Downton Parish 2015 Neighbourhood Plan 2026

Looking to a sustainable future

For the period from adoption to 2026 submitted by the qualifying body November 2015 Downton Parish Council Contents

A glossary of terms and list of appendices can be found at Appendices 14 and 15.

1.0 Why Downton Parish Needs a Neighbourhood Plan 5 2.0 Background 7 3.0 How The Neighbourhood Plan Was Prepared 8 4.0 The Neighbourhood Plan Strategy - What Sustainable Development Means for the Parish 9 5.0 The Downton Parish Neighbourhood Plan 2015 - 2026 11 6.0 Developing Policies 13 7.0 Facilitating and Funding of Policies 14 8.0 Location and History 16 9.0 Themes For Land Use Foreward by John Glen MP 9.1 Landscape and Character 19

Too often in the past planning has been an endless system of discontent, objections, and appeals. 9.2 Housing Development and Homes For Local People 27 We are determined to give local people more say in planning – setting their own framework within which prospective developers must work. 9.3 Transport and Infrastructure 9.3.1 Transport 37 When we created neighbourhood planning, it was with the aspiration that communities like Downton would want to come together and take charge of their area’s future. Planning is about 9.3.2 Drainage, Sewerage System, Groundwater ensuring we can protect the areas that we value. Downton is a beautiful part of Wiltshire, and nobody wants to see poor planning or inappropriate development undermine its unique character. and Surface Water Drainage 43

But equally, we want it to remain somewhere that our children and grandchildren can afford to live, 9.4 The Local Economy work, raise a family or start a business and that means looking to the future positively and planning 9.4.1 The Village Economy 47 for it. 9.4.2 The Rural Economy 53 I am delighted that this optimistic vision for the future of Downton has been completed, and I look forward to seeing it realised in years to come. 9.5 Community Facilities and Services 9.5.1 Community Facilities and Services 59 9.5.2 Leisure Facilities 67 10.0 Conclusion 71 1.0 Why Downton Parish Needs a Neighbourhood Plan

The Localism Act was introduced in November of the local community, not just residents but 2011 with the aim of devolving more decsion also local businesses and other stakeholders. making powers from central government back to communities. Neighbourhood Plans allow Its particular concern is the requirement in the communities, such as Downton, to become Wiltshire Core Strategy for the development of involved in planning for their areas, 190 new homes in Downton by 2026 and any specifically around creating plans and policies subsequent changes to that allocation. At the to guide new development and in some cases moment the Parish Council and local residents can granting planning permission for certain types of only react to submitted planning applications. The development1. Neighbourhood Plan, once agreed, will be a legal document that sits alongside the Core Strategy; In the autumn of 2013 Downton Parish and while it cannot seek to reduce the number Council announced its intention to embark upon a of homes to be built or change plans approved Neighbourhood Plan; and a public meeting in prior to its ratification, its statutory status will give November 2013 confirmed community the Plan far more weight than many other local support. In early 2014 the neighbourhood area planning documents (such as parish plans or (of Downton Parish) was designated by the village design statements). Parish Council and reasons were given to Wiltshire Council for embarking upon the Plan. The The overriding objective of the plan is to ensure objectives of the Plan and its geographic area that inevitable changes do not detract from the Charlton were approved in August 2014 by Wiltshire many benefits of the village identified by local All Saints Standlynch Council. Meanwhile, from April 2014 there had people and where possible seek to have these been wide, inclusive, and ongoing consultation benefits enhanced. throughout the plan area, and this continued until September 2015. The Downton Neighbourhood This draft Plan has been produced bya Plan therefore reflects the views and thoughts Neighbourhood Planning Steering Group comprising local volunteers and, following ratification by the Parish Council is being formally submitted to Wiltshire County Council in Downton early December 2015. After a further period of consultation and independent examination, the final plan will be put to a local referendum. A favourable result will mean that the Downton Neighbourhood Plan will form part of the Local Development Plan and become, with the Wiltshire Core Strategy, a starting point for deciding development priorities in our area, an Figure 1: The Parish of Downton - Neighbourhood Plan Area influence on what, when and the appearance of Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2015 development and, with appropriate evidence, the necessary infrastructure required.

1 www.downtonfuture.org The Borough White Horse and Co-op The Localism Act 2012 4 5 2.0 Background

The Neighbourhood Plan aims to ensure that It is stated that Local Service Centres will “ Downton retains and enhances its existing provide for modest levels of development in character now and for future generations. order to safeguard their role and to deliver At the time of writing it is consistent with affordable housing” with “the level of the Wiltshire Core Strategy (2012-2026). development being closely linked to their current Reviews can be expected every 5 years or when and future role of providing for a significant rural circumstances or government policies change. hinterland”.

The Neighbourhood Planning process, by This means that Downton is likely to come raising awareness, enables communities to better under increased development pressure which shape their place, inform how development takes will have adverse effects on issues identified for place and help to influence the type, quality and sustainable development. The purpose of this location of that development, ensuring that the plan, therefore, is to ensure that development many benefits of the Parish of Downton, as is guided by local preferences rather than just identified by the local community, are market forces; and that it is coordinated and retained and enhanced for future generations. supported by infrastructure improvements for the long term benefit of the community. The village of Downton is identified in the Core strategy as a Local Service Centre (LSC). There The production of this plan has coincided with are four in the South Wiltshire area (Mere, planning applications for residential development. Tisbury, Wilton and Downton)and they are An application for 99 homes has been approved defined as: “smaller towns and larger villages prior to the formal ratification of this Plan and the which serve a surrounding rural hinterland and status of any other applications at the time of the possess a level of facilities and services that, publication of the plan will determine whether together with improved local employment, or not it has any influence over the proposed provide the best opportunities outside the development. However, it is emphasised Market Towns for greater self-containment’’. that the policies and proposals contained in this plan are, throughout, consistent It is stated that Local Service Centres will “ with the Wiltshire Core Strategy and are in provide for modest levels of development in response to the views of the local community in order to safeguard their role and to deliver respect of any proposed development and not affordable housing” with “the level of any particular current or future applications. development being closely linked to their current and future role of providing for a significant rural The Neighbourhood Plan has been strongly hinterland”. influenced by active engagement with the local community, not just residents but also Opposite: Downton Historic Vernacular other stakeholders including local businesses, community and other groups. More information is contained in the accompanying Consultation Statement.

The Borough 7 4.0 The Neighbourhood Plan Strategy - What Sustainable 3.0 How The Neighbourhood Plan Was Prepared Development Means for the Parish The Downton Neighbourhood Plan has been Throughout the process the team has made use “Sustainable development is development • Educational - supporting the next generation prepared by residents and members of of the structured approach provided by a project that meets the needs of the present, without in maximizing their potential and contribution Downton Parish Council working as part of a plan which is attached at Appendix 1. compromising the ability of future to the local and wider community. Neighbourhood Planning Steering Group. The generations to meet their own 2needs .” process has involved a number of key steps. To achieve these the community recognizes that Structure of the Plan A Sustainability Scoping Report has been it has to engage in the planning process, not just • Designation and Raising Awareness produced against which the Plan’s policies and in a reactive way - to planning applications as and Including: establishing a steering group, The Plan has been structured around the procedures are referenced (Appendix 2 and 3). when they are submitted - but working together defining the neighbourhood area, engaging meaning of Sustainable Development for the with landowners, developers and prospective

the community, developing objectives, vision whole community. On the basis of consultation LegendAs can be seen in the Consultation Statement, developers to take a holistic view of the impact of and project plan. it has althoughHousing some Policy Boundary residents may wish to growth and the future of the parish. • Consultation and Evidence Gathering formulated : maintainPublic the Rights status of Way quo, most of the community is Including: carrying out research, community willing Specialto Areaaccept of Conservation and embrace growth in Pre-submission consultation has created the consultation and surveys, identifying priorities A Vision and objectives identifying the things accordanceSite of Special with Scientific the requirementInterest of the Core opportunity to take into account the views of and drafting the initial plan. which are important for Downton. StrategySchedule in order of Monuments to improve and provide for all stakeholders, including service providers,

• Plan Creation, further consultation and future generations.Registered Parks and There Gardens are four aspects to this: businesses, landowners and developers as well as

delivery An analysis of site preferences based on SHLAA site eidentified in Core Strategy residents and those working in the community. Including: developing policies and proposals sustainable criteria to guide development. Legend• Economic - helping to build a strong, and refining the draft plan on the basis of responsiveAreaHousing of OutstandingPolicy and Boundary competitive Natural Beauty local economy. This collaborative approach has been adopted Public Rights of Way community consultation; further community which provide a local policy framework Ancient Woodland Policies Special Area of Conservation in the formulation of this Plan will be the basis engagement and consultation with in line with the Core Strategy for managing new Housing - supporting Restraint Area strong, vibrant and healthy • SocialSite of Special Scientific Interest on which the Parish Council hopes to continue

stakeholders. development so that it contributes to the overall communitiesConservation Area and providing decent affordable engagement with the statutory planning process Schedule of Monuments • Draft Plan, Submission and Examination vision, aims and strategy. Legendhomes. to guide future development. Including: ratification of the Plan by the Parish Legend HousingDevelopmentRegistered Policy Parks RestraintBoundary and Gardens Area Public Rights of Way AreaHousingSHLAA of site HighPolicy eidentified Ecological Boundary in Value Core Strategy Council, and submission to Wiltshire Council Proposals which suggest ways in which some of • EnvironmentalSpecial Area of Conservation - contributing to protection Public Rights of Way after which there will be a statutory 6 week the policies can be implemented. and Area enhancement of Special Archaelogical of our Significance natural, built and AreaSpecialSite of of Special AreaOutstanding of Scientific Conservation Natural Interest Beauty publicity period and independent historicImportant environment Open Space whilst ensuring that the ScheduleSiteAncient of Special Woodland of Monuments Scientific Interest examination. essential infrastructure is in place to support 2 Our Common Future. United Nations World Commission on Environment ScheduleProposed ofEmployment Monuments Site and Development. • Final step - a local referendum Legendour HousingScheduleRegisteredcommunities. Restraint of Parks Monuments and Area Gardens Once the Neighbourhood Plan is endorsed ConservationHousingProposedSHLAARegistered site Policy Housing Parkseidentified Area Boundary and Site Gardens in Core Strategy Figure 2: Key PublicSHLAA Rights site eidentified of Way in Core Strategy by the community, it will become part of the ProposedSHLAA site Recreation eidentified Site in Core Strategy AreaAreaSpecialDevelopment of Outstanding of AreaOutstanding of Restraint Conservation Natural Area Beauty Building Local Development Plan for the area and have Site AreaAncientSiteRecreationalof Specialof of Special OutstandingHighWoodland EcologicalScientificOpen Scientific Space Natural InterestValue Interest Beauty statutory status. SpecialHousingSpecialScheduleAreaAncient Landscape of LandscapeSpecialWoodlandRestraint of Monuments Archaelogical Area Area Area Significance

Housing Restraint Area ImportantConservationWaterImportantRegistered Source Open Open Parks AreaCatchment Space Spaceand Gardens Area

ConservationSHLAA site eidentified Area in Core Strategy ConservationDevelopmentProposed Employment AreaRestraint SiteArea

LegendDevelopmentAreaProposedDevelopment of OutstandingHigh Housing RestraintEcological Restraint Site Natural Area ValueArea Beauty

AreaHousing of HighPolicy Ecological Boundary Value HousingProposedAreaAncient ofPolicy SpecialHighWoodland Recreation Ecological Boundary Archaelogical Site Value Significance Public Rights of Way Area of Special Archaelogical Significance RecreationalSpecialHousingImportant AreaRestraint Open ofOpen Conservation Space Area Space

ConservationSiteImportantProposed of Special EmploymentOpen Area Scientific Space Site Interest Special Landscape Area Proposed Employment Site DevelopmentProposedSchedule ofHousing Monuments Restraint Site Area Water Source Catchment Area Proposed Housing Site ProposedAreaRegistered of High Recreation Parks Ecological and GardensSite Value SHLAA site eidentified in Core Strategy ProposedArea of Special Recreation Archaelogical Site Significance Recreational Open Space

AreaRecreationalImportant of Outstanding Open Open Space Space Natural Beauty Special Landscape Area Ancient Woodland SpecialProposed Landscape Employment Area Site Water Source Catchment Area Housing Restraint Area WaterProposed Source Housing Catchment Site Area

Neighbourhood Forum start up meeting Informing the residents about the Neighbourhood Plan Figure 2: ConservationProposedThe Parish Recreation Areaand its Site qualities Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2015

8 RecreationalDevelopment Open Restraint Space Area 9

Area of High Ecological Value Special Landscape Area Area of Special Archaelogical Significance Water Source Catchment Area Important Open Space

Proposed Employment Site

Proposed Housing Site

Proposed Recreation Site

Recreational Open Space

Special Landscape Area

Water Source Catchment Area 5.0 The Downton Parish Neighbourhood Plan 2015 - 2026

The Vision

A Vision for Downton

We want the Parish to evolve and thrive as a vibrant and attractive area and for all the communities of the parish to retain their unique and distinctive characters. We aim to meet the diverse and growing needs of existing and future residents and to provide a high quality infrastructure and environment in which to live and work. We will do this by: • Encouraging a thriving and prosperous community that delivers a high quality of life. • Supporting measured, proportionate and timely development to meet local and core strategy requirements. • Promoting a distinctive and flourishing local economy. • Endorsing policies that have a positive effect on the environment, including those that remove or minimise flood risk and reduce our carbon footprint. • Retaining the essentially rural identity of the community against uncontrolled growth. • Protecting the special historical, built and natural environment in which we live. • Involving local people in an ongoing basis in the process of plan-making, monitoring and delivery of development.

