With thanks to the Richmond Declaration Website
The Richmond Declaration was crafted by Cllr Nicholas True, Leader of Richmond Council's Conservative Opposition, and Cllr Virginia Morris, Shadow Cabinet Member for Planning and Civic Pride and Cllr Clare Head Shadow Cabinet Member for Transport. It represents a radical new approach to Planning.
Let local authorities lead on local planning
Local plans and planning decisions must arise from the wishes of local communities. We will consult and listen to people and amenity groups before new plans are finalised. local residents will have a say in deciding that happens in their area.
- Keep our gardens green
Gardens are not brownfield sites. We say 'No' to garden grabbing. Gardens and small green spaces are vital amenities for families, neighbourhoods and wildlife. - Maintain the appearance of the street scene
New developments must maintain the predominant character of the local street scene rather than following one-off precedents. We say 'NO' to inappropriate and sub-standard materials. - Show common sens on parking and protect small shops
Transport decisions must consider the needs of the community and small shops. We need adequate and accessible parking for shoppers AND new housing. We will only introduce CPZs where a majority really want it and scrap the hated LibDem CPZ tax. - Offer flexibility on housing
We will be flexible on house size. we will encourage more 2 and 3 bed units and end 1 bed preference. Families can change a house of multiple occupancy back to a single family dwelling. - Preserve our local environment and built heritage
We support new Conservation Areas and local historic buildings. Any new build must match their neighbours in key details. We will defend out built and historic heritage as vigourously as we protect our natural environment. - Protect our village environments from high density development
We say 'NO' to high-density developments in villages and historic town centres like Richmond, Twickenham, East Sheen, Teddington and Whitton. - Block high rise development
We reject new high rise in our Borough. The new LibDem plan opens the gate to high rise developments in Richmond and Twickenham. High rise have scarred and defaced too many 20th century towns. - Stop unnecessary sale of public open land to developers
We will protect our open land. Barn Elms & Twickenham Riverside must not be sold to developers. - Enforce the law equally on all
No planning by stealth. Our enforcement officers must ensure developers comply with detailed planning conditions. They must insist on green building standards and 'considerate contractor' practices.