Appendix F

Local Plan Task Group Terms of Reference – June 2026

Responsibilities

The role of the Local Plan Task Group is to:

1. Advise Environment & Sustainability Committee on all matters relating to the review of the Local Plan.

2. Provide in-depth consideration of the issues in terms of planning policy.

3. Provide in-depth consideration of the proposed site allocations as part of the review of the Local Plan.

4. Receive detailed briefings in order to develop an understanding of often complex issues.

5. Reach conclusions based on the briefings and then make recommendations to Environment & Sustainability Committee.

Membership June 2026

· Chair of Environment & Sustainability Committee

· Vice Chair of Environment & Sustainability Committee

· One ward Councillor from each of the 13 wards

The Local Plan Task Group is to be a cross-party task group.  Members do not necessarily need to be drawn from the E&S committee. 

 Political proportionality does not apply. 

There will be no substitutions

Chair

Chair of Environment & Sustainability Committee

Vice Chair

 Vice Chair of Environment & Sustainability Committee

Decisions

The Working Party has no executive decision-making powers over policy matters. Such decisions are made by Environment and Sustainability Committee/Council as appropriate.

The Group should aim to deliver a consensual view to Environment and Sustainability Committee. Where this is not possible it should aim to report fairly on the divergent views of the group. Voting is not considered appropriate or necessary. 

Confidentiality

Meetings are not open to the public and papers are confidential so enable free and open discussions on confidential matters before making recommendations.