Local Plan - frequently asked questions
Could the Plan be adopted without making the proposed main modifications?
No, the main modifications are a requirement of national policy to make the Plan "sound". Paragraph 385 of the Inspectors' Report makes clear that the Inspectors would recommend non-adoption of the Plan as submitted to them due to identified soundness issues set out in their Report. However, in paragraph 386, the Inspectors conclude that with the recommended main modifications being made to the Plan as set out in the Appendix to their Report, the Plan satisfies the legislative requirements and is sound, and is therefore capable of adoption.
If the Council does not make the required main modifications to the Plan, it would not be sound, and therefore the Council would need to withdraw the Plan. It is also worth noting that the identification of main modifications is an entirely normal and common part of the Examination process.