4.3 The spatial strategy or approach to meeting development needs is underpinned by and will seek to achieve the spatial priorities of the Local Plan (outlined in chapter 2). Through the Local Plan the Council is seeking to plan for and facilitate the delivery of housing that is more affordable and allied to that, is ensuring Bath and North East Somerset remains economically prosperous and that the economy becomes greener, more sustainable and fairer. Development needs to respond to local needs and along with supporting infrastructure must progress our transition towards carbon neutrality and climate resilience, protect and enhance nature and promote healthy lives e.g. through minimising the need to travel by car and encouraging movement by walking, cycling and public transport.
4.4 The factors or principles that are particularly important in shaping the choice of locations for future development are summarised as:
- Sustainable transport connectivity
- Climate change and nature
- Flood risk
- Historic environment
- Green Belt impact
- Local food production and agricultural land
- Infrastructure provision – challenges and opportunities