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Cost is £30-00 plus VAT and is accredited with 2.5 hours of CPD.
Registration/Buffet – 5:30pm with a prompt 6pm start – drinks will be provided at conclusion.

Today’s publication of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) underlines a transformation in planning as the Government pursues a ‘pro growth’ development agenda with national planning guidance reduced to only 50 pages.

It emphasizes the importance of local authorities having an up to date plan in place. It remains the starting point of decision-making. Local areas without plans are now vulnerable to applications being approved simply on the basis that they satisfy the broad principles outlined in the NPPF. And local plans must conform with the presumption in favour of ‘sustainable development’ defined as the ‘golden thread’.

In respect of plans, local planning authorities should: ‘positively seek opportunities to meet the 
development needs of their area’ and ‘meet objectively assessed needs, with sufficient flexibility to adapt to rapid change’, unless adverse impacts would ‘significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the (NPPF) taken as a whole.’ In respect of planning decisions, local planning authorities 
should approve development proposals that accord with the development plan ‘without delay’. Where the development plan is ‘absent, silent or relevant policies are out of date, granting permission unless any adverse impacts ‘would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the (NPPF) taken as a whole.

The NPPF throws a strong light on Neighbourhood Planning under the Localism Act 2011, which should ‘support the strategic development needs set out in Local Plans, including policies for housing and economic development’ and ‘plan positively to support local development’.

There are limited transition arrangements to obtain compliance. For 12 months, decision-takers may continue to give full weight to relevant policies adopted since 2004: even if there is a limited degree of conflict with the NPPF. In other cases and following this 12-month period, due weight should be given to relevant policies in existing plans according to their degree of consistency with the NPPF (the closer the policies in the plan to the policies in the Framework, the greater the weight that may be given).

For those local planning authorities without plans adopted since 2004 or even emerging plans, the NPPF approach applies immediately.

Andrew Judge - 27th March 2012

Click image above to view/download brochure

Cost is £30-00 plus VAT and is accredited with 2.5 hours of CPD.
Registration/Buffet – 5:30pm with a prompt 6pm start – drinks will be provided at conclusion.

THE SET For many, this chambers is an obvious choice for high-quality work. It is particularly visible in its home town of Lewes, and also in Hove. Barristers act as far afield as London and the Midlands though. It has a proven track record in serious crime, in both the Crown Court and Magistrates’ Court.

JUNIORS Philip Meredith is the joint leader of the set. His commitment to his client’s cause stands out, say sources: “He is incredibly tenacious; nothing in court ever seems to faze him.” Recent work includes advising on R v Antonio Batsimba, concerning a number of machete attacks in Crawley, West Sussex. Rhiannon Sadler is lauded for her “willingness to go the extra mile” and for being “very diplomatic – she deals with difficult people well.” She acted as junior counsel on the conspiracy to steal trial of R v M. Beverly Cherrill has a hybrid defence and prosecution practice in general crime, and often acts unled on matters including sex offences. She acted as junior counsel in the Lewes Crown Court rape trial of R v R. Nicholas Hamblin achieves “extraordinary results,” according to enthusiastic sources. His 31 years of call make him one of the more senior juniors on the circuit and he is a great favourite with Sussex Police Authority. He recently advised for the defence in the rape case of R v I and P. Jeffrey Lamb offers refined technical skills and “wide experience.” He also has a “very good client manner” that doesn’t falter even when clients become difficult. He is notably active in sex offences work and handled the Lewes Crown Court rape trial of R v B. Andrew Stephens concentrates his criminal practice exclusively on the defence side. Sources point to him as being a frank and clear adviser. His caseload has included acting as junior counsel on the people trafficking and sex offences trial of R v K.