Issues and options

This section addresses housing needs, sets out policies for housing provision, and guides the development of sustainable, inclusive, and well-designed communities.

Find the key elements that we wish to include in our Draft Local Plan housing section:

Housing supply and targets:

• Assess current and projected housing needs based on demographic trends.
• Set out housing supply targets, including the number of new homes required over the plan period.

Affordable housing:

• Define policies and targets for the provision of affordable housing.
• Consider mechanisms such as affordable rent, shared ownership, and other affordable housing schemes.

Housing mix and types:

• Specify the types of housing required, considering the needs of different demographic groups.
• Promote a mix of housing types, including family homes, apartments, and special accommodations.

Density and design standards:

• Set out policies for appropriate housing densities in different areas.
• Establish design standards to ensure high-quality, well-designed developments.

Brownfield and greenfield development:

• Encourage the use of brownfield sites for housing to promote urban regeneration.
• Consider policies for greenfield development, emphasizing sustainability and minimizing environmental impact.

Garden communities and urban extensions:

• Explore the potential for creating garden communities or urban extensions.
• Define criteria for the sustainable development of new communities, including infrastructure provisions.

Infrastructure provision:

• Address the need for supporting infrastructure, such as schools, healthcare facilities, transportation, and utilities.
• Ensure that new developments contribute to the enhancement of local infrastructure.

Green spaces and open areas:

• Promote the creation and preservation of green spaces within housing developments.
• Establish policies for accessible and well-designed open areas for recreational purposes.

Map of open spaces and green belt land in Arlen Hill:

Climate change and sustainability:

• Include policies to address climate change within housing development.
• Encourage energy-efficient design, the use of renewable energy, and sustainable construction practices.

Community engagement:

• Outline processes for community engagement in the planning and development of housing.
• Consider mechanisms for involving residents in decision-making processes.

Heritage considerations:

• Address the impact of housing development on local cultural and heritage assets.
• Encourage the integration of new housing with the preservation of the area's character.

Transportation and accessibility:

• Address the impact of housing on local transportation networks.
• Promote sustainable transportation options and well-connected developments.

Special housing needs:

• Consider the housing needs of specific groups, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, or those experiencing homelessness.
• Develop policies to address the unique requirements of these groups.

Monitoring and review:

• Outline mechanisms for monitoring housing delivery against targets.
• Specify provisions for regular reviews of the housing policies in response to changing circumstances.

Social infrastructure:

• Address the need for social infrastructure, including healthcare, education, and community facilities.
• Promote the creation of vibrant and socially inclusive communities.

The housing section of a UK local plan aims to provide a comprehensive and flexible framework that guides sustainable and well-managed housing growth while addressing the diverse needs of the local community. It reflects a balance between meeting housing demand, preserving the environment, and fostering inclusive and resilient communities. The specifics may vary based on the characteristics and priorities of each local authority.