Neighbourhood Plan Powers In Action: Rural parish wins appeal using NPPF Paragraph 14

In a significant victory for local place-making, Burghclere Parish's Modified Neighbourhood Plan played a pivotal role in successfully resisting a speculative planning appeal for a housing development outside the village boundary for a second time. The latest appeal (APP/H1705/W/24/335058) concerning a proposed 25-dwelling scheme on land south and southeast of Harts Lane, was dismissed by the Planning Inspectorate. This decision highlights the tangible value and authority that Neighbourhood Plans can offer.

Burghclere Modified NP, 2023

At the heart of the appeal decision was Paragraph 14 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). This paragraph tilts the planning balance back in favour of the development plan where Neighbourhood Plans (including modified Neighbourhood Plans) meet certain criteria, notably where the plan has been made within the last five years and contains policies and allocations to meet its housing requirement. In this case, the Inspector determined that the proposed development conflicted directly with the Neighbourhood Plan’s defined settlement boundaries and policies aimed at preserving the character and setting of the village. Critically, the Inspector concluded that the adverse impacts of granting permission would "significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits", meaning the appeal could not succeed​.

This outcome underscores the value and importance of Neighbourhood Plans in shaping the future of communities on their terms. They offer parish and town councils a powerful tool to manage development pressure, safeguard valued local spaces and ensure that new housing and infrastructure genuinely reflect community needs.

For smaller parishes, such as Burghclere, where speculative development can disproportionately affect the fabric of local life, the benefits of having an up-to-date Neighbourhood Plan are clear. As demonstrated here, a well-prepared and timely Neighbourhood Plan not only gives communities a say but ensures that say has real weight in planning decisions.

Burghclere Parish’s success at a planning appeal highlights why adopting a Neighbourhood Plan remains one of the most influential tools in planning decisions. By engaging Paragraph 14 of the National Planning Policy Framework, the modified Neighbourhood Plan proved decisive in defending against a speculative housing proposal. This case demonstrates how Neighbourhood Plans can protect community interests, influence development decisions, and give local voices real weight in planning appeals.