Time running out to comment on Local Plan
Just one week remains for communities to take part in a key stage of planning for the future of Blaby District, as the Local Plan consultation draws to a close.
Blaby District Council is asking people to have their say on the area’s next plan, in a consultation that has already seen more than 300 people attend drop-in events across the District.
The consultation closes at 12 noon on Monday 24 August. Comments, known as representations, should be made online at Local Plan.
Local Plans guide where new homes, jobs and services will go, where development is limited or protected and includes the policies used to decide planning applications.
Government housing figures show the District needs 11,195 new homes by 2042. Many of these homes have already been built or have planning permission, so the document plans for land for 7,500 more.
The Council has been preparing the new Local Plan since 2019 and is at the Regulation 19 consultation stage – the final round of consultation before the plan is submitted to a government planning inspector for review.
Without an up-to-date plan development can still happen, but the Council has less control over where and how it takes place.
Those interested in the blueprint document are invited to comment on whether the plan is compliant and sound; meaning it is:
• Positively prepared – focusses on meeting community needs
• Justified – based on evidence
• Effective – can be achieved and is based on joint working with neighbouring councils and organisations
• Consistent with national policy
Detailed guidance is available to help people understand how to comment. All Local Plan documents and evidence can be viewed on the Council’s website. Paper copies of the plan are also available at the Council offices and in libraries across the District.
All representations will be submitted to the government's Planning Inspectorate for consideration at examination.
Councillor Mike Shirley, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Strategic Growth, said: "Thank you to everyone who has already made comments on this important document for the District.
"We know there is a lot of interest in how and where homes, jobs and infrastructure will go across the District, and it’s been good to see people coming to learn more about proposals and the consultation at our drop-in events. We’ve developed simple guidance to help people to respond, and have a range of frequently asked questions to support as many people as possible to take part.
"If you haven’t already made a comment, please do, this is the last consultation before we look to submit the plan to the government. This is an important final step to ensure our Local Plan meets the law and national planning policy."
Councillor Mike Shirley
Portfolio Holder for Planning, Strategic Growth and Environment