Our objectives are: • To deliver a housing growth strategy tailored to the needs and context of the Neighbourhood Plan. • To encourage sustainable, small scale developments over large scale mass housing. • To improve and sustain high quality local facilities for existing and new residents. • To strengthen and support local economic activity. • To seek ongoing improvements to transport, walking, cycling, drainage and digital connectivity. • To prioritise local distinctiveness in every aspect of change and growth. • To maintain historical sites and traditional built environment. • To protect green spaces.

11 6.0 Developing Policies

The Policies set out in this plan have been All policies have been framed in the context of created in order to manage the future the National Planning Policy Framework, and the development of Downton and achieve the vision, Wiltshire Core Strategy which was adopted in objectives and strategy of the Neighbourhood January 2015. Key to this analysis has been the Plan. Applicants and decision making bodies must Sustainability Scoping Document which has accept the policies as a whole when judging if a informed every aspect of the Plan and has been a proposal would be acceptable. major influence on the policy development.

To reflect the results of the consultation events The Neighbourhood Plan is essentially a land-use undertaken during the Plan’s preparation and as document. Nevertheless in engaging with the evidence of local issues and characteristics the local community a range of issues were identified policies are separated into 6 sections : which fall outside the planning system. Rather than ignore these they are included alongside the Policies as proposals which would benefit • Funding and Facilitating the Policies the community. The Parish Council has expressed their intention to engage and support these where • Landscape and Local Character feasible and where resources allow.

• Housing Development and Homes for Local People

• Local Economy (local businesses and the rural economies sections)

• Local Facilities (community and leisure sections)

• Transport and Infrastructure

Opposite: Downton High Street 13 What happens when the listed asset comes up FF: Funding and Facilitating the Policies: 7.0 Facilitating and Funding of Policies for sale? FF 1 - Appropriate community contributions If the asset has been accepted as listed, then Community Infrastructure Levy The ‘Community Right to Bid’ must be secured from developers to Wiltshire Council will write to the community mitigate adverse impacts of development group who listed the asset to inform them that The Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) is a (also known as Assets of Community Value and provide improvements for the benefit it is coming up for sale. Relevant community charge made on developments exceeding 100 scheme) of local residents. interest groups then have 6 weeks in which to square metres and all housing other than rented express an interest in buying the asset. If no affordable housing where the rent is less than 80% The purpose of Community Right to Bid expressions of interest are received, the of a market rent. The majority of the levy will go to legislation is to give communities a right to identify a FFP: Funding and Facilitating the Proposal: asset owner can go ahead with selling it. If an the charging authority, Wiltshire County Council, property/asset that is believed to be of value expression of interest is received, the owner to be spent on infrastructure projects as defined to their social interests or social wellbeing and FFP 1 - To take advantage of the Community must wait until 6 months has elapsed (from the by the legislation. Essential priorities identified gives them a fair chance to make a bid to buy the Right to Bid legislation and to protect moment s/he gave notice that s/he intended to by the County in the Core Strategy3 include the property/asset in the open market if the the assets of the village to meet some sell) before selling the asset. During this time, the extension of Downton Primary School to provide property/asset owner decides to sell. of the aspirations of the Neighbourhood community group should prepare and submit its additional places. There is also a “place shaping” Plan, the Parish Council to set up a group bid for the asset. priority for improvements to library book stock A building or other land is an asset of community to consider the value of registering some and facilities. value if its main use has recently been, or is or all of the assets listed in Appendix 4 A list of suggested assets, displayed at a presently, used to further the social wellbeing or within six months of the Plan’s community event in August 2014 in order to raise Parish Councils are entitled to 15% of this levy social interests of the local community and could acceptance. awareness and invite further comments, is at (subject to a cap of £100 per existing council tax do so in the future. Appendix 4. dwelling) as the result of development which takes place in their area. If a Neighbourhood Plan Once a nomination has been received, Wiltshire is adopted then a payment of 25% (with no cap) Council has 8 weeks in which to consider it and is made for the benefit of the local community. reach a decision on whether or not it is valid and This portion of the levy can be spent on more a listing should be made. The Council will tell the Picture of community asset diverse elements than the rest of the levy, owners and occupiers of the property when they provided that it meets the requirement to ‘ receive a nomination. support the development of the area’. Asset owners and those nominating assets can It is expected that public authorities in an area follow an appeals process if they are unhappy will work together to agree priorities for such with a decision made by the Council. There is a spending in an area. Where a Neighbourhood compensation scheme for private property Plan has been made, it should be used to identify owners. these priorities.

Section 106

Developers will still be required to undertake works, or provide monies in which to enable the statutory bodies to undertake works, where improvements to infrastructure are required as a direct and reasonable consequence of the works. It is the responsibility of the County Council, in consultation with the Parish Council, to negotiate with prospective developers.

3 Wiltshire Council (2013) Infrastructure Delivery Plan 2 Appendix 1: Southern Wilshire Community Area Potential asset example - Brian Whitehead Sports Centre 14 15 8.0 Location and History

The Downton Neighbourhood Plan area The village is also known for its fishing, award encompasses the whole of the civic parish of winning local brewery and annual Cuckoo Fair Downton which is in the SE corner of Wiltshire. which attracts around 20,000 visitors to over 250 The northern end of the parish lies about two craft and other stalls, plus a parade, maypole, miles south of Salisbury; the southern end two music, dance and various entertainments. For miles from the New Forest National Park. The walkers and cyclists Downton is a gateway for parish is predominantly rural with the built exploring the River Avon and the New Forest. environment concentrated in three places. In the north, is the village of Charlton All Saints, (lying on the western side of the river) and to the east, Accessibility the hamlet of Standlynch. The main village of Downton is located some 7 miles south of Downton has a good road connection, along Salisbury, at the Southern end of the plan area, the A338, to Salisbury in the north and to close to the Hampshire border. Bournemouth in the south and onwards to Southampton, (via the M27). This is regarded, in People have lived in the plan area for over 7,000 the Wiltshire Core Strategy, as the primary lorry years. Clearbury Ring is an Iron age Hill Fort route though the area. Through-traffic can cross and evidence of Iron Age, Roman and Saxon the Avon at Downton, using the B3080 to the settlements has been found in Downton New Forest and A36 but narrow bridges and pinch village. Downton is a large ancient Wiltshire points between the Borough and High Street are village and its location, straddling the river Avon, has a constraint. The nearest train station is Salisbury. defined its history and development - from crossing There are no national cycle network routes in the point and important market town in Anglo-Saxon Plan area, but the Avon Valley path runs through times, through a more industrial phase with water Charlton all Saints and Downton. powering various processes such as tanning and milling, to its present role as local service centre for a largely rural hinterland. A newly researched book “Downton: the town that became a village” is a helpful historical reference 4.

Evidence of past activities can be seen in the lay-out and design of the village : earthworks of a Norman motte and bailey castle lie within 18th Century Moot landscaped gardens overlooking the river, burgage plots define the layout of gardens in the Borough, and old buildings include mills associated with leat and water carriers. In the twentieth century the village was still known for cloth and lace making, tanning and light engineering (including converting Mini cars). Today the village has a population of approximately 3,000 and continues to thrive with its own schools, shops, leisure centre, pubs and businesses. The industrial centre on its northern edge serves local and national companies.

4 The Town that Became a Village (Spire Books, 2015) by Elizabeth Hutchinson Opposite: Church of St Laurence in Downton 16 9.0 Themes For Land Use

9.1 Landscape and Character Justification and Evidence

The River Avon, runs north/south through the Apart from the villages of Charlton All Saints in Neighbourhood Plan area, and defines much of the north and Downton in the south, the parish is the landscape – creating a wide flat valley, with typically rural and agriculture dominates the river terraces on gently rising ground above landscape area. There are scattered buildings the floodplain. The area is also characterised within the rural area including farms, a cluster by chalk downlands which rise from the valley, of re-developed buildings forming the hamlet eastwards to Barford and Witherington Downs and of Standlynch, the historic Trafalgar park and westwards to New Court and Clearbury Ring. The Legendlocal rural businesses (detailed in the section on downland in the western part of the parish forms rural economy), but these enterprises tend to be part of the Cranborne Chase area of outstanding self-contained,Housing and have Policy had Boundary minimal effect on natural beauty (AONB). the visual aspects of the landscape. There are, Public Rights of Way inevitably, some negative impacts (for instance, There are a number of small woodlands and large trucks Specialaccessing Area narrow of countryConservation and village copses within the Plan area, although the roads ) so, whilst there is strong support in the landscape is mostly dominated by fields and community Site for of policies Special designed Scientific to Interest support hedgerows. The woodlands are privately owned economic well-being, including in the agricultural but some are crossed by public footpaths, notably sector, thisSchedule is countered of Monumentsby an equally strong at Trafalgar Park and to Clearbury Ring Fort and desire to protect the rural environment. Over 87% the associated Open Access downland. Cheyney’s Legendexpressed theRegistered view that Parks “distinctive and Gardens views” and Wood is isolated together with Privett Farm “the balance and character of the parish” should in the Northeastern corner of the area and is a not be adverselySHLAAHousing affected site Policy eidentified by Boundarynew development. in Core Strategy scheduled Ancient Woodland and Special Area Figure 3: Key Public Rights of Way of Conservation. Rights of Way only exist on its Area of AreaSpecialOutstanding of AreaOutstanding Natural of Beauty Conservation Natural Beauty boundaries. Site of SpecialAncientSite of Scientific Special Woodland Interest Scientific Interest Opposite: Downton Parish Landscape

HousingSchedule Restraint of Monuments Area

ConservationRegistered Parks Area and Gardens

SHLAA site eidentified in Core Strategy Development Restraint Area

Area of OutstandingHigh Ecological Natural Value Beauty

AreaAncient of SpecialWoodland Archaelogical Significance

ImportantHousing Restraint Open Space Area

ConservationProposed Employment Area Site

ProposedDevelopment Housing Restraint Site Area

Figure 3 - Downton Parish ANOB and Sites of Special Scientific Interest ProposedArea of High Recreation Ecological Site Value Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2015 Area of Special Archaelogical Significance 19 Recreational Open Space

Important Open Space Special Landscape Area Proposed Employment Site Water Source Catchment Area Proposed Housing Site

Proposed Recreation Site

Recreational Open Space

Special Landscape Area

Water Source Catchment Area The Village of Downton Outside looking in

Downton itself is located on the valley floor, and Because Downton is low-lying, views of the The sides of the Avon Valley are subtly has developed, unusually, on both sides of the village from the A338 approach roads are folded, which is not obvious from maps and is best river (other villages further down the Avon valley restricted. The Industrial Park dominates the appreciated from Parish footpaths. These folds having developed predominantly on one side). approach from Salisbury and Trafalgar School can hide or reveal views of the landscape so Its location, as a river crossing point, helped to dominates the approach from Fordingbridge. the village of Downton only becomes visible define its history, though the river with its Views of Downton when approaching from the within 1km on the approach along Barford Lane, floodplain and tributaries at this point, also East along the B3080 are restricted by the high although the telephone mast at the top of Lode creates certain constraints to growth. banks either side of lode Hill. Hill is clearly visible. Nevertheless, Downton has been earmarked for development under the Wiltshire Core Strategy, However, the built environment of the Parish and the southern part of the neighbourhood plan is visible from many points in the surrounding Inside looking out area is therefore likely to bear the greatest impact landscape, some of which has protected in terms of landscape and character. status, e.g. Cranborne Chase Wiltshire Area of The surrounding landscape is noticeably Outstanding Natural Beauty. The best views of visible from within Downton. Because the village is Visual aspects round Downton can be viewed Downton are from Barford Lane and Wick Lane, narrow where it crosses the floodplain there are in two ways – looking towards the village from where they climb up the valley sides, and from several views up and down the tree-fringed river surrounding viewpoints or looking outwards from the numerous footpaths and bridleways that and its water meadows. There are also views from the village at the surrounding landscape. provide access to the landscape. This includes the wide Borough of the downs on both sides the long-distance Avon Valley Path that crosses above the village and there are views from either the water meadows from the North and climbs side of the village of the opposite valley sides up the Eastern side of the valley above Moot Lane leading up to the surrounding Downs. There are to the South. It is from these view points that important views of the village, its roof-scapes and Downton can be seen to be a distinct village within the mature treed landscape, from the scheduled the rural landscape, with St Lawrence’s church being monument of the Moot. prominent. Also prominent are the large roofs on the Downton Leisure Centre, Downton Industrial Estate and Trafalgar School, which detract from the view of the village. Figure 4 – Downton from Wick Lane

Figure 5 – Downton from Barford Lane

Figure 6 – Downton from the Avon Valley Path Figure 7 – Looking West along the Borough

