Understanding Planning Policy in Pewsey
Planning policy in England is set at different levels — from national guidance to local and neighbourhood plans. Here’s an overview of how it works and what it means for Pewsey.
National Planning Policy
The government’s national planning approach is set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Planning Practice Guidance. All local and neighbourhood plans must follow this framework.
Local Planning Authority
The Local Planning Authority (LPA) for Pewsey is Wiltshire Council, as Wiltshire is a Unitary Authority. Swindon is not included in this — it falls under Swindon Borough Council.
Wiltshire Council is responsible for producing the Local Plan, which sets out:
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A vision for the area’s development
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What kind of development is needed and where
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Which land is protected
You can view the latest plan here: Wiltshire Local Plan
Neighbourhood Planning
Neighbourhood Plans are created by parish or town councils or recognised local forums. They allow communities to influence:
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The design and character of new buildings
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Local infrastructure priorities
Pewsey’s current draft plan is: Pewsey Neighbourhood Development Plan (Draft, to 2038).
Please note: This version is awaiting final ratification by Wiltshire Council and is still considered a draft.
The Role of Parish Councils
Parish Councils like Pewsey’s are the lowest tier in the planning system. They provide local insight and recommendations but do not have final decision-making powers. They help shape Neighbourhood Plans and respond to local applications.
Development Plan Documents
All planning policies that apply in a local area make up its Development Plan. These documents help:
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Guide decisions on planning applications
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Set out needs for housing, employment, and infrastructure
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Protect heritage, environment, and design standards
View Wiltshire’s planning policy documents here: Wiltshire Planning and Building Control
Developer Contributions
When larger developments are approved, developer contributions may be required. These help:
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Fund local infrastructure (e.g. roads, schools)
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Provide affordable housing
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Offset environmental impacts
More information is available here: Developer Contributions
What’s Considered in Pewsey
Planning decisions must take into account the following:
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Line of Development: See Map 3 on page 30 of the NDP. Development outside this line is not permitted. Two recent large-scale proposals have been overturned at appeal.
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Conservation Area: Pewsey’s village centre is a designated Conservation Area and listed by English Heritage as ‘At Risk’. All tree works within it require approval.
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Heritage & Archaeology: Pewsey has many listed buildings and features of local historic interest. Conservation Officers may investigate sites for unknown heritage elements.
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Natural Environment: Pewsey sits within the North Wessex Downs AONB and contains three Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), including parts of Jones’ Mill and sections of the River Avon.
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Traffic and Highways: Increased traffic, including commercial vehicles, will be reviewed by Wiltshire’s Highways team.
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Biodiversity and Ecology: Development proposals must consider environmental impact, habitat loss, and evolving issues like nutrient neutrality. More information: Biodiversity, landscape and design
Making or Viewing a Planning Application
To make an application:
Visit Wiltshire Council Planning and Building Control.
Most applicants will use an architect, but this site provides helpful guidance on all application types.
To view or comment on applications:
Visit the Planning and Building Control Public Register. Use Advanced Search and:
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Under ‘Parish’, choose Pewsey CP to see current and recent applications
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Use Status > Under Consultation to find live applications
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You can also search by address or application number
Note: Paper notices (Green Notices) are no longer displayed on-site — this online system has replaced them.
Making a Comment
Only material considerations will be taken into account when deciding an application. These include things like design, highways safety, noise, and biodiversity.
Comments can be submitted online under the relevant application by clicking “Comments”.
To learn more: Issues for consideration
A Final Note on Government Reforms
There has been recent news of proposed government reforms to the planning system. However, until any official changes are published on Gov.uk, existing planning rules remain in place.