Prior to the report’s
introduction Mr Peter Coulling addressed the Committee.
The Strategic Planning Manager
introduced the report and highlighted the recent public
consultation on the Regulation 19 ‘draft for
submission’ document, as part of the Local Plan Review (LPR)
process. A report containing the main modifications proposed in
response to the public consultation would be presented to the
Committee in March 2022.
Officers had begun processing
and analysing the approximately 2250 representations that had been
received, which could decrease once any duplicated and invalid
representations were removed. At the current stage of analysis, the
majority of the representations received had focused on the
proposed Garden Community settlements and their impact on the sites
proposed and the surrounding area. Engagement exercises with
various key stakeholders and statutory consultees had commenced, to
allow the Council to understand the context of the representations
made.
It was confirmed that all of
the key issues and matters included within the valid
representations would be considered individually.
In response to questions, the
Strategic Planning Manager confirmed that the Council would seek to
address the representations received concerning affordable housing
(AH) including the possibility that further clarity concerning the
AH policies within the Local Plan was required. Invalid
representations include those submitted in error or that were
inappropriate for a public consultation. Reassurance was given that
valid representations would be duly considered.
RESOLVED: That the report be noted.