Public urged to have say on plan

RESIDENTS are being encouraged to take part in a consultation on changes to a document which supports decision-making on housing development applications.

Barnsley’s local plan development blueprint, adopted by the council in 2019, contains policies which should be considered when deciding on planning applications.

Supplementary planning documents (SPDs) contain further advice and explain how these policies will be used.

Amendments include a requirement for 25.6 per cent of all new homes to be accessible and adaptable for wheelchair users, as well as six per cent being ready for wheelchair users to live permanently.

Coun Robert Frost, cabinet spokesperson for regeneration and culture, said: “The government requires us to deliver at least 900 additional homes a year.

“We’re committed to making sure our borough has a variety of housing, so you can live in the right home for you.

“As part of that commitment, it’s important that our planning process remains robust so we ensure we have appropriate and sustainable housing growth.

“It’s important therefore that we review our supplementary planning documents to make sure they support the aims of our local plan over the long term, and we welcome local people’s view on these important proposed changes.”

■ Public consultation is open until October 31, and you can have your say on the council’s website.