Richmond (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Richmond Council has adopted a new Local Plan outlining future growth, housing, and sustainability priorities to guide the borough’s development.
The Richmond borough’s priorities for the next 15 years were established by the plan, which was formally adopted at Full Council this night.
Housing, employment, community services, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability are all included in this.
Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, chair of the environment, sustainability, culture and sports committee, said:
“This plan gives us the clarity and tools we need to guide growth in a way that meets our residents’ needs, delivers new homes and jobs, and invests in our infrastructure, town centres, and local high streets – all while protecting the unique character and green spaces our residents value.”
In addition to tackling the effects of climate change and economic constraints, the plan will assist the borough in adapting to changing requirements, including new residences, green and social spaces, education, employment, and transportation.
Delivering high-quality housing, including reasonably priced homes to satisfy local demands; promoting local employment and sustainable economic growth; safeguarding parks, green areas, and cultural assets; making investments in community facilities, transportation, and infrastructure; and enhancing access to sports and leisure facilities that promote the physical and mental well-being of locals are all top priorities.
Councillor Gareth Roberts, leader of Richmond Council, said:
“This is a Local Plan that balances ambition with responsibility.
It’s about shaping more of the high-quality places our borough is known for – where people can live, work and feel part of a community.”
Additionally, the plan emphasizes promoting biodiversity in new developments and bolstering climate resilience.
After a thorough public engagement and independent review, the plan was adopted.
The inspectors’ assessment, which was released last month, affirmed that the plan is sound and complies with the law, supporting the council’s strategy for directing development throughout the borough.
How will the plan affect local green spaces and parks?
The strategy is dedicated to protecting parks, nature reserves, and other green spaces from development in order to conserve biodiversity, recreational opportunities, and heritage values.
It intends to improve the quality, accessibility, and connectivity of green spaces to make them more inviting and usable for all residents. This can include footpaths, seating, and wildlife habitats, for instance.
Green spaces will be included as green infrastructure in new housing and commercial developments, creating natural corridors and assisting climate resilience.
The strategy identifies green spaces as a means of mitigating flooding, improving air quality, and reducing heat through the urban cooling effect.
