Core Strategy 2006-2026 Preferred

Core Strategy Development Plan Document 2006-2026 Preferred Options Document

Consultation September 2006

Purbeck District Council Westport House Worgret Road WAREHAM, Dorset BH20 4PP Tel: (01929) 556561 Fax: (01929) 552688

Website: www.purbeck.gov.uk

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

This document will be made available in other languages, in large print or in the form of a radio transcription on request.

Please telephone 01929 557339 if you need assistance with this document.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Foreword

The Core Strategy will set out a vision for how Purbeck can create sustainable communities over the next 15-20 years. Its purpose is to proactively manage development and associated activities to make Purbeck a better place. It should identify the key assets of Purbeck which need protection, and take account of the aspiration of Purbeck’s residents so that development can better address their needs.

It is important to recognise that new development, (whether new houses, employment uses, shops or other community facilities) will be an essential part of the equation. Undoubtedly development brings pressures and difficulties, but it can also help deliver our housing needs, help create a stronger economy, improve accessibility to shops and services, communication and health. The challenge for planning is to manage development and associated activities so that what is built meets the needs of present and future generations.

Purbeck District Council is responsible for only a small amount of the activities that happen within the District, with other organisations in the public, private, and voluntary sectors providing many services. The Council will continue to work with these organisations to understand how Purbeck ‘ticks’ and find common solutions.

A great deal of work has already been undertaken to inform this Preferred Options document, including:

• A review of existing plans and strategies; • The preparation of an evidence base; • Engagement with organisations with an interest in Purbeck; • Sustainability Appraisal of different options.

The success of the Core Strategy will depend on the input and commitment of all of the private, public and voluntary sector organisations with an interest in Purbeck. In working together the Council can deliver ‘thriving communities in balance with the natural environment’.

Purbeck District Council would like your views on the Preferred Options set out in this document, published for public consultation 29th September 2006 – 10th November 2006.

Copies of this document and supporting material are available for inspection at all District libraries, Poole Central Library, Dorchester Library, Town Council offices (Upton, Wareham and Swanage) and on the Council’s website: www.purbeck.gov.uk. This document can also be viewed at the Council’s Offices:

Purbeck District Council Westport House Worgret Road Wareham Dorset BH20 4PP [Opening times Mon – Thurs 8.45am-4.45pm, Fri 8.45am-4.15pm]

Councillor Nick A H Cake Spokesperson for the Environment

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Contents

1. Introduction ...... 1 1.1 The new Local Development Framework...... 1 1.2 Purpose of the Core Strategy...... 1 1.3 Preferred Options document – what does this mean? ...... 2 1.4 How have we reached this stage? ...... 2 1.5 Structure of document ...... 4 1.6 Supporting documents...... 4 1.7 What will the submission Core Strategy look like?...... 5 2. Portrait of Purbeck and Key Issues ...... 6 2.1 What is Purbeck like?...... 6 2.2 Key Issues ...... 8 3. Spatial vision & Objectives ...... 10 3.1 Spatial vision ...... 10 3.2 Spatial Objectives...... 11 3.3 Links with the Community Strategy for Purbeck ...... 13 4. Sustainable Development ...... 15 4.1 Introduction...... 15 5. Environment...... 17 5.1 Nature conservation, geology and geomorphology...... 17 5.2 Landscape and the built environment ...... 19 5.3 Renewable energy...... 21 5.4 Water Resources...... 22 5.5 Minerals Extraction...... 23 6. Thriving communities...... 26 6.1 The role of towns and villages in Purbeck...... 26 6.2 Housing needs...... 27 6.3 Broad location of new housing development ...... 28 6.4 Housing mix...... 31 6.5 Town Centres and retail development...... 34 6.6 Community facilities...... 34 7. Economic wellbeing ...... 40 7.1 The local economy ...... 40 7.2 Employment land and premises ...... 41 7.3 Tourism sector...... 45 8. Accessibility and transportation ...... 48 8.1 Introduction...... 48 9. Swanage ...... 54 9.1 Introduction...... 54 9.2 Settlement Strategy...... 54

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

10. Upton...... 60 10.1 Introduction...... 60 10.2 Settlement Strategy...... 60 11. Wareham...... 65 11.1 Introduction...... 65 11.2 Settlement Strategy...... 65 12. Wool, Winfrith & Bovington ...... 70 12.1 Introduction...... 70 12.2 Settlement Strategy...... 70 13. South Purbeck...... 72 13.1 Introduction...... 72 13.2 Settlement Strategy...... 72 14. Mid-North Purbeck...... 75 14.1 Introduction...... 75 14.2 Settlement Strategy...... 76 15. Planning obligations...... 79 15.1 Introduction...... 79 16. Monitoring and review...... 81 17. Key Diagram...... 82 Appendix 1 - Glossary...... 84 1.1 List of Acronyms ...... 84 1.2 Glossary of Terms ...... 85 Appendix 2 - Links with other Local Plan Policies ...... 91 Appendix 3 - Monitoring indicators...... 94

Preferred Options

PO1 PREFERRED OPTION 1: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN PURBECK ...... 16 PO2 PREFERRED OPTION 2: SITES OF NATURE CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE...... 19 PO3 PREFERRED OPTION 3: REGIONALLY IMPORTANT GEOLOGICAL AND GEOMORPHOLOGICAL SITES ...... 19 PO4 PREFERRED OPTION 4: STRATEGIC NATURE AREAS...... 19 PO5 PREFERRED OPTION 5: LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ...... 21 PO6 PREFERRED OPTION 6: DESIGN...... 21 PO7 PREFERRED OPTION 7: INTEGRATED RENEWABLE ENERGY ...... 22 PO8 PREFERRED OPTION 8: RENEWABLE ENERGY ...... 22 PO9 PREFERRED OPTION 9: GROUNDWATER SOURCES ...... 23 PO10 PREFERRED OPTION 10: SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS ...... 23 PO11 PREFERRED OPTION 11: BODIES OF WATER AND FLOOD RISK AREAS...... 23 PO12 PREFERRED OPTION 12: MINERALS EXTRACTION...... 24 PO13 PREFERRED OPTION 13: ROLE OF TOWNS & VILLAGES ...... 26 PO14 PREFERRED OPTION 14: PREVIOUSLY DEVELOPED LAND...... 26

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO15 PREFERRED OPTION 15: HOUSING NUMBERS ...... 28 PO16 PREFERRED OPTION 16: GYPSY AND TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION ...... 28 PO17 PREFERRED OPTION 17: BROAD LOCATION OF NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ...... 31 PO18 PREFERRED OPTION 18: AREAS OF SEARCH ...... 31 PO19 PREFERRED OPTION 19: HOUSING MIX ...... 33 PO20 PREFERRED OPTION 20: HOUSING DENSITY...... 33 PO21 PREFERRED OPTION 21: AFFORDABLE HOUSING ...... 33 PO22 PREFERRED OPTION 22: RURAL EXCEPTIONS SITES ...... 33 PO23 PREFERRED OPTION 23: TOWN CENTRES AND RETAIL DEVELOPMENT ...... 34 PO24 PREFERRED OPTION 24: RETAIL DEVELOPMENT ...... 34 PO25 PREFERRED OPTION 25: OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION...... 36 PO26 PREFERRED OPTION 26: COMMUNITY FACILITIES...... 36 PO27 PREFERRED OPTION 27: ACTIVE RURAL COMMUNITIES ...... 36 PO28 PREFERRED OPTION 28: NEW FORMS OF SERVICE DELIVERY ...... 37 PO29 PREFERRED OPTION 29: EXISTING EMPLOYMENT AREAS...... 44 PO30 PREFERRED OPTION 30: NEW EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT ...... 45 PO31 PREFERRED OPTION 31: KNOWLEDGE BASED ECONOMY...... 45 PO32 PREFERRED OPTION 32: EDUCATION & TRAINING ...... 45 PO33 PREFERRED OPTION 33: INCUBATOR UNITS ...... 45 PO34 PREFERRED OPTION 34: TOURISM & VISITOR ATTRACTIONS ...... 46 PO35 PREFERRED OPTION 35: TOURISM & ACCOMMODATION ...... 46 PO36 PREFERRED OPTION 36: MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT ...... 51 PO37 PREFERRED OPTION 37: SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT ...... 51 PO38 PREFERRED OPTION 38: TRAFFIC CONGESTION ON THE A351...... 51 PO39 PREFERRED OPTION 39: TRANSPORT INTERCHANGES ...... 51 PO40 PREFERRED OPTION 40: TRAVEL PLANS...... 51 PO41 PREFERRED OPTION 41: INTENSIFICATION AND IMPACT ON CHARACTER...... 55 PO42 PREFERRED OPTION 42: ENHANCEMENT OF TOWN CENTRE AS A DISTRICT SHOPPING CENTRE...... 55 PO43 PREFERRED OPTION 43: COMMUNITY FACILITIES...... 55 PO44 PREFERRED OPTION 44: DIVERSIFICATION OF LOCAL ECONOMY ...... 56 PO45 PREFERRED OPTION 45: PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF HIGH QUALITY TOURISM ...... 56 PO46 PREFERRED OPTION 46: SWANAGE TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE ...... 56 PO47 PREFERRED OPTION 47: URBAN FRINGE ...... 57 PO48 PREFERRED OPTION 48: SENSE OF PLACE ...... 60 PO49 PREFERRED OPTION 49: INTENSIFICATION AND CHARACTER ...... 61 PO50 PREFERRED OPTION 50: UPTON LOCAL CENTRE...... 61 PO51 PREFERRED OPTION 51: ACCESSIBILITY & TRANSPORTATION...... 61 PO52 PREFERRED OPTION 52: DEFINITION OF SETTLEMENT LIMITS ...... 62

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO53 PREFERRED OPTION 53: MAINTAINING A BALANCED ECONOMY ...... 65 PO54 PREFFERED OPTION 54: ENHANCEMENT OF THE TOWN CENTRE AS A DISTRICT SHOPPING AND SERVICE CENTRE ...... 66 PO55 PREFERRED OPTION 55: DEFINITION OF SETTLEMENT LIMITS ...... 66 PO56 PREFERRED OPTION 56: WAREHAM TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE...... 66 PO57 PREFERRED OPTION 57: GATEWAY TO THE ISLE OF PURBECK AND JURASSIC COAST ...... 67 PO58 PREFERRED OPTION 58: WOOL, WINFRITH AND BOVINGTON AREA ACTION PLAN ...... 71 PO59 PREFERRED OPTION 59: AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY...... 73 PO60 PREFERRED OPTION 60: PURBECK HERITAGE COAST...... 73 PO61 PREFERRED OPTION 61: THE DORSET AND EAST DEVON WORLD HERITAGE SITE ..... 73 PO62 PREFERRED OPTION 62: CORFE CASTLE...... 73 PO63 PREFERRED OPTION 63: SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AND LOCAL ECONOMY...... 73 PO64 PREFERRED OPTION 64: BERE REGIS ...... 76 PO65 PREFERRED OPTION 65: LYTCHETT MATRAVERS ...... 76 PO66 PREFERRED OPTION 66: GREEN BELT...... 77 PO67 PREFERRED OPTION 67: LOCAL ECONOMY...... 77 PO68 PREFERRED OPTION 68: ACCESSIBILITY AND TRANSPORTATION ...... 77 PO69 PREFERRED OPTION 69: PLANNING OBLIGATIONS ...... 80

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 The new Local Development Framework

1.1.1 Purbeck District Council is preparing a Local Development Framework. Over time, this will replace the Purbeck Local Plan Final Edition (published November 2004), which is currently an important material consideration in the determination of planning applications for new development.

1.1.2 Purbeck District’s Local Development Framework will consist of a series of documents, the first of which to be produced is the Core Strategy.

Local Development Framework

Core Strategy The other planning documents forming part of the Local Development Framework are described in the Councils Local Development Scheme. This can be viewed on the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk

1.2 Purpose of the Core Strategy

1.2.1 The Core Strategy will be the main component of the Council’s future planning strategies. It will set out a long term vision and the objectives for the District, to proactively manage development and associated activities, address some of the key challenges facing Purbeck and make it a better place. Unlike the Purbeck Local Plan Final Edition, the Core Strategy should contain more than just land use policies. It will integrate with other plans and strategies to help tackle issues such as accessibility, environmental enhancement, and health. It is vital that the Core Strategy takes full account of national and regional initiatives as well as local activities being co-ordinated by private, public and voluntary organisations. The way we respond to such issues is instrumental in shaping Purbeck’s towns, villages and countryside and how they function.

1.2.2 The Core Strategy should identify the key assets of Purbeck which we need to protect, conserve and enhance and take account of the aspiration of Purbeck’s residents so that development can better address their needs. It is important to recognise that new development (whether new houses, employment uses, shops or other community facilities) will be an essential part of the equation. Undoubtedly development brings pressures and difficulties, but it can also help deliver our housing needs, help create a

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

stronger economy, improve accessibility to shops and services, communication and health.

1.2.3 The challenge for planning is to manage development and associated activities so that what is built meets the needs of present and future generations. In doing so the Core Strategy seeks to create sustainable communities.

1.3 Preferred Options document – what does this mean?

1.3.1 The purpose of this document is to set out the key policies and spatial options for shaping the future of the District in the period up to 2026. It is part of an ongoing consultation the Council has been undertaking (as elaborated below). This is not the final document (nor does it set out the detailed wording of policies) but rather it is a step in the process of enabling communities, stakeholders and all interested parties to give further feedback on the options for future policies and strategies.

1.3.2 For the most part the options are not ‘either / or’ options, but rather a series of intentions designed to steer development and associated activities over the next 15 to 20 years. The Preferred Options document sets out a vision and spatial objectives for Purbeck. There is also a detailed spatial strategy which gives a clear statement of intent as to where Purbeck should be heading, followed by a key diagram.

1.3.3 The Preferred Options document has been published for the purpose of public consultation. Your views can help to shape the contents of the Core Strategy which will be submitted to the Government early in 2007.

1.4 How have we reached this stage?

1.4.1 A great deal of work has already been undertaken to inform this Preferred Options document, including:

1.4.2 In preparing the Core Strategy the Council have reviewed an enormous number of plans and strategies, these are set out in Appendix 1 of the accompanying draft Sustainability Appraisal report. The policies set out in the Core Strategy will integrate with other policies and programmes that influence places and how they function in order to help deliver sustainable forms of development on the ground. This is important because while the policies and proposals can meet objectives through development, many of the objectives rely solely on other implementation mechanisms outside of planning powers.

1.4.3 A number of the Core Strategy Preferred Options are heavily influenced by national planning guidance, as is required by statute. The Core Strategy is also required to:

• Be in general conformity with the Regional Spatial Strategy. In Purbeck’s case this is Regional Planning Guidance for the South West (RPG10), although this is currently being replaced with a new Strategy being prepared by the South West Regional Assembly.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

• Have regard to the Community Strategy. In Purbeck’s case the Community Strategy comprises the ‘Community Strategy for Dorset’ and the ‘Community Plan for Purbeck’, 2006.

The diagram below shows how some of the strategies fit together.

How strategies join together

Central Government

Community Corporate Planning Other Statutory Plans

South West Regional Government Office for South West Regional South West Regional Assembly: ‘Just the South West: Assembly: ‘Regional Assembly: ‘Integrated connect’. ‘Business Plan’. Spatial Strategy’. Regional Strategy’.

Dorset Strategic Dorset County Dorset County Council: the Dorset Partnership: Council: ‘Our role in Local Transport Plan 2, the South ‘Community Strategy Dorset’. East Dorset Local Transport Plan 2 for Dorset’. Dorset AONB: Management Plan.

Purbeck Community Purbeck District See appendix 1 of draft Purbeck District Partnership: Council: ‘Corporate Council: ‘Local Sustainability Appraisal ‘Community Plan for Strategy’ Development report. Purbeck’ Framework’

Parish Plan Groups: Town and Parish See appendix 1 of draft ‘Parish Plans’ Councils: ‘Delivery Sustainability Appraisal Plans’ report.

1.4.4 The proposals set out in the Core Strategy must be based on a thorough understanding of the needs of the area and the opportunities and constraints which the Council needs to take into account. The Council have prepared an evidence base in order to help identify some of the key social, economic and environmental issues facing the District over the next 15-20 years. The evidence base continues to evolve, but background papers investigating the potential of the built up areas to absorb future development, housing need, identification of natural habitats and opportunities for enhancement, open space and recreation needs, employment needs, retail assessments and transportation needs are all available for inspection on the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk.

1.4.5 The Council have undertaken extensive engagement with a wide variety of stakeholders through the Purbeck Futures Conference in September 2005, the publication of an ‘Issues and Options’ leaflet to stimulate debate in February 2006 and Stakeholder Workshops in

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

July 2006 to identify the challenges facing Purbeck and identify potential options that could serve to address them. For ease of reference, information about the events and the responses received is set out in the accompanying ‘Summary of Community Engagement’. The Council are committed to engaging organisations and individuals with an interest in Purbeck

1.4.6 As ideas have come forward, the Council have tested the relative sustainability of different options. This has been an iterative process that has culminated in the publication of the accompanying draft Sustainability Appraisal Report. This tests the ‘sustainability’ of the preferred options, highlighting where the option would make a positive or negative contribution towards different sustainability indicators (drawn from social, economic and environmental considerations). It is a transparent process and makes clear where the impact is unclear.

1.5 Structure of document

1.5.1 This Preferred Options document follows a logical sequence. It starts with the identification of issues (section 2), followed by a proposed vision and spatial objectives (section 3). This sets the context for a series of cross-cutting preferred policy options (sections 4-8) and then preferred policy options for particular parts of the District (sections 9-14). The final chapter focuses on one particular delivery mechanism, namely planning obligations.

1.5.2 Each section is followed by two summary boxes. The first summarises how we got to the particular preferred policy option, including a brief summary of what alternative options were considered. The second describes how the preferred policy options will help to deliver the spatial objectives for the District.

1.6 Supporting documents

1.6.1 The following documents accompany the Preferred Options document.

• Evidence gathering: background reports are available for Inspection on the Councils website: www.purbeck.gov.uk. The respective reports are referred to within the text. • A Statement of Community Engagement has been prepared providing information on how we have engaged community organisations to reach this point and a summary of some of the key points raised. Whilst this is not a statutory requirement, it is considered good practice. • A Draft Sustainability Appraisal Report (also published for public consultation). • An Appropriate Assessment Screening. • A Proposals Map document (also published for public consultation). From September 2007, the Council will no longer have an adopted proposals map, although the Purbeck Local Plan Final Edition proposals map will remain a material consideration. It is therefore important that the Council start to prepare a new Proposals Map that can develop over time with the production of new Local Development Framework documents).

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

1.7 What will the submission Core Strategy look like?

1.7.1 The submission Core Strategy is likely to look very different from this Preferred Options document. It is anticipated that the submission document will be much shorter with preferred options being grouped to form a more limited number of policies. The detailed wording of preferred options will also be ‘tightened’ as they are translated into policies.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

2. PORTRAIT OF PURBECK AND KEY ISSUES

2.1 What is Purbeck like?

2.1.1 It is perhaps the outstanding natural environment (in terms of its ecological, geological and landscape value), combined with the vernacular of local villages that most people would recognise as being quintessentially Purbeck. The environmental quality of the District, as bestowed by numerous international, national and local designations, undoubtedly plays a very influential role in shaping Purbeck.

2.1.2 However, it is equally important to understand the economic and social drivers within the District and in this respect the diversity in the way that different towns and villages function.

Key statistics at a glance

Population

Circa 45,000 people live in Purbeck, swelled in the summer months by tourists and day visitors. Approximately 60% of the resident population live in the main towns of Swanage, Upton and Wareham. The diagram below shows the structure of the population.

Age structure of Purbeck's population, 2004 Mid-year estimates

90+

80-84 The number of those aged 70-74 65+ is predicted to increase 60-64 over the next 20 years both 50-54 females in absolute and relative males 40-44 age group age terms. 30-34

20-24

10-14

0-4

-2 -1.5 -1 -0.5 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 number (figures in thousands)

Environmental characteristics

Purbeck’s land area is over 40,000ha, but the administrative boundary also encompasses the majority of Poole Harbour. Indeed the interaction between land and sea has played, and continues to play, an important part is shaping the character and development of the District, defining both its eastern and southern extent.

The proximity and influence of the Bournemouth-Poole conurbation is also noteworthy, with the built up area of Hamworthy (in Poole) and Upton (in Purbeck) being contiguous with each other.

The landscape, ecological and geological value of the District is recognised by numerous designations. International and national nature conservation designations cover over 23% of the District. The Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, designated in 1959, covers approximately 55% of the District.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Economic characteristics

In 2004 there was estimated to be 16,800 employees working in Purbeck, the most significant sectors being public administration, education and health, manufacturing and tourism.

87% of firms in Purbeck are micro-firms (employing fewer than ten employees) and these account for 27% of total employment in the District.

Gross value added in Purbeck is estimated to be £459million per annum, per head this is below both the national and regional average.

There is a high level of out commuting to the Bournemouth-Poole conurbation, although there is significant variation between different settlements.

As in most parts of Dorset, there is great disparity between wage levels and house prices in Purbeck. With average annual salary’s being less than 1/10th of average house prices. However, the affordability gap is perhaps most critical when looking at the relative price of entry level housing. This has led to problems of recruitment and retention in some sectors.

Social characteristics

Access to a good range of shops, services and employment opportunities cannot be taken for granted in Purbeck – as shown in the diagram below.

Access to housing, in terms of affordability, is also pressing in Purbeck. A 2005 study by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation suggested that Purbeck has the 15th highest house price to income ratio out of the 350 local authority areas in the Country.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

2.1.3 During the initial engagement stage some organisations and individuals posed the questions, ‘Is Purbeck still a rural District? Have planning policies and new development eroded Purbeck’s rural character, and what does Purbeck aspire to be?’

2.1.4 This tension is perhaps recognised in the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West which recognises the inherent relationship that parts of the District have with the Poole- Bournemouth Principal Urban Area. This is re-affirmed within the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy whereby the towns of Wareham and Upton, and villages of Sandford, Holton Heath, Lytchett Minster and Lytchett Matravers are identified within the policies covering the Strategically Significant Towns of Poole-Bournemouth. This part of the District is also covered by the Local Transport Plan 2 for South East Dorset, where as the remainder is covered by the Local Transport Plan for Dorset (excluding the South East).

2.1.5 It was evident from both the Council’s evidence base and engagement that Purbeck is a place of great diversity and the role and function of different towns and villages needs to be understood. At first this may appear to be a fairly straight forward task, but it is important to differentiate between the characteristics of an area (i.e. what it is like) and how it functions (i.e. how is works). Nonetheless an attempt has been made and Purbeck’s diversity has helped to inform the preferred options set out in chapters 9-14.

2.2 Key Issues

2.2.1 The following issues have been identified in Purbeck:

i) How and where can new housing be built without harm to the built, natural and cultural environment of the District?

ii) How can we optimise the provision of affordable housing (of all sizes) in new development, providing a mixture of low cost market housing, social rented accommodation and shared ownership accommodation to help meet local needs?

iii) How should we address the impacts of second home ownership and in-migration on the housing market and consequently the District’s demographic structure?

iv) How can we maintain active communities and ensure that new housing development is supported by the social and physical infrastructure required to meet the needs of future occupiers?

v) The number of people working outside the District is likely to increase unless housing development is matched by suitable local employment opportunities. How can we grow, attract and provide for suitable employment opportunities which reduce the need to travel?

vi) How can we provide sufficient land and premises to meet the needs of local firms and inward investment and enhance the District’s economic prosperity, without harm to the built, natural and cultural environment?

vii) How can we provide sufficient land and premises to support the tourism industry without harm to the built, natural or cultural environment?

viii) Should we seek to retain tourist accommodation, including resisting the loss of hotels to alternative uses, such as housing?

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

ix) How can we reduce the disparity between local wages and house prices? x) How can we address climate change and its effect on agriculture, coastal erosion and flooding? xi) How can we further enhance the ecological and landscape value of the District? xii) Where should we locate future development to ensure the provision of viable community services, given the dispersed nature of the District? xiii) How should we respond to the changing demographic make up of the District, with an increasing proportion of elderly persons and falling school rolls? xiv) How can we address traffic congestion, whilst recognising that future development could place additional pressures on the road system, without harm to the built, natural or cultural environment? xv) Where should we locate new employment, shops and services that are accessible for those without a car (including young persons and some elderly persons) to avoid isolation and social exclusion? xvi) How can we provide an integrated transport system within the District? xvii) How can we ensure that sustainable, self sustaining communities are created in both the urban and rural parts of the District?

How did we get here?

The issues have been identified through the review of other plans and strategies, the Councils own evidence gathering (starting with an ‘Issues Paper’ which can be viewed on the Council’s website) and engagement with organisations with an interest in Purbeck. The issues have been refined and expanded through the process of engagement, in particular through the debate at the Purbeck Futures conference and through consideration of the responses received to the Issues and Options leaflet.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

3. SPATIAL VISION & OBJECTIVES

3.1 Spatial vision

3.1.1 The preferred option for a Spatial Vision should provide a sense of what kind of place Purbeck will be in the future.

TO RETAIN AND ENHANCE THE UNIQUE QUALITIES OF PURBECK’S TOWNS, VILLAGES, COUNTRYSIDE AND COAST WHILST IMPROVING THE QUALITY OF LIFE FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY.

3.1.2 The ‘unique’ quality of Purbeck’s built and natural environment is affirmed through the number, extent and diversity of features bestowed international and national importance through designation. Even outside the designated areas, the regional and local importance of Purbeck for nature conservation, recreation, heritage and education is well noted. However, as suggested by the multitude of issues facing the District, there are many challenges facing Purbeck’s communities and this is reflected in the need to ‘improve the quality of life for the whole community’.

