Two minute survey by Nick Timothy MP – Your views on development in our area

Wednesday, 3 June, 2026

Local News

Development is one of the biggest issues facing residents across West Suffolk – from the proposed Forest City to housebuilding in many of our towns and villages. The District Council's most recent Local Plan, published last July, set out plans for 13,000 new homes by 2041. The Council is now beginning work on its next Local Plan – and I want to know what you think it should say and prioritise. Initial consultation will launch later this year, coinciding with the merger of the two existing councils into a new unitary authority. Please share your views by completing my two-minute survey below.

Two minute survey by Nick Timothy MP – Your views on development in our area

Current Two minute survey by Nick Timothy MP – Your views on development in our area
National Issues
Your details

What should the Local Plan prioritise? Please rank the following from one (highest priority) to six (lowest priority).

Questions	1	2	3	4	5	6
More high-quality family housing (make a selection, from one to six)	1	2	3	4	5	6
More social housing (make a selection, from one to six)	1	2	3	4	5	6
Protecting and enhancing the natural environment (make a selection, from one to six)	1	2	3	4	5	6
Improving the local economy and the health of high streets (make a selection, from one to six)	1	2	3	4	5	6
Delivering more infrastructure, amenities, and services (make a selection, from one to six)	1	2	3	4	5	6
Preserving and restoring historic buildings and local heritage (make a selection, from one to six)	1	2	3	4	5	6

How many new homes should West Suffolk build? The current Local Plan makes provision for 13,005 new homes by 2041. Do you think this is:

Not nearly enough

Not enough

About right

Too much

Far too much

When new homes are built, developers can be required to contribute money towards local infrastructure – roads, schools, GP and dentist surgeries and parks. This is known as the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). Not all councils participate, and West Suffolk District Council is not signed up to it at the moment. Should the new West Suffolk Unitary Council sign up?

Should all new development include ample parking?

The current Local Plan states that in town centres and areas well served by public transport, a reduced level of car parking ‘may be permitted’. Do you think it is important that all new development in West Suffolk includes ample parking for residents?

Yes

Unsure

Are you in favour of the plan by London developers to build a city of a million people between Newmarket and Haverhill?

Yes

Don't know

Other…

Any other comments? Is there anything else you think should be in the upcoming West Suffolk Local Plan? Your views will help me shape my submission to ensure the plan reflects what residents actually want and need.

Two minute survey by Nick Timothy MP – Your views on development in our area

Two minute survey by Nick Timothy MP – Your views on development in our area

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