This gives communities the power to develop a shared vision for their area. Neighbourhood plans can shape, direct and help to deliver sustainable development. They influence local planning decisions as part of the statutory development plan. These were brought in by the Government in the Localism Act 2011.
These plans, produced by the community, are examined and subject to the results of a referendum in the local area. They are then 'made' by the Local Planning Authority and become part of the development plan.
To view adopted Neighbourhood Plans, visit: Consultation Portal.
Neighbourhood areas in Calderdale
There are currently eight designated neighbourhood areas in Calderdale.
Approved neighbourhood areas map
Local areas can take up powers that are related to the making of an NDP. This is after they have passed a number of legal stages.
Town or parish council areas are defined as qualifying bodies. This means they only need Council approval for a NDP for an area.
Non-parish areas must make two applications:
- to create a forum to act as the qualifying body for the area;
- and for designation of an NDP for the area. (Designation lasts for a period of five years.)
Neighbourhood development plans
Made (completed) plans
- Todmorden Neighbourhood Plan. Adopted 9th April 2025.
- Park Ward Neighbourhood Plan. Adopted 22nd March 2023.
- Sowerby Neighbourhood Plan. Adopted 9th February 2022.
Plans in progress
These areas have been designated as neighbourhood areas and have designated neighbourhood forums:
Dormant
These are designated neighbourhood areas or parishes whose forums have expired or withdrawn from the process:
Neighbourhood planning support
Find out how to get involved in planning and development in your local area.
Neighbourhood planning gives local communities the power to shape development in their area. They can:
- Influence where new homes, shops and offices are built and what these buildings will look like.
- Protect local green spaces.
- Recognise and protect local heritage buildings or assets.
- Influence whether projects get planning permission.
If there is no neighbourhood plan for your area, you can set one up.
- For more about this and funding options, visit: Locality's Neighbourhood Planning.
- For a step-by-step guide, download: Neighbourhood Plans Road Map.
You can also ask us for advice, email: spatial.planning@calderdale.gov.uk.
Sustainability Appraisal and Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA)
NDPs have to meet a number of basic conditions before they can be put forward for to be examined. One of these relates to compliance with EU Obligations.
For this, there is a need to find out if a SEA is needed, which is an important aspect.
Attention is drawn to the advice of the Government in its Planning Practice Guidance for NDPs.
To request a screening opinion to be made, Neighbourhood Planning Qualified Bodies can use our:
