It's time to speak up

I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, but more business people should make their voices heard when it comes to vital local political decisions. There are stalwarts who do, but it would be good if they were supported by others when it comes to much needed developments which could provide homes for their staff. Because you can be sure that well organised and articulate local opponents will certainly make their opinions known.

For many, the current consultation period on the Local Plan for Bath and North East Somerset will scarcely have registered as they understandably focus on the vital work of running their businesses in a world where new challenges are an almost daily occurrence. But can I make a plea to find time to get involved in this important conversation.

It’s widely acknowledged there’s a national need for more housing, since its lack can be an obstacle to economic growth. The same is true for our district, where more housing and employment space is desirable.

In particular, people are keen to see a good proportion of both affordable and social housing in the mix when it comes to building new properties. It is important for the continued viability of the City, our market towns and rural villages where young people have the chance to be able to live in their own homes and raise families in the place they know best. Likewise, the availability of local jobs is a vital element to enable businesses to establish and flourish, providing employment close to where people live, reducing the need to commute long distances and establishing a long term sustainable local economy.

There will always be strong feelings about particular sites and there will invariably be genuine local opposition, such as we’ve seen in South Stoke, where a carefully thought out planning application met a furious response, just as a range of others have done.

I think the local authority should be congratulated on grasping the nettle and facing up to the demands made of it by National Government. No Local Plan will be universally supported and there are bound to be loud protests around Bath and North East Somerset. But I do think that a rational and objective approach from more business people could make a significant contribution and bring some balance to the conversation, giving elected members the confidence to do what is right, rather than what is popular with their local electorate.

So don’t just yawn and say “Not another one !” when it comes to this consultation. Consider the long term benefits for every business and have your say. If you don’t and it all goes wrong, you’ll only have yourself to blame.