Local Plan 2016 – 2036

New Forest 4 National Park 5 Local Plan 6 2016 - 2036 7

Adopted August 2019 8

New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 1 Front cover: St Michaels and All Angels church, Lyndhurst. Below: Thatched cottage, Lyndhurst. 1 Contact us

2 New Forest National Park Authority 2 Lymington Town Hall, Avenue Road, look for: newforestnpa Lymington SO41 9ZG Foreword Please contact us if you would like 3 Telephone: 01590 646600 to receive this publication in another The New Forest National Park 2016-2036 is the result of four years of public 3 [email protected] format such as large print or Braille consultation, cooperation with neighbouring authorities and other partners, www.newforestnpa.gov.uk evidence-gathering and independent assessment. The adopted Local Plan 4 forms a key part of the statutory ‘development plan’ for the area and is the 4 basis for planning decisions made within the National Park. The vision, strategic objectives and planning policies within the Plan 5 are framed around the two National Park purposes and associated 5 socio-economic duty established in the ‘National Parks & Access to the Countryside Act 1949’. The Local Plan sets out what sustainable development means within the context of a nationally protected landscape. 6 6 The Local Plan contains a succinct suite of policies to conserve and enhance the rich natural and built environment of the New Forest and its nationally protected landscape; and to retain the local distinctiveness of the area. The 7 7 focus of new development is on catering for the needs of local communities within the National Park, including providing affordable housing for local people and support for a sustainable economy. 8 8 I would like to thank everyone who engaged in the Plan-making process. The comments received from a wide range of statutory consultees, stakeholder groups, local businesses and residents have helped to 9 strengthen the policies in this Local Plan and ultimately provide an up-to- 9 date policy framework for the National Park.

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A3 Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre New Forest National Park Authority Chairman

2 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 3 11 11

22 Maps Contents 22 Inset Map 1 Forest North-west Chapter 1 Introduction ...... 8 33 Chapter 2 Profile of the New Forest National Park ...... 14 33 Not to scale. Chapter 3 Vision and objectives ...... 20 Brown outline shows New Forest National Inset Map 2 Chapter 4 Strategic policies and development principles ...... 25 44 Park boundary Forest North-east 44 Chapter 5 Protecting and enhancing the natural environment ...... 34

Inset Map 5 Ashurst Chapter 6 Protecting and enhancing the historic & built environment ... 53 55 Chapter 7 Vibrant communities ...... 61 55 Inset Map 6 Lyndhurst Chapter 8 A sustainable local economy ...... 97 Chapter 9 Transport and access ...... 110 66 Inset Map 7 66 Brockenhurst Chapter 10 Monitoring and implementation ...... 116

Inset Map 8 Sway 77 Annex 1 New Forest National Park Special Qualities ...... 123 77 Inset Map 3 Annex 2 Car Parking and Cycle Standards ...... 126 Forest South-west Annex 3 Local connections criteria ...... 128 88 88 Inset Map 4 Glossary...... 130 Forest South-east 99 99

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HOW TO NAVIGATE THIS DOCUMENT A1 The tabs running down each page A1 A1 are linked to the relevant chapter A1 or annex. A2 A2 A2 A2 Quick A3 link A3 A3 A3 The index of policies on page 6 and 7 provide direct links to the relevant pages within the document.

P = back to index of policies 4 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 5 Index of policies Quick Quick link link 1 Chapter 4: Strategic policies & development principles Chapter 8: A sustainable local economy 11 SP1 Supporting sustainable development SP1 SP42 Business and employment development SP42 DP2 General development principles DP2 SP43 Existing employment sites SP43 22 SP3 Major development in the National Park SP3 DP44 Redevelopment of existing employment sites DP44 22 SP4 Spatial strategy SP4 DP45 Extensions to non-residential buildings and uses DP45 SP46 Sustainable tourism development SP46 Chapter 5: Protecting & enhancing the natural environment 3 DP47 Extensions to holiday parks and camp sites DP47 3 SP5 Nature conservation sites of international importance SP5 SP48 The land-based economy SP48 SP6 The natural environment SP6 DP49 Re-use of buildings outside the Defined Villages DP49 SP7 Landscape character SP7 DP50 Agricultural and forestry buildings DP50 4 4 DP8 Safeguarding and improving water resources SP8 DP51 Recreational horse keeping DP51 SP9 Green infrastructure SP9 DP52 Field shelters and stables DP52 DP10 Open space DP10 DP53 Maneges DP53 5 SP11 Climate change SP11 5 DP12 Flood risk DP12 Chapter 9: Transport & access DP13 Coastal development DP13 SP54 Transport infrastructure SP54 6 SP14 Renewable energy SP14 SP55 Access SP55 6 SP15 Tranquillity SP15

Chapter 6: Protecting & enhancing the historic & built environment 7 SP16 The historic and built environment SP16 7 SP17 Local distinctiveness SP17 DP18 Design principles DP18 8 8 Chapter 7: Vibrant communities SP19 New residential development in the National Park SP19 9 SP20 Specialist housing for older people (Use Class C2) SP20 9 SP21 The size of new dwellings SP21 SP22 Land at Whartons Lane, Ashurst SP22 SP23 Land at Ashurst Hospital SP23 10 10 SP24 Land at the Lyndhurst Park Hotel, Lyndhurst SP24 SP25 Land south of Church Lane, Sway SP25 SP26 Land adjacent to the former Fawley Power Station SP26 SP27 Affordable housing provision within the Defined Villages and on allocated sites SP27 A1 SP28 Rural exceptions sites SP28 A1 SP29 New Forest commoners’ dwellings SP29 SP30 New Forest estate workers’ dwellings SP30 A2 DP31 Agricultural and forestry workers’ dwellings DP31 A2 DP32 Removal of agricultural occupancy conditions DP32 SP33 Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople SP33 DP34 Residential character of the Defined Villages DP34 A3 A3 DP35 Replacement dwellings DP35 A3 DP36 Extensions to dwellings DP36 DP37 Outbuildings DP37 SP38 Infrastructure provision and developer contributions SP38 SP39 Local community facilities SP39 DP40 Change of use from retail in the Defined Villages DP40 DP41 Retail development outside the Defined Villages DP41 Coastal path, Lepe

6 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 7 CHAPTER 1 1 Introduction 1

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The New Forest National Park 4 1.1 The New Forest National Park was 1.3 These statutory purposes and related duty 4 designated in 2005 and covers an area form the golden threads running through of 220 square miles within the counties this Local Plan. The vision for the National 5 of Hampshire and Wiltshire. The National Park and strategic objectives (Chapter 3) 5 Park operates within a detailed planning are drawn from these purposes and duty. policy and legislative framework which is 1.4 The planning system plays a key role in set out below. National parks have two keeping our national parks special and statutory purposes that set out the main 6 ensuring they remain living, working 6 reasons for their designation and describe landscapes. It is for this reason that the the overall focus for their management. The two National Park purposes as set out Government has made national park 7 in primary legislation are: authorities the sole planning authorities 7 for their respective areas. As part of its • to conserve and enhance the natural statutory planning role, the New Forest beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of National Park Authority is required to 8 the New Forest; and prepare, monitor and review a Local Plan 8 • to promote opportunities for the for the National Park. Once adopted, the understanding and enjoyment of the Local Plan forms part of the statutory ‘development plan’ (alongside any 9 special qualities of the New Forest by 9 the public. Neighbourhood Plans and the separate Minerals and Waste Local Plan) for the 1.2 National park authorities also have a duty New Forest and is the principal guide for under Section 62(1) of the Environment planning decisions within the National 10 Act 1995 in taking forward the two 10 Park. The Local Plan focuses on the area National Park purposes to seek to foster within the National Park boundary and the economic and social wellbeing of local it is the responsibilities of New Forest communities within the National Park. The District Council, Wiltshire Council and New Forest is a living working area, home A1 Test Valley Borough Council to prepare to 2,500 local businesses and 35,000 A1 the development plans for their respective residents. More detail is set out in Chapter areas outside the National Park. 2 – the profile of the New Forest National A2 Park. All relevant authorities are required A2 to take the two purposes into account in any work that may affect the area and make every effort to reconcile any conflict A3 between the two. If such efforts fail, then A3 only as a measure of last resort should the first purpose take precedence.

Pony at Boltons Bench, Lyndhurst

8 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 9 National Planning New Forest National Cross-boundary 1.12 Following meetings with surrounding local Policy Framework/ Park Management / planning issues authorities, it has been agreed that the 1 Planning Practice main areas of strategic cross-boundary 1 Partnership Plan 1.10 The Localism Act 2011 introduced a legal New Forest Guidance planning interest are: National Park requirement for planning authorities – Local Plan including national park authorities - to • habitat protection – over half of the New 2 Forest National Park is designated as being 2 Strategies and Plans, 2016 - 2036 cooperate on strategic cross boundary including the Recreation Supplementary planning matters. The ‘duty to cooperate’ of international importance for nature Management Strategy and Planning Documents aims to ensure that neighbouring conservation. Consequently, there is a 3 Landscape Action Plan authorities continue to engage with each shared need to ensure that the planned 3 other constructively. level of development within the National Park and surrounding areas does not 1.11 The New Forest National Park Authority is adversely impact on the integrity of the well placed to fulfil its duty to cooperate 4 New Forest’s protected habitats 4 Links to other plans 1.8 Since the adoption of the first set of duties due to: consistent National Park-wide planning • housing provision – there is a significant and strategies • its coordinating role in the preparation policies in 2010 there have been housing need within the New Forest and adoption of the National Park 1.5 The Local Plan aims to deliver the long- significant changes in national planning and surrounding areas. The Government 5 Management Plan. The updated version 5 term planning vision for the New Forest policy – most notably the publication of recognises that national parks are of this Plan, the Partnership Plan (2015- National Park and forms a key part of the NPPF in 2012. National planning policy not appropriate locations for major 2020), was overseen by a group of the statutory ‘development plan’ for the confirms that national parks continue to development and unrestricted housing statutory bodies working alongside area. National policy contained within the have the highest level of protection in and is clear that unmet needs should be 6 the National Park Authority and this 6 National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) relation to landscape and scenic beauty. considered under the ‘duty to cooperate’. has helped establish good working and National Planning Practice Guidance In addition, the statutory National Park arrangements between the respective 1.13 The Authority has worked closely with (NPPG) also form material considerations purposes originally established through 7 authorities its neighbouring planning authorities 7 when preparing the Local Plan. the National Parks & Access to the during the production of this Local Plan, • the National Park Authority is the statutory 1.6 The Environment Act 1995 also requires Countryside Act 1949 remain and are including on the joint commissioning of planning authority for the National Park, each National Park Authority to prepare supplemented by the Environment evidence base studies. More detail can but the constituent authorities have a National Park Management Plan. The Act 1995. be found in the accompanying ‘Duty to 8 retained their responsibilities for housing, 8 Cooperate Statement’. Management Plan is the overarching 1.9 This Local Plan has been prepared economic development, environmental strategic document for the National Park following extensive public consultation health, highways and education in the and is intended to guide the work of all and evidence gathering that started 9 New Forest. The National Park Authority 9 organisations within the National Park (not in 2015. The Local Plan has been has therefore always worked closely with just the Authority). Although Management informed by a wide range of evidence its constituent authorities on these matters Plans do not form part of the statutory base studies, including a Strategic Flood • the membership of the National Park 10 development plan, they should be taken Risk Assessment; Whole-Plan Viability 10 into account in preparing Local Plans Assessment; Business Needs Survey; Authority is drawn from constituent local and may also be material considerations and an objective assessment of housing authorities and town and parish councils in assessing planning applications. In needs arising within the National Park. across the National Park, thereby ensuring 2015 the New Forest National Park The policies set out in the Local Plan good links across the tiers of local government. A1 Management Plan was updated by the have been tested A1 Partnership Plan which sets out a series against a number of actions to be taken forward over the of environmental, following five years. economic and social Public consultation in progress A2 A2 1.7 In addition to these statutory documents, indicators as part of a the Authority can prepare Supplementary Sustainability Appraisal Planning Documents which provide more (SA) / Strategic A3 detail on planning policies, as well as Environmental A3 specific strategies to guide the delivery of Assessment (SEA) and the two statutory National Park purposes, Habitats Regulations including the Recreation Management Assessment (HRA). Strategy and the Landscape Action Plan. These latter documents are not formal planning documents but provide detailed guidance on important issues within the National Park.

10 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 11 National policy and guidance 1.15 The NPPF states that Local Plans should Minerals and waste Planning enforcement set out the strategic priorities for the area. 1.14 The NPPF (2012) and Planning Practice planning framework 1.22 To support the protection afforded to 1 This should include policies to deliver 1 Guidance (NPPG, first issued in 2014) set 1.20 The New Forest National Park Authority the New Forest as a nationally designated the homes and jobs needed in the area out the Government’s planning policies is the minerals and waste planning landscape, the Authority has a dedicated and conservation and enhancement of relevant to the work of all planning authority for the whole of the National planning enforcement team to ensure the environment, including landscape. 2 authorities. They constitute guidance for Park. This statutory role includes the unauthorised development is not harmful 2 National parks are identified as areas planning authorities and decision-takers preparation and adoption of the planning to the National Park, its special qualities where development should be restricted in drawing up plans and are a material policy framework for minerals and waste and to protect the amenities of residents. and the NPPF confirms that national parks consideration in determining applications. development within the National Park. In accordance with the NPPF the Authority 3 have the highest status of protection in 3 The development plan remains the starting The Authority works in partnership with has adopted a Local Enforcement Plan relation to landscape and scenic beauty. point for determining applications, and the other minerals and waste planning (adopted 2013) that sets out the policy planning law requires that applications for 1.16 The UK Government National Parks authorities in Hampshire and has adopted and procedures for enforcing planning 4 planning permission must be determined Vision and Circular (2010) provides policy the following planning policy documents: control in the National Park. 4 guidance specifically for the English in accordance with the development plan • Hampshire Minerals & Waste Plan National Parks and for all those whose unless material considerations indicate (adopted 2013) – forms part of the decisions or actions might affect them. otherwise. statutory development plan for the 5 The Circular calls for a renewed focus on 5 National ParkPark; achieving the two national park purposes and for the fostering of vibrant, healthy • Oil & Gas Development in Hampshire SPD 6 and productive living and working (adopted 2016)2016); and 6 communities. • Minerals & Waste Safeguarding in 1.17 In March 2016 the Government published Hampshire (adopted 2016). a policy paper ‘National Parks: 8-point 7 1.21 With this up-to-date policy framework in 7 plan for England (2016 to 2020)’ which place for minerals and waste development sets out how the Government intends in the National Park, this Local Plan does to protect, promote and enhance the not include any coverage of minerals and 8 National Parks in England from now waste planning matters. 8 until 2020. The paper reaffirms the Government’s commitment to the English National Parks, recognising them as ‘… 9 national treasures at the heart of our 9 national identity’. 1.18 In January 2018 the Government 10 published ‘A Green Future: Our 25 10 Year Plan to Improve the Environment’. The Environment Plan sets out the Government’s goals for improving the environment, within a generation. It A1 details how the Government will work A1 with local communities and businesses to do this. The Plan includes the commitment to continue to conserve and enhance the A2 A2 natural beauty of national parks, while recognising that they are living landscapes that support rural communities. A3 1.19 The NPPF, National Parks Circular, A3 NPPG and the 8-point plan have been taken into account in the preparation of this Local Plan.

Affordable housing, Anderwood Minstead village green

12 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 13 CHAPTER 2 2.1 The New Forest is a place of outstanding the central New Forest plateau to the 1 natural beauty. First created around 1079 open coastline of the Solent in the south. 1 Profile of the as a royal hunting forest, it has survived It has been formed through the close 11 for over 900 years to become a highly relationship between the land and its New Forest valued part of the national heritage. It is people over many thousands of years. 22 a unique mixture of ancient woodland, A wealth of archaeological and historic 22 National Park heather covered heath, wide lawns, boggy features have been preserved and much mires, rivers and streams, picturesque of the area is still managed by traditional villages and unspoilt coastline. The agriculture and a system of commoning. 33 National Park extends from the wooded 33 slopes of Wiltshire in the north across

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National Park boundary Not to scale. © Crown Copyright and Database Right 2019. Ordnance Survey 1000114703. N

Left: Beaulieu

14 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 15 2.2 The local communities within the National Landscape character Park are continually changing and 2.4 The New Forest Landscape Character 1 adapting to modern life, but remarkably 1 Assessment (2015) describes 19 character the Forest has largely escaped the effects areas in the National Park. A Landscape brought about elsewhere by large scale Action Plan for the National Park extends development and intensive agriculture. 2 the landscape assessment work and 2

The villages retain their local character © Peter Hunt, Flickr © Peter Hunt, Flickr provides guidance for individuals and and distinctiveness and the medieval organisations wanting to help enhance landscape of the ‘Nova Foresta’ – William and conserve the special landscape 3 the Conqueror’s royal hunting forest – is 3 character of the New Forest. At the heart still clearly apparent. Today the National of the New Forest is an extensive area Park attracts large numbers of visitors of unenclosed woodland, grassland and each year, who come to enjoy the peace Southern damselfly 4 heath which is of international nature and quiet, natural beauty and wildlife of 4 conservation importance and is maintained one of the last ancient, unspoilt and open impacts of new residential development the area of the National Park). The major largely by the grazing of commoners’ landscapes in England. on the coast are mitigated. attractions, including Buckler’s Hard, stock. Recent figures show that 12,044 5 Lepe Country Park, Calshot Activities 5 Area and population animals are depastured on the Open Forest Cultural heritage Centre, the National Motor Museum in by 771 practising commoners2. This historic Beaulieu, Paulton’s Park, and the villages 2.6 The National Park contains a wealth of 2.3 The National Park covers 567 square form of land management faces threats of Lyndhurst, Brockenhurst, Beaulieu and designated and non-designated heritage 6 kilometres (220 square miles). In 2015 the from the high land and property costs. Burley, attract people throughout the year. 6 National Park had a population of 35,260 assets. There are more than 340 Bronze 2.8 Research by Tourism South East (2005) people1 and with around 62 people per Age barrows, a number of fine Iron Age Nature conservation indicated that there were 13.5 million square kilometre it is the second most hill forts, and numerous remnants of 2.5 In total 56% of the New Forest National visitor days spent per annum in the 7 densely populated national park after the medieval and later buildings, enclosures 7 Park is designated of international value National Park. 15 million people live within South Downs. The housing stock within and other earthworks associated with the for nature conservation – the highest a 90-minute drive of the National Park. the National Park amounts to 15,582 royal forest. The main rivers supported a proportion of land in any planning Research commissioned by the Authority, dwellings (based on 2011 Census data), of boat and shipbuilding industry and the authority area in the country. The New New Forest District Council, Natural 8 which an estimated 6% are second homes coastal salt workings were among the 8 Forest Special Area of Conservation England and Forestry England3 estimated or holiday lets. The main settlements of most important in the country during the (SAC), Special Protection Area (SPA) that housing development in the period Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Burley, Cadnam, 18th Century. The National Park has 214 and Ramsar sites cover more than 300 2006-2026 within 50 kilometres of the Landford, Lyndhurst and Sway have scheduled ancient monuments, 624 listed 9 square kilometres in the core of the New New Forest will result in an additional 9 between 1,000 and 3,500 residents. buildings and 17 designated conservation Forest, including the most extensive area 1.05 million visits per annum by 2026 – an Average house prices in the New Forest areas, plus three which straddle the of heathland and valley mire in lowland increase of 8% over the period. National Park are significantly higher National Park boundary with New Forest Europe. Much of the coastline is similarly 10 than surrounding areas, with an average District. In addition to the nationally 10 designated, principally for the populations property price around 15 times higher than listed buildings, there are a significant of wintering wildfowl and waders and a average annual earnings. This means the number of non-designated heritage framework is in place along the Solent New Forest has the highest average house assets. There are also seven registered (including the National Park) to ensure the price of any of the UK’s National Parks. historic parks and gardens, four of which A1 are grade II*. The cultural heritage of A1 1 New Forest National Park mid-2015 Population Estimates. Office the National Park extends beyond its rich National Statistics (ONS) 2 Verderers of the New Forest data 2016 built environment and includes the long history of commoning in the New Forest. A2 Commoning has helped shape the mosaic A2 of landscapes, biodiversity and character of the National Park. A3 A3 Access and recreation 2.7 The New Forest has 42 kilometres of coastline, 325 kilometres of Public Rights of Way (PROW), and over 30,000 hectares of accessible land (more than 50% of 3 Changing patterns of visitor numbers within the New Forest New Forest ponies grazing National Park, with particular reference to the New Forest SPA’, Footprint Ecology, 2008

