How are proposals for economic development determined?
The starting point for the determination of a planning application in West Berkshire is the development plan for West Berkshire. This comprises a suite of documents that set out our local planning policies, such as the Local Plan. National planning policies (set out in the National Planning Policy Framework) and national planning guidance (set out in the Planning Practice Guidance) are also taken into consideration, along with other material considerations.
The Local Plan covers the period to 2026 and comprises of three documents – the Core Strategy, Housing Site Allocations Development Plan Document, and the Saved Policies of the West Berkshire Local Plan 1991-2006. The Local Plan recognises the importance of retaining and safeguarding existing employment and commercial sites in the District. We need this to ensure people can live and work locally. We also make sure that our rural economy is protected by supporting the diversification of rural employment spaces.
Our policies protect existing sites and several Protected Employment Areas have been designated. These can be viewed on the West Berkshire Online Map (hint: select 'LDF' in the legend of the online map). The Local Plan also has policies which have regard to the loss and gain of employment and commercial development. It also contains policies on retail development.