SUPPORT WITH RECOMMENDED AMENDMENTS TO PO1

Having regard to existing and forecast housing need, plus the latest identified capacity of potentially suitable, available and achievable housing sites within the District over the period to 2029 (as presented in the SHLAA, May 2012), we consider that the Preferred Level of Growth under Policy PO1 should be a MINIMUM delivery requirement, net of demolitions, and not an absolute target i.e. a housing requirement that may be exceeded where justified by evidence of need, demand, affordability and sustainability considerations.

The proposed Plan Period, 2011 to 2029, is supported and is considered consistent with advice in the NPPF which calls on local authorities to draw up their Local Plans over an appropriate time scale, preferably a 15-year time horizon, and to take account of longer term requirements.