Common use of Tests of Soundness Clause in Contracts

Tests of Soundness. A major emphasis of the new development plan system is on the production of a “sound” plan as tested at Independent Examination. The Welsh Assembly and the Planning Inspectorate have published guidance on what this means and the tests involved (see “A guide to the examination of Local Development Plans”, Planning Inspectorate Wales). A “sound” plan is one which is considered to have been prepared with “good judgement and is able to be trusted”. The LDP in both its policy content and the process of its production must pass the tests of “soundness”. Preparation of the LDP in accordance with the published DA is one of the tests of soundness. Fundamentally, a sound plan will be one which: has been prepared correctly in accordance with the statutory requirements; is founded on a robust and credible evidence base; has been developed with continuous community involvement; demonstrates policy integration; and contributes to the achievement of sustainable development.

Tests of Soundness. A major emphasis of the new development plan system is on the production of a “sound” plan as tested at Independent Examination. The Welsh Assembly and the Planning Inspectorate have published guidance on what this means and the tests involved (see “A guide to the examination of Local Development Plans”, Planning Inspectorate Wales). A “sound” plan is one which is considered to have been prepared with “good judgement and is able to be trusted”. The LDP in both its policy content and the process of its production must pass the tests of “soundness”. Preparation of the LDP in accordance with the published DA is one of the tests of soundness. Fundamentally, a sound plan will be one which: has been prepared correctly in accordance with the statutory requirements; is founded on a robust and credible evidence base; has been developed with continuous community involvement; demonstrates policy integration; and contributes to the achievement of sustainable development.”