OPINION COLUMN: Time to have your say on the draft Vale of Aylesbury Plan

We all know that a shortage of housing is a problem the country over. '¨Aylesbury Vale, of course, is no different and, like everywhere else, has to take its share of future housing growth. '¨This subject is at the very heart of the draft Vale of Aylesbury Local Plan (VALP) '“ a plan which provides for more than 33,000 houses between now and 2033. It's not just about housing '“ it's also about how land is used for employment, communities and leisure facilities.'¨This plan has been worked on for several months by our team of planning experts. Housing growth is never popular, but they've worked tirelessly to come up with the best option for the Vale. The input of our residents is key to making sure we get this right. '¨Some of you may have participated in our consultation at the '˜Issues and Options' stage of VALP, last year. '¨The draft plan, which we've just published, has been prepared in response to the comments we received.'¨From 7 July, this plan officially goes out to public consultation. '¨This will run until 5 September and we'll be running information drop-in sessions across the Vale. '¨For details on where we'll be, please visit our website aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk where you'll also find the draft plan and supporting evidence. '¨The plan will not be finalised until December, so this is your chance to have your say. '¨After that, at the beginning of next year, it will be submitted to a government inspector to hopefully get the green light.'¨I'm keen to point out that with growth come opportunities, like greater investment, more jobs and better facilities. '¨The reality is we have no choice in housing growth, but we do have a choice in where it goes and how it is managed. I'm confident that our team is producing a solid and responsible plan for the future of our Vale, so please take the time to have a look. '¨www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/localplan