Members’ approval was sought to publish and then submit the Site Specifics Policies and Proposals document, to include any Cabinet recommendations and those changes required to satisfy the Habitats Regulations.

That the publication of the Site Specifics Policies and Proposals document be deferred and a LDF Task & Finish Group meeting be convened as quickly as possible to discuss the discrepancies raised within the document.  A Special Cabinet meeting to consider the findings of the Task & Finish Group would be arranged if necessary.

Members were asked to approve Option A of the report in order to allow the timely progression of a sound development framework for the market towns, Local Service Centres and villages.

Option A

Members agree that the Council publishes the Site Specific Policies and Proposals document, including Cabinet recommendations and any amendments necessary for Appropriate Assessment, for a period of at least six weeks.  Members further agree to submit the Site Specific Policies and Proposals document to the Secretary of State for an examination in Public by a Government appointed Inspector whose report would be binding on the authority unless comments received during the six weeks of pre-submission publication indicate that the document is unsound and should be withdrawn.

Option B

Members do not agree that the Council publish the Site Specifics Policies and Proposals document, including amendments.  Members further not agree to submit the Site Specifics Policies and Proposals document to the Secretary of State for an Examination in Public by a Government appointed Inspector.