RESIDENTS and businesses are being encouraged to have a say on new planning guidance that will set standards for developments in the borough.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council has started consultation on three supplementary planning documents about housing, design and sustainability and parking.

The documents provide detailed planning guidance explaining how the policies in the Basingstoke and Deane Local Plan will be used in making decisions on planning applications.

The Housing Supplementary Planning Document gives guidance on affordable housing, the size and type of homes needed across the borough, housing for older people and those in need of care and self-build and custom housebuilding.

The Design and Sustainability Supplementary Planning Document sets out an approach to design standards and improving sustainability.

The Parking Supplementary Planning Document sets out the number of car and cycle parking spaces needed for different types of development and gives guidance on how they should be designed and where they should go.

Cabinet member for planning and infrastructure Councillor Mark Ruffell said: “When planning applications are submitted, these documents will give extra guidance on key matters of detail that can make a big difference in creating places where people want to live. I would encourage residents and businesses with an interest in planning matters - whether it’s housing, design, sustainability or parking - to have a look at the new guidance and let us know their views.”

The consultation runs until 4pm on Monday, 19 March.

Documents are available to view at basingstoke.gov.uk/planning-policy-consultations and in libraries across the borough.