Residents share clear priorities for Woking’s new Local Plan

Residents, businesses, community organisations and key stakeholders have shared their priorities for Woking's future, with infrastructure improvements, protection of the Green Belt and delivery of affordable homes emerging from the borough's recent Local Plan consultation.

A total of 779 responses were received during the recent five-week Regulation 20 consultation, which sought feedback on the scope and priorities of the future Local Plan, which will guide decisions on homes, jobs, infrastructure and environmental protection between 2027 and 2044.

Feedback received during the consultation can be viewed online.  

Overall, responses showed broad support for the proposed vision of a thriving, sustainable and inclusive borough, with 81% support. Strong support was also expressed for priorities relating to the local economy, climate resilience, transport, infrastructure and community facilities.

However, residents also made clear that future growth must be realistic, evidence-based and supported by the infrastructure needed to support existing and future communities.

Cllr Louise Morales, Woking Borough Council's Portfolio Holder for Planning Policy, said: "I’d like to thank everyone who took the time to participate in the consultation and share their views on the priorities for Woking's future.

"Whilst the consultation feedback broadly supported the direction of the new Local Plan, residents want confidence that future development will be realistic, deliverable and supported by the right investment in infrastructure and community facilities.

"The feedback received will now play an important role in shaping the next stage of the Local Plan and ensuring it reflects the priorities, aspirations and concerns of our communities.

To receive the latest updates on the Local Plan, including consultation opportunities and key milestones, sign-up to the council's Local Plan mailing list by emailing planning.policy@woking.gov.uk 

Further information, including the project timetable, is available on the council's Local Plan webpages.