21st September 2012
Plans to protect green belt land in Bournemouth from development and limiting the numbers of Homes in Multiple Occupation (HMOs) are just some of the key policies in 'The Bournemouth Plan' that have been approved by the Planning Inspectorate.
Following extensive consultation and public examination the Council's major planning document for the town, 'The Bournemouth Plan', has been found 'sound' by the Planning Inspectorate, subject to some limited changes. The inspector's findings will be reported to Cabinet on 17th October and formally adopted at Full Council.
The Bournemouth Plan is a key planning document which sets out how the town should be developed until 2026. It outlines planning policies for issues such as housing supply, parks and open spaces, transport and shopping facilities and how they could be developed for the future needs of the town.
Councillor David Smith, Cabinet Member for Planning Policy, said: "I am extremely pleased with the outcome of the Inspectorate's report. Once adopted by Council we will have a policy in place which means that we can ensure that Bournemouth's green belt land will be protected from future major development. We will also have a policy in place to limit the numbers of HMOs in the town with the Council being the first in the country to receive approval from the Inspectorate to set a 10 per cent limit on numbers of HMOs that receive planning approval. This policy will be particularly popular with residents in areas such as Winton who are keen to see limits on the amount of student houses in their community."
Some of the other policies featured in The Bournemouth Plan include, ensuring the Council retains family housing as well as directing new developments towards key transport routes. The plan looks at how the Council addresses the effects of climate change, together with promoting a healthy environment and protecting important heathland areas. It also aims to strengthen local communities by ensuring local centres become the focus of day-to-day life and that the Council retains and enhances retail areas.
Posted on Tuesday, 11th September 2012 - Bournemouth Borough Council