York finally has a Local Plan! It guides development to 2038, allocates land, and protects the green belt. A historic decision!
Councilor Claire Douglas said the delay hurt development. Councilor Michael Pavlovic called the decision historic. Councilor Nigel Ayre saw both benefits and risks. Councilor Chris Steward felt the process was messy.
The council approved the plan on February 27. York now has a Local Plan since 1956. The original plan came from the 2018 coalition. Earlier attempts to draft one also occurred.
The plan aims for 20,000 new homes in York. That equates to 822 homes built each year. Four thousand of these homes must be affordable. Councillors approved changes from a government inspector.
The plan allocates land for economic growth. This includes areas for employment and retail. It invests in transport, like bus routes and cycle paths. The plan also includes flood defenses. Energy-efficient buildings address climate change.
The plan protects York’s historic character. It also safeguards the city during development. The city’s green belt gets defined for the first time. Councilor Douglas thinks the plan balances priorities.
Douglas wants a review due to policy changes. Some parts of the plan are already seven years old. Douglas believes York will develop in a planned way. She hopes to increase housing and economic growth. Green spaces and infrastructure also matter.
Councilor Pavlovic said it had detail and consultation. He believes the green belt blocks unwanted building. He explained student housing must contribute to affordable housing. This could reduce their spread through the city.
MP Luke Charters said the plan addresses a crisis. People who grew up in York can no longer buy homes. The plan could begin to fix the housing problem.
Councilor Ayre saw opportunities and threats. He mentioned it could deliver growth and homes. Yet, he said the home number exceeds projections. He also felt it might strain the city.
Councilor Steward wants better council cooperation. He stated this process contained utter nonsense. Steward hopes for future cross-party work. This ensures a smoother outcome next time.