20 21 Downton Conservation Area The key characteristics of the Downton The central, older, part of Downton was Conservation area are defined as: designated as a Conservation Area in May 1973 and the boundary of the area was last • Distinctive settlement layout and the reviewed in Dec 2008. The Conservation Area contrast between the village core and Appraisal and Management Plan (CAAMP), The Borough. attached at Appendix 5a, is an important guide that confirms the then Salisbury District Council’s • Survival of the important former industrial and the Parish Council’s intention to safeguard core (now redeveloped as housing) to the the area’s special qualities, and takes the view village, centred on the river. that it is “the accumulation of an area’s positive architectural or historic attributes, rather than the • The setting of the valley floor comprising quality of its individual buildings, which makes it flood plain and former water meadow worthy of conservation status.” It goes on to state systems. that the attributes might include the landscape setting of the area, the grouping of traditional • Distant glimpses of buildings in a mature buildings and the resultant sense of spaces and tree covered landscape. sense of enclosure, the scale design and type of materials,… historic boundaries, public realm, • The importance of roofscapes in local views, landmarks views and vistas, and the present and particularly from the Moot. former pattern of activities and land use.” • Continuous building lines providing good The CAAMP forms part of the evidence base for enclosure, defining roads and spaces the emerging Local Development Plan and its complimented by the use of brick and findings, conclusions and design considerations flint boundary walls. are reinforced by the views contained in this Neighbourhood Plan. • Valuable survival of a significant number of thatched buildings, individually and in The Downton Conservation area contains over groups. Legend85 listed buildings, including the Grade 1 Listed St. Laurence Church, Moot House and Manor • The use of high quality eighteenth century House as wellHousing as The PolicyMoot whichBoundary is a scheduled brickwork, often to re-front earlier timber monument. Public It Rights is also of anWay area of some framed buildings. archaeological significance, not only with the Special Area of Conservation Moot but also because of early Neolithic finds • Deep narrow plots often backing onto (now in Salisbury Museum) and remains of a Site of Special Scientific Interest open countryside. Roman Villa, including a fine mosaic (also in Salisbury Museum). English Heritage funded an The settlement pattern and plan, particularly that extensive surveySchedule by Wiltshire of Monuments Council in 2004, of the Borough, has seen limited change since which concluded that the core of the settlement inception and its survival should be regarded of DowntonRegistered should be Parks considered and Gardens important as highly significant in any proposals for archaeologically.SHLAA site It waseidentified considered in Core quite Strategy possible that further evidence of past human development. Unfortunately the form, layout activity remains to be found. Areas of and density of housing development during the archaeologicalArea potential of Outstanding are Natural delineated Beauty in latter part of the twentieth century was at odds Appendix 1 of the attached CAAMP at Appendix with the core of the village, but this is not seen 5a. Ancient Woodland as any justification for compounding the errors of the past, and it is widely agreed that new Figure 8: Key Housing Restraint Area developments should be designed to enhance the approaches to this important conservation ConservationConservation Area Area area. Figure8 - Downton Parish Conservation Area Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2015 Development Restraint Area 23

Area of High Ecological Value

Area of Special Archaelogical Significance

Important Open Space

Proposed Employment Site

Proposed Housing Site

Proposed Recreation Site

Recreational Open Space

Special Landscape Area

Water Source Catchment Area LC: Landscape and Character Policies: Justification and Evidence

LC 1 - New Development throughout the The following supports these policies: Parish must have no adverse effect on heritage assets, respect local • The Parish of Downton and the landscape in building styles and traditions, and which it sits has a character developed over enhance the character of the local many centuries of human activity. environment. • The Parish contains a significant green LC 2 - Any development in the conservation infrastructure of open spaces. area must conform to the guidelines expressed in the Village Design Statement. • The Parish has over 85 listed buildings and is The Memorial Hall - within Conservation Area The White Horse Pub - within Conservation Area also an area of some archaeological significance. The village outside the Conservation Area LC 3 - All new development and any The village contains a significant green alterations to existing buildings must infrastructure of open spaces both within and achieve the highest possible level of Consultations with the local community showed As a consequence of its location each side of outside the Conservation area. Details of these the river, the village has tended to grow on both energy efficiency and sustainability, strong support for policies which supported are included in the Landscape Notes in Appendix taking account of the visual impact and development on the basis that: sides along the roads that have followed the river 5b. terraces: the A338 to the west and Moot Lane to its position in the landscape. the east. Consequently, the village has not crept 88% strongly agreed that new development must Development, such as the industrial units at the LC 4 - Any development that compromises the not dominate in scale, block distinctive views or up the sides of the Avon Valley and is separated northern entrance to the village, has impacted by several fields from the nearby villages above Avon Valley SSSI and the Special significantly change the balance and character of negatively on views and traffic but consultations Landscape area, as described in Wiltshire the Parish. on the ridge to the east of Morgans Vale, Redlynch with the local community showed that there is and Woodfalls. The former railway line has tended Council’s policy C6, or adversely affects still support for sustainable development policies wild life sites will not be supported. 82% strongly agreed that all new buildings should to act as a natural eastern boundary to the village – but only on the basis that: with trees that have grown along its course; adopt an approach to design and use of materials and Barford Lane has retained its semi-rural LC 5 - Housing development on the Parish’s which is compatible with the local environment as • Development does not dominate in scale, public Green Infrastructure will not be laid out in the Village Design Statement. character providing an attractive gateway to the block distinctive views or significantly conservation area. At the other end of the village, supported. This includes: The Millennium change the balance and character of the Green, Moot Lane Playing Fields, The 85% strongly agreed that development must not Wick Lane climbs up the side of the valley to the Parish. west but the road stops short of Botleys Farm Downton Moot, The Borough Greens and harm or adversely impact on protected habitat and only continues as a bridleway. This probably the Memorial Gardens. areas or designated Sites of Special Scientific • All new buildings should adopt an approach Interest such as the River Avon. inhibited the strip development that has arisen to design and use of materials which is along other lanes in the region. LC 6 - Scale and mass of all new development compatible with the local environment as must be informed by, and sensitive to, 92% strongly agreed that green public laid out in the Village (at Appendix 6a). The countryside of the parish local topography and landscape spaces and water meadows throughout the parish, character, and not have negative visual including the Borough Greens, Memorial Gardens, impact on the rural landscape. Millennium Green, Moot recreation area and the Moot, must always be protected from LC 7 - Opportunities to maximise the activities development and adverse impacts. of the Downton Green Group, in conjunction with the Salisbury Transition group, to encourage recycling, re-use and repair of household goods will be supported.

24 25 9.2 Housing Development and Homes For Local People

Justification and Evidence It is clear from the Report on the Examination into the Wiltshire Core Strategy6 both from the The 2011 Census shows that there were 1346 evidence submitted by Wiltshire Council and the households and 3,073 residents in the Plan Inspector’s conclusions, that the County as a area, a growth of 22% from the 2528 residents whole will need to find further housing numbers recorded ten years earlier in the 2001 census. for the later stages of the plan period and (Houses built, or sold in 2011 include 50 on the thereafter. This means that the Council, and/or Redrow Development off Wick Lane so not all local communities through the Neighbourhood residents of that year will be in the 2011 Census). Planning process, will be expected to review Of the households recorded, the majority are in the potential for housing growth. It is for this the village of Downton whilst the remainderare reason that this Neighbourhood Plan includes site spread around the parish including the smaller analyses and a statement of preferences so that settlements of Charlton All Saints and Standlynch. if, in the future, beyond the plan period and once There is also a Gypsy and Traveller site at Lode Hill. the immediate requirements of the plan period have been met, more housing is allocated or events The growth since 2001 will have been partly due demonstrate the need for change, then the Parish to the Church Leat and Tannery developments would have a preference for specific sites. This on the brown field site at the Tannery, which would be subject to review of relevant sections of provided approximately 50 dwellings in the NP and only after further consultation. On the total. This, and growth prior to the 2011 Census other hand, it is important to point out that the at Green Acres, Green Lane and Hamilton Park Inspector also concluded that there is currently a have taken place at a relatively steady rate with 6 year supply of housing land and that, “the developments of between twenty and fifty measured delivery of necessary housing over the dwellings. plan period does not necessitate undue ‘front loading’ in the early years of the plan7.” As a designated Local Service Centre, the Core Strategy5 expects Downton to provide a level of new development that safeguards its role as a service centre for the rural hinterland. Core Policy 24 sets the level of housing growth at 190 new homes during the plan period 2006 - 2026. This would be a 14% increase in households over the 20 year period. To date 69 new homes have been completed or are in construction. Further planning applications are in process or are in the pipeline. Just prior to the formal submission of Downton’s Neighbourhood Plan a planning application for 99 homes to the West of Salisbury Road was approved so creating almost 90% of the total allocation for housing growth. The number of houses already being proposed by developers, if approved, would exceed the number allocated under the Core Strategy.

5 Wiltshire County Core Strategy 2006 - 2026 6 Report on the Examination into the Wiltshire Core Strategy 7 Report on the Examination into the Wiltshire Core Strategy paragraph 81

Opposite: New developments in Downton The Tannery redevelopment 27 Wiltshire Council will be formally consulting they would not build clusters of 15 homes, and Traveller Development Plan Document, due although the site preference exercise sought to on a Housing Site Allocation Development Plan preferring instead to build just 10 to be published imminently. The Neighbourhood be independent of current planning applications, Document (DPD) towards the end of 2015 and expensive homes and no affordable housing, the Plan recognises it should accommodate the needs any planning application greater than 16 homes will be producing a new Strategic Housing Market Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group has adjusted of the Gypsy and Traveller Community, but until would be outside of the Plan policies Assessment by early 2016. To properly the residents’ preference to ‘clusters of between the DPD has been published will not know if consider the need for and implications of new 15 and 25’. action has to be taken locally or not. To establish the Downton community’s site development beyond the existing allocation will preferences, the Neighbourhood Plan team require detailed work by Wiltshire Council, e.g. on The Parish has a range of Housing Needs, which Site preferences for Future housing develop- identified a set of criteria against which to design and layout, traffic implications, impact are demonstrated in the Housing Needs Survey ment measure potential development sites. For on local school numbers and capacity, the wider of January 2014 (Appendix 7) which must be parity, all sites in the Parish submitted as part landscape, etc. The DPD will include those reflected in the provision of new homes. The Parish residents strongly expressed the view that of the Strategic Housing Land Availability areas not covered by Neighbourhood Plans and will majority of households are single family homes: they do not, at this stage, want any more hous- Assessment (SHLAA), undertaken by Wiltshire allocate new sites for housing amending, where however, the 2011 Census showed 28% of ing than the 190 homes allocated to this Plan Council some years ago, were subject to analysis. necessary, existing settlement boundaries. It is households were single person and 16% were area and we know that several of these have Where possible the owners or developers have important to note that they are not currently single person aged 65 and over. This indicates that already been built At the time of formal submis- taken part in discussions to provide facts about proposing to look for additional sites in there may well be under occupation of potential sion, only 16 homes remain to be approved to the sites but these have also been verified by areas where suitable housing is already family homes. Thus new housing development fulfil the 190 allocation. It is important to note independent scorers. In the case of a large site to proposed to be delivered by a Neighbourhood needs not only to consider the needs of families that, although the exercise to establish these the East of the Parish the SHLAA site identified as Plan. Wiltshire Council has already identified but also that of the aging population and the range preferences was carried out with careful consid- S82 has been divided into three sites to recognise sites which they consider to be deliverable for of easily accessible services that will be required. eration of criteria and independent analysis, it the different land owners and the fact that public development purposes but their refined options does not necessarily give any endorsement or roads pass through the site. The SHLAA sites are are also subject to review. Affordability is an important issue with evidence preference to specific design details that may be shown at Appendix 8. that the entry level purchase price for rural areas included in any subsequent planning application in Wiltshire are higher than the averages for the . However, it is expected that Wiltshire Council’s The criteria were developed from suggestions Housing Need South West of England9. review of potential housing sites (DPD) will be in- provided by Wiltshire Council with additions formed by the Plan’s stated preferences and cri- from the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group Whilst the Neighbourhood Plan has to be The Core Strategy (Policy 43) sets an affordable teria and that the Plan will be considered as part and took into account issues considered to be consistent with National Policy, the Core Strategy homes provision of 30% for development of 10 of the required public consultation. In essence, important by residents (as demonstrated in local and other Wiltshire Council policy initiatives, it homes or more. However, this Core Strategy does questionnaires and surveys) and were heavily also has to be supported by the local community. not seek to go beyond this and seek to determine Local vernacular of the parish influenced by environmental considerations A series of consultations undertaken by the Parish rental levels or seek the provision of homes for Council and the steering group between October those with a local connection. The Housing 2013 and December 20148 consistently indicates Policies in this Plan seek to address the issue of concerns as to the scale of growth, the amount local needs as they are of concern to the local of new development in any one location, the community. As an example 68% strongly agreed integration of new development into the existing that new housing should provide opportunities built environment and with the local landscape for young and single people to live in the Parish by and the impact on wildlife sites and woodland. including a good proportion of one or two In broad terms, the local community accepts the bedroom homes. development of 190 new homes in the plan period and prefers development on brown The Parish has a public permanent Gypsy and field sites, in clusters of 15 units with larger Traveller site at Lode Hill. This currently has 10 developments of 50 or more homes built in pitches and accommodates 6 families. The site phases. Since the public consultations, there has is due to be refurbished by December 2015 and been a change in housing regulations such that therefore has 4 vacant pitches to allow families developments of 10 houses or less are not to move around the site to accommodate the required to have any affordable housing. As work. A Gypsy and Traveller Assessment has been public consultation has also placed a high level published. In broad terms this identifies the need of importance on having affordable housing and for additional pitches and suggests (following discussions with developers has indicated that consultation) that these should be provided on smaller private sites rather than larger private or 8 Consultation Results Neighbourhood Planning web site. public sites. This assessment will inform a Gypsy 9 Wiltshire Housing Market Assessment 28 29 Legend