16 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 17 Communities and range of businesses and services, with Transport the health sector; tourism; wholesale and Settlement Pattern 2.13 The National Park is crossed by several 1 retail; professional and technical services; 1 2.9 There are 37 parish and town councils major routes which carry high volumes and education all being particularly wholly or partly within the National of traffic. The A31, linking South West important employers. Only a small Park. The Local Plan retains the current England with Southampton and the wider proportion of employment is now found in 2 settlement hierarchy within the National South East, is the most heavily used road 2 traditional rural land-based activities such Park with Ashurst, Brockenhurst, in the National Park, carrying up to 77,000 as farming, forestry and commoning, but Lyndhurst and Sway identified as ‘Defined vehicles daily and effectively cuts the area these activities remain vital in maintaining Villages’ due to their character, population in two. The National Park is well-served for 3 the land use management practices that 3 and the range of facilities and services long-distance rail travel, with connections help conserve the landscape character of they provide. at Ashurst, Beaulieu Road, Brockenhurst the National Park. Unemployment within and Sway. Lymington – located just 2.10 Other smaller settlements with a basic the National Park has remained at lower 4 outside the National Park - also has two range of local services within the National levels than in the South East and the UK as 4 train stations which link with the Isle of Park include Beaulieu, Burley, Cadnam, a whole over the last decade and currently Wight ferry. There are a number of regular East Boldre, Landford, Netley Marsh and stands at 0.5%. Looking forward, a scheduled public bus services through the Woodgreen. The surrounding urban decline in the working age population is 5 National Park, including a regular service 5 areas of Southampton, Bournemouth and forecast. Salisbury are easily reached by rail or road between Southampton and Lymington, 2.12 In delivering the two statutory National from the National Park and provide a wide via Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst. However, Park purposes, the Authority has an 6 range of housing, shops, leisure facilities many of the rural settlements are less 6 important duty to foster the socio- and employment opportunities. The towns well-served and here public transport is economic wellbeing of the communities of Lymington, New Milton, Ringwood, not a practical option for the majority of within the National Park. The English Totton and the Waterside are important residents. 7 National Parks and the Broads UK local employment centres and provide 2.14 During the summer months the New 7 Government Vision and Circular (2010) services to meet most of the needs of Forest Tour bus operates three interlinked confirms that national park authorities National Park residents. routes across the National Park and is should continue to focus their expenditure aimed at both visitors and residents. 8 on the delivery of their statutory purposes, 8 Economy while seeking to maximise the socio- 2.15 Southampton and Bournemouth A31 bridge, near Burley 2.11 While the National Park is predominantly economic benefits available from such Airports are located within close proximity Environment Act 1995); national planning 9 rural in nature, the economy is diverse activity. Experience to date has shown to the National Park. Plans for the 9 and is highly integrated with its that by harnessing the economy to expansion of both airports are set out in policy on major development in national surrounding areas. In 2015 there were environmental ends, tangible economic the respective Airport Masterplans, with parks; and the legalA31 requirements bridge, near of Burley the 2,540 businesses in the National Park, benefits can be delivered through the combined annual aircraft movements Habitats Regulations. Environment Act 1995); national planning 10 reflecting a very broad range and types statutory purposes whilst at the same time predicted to increase from circa 80,000 10 policy on major development in national of businesses, with the largest sector, achieving those purposes4. in 2016 to 146,000 in 2030. The scale of parks; and the legal requirements of the in terms of the numbers of individual the impact of this increase of passenger Habitats Regulations. businesses, being professional, scientific aircraft flights will depend on future flight and technical services. Residents of the paths and the extent of improvements in A1 National Park are employed in a wide aircraft engine technology. A1 4 Paragraph 66, English National Parks and the Broads UK Government Vision and Circular, 2010 2.16 Southampton is a major international gateway port with significant global and A2 economic importance. Land at Dibden A2 Bay, adjoining the National Park, has been identified as the only area of land physically capable of accommodating A3 A3 significant expansion of the port in the draft Port of Southampton Masterplan 2016-2035. Any future development proposals for Dibden Bay must have regard to the Government’s National Policy Statement on Ports; potential impacts on the adjacent New Forest National Local business, Bramshaw Park (as required by Section 62(2) of the

18 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 19 CHAPTER 3 3.1 The Local Plan aims to deliver sustainable qualities of the New Forest are those development within the context of a qualities that define it, make it unique 1 Vision and nationally protected landscape, in conformity and immediately recognisable and, when 1 with the statutory Park purposes; the taken together, distinguish it from all objectives objectives of national planning policy; and other parts of the country. These qualities 2 the ambitions in the New Forest National are fundamental to the two purposes of 2 Park Partnership Plan 2015-2020. The vision the National Park and are the underlying and objectives for the Local Plan set out how reason for its designation. The special the New Forest will look at the end of the qualities of the New Forest were identified 3 Plan period in 2036. through public consultation and are set 3 out in Annex 1 of this Local Plan. 3.2 The vision has been informed by the ‘Special Qualities’ of the National Park. The special Vision for the New Forest National 4 Park for 2036 4

5 In 2036 the New Forest’s outstanding natural beauty has been safeguarded and enhanced. Sites 5 of international, national and local importance for nature conservation and the National Park as a whole continue to host a variety of wildlife and habitats. The New Forest remains an area with 6 a unique and immediately recognisable sense of place, with a mosaic of distinctive landscapes 6 and habitats including lowland heath, mire, ancient woodland, the Solent coastline and farmed landscapes. Tranquillity and a feeling of naturalness pervade large parts of the National Park. 7 At the same time it is a place where people can enjoy the wonderful opportunities for quiet 7 recreation, learning and discovery. Recreation and visitor pressures have been successfully managed through a shared understanding of the issues. Traditional land management practices, particularly commoning, are supported and continue to thrive and shape the Forest’s landscape and cultural 8 8 identity. The impacts of climate change are better understood and are being actively addressed through adaptation and change but without compromising the special qualities of the New Forest. People live and work sustainably, and everyone contributes in appropriate ways to keeping the New 9 Forest a special place for present and future generations. 9 The limited development that has taken place within the National Park has been focused on catering for the socio-economic needs of local people rather than meeting external demand. Small scale 10 housing development on allocated sites and within the Defined Villages of Ashurst, Brockenhurst, 10 Lyndhurst and Sway has provided a mix of appropriate new housing to meet local needs arising within the National Park. Rural exception schemes and new dwellings focused on the needs of New Forest Commoners and Estate workers have helped deliver appropriate housing in the rest of the A1 National Park. A1 The cultural heritage and historic environment is better understood and appreciated through its continued protection and enhancement. The inherent characteristics and local distinctiveness of the A2 A2 individual villages have been retained and enhanced through the highest standards of design that respect the natural and built heritage of the Park. The rural economy has been supported by small scale employment development that does not conflict with the special qualities of the National Park. A3 A3 The communities within the National Park continue to look to adjoining areas, including the urban areas in South Hampshire, South East Dorset and South Wiltshire for a range of services. The relationship with adjoining areas has been managed to the mutual benefit of all areas, including a shared approach to mitigating the impacts of new development on the National Park.

Left: cottages, Emery Down

20 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 21 Key challenges for the understanding and enjoyment of the Local Plan National Park’s special qualities. Strategic objective Link to National Relevant 1 Park purposes and policies 1 3.3 The Local Plan has a key role in addressing Strategic objectives duty (see p22) the planning challenges likely to affect the New Forest National Park over the next 20 3.4 The vision and the key challenges facing 1. Protect and enhance the natural environment of the First purpose SP4, SP5, SP6, SP7, 2 years, including: the New Forest over the next twenty National Park, including the natural beauty of the DP8, SP9, DP13, SP15 2 years have been translated into nine • conserving and enhancing the landscape and the range of habitats and species. strategic objectives, which are consistent nationally protected landscape of the with those in the New Forest National 3 New Forest – the outstanding natural 2. Conserve and enhance the cultural heritage and First purpose DP2, SP16, SP17, DP18 3 beauty of the New Forest’s landscape is Park Partnership Plan 2015 – 2020 and historic environment of the National Park, especially the primary reason for its designation as a reflect the Authority’s overarching remit in the wealth of individual characteristics that National Park and has the highest status of delivering the two statutory purposes and contribute to its local distinctiveness. 4 protection in the NPPF the related socio-economic duty, namely: 4 3. Plan for the likely impacts of climate change on the First purpose SP11, DP12, DP13, 1. to conserve and enhance the natural • ensuring the impacts of new special qualities of the New Forest. SP14 development on the nationally and beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the New Forest; and 5 internationally protected habitats of 4. Strengthen the well-being, identity and sustainability Socio-economic duty DP10, DP34, DP35, 5 the New Forest are avoided or fully 2. to promote opportunities for the of rural communities and the pride of local people in DP36, DP37, SP38, mitigated – over half of the National Park understanding and enjoyment of the their area. SP39, DP40, DP41 is designated as being of international special qualities of the New Forest by the 6 importance for nature conservation and public. 5. Promote appropriate housing to meet local needs Socio-economic duty SP19, SP20, SP21, 6 new development must not impact on the The Authority also has a duty under and maintain the vibrant communities of the SP22, SP23, SP24, integrity of the New Forest and its coastal Section 62(1) of the Environment Act National Park. SP25, SP26, SP27, habitats 7 1995 in taking forward the two Park SP28, SP29, SP30, 7 • developing a positive strategy for purposes to seek to foster the economic DP31, DP32, SP33 the conservation and enhancement and social well-being of local communities 6. Develop a diverse and sustainable economy that Socio-economic duty SP42, SP43, SP44, DP45 of local distinctiveness and heritage within the National Park. 8 assets within the New Forest’s built contributes to the well-being of local communities 8 3.5 The policies within the Local Plan will environment – the New Forest has a throughout the National Park. contribute towards meeting the vision rich built and cultural heritage and its and strategic objectives and will also conservation is key to the delivery of the 7. Encourage land management that sustains the First and second purposes and SP48, DP49, DP50, 9 help deliver a range of priority actions 9 first statutory National Park purpose special qualities of the National Park. socio-economic duty DP51, DP52, DP53 identified in the New Forest National Park • delivering new housing to help Partnership Plan. 8. Support development which encourages sustainable Second purpose SP46, DP47 10 address local needs while at the tourism and recreation, and provides opportunities same time ensuring development for enjoying the National Park’s special qualities. 10 does not compromise the delivery of the two statutory National Park 9. Reduce the impacts of traffic on the special qualities Second purpose and socio-eco- SP54, SP55 purposes – national planning policy of the National Park and support a range of nomic duty A1 recognises that national park authorities sustainable transport alternatives within the Park. have an important role to play in delivering A1 housing for local people within the context of a nationally protected landscape A2 • sustaining a diverse local economy – in A2 delivering the two statutory National Park purposes, the Authority has an important A3 duty to foster the socio-economic A3 wellbeing of the 35,000 people living within the National Park • supporting sustainable tourism and recreation within the National Park – the New Forest attracts millions of visitors each year and the Authority has a statutory purpose to promote the Forest cottages

22 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 23 CHAPTER 4 Local Plan policies 1 3.6 Section 38(6) of the Planning & Strategic 1 Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 sets out the role of the ‘development plan’ in the Policies and planning system. This Local Plan forms 2 a key part of the statutory development 2 plan for the New Forest National Park. Development The policies in the Local Plan include both 3 strategic policies (prefixed with ‘SP’) and Principles 3 more detailed development management policies (prefixed with ‘DP’). This Local Plan policy numbering enables local 4 communities to understand which are 4 the strategic planning policies that they should be in general conformity with in preparing Neighbourhood Development 5 Plans. It should also be emphasised that 5 all of the policies contained within the Local Plan have equal ‘development plan’ 6 status within the British Plan-led planning 6 system.

7 7

8 8

9 9

10 10

A1 A1

A2 A2

A3 A3

Nomansland

Right: Lyndhurst high street 24 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 25 Supporting sustainable development in the NPPF. Policy SP1 development takes a positive approach to sustainable 1 development in accordance with the NPPF, 1 4.1 The NPPF states that Local Plans should recognising the protection afforded to contribute to the achievement of national parks in national planning policy sustainable development. It sets out a and having full regard to the statutory 2 presumption in favour of sustainable 2 National Park purposes and related duty. development, which should run through both plan making and decision taking. 4.4 There is also increasing recognition of 3 In addition, the National Parks Circular the wider sustainability benefits that 3 (2010) states that the national park national parks offer to society. These authorities’ primary responsibility is to benefits are commonly referred to as deliver their statutory purposes and ‘ecosystem services’ and cover the services Solar panels, Lyndhurst 4 in doing so, they should ensure they provided by the landscape and habitats of 4 are exemplars in achieving sustainable national parks. These include improving development. air and water quality; controlling water flow downstream; regulating pollution; 4.2 There are three dimensions to 5 and the benefits of national parks to Policy SP1: Supporting sustainable development 5 sustainability: the public’s well-being through their The National Park Authority will support sustainable development proposals that will conserve and • a social role – supporting strong, vibrant enjoyment of the special qualities. The enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park and its special qualities; 6 and healthy communities, through the sustainable development policy reflects promote opportunities for their understanding and enjoyment by the public, and when doing so, 6 supply of housing, accessible local services the contribution these ecosystem services will foster the social and economic well-being of local communities. Where there is an irreconcilable and by creating a high-quality built and make to society. conflict between the statutory purposes, greater weight will be attached to the conservation and natural environment enhancement of the National Park (in line with Section 62(2) of the Environment Act 19955). 7 7 • an environmental role – protection and Sustainable development in the National Park is considered to be that which: enhancement of the natural, built and historic environment and adapting to a) makes the National Park a high-quality place to live, work and visit – including climate change appropriate new housing to address local needs; accessibility to local employment 8 opportunities; improved public transport links; local infrastructure provision; and enhanced 8 • an economic role – contributing to a community and recreational facilities;facilities strong, responsive and competitive economy, by supporting local businesses b) has a positive impact on the ability of the natural environment to positively contribute to 9 and land managers. society through the provision of food and water, regulation of floods, prevention of soil erosion 9 and disease outbreaks, and non-material benefits such as recreation;ion 4.3 The National Park’s statutory purposes, together with the duty, broadly reflect c) enhances the landscape of the New Forest through high quality design and responding to the 10 the three dimensions of sustainable local distinctiveness of the area;area 10 d) contributes positively to the built and historic environment of the New Forest;Forest e) does not impact on the integrity of the protected habitats of the New Forest, including its coastline;coastline A1 f) is resilient and responsive to the impacts of climate change through improved energy efficiency A1 and making appropriate use of small-scale renewable energy;energy and g) makes use of sustainable building techniques, local materials and minimises energy use A2 and waste. A2

A3 A3

Village stores, Woodgreen 5 The relationship between the two Park purposes is commonly referred to as the Sandford Principle. Every effort should be made to reconcile any conflict between the two purposes, but if such efforts fail, the first purpose takes precedence.

26 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 27 4.5 This approach is consistent with the NPPF Policy DP2: General development Major development in the Policy SP3: Major development in which sets out a presumption in favour principles New Forest National Park the National Park 1 of sustainable development and indicates 1 4.8 National planning policy dating back where development should be restricted. All new development and uses of land within In the context of the New Forest National many decades has contained a clear National policy is clear that objectively the New Forest National Park must uphold Park, major development is defined as presumption against major new assessed needs should be met unless and promote the principles of sustainable development which has the potential to have 2 development in national parks because 2 any adverse impacts of doing so would development. New development proposals a significant impact on the National Park and of the harm it would cause to the long- significantly and demonstrably outweigh must demonstrate high quality design and its special qualities due to its scale, character term national interest in conserving the benefits, when assessed against the construction which enhances local character and nature. and distinctiveness. This includes, but is not these landscapes. Major development is 3 policies in the Framework taken as a Planning permission will only be granted for 3 restricted to, ensuring: therefore only permitted within protected whole. Specific policies indicating where major development within the New Forest landscapes in exceptional circumstances development should be restricted include a) development is appropriate and National Park in exceptional circumstances and where it can be demonstrated that it those relating to sites protected under sympathetic in terms of scale, and where it can be demonstrated to be in 4 is in the public interest, as outlined in the the Habitats Directive, Sites of Special appearance, form, siting and layout;layout the public interest. Consideration of such 4 NPPF. Scientific Interest (SSSI); and land within a b) development respects the natural, built applications should include an assessment of: national park. 4.9 The NPPG states that it will be a matter for and historic environment, landscape a) the need for the development, the relevant decision taker as to whether 5 4.6 The Authority will encourage and support character and biodiversity;biodiversity including in terms of any national 5 a proposed development within the the use of natural sustainable materials considerations, and the impact of c) development takes opportunities to National Park should be treated as major in the design of new development. permitted it, or refusing it, upon the protect and enhance the setting of development, taking into account the To support the delivery of sustainable local economy;economy 6 groups and individual trees, hedges and proposal in question and the local context. 6 development in the New Forest, local hedgerows and to include new planting For the purposes of the policy, the phrase b) the cost of, and scope for, developing sources of such materials should be sought of native trees and hedges where ‘major development’ will not be restricted outside the New Forest National Park, wherever possible. The use of locally appropriate;appropriate to the definition of major development or meeting the need for it in some 7 sourced materials also benefits the local in the Town & Country Planning other way;way 7 economy and supports land managers in d) materials and boundary treatments are (Development Management Procedure) the National Park. appropriate to the site and its setting;setting c) any detrimental effect on the (England) Order 2015 or to proposals that e) development would not result in environment, the landscape and 8 4.7 In line with the requirements of national raise issues of national significance. recreational opportunities and 8 policy, policy SP1 sets out the Authority’s unacceptable adverse impacts on 4.10 Major development is development of the extent to which that could be overarching policy approach to the amenity in terms of additional impacts, more than local significance (i.e. it would moderated;moderated delivery of sustainable development visual intrusion, overlooking or exceed the local-scale development 9 within the context of a nationally shading;shading and d) any detrimental impact on the special 9 needed to address the socio-economic protected landscape. This strategic policy f) development would not result qualities of the New Forest National needs of the New Forest’s 35,000 is supported by a more detailed policy in unacceptable adverse impacts Park and whether they can be residents) which would have a long- on general development principles that associated with traffic or pollution mitigated;mitigated and term impact on the landscape, wildlife 10 the Authority expects all development (including air, soil, water, noise and e) the cumulative impact of the 10 or cultural heritage of the National Park within the National Park to be considered light pollution). development when viewed with other because of its scale and form. This can against. proposals. New development must also comply with include major residential and commercial required standards for: development, significant infrastructure A1 g) car parking (see Annex 2);2) projects and power generation. Major A1 development can have a significant h) open space (as set out in Policy DP10). impact on the special qualities of the New Forest and the reasons why the A2 A2 National Park was designated – relating to its outstanding natural beauty; the variety of landscapes and habitats; and the A3 opportunities provided for the public to A3 enjoy the Forest.

28 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 29 Dibden Bay 4.14 As a strategic site located immediately Spatial Strategy ensure that the main villages continue adjacent to the National Park, it is to prosper. These Defined Villages are 4.11 Land at Dibden Bay, adjoining the National 4.15 Planning in the New Forest National Park 1 appropriate for the Authority’s Local considered to be the most sustainable 1 Park, is identified in the draft Port of is underpinned by the delivery of the two Plan to set out the range of factors to be settlements in the National Park as they Southampton Masterplan 2016-2035 as statutory Park purposes and the related considered should the site come forward have the broadest range of community the only area of land physically capable of socio-economic duty. These purposes for development. These include: facilities, local employment opportunities, 2 accommodating significant expansion of and duty apply across the whole of the 2 transport links and a good range of other the port. The site is a designated SSSI and • any future proposals for Dibden Bay that designated National Park. The emphasis services for residents and visitors. The the foreshore is designated as a Special include major development within the of new development will be on small- strategic approach for the Defined Villages Protection Area (SPA) and Ramsar site. New Forest National Park would need to scale proposals that reflect the area’s 3 seeks to: 3 satisfy the national planning policy tests character and address the needs of local 4.12 Prior to the designation of the New Forest for major development in the National communities in the National Park, rather • sustain and enhance the local services in National Park in 2005, the Secretary Park set out in the NPPF and the tests in than catering for external demand. the villagesvillages; of State refused a previous proposal Policy SP3 on major development 4 for major port development at Dibden 4.16 The New Forest is a rural area with small, • support the important role of the villages 4 Bay, primarily on the basis that the • section 62(2) of the Environment Act 1995 dispersed settlements that generally in the local tourism economyeconomy; confirms that development proposals environmental harm outweighed the have a limited range of facilities. None • support the provision of appropriate that could affect the New Forest National 5 predicted economic benefits. of the villages within the National Park housing, employment, retail and 5 Park, including those located outside the have populations greater than 3,500 4.13 Any future application for port use at community facilitiesfacilities; and Park that could impact on it, must have people and higher order services are Dibden Bay would likely be of a scale that regard to the two statutory National Park normally provided in the larger towns • conserve the distinctive character and would qualify as a Nationally Significant 6 purposes - namely the conservation and and urban areas that fringe the National heritage of the villages. 6 Infrastructure Project (NSIP) under the enhancement of the Forest’s landscape, Park. The Local Plan sets out where new 2008 Planning Act. Consequently, the 4.18 The remaining settlements in the National wildlife and scenic beauty; and the development will take place in line with Authority would be invited to submit Park are smaller and have a more limited understanding and enjoyment of the the principles of sustainable development 7 a Local Impact Report setting out the range of services, facilities and transport National Park’s special qualities and the statutory framework of the 7 potential impacts of the development on accessibility. The relatively small and National Park purposes. National planning the adjacent National Park, but would be • meeting the legal requirements of the scattered nature of these rural settlements policy confirms that planning should a consultee rather than a decision maker. Conservation of Habitats and Species means that the level of development will Regulations 2010 in terms of the likely actively manage patterns of growth to 8 It would be the Planning Inspectorate be more limited, but it is important that 8 effects on the internationally designated make the fullest possible use of public who would consider and make a local communities across the National Natura 2000 sites in the area, including transport, walking and cycling and focus recommendation to the Secretary of State Park continue to thrive. The Spatial the Solent and Southampton Water significant development in locations on whether a Development Consent Order Strategy therefore supports the provision 9 Ramsar Site and SPA; the Solent Maritime which are or can be made sustainable. 9 should be issued. The Secretary of State of affordable housing for local people in SAC; and the New Forest SPA and SAC. The ‘New Forest National Park Partnership would make the final decision. and adjoining these smaller settlements Plan 2015-2020’ includes a priority through the rural exception policy to 10 action to improve the connectivity of help to address local housing needs. 10 routes between settlements in the New It also enables the delivery of housing Forest. Sustainable development in rural specifically for New Forest commoners, areas should be promoted by focusing Estate workers and dwellings tied to the development where it will enhance or rural economy, for example agricultural A1 maintain the vitality of rural communities and forestry workers’ housing. In addition, A1 and sustain the settlements over the the Local Plan supports the provision of long term. employment opportunities and essential local community facilities to support the A2 4.17 The Spatial Strategy sets out the basic A2 settlement hierarchy, with the villages sustainability of local communities. of Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and 4.19 Provision is also made in the Local Plan Sway identified as ‘Defined Villages’. for development in the National Park A3 Together these villages provide homes to support the redevelopment of the A3 for around one third of all National Park brownfield former Fawley Power Station residents and appropriate employment site. This allocation has been informed by and housing development will be consideration of the Government’s major supported within the Defined Villages. development test. In line with national policy, future development in the National Park is likely to be modest, but it will be important to

30 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 31 4.20 The Spatial Strategy also reflects the proximity of the National Park to surrounding urban areas 4.21 The Policies Map shows the boundaries which provide a range of services. of the Defined Villages which have been 1 1 New Forest National Park Spatial Strategy reviewed as part of the Local Plan process. It is essential that any new development within the Defined Villages safeguards 2 Larger towns Downton, Fordingbridge, Provide a wide range of their character. Any proposals for 2 and settlements Ringwood, New Milton, services, facilities and development within the Defined Villages outside the Lymington, Hythe & employment opportunities will be considered against all of the National Park Dibden, Totton & Eling, for National Park residents planning policies in this Plan, including 3 Romsey those relating to local distinctiveness and 3 design quality. Defined Villages Ashurst, Brockenhurst, The focus for appropriate in the Lyndhurst, Sway new community facilities, 4 National Park employment, retail and 4 housing development to meet local needs

5 Rural settlements Numerous smaller, Affordable housing 5 in the dispersed settlements delivered through rural National Park throughout the exception sites, retention 6 National Park of employment sites and 6 provision of essential community facilities 7 7

Policy SP4: Spatial strategy 8 The following villages within the New Forest National Park have defined settlement boundaries: 8 • Ashurst • Brockenhurst 9 9 • Lyndhurst • Sway 10 The principle of development within the ‘Defined Villages’ settlement boundaries as defined on the 10 Policies Map will be supported, provided that it complies with the other relevant policies and is of a scale and nature appropriate to the character and function of the settlement. In addition to these Defined Villages, land use allocations are also made in other parts of the National Park to contribute towards meeting local community needs across the New Forest. A1 A1 Development proposals will only be permitted outside the Defined Village boundaries and allocated development sites where:

A2 a. it is in accordance with Policy SP28 on Rural Exception Sites;Sites oror A2 b. it is in accordance with Policy DP44 on employment sites;sites oror c. there is an essential need for a countryside location,location oror A3 d. it meets the specific locational needs for commoners, Estate Workers or agricultural dwellings;dwellings A3 or e. it is an appropriate reuse or redevelopment of an existing building(s) in accordance with Policy DP49.

