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ID sylw: 102006

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Savills (UK) Ltd

Our other representations argue for caution in selecting and allocating new communities. Availability of infrastructure such as public transport, services and facilities is a particular challenge for standalone settlements lacking a close functional relationship to an existing large town. Historic settlements contain more and a wider variety of services and facilities than would be planned for a new settlement as their commercial cores pre-date large supermarkets and internet shopping. It is inconceivable that a new settlement with a similar number of residents and households to Southam would have a similar range of services and facilities. These promote internalised trips and make communities more vibrant and attractive for residents.

Therefore we suggest a sustainable growth strategy should be focused in locations which already have a wide range of local infrastructure in close proximity. This will reduce need to travel and create attractive places to live consistent with the Vision and Strategic objectives. Investment can be focused on enhancing and supplementing existing infrastructure, to benefit both new residents and existing communities. Existing facilities will be available to the first residents of new developments rather than waiting for a critical mass before the first shop and school. Combined existing and future residents will provide greater critical mass to support sustainable public transport and provide opportunity to use existing services from the outset rather than subsidising lengthy new routes.