VONNE

VONNE’s consultation response to the second phase of the Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) Consultation

VONNE has submitted a response to the second phase of the RSS consultations.  The RSS will determine how much development will take place in the region between now and 2021.  Once the RSS has been finalised it will be a lot harder to argue against plans that you don't like in your neighbourhood.  The second phase of the consultation centered around the proposed changes that were recommended as a result of the six week examination in public that was held last Spring.  VONNE welcomes the commitment to sustainable and inclusive development, but questions the emphasis on economic and environmental factors above social and health considerations.

VONNE's submission (Word, 35kB)

Contact John Main john.main@vonne.org.uk with your comments.

Regional Spatial Strategy -  A brief overview

Shaping the North East is the Regional Spatial Strategy for the North East. The Strategy has been prepared by the North East Assembly (NEA) in liaison with local authorities and other regional stakeholders, and will replace existing Regional Planning Guidance for the North East.

Shaping the North East will determine how much development will take place in the region up to 2021 and beyond, and where such development will be located. It provides the long term framework for the region for developing stronger economy and improving the quality of life of communities as places to live and work. It also sets out policies and proposals to protect the environment and identifies the priorities for transport investment in the North East.

How our region develops is important to us all and we need to make decisions now about what we want to protect, enhance and improve it. Housing needs, creating jobs, improving transport and making the most of the region’s culture and environment are just some of the issues we need to address. VONNE coordinated a Regional VCS response (Word 42kB) to the draft proposals that was fed into the Examination in Public.

The next stage of Consultations, in Winter 2006, will be a further opportunity to make the North East the place you want to live in, now and for the next generation. The Regional Spatial Strategy will be finally adopted in Spring 2007.

VONNE briefing: Regional Spatial Strategy November 2006 (PDF 43kB)