Member Article

Preston development plan to be adopted

A new Local Plan which sets out how Preston will grow and develop up to 2016 is set to be approved by the city council.

Developed over the past three years, the plan covers the city’s future housing development, business and commercial locations, transport infrastructure, educational and community facilities.

The Local Plan acts as a framework to guide the determination of future planning applications in Preston.

Councillor John Swindells, Deputy Leader of Preston City Council, said: “Preston’s economy is growing. More people want to live in Preston and more people want to invest and do business in the city.

“Our challenge is to allow Preston to reach its potential and grow in a way that is managed and focused so that the city continues to be a great place to live.

“Over the next 12 years or so, we’re planning for the development of over 7,800 new homes. We’re talking quality homes and affordable homes for future generations to live in. But it’s not just about housing. It’s about people and communities.

“Making sure that people can get around easily and efficiently through a modern transport network. That people have access to protected green space and nature, along with doctors, health and other community facilities. To education and future learning and skills required to access the many thousands of jobs the Preston and Lancashire economy will create over the next few years.

“As one of the top 15% of authorities to adopt a Local Plan, we can set the planning framework to achieve this and more. It puts Preston in charge of its own destiny and in the driving seat to a bright, sustainable future. It allows Preston to capitalise from every single penny of the £430m Preston, South Ribble and Lancashire City Deal in a constructive and planned way for the benefit of the many, not just the few.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Simon Malia .