Policy M2 of the Joint Minerals Local Plan (adopted in July 2018) requires us to undertake a review of the approach to planning for soft sand.
The review considers:
- the supply and demand of soft sand during the plan period to 2033
- how a steady and adequate supply will be maintained, including the need for site allocations.
The timetable for preparation of the review is set out in the Minerals and Waste Development Scheme.
Proposed modifications - 9 November 2020 to 8 January 2021
Following submission of the Soft Sand Review in April 2020, public examination hearings took place between 25 and 27 August virtually via video link.
Following the hearing sessions, the Planning Inspector suggested that modifications are required to ensure the Soft Sand Review is sound. The County Council and South Downs National Park Authority prepared these modifications, which were subject to a period of representations in accordance with Regulation 19 of the Town and Country (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 between 9 November 2020 and 8 January 2021. The schedule of modifications and relevant documents can be found below.
The representations received have been submitted to the Planning Inspector, who is now considering them. He will either require further hearing sessions or will issue his final report on the ‘soundness’ of the Soft Sand Review. If found sound, the authorities will be able to adopt the Soft Sand Review.
- Proposed Modifications (PDF, 1MB)
- Addendum to Sustainability Appraisal on proposed modifications (PDF, 403KB)
- Addendum to the Habitats Regulation Assessment on proposed modifications (PDF, 161KB)
Examination document library
An examination document library is available and includes links to all the submission documents and background evidence. This is a living document and has been updated throughout the examination. It also includes detailed maps and aerial photographs of the three potential site allocations under the section ‘Council Documents’.
Examination of the draft Soft Sand Review
Mr Brian Sims (BSc CEng MICE MRTPI) is the Planning Inspector conducting the examination to decide whether the Soft Sand Review is considered ‘sound’. He has issued a guidance note and a schedule of matters for consideration. These are available to view in the examination document library above.
An independent programme officer was appointed to guide the review through the examination and to act as a conduit to the planning inspector. Any queries about the public examination or hearing sessions should be directed to the programme officer:
- Programme officer: Chris Banks
- Email: bankssolutionsuk@gmail.com
- Phone: 01903 783722
- Mobile: 07817 322750
If you are having difficulty accessing any documents electronically, please email mwdf@westsussex.gov.uk.