The Worcestershire Waste Core Strategy Development Plan Document was submitted to the Secretary of State on 28 November 2011. The Secretary of State appointed Mr. Andrew S Freeman to undertake an independent examination into the soundness of the Waste Core Strategy. As part of the Examination, hearing sessions were held from 13 to 16 March 2012 to discuss the principal matters identified by the Inspector.

In response to the Inspector's questions and the debate in the hearing sessions, the Council proposed a number of changes to the Waste Core Strategy.

Comments were invited on the proposed "Main" and "Additional" changes to the submitted Waste Core Strategy for Worcestershire. Following the hearing sessions the Government published the National Planning Policy Framework and we welcomed comments on our interpretation of the implications of this for the Waste Core Strategy.

The consultation commenced on 5 April 2012 and closed at 5.30pm on 21 May 2012.

On 20 April 2012 the Inspector advised us to consider including a policy in the Waste Core Strategy regarding the application of the "Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development" as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework.

In response to this we proposed a new policy and minor changes to other sections of the Waste Core Strategy for clarity and consistency.

We consulted on the addition of this policy alongside the original proposed changes and the closing date for comments on both aspects remained 5.30pm on 21 May 2012.

• View the documents consulted on for the Proposed Changes Consultation

We also consulted on: 

• The updated Habitats Regulations Assessment Screening Decision

Responses were invited using an online form, or by post or email. There were no objections made to the soundness of the proposed changes.

On 20 July 2012 the Inspector issued his report on the Waste Core Strategy. The Inspector's report and Appendix concluded that with the recommended main modifications set out, the strategy was 'sound' and legally compliant and the Council adopted the Waste Core Strategy in November 2012.

For further information regarding the examination of the Waste Core Strategy please see the Examination page.