BASE HEADER

The preferred options do not give credence to the National Planning Policy Framework or established planning policy. This states that development in the green Belt is inappropriate (except for LIMITED infilling) and that using previously-developed (brownfield) land should be encouraged. This is not at all clear or followed in this Option and is therefore a serious flaw. There must be a clear sequential test that prioritises brownfield land and uses Green Belt as a very last resort, if at all.

The plan must show flexibility and the sequential test should be ongoing throughout the 15 years to ensure that as high a proportion as possible is developed on brownfield land.

Development has to be supported by infrastructure. Therefore I support more the creation of new large developments where the critical mass of development necessitates new items such as roads, drainage, schools, health and local amenities. These should be located on the edge of current urban areas to facilitate the use of sustainable transport methods. Piecemeal development that expands villages is not sustainable.

The earmarking of dozens of small sites in village locations is punitive when it is not likely to be necessary. Therefore these should not be included at this stage.