NEW plans are being made for the final draft of a document that will shape the future of Holsworthy and surrounding parishes.
The changes are planned for the North Devon and Torridge Local Plan following a recent High Court judgement on affordable housing.
The Local Plan sets out how both districts will develop up to 2031, including how many new houses, if any, and where they will be positioned in Holsworthy and surrounding areas. It also includes business development areas.
The judgement overruled the Government’s previous national thresholds on affordable housing, where developers only needed to provide them on larger developments. North Devon Council and Torridge District Council, who have produced the plan together, will now be able to revise their policy on affordable housing, making it more focused on local needs.
Lead Member for Planning and Development at Torridge District Council and councillor for the Broadheath ward, Peter Watson, said: “Given that house price affordability is a significant issue for the residents of Torridge, the council is keen to ensure it is taking every opportunity to deliver more affordable housing.
“I am pleased we now have an opportunity to strengthen this aspect of the local plan following the High Court’s recent ruling. Since the local plan will guide development in the area for many years to come, it’s important we take the time to make these changes to ensure we achieve the best outcome we can for our residents.”
Earlier this month, officers from both councils visited the Planning Inspectorate to get feedback on the draft plan so far, as well as guidance following the recent changes in government policy. Following the visit, other areas of the plan will be reviewed, including: looking at the level of housing to make sure there is enough to sustain employment in the area; plans to provide accommodation for travellers and policies on renewable energy applications.
Due to the changes and further public consultations required on them, it is expected the plan will be submitted to the Secretary of State for examination early next year.
For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week’s edition of the Post.