‘Call for sites’ process launched

Landowners, developers, site promoters and individuals are being invited to suggest sites across the district that might be suitable for future development.

The request comes as Rother District Council starts work on updating its Local Plan which sets out planning policies and priorities for the district.

Land will be needed for a wide range of uses, so people are invited to propose locations that could be used for housing and economic purposes including renewable energy schemes, although sites should not be submitted for consideration without the landowner’s consent.

Sites will be assessed for their suitability under a process known the Housing and Economic Land Availability Assessment (HELAA), which Rother District Council is required to undertake as part of the update to the council’s Local Plan.

Councillor Jonathan Vine-Hall, lead member for Strategic Planning, said: “The call for sites is a part of the process required by central government in the preparation of our new Local Plan.

“Proposing a site does not mean it will be developed or granted planning permission but will help us get an idea of the land that could be available in the district. Any site proposed will need to be assessed for suitability particularly given so much of our district is covered by the High Weald Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and other designations.  

“While this work covers the whole district, it should also be noted that many towns and parishes are covered by Neighbourhood Plans which carry out their own call for sites and site assessments.

“The HELAA will form a crucial part of the evidence base that the Council will use to determine the availability of land to meet the district’s housing and economic future needs.”

The consultation opens on Monday, October 12 and the deadline for submissions is Monday, December 7.

Published: 12th October 2020

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