Issue - meetings

A)   The Bishop’s Stortford Employment Study, attached at Appendix A to the report, was agreed as part of the evidence base to inform the new East Herts Local Plan and as a material consideration for Development Management purposes in the determination of planning applications.

The Executive Member for Planning and Growth presented the Bishop’s Stortford Employment Study, noting that it updated evidence on the town’s employment market and would inform the new Local Plan. It was acknowledged that recent economic changes had been considered, alongside growth in the town and maintaining a balance between homes and jobs. The study identified limited demand for office space but strong demand for industrial and logistics uses. It highlighted the need to safeguard existing employment land and support future provision.

The Executive Member for Planning and Growth proposed the recommendations as detailed in the report. The Executive Member for Neighbourhoods seconded the proposal.

Members welcomed the study, noted its importance and highlighted concerns regarding Bishop’s Stortford historically functioning as a commuting town, contributing to congestion. It was emphasised that retaining and expanding local employment opportunities, including within mixed-use developments, would be important to support sustainability and reduce out-commuting.

In response to a question on health infrastructure, Members heard that requirements would be addressed through an Infrastructure Delivery Plan in partnership with the NHS, with developer contributions supporting the provision of facilities.

The motion to support the recommendations, having been proposed and seconded, was put to the meeting and upon a vote being taken, was declared CARRIED.

RESOVLED – that (A) the Bishop’s Stortford Employment Study, attached at Appendix A to the report, was agreed as part of the evidence base to inform the new East Herts Local Plan and as a material consideration for Development Management purposes in the determination of planning applications.