The Tandridge Council Planning Policy Committee meeting on 20 June 2024 covered a range of significant topics, including the 2023/24 budget out-turn, recruitment challenges in the planning team, the performance report for quarter four, the new local plan, housing delivery, planning enforcement, Gatwick Airport's development consent order, neighbourhood plans, and the High Weald AONB Management Plan. Key decisions were made on adopting the Tatsfield Neighbourhood Plan and the High Weald AONB Management Plan.

2023/24 Budget Out-turn

The committee discussed the tight financial situation, highlighting an overspend of £404,000 for the year. The appeals budget saw a significant variance of £190,000 due to higher-than-expected costs. The budget for appeals has been increased to £200,000 for 2024/25, but concerns remain about potential higher costs. The council is setting aside funding to mitigate these risks.

Recruitment Challenges

The committee addressed the ongoing challenges in recruiting planning officers, particularly for enforcement roles. The reliance on interim staff was noted, and efforts are being made to attract permanent staff through competitive salaries, welcome payments, and streamlined recruitment processes. The council is also exploring options to grow its own talent by bringing in entry-level staff and providing career progression opportunities.

Quarter Four Performance Report

The performance report for quarter four of 2023/24 showed positive results, with 89% of planning applications determined within the agreed timeframes. The council's performance exceeded the Government's required levels, and the backlog of applications is reducing. The committee discussed the importance of maintaining high-quality decision-making and the potential impact of appeals on the council's reputation and finances.

New Local Plan

The committee reviewed the new local plan and the local development scheme, which sets out the timetable for producing the plan. The plan aims to address the district's housing needs while considering constraints such as Greenbelt and infrastructure limitations. The committee acknowledged the uncertainty due to potential changes in national planning policy following the upcoming general election.

Housing Delivery Test Action Plan

The Housing Delivery Test Action Plan was discussed, highlighting the challenges in meeting the district's housing targets. The council's five-year housing land supply is currently 1.92 years, but this is expected to improve once section 106 agreements are finalized. The committee emphasized the need to continue using the interim policy statement for housing delivery and to work on a new local plan to address housing needs.

Planning Enforcement Policy

The committee adopted a revised planning enforcement policy, aiming to set realistic priorities and timescales for enforcement actions. The policy reflects the current workloads and resources of the enforcement team. The committee acknowledged the need for additional resources and improved communication with residents and councillors regarding enforcement actions.

Gatwick Airport Development Consent Order

The committee received an update on Gatwick Airport's development consent order, which would allow work on the northern runway and associated developments. The council is working with other local authorities to seek environmentally managed growth conditions, including limitations on noise, transport movements, air quality, and carbon emissions.

Neighbourhood Plans

The committee approved the incorporation of the Tatsfield Neighbourhood Plan into the district's development plan following a successful referendum. The committee also noted ongoing work on neighbourhood plans for Dormansland, Godstone, Caterham, and Burstow.

High Weald AONB Management Plan

The committee adopted the High Weald AONB Management Plan 2024-29, which sets out the conservation and management strategy for the area over the next five years. The plan will inform planning decisions and support the new local plan and neighbourhood plans.

The meeting concluded with a note of appreciation for Vince, who was attending his last Planning Policy Committee meeting.