STRATFORD District Council’s cabinet has approved a document which will have a strong influence on future planning decisions in Alcester and the surrounding area.
The Core Strategy has been discussed in draft form for several years, and this week it finally began the process for taking full effect.
The Core Strategy outlines priorities for planning decisions in Stratford district, in order to protect and enhance the environment and character of the area.
While it stresses the importance of not expanding Stratford too greatly in order to preserve its character and international significance, it does recommend additional housing developments in Alcester and Southam, in order to reinforce the importance of those towns in their respective areas.
Overall the strategy calls for an additional 9,500 homes in the district, but limits how many new homes it recommends for existing towns, before their role, character and distinctiveness would be compromised.
Many councillors have stressed its importance in arguing against the current planning application to build 190 new homes on land south of Allimore Lane in Alcester.
Councillor Chris Saint, Stratford District Council leader, said: “The strategy recognises that growth is needed but not at the expense of undermining the character of our communities. After a lot of hard work and listening to local people we believe this gives us the best opportunity to move forward. We look to local developers to work with the public and bring forward proposals for quality homes and employment opportunities that will respect and protect our landscape and heritage.
“It is tricky to balance housing need and housing development and business needs and business development to everyone’s satisfaction. People need homes and we are keen to see these built in the District where there is a need and where people want them. This document will help us control development and where it takes place.”
The Core Strategy was approved by the cabinet yesterday, Monday, July 15, and will now go to full council on Monday, July 22 for approval.
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