Entrance sign to Ashurst

32 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 33 CHAPTER 5 5.1 This chapter sets out the strategic conservation directives. The NPPF also objectives for protecting and enhancing confirms that the presumption in favour 1 Protecting and the natural environment of the National of sustainable development does not 1 Park. The natural environment of the apply where development could affect the enhancing the New Forest supports a variety of habitats integrity of these areas. and wildlife and also provides multiple 2 5.5 The New Forest National Park has a 2 economic and social benefits. Protection natural higher proportion of its land covered of the natural environment can help tackle by international nature conservation a wide range of challenges, including environment designations than any other planning area 3 supporting biodiversity, improving public 3 in England, including all other English health, creating sustainable business, national parks. The National Park is also making better use of renewable resources under intense pressure from development. and addressing climate change. 4 5.6 The New Forest’s natural environment 4 5.2 The New Forest is one of the last is further protected by extensive areas remaining extensive areas of unspoilt designated as Sites of Special Scientific natural beauty with rare habitats and Interest (SSSI), reflecting their national 5 wildlife in lowland Britain. The heart of the 5 nature conservation importance. National Forest, with its mosaic of ancient pasture policies establish duties to both conserve woodland, lowland heath, lawns and and enhance these sites and avoid wetlands and river systems, are intimately 6 development having an adverse effect on 6 connected to the small-holdings and them. These sites are complemented and farms of the surrounding countryside. The supported by a landscape rich in regionally National Park extends from the wooded important habitats and species of principle slopes of Wiltshire in the north across 7 importance for biodiversity, exemplified 7 the central New Forest plateau to the by the designation of around 400 local open coastline of the Solent in the south. wildlife sites. It has been formed through the close 8 relationship between the land and its 5.7 The sense of naturalness, peace and 8 people over hundreds of years and much quiet and feeling of remoteness and of the area is still managed by traditional tranquillity found within the National Park 9 agriculture and the historic system of contrasts dramatically with the intensively 9 commoning. developed residential and industrial environments close to its boundaries. 5.3 The New Forest National Park is a Indeed, the Parliamentary Order6 which nationally protected landscape, which established the New Forest as a National 10 has the highest status of planning 10 Park recognised that over the years protection in the NPPF in relation to the Forest has come under increasing landscape and scenic beauty. National development pressure from surrounding planning policy also confirms that great urban areas and that there has also weight in decisions must be given to A1 been pressure from heavy and growing A1 the conservation of wildlife and cultural recreational use. It highlighted that these heritage. national, regional and local pressures 5.4 In addition, over half of the National Park are threatening its future and the very A2 A2 is further protected by international nature qualities that make it special7. In the face conservation designations. The New Forest of these pressures it is essential that the is home to a wide variety of important and reasons for the designation of the New A3 often rare wildlife, habitats and species. Forest as a nationally important landscape A3 The importance of these means that are retained and enhanced, whilst at the large areas of land in the National Park same time facilitating the enjoyment of and its coastline have been designated the Park’s special qualities. as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC), Special Protection Areas (SPA), and Ramsar 6 Explanatory Memorandum to the New Forest National Park Authority (establishment) Order 2005 sites and they benefit from a high level 7 The special qualities of the National Park are highlighted in the New of protection under international nature Forest National Park Management Plan and are set out in Annex 1 to the Local Plan

34 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 Left: coast at Keyhaven New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 35 designated sites including the recreational Policy SP5: Nature conservation sites impacts from new households and visitor of international importance 1 accommodation, and ‘urban edge’ impacts 1 such as cat predation and the effects on All development must comply with the habitats adjacent to developments. Policy Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended). Development 2 SP5 reflects the conclusions of this HRA 2 and ensures that development complies which may affect the integrity of an with the Habitats Regulations. The main internationally important site for nature conclusions and resulting requirements of conservation will not be permitted unless 3 the HRA are: there are imperative reasons of overriding 3 public interest for the development, and • prior to mitigation, the HRA cannot rule there are no alternatives. If this is the case, Heathland, Deadman Hill out the recreational impacts of any new the Authority will require compensatory 4 residential and visitor accommodation measures to ensure the overall coherence of 4 5.8 The condition of the National Park’s SSSI throughout the National Park having a the designated site. likely significant in combination effect on area has been gradually improving over Strategic Objective for protecting the Development may satisfy the Conservation of the last decade, but currently about the New Forest SPA and SAC sites. The 5 Forest’s natural environment: HRA also supports the evidence from the Habitats and Species Regulations if sufficient 5 43% is in unfavourable but recovering and effective measures are put in place to condition8 and only 22% of monitored Protect and enhance the natural environment of the Solent Recreation Mitigation Partnership (SRMP) that recreational impacts avoid or fully mitigate any likely significant watercourses are achieving good National Park, including the natural beauty of the adverse effects of the proposal (either 9 cannot be ruled out for any residential 6 ecological status . Trends in a variety landscape and the range of habitats and species. individually or in combination with other 6 of key species, such as the curlew, development within 5.6 kilometres of the Solent SPA, SAC and Ramsar sites that plans and projects) through its lifetime on appear to show declines which reflect the designated sites. A contribution to the a variety of pressures and the densities Protection of internationally cover the coast. Consequently, mitigation 7 important nature is required for all proposals of these Authority’s Habitat Mitigation Scheme and/or 7 of several protected birds, including the Solent Recreation Mitigation Partnership’s nightjar, woodlark and Dartford warbler conservation sites types of development for the recreational impacts on both the New Forest and the Scheme will enable developers to ensure are relatively low compared with other 5.10 Internationally designated nature Solent coastal designated sites that mitigation measures are secured for the 8 lowland heathland sites. The Government conservation sites in the National Park recreational impacts of their development. • due to the expected small scale and 8 White Paper, ‘The Natural Choice: are Special Protection Areas (SPA), The type of development and situations where wide distribution of individual windfall Securing the Value of Nature (2011)’ Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and recreational impacts can be mitigated are developments it is judged that these are recognises the need for decisions to Ramsar Sites (Wetlands of International described in the Authority’s Habitat Mitigation not likely to give rise to significant urban 9 reverse such declines and to undertake Importance) and are shown on the Policies Scheme and the Solent Recreation Mitigation 9 edge effects on the New Forest SAC action to deliver ecological networks that Map. These designated areas are large and Strategy Explanatory Note. are coherent and resilient. This requires incorporate more than 30,000 hectares. or SPA. Avoidance or mitigation may not be possible activity to retain existing components of These cover much of the core of the 10 in some cases due to the impacts, scale, type, the ecological network, improve their Forest and the coastal areas, and in most 10 or proximity of the proposed development quality and scale, provide buffers in the areas are also protected by the national in relation to the designated site, and so the surrounding landscape, and stepping designation as Sites of Special Scientific Authority will assess each case on its merits. stones and corridors to ensure habitats Interest (SSSI). In accordance with the are joined up. In doing so the ecosystem Conservation of Habitats and Species A1 A1 services that the natural environment Regulations 2017 (as amended), these provides will be enhanced and there will internationally designated sites enjoy the 5.12 For development to comply with the be concurrent benefits for society. highest level of statutory and government Habitats Regulations, the Authority will A2 5.9 Measures to help the area adapt to and policy protection. Specific and stringent need to be certain that there will be A2 mitigate the impacts of climate change are tests within the Habitats Regulations are no adverse impacts on the integrity of also set out below, and include supporting set to ensure that no development will any of the designated sites. To achieve harm the integrity of these areas, other A3 small scale renewable energy generation, this, the Authority will need to be A3 consideration of flood risks, and the than in exceptional circumstances. satisfied that sufficient and effective provision of open space. 5.11 A Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) measures to avoid or fully mitigate any has been completed to test whether likely significant adverse effects from a developments in this Local Plan would proposed development (either individually affect the integrity of the National Park’s or in combination with other plans and 8 State of the Park Report 2016 and Hampshire Biodiversity projects) will be put in place. Information Centre Annual Biodiversity Monitoring Reports internationally designated sites. It assessed 9 Protected Landscapes Monitoring Framework 2017, a range of potential impacts on the Environment Agency

36 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 37 5.13 The Authority has devised a Mitigation Mitigation Strategy Explanatory Note11. comply with the Habitats Regulations and Development proposals which adversely affect Scheme which will fully mitigate the The Authority’s Scheme is based on the therefore must adhere to the principles set locally designated sites, priority habitats and 1 lifetime recreational impacts of certain evidence in the HRA that all residential out in Policy SP5. Where mitigation and/ species populations, protected species or 1 development on the New Forest and visitor accommodation throughout or avoidance measures are required, these those identified of importance by national or designated sites. Therefore, to ensure the National Park is likely to impact on can either be provided by the applicant to local biodiversity plans will be refused unless 2 their proposals comply with the Habitats the integrity of the designated sites if the satisfaction of the Authority, or where the Authority is satisfied that: 2 Regulations, developers can make a appropriate mitigation is not provided. appropriate, a financial contribution can a) it has been demonstrated that suitable financial contribution to the Authority’s The SRMP’s Strategy is based on evidence be made to the schemes set out above. measures for mitigating adverse effects Habitat Mitigation Scheme in relation to that residential development within 5.18 Terrestrial waders and Brent goose sites will be provided and maintained 3 the land based designated sites, and to the 5.6 kilometres of the coast will require 3 located on land outside the boundaries of in order to achieve a net gain in Solent Recreation Mitigation Partnership’s mitigation. the Solent SPAs can support these birds, biodiversity valuevalue; and (SRMP) Scheme for development within 5.16 Applicants are not precluded from and details are outlined in the Solent 5.6 kilometres of the Solent based coastal b) there are no alternative solutionssolutions; and 4 assessing the potential impact of their Waders and Brent Goose strategy. designated sites. These contributions 4 proposals on the designated sites and c) there are overriding reasons which from developments will be used by the devising their own appropriate mitigation Protecting, maintaining outweigh the harm. Authority and the SRMP (also known measures. When considering these and enhancing nationally as Bird Aware, Solent) to implement a In cases where it is not possible to fully avoid 5 measures, the evidence presented will and locally important sites 5 range of measures that will mitigate the or mitigate for the loss of biodiversity interests need to allow the Authority to be certain and features of the natural recreational impacts of new development resulting from a development, appropriate that there will be no likely significant environment on the designated sites, and help protect compensation will be secured for any residual adverse effects from the proposed 6 and maintain these sites. The HRA of the 5.19 There are many nationally, regionally and losses via on or off-site compensation 6 development throughout its lifetime Local Plan concludes that the National locally important sites and features that measures. The latter may include the provision on the designated sites. Applicants will Park Authority’s Habitat Mitigation Scheme characterise the New Forest and these of compensatory habitats elsewhere. need to provide sufficiently detailed and the SRMP’s Scheme will adequately should be protected, conserved and 7 information about the potential impacts In addition, opportunities to enhance 7 mitigate potential recreation pressures enhanced, together with the coherence of their proposed development on the ecological or geological assets and the from development within the New Forest of its ecological network. This includes designated features, species and habitats water environment should be maximised, National Park. development proposals that would of all the internationally protected sites particularly in line with the Authority’s ‘Action affect Sites of Special Scientific Interest 12 8 5.14 However, due to the scale, type, or and affect their proposed mitigation for Biodiversity’ . .Applicants Applicants will will be be required required 8 (SSSI), Sites of Importance for Nature proximity of the proposed development in measures to demonstrate conclusively to to demonstrate the impacts of their proposal Conservation (SINCs) in Hampshire, relation to the designated site, avoidance the Authority that it will comply with the on biodiversity, and for certain types of County Wildlife Sites in Wiltshire, Local 13 or mitigation and the use of financial Habitat Regulations and there will be no development by submission of an Ecological 9 Nature Reserves (LNRs), irreplaceable 9 contributions may not be possible in all likely significant adverse effects on the Appraisal, which should outline the mitigation habitats such as ancient woodlands, cases. For example, if a larger number of designated sites. This will need to take and enhancement measures needed to species and habitats of principal windfall dwellings were to come forward into consideration the conclusions of the achieve a net gain in biodiversity. importance and trees and hedgerows. 10 on a single site, or a closely related cluster Habitats Regulations Assessment for the 10 of sites, within 400 metres of the New Local Plan and the proposal’s potential 5.20 National planning policies also support Forest SAC and SPA, then the Authority impacts in combination with all other the protection and enhancement of will require the applicant to supply planned development in the National Policy SP6: The natural environment geological conservation and recognise sufficient evidence for an appropriate Park and its surrounding areas. Under a Proposals should protect, maintain and the wider benefits of ecosystem services. A1 assessment10 of the urban edge effects, as precautionary principle, if the applicant A1 enhance nationally, regionally and locally They require that impacts on biodiversity outlined in the HRA of the Local Plan. does not demonstrate with certainty that important sites and features of the natural should be minimised, net gains in the development, including any proposed 5.15 Details of the mitigation measures can be environment, including habitats and species biodiversity provided where possible, mitigation, will not impact the integrity of A2 found in the Authority’s Habitat Mitigation of biodiversity importance, geological features and coherent ecological networks should A2 the site, permission will be refused. Scheme and those for the Solent and the water environment. be established that are more resilient to Recreation Mitigation Partnership Scheme 5.17 Developments covered by prior approval Development which is likely to have an current and future pressures. Development can be found in the Solent Recreation and permitted development, contained applications need to be accompanied A3 adverse effect on a Site of Special Scientific A3 in the Town and Country Planning Interest (either individually or in combination by an appropriate level of biodiversity 10 The applicant will need to provide sufficient evidence for an (General Permitted Development) information to allow an assessment appropriate assessment (that is informed by the HRA of the with other developments) will not be Local Plan) that will allow the Authority to be certain that there (England) Order, are granted permission permitted. Only where the benefits of the will be no likely significant adverse urban edge effects from the by central government and therefore a development clearly outweigh both the 12 ‘Nature in the New Forest: Action for Biodiversity’ – New Forest proposed development throughout its lifetime on the integrity planning application is not required. These impacts on the special interest features of the National Park Authority of the designated sites, and, therefore, will comply with the 13 In particular, for greenfield development, replacement dwellings, developments, however, must still SSSI and on the broader national network of Habitats Regulations. Please contact the Authority to discuss the extensions affecting roof structures and those affecting identiidentifiedfied requirements. SSSIs will an exception be considered. biodiversity interests. The Authority’s biodiversity checklist provides 11 www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/planning/development-standards/ guidance.

38 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 39 of impacts, and the efficacy of any years field and domestic boundaries in of commoning. Seeking opportunities what is visible from a publicly accessible proposed mitigation or compensation. the New Forest have been changing. to enhance large-scale landscapes and location. It is the combination of all the 1 It is recommended that applicants seek Creating links between habitats through habitats that are characteristic of the New various elements and features of the 1 pre-application advice to establish what a better network of hedgerows is an Forest is also one of the priority actions landscape described in the LCA that make information is required. identified action of the Partnership Plan of the Partnership Plan (2015). Proposals the National Park’s landscape character and the landscape and biodiversity value include the restoration of land to lowland special. 2 5.21 Trees and hedges provide very important 2 of hedges is outlined in the Authority’s heathland and measures to improve the habitats for wildlife. Trees help to improve 5.31 The following policy seeks to ensure that Design Guide15 , which, together with the condition of Sites of Special Scientific air quality, reduce the effect of heavy rain, development avoids detrimental impacts New Forest Land Advice Hedgerow guide16 Interest, such as wetland restoration. provide shelter and are integral to the on the intrinsic landscape character and its 3 provide guidance on how to establish a Restoration of landscapes where features 3 character of the New Forest. Trees also key features. hedge and what native species can be have been lost or degraded will be play a significant role in the sustainability used. Opportunities to include new hedges supported by the Authority, where of new developments and by retaining in developments will be encouraged it contributes positively to landscape 4 existing trees and carefully planting Policy SP7: Landscape character through Policy DP2. Hedgerows are character. 4 new trees in a well-designed layout, protected by the Hedgerows Regulations17 Great weight in planning decisions will new developments can be successfully 5.28 Consideration of the landscape character and many require permission from the be given to conserving the landscape and integrated as outlined in Policy DP2. of local areas throughout the National Authority if removal is being considered. scenic beauty of the National Park and to its 5 The Authority’s Tree Guidance Leaflet14 Park should inform planning applications. 5 wildlife and cultural heritage. Development provides advice on how this can be The New Forest National Park Landscape proposals will be permitted if they conserve achieved. Conserving and enhancing Character Assessment 2015 (LCA) and enhance the character of the New Forest’s the landscape provides an evaluation of the different 6 5.22 Older mature trees, especially oak and landscapes and seascapes by demonstrating 6 5.25 The diverse landscape of the New Forest, areas and types of landscape character beech, are a particular characteristic of that: in the New Forest. It divides the New the New Forest. They are a feature not including the ancient woodlands, mature Forest landscape into a number of a) they are informed by New Forest only of the ancient woodlands of the trees and hedgerows, heathlands, unspoilt character areas which help to identify key National Park Landscape Character 7 Open Forest, but of the villages and other coastline, farmed landscapes and rural 7 attributes, differing pressures, trends and Assessment and are compatible with settlements that have developed over time villages, are special qualities integral to the opportunities. It identifies those landscape the distinct features and type of as an integral part of the Forest landscape. designation as a national park. features, such as variations in the natural landscape in which the development is The New Forest is recognised to be one 5.26 National planning policies are particularly 8 environment, condition of the landscape, located;located 8 of the most important sites in North-West important in the New Forest as they settlement pattern and land uses, that give Europe for ancient and veteran trees. The provide the highest status of protection to b) the design, layout, massing and scale a locality its ‘sense of place’ and pinpoints Authority will seek to conserve and protect landscape and scenic beauty in national of proposals conserve and enhance what makes it different from neighbouring 9 mature trees in order to maintain the local parks. The conservation of wildlife existing landscape and seascape 9 areas. It also acts as a landscape landscape character, cultural history and and cultural heritage are also given character and do not detract from the framework to inform decisions regarding wildlife value of the area. great weight when assessing planning natural beauty of the National Park;Park the location and design of development applications. The whole of the New Forest 10 5.23 All trees, regardless of their protected and the capacity of the landscape to c) the character of largely open and 10 National Park is designated as a nationally undeveloped landscapes between and status, are deemed a material absorb potential changes. consideration in planning applications. protected landscape and therefore all within settlements will not be eroded 5.29 The New Forest’s unique landscape The Authority can make Tree Preservation applicants will need to take account of or have their setting harmed;harmed and this level of protection in any development character is, however, under pressure Orders (TPOs) when considering planning d) landscape schemes reinforce local proposal. The Authority will seek to ensure from a number of trends and factors that A1 applications to either prevent the landscape or seascape character. A1 that the high quality, diverse, historic are likely to affect the National Park over removal of significant trees, or to protect Where planting is appropriate, it is and distinct landscapes and seascapes time. The Landscape Action Plan (LAP) significant trees from damage. consistent with local character and of the New Forest National Park will be details those issues and pressures and sets native species are used. A2 5.24 Hedgerows provide corridors for wildlife conserved and enhanced. out objectives, management guidelines A2 and link together the patchwork of and actions for the next 20 years. It offers the many habitats that make up the 5.27 The National Parks Circular (2010) also practical advice and guidance, aimed at 5.32 Proposals which are considered to be countryside. They also protect soil and recognises the significance of the living, A3 both organisations and individuals, to help significant in terms of scale and/or impact water, add beauty and character to the working landscapes that have been A3 maintain the special character of the New should provide a professional landscape landscape, and provide a significant created through history by local land Forest. and visual impact assessment (LVIA) as contribution to the local heritage and management practices and, in the case of 5.30 An important aspect of national policy part of the application submission. distinctiveness of the area. Hedgerows the New Forest, the ancient practice is its recognition that planning should are of particular importance for the recognise the ‘intrinsic’ character and conservation of farmland and woodland 15 www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/planning/design-guidance/ beauty of the countryside. Landscape birds and for mammals, but over recent 16 www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/conservation/landscape-partnership/ projects/better-boundaries/ character cannot be solely determined by 14 www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/planning/submit-tree-work-application/ 17 www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/planning/hedgerows/

