Welwyn Hatfield Local Plan takes step forward as key development policies agreed
Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council has taken an important step forward in preparing a new Local Plan with the agreement of policies designed to support high standards of development.
Councillors at the Cabinet Planning and Parking Panel unanimously supported a set of Development Management Policies that will help ensure future development across the borough is of a high quality, responds to the needs of local communities, and respects the characteristics and features that are important to residents.
The policies build on extensive consultation undertaken earlier this year, which generated significant feedback from residents, businesses and other stakeholders. This feedback has helped shape and strengthen the approach to shaping new development in the borough.
Development Management Policies are used to assess planning applications submitted to the council. They form a key part of the wider Welwyn Hatfield Local Plan, which will also include the identification of sites to sustainably meet future housing and employment needs. The full plan is due to be considered by councillors in September before being submitted for independent examination.
At a time of wider Local Government Reorganisation, progressing the Local Plan remains a priority for Welwyn Hatfield. Once adopted, it will establish a clear and up-to-date policy framework to guide development in Welwyn Hatfield, ensuring that growth is delivered in line with local priorities and objectives.
Councillor Rose Grewal, Leader of the Council and Executive Member for Planning, said:
“These Development Management Policies form a vital part of the jigsaw as we prepare a new Local Plan for Welwyn Hatfield. They will help ensure that future development is well designed, meets modern sustainability standards, and responds to local needs to promote the quality of life and wellbeing of residents — from protecting employment land and access to open spaces, to enhancing biodiversity and safeguarding the character and qualities that make our borough special.”
“I would like to thank everyone who gave their feedback and helped us to shape and improve these policies. Community engagement is a vital part of creating a new Local Plan, and we will continue to ensure that we listen and respond to the views of our residents as we take the plan forward.”
More information about the Local Plan, including the opportunity to register for updates, is available on the Local Plan engagement portal.