Housing Policy Boundary Public Rights of Way Special Area of Conservation

Site of Special Scientific Interest

Schedule of Monuments

Registered Parks and Gardens

SHLAA site eidentified in Core Strategy

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Ancient Woodland

Housing Restraint Area

Conservation Area Legend

DevelopmentHousing Policy Restraint Boundary Area Public Rights of Way Area of High Ecological Value Special Area of Conservation and issues of sustainability. So that the analysis won’t supportArea a planningof Special application. Archaelogical Much Significance will applications. Draft policies and proposals Table of site preference scores could be fair to sites where there are no planning Legenddepend onSite design of Special considerations, Scientific Interestbuild quality, which may help put the site preferences into applications currently in place, only criteria that and proposalsImportantHousing to mitigate Policy Open Boundary negativeSpace impacts that context and are provided as part of the Executive The table below is arranged geographically could be applied to the site itself (and not to the are submittedSchedule with any of application. Monuments summary of the Plan. These policies and proposals starting with the site to the most North West of design included in specific planning applications) Public Rights of Way encapsulate views expressed by Parish residents the Village and ending with the site to the most Proposed Employment Site were included. Some issues were considered to Although developersSpecialRegistered Area or Parks of site Conservation and owners Gardens may feel and reflect the priorities of the Sustainability South East. The colour of the columns reflect the be more important than others, so a weighting that the meetings we have held and the site Scoping Document which were considered three ‘bands’ described below with yellow being ProposedSHLAA site Housing eidentified Site in Core Strategy was also applied, based on residents’ views of LegendpreferencesSite may of Special encourage Scientific them Interest to submit paramount in assessing site preferences for this the lower band, pink being the middle band and level of importance. Both the criteria and the planning application, the site preference Plan. green being the higher band. Housing Policy Boundary weighting were agreed by the Steering Group and Legendexercise is ProposedonlyScheduleArea one of Outstandingof ofRecreation many Monuments influences NaturalSite that Beauty will the Parish Council. A scoring exercise, based guide WiltshirePublic Council’s Rights of response Way to planning Housing Policy Boundary Site S2008 S200b S3442 S200a S195 S3386 S3026 S108 S82 S82 S82 S1044 on fact not opinion, was undertaken by a small RecreationalRegisteredAncient Woodland Parks Open and Space Gardens Figure 9: Key Special Area of Conservation North of North South group who were independent of those who Public Rights of Way East of East of Lode Hill developed the criteria. The criteria and SHLAA site eidentified in Core Strategy Slab Lane Slab Lane SpecialSiteSpecialHousing Landscape of Special Landscape AreaRestraint Area ofScientific Conservation Area Area Interest weightings used are at Appendix 9 with a table of how these criteria relate to the Plan policies and ScheduledScheduleConservationSite Monumentsof Special of Monuments Area Scientific Interest proposals at Appendix 10. WaterArea of Source Outstanding Catchment Natural Area Beauty Score 20 11 21.5 14 21 11 32 16 8 9 4 18 Schedule of Monuments The site preference exercise must be considered DevelopmentRegisteredAncientDevelopment Restraint Woodland Parks Area Restraint and Gardens Area This table on its own only provides a context to the following analysis, which has grouped sites into three bands. in context. Several of the site owners have SHLAA site eidentified in Core Strategy What do the site preferences mean? example, sites with limited capacity score well and Legend HousingHousingAreaRegistered Restraint of HighRestraint Area Parks Ecological andArea Gardens Value expressed a view that they are unlikely to are then given additional weighting to reflect the develop their sites in the near future; however, we HousingSHLAA sitePolicy eidentified Boundary in Core Strategy Sites scored in the lower band (under ten) are importance of this element to residents. Similarly ConservationConservation Area Area have included them as part of our future proofing AreaArea ofof OutstandingSpecial Archaelogical Natural Beauty Significance either large sites with the capacity for a high criteria that relate to congestion and proximity to Public Rights of Way exercise. It is also important to make clear that a number of houses, (which conflicts with the existing built up areas have had a greater impact Area ofAncient Outstanding Woodland Natural Beauty ‘high’ scoring site does not mean that a planning SpecialDevelopmentImportantArea of AreaOutstanding Open of Restraint Conservation Space Natural Area Beauty preference for small development of under 25 on scores because those issues were also found application that is submitted will necessarily be and phased development) ; or located on the to be of significance to residents of the Parish. considered acceptable to the Parish and, similarly, Site ofHousingSiteAreaProposedAncient Special of of ScientificSpecial HighRestraintWoodland Employment Ecological ScientificInterest Area Site InterestValue East side of the Village ( whereas preference was a ‘low’ scoring site does not mean that the Parish expressed in the ratio of 2:1 /West : East); or would ConservationScheduleAreaProposedHousing of Special Restraint ofHousing Monuments Area Archaelogical Area Site Significance significantly impact on views from the Village; or What does this exercise mean for future are sited backing onto open land - or possibly all of development preferences in the Parish? DevelopmentRegisteredImportantProposedConservation RecreationOpen Parks RestraintArea andSpace GardensSite Area these. None of the sites considered in this analysis is felt AreaSHLAA of siteHigh eidentified Ecological in Value Core Strategy ProposedDevelopment Employment Restraint Site Area Conversely, sites scored in the high band (20 to represent a flawless site; on the other hand, Recreational Open Space and above) are small sites with capacity for none can be said to be totally unqualified for AreaProposedArea ofofof SpecialOutstandingHigh Housing Ecological Archaelogical Site Natural Value Beauty Significance 25 houses or less; or on the West side of the development. It is recognised that developers can Special Landscape Area village or on previously developed land with little propose actions in their planning application that Important Open Space or existing impact on access routes - or, again, a would mitigate the impact of negative elements AncientProposedArea of SpecialWoodland Recreation Archaelogical Site Significance Water Source Catchment Area combination of these. or enhance those elements that score positively. However, the significance of some features is such ProposedHousing Restraint Employment Area Site RecreationalImportant Open Open Space Space Those sites scored in the middle band (10 -19) that there is little that can be done to overcome Proposed Housing Site may have a mix of negative points, such as the reasons for their low or medium score; for ConservationProposed Employment Area Site Special Landscape Area having the capacity for high numbers of example a large development of 50 or more homes houses and a significant impact on access and with no stated intention to reduce this number, Proposed Recreation Site DevelopmentProposed Housing Restraint Site Area congestion, with more positive points such which impacts significantly on traffic congestion Water Source Catchment Area as being on the West of the Village, having because it accesses via a single track road or on RecreationalArea of High EcologicalOpen Space Value Proposed Recreation Site little impact on views from the existing built to the traffic on the A338 and which has open environment, or being close to existing housing. fields around it would not be recommended as SpecialArea of LandscapeSpecial Archaelogical Area Significance complying with the intentions of this Neighbour- Recreational Open Space The impact of some of these issues is hood Plan. Similarly, in the current circumstances, WaterImportant Source Open Catchment Space Area proportionate to their importance to residents any development of more than 16 homes would not Special Landscape Area of the Parish (as expressed during community be compliant with Neighbourhood Plan intentions. Proposed Employment Site engagement and in the results of surveys). For Figure 9 - Downton Parish Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2015 30 Water Source Catchment Area 31 Proposed Housing Site

Proposed Recreation Site

Recreational Open Space

Special Landscape Area

Water Source Catchment Area What are the development options? However, In view of the recent approval of 99 Note: future expansion of the village and have informed homes on site S200a (which was a middle band The above preference list A does not include site out site selection criteria: Better planned development options (such as preference in the site analysis), site preferences S3026 because the owners have stated that there grouping of sites) would enable developers or now have to include those which would have is currently no intention to build on this site; but • The River Avon, which the village straddles, land owners, working together, to overcome the greatest influence should changes to the Core should it become available this site (which the is a SSSI and the adjoining water-meadows negative impact of certain elements of their sites Strategy Policies or other legislative changes CAAMP also recommended as being the most to the north and south regularly flood thus in ways that would fully comply with the expressed impose an allocation of over the current 190. suitable for development.) would be the first preventing development from the Borough; wishes of the Parish residents. An example In essence, the previously identified second preference for development in both categories • The Conservation Area extends around the considered was for sites S200a, S200b, S2008 and preference remains the only viable preferred above. Borough to the West of the Avon and the S3442 to submit a joint application proposing that approach in current circumstances. High Street to the east and has its own should any additional houses be required in the Both lists exclude S82 S because the size of the policies affecting development; Plan area (of more than 16) they should be built site, its position to the East of the village and the • Downton Moot Garden and the adjoining in phases with an access route for all the housing What are the site preferences ? poor access route are unlikely to be overcome in a playing field are listed under the Schedule of onto the Batten Road roundabout. This would single application. Monuments; reduce the impact of inevitable, additional In conclusion, the Neighbourhood Plan has • The Development Restraint Area traffic on the A338, and minimise the ‘all in one’ resulted in the following site preferences: Finally, no application would be considered surrounding the Sewerage Treatment Plant impact of this number of houses on services and compliant with the Neighbourhood Plan if may restrain growth to the south along Moot facilities, thus encouraging sustainability and A. Under the current Core Strategy where housing approval of such development would cause Lane; community cohesion. Building on the West side of the allocation does not exceed 190 dwellings. harm to Heritage assets. • The Housing Restraint Area along Mesh Pond village, and developing along the A338, rather than Small scale development where separate and Wick Lane restrains growth to the West back into green fields, would also minimise the applications are submitted to reach only the total and a little further west is Legenddesignated as an impact on surrounding countryside. This option of the remaining 16 housing allocation numbers, Environmental considerations Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Housing Policy Boundary would have the added benefit of supporting the with preference given to high band sites or those • The Mineral Safeguarding Area to the west of principles of local people, as well as addressing identifying sound mitigating reasons to raise their Finally there are important environmental the A338 is a Planning consideration. Public Rights of Way some of the concerns of Natural England and considerations that have been taken into account • The area surrounding Downton is designated scores from lower to higher bands. Special Area of Conservation Historic England as it would have a reduced throughout this analysis. The Downton Area map as a Special Landscape Area with particular impact on the nearby areas of outstanding B. In the future, and only where greater numbers in the Core Strategy shows 10 different policies Planning considerations. Site of Special Scientific Interest natural beauty (such as Cranborne Chase). may be allocated by changes in Core Strategy which could affect development within the The combined site is not on a flood risk area, or other policies. Parish. At least 7 of these restrict or restrain These are pre-exisiting planning considerationsSchedule of Monuments building styles could be harmonised and new Preference to high band sites remaining undeveloped and are therefore not repeated as part of the residents would be close to communication Policies of this Plan. under category A. Registered Parks and Gardens routes, employment opportunities, schools and S2008 Figure 10: Key food shops. In addition the resulting Community Some, or all, of remaining undeveloped sites S3442 SHLAA site eidentified in Core Strategy Infrastructure Levy would be able to be planned S200b, S2008 and S3442 to submit a combined SHLAA site for use in a coordinated way and affordable application to meet new housing allocation S200b housing of 30% of the whole would result in a numbers, so that development is planned and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty number of homes which could be used in a way sustainable to satisfy Neighbourhood plan S200a that maximises the housing needs of the area. policies. For greater numbers to be approved, (i.e. S82 Ancient Woodland above 25 dwellings) developers would need to north Alternatively sites could be split to mitigate identify the means to mitigate reasons for their Housing Restraint Area against negative impacts. An example would be lower scores in the site analysis to achieve a score for site S82 N (part of the larger SHLAA site S82) to in the upper band. In this option, phasing would S108 Conservation Area submit an application for small development and be preferred and it would be strongly preferable S3026 to coordinate the use of the Community for sites to share access routes using the Batten Development Restraint Area Infrastructure Levy to, ideally, re-invigorate the Road roundabout to minimise routes on to the S195 East end of the village. A338. S82 Area of High Ecological Value south These two examples would have the added Consideration of other split sites (such as S82N) S1044 Area of Special Archaelogical Significance benefit of having the potential for further providing that there is shown to be mitigation S3386 development contiguously along the combined of effects that run contrary to the policies of the Important Open Space site or sites if even further housing was allocated Neighbourhood Plan. to the Plan area at some stage in the future. Proposed Employment Site Figure 10 - Downton Parish SHLAA sites Contains Ordnance Survey data © Crown copyright and database right 2015 32 33 Proposed Housing Site

Proposed Recreation Site

Recreational Open Space

Special Landscape Area

Water Source Catchment Area LH: Housing Development and Homes LHP: Housing Development and Homes Justification and Evidence Results of Consultations with Local Residents For Local People Policies: For Local People Proposals: showed that: The following plans, documents and strategies LH 1 - Housing Development must be aligned LHP 1 - Wiltshire Council and Housing support these policies: 75% strongly agreed that housing development with the Core Strategy allocation of 190 Associations must give priority to the up to 2026 should not exceed the 190 homes homes (2006-2026). needs of people in the Downton Plan • National Planning Policy Framework allocated for Downton by Wiltshire Council. area when allocating affordable housing. LH 2 - For any remaining residential • Wiltshire Core Strategy 69% strongly agreed that new, or additional, development required to meet Core LHP 2 - Access arrangements for new housing, wherever located in the parish should be Strategy requirements from the date of development of land north of the • Wiltshire Strategic Housing Market developed in small clusters rather than large scale acceptance of the Neighbourhood Plan, junction of the A338 and B3080 must Assessment developments. small scale development, as preferred by minimise the creation of new junctions the community (between 15 and 25 on the A338 by utilising the existing • Housing Needs Survey 70% strongly agreed that there should be phased houses and including infill), should roundabout at Batten Road. construction for larger scale developments. influence the planning decision. • Wiltshire SHLAA 68% strongly agreed that new housing should LH 3 - Random scattering of development in • Downton Village Design Statement provide opportunities for young and single people green field areas should be avoided; new to live in the parish by including a good proportion housing developments should have some • Downton Neighbourhood Plan Sustainability of one or two bedroom homes. proximity connection with the existing Assessment Scoping Report built environment and be contiguous with 75% strongly agreed that, in general, development Wiltshire Council’s 2015 settlement on brownfield sites is preferred to building on boundaries. open countryside.

LH 4 - Any proposal for new homes should be The Housing Needs survey of 2013 showed that located either on a brown field site or on 46% of respondents expressed a need for two the existing SHLAA sites in the order Example of conversion of existing buildings into dwellings bedroomed accommodation. identified in the Site Preferences. in the parish

LH 5 - Proposals for new housing development must make sure that there is mix of housing to meet identifiable needs of the local community, especially with regard to the provision of starter and smaller homes for private purchase including downsizing of existing residents as well as affordable homes for rent or shared ownership.

LH 6 - Future residential development should be evenly phased over the life of the adopted Core Strategy.

