The three CAACs are working with the Council’s Policy Holder for Planning & the Chief Planning Officer on strengthening their voice & that of other conservationists in planning decisions that affect the Borough’s heritage assets, including its twenty-six conservation areas. Specifically: i) there will be an additional speaking slot available for the CAACs & like-minded stakeholders at public meetings effective from 2024; ii) the opinions of the Council’s Conservation Officer & third party conservation experts where relevant will be published in planning officers’ reports/ recommendations; iii) more training to be provided on best practice in heritage & conservation matters for councillors, officers, CAACs & similar parties; & iv) the feasibility of public objections to planning applications, including those in conservation areas, being freely available on the Council’s website is under examination. These are important steps forward & we will keep local residents updated on progress.