Give us your views on new policies impacting future development

As part of its work to develop the Local Plan, Buckinghamshire Council is seeking views on a set of policies that will help support growth in a way that meets future needs for housing, the economy, community facilities and essential infrastructure, while also protecting the county’s precious natural and historic environment.

Views are being sought on a proposed Design Code and an updated Parking Standards for new developments. It is an opportunity for developers and others interested in future development in Buckinghamshire to shape key policies that will form part of the Local Plan when it’s published in July.

Separately, and not directly linked to the Local Plan, the Council is also consulting on proposals for a new Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charging schedule. This is expected to be implemented before the Plan is adopted and will impact those developing in the North and Central areas of Buckinghamshire.

All three planning-related policies are closely linked and will enable the Council to put the right policies in place for Buckinghamshire. Together, along with the Local Plan, they will provide a clear, consistent and sustainable framework for future planning decisions, growth and development:

• The proposed Design Code provides a single, clear set of expectations to support high quality, well designed places. It sets out clear guidance for applicants and helps officers make well informed planning decisions. The deadline for responding is 12 May.
• Proposals for revised Parking Standards for new developments proposes some changes to parking allocations in NEW development sites in ten of our most well-connected towns, and aims to ensure consistency across the county, and updates standards to reflect national regulations, policy and best practice. The deadline for responding is also 12 May.
• The proposed new Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charging schedule for the North and Central areas of Buckinghamshire will give us a consistent way to collect contributions from those developing to help fund local infrastructure. These are already in place in south and west areas. The deadline for responding is 24 May.

Steven Broadbent, Leader of Buckinghamshire Council, said:

“Shaping the future of Buckinghamshire is one of our most important responsibilities, and this gives everyone the opportunity to contribute to how we plan for growth in a way that recognises the special character of our communities and protects our precious Green Belt.

“Much of this work is needed as part of the ongoing development of the Local Plan for Buckinghamshire and how best we meet our obligation to plan for the 95,500 extra homes in Buckinghamshire as required by Government. The CIL consultation is an important link too as it will impact on funding for local infrastructure in the county.

“Your views matter and I encourage everyone with an interest in Buckinghamshire’s future to take part.”