34 35 9.3 Transport and Infrastructure 9.3.1 Transport

Justification and Evidence Traffic Issues

Road network from the local service centre of The Wiltshire Third Local Transport Plan (LTP3) Downton 2011-2026 forecasts a rise in car usage of between 17- 28% by 2026 with car ownership The parish of Downton is roughly bisected by also continuing to increase, particularly for those the River Avon. It is well connected to the road living in rural areas where alternative modes network by the A338 which runs north-south of transport are limited or are being reduced. on the western side of the river. At Downton This is supported by figures which show that village there are traffic lights at the junction with Southern Wiltshire has one of the B3080, which runs west-east through the centre highest levels of car ownership in the county. of the village, crossing the three branches of the Avon. Two minor roads run through the eastern In and around Downton village, there is a part of the village. Barford Lane to the north high density of local traffic especially when connects with the A36 at the Salisbury end of the commuter and school run congestion occurs. At Alderbury by-pass, and Moot Lane connects with peak times, along the A338, traffic can stretch the Hampshire village of Wood Green and the back to the junction with Charlton all Saints, and river crossing to Breamore on the A338. The B3080 residents in Standlynch have complained to continues east to the Wiltshire Parish of Redlynch, Wiltshire Council about the dangerous speed of then across the New Forest joining the B3078 vehicles using Barford lane as a “rat run” to the Fordingbridge to Cadnam road. There are few A36. For Downton, in particular, minor roads minor roads across the Area of Outstanding connecting to nearby trunk roads are increasingly Natural Beauty. being used by commuters as well as by commercial traffic. Significant concern about congestion and Major road connections parking issues has been reported in village surveys, especially as the volume of traffic will The A338 to the south connects with the nevitably increase as a result of new housing A31 at Ringwood (which leads to the M27 to developments. Southampton) and to the north with the Salisbury ring road and thence to Swindon The Downton Village Design Statement also and the M4. It is therefore a busy road. It has a confirms that traffic on the A338 affects high number of road casualties10, is prone to western aspects of the village, and that the flooding in the winter and there is peak-time centre of Downton is impacted by through congestion at the traffic lights11 at Downton. The traffic connecting the B3080 to the New A338 is a HGV and bus route and provides access to Forest and routes to the south. Mitigation for this Salisbury District Hospital in Odstock and to adverse effect has included road narrowing, traffic Bournemouth. The A36 is a major trunk road priority measures and the introduction of a that runs northwest across Wiltshire. The HGV weight limit, but problems have been Wiltshire Core Strategy indicates that a key exacerbated by increasing car usage and concern for development in the Southern flouting of the lorry ban, as well asa Wiltshire Community Area are likely negative reduction in bus routes and frequency. There impacts on the A36 and locally as a result of are also key safety and access issues to consider development pressures on the A36 should be for pedestrians and cyclists particularly along considered. busy routes such as Barford Lane, Lode Hill and South Lane and in the High Street where there 10 Crashmap.co.uk is congestion caused by parking on pavements. 11 Evidenced by Traffic Study for Charles Church Development Heavy traffic on the A338 37 Commercial traffic Parking issues Cycle and pedestrian routes

In 2007, and HGV weight limit of 7.5 tons was In the main, residents in Downton use on- street Although pedestrian and cycle links exist, imposed on an area of the north New Forest parking and this has particular difficulties along there are no National Cycle Network routes bounded by the B3078/B3079 and the B3078 the narrow thoroughfare between the eastern through the Downton Neighbourhood Plan running through Downton village. This limit end of the Borough along the High Street and area, and although there is a cycle path allows for local deliveries, but because the up Lode Hill where, in places cars park partly alongside the A338 to the north, it does not road across the New Forest to junction 1 at on the pavements to reduce the restriction to extend to Salisbury and cyclists find it Cadnam provides access to Winchester, the carriageway. There is very limited allocated unsatisfactory. Southampton and onwards to Portsmouth, parking for St Laurence’s church and only three the weight limit ban is not strictly observed by spaces outside High street shops which, at Downton Parish Council has a Rights of Way other transport suppliers. Over the last two years times, adds to the parking problems in this locality. Working Group that is currently investigating residents have noticed a marked increase in heavy improved footpaths and cycle routes within the lorry movements especially in the early hours. A Temporary parking also restricts the movement Downton Neighbourhood Plan area. Sustrans survey by the Downton Society in October 2014 of traffic along the Borough during school drop recently reported on a study into potential confirmed that there were a significant number off and pick-up times, and outside the doctor’s cycling routes from Salisbury to the New of vehicles flouting the HGV ban and that most surgery in Moot Lane. Forest12 that mostly routed through Downton of these were using the B3078 to access the and south along Moot Lane, but this involves Downton Business Park on the A338 (instead of Village surveys reveal a desire for improved negotiating three pinch points at which traffic, taking the alternative route from the M27 to the parking facilities, particularly in the Borough. including HGV’s, converge. The route to the New A338 at Ringwood). Attempts have been made to Parking currently provided by the Co-operative LegendForest is along Lode Hill which has no pavement and is tackle the issue by talking to transport store and White Horse Inn is unlikely to meet particularly hazardous for cyclists and pedestrians. companies, and suggesting better enforcement the parking needs of the increased number of Parking problems in the Borough Figure 11: Key Housing Policy Boundary 12 and improved signage but, to date, joint customers expected from new developments Salisbury to the New Forest, Study into potential cycling routes and PublicPublic Rights of Rights Way of Way discussions with the police, Wiltshire and on the edge of the village. Throughout the signing, Sustrans, Aug 2014 Hampshire councils, the NFPA and Highways engagement activities carried out in the Special Area of Conservation England (formerly the Highways Agency) have development of this Plan, this issue has Site of Special Scientific Interest not yet resulted in the implementation of been of primary concern to residents and necessary mitigation measures. any solutions to improve parking should be a Schedule of Monuments priority for the use of developers’ contributions. Traffic in the Borough Registered Parks and Gardens

SHLAA site eidentified in Core Strategy

Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Ancient Woodland

Housing Restraint Area

Conservation Area

Development Restraint Area

Area of High Ecological Value

Area of Special Archaelogical Significance

Important Open Space

Figure 11 - Downton Parish Public Rights of Way Contains Ordnance SurveyProposed data © Crown Employment copyright and database Site right 2015 38 39 Proposed Housing Site

Proposed Recreation Site

Recreational Open Space

Special Landscape Area

Water Source Catchment Area Bus routes T: Transport Policies: TP: Transport Proposals: Justification and Evidence

Downton is currently served by Wilts and T1 - Development that would give rise to TP1 - The Parish Council to reinforce the need The following support these policies: Dorset X3 bus that operates between unacceptable highway dangers will not for solutions to the congestion and the Salisbury and Bournemouth along the A338 and be permitted. Developers must free flow of traffic using the A338 and • The western aspects of Downton Village are by the Salisbury Reds 44 service that runs through identify the realistic level of traffic the B3080 by working with Wiltshire adversely affected by the traffic on the A338, the village along the B3080 to Redlynch but not they are likely to generate. They must Highways Authority and carrying out along with the effects of through-traffic beyond across the New Forest. The X3 is a assess the potential impact of this traffic periodic reviews. connecting to the B3080 to the New Forest. regular service that runs into the evening on pedestrians, cyclists, road safety, Wiltshire Core Strategy Traffic modelling but the 44 is a limited service so it can be parking and congestion within the TP2 - Downton Parish Council to support local identifies that ‘Rush hour traffic in Salisbury is necessary for residents to walk from the eastern Downton Neighbourhood Plan area and people to establish a new footbridge forecast to riseby 33%. top end of Downton to the A338 to catch the X3, include measures to mitigate any across the River Avon together with which can take 30 minutes. There are also school impacts. associated cycle paths, including liaison • The B3080 has a weight limit to inhibit buses and Comtrans (community transport) with landowners and developers. HGV traffic but the weight limit is not which provides a door to door, pre-bookable, T2 - Proposals to improve the safe delivery of strictly observed. minibus service for shoppers who are elderly pupils to Downton Primary School and TP3 - Proposals to improve parking facilities or have mobility needs. National Express coach Trafalgar Secondary School sites on foot, in the Borough area including the area at • Car usage in the Wiltshire area is forecast services operate through Salisbury and Ringwood. by bicycle, school buses or by car, even if the Co-operative store and the White to rise over the next 10 years. There is no direct bus route to Southampton. they involve changes to the existing site Horse Inn to be actively investigated by entrances, will be supported and should the Parish Council. • Residents use on street parking and this be expedited. has particular difficulties for pedestrians Nearby train stations TP4 - The Downton Society and the Parish as well as vehicles as two lanes are T3 - Proposals which support a sustainable Council to continue to work with reduced to one at the eastern end of the The closest train station is Salisbury Railway transport strategy for rural areas Wiltshire and Hampshire Councils, the Borough, along the High Street and up Station, approximately 7.3 miles from including Wiltshire Council’s objectives New Forest Parks Authority, Highways Lode Hill. Downton on the northern side of Salisbury but to reduce impacts on the built and England and the police to ensure that parking is limited and the Downton buses do not go natural environment (SO3), encourage the HGV limit is upheld and appropriate • There are no National Cycle Network direct to the station. Southampton Parkway the efficient movement of freight (SO10) warning signs are in place at relevant routes through the Downton Station off Junction 5 on the M27 is 14 miles away and improve safety for all road users access points on the M27 and main trunk Neighbourhood Plan area. but straightforward to reach by car with a new (SO8) will be supported. roads. multi-storey car park and a faster service to • Salisbury train station is 7.3 miles away London Waterloo than from Salisbury. T4 - Practical solutions to parking constraints TP5 - The Parish Council to work with local bus and there is no direct bus route from the in the High Street and Lode Hill will be companies and Wiltshire Council to Plan area. The Transport policies and proposals of the supported in liaison with the Highways lobby for an increase in availability of Plan reflect the intention to focus on more Department. public transport. sustainable approaches to the use of transport in Results of Consultations with Local Residents the Parish and surrounding area. By highlighting T5 - Work to improve footpaths and cycle showed that: increased availability of public transport, cycle routes through Downton and its paths and safer pedestrian areas the policies are Neighbourhood Plan area will be 94% strongly agreed that developers must intended to engage actions which protect the supported by cooperation with Wiltshire assess traffic impact on the wider community e.g. natural environment. Council, the New Forest National Park congestion and parking, and help mitigate the Authority, Sustrans and landowners. impact.

T6 - There should be effective road signage 90% strongly agreed that new development in all necessary locations to alert must always include safe access for vehicles and traffic to the limitations on commercial pedestrians and should not adversely affect traffic in Downton village. the free movement of traffic in the vicinity.

61% strongly agreed that additional public parking and improved delivery arrangements must be provided to support retail units in the Borough and High Street. The bus through the High Street 40 41 9.3 Transport and Infrastructure 9.3.2 Drainage, Sewerage System, Groundwater and Surface Water drainage

Justification and Evidence TD: Drainage, Sewerage System,

There are significant impacts to the Groundwater an Surface Water Drainage community from high levels of groundwater on a Policies: regular basis. In extreme cases, these can lead to property flooding but during a wet winter there TD1 - All applications for development are are regular overflows from the sewers and required to include drainage plans that surface water drainage system in many take into account high levels of locations onto roads and pavements as a result of groundwater and a Flood Risk groundwater infiltration. (There have been 3 Assessment. significantly raised groundwater levels in the last ten years (winter 2007, 2013 and 2014) TD2 - No applications for development that add to existing foul and surface water Overflows have lead to large numbers of problems will be supported. properties, including the Trafalgar School, being unable to use toilets, washing machines, baths etc with temporary toilets being erected TDP: Drainage, Sewerage System, outside resulting in public health and stress related Groundwater an Surface Water Drainage issues. To alleviate some of the problems, Proposals: Wessex Water have installed temporary pumps during periods of high groundwater to pump TDP1 - Before supporting any application for directly from the sewers to the River Avon as an housing development, the Parish Council emergency measure. The River Avon is a SSSI to insist that all drainage systems and SAC with strict controls on unregulated associated with the said development discharges. Long term, other solutions will have need to be sealed to prevent to be pursued to minimise further contributions groundwater ingress, particularly at to the problem through development. The connections from premises to sewer Infiltration Reduction Plan is a response to systems and need to have assurances unusual seasonal changes but if this is used on that testing and certification will be in a regular or frequent basis then an alternative place to ensure efficacy when connected. solution such as reed beds would need tobe considered. TDP2 - Wiltshire Council to complete and implement a ground water management A detailed report on Drainage, Sewerage strategy for Downton. System and Surface Water Drainage (including graphs from Environment agency groundwater TDP3 - Wessex Water to complete and borehole records) is attached at Appendix 11. implement an Infiltration Reduction Plan.

Opposite: River Avon through the water meadows 43 Justification and Evidence

The following support these policies:

There are significant impacts to the community from high levels of groundwater on a regular basis. In extreme cases, these can lead to property flooding and there are regular overflows from the sewers and surface water drainage system in many locations onto roads and pavements as a result of groundwater infiltration. Results of Consultations with Local Residents showed that:

92% of residents strongly agreed that any new development must have a solution to negative impacts on existing foul and surface water systems before planning permission is granted.

86% of residents strongly agreed that flood defences should continue to be strengthened in vulnerable areas.

Floods to the rear of the Tannery

Floods in the water meadows 44 9.4 The Local Economy 9.4.1 The Village Economy

Justification and Evidence Downton Business Park

The Parish has a diverse local economy in The principal employment area in the Parish Downton village. In the past employment was today is at the business park located off the A338 mainly connected with agriculture, the Salisbury Road. The area has been gradually Tannery, a bacon factory, corn and paper developing since the 1950s and includes mills and small cottage industries such as lace manufacturing, warehousing and distribution making and basket weaving. Manufacturing companies as well as service industries. The has been sustained through the development designs of the different units reflect the of the business park, though the majority of changes in construction methods over the years. residents commute for work to Salisbury, 867 people are employed in 31 businesses Southampton, Bournemouth and areas beyond. located within Downton Business Park but only a very small percentage of people employed here There are over 1,000 jobs in the Parish. (some 16%) are residents of the Parish. The Approximately 21% of people employed in three largest employers on the business park Parish based companies working either have 420 employees with only 26% from the full or part time, live within the Parish in Parish. The ‘Help for Heroes’ charity is the contrast to 79% of people employed (over 800 largest with 150 employees but with less people) working outside the Parish, reflecting than 4% of their workforce from the Parish. links with larger employment centres, putting pressure on local roads to and from the Parish.