3.1.3 The concept of sustainable development will be central to the delivery of the spatial vision. Improving quality of life encompasses all the key themes of this concept (as set out in section 4), recognising that meeting basic needs is fundamental to the well being of the whole community.

3.1.4 The spatial visions also seemingly embrace the vision of thriving communities put forward in the Purbeck Community Plan and the Councils Corporate Strategy.

3.1.5 A great deal of debate has focused on what is meant by the whole community and whether this should state ‘local’ community. However, whilst a wide variety of views have been expressed, many organisations and individuals have acknowledged the importance of tourism and day visitors to the areas economy. This has a profound impact on all aspects of life in Purbeck, for instance on employment, pay, built heritage, demand upon land for development, shops and community facilities. It is therefore necessary to maintain a wide definition of the ‘whole community’ that embraces the aspirations of tourists and visitors.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

How did we get here?

When formulating the ‘spatial vision’ for Purbeck it is important to acknowledge that we did not start from a blank sheet. Many local plans and strategies already articulated a vision for Purbeck, although often focusing on a particular theme. It is important to note that at the time of the Purbeck Futures Conference the Council’s Corporate Strategy and the Purbeck Community Plan were still under preparation.

Ideas for the spatial vision were developed through engagement at the Purbeck Futures Conference. Many of the ideas encompassed familiar themes and phrases, particularly those relating to the unique quality of Purbeck’s built and natural environment. The debate carried through into the Issues and Options Leaflet, where engagement focused on combining the best aspects of all the ideas put forward at the Purbeck Futures Conference, ensuring that the spatial vision tied into the then published visions set out in the draft Purbeck Community Plan and the Council’s Corporate Strategy.

The majority of the responses received through the Issues and Options Leaflet supported the intent of the Spatial Vision. Some alternative options were put forward, however, they did not present a substantive departure from that expressed above.

3.2 Spatial Objectives

3.2.1 The Spatial Objectives establish the framework for the formulation of more detailed policies. These Spatial Objectives are reflected in the specific ‘Preferred options’ (PO) set out in the rest of the document. The following spatial objectives are proposed:

SO1 Protect and enhance the landscape and natural environment of the District.

SO2 To create sustainable communities recognising and respecting the diversity in the function and character of Purbeck’s towns, villages and countryside.

SO3 To meet the housing needs of the area as identified in the Regional Spatial Strategy.

SO4 Support active communities through the provision of new market and affordable housing that meets local needs, in terms of type and tenure.

SO5 To prepare for an aging population, including the provision and retention of community and appropriate facilities including supported accommodation.

SO6 Meeting the employment needs of the District through the identification of sufficient employment land to meet the needs of local firms and inward investment by making better use of established employment areas and promoting mixed use development within towns and villages.

SO7 Increase employment opportunities in higher wage sectors through encouraging innovation and business growth in established sectors of the knowledge based economy, combined with appropriate training and up-skilling for the local workforce.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

SO8 Promote high quality, sustainable tourism, through the retention of established accommodation and new development that meets modern day needs.

SO9 The provision of an integrated transport system to allow movement in and around the District, including tackling congestion on the A351 Wareham – Bakers Arms roundabout.

SO10 Reinforce the vitality and viability of local shops, schools, services, recreation and community facilities in the main towns and larger villages to reduce the need to travel.

SO11 Support and enable public transport services and interchanges so as to provide access to shops and services, as well as enabling new methods of delivering services in more peripheral rural areas.

SO12 Encouraging the reuse of previously developed land whilst retaining the character of the area.

SO13 Ensure new development and public spaces are of a high quality design that enhances the character of the area.

SO14 Encourage renewable energy sources, sustainable construction and sustainable design.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

3.3 Links with the Community Strategy for Purbeck

Community The Local Area Agreements Spatial Strategy for Dorset Community Objectives Plan for Purbeck Themes Priority themes Performance targets

Affordable housing Affordable Reduce the use of temporary accommodation. SO2, SO3, (cross cutting) Housing SO4 Access and rural Transport Make rural Dorset more accessible in the near term: SO2, SO9, Issues Provide better public transport to, from, and within rural SO10, (cross cutting) Dorset by making the passenger transport network more SO11 flexible; and particularly in areas with the highest un-met transport needs. (Yet to be finalised) People: supporting Young people To increase formal volunteering. SO2, SO3, active and inclusive SO4, SO5, communities Voluntary and SO10, community SO11, sector (through S013 the Heritage Strategy) Learning & Carving a Raise achievement and retention post age 16: to improve SO2, SO7 knowledge: foundation for performance of young people in Dorset sixth forms, Improving the Isle of following level 3 qualifications and for learners in danger opportunities for Purbeck (through of becoming NEET (Not in Employment, Education or learning and culture the Heritage Training). Lottery Scheme) Improve the educational attainment at GCSE level for young people who have been looked after. Safety and health: Crime reduction Reduce the impact of domestic violence in Dorset. S01, SO2, Improving health, Healthy Reduce alcohol related violent crime and the associated SO5, community safety & lifestyles social impact of alcohol abuse. SO13, wellbeing Reduce hospital length of stay / prevent avoidable admission: reduce emergency bed days for over 65 year olds. Vulnerable adults: improve the level of control and flexibility that service users have over the support they receive. Healthier communities: reduce levels of obesity in Dorset. Economy: sustaining Economy Support growth and productivity of the creative industries SO1, SO2, a prosperous and (through the business sector. SO3, SO6, productive local Heritage SO7, SO8, economy Strategy) SO10, SO14 Environment: Environment Renewable energy: increase the installed capacity and SO1, SO2, Safeguarding (through the uptake of (micro, small and medium scale) renewable SO12, Dorset’s unique Heritage energy technologies which deliver electricity or heat in SO13, environment Strategy) the public and community sector in Dorset. SO14 Safeguard Dorset’s unique landscape: restore and reconnect Dorset’s wildlife and heritage rich grassland landscapes by increasing the area of suitable land in positive management.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

How did we get here?

The spatial objectives have been developed and expanded through community engagement at the Purbeck Futures Conference, debate surrounding the Issues and Options leaflet and the LDF Stakeholder Workshops. The objectives have also become tailored to Purbeck through the identification of particular issues and further evidence gathering to gain a better understanding about what has happened and is likely to happen in the future.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

4. SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT

4.1 Introduction

4.1.1 The promotion and implementation of sustainable development is a primary objective of the planning system in this country. The concept of sustainable development underlies all of the Preferred Options set out in this Core Strategy.

4.1.2 The latest definition of sustainable development is set out in ‘Securing the Future – delivering the UK sustainable development strategy’. It states: ‘The goal of sustainable development is to enable all people throughout the world to satisfy their basic needs and enjoy a better quality of life, without compromising the quality of life of future generations’.

4.1.3 The need to promote sustainable development is central to Government policy and is enshrined in Planning Policy Statement 1: Delivering Sustainable Development. This establishes four aims:

• Social progress which recognises the needs of everyone; • Effective protection of the environment; • The prudent use of natural resources; and • The maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment.

4.1.4 The Community Strategy also identifies sustainability as a key thread throughout the community planning process, the Community Strategy for Dorset states that ‘In recent years it has become increasingly clear that humanity is having an enormous impact on the worlds environment. Global concerns such as climate change are now well known and are increasingly seen as threats to our very survival’. The vision statements developed by the forum addressing the following issues:

• Built and local environment; • Education; • Energy and water; • Fair society; • Food and agriculture; • Natural environment; • Public health and safety; • Shopping and consumerism; • Transport and access; and • Waste.

4.1.5 Within the context of spatial planning, it is important to consider how the vision statements formulated by the Dorset Strategic Partnership can be delivered through:

Sustainable locations: linking housing and commercial land needs and directing planned and phased development to locations supported by lifetime and cost effective transport, leisure, community and essential services whilst optimising opportunities for environmental enhancement.

Sustainable communities: compact development with a mixture of uses, creating well designed places and spaces which enable close links between where people live, work and enjoy themselves and the services they require. In order to understand and nurture

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

the complex inter-relationship between the activities that help to support a community, the Council is committed to engaging with private, public and voluntary organisations and individuals involved in service delivery and other activities in Purbeck.

Sustainable technologies: building materials and construction methods should help to reduce the depletion of natural resources and the production of greenhouse gases, buildings should have a long life and be flexible and adaptable for potential future uses and renewable energy technologies should be an integral part of new development. New technologies are also helping to bring about changes in the way services are provided, with advancements in communications and media presenting new opportunities.

PO1 PREFERRED OPTION 1: SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT IN PURBECK

TO DELIVER SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT THROUGH:

• THE PROTECTION, CONSERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT OF THE NATURAL AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT;

• THE CREATION OF THRIVING COMMUNITIES;

• ECONOMIC WELLBEING;

• ACCESSIBILITY; AND

• LOCAL DISTINCTIVENESS.

How did we get here?

A considerable amount of information has been published about sustainable development and what this means, as such a great deal of material including national guidance has been considered. The engagement yielded a vast array of comments about what sustainable development might mean in Purbeck as well as quite detailed suggestions about how this can be done, whether this be through consideration of the location of new development, links with employment opportunities or the potential for renewable energy technologies, to name only a few!

Link to spatial objectives

Links to all spatial objectives.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

5. ENVIRONMENT

5.1 Nature conservation, geology and geomorphology

5.1.1 Purbeck has a wealth of habitats of international and national nature conservation importance, supporting an array of flora and fauna. The importance of some of the habitats, including heathland areas and wetland habitats such as Poole Harbour, is recognised in their designation as a Special Protection Areas (SPA’s), Special Areas for Conservation (SAC’s), Ramsar and/or Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI’s). Information on these designations is set out in the ‘Natural Environment’ background paper (see the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk). They are all afforded statutory protection through specific legislation and there is no need to repeat this within the Core Strategy document. All of the designated sites of international and national importance are, however, identified on the Proposals Map that accompanies this document.

5.1.2 The European Habitats Directive requires that, ‘Any plan or project not directly associated with or necessary to the management of the site [SPA’s and SAC’s] but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, shall be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the sites conservation objectives’. Of particular concern in the South East Dorset area is the potential direct and indirect impacts of new development upon heathland sites. In view of such considerations the Regional Assembly are undertaking an Appropriate Assessment in relation to the draft Regional Spatial Strategy. Purbeck District Council will be required to make a similar undertaking prior to the adoption of the Core Strategy. The Council are currently working with adjoining authorities and other organisations to understand and assess the potential impacts associated with new development and consider opportunities for mitigation. The first stage in this is the screening of potential issues and a Screening accompanies this document.

5.1.3 The priority afforded to international and national nature conservation sites can often serve to mask features of local importance – of which there is considerable value in Purbeck. The Council have supported the identification of local Sites of Nature Conservation Importance (SNCI’s) by a panel of experts and these form the basis for a preferred option below.

5.1.4 Local Nature Reserves (LNR’s) can also help to support nature conservation, but also provide opportunities for recreation and education. There are currently two designated Local Nature Reserves in Purbeck; Eight Acres Coppice and Turlin Moor. Because both sites are covered by other designations this non-statutory designation has not been taken forward as a separate preferred option, however, this may have to be reviewed if LNRs are identified as a potential means of mitigation through the Appropriate Assessment.

5.1.5 Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites (RIGs) are designated according to locally developed criteria. They are considered by the Dorset RIGS Group to be the most important places for geology and geomorphology, in terms of scientific and educational interest, outside of any statutorily protected land.

5.1.6 The draft South West Regional Spatial Strategy supports the formulation of Nature Maps, highlighting opportunities for the enhancement of regionally important habitats and / or habitat (re-)creation. There is already considerable activity being undertaken to create and enhance habitats for the benefit of biodiversity generally, or in aid of particular species, in Purbeck. Activities include the pro-active management of SNCI’s, projects

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

undertaken by individual landowners, grant and stewardship schemes for the diversification of agricultural activities, the improvement of grassland in the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the programmes and projects within the Heritage Lottery Scheme, to name but a few!

Key Diagram 1: Nature Map and existing known activities

5.1.7 The regional importance of Purbeck’s habitats is clear, with the majority of the District identified as being within one of seven strategic nature areas. This is stark contrast to the South West Region as a whole, whereby strategic nature areas cover just over 30% of the land area. The strategic nature areas for Purbeck are lowland heath; woodland; coastal and floodplain grazing; neutral grassland; limestone grassland; woodland, acid grass, purple moor grass and rush pasture; and rivers. Each area highlights the opportunity to create or enhance a particular type of habitat. They present a means of trying to co- ordinate the activities that take place within the District, as well as highlighting opportunities for the creation and enhancement of habitat within proposals for new development; for instance, through the incorporation of green corridors, hedgerows, and ponds or, where appropriate, conditions requiring habitat creation / restoration. The identification of the nature areas, also helps to draw in the more detailed work contained within the Dorset Biodiversity Strategy and the Purbeck Biodiversity Action Plan for Purbeck.

5.1.8 It is important to stress that the strategic nature areas are a positive tool for co-ordinating activities, where appropriate securing the retention and enhancement of features of interest, particularly where such features are central to the success of existing activities. They should not, however, be seen as a constraint on development. The Purbeck

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Heritage Strategy has consistently sought to encourage the co-ordination of activities in Purbeck and the Nature Maps are considered to be one way of taking this forward.

5.1.9 Statutory protection is afforded to some of the species in Purbeck through international and national legislation, there is no need to repeat such legislation within the Core Strategy document. Species of local importance are identified within the Dorset Biodiversity Strategy and Biodiversity Action Plan for Purbeck. Once again, it is considered that the Nature Maps present a means of co-ordinating activity for the benefit of locally important species.

5.1.10 Further guidance regarding the use of the Nature Maps in the consideration of planning applications for proposed development may be required as the concept develops. As such, the need for a Supplementary Planning Document on this topic will be kept under review.

PO2 PREFERRED OPTION 2: SITES OF NATURE CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE

TO CONSERVE AND ENHANCE LOCAL SITES OF NATURE CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE (SNCIS), AS SHOWN ON THE PROPOSALS MAP ACCOMPANYING THIS DOCUMENT, FOR THE BENEFIT OF NATURE CONSERVATION.

PO3 PREFERRED OPTION 3: REGIONALLY IMPORTANT GEOLOGICAL AND GEOMORPHOLOGICAL SITES

TO CONSERVE AND ENHANCE REGIONALLY IMPORTANT GEOLOGICAL AND GEOMORPHOLOGICAL SITES FOR THEIR SCIENTIFIC AND EDUCATIONAL INTEREST.

PO4 PREFERRED OPTION 4: STRATEGIC NATURE AREAS

TO CO-ORDINATE EFFORTS TO ENHANCE, LINK AND CREATE HABITATS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE NATURE MAPS, ENSURING THAT DEVELOPMENT RETAINS IMPORTANT OPPORTUNITIES FOR WILDLIFE, INCLUDING GREEN CORRIDORS AND FEATURES OF INTEREST SUCH AS TREES AND PONDS.

5.2 Landscape and the built environment

5.2.1 Purbeck’s landscape and built environment has developed over many centuries through the interaction of natural processes and human activities. To many people, Purbeck’s built environment is characterised by historic towns, dispersed medieval villages, isolated farmsteads, country lanes and ancient monuments. Indeed all of this is true, but Purbeck’s landscape and built environment is far more complex and diverse.

5.2.2 The influence of large estates avoiding fragmentation, agriculture, forestry, mineral extraction and Ministry of Defence activities have had a profound influence in shaping the District’s landscape. But the landscape has not been without change and the impact of agricultural diversification, rise in nature conservation as a land use in its own right and tourism has posed considerable opportunities and challenges in recent years.

5.2.3 The amenity value of the landscape and the need for careful management has long been recognised, with the southern half of Purbeck being designated as part of the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) in 1959. The Council and its partner organisations have helped to guide management practices and development needs through the policies

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

set out in the Dorset AONB Management Plan, the Heritage Strategy ‘Making Purbeck more special’ and successive Development Plan documents. Preferred options relating to the Dorset AONB are set out in section 9 on Swanage and 13 on South Purbeck.

5.2.4 The Council is working in partnership with Dorset County Council and the Dorset AONB to undertake a Landscape Character Assessment of the District, providing a consistent means of describing landscape character. This involves far more than simply an analysis of visual features. It takes into consideration a wide variety of factors, including geology, topography, soil type, land use, field patterns, settlement patterns, cultural influences, historical changes, ecology, ground cover and condition. This will assist in not only describing landscape character areas, but understanding the way the landscape works and its sensitivity to change. On completion, it is envisaged that the landscape description areas will form the basis of a separate Supplementary Planning Document to assist in the interpretation of more detailed Development Control Policies and Site Specific Allocations set out in other Development Plan Documents.

5.2.5 Parts of the District have developed rapidly in recent times. In the north-eastern part of Purbeck, the designation of the South East Dorset Green Belt has helped to restrict urban sprawl and has played an important role in avoiding the coalescence of settlements and in maintaining the historic setting of towns and villages. The creation of Winfrith Technology Centre from the remnants of the UKAEA nuclear research facility and the development of the Holton Heath Trading Estate from the remnants of the cordite factory serve to underline the District’s ability to evolve and rejuvenate. The towns of Swanage, Wareham, and Upton have all seen rapid post war expansion and the villages of Lytchett Matravers, Sandford, Stoborough and Wool have all expanded in more recent times. Constraints upon the outward expansion of existing towns and villages has led to a renewed interest in bringing forward redundant and under-utilised land within built up areas. Opportunities vary considerably across the District, but at its most acute large premises are demolished and the site redeveloped – the recycling of land in this way can be a positive driver in the creation of sustainable communities. New development presents an opportunity to enhance the character and appearance of a neighbourhood and influence the way places and spaces are used. High quality design is clearly a critical component is achieving attractive places and active spaces.

5.2.6 There are 24 Conservation Areas in Purbeck, well over 1,400 Listed Buildings and over 200 Scheduled Ancient Monuments; the collective extent of these designations is fairly far reaching covering a high proportion of the existing building stock. This presents both challenges and opportunities in bringing forward new development through intensification and redevelopment that respects the built heritage of the District and enhances the appearance and character of an area. Detailed Development Control Policies pertaining to development in Conservation Areas, and the alteration / development of a Listed Building and / or effecting the setting of a Listed Building will be set out in other Development Plan Documents.

5.2.7 Design is a ‘cross cutting’ issue which influences a number of preferred options set out in other parts of this document, in particular those under ‘Thriving Communities’ and ‘Economic Wellbeing’. High quality design can enhance the character and appearance of an area, helping to create attractive, vibrant spaces. In turn this can help to deliver safer places and reinforce the vitality of urban areas. High quality design can also encourage energy efficiency through careful layout, orientation and arrangement of windows. A design and access statement will need to accompany planning applications seeking permission for new development, except where this concerns engineering development, change of use providing this doesn’t require operational development or development of

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

an existing dwelling house in some cases. Policies providing detailed design guidance are set out in other Development Plan Documents.

PO5 PREFERRED OPTION 5: LANDSCAPE CHARACTER

TO ENCOURAGE DEVELOPMENT THAT POSITIVELY ENHANCES THE INTRINSIC LANDSCAPE CHARACTER OF AN AREA.

PO6 PREFERRED OPTION 6: DESIGN

DEVELOPMENT SHOULD BE OF A HIGH QUALITY DESIGN THAT RESPECTS THE BUILT HERITAGE OF THE AREA AND ENHANCES THE CHARACTER AND APPEARANCE OF THE DISTRICT. IT SHOULD CREATE VISUAL INTEREST WITHIN THE STREET SCENE AND WHERE APPROPRIATE ENCOURAGE ACTIVE USES AT GROUND FLOOR LEVEL. ALL THE ABOVE WILL BE SUBJECT TO THE MORE DETAILED DEVELOPMENT CONTROL POLICIES SET OUT IN OTHER DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENTS.

5.3 Renewable energy

5.3.1 The Council endorsed the Bournemouth Dorset and Poole Renewable Energy Strategy & Action Plan. The strategy considers the opportunities and constraints for renewable energy in Dorset. It establishes a target for Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole to generate 64-84MW of electricity from renewable resources by 2010 based on research by REgen2010. Furthermore, there is a target for renewable heat (principally through combined heat and power) of 100MW by 2010 and 500MW by 2020. Work on targets for 2020 are ongoing and dependent on improvements in energy efficiency.

5.3.2 Policy RE5 of the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy establishes a policy to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 10% in all new development comprising 10 dwellings / 0.5ha or more, or in the case of commercial development greater than 1000sqm floor space / 1ha or more. It is understood that this threshold has been set in response to the costs involved in calculating the reduction in carbon emissions. However, the Council is conscious of the fact that much of the anticipated development in Purbeck will be small scale, falling below this threshold. Yet small scale development could still have a cumulative impact upon climate change and should contribute towards reducing carbon emissions. In order to offset the significant costs associated with calculating carbon emissions it is proposed that small scale developments, below the RSS threshold, be required to incorporate integrated renewable energy sources to offset electricity generation by 10%. Even this could be difficult for Development Control Officers to verify, check and enforce. It is therefore intended that the submission draft set out precisely what technologies, size and Kwhrs would be deemed to satisfy the requirement based on a typical development. Clearly any developer could exceed this requirement or employ alternative technologies. With respect to the latter, the onus would be on the applicant to demonstrate how the preferred option has been met.

5.3.3 New development should also incorporate sustainable construction and energy efficiency measures, including optimising passive solar gain through orientation and detailed design, reuse of building materials on-site and the incorporation of sustainable drainage systems. Respective policies will be set out in other Development Plan Documents. It should be noted that such policies should complement, but not duplicate changes in building regulations to ensure greater energy efficiency.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

5.3.4 Purbeck is predominantly a rural area and it is considered that energy derived from biomass and wind are likely to have the greatest potential for generation, however, neither are without potential issues. A criteria based policy which supports proposals for renewable energy generation will, therefore, be worked up as part of the Generic Development Control Policies document. The criteria will act as a safeguard to ensure that proposals do not have an unacceptable impact recognising that particular technologies have very different and sometimes unique impacts. Energy recovery from waste derived fuel and landfill may also have some potential. As such any criteria based policy will also have to incorporate sufficient flexibility to allow for future technological advances.

PO7 PREFERRED OPTION 7: INTEGRATED RENEWABLE ENERGY

SMALL SCALE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT MUST INCORPORATE RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION TO PROVIDE FOR AT LEAST 10% OF THE OCCUPANTS, OR POTENTIAL OCCUPANTS ENERGY REQUIREMENTS, BE IT HEAT OR ELECTRICITY, UNLESS IT CAN BE DEMONSTRATED THAT THIS IS IMPRACTICAL OR WOULD IMPOSE EXTRAORDINARY COSTS. THE FOLLOWING ALTERNATIVE FORMS OF PROVISION WILL BE DEEMED TO SATISFY THE REQUIREMENTS OF THIS POLICY:

• SOLAR WATER HEATING; AND / OR • PHOTOVOLTAIC (ELECTRICITY GENERATED BY SOLAR POWER); AND / OR • GROUND SOURCE HEAT PUMP; AND / OR • DOMESTIC WIND TURBINE.

PO8 PREFERRED OPTION 8: RENEWABLE ENERGY

STAND ALONE RENEWABLE ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE WILL BE SUPPORTED WHERE IT IS IN KEEPING WITH THE DISTRICT’S OUTSTANDING ENVIRONMENT.

5.4 Water Resources

5.4.1 Climate change and the reliability of the supply of water is a growing concern and could increasingly become a constraint upon future development. Groundwater provides an important source of water in South East Dorset and it is important that this resource is protected from contamination. The Environment Agency have identified Source Protection Zones in Purbeck, as reflected on the proposals map accompanying this document. However, much water which is treated as drinking water ends up being used for other uses such as watering gardens and flushing toilets. Consideration needs to be given to the incorporation of ‘grey water’ recycling systems and technological advances that reduce the need for water. Sustainable drainage systems frequently offer the opportunity to manage water from surface runoff, helping to reduce contamination and the risk of flooding. The need for a Supplementary Planning Document to support this option will need to be reviewed.

5.4.2 Predicted sea level rises associated with global warming have the potential to change both the landscape and the pattern of land use within the District. It is therefore important not only to try to reduce the impact of planning decisions on climate change, but potentially, that to plan for some of its associated impacts and manage activity within the coastal zone, Poole Harbour and river flood plains.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

5.4.3 The Water Framework Directive is a set of guidelines for managing large bodies of water. Its main aims are to improve water quality while reducing any danger a water body poses, such as flooding. It is also designed to stop the deterioration of wetlands and improve aquatic habitats for wildlife. Once again, there are considerable opportunities to co- ordinate activities for social, economic and environmental benefit. Indeed, much is already underway through: the commencement of work on the Frome and Piddle River Basin Management Plan; the Frome, Piddle and Purbeck Catchment Management Plans; Shoreline Management Plans for Portland Bill to Durlston Head and Poole and Christchurch Bays; Water Level Management Plans; feasibility work on a Wareham Tide Banks Strategy; Poole Harbour Aquatic Management Plan; and the Frome Valley Project being undertaken as part of the Heritage Lottery Scheme.

PO9 PREFERRED OPTION 9: GROUNDWATER SOURCES

TO SAFEGUARD GROUNDWATER SOURCE PROTECTION AREAS, AS IDENTIFIED ON THE PROPOSALS MAP ACCOMPANYING THIS DOCUMENT, TO ASSIST IN SECURING FUTURE WATER SUPPLIES.

PO10 PREFERRED OPTION 10: SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS

TO INCORPORATE SUSTAINABLE DRAINAGE SYSTEMS AND WATER EFFICIENCY MEASURES IN NEW DEVELOPMENT.

PO11 PREFERRED OPTION 11: BODIES OF WATER AND FLOOD RISK AREAS

TO ENSURE THAT BODIES OF WATER AND FLOOD RISK AREAS, AS IDENTIFIED ON THE PROPOSALS MAP ACCOMPANYING THIS DOCUMENT, ARE POSITIVELY MANAGED FOR SOCIAL, ECOMOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFIT, WHILST ENSURING THAT FLOOD RISK TO LIFE AND PROPERTY IS MINIMISED.

