Calderdale Council has successfully defended the adoption of its Local Plan from a legal challenge at the High Court.
A three hour hearing took place on 26 April 2024 before the Honourable Mr Justice Fordham at the High Court in Leeds.
The 11 page judgement, which was handed down on 17 May 2024, confirms that the Council’s decision to adopt the Local Plan is lawful.
The statutory challenge was made by Clifton Neighbourhood Forum and progressed on a single ground – whether the Planning Inspector adequately explained her conclusions on transport impacts of the Local Plan.
The Council and the Government Department of Levelling Up Housing and Communities (DLUHC) both presented the case in support of Calderdale’s Local Plan.
The Judge dismissed the challenge because he was not able to find any legal reason to disagree with the Inspector’s conclusion that the Local Plan is sound.
Cllr Jane Scullion, Calderdale Council’s Leader said:
“I am pleased by today’s judgement from the High Court. The development of our Local Plan was a very long, detailed and robust process to make sure that we have the right plan for Calderdale’s future.
“Our focus remains on delivery. Calderdale’s Local Plan will allow us to achieve our ambitions to create good jobs and homes where they are needed in our towns and places.
“As important, it will allow us to protect our distinctive landscapes so that future generations can enjoy our beautiful countryside.”
In March 2023, Councillors voted to adopt the Local Plan, which will build a better Calderdale for everyone, open up opportunities for new investment, help create new jobs, support thriving towns and places and protect our distinctive natural environment.
Calderdale’s Local Plan supports the Vision 2024 for Calderdale themes of distinctiveness, resilience and enterprise.
ENDS