Opposite: The Co-op and the Borough Cafe Downton Business Park

47 Early research in 2014 took the form of a Wick Lane questionnaire to 57 organisations/companies based in the Neghbourhood Plan area. (Appendix There are nine businesses in Wick Lane 12) Although this included the Downton Business employing 35 people. The number of Park, it also included small businesses and residents employed is slightly higher but still only retailers in the area. The questionnaire 32%. These are referred to in the section on the asked basic information regarding number of rural economy. The Leisure Centre was employees and their locality. The remainde of the included in this survey and they believe that questionnaire was around 3 simple open-ended financial constraints are preventing it from questions. Many of the comments were closely developing further. Please refer to the section on aligned with those of the residents, backing up Leisure and Facilities. many common themes.

Consultation with these local businesses revealed Village Centre the following: Within the village there are 17 businesses, • 55% said they would like to expand their 15 of which are retail businesses or pubs and business within the next five years though cafes. Of the three areas, this is the sector with the 20% of these were concerned that planning highest proportion of local employees at 51%. permission or lack of space or the right type of space would prevent them from doing so. With increasing mobility the viability of many services has declined significantly over the past • 42% respondents said they would like to see fifty years. Many local residents increasingly use improvement in local amenities (schools, the larger retail outlets located in nearby cities or shops, etc.) shop on line. Over the last few decades the Parish has lost traditional industry such as the Tannery • 19% wanted traffic problems within the and the bacon factory. village improved. In Downton high street there is a pharmacy, which • 15% of respondents said they would like to provides a service for collection and delivery of see improved parking facilities within the prescriptions, a kitchen and bathroom design village both around the shops near the shop, a pub and a fish and chip shop. However, in Library in the High Street and Co-op in the the last 18 months, a newsagent/ sweetshop has Borough plus within the trading estate itself. closed, a pub and a post office has been lost with the premises changed to residential use. Public Public consultation undertaken by the Steering consultation identified a strong feeling that the Group in October 2014 demonstrated there was shops within the High Street (at the east end of concern about the general traffic congestion in the village) needed re-generation, but in recent the village and it was felt to be impacted by heavy weeks the third attempt to revive a grocery store lorries travelling through the centre of the village. has also failed. There is evidence from observation and from the police that some lorries ignoring the HGV lorry ban have been directly connected to the business park, and any future growth of the business park will need to comply with the traffic policy within the Neighbourhood plan. The nature of most of the businesses in the Business Park suggests that the majority of employees are relatively low paid or low skilled. 168 residents are employed in service based companies such as retail / distribution.

Shops on the Borough Units at Downton Business Park 48 The early research referred to above was • Traffic and travel - Although four of the 20 Employment within the home supplemented with a local in depth survey of companies run shifts, most of the employee 20 major businesses in the Downton Business traffic using the Business Park do so between The 2011 census showed that 5.2% of residents park, including 195 employee responses was 8 and 9 am and between 5 and 5.30 pm with aged 16 to 74 used their home as their main completed in 2015 (Appendix 13). This only two companies encouraging car sharing. employment location. There has been a recent highlights some interesting information that With parking on the site generally seen as upgrade to broadband service to most of the supports the policies and proposals in the adequate there is little to discourage Parish which will help encourage more home Housing and Transport sections as well as employees from using their cars. The impact based work activity in the future. However, evidencing the policies and proposals of this of the Business Park on traffic flow is clear. fibre optic upgrade has not reached all homes yet, section. Important amongst these findings are The Neighbourhood Plan policies and especially on the periphery of the the following points: proposals are designed to have an effect on Neighbourhood Plan Area. The reception of the availability of public transport and reduce mobile phone signals also remains inconsistent. • Recruitment – Recruitment methods are mixed car usage but it is not likely that additional Greater use of technological and communication with the most common being word of mouth housing in the area will significantly reduce advances that aid employment development will (70%) and agency (50%). Although 55% of the current traffic impact of the Business be supported as these can improve efficiency and employers surveyed say they would try to Park. productivity, raise value added, and are recruit locally this is not borne out by the consistent with the South East’s Regional evidence with only 5% using a village • Housing Growth - 55% of businesses saw Economic Strategy priority for rural areas to publication and 30% using the Downton housing growth as positive, stating that they exploit the potential of the knowledge economy. Business Park job board. The main resistance to saw this as an opportunity to gain more Businesses that use such technology tend to have Downton Pharmacy in the High Street local recruitment is the requirement for business (from increased demand) and in less environmental impacts and can also support specialist skills. These points highlight the some cases employees although it is home working to provide more employment Parking and traffic congestion along with lack limited employment options for local questionable as to whether the match of opportunities. (Source: New Forest Core Strategy of cycle paths and narrow footpaths were seen people and it is clear that the relevance of employment opportunities and likely and Development Management Policies DPD 8.9 to exacerbate the decline of retail units and the businesses based in Downton to the local residents from increased housing will enable page 50). be a risk to the survival of other businesses in skills and match of potential employees is low. this to be a reality as shown above. It was the East of the village. Speculation is that these Downton Business Park is considered to felt staff may want to locate to Downton but There are several Bed and Breakfast or businesses have been suffered from a lack improve the sustainability of the village by affordable housing would be required and self-catering holiday facilities within the of nearby parking. Nevertheless, 72% of providing local employment but this is not this is not seen as currently available. Parish. However, with its proximity to the New respondents supported the development or found to be the case. Forest and South Coast, the Parish seems to be expansion of these retail units and 83% of The community survey strongly showed that under-represented in the tourism industry. survey respondents wanted the Post office in • Apprentices - There are just six apprentices 82% of respondents would like to encourage Response to the community survey gave the High Street to re-open. The main housing (under 1% of total employees on the park) a thriving economy by supporting business and support of 77% to exploit our proximity to the development areas are anticipated to be at captured from these 20 companies with 5 out commercial expansion in the Parish, including New Forest by supporting applications to offer the western end of the village so unlikely to of the 20 businesses (25%) having them. Only maximizing the use of the current Downton tourism or leisure facilities, including in rural areas. help with the re-generation of the High Street. three people have been taken on from the local business park. In particular, there was active parish. Although some companies would like support for businesses that offer apprenticeships In the Borough in the centre of the village there closer links to the school it is recognised that and employment to local people with 90% of is a hairdresser, a pub, a medium size Coop, an the skills and potential apprentices are not respondents favouring this. It is clear that the optician, small bakery/ tea room, a gift shop, always seen as appropriate to their policies and proposals of this Plan will require an “Aladdin’s cave second hand shop, and a business needs. action to have any impact on those businesses butcher. The branch of a local bank closed three surveyed above. years ago, to the dismay of many residents, • Premises - 75% of businesses based in the but was replaced by a café which is thriving. Business Park own the premises in which the As education providers and key stakeholders, business operates. Although just over half of schools have been consulted separately and views At Downton Cross on the main A338 there is a the companies said they would like to expand are expressed in the Community Facilities section. motor cycle shop, a post office, a hairdresser and only 15% of these said that they required more a barber all of which suffer from lack of parking, space to do this indicating that the Business a petrol station on the west side of the A338 sells Park is not generally seen as requiring basic foodstuffs but are looking to expand their expansion. Three quarters of the businesses grocery outlet. intend to stay in their current location and the position and communication links were considered positively. 50 51 Justification and Evidence LE - Local Economy Policies: 9.4 The Local Economy LE 1 - Optimal use of the existing Business Park The following support these policies: to maximise employment will be 9.4.2 The Rural Economy encouraged. • The Parish has a diverse local economy. Background LE 2 - Proposals for the development of new • The principal employment area in the Parish Agriculture predominates with limited flocks or existing retail units within the Parish today is the business park located off the While it is not always easy to delineate exactly where of sheep that are kept for breeding and lamb to be supported, where need is evidenced A338 Salisbury Road. However, only 11% of the built up areas of Downton Parish end (Downton production, beef cattle, Aberdeen-Angus bull to the Parish Council by business the employees are local people. and Charlton- All- Saints villages) and the more breeding and arable crops. Interspersed with applicants. rural parts of the Parish begin, it is clear that a this agricultural activity are some residential • Within the village there are 17 businesses, significant part of the Neighbourhood Plan Area houses (singles and in small groups) and a LE 3 - Business applications to offer tourism or 15 of which are retail businesses or pubs and is rural. number of successful non-agricultural businesses. leisure facilities to be supported where cafes. This is the sector with the highest The main residential settlements are on, or feeding these do not have any adverse impact on proportion, at 51%, of local employees. These lands are concentrated in two main from, Barford Lane, and especially at Standlynch. the protected areas of the New Forest areas that are separated by the river Avon and its Park area. • The number of local retail outlets and alluvial margins that were once farmed as water On the top of Standlynch Down there is also facilities has reduced over the past few years. meadows. To the north-east of Downton there a large cellular transmitter and a major water are the Barford, Standlynch and Witherington reservoir that supplies Fordingbridge, Downton, LEP - Local Economy Proposals: • Approximately 21% of people employed in Downs, and to the west of Downton, where the Wellow and Rockborne. Parish based companies, live within the Parish extends significantly onto Wick and New LEP 1 - New developments and refurbishment of Parish. Court Downs and above Charlton- All- Saints The rural area provides direct employment for existing units at Downton Business Park, towards Clearbury Ring. Much of the land about 250 people (but few live locally, and most that are in keeping with the local Results of Consultations with Local Residents is owned by the Longford Estates who have are agency workers). A number of those in living character and are capable of being showed that: extensive farming activities in the parish and in residential properties also work from home. sustained by the local infrastructure, to who also lease land to tenant farmers. Other be supported by the Parish Council. 77% want to exploit our proximity to the New For- significant farm lands, under different est by supporting applications to offer tourism or ownership, are to the southeast that bordering the Local Opinion LEP 2 - Communication between businesses and leisure facilities, including in rural areas. village and extending into neighbouring parishes. the Parish by means of a regular The questionnaire completed by local residents meeting which facilitates research on 82% would like to encourage a thriving economy The land area of this rural part of the Parish in 2014 clearly indicated that they would like constraints on development constraints, by supporting business and commercial -expan comprises alluvial river-bed deposits and chalk the essentially rural nature of the community reviews demand, hosts links with local sion in the Parish. uplands which are almost exclusively classified as to be retained and uncontrolled growth to be schools, encourages employment for Level 3 agricultural land and mostly level 3a. The restrained. Questions that concerned the local people and apprenticeships and 75% supported the expansion of the Business uplands support good crop levels of wheat, barley rural environment achieved some of the supports job advertisements, to be Park. As the initial business survey indicated, many and oilseed rape and provide grazing for grass-fed highest ratings. The above clearly indicate an enabled by the Parish Council within of the businesses in the Parish are keen to expand. beef. expressed desire that the rural areas that surround 1 year of the date of the Neighbourhood Downton and Charlton All Saints should be Plan . 72% supported the development of new retail reserved and protected from development units in Downton. that would significantly change their character.

