Available EHDC Powers: Planning Position Statements (PPS)

What it is:
A non-statutory but public-facing statement of EHDC’s stance on speculative development, delivery expectations, or decision-making priorities.

How EHDC should use it:
Issue a PPS that clearly says: windfall applications from developers who haven’t progressed allocated sites will be treated as undermining the Local Plan.
Use the PPS to shape officer recommendations and Planning Committee debates.

Impact:
Publicly signals intent, improves consistency, and shapes appeal defence.

🏡 What Is a “Planning Position Statement”?

A Planning Position Statement (PPS) is like a public noticeboard that says:

“Here’s what we believe. Here’s how we’ll judge planning decisions.”

It doesn’t change the law — but it tells developers, residents, and planning inspectors where EHDC stands on a specific issue — like speculative development.

It’s not legally binding, but it can influence decisions, appeals, and public expectations.

🧭 What Would EHDC’s PPS Say?

EHDC could issue a PPS that says:

  • If a developer controls Local Plan land and hasn’t applied to build on it — they should not expect us to approve other applications elsewhere.
  • Windfall applications (outside the plan) from those same developers will be treated as undermining the public’s plan.

🎯 Why Does It Matter?

A PPS gives the Council a stronger voice when dealing with:

  • Developers trying to skip the plan,
  • Planning Inspectors during appeals,
  • The public, who want to know what’s going on.

✅ Final Thought


Think of it as EHDC saying:

“This is our line in the sand. If you’re not delivering what you promised, don’t expect us to reward you.”

It’s public, clear, and helps protect planning decisions from being overturned.