Member Article

How you can have your say on Sunderland's Draft Core Strategy

From today members of the public will have the opportunity to have their say on Sunderland’s Draft Core Strategy and Development Plan.

A framework to deliver the jobs, business growth, transport links and housing, the Plan proposes ways in which the city can ensure its prosperity by 2033.

The scheme also targets challenges such as deprivation and rising obesity within the city, as well as factoring in leisure and retail requirements and environmental concerns.

The ‘plan’, a requirement for all local authorities, is based on research by Sunderland City Council into every aspect of the city’s future needs as population is expected to continue to increase.

With more people living and working in Sunderland needs are in turn growing for more homes, more jobs, more services and more transport facilities.

Once a final version is approved, the plan will play a pivotal role in shaping Sunderland’s future. Before then, however, the city’s residents and businesses have the chance to give their views on the proposals set out in the draft Plan.

Public consultation will start on 7th August and run until 2nd October; a fortnight longer than the standard six weeks, to allow for the summer holidays.

During that time, every Sunderland household will receive a leaflet with details about the plan, while various events for businesses and residents will be held across the city.

Sunderland City Council Leader Paul Watson said: “The Core Strategy and Development Plan will guide and shape the development of our city for the next 18 years.

“It will have a positive impact on the lives of residents across Sunderland, and our wider reputation as a great place to visit and do business with.

“The input of local people will be instrumental in ensuring the plan delivers everything needed for Sunderland to reach its potential as a thriving, sustainable city.

“While the local plan is based on robust evidence and extensive research, it is by no means set in stone. We now need the people of Sunderland to get involved and have their say on our proposals.”

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