HOMES IN RUSHCLIFFE – PROPOSAL FOR DEVELOPMENT OVER THE NEXT 16 YEARS

A recent cabinet meeting has revealed Rushcliffe Borough Council’s ‘Core Strategy – Option for Consultation’ document, which outlines the vision and proposals for development in Rushcliffe over the next 16 years. One of the key issues to come out of the meeting, was the Cabinet’s desire to stress that the

Government’s target for the number of new homes in Rushcliffe (15,000) is far too high, but whilst continuing to oppose the figures, the Council must retain control of the planning process.

Rushcliffe Borough Council leader, Cllr Neil Clarke, said: “I wish to be absolutely clear – we’re in a no -win situation or between a rock and a hard place in terms of allocating land for this many homes. There are simply too many homes proposed. Whilst identifying land for potential development is our major dilemma, we need to continue with the process otherwise we risk losing control. This is a consultation document and we want as many people as possible to give us their views on the subject.”

This document outlines potential land allocation for homes to be built at Gamston and on land south of Clifton, as well as development around the six major towns and villages, for example, at Cotgrave Colliery. The Government has said that most of the new homes must be within or adjacent to the principal urban area which in Rushcliffe means West Bridgford and Clifton. This area is greenbelt and the Council’s policy is to do all it can to protect the greenbelt.

Mr Clarke added: “The Council wants to emphasise that no approvals of development have been made.  This document is still very much open for consultation and the Council urges as many people as possible to give their views on the proposed sites.”