Policy information sourced from Sevenoaks Allocations and Development Management Plan
SC 1 Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development
When considering development proposals the Council will take a positive approach that reflects the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework. The Council will work proactively with applicants jointly to find solutions which mean that proposals can be approved wherever possible, and to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area. Planning applications that accord with the policies in the Local Plan will be approved without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise.
Where there are no policies relevant to the application or relevant policies are out of date at the time of making the decision then the Council will grant permission unless material considerations indicate otherwise - taking into account whether:
- Any adverse impacts of granting permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the National Planning Policy Framework taken as a whole; or
- Specific policies in that Framework indicate that development should be restricted.
Where appropriate to the proposed development, proposals should have regard to:
- the compatibility and suitability of the proposal to its location;
- the impact of the proposal on the surrounding environment, landscape, habitats and biodiversity, including the Green Belt and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty;
- the contribution to creating balanced communities;
- the conservation and enhancement of the Districts cultural heritage;
- the contribution to and impact on the District’s economy; and
- the impact on existing infrastructure and contribution to new supporting infrastructure.
For more information please see the Allocations and Development Management Plan