Hampshire's Minerals and Waste Plan is moving into its final stages.
The Government's Planning Inspectorate has confirmed examination hearings will open on February 4, conducted by an independent inspector.
The inspector will assess whether the plan complies with legal standards and is aligned with the National Planning Policy Framework.
The framework includes policies guiding decisions from the five mineral and waste planning authorities in Hampshire on managing planning applications for mineral extraction or waste facilities.
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A current plan is crucial to ensure local characteristics and community impacts are considered in decision-making processes.
Submission to the Planning Inspectorate in July 2024 was agreed upon by Hampshire's five mineral and waste planning authorities: Hampshire County Council, New Forest National Park Authority, Portsmouth City Council, Southampton City Council and South Downs National Park Authority.
The hearings will be informal sessions led by planning inspector Luke Fleming, addressing pre-set topics.
Only those who made representations on the plan at the Regulation 19 stage and proposed changes to make it sound or legally compliant can take part.
The hearings will be held in person on February 4 to 6, and February 11 to 13 at Elizabeth II Court, Winchester.
Once the inspector finds the plan legally compliant and sound, the report will recommend its adoption by the five authorities.
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