A Penrith group that involves members of the community and local businesses, has officially notified Westmorland and Furness Council of its intention to work with the wider community to develop a Neighbourhood Development Order (NDO) for parts of Penrith. The initiative by Evolve Penrith aims to address what the group has said are shortcomings of the outdated Penrith Neighbourhood Plan, which was developed by the Town Council, but the group says has failed to meet the actual needs of the town or outline a clear vision for its future growth and development.
A Neighbourhood Development Order (NDO) is a planning tool that allows communities to grant planning permission for specific types of development within a defined area. It enables local people to have direct input into shaping the future of their town, ensuring that developments align with community priorities and long-term aspirations. By creating a NDO, Penrith residents and businesses will have greater control with a clear plan for the town the local community make the decision on, supporting sustainable growth and infrastructure improvements tailored to the town’s needs.
Recognising the importance of a robust and forward-thinking plan, Evolve Penrith is seeking to create a NDO that genuinely reflects the aspirations and requirements of the local community. The group will engage with residents, businesses, and stakeholders to ensure the new plan prioritises sustainable growth, economic vitality, and improved infrastructure for Penrith.
Westmorland and Furness Council, alongside its planning consultants, Bluestone Planning, has acknowledged the notification and expressed its support for the initiative. Bluestone Planning acting for Westmorland and Furness Council have pledged to assist and have offered support to Evolve Penrith as they work towards developing a comprehensive and inclusive plan for the town’s future.
As part of the process, the proposed NDO will be subject to a local referendum to ensure it has the backing of the community. Evolve Penrith hopes that the work to create the NDO and the referendum will provide a clear opportunity for both local businesses and residents to have a direct say in shaping the future of the town.
"With the government pushing for millions of new houses to be built across the country, it is vital that Penrith has a plan in place to ensure that as thousands of new homes inevitably come to the town through national policy, the necessary infrastructure and facilities are developed to support this growth," a Spokesperson for Evolve Penrith said. "The Neighbourhood Development Order will seek to ensure that new homes are built in a way that benefits the wider community, enhancing Penrith in areas that have community support and addressing key local priorities such as transport, schools, healthcare, and public amenities,"
“This is an exciting opportunity for Penrith to take charge of its own development in a way that truly reflects the needs and aspirations of its residents,”
“We believe that by working together with the community, we can create a plan that fosters economic growth, enhances public spaces, and ensures a sustainable and vibrant future for Penrith.” they added.
The process will involve extensive community consultation, workshops, and public engagement to gather input and ideas from all sectors of the town. Evolve Penrith is encouraging residents, businesses and local organisations to get involved and participate in shaping a shared plan for the town’s future.
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