The Government White Paper sought views on a major package of proposals for the reform of the planning system in England. Its purpose was said to include the streamlining and modernisation of the planning process, and improving outcomes on design and sustainability. Not least it aimed to ensure that more land is available for development, mainly housing, where it is needed. At the same time, and in part overlapping with the White Paper, a further Departmental consultation suggested temporary amendments easing the mandatory provision of affordable housing in order to speed up house building.

These were followed by a consultation on Housing Delivery and Public Service Information that proposed permitted development rights for the conversion of commercial properties to residential use, including within conservation areas.

West Suffolk Council’s Issues and Options consultation was the first stage in a four-year review of the former Forest Heath and St Edmundsbury local plans to produce a new West Suffolk Local Plan for the period 2020 – 2040. It raises important local issues at a time when climate change requirements will need to be implemented.

While the Trust’s responses essentially relate to Bury St Edmunds the potential impact of all four consultations on the town will be significant, particularly at a time when we not only have to meet the challenge of climate change.

Hearings for the Examination in Public of the Local Plan have concluded, as has the consultation on the main modifications, and West Suffolk council anticipates adopting the new local plan in July 2025.