Decision details

Cabinet approval was sought to undertake a supplementary consultation on the Draft Local Plan.

The report was introduced by the Cabinet Member for Managed Growth and Deputy Leader who made a statement which can be viewed via the webcast. The report before Members detailed the:

Ø  Timetable for the remaining stages of the Local Plan Review;

Ø  Progress to Date

Ø  National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (July 2018)

Ø  Duty to Corporate

Ø  Draft Local Plan – supplementary consultation- key contents as set out in paragraph 7.1 (a) to (f) of the report.

The report also detailed the fact that using the consultation on the revised standard methodology; the Borough’s own housing needs amounted to 767 new dwellings every year. When the Borough’s contribution to the HMA shortfall was added this became 885 dwellings per annum. To view this in context the average annual completions in the Borough over the last 4 years had been 657 dwellings, and this would be 420 dwellings per annum if taking the average over the last 10 years. The 885 dpa figure would also exceed the highest number of net completions achieved in a single year in the Borough since 2001.

On receiving the report all Members acknowledged the work of officers in producing a thorough piece of work. Members felt it was important to hear the views of the public on the proposals, and noted that further discussions around the duty to cooperate would be had with other local authorities.

Members acknowledged the impact HS2 had had on the Green Belt in Solihull and the economic benefit which would result, and be felt by the rest of West Midlands, with the HS2 development. Members were of the view that this should not be underestimated, in the context of this report.

RESOLVED:

(i)  That the “Draft Local Plan (Supplementary) Consultation” be approved as the basis for the additional consultation;

(ii)  That it be agreed that the consultation run for a six week period; and

(iii)  That delegated authority be granted to the Director for Managed Growth and Communities, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Managed Growth to make minor changes to the document.