An allocation of this size would lead to a vast number of employment opportunities. However, unemployment in the area is very low, the majority of the workforce required for an allocation of this size would have to be recruited from outside the district. Supporting documents for the IDI
Gazeley application, 15/01531/OUT, state that 74% of the employment opportunities will be for 'essential/basic jobs'. Key Issue 3 of the Local Plan highlights that there is a requirement for more opportunities for 'higher skilled residents' in the district. Objective 2 of the Local Plan states: 'Contribute to reducing the need for out-commuting and thereby help to increase the sustainability and self-containment of communities, while encouraging the development of a vibrant, diverse and sustainable business community'. Out-commuting of people within the district holding skilled jobs would not be significantly reduced as, previously highlighted, 74% of the opportunities are for essential/basic jobs, the people filling these roles will commute from areas where unemployment is higher and house prices are lower.