Response from Mr Kenneth Gibson (Individual)
1. Mr Kenneth Gibson (Individual) : 13 Apr 2011 11:30:00
Which document do you wish to comment on?
Land Allocations Emerging Options Consultation Document *
Page
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Paragraph no.
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Policy (where applicable)
ALL
Do you support, oppose or support in part this section of the document
Oppose
Please explain your reasons
A local development plan for South Lakeland was issued and commented on in May 2008. This document was in direct response to a directive to Local Authorities from the Labour Government at that time. Many local residents commented on SLDC's proposals for Land allocations for housing and industrial use with many in opposition to the proposals.
Following a change in government in 2010 much emphasis has been placed by the Conservative/Liberal coalition on the need for local communities to govern and regulate planning at local (grass roots) level. I was hopeful that SLDC (being Liberal controlled) would fully recognise the aspirations of the current government for citizens to take more responsibility; taking full account of the local population's opposition to their original (2008) proposals. I am however dismayed to find that current (2011) proposals on land allocation are almost exactly as they were in the 2008.
During the intervening 3 year (2008-2011) period I have spoken to many local residents about land allocation particularly in Kendal. The vast majority, are opposed to large scale developments which use up green field sites. They are however, not opposed in general, to the re-development of brown field sites such as the auction mart or the Cock and Dolphin. Many of the people I have spoken to have opinions, but feel for one reason or another they are unable to communicate their views to SLDC. In addition, some are put off re-making the comments they made in 2008. I must confess that I myself find it wearisome having to spend yet more time re-stating points I made in 2008.
SLDC's proposal documents are lengthy and the web site for many of us is intimidating. Yet many people have a view on local development and their voice should be heard.
I propose that the following should take place:
1. All comments submitted on land allocations in response to the 2008 development plan should be fully considered and any comments incorporated into the comments for the 2011 plan.
2. There should be a local referendum (on paper) sent to all residents of South Lakeland District Council to seek their views surrounding any proposed large scale development within their locality.
