REGIONAL SPATIAL STRATEGY (RSS)

The Regional Spatial Strategy, or RSS, is a new approach to regional planning as required by the Town and Country Planning Act, 2004. It will set the regional context for planning in the South West until 2026. It will:

• guide the planning process at a local level - in Local Development Frameworks
• help deliver the region's Integrated Regional Strategy
• include a Regional Transport Strategy to guide investment in transport facilities
• provide policy guidance on issues ranging from minerals extraction and waste treatment to
• economic development, housing, health, culture and the environment; and
• include District level housing numbers

The 'Draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West 2006 - 2026' (RSS), which has been prepared by the South West Regional Assembly, was considered at an Examination in Public between April and July 2007. The Report of the Panel is expected in November 2007

The draft RSS recognises that Swindon is a key economic driver, and key issues will be realising Swindon's economic potential and balancing the provision of housing and jobs to create more sustainable development and travel patterns that will reduce the level of in-commuting from adjacent district council areas. The RSS recognises that the regeneration of Swindon's Central Area is key to delivering the vision for Swindon, along with urban and housing renewal. To complement the urban-focused strategy, the draft RSS proposes an strategic urban extension east of the A419, supplemented by smaller urban extensions.

As a strategic planning authority the South West Regional Assembly requested Swindon Borough Council to undertake a study for Swindon to determine the most appropriate level and direction of growth. This is the Swindon Joint Study, and was completed in September 2005.

Further details can be obtained by clicking on the following link South West Regional Assembly

For information on the RSS Examination in Public (EIP) click on the following link South West EIP

This web page was last updated on 12th July 2007