Decision details

Consideration was given to recommendation HP 23/11 of the Housing and Planning Scrutiny Select Committee of 7 June 2023.

Members attention was drawn to the further detail on the assumptions around the Local Development Scheme (LDS) timetable, the evidence base studies and costs set out in the supplementary report of the Director of Planning, Housing and Environmental Health.  Particular reference was made to revised proposals in respect of the Green Belt Study which recommended that more detailed work be undertaken and that options for a ‘strategic gap’ be explored.  It was anticipated that this further work could cost in the region of an additional £15,000.  However, it was noted that all cost assumptions set out in Annex 3 were informed estimates at this stage.

On the grounds that the Green Belt Study was a crucial piece of evidence which influenced other key policy decisions relating to the Local Plan,  Councillor Taylor proposed, seconded by Councillor Boughton  that the study be commissioned as soon as possible to realistically meet the timeframes set out in the LDS and that the recommendations of the Housing and Planning Scrutiny Select Committee be amended.

RESOLVED:  That

(1)             the commissioning the extended scope of local plan Green Belt evidence and associated costs that were not anticipated at the time of the HPSSC recommendation be approved;

(2)             the new Local Development Scheme  be approved and the implications on timing of the above decision and the uncertainties regarding the outcome of the government’s planning reforms be noted; and

(3)             the additional budget requirements of the local plan and the need for further financial provision in future budget setting process be noted.