Buckinghamshire Council is in the process of drawing up their “Local Plan”; a document created by Local Authorities in consultation with the community to guide where future developments should be located. It is a 20 year plan that identifies suitable areas of land for housing and infrastructure, and marks areas of green space which should remain protected from development, writes Sarah Green, the Liberal Democrat MP for Chesham and Amersham.

I know this issue is a major concern for many local residents. We are incredibly fortunate to live among the Chiltern Hills, classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Our area is frequently chosen as a filming location by production companies. Preserving what makes our communities so special, and being responsible guardians of our natural environment is something we all care deeply about.

It is however important to recognise the difficult reality that many younger people and key workers are struggling to find suitable and affordable housing locally. The waiting list for social housing in Buckinghamshire is far too long, and some families are forced to live in accommodation which is completely unsuitable. 

One of my key concerns is that, where new housing is considered, we must also see a clear plan for the infrastructure needed to support it. This includes improvements to roads and public transport, upgraded sewerage systems, school places and GP services. 

I recently raised a related concern in Parliament with the Housing Minister. When larger housing developments are proposed, infrastructure needs are usually considered from the outset. However, when a number of smaller developments take place, the cumulative impact on a community can be exactly the same as one big development, but that cumulative effect is too often overlooked. I look forward to meeting with the Housing Minister in the coming weeks to continue that conversation.

If you would like to engage with Buckinghamshire Council’s work on the Local Plan, there are further details on their website. There will also be opportunities to share your views when the public consultation opens.

© Bucks Free Press