Options proposed on how district should grow

As part of its work to create a new Local Plan, Harborough District Council is drawing up a number of proposed options to ensure it meets its requirement for 475 new homes a year over the period 2011 to 2031.

Around 9,500 properties need to developed, however 5,800 homes have already been built or been given planning permission since 2011.

On Wednesday 1 July 2015, the council’s Local Planning Executive Advisory Panel will discuss recommendations on a number of housing development options.

These include dispersing development across the district, or concentrating development into one or two new ‘strategic development areas’ either at Lutterworth, Kibworth or at Thurnby and Scraptoft adjoining Leicester, including significant road infrastructure and other benefits.

Consideration will also be given as to how each option impacts on the future growth of other towns and villages across the district. There will also be focus on providing job opportunities and employment development in the district, as well as new shops, gypsy and traveller sites, and parks.

In September 2015, residents will be asked for their views on the proposed options going forward.

Councillors and officers will then consider the outcome of the public consultation, along with other issues such as transport and sustainability appraisals, before coming to a decision early next year on which option or combination of options is best.

The draft Local Plan will then be written, and published again for public feedback. It will also be examined by an independent Planning Inspector before it is adopted.

The Local Plan Options – Advisory Panel report can be viewed on the Harborough District Council website