The Development Plan Working Party of Stockport Council met on Tuesday 17 December 2024 to discuss the council's housing needs and supply, and the methodology for selecting sites for development. The meeting involved verbal presentations and discussions on these key planning matters. The public was excluded from a portion of the meeting concerning site selection methodology to prevent the disclosure of information relating to financial or business affairs, as defined under the Local Government Act 1972.

Housing Need and Supply

The Working Party received a verbal presentation providing a recap of the council's current housing need and supply position. Councillors raised several questions regarding the specifics of future housing provision, including the exact types of housing required and whether further work was needed to define these. There was also a discussion about analysing housing demand geographically across the borough and clarification was sought on a figure of 1.77, with questions about when this metric began. The issue of stalled housing developments and potential solutions to accelerate them was also discussed. Additionally, members enquired about the percentage relating to the housing delivery test and whether a buffer would be necessary. The Working Party resolved to note the verbal report.

Increasing Urban Supply

A verbal update was provided on efforts to increase the urban supply of housing. Councillors asked about the minimum site size for development and how the public would be informed about calls for sites. The appropriateness of involving local residents in this process was affirmed. Concerns were raised about the potential targeting of green areas without a specific purpose for development. Members also suggested softening the language used when discussing residents not having all the necessary information. Frustration was expressed regarding the pace of progress on the Local Plan, and concerns were voiced about the council's ability to address climate and biodiversity emergencies in light of development plans. The Working Party resolved to note the verbal report.

Site Selection Methodology Workshop

An update was provided on the methodology for selecting development sites. The public was excluded from this part of the meeting to prevent the disclosure of information relating to the financial or business affairs of individuals or the authority, as defined under the Local Government Act 1972. The Working Party resolved to note the verbal presentation.