Cotswold Councillors Discuss New Homes Proposals
District councillors and clerks from towns and parishes across the Cotswolds met in Moreton-in-Marsh to review major housing proposals responding to government growth targets. The discussion focused on plans for more than 18,000 new homes within the district.
Meeting Overview
The session, organized by Cotswold District Council, presented several development options. The council's preferred approach aims to deliver around 14,660 new houses. This was the first of two sessions intended to brief community leaders on how to engage with the forthcoming Local Plan consultation, set to open for public comment on November 14.
Participation and Leadership
More than sixty attendees joined the meeting, hearing from key council figures including Cllr Mike Evemy, council leader, cabinet member for housing and planning Cllr Juliet Layton, and members of the planning team. They emphasized the significance of collaboration between local representatives and the district during this planning stage.
"The government has more than doubled the number of homes the district must plan for," said Cllr Mike Evemy, noting the scale of the challenge.
Development Challenges
Evemy highlighted that finding appropriate locations for new housing in the Cotswolds is particularly complex. Over 80% of the district’s land is designated as protected National Landscape, imposing strict limitations on potential development areas.
Next Steps
A second session for councillors and clerks is scheduled to take place in Cirencester next week, continuing the focus on community engagement in shaping the Local Plan.
Author’s Summary
The Cotswold District Council convened local representatives to discuss housing expansion plans exceeding 18,000 units, stressing the urgency of community participation amid strict environmental protections.