The Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society is pleased to share insights from the recent letter from Joanna Averley, Chief Planner at The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC), which are relevant to South Gloucestershire Council's draft New Local Plan. This plan, currently in public consultation until 16th February 2024, has significant implications for Hanham and its precious green spaces.
Let's delve into the key points applicable to the "emerging preferred strategy" proposed by the council:
1. Green Belt Boundaries:
The Chief Planner's letter clarifies that the updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) doesn't mandate local authorities to alter Green Belt boundaries unless they choose to. This news is crucial for Hanham residents, as it signifies the council's discretion in protecting our valuable greenbelt. We urge the council to prioritize the preservation of this vital buffer zone in the final New Local Plan.
2. Beauty and Placemaking:
The NPPF emphasizes the importance of beauty and placemaking in strategic policies. This resonates deeply with our society's commitment to preserving Hanham's unique character and charm. We encourage the council to actively incorporate this principle into the New Local Plan, ensuring that development enhances rather than diminishes Hanham's natural beauty and sense of place.
3. Agricultural Land Protection:
The strengthened protection for agricultural land in the new NPPF aligns with our society's concerns about safeguarding valuable farmland in Hanham. We urge the council to rigorously assess the potential impact of any proposed development on fertile land and prioritize its preservation.
4. Forestry Commission's Project WIDGET Workshops:
The upcoming Project WIDGET workshops offer valuable opportunities to ensure that trees and woodlands, including ancient ones, are adequately considered in the New Local Plan. We encourage council representatives and local planning officers to actively participate in these sessions and advocate for robust measures to protect Hanham's rich arboreal heritage.
Taking Action:
The Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society strongly encourages all residents to engage actively in the New Local Plan consultation process. We urge you to:
Submit your comments on the draft plan by 16th February 2024.
Attend one of our Objection Letter Writing Workshops if you need help.
Stay informed about the latest developments and share your concerns with the council and fellow residents.
By working together, we can ensure that the final New Local Plan reflects the values of our community and protects the precious green spaces that define Hanham.
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