Local authorities are now required to undertake a ‘whole plan viability assessment’ where they need to assess the cumulative impacts on development in their area of all policies and requirements that impact on the viability of development.  A key issue that local authorities are facing is how viability testing sits within the wider NPPF requirement of both sustainable development and statutory responsibilities around planning for climate change.

As part of this, you are invited to join CLASP and PAS at a special workshop event for local authorities, local enterprise partnerships and their partners to: 

• Provide an overview of the role of whole plan viability and experience to date in justifying environmental policies.
• Share information and experiences about viability testing including examples from local authorities.
• Explore how and if these approaches could be applied to your area and what type of support is available.

This event is aimed at officers and members in planning, building control, sustainability and other local authority departments involved in the planning and plan viability process.

DRAFT AGENDA

13.00  Registration, Tea and Coffee Available

13.30  Welcome and Introductions

13.40  Whole Plan Viability – Lessons Learned So Far

David Carlisle (URS) and Simon Drummond-Hay (HDH)

• Introduction to viability policy and guidance.
• The cumulative impact of policies and competitive returns.
• The mechanics of viability and consideration of environmental policies and evidence.
• Lessons learned from practice.

14.40  Discussion Session

15.00  Refreshment Break

15.20  Local Authority Case Studies

A series of local authority case study presentations including:

• Rossendale Borough Council
• Lancaster City Council
• Sefton Council

16.00  Discussion Session

• Key points to consider when preparing whole plan viability assessments.
• Policy development and experience at Examination.
• What other guidance is available and what additional support is required?

16.20  Summary and Concluding Remarks

16.30  Close of Main Session