Key Steps to Success
1. Establishing a Steering Group
A dedicated group of local volunteers has been formed to lead the process. While supported by the Parish Council, the plan is community-driven. The Steering Group was formed in January 2025.
2. Community Engagement
Public involvement is essential throughout. Residents, businesses, landowners, and local organisations will be consulted to identify priorities and ensure the plan reflects the community’s vision. Engagement will take place through surveys, workshops, and public events. In 2025 we will be attending Toddington Rovers Football Club Funday on June 14th, the Village Fete on June 21st and will also be holding two open public drop-in sessions on June 23rd and July 1st. Further meetings and workshops will be advertised widely to encourage engagement. The Steering Group will also directly engage with as many clubs and societies as possible. Local Schools are also being contacted. We welcome comments, suggestions and practical help.
This phase of the Neighbourhood Plan is scheduled for 2025 and early 2026.
3. Gathering Evidence
Data will be collected on housing needs, local character, transport, services, facilities, and infrastructure to inform policy development. Specialist Consultancy support will be engaged to assist with some of these aspects. This activity will span 2025-2026.
4. Developing the Plan
Using community feedback and evidence, the Steering Group will draft policies covering subjects such as Housing, Green Spaces and the Environment, Social/Educational/ Wellbeing and Local Services/Transport and the Economy. The outcome of this work will be refined following further consultation throughout 2026 and early 2027.
5. Consultation & Refinement
The draft plan will be shared for public consultation, allowing feedback before final revisions. This will take place at some point during 2026.
6. Independent Examination
A planning expert will review the plan to ensure it meets legal requirements. This is most likely to take place in late 2026 or 2027.
7. Referendum & Adoption
The plan will be subject to a local referendum. If supported by the majority, it will be formally adopted and used to guide future development. This is likely towards the end of 2027.
Next Steps for Toddington
The Steering Group, with Parish Council backing, has begun work on the plan. The first priority (phase 2 above) is engaging the community to gather views and shape the vision for Toddington’s future. Local participation will be key to ensuring the plan truly reflects the needs and aspirations of residents.
For more information and opportunities to get involved, look out for upcoming announcements.
Historic Neighbourhood Plan activity
Toddington has had several attempts at creating a Neighbourhood Plan, but these have failed to complete the whole process. It is not entirely clear to the current Steering Group why these failed. Details of the 2018 version that did not complete the review process is on the CBC website.