Planning Inspector requests Exploratory Meeting!

It would appear that all is not well with the South Glos Core Strategy, as many of us have known for a very long time. The Independent Inspector has called for an Exploratory Meeting to undertake a preliminary assessment of the Core Strategy. This is not routine - it is an exceptional procedure when serious concerns become apparent in the Core Strategy. This letter was sent to all Representors who responded to the Core Strategy back in August of 2010. The agenda for the meeting, which will take place on 29th June at 2pm at Nibley Court looks very similar to a list of all the issues we have already found fault with for so long. Is the plot very slowly unravelling for the Core Strategy? Our simple solution for the Inspector has always been

• Exclude Thornbury from the Core Strategy - this is not a strategic housing site for South Glos, and never has been.
• More housing for Thornbury is a local issue for local people to decide.
• Thornbury needs to start again from a blank sheet, and come up with a housing strategy that is based upon evidenced needs, that is sustainable, and that is determined through genuine and open discussion and consultation, by the people and for the people.