First draft of borough local plan on its way

An emerging strategic document setting out how Newcastle-under-Lyme can grow and develop in a sustainable way up until 2040 is planned to go out for consultation in spring 2023.

The Council’s draft Local Plan – outlining proposed targets for the number of homes and jobs to be delivered in the borough, a spatial strategy guiding development and infrastructure to the most sustainable locations as well as preferred sites – has been developed following the Issues and Strategic Options stage of the plan-making process.

It assumes a chosen growth target of 7,000 homes, equating to 350 homes per year, which is the Government’s standard methodology target and was option one in the recent Strategic Options consultation.

Cllr. Andrew Fear, Cabinet member for strategic planning, said: “A Local Plan is at the heart of the planning system and is the starting point in deciding planning applications. Having one is a statutory requirement and requires councils to have an up to date plan that seeks to address their development needs.

“We are working on a new Borough Local Plan to shape how Newcastle-under-Lyme is developed in the future. Once adopted it will provide a strategic approach to the delivery of a range of development types including market and affordable housing, employment, and supporting hard and soft infrastructure. Requirements will be balanced against the need to protect the built and natural environment and local green space.

“For the Council to deliver a robust and fully considered Local Plan it’s very important that consultations are carried out and that feedback from residents, organisations and stakeholders is used to help progress the plan as it is developed. The proposed growth target – favoured by those who responded to the initial Issues and Strategic Options consultation – will maintain sustainable growth for the borough, without the need for excessive green belt release as it’s a lower figure than the other available options.”

The latest consultation will take place over eight weeks – more than the statutory six weeks recommended by the Government. Responses will be used to inform the final draft Local Plan which could be adopted in 2024 following a further public consultation.