5.5 Minerals Extraction

5.5.1 Purbeck contains a wealth of mineral resources, which have been mined, quarried and excavated for many years. Some minerals, such as Ball Clay, are of national significance and can only be found at a few spots in Dorset and Devon. Other minerals, such as sand are more widespread. The quarrying of Purbeck Stone has helped to shape the landscape and distinctive vernacular of many of the villages in the southern part of Purbeck. Quarrying activities remain an integral part of Purbeck’s economy and living heritage. The programmes within the Heritage Lottery Scheme recognise its importance and will help to support its future.

5.5.2 The policies set out in the Bournemouth Dorset and Poole Minerals and Waste Local Plan set out policies for the management of mineral resources. This includes policies promoting the efficient use of resources, such as the re-use and recycling of aggregates on site in redevelopment schemes. The Minerals part of the plan will be replaced by a new Minerals Development Plan Document. This is currently at the early stages of preparation and Purbeck District Council will continue to work with Dorset Council.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO12 PREFERRED OPTION 12: MINERALS EXTRACTION

TO SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE MINERALS POLICIES SET OUT IN THE BOURNEMOUTH DORSET AND POOLE MINERALS AND WASTE LOCAL PLAN AND FUTURE DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENTS. WHERE POLICIES ARE SPECIFIC TO A GEOGRAPHIC AREA WHOLELY OR PARTIALLY WITHIN PURBECK, THIS WILL BE SHOWN ON THE PROPOSALS MAP ACCOMPANYING THIS DOCUMENT.

How did we get here?

The importance of Purbeck’s natural and built environment has long been recognised and its protection, conservation and enhancement have been enshrined in a multitude of different designations, plans and strategies. These are captured in the background paper on the natural environment, which is available for inspection on the Councils website www.purbeck.gov.uk. Local designations, which are empowered through Development Plan Documents, such as SNCIs and RIGS have an established track record and their continuation is entirely consistent with both national and regional guidance.

In formulating the preferred options, it should be acknowledged that there was some debate through the LDF Stakeholder Workshops, about the desirability of identifying additional areas for habitat creation, over and above established designations. This is largely owing to the over-riding impact that nature conservation considerations have had on the District’s economic and social needs. One option would therefore be to ignore the Nature Maps. However, given the level of existing activity, which is largely taken forward through measures other than development, and the clear need for co-ordination, the Nature Maps are considered to be a positive tool.

Preferred options on landscape and the built environment have been derived from the advice set out in national Planning Policy Statements, the comments received during community engagement on the Issues and Options Leaflet and LDF Stakeholder Workshops. The Strategic Environmental Assessment also served to highlight the need for high quality design given the level of development anticipated on previously developed land. Both of the preferred options provide a hook for more detailed Generic Development Control Policies to come forward in other Development Plan Documents.

The principle of preferred options dealing with water resources and in particular water efficiency was highlighted through the responses to the Issues and Options Leaflet and through comments at the LDF Stakeholder Workshops. The preferred options have been worked up by the Council. All but the Sustainable Drainage Systems option seek to build upon existing activities taking place within the District. The preferred option on sustainable drainage systems is premised upon detailed guidance issued by many other local authorities.

National Planning Policy Statements, ministerial statements and the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy all serve to support policies on the integration of renewable energy sources within new development. The principle of such a preferred option and its application to small scale developments was broadly in the responses to the Issues and Options Leaflet and through comments at the LDF Stakeholder Workshops. The preferred option has been worked up through the Dorset Renewable Energy Planning Policy subgroup of the Dorset Energy Group, although at the time of writing it is still the subject of work in progress.

The preferred option on minerals extraction serves to demonstrate the integration between the Core Strategy and minerals policies within the Development Plan.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Link to Spatial objectives

SO1: Protect and enhance the landscape and natural environment of the District. SO2: To create sustainable communities recognising and respecting the diversity in the function and character of Purbeck’s towns, villages and countryside. SO10: Reinforce the vitality and viability of local shops and services in the main towns and larger villages to reduce the need to travel. SO13: Ensure new development and public spaces are of a high quality design that enhances the character of the area. SO14: Encourage renewable energy sources, sustainable construction and sustainable design.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

6. THRIVING COMMUNITIES

6.1 The role of towns and villages in Purbeck

6.1.1 Towns and villages have traditionally been at the hub of community life in Purbeck, providing places for people to live, work and play. A place to live was not just about accommodation, but a place to access essential services, a place to shop and a place to interact with other people. Indeed, these are some of the factors that help to shape our quality of life today and at a time where there is renewed emphasis upon reducing the need to travel, the future vitality and viability of established towns and villages has seldom been more important. Notwithstanding this, it is important to acknowledge that there is great diversity in the way Purbeck’s towns and villages work, as often reflected in their varied character.

6.1.2 The Council have prepared a background paper entitled Settlement Strategy Study, which indicates how Purbeck’s towns and villages relate to the Development Policies put forward in the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy (see the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk). In addition to the identification of ‘market towns’, a number of key villages have been identified on the basis of the mix of local employment opportunities and community facilities therein and the potential to enhance the degree to which they can be regarded as self contained. This is illustrated in key diagram 2, below. The distinctions between different towns and areas are brought out in sections 9-14.

6.1.3 Communities in Purbeck continue to face many challenges that threaten their vitality and viability, including ensuring that housing needs can be met, that employment uses, shops, services and community facilities are all retained and enhanced. The re-use and / or redevelopment of previously developed land in accordance with national planning guidance can assist in making more efficient use of land, particularly in urban areas, creating vibrant, compact settlements that afford access to a range of employment opportunities, shops and services.

PO13 PREFERRED OPTION 13: ROLE OF TOWNS & VILLAGES

TO PROMOTE NEW DEVELOPMENT IN LOCATIONS WHERE THIS WOULD SUPPORT THE ROLE AND FUNCTION OF PURBECK’S TOWNS AND VILLAGES, ENHANCING THEIR SELF CONTAINMENT.

PO14 PREFERRED OPTION 14: PREVIOUSLY DEVELOPED LAND

PREVIOUSLY DEVELOPED LAND AND PREMISES THAT ARE WITHIN OR WELL RELATED TO EXISTING SETTLEMENTS SHOULD BE BROUGHT FORWARD FOR RE-USE AND / OR REDEVELOPMENT PRIOR TO THE RELEASE OF GREEN FIELD SITES. DEVELOPMENT SHOULD ENHANCE THE CHARACTER AND APPEARANCE OF THE AREA AND WILL BE SUBJECT TO THE MORE DETAILED SITE SPECIFIC ALLOCATION AND DEVELOPMENT CONTROL POLICIES SET OUT IN OTHER DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENTS. (CURRENT GOVERNMENT ADVICE IS THAT A SEQUENTIAL APPROACH SHOULD BE APPLIED TO THE RELEASE OF LAND FOR HOUSING SO THAT PREVIOUSLY DEVELOPED LAND WITHIN SETTLEMENTS SHOULD BE USED FIRST AND GREENFIELD SITES SHOULD ONLY BE RELEASED ONCE THIS HAS BEEN EXHAUSTED).

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

6.2 Housing needs

6.2.1 The Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Structure Plan 2001 sets the current requirement for housing provision in Purbeck District at 3,800 new dwellings over the period 1994 – 2011. This provision was made on the basis of a strategic housing allocation at Holton Heath which was subsequently deleted from the Local Plan due to its impact on the highway network and internationally important nature conservation sites. The Local Plan Final Edition 2004 therefore identifies a housing land supply of around 2,340 dwellings over the same period, with a shortfall of 1,460 dwellings on the adopted Structure Plan housing figures. The Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Replacement Structure Deposit (July 2004) required the provision of 1,400 dwellings in Purbeck (90 per annum) over the period April 2001 to March 2016. The Local Plan was considered to be in general conformity with the Replacement Structure Plan, however, the review of the Structure Plan was abandoned owing to the introduction of the new planning system. Non-completion of the remaining stages of the document meant that the Local Plan could not legally be adopted due to non conformity with the housing figures in the adopted Structure Plan of 2001.

6.2.2 Although currently saved under the new planning system, the Structure Plan policy relating to housing supply will be replaced by new housing figures in the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy (when adopted). The draft Regional Spatial Strategy (April 2006) sets an annual average net requirement of 105 dwellings, or total of 2,100 dwellings, for Purbeck District over the period 2006-2026. This will be tested through an Examination in Public in Spring 2007. This is slightly lower than past completion trends for the District which have on average totalled 137 net dwellings per annum over the ten year period since 1996.

6.2.3 A sub-regional Housing Market Assessment of Dorset is being undertaken to determine levels of housing demand and supply, and requirements for future levels of market and affordable housing across the area. Purbeck District is located in the Bournemouth / Christchurch / Poole Housing Market Area, and the assessment will examine the influence of the conurbation on what is a largely rural District. The outcomes of the assessment will also inform decisions on housing provision in the District, for example, the amount and mix of housing to be provided on different types of sites. The assessment will not only provide a wider context to the housing related policies in the Purbeck Core Strategy, but will also inform the preparation of Site Specific Allocation documents and Generic Development Control policies at a later date.

6.2.4 The accommodation needs of the gypsy and travelling community form a further element of the housing need and mix in the District. In accordance with national planning guidance, a Dorset Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Needs Assessment has been undertaken by Anglia Ruskin University on behalf of the Dorset local authorities (report currently in draft form). The study indicates a spatial pattern of need for Gypsy and Traveller pitch numbers at the local level. In Purbeck, a maximum demand for 109 pitches is identified for the period 2006 – 2026. This level of demand is inclusive of peak and seasonal variations, hidden demand from Gypsies and Travellers currently in housing, variations in travelling patterns, and estimated population growth for the Gypsy and Traveller communities. The level of demand could be met from a number of sources according to the particular need identified, for example, temporary site provision could be used to address peak demand arising from particular events attended by the gypsy and travelling communities.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

6.2.5 Further work is required on the number and types of pitches required according to the type of demand. This may require the identification of additional sites, which will be undertaken through the preparation of a Site Specific Allocations document at a later date.

PO15 PREFERRED OPTION 15: HOUSING NUMBERS

TO MEET THE HOUSING REQUIREMENT SET OUT IN THE EMERGING REGIONAL SPATIAL STRATEGY.

PO16 PREFERRED OPTION 16: GYPSY AND TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION

TO MEET THE IDENTIFIED NEED FOR GYPSY AND TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION THROUGH THE ALLOCATION OF NEW SITES (TO BE IDENTIFIED IN A SITE SPECIFIC ALLOCATIONS DOCUMENT AT A LATER DATE).

6.3 Broad location of new housing development

6.3.1 The results of Purbeck District’s Urban Potential Study 2006 (see the Council’s background paper at www.purbeck.gov.uk), together with total outstanding planning permissions at April 2006, indicate that much of the housing requirement set out in the emerging RSS could be accommodated within the main towns and larger villages in the District. However, it is estimated that housing allocations for approximately 350 new dwellings will need to be found to meet the remaining RSS requirement. These 350 will be planned for through the LDF process and will be dealt with through a Site Specific Development Plan Document.

Table 1: Housing Land Supply

Source of Supply Number of Dwellings Urban Potential Swanage 470 Upton 130 Wareham 244 Large Settlements 474 (includes outstanding allocations at 1 April 2006) (as defined in the Purbeck District Local Plan Final Edition 2004) Small Settlements 58 (as defined in the Purbeck District Local Plan Final Edition 2004) Potential From Rural Exception Sites District Wide 14 Outstanding Planning Permissions (at 1 April 2006) District Wide 364 (includes 20% non-implementation discount) New Housing Allocations Broad Locations Identified in Core Strategy 346 TOTAL 2,100

6.3.2 Outstanding planning permissions and outstanding housing allocations (at April 2006), together with a high windfall rate, indicate that the figure of 105 dwellings per annum could be met with relative comfort over the first phase of the RSS period (2006-2016). This may be supplemented through the identification of housing allocations over the latter half of the RSS period (2016-2026) to meet any outstanding requirement. The Core Strategy will establish the broad locations for this future development (see POs17 & 18 below), but the

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

identification of individual housing allocation sites will take place through the preparation of Site Specific Allocation Document at a later date. Such allocated sites will be identified in order to meet local needs and support the vitality and viability of the shops, services and employment provided by those settlements, thereby reducing the need to travel.

6.3.3 The broad locations of search have been identified through an assessment of whether further development within or adjoining the Settlement is feasible and whether there is potential to increase self-containment. This is set out in the background paper entitled Settlement Strategy Study and can be viewed on the Councils website www.purbeck.gov.uk. There is at least some urban potential for additional housing development to come forward within main towns and key villages in Purbeck. In this respect key villages have been identified on the basis of the range of shops, services, community facilities and employment opportunities on offer.

6.3.4 The edge of the main towns and key villages provide an obvious starting point when looking at broad locations for future green field development. However, there are a number of uncertainties arising from the forthcoming schools review, current libraries review, ongoing discussions with English Partnerships regarding future employment growth at Winfrith Technology Centre and objections submitted in respect of the draft Regional Spatial Strategy, that make more detailed estimates about the distribution of green field development difficult. Many of these issues are being addressed, although their timing is beyond the Council’s control. As such, the timescale for the production of the Site Specific Allocations document should be reconsidered and possibly delayed through a review of the Local Development Scheme in order to accommodate potential changes.

6.3.5 Residential development on the edge Upton and Bovington have, however, been discounted owing to the fact that they are both within 400m of a heathland site of European nature conservation importance. Upton is also constrained by the South East Dorset Green Belt, the general extent of which is to be maintained. Lytchett Matravers has also been discounted owing to the fact that it is enveloped by the South East Dorset Green Belt, the general extent of which is to be maintained. Corfe Castle lies within the Dorset AONB and its size and landscape sensitivity are unlikely to yield substantive opportunities for further extension.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Key Diagram 2: Settlement strategy for Purbeck

6.3.6 The towns of Swanage and Wareham are also not without constraints. It is considered that opportunities to enhance the visual appearance of the urban fringe around Swanage through small scale development should be explored. Wareham is currently constrained by the general extent of the South East Dorset Green Belt. Representations regarding the policies set out in the emerging RSS have been submitted to the Panel for consideration at the Examination in Public and any additional flexibility may present an opportunity for limited extension at Wareham.

6.3.7 There is considered to be scope for a small scale extension on the edge of the existing built up area of Bere Regis, providing that this supports, and is accompanied by, the development of the existing employment allocation. However, in considering a number of proposals put forward at the Local Plan Inquiry, the Inspector dismissed sites on the basis of their impact upon the landscape character of the area – hence it is anticipated that the scope for extension is likely to be limited to small scale development. This would serve to support the established range of community facilities within the village.

6.3.8 There is potential to support and enhance the range of shops, services and community facilities through new development within and on the edge of the existing built up area of Wool. Wool has relatively good public transport links (both train and bus services). However, the relationship between Wool and Winfrith Technology Centre is not as direct as their proximity might suggest and local employment remains an issue. The Council consider that Winfrith Technology Centre presents an opportunity to support and grow knowledge based industries and the linkage between Wool, Bovington and Winfrith will be considered through the preparation of an Area Action Plan. This is likely to assist in determining the scale and nature of any extension.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO17 PREFERRED OPTION 17: BROAD LOCATION OF NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT

TO FOCUS NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE THREE MAIN TOWNS OF SWANAGE, UPTON AND WAREHAM, AND LIMITED DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE KEY VILLAGES OF BERE REGIS, CORFE CASTLE, LYTCHETT MATRAVERS, WOOL AND BOVINGTON.

PO18 PREFERRED OPTION 18: AREAS OF SEARCH

THE BROAD AREA OF SEARCH FOR HOUSING ALLOCATIONS (TO BE IDENTIFIED IN A SITE SPECIFIC ALLOCATIONS DOCUMENT AT A LATER DATE) WILL BE ADJACENT TO THE MAIN SETTLEMENTS OF SWANAGE AND WAREHAM, AS WELL AS THE LARGER VILLAGES OF BERE REGIS AND WOOL.

6.4 Housing mix

6.4.1 National planning guidance advises that a balanced mix of housing types, sizes and tenures should be achieved in new housing developments, although this should not just be restricted to affordable housing provision. A balanced mix of market and private rented housing is also needed to meet the needs of all members of the local community, whether through the provision of 1 and 2 bed starter homes, larger family homes, or sheltered and/or supported accommodation for the elderly.

6.4.2 Affordability affects all sectors of the market, however, it is notable that Purbeck has a relatively high proportion of detached larger dwellings. Whilst this housing type is an important component, it does little to aid the supply of either entry level market housing for first time buyers, the trend towards smaller household sizes or the increase in the elderly population – who may prefer smaller accommodation in a highly accessible location should their mobility decline. As such, it is critical that new developments comprise a high proportion (e.g. in excess of 75%) of 1 and 2 bed dwellings (as a mixture of flats and houses) in areas of particular identified need.

6.4.3 A preferred option defining a minimum density requirement on new housing developments will ensure that the efficient use of land will help in meeting local housing needs through the provision of a balanced mix of house types and sizes. A minimum density of 30 dwellings per hectare will be sought in accordance with national planning guidance in Planning Policy Guidance Note 3 on housing, draft Planning Policy Statement 3 on housing and the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy. Higher densities that are appropriate to the specific development location (urban, suburban and rural) will be expected subject to the provisions of Planning Policy Guidance Note 3, its replacement by Planning Policy Statement 3, and the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy. There will be a need to consider the density implications of individual development proposals on a site by site basis, subject to a number of factors including: the characteristics of the area; the mix of uses proposed; accessibility; service provision and high quality design.

6.4.4 The Purbeck District Housing Needs Survey Update 2006 indicates a Land Registry average price for all new dwellings in the District of £231,526 during 2005. The survey also notes the Annual Survey of Hours and Earning (ASHE) 2005 as showing an average income of £26,794 for the County of Dorset. The 2005 Joseph Rowntree Foundation Study Report shows that Purbeck has the 15th highest house price-to-income ratio out of the 350 local authority areas in the country at 5.93 to 1. The 2006 National Housing

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Federation South West Report ‘The South West’s Housing Timebomb’ identifies Purbeck as having the highest house price affordability ratio in the South West. The above figures demonstrate an exceptional level of affordable housing need in the District, which is exacerbated by an annual affordable housing shortfall of 349 units a year (Housing Needs Survey 2006).

6.4.5 The current policy, as set out in the Purbeck Local Plan Final Edition (2004) seeks the provision of between 25% - 35% affordable housing on sites of 5 or more dwellings or 0.2 hectares or more in settlements below 3,000 population, and sites of 15 or more dwellings or 0.6 hectares or more in settlements of 3,000 population and above.

6.4.6 The Affordable Housing Sensitivity Testing Report 2006 (see the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk) indicates that the majority of windfall sites coming forward for development are small in size, and rarely trigger the application of the affordable housing policy. In the Council’s view, the size of sites coming forward for development coupled with the outstanding level of housing need within the District constitute the exceptional circumstances required to lower the site size / dwelling threshold below the level advocated in PPG3. Reducing the site size / dwelling threshold would significantly increase the number affordable dwellings secured through the planning application process.

6.4.7 In view of the level of housing need in the District, the Housing Needs Survey Update 2006 recommends an increase in the proportion of affordable housing negotiated to 40%. The affordable housing policy should also allow for the negotiation of a higher proportion of provision (above 40%) on sites specifically allocated for housing or mixed use developments. Detailed information will be set out in the Site Specific Allocation and Area Action Plan Development Plan Documents at a later date.

6.4.8 Of the proportion of affordable housing secured, the Housing Needs Survey Update 2006 recommends an overall tenure balance of 30% Social Rented Housing and 10% Intermediate Market Housing. Changing demographic patterns in the District indicate a particular need for the provision of small entry level units of 1 and 2 bedrooms which could be provided through a mixture of flats and houses. The size, type and tenure of affordable housing to be negotiated on individual sites should be discussed with the Council’s Housing and Development Control Officers prior to submission of a formal planning application.

6.4.9 Alterations to the current policy would provide a significant increase in the level of affordable housing secured through the planning application process, but could only be achieved subject to site suitability and viability. In addition to the evidence, highlighted in the paragraphs set out above, the Council are also working on a Housing Market Assessment in partnership with adjacent Local Authorities. The Council will be mindful of the findings of the Housing Market Assessment in formulating the submission document. The Council intends to undertake viability testing on the affordable housing preferred option together with other planning obligations and policies steering the type of development e.g. the emphasis on smaller units. This will help to inform the submission document and any future Supplementary Planning Document on Planning Obligations.

6.4.10 Rural exception sites for affordable housing development can be brought forward on the edge of existing village boundaries (with a population of under 3,000), where market housing would not normally be permitted, but where exceptional local need can be demonstrated. Such sites are supported through the current Local Plan and will continue to be brought forward by the means of a ‘rural exceptions sites’ policy in the Core Strategy

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

(PO22 below). This preferred option will also aim to ensure that the affordable housing is retained in perpetuity, with a restriction on the potential ‘stair-casing’ of shared ownership properties. This is an important tool in ensuring that rural villages are able to meet local needs. Whilst the Urban Potential Study estimates a very modest number of new dwellings from this source, it is evident that there are already a number of pipeline sites and site searches being undertaken. It is therefore considered that supply from this source is likely to increase.

6.4.11 Dorset Local Authorities are currently seeking provision from the Department of Communities and Local Government under an ‘enabling measure request’ to extend the application of exception site policies to larger settlements (i.e. with a population greater than 3,000). If successful, it is recommended that the preferred option be amended to incorporate this provision.

PO19 PREFERRED OPTION 19: HOUSING MIX

TO ENSURE THAT NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS ACHIEVE A BALANCED MIX OF DWELLING SIZES, TYPES AND TENURES TO ADDRESS IDENTIFIED LOCAL NEED, IN PARTICULAR THROUGH THE PROVISION OF 1 AND 2 BED UNITS.

PO20 PREFERRED OPTION 20: HOUSING DENSITY

TO ENSURE THAT NEW HOUSING DEVELOPMENTS ACHIEVE AN EFFICIENT USE OF LAND THROUGH A MINIMUM DENSITY REQUIREMENT OF 30 DWELLINGS PER HECTARE. HIGHER DENSITIES OF DEVELOPMENT THAT ARE APPROPRIATE TO THE DEVELOPMENT LOCATION WILL BE ENCOURAGED SUBJECT TO THE PROVISIONS OF THE CURRENT NATIONAL PLANNING GUIDANCE IN PLANNING POLICY GUIDANCE NOTE 3, EMERGING PLANNING POLICY STATEMENT 3, AND THE EMERGING REGIONAL SPATIAL STRATEGY.

PO21 PREFERRED OPTION 21: AFFORDABLE HOUSING

TO NEGOTIATE A PROPORTION OF 40% AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROVISION ON ALL NEW DEVELOPMENTS OF 5 OR MORE DWELLINGS, OR 0.2 HECTARES OR MORE. GENERALLY, A TENURE BALANCE OF 30% SOCIAL RENTED HOUSING AND 10% INTERMEDIATE HOUSING WILL BE SOUGHT, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON THE PROVISION OF 1 AND 2 BED DWELLINGS (FLATS AND HOUSES) TO MEET LOCAL NEED IDENTIFIED THROUGH THE HOUSING NEEDS SURVEY UPDATE 2006; SUBJECT TO THE FINDINGS OF THE HOUSING MARKET ASSESSMENT AND FURTHER VIABILITY WORK. A HIGHER PROPORTION OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING MAY BE NEGOTIATED ON SITE SPECIFIC HOUSING ALLOCATIONS SUBJECT TO SITE SUITABILITY AND VIABILITY, BUT THIS WILL BE DEALT WITH IN A SITE SPECIFIC ALLOCATION DOCUMENT, TO BE PREPARED AT A LATER DATE.

PO22 PREFERRED OPTION 22: RURAL EXCEPTIONS SITES

TO ALLOW FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ADJACENT TO / ADJOINING SETTLEMENT BOUNDARIES, ON SITES WHICH WOULD OTHERWISE BE CONTRARY TO POLICIES FOR GENERAL MARKET HOUSING PROVISION IN RURAL AREAS, TO MEET EXCEPTIONAL LOCAL NEEDS. THE COMPLETION OF A SECTION 106 LEGAL AGREEMENT WILL ENSURE THAT THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING SECURED IS RETAINED IN PERPETUITY, WITH A RESTRICTION ON ‘STAIR-CASING’ OF SHARED EQUITY PROPERTIES OF UP TO 80%.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

6.5 Town Centres and retail development

6.5.1 Swanage and Wareham town centres accommodate a mix of uses, including shops, services, leisure, offices, community facilities and housing. Whilst the exact numbers of those employed in these centres, and their contribution towards the local economy is not known, they provide a sustainable location for employment and are generally well-served by public transport reducing the need to travel.

6.5.2 The critical mass of shopping and other service uses within town centres is a major component of maintaining their vitality and viability. The lively streets of a successful town centre are the result of the concentration of buildings and uses open to the public. Shopping is the main use at ground floor level in such centres, but non-retail uses such as banks, estate agents and restaurants can add to the vitality of the centre by providing a mix of services that can be conveniently combined with shopping. The existence of buildings open later in the evening, such as pubs and restaurants, can also add to a centre’s vitality by encouraging people in to the centre after shops have closed.

6.5.3 Within Purbeck the creation and expansion of retail and other town centre uses will assist in supporting the local economy, and reduce the need for travel to other areas for relatively low order goods and services.

PO23 PREFERRED OPTION 23: TOWN CENTRES AND RETAIL DEVELOPMENT

ENCOURAGE RETAIL DEVELOPMENT WITHIN SWANAGE, UPTON AND WAREHAM WHERE THIS MEETS AN IDENTIFIED NEED AND SERVES TO ENHANCE THE VITALITY AND VIABILITY OF THE TOWN OR LOCAL CENTRE.

