Issue - meetings

The Executive Member for Planning and Growth presented the report. Members were advised that Stanstead Abbotts Parish Council, working with the parish councils of Stanstead St Margaret’s and Great Amwell, had developed a neighbourhood plan over several years to meet district housing requirements. The plan released land from the Green Belt, allocating both brownfield and greenfield sites. Despite significant constraints such as flood risk, Green Belt designations and protected nature sites, the plan successfully balanced housing growth with policies to protect local character and the environment. It designated new local green spaces, protected views, heritage assets and prioritised enhancement of the river environment. The examiner commended the plan for addressing local issues while meeting housing needs. It was noted that at the January 2026 referendum, 80% voted in favour of using the plan and it was considered a positive addition to East Herts’ development management process.

Councillor Glover-Ward, the Executive Member for Planning and Growth proposed that the recommendations in the report be supported. Councillor Dumont seconded the proposal.

Members acknowledged that the process had been challenging for the parish councils, with differing views at times, however a positive conclusion had been reached. It was noted that producing a neighbourhood plan was a long process and a testament to the dedication of the community and everyone that contributed. It was noted that such plans deserved to progress and be recognised as important planning documents.

Members spoke in favour of neighbourhood plans, however commented on the lack of housing supply diluting the effectiveness. Members heard in response that whilst the area was facing delivering more housing, the neighbourhood plan, despite requiring the release of a small amount of Green Belt, offered some protection through designated views, green spaces and other safeguards.

Members acknowledged that the area faced significant flood risk, with significant work taking place over the past couple of years to address the issue.

Concern was expressed with emphasis that the land demanded protection, and that the council was being asked to sacrifice scarce green belt, including part of the Lee Valley Regional Park. It was noted that the park authority opposed the proposal, and concern was shared that approving development would be capitulation, setting a damaging precedent ahead of future unitary mergers. Members acknowledged the need to protect green belt land and considered this against the positive outcome of the referendum.

Members were advised that the Lee Valley Regional Park Authority, along with any member of the public, would be able to comment on future planning applications and that any potential harm to the park would be a valid planning consideration for the case officer.

Members thanked the residents’ group and parish councillors for their hard work.

The motion to support the recommendation, having been proposed and seconded, was put to the meeting and upon a vote being taken, was declared CARRIED.

RESOLVED - that (A) That the Stanstead Abbotts and St Margarets Neighbourhood Area Plan 2017-2033, as detailed at Appendix A to this report, be formally made.