We want yo hear your views on planning

Our thanks to David Stevenson for encouraging fellow readers to participate in Charnwood Borough Council’s ongoing public consultation relating to its Local Plan 202137.

His letter to the Echo correctly states that the Local Plan includes provision for 19,461 new homes. This includes a 10% buffer to ensure consistency of supply for the 17,776 homes required by Government over the period. 59% of the homes required already have planning permission.

It is true that the National Planning Policy Framework sets the parameters of local development for authorities in England. However, the Local Plan is our opportunity to shape implementation in a way which supports Charnwood’s vision for growth, communities and the environment.

For example, the Local Plan introduces new policies to increase the availability of affordable housing in the borough. It contains 12 separate policies relating to the environment and a further six addressing climate change. The Local Plan will also bring £200m of developer contributions to fund public infrastructure such as roads and healthcare.

This is the fourth public consultation we have staged in relation to this document. Representations as to the Local Plan’s ‘soundness’ can be made online and offline until August 23. Information, including FAQs and maps, can be found at www.charnwood.gov.uk/localplan or by calling 01509 634929.

Submissions from residents, businesses and other interested parties will be submitted to Government later this year alongside the Local Plan itself. They will subsequently be considered by the Planning Inspector.

We would love to hear the views of everyone involved as to its soundness.

Cllr Richard Bailey, Lead Member for Planning, Charnwood Borough

Council