plans, resulting in external bodies and developers wielding more power.
- Acol’s success will hinge on the initial response to the 2024 Household Survey and be built upon by ongoing community involvement and consultation. Data collected from will be anonymised and used to understand the needs and views of the community.
- The Voice of the Community:
- A Neighbourhood Plan isn’t merely ink on paper; it’s the voice of Acol’s people. It elevates their whispers to a chorus.
- When local planners deliberate, Acol’s voice will resonate alongside theirs. It’s about parity and influence—a seat at the table where decisions shape the landscape.
- Budget and Resources:
- Acol Parish Council acknowledges that developing a Neighbourhood Plan is no small feat, especially for such a small community.
- To minimise expense, it aims to leverage work done locally (especially in Birchington) to inform its planning. However, additional professional assistance will be necessary as the process progresses, with grant funding sought to support this work.
- Urgent Requirement:
- The Parish Council considers the Neighbourhood Plan an urgent requirement. It provides a framework for Acol to proactively address any future changes and maintain control over its destiny.
In summary, Acol’s Neighbourhood Plan is a collaborative effort to safeguard the village’s character, environment, and well-being. By actively participating in this process, Acol residents can shape their community’s future for the better.
As the work proceeds, we will use these pages to publish what we’ve learned, continue to seek feedback, and hone our plans. Villagers’ discussion, views and comments are welcome at any time through the website contact facility and at Parish Council meetings and other village events.
