County Durham Urban Capacity Study

Background

National planning guidance on housing (Planning Policy Guidance Note No 3) advises that land is a finite resource and that urban land and buildings can often be underused.

All local planning authorities are required to undertake an urban capacity study to establish how much additional housing can be accommodated within urban areas and therefore how much greenfield land may be needed for development.

Planning officers from the County Council and the seven District Councils in County Durham published a methodology for urban capacity studies (June 2001). This was drawn up jointly to ensure comparability and standardisation of approach across the County. In order for the studies to be as comprehensive and inclusive as possible, the aim has been to establish a partnership for each of the seven district planning authority areas in the County as a means of pooling knowledge, skills and experience. This partnership approach also helps to reduce the possible disputes about the overall outcome of the capacity process and assumptions used. In addition to County and district planning officers, representatives from a variety of stakeholders have been invited to join a review panel. This includes representation from the House Builders Federation, registered social landlords, local builders, the Chambers of Commerce and estate agents.

Progress to Date

The majority of County Durham District Councils have now completed their first urban capacity studies.

If you Want to Know More

Further information on the progress and content of the County Durham District Council urban capacity studies is available from each District Council. For details of whom to contact at each District Council please see our 'advice and contacts' web page or contact the Planning Policy Team.

Email: Planning Policy
Tel: 0191 3834115
Fax to 0191 3835701