TWO politicians driving the controversial Greater Manchester Spatial Framework discussions have pledged “an open and transparent” process during the next phase of consultation.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester and Salford City Mayor, Paul Dennett, GM’s Lead for Planning and Housing, insist the redrafted Spatial Framework document will aim to make the most of Greater Manchester’s brownfield sites and reduce the impact on greenbelt.
The duo also claim the blueprint to provide land for jobs and new homes will “make Greater Manchester one of the best places in the world”.
More than 27,000 responses were received to the original draft proposals and are now available to view online at:
www.greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk/gmsf
Recurring comments centred on:
• Concerns about the amount of greenbelt land allocated for development.
• Need for new housing of all types and the ambition in the plan to provide much-needed housing
• Concerns around effects on the environment and air quality
• Potential for job creation
• Need to link developments to infrastructure improvements
• Types of housing and jobs being created.
In a joint statement Messrs Burnham and Dennett said: “Leaders from across Greater Manchester want to do justice to these responses and have subsequently agreed to a new timetable for the next draft of the framework.
“Through an open and transparent process, the second draft will take into account concerns raised previously.
“Work will continue in the coming months, and the new plan will be published in June 2018.
“This will be followed by a 12-week public consultation period.
“The redrafted spatial framework will aim to make the most of Greater Manchester’s brownfield sites and reduce the impact on greenbelt as that was the major concern raised from local residents.
“The amended plan will ensure we have the right mix of homes across the city region, including truly affordable housing to allow young people to find a home in communities where they want to live.
“We will continue to listen to and engage with the public as the new draft of the plan is developed, as well as keeping people updated on progress.
“We want to communicate with you in a clear and consistent way. So, to do this, we will primarily be using online methods to send regular updates to people about the development of the plan.
“If you haven’t signed up yet, you can do so online.
“We want people to feel engaged, involved and able to participate in the process, we hope that you will continue on this journey with us.
“The spatial framework is a strategic plan for all of Greater Manchester, and is a key part of making the Greater Manchester strategy work, as well as helping our economy grow.
“Districts are also producing individual local plans alongside the spatial framework.
“To ensure that you are informed and engaged we will share your contact details with the local planning authority who will add you to their consultation database.
“If you don’t want your details to be shared let us know by emailing: gmsfconsultation@greatermanchester-ca.gov.uk”