national businesses run from rural units 52 53 Future Aims The fish farm operates in a highly competitive Tenant & Other Farmers and low profit margin marketplace. Profitability In order to give expression to these local western side of the parish. Both roads are of the agricultural activities is very dependent on As with the Longford Estate’s Home Farm, wishes the overall aims of policies contained limited in width and subject to lower levels of subsidies from the Common Agricultural the economic viability of the tenant and in this section of the Downton Neighbourhood maintenance than would apply on the A338. Policy where significant reductions in assistance privately owned farm businesses also depends to a Plan are designed to preserve the diverse mix of The movement of large agricultural vehicles are planned during the next few years. As a result significant extent on the level of support agricultural and non-agricultural small and delivery lorries is restricted and can be the estate will inevitably be looking to develop they receive from the EU and DEFRA. There business activity, in order to sustain the problematical. Barford Lane also acts as a land in the coming years. have been no major changes of ownership or landscape and ensure the economic and “cut-through” for commuters and is subject tenancy in recent years, though there has been social wellbeing of those who live in the more to increased levels of traffic at certain times The Earl of Radnor does not intend to permit the a tendency towards diversification. Barford Farm rural parts of the parish. Such development as of the day. Wick Lane narrows significantly installation of wind turbines, solar panels or radio has recently started hosting wedding parties and does take place in these areas should integrate just past the sports centre, and this can cause masts on his land which he believes should be Witherington Farm has long operated extensive within the existing environment, be limited in problems for delivery drivers. The road salt largely devoted to agriculture. fishing activities. scale and impact, and further enhance the overall bin which was located at the top of the lane economic and social wellbeing of the has been removed and so access in snow Apart from the development of small parcels The main constraints suffered by the farms on population. It is therefore anticipated that conditions is very difficult. of land, the estate policy is mostly directed the east of the river centre around the road, there will not be any significant development towards maintaining what currently exists and which in places, is narrower than modern within these rural areas as the Core Strategy retaining the agricultural dominance. As such it agricultural vehicles and so requires the seeks to focus new development on the Downton Major landowner is very much in tune with the views expressed by vehicles to degrade and damage the road Business Park and along the margins of the A338. residents in the questionnaire. margins. In addition, the weight restrictions in The Longford Estate is by far the major Downton cause delivery vehicles to take landowner in the Parish. Their three estates The Longford Estate landholding in the Parish significant diversions via Salisbury and the A36 or Common Issues (Longford, Trafalgar and West Park) amount to is so significant that there would seem tobe across the New Forest. The same applies to the about 16,000 acres and the larger part of the considerable advantage in the continuing the farming activities off Wick Lane. While not There are two common difficulties that affect Longford and Trafalgar estates are located in ongoing informal liason between Parish Council, preventing operations both these problems most of the more rural parts of the parish. the Downton Parish (in excess of 10,000 acres). with the Estate Manager to discuss operations provide a continuing irritation. Apart from the built-up areas in Downton and within the Parish and any plans the estate may 1. Broadband – The vast majority of the Parish is Charlton- All-Saints villages and some land have to change matters. serviced by Downton exchange (01725). The immediately adjacent thereto, the Other business activities exception is the northern part of the parish majority of the rural parts of the parish is part on the eastern side of the river, where of the Longford and Trafalgar Estates, exceptions The rural area also hosts a number of telecommunications are provided by the being the land farmed by Witherington Farm to significant businesses undertaking diverse Alderbury exchange (01722 71xxxx). the north, the land farmed by Newmans to the activities including cabinet manufacture, fishing Although much of the area covered by the southeast and some limited parcels of land on lake provision, wedding venues, egg and sports Downton exchange offers a good broad band the south of the parish. Most of the estate land energy bar production and millinery. service, some of the coverage is poor and on the east of the river is farmed by tenants, as that part of the parish serviced from is some land on the southern extremities of the Clearly the rural environment is no barrier to Alderbury has much slower broadband estate holding on the west side of the river. Most successful business operation, and in some speeds and is subject to break-downs in of the land on the west of the Avon and A338 is instances will be a real advantage (eg wedding service - these parts of the parish are at the farmed as Home Farm (4,700 acres). The estate venues). Many of these units produce products limits of the coverage any exchange can offer also own and operate the fish farm off Barford that are of national importance. However, they and the supply is by overhead copper cable Lane. Home Farm, the estate and the fish farm all suffer from the same general problems that and so subject to low speeds and weather collectively directly employ about 100 people, many have been outlined above, and seem to lack damage. Some businesses suffer more than of whom are agency staff living outside the area. any structured contact with the Parish Council. others and have had protracted discussions This problem could be addressed if the Parish with BT but to date without success. The estate’s agricultural activity in the Council formed or sponsored a Rural parish centres around arable farming and Business Forum which met regularly and discussed 2. Roads – the two more rural parts of the Aberdeen Angus beef production. They have those problems that were hindering business Parish are served by minor roads. dairy and pig activities outside the parish plus development within the parish. Communication to the east of the river is via extensive areas of cultivated woodland (2,200 Barford Lane which becomes Witherington acres). Road, while Wick Lane serves the land on the Lanes network in the parish 54 55 RE - Rural Economy Policies: Justification and Evidence

RE 1 - Activities that preserve the rural nature The following support these policies: of the Neighbourhood Plan area while also ensuring the continued economic • A significant majority of the Neighbourhood well-being of the agricultural and Plan area is rural. non-agricultural business activities will be supported. • The rural area provides employment for about 250 people (although not all are local residents). RE - Rural Economy Peoposals: • Parts of the Neighbourhood Plan area are at REP 1 - The Parish Council to work with statutory the limits of the coverage of the bodies and others as appropriate to help communications network and an increasing achieve the needs of the rural community number of people now work from home. and a viable rural economy without compromising the special qualities of the • The rural parts of the Parish are covered by area. minor roads which are subject to lower levels of maintenance than A classified roads. REP 2 - Residents and the Parish Council to continue to lobby for the provision of Results of Consultations with Local Residents superfast broadband throughout the showed that: rural parts of the parish within the next three years. Just over 70% of respondents strongly agree that ‘Future expansion of local industry should be on REP 3 - The Parish Council to continue to work the Downton Business Centre rather than rural with the appropriate authorities to highl areas of the Parish’. ight the maintenance requirements of the rural roads throughout the life of the 88% strongly agree with the statement that Neighbourhood Plan. ‘New development must not dominate in scale, block distinctive views or significantly change the balance and character of the Parish’.

85% strongly agree with the statement ‘ Development must not harm or adversely impact on protected habitat areas or designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest such as the River Avon’.

84% strongly agree with the statement ‘Wildlife sites and woodland must be protected and, where necessary, restored and managed’.

Opposite: Cows grazing in the field 56 9.5 Community Facilities and Services 9.5.1 Community Facilities and Services

Justification and Evidence

In this section the facilities that will be considered are the community buildings and services, medical and dental services and the Parish Schools.

As a designated “service centre” Downton’s community facilities are expected to service a rural hinterland and will need to be considered in the context of the wider area.

Buildings and services

There are over 30 clubs and societies in the plan area. These are an integral part of the community cohesion of Downton and the surrounding areas. Many of these rely on having access to buildings that are suitable for meetings. In addition there are groups, such as Downton painting and book groups, which meet by private arrangement.

St Laurence church is regularly used as a venue for concerts, musical gatherings and seasonal Downton Baptist Church festivals. The Baptist church can be used for Wiltshire Council operates the Downton Library, meetings and hired for use as a day centre and which was built in its current position after the classes. The Roman Catholic Church and the tannery was closed in 1968 and rebuilt into Methodist Church are used predominately for residential housing. The library is able to services. open six days a week with the support of local volunteers. It is well used on a daily basis Downton memorial hall is run by a private trust. and there is provision for young readers in a The original part of the hall was the British dedicated children’s section and a summer Boys’ School, which closed in 1896 when the reading challenge. There is also a community new Board school opened in Gravel Close. It be- reading group started in 2013. Wiltshire Council came a parish hall and was extended after both has a priority for improvements to library book world wars. It now has a good stage, changing stocks and facilities. The library is well able to rooms, a kitchen and lavatories, and is used for accommodate a significant increase in users. Four all kinds of meetings and events including the parking spaces at the Tannery flats are reserved for weekly W.I. market. The building is tired and needs library users, though they are often used by non improvements to facilities. These are under library users as convenient parking for the shops consideration by the Parish Council but funding at the top end of Downton. Library users then find is mainly dependent on developer contribution. they are unable to park in the designated spaces.

Opposite: Downton Primary School 59 Educational provision Primary School Provision The school has an admissions policy which is currently being revised. There are currently Downton Church of England Primary School, approximately one third of children attending who Pre school a long established co- educational Church of are not residents of the parish. There is strong England school in the Diocese of Salisbury, feeling expressed in the survey that all children in Giant Steps Day Nursery provides for 0-3 and provides education for children between the ages the Downton area should be able to attend their 3-5 year old children. This is a private business of four and eleven. Currently two thirds of the local school and the purpose of leasing though takes a number of designated “vulnerable children at the school come from the villages of public land to the school is to enable this, so the families’ with funding from the local Downton, Standlynch, and Charlton-all-Saints. admissions policy, needs to ensure that there are authority. They report a waiting list until September places available to all children in the Downton Civil 2016 and would like to expand; but their current At present the total number of children on parish. premises at Trafalgar School would be roll is 208 and the children are taught in unable to accommodate further expansion due to single year groups from Reception through to It is noted that the planning proposals increase Downton Community Pre-school current land ownership. They have the capital to Year 6. The 2013 Ofsted result was “Outstanding”. car parking facilities by only one space. Although move if a suitable site became available. They are Downton Community Pre-School welcomes it is expected that the school car park will be flexible as to where this could be within the plan area. children from age two to school age. The There are 190 houses identified in the opened to people attending out of school hours Pre-School is a non-profit making charity run by Wiltshire Core Strategy to be built in the Downton events at the Memorial Hall, parents and carers Clearbury Children’s Centre, a Sure Start a parent management committee and aims to be community area, around 70% of which have dropping and collecting children off have to park Children’s centre, is run by the charity responsive to the needs of the local community. yet to be constructed. The housing identified in at the Coop and behind the White Horse as well as Spurgeons on behalf of the County Council. It It is currently situated in the Band Hall, Gravel the Core Strategy for Downton, is expected to on the road-side which increases congestion and shares the same building as Giant Steps, and Close which is a central location near the Primary generate increased pupil numbers and will restricts already limited parking for local residents. serves as the hub for a wide geographical area School, but has significant disadvantages for the create a shortfall of primary places in the next being easily accessible to families in this rural preschool. All equipment has to be put away at few years. The precise shortfall will depend area. They aim to support and encourage local the end of each day; there is no dedicated office on mix of dwelling sizes, social housing and Secondary School Provision families with children under five by providing space and no grass area on site. There is currently windfall sites actually built but an expansion of the information, advice and services including help with no parking or drop off points outside the preschool primary school will be required to meet this demand. The Trafalgar School at Downton is a 11-16 mixed returning to work, finding childcare, family support, and no pavement for safe walking on Gravel close. Foundation school with an intake from primary family health, and much more. There is a varied The hall is owned by the band and is rented for a schools in both Wiltshire and Hampshire. The selection of play sessions and events each number of activities. If there is developer funding current number on roll is 544 and the school week which allow parents and carers to available for a new the Memorial Hall extension could increase this to 750 and is well within socialize whilst their children explore and to benefit the community need for more meeting the BB98 education framework Its most recent develop through play. The centre and its rooms, the preschool would relocate from the Ofsted inspection was graded ‘good’ in all resources, including play room and sensory band hall to the rear of the Memorial hall. It is areas, with outstanding features. There are 115 room is used by a wide variety of local parents. advantageous to have the preschool sited next to students joining Year 7 in 2015, of which 11 come the primary school as some facilities can be shared from a cohort of 25 from Downton Primary School. and parents can drop off children at the same time reducing car use. It is inevitable, though, that The school has no Sixth Form provision. additional school places will increase the traffic flow Downton Primary School Young people born on or after 1 September but also has the potential to increase employment. There is a recently approved planning application 1997, must stay in some form of education or The school employs five staff all of whom live in for a two storey classroom extension, an extension training up until their 18th birthday. In 2014 the Neighbourhood Plan area. to the main hall and change of use to part of the 110 students left the school in Year 11: 98 to Memorial Hall Gardens to include a new play- surrounding Sixth Form Colleges, nine to take up In addition to the schools there is a ground. This will take the school from a 1.0FE to apprenticeships and three to Sparsholt College. number of groups for children during the week: 1.5FE (forms of entry). Funding will come from School facilities: In 2012 a new sports Hall contributions from new housing development was built as Trafalgar was the only secondary • Major minors – a pre-school music group at and the objective is to provide capacity for all school in the county without one. There was a the Memorial Hall. children in Downton parish who wish to attend decision taken not to compete with the the primary school. Discussions between the Parish Leisure centre so the school facilities are not open • Panda club play group and Little Club at the Council, the developer and the Education Authority to the public apart from specific arrangements. Baptist church. are being held to achieve mutually acceptable outcomes, including on the design of the new building which stands within the conservation area. Giant Steps Day Nursery 60 61 There appears to be an adequate level of Downton Surgery Dental Services CF - Community Facilities and Services educational facilities in the surrounding areas to Policies: meet the requirement for 16-18 year olds and The Downton surgery is situated in Moot Lane The Borough Dental Practice opened in address the finding that of the 2,519 residents near the High street, there are a variety of November 2013 and is situated in The CF 1 - Adequate premises and consequent that were aged 16 and over in 2011, 547 of them services offered, the full range may be found on Borough opposite the Memorial Hall and Park. admission policies must be provided to had no formal qualifications. This is higher than the website http://www.mysurgerywebsite.co.uk Attracting more than 1500 patients in its first 18 facilitate children of the Parish of Year the number of residents recorded as educated The surgery currently has approx. 7000 months, the family-owned practice expanded to a 11 or under who wish to attend the to degree or higher degree level (470 residents) patients and 4 almost full time doctors. Downton’s second consulting room in April 2015. It has two Downton Schools. and the number of residents with professional average doctor/patient ratio of 1:1750 is full-time dentists, supported by hygienists, qualifications like nurses and teachers (516 higher than the Wiltshire average of 1:1523 dental therapists and visiting specialists.Although CF 2 - Any expansion of premises must involve 13 16 residents) . It is possible that because Downton patients per full time G . However the surgery feels it is a private practice, it maintains that it has suitable buildings and play areas with has a high number of residents who are over 65 it is well able to meet the needs of the proposed priced itself to be as affordable as possible to the adequate car parking facilities and safe they did not experience the same opportunities for new housing and would be willing to expand the Downton community and villages beyond. The drop off zones. higher and further education that currently exists number of surgery staff should the need Practice also provides heavily subsidized care and that Downton has a history of employment that arise. Parking is recognised as an issue but the for children as part of the practice’s commit- CF 3 - Adequate medical services to serve the did not attract those with academic qualifications. surgery is not in a position to provide further ment to the local community. The Practice has residents of the plan area and those onsite parking. 96% of the respondents a large car park, including disabled space and outside the plan area for whom Downton expressed a strong opinion that future plans wheelchair ramp access to the main building. is a service provider must be provided. Health facilities by the GP surgery to expand their services or premises should be actively supported. CFP - Community Facilities and Services Wiltshire CCG (Clinical Commissioning group) has three core principles, which are to: Policies:

1. Encourage and support Wiltshire residents CFP 1 - The Parish Council to support the to take on more responsibility for their own expansion of the schools, pre-school and health and wellbeing. day nursery to ensure the provision of quality education where such plans are 2. Provide fair access to a high quality and acceptable to the majority of the local affordable system of care for the greatest population and conform to policies within number of people. the Neighbourhood Plan. If, over time, more housing is required within the 3. Provide less care in hospitals and more care Parish then consideration must be given at home or in the community14. to a new primary school rather than additional classrooms. Wiltshire Core Strategy notes “for those without a private motor vehicle access to CFP 2 - The Parish Council to support plans for medical and dental care is difficult15” though for most the medical and dental practices to residents in Downton village the existing expand as needed by residents of new surgery is within 20 minutes walking distance. housing where these conform to the Neighbourhood Plan Development Downton Surgery Within the Neighbourhood Plan area there Policies. is a private nursing home and a privately run home care agency. New housing may create CFP 3 - Local schools to apply their admissions additional demand for their services in a Dental practice in the Borough policy to ensure their practice prioritise community where there is already a high children within the Neighbourhood Plan proportion of older people. There also remains area over those from outside of the area the need to provide housing for care staff of these so that every child in the Parish under agencies who are usually on the lower income year 11 can attend a school in Downton . 13 ONS (2011) Datasets for Lower Super Output Layers; scale. Wiltshire 062C and Wiltshire 062E CFP 4 - The Parish Council to support any 14 Wiltshireccg.nhs.uk 15 application for a Post Office in the High Wiltshire Core Strategy Street area and to investigate the 16 Patient populations data– Health and Social Care Information Centre, October 2014 potential for a post box in that area. 62 63 Justification and Evidence Results of Consultations with Local Residents showed that: The following support these policies: 73% strongly agreed that Primary School • As a designated ‘service centre’ Downton’s capacity must be increased to cater for all community facilities and services will need children of the parish who wish to attend the to be considered in the context of the wider school. area. 96% of the respondents expressed a strong • With increasing mobility the viability of many opinion that future plans by the GP surgery to rural services has declined significantly over expand their services or premises should be the past fifty years. actively supported.

