GNLP 2045 Regulation 20 Scoping Consultation

A1. Developing the vision and objectives of the GNLP 2045

1The new local plan-making system and associated guidance sets out that local plans must include:

• A Vision – a high-level statement that will be a golden thread that runs throughout the local plan helping to guide its development by setting the direction for change and indicating the kind of place we aspire to create.
• Objectives and measurable outcomes – these are needed to show how policies will implement the vision, and so that progress towards meeting the vision statement can be monitored.

2Initial work has been undertaken to begin the process of formulating the vision and objectives. Significant baseline data has been collated and analysed to provide an initial understanding of the strengths, challenges and opportunities facing Greater Norwich. Where relevant, this baseline data has been presented alongside each of the themes in the consultation.

3The scoping consultation for new local plans is required to include a SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats) as a structured way to understand our area and to consult on developing the vision, objectives and measurable outcomes for the plan. Below is a summarised version of the initial SWOT analysis. This initial SWOT analysis has been compiled with information from topic papers, baseline data analysis, and early engagement with officers, stakeholders and elected members.

S

Strengths

• Proven successful joint working practices improving funding opportunities and infrastructure delivery
• Strong agricultural and food manufacturing sectors
• World leading higher education and research sectors
• Strong and growing specialisms in key economic sectors such as agri-tech
• A wealth of environmental and historic assets
• A strong visitor and tourism economy
• An existing long-term strategy in the GNLP resulting in planned growth to 2038
• Good quality of life for residents and a great place to live and work

W

Weaknesses

• Workforce skills gaps which could constrain growth
• Significant viability pressures which can affect the location and deliverability of growth
• Infrastructure funding gaps could limit the delivery of growth where supporting services are needed
• Major challenges around the delivery of brownfield sites restricting growth coming forward in highly sustainable locations
• Disparities in levels of deprivation, life expectancy and health outcomes, and access to services

O

Opportunities

• National planning policy changes allow for a more flexible growth strategy
• Major road infrastructure improvements could increase capacity for growth in connected locations
• Net Zero and climate resilient placemaking for positive environmental impacts and improved quality of life for residents
• Co-location of infrastructure and housing around emerging economic clusters to create sustainable and desirable places
• Population changes leading to a more diverse skills base
• Potential to develop public and political acceptance for an ambitious and sustainable growth strategy

T

Threats

• Significant utilities and water resource constraints limiting growth
• Significant climate change impacts and other environmental pressures such as nutrient neutrality limiting growth and having adverse impacts on communities
• External macro-economic changes resulting in increased costs, and reduced viability and delivery
• Ageing population resulting in additional specialist housing pressures
• Possible public and political resistance to growth