Introduction
As a Mineral and Waste Planning Authority, we are responsible for preparing Mineral and Waste Plans for Somerset (excluding Exmoor National Park Authority).
The Somerset Minerals Plan was adopted in 2015 and sets out how, and broadly where minerals will be worked in Somerset until 2030.
The Waste Core Strategy was adopted in 2013 and guides our approach to planning for sustainable waste management in Somerset until 2028.
We prepare a Mineral and Waste Development Scheme which sets out the programme for preparing and reviewing development plan documents.
We prepare a Statement of Community Involvement which outlines how we will engage with stakeholders when consulting on planning applications and plans.
The planning policy team is also responsible for producing the following monitoring reports.
The Local Aggregate Assessment (LAA) is prepared each year to evaluate the potential supply and demand of aggregates in the county.
The Authority Monitoring Report (AMR) is produced each year and measures the progress, delivery and effectiveness of the Minerals and Waste Development Framework, including the Waste Core Strategy and Mineral Plan.
District and Borough Council Local Plans
Each district council is responsible for preparing their own Local Plan to manage development in their district. These are hosted on the district council webpages.
Greenbelt
While the former County Level and Regional Plans were revoked in 2013, the Green Belt policy of the Somerset and Exmoor National Park Joint Structure Plan remains in force – Policy 6 related to the Bristol and Bath Green Belt.
You can find more information in the Mendip Local Plan Part 1 and policies map – a small area lies in the north east corner of the district.
South West Inshore and South West Offshore Marine Plan
Terrestrial planning decisions should consider impact on the marine environment and take account of relevant policies in the Marine Plans for that area.
Contact the team
Email the planning policy team – mineralandwaste@somerset.gov.uk