Published: 21/09/2020
A NEW public consultation has been launched into a key document that will help shape the future of Copeland.
Copeland Borough Council is in the process of developing a new Local Plan, which will guide development and investment in the borough until 2035.
The eight-week consultation launched today (Monday, September 21) gives residents and interested parties the opportunity to comment on a draft of the plan, ahead of final publication in 2021.
Issues under consultation in this ‘preferred options’ draft include the number of new-build homes the council should be aiming for, the locations and boundaries in which housing and employment developments should take place, and town centre regeneration.
Other issues include the natural environment and heritage assets, as well as opportunities for improved leisure and tourism. It also includes a focus on the community facilities and improvements to connectivity that will enable Copeland to flourish in a post-Covid environment.
Councillor Andy Pratt, Portfolio Holder for Environment, Place and Inclusive Communities, said: “This is one of the most important documents the council will produce and we are actively encouraging our community to contribute to the process.
“The new Local Plan will set an effective and robust development strategy for the whole borough; guiding inward investment, facilitating growth and forming the basis on which planning applications will be determined for the next decade-and-a-half.
“Feedback received during the previous ‘issues and options’ stage have already been taken on board as we enter this next part of the process.
“All comments we now receive on the content of the draft Preferred Options are vital in helping us understand the views and opinions of our residents and communities, allowing us to incorporate these into our policies and proposals and ensuring that everybody has a say on the development of the borough.”
The Preferred Options draft can be viewed, and feedback completed, at www.copeland.gov.uk/content/local-plan-consultations
For those without internet access, hard copies, including space for feedback, are also available on request by calling 01946 598300 or by emailing localplanconsultation@copeland.gov.uk. CDs are also available using the same contact details. The consultation runs until November 15.