40 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 41 Water resources water companies and surrounding thirds of its water from the Rivers Test and authorities in the development of any Itchen. Southern Water’s Water Resource 5.33 The Environment Agency (EA) monitor the 1 strategic solution to reducing nutrient Management Plan 2015-2040 sets out 1 water quality of rivers in the National Park, inputs to the Solent and River Avon a number of initiatives to reduce water based on both ecological and chemical internationally designated nature usage and improve efficiency in supply. status. Of the total river length of 482 conservation sites from wastewater 2 km, about 280 km are covered by Water 5.40 In addition to measures being put in place 2 discharges. Developments that could Framework Directive monitoring stations. by water companies, new development affect these sites will be considered under About one quarter of the rivers in the New should manage demand for water and Policy SP5. 3 Forest that are monitored are of good make efficient use of this resource. All 3 ecological status, but the majority are 5.36 The EA have also defined Source new homes currently have to meet the moderate, while a significant proportion Protection Zones (SPZs)19 for groundwater Building Regulations standard of 125 are poor. There has been a decline in the sources used for public drinking water litres per person per day. However, given 4 length of rivers with ‘poor’ and ‘good’ supply. These zones show the risk of that part of the National Park water 4 ecological status between 2011 and 2014, contamination from any activities that supply is classed as being water stressed, and a rise in those in ‘moderate’ condition. might cause pollution in the area, and requiring the tighter optional Building The Environment Agency objective is to the closer the activity to the source, the Regulations requirement of 110 litres 5 achieve high or good ecological status for greater the risk of pollution. per person per day will help to manage 5 water demand and make efficient use of 70% of the monitored rivers in the New 5.37 National planning policy emphasises this resource. Together with the potential Forest by 2027. that sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) for water abstraction impacts on nature 6 5.34 The New Forest Catchment Partnership should be provided in new developments 6 conservation interests, the highest was established in 2012. The Authority wherever appropriate. This particularly standards of water efficiency need to be will continue to facilitate its work and applies to new development in areas beadopted. adopted. There There is more is more guidance guidance on onthe seek to deliver collaborative projects that at risk of flooding and to planning 7 theimplementation implantation of of this this standard standard in in the the are in accordance with the partnerships applications for major development – 7 Government’s Approved Document G aims. The Partnership complements the developments of 10 dwellings or more, (Sanitation, hot water safety and water work of the Environment Agency by or equivalent non-residential or mixed efficiency). 8 undertaking more widespread monitoring development – unless it is demonstrated 8 of waterbodies in the National Park, to be inappropriate or unnecessary. including standing water bodies which 5.38 Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are Policy DP8: Safeguarding and are often of national and international 9 designed to mimic the natural drainage of improving water resources 9 importance. This work highlights the surface water, typically managing rainfall need to address diffuse pollution which close to where it falls. Surface water flows Development will not be permitted if it is preventing waterbodies across the are then slowed down and discharged would risk harm to the quality and yield of water resources, including abstraction sites, 10 National Park reaching their potential at a controlled rate before entering a 10 and delivering ecosystem services such watercourse. The Habitats Regulations groundwater, rivers, streams, still and coastal as biodiversity quality. The Partnership’s Assessment for this Plan identifies that waters. Water Environment Improvement Plan more specific mitigation may be necessary In addition, all new residential development identifies priorities for strategic action and to ensure that contaminated surface run- within the National Park should be designed A1 localised project delivery. off is not likely to have significant effects to achieve a required level of 110 litres A1 5.35 The issues and pressures affecting the on any designated nature conservation maximum daily allowable usage per person, in long-term quality of the region’s water sites. line with the Government’s Housing Optional Technical Standard for water efficiency. A2 resources include abstraction, pesticides, 5.39 In 2013 the Environment Agency20 A2 phosphates, nitrates, physical modification looked at the current and future water To reduce the risk that pollutants likely to be 18 and transport pollution . Opportunities usage against climate change scenarios contained in surface water run-off will enter will be sought to support diffuse pollution A3 to provide an indicative stress situation watercourses new development must either: reductions and appropriate proposals for each water company. The Southern A3 a) implement appropriate Sustainable to mitigate impacts and provide clean Water area is identified as being in both Drainage Systems (SuDS)(SuDS); or or water environments (such as new current and future water stress. The South pond complexes) will be supported. Hampshire area of Southern Water’s b) demonstrate that surface water run- The Authority will also support the operating area takes approximately two- off from the development will not Environment Agency, Natural England, adversely affect any designated nature 19 www.apps.environment-agency.gov.uk/wiyby/37833.aspx conservation sites. 18 Environment Agency, South East River Basin – Significant Water 20 Water stressed areas – final classification’, Environment River at Balmer Lawn, Brockenhurst Management Issues 2008 Agency, 2013

42 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 43 Green infrastructure and for healthy recreation. Provision or Policy SP9: Green infrastructure 5.47 With the population who live within an open space improvement of alternative greenspaces easy journey of the New Forest increasing 1 may also be considered along with a Proposals which create, maintain and enhance rapidly, and planned development 1 5.41 Green infrastructure can be defined as range of other measures23 to mitigate the green infrastructure will be supported, immediately surrounding the Park set to a planned and managed network of recreational effects of development within particularly where they: rise significantly, an increased number open spaces that perform a number of the National Park on the internationally a) encourage connectivity between of visitors are likely to come to enjoy the 2 functions. It can bring a wide range of 2 important nature conservation different habitats and designated sitessites; National Park in the coming years. Clearly benefits to both communities and the designations. Suitable Alternative this will present challenges in how to natural environment, and particularly has b) provide opportunities for local Natural Greenspaces (SANGs) are usually balance the enjoyment of visitors with a role to play in providing recreational communities to access open space and 3 large greenspaces designed to provide the conservation and enhancement of 3 opportunities, maintaining a good provide for healthy recreationrecreation; and mitigation for housing development. the special qualities of the National Park. quality of life for local communities, and SANGs are typically part of the strategic c) relieve recreational pressure on Recreation management will be critical, encouraging a healthy lifestyle. Green mitigation package for larger scale internationally important nature and a review of the New Forest National 4 infrastructure includes such areas as parks residential development and therefore, are conservation sites. Park Recreation Management Strategy 4 and gardens, green corridors, amenity unlikely to be appropriate for the scale of (2010-2030) is being undertaken. greenspace and allotments. The Authority will work with other partners development envisaged in the National and adjoining authorities to develop green 5.48 To take forward the actions within the 5.42 A study of accessible greenspace in the Park. 5 infrastructure, and to ensure the impacts Recreation Management Strategy (RMS) 5 South East identified that the National 5.45 To deliver its first purpose, the Authority of development both within and outside a RMS Steering Group comprising six Park has around 30,769 hectares of believes that it is important to consider the National Park’s boundary do not organisations with statutory responsibilities accessible natural greenspace, amounting landscapes on a wider scale. The adversely affect the landscape character for aspects of recreation, and an RMS 6 to 54% of the area of the National 6 Authority is delivering, together with of the National Park or the internationally Advisory Group, comprising the same Park21. Furthermore, it concluded that 10 partner organisations, the Our Past, important nature conservation designations. six organisations plus 10 key other all households in the Park had access to Our Future Partnership scheme for the However, providing new Suitable Alternative organisations, have adopted the following natural greenspace using the definitions 7 New Forest, which undertakes projects Natural Greenspace (SANG) in the nationally Priority Task: ‘…to agree an overall plan of the Accessible Natural Greenspace 7 to restore lost habitats. The Authority protected landscape of the National Park for where within and around the National Standard (ANGSt). However, this does not has also brought together public, private as mitigation for development outside the Park we should encourage people to go take account of any effects from the high and third sector organisations into the National Park is not appropriate, and will only to enjoy outdoor recreation, and how this level of visitors to the Park. 8 Green Halo Partnership to recognise the be considered in exceptional circumstances should be achieved. The aim would be to 8 5.43 The New Forest Open Space Study22 economic and social value of the natural where very significant benefits for the both improve the New Forest’s recreational acknowledges the importance of open environment – its natural capital and landscape, biodiversity and internationally experience and enhance the other special designated sites of the National Park can be 9 space and recreational facilities within, and the ecosystem services it provides – and qualities (including its rich wildlife, 9 close to, the National Park in protecting ensure this guides decisions about how clearly demonstrated. tranquillity and commoning tradition) the National Park through potentially we manage or develop our area. This will and to avoid inadvertently damaging the relieving some of the recreational include exploring opportunities for new 5.46 The Authority will also work with Natural special qualities which people come to the 10 pressures on it by directing recreation green infrastructure. For example, green England and other local authorities, as New Forest to enjoy.’ 10 away from such areas and the provision infrastructure will be delivered as part of well as a range of relevant stakeholders, 5.49 National planning policy defines open of alternative greenspace in more suitable the Green Infrastructure Strategy for the to develop a strategic approach to space as including all open space of public and robust locations. South Hampshire sub-region that will be prevent adverse effects on internationally value, including not just land but also implemented by the Partnership for South 5.44 Within the National Park, the Authority designated nature conservation sites in the areas of water which offer opportunities A1 Hampshire (PfSH). A1 will continue to work with partners and New Forest. for sport and recreation and can act as a communities to support opportunities to create or enhance green infrastructure. In A2 recent years the Authority has supported A2 a range of open space enhancements, including the provision of new equipment at open spaces in the main villages and A3 A3 the creation of new wildplay sites. Green infrastructure can provide additional opportunities for local communities to access open space and provides

21 An analysis of accessible natural greenspace provision in the South East, (McKernan & Grose, 2007) 23 The Authority will decide what measures are acceptable for a 22 New Forest Open Space Study, commissioned by the National Park development to comply with the Habitats Regulations – see Policy Wild play site, Stanford Rise Authority and New Forest District Council (2007) SP5 and accompanying text.

44 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 45 visual amenity. It confirms the importance Policy DP10: Open space Climate change 5.55 The Authority aims to minimise the of access to high quality open spaces and vulnerability and maximise resilience to the 1 opportunities for sport and recreation, and Where there is an identified need, Strategic Objective for planning for impacts of climate change on the National 1 Policy DP10 supports this approach. The development should either provide for the climate change: Park, in particular on its special qualities. enhancement of existing open space and open space requirement of 3.5 hectares Plan for the likely impacts of climate change on the of open space per 1,000 population has amenity areas, or provide on-site open space 2 Special Qualities of the area. 2 been developed from the Open Space to the minimum provision standard of 3.5 Policy SP11: Climate change Study commissioned by the Authority and hectares of public open space per 1,000 population. The Authority will support proposals to New Forest District Council. The standard 5.51 Climate change will be one of the most mitigate climate change and adapt to the 3 comprises the 0.2 hectares per 1,000 Proposals that result in the loss of existing significant factors influencing change 3 impacts of climate change through: population of designed play spaces for open space, sports and recreational buildings in all aspects of the National Park in the children and young people, 1.25 hectares and land, including playing fields, will not be future. The government is now clear that a) avoiding development in areas at 4 of formal recreational space per 1,000 permitted unless: climate change is happening, and it is highest risk of flooding;flooding population and 2 hectares of informal due to human activity. The Committee on 4 a) an assessment has been undertaken b) locating development so as to reduce open space per 1,000 population. Based 24 which has clearly shown the open Climate Change has identified six key the need to travel by car;car on the open space requirement as set areas of climate change risk that need to space, buildings or land to be surplus to c) sustainable design and construction of 5 out above, the Authority requires 35 requirements;requirements oror be managed as a priority: 5 square metres of public open space to be buildings including improved water and • flooding and coastal change 25 provided per person. b) the loss resulting from the proposed energy efficiency ; development would be replaced by • the impact of high temperatures on health d) supporting small scale renewable and 6 equivalent or better provision in terms and wellbeing low carbon energy generationgeneration; and 6 of quantity and quality in a suitable • risks to natural capital location;location oror e) enabling wildlife and habitats to adapt • risks of future water shortages to climate change. 7 c) the development is for alternative 7 sports and recreational provision, the • impacts on the global food system benefits of which clearly outweigh the • risks arising from new and emerging pests 5.56 There is some uncertainty over how loss of the current or former use. and diseases. individual species and habitats in the New 8 Forest will respond to climate change, but 8 5.52 The main impacts from a changing climate it is likely that some habitats will change 5.50 New housing development should in the National Park are expected to or be lost, particularly coastal habitats, incorporate open amenity areas and affect habitats, landscape, archaeology, together with the appearance of new 9 features, preferably within its site property, human safety, recreation, land 9 species. Maintaining a network of green boundary to enhance the quality of management, water resources and the infrastructure can help to increase the the environment for the benefit of rural economy. robustness of habitats by reducing their residents, biodiversity and the locality. 10 5.53 The UK Climate Projections were published fragmentation by creating and restoring 10 The requirement to provide public open in August 2009 and estimated that by the habitat and wildlife networks. space is separate to, and in addition to, 2080s Southern England could face an 5.57 Measures to reduce the National Park’s the provision of alternative greenspace increase in average summer temperatures vulnerability to climate change include for mitigation against impacts on of between 2 and 7 degrees Celsius. There sustainable transport, considering flood A1 the internationally designated nature could be about a 40% decrease in average A1 risks, supporting more energy efficient conservation sites. summer rainfall in parts of the far south new development and local food of England. This emphasises that the UK’s production. climate is changing and that in order to A2 A2 prevent the problem becoming worse, carbon emissions in the UK need to be reduced. A3 A3 5.54 Through the Climate Change Act the Government has set statutory targets to reduce UK greenhouse gas emissions by 80% on 1990 levels by 2050, and to achieve at least a 34% reduction by 2020, and 57% by 2030.

Cricket match, Cadnam 24 UK Climate Change Risk Assessment 2017 Synthesis report 25 Consistent with the Government’s zero carbon buildings policy.

46 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 47 Flood risk there is a low to medium risk and in Zone Policy DP12: Flood risk Policy DP13: Coastal development 3 there is a high risk. The Environment 5.58 The Authority has no direct responsibility 1 Agency publishes maps of flood risk on Development proposals will not be permitted Small scale proposals for development on the 1 for flood protection or coastal defence. its website which shows the location of if they: coast will be permitted provided that they: As the local planning authority for the these zones and should be referred to as a) would increase the risk of coastal, a) will not have adverse impacts on coastline in the National Park, however, it the most up to date source of information fluvial, or surface flooding, or coastal coastal processes;processes 2 is important that future strategic planning 2 on flood risk. These maps are continually erosionerosion; and development management decisions b) are in keeping with the character of the being updated and will be used in the are consistent with the North Solent b) do not comply with the sequential test, coast;coast consideration of policy DP12. The National and, if necessary, the exception test (as 3 Shoreline Management Plan (2010). c) will not significantly prejudice Park is at most risk of coastal flooding, outlined in National Planning Practice 3 landscape interest and will have regard 5.59 Shoreline Management Plans are non- but there is also significant flooding from Guidance), or are in high flood risk to the importance of seaward and statutory plans that evaluate the known the Lymington River in Brockenhurst and areas (as defined by the Environment landward views;views 4 risks to people, property and the built and to a lesser degree the Beaulieu River. The Agency’s Flood Zones 2 and 3 4 natural environment from the sea and Cadnam area of the National Park is also categories and the New Forest Strategic d) protect or enhance coastal habitats and coastal processes. They feature policies affected by surface water flooding and Flood Risk Assessment, 2017)2017); or or species, including all designated nature for each section of coast based on the part of the evidence base for this Local conservation sites;sites and findings. The coastline of the National Park Plan includes a Level 1 Strategic Flood Risk c) are not compatible with the 5 e) will not lead to the consolidation of 5 is covered by the North Solent Shoreline Assessment (SFRA) commissioned jointly appropriate Shoreline Management scattered development. Management Plan, and it sets out detailed by the National Park Authority and New Plan and Coastal Defence Strategy. policies for coastal management over the Forest District Council in 2017. Relevant developments will require a flood risk 6 next 100 years. assessment. 6 5.62 National Planning Practice Guidance 5.64 Policy DP13 seeks to protect the 5.60 Within the National Park the Shoreline sets out the ‘sequential test’ that will be undeveloped nature of the National Management Plan26 proposes to ‘Hold the used to assess all planning applications 5.63 It will be necessary to ensure that the Park coastline. The policy ensures a 7 Line’ (i.e. maintain or upgrade the level to direct development away from flood main settlements are given protection level of protection consistent with the 7 of protection provided by existing coastal Zones 2 and 3 as the areas at highest risk through carefully designed defences Government’s Marine Policy Statement defences) on the coast between Hurst of flooding. This will also need to take which do not adversely affect the sites of (MPS) and the emerging South Marine Spit and Elmer’s Court outside Lymington, account of the broader considerations European nature conservation importance Plan. Once adopted, the South Marine 8 between Sowley and Saltershill, and set out in the New Forest Strategic Flood 8 or create additional flooding issues for Plan will help integrate marine and land around Calshot, but proposes ‘No Active Risk Assessment 2017, and consider all other parts of the coast. In addition to planning, contributing to vibrant coastal Intervention’ (i.e. a decision not to invest localised flood risk areas and all surface coastal protection works, other small-scale communities and consideration of cultural in providing or maintaining any defences) water flood risks. Only if there are no 9 coastal development might include coastal heritage, seascape and local environmental 9 elsewhere. It also makes allowance reasonably available suitable alternative access works, upgrading existing coastal quality. The Authority will work with the for landowners to maintain their own sites can development in areas of higher car parks and replacing beach huts and marine planning authority to ensure that defences where these already exist, even risk (Flood Zones 2 and 3) be considered existing mooring facilities. The aim of this the seascape quality of the New Forest 10 though landowners are advised to contact by applying the ‘exception test’ as outlined approach is to maintain the character of coastline is maintained and enhanced. 10 the Authority before undertaking any in National Planning Practice Guidance. the undeveloped coast, protecting and works. The Authority will consult New 5.65 The England Coast Path (ECP) is a new enhancing its distinctive landscape. Forest District Council as the Coastal national trail being created by Natural Authority on planning applications where England through the Marine and Coastal A1 necessary. The Authority will also continue Access Act 2009, and will extend along A1 to be a member of the Solent Forum, the coast of the New Forest. It will allow which considers and provides advice on people to gain access along the coast and provide opportunities to enjoy one A2 strategic issues for authorities involved in A2 planning and management of the coast in of the special areas of the National Park. the Solent area. Any small-scale proposals associated with the coast path will be considered against 5.61 Flood zones have been developed by A3 Policy DP13 on coastal development. A3 the Environment Agency and their use is outlined in the National Planning Practice Guidance (NPPG)27. Zone 1 is where there is little or no risk of flooding, in Zone 2

26 www.northsolentsmp.co.uk 27 See NPPG at www.gov.uk/government/collections/planning-practice- guidance and the Environment Agency’s Flood Maps at www.apps. Watersplash, Brockenhurst environment-agency.gov.uk/wiyby/cy/151263.aspx

