Affordable housing plan on hold (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Affordable housing plan on hold

PLANS for affordable housing developments in Cirencester have stalled after the Government objected to the district council's housing strategy.

Council planners have been told they are contradicting the regional strategy for new housing by allowing too many homes in rural areas.

The Government Office for the South West says development should be concentrated in urban areas like Gloucester, Swindon and Cheltenham.

But Cotswold District Council bosses have hit back at the criticism, claiming it jeopardises the future provision of affordable homes for local people.

Cllr Carole Topple, CDC portfolio holder for corporate planning, said: "We were deeply disappointed to have received this objection at the eleventh hour.

"Only last week, the council received the State of the District report for 2005.

"It was debated and our priorities reviewed in line with that report. It clearly showed that affordable housing is still a major priority for this district. This objection will undoubtedly delay the provision of affordable homes for people."

The GOSW objections could affect several proposed housing sites in Cirencester, including the Kingshill project.

GOSW says CDC should override the district housing requirement laid down in the adopted Gloucestershire Structure Plan to comply with regional development.

CDC planning manager Chris Vickery said: "The emerging Local Plan is already very restrictive towards rural areas, only allowing for new housing - other than affordable houses - at Cirencester and nine principal settlements.

"Moreover, the plan's allocations amount to an over-supply of just 55 dwellings out of an original requirement of 6,150 by 2011.

"The Local Plan has been prepared fully in accordance with prevailing national, regional and county policy frameworks.

"Its strategy and proposals have been rigorously tested through an inquiry, and the Inspector has recommended very few significant changes to the draft plan."

CDC stills hopes to adopt the Local Plan by June next year after considering its modifications in January. GOSW has, however, indicated that its objection could be satisfied if CDC were to phase certain housing sites, thereby ensuring they are not developed until there is a 'strategic justification' for doing so.