The Conservative-led administration’s proposed local plan, with its carefully balanced approach designed to protect York’s green belt and special character whilst providing the housing and employment the city needs, will be considered by senior councillors over the next two weeks prior to a vote at a special full council on 17 May.
A report detailing responses to the latest public consultation on the plan will go before the Local Plan Working Group this Wednesday 2 May and to the council’s Executive next Tuesday 8 May..
If Executive approves the proposals, the vote at Full Council on the 17th will decide whether to submit it to the government. This would see the plan submitted to the government inspectorate within the timescales agreed with the secretary of state for Housing, Communities and Local Government.
Previous administrations have struggled with producing a local plan, which York needs has to support the city’s economic growth and shape how many houses the city will build over the next 15 years and beyond. The current administration has listened to residents of York about how they want to see the city develop and have put together a nuanced document which both reflects current realities and the city’s aspirations for the future.
Key features of the plan include:
- Provision for around 20,000 homes over the next 20 years, with around 4000 more homes delivered through affordable housing schemes
- The creation of around 650 new jobs per annum
- Rigorous policies to protect and enhance York’s heritage culture and ensure that any new developments are of the highest standards
- Clear guidelines to protect York’s special setting and character by carefully regulating development which impinges on the greenbelt
- Plans to protect the environment, including stopping developments which are subject to flood risk and ensuring sustainable design
Councillor Ian Gillies, leader of City of York Council, said:
“The local plan is one of the most significant strategic documents for the city of York, as it will determine how York develops over the next 15 years. It will provide the homes and job opportunities we need while protecting our city’s distinct and special character.
“We believe that this is the right plan for York, and one that promotes a balanced approach. This includes sustainable developments, the need for better transport links, the city’s cultural offer and much more. It is absolutely essential that we deliver a plan that addresses the local pressures in our housing market, but at the same time, guarantees the protection of the greenbelt and York’s natural beauty through the regeneration of Brownfield sites.”
“We’ve made great progress and are on track to submit this plan, on time, to the government.”