1 Introduction

1.1 The Cheshire West and Chester Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) 2022 sets out how the Council involves key stakeholders and local communities in the preparation of planning policy and when determining planning applications. This includes:

• Future updates to our Local Plan and/or other development plan documents
• Other supporting planning documents such as Supplementary Planning Documents
• Providing support to local communities working on neighbourhood plans
• Community Infrastructure Levy
• Determining planning applications

1.2 The Council is required to prepare and maintain a SCI by the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. The SCI reflects the requirements of the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012, as amended by the Town and Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2017, the Localism Act 2011 and the National Planning Policy Framework. 

1.3 A review of the SCI is required every 5 years under the 2012 regulations, to ensure it complies with statutory requirements and is up to date. This SCI replaces the previous SCI (2017) and reflects latest Government policy and guidance. 

1.4 Due to the impact of the coronavirus pandemic in 2021, the Government introduced some temporary changes relating to how consultations could be undertaken and the physical inspection of documents. Other restrictions such as social distancing affected the ability to hold face to face events or meetings. Should Government guidance change again in the future these changes will be implemented locally and will replace the requirements set out in this updated SCI. 

1.5 The updated SCI (2022) considers current best practice and the benefits of new digital/online technology and communication tools to ensure consultations are wide reaching and cost-effective. Whilst digital engagement methods are encouraged, alternative methods will also be available as mitigation for those without access to online services. This SCI sets out a range of consultation methods that may be used in Plan preparation. The methods used will depend on the type of document, stage of the process and resources available. It provides realistic expectations for our consultees of the planning system and processes.

Why is involving the community important? 

1.6 Consultation and engagement are high priorities for Cheshire West and Chester in all areas including the preparation of the Local Plan. The planning system includes a strong emphasis on continuous community involvement and planning at a local level which is intended to make the plan preparation process more inclusive and accessible. The aim of greater community involvement is to strengthen the engagement of local people in the development of planning policy and provide opportunities for them to shape the place in which they live to create better and more sustainable communities