A new Local Plan setting out the future development of Derby is set to move to the next stage, as Cabinet is asked to approve the latest version for public consultation on Wednesday 10 June.
Residents will get another chance to feed back on the document later this year, after more than 500 people responded to the first consultation in January. Their feedback has been reviewed and proposals updated where possible, ensuring that the Plan meets all necessary legal obligations while also reflecting the views of residents.
Green Belt and Green Wedge issues were a key theme. There was strong support for retaining the North Oakwood Green Wedge (Chaddesden Wood), while the release of Green Belt land at Stoney Lane, Spondon, received criticism.
Sustainable travel featured prominently, particularly bus service quality and Active Travel. The revised plan will support more sustainable connections between the university and city centre and ensure that former railway lines and canal routes are not severed.
The proposed Gypsy and Traveller site at Wilmorton attracted the highest volume of objections, focused on loss of green space, anti-social behaviour, infrastructure, property values and consultation concerns. This site was agreed by a cross-party working group and has been retained to meet the requirements of the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (2023) that identifies the need for 17 plots up to 2043.
The new plan, covering the period to 2043, makes provision for at least 12,500 new homes. Growth is planned for the city centre, as well as suburban areas including Littleover, Chaddesden, Spondon and Mickleover, supported by existing arrangements with neighbouring authorities.
Alongside housing, around 130 hectares have been earmarked as “employment land” to provide space for businesses and workplaces, including at nationally significant locations such as Infinity Park Derby. A retail-led regeneration strategy is proposed to strengthen the city centre as a thriving, attractive destination for residents, workers and visitors.
Councillor Shiraz Khan, Cabinet Member for Housing, Strategic Planning, and Regulatory Services, said:
The Local Plan is a very significant document, setting out our vision for housing, communities, and employment growth in the city over the next two decades. Although the current Plan runs until 2028, updated housing requirements and changing local needs mean a fresh, forward-looking strategy is now required.
It’s only right that our proposals reflect the needs of the people of Derby. That’s why we’ve taken your existing feedback on board when revising the proposals, and soon you will have the chance to share your views again.
The new Local Plan will be discussed by Cabinet at their meeting on Wednesday 10 June. You can view all the papers on the council’s democracy portal and watch live on YouTube.