For background to the Long Leys Neighbourhood Plan process please read long-leys.org/should-llra-lead-the-development-of-a-neighbourhood-plan-for-long-leys/
Initial Focus Areas
The initial areas listed below, along with no doubt many others subsequently as the project progresses, will be investigated to establish an evidence base to support the development of planning policy:
- A: Housing Needs Assessment: Establishing the quantity and types of housing needed to support growth in the Long Leys Community by 2040.
- B: Footpaths and cycle-ways: Improving safe and easy access into neighbouring areas and the city centre.
- C: A shop: Approaches to various retailers to establish what criteria would need to be met for them to consider operating a shop in Long Leys.
- D: Better infrastructure (doctor / dentist surgery): Establishing criteria for better access to these services.
- E: Community Centre: Exploring the need for a community meeting place.
- F: Reviewing the industrial area: Establishing criteria for businesses that would be compatible with a primarily residential area.
- G: Better care and protection for green spaces and wildlife: What assets do we have and how do we protect and enhance them.
- H: Maintaining the “green look” of the area: What design codes should be used by new housing and industry to maintain the best elements of the character of Long Leys.
It is important to stress that this does not mean that any specific focus area is certain to be in the plan; just that we will be gathering evidence on which to form a view.
Example: With a community of circa 1,431 people it is unlikely we could support a doctors surgery, as a single GP typically covers 3,000 people. However, if a community centre was available then this could potentially be used as a ad-hoc location for a health visitor and some health services.