Date:
A planning policy document that identifies future urban and Green Belt sites for future development has been found ‘sound and legally compliant’ by a Secretary of State appointed Planning Inspector, subject to a number of modifications.
The Site Allocations Development Plan Document (DPD) is an important document that the Council is required to prepare to enable the delivery of its Core Strategy, which was adopted in October 2012 and reviewed in October 2018.
The document identifies urban and Green Belt sites for future housing, employment and infrastructure within the Borough to ensure development requirements are met in a sustainable manner.
Following a public examination in December 2019, the Planning Inspector published a number of modifications to the DPD that were publically consulted upon between September and December 2020.
The Inspector took into account all comments received during the consultation before publishing his final report.
In the report the Inspector concluded that Woking’s Site Allocations DPD is ‘sound, legally compliant and has met the requirements of the Duty of Cooperation’, subject to his recommended schedule of main modifications.
Cllr Gary Elson, Woking Borough Council’s Portfolio Holder for Planning Policy, said: “After a long and complex process, we are extremely pleased that the Planning Inspector has found our Site Allocations DPD ‘sounds and legally compliant’, subject to a number of modifications.
“This is a significant step towards the adoption of the DPD, which will provide a positive framework for the future sustainable development of the Borough until 2027 and safeguards land to meet future development needs between 2027 and 2040.
“During the process we received thousands of representations from local residents, businesses and key stakeholders. Throughout we have taken great care to listen and respond to concerns and, where justified, we have adapted our proposals.
“The Inspector’s final report, along with his recommended modifications, are now available for public inspection and I would encourage residents and interested parties to take the opportunity to read its key findings.”
Hard copies of the Inspector’s report are available to view at the Civic Offices. Due to Covid-19 restrictions, visitors are required to book an appointment by calling 01483 743871 or emailing planning.policy@woking.gov.uk
Copies are also available for inspection at Woking, Byfleet, West Byfleet (once it is relocated) and Knaphill libraries during working hours. Please visit www.surreycc.gov.uk for address and opening times of the libraries.
The report is available for information only. Comments are not invited.
Following its publication, the Inspector’s report and main modifications will be considered by the relevant committee before it is presented to Council for adoption later this year.