I have been very reassured by the approach of our council in its handling of the Covid 19 pandemic and in its declaration of a climate emergency. However, neither of these approaches appear to have been extended to this draft policy and I believe it needs to be reviewed in light of this. In this document we have an opportunity to be at the forefront of change, yes we need to deliver housing but let us use the difficulties we are facing to demonstrate we can do this in a positive and creative way that will benefit society and the environment.

The Committee on Climate Change Green Recovery document states that buildings and transport are key priorities and I believe it is imperative the proposal document is aligned with this. For example; low carbon heating must be stipulated from the outset to ensure developers are not able to save money by installing obsolete systems as they are with current builds (I understand gas heating is being used throughout the Whitehouse Farm site).

On specific points:
4.2 I understand the need for developers not to be able to hold up the supply of housing. I am concerned that not making approval contingent on off-site infrastructure will result in roads and amenities no longer being fit for purpose or compromised due to the increased housing that it is expected to support.

6.2 Throughout the policy statement, the words 'should' and 'shall' are not strong enough to ensure compliance to environmental concerns 'must' is an imperative. Developers will always find excuses or change things to save money or cut corners and we MUST remain firm in protecting our District. I understand the word should allows some flexibility that is sometimes necessary from a legal standpoint but mitigation could be used on a case by case basis rather than accepting the minimum from the outset.

In summary, a comprehensive document that is sadly lacking in aspiration, imagination and leadership.