Darlington Borough Council's Cabinet will consider the next stage of the borough's Local Plan review on Tuesday 15 September. The plan shapes how Darlington grows and develops through to 2042.
The draft revised Local Plan focuses on delivering more affordable homes, including new homes for social rent. It would increase affordable housing requirements for future developments and, for the first time, introduce specific requirements for the delivery of homes for social rent.
Public consultation feedback
The proposed changes are based on feedback received during public consultation earlier this year, which generated more than 100 responses and over 650 comments from residents, organisations and stakeholders.
Green space protection
In addition to strengthening affordable housing policies, the revised plan would designate additional areas as Local Green Space, helping to protect them from future development. The plan also supports business growth and investment.
What happens next
Councillor Chris McEwan, Cabinet member for Economy, said the proposed changes would "strengthen our affordable housing requirements and, for the first time, set clear expectations around the delivery of homes for social rent, helping more residents and families find a home they can afford in Darlington."
If approved at the Special Cabinet meeting, the draft revised plan will be published for a further period of public consultation before being submitted to the Planning Inspectorate for independent examination.
