Comment

Representation ID: 25164

Received: 23/03/2021

Respondent: Home Builders Federation

This policy states that unless site specific considerations indicate otherwise development should achieve a minimum density of 35 dwellings per hectare (dph), with developments in locations including town centres and areas well served by public transport and local amenities will be expected to achieve densities of at least 50dph. The setting of residential density standards should be undertaken in accordance with the NPPF where policies should be set to optimise the use of land. A range of density standards specific to different areas of the city is appropriate to ensure that any proposed density is appropriate to the character of the surrounding area.

The flexibility provided by this policy in relation to certain considerations is noted, this will allow developers to react to some site-specific issues. However, further amendments could be made to create greater flexibility to allow developers to take account of the evidence in relation to market aspirations, deliverability and viability, the site’s context and accessibility.

The Council will also need to consider its approach to density in relation to other policies in the plan. Policies such as open space provision, cycle and bin storage, housing mix, residential space standards, accessible and adaptable dwellings and parking provision will all impact upon the density which can be delivered upon site.