Crawley plan for next two decades gets approval

A plan which will shape the development of Crawley in West Sussex for almost two decades has been approved.

The local plan will help determine levels of housebuilding and business development, rules about noise from Gatwick Airport, and environmental policies.

The plan covers the period up to 2040.

All councils must produce a long term local plan, and they are typically reviewed every five years.

The plan sets targets for future housing developments to be made up of 40% affordable properties across the borough, with 75% of that to be available as rental homes.

The council argues this is needed because average house prices and rents in Crawley are nearly nine times the average wage, with 739 affordable homes needed each year to meet demand.

The document also includes stricter noise controls, particularly from Gatwick Airport.

Also, airport-related parking in the town is to be strictly controlled to encourage passengers to use public transport.

The full plan can be found on the council's website.

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