Purpose

The Planning Inspectorate expects a Local Plan examination to be supported by an independent Programme Officer. Annette Feeney has extensive experience of supporting Local Plan examinations and has the specialist knowledge, independence and availability necessary to undertake the role. Appointing an experienced Programme Officer reduces the risk of procedural delay and provides assurance that the examination process will be administered in accordance with Planning Inspectorate expectations.

Decision

To appoint Annette Feeney as the independent Programme Officer for the Examination-in-Public of the Tendring Local Plan.

Alternative options considered

On 7th September 2026, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government announced in Parliament that a review of the Local Government Reorganisation programme was commencing and that the decision made in March 2026 for Greater Essex (and other areas) had been withdrawn in light of new legal advice. Following this announcement, local authorities received correspondence from the Minister of Housing, Communities and Local Government requesting that until this review has concluded, Councils cease work on implementing the decisions that have previously been announced. The timetable for completion of the review is unknown at this time.
This proposal is not impacted by MHCLG's request, as it relates to the Council's statutory plan-making functions and not to the implementation of Local Government Reorganisation proposals. The appointment of an independent Programme Officer is necessary to facilitate the examination of the Local Plan and ensure compliance with Planning Inspectorate expectations. The proposal can therefore proceed irrespective of the outcome of the Government's review of Local Government Reorganisation.