The Planning Policy Committee of West Northamptonshire Council is scheduled to convene on Wednesday 17 June 2026. The meeting's agenda includes discussions on developer contributions, the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area, and the West Northamptonshire Local Plan.

Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area Guidance and Mitigation Strategy Adoption

A key item for discussion is the proposed adoption of the Upper Nene Valley Gravel Pits Special Protection Area (SPA) Guidance and Mitigation Strategy. This strategy aims to assist the council in fulfilling its legal responsibilities to prevent significant adverse effects on the integrity of the SPA, particularly concerning recreational disturbance and the loss of functionally linked land. The strategy proposes a consistent approach to identifying and mitigating potential impacts, including a Strategic Access Management and Monitoring (SAMM) contribution for new residential developments within a 5.9km zone of influence. The committee will consider responses received during a public consultation on the draft strategy, with proposed amendments to enhance clarity and address concerns raised by various stakeholders, including Natural England and developers. If adopted, this guidance will replace existing supplementary planning documents related to the SPA.

West Northamptonshire Local Plan Progress

The committee will also receive an update on the preparation of the West Northamptonshire Local Plan. This report will outline the progress made to date and the next steps required to achieve the plan's submission for examination in December 2026. A significant issue to be addressed is the evidenced need for pitches for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople, for which no suitable sites have been promoted through previous call for sites exercises. Consequently, the committee is recommended to agree that West Northamptonshire Council is currently unable to meet this need and to formally raise this as a strategic cross-boundary matter with neighbouring councils to explore potential accommodation options.

West Northamptonshire Infrastructure and Developer Contributions Supplementary Planning Document

The committee will consider the adoption of the West Northamptonshire Infrastructure and Developer Contributions Supplementary Planning Document (SPD). This document consolidates existing guidance on developer contributions, replacing three previous SPDs and parts of Housing SPDs. It aims to provide clear guidance on how developers will be expected to contribute towards infrastructure and mitigation measures necessary to support new development. The report details the consultation process undertaken on the draft SPD, summarising the key issues raised by respondents, including concerns about the scope of contributions, viability assessments, and the involvement of parish councils. Amendments have been made to the document in response to feedback, with a strong preference for open space management to be undertaken by town and parish councils. The SPD also outlines the mechanisms for securing developer contributions, including planning obligations (Section 106 agreements), Section 278 agreements, the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), and planning conditions.

Other Matters

The agenda also includes the confirmation of minutes from the previous meeting and any announcements from the Chair. The committee will also consider any urgent business that the Chair has agreed to admit to the agenda.