Housing consultation open
A series of information events, as part of a 'consultation' on a draft plan which sets out where the next round of housing estates will be built, is being held across Wiltshire this month.
The events at Trowbridge, Salisbury, Chippenham and Devizes will focus on the draft Housing Site Allocations Plan which sets out how to meet housing needs up to 2026. The 'consultation' lasts until 5pm on 22 September.
Here's a link to the consultation page on the WC website: http://consult.wiltshire.gov.uk/portal/spatial_planning/sites_dpd/draftwhsap
Housing growth is a government priority and all local authorities have to identify sites for development. Much of the housing growth for Wiltshire has already been delivered or identified and the proposed plan brings forward further sites.
The draft plan also reviews existing boundaries around many of Wiltshire's settlements.
The Wiltshire Core Strategy, which was adopted in 2015, sets the framework for the plan.
Toby Sturgis, Wiltshire Council cabinet member for planning said: "I'd encourage people to inspect these draft proposals and share their views by attending an event or filling in the online consultation. I'm looking forward to hearing what people have to say as we work together to ensure Wiltshire has sufficient housing for our local communities into the future."
The draft plan and accompanying documents are available for comment on the council's website. They are also available at the council's main offices (Chippenham, Salisbury and Trowbridge) and Wiltshire Council libraries. As part of the 'consultation' there will be four public exhibitions from 12 noon to 7pm on:
- 17 July Chippenham Neeld Community and Arts Centre
- 19 July Salisbury Guildhall
- 24 July Devizes Town Hall
- 26 July Trowbridge, County Hall
Once the 'consultation' is complete the feedback will be considered by cabinet and full council before the draft plan is submitted to the Secretary of State for examination by an independent inspector. The inspector will consider the responses as part of the examination and issue a report indicating whether the plan can be adopted.