Communities preparing neighbourhood plans in England are set to benefit from a package of government support worth £22.8 million to help them develop plans to give them a real say in the development of their area.

Housing Minister Alok Sharma confirmed how the cash boost will support communities, help build more homes and give locals more say over growth in their area (link).

The funding, which will be around £5.5 million per year until 2022, will provide communities with specialist support to help develop a Neighbourhood Plan.

Neighbourhood Plans gives local communities a real say in the development of their area including where homes, shops, green spaces and offices should be built and how they should look.

The announcement comes as more than 400 successful neighbourhood planning referendums have now taken place across England, driving local growth from Cornwall to Northumberland.

Kirkwells have helped more than 30 areas to successful referendum stage. If you would like to discuss how we can help you with your neighbourhood plan, please contact Michael on 01282 872570 or email Michael.

Read more: Kirkwell's Comment