Blueprint to map out Newport's future

From reconnecting to the national canal network to a regeneration of Water Lane, Newport’s Neighbourhood Development Plan hopes to put the town on the map while protecting the things residents already like about the town.things residents really care about.

Telford and Wrekin’s town plan said Newport needs 1,200 new homes between 2011 and 2031, and although many of them have already been given planning permission, the neighbourhood development plan is set to ensure any remaining houses fit with the feel of the town and are of a high quality.

Deputy Clerk Sheila Atkinson said: “There is now an opportunity to comment on what has been prepared for the Neighbourhood Development Plan.

“Consultation will take place throughout May and into June, and this will be the opportunity for you to provide your say.”

“Any comments received will be recorded, read and amendments to revise to the plan will be considered.”

The 47-page document goes into great detail about how to protect the town’s green spaces without stifling opportunities for industry, regeneration and employment.

The policies have been drawn out following a variety of consultation events and through contributions by voluntary groups. including the civic society, the chamber of commerce, the local Canal Trust, Newport 21 and others.

The plan says: “The responses received during the period of consultation and engagement indicated that there is no community support for additional housing in or around Newport beyond developments that already have planning permission and sites allocated in the Local Plan to meet local needs.”

“Residents expressed a number of objectives for future housing. New housing development should provide affordable dwellings that will be delivered on-site through the development period, should be of good quality design and built to the best standards and should include a mix of dwellings and tenures to meet local needs including dwellings suited to older residents as well as younger households.”

The redevelopment of Water Lane is a big part of the new plans, with a view to add new development and take advantage of its links to the canal and Victoria Park.

“The re-use and redevelopment of the site at Water Lane was strongly supported during consultation.

“It was seen as important that the area is redeveloped in a comprehensive manner so that the site as a whole can assist regeneration in Newport.

“It should also be developed in a manner that makes sure that the site is integrally linked to the surrounding area and contributes to the potential uplift of this part of Newport.”

The Neighbourhood Development Plan will not be able to influence plans currently in place and , but it’s hoped that it could help limit the amount of new homes coming to the town in the future.

The plan will go to referendum by the end of the 2017. and developers wishing to build in the town will need to have a solid legal reason to not follow its new rules if it is put in place.