Vale Leader on the government’s strategic planning proposals 

The Leader of Vale of White Horse District Council has spoken about the government’s proposal for new regional strategic planning areas announced yesterday. 

The government launched a consultation on proposals for its plans for new Spatial Development Strategies (SDS) areas across England and is asking local councils to comment.  

Cllr Bethia Thomas, Leader of the Vale of White Horse District Council, said: “We have been clear for some time that we do not believe Swindon is a good fit for any future Thames Valley Strategic Authority area and that has not changed.  

“However, the government has confirmed this consultation does not set Strategic Authority or devolution geographies for our area. Instead, it begins a conversation about how strategic planning might work in the future, and we look forward to continuing constructive discussions with our local partners on what an appropriate Strategic Authority geography should look like our area. 

“We will ensure our response to the government’s consultation makes the strongest case possible for what we believe is in the best interests of our communities.”