The Neighbourhood Plan Independent Examiner’s report has been received (see Neighbourhood Plan - Key Documents). It is really pleasing to have a highly qualified, independent Examiner compliment the Parish Council on its work. Phrases such as: “the consultation undertaken has been thorough and inclusive”; “It is clear to me that Ashington Parish Council is fully committed to ensuring that the principles of sustainability remain at the forefront in the consideration of policies for the village” are pleasing to read.

The Neighbourhood Plan does not simply identify where new homes are going, it does far more than that. It has a number of policies that all new development in the village, in the lifetime of the Plan (to 2031), must adhere to:

• the spatial strategy ensures development is delivered close to the community ‘heart’ (School, Church, Community Centre);
• must provide opportunities for residents to travel on foot/bike/horse;
• emphasises the need for off-street parking to keep new roads and pavements clear & to improve pedestrian safety;
• protects heritage assets;
• improves access to the countryside;
• provides for good landscaping and countryside protection;
• supports flood alleviation schemes benefitting Mill Lane;
• provides some small scale employment spaces;
• safeguards land for expansion of the School (subject to necessity & further consultations);
• protects the Forest Schools land and the school allotment.