PUBLIC hearings to scrutinise the South Worcestershire Development Plan Review (SWDPR) have been given a start date.
Planning inspectors have confirmed the meetings will begin in early 2025 as long as key documents are updated before the end of the year.
Earlier this year, inspectors requested some of the evidence supporting the SWDPR was updated before they would carry on with the examination of the Plan.
This is where they analyse and challenge the document to make sure it is lawful and deliverable, known as being ‘found sound’.
The government has recently issued new advice to the planning inspectorate stating unless a local plan can be found sound with only limited additional work it should be withdrawn. Further work should also take a maximum of six months.
As a result, Malvern Hills District, Worcester City and Wychavon District Councils have until October 31 to submit their new evidence documents, and until December 31 to provide transport and infrastructure modelling.
The examination process is expected to proceed with public hearings in March next year. This means the SWDPR could be formally adopted before the end of 2025, bringing more certainty and control over housing development across the area.
Speaking on behalf of the three South Worcestershire Councils, councillor Paul Middlebrough, chair of the Joint Advisory Panel, said: “Several reports have been submitted to the inspectors over the last two weeks and we are confident all the documents within our control will be submitted by the agreed deadline.
“We cannot control when the updated transport modelling will be completed as it is in the hands of Worcestershire County Council and National Highways. However, we are working closely with them and stressing the need to deliver this on time.
“We understand the Government and the inspectors want to get on with the plan-making process, as do we. We hope they will be pragmatic in their approach.
“This plan will enable the delivery of more than 26,000 new homes, including the proposed new settlement at Worcestershire Parkway, which the Government has indicated is a priority site for accelerated housing delivery.
“The most efficient and effective way for these new homes to be delivered at pace and with the proper infrastructure is through the SWDPR. The Government’s push for new housing would be undermined if the SWDPR were to be delayed.”
