Importantly, this appeal was determined as the Stoke Poges Neighbourhood Plan (with its Design Code) was being formally made by Buckinghamshire Council. We made clear this meant that the Plan carried full weight and the Inspector specifically referenced the conflicts with its policies. This is another example of the strength in neighbourhood plans and local design codes in shaping planning outcomes.

A fourth consecutive appeal on the same site, for much the same scheme, at Five Acres in Newport, Essex has been dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate. Newport Parish Council had submitted their own representation opposing the scheme and ONH was then instructed to represent their case the informal appeal hearing.

We are delighted to announce that The Farnhams Neighbourhood Plan has passed its referendum, following a resounding 92% ‘yes’ vote. This marks a significant milestone for the community, ensuring that future development in Farnham Royal and Farnham Common will be shaped by local priorities and aspirations. The Plan has been the result of close collaboration between the Parish Council, a dedicated steering group of local residents, and the team at ONH.

Looking for expert advice on how to engage young people in co-designing your planning project? We can offer advice and additional support in securing meaningful and positive engagement with young people in your area.

New research: While neighbourhood planning is fundamentally community-led, the study highlights how professional support is often crucial to translating grassroots energy into effective, deliverable plans.

In today’s planning environment, collaboration is not a luxury — it is essential. Whether navigating neighbourhood planning, or engaging with developers and local authorities, in many cases it falls to town and parish councils to ensure that decisions made about the future of its settlement delivers local community value. Some go as far as bringing together residents, local authorities and developers to shape shared futures. Something devolution will make more important.

ONH have been working with Nailsea to identify the best options to improve community facilities in the area.

How can NDOs transform community spaces? Blacon, Cheshire explore their options to creative community hubs and fulfil local need.

Neighbourhood plans can deliver community infrastructure - but what else needs to be in place to create a successful project?

You may have read some rather dismissive comments on planningblogs about neighbourhood plans recently. Some commentators ask what is the...

ONH: Planning for Good has been awarded the Royal Town Planning Institute Award for Small Planning Consultancy of the Year, South East

ONH have a social mission of supporting local communities in the English planning system. A first social impact statement has been published