§ Mr. Fabian HamiltonTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what further changes he is intending to make to regional planning guidance for Yorkshire and the Humber about the distribution of housebuilding in west Yorkshire. [2073]
§ Ms KeebleOver 800 comments have been received in response to the proposed changes to draft Regional Planning Guidance for Yorkshire and the Humber which were published in March 2001. Many of the consultation responses welcome the proposed changes as they improve RPG and provide a clear strategy for sustainable development in the region. An issue has been raised about the distribution of housing in west Yorkshire which we consider needs to be resolved by publishing further changes to RPG for public consultation.
17WThe level of housing provision in west Yorkshire published for consultation in March 2001 was 6,175 dwellings per year, some 800 more than originally proposed in the Regional Assembly's draft RPG. However, where these additional 800 houses per year should be located within west Yorkshire was not specified. Instead, it was proposed that it be established in the next review of RPG in a few years' time. The Regional Assembly and the local authorities have not objected to the proposed increase. Environmental groups have objected, while developers have expressed support or argued that provision should be further increased. There were also significant arguments put forward that the distribution of the additional housing within west Yorkshire should be determined now rather than left to the next review of RPG. In the light of all comments received, we are proposing that there should be no further change to the overall amount of housing in west Yorkshire, but that its distribution between local authorities should be set out now. This will provide greater certainty in the planning system, and will assist urban renaissance by helping to reduce the need to travel by providing homes near to jobs. The following annual rates of housebuilding are proposed:
Number Bradford 1,540 Calderdale 450 Kirklees 1,310 Leeds 1,930 Wakefield 950 Comments on these revised figures are being invited over a six week period. These will be considered, along with all the representations already received, before RPG is finalised later in the year.