UNITARY DEVELOPMENT PLAN (UDP)

The Unitary Development Plan was adopted on 18 May 2001, and is the framework for development on the Island up to 2011. It replaces the Structure Plan and local plans and provides detailed guidance in encouraging the protection and enhancement of our unique environment.

However, due to changes as a result of the new Local Development Framework (LDF) process, from 30 September 2007 some of the policies contained in the UDP are no longer applicable. Policies which have been saved and will continue to be used are highlighted in yellow – those not highlighted should be disregarded as they have been superseded by national and regional guidance.

Planning applications will be considered against saved UDP policies, Supplementary Planning Guidance (where applicable and relevant), South East Plan policies, Planning Policy Statements (PPSs), Planning Policy Guidance (PPGs) and Department of Communities and Local Government (DCLG) Good Practice and Guidance.

The policies which are no longer saved are those which are considered to be too general and could apply to anywhere (ie. with no local distinctiveness) and/or those which simply repeated PPSs/PPGs.

The direction from Government Office for the South East confirming the saved policies can be viewed here.

Why is the UDP so important?

The UDP is vital in determining planning applications and in guiding development on the Island.
It contains a detailed proposals map and inset maps, which outline sites, policy guidelines and environmental constraints.
It is important in outlining conservation and design policies.
It contains policies covering design standards, and the conservation of the historic environment, which help to promote the preservation of the unique character of our Island.

What does the UDP aim to do?

Protect the environment by directing development to towns and villages and away from the countryside.
Ensure that there is an adequate supply of appropriate housing and employment land to meet future needs.
Encourage urban regeneration and conserve the Island’s heritage.
Ensure the continued success of town centres by directing retail developments to the town, rather than “out of town”.
Protect existing and encourage new community facilities.
Ensure the provision of adequate transport facilities and networks and in particular sustainable transport to help reduce car usage.

Copies of the adopted UDP are available to purchase:

CD - £10 (total including £1.50 p+p = £11.50)
Set of maps - £30 (total including £3 p+p = £33)
CD plus set of maps - £40 (total including £4 p+p = £44)

If you would like to purchase a copy of the UDP, please send a cheque made payable to “Isle of Wight Council” to:

Planning Policy, Seaclose Offices, Fairlee Road, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2QS.

Alternatively the UDP is available to download from the website.