Object

Representation ID: 3297

Received: 22/03/2021

Respondent: Mr David Wilmshurst

Para 3.6.15 states that for Employment Land Need and Jobs “This analysis was produced prior to the Covid-19 pandemic.” Account has not therefore been taken of the reduced demand for office and retail space following from increased working from home and online shopping resulting from the pandemic. The shortfall of 5,000 units is therefore excessive and the Green Belt land to be built on should be reduced accordingly. The Plan is therefore not in line with the National Planning Policy Framework para 11a which states that “plans should positively seek opportunities to meet the development needs of their area, and be sufficiently flexible to adapt to rapid change;” as with changes in land use resulting from the pandemic. It also contravenes paragraphs 3.8.42 and 43 which require Councils to maximise use of previously developed and under-utilised land and buildings, which could be used for housing.