Plans for your places

Building a greater East Midlands

Working with our partners and communities, we are preparing a Spatial Development Strategy (SDS) that will help guide where new homes, jobs, transport improvements, public services, green spaces, and other key infrastructure are located over the next 25 years.  

The strategy will provide the blueprint for the ambitions outlined in the East Midlands Growth Plan and it will bridge national planning policy and local plans. 

An aerial shot of Derby city centre, with the river in the foreground and the cathedral in the background

Why are we creating a spatial development strategy?

As a Mayoral Strategic Authority, we are required to produce a Spatial Development Strategy. 

The strategy is an opportunity to shape the future of our region and make the most of the strengths that make the East Midlands a great place to live, work and invest. 

Our long-term plan for growth will connect national priorities set out by the UK Government with local ambitions. It will also provide a framework to help local councils and other partners work together to join up the opportunities in our region. 

The strategy will help ensure that development happens in the right locations, with the right infrastructure and services in place to support it. 

What will the strategy deliver?

The strategy will support the Mayor’s Vision for Growth and help deliver the ambitions set out in the East Midlands Growth Plan. 

It will help: 

  • Support new jobs and key industries across the region 
  • Deliver high-quality homes in the right locations 
  • Improve transport connections and infrastructure 
  • Protect and enhance green spaces and the natural environment 
  • Ensure communities have access to the services and facilities they need 
  • Encourage a more connected, sustainable East Midlands 
Aerial shot of a residential cycle lane

Progress so far 

On 9 March, the EMCCA Board approved the start of work on the Spatial Development Strategy. 

The Board also agreed an ambition to have the strategy fully adopted by 2028. 

Get involved 

The Spatial Development Strategy will help shape the future of the East Midlands for decades to come. As work progresses, there will be opportunities for residents, businesses, community groups and other stakeholders to have their say on what matters most to them. 

Follow us on social media or sign up to our newsletter to be kept in the loop as our plans progress. 

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