Regional Spatial Strategy

The new Government has announced that it plans to scrap the Regional Spatial Strategy. I presume this means that the existence of the ‘draft’ Strategy – calling for 68,200 new properties by 2026 – will no longer be used as a ‘material’ planning consideration by developers wishing to impose inappropriate levels of housing on Cornwall.

It means that Cornwall Council’s Planning Policy Panel, which I chair, now has the important job of investigating the extent of new house construction that would actually be appropriate for Cornwall. It is unclear, at the moment, what constraints we will have to work within, but at least there appears to be an opportunity for some common sense in planning policy.

I am also pleased to be able to report that the ruling Cabinet on the Council will soon start consultation on the Affordable Housing policy document that we have just completed. I will publicise this further when the actual consultation commences.