Deputy executive Leader, vice-chair of the Cabinet and executive councillor for planning, Cllr Tom Sanderson talks about plans to reshape Huntingdonshire.

The Local Plan is a blueprint for the growth of the district.The Local Plan is a blueprint for the growth of the district. (Image: Huntingdonshire District Council)

Over the next few weeks, Huntingdonshire District Cabinet members will be talking to you about the Local Plan.

We will be covering topics that related to our portfolio areas that have an impact on you. As the portfolio holder for planning, I believe the Local Plan is one of the most vital tools we have for shaping the future of Huntingdonshire.

The Local Plan is our blueprint for the growth of the district. It sets out how and where we deliver new homes, employment and recreation opportunities while tackling the climate challenge we face.

As we develop our new Local Plan, we want residents, businesses and communities from across Huntingdonshire to have their say as part of the latest round of engagement which is open until November 27, 2024.

A major part of the Local Plan is ensuring that everyone has access to safe, secure, and affordable homes.

The Local Plan will help us determine the location, size, quantity, and type of new homes that will be built, creating sustainable communities and enhancing quality of life. This includes crucial decisions on affordable housing, residential care, and nursing homes.

Huntingdonshire’s great location means that we will be allocating land to support our growing businesses and sectors, and those locations will be considered as part of the Local Plan process.

Another critical aspect is known as the settlement hierarchy. This will help to set out what is and is not acceptable in planning terms for an area, providing a balance between our countryside while allowing our towns and villages to thrive.

Tackling climate change, and the impact on flooding and water quality and supply are also important issues that need to be addressed.

Your feedback is key to helping us get these priorities right. Let’s plan a future that works for all of us. Visit our online platform LetsTalkHuntingdonshire.net or attend one of our local events to get involved.