If you love your district, shape its future

Published on Friday, 8th May 2009

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Have your say on key local issues, from green energy, to affordable homes and more as part of the Local Development Framework

This month, Lichfield District Council is asking people to give their views on a wide range of issues that will help to tailor the type of development that could take place locally in years to come.

Councillor Neil Roberts, Cabinet Member for Development at the Council explained: "When the council is asked to decide whether or not a proposed development should be given planning permission, it's not just where it's set to take place that's important. We alsoneed to make sure development meets local needs and benefits the area - from ensuring they don't impact negatively on the local character and beauty, through to making sure they are supported by good infrastructure, such as roads, schools and shops. We also need to consider issues like local bus services, renewable energy targets, cycle routes, protecting local wildlife and much more."

Neil Cox, Principal Development Plans Officer, said: "Three thousand local people have already given their views on when, where and what type of development should take place locally between now and 2020. Everyone who has commented before will be sent a letter asking them to comment again.

"If you have not given your views before, it's really easy. The quickest way to comment is online at www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/newldf. Or, if you'd prefer to write to us, get hold of a summary leaflet about the proposals from the council reception in Frog Lane, or call the team on 01543 308196 to request a copy. You can also download one from www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/policydirections. The leaflet gives a broad overview of the council's proposals and explains how to comment. Please get your comments in to us by the 11th June."

People's views will help to shape a document called 'Core Strategy: Policy directions' which forms part of the newly emerging Local Development Framework, or LDF for short. As part of this, the council is asking for people's views on a wide range of issues including:

Tackling climate change
Providing the right infrastructure
Sustainable transport
Getting the right balance of local homes
Gypsies & travellers
Boosting business & enterprise
Protecting & enhancing our built environment
Recreation & leisure
Protecting & enhancing our natural assets

What's the LDF?

When adopted, the LDF will provide a planning framework for the district that will help to make sure the right number and types of homes are built - from affordable homes for young couples, through to the right kind of homes for elderly residents and great starter homes for young families. It will also help to encourage the right kind of shopping and leisure facilities locally, so local people don't have to travel elsewhere. For businesses it will help to create the right kind of office and industrial spaces, so local businesses can grow and local people can find more, better paid local jobs.

Timeline for the draft Core Strategy

The deadline for comments is Thursday 11 June 2009 . These views will be considered by Lichfield District Council when they create the draft Core Strategy. The council will then hold a further six week consultation on the draft Core Strategy in October 2009.