Non-statutory spatial strategy plan moves forward

Non-statutory spatial strategy plan moves forward

The Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority Board have approved for work to commence on a Non-Statutory Spatial Plan (NSSP) for Cambridgeshire and Peterborough at yesterday’s meeting.

The plan will focus on major additional sustainable and transport-linked sites for housing and jobs, with a focus also on infrastructure needs, affordable housing and assisting growth in disadvantaged areas.

The NSSP will be developed in two phases. Phase one will set out the existing development strategy from adopted and emerging local plans (up to 2031/36), including strategic development locations and dependent strategic infrastructure. This first phase will include a particular emphasis on delivery of the existing planned strategy, linking to housing, investment and transport and infrastructure strategies. It would also remark on the early work of the independent Economic Commission.

Phase one, which is due to be completed by February 2018, will act as a baseline for developing a strategic spatial approach for phase two, which will look at growth beyond 2031/2036.
An important input into the Non-Statutory Spatial Plan at both phases is the work of the Land Commission which the Combined Authority and Government have committed to form. The Land Commission will map the availability of public and private land, identify barriers holding back its use for development, and address those barriers to bring forward land for housing and employment sites.

Councillor Lewis Herbert, Leader of Cambridge City Council and Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, said: “The creation of the Non-Statutory Spatial Plan will allow the Combined Authority to reflect spatially across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough and define its vision, objectives, and growth and investment priorities. Strategic planning in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough is operating from a strong foundation and track-record and this is the next step in our journey.”

All devolved areas have an agreed commitment with Government to produce a Strategic Spatial Plan, this responsibility has been devolved to the Mayor.

James Palmer, Mayor for the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority, said: “Strategic planning is a fundamental area of development for the Combined Authority and makes up four of my commitments from my 100 day plan. The decision made by the Board allows us to not only forge ahead with the Non-Statutory Spatial Strategy, but also progress the formation of the Land Commission.”