Government Decision on SE Plan warmly welcomed: Doughty

4.05.49pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 12th Oct 2009

Sue Doughty and local Liberal Democrats have warmly welcomed the decision by the Department of Communities and Local Government not to contest the legal challenge to the South East Plan by Guildford Borough Council.

Guildford has glorious countryside which must be preserved for the enjoyment of all

She said "Although local people badly need homes, this plan is completely disproportionate and would completely change the character of Guildford. At this stage we are waiting for the government to clarify what will happen, but we must look after our green belt and open spaces well. This means not only the land to the East of Guildford but vital areas in Westborough and in Bellfields which are so important to the quality of life there.

Sue has been a strong critic of the current housing specifications which have led to the dense cramming of small properties. She also spoke at the Lib Dem conference in September when she called for the South East Plan to be torn up, and supported the party's proposals for preserving the green belt and urban green spaces.