Bucks Council launches final consultation on draft Local Plan

It's the last time residents can comment on the draft before it is submitted for independent examination.

Buckinghamshire Council is inviting residents and organisations to have their final say on the draft Local Plan – which details how the county could accommodate around 91,000 homes required under national planning policy.

The six-week Regulation 19 consultation, which launched yesterday (Thursday 23 July) is the final opportunity to comment ahead of its submission for independent examination. All responses will be presented to the planning inspector and the council says at this stage should focus on whether the plan is legally compliant and "sound" – meaning evidence-based, deliverable and consistent with national planning policy. 

The Council describe the plan as adopting a brownfield-first approach, with around 13,500 homes expected to come from redevelopment opportunities in town centres, previously developed land and areas close to well-connected railway stations. They argue this will support regeneration, attract investment and reduce pressure on the countryside.

Another key feature of the plan, said to reflect one of the strongest priorities highlighted by residents, is that "it doesn't allocate new housing and employment in the Green Belt. The plan emphasises economic growth, by identifying land for employment development and business expansion, including opportunities such as the continued growth of Enterprise Zones". 

Bucks council also say infrastructure, another top priority for residents, remains "a central focus". Informed by providers, they have identified more than 500 projects requiring at least £6 billion of investment, covering transport, schools, healthcare, utilities, community facilities and green infrastructure. The council also say they will continue to press government to ensure national housing requirements are matched by investment in local infrastructure. 

Council leader Steven Broadbent commented: 

"Buckinghamshire is a fantastic place to live, work and invest, and we are determined to protect what makes our county special for future generations. However, the government requires Buckinghamshire to plan for significant housing growth. While we do not set those targets, we have a responsibility to outline how that growth is managed. 

"This draft Local Plan is our best opportunity to retain local control and shape Buckinghamshire's future. We have listened to what residents have consistently told us are their top priorities. It provides a clear strategy for accommodating growth while protecting the Green Belt, supporting the economy and ensuring homes, jobs and infrastructure are planned together. The plan identifies the infrastructure needed to support growth and we will continue to press government and work with local MPs to secure the investment required. 

"This is the final opportunity to for local people to comment, I would encourage everyone with an interest in Buckinghamshire's future to read it and take part." 

He added that he has also written  (external link) to local MPs calling "for government support to secure the infrastructure funding needed to ensure growth is matched by the services and facilities communities need".