Local Development Framework (LDF)
The LDF will replace the UDP, which is due to expire in April 2011, and will become Solihull’s Development Plan.
In 2004 the government introduced a new development planning system to manage how, when and where new development takes place.
The current development plan is made up of the Solihull Unitary Development Plan (UDP) 2006 and the West Midlands Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) 2004. The RSS will continue to form part of the development plan but the UDP will gradually be replaced by the documents produced as part of the new planning system, known as the Local Development Framework or LDF for short.
The LDF together with the RSS will be the key policy documents that will shape the future of Solihull to 2026. The LDF documents will also help to deliver the physical changes set out in our Sustainable Communities Strategy.
The Core Strategy
We are currently working on producing the Core Strategy which is the main LDF Document. The Core Strategy will set out plans for how and where Solihull will develop in the future and will play an important role in helping to deliver the the Sustainable Communities Strategy priorities for improvement.
We have recently consulted on the issues and options paper - “Challenges and Choices” - which identifies the key issues that we think the Core Strategy should address, a draft vision for the Borough’s future and a series of objectives to help us get there. We have also proposed options for where new development might be accommodated in the Borough.
A copy of “Challenges and Choices” is attached. The consultation ended on 30th January 2009 and a summary of responses received is attached. Responses to the consultation will be used to help develop a draft Core Strategy which we aim to publish in 2010.
Evidence
The LDF must be based in evidence. Studies completed so far include Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, Coventry Solihull & Warwickshire Employment Land Study, Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment.
We are also working on other studies, including Solihull Town Centre Study, Strategic Housing Market Assessment, Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment, Settlement Studies, Retail Need and Capacity Study,
Other relevant documents produced by others are:
- Strategic Framework for Investment: The Economic Impact and Potential of the M42 Corridor.
- East Birmingham and North Solihull Regeneration Zone Accessibility Study
How to be Kept Informed
If you would like to be involved in or consulted on the LDF, or just want to be kept up to date on progress, please complete the on line form ‘LDF Consultation Database’. This form can also be used to update your details.
Our Statement of Community Involvement (see attachments) sets out how and when we will involve local people and stakeholders in all planning matters, including planning policy and proposal documents.
Land for New Development
We are required to involve people in identifying sites for development and redevelopment. If you would like to propose land for new housing or any other use, you can use the printable Site Proposal Form.
Our Work Programme – Local Development Scheme (LDS)
We are required to publish a LDS (see attachments) which is our work programme for April 2007 to March 2010.
The latest LDS was brought into effect on 25 March 2009.
Monitoring Performance
We are required to monitor and report on planning policies and progress in achieving the LDS. Each December an Annual Monitoring Report (AMR) is submitted to the Secretary of State, covering the previous monitoring period 1 April – 31 March.
Other Useful Planning Websites
The Planning Portal includes a useful guide to Local Development Frameworks.
The Department of Communities and Local Government (CLG) sets national policies on different aspects of planning as well as the rules that govern the overall operation of the planning system.
National planning policies are set out in new-style Planning Policy Statements (PPS), which are gradually replacing Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPG). More information can be found using on the CLG website.
The West Midlands Regional Assembly (WMRA) is responsible for producing the RSS. More information on the RSS and the current phase 1, 2 and 3 revisions can be found on the WMRA website.
Contact Details
For more information about the UDP and LDF in Solihull please contact the Sustainable Development Team.
Telephone: 0121 704 6393, 6397, 8225 or 6646
Email: sustainabledevelopment@solihull.gov.uk