PO24 PREFERRED OPTION 24: RETAIL DEVELOPMENT

SUPPORT RETAIL DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE LARGER VILLAGES OF BERE REGIS, BOVINGTON, CORFE CASTLE, LYTCHETT MATRAVERS AND WOOL WHERE THIS MEETS AN IDENTIFIED LOCAL NEED THEREBY REDUCING THE NEED OF LOCAL RESIDENTS TO TRAVEL FOR DAY-TO-DAY GOODS AND SERVICES. RETAIL DEVELOPMENT IN OTHER LOCATIONS WILL BE SUPPORTED WHERE THIS FULFILS OR COMPLEMENTS THE PROVISION OF A COMMUNITY FACILITY.

6.6 Community facilities

6.6.1 Quite apart from the need to have active communities to engage with policymakers, there is ample evidence that activity is a good thing in its own right. People with a wide range of social contacts are less likely to suffer from illness, both physical and mental. Communities are happier and safer places to live if there is a buzz of activity. At its simplest, this brings local people out of their houses and on to the streets and this promotes neighbourliness and reduces isolation. This activity is sometimes referred to as the ‘social capital’ of an area. New residential development can present significant opportunities to enhance the character and function of existing towns and villages. However, it can also bring challenges. In order to avoid social isolation and promote social cohesion it is vital that residents, both current and future, are supported by, and have access to, community services and facilities.

6.6.2 The definition of community facilities embraces a wide range of shops, services and activities provided by a plethora of private, public and voluntary organisations. Depending

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

on the circumstance, it can include: the Councils offices, health and care facilities, emergency services, sport and recreation, dedicated meeting space and clubs, shared meeting space, youth facilities, education and interpretation, arts, libraries and cultural facilities, faith facilities, accommodation for voluntary sector, public houses, banks, cash points, bus routes and transport interchanges, internet access, food store and general store. The background paper on community facilities provides further information on what might constitute a community facility (see the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk).

6.6.3 In recent years some community facilities have struggled to keep a foothold in Purbeck’s towns and villages due to national economic trends and a changing population structure. It is noteworthy that a review of all Purbeck’s schools will be undertaken in 2007 in order to establish how we should respond to falling school roles. This is likely to bring new challenges. Some services are co-ordinated at a higher level; for instance the South East Dorset Primary Care Trust will amalgamate with two neighbouring trusts to form the Dorset Primary Care Trust over the course of this summer. As a result it is possible that the Trusts priorities may change. In a similar vein, a review of the structure of Police Forces is being undertaken, which could potentially affect the use of facilities such as Winfrith headquarters (although decisions have been taken).

6.6.4 The re-use of previously developed land in towns and villages can place additional pressure on established facilities and can exacerbate problems where there are deficiencies. This is particularly so, in the case of open space and recreation. It is, therefore, important that new development serves to support the viability and vitality of existing facilities and provide new facilities where needs would otherwise be unmet. As highlighted in many of the Parish Plans, the management of such facilities is also extremely important to ensure efficient use and genuine access.

6.6.5 The Council commissioned PMP to undertake an audit and assessment of ten categories of open space and recreation in Purbeck in accordance with the national Government guidance. The report published in April 2006 looked at the quantity, quality and accessibility of existing open space and recreation facilities. Standards were then set for the provision of two categories namely outdoor sports pitches and facilities for children and young people (aged 0-8, 8-12, 12+). As highlighted in the interim affordable housing sensitivity report, the majority of new housing development involves the development of small sites for 1-3 dwellings. The relatively small size of sites means that it is not practical, or reasonable, to incorporate public play space or playing pitches within most schemes. However, the cumulative impact of additional residents within some towns and villages can place significant additional demands on certain categories of open space. It would, therefore, be reasonable for new development to make a contribution towards the capital costs of new or improved open spaces in order to meet the needs of occupants. Preferred option 69 sets out what contributions might reasonably be expected and recommends that this be supported by a Supplementary Planning Document. This would provide justification as to the need for, and calculation of, contributions towards open space and recreation.

6.6.6 The Council is also committed to preparing a Recreation Strategy to take forward the findings and recommendations set out in the PMP report. Purbeck District Council owns relatively little land and much of the existing open space is owned and / or managed by Town and Parish Councils. In using any contributions it will be important to ensure that the open space is provided in perpetuity. Funding for capital improvement works has previously been secured from a range of different sources, including grants under the landfill tax credits scheme. Such sources might continue to address existing problems.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

As such, the Recreation Strategy will establish the Councils priorities and approach to co- ordinating / managing open space.

6.6.7 The loss of rural community facilities is very much at the fore with public consultation on the proposed closure of three village libraries namely, Corfe Castle, Lytchett Matravers and Wool, as well as ongoing discussion about the nature, frequency and routing of bus services in the rural parts of the District. As highlighted under the key facts section, accessibility to shops and services is a big issue in many of the rural parts of the District. Clearly there are instances where community facilities are no longer needed or viable. However, the differential between residential values and that of many community facilities can make redevelopment for other uses attractive, even where they are viable. Owing to the benefits outlined in paragraph 6.6.1, essential community facilities should be retained where they are viable and meet an identified local need. In this respect ‘essential’ will be determined in relation to a community’s ability to meet its basic needs.

6.6.8 The age of some built facilities, combined with maintenance and running costs can place a significant burden on the managers / owners of community facilities. In some cases it is evident that this burden has become to much and buildings have fallen into disrepair. Access to funding can pose a significant constraint on a community’s ability to maintain facilities that are fit for purpose, meeting modern day expectations. The Council, along with groups such as Dorset Community Action, have long sought to assist communities in accessing funding streams. However, communities themselves may be able to come up with innovative solutions to provide fit for purpose facilities through mixed use redevelopment and secure the long term future of a facility. This has the potential to make more efficient use of land, provide accessible community spaces and safety by design owing to greater levels of activity and hence should be supported.

6.6.9 Some services are being delivered through more innovative means, whether this be through mobile services, the provision of telephone and web based services or the provision of flexible multi-use facilities. The Council continue to support innovative forms of service provision where this secures continued or extended access.

PO25 PREFERRED OPTION 25: OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION

NEW RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SHOULD BE SUPPORTED BY ADEQUATE OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION FACILITIES IN TERMS OF QUANTITY, QUALITY AND ACCESSIBILITY. PLANNING OBLIGATIONS SHOULD BE USED TO ENSURE THAT THE CUMULATIVE NEEDS ARISING FROM THE OCCUPATION OF SMALL SCALE NEW DEVELOPMENT CAN BE MET.

PO26 PREFERRED OPTION 26: COMMUNITY FACILITIES

TO RETAIN ESTABLISHED COMMUNITY FACILITIES WHERE THEY MEET AN IDENTIFIED LOCAL NEED, AND ENCOURAGE THE PROVISION OF NEW AND ENHANCED COMMUNITY FACILITIES TO MEET IDENTIFIED LOCAL NEEDS THROUGH MIXED USE REDEVELOPMENT

PO27 PREFERRED OPTION 27: ACTIVE RURAL COMMUNITIES

TO PROMOTE FULLY INCLUSIVE AND ACTIVE RURAL COMMUNITIES THAT PROVIDE A PLACE FOR PEOPLE TO LIVE, WORK AND PLAY.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO28 PREFERRED OPTION 28: NEW FORMS OF SERVICE DELIVERY

TO SUPPORT INNOVATIVE FORMS OF SERVICE DELIVERY OUTSIDE OF THE MAIN TOWNS THAT REDUCE THE NEED TO TRAVEL.

How did we get here?

The draft Regional Spatial Strategy applies a hierarchical approach to the broad locations of future development across the region, based on the role and functions of the different cities, towns and villages. The draft RSS also sets out housing figures for the District within the wider context of South East Dorset, the conurbation and the sub-region’s environmental constraints. The background to the RSS settlement strategy and its spatial implications for Purbeck is set out more detail in the Purbeck Settlement Strategy Study (see the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk). Options that have been identified and developed through engagement have been based upon the need to promote new development in locations where it would enhance the role and function of the settlement concerned, thereby increasing self containment of the District’s towns and villages, and also the need to make the most efficient use of land, in particular through the re-use of land within the urban area. This is consistent with national government guidance and both options are supported through the Sustainability Appraisal.

The Council has undertaken an assessment of urban potential within the District to determine the broad location of future housing development in the District in accordance with the RSS figure. The study (see the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk) indicates that the majority of the new development could be accommodated within the built up area of the main towns and larger villages. However, some growth will be required outside the built up areas, and several options concerning the location of this development have been debated through the Purbeck Futures Conference, the Issues and Options Leaflet consultation, and the LDF Stakeholder Workshops. This debate has been informed by the existing evidence base on a wide range of issues including the environment, employment, transportation and community facilities (see the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk). Generally, the consultation has indicated widespread support for the development of sustainable communities that reflect the existing size of settlements, transport and accessibility, the natural environment, housing need, and the requirement for affordable housing provision.

The Issues and Options Leaflet suggested three broad options for future housing development outside of the existing built up areas, including: (1) housing allocations on the edge of the three main settlements; (2) a new or extended settlements, and (3) dispersed growth across towns and selected villages. Feedback on the three options was mixed suggesting that further detail was required for each. Debate at the LDF Stakeholder Workshops took this forward, focusing on the role of Purbeck’s towns and villages. This is mirrored in the Settlement Strategy Study background paper, which has helped to inform the preparation of Preferred Options 17 and 18 for the location of new housing development in Purbeck, including broad areas of search for housing allocations around Bere Regis, Swanage, Wareham and Wool. The Sustainability Appraisal supported the need for more detail, but identified the option of dispersed growth (option 3) as the least sustainable. A number of alternative options were also put forward through the engagement process, but many were not consistent with the policies set out in Regional Planning Guidance for the South West (RPG10) and / or the draft Regional Spatial Strategy. These options are also highlighted in the Settlement Strategy Study background paper, which can be inspected on the Council’s website – www.purbeck.gov.uk.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Significant concern was voiced through the engagement process about the mix of housing types across the District. In particular, whether sufficient priority is afforded to meeting identified local needs, for example, small affordable units and supported / sheltered accommodation. The need for an appropriate mix is supported by the Housing Needs Study Update (see the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk) and has been taken forward as Preferred Option 19. This is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal which notes that current flexibility in relation to the size and type of housing being built across the District is not providing for local need. Although achieving a high density of development within the urban areas was considered to be a key issue in re-using urban land and meeting local housing need, particular concern was expressed over the potential loss of character in some areas of the District. Preferred Option 20 therefore seeks to address the issue of density across the District. The principle of urban intensification is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal and is not in conflict with any of the SA objectives.

A number of options relating to an affordable housing policy were considered both throughout the engagement process. The updated Housing Needs Study and the interim affordable housing sensitivity testing report (see the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk) have served to provide evidence, however, it should be noted that the Council are also preparing a Housing Market Assessment in partnership with adjacent Local Authorities. The Housing Market Assessment will take some time to prepare (initial report anticipated no earlier than December 2006), but the Council will be mindful of its findings when preparing the Submission document. The background papers supported the need to reduce the size of site / dwelling thresholds on which affordable housing is required due to the small size of sites coming forward for development across the District. The housing needs study supported an increase in the proportion of affordable housing secured. The evidence provided in both background papers suggests an exceptional case for lowering the affordable housing thresholds below those currently advocated by national planning guidance. This approach has been widely supported throughout the Issues and Options Leaflet consultation and the LDF Stakeholder Workshops, subject to future viability testing. Preferred Option 21 therefore takes forward both options in the form of a new affordable housing policy option, whilst Preferred Option 22 continues to support the important role played by rural exception sites across the District. The Sustainability Appraisal notes the potential conflict of a rural exception sites policy with sustainability objectives, as despite meeting identified local housing need, such sites are generally dispersed and conflict with the need to reduce travel and minimise energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. However, it is evident that rural exception sites can play an important role in bringing forward housing to meet locally identified needs, as supported in all of the Town and Parish Plans prepared to date. The Sustainability Appraisal does support a lowering of the thresholds for the size of developments that should provide a proportion of affordable housing.

Consideration has been given to the development of key worker housing, however, all of the discussions evidence to date has suggested that the traditional definition of key workers, is unlikely to be appropriate in Purbeck. This is owing to the fact that many public sector employees are relatively well paid in Purbeck. Given the levels of housing coming forward it is considered that prioritising housing for key workers might only serve to skew the supply of the housing market to the detriment of other sectors of the economy.

An attempt was also made to assess whether a case could be made for a local needs only housing policy within the Dorset AONB, tied to primary industries connection with the landscape character and pay levels within this sector. However, it was not possible to obtain substantive evidence on the link between those living and working within the Dorset AONB. Given that there are few opportunities identified for new housing development within the built up areas of the villages within the Dorset AONB, the Exceptions option set out above, may in the event prove more effective.

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The need to retain and enhance Swanage, Upton and Wareham Town Centres came out through the LDF Stakeholder Workshops, although from very different perspectives. Some viewed the existing shopping facilities as poor, explaining that whilst there are a number of shops, many are orientated to the tourist / visitor market rather than meeting local needs. Others considered that the existing town centres have a great deal of vitality, which should be further enhanced. National guidance is set out in PPS6 which is it-self quite prescriptive. Whilst there is no need to repeat national guidance, the policies above seek to identify the main town centres and opportunities for shopping in the towns and villages. In this instance no alternative options were identified.

Community facilities were identified as an important issue through the engagement process, with an emphasis on securing the retention of established facilities, as also reflected in Town and Parish Plans. The Audit and Assessment of Open Space and Recreation and the Community Facilities background Paper establishes the evidence base. Both can be viewed on the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk. In discussions with organisations involved in the delivery of services in Purbeck, including Dorset County Council it became evident that options were relatively limited. Options tended to simply relate to trying to secure new community facilities, maintain existing facilities, supporting alternative forms of delivery or do nothing. The preferred options above seek to enable community facilities and service provision to adapt, yet crucially ensure that services are maintained and enhanced.

Link to Spatial Objectives

SO2: To create sustainable communities recognising and respecting the diversity in the function and character of Purbeck’s towns, villages and countryside. SO3: Meet housing needs of area as defined in the Regional Spatial Strategy. SO4: Support active communities through the provision of new market and affordable housing that meets local needs, in terms of type and tenure. SO5: To prepare for an aging population, including the provision of community and appropriate recreational facilities and supported accommodation. SO10: Reinforce the vitality of the main towns and the viability of local shops and services in the main towns and larger villages to reduce the need to travel. SO12: Encouraging the reuse of previously developed land. SO13: Ensure new development and public spaces are of a high quality design that enhances the character of the area.

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7. ECONOMIC WELLBEING

7.1 The local economy

7.1.1 The first Spatial Objective outlined in the Core Strategy relates to creating sustainable communities, recognising and respecting the diversity in the function and character of Purbeck’s towns, villages and countryside. If this is to be achieved then a balance of land uses must be struck to ensure that Purbeck communities are inclusive and sustainable.

7.1.2 The differential between employment and residential land values in Purbeck, mean that very few new employment sites come forward other than where employment use is safeguarded. Accommodating employment sites, whilst balancing the demand for housing, is a significant challenge that will need to be addressed throughout all aspects of the Local Development Framework.

7.1.3 In rural areas access to a range of employment opportunities is restricted, with public transport provision either too infrequent or not provided for at all and a relatively small pool of local industries, which increases the dependence on using a car. At present, the majority of the existing employment areas (industrial estates) are located in the north-east of the District, particularly in Wareham and Holton Heath. If a reduction in the need to travel is to be achieved, then the provision of accessible employment opportunities is likely to be a core requirement. As highlighted in Section 6, entitled Thriving Communities, new development should be steered towards locations which contain, or could contain, a critical mass of different uses resulting in a high degree of self- containment. However, opportunities for localised employment can also arise from the diversification of traditional industries and should not be discounted.

7.1.4 There is a large disparity between local house prices and average wage levels. A recent study shows that Purbeck has the 15th highest house price-to-income ratio out of the 350 local authority areas in the country at 5.93 to 11. This phenomenon makes it difficult for certain age groups to live, and potentially work, in the District due to the effect of high house prices that are often pitched beyond the earning potential of ‘local’ people.

7.1.5 If this affordability gap is to be bridged then local wage levels will need to be increased. The table below illustrates the significantly lower weekly wage averages in Purbeck, in comparison to those in the rest of Dorset (excluding Bournemouth and Poole), the South West and Great Britain as a whole.

1 The Joseph Rowntree Foundation, 2005

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Table 2: Average Weekly Wage Comparison

7.1.6 The level of Gross Value Added (GVA) per capita in Purbeck is also low by comparison. GVA measures the contribution to the economy of each individual producer, industry or sector in the UK by estimating the value of its outputs (goods and services), less the costs associated with purchases and net spending taxes. Average levels of GVA for Dorset County Council (excluding Bournemouth and Poole) is less than three-quarters of the national average, and the figures for Purbeck which have historically been higher than the County average, have shown a decline in recent years and has now fallen below the DCC average.

7.2 Employment land and premises

7.2.1. The District possesses two locally significant employment sites, namely, Winfrith Technology Centre and the Holton Heath Trading Estate. The former is a prestige centre for research and development industries, and is widely acknowledged to have further potential to promote employment uses that maintain its prestigious character. The latter site provides established industrial units, storage and open-air hard standing facilities, and typically houses some of the District’s largest companies.

7.2.2 There are also a series of smaller employment sites which combine to provide the District with a mix of industrial, storage, and office accommodation which act as facilitation grounds for small to medium sized, predominantly local based businesses.

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Key Diagram 3: Distribution of existing employment areas in Purbeck

7.2.3 There is projected to be around 2,600 more people in the District in 2021 than in 2003, but this growth in population will not see a uniform increase in each demographic bracket. In fact, the forecast shows a decrease of 7% in persons aged 0-19 years, and a 23% decline in persons aged between 30-44 years2. If this forecast is realised it is likely to have a marked impact on the District’s economy, with the latter the main economically active and household forming and moving age group3. This trend is likely to be partly caused and compounded by the high cost of housing in Purbeck, especially when viewed in comparison to average wage levels. This forecast poses difficulties in increasing employment opportunities and achieving an increase in the average levels of Gross Value Added per capita, especially with a decrease in the presence of the main economically active group,

7.2.4 Whilst Purbeck has only a marginally greater level of employment in Tourism than the Dorset, regional and national average, the high level of part-time and seasonal employment associated with this sector, has a disproportionate impact on average wage levels in the District which are now lower than the Dorset, regional, and national averages.

7.2.6 The Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Structure Plan required the identification of sufficient employment land to facilitate the development of 30 hectares for employment activities in Purbeck between 1994 and 2011. However, rates of take-up for un-serviced employment

2 The Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2005) 3 The Joseph Rowntree Foundation (2005)

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land have historically been very low in the District. To date only around one third of this provision has been developed. Whilst employment land supplies have on paper, appeared healthy, some of this lack of ‘take-up’ can be put down to the constraints of phasing and land ownership. However, local commercial agents cite an improvement in the supply of genuinely available land, which has been encouraged by a recent increase in interest in developing employment land in Purbeck driven by a shortage of ‘pipeline’ sites in the conurbation.

7.2.7 The draft Regional Spatial Strategy does not prescribe a quota of employment land to be developed at a District level over the period up to 2026, but defers the identification of need to a sub-regional level. A study by the joint strategic authorities of Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole indicates that around 12 hectares of employment land will need to be developed over the plan period in Purbeck. This requirement for 12 hectares does not necessarily correlate to 12 additional hectares of land beyond that already established in employment use, as some of this figure may be accommodated through the intensification and/or redevelopment of existing sites.

7.2.8 It is anticipated that a majority of the 12 hectare requirement can be accommodated within existing employment areas. At present, there is a potential through live permissions and allocations, together with opportunities for intensification for around 30 hectares to be developed for employment uses. Whilst this figure would appear to service the quantitative employment needs of the District, the geographic dispersal of potential sites is strongly biased to the northeast of the District. Therefore, consideration must be given to the location of new employment development to ensure that access to employment opportunities is enhanced in the future. It is also recognised that a range of sites will be required in order to meet the particular needs of local firms and inward investment.

7.2.9 As discussed above, levels of GVA in Purbeck have shown a negative trend in recent years. The District can no-longer compete economically on cost alone with the production of goods and services abroad often provided at a cheaper rate. Therefore, there is a need to concentrate on providing employment opportunities in ‘sectors’ which yield higher levels of GVA, such as value added, knowledge and technology based industries. The District is also well placed to attract and grow firms involved in environmental knowledge and technology based sectors, allowing them to locate close to their subject matter. The Winfrith Technology Centre is sub-regionally acknowledged as having the potential to provide a higher quantum of knowledge-based employment, and the Council has actively sought to engage English Partnerships, the centres owner, to ensure that this potential is fulfilled.

7.2.10 Whilst English Partnerships have confirmed their intention to more pro-actively market the Winfrith Technology Centre for high-tech and research and development industries in the short-to-medium term, the central remit of English Partnerships is to create sustainable communities. Whilst this is a commendable aim, care must be taken not to prejudice the settlement strategy in the Draft RSS, or to detract from the ability of the site to attract knowledge-based employment opportunities in the future. English Partnerships are currently seeking expressions of interest from a development and funding partner, with whom they wish to explore opportunities for the long term future of the site. This has created some uncertainty, however, the Council hope to address this through the production of an Area Action Plan for Wool, Winfrith and Bovington – see Section 12.

7.2.11 In the future, knowledge and technical skills will be at a premium in an economy which will increasingly have to compete worldwide and which seeks to create advantage through the application of innovation and technology. High level skills and an adaptable approach to

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work and learning will therefore become even more critical issues for Purbeck. The skill needs of employers in Purbeck will also continue to rise in line with technological advances, therefore training needs to be responsive and demand-led. There are no higher education establishments in Purbeck, and only two further education facilities in the form of Lytchett Manor School and Purbeck School. The latter has been designated as a Science Academy and has an obvious potential to forge greater links with knowledge- based employers in the District.

7.2.12 At present only 11% of local jobs over the next decade are likely to require no qualifications4, and with only around a fifth of local (Dorset) employers using local further education colleges to train their staff, the demand to replace the workforce who are approaching the age of retirement will mean that the provision of higher level skills training to meet changing technological needs will be essential, if the situation is to improve5.

7.2.13 The provision of start-up units and serviced business accommodation is pivotal in developing an economy which fosters entrepreneurship and actively encourages the creation of new businesses. At present, 87% of firms in Purbeck are micro-firms (employing fewer than ten employees), which accounts for over a quarter of the total employment in the District. The need for a range of sites in terms of size, quality and location is recognized as a key business consideration for many smaller firms, particularly those which are knowledge based or in the creative sector, and who may not wish to locate on industrial estates. The environment is likely to be a key factor in securing the success of the local economy in Purbeck. It is a positive factor in attracting and retaining a workforce for Purbeck, as many people are prepared, to sacrifice higher wage levels in favour of a better quality of life to a certain extent. Therefore, it is important that the development of employment opportunities in the future does not serve to compromise the natural assets of Purbeck, but instead maximises the benefits associated with a quality natural and built environment.

7.2.14 The MoD also has a strong presence in Purbeck, with facilities in both Bovington and West Lulworth. The MoD has recently undergone a national restructure which has incorporated a review of their land and property portfolio. Defence Estates, the arm of the MoD in control of the land assets has identified the Bovington facility as a ‘core site’ which effectively safeguards its retention for active uses for the medium-to-long-term, together with the ancillary activities in Lulworth. In addition to the retention of existing operations, the Bovington site will also absorb some additional units from those sites identified for release. This will provide a degree of security to those businesses associated directly with the MoD operation in Purbeck, as well as those indirect firms providing services in the local area. The very nature of their operations in Purbeck reflects the dynamism of the MoD and illustrates their need to be responsive to changing requirements in the future.

PO29 PREFERRED OPTION 29: EXISTING EMPLOYMENT AREAS

PROTECT AND ENHANCE EXISTING EMPLOYMENT AREAS, AS IDENTIFIED IN THE ACCOMPANYING PROPOSALS MAP, FOR EMPLOYMENT USES B1 LIGHT INDUSTRIAL, B1 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, B2 GENERAL INDUSTRIAL AND B8 WAREHOUSE AND DISTRIBUTION.

4 Learning Skills Council Strategic Briefings 5 Learning Skills Council Strategic Briefings

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PO30 PREFERRED OPTION 30: NEW EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT

ENCOURAGE NEW EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT OR REDEVELOPMENT FOR EMPLOYMENT PURPOSES IN THE FOLLOWING BROAD LOCATIONS:

• EXISTING EMPLOYMENT AREAS (AS IDENTIFIED ON THE PROPOSALS MAP);

• WITHIN THE THREE MAIN TOWNS OF SWANAGE, UPTON AND WAREHAM; AND

• IN OTHER LOCATIONS THROUGH THE CONVERSION OF REDUNDANT BUILDINGS TO RURAL WORKSPACES WHERE WELL RELATED TO EXISTING SETTLEMENTS.

PO31 PREFERRED OPTION 31: KNOWLEDGE BASED ECONOMY

RETAIN AND SUPPORT THE CREATION OF KNOWLEDGE-BASED EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE HIGH-TECH RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT SECTORS, IN PARTICULAR, THROUGH OPTIMISING THE POTENTIAL OF THE WINFRITH TECHNOLOGY CENTRE.

PO32 PREFERRED OPTION 32: EDUCATION & TRAINING

SUPPORT THE DEVELOPMENT OF FURTHER EDUCATION AND TRAINING FACILITIES WHERE THEY ARE WELL RELATED TO BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES, TO ENHANCE ACCESS TO SKILLS AND TRAINING PROGRAMMES AND REINFORCE THE PHYSICAL LINKS BETWEEN EMPLOYERS AND EDUCATIONAL ESTABLISHMENTS.

