Spelthorne Local Plan Public Hearings Set to Restart in January

Public hearings concerning Spelthorne’s local development plan, which outlines locations and timelines for constructing new residences through 2037, are scheduled to recommence in the new year. This year, the plans have already experienced two postponements at the council’s request, following the Environmental Agency’s articulation of flood risk concerns for current homes within the proposed development zones. The council has stated its commitment to ensuring the safety of all residents and views the January hearings as a notable advancement. According to the council, the local plan is designed to provide affordable housing, family residences with gardens, local infrastructure, improvements to sports and recreation facilities, a new sixth form college, and enhanced safeguarding for urban open spaces. Following the initial postponements, the EA and the council formalized a statement of common ground in October this year, leading to the resumption of the local plan process. Councillor Malcolm Beecher, who chairs the environment and sustainability committee, commented: “We welcome the news that the planning inspector is keen to progress with the public hearings.” He added, “The local plan will bring many benefits and protections to Spelthorne and we look forward to having it adopted so we can move onto the ‘delivery phase’ of the plan,” These hearings, forming part of the public consultation process, are scheduled to take place in person at Spelthorne Council’s offices, commencing on 27 January. Individuals who have previously submitted a representation will be afforded the chance to attend the hearings and address the planning inspector directly. Information concerning participation and the specific subjects for discussion on each date will be finalized nearer to the commencement of the hearings.