The report explores how town and country planning can have an
impact on the language.
The Commission for Welsh-speaking Communities has been examining
the status of the Welsh language and the challenges it faces
within our communities.
The Commission has today published a report on Town and Country
Planning. Evidence presented to the Commission showed many
planning authorities and professional bodies think there is a
need to look again at town and country planning policies and
guidelines in relation to the Welsh language.
The report makes 14 recommendations, including the need to
strengthening guidance and making consideration of the impact
planning policies and guidelines on the language.
One of the commission's recommendations is to provide a framework
for assessing the effect of a planning application on the Welsh
language in areas with a higher percentage of Welsh speakers in
the same way as is done for planning applications on Special
Areas of Conservation. The commission also recommends
strengthening Technical Advice Note 20 to provide clearer
guidance in a number of areas relevant to planning and the Welsh
language.
The Government will now consider this report and respond to its
findings.
The Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Welsh Language, said: “I would like to thank
the members of the Commission for presenting this report, and the
contributors who have given their time and expertise. We'll
consider the report's findings and recommendations over the
coming months”
Chair of the Commission Dr Simon Brooks said: “Following thorough
research, the Commission for Welsh-speaking Communities came to
the conclusion that policies in town and country planning
relevant to the Welsh language should be revised.
“Improving the consideration given to the Welsh language in the
planning system is one of the most important things we can do to
ensure the future of our language as a national and community
language.”
