Stockport Labour Group

Joint Statement on the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework

SLG

This is a joint statement issued on 19 January 2017 on behalf of the Stockport Labour Group, The Stockport Conservative Group, The Independent Ratepayers Group and the Stockport Residents Group.

In March 2015 the then Liberal Democrat Executive agreed that Stockport Council Officers should work on the formulation and preparation of the Borough’s contribution to the Greater Manchester Spatial Framework (GMSF). This was in expectation that an acceptable plan would be arrived at after two complete rounds of consultation involving local residents, elected members, land owners and others.

At the Council meeting of December 1st 2016, approval was given to begin work on Stockport’s Local Plan. This Local Plan needs to be developed irrespective of whether, or in what form the GMSF goes forward. This Plan is necessary to produce an evidence- based strategy to meet the needs of the future residents of Stockport, regardless of the GMSF process. At the meeting of 1st December this was noted along with the fact that this Local Plan would remain in place should the GMSF falter or fail to receive the support of a majority of Stockport Councillors.

The first stage of Consultation on the GMSF has now been completed. It is clear from the response of residents that there are a number of concerns around the initial draft especially around infrastructure provision, housing need and the significant proposed loss of green belt.

The signatories to this statement confirm their support for the consultation process and that a revised and more acceptable plan must emerge from the outcome of the proposals to be consulted on in the 2nd round of consultation.

It is clear that the purpose of the GMSF is to deliver a co-ordinated and planned approach to the development, housing and infrastructure needs of the conurbation over the next 20 years. We are committed to attempting to deliver such a joint working approach and reject the need to pull out at this stage, which represents a crucial part of a consultation process.

The undersigned note the above in light of the fact that the Executive has publicly stated the final say on the GMSF plan for Stockport will be subject to the approval of a majority of Councillors.

Signed on 19 January 2017 by:

Cllr Alex Ganotis, Leader of the Council and the Labour Group
Cllr Syd Lloyd, Leader of the Conservative Group
Cllr Adrian Nottingham, Leader of the Independent Ratepayers Group
Cllr Mags Kirkham, Leader of the Stockport Residents Group