Parish Plans

What's it all about?

The appraisal/Parish Plan process is an opportunity to work with the whole community to deal with specific issues, and work together to find solutions to inform local decision making and planning.

Will it make a difference?

The Local Government Act 2000 and the new Rural and Urban White Papers have added real teeth and new grant aid to the community appraisal process. The Local Government Act specifically places new powers and duties on District and County Councils to promote economic, social and environmental well-being. A community appraisal/Parish Plan is the mechanism that gives you a real voice in this process.

What can it Achieve?

An appraisal/Parish Plan will give local people the chance to identify what they value about their community as well as the issues that affect them.

It can influence decisions made by Parish, District and County Councils, as well as private and public service companies.

Organisations offering grants to rural communities will want to see written evidence of need, community consultation and plans for implementing any projects before they will consider offering funding.

It is a great way to bring people together and tap into local talents and enthusiasm, and helps foster a real sense of community.