As Kirklees Council urges the public to have its say on the new Local Plan, it has been revealed that less than 20 percent of councillors contributed their thoughts when asked by officers.
Concerns around a lack of engagement from elected members was brought to the attention of December’s Full Council meeting by Cllr John Taylor (Con, Kirkburton). Councillors had been asked to feed back on housing need across the district to help shape the Local Plan which is undergoing a complete overhaul.
At the time, just eight of all 69 councillors had responded, with Cllr Taylor asking Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, Cllr James Homewood (Ashbrow, Labour), to speak to officers about encouraging more members to contribute. However, despite the deadline for members to respond being extended to December 20, it has since been confirmed that only 13 members fed back their views.
Kirklees Conservative deputy leader Clr John Taylor
Councillor Taylor said: “I am disappointed so few of my fellow councillors bothered to take the opportunity to help shape the next iteration of the Council’s Local Plan. I know from talking with local residents how important housing is, not just how many houses are built but where and what size/type.
“I would have hoped all councillors would have contributed their knowledge and understanding about their local area to help make sure that this is reflected in the final plan.”
Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance and Regeneration, said: “While it’s unfortunate that more councillors did not take this opportunity to comment on this part of the Local Plan consultation, all feedback adds value to the process and is just one piece of the puzzle.
Labour councillor Graham Turner
“We have also had feedback from residents, conducted thorough research on local housing needs, and worked with partners in various sectors including specialist housing providers for dementia, long-term care, young people and affordable housing providers to make sure our Local Plan will accurately reflect the needs of Kirklees. We follow statutory guidance when conducting consultations and, as such, a government-appointed inspector will have the opportunity to tell us whether more engagement is needed.
“The Local Plan consultation will continue for councillors, businesses, and members of the public, at various stages until the final plan is produced and prior to it being submitted for examination. So there will be plenty of opportunities for interested parties to input into the future of Kirklees.
“Our early engagement survey can be accessed on our website until the end of February.”
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