Have your say on the growth of Carmarthenshire

THE future growth of Carmarthenshire and its communities has taken another step forward as a key document is released showing how the county could change over the next 13 years.

Members of the public are now able to view and provide their feedback on a deposit revised Local Development Plan (LDP), a key planning framework document developed by Carmarthenshire County Council to shape and guide development through to 2033.

It details land allocations for new homes and businesses, as well as policies to protect and promote the environment, the Welsh language, the economy and employment growth.

Distributing potential growth opportunities across six clusters, the plan sets the direction for the development of 8,835 new homes including 1,500 affordable homes, with a settlement pattern which reflects the diversity of Carmarthenshire’s communities and the needs of its urban and rural areas.

It also provides opportunities for around 80 hectares of land to be developed for the creation of over 5,000 new jobs.

The document provides a focus on wellbeing and on efforts to protect and enhance the county’s natural and built environments through sustainable development to ensure quality environments and places.

The plan also seeks to help address the council’s commitment to tackling climate change.

A public consultation on the deposit revised LDP is open until March 13, 2020, giving people an opportunity to view and comment on the proposed land allocations and policies.

The consultation is just one element of a lengthy process which began in 2018, and which is due to be complete by the end of 2021.

Cllr Mair Stephens, Executive Board Member for Strategic Planning, said: “The LDP will shape and guide future decision making and investment in Carmarthenshire. It sets out the amount and location of future new homes, affordable housing, employment and jobs, renewable energy, and identifies and protects areas of conservation and environmental importance.

“Setting a new LDP is a lengthy process, but one during which there is plenty of opportunity for people to share their views. A number of public consultations have been held, and will be held, before the final document is agreed.

“We encourage anyone with an interest in building, land development, the environment, their local communities and how Carmarthenshire will be shaped in the future, to get involved and have their say.”

The deposit revised LDP and supporting documents are available to view on the council’s website, www.carmarthenshire.gov.wales/planning, as well as at the council’s customer service Hwbs and public libraries.

The consultation is open until 4.30pm on Friday, March 13, 2020.