48 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 49 Renewable energy statutory purposes and national policy. potential visual and noise impacts of this The New Forest is not an appropriate type of development. The Authority’s 5.66 The NPPF supports the delivery of 1 location for on-shore wind development Design Guide provides advice on the 1 renewable and low carbon energy and due to insufficient wind speed and the incorporation of energy efficiencies into associated infrastructure and requires impact such development would have the design of buildings. local planning authorities to have a on the landscape and statutory National 2 positive strategy to promote energy 2 Park purposes. Similarly, larger renewable from renewable and low carbon sources. energy developments to meet a wider- The NPPF places the responsibility on than-local need are not appropriate within all communities to contribute to energy 3 the National Park. 3 generation from renewable or low carbon sources. In response to this requirement, the Authority has taken a positive Policy SP14: Renewable energy 4 approach to appropriate renewable Development proposals for, or incorporating, 4 energy proposals in the National Park. This renewable energy generation, other than includes the allocation of grant funding wind energy, will be permitted where they: to support local community renewable 5 energy projects; and the support offered a) are small-scale and provide energy for 5 through the planning system to proposals individual households or businesses, or that respect their location within a for small local community facilities;facilities Solar panels, Lyndhurst 6 nationally protected landscape. b) are located and designed to have minimal 6 5.67 National planning policy states that minimalvisual impact visual impact; and Pollution planning authorities should design c) do not have adverse impact on the 5.72 Lying as it does between the large urban it would raise pollution levels that could 7 their policies to maximise renewable landscape character, heritage assets, areas of Southampton, the industrial areas affect the integrity of the internationally 7 and low carbon energy development natural beauty, wildlife, tranquillity or along Southampton Water and the South designated nature conservation sites in while ensuring that adverse impacts orother other special special qualities qualities of ofthe the National Park. East Dorset conurbation, the National Park and around the New Forest. The evidence are addressed satisfactorily, including National Park. Planning permission for renewable energy is vulnerable to pollutants from industry, concluded that this would not be the case cumulative landscape and visual impacts. 8 Planningdevelopments permission likely tofor have renewable an adverse energy vehicles and many other sources which but highlighted that, when combined with 8 In addition, the NPPF clarifies that great developmentseffect on a designated likely to havenature an conservation adverse can harm human and other species’ traffic growth generated from surrounding weight should be given to conserving effectsite (including on a designated Natura 2000 nature sites, conservation Sites of health, together with general noise and areas, the impact of ammonia and acid landscape and scenic beauty in national siteSpecial (including Scientific Natura Interest 2000 and sites, National Sites ofNature light pollution associated with urban deposition is uncertain and requires 9 parks. Consequently, the potential for 9 SpecialReserves) Scientific will not Interestbe granted. and National Nature areas. monitoring. Consequently, the National renewable energy generation within the Reserves) will not be granted. 5.73 An unpolluted environment is recognised Park Authority will work with surrounding National Park will need to be balanced local authorities and other partners to against the potential adverse visual as one of the key ingredients to a good 10 5.69 All forms of small-scale energy production quality of life. There is an air quality monitor the in combination impacts on 10 and amenity impacts on the landscape, 5.69 Allwill forms be supported of small-scale where energy these meetproduction the the protected habitats and to identify including views into and out of the Park. problem in Lyndhurst, where an Air willcriteria be supportedset out in Policywhere SP14. these Evidence meet the Quality Management Area has been any changes that occur during the life of 5.68 To avoid compromising the landscape criteriasuggests, set however, out in Policy that SP14. the most Evidence designated due to the presence of the Local Plan. If monitoring at any time character and beauty of the National suggests,appropriate however, forms of that renewable the most energy excessive transport related pollutants. The shows that the change is likely to have a A1 Park, the policy emphasis is on supporting appropriateproduction informs the Newof renewable Forest are energy likely to Air Quality Action Plan for Lyndhurst28 significant effect on the designated sites, A1 appropriate, small scale renewable energy productionbe solar and in biomass. the New Forest are likely to prepared by New Forest District Council the Authority will support other authorities be solar and biomass. in devising an appropriate strategic developments that provide energy for 5.70 Some small-scale renewable energy sets out traffic management measures an individual household or business use, mitigation strategy. A2 5.70 Somedevelopment small-scale does renewable not require energy planning including the restriction of HGVs using the A2 or for a small local community facility developmentpermission, such does as not the require use of solarplanning panels High Street, controlling traffic lights, and within the National Park. Proposals will permission,in a domestic such setting. as the However, use of solar domestic panels reviewing signage in Lyndhurst directing be supported in appropriate areas of the inscale a domestic wind turbines setting. do However, require planning domestic visitors into Lyndhurst’s main car park. A3 A3 National Park outside areas designated as scalepermission wind turbinesand the abovedo require policy planning will nature conservation sites (including Natura 5.74 The impacts on air quality arising from permissionapply. It is recommendedand the above thatpolicy applicants will the increased traffic generated by the 2000 sites, Sites of Special Scientific apply.seek advice It is recommended on their proposals that applicantsfrom the Interest and National Nature Reserves), development planned in this Local Plan seekAuthority advice before on their making proposals an application. from the has been assessed29 to determine whether where they do not cause damage to the Authority before making an application. natural beauty, wildlife, cultural heritage, 5.71 Proposals should take account of the need tranquillity and other special qualities of 5.71 Proposalsto protect shouldthe natural take historicaccount and of the built need 28 www.newforest.gov.uk/airquality the National Park, in accordance with the toenvironment, protect the includingnatural historic consideration and built of 29 See HRA of the Local Plan together with supporting air quality environment, including consideration of evidence documents

50 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 51 CHAPTER 6 Tranquillity Policy SP15: Tranquillity 1 5.75 The NPPF confirms that planning New development should avoid, or provide Protecting and 1 policies should aim to protect areas of mitigation measures, if the proposal will lead tranquillity which have remained relatively to noise, visual intrusion, nuisance and other enhancing undisturbed by noise and are prized unacceptable environmental impacts on the 2 for their amenity value. The tranquillity National Park and its special qualities. 2 that can still be found in many parts of the historic This should include reducing the impacts the New Forest National Park is cited as of light pollution on the ‘dark skies’ of the one of its valued ‘special qualities’ and and built 3 National Park and control of development to 3 therefore the Authority will seek to protect prevent artificial lighting from eroding rural it. The National Park’s Management darkness and tranquillity. environment Plan describes tranquillity as the relative 4 peace and naturalness, combined with Development proposals that seek to remove 4 the open and unfenced landscape of visually intrusive man-made structures from much of the area that gives a sense of the landscape will be supported. space, remoteness and freedom. This 5 contrasts with the increasingly built up 5 and intensively managed landscape of southern England and provides a means of 6 release from the pressures of modern life. 6 5.76 Tranquillity can be damaged by intrusive sights and sounds, particularly from 7 man-made structures such as new roads, poorly-designed lighting and overhead 7 power lines. To help protect tranquillity the Authority has developed a map 8 highlighting the tranquil areas of the New 8 Forest30. It identifies areas in the north and south-east of the New Forest as being the most tranquil in the National Park. The 9 key criteria used to determine the levels 9 of tranquillity were the amounts of man- made noise and visual disturbance in the 10 natural environment. In order to retain this special quality for future generations 10 the potential impacts of noise and light pollution will be carefully controlled in Policy SP15. Visual intrusion and landscape A1 character will also be protected through A1 Policy DP2 and Policy SP7. The Authority will aim to acquire International Dark Sky Reserve status from the International Dark A2 Sky Association. A2

A3 A3

30 www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/planning/landscape-policy- Right: St Michaels and documents All Angels church, Lyndhurst

52 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 53 6.1 This chapter takes forward the spatial Heritage assets Policy SP16: The historic and built ofto the asset,degree including of harm securingand significance its objectives for protecting and enhancing optimumof the asset, viable including use securing its 6.6 The NPPF defines a heritage asset as a environment 1 the historic and built environment of the optimum viable use. 1 building, monument, site, place, area or (c) All development proposals that affect, National Park. Proposals should protect, maintain or landscape identified as having a degree enhance nationally, regionally and locally (c) orAll havedevelopment the potential proposals to affect, that theaffect, 6.2 The New Forest has a distinctive character of significance meriting consideration in important sites and features of the historic significanceor have the potential or special to interest affect, theof a 2 which is made up not only of the planning decisions because of its heritage and built environment, including local designatedsignificance or or non-designated special interest heritageof a 2 numerous listed buildings, conservation interest. Designated heritage assets in vernacular buildings, archaeological sites and asset,designated either or directly non-designated or by being heritage within areas and scheduled ancient monuments, the National Park include scheduled designed and historic landscapes, and, where itsasset, setting, either will directly need orto bybe beingaccompanied within 3 but also the many and varied locally monuments, registered parks and gardens, appropriate, help secure a sustainable future byits setting,a clearly will evidenced need to heritage be accompanied impact 3 important features. Many unlisted cob listed buildings and conservation areas. for those heritage assets at risk. statementby a clearly proportionate evidenced heritage to the impact buildings, simple brick cottages, and early developmentstatement proportionate and the significance to the or 6.7 However, the New Forest also contains a) Proposals will be supported where they bungalows give parts of the New Forest specialdevelopment interest and of the asset,significance setting or a wealth of locally important historic conserve and enhance the significance 4 their distinctive character. outspecial the interest impact of the asset,development setting on 4 interest that are not statutorily designated or special interest of designated or non- thatout thesignificance impact of theor special development interest onand 6.3 There is a variety of historic landscapes as heritage assets. These include sites designated heritage assets, i.e. they: howthat significanceany harm has or been special avoided interest or and within the National Park that have been on the Authority’s local list of buildings (i) do not harm the special interest, minimisedhow any harm through has beencareful avoided design or and shaped by past human interaction with 5 that contribute to the character and character or appearance of a mitigationminimised through careful design and 5 the land. Significant components of appearance of the National Park. There conservation area, including spaces, mitigation. historic landscapes include field systems (d) Where proposals are likely to are at least 1,765 buildings that have been street patterns, views, vistas, uses and (including lynchets, ridge and furrow), (d) Whereaffect aproposals site of known are likely or potential to identified as locally important within the trees which contribute to that special 6 historic woodland management, medieval archaeologicalaffect a site of knowninterest, or and potential appropriate 6 National Park. The Authority uses criteria interest, character or appearance, settlements, traditional farmsteads and set out by Historic England to determine desk-basedarchaeological assessment interest, andwill alsoappropriate be having regard to the relevant required,desk-based including assessment field will evaluation also be settlements, and networks of ancient whether a building should be included conservation area character appraisal whererequired, necessary. including field evaluation routeways. on the local list. At the moment the local 7 and management planplan; and where necessary. 7 6.4 Archaeological sites and evidence in list comprises buildings of local interest in conservation areas; but additional (ii) do not harm the significance, or result the New Forest range from finds that 6.9 National planning policy emphasises buildings of local interest have also been in the loss of a: date from up to 500,000 years ago to 6.9 thatNational where planning a proposed policy development emphasises will identified by local communities when 8 observation posts from the Cold War – scheduled monument (or a non- leadthat whereto substantial a proposed harm development to, or loss of, will a 8 developing Village Design Statements. period. Known sites and features are designated asset of archaeological designatedlead to substantial heritage harm asset to, the or applicant loss of, a The Authority intends to work with parish recorded on the publicly available Historic interest of demonstrably equivalent mustdesignated demonstrate heritage that asset the the harm applicant or loss and town councils to identify additional Environment Record, but it is likely significance)significance); or, ismust necessary demonstrate to achieve that substantialthe harm or public loss 9 buildings of local interest outside 9 that many still await identification and – listed building, including through benefitsis necessary that to outweighachieve substantial the harm publicor loss, conservation areas, as well as with local recognition. inappropriate siting, size, scale, height, orbenefits all of the that following outweigh apply: the harm or loss, groups through initiatives in the ‘Our Past, alignment, materials, finishes (including or all of the following apply: 6.5 Small-scale changes to the local landscape, Our Future’ landscape scheme. • the nature of the heritage asset prevents 10 buildings, settlements and sites take place colour and texture), design and forms • allthe reasonable nature of theuses heritage of the site;asset and prevents 10 almost constantly in responses to shifting 6.8 Where proposals for new development forms; or all reasonable uses of the site; and – registered park and garden, and • no viable use of the heritage asset itself values, fashions, availability of products may have an impact on a heritage asset, – particularlyregistered park its layout, and garden, design, and character, • canno viable be found use ofin the heritagemedium assetterm throughitself and new technology. Although change applicants are required to produce appearanceparticularly its and layout, key views design, within, character, into appropriatecan be found marketing in the medium that will term enable through its is inevitable it is often at the expense of a heritage statement setting out the andappearance out and key views within, into A1 conservation;appropriate marketing and that will enable its A1 those features which give the New Forest significance of the asset, and justify the and out; and (iii) make a positive contribution to, conservation; and its particular character. Over time this development proposals in relation to • conservation by grant funding or some (iii) ormake better a positive reveal, contributionor enhance the to, can cause a negative impact leading to the character and setting of the heritage • formconservation of charitable by grant or public funding ownership or some is appreciationor better reveal, of, theor enhance significance the or A2 suburbanisation and loss of character. asset, in accordance with the NPPF. The demonstrablyform of charitable not possible;or public andownership is A2 more important the asset, the greater specialappreciation interest of, of the a heritagesignificance asset oror its demonstrably not possible; and • the harm or loss is outweighed by the the weight, and any harm or loss should settingspecial interest of a heritage asset or its • benefitthe harm of or bringing loss is outweighed the site back by into the use. Strategic Objective for protecting the require clear and convincing justification, setting; and (iv) help secure the long-term conservation benefit of bringing the site back into use. A3 Forest’s historic and built environment: as emphasised in the NPPF. (iv) ofhelp a heritagesecure the asset. long-term conservation A3 Conserve and enhance the cultural heritage and of a heritage asset. (b) Proposals will be resisted where they historic environment of the National Park, especially (b) wouldProposals harm will the be significance resisted where or specialthey the wealth of individual characteristics that interestwould harm of a heritagethe significance asset unless or special any contribute to its local distinctiveness. harminterest is outweighedof a heritage by asset the unlesspublic any benefitsharm is outweighed of the proposal, by the proportionate public tobenefits the degree of the of proposal,harm and proportionate significance

54 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 55 Listed buildings and 6.13 Development to listed buildings and in conservation areas conservation areas, and their settings, will 1 be carefully controlled to ensure that their 1 6.10 Listed buildings are buildings officially character is retained. The Conservation defined as being of special architectural or Area Character Appraisals are important historic interest and there are 624 listed sources to refer to in making planning 2 buildings in the National Park, which 2 applications and they will be used range from palaces and country houses in evaluating the appropriateness of to many smaller but more typical cottages development proposals in those areas. 3 and ‘hovels’ built of brick, timber frame or 3 cob. 6.14 On the Historic England register there are seven historic parks and gardens in the 6.11 Conservation areas are ‘areas of special National Park31, whilst a much longer list architectural or historic interest, the of locally important sites is set out on the 4 character or appearance of which is 4 Hampshire Register of Historic Parks and desirable to preserve or enhance’. There Gardens32. are 17 conservation areas wholly within 5 the National Park, with a further three 6.15 Where planning applications involve 5 straddling the boundary with New Forest listed buildings Grade I or II*, scheduled District Council. The boundaries of all monuments, registered parks and gardens, these conservation areas are shown on the or a registered battlefield, Historic 6 Policies Map. England must be consulted. In addition, 6 the Authority is required to consult the 6.12 In pursuance of its responsibilities under National Amenity Societies33 where the both National Park purposes and through proposal would include full or partial the duty imposed by the Planning (Listed 7 demolition of a listed building. 7 Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act, the Authority is developing a framework for the management of conservation areas in Mile post, Burley 8 the National Park. This comprises: 8 for assets at risk through discussions • conservation area character appraisals, Archaeology with owners and willingness to consider one for each conservation area, which 6.16 There are around 200 scheduled positively development schemes that 9 identifies the special historic and monuments in the National Park, but 9 would ensure the repair and maintenance architectural qualities of an area which over 3,700 known non-designated sites of the asset, and, as a last resort, using its justify its designation recorded on the publicly available Historic 34 statutory powers. 10 • Conservation Areas Management Plan, Environment Record (HER) many of 10 covering all conservation areas (adopted which are yet to be fully understood. 6.18 As part of ‘Our Past, Our Future’ October 2008) Some archaeological assets may not the Authority aims to facilitate the be scheduled but are still nevertheless conservation and enhancement of • conservation area specific management 31 Avon Tyrrell, Brockenhurst Park, Cadland House, Exbury House, Hale the historic built environment of the Park, Pylewell Park, Rhinefield. demonstrably of equivalent significance to plan covering individual conservation scheduled monuments and therefore will National Park, through raising awareness, A1 areas. 32 ‘Hampshire’s Historic Parks and Gardens’, Hampshire County A1 Council, 2007. be subject to the policies for designated developing specialist building skills, 33 See Glossary for full list of societies. heritage assets, in accordance with the encouraging sensitive management NPPF. and promoting availability and access to A2 these skills. A2 6.17 Historic England maintains the Heritage at Risk register that identifies sites most at risk of being lost as a result of neglect, A3 decay or inappropriate development. On A3 the register within the National Park there are currently 10 scheduled monuments and two buildings. The Authority will monitor buildings or other heritage assets at risk through neglect, decay or other threats, proactively seeking solutions Tree landscape at Hale House 34 www.hants.gov.uk//historicenvironmentrecord

56 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 57 Design principles 6.27 National planning policy emphasises that new development should create 6.24 Development, whether of a traditional or 1 safe communities where crime and 1 modern design, should be sympathetic disorder, or the fear of crime do not and in keeping with its context and undermine quality of life. Employing the surroundings. New buildings should principles of ‘Secured by Design’, which 2 have a low (or no) carbon footprint and 2 is a national police initiative focusing on all new development should make a ‘designing out crime’ in the design and positive contribution to the National Park layout of new residential and commercial particularly through its design, size, scale, 3 development, can help address these 3 materials and layout. concerns. Principles, which include places 6.25 Sustainable design and construction where publicly accessible spaces are Breamore Mill 4 focusing on maximising a site’s natural overlooked and places that promote a resources and energy efficiency can sense of ownership and respect, should be 4 Local distinctiveness damage and have a harmful impact on include the use of passive design taken into account in new development their landscape, ecological and grazing 6.19 The different villages and landscapes in techniques, where this would not be proposals. value. Much work has been undertaken the National Park all have a distinctive inappropriate due to any impact it may 5 on this issue in the Western Escarpment 6.28 In addition, several communities within 5 character, although they are also all have on the historic environment. Conservation Area, and through the work the National Park have produced a recognisably part of the New Forest, linked undertaken by the Verderers of the New 6.26 A Design Guide Supplementary Planning Village Design Statement which sets out by its particular history, economy and Forest and Forestry England as part of the Document for the National Park was a statement of the individual character 6 culture. 6 Higher Level Stewardship scheme. adopted by the Authority in 2011, of a particular town or village. These are Tree landscape at Hale House 6.20 The first National Park purpose, together which sets out more details on the then adopted as Supplementary Planning 6.23 To build a new drive or access over a SSSI with national planning policy, recognises characteristics of the New Forest and ways Documents by the Authority and are used verge, planning consent from the National 7 the importance of conserving and of maintaining local distinctiveness and in assessing relevant planning applications. 7 Park Authority and approval from Natural enhancing an area’s local character. The embed the principles of good design into The Authority will continue to support England and the Verderers of the New level of development pressure within the new development. parishes that wish to undertake a Village Forest is required, as well as consent from National Park is evidenced by the level Design Statement. 8 Forestry England if it is on Crown Land. In of planning applications received by the 8 most cases, the Authority will consider the Policy DP18: Design principles Adopted Village Design Statements Authority each year. Since becoming a use of planning conditions restricting the (as at 2018) Local Planning Authority in 2006 the All new development will be required to storage of building materials and parking Authority has determined an average of achieve the highest standards for new design: • Hordle Village Design Statement (2015) 9 of contractor’s vehicles on the protected 9 just under 900 planning applications per including location, layout, size, scale, details • Sway Village Design Statement (2013) grass verges. year35. and materials of new development within the • Boldre Parish Design Statement (2013) National Park, with particular regard to: • Ashurst & Colbury Village Design 10 6.21 Whilst the vast majority of these 10 applications entail minor development, Policy SP17: Local distinctiveness a) enhancing the built and historic Statement (2013) increasing amounts of such small-scale environment of the New ForestForest; • Hyde Village Design Statement (2012) Built development and changes of use which household development can result in a b) creating a safe environment where • Landford Village Design Statement (2011) creeping suburbanisation of the National would individually or cumulatively erode the people want to live, work and visitvisit; • Wellow Village Design Statement (2011) Park, slowly eroding the Forest’s distinctive Park’s local character, or result in a gradual A1 c) ensuring new development is accessible A1 character36. suburbanising effect within the National Park will not be permitted. where appropriateappropriate; 6.22 Many of the grass verges within the Forest d) ensuring all new development are designated as Sites of Special Scientific A2 incorporates sound sustainable design A2 Interest (SSSIs) and are of national and construction principles and good importance for nature conservation. environmental practicespractices; and They are therefore legally protected A3 against damage. In addition, grass verges e) ensuring development is contextually A3 contribute to the appearance and rural appropriate and does not harm key character of the National Park. Parking, visual features, landscape setting driving or storing building materials on the or other valued components of the grass verges can cause serious landscape, and enhances these where appropriate.where appropriate. 35 Development management statistics, NFNPA 2017 36 National Park Authority’s Annual Monitoring Report 2016

58 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 59 CHAPTER 7 Sustainable design and construction 1 Vibrant 1 6.29 National planning policy expects all new development to adopt and incorporate communities sustainable construction standards and 2 techniques. 2 6.30 New buildings should be designed to maximise energy efficiency and take 3 account of landform, layout, building 3 orientation, massing and landscaping to minimise energy use and CO2 emissions. Innovative design and technologies, 4 such as low carbon technology, will be 4 encouraged, and the use of materials sourced as locally as possible will be 5 preferred. 5 6.31 The National Park Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document sets 6 out more details on how to incorporate 6 sustainable design features into the design and layout of new development proposals.

