The Steering Group has been very busy through September/October gathering evidence to support our prospective plan. The results of our very well-supported parish wide survey have given us a good idea of what the Husthwaite community would like to achieve through its new plan but we have to ensure that any proposed policies fit with national and local planning rules e.g. on heritage, landscape etc.
We are also looking for statistical information (mainly from the 2021 Census but also other sources including official North Yorkshire Council records) for the plan, particularly in relation to the provision of services required by our community.
We are still consulting – in September we sent out a short online survey to local estate agents in an attempt to gain more information on the local housing market and in late October we launched an online survey aimed at respondents to the parish survey who identified as business owners so we can get a more detailed understanding of their needs. We are also reviewing the findings of our preliminary Biodiversity Audit carried out by Wold Ecology and are considering the need for further detailed surveys of key wildlife in the area.
Work has started with the expert consultants (grant funded) who are:
- preparing a draft set of design codes for the Parish and
- conducting an up-to-date housing needs assessment.
Design codes are a set of illustrated design requirements that provide specific, detailed parameters for the physical development of an area. The aim is to secure high quality, sustainable buildings, wherever sited. Sadly the weather was not kind the day the design team visited but their first impressions were still very favourable and they are excited about helping us to achieve essential growth while preserving the ‘essence of Husthwaite’. Watch out for further updates on their work and on our draft overarching ‘vision’ for the plan which we will be sharing soon.
Our call for help – posted both online and in the village newsletter – has not resulted in any response. If anyone does have some time they could offer over next few months, please do get in touch with Sarah (Aspinall) via husthwaitepc@hotmail.co.uk. Absolutely no prior knowledge of planning law required!!