PO33 PREFERRED OPTION 33: INCUBATOR UNITS

ENCOURAGE THE PROVISION OF START-UP UNITS, INCUBATOR AND/OR SERVICED EMPLOYMENT ACCOMMODATION AS PART OF A LARGER EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT OR REDEVELOPMENT IN AREAS WHERE AN IDENTIFIED NEED FOR BUSINESS START-UP IS DEMONSTRATED.

7.3 Tourism sector

7.3.1 Much of the tourism industry in Purbeck is premised upon the District’s outstanding natural and built environment, landscape, and seascape, and their inherent opportunities for recreation. The coastline in Purbeck is heavily frequented during the peak summer months, with locations such as Lulworth Cove, Swanage Bay, Durlston and Studland attracting large volumes of visitors for recreational purposes. The District is also host to a number of regional and national visitor attractions, including Corfe Castle, Lulworth Castle, Monkey World, and the Bovington Tank Museum.

7.3.2 Where possible, the ability to access these and other attractions by more sustainable forms of transport, including public transport, should be optimised. In the future, forethought should be given to the location of new attractions, and where preferable these should be co-located close to the tourist accommodation and other associated facilities which are predominantly found in the main tourism towns of Swanage and Wareham. Tourist attractions should also look to meet the needs of modern day tourism.

7.3.3 If the success of tourism in Purbeck is to be sustained in the future then the retention of quality tourist accommodation, including hotels, is likely to play a crucial role. In recent years hotels have been under pressure to convert to other uses such as residential owing

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to the differential in land values, and this can have a heavy impact on the tourism based economy. Statistics show that by targeting short breaks and high income visitors, improving quality, and retaining hotels it is possible to sustain and enhance a more robust tourism industry which yields a greater level of benefits to the local economy.

PO34 PREFERRED OPTION 34: TOURISM & VISITOR ATTRACTIONS

PROTECT AND ENHANCE EXISTING VISITOR AND TOURIST ATTRACTIONS WITHIN THE MAIN TOURIST TOWNS OF SWANAGE, WAREHAM AND OTHER LOCATIONS WELL SERVED, OR WITH THE POTENTIAL TO BE WELL SERVED, BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT. OUTSIDE OF THESE AREAS, ESTABLISHED ATTRACTIONS WILL BE EXPECTED TO SUBMIT A TRAVEL PLAN AS PART OF ANY PROPOSAL FOR (RE)DEVELOPMENT.

PO35 PREFERRED OPTION 35: TOURISM & ACCOMMODATION

PROMOTE PURBECK AS A YEAR ROUND TOURIST DESTINATION THROUGH THE RETENTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF EXISTING HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION, INCLUDING HOTELS, AND THE DEVELOPMENT OF ADDITIONAL HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION IN THE MAIN TOWNS OF SWANAGE AND WAREHAM.

How did we get here?

The draft Regional Spatial Strategy encourages Local Authorities to assess the need for the identification of employment land, sites and premises and the need to review established allocations, sites and premises to ensure they are ‘fit for purpose’. The Council has worked in partnership with adjoining authorities and other partners to assess the quantitative need for employment land in the District. This has been coupled with the completion of stage 1 (taking stock of the existing situation) and stage 2 (creating a picture of future needs) of the Employment Land Review. This involved considerable engagement in its own right and is available as a background paper for inspection on the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk.

The retention of younger people and the need to ensure appropriate employment opportunities has featured heavily throughout the engagement process. Whilst opportunities to secure higher GVA and wage levels through encouraging the development of knowledge based industries was broadly supported, the need to secure a range of employment opportunities including those situated within the main existing employment areas was supported. Policies relating to the knowledge based economy and, in particular, opportunities at Winfrith Technology Centre are considered consistent with the cascade of economic development policies explored in the Employment Land Review.

A number of options concerning the re-use of redundant buildings were considered, including whether the current policy, imposing a hierarchy of affordable housing and holiday lets was preferable. However, the distribution of the main existing employment areas and prospect of diversification encouraged the exploitation of this opportunity in the more rural parts of the District. The Sustainability Appraisal supported the preferred option identified above.

Facilities supporting life long learning were viewed as an incremental part of the economy throughout all of the stages of community engagement. There was widespread support for education, training and up-skilling. In a similar vein, the creation of incubator units attracted early support, recognising the number and needs of small firms that exist with the District.

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Consideration was given to the compatibility of mainstream employment uses and tourism, particularly in terms of their respective environmental impact. Various alternative options emerged through the Issues and Options Leaflet whereby tourism or employment took priority in different parts of the District. However, debate at the LDF Stakeholder Workshops suggested that there was scope for both.

Consideration has also been given to the need for a separate preferred option pertaining to MoD uses, given that Crown Immunity from planning controls is due to cease shortly. However, it is considered that the range and particular nature of the uses undertaken within the established bases is such that it would be more appropriate to assess proposals for development on its merits having regard to material considerations.

Whilst there is relatively little evidence available on the supply, demand and quality of tourist accommodation in Purbeck, the loss of a number of establishments has prompted some concern amongst some organisations and individuals in Swanage and south Purbeck. There is clearly need to maintain a balance between the economic needs, expectations of tourists and visitors and the need for other land uses. The Sustainability Appraisal indicated that the sustainability of the preferred option to retain accommodation hinged very much on the premises concerned, hence the introduction of ‘high quality’ into the option, albeit this will require definition in order to ensure an objective approach.

Link to spatial objectives

SO2: To create sustainable communities recognising and respecting the diversity in the function and character of Purbeck’s towns, villages and countryside. SO6: Meeting the employment needs of the District through the identification of sufficient employment land to meet the needs of local firms and inward investment by making better use of established employment areas and promoting mixed use development within towns and villages. SO7: Increase employment opportunities in higher wage sectors through encouraging innovation and business growth in established sectors of the knowledge based economy, combined with appropriate training and up-skilling for the local workforce. SO8: Promote high quality, sustainable tourism, through the retention of established accommodation and new development that meets modern day needs. SO10: Reinforce the vitality of the main towns and the viability of local shops and services in the main towns and larger villages to reduce the need to travel. SO12: Encouraging the reuse of previously developed land.

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8. ACCESSIBILITY AND TRANSPORTATION

8.1 Introduction

8.1.1 Planning decisions on the location of new development have a particular impact upon the need to travel, determining the accessibility of facilities and creating patterns of travel for future years. It is widely acknowledged that carbon dioxide emissions from traffic are a major contributor to global warming and that other emissions can impact on air quality and health. It is therefore important to locate new development in locations that reduce the need to travel and present opportunities to travel by means other than the private car. Walking and cycling should be promoted, along with public transport.

8.1.2 In looking at the self containment of a particular town or village it is important to understand how it relates with other settlements, as well as the mix of uses and linkages within the town or village. The Regional Spatial Strategy recognises that a key aspect of creating sustainable communities in South East Dorset is reducing the need to travel, particularly commuting. The concentration of employment opportunities within the Poole- Bournemouth conurbation attracts people from outside its built up limits, drawing people from a wider travel to work area. The Strategy discourages new development within the travel to work area which would be likely to generate additional commuter journeys. The travel to work area encompasses the towns of Wareham and Upton, and the villages of Sandford, Organford / Holton Heath, Lytchett Minster and Lytchett Matravers. Whilst Wareham exhibits a degree of self containment, the other settlements are largely dependent upon opportunities within the conurbation. The Local Transport Plan for South East Dorset sets out key policies for the provision of transport infrastructure and programmes of investment for the conurbation and the travel to work area. Such considerations have helped to inform the location of future development as set out in this document.

8.1.3 In a rural setting an individual’s ability to access transportation can have a significant impact on their opportunity to access employment and services, such as training, education or health. Life for those without a car, or those unable to drive, can therefore be very difficult and this can influence life chances. ‘Accessibility mapping’ is being used to provide information on where particular sectors of the community have difficulty in accessing services. The viability of rural public transport services can be difficult to justify, however, the Council will work with Dorset County Council and operators to try and ensure that a network of routes can be maintained. A Local Area Agreement to improve accessibility for people in rural Dorset in the near term is being progressed, however, it should be acknowledged that there are unlikely to be substantial increases in either the number of routes or frequency of services in Purbeck. As stated in Preferred Option PO28, new innovative forms of service delivery can help to reduce the need to travel and will be supported.

8.1.4 The Local Transport Plan for Dorset (excluding South East Dorset) sets out key policies for the provision of transport infrastructure and programmes of investment for much of Purbeck. These are presented under the themes of road safety, accessibility, congestion and pollution, traffic impacts on the environment, economic development and asset management. The area strategy for Purbeck incorporates many of the schemes identified in the Purbeck Transportation Study (see below), including the Swanage Railway reconnection at Wareham, improvements to transport interchanges and implementation of cycle ways between Lytchett Minster and Corfe Castle. The Strategy also endorses the

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dualling of railway between Moreton and Dorchester. Although this improvement is outside of the District it presents an opportunity to improve rail services in the District.

8.1.5 The Purbeck Transportation Study was prepared in response to the steady decline of transportation conditions in the Purbeck area of Dorset and sought to:

• Produce an integrated, multimodal, transport strategy for the Purbeck area which seeks to improve transportation for all users; and

• To re-examine the feasibility and practicality of an A351 Sandford bypass.

8.1.6 The February 2004 study was subject to public consultation and a subsequent report, dated January 2005 put forward a revised schedule of recommended schemes.

8.1.7 The Purbeck Transportation Study notes that the high traffic flows along the A351 at peak hours effectively saturate the route. This has also led to environmental problems of severance, air pollution and noise pollution in Sandford. Whilst an A351 Sandford bypass remains a long term ambition of the Council, as reflected in the Dorset Local Transport Plan 2, there is considerable uncertainty about its deliverability. In the interim, strengthening the A35 / C6 corridor is seen as an alternative option.

8.1.8 The Purbeck Transportation Study was prepared on the basis of the situation at the time of the study, but did not specifically consider the impact of future development. Further modelling work has been undertaken to understand the impact of additional development upon the highway network and in particular the A351. Different scenarios for the location of additional development up to 2026 were tested (see the Transportation background paper on the Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk for further information). The modelling work suggests that development south of the Bakers Arms roundabout has a similar impact upon the highway network, regardless of its precise location. It is evident that additional development, on top of projected traffic growth, would exacerbate the existing traffic problems on the A351. The modelling also shows that the impact of traffic generated by new development up to 2026 on the A351 could be offset by increasing the attraction of vehicles to the A35 / C6 corridor, as well as other measures set out in the Purbeck Transportation Study, including:

• Improvements to the Bakers Arms Roundabout; • A Wool bypass or alternative; • A Bere Regis bypass; • On line improvements for the C6/A35; • Re-connection of the Swanage Railway between Wareham and Swanage; • A Holton Heath Park and Ride service; • Environmental enhancements / traffic management in Sandford.

8.1.9 Detailed studies on the feasibility of these aspects of the Purbeck Transportation Study are either underway or will commence shortly.

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Key Diagram 4: Transportation and movement

8.1.10 Whilst the inclusion of these schemes within the Local Transport Plan 2: Area Strategy for Purbeck is likely to provide some of the funding, contributions from new development will be required in order to secure their implementation and mitigate the impacts associated with the development. The Council will negotiate with developers to secure an appropriate financial contribution, as set out in PO68. It is also intended that a Supplementary Planning Document will be prepared setting out the details of Planning Obligations.

8.1.11 It is important to emphasise the need for an integrated approach to addressing access and transportation issues in Purbeck. Purbeck’s rail station’s, frequently form the basis for transportation interchanges in the District. Good quality design, providing a safe and attractive environment in all new development, is a key component in encouraging walking and cycling. Convenient routes, active frontages, visual interest, layout and choice of surface materials can all play a part.

8.1.12 The Local Transport Plans clearly help to co-ordinate much activity, but there are also other tools at our disposal that can help to influence travel patterns. For instance the incorporation of changing facilities and secure cycle storage in new developments can help to encourage walking and cycling. The production of Travel Plans for all new major development or development that is likely to generate significant levels of vehicle movements can aid our understanding of employees, customers, and / or occupants travel choices. In gaining an understanding of how and why people have adopted a travel pattern it is possible to identify trends and solutions that would provide a genuine choice and support a change in behaviour. For more information on Travel Plans, please refer to

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the Supplementary Planning Guidance on ‘Travel Plans in Dorset’, prepared by Dorset County Council.

PO36 PREFERRED OPTION 36: MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT

SITES WITHIN TOWN CENTRES OR LOCAL CENTRES, OR WHICH ARE WELL RELATED TO PUBLIC TRANSPORT CORRIDORS, SHOULD BE BROUGHT FORWARD FOR MIXED USE DEVELOPMENT IN ORDER TO PROMOTE ACTIVE COMMUNITIES AND REDUCE THE NEED TO TRAVEL.

PO37 PREFERRED OPTION 37: SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT

TO SUPPORT THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN THROUGH MEASURES DESIGNED TO ENCOURAGE THE USE OF ALTERNATIVE MODES OF TRAVEL TO THE CAR, INCLUDING WALKING, CYCLING AND PUBLIC TRANSPORT.

PO38 PREFERRED OPTION 38: TRAFFIC CONGESTION ON THE A351

TO REDUCE CONGESTION ON THE A351 BY STRENGTHENING THE A35/ C6 CORRIDOR AND PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENTS IN SANDFORD, IN TERMS OF SOCIAL COHESION, AIR QUALITY AND NOISE POLLUTION.

PO39 PREFERRED OPTION 39: TRANSPORT INTERCHANGES

TO ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF ESTABLISHED TRANSPORT INTERCHANGES.

PO40 PREFERRED OPTION 40: TRAVEL PLANS

A TRAVEL PLAN WILL BE REQUIRED TO ACCOMPANY ALL PLANNING APPLICATIONS PROPOSING A COMMERCIAL USE WITH A FLOOR SPACE OF 1,000SQM OR MORE; OR

• IN THE CASE OF PROPOSALS FOR OFFICES AND RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT USE, 2,500SQM OR MORE; OR

• IN THE CASE OF LIGHT AND GENERAL INDUSTRIAL, AND WAREHOUSE AND DISTRIBUTION USE, 4,000SQM OR MORE.

OTHER PROPOSED USES THAT GENERATE SIGNIFICANT LEVELS OF TRAVEL DEMAND WILL REQUIRE A TRAVEL PLAN.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

How did we get here?

The broad approach to providing new development that is accessible to shops and services is set out in Regional Planning Guidance 10 and further tightened in the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy. Collectively, this establishes a hierarchical approach to development within settlements in the South West, with Strategically Significant Towns and Cities, such as Bournemouth-Poole, Dorchester, and Weymouth accommodating the majority of new development. Section 6, entitled Thriving Communities, sets out the opportunities for new development in Purbeck as supported by the background paper on settlement strategy. The preferred option encouraging mixed use development in appropriate locations, is considered a natural extension of this.

The initial evidence gathering within the Issues and Options paper, combined with the responses to the Issues and Options Leaflet only served to reaffirm how significant accessibility and transportation is within Purbeck. The Purbeck Transportation Study has helped to capture longstanding issues and explored potential options in depth. This document was the subject of substantive consultation and given that many of the responses through the engagement only served to re-run the various options (in equal measure), the findings are still considered valid. As explained in the supporting text above, additional modelling work has been required in order to gauge the impact of additional future development. This evidence forms the basis for a background paper which can be can be viewed the Councils website: www.purbeck.gov.uk. The findings of the study have largely been carried through into the Local Transport Plan 2 for Dorset. This is a statutory plan in its own right and also forms part of the evidence base – hence the preferred option on Sustainable Transport.

Following the consideration of various options the Purbeck Transport Study recommended that the feasibility of strengthening the A35 / C6 corridor be looked at in order to relieve congestion on the A351 and enable environmental enhancements at Sandford. Whilst this proposal has stimulated a great deal of debate and a wide range of responses through the various stages of community engagement, the other options such as an A351 Sandford bypass or partial tunnelling option are not considered feasible in the foreseeable future owing to their impact upon sites of international nature conservation importance or grounds of extraordinary cost. A do nothing option is also considered unacceptable as this could effectively stifle the prospect of new development to meet local needs within the District.

Transport interchanges present an opportunity to encourage journeys by means other than the private car and opportunities to enhance their appearance and amenity should be seized. Once again this is considered to compliment the policies set out in the Local Transport Plan.

Supplementary guidance on Travel Plans was published by Dorset County Council in 2004. There is clearly an opportunity to take advantage of, and empower, this established mechanism. No other alternative options were considered in this instance.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Link to spatial objectives

SO3: To meet the housing needs of the area as identified in the Regional Spatial Strategy. SO5: To prepare for an aging population, including the provision of community and appropriate recreational facilities and supported accommodation.

SO6: Meeting the employment needs of the District through the identification of sufficient employment land to meet the needs of local firms and inward investment by making better use of established employment areas and promoting mixed use development within towns and villages. SO9: The provision of an integrated transport system to allow movement in and around the District, including tackling congestion on the A351 Wareham – Bakers Arms roundabout. SO10: Reinforce the vitality and viability of local shops and services in the main towns and larger villages to reduce the need to travel. SO11: Support and enable public transport services and interchanges so as to provide access to shops and services, as well as enabling new methods of delivering services in more peripheral rural areas. SO12: Encourage the reuse of previously developed land. SO13: Ensure new development and public spaces are of a high quality design that enhances the character of the area.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

9. SWANAGE

9.1 Introduction

9.1.1 Swanage is a vibrant seaside town which is heavily dependant on the tourism industry. The town contains a range of facilities and services, including health and education services, professional services, community facilities, a range of food, non-food and niche shops, leisure and entertainment facilities, and other attractions. A number of employment opportunities are also provided by the town’s industrial estates, although further economic diversification is being pursued in a bid to reduce the town’s over dependence on tourism. In terms of transportation, a reliance on the car as a main mode of transport reflects the geographically remote location of the town and limited public transport connections. During the peak tourist season, the adverse effects of additional traffic generation and congestion can be experienced on the main route into Swanage, and in and around the town centre. Despite this dependence on the car, 64% of the working population of Swanage live and work in the town, demonstrating high levels of self containment. However, some out migration to the rest of Dorset and the Bournemouth and Poole conurbation is experienced where there is access to a wider choice of employment opportunities, shops, services, and facilities.

9.1.2 A health check of Swanage is currently being undertaken under the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative. Owing to the levels of development anticipated in Swanage and the range of options outlined below, the need for an Area Action Plan for Swanage should be considered through any review of the Local Development Scheme. This would allow for more detailed work including consideration of the findings of the Market and Coastal Towns Initiative.

9.2 Settlement Strategy

9.2.1 The priority for Swanage is to protect and enhance the town as a high quality tourist resort, whilst also encouraging greater diversification in the local economy. The town has high potential for the re-use of previously developed land, and only small scale housing allocations (to be identified in a Site Specific Allocations document at a later date) adjacent to the settlement boundary are envisaged. The provision of affordable housing and the impact of new development on the existing character of the town are also key issues to be addressed through the Core Strategy. New development proposals should seek to build on the existing levels of self containment of the town, thereby ensuring that vitality and viability are maintained, and the need to travel elsewhere is reduced.

9.2.2 The settlement character of Swanage is largely determined by the surrounding landscape, a tight settlement boundary, and a mix of development densities. In accordance with the sequential approach set out in national planning guidance, new housing development should be concentrated on previously developed land within the urban area before the release of small scale green field sites. This will assist in creating a vibrant and compact town which permits easy access to a range of services and opportunities.

9.2.3 Densities are highest in and around the town centre and conservation area. Achieving higher densities of development in these locations will reflect national planning guidance and enable a greater number of people to live within easy walking distance of shops, services, community facilities, employment opportunities and public transport provision. A great deal of work has already been undertaken in respect of the impacts of new

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

development upon the Conservation Area, indeed the extent of this designation and a management plan are currently being reviewed.

9.2.4 Lower densities of development and larger plot sizes characterise the more peripheral areas of the town such as North Swanage and Durlston. These areas have increasingly been subject to residential intensification, predominantly through the redevelopment of hotels and guesthouses for new flats. High levels of intensification can have a detrimental impact on the character of an area. The Council will seek to retain existing character wherever possible, and will require development proposals in such areas to retain a sense of spaciousness and reflect existing density levels. This approach will be supported by detailed development control policies set out in other Development Plan Documents.

PO41 PREFERRED OPTION 41: INTENSIFICATION AND IMPACT ON CHARACTER

TO ENSURE THAT NEW DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS ENHANCE THE CHARACTER OF THE SETTLEMENT IN TERMS OF DESIGN, LAYOUT AND DENSITY, SUBJECT TO MORE DETAILED DEVELOPMENT CONTROL POLICIES SET OUT IN OTHER DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENTS.

9.2.5 Swanage town centre provides a broad range of shops, services and facilities which meet the needs of both the local and visiting populations. Enhancement of the town centre will ensure that existing levels of vitality and viability are maintained, and that the need to travel elsewhere to access services is reduced. Sites that are located within the town centre and are well related to existing public transport connections may be considered suitable for mixed use developments which comprise an element of housing, employment, shops, services and community facilities.

PO42 PREFERRED OPTION 42: ENHANCEMENT OF TOWN CENTRE AS A DISTRICT SHOPPING CENTRE

TO ENHANCE THE TOWN CENTRE AS A DISTRICT SHOPPING CENTRE WHICH IS ABLE TO SUPPORT A BROAD MIX OF SHOPS, SERVICES AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES TO MEET LOCAL AND VISITOR NEEDS.

9.2.6 New development can place significant demands on the existing services and facilities provided in an area. In Swanage, the needs of an increasingly elderly population and demands on existing open space and recreation provision are key issues to be addressed. In particular, an assessment of existing and future needs for open space, sports and recreation provision (see PPG17 Open Space and Recreation Audit at www.purbeck.gov.uk) has identified particular shortfalls in play park facilities, indoor sports facilities and junior playing pitches in Swanage. Individual developments can contribute towards the maintenance, improvement, and provision of such facilities through a planning obligations and contributions framework. The Council will negotiate with developers to secure the provision of such facilities, or a financial contribution towards their provision, as set out in further detail in PO69.

PO43 PREFERRED OPTION 43: COMMUNITY FACILITIES

TO SECURE PLANNING OBLIGATIONS WHICH WILL HELP TO MEET INCREASED DEMAND FOR OPEN SPACE, LEISURE, RECREATION AND COMMUNITY FACILITY PROVISION.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

9.2.7 Whilst the economic importance of the tourism industry in Swanage is noted, it is also considered vital that the economic base of the town is broadened. Diversification of the local economy would reduce the current over reliance on tourism and provide wider employment opportunities thereby reducing the need to travel elsewhere. The Council is working closely with the South West Regional Development Agency to implement the existing employment allocation at Victoria Road, Swanage. The site will provide for a range of employment opportunities in the business (B1), general industrial (B2) and storage and distribution (B8) use classes. The inclusion of starter or ‘nursery’ units for small business will also assist in diversifying the local economy.

PO44 PREFERRED OPTION 44: DIVERSIFICATION OF LOCAL ECONOMY

TO DIVERSIFY THE ECONOMIC BASE OF THE TOWN THROUGH THE PROVISION OF BROADER EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES THAT WILL REDUCE AN OVER RELIANCE ON THE TOURISM INDUSTRY AND INCREASE THE SELF CONTAINMENT OF THE TOWN.

9.2.8 A key priority for Swanage is the enhancement of its role as a tourist resort. The town is the focus of a number of attractions including its beach, pier, diverse heritage, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty landscape, areas of nature conservation, and facilities such as Durlston Country Park. Promotion of the town and its surrounding attractions to a broader range of visitors would allow for an extension of the current tourist season, with a particular focus on short breaks and associated increase in levels of visitor expenditure.

PO45 PREFERRED OPTION 45: PROTECTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF HIGH QUALITY TOURISM

TO PROMOTE SWANAGE AS A YEAR ROUND TOURIST DESTINATION THROUGH THE RETENTION AND ENHANCEMENT OF EXISTING CULTURAL FACILITIES AND NATURAL AND BUILT ASSETS, AND THE PROVISION OF A RANGE OF HOLIDAY ACCOMMODATION, ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES.

9.2.9 The Local Transport Plan notes that the reconnection of the Swanage rail service would contribute to the reduction of congestion on the A351 particularly during the summer months and peak travelling periods. It would also provide an alternative method for accessing the World Heritage Coastline and contribute to a reduction in car use in such an environmentally sensitive area. Swanage Railway station is centrally located in the town centre within easy walking distance of most facilities offered by the town. The station is also a focus for other modes of transport with bus stops, a taxi rank, and cycling facilities located nearby. Reconnection of the Swanage Railway provides an excellent opportunity to enhance the role of the ‘transport interchange’ in this central location.

PO46 PREFERRED OPTION 46: SWANAGE TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE

TO ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF THE ESTABLISHED TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE AT SWANAGE STATION AND SUPPORT THE RE-CONNECTION OF THE SWANAGE BRANCH LINE WITH THE NATIONAL RAIL NETWORK AS AN ALTERNATIVE MODE OF TRANSPORT (AS SET OUT IN THE LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN).

9.2.10 The AONB landscape surrounding Swanage is a key factor that contributes to the character and identity of the town. Areas of inappropriate or poorly designed development along the settlement fringe can cumulatively degrade the quality of the landscape character. However, the redevelopment of, or extensions to such areas can provide an opportunity to enhance the transition between the urban area and the wider landscape.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Small scale urban extensions of high design quality can replace a degraded urban fringe and provided a built development that enhances the character and distinctiveness of both the settlement and the wider landscape. Opportunities for small scale extensions that would serve to enhance the transition between the urban area and the open countryside, and meet identified local housing need will be explored through the preparation of site specific allocation documents.

