Local Development Plans: progress or lack of it
Progress on Surrey district and borough Local Development Frameworks (LDFs), and in particular the most important document, the Core Strategy (CS), has been slow. The notable exception is Epsom & Ewell, which adopted its CS in 2007
Progress on Surrey district and borough Local Development Frameworks (LDFs), and in particular the most important document, the Core Strategy (CS), has been slow. The notable exception is Epsom & Ewell, which adopted its CS in 2007. A number of boroughs, including Woking, Waverley and Runnymede, submitted their strategies to the Government for examination some time ago, but because of inadequacies in the evidence base, have withdrawn them and decided to engage in further consultation.
Other districts and boroughs, not so far advanced, such as Guildford, Mole Valley, Elmbridge and Reigate & Banstead, have also decided to delay and re-consult the public on various issues – not least housing. In January, Guildford consulted for the first time on its Site Allocations Document. Over 290 sites, many proposed for housing, have been listed and views sought on their future use. This is the first Allocations DPD issued by any Surrey District and although not yet the ‘preferred’ list, indicates the pressure the District is under.
Spelthorne submitted its CS in 2007 followed by a consultation period. However, because of complications and objections on Green Belt issues, there have been delays and it is likely there will be a further opportunity for a full consultation in 2008. Tandridge has also very recently (January/ February 2008) consulted on its submitted CS. An examination will follow later this year.
It is important that CPRE members through-out Surrey are aware of what stage their council has reached in this complicated and often confusing process.
If you would like to help with this campaign, you should approach the Planning Department of your local district or borough council, check the timetable for the LDF, and ask to be put on their LDF database so that you can be sent all future documents the council prepares.
