The desire for local development seems somewhat of a mixed bag. There are those who willingly embrace the possibility of new homes, shops, local services and facilities, and there are those who love the area in which they live and simply don’t want it to change. The reality is that change is coming whichever camp you sit in.
The Government has clearly set out its aspirations for growth on a rather large scale. This can be seen in both the Housing White Paper entitled ‘Fixing Our Broken Housing Market’, in the new Government Consultation entitled ”Planning For The Right Homes In The Right Places’, and quite frankly it is the message coming from every political party. Communities and Local Planning Authorities are being asked to positively plan for this growth to ensure it’s delivered in the right locations and at the right time.
Of course objection to this new development at every level possible can continue, however the question is what will be gained from doing this? Yes, voices will be heard. Yes, a public statement would have been made to show that ‘this development is not wanted’. But the reality is the houses will come regardless. It’s human nature to resist change, but perhaps the viewpoint can be altered to try and see what can be gained from new development. Perhaps the voice should say ‘this is what we want’, not ‘this is what we don’t want’. This can be an opportunity to shape what’s inevitably coming our way, so at the very least we have some impact on what the development looks and feels like. This is what the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group are actively trying to do on your behalf.
To have a say.
To make a mark.
To ensure that what comes is the best possible scenario for all of us.
Of course everybody has the right to object and fight against this new housing, and for many of you this will remain your stance, which is entirely your call. But if you would like to get involved in shaping our future, go to our Get Involved section – https://northwealdbassettplan.org//get-involved/ – and see how you can make a difference.
For further information, go to:
Fixing Our Broken Housing Market – https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/fixing-our-broken-housing-market
Government Consultation – https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/planning-for-the-right-homes-in-the-right-places-consultation-proposals