The difference between a Housing Strategy and a council's Local Plan

I read with interest Cllr David Foxcroft’s monthly column on 30 June. He claimed that the lack of a Housing Strategy at the council had “a significant impact” on residents, saying the council can’t “direct developers on the homes they can or should build across Rossendale”. This false claim shows a worrying lack of understanding on an essential issue for Rossendale residents.

I thought it was worth providing accurate information on this and correcting the inaccurate information shared by the Opposition leader.

It seems like Cllr Foxcroft is confusing the Local Plan with our plans for a housing strategy.

The Council adopted a new Local Plan in December, covering development from 2019 to 2036. This designates land and buildings for future uses to meet the Borough’s needs and set out what housing developments should look like and how they should fit in with their surroundings.

Our Housing Strategy will provide a vision for housing across Rossendale. It won’t just cover how we enable and promote new homes (as directed by Government) but will also set out a vision for existing housing, especially in the private rented sector. Another critical part of the strategy will be supporting people to stay in their homes and their broader support needs.

It will be a strategic document that will articulate how Rossendale will play its part in dealing with one of the most pressing issues in modern Britain.

The council’s Local Plan already articulates that it expects developers to come forward with developments that consist of 30% affordable homes, and planning officers constantly challenge development companies to ensure the maximum affordable home provision.

The Strategic Housing Market Assessment, updated in 2019, provides extensive evidence on what homes should be built across the Valley. This evidence base guides planners when deciding on developments in particular areas. For example, it shows the average monthly rent for a one-bedroom property across Rossendale is £385 and that there is a need for around 102 and 170 affordable homes per annum between 2019 and 2034.

The council is firmly positioned to challenge developers and ensure new building developments are suitable for our local area. Our Housing Strategy will set out a vision for Housing as a whole, not just new homes but existing homes and the broader advice and support needed to keep our residents in their homes.

I am always available to speak to anyone who has an interest in this crucial area and always welcome views and opinions.