Lib Dems oppose top down housing targets

The new government has made some early announcements in respect of planning policy. 

Canterbury council Lib Dem group leader, Cllr Mike Sole said “I welcome the Government’s plans to provide 300 additional planning officers across England, although it will be interesting to see how this headline becomes a reality in the short term.”

“I am however, very disappointed that this government intends to continue with a regime of top-down housing targets that simply don’t deliver the homes that we need in Canterbury District, but will mean bulldozing over precious agricultural land.”

“Mandatory targets however, when confirmed are in contrast to the Conservative government who hid behind contradictory and misleading language in press releases and ministerial quotes that gave the appearance of being flexible when the reality was far different. “

Liberal Democrats have called for a community-led planning system, which would deliver the truly affordable homes we need, while giving protection to our green spaces.

Mike Sole added, “When we review the thousands of consultation responses to the draft local plan we must listen to our residents, particularly concerning the most controversial development sites.”

“As we prepare the local plan it is essential that when meeting our legal obligations and planning for infrastructure and transportation, we do so by bringing communities with us, protecting the countryside and recognise the unique historical, cultural and environmental nature of the district, but we hope that the new government does not value development over countryside in an attempt to grow the economy and pay for its manifesto promises.”

Cllr Mike Sole
Liberal Democrat Group Leader