NORTH Somerset Council is set to discuss future developments in the region, which could see residents benefitting from affordable homes, sustainable attractions and more job opportunities.

The council will discuss the Local Plan in detail at a meeting next Wednesday (October 18).

The Executive Committee will consider the latest version of the Local Plan 2039, which identifies where developments can and cannot take place in North Somerset. 

The plan also guides investments for new housing, jobs, transport, and community facilities over the next 15 years.

Feedback from three phases of consultation between 2020 and 2022 has been used to inform the latest version of the plan.

If approved, the final stage of public consultation will start later this year.  The plan would then be submitted for examination by an independent inspector.

New development growth is anticipated to take place around the Weston area, as well as Wolvershill, which is north of Banwell. This would include 2,800 dwellings, coupled with employment and other opportunities.

In order to support economic growth and jobs, the plan encourages key local employers to develop, regeneration of town centres, and proposes a new employment area at M5 J20 at Clevedon.

The plan avoids development outside the towns in areas at risk of flooding and seeks to protect sensitive parts of the Green Belt from development. 

Councillor Mark Canniford, North Somerset Council's executive member for spatial planning, placemaking and economy, said: “The government’s housing target for North Somerset is currently 20,205 new homes over the next 15 years.

"We believe this goes too far and would require building in green belt and village locations that is not appropriate. Without a Local Plan we could end up with unplanned growth in the wrong places, with no supporting facilities.

“The latest version of the plan being considered next week is very much a product of all the extensive engagement and consultation work that has taken place.

"I’d like to thank everyone who has taken part and had their say to date.

"We’ve listened and I strongly believe that we’ve produced a Local Plan which helps address housing needs in sustainable locations and makes sure North Somerset continues to be a vibrant, quality place to live, work and visit.”