CIVIC chiefs have approved the process of how the council engages with residents and businesses over planning. 

The statement of community involvement describes how people can get involved in creating local planning policy.

Winchester City Council's cabinet approved the latest report, on Wednesday, January 24. 

A six-week public consultation was held last year. 

Cllr Jackie Porter, cabinet member for place and local plan, said: “The purpose of this is that it sets out how residents and businesses can be involved in the local planning process and engaging with it. 

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“Many people find it a difficult process. The statement of community involvement needs updating every five years. 

“It's important that people understand that the whole process is included, from local plan level to decision making at planning committee. 

“The statement of community involvement starts now, not after the next local plan. This is a current document which will be updated on a regular basis.”

Cllr Michael Read, Conservative, had concerns: “I welcome the report itself, but it's warts and all. Some minor errors have been overlooked. There are a number of typographical errors, I hope the final report will read accurately. The pagination is also poor. One page has one word on it.”

Cllr Porter said: “It's not the final pagination, so that will be resolved. The report makes clear how we will work with people without internet access. People can call the planning department with any queries.”

Council leader Martin Tod said: “It's good to see the council's commitment to openness and transparency is still in place. I would like to thank the team for the great work done on this consultation. It's important to make sure the views of local people are heard.”

The latest statement of community involvement was unanimously approved.