Local people are being asked for their views on two important documents that will guide the development of the District in the future.

The ‘Preferred Options: Core Strategy’ and ‘Interim Housing Policy Supplementary Planning Document’, which set out a number of plans for creating vibrant communities and maintaning a healthy environment, have both been made available for public comment.

The ‘Preferred Options – Core Strategy’ is the central component of the Local Development Framework – an important document which sets out guidelines on how land and buildings should be developed in the District over the next 25 years.

Sevenoaks District Council drafted the ‘Preferred Options – Core Strategy’ document following extensive consultation earlier this year with people across the District. It is based on those things that people have said are important to them, which include:

• Housing that is affordable for all 
• Jobs for local people
• Having good access to local services
• Protecting the countryside
• Caring about the environment by protecting wildlife and addressing pollution and recycling issues
• Ensuring good design which protects the character of the countryside and towns and villages, and achieving greater energy and water efficiency, recycling and sustainable building construction

The draft ‘Interim Housing Policy Supplementary Planning Document’ tackles the problem the high level of demand for housing, compared with the District’s limited land supply, has brought. It has led to high house prices and meant that some local people cannot afford homes in their communities.

The document seeks to ensure that new housing goes towards meeting the needs of local people by setting out strict new criteria for planning applications in the District, including:

• A predominate part of any new proposal for a residential development must consist of affordable housing. 
• A further proportion of the housing should be market discounted, and reserved entirely for either residents of the District, people whose work provides important services within the District or people who have long standing links with the local community.

Cllr Jill Davison, Sevenoaks District Council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Strategic Planning, says: "I am sure that anyone with an interest in the future of Sevenoaks District will welcome the opportunity to comment on these key documents. They will affect everyone in the District so it is vital we get the views of as many people as possible."

Both documents are now available to download on the Council’s website by going to www.sevenoaks.gov.uk/ldf and selecting the 'current consultations' link.

The documents are also available for inspection at Sevenoaks District Council, Swanley and Edenbridge local offices and all libraries in the District.

Comments on both documents must be made in writing, and response forms can be downloaded from the Council website. These should be returned to: LDF Team, Argyle Road, Sevenoaks, Kent. TN13 1GN, or by e-mail to ldf.consultation@sevenoaks.gov.uk

Comments on the ‘Preferred Options – Core Strategy’ can also be made via the online consultation programme that has been set up.

All comments on either document must be received by 10 November 2006.

For further information please contact: Steve Mandaluff on 01732 227162 or e-mail steven.mandaluff@sevenoaks.gov.uk