Borough’s Local Plan on track to be adopted
Eastleigh Borough’s Local Plan is on track to be adopted, following the independent Planning Inspector’s decision to find the Local Plan ‘sound’ and legally compliant, subject to modifications.
This enables the Council to adopt the Local Plan that provides a ‘blueprint’ for development needs in the Borough over the short to medium term, including housing needs to 2031, and 82% of housing needs to 2036, reflecting the Council’s pro-active approach to housing delivery. The Plan also promotes sustainable development, protects settlement gaps, the countryside and biodiversity, seeks to minimise congestion and provide for transport, community and other infrastructure.
In May 2021 the Council approved the Inspector’s proposed main modifications for public consultation. She has now considered all the representations received and completed her final report/main modifications with only small changes from the proposed main modifications. The Inspector’s main modifications delete the Strategic Growth Option (SGO) and link road, and result in some adjustments to settlement gaps, but otherwise it retains the overall shape of the Council’s plan
The Local Plan is an important document for shaping the Borough as a place. The adoption of the Local Plan (2016 – 2036) provides an up-to-date development plan against which planning applications are determined.
The main aims of the Local Plan include;
- ensuring development in Eastleigh Borough and its communities delivers a strong and sustainable economy
- providing an adequate supply of housing and infrastructure that supports improved standards of living for residents
- protect the distinct identity of our towns and villages and prevent urban sprawl
- promoting thriving and healthy communities
- maintaining an attractive and sustainable environment that residents value.
The Local Plan will now go forward with a recommendation to adopt the Plan at a Full Council meeting on Monday 25 April 2022.
Eastleigh Borough Council Leader, Councillor Keith House, said: “We are obviously pleased that our Local Plan has been confirmed as sound and is now in a position to be adopted. It is vital to meet our long-term housing needs in a sustainable way, by delivering the right homes in the right places, while protecting green gaps between communities and providing the necessary transport and other infrastructure.”
More information, including the Inspector's final report, can be found on our website