MEMBERS of a Petersfield watchdog group attended a conference aimed at clarifying local planning and neighbourhood plans.
The Petersfield Society was formed in 1945 and describes itself as a watchdog group dedicated to enhancing life in the town and surrounding villages.
Society members and representatives from East Hampshire District Council and South Downs National Park Authority, joined other delegates from local councils to discuss planning issues.
The conference at Sparsholt College near Winchester on Thursday, October 5, was organised by the Hampshire branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE).
Called ‘Planning our future – what are the best options for local communities,’ it attracted a mix of individuals and groups representing communities at all levels of local government, from parish to county.
Most delegates at the Hampshire County Council supported event were about to start developing a neighbourhood plan, or alternative planning solution for their area.
CPRE Hampshire Chief Executive, Charlee Bennett said: “It was a brilliant morning with 34 parish councils as well as district, borough and county representation from across Hampshire, joining us to have an honest conversation about how best to plan for their areas.
“One highlight was Ann Skippers, she gave a government examiner’s perspective on neighbourhood plans and her top tips on how to be successful at examination, vital information for those working on one.”
To access the conference presentation material, contact CPRE Hampshire on 01962 841897. Follow the charity on Twitter @CPRE_Hampshire for snippets and tips from the day.