Statement of Community Involvement updated to build on community engagement in Planning

14 October 2025

North Northamptonshire Council’s Executive has approved an updated version of its Statement of Community Involvement (SCI).

The SCI outlines how the council engages with residents, businesses and stakeholders during the planning process, including processing of planning applications. It also provides information guidance and support the council will provide for communities looking to develop Neighbourhood Plans.

The revised SCI includes updates to improve clarity and ensure alignment with current legislation. It sets out who the council will consult, when in the planning process and how it should be carried out.

Additions to the SCI include meeting the publicity requirements given to various application types, the minimum consultation period and potential for extending that period for public holidays, guidance on consulting neighbours to development proposals, consultations on amendments and notifying consultees on applications. It also provides advice on how the council expects in the case of large scale or controversial proposals, developer led consultations to be run.

It is a statutory requirement for us to have a Statement of Community Involvement in place. But this is about more than that, its constantly evolving and moving forward. It’s also about setting out how and when communities can get involved in the planning process - something that is so important when we’re making decisions.

This document highlights our commitment to consultation and engagement on planning matters, ensuring its current and provides clarity and transparency in all areas of the planning process.Cllr Jan O’Hara, the council’s Executive Member for Planning and Economic Growth

Before adoption, the SCI was reviewed by the Place and Environment Scrutiny Committee on Tuesday 23 September.