9 Jul 2008 - BACKGROUND - THE VILLAGE DESIGN STATEMENT
Throughout the country, planning authorities are encouraging villages to produce their own Village Design Statement (VDS), the purpose of which is to guide and influence future development so that the character and distinctiveness of the village are protected and enhanced. Several villages around York have already completed their document and Skelton’s is well on the way. Over the last year a project team of volunteers (including representatives of the Village Trust and Parish Council) has been discussing and assembling the components of the Statement.
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND CONSULTATION
It is fundamental to the credibility of the VDS and its eventual acceptance into the planning process, that it reflects the representative views of Skelton residents. To this end a number of consultation exercises are being undertaken. These aim to inform residents about the aims of the VDS, about its contents as it evolves, and provide opportunities for input and comments.
- In late 2006 and during 2007 three public meetings were held in the Village Hall to start the VDS process and report on progress
- In November 2007 a questionnaire was delivered to every household in the village inviting views and comments. Responses received have assisted in compiling the first draft document which is now (March 2008) available for public consultation.
- On March 29th and 30th 2008 there were two Open Days marking the refurbishment of the Village Hall. A number of village groups mounted displays and the Village Design Statement was a major feature. The event was well attended and residents were able to talk to members of the steering group and take away a copy of the draft VDS. Both at and following the event many comments and suggestions have been received which have assisted the steering group in compiling a further draft.
This further draft has now been submitted to the City of York Council for its consideration. We expect to receive it back during the summer, including comments from the Council and other consultees. We can then move to a final draft for adoption as an Interim Planning Statement appended to the Draft Local Plan. This means anybody intending to apply for small or large scale development permission in or around the village will have to take account of the contents of the VDS. It thus becomes a valuable safeguard against inappropriate development.
The target is to have the final version published and distibuted to all residents and interested parties by the end of 2008.
Comments and contributions from Skelton residents are encouraged and can be made by email to:
or
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE DEADLINE FOR FURTHER COMMENTS IS THE END OF AUGUST
CLICK HERE FOR THE LATEST DRAFT OF THE SKELTON VILLAGE DESIGN STATEMENT