Make sure to look at strategy

From the archive, first published Tuesday 15th Nov 2005.

Re: 35,000 new homes plan.

I agree with Coun Bluh that the proposed Regional Spatial Strategy is flawed and will not work.

Although Swindon has a thriving economy the predicted influx of people from the South East looking for a lifestyle change, will not necessarily make Swindon their choice of place to live.

The majority of these people will be seeking a rural idyll outside of the borough but within easy commuting distance for work.

This will place enormous pressure on the smaller towns and villages outside of Swindon.

Recently published figures show that Swindon's current annual build rate is about 1009 dwellings but the Regional Planning Body would like it to be between 1600 and 1750. In contrast North Wiltshire's annual build rate is 515 dwellings but the Regional Planning Body would like it to only be between 375 and 400 dwellings.

The draft Regional Spatial Strategy is due to be published for consultation March next year and I urge everybody to look at it and comment.

G MASON

Wootton Bassett

Archive Home