Object

Representation ID: 1272

Received: 08/07/2008

SMPCT consider that while the principle of directing the majority (80%) of new housing within the built up area, thus meeting objective 4, is sound the fact that the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) has yet to be completed means that it is not clear where and how this housing will be delivered.

The issue of delivery is further questioned given the low completion rates of previous years (85% of the target over the last 7 years (2000-07) chart 10, 2006-07 AMR) and timescales of the major release of the major greenfield site at Breadsell Lane (expected 2021-26). The fact that significant infrastructure and cooperation of a neighbouring authority will be required in order to be bring forward this site means that there are significant obstacles that are likely to prevent this site coming forward for redevelopment earlier should delivery fall more than 15% below the annual target.
SMPCT consider that in the light of the above the Council should, through the SHLAA, identify the maximum number of residential units, taking account design considerations, that can be accommodated within the existing built up area especially as the Council recognises that the re-use of previously developed land is vital to the physical regeneration of the town.

SMPCT reserve the right to comment further on the preferred approach of the Core Strategy process once the SHLAA has been published.