4.2.16 makes reference to the establishing of 'free schools' in the district. I would like to support this inclusion as the present Government has taken a positive stance toward such schools.
I would also like to request that the NPPF wording in point 72 regarding schools could be included in this paragraph "The Government attaches great importance to ensuring that a sufficient choice of school places is available to meet the needs of existing and new communities. Local planning authorities should take a proactive, positive and collaborative approach to meeting this requirement, and to development that will widen choice in education. They should: give great weight to the need to create, expand or alter schools; and work with schools promoters to identify and resolve key planning issues before applications are submitted'.
There appears to be a complete absence of any references to the need for Places of Worship in considering for community facilities. The NPPF in point 70 acknowledges that Council's should 'plan positively for the provision and use of shared space, community facilities (such as local shops, meeting places, sports venues, cultural buildings, public houses and places of worship)...' and in point 28 'promote the retention and development of local services and community facilities in villages, such as local shops, meeting places, sports venues, cultural buildings, public houses and places of worship'. The provision of places of worship is crucial to a safe community and to the spiritual and moral well-being of the community at large and the NPPF wording should be reflected in this infrastructure document.