Forest of Dean: Planners say fewer new homes needed

Calculations show around 900 fewer homes are needed in the area than previously estimated

Fewer new homes will ne needed in the Forest of Dean in future, according to council planners.

Planners in the area say it is down to rising wages and properties becoming more affordable.

A total of 6,584 new homes need to be built over the next 20 years, which is around 900 fewer than previous calculations.

Forest of Dean District Council is preparing a legal document to set out the roadmap for development.

The housing target originally set by the Government was 7,440 homes before the reduction - planners hope the change will allow a more sustainable approach to development.

The Local Plan will be in place until 2041 and will mostly focus on housing construction in Lydney, Newent and the Beachley areas.

Development in other towns and major villages will take into account location constraints and where there are enough facilities.

Forward planning manager Nigel Gibbons spoke about the change at a council meeting on 19 October.

He said the ratio used for the calculation has changed quite dramatically recently as homes are - in theory - becoming more affordable.

"It doesn't mean we are solving the affordable housing issues but what it does mean is the ratio between midpoint market housing and incomes of residents in the district is closing," he said.

Councillors voted to prepare a draft local plan based on their strategy for future approval and consultation in 2024.

There were 34 votes in favour, one abstention and one vote against.