7 7

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Sustainable new-build, Lepe

60 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 61 7.1 National planning policy recognises the unrestricted housing. The expectation is its designation and the statutory National Park. It should be noted that the New need for small-scale, sustainably located that new housing in national parks will Park purposes. Forest National Park boundary does not 1 development within national parks to be focused on meeting local affordable align with local authority boundaries (it 1 7.5 The NPPF also states that planning support the socio-economic well-being housing needs, rather than catering includes land within New Forest District, authorities should plan for a mix of of their communities. This includes the for external demands. National park Wiltshire and Test Valley Borough) and housing based on current and future provision of local affordable housing and authorities are expected to work with therefore available data does not allow 2 demographic trends, market trends and 2 local community facilities. This chapter local housing authorities and other local housing needs to be calculated the needs of different groups. One of therefore takes forward the strategic agencies to ensure that the needs of local using the Government’s standardised the roles of a Local Plan is to identify the objectives to promote affordable housing communities in the national parks are methodology. size, type, tenure and range of housing 3 to meet local needs and to strengthen met and that affordable housing remains 3 required. 7.8 The NPPF and NPPG are clear that the the well-being and sustainability of rural so in the longer term. Previous strategic assessment of need should not take communities. and local plans for the New Forest have New Forest Strategic Housing account of development constraints, such acknowledged the sensitivity of the New 4 Market Assessment and as those related to the environment or Forest and its landscape and the area 4 Strategic Objectives for supporting objectively assessed housing land availability. These factors will however has been protected from large scale new vibrant communities: needs clearly affect the potential supply of land development. for housing and are relevant in translating Promote appropriate housing to meet local needs 7.6 In line with Government policy, the 5 7.4 The NPPF confirms that local plans the assessments of need into policy. The 5 and maintain the vibrant communities of the process for determining the amount of should meet ‘objectively assessed needs’ objectively assessed housing need figure National Park. housing to be delivered in the National identified for Housing Market Areas unless for the National Park therefore represents Park starts with the identification of Strengthen the well-being, identity and sustainability the adverse impacts of doing so would an objective, ‘policy off’ analysis and takes 6 the ‘objectively assessed need’ for new 6 of rural communities and the pride of local people in outweigh the benefits. Specific policies no account of land supply or development housing. This should be informed by a their area. in the NPPF indicate development in constraints within the New Forest, Strategic Housing Market Assessment national parks should be restricted. These including its National Park status and (SHMA), which in the case of the New include policies relating to national parks, the significant areas subject to national 7 Housing Forest was jointly commissioned by the 7 sites protected under the European Birds and international nature conservation National Park Authority and New Forest 7.2 The provision of housing to meet the and Habitats Directive, Sites of Special designations. District Council in 2014. This Assessment local needs of people living within the Scientific Interest, and designated heritage concluded that the National Park falls 7.9 Policy SP19 sets out the planned level of 8 National Park is a key part of supporting assets. The New Forest National Park is 8 within three separate housing market new housing (affordable housing and the communities of the New Forest. The covered by a wide range of national and areas centred on the Southampton, market housing) to be provided within Local Plan establishes the level of new international landscape and ecological Bournemouth and Salisbury urban areas, the New Forest National Park over the housing to be delivered in the National designations and therefore national 9 but that there is no specific ‘New Forest Plan period. This figure of 800 additional 9 Park between 2016 and 2036 in a way planning guidance on meeting housing Housing Market Area’. dwellings in the National Park between that is consistent with the two statutory needs must be considered alongside 2016 and 2036 is an increase in the scale Park purposes and related duty. the protection afforded to the New 7.7 In 2017 the National Park Authority of development in the National Park Forest’s landscape and habitats in primary and New Forest District Council jointly 10 from previous Local Plans. This figure is 10 National policy context legislation. Within this context, and when commissioned an updated assessment of informed by the evidence from the New considered against the NPPF, meeting the housing needs in the New Forest based 7.3 The Government’s National Parks Vision Forest Strategic Housing Market Area area’s full housing need is not achievable on the latest household projections. This and Circular (2010) – cross-referenced Assessment; evidence on constraints and within the National Park without having report37 concluded that over the twenty within the NPPF - recognises that national the wealth of habitat designations that A1 a detrimental impact on the reasons for year period 2016-2036, the objectively A1 parks are not suitable locations for cover the New Forest and its coastline; assessed housing need in the New Forest an assessment of previous levels of National Park is 63 dwellings per annum, development; a review of the Defined or 1,260 new dwellings over the Plan A2 Village settlement boundaries; and an A2 period. This figure is based on anticipated assessment of potential development sites changes in households in the National through the ‘Call for Sites’ and ‘Call for Park area. The Authority considers this Brownfield Sites’ processes. Importantly A3 evidence to be robust and the best A3 the dwelling provision takes into account available information on the ‘policy off’38 national planning policy set out in the housing needs arising within the National NPPF and NPPG which seeks to protect 37 Justin Gardner Consulting, October 2017. the landscape and natural beauty of 38 Assessments of housing need are required by national policy to national parks. Given the wide range of be ‘policy off’, meaning that consideration is not given to the designations covering the New Forest constraints and designations that cover an area in assessing needs. National Park, it is clear that the full Scaffolding around old cottage These considerations are, however, important in preparing a Local Plan.Local Plan. identified need for housing will not be

62 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 63 met. To do so would clearly conflict with 7.10 Policy SP19 indicates that 800 dwellings Addressing the needs of an where they can be achieved in a the statutory National Park purposes. Over will be delivered up to 2036. This will be ageing population satisfactory manner within the existing 1 half of the National Park is designated made up of the following components. site. 1 7.11 The New Forest Strategic Housing Area as being of international importance for • Housing completions: Completions in the Assessment (2014) confirms that the 7.13 Given the limited availability of sites; clear nature conservation and the NPPF is clear Plan period to date (between 1 April 2016 population profile of the National Park is national guidance that development in that development which would impact 2 and 31 March 2019) total 63 dwellings. characterised by an older age structure national parks should not be catering for 2 on the integrity of such sites does not than the surrounding county (Hampshire) external demand; and the Authority’s duty constitute sustainable development. • Extant planning permissions: Permissions as at 31 March 2019 total 114 dwellings. and regional (South East) areas. The to foster the socio-economic well-being 3 population of the National Park aged 60 of communities within the National Park, 3 Policy SP19: New residential • Site allocations: The Local Plan’s five site and over has increased by 24% over the a planning obligation will be placed on development in the National Park allocations will result in approximately 300 2002-2012 period with most age groups new housing for older people to ensure it dwellings up to 2036. meets the needs of the local communities An additional 800 dwellings will be delivered up to age 59 having decreased over the within the National Park. This will apply 4 within the New Forest National Park between • Windfalls: Windfalls will be comprised same period. This trend is predicted to 4 to the development of Use Class C2 2016 and 2036. To meet this, new residential of dwellings arising from rural exception continue over the Plan period. of the Town & Country Planning (Use development will be permitted within the sites, commoners’ dwellings, Estate Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) where National Park to maintain the vitality of local workers’ dwellings and tied agricultural Policy SP20: Specialist housing for 5 affordable housing would not usually be 5 communities and support local services where dwellings and other unallocated sites in older people (Use Class C2) sought. Age-restricted housing falling the proposal involves: Defined Villages. It is estimated that these will total 400 dwellings over the Plan Proposals which address an identified local within Use Class C3 will be expected to need or requirement for specialist housing 6 a) the development of sites allocated for period, at an average of 20 dwellings per provide on-site affordable housing to 6 housing in the Local Plan;Plan annum. for older people will be permitted within the ensure a proportion of the development Defined Villages of Ashurst, Brockenhurst, b) the implementation of extant planning is directed towards meeting local housing Lyndhurst and Sway. Outside the Defined permissions;permissions needs. The local occupancy tie will ensure 7 Villages, extensions to existing specialist C2 development addresses the locally 7 c) the development of land previously housing for older people will be permitted arising needs of the National Park’s older unallocated or unidentified (windfall providing this can be achieved in a satisfactory residents and other vulnerable members of development) within the Defined manner within the existing site and without the community, rather than contributing 8 Villages of the National Park (Policy having a harmful impact on the locality. to a potential increase in older households 8 SP4);SP4) A planning obligation will be secured to moving to the area. d) development that comes forward on ensure that the occupancy of new specialist 9 appropriate rural exception sites (Policy housing for older people is confined in 9 SP28);SP28) and perpetuity to a local person (and their e) housing for New Forest Commoners dependents) who has a minimum period of 5 (Policy SP29); Estate Workers (Policy years permanent residence within parishes in 10 SP30) and tied agricultural dwellings the National Park. 10 (Policy DP31). 7.12 Within the context of National Park designation and other housing policies in A1 this plan, it is important that opportunities A1 should be taken to address the local need Recent residential development, Brockenhurst for specialist housing for older people rather than simply catering for external A2 demand and continuing in-migration into A2 the National Park. The provision of new specialist accommodation for older people A3 will therefore be supported within the A3 four Defined Villages as shown on the Policies Map where residents will have better access to the ancillary services they require. Outside the Defined Villages, new developments would generate additional activities and traffic and therefore development will be limited to extensions to existing specialist accommodation

64 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 65 Vicarage Cottages, Housing site allocations impacts of the housing allocations have been considered through a Habitats Bransgore affordable 7.17 In response to the requirements of 1 Regulations Assessment. 1 housing national planning policy, in updating the local planning policies for the National 7.19 The following section of the Local Plan Park the Authority has undertaken a sets out the housing land allocations 2 review of the Defined Village settlement within the National Park. The distribution 2 boundaries and allocated land for new of these sites is in accordance with the housing development in the National Park spatial strategy for the National Park 3 for the first time since its designation in which seeks to direct new development 3 2005. towards the most sustainable locations (the Defined Villages) in accordance with 7.18 To inform this, the Authority undertook the Government’s emphasis on sustainable a ‘Call for Sites’ exercise and a ‘Call for development. 4 Brownfield Sites’ exercise which assessed a 4 Size of new dwellings housing delivered addresses the identified wide range of potential development sites local housing needs as much as possible. 7.14 The NPPF states that local planning for housing, employment and gypsy and This approach is adopted within other authorities should plan for a mix of traveller use. All of the sites submitted, 5 English national parks in response to the 5 housing based on current and future as well as those identified through finite land resource for new development demographic trends; and identify the size other sources, were assessed against a and the need to target new development of housing that is required, reflecting local range of relevant criteria, including an towards meeting the identified local 6 need. The housing stock in the New Forest assessment of the services and facilities 6 housing needs. The Government’s National Park as a whole should provide within settlements across the whole of Technical housing standards – nationally a range of accommodation types, sizes the National Park. This was undertaken prescribed space standard (2015) confirms and tenures to meet the needs of local within the context of considering 7 that 100 square metres equates to a 3-bed 7 communities. The Local Plan necessarily development within a landscape that has dwelling. focuses on new development, which the highest status of protection in relation will make up a small proportion of the to landscape and scenic beauty due to its 8 National Park’s housing stock by 2036. Policy SP21: The size of new National Park status. In addition, the New 8 Policy SP21 aims to ensure that, in terms dwellings Forest includes a wealth of internationally protected habitats and the potential of size, type and tenure, new housing To ensure the dwelling stock of the New permitted within the National Park will 9 Forest as a whole is balanced, new dwellings 9 result in a better mix of dwellings across permitted in the National Park will have a the National Park and a focus on meeting maximum total internal habitable floor area the identified local needs. of 100 square metres. Where permission 10 7.15 The existing dwelling stock in the New is granted for new dwellings of up to 100 10 Forest National Park stands at around square metres, a condition will be attached 15,000 dwellings and is heavily skewed removing permitted development rights in towards larger properties, with 75% of respect of extensions. homes having 3 or more bedrooms. The A1 This policy applies to applications resulting in A1 New Forest Strategic Housing Market Area net new dwellings. Proposals for replacement Assessment (2014) identifies a clear need dwellings, commoners’ dwellings, Estate for smaller homes within the National Workers’ dwellings and agricultural / forestry A2 Park, with the vast majority of local workers’ dwellings will be assessed against A2 housing need being in the 1 – 3 bedroom their specific policies. dwelling categories. The Assessment concludes that in the National Park - A3 where the level of housing development A3 is likely to be restricted - consideration should be given to focusing delivery towards smaller properties. 7.16 In response to the clear evidence on local needs relating to dwelling size, Policy SP21 sets out a maximum floor area on the size Public consultation at New Forest Show of new dwellings to ensure that the new

66 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 67 Ashurst Policy SP22: Land at Whartons Lane, 1 7.20 Over the last decade the village of Ashurst Ashurst 1 (2,100 residents) has seen significantly Land at Whartons Lane, Ashurst is allocated fewer residential completions than the for the development of around 60 residential other Defined Villages, with less than 2 dwellings. Detailed proposals for the site that 2 20 net new dwellings accommodated meet the following site-specific requirements since the National Park was designated will be permitted: in 2005. The assessment of the Defined a) the provision of on-site affordable Village boundary of Ashurst concluded 3 housing for local people in housing 3 that development to the south of the need in accordance with the target of A35 raises significant landscape concerns 50% affordable housing;housing and land to the north of the main railway 4 line is located within an area at risk from b) all of the dwellings on the site will be 4 flooding. The south west part of the limited to a maximum total internal village is adjacent to the internationally habitable floor area of 100 square protected habitats of the New Forest. metres;metres 5 5 7.21 The east of the village is less constrained c) the site must be developed in a by flood risk and the range of national comprehensive manner;manner and international habitat designations d) measures must be put in place to 6 that cover the Open Forest to the west of protect the trees subject to Tree 6 Ashurst. Consideration has also been given Preservation Orders that border the site to the Ashurst Village Design Statement the site; e) contributions will be required to 7 (formally adopted as a Supplementary Planning Document in June 2013) which e) contributionsenhance the adjacent will be required Whartons to Lane 7 highlights the value that residents of enhanceRecreation the Ground adjacent located Whartons opposite Lane Ashurst place on the greenfield land Recreationthe site Ground located opposite the site; 8 around the edge of the village. The Village f) development proposals must provide 8 Design Statement expresses the desire to f) developmenta connection toproposals the nearest must point provide of prevent the coalescence of the village and aadequate connection capacity to the in nearest the sewerage point of West Totton. adequatenetwork, ascapacity advised in by the the sewerage service 9 network,provider as advised by the service 9 7.22 Land off Whartons Lane is well screened provider; and by mature trees which are protected g) a site-specific flood risk assessment will © Crown Copyright and Database Right 2019. Ordnance Survey 1000114703. through Tree Preservation Orders and g) abe site-specific required and flood measures risk assessment put in place will 10 therefore the development of this site beto addressrequired any and groundwater measures put or in surface place 10 would not open up adjacent fields for towater address flooding any groundwater issues identified. or surface Not to scale larger scale development or have a wider water flooding issues identified. landscape impact on the National Park. The 2.5 hectare site is well located for A1 the facilities of Ashurst and would not A1 reduce the gap between the village and the National Park boundary to the east. A2 There is an existing pedestrian pavement A2 along the Whartons Lane frontage of the site that should be retained and the site is also well related to the cycle route A3 running along Lyndhurst Road, linking A3 the site with the services in Ashurst and Lyndhurst. The site is therefore allocated for around 60 residential dwellings, with 50% of the development to be affordable dwellings for local people in housing need in accordance with Policy SP27. Wild play site, Ashurst

68 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 69 Ashurst Hospital 7.27 Policy SP23 therefore requires a) the site must be redeveloped in a comprehensive manner and detailed proposals for residential development to be confined to the development will need to ensure the retained healthcare uses on the site can operate efficientlyefficiently; 7.23 The Ashurst Hospital site comprises 1 previously developed land to the north 1 previously developed land with access to b) built development will be confined to the previously developed land to ensure the existing of the site and the strengthening of a range of local services, including the green buffer remains to the south of the site and the New Forest’s protected habitatshabitats; the planted boundary to the adjacent train station and local shops. The site Natura 2000 site designations. Mitigation c) the Victorian chapel will be retained as part of the redevelopment. A detailed heritage 2 immediately adjoins the existing Defined 2 measures for potential urban edge effects assessment and structural survey will be required to justify the loss of the former workhouse Village boundary of Ashurst and is located could include the use of legal covenants buildingsbuildings; within Flood Zone 1 for fluvial flooding. (e.g. preventing cat or dog ownership) and d) redevelopment proposals must retain the protected trees on the sitesite; 3 7.24 Health Commissioners have confirmed arrangements for grounds maintenance. 3 that much of the existing accommodation The requirement to ensure no adverse e) proposals for extra care use (that is not C2 Use) must provide on-site extra care affordable housing for local people in housing need as close to the Authority’s target of 50% affordable at Ashurst Hospital is no longer fit for impact on the adjacent national and housing as is viable. Viability will be demonstrated through an open book approachapproach; 4 purpose and there is an opportunity to internationally protected habitats will also make a more efficient use of the site. influence the form of the C2 care home or f) proposals for C2 care home use must be accompanied by a legal agreement requiring the 4 Large parts of the site have been declared extra care residential development on site. occupancy to be limited to those with a local connectionconnection; surplus to the operational healthcare 7.28 Elements of the existing built development g) all of the dwellings on site will be limited to a maximum total internal floor area of 100 square requirements of the NHS and are vacant. 5 on the site date back to the 1830s. metressquare metres; 5 The more modern Snowden Building at The former historic workhouse building the west of the site currently contains h) development proposals must incorporate measures to mitigate potential significant urban edge is considered to be a non-designated the Birthing Centre and is to be retained. impacts on adjacent protected habitats. The existing southern boundary between the site and heritage asset due to its 19th Century 6 It is likely that this building will need to the adjacent protected habitats should be retained and strengthened with the planting of 6 origins and the degree to which the be extended to accommodate the future native species. Proposals should seek to enhance both its role in buffering the designated sites building has survived to a large extent. healthcare services that will continue to be and supporting species of principal importance for biodiversity. A detailed application for the The Victorian chapel on the site was delivered from the Ashurst Hospital site, site will be subject to a full appropriate assessmentassessment; and 7 constructed sometime between 1869 and and policy SP23 supports this. 7 1896 and the exterior remains in good i) development proposals must provide a connection to the nearest point of adequate capacity in 7.25 Policy SP23 allocates the site for a mix of condition. The former workhouse building the sewerage network, as advised by the service provider. residential (C2 care home use or extra and Victorian chapel have heritage 8 care) and retained healthcare provision. significance and Policy SP23 confirms 8 It is considered that the surplus part of the chapel will be retained as part of the this previously developed site can deliver redevelopment of the site. The policy 9 around 30 units - although the exact requires a detailed heritage assessment 9 number will depend on the final form of to be undertaken to justify proposals that residential development, which will in turn would result in the loss of the former be guided by the need to avoid impacts on workhouse building. 10 the adjacent protected habitats. Viability 10 modelling for the Local Plan indicates Policy SP23: Land at Ashurst Hospital that the redevelopment of the Ashurst Hospital site (including site clearance costs) Land at Ashurst Hospital is allocated for a is unlikely to achieve the 50% affordable mixed-use development comprising: A1 A1 housing policy target. • retained (and potentially extended) 7.26 The site allocation policy highlights the healthcare provision in the western part natural and built environment constraints of the site (focused on the Snowden A2 and opportunities on the Ashurst Hospital Building) – illustrated in blue on the A2 site. The site lies adjacent to the New followingmap below map; and Forest SSSI, SAC, SPA and Ramsar sites • around 30 residential units (Use Class and the Habitats Regulations Assessment A3 C2 care home or extra care use) on the A3 for the Local Plan identifies the potential remaining previously developed part for a range of possible effects from of the site (i.e. on the footprint of the development on these protected sites, existing buildings and car park). including recreation pressure, urban edge effects including cat predation and the Detailed proposals for the site that meet the loss or damage to off-site supporting following site-specific requirements will be © Crown Copyright and Database Right 2019. Ordnance Survey 1000114703. habitats. permitted:

Not to scale

70 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 71 High Street, Lyndhurst including tourism and residential use. A detailed heritage assessment will be required to justify 1 any proposals which harmed their retentionretention; 1 (c) the design and scale of the redevelopment of the site must conserve or enhance the character of this part of the Lyndhurst Conservation AreaArea; 2 (d) redevelopment proposals must retain the important trees on the site that contribute to the 2 open verdant setting and the site’s edge-of-village locationlocation; (e) redevelopment proposals for the site should be accompanied by a Transport Assessment, given the proximity of the site to the designated Lyndhurst Air Quality Management Area. Adequate 3 parking provision must be made on-siteon-site; 3 (f) proposals for C3 residential use must provide on-site affordable housing for local people in housing need as close to the Authority’s target of 50% affordable housing as is viable. Viability 4 will be demonstrated through an open book approachapproach; 4 • large parts of the site are covered in Lyndhurst (g) all of the dwellings on site will be limited to a maximum total internal habitable floor area of mature trees which are subject to a Tree 7.29 The village of Lyndhurst (population 100 square metresmetres; Preservation Order and provide a natural 5 3,200 people) has the widest range of transition from the built environment to (h) any proposals for C2 use (i.e. where no affordable housing for local people would be provided) 5 services and facilities of the settlements the Open Forest at this important edge of must be accompanied by a legal agreement requiring the occupancy to be limited to those with within the New Forest National Park. The village location a local connectionconnection; village has a strong built heritage focused 6 on the High Street, but is also affected • the site is located immediately adjacent to (i) development proposals must ensure future access to existing water supply infrastructure for 6 by traffic congestion, with the village the internationally protected New Forest maintenance and upsizing purposespurposes; and centre covered by a designated Air Quality Special Protection Area (SPA), Special Area (j) development proposals must incorporate measures to mitigate potential significant urban edge Management Area. of Conservation (SAC), Ramsar site and impacts on adjacent protected habitats. 7 a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). 7 7.30 The Defined Village boundary of Lyndhurst The proximity of these protected habitats was established in the 1980s and in means the redevelopment of the site must 8 response to the requirements of the NPPF adequately mitigate the potential urban 8 a review of the Defined Village boundary edge impacts (including cat predation and has been undertaken. This review the introduction of invasive species from identified brownfield land at the former fly-tipping of garden waste). Mitigation 9 Lyndhurst Park Hotel as the main area measures could include the use of legal 9 with development potential. Although covenants and arrangements for grounds the site represents one of the largest maintenance. brownfield sites within the National Park, 10 its redevelopment presents a number of 10 challenges, and future redevelopment of Policy SP24: Land at the former the site would be required to respect site Lyndhurst Park Hotel, Lyndhurst specific factors: Land at the former Lyndhurst Park Hotel is allocated for a mixed-use development. The A1 • the site occupies a highly-prominent A1 gateway location into the village and lies site has potential for around 50 dwellings within the Lyndhurst Conservation Area, alongside the retention of the historic linking the High Street with the popular elements of the existing building and A2 Bolton’s Bench area development could include tourism uses. A2 Residential development on the site should • the core of the hotel building has a secure the future conservation of the heritage historic association with Sir Arthur Conan assets on the site. Detailed proposals for A3 Doyle. Historic England have confirmed the site that meet the following site-specific A3 that while not meeting the criteria requirements will be permitted: for listing, the demolition of the hotel building would be harmful to the historic (a) the site must be redeveloped in a environment both in terms of the loss of comprehensive manner;manner the non-designated heritage asset and its (b) the historic elements of the existing © Crown Copyright and Database Right 2019. Ordnance Survey 1000114703. adverse impact on the special interest of hotel building must be retained and the Lyndhurst Conservation Area could be used for a range of uses, Not to scale

