Scenario 2 Urban extensions

The review and significant modification of the Green Belt in the region is essential to achieve the sustainable developments that are desperately needed. This revision is particularly vital in the context of the Urban Extensions strategy, which I wholeheartedly support. The areas surrounding Cheltenham, notably Bishop Cleeve and Shurdington, are prime areas for such extensions. Integrating these settlements, already seen as part of the expansive Cheltenham region, is a logical step forward.

The Gloucestershire Young Planners are in strong favour of the Urban Extensions proposal. This strategy integrates development with existing urban settlements, effectively utilising available infrastructure and amenities such as shops, educational facilities, and other services. Particularly, Cheltenham, along with nearby settlements like Bishop Cleeve and Shurdington, presents a prime opportunity for such extensions. The aim should be to merge these settlements together, as Bishop Cleeve and Shurdington are already widely regarded as part of the broader Cheltenham region. Furthermore, most of the land between Cheltenham and Bishop Cleeve/Shurdington falls within Flood Zone 1, which is not the case for other parts of the county, making it more suitable for development. As such, we advocate for a re-evaluation of the Green Belt policy between these settlements to facilitate essential housing and commercial developments. Nonetheless, we recognise the necessity of maintaining some Green Belt areas to prevent the merging of Cheltenham and Gloucester. Of course, significant growth of this nature would necessitate the development of comprehensive transport plans to ensure the adequacy of the road network and public transport systems, thereby supporting the increased demand and contributing to sustainable development goals.