South Gloucestershire is an area of strongly contrasting landscapes, from the internationally important habitats of the Severn Estuary and the adjoining levels in the west to the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in the east. The built areas comprise the northern and eastern fringes of Greater Bristol and the many settlements scattered throughout the extensive rural area. There are more than 250,000 residents in South Gloucestershire and, as the fastest growing area in the South West, we are committed to creating more and better places to live and work. When deciding what should be built in the area the council is guided by central government and community consultation in drawing up policies, such as the South Gloucestershire Local Plan, which focuses new development on the fringes of the built-up area as well as considering access and transportation.
The council also works with housing associations and developers to make sure that affordable homes are available for people who need them. Advice and help with finding a suitable home or other housing issues is also a key part of our service.
All building construction must achieve adequate standards for health, safety, energy conservation, access and facilities for disabled people. The council has a legal obligation to ensure that all construction work meets these standards.