A Neighbourhood Plan is a part of the legal planning system and will be referred to when Cornwall Council, the Parish Council and sometimes the Government make planning decisions that affect the Parish of St Mewan. Planning decisions affect many elements of local life from where houses are located, what landscapes are protected, where jobs are created and so many other things. The principles of planning policies are established by the Government and are reflected in planning policies developed by Cornwall Council. Neighbourhood Plans build on the planning policies developed by Government and Cornwall Council but can also introduce new issues of importance to the Parish.
Creating a plan is optional; however, the residents of St Mewan Parish have indicated at public meetings that they wish to develop a plan that, in accordance with the Localism Act, will become part of Cornwall Council's Local Plan. In order for the plan to be adopted, it will need to demonstrate support of the community.