The Kirkheaton Neighbourhood Plan steering group was advised that a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), had to be undertaken. The officers at Kirklees Planning Department made it clear that this was required under the SEA regulations. With the help of Locality one has been commissioned

An purpose of an SEA is defined as: –

The purpose of the assessment is to avoid adverse environmental and socio-economic effects through the Neighbourhood Plan and identify opportunities to improve the environmental quality of the area covered by the Neighbourhood Plan and the quality of life of residents.

This assessment has now been received and is 111 pages long. The steering group is now reading through it and making changes to the plan where needed. We will retain the heart of the plan whilst ensuring that we heed the recommendations in the assessment. We have held remote/virtual meetings with both Kirklees and Kirkburton councils during lockdown. Once we have reviewed the plan, V9 can then be discussed and shared with all in the village.

We are also seeking advice on any other potential assessments that may be needed.

Progress remains slower than any of us is happy with, but we remain committed to ensuring that the absolute best plan is produced for our village.

Steve Booth,         Kirkheaton Future