The Lambourn Neighbourhood Plan (LNP) sets out a community-led framework to guide sustainable growth and protect the special character of the Parish of Lambourn up to 2041. Developed by Lambourn Parish Council with Bluestone Planning LLP, the Plan reflects extensive consultation with residents, local organisations and the racing industry. Once adopted, it will hold statutory weight alongside the West Berkshire Local Plan.
Vision and Purpose
The Lambourn Neighbourhood Plan’s vision is to protect, preserve and improve the Parish of Lambourn by providing a clear, evidence-based framework for responsible development, mindful of the beauty, heritage and distinctiveness of the Parish. It seeks to balance conservation with innovation, ensuring that Lambourn remains a vibrant, sustainable and well-connected rural community.
Key Themes and Objectives
The LNP is built around seven key themes:
- Natural Environment – Conserving the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, protecting the River Lambourn as a Special Area of Conservation, designating Local Green Spaces and safeguarding important views.
- Flooding and Drainage – Reducing flood risk through sustainable drainage systems and climate-resilient design.
- Built Environment – Preserving heritage assets, promoting high-quality design and encouraging sustainable construction methods.
- Housing – Allocate small-scale housing developments to meet local needs, including affordable housing, housing for older residents, and accommodation for racehorse industry workers, in appropriately-located homes that respect local character.
- Community and Employment – Supporting local services, facilities and the racehorse training industry that underpins Lambourn’s economy, while diversifying rural employment.
- Transport and Infrastructure – Improving accessibility, road safety and sustainable travel links between settlements.
- Community Aspirations – Promoting wellbeing, inclusion, leisure, cultural opportunities and environmental awareness.
Environmental and Heritage Protection
Lambourn lies entirely within the North Wessex Downs National Landscape, and environmental policies form the heart of the Plan. It identifies key landscapes, biodiversity corridors, green and blue infrastructure, and over twenty important local views for protection. The River Lambourn, a rare chalk stream, is prioritised for conservation through nutrient-neutral development policies. The Plan also highlights the village’s historic buildings and cultural landmarks, ensuring that new development enhances the area’s heritage.
Economic and Social Sustainability
The LNDP supports the racehorse training industry, which remains central to the Parish economy, while encouraging small rural businesses, local employment, and modern infrastructure. It emphasises maintaining Lambourn as a service centre for the valley, sustaining schools, medical services, shops and community facilities.
Housing and Design
New housing will meet local needs, particularly for young people and older residents, and must respect the village’s form, scale and materials as outlined in the Lambourn Design Code. Flood risk, sewerage and sustainability are to be integral considerations.
Implementation and Review
The Plan covers the period 2025–2041 and aligns with the West Berkshire Local Plan Review. It will be monitored annually and reviewed periodically by the Parish Council to ensure its continuing relevance and effectiveness.
Conclusion
The Lambourn Neighbourhood Plan provides a clear, evidence-based and community-endorsed framework to guide responsible growth. It seeks to preserve the beauty, heritage and distinctiveness of the Parish while ensuring that Lambourn remains a vibrant, sustainable and well-connected rural community for future generations.