72 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 73 Sway Policy SP25: Land south of Church 1 7.31 The village of Sway (population 2,700) Lane, Sway 1 includes a station on the main railway Land to the south of Church Lane, Sway is line and a modest range of services, local allocated for the development of around 40 shops, businesses and accommodation. 2 residential dwellings. The site will also provide 2 A housing needs survey for the parish in 1 hectare of informal greenspace provision for 2013 identifies a significant local housing the local community. Detailed proposals for need for 98 additional dwellings arising the site must meet the following site-specific 3 from within the local community. Recent requirements: 3 windfall site developments in Sway have (a) the provision of on-site affordable not provided affordable housing for housing for local people in housing local people due to their modest size need in accordance with the target of 4 and rural exception sites have not been 4 50% affordable housing;housing forthcoming. Therefore, a site allocation through the Local Plan provides the best (b) all of the dwellings on the site will be route for securing affordable housing limited to a maximum total internal 5 to meet the identified local community habitable floor area of 100 square 5 needs. metres;metres 7.32 The Defined Village boundary of Sway was (c) the site must be developed in a 6 identified in the 1980s and has not been comprehensive manner;manner 6 reviewed since. With international nature (d) residential development on the site conservation designations adjoining the will be limited to the part of the site 7 village boundaries to the north and the that lies outside the New Forest Special 7 east the only area of potential is to the Area of Conservation (SAC) and Special south and west of the village, which is also Protection Area (SPA) 400 metre zone © Crown Copyright and Database Right 2019. Ordnance Survey 1000114703. located closer to the school, services and (illustrated in the red shading on the 8 transport links in the village centre. followingmap below) map); 8 Not to scale 7.33 Land to the south of Church Lane in Sway (e) measures should be put in place to has been identified as suitable to make a protect the trees that fringe the site 9 significant contribution towards meeting that are protected by Tree Preservation Other settlements 9 the identified local housing needs arising Orders;Orders within the parish. The site is located within 7.34 As well as assessing the capacity of (f) the access to the site off Church Lane a short, level walk of the existing services the Defined Villages, the Authority must ensure adequate visibility splays 10 within the village, including the station, has considered the potential of and provide safe access to the school 10 shops and school. The provision of a safe, other settlements to accommodate and on foot to the village centre;centre off-road pedestrian link from the Jubilee development. In terms of the rest of Fields Sports Ground to Church Lane (g) the use of the remainder of the the National Park, significant parts of though the site will be supported. The site site (green shading) that lies within the New Forest are affected by flooding A1 will also provide additional community the New Forest SAC and SPA 400 and over two thirds of the National Park A1 benefits through the provision of 1 hectare metre zone for informal greenspace lies within or adjacent to internationally of informal greenspace to complement the will be supported. Proposals should protected habitats. These factors, allied be accompanied by details of the to the landscape protection afforded to A2 more formal recreational facilities available A2 at the adjacent Jubilee Field. proposed layout and long-term the whole of the New Forest through management arrangements for the primary legislation, significantly restrict the greenspace provision;provision and potential for further housing allocations. A3 Consequently, outside the allocation (h) development proposals must provide A3 a connection to the nearest point of proposed adjacent to the former Fawley adequate capacity in the sewerage Power Station, the housing needs network, as advised by the service arising within the rest of the National provider. Park will predominantly be met through appropriate rural exceptions schemes in or oradjacent adjacent to tosettlements settlements with with basic basic local services.local services.

74 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 75 Land to the south of Fawley exceptional circumstances and where • the comprehensive redevelopment of the 7.39 Consequently the Authority and New Power Station it can be demonstrated they are in the site would deliver significant new jobs and Forest District Council have worked 1 public interest. The assessment of such services for the communities in the New together under the ‘duty to cooperate’ 1 7.35 The Fawley Power Station closed in 2013. proposals should include: Forest and adjacent Waterside areas. The on aligned Local Plan policies to enable The 49-hectare brownfield site is within site also provides a strategic opportunity the delivery of a comprehensive and the New Forest District Council Local Plan • the need for the development, including in for the marine industry coordinated redevelopment of the former 2 area, but uniquely it is entirely enclosed terms of any national considerations, and 2 Fawley Power station brownfield site and by the New Forest National Park. The the impact of permitting it, or refusing it, • the scope for developing outside the the enhancement of the surrounding site is dominated by the former power upon the local economy;economy National Park is restricted by the Health area. The comprehensive redevelopment station building, chimney and associated & Safety Executive exclusion zones 3 • the cost of, and scope for, developing of the site enables the largest brownfield 3 structures. Re-use of the existing structure around Fawley Refinery and the existing elsewhere outside the designated area, or site in the New Forest to deliver around appears unlikely to be practicable or National Grid sub-station. Viability work meeting the need in some other way;way and 1,500 homes, together with a package of viable so the site represents a major commissioned by the Authority and New environmental and community benefits to 4 brownfield redevelopment opportunity. • any detrimental effect on the Forest District Council concludes that mitigate or compensate for environmental 4 Redevelopment of the site involves a environment, the landscape and without some limited development in impacts and achieve an overall net public number of challenges. recreational opportunities, and the extent the National Park, this major brownfield to which that could be moderated. site could only come forward with a benefit. These wider benefits to the • The foreshore, estuarine and coastal National Park are, in part, deliverable due 5 7.37 The major development test rightly sets a very high-density development on the 5 areas adjoining the site are internationally to the land ownership in the area. Policy very high bar and any proposals should be brownfield site outside the National Park and nationally designated for their SP26 therefore supports the production carefully considered against these criteria. – development that in itself would have ecological value (Hythe to Calshot Marshes of a whole-Estate Plan to demonstrate The circumstances around the brownfield a detrimental impact on the surrounding 6 SSSI, Solent Maritime SAC, Solent & National Park how the major redevelopment of the 6 Fawley Power Station site are unique. The Southampton Water SPA and Ramsar). Power Station site will be integrated former Power Station buildings are vast • significant landscape, habitat and public into the wider management of the • Parts of the site are in Zone 3 for flood risk in their scale and visually dominate the access benefits can be delivered over surrounding National Park in terms of 7 relatively flat terrain of the New Forest and above the levels required from the 7 • The northern part of the brownfield site habitats, landscape character and access and the National Park coastline. The development given the single land- area (14.5 hectares) lies within the Health improvements. and Safety Executive’s middle hazard redevelopment of the site presents an ownership in the area. This enables any consultation zone for the Fawley refinery opportunity to remove these dominant impacts to be fully mitigated. 7.40 The respective planning policies for the 8 Fawley Power Station site prepared by the 8 complex and also includes National Grid industrial structures and replace them with 7.38 Given these unique, site-specific National Park Authority and New Forest infrastructure which is expected to remain an attractive development that enhances circumstances, the Authority has District Council have been prepared to be operational for the next 20 years this part of the National Park. In terms of concluded that the comprehensive applied together. The District Council’s 9 the major development tests: development of the Power Station site to 9 • Land adjoining the site within the National Local Plan policy addresses the elements Park is designated a Site of Importance for • the former Power Station buildings include a limited area of adjoining land within their Plan-area (including the Nature Conservation (Chambers Copse, were removed from the boundary of within the National Park can be justified majority of the housing and employment Tom Tiddler’s Ground). the National Park during its designation against the major development tests. As 10 elements) and the Authority’s Local process due to the visual impact they outlined above, to inform this decision 10 7.36 National planning policy includes a long- Plan addresses the elements within the have on this part of the New Forest. the Authority and New Forest District standing major development test for National Park. Redevelopment of the site provides the Council jointly commissioned a detailed national parks. This confirms that planning opportunity to positively remove this viability assessment of a wide range of permission should be refused for major harmful impact, which is in the public redevelopment options for the former A1 developments in these areas except in A1 interest Power Station site, including focusing all of the built development outside the National Park. This viability assessment A2 concluded that the redevelopment A2 could not come forward without some development on adjacent National A3 Park land. The viability assessment also A3 concluded that the Authority’s Local Plan policy restriction on the size of dwellings could not be met in full if the development in the National Park was to be kept to a minimum.

Fawley Power Station

76 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 77 Policy SP26: Land adjacent to the former Fawley Power Station 1 As part of a comprehensive and integrated approach to regenerating the Fawley Power Station site 1 within the New Forest District Local Plan area, the use of land adjoining the former Power Station site within the National Park to provide habitat mitigation, supporting infrastructure and community facilities (including a primary school) that cannot reasonably be achieved within the District Council 2 area will be supported. 2 Support is subject to an exceptionally high standard of design and layout being secured across the whole of the Power Station site with clear net positive public benefits being demonstrated in relation 3 to the landscape and setting of the National Park; public access improvements; the provision of 3 suitable greenspace for recreation; and habitat enhancements to ensure net gains in biodiversity. To further demonstrate these benefits, the Authority will require the submission and approval of a 4 whole-Estate Plan to show how the proposals integrate with the wider area. 4 Proposals for new provision of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) within the National Park must deliver significant benefits for the landscape character, biodiversity and internationally designated sites of the New Forest. Based on the scale of development proposed in the respective 5 Local Plans, at least 30 hectares of new SANG provision must be provided. The Authority will also 5 require details of how the SANG areas will be managed suitably in perpetuity, to be agreed with Natural England. 6 As part of the comprehensive redevelopment of the adjacent brownfield Power Station site, adjoining 6 land to the south of the site within the National Park is allocated for around 120 dwellings. Detailed © Crown Copyright and Database Right 2019. Ordnance Survey 1000114703. proposals for the site must meet the following site-specific requirements: (a) the provision of on-site affordable housing for local people in housing need in accordance with 7 Not to scale 7 the target of 50% affordable housing;housing (b) at least 50% of the dwellings provided within the National Park must be smaller dwellings (less than 100 square metres) to meet the identified local housing need for smaller dwellings;dwellings Windfall development 7.43 Evidence from the monitoring of dwelling 8 completions in the National Park over 8 7.41 Successive local plans for the New (c) proposals must be implemented as an integral and contiguous part of the redevelopment of the last decade highlights the consistent Forest have not included specific the whole Power Station site pursuant to an approved comprehensive redevelopment master delivery of housing on windfall sites. A housing allocations. Instead appropriate plan and an integrated transport strategy for the entire Fawley Power Station site. Housing on total of 249 additional dwellings have 9 development proposals have been 9 the land within the National Park will not be supported in isolation;isolation been completed within the New Forest supported within the Defined Villages between 2006 (when the National (d) any loss of the designated SINC must be kept to an essential minimum and compensated as ‘windfall developments’ (sites not Park Authority assumed its planning through the enhancement of the biodiversity value of the remaining habitat and the specifically allocated for housing or responsibilities) and 2017 on unallocated 10 compensatory provision of alternative habitats of equivalent or higher value to achieve a net identified in a Housing Land Availability 10 gain for biodiversity;biodiversity and windfall sites. This equates to an annual Assessment); on rural exception sites; average of just under 23 dwellings per (e) a site-specific flood risk assessment will be required and measures put in place to address any and through the delivery of specialist annum and justifies the inclusion of a flooding issues identified to ensure that the development will be safe for its lifetime. housing (e.g. commoners’ dwellings, tied windfall allowance within the Local Plan. agricultural dwellings). In many National A1 Prior to the submission of the outline planning application for the site, the applicant must undertake A1 7.44 The Local Plan includes a future figure of site-specific bird surveys to confirm the status of SPA/Ramsar species at the site (particularly merlin, Park local plans housing delivery is based 20 dwellings per annum from windfall hen harrier and Dartford warbler), to inform appropriate mitigation requirements as part of the site- entirely on windfall development, with no developments, including dwellings specific development and masterplanning. housing land allocated. A2 delivered through the Permitted A2 7.42 The NPPF states that local planning To ensure redevelopment is broughtbought forward forward in in a a coordinated coordinated manner manner and and fully fully mitigates mitigates its its impacts, impacts, Development route which have increased authorities can make an allowance for the promoter will prepare a master plan and supporting technical assessments for the entire Fawley in recent years through the office-to- windfall sites if they have compelling Power Station site redevelopment, for submission as part of a redevelopment planning application. residential rights. The windfall allowance A3 evidence that such sites have consistently A3 Future development phases will be brought forward pursuant to the approved master plan, updated made within the Local Plan also reflects become available and will continue to as necessary. the new policies enabling Estate worker provide a reliable source of supply. Any housing which is likely to result in new windfall allowance should have regard to limited housing delivery on rural estates; historic windfall rates and expected future and the policy supporting appropriated trends and development on windfall mixed-use developments on employment sites will contribute towards meeting the sites within the Defined Villages which is identified housing requirement in the New also likely to result in additional windfall Forest National Park. housing development.

78 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 79 Affordable housing of 25% intermediate and 75% affordable (either through a financial contribution Policy SP27: Affordable housing rented tenure would be appropriate. Local or on-site provision). Local planning 7.45 The provision of affordable housing in provision within the Defined 1 connection criteria will be applied to the authorities can prepare planning policies 1 the New Forest is consistently raised as Villages and on allocated sites affordable housing provided to ensure that depart from national guidance where one of the biggest challenges facing local that local needs arising within the National this is robustly justified and strongly 50% of net dwellings developed within communities in the National Park. The Park are met and more detail on this is set evidenced by local circumstances. The the Defined Village boundaries of Ashurst, 2 affordability of housing is a major barrier 2 out in Annex 3 of the Local Plan. viability evidence commissioned as part Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway and on to sustainable communities in the New of the Local Plan preparation process sites allocated for residential development in Forest National Park, where the average 7.47 National planning policy also requires highlights that development remains the Local Plan will be provided as affordable house price is around 15 times average planning authorities to balance meeting 3 economically viable with affordable homes to meet local needs. In practice: 3 earnings – making the New Forest the local affordable housing needs with the housing provision on smaller development a) on developments of 1 – 2 net new least affordable national park in the UK. economic viability of development. To sites than that outlined in national policy. dwellings, no affordable housing will As already outlined, the Government’s ensure viability, the costs of any affordable The Local Plan seeks to maximise the be sought;sought 4 National Parks Vision & Circular (2010) housing requirements applied to delivery of affordable housing within the 4 states that national park authorities have development should provide competitive b) on developments of between 3 – 10 main villages and on-site allocations. This an important role to play in the delivery returns to a willing landowner and net new dwellings, a target of 50% applies to all development falling within of affordable housing, and the Local Plan developer to enable the development to affordable housing will be sought on Use Class C3, including any retirement or 5 should include policies that pro-actively be deliverable. To inform the affordable site. Exceptionally, at the discretion of 5 assisted living accommodation within this respond to local needs. Therefore, a housing approach taken in the Local Plan, the National Park Authority, financial use class. strong justification exists for policies that the Authority commissioned a Local Plan contributions in lieu of on-site provision 6 seek to maximise the delivery of affordable Viability Assessment40. This assessment 7.49 Developers and landowners are will be accepted on smaller sites;sites 6 housing, while at the same time upholding considered the proportion of affordable expected to consider the overall cost of c) on development sites of 11 dwellings the purposes of national park designation. housing that could be sought on windfall development prior to negotiating the sale or more, a target of 50% affordable and allocated development sites, as well or purchase of land. The Authority will 7.46 The NPPF requires local planning housing will be sought on site. 7 as the approach towards rural exceptions not accept a case that a site is unviable to authorities to identify the range of types 7 sites within the National Park. The develop in line with the requirements of The layout and design of affordable housing and sizes of accommodation likely to be viability evidence demonstrates the Local the development plan because the will be appropriately integrated into each needed by the population in future. The Plan requirement of 50% affordable landowner has paid too much for the site. development. Local connection criteria will be objectively assessed housing needs in the 8 housing on allocated sites and windfall Land purchase should take account of applied to affordable housing to ensure local 8 New Forest Report39 concludes that there development sites within the Defined the likely costs of development, including needs are met. is a need for 71 affordable dwellings per Villages can be achieved. adopted development plan policies. year within the National Park (it should The tenure (social and affordable rented, Affordable housing provision will therefore 9 be recognised that the affordable need 7.48 In addition, the viability evidence assessed intermediate, shared ownership and other) of 9 result in reduced residential land values. outputs are not just a number in relation the site size threshold above which it ofaffordable affordable homes homes will will be bebased based on onup-to-date up- to new-build homes, but do include a is viable to seek affordable housing to to-dateevidence evidence of local ofneeds. local A needs. suitable A suitablemix will mixbe determined will be determined through throughliaison with liaison the with local 10 number of households who have a home meet local needs. A large proportion of but where there is a mismatch in tenure). housing in the New Forest National Park is thehousing local authorityhousing authorityand the starting and the point starting is to 10 Based on this evidence and the current delivered on small windfall sites of fewer pointseek 75% is to seeksocial 75% / affordable social / affordablerented tenure advice of New Forest District Council as than 10 dwellings. National Planning rentedand 25% tenure shared and ownership 25% shared / intermediate ownership / the housing authority for the majority of Policy Guidance establishes size thresholds intermediatehousing. housing. for the delivery of affordable housing A1 the National Park, a strategic policy target The proportion and tenure mix of affordable A1 housing sought will take into account 39 Justin Gardner Consulting, October 2017 40 Three Dragons, November 2017 evidence on viability.

