01/09/2026
Northam Neighbourhood Plan 2024-2031 receives majority support at referendum
A referendum was held in the parish of Northam on 20 August 2026 about the Northam Neighbourhood Plan 2024-2031. More than 90% of persons voting in the referendum voted ‘yes’, which means that the plan now forms part of the Development Plan for the Neighbourhood Area. This means that, in addition to using the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan 2018-2031, planning officers considering planning applications in the area will also need to use the policies in the plan when making their decisions.
The Northam Neighbourhood Plan was prepared by Northam Town Council, who have engaged with communities over several years to create the vision and policies laid out in the plan. The plan contains 19 policies covering subjects such as design, locally important views, local green spaces and heritage.
Torridge District Council has assisted Northam Town Council with the progression of the plan where appropriate and to meet its statutory duties. Further information about the Northam Neighbourhood Plan 2024-2031 can be found at https://www.torridge.gov.uk/northamnp and https://www.northamneighbourhoodplan.co.uk/
Although the neighbourhood plan already forms part of the Development Plan for the Neighbourhood Area, Torridge District Council Full Council will consider formal adoption of the plan at a future meeting.
Councillor Rosemary Lock, Lead Member for Planning and Development & Chair of the Plans Committee:
“Everyone who has worked or contributed towards the Northam Neighbourhood Plan 2024-2031 should be commended, as the drafting of the plan is a long process which requires much effort and time. The depth and detail that the plan goes into shows the care and consideration that individuals have put into it. The neighbourhood plan has been shaped through engagement with the local community, who have made clear what is most important to them locally, and decision makers will now need to use the policies within the plan when they receive relevant planning applications.”
Discover how Northam residents are guiding local development through the Neighbourhood Plan. Learn about community priorities, sustainable growth, and efforts to preserve the unique character of Northam, Appledore, and Westward Ho!
