Policy GD2 is supported. By specifying that appropriate development is acceptable adjacent to the existing or committed built up areas of Key Centres, such as Lutterworth, it ensures that the Plan is positively prepared and provides flexibility as the Plan can respond to changing needs. Other local authorities have similar policies to this in recently adopted local plans.
This policy is in effect to provide a framework for considering potential windfall sites, adding flexibility and ensuring District meets its housing target. Therefore, where there are sites that are known now that meet the criteria in the policy these should be allocated. For instance, Land South of Lutterworth Road, Lutterworth meets the criteria in the policy:
* As a scheme for approximately 90 units, it is of a scale that reflects the size of Lutterworth which has range of services;
* It is physically and visually connected to the town, and this can be further enhanced through improved cycling and walking connectivity;
* It respects the form and character of the area as it is physically contained, surrounded by existing or committed development on three sides;
* Natural boundaries can be retained and enhanced; and
* The site does not diminish in anyway the separation with neighbouring settlements given its strong boundaries