Wirral Local Plan Support
DAC Planning has provided wide-ranging support to the Council in all matters of plan production since 2020. The emerging Local Plan is currently subject to Independent Examination and expected to be adopted in 2024.
Scope
Production of Local Plan
We provided extensive support in preparation for the Regulation 19 Publication, including Local Plan policy drafting and the production of the evidence base.
Project Management
We established a comprehensive and robust work programme associated with the production of the Local Plan, and helped to monitor progress on an ongoing basis.
Duty to Cooperate
We produced a Scoping Report to outline a comprehensive approach to meeting the Duty to Cooperate, before overseeing relevant work and engagement, and producing the DTC Statement of Compliance.
Consultation Analysis
We helped develop efficient approaches to processing and analysing representations received at the Regulation 19 Publication stage.
Housing Strategy
We advised on the development of all aspects of the housing strategy, including policy production and the trajectory. We helped establish a Developer Forum and effective engagement processes.
Independent Examination
We are supporting the Council during all stages of the Examination process, including the production of written submissions and representation at hearings.
Outcomes
The Wirral Local Plan 2021 - 2037 Submission Draft was submitted to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities for Independent Examination on 26 October 2022.
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This marks a major milestone for the Council in the progression of the long-awaited Local Plan, which once adopted, will replace the Unitary Development Plan adopted in 2000. The Local Plan incorporates ambitious and transformational regeneration plans for Birkenhead and other urban areas of the Borough, alongside the ongoing protection of the Green Belt and other valued environmental assets.
"DAC have become an integral part of the Wirral Local Plan Team and have played a major role in developing what is a complex regeneration focussed Local Plan. Their knowledge, and professional advice has been invaluable to us. From strategic guidance to assistance with detailed technical studies their work has been consistently of a high quality."
Head of Regeneration Strategy, Wirral Council