Over 3,400 people have signed a petition calling on the Government to reverse recent cuts to funding designed to empower communities in shaping local development. James Derounian, a resident of Winchcombe, initiated the petition in response to the Government’s decision to axe grants for neighbourhood plans and technical support, as part of the latest spending review.
Neighbourhood plans give parish and town councils a greater voice in directing development within their communities. Until recently, councils could apply for financial support to develop these plans. With the funding removed, Mr Derounian fears many communities will lose the ability to engage meaningfully in local planning, undermining the principles of Localism just as they are beginning to yield results.
Liberal Democrat MP Cameron Thomas, representing the area, has also voiced strong opposition to the cuts, labeling them a “false economy.” He stresses that without government support, communities will struggle to resist speculative development and miss opportunities to invest in infrastructure and preserve local character.
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Mr Derounian highlights a particular concern for deprived or rural areas, which stand to be disproportionately disadvantaged by the withdrawal of funds. Meanwhile, developers may gain disproportionate influence over local planning decisions just as central and regional planning efforts are being streamlined.
“Why kill the goose that lays the golden egg?” Mr Derounian asks, referring to neighbourhood plans’ crucial role in delivering housing, particularly affordable homes, which the government itself prioritizes.
The Tewkesbury Borough Council leader, Richard Stanley, echoes this disappointment. Representing one of the fastest-growing regions, he emphasizes the importance of robust neighbourhood plans for long-term planning and managing government-set housing targets. He believes strong local plans, supported by government funding, are essential to meet future growth responsibly.
The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government states that neighbourhood plans remain a valuable tool and communities are encouraged to prepare them if they see fit. However, no new central funding will be provided following the spending review, with the expectation that neighbourhood planning efforts will be sustained without government financial support. Ongoing technical support awarded prior to the cuts will continue through March 2026.
A spokesperson from the Ministry said: “Despite inheriting a housing crisis, the government is committed to delivering 1.5 million homes through our Plan for Change. Local input remains critical in deciding how these homes are built. Around two-thirds of councils still lack a Local Plan, which is undemocratic, and we are urging councils to adopt or develop up-to-date plans that meet community needs.
“Neighbourhood plans can contribute a great deal and we believe the sector should now be able to sustain itself without further government funding. We encourage communities to proceed with neighbourhood planning where it suits their interests.”