WEST Berkshire Council has been given a stinging rebuke from the government over its intent to withdraw a local plan.
The council changed from being under Conservative control to Lib Dem in May’s local election, and the new administration has been attempting to change the policies over housebuilding.
But Lee Rowley, the minister for housing, planning and building safety, said the council’s last draft local plan was in 2012, meaning it is out of date.
He called on the council not to withdraw from the plan, to give monthly updates, and to ensure modifications made by the planning inspector are adopted.
The council has until January 12 to set out any ‘exceptional circumstances’ which it would diverge from this order.
“The Government is clear that local plans are at the heart of the planning system, and it is essential that up-to-date plans are in place and are kept up to date,” he wrote.
Responding, Cllr Lee Dillon, Leader of West Berkshire Council, said: “It is bitterly disappointing that central Government has intervened to prevent the council from withdrawing this flawed Local Plan, which doesn’t provide for the future of our villages and leaves our towns overburdened with little infrastructure gain.
“A fresh start for the plan would allow the council to address the concerns raised by our residents to the plan.
“It means that the course for future development in West Berkshire will be determined by Westminster and not by us.
“Local decisions should be made by local people, and we want our communities to feel that they have a strong voice on what happens in their district.”
The Council says it will take legal advice and consider its response to the letter.
The issue was discussed at an extraordinary council meeting held on Tuesday, December 19.
