In preparation for its first Local Plan, Somerset Council will soon launch a Call for Sites. During this six-week period, landowners, developers, and site promoters can submit land for potential future development. The submissions can encompass a variety of uses, including housing, economic development, gypsy and traveller pitches and plots, and renewable energy installations.
The Call for Sites is a crucial part of the data-gathering process for the Somerset Local Plan, although it does not indicate a preference for specific locations. It’s important to note that submitting a site is not a planning application and does not grant planning permission or any other status.
Cllr Mike Rigby, Executive Member for Economic Development, Planning and Assets, highlighted the significance of Local Plans in the planning system, emphasizing that they play a pivotal role in deciding planning applications. He encouraged individuals to consider their options and stay tuned for details on how to submit a site early in the new year.
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The Somerset Local Plan will steer decisions on future development proposals based on the region’s needs and opportunities. It will identify suitable areas for development and those where development should be constrained. Evaluating the potential supply of development sites is a critical early phase in this process.
The new Somerset Local Plan is set to replace all existing former district council Local Plans, which will continue to be part of the Development Plan until they are officially superseded.