Hertsmere have launched their draft Local plan which will help shape our Borough for the next 15 years.
It shows where the potential homes and employment sites and new infrastructure and green open spaces for our communities will be
There are areas which will provide exciting training opportunities and also many jobs for our residents.
A minimum of 40% affordable homes will be demanded from developers.
The plan responds to our Climate Change emergency and demands Net Zero carbon developments, enhanced cycle routes as well as new, or enhanced, subsidised bus transport routes.
The engagement lasts for 8 weeks and we want to hear from as many residents as possible – your views are essential in planning where our much needed future homes and employment areas should go.
It is available to view at www.hertsmerelocalplan.com along with further information, including summaries of what the plan covers, what it could mean for each of the borough’s main areas, an overview of the next steps and frequently asked questions. People can fill out the online survey or give their comments through the online consultation portal, both are available via the website.
A link to the Draft Local Plan is here and a link to the portal is here.
Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council and Portfolio Holder for Communications and Consultation, Cllr Morris Bright MBE, explained: "Today marks the first day of one of the most important engagement exercises that we have ever undertaken, as a council.
"Over the next six weeks, we'll be working tirelessly to ensure residents and local groups have the opportunity to have their say.
"To that end from today onwards, you should expect to see a newsletter through your door, posts on your social media feed and billboards on our waste vehicles, all promoting how you can have your say on our draft plan.
"However, it's also about everyone taking time to give their feedback, either by filling out our online survey or providing responses through the consultation portal.
"We need your views on how the borough could grow in the future to ensure it remains the wonderful place to live, work and visit that it is today."
Portfolio Holder for Planning, Cllr Dr Harvey Cohen, added: "Our draft Local Plan aims to ensure that we deliver the homes we've been told to by central government, alongside the jobs, infrastructure and services to support this growth.
"We’re inviting as many people as possible to take a look at the plan and give their views on the proposals for growth by visiting our bespoke website www.hertsmerelocalplan.com.
"This is an important stage in the Local Plan process but it isn't the final one - there will be a further opportunity to comment next year.
“Additionally, we will continue to review the draft Local Plan as the Government updates its advice and requirements as to housing numbers and green belt development.
"However, by submitting your views now, you can help shape how the plan moves forward and how the borough grows over the next 15 years and beyond."
Hard copies of the plan and response forms and pre-paid envelopes are available at accessible locations across the borough, including libraries and parish and town council offices.
There will also be a further opportunity to comment on the final plan next year, before it is submitted to the Secretary of State for formal examination.
