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Parish Plans and Village Design Statements

The Council is keen to assist local communities in the production of community planning documents, such as Village Design Statements and Parish Plans. These pages provide an introduction to the process and an overview of the role of the documents within the planning system as well as step-by-step guidance as to how a Design Statement or Parish Plan could typically be undertaken. They are intended to act as a resource providing information and guidance but are not intended to replace direct contact with Officers - we are here to help you!

Every community is unique and, as you progress with the community planning process, the problems that you encounter may have been experienced by other groups or may require a whole new approach. We are always happy to provide advice but can also put you in touch with other organisations and community groups so that you can draw on their expertise.

If you require information which is not available from these pages, such as draft constitutions, press releases or sample questionnaires, please ask, we keep a range of examples which we are happy to provide.

The most effective community planning documents are those which are adopted or endorsed (depending on the type of document) by the District Council. In order to ensure that your document is produced in accordance with Council policy it is recommended that you contact Frank Woolston, Senior Planning Officer (Policy and Conservation) at an early stage to advise that you are commencing the process. Frank can be contacted on 01395 516551 ext 2282 or email fwoolston@eastdevon.gov.uk   Your group may wish to submit material such as questionnaires, exhibition material and agendas to the Council to demonstrate that consultation is meaningful and inclusive and then submit drafts of the document to the Council for agreement at various stages. This should ensure that final documents accord with Council policy. Examples of Villge Design Statements adopted and Parish Plans endorsed by the Council can be downloaded by clicking here.

For further guidance on Village Design Statements please click here

For further guidance on Parish Plans please click here

You may also wish to contact the Community Council of Devon - telephone 01392 383443 for advice and guidance

Page last updated on 24 May 2012