PO47 PREFERRED OPTION 47: URBAN FRINGE

TO EXPLORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMALL SCALE URBAN EXTENSIONS WHERE THIS WOULD ENHANCE THE VISUAL APPEARANCE OF THE TRANSITION BETWEEN THE URBAN AREA AND OPEN COUNTRYSIDE TO THE BENEFIT OF THE DORSET AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY, AS WELL AS THE VITALITY AND VIABILITY OF THE SHOPS, SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN SWANAGE.

How did we get here?

The draft Regional Spatial Strategy sets out a tiered approach for development across the region which aims to meet the needs of all communities whilst realising the potential of environmental limits. Development should primarily be focused on Strategically Significant Cities and Towns, the nearest to Purbeck being Bournemouth and Poole. Following this, development should focus on ‘market towns’ (and coastal towns) where the scale of development would specifically meet local objectives and increase self containment. Finally, some small scale development may be accommodated in small towns and villages where it relates to identified local housing need and promotes self containment of the settlement.

The Purbeck Futures Conference and consultation on the Issues and Options Leaflet have provided key opportunities to debate the issues and options facing particular areas of the District, in particular development options according the role of individual settlements. The consultation indicates widespread support for the development of sustainable communities that reflect the existing size of settlements, transport and accessibility provision, the natural environment, housing need, and the requirement for affordable housing provision.

The Settlement Strategy Options Background Paper (see the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk) identifies Swanage as a ‘market town’, and the preferred policy options have therefore been developed to reflect a scale of development which would meet local objectives and increase the self containment of the town.

The re-use of previously developed land for new development proposals has generally been supported across the District. High levels of urban intensification are experienced in Swanage, and with an element of potential identified from this source, the role of intensification has been addressed through Preferred Option 41. The importance of urban intensification in meeting housing need is also supported by the Sustainability Appraisal. However, intensification in Swanage has resulted in particular pressures on the settlement character of the town, and this has been supported by feedback received through the Issues and Options Leaflet consultation and the LDF Stakeholder Workshops. Preferred Option 41 therefore aims to address the particular impact of intensification on the character of the town, whilst noting its relative importance in meeting local housing needs.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

The Issues and Options Leaflet suggested three broad options for future housing development in the District, including: (1) housing allocations on the edge of the three main settlements; (2) a new or extended settlements, and (3) dispersed growth across towns and selected villages. Feedback on the three options was mixed suggesting that further detail was required for each. The Sustainability Appraisal supports the need for more detail, but identifies the option of dispersed growth (option 3) as the least sustainable. The South East Dorset Spatial Strategy (as set out in section 4.3 of the draft RSS) does not support new or extended settlements beyond those specifically identified in the Strategy, effectively resulting in the exclusion of option 2 at this stage of the Core Strategy preparation. No further options for housing development in Swanage have been put forward by developers. Option 1 relating to housing allocations on the edge of the settlement boundary has therefore been taken forward as the preferred option for Swanage.

Consultation feedback on affordable housing provision supported the lowering of site size thresholds and encouraging the development of smaller units of accommodation (both supported by the Sustainability Appraisal). Whilst it was recognised that this would significantly increase the amount of affordable housing secured in Swanage, the option has already been addressed through the cross-cutting themes (Preferred Option 21), and it is therefore considered that a further preferred option relating specifically to Swanage is not required.

Particular concerns relating to the potential impact of development on the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty are particularly relevant to Swanage which is surrounded by the designation. In view of Preferred Option 18 relating to the areas of search for new housing development, a specific Preferred Option (PO47) referring to the transition between the urban area and open countryside of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty has been included for Swanage. This is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal which notes the importance for new development proposals to reflect existing townscape and landscape.

Consultation has highlighted support for the development of employment and tourism in Swanage, although the need to broaden the District’s economic base and reduce an over reliance on the tourism industry were identified as key options. Other options that were identified through the consultation as being particularly relevant to Swanage include the need to address the loss of hotel accommodation, the need for adverse weather facilities/ attractions, and the promotion of a wider mix of high quality tourism to encourage visitor spending

Consideration was given to the importance of employment and tourism in Swanage, and although various options looked at which took priority, debate at the LDF Stakeholder Workshops suggested that there was scope for both. Key options that emerged through the Issues and Options Leaflet and the workshops included (1) the need to recognise the important economic role played by the tourism industry and the potential to enhance this by attracting a wider range of visitors and lengthening the tourist season; and (2) the need to diversify the economic base of the town to broaden employment opportunities and reduce over reliance on tourism.

Spatial objectives such as the role of the town centre, the natural environment, the provision of community facilities and transport were considered by many to have been omitted from the Issues and Options Leaflet, despite being key issues faced by Swanage and other settlements across the District. The Sustainability Appraisal also notes the omission of these issues in the summary of recommendations.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Debate during the LDF Stakeholder Workshops suggested the need to enhance the role played by the towns and villages across the District, in particular in terms of shops, services and community facility provision. A particular option suggested for Swanage is the enhancement of the local centre and the provision of a leisure centre which would also serve as an adverse weather attraction for visitors to the town. This is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal which notes that a lack of community facilities can be a problem and hinder the encouragement of active communities.

Finally, a key option for Swanage which has received significant support is the reconnection of the Swanage branch line with the national rail network. This would serve to enhance accessibility to the rest of the District, provide an alternative mode of transport which would reduce traffic congestion, and support the role of Swanage station a key transport interchange which would serve both local residents and visitors to the town. The Sustainability Appraisal indicates that new development proposals should be supported by sustainable transport provisions such as this.

Link to spatial objectives

The preferred policy options for each particular area of the District have been prepared as a detailed response to the particular spatial issues identified for those areas. Whilst there is a direct link between many of the spatial objectives and the area based preferred options, some do not link quite so clearly. However, as the cross-cutting preferred options also apply to each area of the District, it is considered that the area based preferred options do link to each spatial objective, whether directly or indirectly through the cross-cutting options.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

10. UPTON

10.1 Introduction

10.1.1 The settlement of Upton effectively forms the western extent of the Poole – Bournemouth - Christchurch conurbation and joins seamlessly with the administrative boundary of the Borough of Poole. Outward expansion of the settlement is limited by a tightly drawn greenbelt boundary and the restrictions of internationally important nature conservation sites. The settlement is suburban in character with residential development forming the main use. A range of services are provided by the local centre including professional, health and education services, shops, and other community facilities. However, there are relatively few employment opportunities within Upton, with only one existing industrial estate within the settlement boundary, of which half is located within the administrative area of the Borough of Poole. As a result, there are few opportunities for the identification of individual growth sectors in Upton beyond that of existing companies. The proximity of Upton to the conurbation and other employment centres encourages a high degree of out- commuting, most notably to Poole. However, this is supported by good public transport connections in and around Upton, all of which are likely to be strengthened through the identification of the Western Prime Transport Corridor in the South East Dorset Local Plan 2.

10.2 Settlement Strategy

10.2.1 The priority for Upton is to develop an individual sense of place, character and identity through the enhancement of the existing local centre and the provision of a wider range of community facilities. There is some potential for the re-use of previously developed land within the settlement boundary, subject to the impact on surrounding internationally important nature conservation sites. No green field housing land releases are envisaged due to surrounding restrictions such as the Green Belt, floodplain and nature conservation sites (see Green Belt and Natural Environment background paper at www.purbeck.gov.uk). The provision of affordable housing and the impact of new development on the existing settlement character are also key issues to be addressed. New development proposals should seek to improve the self containment of the settlement on a day-to-day basis. Strong geographical links with the conurbation will continue to play a key role, and accessibility by modes of travel other than the car will be encouraged.

10.2.2 Upton’s development as a suburb of Poole rather than a self contained settlement has prevented the development of a defined centre. The settlement’s main facilities are grouped around a central crossroads which has been defined as a local centre, although further shops and services are provided in a small shopping precinct and elsewhere in the settlement. The proximity of Upton to the range of shops and services provided by the conurbation has to some extent limited the development of the local centre. This lack of a central focus remains a key issue in developing a sense of place, character and identity in Upton.

PO48 PREFERRED OPTION 48: SENSE OF PLACE

TO DEVELOP A SENSE OF PLACE, CHARACTER AND IDENTITY, WITH AN EMPHASIS ON THE ENHANCEMENT OF THE EXISTING LOCAL CENTRE.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

10.2.3 The settlement character of Upton is largely determined by its suburban layout and a tight settlement boundary. Densities of development are relatively low with a high number of detached and semi detached houses in extensive gardens. Recent development in Upton has taken the form of residential intensification and the redevelopment of dwellings in the areas of lower density development. Where infill development is proposed, a good design should allow for higher density developments which will enhance the existing character of the area. Such higher density developments reflect national planning guidance and will enable a greater number of people to live within easy walking distance of the shops, services, community facilities, public transport provision and employment opportunities currently provided. Policies providing detailed design guidance on new development proposals are set out in other Development Plan Documents.

PO49 PREFERRED OPTION 49: INTENSIFICATION AND CHARACTER

TO BRING FORWARD SITES WITHIN THE SETTLEMENT BOUNDARY FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT WHERE THE CHARACTER AND FUNCTION OF THE AREA WOULD BE ENHANCED, AND THERE WOULD BE NO ADVERSE IMPACT ON INTERNATIONALLY IMPORTANT NATURE CONSERVATION SITES (IN ACCORDANCE WITH NATIONAL PLANNING GUIDANCE AND REGULATIONS).

10.2.4 Local centres provide a number of shops, services and community facilities to support people’s day to day needs. Centres are often located within walking distance of people’s homes and can reduce the need to travel elsewhere thereby assisting in the creation of compact and self-contained settlements that support active communities. Enhancing the role of the local centre in Upton will help to achieve the aims of PO 48 above, by creating a focus for the local community, and reducing the need to travel out to the conurbation. Mixed use proposals which would improve the vitality and viability of the local centre, whilst also helping to meet the District’s housing needs and reducing the need to travel, will generally be supported.

PO50 PREFERRED OPTION 50: UPTON LOCAL CENTRE

TO ENHANCE THE ROLE OF THE EXISTING LOCAL CENTRE IN PROVIDING FOR A MIX OF SHOPS, SERVICES AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES THAT MEET DAY-TO-DAY LOCAL NEEDS AND REDUCE THE NEED TO TRAVEL.

10.2.5 The proximity of Upton to Poole and Bournemouth, has resulted in the development of strong geographical links and interrelationships as residents travel out to access the wider range of shops, services, facilities and employment opportunities provided. The seamless settlement link between Upton and Hamworthy in the Borough of Poole is strengthened by Blandford Road which connects Lower Hamworthy with Upton by-pass. Regular public transport connections between Upton and Poole Town Centre, via Creekmoor, also serve to enhance the settlement links...The Council will acknowledge the interrelationship between Upton and the Borough of Poole, in particular the potential implications of new development proposals, for example, the Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative.

PO51 PREFERRED OPTION 51: ACCESSIBILITY & TRANSPORTATION

TO ACKNOWLEDGE THE INTERELATIONSHIP BETWEEN UPTON AND THE BOROUGH OF POOLE, INPARTICULAR THE POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS OF NEW DEVELOPMENT PROPOSALS, FOR EXAMPLE, THE POOLE BRIDGE REGENERATION INITIATIVE.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

10.2.6 The settlement boundary of Upton is clearly defined by the extent of the South East Dorset Greenbelt which surrounds the urban area and restricts outward expansion. The adopted Regional Spatial Strategy (RPG10) requires that Green belts should be reviewed. The subsequent review of Green belts in the region, including that for South East Dorset, has taken place as part of the emerging RSS. Consultants acting on behalf of the Regional Assembly have conducted a strategic review of Green Belts and confirmed the importance of retaining a Green Belt in South East Dorset. Policy SR27 of the draft RSS seeks to maintain the general extent of the Green Belt in Purbeck. The general extent of the Green Belt is set out in the Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Structure Plan, but has not been clearly delineated locally owing to the fact that Purbeck District has never adopted a District Wide Local Plan. The Purbeck Local Plan Final Edition provides a starting point for a preliminary review of the detailed boundaries, as set out in the background paper entitled ‘Green Belt Review’ (see Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk) and the accompanying Proposals Map document.

PO52 PREFERRED OPTION 52: DEFINITION OF SETTLEMENT LIMITS

TO CONTAIN THE OUTWARD EXPANSION OF THE SETTLEMENT THROUGH THE FORMULATION OF A GREEN BELT BOUNDARY THAT WILL CHECK THE UNRESTRAINED SPRAWL OF THE BUILT UP AREA, PREVENT NEIGHBOURING TOWNS AND VILLAGES FROM MERGING, SAFEGUARD THE COUNTRYSIDE FROM ENCROACHMENT, AND ASSIST IN URBAN REGENERATION / THE RECYCLING OF DERELICT LAND.

How did we get here?

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

The Settlement Strategy Background Paper (see the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk) identifies as forming part of the Strategically Significant Town of Poole due to the geographical links and strong interrelationships with the adjoining area. However, in terms of the settlement strategy for Purbeck District, Upton is identified as an individual settlement for which individual options have been identified in accordance with community aspirations identified through the issues and options consultation. This approach reflects the area based approach put forward as a Preferred Option in the Borough of Poole Core Strategy (Preferred Option 13), and identifies the role played by local centres in meeting local community needs within the wider spatial context. The preferred policy options have therefore been developed to reflect a scale of development which would meet local objectives and increase the self containment of the settlement on a day- to-day basis, whilst also acknowledging the strong links and interrelationships with the strategically significant town of Poole.

The re-use of previously developed land for new development proposals has generally been supported across the District. Relatively high levels of intensification are experienced in Upton, and with some future potential likely from this source, the role of intensification has been identified through Preferred Option 49. The importance of urban intensification in meeting housing need is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal. However, whilst the consultation events have suggested that intensification in Upton is generally supported, some concern has also been expressed that it should serve to support the function of the settlement and enhance the character of the area. Preferred Option 49 seeks to address each of these concerns, whilst also noting the restrictions on intensification resulting from the proximity of internationally important nature conservation sites.

As already explained for Swanage, the Issues and Options Leaflet suggested three broad options for future housing development in the District, including: (1) housing allocations on the edge of the three main settlements; (2) a new or extended settlements, and (3) dispersed growth across towns and selected villages. Feedback on the three options was mixed suggesting that further detail was required for each. The debate has been expanded further in Upton by developers proposing the option of a major new development known as the ‘Western Sector’ which suggests the creation of a new settlement or series of settlements between Upton and Lytchett Matravers.

However, each option for new development can be excluded in Upton for a variety of reasons. The constraints of Green Belt between Upton and Lytchett Matravers, and the proximity of internationally important nature conservation sites to Upton, together present significant restrictions to small scale extensions on the edge of Upton. The South East Dorset Spatial Strategy (as set out in section 4.3 of the draft RSS) does not support new or extended settlements beyond those specifically identified in the Strategy, resulting in the exclusion of option 2 and the developer led ‘Western Sector’ proposals at this stage of the Core Strategy Preparation. Option 3 which identifies the option of dispersed growth across the District has also been excluded as the least sustainable option as identified through the Sustainability Appraisal.

Consultation feedback on affordable housing provision supported the lowering of site size thresholds and encouraging the development of smaller units of accommodation (both supported by the Sustainability Appraisal). Whilst it was recognised that this would significantly increase the amount of affordable housing secured in Upton, the option has already been addressed through the cross-cutting themes (Preferred Option 21), and it is therefore considered that a further preferred option relating specifically to Wareham is not required.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Particular concerns relating to the potential impact of development on the Green Belt are particularly relevant to Upton which is surrounded by the designation. In view of Preferred Option 18 relating to the broad areas of search for new housing development, a specific Preferred Option (PO52) referring to the definition of settlement limits has been included for Upton. This is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal which notes the importance for new development proposals to reflect existing townscape and landscape.

Consultation on the Issues and Options Leaflet and through the LDF Stakeholder Workshops has suggested that the identity of Upton as an individual settlement is somewhat blurred due to its strong links and interrelationships with the conurbation, in particular the Borough of Poole. This, together with strong support for options that encourage the use of existing community facilities, has identified the need for an options that will serve to develop the sense of place, character and identity in Upton through an emphasis on the enhancement of existing facilities and services provided by the local centre (POs 48 & 50). This approach is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal.

The interrelationships between Upton and the conurbation, in particular the Borough of Poole, were considered to be a key issue in defining the function of Upton. The inclusion of an option acknowledging such links (PO52) was supported through the consultation process.

Link to spatial objectives The preferred policy options for each particular area of the District have been prepared as a detailed response to the particular spatial issues identified for those areas. Whilst there is a direct link between many of the spatial objectives and the area based preferred options, some do not link quite so clearly. However, as the cross-cutting preferred options also apply to each area of the District, it is considered that the area based preferred options do link to each spatial objective, whether directly or indirectly through the cross-cutting options.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

11. WAREHAM

11.1 Introduction

11.1.1 Wareham is an historic market town which provides a range of shops, services and community facilities that serve both the town and surrounding rural area. Its geographically central location serves to enhance its role as a key service centre for the District. This is supported by the presence of the District Council Offices, Purbeck School, Purbeck Sports Centre, Wareham Hospital, court facilities, emergency services and two supermarkets. A high degree of self containment is exhibited, with an estimated 45% of the working population living and working within the town. Good public transport connections by bus and rail provide easy access to and from the town, although reliance on the car as a main mode of transport has resulted in out-commuting to the conurbation where a wider range of shops, services and community facilities can be accessed. The constrained A351 road link between Wareham and the conurbation does however result in congestion and capacity problems during the summer months and peak travelling periods. The settlement boundary of the town is restricted by the surrounding Greenbelt, internationally important conservation sites, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, AONB, Heritage Coast and flood plain. Recent housing development has therefore been restricted to intensification, redevelopment and conversions within the settlement boundary. However, this is supported (and vice-versa) by the employment opportunities provided by industrial estates both within and surrounding Wareham, which accommodate a mix of light industrial, general industrial, and warehouse and distribution uses.

11.2 Settlement Strategy

11.2.1 The priority for Wareham is to enhance the town’s current roles as a shopping, service and employment centre for the District, transport and tourist accommodation hub, and gateway to the Isle of Purbeck and Jurassic Coast. There is some potential for the re-use of previously developed land within the settlement boundary, although small scale housing allocations adjacent to the existing settlement boundary (to be identified in a Site Specific Allocations document at a later date) are envisaged. The provision of affordable housing and the impact of new development on the existing settlement character are also key issues to be addressed. New development proposals should seek to improve the self containment of the settlement and reduce the need to travel. Accessibility by modes of travel other than the car will be encouraged due to the central location of the town and good public transport connections with the rest of the District and the conurbation.

11.2.2 Protecting and enhancing the various roles and function of Wareham will serve to maintain a balanced local economy and reduce dependence on a particular industry.

PO53 PREFERRED OPTION 53: MAINTAINING A BALANCED ECONOMY

TO MAINTAIN A BALANCED ECONOMY BY PROTECTING AND ENHANCING THE TOWN’S ROLE AS A HISTORIC MARKET TOWN, SERVICE AND EMPLOYMENT CENTRE, TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE AND ACCOMMODATION HUB, AND GATEWAY TO THE ISLE OF PURBECK.

11.2.3 The role of Wareham as a historic market town, tourist centre, and local service and economic centre is essential in maintaining the continued vitality and viability of the town. Enhancement of the town centre will ensure that the existing mix of shops, services and

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

community facilities meet the needs of both local residents and visitors to the town. Sites that are located within the town centre and are well related to existing public transport connections may be considered suitable for mixed use developments which comprise an element of housing, employment, shops, services and community facilities.

PO54 PREFFERED OPTION 54: ENHANCEMENT OF THE TOWN CENTRE AS A DISTRICT SHOPPING AND SERVICE CENTRE

TO ENHANCE THE TOWN CENTRE AS A DISTRICT WIDE SHOPPING AND SERVICE CENTRE WHICH IS ABLE TO SUPPORT A WIDE RANGE OF SHOPS, SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES.

11.2.4 A review of the Green Belt boundary around the edge of the built up area of Wareham (as explained in paragraph 10.2.6) will be used to determine whether particular areas of land continue to perform the five main purposes of designation. Areas of land which are identified as not fulfilling the main purposes may be considered in the Council’s broad search for small scale housing allocations on the edge of the main settlements (PO 18).

PO55 PREFERRED OPTION 55: DEFINITION OF SETTLEMENT LIMITS

TO CONTAIN THE OUTWARD EXPANSION OF THE TOWN THROUGH THE FORMULATION OF A GREEN BELT BOUNDARY THAT WILL CHECK UNRESTRAINED SPRAWL, PREVENT NEIGHBOURING TOWNS FROM MERGING, SAFEGUARD THE COUNTRYSIDE FROM ENCROACHMENT, PRESERVE THE SETTING AND SPECIAL CHARACTER OF THE HISTORIC TOWN, AND ASSIST IN URBAN REGENERATION / RECYCLING OF DERELICT LAND. HOWEVER OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMALL SCALE EXTENSION SHOULD BE EXPLORED IN ORDER TO MEET LOCAL NEEDS AND REINFORCE THE VITALITY AND VIABILITY OF SHOPS, SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN WAREHAM.

11.2.5 Wareham’s geographically central location is supported by good transport connections with the rest of the District and the conurbation. Bus routes provide a regular service between Swanage, Wareham, Poole and Bournemouth, and the town’s location on the Weymouth – London Waterloo rail line ensures excellent connections to Dorchester, Weymouth, the conurbation, and beyond. The potential reconnection of the Swanage Branch Line with the national rail network would enhance this role further. The Local Transport Plan notes that the reconnection of the rail service would contribute to the reduction of congestion on the A351 particularly during the summer months and peak travelling periods. Reconnection would also provide an alternative method for improved accessibility to the World Heritage Coastline, contributing to reduced car use in such an environmentally sensitive area. It would also provide an excellent opportunity to develop a ‘transport interchange’ at Wareham station, enhancing the town’s role as a service and employment centre. Wareham railway station is located within easy walking distance of the town centre allowing modes of transport other than the car to be used to access services and facilities. The station is also a focus for other modes of transport with bus stops, a taxi rank, and cycling facilities within the vicinity.

PO56 PREFERRED OPTION 56: WAREHAM TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE

TO ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF THE ESTABLISHED TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE AT WAREHAM STATION AND SUPPORT THE RE-CONNECTION OF THE SWANAGE BRANCH LINE WITH THE NATIONAL RAIL NETWORK AS AN ALTERNATIVE MODE OF TRANSPORT (AS SET OUT IN THE LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN).

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

11.2.6 The importance of Wareham as a tourist destination is supported by the various functions it performs as a historic market and service town, and as a hub for transport connections and tourist accommodation. In addition to acting as a gateway to the Isle of Purbeck and the Jurassic Coast, Wareham has developed as a tourist destination in its own right. Attractions such as a diverse local heritage, the quayside and river, cafes and markets, and outstanding built and natural environments should be enhanced, thereby ensuring extended visits to the town and its immediate surrounds.

PO57 PREFERRED OPTION 57: GATEWAY TO THE ISLE OF PURBECK AND JURASSIC COAST

TO ENHANCE THE TOWN’S ROLE AS A TOURISM AND VISITOR GATEWAY TO THE ISLE OF PURBECK AND JURASSIC COAST THROUGH THE CONSERVATION AND ENHANCEMENT OF LOCAL ATTRACTIONS INCLUDING THE NATURAL AND BUILT LOCAL HERITAGE, MARKETS, RECREATION AND SHOPPING FACILITIES, AND THE PROVISION OF A WIDE RANGE OF ACCOMMODATION.

How did we get here?

The Purbeck Futures Conference and consultation on the Issues and Options Leaflet have provided key opportunities to debate the issues and options facing particular areas of the District, in particular development options according the role of individual settlements. The consultation indicates widespread support for the development of sustainable communities that reflect the existing size of settlements, transport and accessibility, the natural environment, housing need, and the requirement for affordable housing provision.

The Settlement Strategy Background Paper (see the Council’s website at www.purbeck.gov.uk) identifies Wareham as a ‘market town’, and the preferred policy options have therefore been developed to reflect a scale of development which would meet local objectives and increase the self containment of the town.

As already explained for Swanage and Upton, the Issues and Options Leaflet suggested three broad options for future housing development in the District, including: (1) housing allocations on the edge of the three main settlements; (2) a new or extended settlements, and (3) dispersed growth across towns and selected villages. Feedback on the three options was mixed suggesting that further detail was required for each.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

The debate has been expanded further in Wareham by several developers proposing options for future development which vary from small scale extensions along the urban fringe to a large urban extension known as the ‘Worgret Manor’ proposals, and further proposals for small scale developments around the urban fringe of Sandford and Holton Heath. The large scale proposals have been excluded as preferred options at this stage of the Core Strategy preparation as the level of development proposed would significantly exceed the provision of 105 dwellings per annum currently set out in the draft RSS. In addition, the South East Dorset Spatial Strategy (as set out in section 4.3 of the draft RSS) does not support new or extended settlements beyond those specifically identified in the Strategy, excluding option 2 and the developer led ‘Western Sector’ proposals at this stage of the Core Strategy Preparation. The proposal for small scale extensions at Sandford and Holton Heath have also been excluded as Preferred Options as they do not reflect the key aspects of the RSS settlement strategy which seeks to enhance the role and function of market towns, whilst reducing the need to travel and increasing self containment. Option 3 which identifies the option of dispersed growth across the District has been excluded as the least sustainable option identified through the Sustainability Appraisal. The Preferred Option that has been taken forward for development in Wareham is therefore small scale housing allocations on the edge of the settlement, to be identified through the Green Belt review and the preparation of Site Specific Allocation Documents.

