The Borough Council consulted on a Draft Issues and Options Report in early 2009. Through the consultation it has become apparent that the Council and its key stakeholders need a much clearer, Warrington-specific vision of how the Borough will develop over the next 15 years. We can then work towards this vision through the management of development and the setting of programmes and priorities.
The key issues and "building blocks" identified in the initial Issues and Options report have therefore been refined, and they now form the subject of this more detailed draft vision. A "building block" is an area of Warrington that has been identified as having certain characteristics and which will require a distinct policy approach. These areas are shown on the plan at the start of the Building Blocks section. Each of the key issues and areas has been considered in terms of its past, present and future. This allows a much greater place specific, more accessible understanding of how the issue or area has developed over time, and how it could be shaped in the future. Whilst this may result in a lengthy vision, it will be more place specific and relevant, to give a clearer steer for development in Warrington.
This document is provided for discussion in the quest to develop a shared vision which will form the basis for setting the objectives and identifying options for policy development that will follow in the next few months. It should be stressed that this process could lead to redrafting, refinement and further detail being added to the elements of the vision before it is agreed in its final form.
There is now an opportunity to influence and comment on these elements of the vision before further work is carried out. We will publish our draft objectives and options for realising the draft vision for consideration in February of this year, so there are opportunities for anyone to be continually involved in the drafting process. Once the vision, objectives and options are finalised, and a process of assessment and appraisal (including Sustainability Appraisal and Environmental Assessment) has taken place we will informally consult on our preferred option in April 2010. A draft Core Strategy will be available for formal public consultation in September 2010.