1. THE NEED FOR A PLAN
It is right to have a clear and long term development plan across multiple Local Authorities to address the needs of future residents. Local planning can only go so far in addressing wider infrastructure and economic development needs, which does not abide by Borough boundaries. Furthermore, we believe the need for a collective voice to counteract pressures particularly (but not exclusively) within the Housing market can better meet the needs of the population in future, both in terms of housing mix, and in limiting development on greenfield sites.

As such, we believe the Combined Authority represents the best vehicle we have to deliver this planning, to best provide for the needs of future generations and strike the right balance between green assets and economic and housing development.

However, we need to be clear that if we do not consider the final version of the GMSF to be in the best interests of Stockport, compared to any viable and robust alternative plan, Stockport Labour Group reserves its right not to ultimately support it.