• The surgery feels it is well able to meet the 63% strongly agreed with the proposal that the needs of the proposed new houses and Post office in the high street should be reopened. would be willing to expand the number of surgery staff should the need arise. 69% strongly agreed that Community buildings such as the library and • Most of the children at the primary school memorial hall should be supported and come from the villages of Downton, improved to meet the needs of a growing Standlynch, and Charlton-all-Saints but a community. significant proportion come from outside of the Parish. 52% strongly agreed that Pre-school provision in the village should be expanded to meet the • There are difficulties for the current needs arising from any increase in development. pre-school site - all equipment has to be put away at the end of each day; there is no dedicated office space and no grass area on site. There is currently no parking or drop off points outside the preschool.

• The primary school is planning expansion to meet the level anticipated from the Wiltshire core strategy.

• The library is well able to accommodate a significant increase in users.

Opposite: Downton Memorial Hall 64 9.5 Community Facilities and Services 9.5.2 Leisure Facilities

Justification and Evidence The Leisure Centre

The Parish has significant areas of open space The Local Government Act 1988 (Competition in all of which have some limitations on their Sports and Leisure Activities) placed an obligation use defined, for example, by covenants in the on Local Authorities to make the provision of such title deeds. The Memorial gardens were gifted activities subject to competition (tender) and to the parish and opened in 1921 to be a public the application of efficiency measures. Currently garden and play area for children. It is well used Wiltshire County Council is continuing to part particularly by children but also for village fund the Leisure Centre but has the option of celebrations e.g. the Queens golden jubilee. applying such efficiency measures to the Downton The Parish Council also owns, the Moot Lane Leisure Centre and there is the potential to place a recreation area, part of the former railway line responsibility on the Centre to find some or to the north of The Sidings and the land off potentially all the £50,000 granted by Wiltshire Wick Lane on which stands the Leisure Centre, County Council in efficiency savings. This would Tennis Courts, Bowling Green, Football Pitch put the viability of the Centre under considerable and Sports and Social Club. The Leisure Centre threat. The Leisure Centre currently has 250 mem- is owned by the Brian Whitehead Sports Centre bers but this is not representative of the total use Association and operated by Beacon Leisure as there are a number of ‘pay and play’ sessions Management and partially supported by Wiltshire and many of the 71 junior members are recorded County Council funding. The Leisure Centre is separately as part of the Tennis Club. During the year subject to a clause which identifies that, should 2014 1638 older people attended the ‘Fifty plus’ the Centre close, the Longford Estate will sessions; 572 young people attended the have the first refusal to buy back the land ‘teen zone’ sessions and 468 visits were as a on which it stands at a rate that only reflects result of GP referrals. With an average monthly agricultural use. The Parish Council has footfall of 2,480 people, the Leisure Centre responsibility to return the Centre to is clearly important to local residents and is its previous state should it not remain visited by people who come some distance viable and be returned to the Longford such as from Bournemouth. The Centre offers Estate in the way described above. The Leisure Fitness classes, a variety of team sports, Centre roof is almost entirely covered with tennis courts, gym facilities and is negotiating a solar panels for the production of electricity contract with a local Ofsted registered provider to which is subject to a shared income agreement. provide classes and leisure activities for children. The land opposite to the Leisure Centre, on the other side of Wick Lane, which is used for allotments The management team at the Centre believes is owned by the Longford Estate, leased to the that the potential to increase membership is Parish Council and operated by an association. limited by the fairly rural location but are clear that The allotments currently have a waiting list of new there is the capacity to welcome more people and applicants. There are also some allotments on land maximise availability to the whole community. This to the rear of the Catholic Church in Barford Lane. belief is possibly untested and support to improve the membership and footfall could be considered through the proposed business liaison meetings. Data from the National Health and Nutrition

Opposite: Downton Memorial Gardens Play Area 67 Other community facilities Plans to progress an extension of the Although groups and social clubs are often Memorial Hall, to include an area for the associated with buildings based facilities, the Downton has a relatively high proportion of its preschool and meeting rooms for services or local Parish has two publically accessible recreation population being over 60 (40%). It is well known groups to use have been initiated as mentioned grounds, one being held in trust with specific that ‘Social isolation and loneliness impact above but will depend on sufficient funding being conditions but the other being a large open area upon individuals’ quality of life and wellbeing, available and planning permission being granted. in Moot Lane which is used by local people as an adversely affecting health and increasing their A key source of such funding is potentially the outdoor walking area and by young people for use of health and social care services’19 and community infrastructure levy (CIL) provided as a rollerblading and, in the past, by a football club that this is particularly the case in older people result of local housing development but the pos- although currently there is difficulty obtaining and people with mental health issues. During an sibility of ‘Campus funding’ is also explored20. The interest in supporting a football team on this engagement activity with Downton Good Trafalgar School is considering a Multi Use Games land. There is also a further football ground, Companions – a group of older people Area (MUGA) on its grounds but are awaiting bowling area and tennis courts available at regularly meeting for social stimulation and the outcome of community facility discussions the Western end of the village adjacent to the Downton Leisure Centre on Wick Lane discussion – it was clear that the members elsewhere in the village. Leisure Centre. However, the Moot Lane ground is 17 Examination Survey, 2009–2010 shows strongly valued the opportunity that the group gave. poorly provided with facilities. The Parish Council that nationally there are high levels of There is, however, no obvious provision An opportunity for premises sharing is po- has responsibility for the upkeep of the wooden obesity with more than one in 20 adults specifically for those with mental ill health. tentially available by sharing educational changing rooms built on the recreation ground considered to have extreme obesity and about The Parish is well provided with groups and premises and facilities with members of the but additional construction or further provision on one-third of children and adolescents ages 6 social clubs or activities, having at least 32 such community. This has the potential for increasing inter- the site is limited by the application of the terms of to 19 considered to be overweight or obese. listed in its local magazine as well as scouts and generational interaction which can be ‘an the covenant that was originally applied and this guides. effective way to address a number of issues would need to be addressed. Consultation on the These statistics do not necessarily represent the -many of them key government priorities – emerging Neighbourhood Plan identified just over conditions for the population of the Parish which Consultation on the emerging Neighbourhood related to building active communities’21. a quarter of residents agreed with an approach to does currently have the opportunity to counter Plan identified just under a third of the population Consultation on the emerging Neighbourhood improve facilities in the Moot Lane recreation area. the national trend because of the existence of the agreed with the need to improve the quality and Plan identified just over two fifths ofthe Leisure Centre and other facilities. The United availability of premises in the community for population agreed with an approach to 18 Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child societies, meetings and activities. engage with local schools to encourage sharing identifies the ‘right of the child to rest, leisure, play, of their facilities with the community. However, recreational activities, cultural life and the arts’. discussion with Trafalgar School has identified Although much of this right is satisfied that it is not their policy to encourage open- during schooling and educational activities, ing their sports facilities to the public as this additional opportunities provided by the would reduce the viability of the Leisure Centre’s Leisure Centre demonstrated through the provision. In addition it was mooted that the use of the holiday activities provided there. cost of heating outside of school hours would For health and community cohesion benefits make the opening of facilities for meetings and the Parish has strong reasons to support the other use of the school’s buildings potentially retention and improvement of the Leisure Centre. prohibitively expensive. However, there is a general willingness to consider applications for use Consultation on the emerging Neighbourhood of the facilities for large scale events on their merits. Plan identified a third of the population agreed with an approach of identifying a suitable area of open space to reintroduce a village cricket ground and a quarter agreed with an approach to create a village trim trail to encourage healthy living in a safe environment.

Wooden changing rooms at the Moot Lane football ground

Downton allotments off Wick Lane 17 Weight control Information Network 18 The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, dated 17th April 2013. 20 Minutes of South Wilts Area Board July 2015 19 Preventing loneliness and social isolation, Social Care Institute for 21 Centre for Intergenerational Practice: Beth Johnson Excellence, October 2014 South Wilts Archery Club using Trafalgar School Grounds Foundation, 2001 68 69 LF - Leisure Facilities Policies: Justification and Evidence 10.0 Conclusion LFP 1 - The availability of facilities to encourage The following support these policies: good health and wellbeing of the local The plan reflects the situation at the time of and visiting population will be supported • With an average monthly footfall of 2,480 The Downton Neighbourhood Plan is the result of completion, though we have tried to ‘future proof’ if they are not in contravention of other people, the Leisure Centre is clearly comprehensive consultation with residents and it as far as possible. It is essentially a document Neighbourhood Plan policies. important to local residents. stakeholders. During its preparation, ideas have to influence planners and outline some of the evolved and original concepts have been refined wishes and aspirations of the local community. • The management team at the Leisure Centre in response to discussion generated by increased Over time, perceptions and priorities may change, LFP- Leisure Facilities Proposals are clear that there is the capacity to awareness of the issues. This final document, to but the local environment, housing, transport, welcome more people and maximise be submitted to Wiltshire Council in September infrastruture, community facilities and services LFP1 - The Parish Council to support lobbying availability to the whole community. 2015, is supported and endorsed by Downton and the local economy, will remain essential for Public and Private Funding to ensure Parish Council. issues. It is these issues to which we have applied that a sustainable Leisure Centre and • Downton has a relatively high proportion of policies and proposals. Fitness Suite are available for use by its population being over 60 (40%). It is well We are fortunate to be part of a vibrant Downton Residents and the surrounding known that ‘Social isolation and loneliness community. Whilst many of the residents of A Neighbourhood Plan can be reviewed at any area. impact upon individuals’ quality of life and the parish have lived in the same area for many time. Our Plan may need review if there isa wellbeing, adversely affecting health and years, it is clear that they by no means hold the major change to Wiltshire’s core strategy or a increasing their use of health and social care same views. No plan can include all the differing change, for instance, to national policy on rural LFP2 - The Parish council to look favourably on services’ and that this is particularly the case opinions expressed, but we are confident that development and/or housing. However, the proposals that encourage outdoor in older people. this one does reflect the majority view on a current Plan, and the research that has been done activities. range of important issues. Wide engagement has to support it, will remain a foundation to inform • The Moot Lane ground is poorly provided demonstrated that people are innovative and are future considerations – some of which may need LFP3 - The Parish Council to seek to improve with facilities. not resistant to change as long as it is sustainable, a more radical and far-reaching response to the the quality and availability of premises benefits the community and does not destroy its long term future of the village of Downton and its in the community for societies, meetings Results of Consultations with Local Residents essential character and sense of place. surrounding hamlets and rural environment. and activities by actions, including showed that: engagement with local schools to share A glossary of terms and acronyms used in this Plan facilities, and improving facilities in the 50% strongly agreed that there should be a can be found at Appendix 14. Moot Lane recreational area within the lobby for public funding and provide support for restrictions of any covenant on the land retention and improvement of the leisure centre. ownership during the lifetime of the Neighbourhood Plan. 33% strongly agreed with an approach of identifying a suitable area of open space LFP4 - The Parish Council to pursue the to reintroduce a village cricket ground. The Downton Neighbourhood Plan has taken two years to complete. During this time many improvement of the Memorial Hall as an people have freely offered their time and skills. Members of the Steering Group havebeen integrated solution to the provision of 24% strongly agreed with an involved, amongst other things, in Vision, Research and Engagement task groups, creating surveys and better facilities for the Community. approach to create a village trim trail to running consultation events, liaising with stakeholders and wiltshire council, project planning, encourage healthy living in a safe environment. maintaining records, writing proof reading and formatting the Plan. The website was maintained by Phill Webs. 31% strongly agreed with the need to improve the quality and availability of premises in the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group community for societies, meetings and activities. Jane Brentor, Christopher Bird, Susan Barnhurst Davies, Ian Campbell, Ian Draper, John Elliott, Peter Favier, Alan Foster, Richard Ford, Adam Hayward, Rob Hewlett, Graham Humphries, Sally 44% strongly agreed with an approach to Lacey, Dave Mace, Hilary Mace, Lucy Norman, Mike Norman, Margaret Tribe, Helen Willcox, Simon engage with local schools to encourage Walker-Bircham, Nikki Wilson (chair) sharing of their facilities with the community. The Parish Council have been supportive throughout the process. 27% strongly agreed with an approach to improve facilities in the Moot Lane recreation area. It is recognised that the demand in this Leisure Facilities area is lower than for other sections.

70 71 www.downtonfuture.org