Final consultation on the Allerdale’s Local Plan (Part 2)
Allerdale Borough Council is encouraging people to have their say on the Local Plan (Part 2) before it goes to the Secretary of State for consideration.
In two parts, the Local Plan supports the delivery of the Council Plan objectives and the housing and business growth strategies, while providing the policy framework to guide how planning applications are determined. The Allerdale Local Plan covers the area outside of the National Park.
The first part of the Local Plan sets out the overall planning strategy and growth areas for Allerdale until 2029. This was agreed in 2014 and it identified a housing need for at least 5,471 houses and 54 hectares of employment land in that 15-year period.
The second part of the Local Plan, now under consideration, is also known as the Site Allocations document as it identifies policies and specific sites that will deliver the development requirements outlined in the first part of the plan.
Specifically the Local Plan (Part 2) covers:
- the locations of sites for housing development;
- the location of sites for employment and retail development;
- the location of a Gypsy & Traveller pitch site;
- an area suitable for wind energy development;
- protection of important areas of open space and green infrastructure; and
- policies on affordable housing, housing standards, self-build housing, tourism development, housing standards and broadband provision.
The Council has already carried out extensive consultation on the sites and policies contained in the Local Plan (Part 2). The plan has also been agreed by the council’s Executive and Full Council.
The next stage is for the plan to be examined by the Secretary of State. However, before this happens the council is required to ask for any comments on the legality and soundness of the document in accordance with the National Planning Policy Framework.
The key tests to consider are whether the plan is: based on a strategy which seeks to meet the locally identified infrastructure and development needs of the area; it is the most appropriate strategy based on proportionate evidence; it can be delivered over the plan period and is based on effective joint working on cross-border priorities; and is consistent sustainable development in accordance with national policy.
Speaking on the plan, Alan Smith, Leader of the Council said: “In July 2014, the Council adopted the first part of the Local Plan. It sets an ambitious strategy that supports the growth of the local economy and the creation of new jobs. It also plans for new homes for our existing and future populations whilst balancing the need to protect the natural and built environment. This document is the culmination of a great deal of public consultation over recent years, and extensive evidence gathering by the council, and so we believe this is the most appropriate plan to submit to the Secretary of State. This is the final chance to have your say on the plans before we do.”
More details on the plan, and how to comment, can be found at www.allerdale.gov.uk/siteallocations and follow the links to the 'Pre-Submission Consultation'. There are also printed copies available at local libraries and council offices (excluding the Lake District National Park area) during their normal office hours. Responses should be sent by email to siteallocations@allerdale.gov.uk or by post to the planning policy team at the council’s offices in Workington. All submissions should arrive before 4pm on 16 November 2018.
All comments and the Local Plan (Part 2) and its supporting documents will then be submitted to the Secretary of State for consideration in 2019.