RESIDENTS and developers are being asked for their views on how developments in the district can promote sustainable construction and design techniques.

The purpose of the draft Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) Checklist is to advise and inform developers on a range of sustainability options that can be considered as part of their development.

This approach should enable many building works to make an increased contribution to the UK’s climate change commitments as set out in the Stroud District Local Plan.

Councillor Simon Pickering, chair of Stroud District Council’s environment committee, said: “The checklist approach should avoid the need for costly late-stage design alterations to meet planning policy or building regulation expectations.

“Early decisions about sustainable construction and design of new buildings can reduce energy use, conserve water and assist in the recycling of materials together with supporting healthier lifestyles.

“We’d like the views of local people, town and parish councils, developers, their agents and any other interested groups to see if they agree with our approach to achieving good design.”

The checklist supports Policy ES1 of the Local Plan which encourages a move towards a low carbon future.

It is made up of three documents; an introduction to the sustainable construction and design options available, a checklist for housing and a checklist for non-domestic buildings.

The simple yes/no checklist format will show how the development’s design corresponds to a range of sustainable construction matters.

Cllr Pickering (Green, Slade) added: “The checklist should help create better places and townscapes which will adapt to climate change as well as mitigate its effects.

“It will raise awareness and possibly improve the cost efficiency of buildings, potentially minimising environmental impact and improving the quality of life in Stroud district.”

Details of the Draft SPD checklist consultation are available at www.stroud.gov.uk/checklistconsultation.

The consultation runs for six weeks from Wednesday 9 November 2016 to 5pm on Wednesday December 21.

Documents can be viewed on the council’s website, at Ebley Mill, local libraries and parish council offices open to the public.

Representations should be made in writing, via the council’s website or by email to local.plan@stroud.gov.uk or sent to: Sustainable Construction and Design Consultation, The Planning Strategy Team, Stroud District Council, Ebley Mill, Westward Road, Stroud, GL5 4UB.