How to get involved in Hertsmere's local plan consultation

The council released its draft local plan in September which revealed which sites are most at risk of being developed to meet Government housing targets of around 12,000 up until the end of 2038.

Many of the sites deemed appropriate by council officers to redevelop is protected green belt land and stretch across the borough from Borehamwood to Bushey, and from Potters Bar to the very edge of Hertsmere near London Colney and Colney Heath.

Other sites have been put forward for employment use such as land in Well End for the country's largest TV and film studios.

The local plan has already prompted a demonstration from residents and opposition councillors, which was held in Borehamwood on September 30 - the same day the majority of councillors voted to send the draft local plan out for public consultation.

Related: Protest takes place in Hertsmere over housing plans on green belt

In a glimmer of hope for those fighting to protect the green belt, Councillor Harvey Cohen, who is leading on the local plan process in Hertsmere, has pledged to review his council's housing numbers - but only if the Government updates its requirements regarding targets.

At the Conservative party conference held in Manchester earlier this month, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said houses should not be built on "green fields".

Cllr Cohen said: "Our draft local plan aims to ensure that we deliver the homes we've been told to by central government, alongside the jobs, infrastructure and services to support this growth.

"This is an important stage in the local plan process but it isn't the final one - there will be a further opportunity to comment next year.

"Additionally, we will continue to review the draft local plan as the Government updates its advice and requirements as to housing numbers.

"However, by submitting your views now, you can help shape how the plan moves forward and how the borough grows over the next 15 years and beyond."

A banner by Little Bushey Community against proposals for 350 homes and a primary school at Harts Farm in Bushey

The local plan consultation went live today (Monday October 11) and will last for six weeks, ending on Monday November 22.

The council says people can have a look at the plan and give their views on the proposals by visiting www.hertsmerelocalplan.com

There is a survey and a place to make comments online via the website. Newsletter will be put through resident's doors about the consultation, council leader Morris Bright has said.

The council also says hard copies of the plan and response forms and pre-paid envelopes are available at locations across the borough, including libraries and parish and town council offices.

CGI of the proposed Hertswood Studios in Well End (Image: Bidwells)

Cllr Bright added: "Over the next six weeks, we'll be working tirelessly to ensure residents and local groups have the opportunity to have their say.

"We need your views on how the borough could grow in the future to ensure it remains the wonderful place to live, work and visit that it is today."

Hertsmere MP Oliver Dowden, who recently swapped his Culture Secretary role to become the new chairman of the national Conservative party, said: "All Hertsmere residents have until the November 22 to comment on the draft plan, and I would urge everybody to do so.

"It is vital that your voices are heard. Now is the moment to have your say as our borough seeks to identify where it will accommodate housing and business needs for the next generation in line with its national obligations."

There will be a further opportunity to comment on the final local plan next year, before it is submitted to the Secretary of State for formal examination.

Visit www.hertsmerelocalplan.com to take part in the consultation.