South Tyneside residents are being asked for their views about a new planning document for travel plans. The draft document sets out guidance to help encourage sustainable forms of transport as part of new developments across the Borough.
Once adopted, the Supplementary Planning Document will form part of the South Tyneside Local Development Framework and support the development plan policies set out in the adopted Core Strategy.
Councillor Michael Clare, Lead Member Jobs, Enterprise and Regeneration, said: "We have prepared this travel plans document to support policies and proposals within our Local Development Framework. This document is an important step in promoting sustainable travel across the Borough. It sets out advice to developers and applicants in preparing travel plans for all new major developments.
"We are asking residents, businesses and organisations to get involved in this important consultation. All comments and suggestions on the draft planning document will be considered carefully and could help to further shape the document before it is adopted."
Five public consultation drop-in events will take place this month across the Borough, and Council staff will be available to answer any questions and provide information about the draft document.
The events start next Wednesday (18th November) in Boldon Colliery and run for a week as follows:
- Wednesday 18th November, ASDA, North Road, Boldon Colliery, 11am to 6pm.
- Friday 20th November, Temple Park Leisure Centre, John Reid Road, South Shields, 11am to 4pm.
- Saturday 21st November, Central Library, Prince Georg Square, South Shields, 10am to 3.30pm.
- Tuesday 24th November, Hebburn Swimming Pool, Campbell Park Road, Hebburn 10am to 6pm.
- Thursday 26th November, Morrisons, Viking Precinct, Jarrow, 11am to 6.30pm.
Councillor Barrie Scorer, Lead Member Environment and Transport, added: "Preparing travel plans for new schools, major areas of employment, new housing developments and other major proposals will help improve people's transport choices. This can include walking, cycling, travelling by public transport and even car-sharing with a friend or work colleague. Promoting sustainable transport initiatives will also help to ensure a greener and healthier environment."
Comments on the draft planning document must be received by Monday 14th December. They will be analysed and a final version will be produced for adoption next Spring.
Copies of the Supplementary Planning Document can be viewed at all South Tyneside libraries during normal opening hours. They are also available for inspection at South Shields Town Hall, the South Tyneside Homes Housing Office at Grange Road in Jarrow and at Hebburn Civic Centre from Monday to Friday between 8.30am and 4.30pm.
Documents are also available on request free of charge for residents or organisations within the Borough (a £5 charge applies for any other requests) or can be viewed/downloaded from the Council's website at www.southtyneside.info/planning.
For further information please contact the Spatial Planning team on 0191 424 7688; email ldf@southtyneside.gov.uk; or write to: Spatial Planning Team, Housing Strategy and Regulatory Services, Town Hall and Civic Offices, South Shields, Tyne and Wear NE33 2RL
Pres/rr/rs/pl/abpr496ck
