Time running out to provide feedback on Swindon’s draft Local Plan

Swindon Borough Council’s draft Local Plan plays a vital role in shaping the Borough’s future, helping to manage growth and protect unsuitable land from speculative development.

Since the start of September, local people, community groups, developers and businesses have had the chance to feed into the first stage of consultation on the draft Plan, but with the closing date on 13 October, there are just a few more days for people to take part.

Over the 20-year lifespan of the Plan, the Council aims to deliver high-quality, sustainable housing, improve transport links, and create a greener, more environmentally-conscious town.

The Local Plan also outlines how Swindon will meet the Government’s housing targets, which require the delivery of 1,205 new homes each year, totalling 24,100 homes by 2043. While most of these homes are already earmarked for major developments such as the New Eastern Villages and Wichelstowe, the Plan identifies the need to allocate land for an additional 7,000 homes to meet future demand.

This forward-looking strategy ensures Swindon continues to grow in a way that benefits residents, businesses, and the environment alike.

Locals have already participated in three face-to-face engagement events with the Council’s Planning team, to share their views and hear a breakdown of the plan directly. However, there is still time to share comments. This can be done:

• online by completing the representation form on the engagement portal, which can be found by searching www.swindon.gov.uk/newlocalplan
• via email by downloading and completing the representation form (Word document) on the website and emailing it to SwindonLocalPlan2043@swindon.gov.uk
• or by post by to: Planning Policy Team, 5th Floor, Swindon Borough Council, Civic Offices, Euclid Street, Swindon SN1 2JH

Councillor Kevin Small, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Finance who is also responsible for strategic planning, said: “The Local Plan will shape how Swindon grows over the next 20 years, from the homes we build and the jobs we create, to the transport we use and the green spaces we protect. That’s why it’s so important for residents to take the time to review the draft and share their views.

“This is your opportunity to influence the future of Swindon. Whether you care about housing, infrastructure, the environment or community services, your feedback will help ensure the Plan reflects the priorities and needs of the people who live and work here.

“We want to build a better, greener and fairer Swindon and that starts with listening to your feedback.”

Full details can be found on the Council’s website swindon.gov.uk/newlocalplan or by searching ‘Local Plan’.