Issue - meetings

The B&NES Placemaking Plan is due to be considered by Cabinet in November 2015 for public consultation and submission for independent examination. This report sets out the key issues to be included in the plan.

The Chairman commented that a lot of brownfield sites are being used for student accommodation and he asked what engagement has the Council had with the universities.

The Divisional Director for Development replied that there is a specific line in the document that states the need to engage with them.

Councillor Barry Macrae said that he was worried the number of decisions / reviews that the Council makes on these issues as areas such as Midsomer Norton have already stated what they want to happen in their areas.

Councillor Charles Gerrish, the Cabinet Member for Finance & Efficiency replied that the Placemaking Plan is the detail around the Core Strategy.

Councillor Lisa O’Brien asked whether student accommodation could be built within the Green Belt of the campus.

The Divisional Director for Development replied that it would have to be exceptional circumstances for development within the Green Belt.

The Chairman asked if other wards should be given protection in relation to HMO’s given that student numbers are now uncapped for the universities.

Councillor Colin Blackburn said that he felt that the City was being turned into a dormitory and that a campus could be set up in a different area of the Council to spread the benefit.

Councillor Barry Macrae said that he felt that the Council was giving too much consideration to students over residents and families and that a sense of community must be retained.

Councillor Lisa O’Brien stated that she appreciated the work on this matter in relation to Keynsham.

The Panel RESOLVED to note the scope and purpose of the Placemaking Plan and the opportunity to make detailed comments on the contents of the Plan as part of the formal consultation process.