Have your say on future housing needs in Surrey Heath

People are encouraged to put forward their views on the provision and types of housing they believe are needed in Surrey Heath over the next 20 years.

The Housing Needs Development Plan Document (DPD) will set out policies relating to the provision of affordable housing, key worker housing, housing in rural areas, small homes, housing for older people and those with learning and physical disabilities and provision for gypsies, travellers and travelling showpeople.

The Council is currently holding a public participation exercise on the Housing Needs Options Paper, which will run until Monday, March 12, 2007. This exercise will give people the chance to comment on what they believe the priorities for housing development in the Borough should be between now and 2026.

Portfolio Holder for Economy and the Environment Cllr Patricia Pearce said: "Housing is a key issue which affects everyone's life. This document will help shape the future of housing provision in the Borough therefore it is important that we get feedback from as many people as possible. We welcome views from a cross section of the community. Please ensure that all comments reach the Council by Monday, March 12."

The DPD forms part of the new style Local Development Framework (LDF) which will address planning issues in the Borough up to the year 2026. The LDF replaces the Local Plan 2000.

To view the Housing Needs Options Paper and a response form. Alternatively, a copy of the paper and response form can be obtained by contacting the Council on 01276 707212, by emailing planning.policy@surreyheath.gov.uk, or it can be viewed in the Council's Contact Centre and in local libraries during opening hours.

The findings from this consultation exercise will inform the development and choice of the next draft edition of the Housing Needs DPD, known as the Preferred Options Paper, which the public will be consulted on in summer 2007.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Ref: News 393

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------