NEW housing and other developments will only get the green light if it can be shown that they will protect or enhance the environment.
That is among the key aims of a new development blueprint for the Forest up to 2041 issued by the Green-run district council that went out for public consultation on Monday (July 8).
According to the draft document: “The critical issue for the LP (Local Plan) is to guide change in a manner that brings improved protection and enhancement for the environment.
The plan also envisages the bulk of new housing being in Lydney “through the implementation of existing commitments and a relatively modest addition” with smaller scale but “strategically significant” numbers in Newent and Beachley.
Around 1,110 homes are allocated for Lydney, mostly on the Blakeney side of the town with 600 each at Newent and on what is currently Beachley Barracks.
There would be 450 homes at Coleford, mostly on existing sites, 400 at Cinderford with major including Tutshill, Mitcheldean Newnham, Whitecroft, Lydbrook and Drybrook accounting for 1,070 in total.
The document also states that proposals will need to demonstrate that adequate infrastructure is available.
The consultation runs until Monday, August 19 and there will be public “drop-in” events at the Forest Council offices in Coleford next Monday (July 15), Newent Memorial Hall next Tuesday (July 16), Lydney Community Centre on Wednesday, July 24 and at Sedbury Village Hall on Wednesday, July 31.
They are all open between 3pm and 7pm.
The council's Cabinet member for the Local Plan, Cllr Sid Phelps (Green, Lydbrook), said: “Our Plan sets out how we can protect and enhance the beautiful area in which we live and how we can ensure that development in our area is well thought out and works in the best way for the area.
“We’d like input from all residents, businesses, developers, and local organisations on several key topics that will be used to guide development in the Forest of Dean over the next 20 years, including how we tackle climate change, affordable housing, and how we help our local communities and economy thrive.”
Further information and a response form is available at: www.https://fdean-consult.objective.co.uk/kse/
Representations can also be made by email at [email protected] or by letter to: Local Plans, Forest of Dean District Council, Council Offices, High Street, Coleford, GL16 8HG.