Southampton City Vision Local Plan Chapter 1 - Strategic Approach

Summary of responses (80 received)

Theme: Strategic Approach
Policy Name: Development Targets
Policy Number: ST1(S)
Options Y/N: N

In total 37 comments were made on the Strategic Approach policy and a further 43 on the overall approach of this policy. Around half of all comments were mixed responses, with a quarter each in general agreement and general disagreement. Relatively few specific suggestions were made on amendments to the policy text.

Looking initially at broader themes, the largest number of comments were made about housing. First the overall target, including the Government’s standard methodology and its use of out-of-date population and household projections. Several comments related to the 35% upliti and the fact that since the consultation started there has been some suggested relaxation of the 'target'. Further clarity will be required before finalising housing numbers. In addition to this several comments were made in relation to the unmet need and the role of the Partnership for South Hampshire (PfSH), some suggesting Southampton needs to do more to meet the housing target, with some recognising the constraints of the city and questioning where new homes will fit. Others said the Council must engage more with neighbours on this mater and several comments were made on affordability, mix, location, density, height and deliverability of new homes.

Linked to housing were a number of comments on community and neighbourhoods, with several supporting the principle of '20-minute neighbourhoods'. There were also suggestions that health and community benefits should be part of assessing new development along with engaging local people about their local areas.

Employment space was another topic area with a number of responses, most notable was questioning the need for more office and retail space given changes in working and shopping habits. There was recognition that Southampton was a regionally important retail destination, but an update to the retail study is needed. In relation to this some felt more should be done to support local businesses. There were also a few comments on need to support sectors such as tourism, the green economy, the port and maritime industries.

Transport was a common theme, mainly in relation to public transport, active transport and reducing car use. The concept of ensuring sustainable locations for new development was widely supported.

Several comments were made on environment and climate change. These included the need for development impacts to be mitigated, and for green space to not only be protected but enhanced. There was support for delivering biodiversity net gain and seeking nature-based solutions.

Other comments included some around specific sites, masterplanning and linking with other plans and strategies