Agenda item

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an overview of the Local Development Plan (LDP);

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the Consultation, its process and the results;

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the recommendation contained in the Cabinet Report: to approve the Replacement LDP Vision and Objectives and ISA Scoping Report;

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the LDP timetable next steps;

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the next consultation stage – strategic options; and

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Information in relation to population and household projections

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Members sought clarification about the next phase of the consultation process, and how will it capture as many groups as possible.  Members noted that officers were anxious to do more than during pandemic, for example face-to- face drop in sessions; use of videos to engage young people; digital platforms and social media; engage with schools and also the hard to reach groups.

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Members queried how far are the considerations emerging from the consultation are going to influence the development of future school sites and buildings. Planning officers advised schools need to be placed in the most accessible place; connectivity and safe routes need to be considered, together with catchment areas. 

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Members referred to the responses to the consultation and linking some of the responses with objectives of the 15 minute city.  Officers believed that it was important to put in some criteria so it does not become just a badge.

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Members asked about public transport and the need to reduce or eliminate travelling through town to get to other areas of the city.  Members were advised that consideration is being given to reducing the number of unnecessary journeys; increasing the number of park and ride facilities, and working with partners/large employers to create some bespoke services to get employees to work without the need for them to drive.

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Members asked whether, in relation to the new house building targets, are they realistic and feasible, particularly as there has been gaps in meeting targets previously.  Members were advised that currently there are a large number of planning permissions to be built.  That was not the case at the time of the previous LDP.   Discussion will start in earnest in November when consultation on strategic options starts which will then inform the consultation on a preferred strategy which will be the subject of further consultation this time next year. The population projections are a starting point but should be treated with a degree of caution.

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Members sought information in relation to the engagement strategy and the detailed planning to be conducted in respect of that  process.   Members were reminded that there are good corporate frameworks, there is collaborative work with Access Forums to provide the right contacts to reach targeted groups, there are also champions within the organisation who are able to assist.  There is an awareness that some groups need encouragement and confidence to become involved, and that a bespoke process may be required. 

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Members referred to the lack of youth provision in the Cyncoed area, this does not appear to have been addressed in the previously LDP.  Members were advised that the LDP does not have a budget although it was noted that planning and development management can help to ensure that any new developments contribution towards community development.

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Members made reference to the large amount of student accommodation in the area and sought reassurance that there is enough and will be enough family provision.  Members were advised that part of the rationale for putting students in high density and managed accommodation is to free up family homes.  It is important that we deliver a range of housing options. 

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Members asked how the Committee can add value to the next stage of the consultation process; what stakeholder evidence can we bring forward; would it be of any use to you; and which external witnesses would add value, if any.  Members were advised that that is a collective conservation with all scrutiny chairs, members, scrutiny officers and other officers.  The process has been started through this pre-decision scrutiny by recognising the benefit of a collective voice. It helps to provide a level of diligence in a lengthy process.  There will be a public enquiry on the plan which will not take place for a number of years, that enquiry is evidence based.