New houses, new jobs and the protection of the district’s green land is on the cards after Babergh District Councillors officially approved a new Local Plan.
The plan, which will provide the framework for new housing, employment and environmental protection over the next ten years, was given the thumbs-up at a meeting of the full council, which was held on Tuesday (April 11).
This was the final chapter in a detailed process that has spanned many years of discussions and consultations with many different groups – including local communities, developers, pressure groups and Government bodies.
One of the key proposals in the Local Plan is a development earmarked for Chilton Woods. The 40-hectare site will be used for a mixture of uses – including playing fields, leisure facilities, a community woodland as well as new homes.
Also included in the plan is provision for new housing. Babergh has successfully managed to secure the total amount built is lower than neighbouring councils - but that a higher percentage of affordable housing is designated.
This means that up to 35 per cent of all new developments will be made up of affordable housing – including rental and shared ownership.
The approval of the plan also means Babergh’s policies to retain vital village facilities, to prevent inappropriate developments in areas at risk from flooding and to keep free the site of any potential bypass for Sudbury have been secured.
One of the aims of the plan is to also make sure enough sites are available across Babergh for new offices and light industry – encouraging more job opportunities for residents.
With the approval, policies have also been put in place to protect much of the district’s natural and built environment. This includes an extension to a Special Landscape Area around Sudbury and Great Cornard.
Cllr Nick Ridley, Chairman of the district council’s Strategy Committee, said: “After a detailed and wide-ranging debate, Babergh’s councillors have given their support to the proposed Local Plan.
“It is a good plan that balances new housing, including low-cost housing, new sites for jobs and environmental enhancements for the next ten years.” ENDS
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