PART TWO of Winchester's Local Plan was adopted at full council.

Deputy leader Vicki Weston told councillors the plan had been found sound by the Inspector and described it as, “great news for the council.”

In response to a question from councillor James Byrnes, Cllr Weston added that it was “extremely helpful” to have affirmation of a five-year land supply from the Inspector to fight inappropriate developments and appeals.

Following Local Plan Part 1 - Joint Core Strategy, which is the overarching document of the Local Development Framework, the council has prepared a second planning policy document, known as Local Plan Part 2 (LPP2).

It incorporates both development management policies and also allocates non-strategic sites to meet development needs including retail, housing, employment, community, leisure and transport.

Councillor Laurence Ruffell asked whether the council would be ready to update the Local Plan in 2018 so soon after finishing work on Part 2.

Cllr Weston replied that they would have to consult with the parishes again and that it would depend on housing numbers.

“We will have to do a whole pile of new evidence,” she added.

Councillor Ian Tait asked the meeting how many affordable houses LPP2 would be able to deliver, and whether it allowed for building council estates.

Cllr Weston replied that Part 2 was about sites, not affordable housing, but that it did not provide for council estates.

Councillor Therese Evans said: “It would be an important milestone to adopt this Local Plan. It’s been a long time coming. It is a pity that we can’t do the gypsy and traveller sites all at the same time, but it is not our fault the consultation has been delayed.

“It was disappointing to us all that the Inspector decided to allocate the top of the range because we needed affordable housing.”

Councillor Ian Tait said: “I certainly recognise the hard work of officers. But I don’t share the views of other members. It is plan for millionaires. “ Speaking about residents, he continued: “They cannot comprehend how their sons and daughters are going to live in Winchester.

“While our numbers are reasonably robust, we are not creating an inclusive society. Sadly, this plan is not going to address that shift of Winchester going up-market.

“I sadly remain hugely disappointed that we as members are not addressing that fundamental issue.”

Councillor Jackie Porter added: “I certainly share the idea the affordable housing requirement should actually be delivered.”