Decision details

This report seeks approval to undertake consultation on a West of England Joint Spatial Plan (JSP) and Joint Transport Study (JTS) document entitled “Towards the Emerging Spatial Strategy”.  The consultation is due to take place across the West of England from 7th November to 19th December 2016.

The report also seeks the approval of a Core Strategy Review Commencement Document for consultation within B&NES at the same time as the wider JSP /JTS consultation.

RESOLVED (unanimously) that the Cabinet endorsed:

(1)  The “Towards the Emerging Spatial Strategy” and the “West of England Transport Vision” document for the public consultation on the Joint Spatial Plan and Joint Transport Study commencing on 7 November 2016;

(2)  The Core Strategy Review commencement document for public consultation commencing on 7 November 2016;

(3)  The amendments proposed  to the B&NES Local Development Scheme which will need to be agreed by Full Council in due course.

The consultation on the JSP emerging spatial strategy enables wide engagement on emerging proposals before they are finalised in the Publication Plan in 2017. The review of the Core Strategy was agreed by Council in May 2016.

The option of proceeding straight to JSP Publication stage was dismissed as not giving stakeholders and residents enough opportunity to engage in the conversation in respect of emerging options.

The review of the Core Strategy will also enable wide consideration of alternative options as part of the statutory process of plan preparation.  Consultation is a statutory requirement