Telford council moves closer to adopting local plan

Telford & Wrekin Council has now published the Inspector’s Report on the Telford & Wrekin Local Plan, which moves it towards adoption.

Back in August, the council created a revised draft of its Local Plan. It says the number of properties required has increased from the 15,555 originally stated to 17,280 over the next 14 years. The projected population figure will be 202,000, revised from 198,000.

The authority was ordered to review several aspects of its future plan for the town after a government inspector warned the selection of housing sites was “flawed”.

The examination in public into the plan has now concluded and the inspector has found the revised document to be sound, subject to certain modifications.

Councillor Richard Overton, Telford & Wrekin Council’s cabinet lead for the Local Plan, said: “It is standard practice for a planning inspector to make changes as a result of the examination in public and now that process is completed, we are a big step closer to the plan being adopted.

“Once it has been adopted, the Local Plan will provide the council with greater certainty regarding future development within the borough through a robust and up to date development plan.

“Having an adopted plan in place provides confidence to the development market and local people promoting development in locations that support existing communities and enabling economic growth.”

The council says the plan will help to create homes and jobs, while also maintaining the borough's ample green spaces.

Policies in the plan will also enable delivery of accommodation that meets current and future need, supports provision of specialist and supported housing and the protection and enhancement of the borough’s cultural and heritage assets.

The modifications included an increase in the number of houses to be delivered.

On an annual basis, this means an additional 86 homes per year over the 20 year period covered by the plan.

The inspector has supported the council’s proposals for employment development including the site of the proposed Newport Innovation Park.

Following the release of the Inspector’s Report, officers will be recommending that the Local Plan, be formally adopted at January’s full council meeting.

The Inspector’s Report is available to view on the council's website.