Background to the plan
In July 2023, Wiltshire Council released its draft Local Plan for Salisbury, which unexpectedly included Sites 8 & 9 located between Coombe Road and Odstock Road. These sites were previously considered but not included in the 2021 draft plan due to significant concerns. Many residents believed that these sites would remain excluded and, as a result, did not raise objections at that time.
Background to the Local Plan
In July 2023, Wiltshire Council released its draft Local Plan for Salisbury, which unexpectedly included Sites 8 & 9 located between Coombe Road and Odstock Road.
These sites were not included in the earlier version of the draft Local Plan issued for consultation in 2021 as part of the ‘Regulation 18’ consultation process. Hence, residents of Harnham and Salisbury were not consulted - a legal requirement ”
Regulation 19 Consultation
After the release of the draft plan in July 2023, a Regulation 19 Consultation took place, concluding in November 2023. During this period, residents submitted over 2800+ representations, and various stakeholders raised significant objections.
The council decided against making substantial amendments to the draft local plan, fearing that this would cause delays. They plan to submit the draft for examination by an independent Planning Inspector appointed by the government.
Opportunity
This is our opportunity to present community-led, expert-supported evidence.
If you have specialist skills that could enhance our team and you are willing to volunteer your time, please get in touch.
We also need your help to fund expert advice, reports, and witnesses to represent our interests during the examination.
What’s Happening Next?
Key Dates and Next Steps
The Plan will now be Submitted to the Secretary of State for examination by a Government-appointed Planning Inspector in early 2025.
During this examination the inspector will assess whether the plan has been prepared in accordance with legal and procedural requirements and if it is sound.
We are preparing evidence and experts to represent our concerns at this examination.
If approved, development could start as early as December 2025—or even earlier if a developer submits a speculative application.
Our Concerns
Overall Impact
We believe this plan raises several critical issues that need to be addressed
The housing target numbers for Salisbury have increased, even though the overall county target has decreased. Why?
Has the potential for building on brownfield sites been fully considered?
Is the traffic modelling accurate, and are the proposed road improvements and cycling plans realistic?
Has the disproportionate impact of 1,330 new homes on the single road into Salisbury been properly assessed?
Will the impact on the Cranborne Chase AONB and Dark Skies Area be seriously considered?
Can Wiltshire Council ensure that infrastructure like schools, nurseries, and road improvements will be delivered on time?
Is there sufficient evidence that this site is truly sustainable?
Has the effect on sewage drainage and the Ebble Valley river been thoroughly evaluated?
Have developers lobbied for these sites?
