New Forest District Council is reminding people that the latest Local Plan consultation will close on 16 September.
The consultation and information is available at www.newforest.gov.uk/localplan2016 which includes a six minute explainer video by Chris Elliot, NFDC’s Head of Planning.
The Local Plan, the document which shapes and directs development in the area, is being reviewed because of significant changes to national planning policy intended to increase house-building.
New evidence suggests there is a need for 600-700 homes to be provided annually for the New Forest district (the area around the outside of the National Park) compared to our current target of 200 homes.
Councillor Edward Heron, deputy leader of New Forest District Council, said: “Our aim is to have a robust and sensible Local Plan that balances the needs for housing with the sensitivities of the area. By taking a positive approach to meeting the government’s target, we can ensure that new developments contribute to the vitality of our communities. We need to address the urgent need for affordable homes for younger people and families.”
Any land that goes forward to the next stage for development will be subject to further consultation and a public hearing chaired by an independent planning inspector
