ACTION REQUIRED - Core Strategies ready for feedback - 28/06/2009

Regeneration and improving the quality of life for everyone are the key themes running through Worthing Borough Council’s Local Development Framework (LDF). Consultation on the core strategy of the framework starts this week and runs until 10 August. 

Onlne version visible here - this is the best version to use, as it lets you comment the peice and those comments are visible to all.

Click HERE to see online version of the Core Strategy Document -  http://worthing-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/planning/revised_cs (copy/paste into browser if link not working)

The core strategy will provide the guidelines and framework for new development in the borough until 2026. This consultation period will be the last chance people have to comment on the options before the final version is prepared later this year.

This document sets out the issues and challenges facing the town in the future and highlights the priority areas that need to be addressed in order to help Worthing develop into an even stronger town, both economically and socially.

Tourism is a major contributor to the town’s economy and the beach, a major asset, boasts 7.5km of shoreline which is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.  Revitalising the seafront and town centre and helping tourism to grow is one of the main objectives of the core strategy.

Ensuring the reputation  of  Worthing as a premier shopping town is paramount to the borough’s economy and jobs.  Regeneration of the retail centre of the town is a top priority for the council. Improving smaller shopping centres so people can shop local is also highlighted as way forward to creating more sustainable communities. 

More people are moving to Worthing which now has a population of 99,600 (2007 figs).  There’s an increase in the number of people moving into Worthing in the mid age range, often the time when people are having families.  One of the challenges to be addressed is a shortage of family sized homes in the borough to meet these needs. 

A key part of the regeneration objectives will depend on retaining existing employment areas and the creation of more modern, flexible space much needed for businesses.

The revised core strategy sets out policies to deliver a sustainable economy which will include promoting education and skills training to benefit local people and lead to better job opportunities.

Head of strategic planning and regeneration, Clare Mangan said:  “I encourage all residents and businesses to have a look at the revised core strategy and send in any comments and recommendations they feel are important. We can all be affected in our everyday lives by the planning system, so it is important we take the opportunity to have our say when the chance arises.” 

Hard copies of the documents will be available for inspection during the consultation period at Portland House in Richmond Road, the Town Hall, the Main Library and the local libraries. The documents and more information are also available to view on the Borough’s website at www.worthing.gov.uk/ldf .For your convenience, you will also be able to make any comments you may have using the Council’s on-line comments system.

If you require any more information, you can contact the Planning Policy Team at Portland House by calling 01903 221451 or e-mail us at planningpolicy@worthing.gov.uk

Any problems with the link via WBC - use this one. [http://worthing-consult.limehouse.co.uk/portal/planning/revised_cs]

ENDS