THE PUBLIC is being asked to help shape what will become one of the most important documents outlining the future of the Island.
The Island Plan is the policy document that will, in stages, replace the Unitary Development Plan and become the blueprint for the way the Island moves forward in planning terms.
The first round of that public consultation on the Core Strategy element of that document began on Friday (Jan 25).
The core strategy does not look at individual sites but will form the guiding principles and policies against which development will be measured.
Cllr George Brown, IW Council cabinet member for economy, planning and property, said: “The Isle of Wight is well known for the quality of its environment with its landscapes and coastlines enjoying a high level of special designation and protection.
“While this helps give the Island its unique character, it also presents us with the challenge of protecting the environment while at the same time encouraging regeneration and development as part of our Eco Island vision.
“All these challenges must be addressed by new planning policies and because they are issues that go to the heart of our communities, we want these communities to be involved in the process.
“We want to hear your views on this exciting opportunity to shape and manage the future of the Island — please do not miss this chance to have your say. Your input now at this planning stage is vital.”
The consultation on the core strategy is in three stages. The first phase, called ‘Issues and Options, is the one now underway and this runs until March 10. Views expressed are considered and then form part of the Preferred Options consultation stage that gets underway on August 8. The final ‘submissions’ stage begins in December.
The first draft of report can be found online at www.iwight.com/corestrategy from the first day of consultation. Paper copies of the report will be available to view at Seaclose Offices, County Hall Customer Services and all libraries.
To reduce the use of paper, the council is urging the public to make use of the on-line version as far as possible and has tailored the website to make it easier to make comments on screen. A number of public workshops will also be held as part of the process.
Notes;
Details of workshops.
Rural Regeneration — Thursday 31 January 2008 — 6-8pm — Hunnyhill Room, Riverside Centre, Newport
Transport Infrastructure — Wednesday 6 February 2008 — 6-8pm — Conference Suite, Isle of Wight College, Medina Way, Newport
Housing — Tuesday 12 February 2008 — 6-8pm — Hunnyhill Room, Riverside Centre, Newport
Landscape, Historic & Natural Environment — Wednesday 13 February 2008 — 6-8pm — Conference Suite, Isle of Wight College, Medina Way, Newport.
Regeneration & Economy — Thursday 14 February 2008 — 6-8pm — Hunnyhill Room, Riverside Centre, Newport
Sustainable Development — Tuesday 26 February 2008 — 6-8pm — Anthony Minghella Theatre, Quay Arts Centre, Newport
Community — Wednesday 27 February 2008 — 6-8pm — Conference Suite, Isle of Wight College, Medina Way, Newport
If you would like to attend any of the workshops, please contact Planning Policy team on 01983 823552 or email [email protected] to book your place, at least a week before each event.