Consultation feedback on affordable housing provision supported the lowering of site size thresholds and encouraging the development of smaller units of accommodation (both supported by the Sustainability Appraisal). Whilst it was recognised that this would significantly increase the amount of affordable housing secured in Wareham, the option has already been addressed through the cross-cutting themes (Preferred Option 21), and it is therefore considered that a further preferred option relating specifically to Wareham is not required.

Particular concerns relating to the potential impact of development on the Green Belt are particularly relevant to Wareham which is largely surrounded by the designation. In view of Preferred Option 18 relating to the broad areas of search for new housing development, a specific Preferred Option (PO55) relating to the Green Belt has been included for Wareham. This is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal which notes the importance for new development proposals to reflect existing townscape and landscape.

Consideration was given to the importance of employment and tourism in Wareham, and although various options looked at which took priority, debate at the LDF Stakeholder Workshops suggested that there was scope for both. Key options that emerged through the Issues and Options Leaflet and the workshops included (1) the need to enhance the town’s role as a gateway to the Isle of Purbeck and Jurassic Coast (2) maintain a balanced economy through the protection and enhancement of its existing functions.

Spatial objectives such as the role of the town centre, the natural environment, the provision of community facilities and transport were considered to have been omitted from the Issues and Options Leaflet, despite being key issues faced by Wareham and other settlements across the District. Debate during the LDF Stakeholder workshops suggested the need to enhance the role played by the towns and villages across the District, in particular in terms of shops, services and community facility provision. A particular option suggested for Wareham is the enhancement of the local centre as a District wide shopping and service centre that is able to support the needs of its own population, the surrounding rural area and visitors. This is supported by the results of the Sustainability Appraisal which notes that a lack of community facilities is a problem and is hindering the encouragement of active communities.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

Finally, a key option for Wareham which is spatially linked to Swanage is the reconnection of the Swanage branch line with the national rail network. This would serve to enhance accessibility to the rest of the District, provide an alternative mode of transport which would reduce traffic congestion, and support the role of Wareham station a key transport interchange which would serve both local residents and visitors to the town. The option has received significant support throughout the consultation process and Sustainability Appraisal.

Link to spatial objectives

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

12. WOOL, WINFRITH & BOVINGTON

12.1 Introduction

12.1.1 Wool is a relatively large village that supports a range of shops, services and community facilities which are mainly scattered along Dorchester Road and High Street in two separately defined local centres. The village is located on a strategic road link (A352) between Wareham and Dorchester, and is well served by the Weymouth – London Waterloo rail connection. The A352 experiences congestion and capacity problems during the summer months and at peak travelling periods, although this is exacerbated by the rail level crossing in the village. The relatively central location of the village enables residents to travel westwards to access shops, services community facilities and employment opportunities in Dorchester and Weymouth. Access to the conurbation by car is also easily gained via the C6/A35 route through Bere Regis. The convergence of several strategic road links and the railway in Wool serves to enhance its importance as a key transport interchange in the District.

12.1.2 Located to the north of Wool, the settlement of Bovington was originally developed as the Bovington Camp Ministry of Defence facility. The pockets of residential development now provide a mixture of housing that meets the needs of both a transient army population and a resident population. A range of shops, services and community facilities are provided in the settlement, including a small parade of shops, a purpose built convenience store, first and middle schools, and open space / recreation facilities. However, accessibility to services made difficult by a dispersed pattern of residential development and the restrictions of secure areas. The geographically remote location of Bovington together with poor public transport links limits accessibility to other settlements within and outside the District, including the Bournemouth and Poole conurbation. The range of issues affecting Bovington underlies the higher levels of deprivation experienced in the village in comparison with other settlements in the District.

12.1.3 To the west of Wool lies the Winfrith Technology Centre which accommodates a cluster of Research and Development companies. The Centre fulfils a sub-regional employment role which is accompanied by high levels of in-commuting. However, links between the Technology Centre and the villages of Wool and Bovington are not well established, and both villages therefore experience significantly high levels of out-commuting to employment and training opportunities provided elsewhere. The Wool, Winfrith and Bovington area also includes two sub-regional tourist attractions in the form of Bovington Tank Museum and Monkey World. Potential changes at these attractions, for example the redevelopment of the Tank Museum, are key issues to be acknowledged.

12.2 Settlement Strategy

12.2.1 The priority for the Wool, Winfrith & Bovington area is to prepare an Area Action Plan which will coordinate the sustainable development of the villages in tandem with the development of the Winfrith Technology Centre and the Ministry of Defence Facility at Bovington. The Area Action Plan will address the key links, interactions, and issues affecting the area including access to employment and education opportunities, recreation and community facility provision, transport requirements and connections, the role of tourism, and specific aspects of deprivation.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO58 PREFERRED OPTION 58: WOOL, WINFRITH AND BOVINGTON AREA ACTION PLAN

TO ADDRESS EXISTING ISSUES AND IDENTIFIED AREAS OF CHANGE WITHIN THE RELATIVELY SMALL GEOGRAPHIC AREA OF WOOL, WINFRITH AND BOVINGTON INCLUDING:-

(I) THE MANAGEMENT AND CO-ORDINATION OF KEY CHANGES THAT WILL AFFECT THE AREA; (II) THE LINKAGES AND INTERACTIONS BETWEEN WOOL, BOVINGTON, WINFRITH TECHNOLOGY CENTRE AND THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE CORE FACILITY; (III) OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE ENHANCEMENT OF EXISTING LOCAL CENTRES; (IV) OPPORTUNITIES FOR THE ENHANCEMENT OF EXISTING COMMUNITY FACILITIES; (V) THE IMPORTANCE OF WOOL AS A ROAD AND RAIL TRANSPORT INTERCHANGE; (VI) IMPROVEMENTS TO TRANSPORT LINKS, INCLUDING THE PROPOSED WOOL BY- PASS, OR ALTERNATIVE; (VII) THE SUB-REGIONAL IMPORTANCE OF WINFRITH TECHNOLOGY CENTRE; (VIII) IMPROVED PHYSICAL LINKS BETWEEN EXISTING EDUCATION, SKILLS AND TRAINING FACILITIES IN THE DISTRICT AND THE BUSINESS AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED BY WINFRITH TECHNOLOGY CENTRE; (IX) SPECIFICALLY IDENTIFIED ASPECTS OF DEPRIVATION; (X) THE ENHANCEMENT OF REGIONALLY IMPORTANT TOURIST ATTRACTIONS AND FACILITIES AT BOVINGTON TANK MUSEUM AND MONKEY WORLD; AND (XI) OPTIONS FOR NEW DEVELOPMENT; (XII) ANY OTHER ISSUES THAT MAY ARISE THROUGH THE PREPARATION OF THE EVIDENCE BASE.

How did we get here?

The Purbeck District Council Local Development Scheme identifies the need to prepare an Area Action Plan for the Wool / Winfrith / Bovington area. The role of the AAP will be to co-ordinate the development of the Winfrith technology Centre and plan for the sustainable development of the surrounding communities. The issues to be addressed in the AAP (as set out above) have been identified through the Core Strategy Consultation undertaken so far, a Wool Planning for Real exercise, and the existing evidence base. Options put forward by developers will also be considered through the preparation of this document, for example, potential for mixed use development at Winfrith.

Link to spatial objectives

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

13. SOUTH PURBECK

13.1 Introduction

13.1.1 South Purbeck stretches from Chaldon Herring and West Lulworth in the south west of the District to Studland in the east. The area forms part of the designated Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, with virtually the entire coastline designated as Heritage Coast and World Heritage Jurassic Coast. The exceptional environmental quality and landscape of the area, both in land and on the coast, is enjoyed by residents and visitors alike. Tourism is a key employer in South Purbeck, with attractions such as the historic villages and houses, a distinctive local heritage, and recreation activities including walking, cycling, horse riding and various water sports supporting a viable industry.

13.1.2 The distinctive character of South Purbeck is defined by the diversity of the landscape and a built environment of dispersed Purbeck Stone villages. The village of Corfe Castle is located centrally between Wareham and Swanage, and provides shops, services and community facilities that meet the day-to-day needs of residents and visitors alike. The village is also a key visitor attraction providing a range of niche shops, the historic attraction of Corfe Castle, Swanage Steam Railway, and visitor accommodation.

13.1.3 The unique environmental and landscape character of South Purbeck has attracted inward investment to the area, particularly in relation to tourism. However, the promotion of sustainable businesses, the diversification of traditional industries such as agriculture and fishing, and the promotion of training and skills development aim to broaden its economic base. Key objectives such as these are promoted through the Purbeck Heritage Area Strategy and Heritage Lottery Scheme, and will serve to enhance the distinctive qualities of the area, through for example, the retention of traditional industries such as stone quarrying and masonry, and the development of village workspaces through the conversion of redundant rural buildings.

13.1.4 However, the attractions of the area have resulted in a degree of in-migration which has to a large extent affected traditional structure of rural villages and their communities. Relatively high levels of second home and holiday home ownership in several coastal villages have placed pressure on the local housing market and increased the need for affordable housing provision. The role of rural exception sites in meeting local affordable housing need plays a key role in such locations. Many villages are also suffering from a lack of shop, service and community facility provision as a result of lower levels of demand and a wider range of provision elsewhere. However, lack of accessibility can mean that particular groups such as the young and elderly are forced to move out to larger settlements, resulting in a further decline of rural communities.

13.2 Settlement Strategy

13.2.1 The priority for South Purbeck is to protect and enhance the outstanding landscape and quality of environment of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty through the implementation of the AONB management plan and other designation management plans. The important role played by the Corfe Castle in serving both its’ own population, the surrounding rural area, and visitors will be retained and enhanced to ensure the continued vitality and viability of the village. The role played by smaller villages in supporting active and mixed communities should also be enhanced through the retention of shops, services, and community facilities, and the provision of affordable housing to meet an

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

identified local need. Where appropriate, small scale employment opportunities that promote sustainable tourism and/or encourage the retention of locally distinctive and traditional industries will provide the opportunity to enhance the local economy and reduce out-commuting to larger towns and the conurbation.

PO59 PREFERRED OPTION 59: AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY

TO PRESERVE AND ENHANCE THE LANDSCAPE CHARACTER OF THE DORSET AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DORSET AONB MANAGEMENT PLAN.

PO60 PREFERRED OPTION 60: PURBECK HERITAGE COAST

TO PRESERVE AND ENHANCE THE NATURAL BEAUTY, BIODIVERSITY AND GEOLOGY OF THE PURBECK HERITAGE COAST THROUGH THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PURBECK HERITAGE STRATEGY.

PO61 PREFERRED OPTION 61: THE DORSET AND EAST DEVON WORLD HERITAGE SITE

TO PROTECT THE INTEGRITY OF THE DORSET AND EAST DEVON WORLD HERITAGE SITE.

PO62 PREFERRED OPTION 62: CORFE CASTLE

TO PROTECT AND ENHANCE THE EXISTING SHOPS, SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED BY THE SETTLEMENT OF CORFE CASTLE, REDUCING THE NEED FOR RESIDENTS AND VISITORS TO TRAVEL, AND INCREASING SELF CONTAINMENT.

PO63 PREFERRED OPTION 63: SUSTAINABLE TOURISM AND LOCAL ECONOMY

TO ENHANCE THE LOCAL ECONOMY THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF SMALL RURAL WORKSPACES AND THE PROMOTION OF SUSTAINABLE TOURISM THAT ENCOURAGES THE RETENTION OF LOCALLY DISTINCTIVE AND TRADITIONAL INDUSTRIES SUCH AS FARMING AND PURBECK STONE QUARRYING.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

How did we get here?

The protection and enhancement of the outstanding natural environment in Purbeck has been strongly supported throughout the engagement at the Purbeck Futures Conference, responses to the Issues and Options Leaflet and the LDF Stakeholder Workshops. The area of South Purbeck is almost entirely within the Dorset Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and many responses supported the inclusion of policy options that not only noted the importance of this designation, but also other environmental designations in South Purbeck. This is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal which notes the importance for new development proposals to reflect existing townscape and landscape.

A preferred option identifying Corfe Castle as the main settlement in this area also reflects comments received through the issues and options consultations. The importance of the village in providing local shops, services and facilities that serve both the resident population, surrounding rural areas and visitors was considered in developing Preferred Option 62. This is supported by the results of the Sustainability Appraisal which notes that a lack of community facilities is a problem and is hindering the encouragement of active communities throughout South Purbeck. However, despite the roles and functions provided by the village, constraints around the serve to restrict opportunities for outward extension and the development of housing outside the settlement boundary has not therefore been identified as a Preferred Option.

In relation to the wider area of South Purbeck, consideration was given to the need to enhance the local economy, in particular through the re-use of redundant buildings and the promotion of sustainable tourism that supports locally distinctive industries. The wide distribution of existing employment areas and potential for diversification in rural areas were key issues discussed through the LDF Stakeholder Workshops. In terms of options available, it was generally considered that the opportunity to enhance the local economy in rural areas should be supported, both through employment and tourism. The Sustainability Appraisal notes the opportunities and pressures of both options.

Link to spatial objectives

The preferred policy options for each particular area of the District have been prepared as a detailed response to the particular spatial issues identified for those areas. As the cross-cutting preferred options also apply to each area of the District, it is considered that the area based preferred options link to all of the spatial objectives, whether directly or indirectly through the cross-cutting options.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

14. MID-NORTH PURBECK

14.1 Introduction

14.1.1 The area of Mid-North Purbeck is characterised by a diverse range of activities that have shaped the landscape, including forestry, MoD ranges, agriculture, leisure and nature conservation. There is a mix of, villages aligned along transport corridors (such as along the A351), more isolated hamlets aligned along the Piddle Valley and the larger villages of Bere Regis, Bovington, Lytchett Matravers and Wool. The larger villages act as a hub for their immediate rural areas, providing a range of essential community services, such as schools, doctor’s surgery’s and a limited range of shops. Bovington and Wool are considered in Section 12. Bere Regis and Lytchett Matravers lie at opposite ends of the District and function in very different ways.

14.1.2 The proximity of Lytchett Matravers to the Bournemouth and Poole conurbation, and employment opportunities to the North of Wareham, means that levels of self containment in the village are relatively low. However, a number of shops, services and community facilities are provided by the local centre, which together with good schools provides significant opportunity for increased self containment.

14.1.3 The location of Bere Regis on a key transport node allows equally easy access by road to Dorchester, Blandford and East Dorset as it does to the conurbation, Wareham and Wool. Although the village has a local centre, the level of shops, services and community facilities provided are generally low. This, together with a lack of local employment opportunities, encourages out-commuting from the village, which experiences low levels of self containment as a result.

14.1.4 The South East Dorset Green Belt extends over the majority of mid-north Purbeck, surrounding the villages of Holton Heath, Lytchett Matravers, Lytchett Minster, Sanford and up to the eastern edge of Bere Regis. Its southern extent reaches just south of Wareham. The extent of the Green Belt together with the impact of other environmental designations has generally ensured the retention of an open landscape character which is enhanced further through the presence of the Forestry Commission and Ministry of Defence. As explained for the settlements of Wareham and Upton, a preliminary review of the Green Belt in the District has been undertaken as set out in the background paper entitled ‘Green Belt Review’ (see Council’s website www.purbeck.gov.uk) and the accompanying proposals map. The review assesses whether the five main purposes of Green Belt are being fulfilled on an area by area basis, with a particular emphasis on the urban fringe. Areas of land that are identified as not fulfilling the main purposes of Green Belt may be removed from the designation through the preparation of a future site specific document. The review also identifies areas of land where additions to the Green Belt would serve to strengthen the role played by the designation.

14.1.5 The economy of mid-north Purbeck is centred around the Strategically Significant Towns of Bournemouth, Poole and Dorchester, as well as the town of Wareham, Ministry of Defence facilities at Bovington, Holton Heath Trading Estate and other small scale business opportunities. Few employment opportunities are provided by the main villages of Bere Regis and Lytchett Matravers, albeit there is an existing employment area and allocation at Bere Regis. Both settlements exhibit a high level of out commuting to the conurbation and larger towns in Purbeck and other District’s. Opportunities to enhance the local economy through small scale proposals should be supported, in particular where they do not adversely impact on the quality of the environment and landscape of the area.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

14.1.6 Transport and access to services are key issues affecting the mid-north of Purbeck. Chapter 8 on accessibility notes the key issues and options considered by the Purbeck Transportation Study in relation to saturation of the A351 in Sandford at peak travelling hours. Strengthening of the A35/C6 corridor between the Bakers Arms roundabout, Bere Regis and Wool could offset some of this traffic. Other measures suggested by the Purbeck transportation Study, include improvements to the Bakers Arms roundabout, a Bere Regis bypass, a Wool bypass or alternative, and environmental enhancements in Sandford.

14.2 Settlement Strategy

14.2.1 The priority for Mid-North Purbeck is to retain and enhance the role played by the settlements of Lytchett Matravers and Bere Regis both in serving their own populations, and the surrounding rural areas. Each village should form a focus for community life, through enhancements to their local centres and the provision of shops, services and community facilities to meet day-to-day needs. Where appropriate, small scale employment opportunities that meet identified local needs will provide the opportunity to enhance the local economy and reduce out-commuting to larger towns and the conurbation. Future residential development to meet identified local need should be primarily concentrated on previously developed land within the settlement boundaries. The extent of the Green Belt designation around Lytchett Matravers is unlikely to allow for any future extensions to the settlement. However, there may be some scope for small scale extensions on the edge of the urban area of Bere Regis.

14.2.2 A review of the Green Belt boundary around the edge of the built up areas of settlements in mid-north Purbeck (as explained in paragraph 10.7.6) will be used to determine whether particular areas of land continue to perform the five main purposes of designation. Areas of land which are identified as not fulfilling the main purposes may be considered in the Council’s broad search for small scale housing allocations on the edge of the main settlements (PO18).

PO64 PREFERRED OPTION 64: BERE REGIS

TO ENHANCE EXISTING SHOPS, SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED IN BERE REGIS, SUPPORTED BY NEW DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE BUILT UP AREA AND EXPLORE THE OPPORTUNITY FOR A SMALL SCALE EXTENSION ON THE EDGE OF BERE REGIS, SUBJECT TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE EXISTING EMPLOYMENT ALLOCATION. EXTENSION OF THE BUILT UP AREA ALONG THE EASTERN EDGE OF THE SETTLEMENT IS CONSTRAINED BY THE EXTENT OF THE SOUTH EAST DORSET GREENBELT.

PO65 PREFERRED OPTION 65: LYTCHETT MATRAVERS

TO ENHANCE EXISTING SHOPS, SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES PROVIDED IN LYTCHETT MATRAVERS, SUPPORTED BY NEW DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE BUILT UP AREA, REDUCING THE NEED TO TRAVEL AND INCREASING SELF CONTAINMENT. EXTENSION OF THE BUILT UP AREA OF LYTCHETT MATRAVERS IS CONSTRAINED BY THE EXTENT OF THE SOUTH EAST DORSET GREEN BELT.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO66 PREFERRED OPTION 66: GREEN BELT

TO MAINTAIN THE GENERAL EXTENT OF THE SOUTH EAST DORSET GREEN BELT THROUGH THE FORMULATION OF A GREEN BELT BOUNDARY THAT WILL PREVENT NEIGHBOURING TOWNS FROM MERGING AND SAFEGUARD THE COUNTRYSIDE FROM ENCROACHMENT. HOWEVER OPPORTUNITIES FOR SMALL SCALE EXTENSION SHOULD BE EXPLORED IN ORDER TO MEET LOCAL NEEDS AND REINFORCE THE VITALITY AND VIABILITY OF SHOPS, SERVICES, COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES IN THE AREA’S SETTLEMENTS.

PO67 PREFERRED OPTION 67: LOCAL ECONOMY

TO ENHANCE THE LOCAL ECONOMY THROUGH THE DEVELOPMENT OF SMALL SCALE ECONOMIC OPPORTUNITIES THAT MAINTAIN AND ENHANCE THE QUALITY OF THE ENVIRONMENT AND LANDSCAPE.

PO68 PREFERRED OPTION 68: ACCESSIBILITY AND TRANSPORTATION

TO IMPROVE ACCESSIBILITY THROUGH IMPROVEMENTS TO EXISTING TRANSPORT CONNECTIONS AS IDENTIFIED IN THE PURBECK TRANSPORTATION STUDY AND LOCAL TRANSPORT PLAN, INCLUDING THE POTENTIAL IMPLEMENTATION OF A BERE REGIS BY-PASS, STRENGTHENING OF THE A35 /C6 CORRIDOR, IMPROVEMENTS TO THE BAKERS ARMS ROUNDABOUT, ENVIRONMENTAL ENHANCEMENTS IN SANDFORD, AND A WOOL BYPASS OR ALTERNATIVE.

How did we get here?

A preferred option identifying Lytchett Matravers and Bere Regis as the main settlements in the mid-north area of Purbeck also reflects comments received through the issues and options consultations. The importance of the villages in providing local shops, services and facilities that serve both the resident populations and surrounding rural areas were considered in developing Preferred Options 64 & 65. This is supported by the results of the Sustainability Appraisal which notes that a lack of community facilities is a problem and is hindering the encouragement of active communities.

Despite the wide role and function of Lytchett Matravers, the constraint of Green Belt surrounding the settlement prevents it meeting the criteria of Development Policy C in the draft RSS, and the development of housing outside the settlement boundary has not therefore been identified as a Preferred Option. The role and function of Bere Regis coupled with less constraints, and its appropriateness in meeting the criteria of Development Policy C in the draft RSS, suggest that it would be appropriate for small amounts of development that meet identified local need. Preferred Option 66 relating to the formulation of a Green Belt boundary reflects the need for some flexibility in identifying such sites, in particular on the eastern edge of the village which is constrained in some locations by the Green Belt. This is supported by the Sustainability Appraisal which notes the importance for new development proposals to reflect existing townscape and landscape.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

As in the case of South Purbeck, consideration was given to the need to enhance the local economy in mid-north Purbeck, particularly through the re-use of redundant buildings and the promotion of small scale economic opportunities. The wide distribution of existing employment areas and potential for diversification in rural areas were key issues discussed through the LDF Stakeholder Workshops. In terms of options available, it was generally considered that the opportunity to enhance the local economy in rural areas should be supported, although the Sustainability Appraisal does note the need for the existing townscape and landscape to be respected, and the encouragement of provision on existing transport corridors.

As explained in the accessibility section (section 8), the initial evidence gathering within the ‘issues paper’, combined with the responses to the Issues and Options Leaflet reaffirm how significant accessibility and transportation is within Purbeck. The Purbeck Transportation Study considers the various options that would relieve congestion in mid-north Purbeck, in particular the strengthening of the A35/C6 corridor to relieve congestion on the A351, a Bere Regis bypass and a Wool bypass or alternative. These options have been taken forward as the preferred option for transport and accessibility in mid-north Purbeck.

Link to spatial objectives

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

15. PLANNING OBLIGATIONS

15.1 Introduction

15.1.1 Circular 5/2005 sets out Government guidance on the use of planning obligations under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as substituted by the Planning and Compensation Act 1991. Planning obligations or Section 106 legal agreements can be negotiated between a local planning authority and developer, as well as any other party with an interest in the land, to make a development which would otherwise be unacceptable, acceptable in planning terms.

15.1.2 Circular 5/2005 advises when an obligation can be used, for example, to prescribe the nature of a development (e.g. the proportion and type of affordable housing required), compensate for loss or damage resulting from a development (e.g. loss of open space), or mitigate a development’s impact (e.g. public transport provision). Obligations can be used on any size and type of development but must meet five key policy tests in their use, namely:

(i) relevant to planning; (ii) necessary to make the proposed development accessible in planning terms; (iii) directly related to the proposed development; (iv) fairly and reasonably related in scale and kind to the proposed development; (v) reasonable in all other respects.

15.1.3 The provision of affordable housing on new housing developments is normally secured through the completion of a Section 106 Legal Agreement. It should also be stressed that planning obligations should not be used to offset revenue costs that are delivered through established funding streams such as taxation.

15.1.4 The planning obligations system is currently being reviewed by Government. The Government is looking at the introduction of a Planning Gain Supplement or tariff based system in view of the Barker Reviews Final Report recommendations. The Planning Gain Supplement would completely replace the means of assessing and calculating planning obligations that involve a financial contribution.

15.1.5 In the interests of clarity and transparency, the Council hope to progress a Supplementary Planning Document setting out the details of Planning Obligations, particularly those that involve a financial contribution and could potentially be calculated through a formulae based approach, such as open space and recreation. Such an approach is also considered necessary in order to address the cumulative impacts of small scale development, as anticipated to come forward in Purbeck. In progressing, the Core Strategy the Council intend to undertake financial viability modelling work to assess whether the level of contributions required for different types of development would be bearable. This will help to underpin the strategy set out in this document and any subsequent Supplementary Planning Document. In addition to the planning obligations set out in the preferred option below, this will also have to consider the additional costs associated with other options, such as the integration of renewable energy sources and sustainable drainage systems.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO69 PREFERRED OPTION 69: PLANNING OBLIGATIONS

TO DEVELOP A PLANNING OBLIGATIONS FRAMEWORK TO SECURE:

• MITIGATION MEASURES IDENTIFIED AS PART OF THE APPROPRIATE ASSESSMENT;

• A FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS OFF-SITE TRANSPORTATION ENHANCEMENTS, INCLUDING THOSE FORMING PART OF THE PURBECK TRANSPORTATION STUDY IN ACCORDANCE WITH PREFERRED OPTIONS 37 AND 38;

• THE DELIVERY OF AFFORDABLE HOUSING IN ACCORDANCE WITH PREFERRED OPTION 21;

• ON-SITE OPEN SPACE AND RECREATIONAL FACILITIES AND / OR A FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION TOWARDS OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION FACILITIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH PREFERRED OPTION 25; AND

• OTHER COMMUNITY FACILITIES, SUCH AS THOSE RELATING TO HEALTH AND EDUCATION, WHERE THERE IS AN IDENTIFIED NEED.

