Core Strategy DPD

0 Background and context

The adopted Core Strategy is currently under review by Bradford Council. The information below explains why there is a need for a review, changes to the housing numbers and the stages that will take place as it moves towards adoption.

Why do you need to review the Core Strategy?

In light of significant changes to national planning policy and local strategies since the Core Strategy was adopted in 2017, the Council has started a review process. This process will ensure that the plan remains the most appropriate and sustainable strategy for the Bradford District.

Why have the housing numbers changed?

The adopted Core Strategy sets out a housing requirement of 2,476 dwelling per annum or circa 42,100 homes for the period 2013-2030. The Government has changed the approach to how housing need is calculated in England using a 'Standard Method'. For the District, using this new 'standard method' provides a new minimum figure of 1,703 net dwelling per annum (including affordability adjustment) or a total of 28,951 dwellings over a 17-year plan period before adjustments for housing losses and windfalls.

With the reduced overall housing requirement and an updated distribution of growth, all settlements will see a reduction in absolute housing targets with the exception of Bradford City Centre (up from 3500 to 4000).

Are the total housing numbers the same as the allocation numbers?

No. The final housing allocation numbers are likely to be nearer to 1,538 units per annum, or 26,150 homes over the 17 years of the plan when balanced against windfall permissions and developments and the loss of dwellings through demolitions.

What is the timetable for completing the plan?

The Council commenced a formal review of the Core Strategy in January 2019. A Scoping consultation took place in January 2019 followed by a further consultation on the Preferred Options in July 2019.

The plan will go forward for consultation on further preferred options in 2020 and the production of a submission draft in 2021, prior to formal submission to the Secretary of State for public examination. The public examination and any modifications and subsequent additional consultation on the plan are likely to mean that formal adoption is provisionally scheduled for 2022-23.

What about site allocations?

Work is progressing on the detailed site allocations plan to deliver the level of growth set out within the updated Core Strategy. Details of the this plan progress can be found on the Allocations page.