PROPOSED SUBMISSION LOCAL PLAN 2006-2028 - Aug 12
Proposed Submission Local Plan 2006-2028
Local Aspirations
6.16 The strategic approach to development in Chard is underpinned by the Chard Regeneration Plan (2009), this forms part of a master planning process[1] to prepare long term plans for the town that address the issues set out in the 'Chard Regeneration Framework'[2].
6.17 A vision for Chard has been developed in conjunction with the local community and stakeholders through the Chard Regeneration Framework; it presents a clear and concise Vision Statement:
'Make it in Chard' was promoted as an idea encapsulating the possibilities of simply making your life in the town, or as an exhortation to businesses to invest and develop. Chard offers a combination of qualities that make it a unique and special place. As a self contained working community where more than 50% of people live and work in a wonderful environmental setting, the town has everything needed for everyday life. Its local economy makes the best use of local produce and resources. Growth of the town will provide new housing and jobs and provide the investment needed to make it an even better place to live. The town will compete internationally and develop its strong tradition of innovation to build businesses that provide stable, skilled and well paid jobs. Chard will be successful because of what it does, and what it makes - you can 'make it in Chard'. Over time the town will come to be seen as a place of invention, craft and manufacture - from the agricultural produce sold in the town's market to high value added technological products.'
6.18 Underlying this Vision Statement are 3 key aims:
Aim 1: Chard should build on its long tradition of innovation and manufacturing excellence to develop and attract businesses associated with products and services of the highest quality that offer well paid, skilled jobs.
Aim 2: Regeneration and investment should strengthen the community and make the town increasingly self sufficient with all the services, facilities and events necessary to make it a great place to live.
Aim 3: Chard should develop and enhance its urban environment so that it has a quality that is comparable to its stunning natural setting and rich cultural heritage.
The Chard Regeneration Plan presents, in more detail, specific objectives and aspirations to help achieve these aims.
1. Prepared by LDA Design, consultants employed by South Somerset District Council [back]
2. An autonomous planning exercise in the form of the Chard Regeneration Framework. The Chard Regeneration Framework is the result of many detailed discussions over a number of years about the challenges that face Chard and the regeneration opportunities that could be available. In January 2007 the District Council agreed the need to lead the development of a Chard Vision project that would allow the challenges to be met and the regeneration opportunities to be taken. Extensive negotiations with the South West Regional Development Agency (SWRDA), Somerset County Council and Chard Town Council were concluded in October 2008. These established the Chard Regeneration Scheme. [back]
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