Winchester District Development Framework – Core Strategy
Work on Winchester City Council’s Core Strategy moves into its next phase this week with publication of the Preferred Option document for council consideration. This document follows wide consultation on the Issues and Options during 2008.
The Preferred Option sets out for the first time the complete Core Strategy, including the detailed wording of policies and proposals, and the allocation of key sites across the District for development over the next twenty years. The documents are available to view in the reports for March 25th LDF Cabinet Meeting view report
Earlier parts of the process explored possible opportunities and options for growth and change, and a wealth of information has been gathered ranging from technical studies and reports, to feedback from stakeholders and the community. This information has all been influential in preparing a development strategy for the District which also complies with national and regional planning guidance.
The Core Strategy Preferred Option is set out in two main parts:-
- The Spatial Strategy
This divides the District into three areas, each with a vision and set of policies which reflect their nature and characteristics, along with ‘strategic allocations’ at Winchester, Whiteley and Waterlooville. - The Core Policies
These are district wide policies applying to a range of issues and focusing on the outcomes of the Council’s Sustainable Community Strategy, which are topic based and cover matters such as affordable housing, climate change, and biodiversity. This information will form the basis for other more detailed Local Development Framework guidance, to be prepared in the future.
The Core Strategy Preferred Option will be considered by Winchester City Council’s Cabinet (LDF) Committee on 25th March at 9.30am Walton Room Guildhall, prior to final approval for consultation by Council on 22nd April at 7pm Conference Chamber, Guildhall.
There will be an opportunity for public comment on the Preferred Option and consultation arrangements are currently being organised. It is anticipated that it will run from mid May to late June, but residents can check the Council’s website for more details www.winchester.gov.uk nearer the time.