Consultation opens on final amends to Salt Cross Garden Village plans

In August, the Council overcame a major hurdle in its path to deliver one of the most forward-thinking, sustainable new communities in the country, when Salt Cross’s net zero carbon policy received the green light from the Planning Inspectorate. 

The Planning Inspector concluded that the Council’s approach towards achieving net zero carbon development at Salt Cross was consistent with national policy and is ‘sound’ in other respects, subject to some modifications. The modifications were requested to enhance clarity, remove duplication, and provide greater flexibility, reflecting evolving technical standards and helping to ensure the policy is practical to implement across a large, phased development.   

The Council has now made those modifications which are subject to a 6-week period of public consultation. Following the consultation the Inspector will then review any comments received and issue her final report, paving the way for the Council to formally adopt the full Salt Cross Area Action Plan.  

Councillor Hugo Ashton, Executive Member for Planning, said:  
“This is the final step on a long journey to get this ambitious, ground-breaking plan agreed. Our vision for Salt Cross has always been bold: to create a truly modern garden village that sets the standard for zero-carbon living.  

“We don’t want to just accept more of the same house-building – we want homes and communities fit for the future, to benefit both new homeowners and the environment. These homes will be much cheaper to run while reducing our impact on the climate.  

“Now we have made the modifications requested by the Inspector the consultation has opened for any final comments. I would encourage anyone interested in these final changes to take part.” 

Once the plan is in place the Council can start to review planning applications with development on the site due to follow. It is anticipated that the first homes will be built within the next 5-years. 

The consultation is open to all residents and interested parties and can be accessed by visiting our website.