We object to the approach for housing numbers and delivery. It is not considered that the proposed numbers or distribution of housing would provide sustainable development which meets the challenges of climate change or supports a post-carbon economy effectively.
The Greater Norwich area has a historic record of poor housing delivery which has only recently improved, largely as a result of large numbers of change of use conversions, and purpose-built student accommodation development. The Draft Plan relies upon 82% of the required housing being delivered on those sites which are currently allocated in the Greater Norwich area, which have not delivered in the current plan period.
Such an approach places the five-year housing supply in jeopardy and increases the opportunities for non-planned development, which can have detrimental impacts upon infrastructure, character and communities.
The proposed new settlement Honingham Thorpe would offer the opportunity to provide housing in a holistic and sustainable way in order to create a vibrant and resilient community and support the move to a post-carbon economy. Government has recognised the role that new garden settlements can have in achieving sustainability and creating communities, where there is no choice between quality and quantity and green spaces amount to more than token verges and squares.
In order to meet housing need and meet climate change targets, more is required than delivering housing units. Rather, the focus is shifted to the creation of beautiful places and vibrant, resilient communities. A new settlement, based on The Garden City Principles, can deliver such communities together with a wide range of employment opportunities, mixed tenure housing, zero-carbon principles, sustainable transport, comprehensive green infrastructure and local food sourcing, together with comprehensive community governance and long-term stewardship.