Portsmouth City Council is inviting feedback on its draft local plan by 31st October 2021.
The Council has opened an innovative virtual consultation room which can be accessed via www.portsmouth.gov.uk/localplan. The plan has been split into topics to make it easier for people to view the areas they are interested in and provide feedback as they work their way around the virtual room.
Three drop-in events are being held for residents who may wish to view the plans and give their feedback in person.
Following the consultation, the Council will make any necessary changes to the plan and then publish for a final consultation. It will then be submitted to Government where a Planning Inspector will be appointed to assess the plan at public hearing sessions. Once approved, it will become the definitive plan for Portsmouth for the next 15 years.
Commenting on this announcement, Brett Spiller, Director at Chapman Lily, said that ‘this is one of the first stages in the Local Plan process and is an important opportunity for the development community to comment on the issues and options put forward. The Council is looking for land to be developed for homes, jobs, leisure and / or community use within the town and surrounding area whilst seeking to protect and enhance the local environment. The standard housing methodology indicates that a minimum of 17,701 new dwellings will be required in Portsmouth over the plan period 2023-2038; However the consultation material starts by asking whether there are any exceptional circumstances that would justify a departure. Dare we suggest an uplift!’.
Chapman Lily Planning has engaged with Local Plan across the country on behalf of landowners, businesses, promoters and developers. If you would like assistance to compile a response to the consultation document or otherwise wish to promote land through the local plan process please feel free to get in touch.