Proposed Submission Site Allocations and Policies (incorporating IP-One Area Action Plan) Development Plan Document

Part E

Appendices

Appendix 1

A Summary of the Tests of Soundness

Development plan documents are subject to independent examination by a planning inspector. The inspector considers whether the plan has been prepared in accordance with the Duty to Cooperate and legal and procedural requirements, and whether it is 'sound'.

Soundness is assessed in terms of whether the plan meets the following tests of soundness, as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (paragraph 182):

1. It should be positively prepared - the plan should be based on a strategy which seeks to meet objectively assessed development and infrastructure requirements, including unmet requirements from neighbouring authorities where it is reasonable to do so and consistent with achieving sustainable development;
2. It should be justified - the plan should be the most appropriate strategy, when considered against the reasonable alternatives, based on proportionate evidence;
3. It should be effective - the plan should be deliverable over its period and based on effective joint working on cross-boundary strategic priorities; and
4. It should be consistent with national policy - the plan should enable the delivery of sustainable development in accordance with the policies in the Framework.