Issue - meetings

RESOLVED – that the approach to master planning set out in the report submitted, be endorsed as the approach to be followed in relation to the development of significant development sites in East Herts.

(see also Minute 221)

Minute 6 refers

The Panel considered a report setting out the Council’s approach to master planning, which sought agreement for its use to support the delivery of significant development sites in the District.  

The Panel noted that throughout the development of the District Plan, the Council had emphasised the need to ensure that development of the highest quality came forward, fully supported by infrastructure which delivered a range of aspirations that the Council and the community in general had about the benefits to be delivered as part of development.  These aspirations could be best identified and achieved through a collaborative master planning approach to the bringing forward of sites for development. 

In response to Members’ comments and questions, Officers confirmed that no threshold on the size of development was proposed and that each development site would be considered on its merits.  The Council would seek a collaborative approach that would involve discussions with all parties and this could apply to employment sites as well.

In respect of the Gilston area, Officers explained that it was too early to confirm the approach that would be taken at this stage and the various questions asked would be best answered by the steering group set up.

Regarding the Goods Yard site in Bishop’s Stortford, Officers advised that, as this application was subject to appeal, some caution needed to be applied in any discussion.  However, it was noted that a collaborative approach was being taken.  Officers emphasised that the master planning approach would raise the bar and help the process of seeking the highest possible quality in design and development.

The Panel supported the recommendation now detailed.

RECOMMENDED – that the approach to master planning set out in the report submitted, be endorsed as the approach to be followed in relation to the development of significant development sites in East Herts.