New plan could see cash boost (From This Is Wiltshire)

New plan could see cash boost

8:09am Tuesday 12th August 2008

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Chippenham could benefit from proposals to change a document concerning the future development of the south west.

Alterations to the draft Regional Spatial Strategy include a substantial amount of money being earmarked towards the future of the town.

The new plan could see £11.5m split between Chippenham, Swindon and Cheltenham in total.

Chippenham is considered strategically significant alongside other areas including major cities such as Bristol, Gloucester and Bath and the plans include a focus on development in these areas.

A 12-week public consultaion will now take place for people to express their views on the proposed changes.

Chippenham Town Council leader Andrew Noblet said the proposals included an extra 4,500 homes for Chippenham.

He said: "The rise in the number of homes in Chippenham from 14,500 to 19,000, a third increase, will present a major challenge to all who have an interest in Chippenham's future development, including the town council.

"More jobs are necessary so that the trek up and down the A350 will at least not increase and that local people can work locally.

"As homes are built, there will also need to be an increase in leisure opportunities and this cannot be added as an afterthought.

"It is important for the different communities to work alongside each other, in a positive way, to determine the sort of town we would like Chippenham to become.

"With around 50,000 people by 2026 it will no longer be a small market town.

"Hopefully the new development and growth at Wiltshire College, Chippenham, will bring about the links with the local universities of Bath and Bristol."

The changes to the regional strategy as a whole include proposals to address housing shortages and affordability issues.

Other proposals of the strategy include strong support for appropriate development in rural areas including provision for housing and economic development in rural communities, including small towns and villages.

The draft also includes plans to help tackle climate change and contribute to delivering national renewable energy targets.

A public consultation will now take place over the next 12 weeks and will end on October 17.

The final regional spatial strategy will be published before the end of 2008.

Communities minister Baroness Andrews said: "The south west needs a long term development vision that tackles the threat of climate change, addresses housing shortages and strengthens the region's economy.

"The proposals in this strategy set out a vision for the south west's future.

"It is important that local views and all who are interested in the future development of the area have the opportunity to comment before the final report is published."

To view the changes and accompanying documents visit www.gosw.gov.uk

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