The examination of the JCS was reconvened on 29 October 2013 with Government appointed Inspector Anthony Thickett again taking the reins. He had asked for further work and evidence to be collected when the plan originally faced public examination in November 2012.
Since that time the evidence base has been updated and major modifications made to the JCS.
The role of the Inspector at the examination is to satisfy himself that the plan is sound. This means that the modifications we have proposed are supported by an evidence base, that the plan is realistic and can be delivered and complies with the National Planning Policy Framework.
The Inspector had provided a list of questions prior to the examination re-opening. Officers responded to these questions in advance and in some circumstances provided Statements of Common Ground. All of this information can be found on the Council’s website. The discussions at the examination are not formally recorded.
The Inspector carefully listened to all of the information and representations made to him. On 22nd November we received a letter from the Inspector advising us that we will receive a list of main modifications (changes to the JCS) by 13 December 2013.
We believe that this means that the Plan is basically sound but will need further changes, recommended by the Inspector. These further changes will be subject to consultation and this will take place between the end of December and January for a 7 week period. We are still hoping that the Plan will adopted by the end of March 2014.
