A NEIGHBOURHOOD plan guiding town centre development in Droitwich Spa is now open to public scrutiny as proposals reach the latter stages of fruition.
A draft of the new Droitwich Spa Neighbourhood Development Plan is being published by the town council alongside a public consultation which seeks residents’ views on the proposals.
The plan, when completed and if approved by voters, will inform planning and development within the town until 2041 and will set out a vision, objectives and policies for Droitwich Spa.
The draft plan has been prepared by a steering group which includes town councillors, representatives from the Droitwich Spa Civic Society, and other volunteers.
It is based on wide-ranging evidence about the characteristics of the town and the views of the community which were collated via a consultation in March and April 2023 and a residents questionnaire in October 2023.
As well as this community feedback, the draft plan takes account of other local evidence including studies of housing need and design.
It includes policies on the built environment including on design and the town’s two Conservation Areas, the natural environment including biodiversity, local green space and key views, new housing, community facilities, the town centre, jobs and walking and cycling provision.
The draft plan is now being published for public consultation with residents able to express their views from Monday, June 9 until 5pm on Tuesday, July 22.
Once the consultation is completed, Droitwich Spa Town Council will revise the plan to take account of comments.
It will then be submitted to Wychavon District Council for further consultation and an independent examination.
The final step is a referendum – if more than 50 per cent of voters in Droitwich Spa back the plan, it will be finalised and used by the district council to inform planning applications locally.
Town councillor Bob Brookes, chair of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group, said: “Droitwich Spa has a special character owing to its long history and role as a spa town.
“Our plan aims to maintain and improve that character whilst also addressing the needs and wishes of those who live, work, socialise and relax in the town.
“Please tell us what you think.”
Visit https://www.droitwichspa.gov.uk/ to view and comment on the plan.
