Mole Valley adopts new Local Plan

On Tuesday 15th October, Mole Valley District Council voted to adopt the new Local Plan. The recommendation to adopt the Plan received support from a clear majority of councillors (82%) in the council chamber.

Margaret Cooksey - the Lib Dem Planning Portfolio Holder - commented: "After years of hard work and dedication to get to this point, Mole Valley District Council (MVDC) now has a Local Plan in place until 2039 that will guide future development in Mole Valley.

"The adoption of Mole Valley’s Local Plan marks the conclusion of an exhaustive process that has seen thousands of representations received from those who live and work in the district over three wide-scale public consultation exercises held over the past five years, in addition to a comprehensive Examination exercise undertaken by a government-appointed Planning Inspector.

“Without a Local Plan we would have faced development being imposed on us, with no control over where or how much. The potential impact on everyone who lives, works, and visits our district was always at the forefront of our minds. Our officers’ relentless efforts to develop a Plan that balances local housing needs with the rural character of our district have been vital. Despite delays caused by changes in government planning policy in recent years, we are now bringing this important chapter to a close.

“While building homes – including affordable housing – and protecting precious green belt are often matters that rightly come to the fore, it is important to stress that our Local Plan delivers so much more. The Plan will shape Mole Valley’s infrastructure in so many vital ways, including the following: biodiversity net gain, designating locally listed buildings, zero carbon homes and electric vehicle charging points, minimum rather than maximum parking standards, education and primary care need, open space, children’s play areas, early years facilities, transport and flood mitigation improvements.

“Mole Valley’s Local Plan will provide a comprehensive framework that ensures our district grows sustainably while enhancing the quality of life for current and future generations."

Read Margaret's speech