Liverpool Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram seeks public’s view on new planning strategy that includes a proposal to build a minimum of 83,600 new homes by 2040. Tony McDonough reports
People across the six boroughs of Liverpool city region are being asked for their say on a new strategy to guide development between now and 2040.
This draft Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) includes a proposal to build at least 83,600 new homes over the next 17 years. It also dedicates 1,300 acres of land for industrial use and 3m sq ft for offices and research facilities.
Liverpool, Wirral, Sefton, Knowsley, St Helens and Halton councils all have their own local plans which lay out a strategy for what can be built where over the next few years.
However, to complement those strategies, the Combined Authority aims to formulate a wider view to ensure a joined-up approach across the city region. The now defunct North West Development Agency looked to play a similar role.
A 12-week public engagement has now begun on the draft SDS, outlining the potential for development in the region between now and 2040. The engagement process will run until February 16.
People can have their say via an online platform – www.liverpoolcityregion-ca.gov.uk/sdsengagement – and a series of in-person community events that will be publicised through social media and the Combined Authority’s website.
This plan sets out how future development can contribute to the region’s overarching objectives, such as decarbonisation, tackling health inequalities and building an inclusive economy.
It is a high-level land-use planning framework that will help shape the lives of city region residents for decades to come by responding to the area’s issues and opportunities.
Metro Mayor Steve Rotheram said: “A SDS is important in the future development of our whole area.
“The whole point of devolution is that it gives areas like ours the opportunity to chart our own course and invest in projects that can leave a positive, lasting impact on our resident’s lives.
“Few issues have a bigger influence on our daily lives than the spaces we live and work in – they dictate the public services we can access, the education we can provide to our children and the opportunities within our reach.
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“As our community continues to grow, it’s vital that we continue to develop and improve our local area with quality, affordable homes, better connected public transport, improved public services and infrastructure.
“I’ve always been clear that throughout this process, our framework will only be used as a force for good – and in collaboration with our communities and our local authorities.”
This SDS has been developed in collaboration with the six local authorities, It has involved planners, regeneration teams, housing professionals and environmental advisors.