Comments on the Pattern of Development sections of the Local Plan Strategy
From "Pattern of development"
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The following are comments on the Pattern of Development sections of the Building a Better Future strategy proposal:
p27 Regeneration - Limitation to Note
The strategy correctly identifies developer’s preference to build on greenfield sites other than town centre sites as these would tend to create bigger profit margins. The slow progress on town centre sites is evidence of this. The new Local Plan must therefore specify how to incentivize developers towards town centre sites. This is key to revitalising particularly Havant and Waterlooville which are currently in decline as ‘go to’ town centres. A higher town centre population will bring back inward investments.
p29 Land and Densities - The Proposed Approach
The strategy suggests that higher densities in suburban housing developments can be achieved ‘through minor design elements which add visual interest within development schemes’. This needed to be explained in more detail to ensure that any consequences are understood by those reviewing this strategy.
p30 - Land and Densities - Proposed Policies
It is welcomed that Havant Borough Council will want to influence the density of any approved housing development as this is needed to counterbalance developers preference for lower density higher profit developments. However we need to ensure such plans are in keeping with surrounding areas that developments will take place in, so as not to create incongruity.
p31 - Retail and Town Centres - The Proposed Approach
The proposal to allow more smaller shops to be open on a Sunday is welcome as this is another way to revitalise local retail areas by increasing footfall in areas like Emsworth that get a lot of outside weekend visitors.
p31 - Retail and Town Centres - The Proposed Approach
The proposal to consider the location of takeaway and gambling venues when considering development applications is welcome if these leads to more welcoming retail areas.
p32 - Retail and Town Centres - Proposed Policies
It is hoped that a new policy for when to accept conversion of shops and other community infrastructure to other uses (residential?) is not used to weaken the viability of existing local retail centres.