Cotswold District Council Commits to Infrastructure First Housing Developments

In response to the government’s mandate to build more homes, the council is committed to balancing the need for new homes with an ‘Infrastructure First’ approach. A locally-focused plan will ensure new developments are built so that environmental considerations and the needs of local residents and businesses are at the forefront of how developments are designed.

A recent engagement session held in Moreton-in-Marsh, in partnership with Planning for Real, provided an opportunity for residents and stakeholders to share priorities and aspirations for the future of the Cotswolds. Participants discussed challenges posed by the need to build more homes and proposed solutions to support the local community.

Key concerns raised included the need for improved infrastructure, more sustainable development and better community engagement. Attendees emphasised the importance of preserving green spaces, fostering local businesses, and enhancing transportation provision to ensure a positive impact on the area.

One attendee, a local student, expressed enthusiasm for the event, saying: “I found the event very interesting, both as a student wanting to study planning at university, but also as a young person wanting to improve my local area. I enjoyed being able to share my thoughts on how to improve my area whilst also learning from other people's ideas.”

Councillor Joe Harris, leader of the Council, emphasised the importance of addressing the growing need for more homes while preserving the Cotswolds' unique character: “We understand the complexities and concerns surrounding housing development. However, it’s crucial that we proactively address the growing need for more homes while safeguarding the Cotswolds’ unique character.

“Our strategic approach will involve working closely with the local community to advocate for necessary infrastructure upgrades, such as improved transportation and wastewater treatment. This proactive approach will ensure that new developments benefit the entire district."

With around 1,650 people on the council’s housing waiting list, work to update the local plan will ensure that everyone in the Cotswold District has access to affordable, low-carbon homes that meet the community's needs.

Councillor Harris said, "We are serious about the government's mandate to build more homes and want to ensure that any future development in the Cotswolds is sustainable and benefits the local community. Our strategic approach will continue to involve all communities while we advocate for necessary infrastructure upgrades."

Following the engagement event, the Council will be establishing a Moreton-in-Marsh Working Group. This group will play a crucial role in overseeing strategic growth in key development areas, prioritising community needs, and ensuring transparency throughout the planning process.

Comprising representatives from a range of key stakeholders, including local businesses, and community organisations, the group will actively challenge decisions and contribute to a collaborative approach to development.

Committed to enhanced communication and engagement with the community, the Council will be launching a dedicated website and social media channels, ensuring residents stay informed and can participate.

Councillor Harris said: “Planning for Real and Cotswold District Council would like to thank all those who attended the event providing their time and sharing their knowledge of living and working in the Cotswold District. By prioritising infrastructure and taking a strategic approach to planning we aim to create a brighter future for the Cotswolds, one that balances housing and economic growth with environmental protection and community well-being.”

Cotswold District Council aims to undertake a further public consultation on the draft Local Plan in early 2025, when the community will have the opportunity to get involved in the next stage of creating the Local Plan.

Further information is available on the Local Plan consultation website, which includes a dedicated page for Moreton-in-Marsh:  https://your.cotswold.gov.uk/en-GB/folders/local-plan-update