How did we get here?

Purbeck do not currently have a policy on planning obligations, yet in considering the acceptability of future development it is imperative that mitigation measures can be secured to address the cumulative impacts of development.

Link to spatial objectives

SO3: To meet the housing needs of the area as identified in the Regional Spatial Strategy. SO4: Support active communities through the provision of new market and affordable housing that meets local needs, in terms of type and tenure. SO5: To prepare for an aging population, including the provision of community and appropriate recreational facilities and supported accommodation. SO6: Meeting the employment needs of the District through the identification of sufficient employment land to meet the needs of local firms and inward investment by making better use of established employment areas and promoting mixed use development within towns and villages. SO9: The provision of an integrated transport system to allow movement in and around the District, including tackling congestion on the A351 Wareham – Bakers Arms roundabout. SO11: Support and enable public transport services and interchanges so as to provide access to shops and services, as well as enabling new methods of delivering services in more peripheral rural areas. S012: Protect and enhance the landscape and natural environment of the District.

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16. MONITORING AND REVIEW

16.1 Government guidance in PPS12 advocates the review and monitoring of local development framework documents as a key aspect of the ‘plan, monitor, and manage’ approach to the planning system. The effectiveness of policies will be monitored through specific indicators, whilst the preparation of documents will be monitored in accordance with key milestones set out in the Local Development Scheme. This will allow the Council to establish whether the aims and objectives of the local development framework are being achieved.

16.2 The Council has developed a number of specific indicators which will measure the effectiveness of the proposed preferred options. The indicators include a mixture of contextual indicators, core output indicators and other indicators. A list of the monitoring indicators is set out in Appendix 3. An Annual Monitoring Report will be submitted to the Secretary of State containing information on both the policies and the implementation of the Local Development Scheme.

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17. KEY DIAGRAM

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

APPENDIX 1 - GLOSSARY

1.1 List of Acronyms

AAP Area Action Plans AGLV Area of Great Landscape Value AH Affordable Housing AMR Annual Monitoring Report AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty BAP Biodiversity Action Plan BDPEP Bournemouth, Dorset, and Poole Economic Partnership BME Black and Minority Ethnic CAMS Catchment Abstraction Management Plans CFMP Catchment Flood Management Plan DCA Dorset Community Action DCLG Department for Communities and Local Government Defra Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs DfES Department for Education and Skills DPD Development Plan Documents DTI Department for Trade and Industry ELR Employment Land Review ESA Environmentally Sensitive Area FE Further Education FTE Full Time Equivalent GDO General Development Order GOSW Government Office for the South West GPZ Groundwater Protection Zone GVA Gross Value Added HE Higher Education HEI Higher Education Institutions HL Heritage Lottery HLF Heritage Lottery Fund HMA Housing Market Assessment HNS Housing Needs Study IRS Integrated Regional Strategy KBE Knowledge-Based Economy LAA Local Area Agreement LEA Local Education Authority LCA Landscape Character Assessment LDD Local Development Documents LDF Local Development Framework LDS Local Development Scheme LNRs Local Nature Reserves LSC Learning Skills Council LSP Local Strategic Partnership LTP Local Transport Plan MoD Ministry of Defence NNRs National Nature Reserves NVQ National Vocational Qualification ODPM Office of the Deputy Prime Minister ONS Office of National Statistics PCP Purbeck Community Partnership

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PCT Primary Care Trust PDC Purbeck District Council PDG Planning Delivery Grant PDLP Purbeck District Local Plan PG Policy Group PINS Planning Inspectorate PPG Planning Policy Guidance PPS Planning Policy Statements PSA Public Sector Agreement PTS Purbeck Transportation Strategy R&D Research & Development RES Regional Economic Strategy RHS Regional Housing Strategy RIGS Regionally Important Geomorphological / Geological Sites RIMP Rempstone Integrated Management Plan RPG Regional Planning Guidance RSL Rented Social Landlord RSL Registered Social Landlord RSS Regional Spatial Strategy RTS Regional Transport Strategy SA Sustainability Appraisal SAC Special Area of Conservation SAM Scheduled Ancient Monument SCI Statement of Community Involvement SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment SHG Social Housing Grant SME Small and Medium Sized Enterprises SMP Shoreline Management Plans SNA Strategic Nature Area SNCI Sites of Nature Conservation Interest SOA Super Output Area SPA Special Protection Area SPD Supplementary Planning Documents SPG Supplementary Planning Guidance SSSI Sites of Special Scientific Interest SUDS Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems SWRA South West Regional Assembly SWRDA South West Regional Development Agency TAG Transport Action Group TPO Tree Preservation Order UKAEA United Kingdom Atomic Energy Agency UCO Use Classes Order UPS Urban Potential Study WFD Water Framework Directive

1.2 Glossary of Terms

Affordability: A measure of whether households can access and sustain the costs of private sector housing. DCA use two types of affordability: mortgage and rental. Mortgage affordability measures whether households can afford a deposit and a mortgage; rental affordability measures whether a household can afford a private rental. Mortgage affordability is based on conditions set by mortgage lenders - a minimum level of household income and savings. We use a 3 times

Core Strategy Preferred Options document multiple of gross income. Rental affordability is defined as the rent being less than a proportion of a household’s income. We use a 25% level of rental affordability.

Affordable Housing: Affordable housing is that provided, with subsidy1, for people who are unable to resolve their housing requirements, in the general housing market because of the relationship between local housing costs and incomes. This definition covers housing for social rent, shared ownership, low cost home ownership and sub-market rent. Annual Monitoring Report (AMR): A report on the progress of the Local Development Scheme and the policies of the Local Development Framework. Area Action Plan (AAP): A Development Plan Document for a specific geographical area

Bedroom Standard: The standard number of bedrooms allocated to each household in accordance with its age/sex/marital status composition and the relationship of the members to one another. A separate bedroom is allocated to each married couple, any person aged 21 or over, each pair of adolescents aged 10 – 20 of the same sex, and each pair of children under 10. Any unpaired person aged 10 – 20 is paired, if possible with a child under 10 of the same sex, or, if that is not possible, he or she is given a separate bedroom, as is any unpaired child under 10. This standard is then compared with the actual number of bedrooms available for the sole use of the household and the differences are tabulated. Community Plan: The Purbeck Community Partnership has produced a Purbeck Community Plan. Community Strategy: The action plan produced by the Dorset Strategic Partnership Concealed Household: A Concealed Household is someone living within a household wanting to move to their own accommodation and form a separate household (e.g. adult children living with their parents). Cost Rented Housing: Housing let at rents which are set to cover development and management costs only, i.e. not for profit. Cost rents are above the Housing Corporation’s rent caps but below market rents. Council: Purbeck District Council Delegated Applications: Certain types of planning applications do not have to be considered by the Planning Board and can be determined by the Head of Development and Building Control. Whether an application is "delegated" or not is shown on the application. A delegated application can be approved provided there are no objections to the application from any party. Under certain circumstances the application may also be approved even where there is an objection to the application, say from an adjoining neighbour, or the Parish/Town Council. Under these circumstances the objection will be considered by the Head of Development and Building Control, the Chairman of the Planning Board, the Vice Chairman of the Planning Board, in the rare case of an objection from the Parish/Town Council, and the Planning Board members, before the application is determined. A delegated planning application can also be refused. However, where there is no objection from the Parish/Town Council, or one of the principal consultees, then this will also be considered by the Head of Development & Building Control, the Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Planning Board and the local District Councillor(s), before the application is determined. Development Plan Documents (DPD): Prepared by the relevant plan-making authority. They will be spatial planning documents, and form part of the Local Development Framework. Development Plan Documents are subject to independent examination. Those making representations seeking a change to the document will have the right to be heard at an independent examination. Development Plan: For Purbeck this is the Purbeck District Local Plan – Final Edition 2004 (unadopted) and will be replaced by the Local Development Framework. Two area wide local

Core Strategy Preferred Options document plans are still in existence: North East Purbeck Local Plan (1994) and Isle of Purbeck Local Plan (1991) will continue to remain as the only adopted local plans. The Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Structure Plan (2001) is the regional development plan, however this will be replaced in 2007 by the South West Regional Spatial Strategy. Discounted Market Rented Housing: New Units utilising the equity from the discounted or free land from the planning process where Housing Associations could build at only development cost and provide, without grant, units which would be available at lower than private rented market cost but above Housing Corporation rent caps. District: Purbeck District. Entrepreneurs: People who undertake the risks of innovative production of goods and services in the expectation of future returns. Existing Household in Unsuitable Accommodation: Refers to all circumstances where households are living in housing which is in some way unsuitable, whether because of its size, type, design, location, condition, security or cost. Existing Household: An existing household encompasses the household in its entirety. Formal Hearing: A formal type of independent scrutiny including cross-examination of witnesses. Greenfield: Land that has not been previously developed (other than agricultural or forestry uses). Gross Value Added: The aggregated difference between the value of final goods (turnover) minus the cost of bought-in raw materials and intermediate goods. Homeless Household: A household is accepted as statutorily homeless by the authority if it meets the criteria set out in the Housing Act 1996. Household: The Census definition of a household is:- “A household comprises either one person living alone or a group of people (not necessarily related) living at the same address with common housekeeping - that is, sharing at least one meal a day or sharing a living room or sitting room.” Housing Demand: Is the quantity and type / quality of housing which households wish to buy or rent and are able to afford. It therefore takes account of preferences and ability to pay. Housing Need: Refers to households lacking their own housing or living in housing which is inadequate or unsuitable, who are unlikely to be able to meet their needs in the local housing market without some assistance. Housing Register: A register of people waiting for affordable housing. It may have two components: a list for those not currently occupying affordable housing (more properly known as the Housing Register) and a Transfer List for those tenants who wish to move to another affordable home within the same District. Inadequate Housing: Housing which is inadequate or unsuitable in meeting the needs of the household, comprising a range of criteria on house condition, size, cost and security of tenure. These criteria are used to assess whether the unsuitability can be resolved by improvements to the dwelling, or whether the household has to move to another home. Independent Scrutiny: Examination of a Local Development Document by a Planning Inspector. Informal Hearing: A less formal type of independent scrutiny not including cross-examination. Intermediate Housing: Housing at prices or rents above those of social rented but below market prices of rents. This includes shared ownership, shared equity, sub-market renting or low cost home ownership (with exception of below market value in Purbeck). Key Worker: A Key Worker is “any person who directly provides services that are essential for the balanced and sustainable development of the local community and local economy, where

Core Strategy Preferred Options document recruitment or retention difficulties apply”, and includes teachers, nurses, other public sector workers and employees of businesses considered vital to sustaining the economy of an area. Knowledge Based Economy: An economy based on high-tech and advanced industries, such as telecommunications or microprocessors, i.e. often where intellectual property is the primary commodity. Labour Market: The market in which demand and supply for labour is effected – firms willing to employ workers and labour seeking employment. Local Development Documents (LDD): One of the documents in a Local Development Framework. Local Development Framework (LDF): comprises a portfolio of Local Development Documents which will provide the framework for delivering the spatial planning strategy for the area. This replaces the Local Plan. Local Development Scheme (LDS): sets out the programme for the preparation of the local development documents. All plan-making authorities must submit a Local Development Scheme to the First Secretary of State for approval within six months of the commencement date of the Act regardless of where they are in terms of their current development plan. The transitional arrangements allow for existing adopted plans to be saved for three years from the date of commencement of the Act and for un-adopted plans to be saved for three years post adoption. Local Plan: Local Planning Document under the old system (Purbeck District Local Plan - Final Edition 2004), now to be replaced by the Local Development Framework. Local Strategic Partnership: The stakeholders involved in the production of the Community Strategy also refer to Community Plan) Major/Significant Planning Application: an application which meets one of the following: • Proposing the development of 10 or more new houses, or in the case of outline planning applications, on sites of 0.5ha or more; • Proposing the development of retail, office, industrial, leisure, institutional use or other schemes over 1,000sqm or, in the case of outline applications, on sites of 0.5ha or more; • Proposing development that requires a full environmental impact assessment; • Proposing development on playing fields. Material Consideration: Any factor relevant to the determination of a planning application. Non-Delegated Applications: Planning applications that normally involve more major development and are automatically referred to the monthly meeting of the Council’s Planning Board for determination. A written report prepared in every case. This report is normally available for public inspection not less than 5 days prior to the meeting of the Board. Over Occupation: Over occupation occurs when, using the bedroom standard, there are insufficient bedrooms in the property based on the number of residents and their age/sex/marital status composition. Over occupation is more common in the public sector than the private sector. Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004: The Act which sets out the requirement to produce a Local Development Framework. Planning Delivery Grant (PDG): An annual Government grant provided to Planning Authorities for the achievement of specific targets. Planning Inspector: A person employed by the Planning Inspectorate to consider the appropriateness of planning policies, taking into account public consultation responses. Planning Policy Guidance Note (PPG): National planning guidance produced by the Government under the old planning system. These will be replaced by Planning Policy Statements.

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Planning Policy Statement (PPS): National planning policy produced by the Government as part of the new system. They represent Government policy and therefore hold more weight in determining planning decisions than the old planning Policy Guidance Notes. Productivity: Total output divided by total inputs (factors of production). Public Examination: The independent scrutiny of the Local Development Framework, considering public consultation responses. Purbeck Community Partnership: the name for the local strategic partnership involved in the production of the Purbeck Community Plan. Regional Assembly: The regional tier of Government. Purbeck is within the area covered by the South West Regional Assembly (SWRA). Regional Planning Guidance (RPG): Regional planning policy document produced under the old planning system. Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS): will be prepared by the regional planning body. The Regional Spatial Strategy will set out the policies in relation to the development and use of land in the region and will be approved by the First Secretary of State. Planning Policy Statement II on Regional Planning provides detailed guidance on the function and preparation of Regional Spatial Strategies. Registered Social Landlords: A Housing Association or a not-for-profit company, registered by the Housing Corporation, providing social housing. SHG can only be paid to an RSL. Section 106 sites (S106 of the Town and County Planning Act 1990): A general term to describe a housing site which is large enough to require a developer to contribute affordable housing as part of a development scheme. S106 of the Act allows Planning Authorities to negotiate planning obligations as part of a development and could include, among other things, a proportion of affordable housing. Shared Ownership: Housing produced by an RSL, either new or existing properties purchased by an RSL, which the RSL then sells on a part rent / part buy basis. The shared owner buys a percentage of the property, funded by mortgage and/or savings. The remaining percentage is still owned by the RSL who charges a rent on it. Social Housing Grant: Capital provided by the Housing Corporation, or Local Authority, to fully or partially fund RSLs when development social housing. SHG is paid under s18 of the Housing Act 1996. Spatial Planning: Concerns all matters that affect land use and defines the scope of the Local Development Framework, in contrast to the Local Plan which could only deal with matters controlled by the approval or refusal of planning permissions. Stakeholder Group: Any group that has an interest in the District, including voluntary, community, Government agency/quango, business, employment, landownership, specific age or ethnic representation, political, transport or those with a disability. Statement of Community Involvement: will set out the standards which the plan-making authority intend to achieve in relation to involving the community in the preparation, alteration and continuing review of all Local Development Documents and in significant development control decisions, and also how the local planning authority intends to achieve those standards. The Statement of Community Involvement will not be a Development Plan Document but will be subject to independent examination. A consultation statement showing how the local planning authority has complied with its Statement of Community Involvement will be required for all Local Development Documents. Strategic Environmental Assessment: Strategic environmental assessment (SEA): a generic term used internationally to describe environmental assessment as applied to policies, plans and

Core Strategy Preferred Options document programmes. The European ‘SEA Directive’ (2001/42/EC) does not in fact use the term strategic environmental assessment; it requires a formal ‘environmental assessment’ of certain plans and programmes, including those in the field of planning and land use. Structure Plan: A county-wide planning policy document that will be replaced by the Regional Spatial Strategy. Supplementary Planning Documents: cover a wide range of issues on which the plan–making authority wishes to provide policy guidance to supplement the policies and proposals in Development Plan Documents. They will not form part of the development plan or be subject to independent examination Supplementary Planning Guidance: A document produced under the old planning system that sets out how the Council intends to implement planning policy. Sustainability Appraisal: The consideration of policies and proposals to assess their impact on sustainable development objectives. Sustainability: Improving the quality of human life whilst living within the carrying capacity of supporting ecosystems. Sustainable Development: Development which can be accommodated to meet the needs of the present without compromising the requirements of future generations. This encompassing an understanding of the impact of development on social, environmental and economic factors. Tests of Soundness: Planning Policy Statement 12: Local Development Frameworks sets out 9 tests to consider the soundness of Statements of Community Involvement (SCI), and 9 (separate) tests to consider the soundness of Development Plan Documents (DPD). Each SCI and DPD produced will need to be examined against the relevant set of tests prior to adoption. Under Occupation: A household is under-occupying if more than one spare bedroom is available, using the bedroom standard as a test. Under-occupation is common in the private sector. Urban Potential Study: An assessment of the potential for further residential development within existing urban areas. Vision: The ability to imagine how the District could develop in the future and to plan in a suitable way. Wealth: A stock of all those assets capable of earning an income. Wealth can be human or material. Windfall Sites: Sites including conversions which are not included as part of the housing land supply at the base date of the Plan but which subsequently become available for appropriate housing development, other than through the Local Plan allocation process. Written representations: An informal type of independent scrutiny where representations are provided in writing for the Inspector to consider and make a decision.

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

APPENDIX 2 - LINKS WITH OTHER LOCAL PLAN POLICIES

The table below identifies which policies set out in the adopted Isle of Purbeck Local Plan, adopted North East Purbeck Local Plan and Purbeck Local Plan Final Edition (a material consideration in the determination of planning applications) could be linked to, or superseded by, the Core Strategy. Policies that might be superseded by a preferred option are highlighted inbold. This is a guide only and should not be viewed as definitive.

Core Strategy Isle of Purbeck North East Purbeck Purbeck Local Plan Preferred Option Local Plan Local Plan Final Edition PO1 - - - PO2 CC4 CC15-16, CC17, CA3 UD19, UD20, UD21 PO3 CC16, CC19 CC20, CC22 CA4 PO4 CC4 CC16, CC17 QL3A PO5 G1, CC2-CC22 UD22, C7, C7A, QL22 UD4, E5, G1, CC2, CC14 PO6 G1, H2-7, C1-6, T1, G1, CC2, CC4, CA12-16 QL28- T5, H8-H10, H20, CC11-CC13, CC24, QL30, QL34-QL35 E7, S4, C9, C11 C1, C2, C4-6, C8, C9-10, C11-13, UD22, UD23, UD30, E6, H3-H4, T3, S2- S4 PO7 - UD28 - PO8 - - MN24 PO9 - - CA10 PO10 G1 G1, H12 - PO11 - H12A AH2-3 PO12 CC15-18 CC18 – 21 - PO13 - - - PO14 H3-H6 H3-H6 MNA, QL4-5 PO15 - - MNA PO16 - - MNA, MN8 PO17 CC1, CC13, H1- CC3, CC7-CC9, - H12 CC11, C13-14, H2- 11, H13-15 PO18 CC1, CC13, H1- CC3, CC7-CC9, - H12 CC11, C13-14, H2- 11, H13-15 PO19 H1, H8 – H10 H1, H1A, H10 - PO20 - - - PO21 H1 H1 MN4 PO22 H1 H1 MN5 PO23 S1-S4 S1-5 MN9, MN11 PO24 S2- S3 - MN9, MN1, MN12 PO25 T12-17, G1, H11- T3A, T7, T8, T9, MN13-15 12, H13 T9A, T9B, T10, T11, T11A, T13, T14, UD8, UD9, UD12,

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UD13, UD18 PO26 H9, H10, T2, T6, UD12, UD13, UD17, MN11, MN13, T5A, T7, T12 – T17 H13, S8-S10 MN14, MN15 PO27 - - QL9 PO28 - - - PO29 E1-5 E1-7 MN1 PO30 E1-7 E1-10 MN2-3A PO31 - - SS32 PO32 - - - PO33 - - - PO34 CC3, T1, T6 T3 MN16-17 PO35 T1, T3, T4,T5, T5a, T3-5, T5A, T6 MN18, MN19 T6 T7-11 PO36 - - QL11 PO37 TR1, TR8, TR9, TR3A, TR12, TR14, QL12-21, MN20A- TR10, TR11, TR15, TR16, TR17, 22 TR11A, TR12, TR18, TR18a TR15 PO38 - UD16, TR1, TR2, SS12, SS18, SS33 TR3 PO39 TR1 TR4A MN20B PO40 - - - PO41 G1, C8, C9-17, - QL9-10, QL 22-35 TR2-12, C2B, C2C, C3, C3A, C4-C6, H3-H6 PO42 S1-5, C9-16 - MN9, SS24 PO43 T2, T5A, T6, T12, - MN14 T13, T16 PO44 E1-3 - SS20-21 PO45 T1, T3-4, T5, T5A, - MN16-20, SS23 T7-11 PO46 TR1 - MN20B PO47 - - QL25 PO48 - C14 SS26 PO49 - H3-H6 CA1, QL22-35, CA8 PO50 - - MN12, SS26 PO51 - - - PO52 - CC1 QL25, CA8 PO53 - - CA8 PO54 - C13, TR5, TR8, MN9, MN10, , TR9, S1-S5 MN11 PO55 - CC1 CA8, QL25 PO56 - - MN20B, SS31 PO57 - C1, C2, C13 MN16 PO58 - - - PO59 CC1-CC18 - CA6 PO60 CC16, CC21 CC14 CA7 PO61 - - - PO62 G1, T14, E4, TR1, - MN11, MN12, SS6, TR13-14, TR14A, C17

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

PO63 CC20, E6-E7, T1, - MN3-3A, MN16-20, T6, T7 MN20B, QL4-7 PO64 - MN11, MN12, SS2 PO65 - S10, CC1, E7 MN11, MN12, SS15 PO66 - CC1-CC9, CC11- CA7A, CA8 CC13, E9 PO67 - E8, E9 MN3-3A, MN16-20 MN20B, QL4-7 PO68 - UD4, UD15, UD16, QL12-21, MN20A- UD18, UD19, UD21 22, SS12, SS18, SS33 PO69 G2, T12 UD29, I4, H1 MN21, MN22

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

APPENDIX 3 - MONITORING INDICATORS

Highlighted = those that could measure the effectiveness of the Preferred Options * = those that may be used for PDG purposes

AMR: CONTEXTUAL INDICATORS (AGREED COUNTY-WIDE) Population MI1: Population size MI2: Age structure MI3: Population density MI4: Ethnic composition Households MI5: Total no of households MI6: Average household size MI7: Household composition Dwellings MI8: Total no of dwellings MI9: Dwelling type MI10: Tenure MI11: Amenities MI12: % second homes MI13: % vacant properties Crime MI14: Domestic burglaries MI15: Violent crimes MI16: Vehicle crimes MI17: Criminal damage Social MI18: House price/income ratio Health MI19: Life expectancy MI20: Long-term limiting illness Economy MI21: GVA MI22: Unemployment rate MI23: Firms in Purbeck MI24: VAT registrations MI25: Average earnings Environment MI26: % area protected by a designation MI27: Air quality MI28: River quality Transport MI29: Commuting (mode of travel) MI30: No of households within walking distance (800m) of an hourly bus service MI31: Car ownership Education MI32: Qualifications AMR: CORE OUTPUT INDICATORS (REQUESTED BY GOVERNMENT) Business Development MI33: Amount of floor space developed for employment by type MI34: As above, within employment or regeneration areas MI35: As above, on previously developed land MI36: Employment land available by type MI37: Losses of employment land in employment/regeneration areas MI38: Losses of employment land in local authority area

Core Strategy Preferred Options document

MI39: Amount of employment land lost to residential development Housing MI40: Net additional dwellings since start of plan period/within last 5 yrs (whichever longer) MI41: Net additional dwellings for current year MI42: Projected net additional dwellings up to end of plan period/over 10-yr period since adoption (whichever is longer) MI43: Annual net additional dwellings requirement MI44: Annual average no of net additional dwellings needed to meet overall housing requirements, having regard to previous year’s performance MI45: % of new and converted dwellings on previously developed land* MI46: % of new dwellings completed at less than 30 dwellings per ha MI47: % of new dwellings completed between 30 and 50 dwellings per ha MI48: % of new dwellings completed above 50 dwellings per ha MI49: Affordable housing completions* Transport MI50: Amount of completed non-residential development within UCOs A, B, and D complying with car-parking standards* MI51: Amount of new residential development within 30 mins public transport time of GP MI52: As above, of hospital MI53: As above, of primary school MI54: As above, of secondary school MI55: As above, of area of employment MI56: As above, of major retail centre Local services MI57: Amount of completed retail, office and leisure development MI58: As above, in town centres MI59: Amount of eligible open spaces managed to Green Flag award standard* MI60: Flood protection and water quality MI61: No of planning permissions granted contrary to the advice of the EA Biodiversity MI62: Change in priority habitats and species* MI63: Change in areas designated for environmental value* Renewable Energy MI64: Renewable energy capacity installed by type* ADDITIONAL INDICATORS TO MEASURE PROPOSED PREFERRED OPTIONS (Source: Sustainability Appraisal Baseline Data) MI65: % of residents satisfied with LA sports and leisure facilities MI66: % of residents who think that access to nature has improved or stayed the same MI67: House price to income ratio MI68: Detached properties as % of all housing MI69: % of residents who think that cultural facilities have improved or stayed the same MI70: % of residents who think that shopping facilities have improved or stayed the same MI71: GVA as % of England MI72: % of residents who think that over the past 3 years traffic congestion has stayed the same or improved MI73: Daily domestic water use per capita (litres) MI74: Average annual domestic consumption of electricity in kWh per household MI75: Estimate of carbon emissions per capita (tonnes) MI76: Emission of carbon emissions domestic per capita (tonnes)