THE CONSULTATION for Stratford District Council’s updated version of the Site Allocations Plan has launched.
The document complements the core strategy – plans to shape the future of the district until 2031 – by identifying sites for future development.
The updated document known as the ‘Preferred Options’ version includes reserve housing sites, self and custom build housing sites, built-up area boundaries, employment enabling sites, A46 safeguarding, and a number of other site specific proposals including those for employment and regeneration. Among the latter proposals are plans for a new village centre in Bidford and 300 new homes on a site in Meon Vale.
The plan aims to enable residents, businesses and communities to know where new development may occur in the future.
Council deputy leader Coun Daren Pemberton said the consultation marked the latest stage in the preparation of the document – which will form an important element of the district’s development – and it was important for residents to make their views known.
He added: “This council listens to public consultations, they are key to our decision making. In addition government planning inspectors always look for evidence of public consultation when considering local plans and which sites to allow to come forward for development. So now is the time to make your voice heard.
“This plan, once adopted, will be another tool in our armoury to ensure development is appropriate for our needs and happens where our residents need it not just where developers want it.
“Our current overall core strategy plan is robust and we now have a seven year housing land supply. This puts us in a good place to resist speculative developments in unsuitable locations.”
The consultation runs until Friday December 18.
Visit www.stratford.gov.uk/sappo to comment on and view the document, and for details of live online question and answer sessions. The document is also available to view at the district council offices in Church Street.
There will be further consultation on the final draft next year before the plan is submitted to central government for examination.