A2 A2

A3 A3

Affordable housing, Bransgore

80 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 81 Rural Exception Sites Policy SP28: Rural exception sites Commoners’ dwellings Planning Committee. If the Authority is minded to grant consent, the application 7.50 The NPPF confirms that in rural areas, 7.53 Providing affordable housing for 1 Small-scale affordable housing developments proceeds to stage three 1 authorities should plan housing may be permitted as “exceptions” on sites commoners has long been recognised development to reflect local needs, in or adjoining villages to meet the identified as essential for the future viability of the (iii) Stage three is the completion of various particularly for affordable housing, commoning system in the New Forest. legal agreements, obligations, transfer and 2 needs of local people in these areas. Proposals 2 including through rural exception for exception sites should: The Authority is committed to supporting leasing arrangements to ensure that the sites. Outside the Defined Villages of commoning through the Commoners’ property remains available for commoning the National Park and the housing site a) meet a particular local need that Dwelling Scheme (CDS), which was in perpetuity. allocations, rural exception sites can cannot be accommodated in any other originally established in 1992 to provide 3 otherway way; 7.56 The Authority will also encourage 3 provide an important source of affordable a mechanism by which commoners could proposals for commoners’ dwellings housing to meet local needs on land b) be subject to a planning obligation enter into an appropriate legal agreement to consider the re-use of existing that would not normally be used for under Section 106 of the Town and to meet the requirement for obtaining buildings where appropriate and 4 housing. Rural exception sites seek to Country Planning Act (1990) to ensure planning permission to build dwellings support the provision of suitable 4 address the needs of the local community that the dwellings provide for low-cost from which they could common. Successive rented accommodation to better assist by accommodating households who housing for local needs in perpetuity;perpetuity previous local plans have included planning commoners on lower incomes. are either current residents or have a c) be capable of management by an policies in support of the CDS. 5 connection to the area. 5 appropriate body, for example a 7.54 Since its inception in 1992, the CDS has Policy SP29: New Forest commoners’ 7.51 The NPPF allows, at the Authority’s Registered Provider, the Authority, delivered 20 new homes for commoners dwellings discretion, for small numbers of full or a community land trust or similar across the New Forest, and in most 6 market homes where it is essential to accredited local organisation;organisation and cases this has also included associated Exceptionally dwellings to meet the specific 6 enable the delivery of significant additional farm buildings to help establish viable needs for New Forest commoners may be d) be located where there are appropriate permitted outside an existing settlement. As affordable housing. This has been tested local services (e.g. shops, schools and new commoners’ holdings. In order to with other new dwellings in the National Park, 7 through the viability assessment (2017) public transport). guarantee the long-term availability of that formed part of the evidence base for dwellings built for commoners under the total internal habitable floorspace of the 7 the Local Plan. The viability assessment 100% of the housing on rural exception sites the CDS (which is administered by the dwelling should not exceed 100 square metres. will be affordable. concludes that an element of open Authority), applicants are required to enter Proposals for commoners’ dwellings must 8 market housing on rural exception sites is into legal agreements and to demonstrate fulfil the requirements of the Commoners 8 not necessary to make them deliverable a long-term personal and family Dwelling Scheme (CDS) and in this regard in the New Forest National Park. The commitment to the exercising (or use) of applicants must be able to demonstrate: evidence does highlight that a degree of common grazing rights on the New Forest. a) an established recent history of active 9 flexibility may be required on the tenure 9 7.55 The CDS comprises a three stage process: commoning;commoning of affordable housing on rural exception sites to ensure they are viable, and the (i) Stage one is the consideration of an b) why they cannot common from their Local Plan therefore supports an element applicant’s commoning history and need existing property;property and 10 for housing. This is undertaken by a 10 of shared ownership / intermediate c) that they do not have access to a Commoners’ Dwelling Scheme Panel ownership affordable housing (25%) property from which they can carry out which includes representatives from the alongside affordable rented housing their commoning. (75%) on rural exception sites. local commoning community appointed Applicants will be required to sign a legal A1 for their knowledge and understanding 7.52 The National Park Authority is part of the of commoning, as well as the National agreement to ensure the dwelling remains in A1 Hampshire Alliance for Rural Affordable Park Authority. The Panel assesses use for commoning in perpetuity. Housing (HARAH) which seeks to address an applicant’s eligibility and makes a Consideration will also be given to proposals A2 the need for affordable housing in rural recommendation as to whether the that provide rented accommodation to assist A2 villages across Hampshire. The Authority application is within or without the remit commoners on lower incomes where such will continue to work with HARAH and of the Scheme local communities across the National Park accommodation is capable of management by A3 to identify suitable affordable housing (ii) Stage two is the consideration of the an appropriate body such as the New Forest A3 exception sites. planning application by the Authority. Trust. Proposals for rented accommodation Applicants are encouraged to seek pre- must have common rights of pasture and application advice about the design, include the minimum amount of grazing land location and siting of the proposed as required under the CDS. The appropriate development. Acceptance at Stage One management body will also be required to does not necessarily mean that planning sign a legal agreement to ensure the dwellings permission will be granted. All applications remain in use for commoning in perpetuity. are reported to and determined by the

82 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 83 Estate workers’ dwellings to be satisfied that there is no existing Agricultural and forestry Policy DP31: Agricultural and accommodation available and affordable, 7.57 Outside the Crown Lands at the core workers’ dwellings forestry workers’ dwellings 1 or that the conversion / change of use 1 of the New Forest, the National Park 7.60 National planning policy has long of existing buildings is not a viable Permission will be granted for an agricultural is characterised by a number of large acknowledged that certain agricultural alternative. In accordance with Policy or forestry worker’s dwelling provided: land-owning estates including Beaulieu, and forestry activities may require a SP21, the floorspace of new dwellings will a) the nature of the work concerned 2 Cadland, Exbury and Meyrick. These worker to live close to the site. Where this 2 be a maximum of 100 square metres. makes it essential for one or more estates manage large land holdings in is justified, it is crucial that any housing people engaged in the enterprise to live provided is subject to strict criteria and the New Forest and include commercial, at, or very close to, their place of work;work 3 social and environmental activities. Policy SP30: New Forest estate conditions to ensure they are only used for 3 Between them the larger Estates manage workers’ dwellings the accommodation of essential workers. b) the functional need could not be fulfilled by another existing dwelling a significant area of the National Park Development proposals - including small- 7.61 Agricultural and forestry workers’ on the unit, or any other existing and play an important role in the scale housing through the conversion or dwellings will not be permitted on accommodation in the area which is 4 conservation of the landscape and cultural change of use of existing buildings as the holdings where other dwellings on or 4 heritage of the New Forest, as well as suitable and available for occupation by first preference, and then new build - within closely connected with that holding have the workers concerned;concerned the development of a sustainable rural the larger Estates of the National Park will be recently been disposed of, for example, by economy. However, given the increasingly 5 supported where: sale or by removal of restrictive conditions c) no other dwellings either on or closely 5 broad range of work undertaken by connected to the holding/enterprise a) the development proposals comply so that the dwelling could be let out on estate workers, many are ineligible for the open rental market. have been sold separately or in some agricultural or forestry worker dwellings. with other relevant policies in this Plan way alienated from the holding / 6 and are part of a comprehensive Estate 7.62 The size restriction of 100 square metres enterprise;enterprise 6 7.58 The Local Plan recognises the role large Plan endorsed by the Authority;Authority is consistent with Policy SP21 and seeks to landowners play in the delivery of the d) the size of the proposed dwelling b) the development proposals as part of ensure that the size of a worker’s dwelling two statutory National Park purposes and is commensurate with the needs of the would not result in the maximum total related socio-economic duty. Policy SP30 an agreed Estate Plan deliver multiple internal habitable floor area exceeding 7 benefits in line with the purposes, duty holding. Permitted development rights 7 therefore encourages the production of to provide further accommodation will 100 square metres;metres and Estate Plans to inform the consideration of and special qualities of the National normally be removed by use of planning e) where practicable and appropriate, development proposals within the larger Park;Park conditions. first consideration has been given to estates. This allows a comprehensive 8 c) the housing is subject to an occupancy the conversion of an existing building 8 picture of the whole estate to be shared condition and remains available for under Policy DP49. and helps place individual development estate workers, or last employed as proposals within their wider context. estate workers, in perpetuity;perpetuity and Where evidence of the financial soundness 9 Whole Estate Plans will generally be most and future sustainability of the holding / 9 d) no other suitable dwellings on the suitable for estates with land holdings in enterprise appears inconclusive, consideration estate have been recently sold or let to may be given to permitting a caravan or excess of 1,000 acres within the National non-estate workers. other temporary accommodation for a limited 10 Park with multiple activities taking place and employing or having residents in For the purposes of applying this policy, small- period in order to provide time for the viability 10 excess of 30 people. scale housing schemes should not exceed a of the enterprise to be proven. maximum of 3 units per site. 7.59 Whole Estate Plans may demonstrate a range of material considerations related A1 to the National Park purposes and special A1 qualities that justify development outside the Defined Village boundaries. Where A2 the need for additional development A2 is identified through an Authority- endorsed Estate Plan, the Authority would encourage the re-use of existing buildings A3 as a first preference. Where small-scale A3 new housing is proposed (either through new build or a change of use) occupancy will be controlled through the use of appropriate planning conditions and/ or planning obligations. In considering proposals for new build dwellings for Estate workers, the Authority will need Commoners housing, Anderwood

84 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 85 Removal of agricultural Policy DP32: Removal of agricultural Beaulieu village occupancy conditions 1 occupancy conditions 1 7.63 There are some 100 dwellings in the An occupancy condition restricting the New Forest National Park that are subject occupancy of a dwelling to a person solely, to agricultural occupancy conditions. mainly or last working in agriculture or 2 These dwellings have usually only been forestry will not be removed unless the 2 supported due to a particular agricultural Authority is satisfied that the long-term need need and are located in areas where for the dwelling has ceased and there is no 3 planning permission would not usually be evidence of a continuing need for housing 3 granted for housing. for persons employed or last employed in 7.64 A more detailed development the locality in those categories, or practising management policy on the removal commoning. 4 of agricultural occupancy conditions is 4 justified to ensure that dwellings which 7.65 In order to demonstrate that the long- Neighbourhood planning Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act term agricultural need for the dwelling 2015 to maintain a register of individuals have been permitted specifically to meet 7.66 Local communities across the National has ceased, the applicant will normally be and associations of individuals who wish 5 the needs of the rural economy remain Park have the option of preparing their expected to show that appropriate steps to acquire a serviced plot for self-building. 5 available for that purpose. It relates not own Neighbourhood Development Plans have been taken to try to sell the property The register will be used to help identify only to the needs of the particular holding and Neighbourhood Development Orders with the occupancy condition intact and address the local need for housing in but includes the general need for workers’ should they chose to. Neighbourhood and that marketing has been correctly the National Park. 6 dwellings in the surrounding area. Development Plans can be as broad or 6 targeted, financially realistic and sustained. narrow in scope as the local communities 7.68 The Government defines custom build This would be expected to include: wish and the Authority will positively housing as either a builder being 7 • contacting other local land and estate support any of the 37 town and parish contracted by a home owner to create a 7 owners in the vicinity of the dwelling to councils within the National Park who ‘custom built’ home or where a private establish whether they require further chose to develop a Neighbourhood individual builds their own home as a ‘self- accommodation either presently or in the Development Plan. The allocation of build’. The National Park Authority has 8 near future;future further land to deliver affordable housing established a self-build register of people 8 • the property placed with local and within settlements in the National Park in interested in self-build or custom build. specialist estate agents and advertised accordance with the strategic policies in The register will be used to help identify the Local Plan is an option that could be and address the local need for housing. 9 locally for at least a 12-month period at a 9 substantially discounted price that reflects taken forward through neighbourhood Custom / self-build will be considered the fact that it is subject to an agricultural planning. This Local Plan identifies the within the Defined Villages of the New occupancy condition;condition strategic policies (prefixed with ‘SP’) Forest National Park. 10 that communities preparing their own 10 • the property being advertised widely Neighbourhood Development Plans in local newspapers and appropriate within the National Park should be in publications including specialist trade general conformity with. In addition, organisation journals;journals and Neighbourhood Development Plans must A1 • contacting the Commoners Defence conform to national planning policies A1 Association to establish whether the and – in the context of the National Park property would meet the requirements of – the statutory National Park purposes a New Forest commoner in housing need. established in the National Parks & Access A2 to the Countryside Act 1949. A2

Self / custom build A3 7.67 A significant proportion of housing A3 development that takes place in the National Park – typically characterised by very small developments within the Defined Villages – is for self-build. The Government wants to enable more people to build and own their own home. All relevant authorities are required by the

86 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 87 Gypsies, Travellers and proposals for the site must meet the following Travelling Showpeople site specific requirements: 1 1 7.69 The New Forest has a long history of i. a detailed landscaping plan must be travelling communities and their needs are submitted setting out how the site recognised in national planning policy. The boundaries can be enhanced. To 2 Government’s Planning Policy for Traveller positively enhance the site and its 2 Sites (2015) outlines the overarching aim surroundings within the New Forest to ensure the fair and equal treatment National Park, high walls and fencing 3 of gypsies and travellers in a way that will not be supported;supported 3 facilitates their traditional way of life while ii. occupancy of the site will be restricted respecting the interests of the settled to gypsies and travellers with a local community. connection to the New Forest National 4 7.70 National policy requires local planning Park;Park and 4 authorities to assess the need for gypsy iii. due to the proximity of the New Forest and traveller provision using robust SAC, measures must be put in place 5 evidence. National policy also makes it to adequately mitigate the potential 5 clear that, as with any other forms of for the introduction of invasive species development, planning permission should from fly tipping of garden waste. only be granted in national parks where Any planning permission will include a 6 it is demonstrated that the objectives of 6 planning condition or obligation to ensure the designation will not be compromised that occupancy of the site is limited to persons by the development. It also confirms as defined in Planning Policy for Traveller Sites that planning authorities should strictly 7 (2015) or any subsequent policy. limit new traveller site development in 7 open countryside away from existing In addition to this allocation, further proposals © Crown Copyright and Database Right 2019. Ordnance Survey 1000114703. settlements. The Hampshire Gypsy, for the provision of permanent and / or transit 8 Traveller and Travelling Showpeople accommodation to meet an established 8 Accommodation Assessment (ORS, 2017) need of gypsies, travellers and travelling Not to scale covers the whole of the New Forest showpeople will be supported within the National Park (including the Wiltshire part National Park where it can be demonstrated 7.72 The Hampshire Gypsy, Traveller and 7.73 The following policies on residential 9 of the National Park). The Assessment that there is a need for the site to be located Travelling Showpeople Accommodation development character, replacement 9 concludes that there is a need for one within the National Park; and: Assessment (2017) also identifies a need dwellings, extensions to dwellings and additional gypsy pitch within the National a) the impact of the site on the landscape for 21 additional plots for travelling outbuildings reflect the local importance 10 Park between 2016 and 2036, and this character of the National Park is showpeople in the National Park for of these issues and the cumulative impact 10 need is met by the site allocation in acceptable;acceptable households that meet the planning such development can have on the Policy SP33. definition of a traveller. The Authority National Park. The policies in the Local b) occupancy of the site will be restricted sought potential sites for travelling Plan aim to protect the special qualities of 7.71 Any planning permission granted will to gypsies and travellers, and travelling showpeople as part of the ‘Call for Sites’ the New Forest, while also recognising the include a planning condition or obligation showpeople with a local connection to A1 process undertaken during the preparation need for development to meet the needs to ensure that the occupancy of the site is the New Forest National Park;Park A1 limited to persons able to demonstrate an of the Local Plan. However, no suitable of local communities. essential need for the accommodation. c) the site is well located on the highway sites were identified and as the National network and will not result in a level of A2 Park Authority does not own any land traffic generation inappropriate for the within the National Park this is not an A2 roads in the National Park;Park Policy SP33: Gypsies, travellers and option for meeting the identified need. travelling showpeople d) there are adequate on-site facilities for In response to the fact that no allocations A3 parking and storage;storage have been possible, Policy SP33 includes A3 Land within the curtilage of the existing criteria that will be used to determine gypsy site at ‘Forest View’ in Landford is e) in the case of any permanent site, be applications on unallocated sites. allocated for an additional permanent gypsy located where there are appropriate and traveller pitch (a net gain of one pitch). local facilities (e.g. shops, schools and The site benefits from existing access and public transport);transport) and site infrastructure. Detailed development f) the site does not detrimentally affect the amenities of surrounding occupiers.

88 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 89 Residential character of the Policy DP34: Residential character of Replacement dwellings Policy DP35: Replacement dwellings Defined Villages the Defined Villages 1 7.76 The Authority continues to receive The replacement of existing dwellings will be 1 7.74 The NPPF highlights the great importance To ensure the conservation and enhancement a significant number of planning permitted except where the existing dwelling: the government attaches to the built of the built heritage of the Defined Villages, applications for replacement dwellings a) is the result of a temporary or series of environment and the need to plan in the National Park. To address development proposals within the villages temporary permissions or the result of 2 positively for the achievement of high- concerns raised regarding the long-term 2 must be informed by consideration of the an unauthorised use;use or quality development. National policy character of the local area. Development urbanisation and the erosion of local confirms that local plans should aim to densities should reflect the strong built distinctiveness within the New Forest, as b) makes a positive contribution to the 3 ensure that development responds to heritage of the Defined Villages, their locally well as a reduction in the stock of smaller historic character and appearance of 3 local character and seek to promote or distinctive character and location within a dwellings, successive local plans have the locality. reinforce local distinctiveness. nationally protected landscape. sought to limit the impact of replacement A replacement dwelling may be sited 7.75 This is particularly pertinent within the dwellings through the use of appropriate differently than the dwelling to be replaced, 4 Defined Villages of the National Park. planning policies. A tighter approach to providing that there are clear environmental 4 The four Defined Villages of Ashurst, replacement dwellings is taken outside the benefits. Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway are Defined Villages as the landscape impact of replacement dwellings in these more Caravans and mobile homes may not be 5 small in size (all less than 3,500 residents) replaced by permanent dwellings. 5 and are an important part of the New rural locations can be greater. Forest landscape. The built character 7.77 The Local Plan therefore includes a In the case of small dwellings and those of these villages is varied. The core of detailed planning policy stating that, permitted by Policies SP19 – DP31 of this 6 the villages are often characterised by outside the Defined Villages, replacement Local Plan, replacement dwellings must not 6 denser, close-knit development. The dwellings should be of a similar footprint, result in the total internal habitable floor area outer residential areas are generally more scale and size as the existing dwelling. exceeding 100 square metres. 7 spacious in character and distinguished The fundamental aim of the policy is In the case of other dwellings outside the 7 by mature trees and gardens, which to reduce the loss of smaller homes in Defined Villages, the replacement dwelling make an important contribution to the the National Park through replacement should be of no greater floorspace than the quality and character of the villages in by substantially larger dwellings and existing dwelling. which they are situated. It is essential to ensure replacement dwellings do 8 In exceptional circumstances, a larger dwelling 8 that general pressure for development not have an increased impact on the may be permitted if it is essential to meet the within the National Park does not lead to protected landscape of the New Forest. genuine family needs of an occupier who inappropriate development in the Defined The Authority will continue to impose works in the immediate locality. In respect of 9 Villages. It is therefore important that appropriate planning conditions to remove 9 this exceptional circumstance, the maximum proposals for infilling and redevelopment permitted development rights to extend habitable floorspace of the replacement within the Villages respond to the and / or alter approved replacement dwelling must not exceed 120 square metres. 10 local character and reflect the local dwellings other than in accordance with development densities where appropriate. Policy DP36 to ensure that the stock of 10 This can include relatively high densities smaller dwellings in the National Park is 7.78 This policy does not apply to former within the centre of the Defined Villages, maintained. dwellings that have either been and outside their core’s lower density. demolished or abandoned. Abandonment A1 is likely to have occurred where there A1 has been a deliberate intention to cease the residential use of the property by: (i) leaving the dwelling vacant for a A2 considerable period; (ii) allowing the A2 dwelling to deteriorate to the extent that residential re-use would involve what A3 would be tantamount to rebuilding; or (iii) A3 introducing a different use that supplants the earlier residential use.

Farmhouse detail

90 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 91 Extensions to dwellings Policy DP36: Extensions to dwellings within conservatories41, attached outbuildings and detached outbuildings 7.79 Even with extended permitted 1 Extensions to existing dwellings will be (irrespective of whether the outbuilding’s 1 development rights, the Authority permitted provided that they are appropriate current use is as habitable floorspace) continues to receive a significant volume to the existing dwelling and its curtilage. of applications each year for residential • floorspace of proposed extensions In the case of small dwellings and new 2 extensions. As with the concerns outlined will include conservatories and attached 2 dwellings permitted by Policies SP19 to DP31 above regarding replacement dwellings, outbuildings and any habitable floorspace of this Local Plan, the extension must not proposals to incrementally extend provided within a detached outbuilding result in a total internal habitable floorspace dwellings in a nationally designated 3 exceeding 100 square metres. In the case of • a conservatory is defined as having not 3 landscape can affect the locally distinctive other dwellings (not small dwellings) outside less than three-quarters of the area of character of the built environment of the Defined Villages the extension must its roof and not less than one-half of the the New Forest. In addition, extensions not increase the floorspace of the existing area of its external walls made of clear or 4 can over time cause an imbalance in dwelling by more than 30%. translucent material 4 the range and mix of housing stock • a modest basement will not normally available. For these reasons it is considered In exceptional circumstances a larger be regarded as habitable floorspace. important that the Local Plan continues to extension may be permitted to meet the However, some judgement will need 5 include a clear policy to guide decisions genuine family needs of an occupier who 5 to be applied in terms of whether it is for extensions to dwellings. Successive works in the immediate locality. In respect genuinely a secondary space in association development plans for the New Forest of these exceptional circumstances, the total with the main dwelling. Key criteria to have included such policies which strike internal habitable floorspace of an extended 6 consider include availability of light; size 6 an appropriate balance between meeting dwelling must not exceed 120 square metres. (in relation to the main dwellings); access; changes in householder requirements Extensions will not be permitted where the use; layout and headroom. Basements to and maintaining a stock of smaller sized 7 existing dwelling is the result of a temporary houses set into a hillside with any form of dwellings. The extension limits apply or series of temporary permissions or the exposed elevation will usually be treated 7 outside the Defined Villages as extensions result of an unauthorised use. as habitable accommodation in these locations are likely to have a greater impact on the protected landscape • genuine family need is defined as 8 an exceptional and unique family need 8 of the National Park. 7.81 Where necessary the Authority will use that could not have been reasonably appropriate planning conditions to ensure 7.80 The 30% limit set out in Policy DP36 is anticipated at the time of purchase of that permitted extensions are not used not an allowance or entitlement and it the property. For example, additional 9 in conjunction with national Permitted is important to emphasise that although floorspace may be required to cater for 9 Development Rights to undermine the an extension may comply with the specialist equipment and facilities required aims of policy DP36. criterion on size, there could be other in connection with an unforeseen event, 10 harmful impacts which would make the 7.82 For the purposes of applying Policies DP35 such as a severe disability arising from 10 proposal unacceptable. In all cases, the and DP36: an accident whilst in occupation of the Authority will have regard to the scale property; but, it normally would not cater • original dwelling means the dwelling as and character of the core element of the for the needs of growing families or first built original dwelling (rather than subsequent the need to care for elderly relatives, as A1 additions) in determining whether or • existing dwelling means the dwelling these needs are not considered to be so A1 not an extension is sympathetic to the as it existed on 1 July 1982, or as the ‘exceptional’ as to warrant a departure dwelling. dwelling was originally built or legally from the floorspace restrictions set out in established, if the residential use post- this policy. A2 dates 1 July 1982 A2 • small dwelling means a dwelling with 41 This only applies to conservatories in New Forest District that have a floor area of 80 sq. metres or less as it previously been permitted as an ‘exception’ to policy and which A3 existed on 1 July 1982, or as the dwelling are the subject of a planning condition that limits their use asas a A3 conservatory. was originally built or legally established, if the residential use post-dates 1 July 1982 • floorspace of original, existing and small dwellings will be measured as the total internal habitable floorspace of the dwelling but will not include floorspace Farmhouse extension detail

92 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 93 Outbuildings 7.85 The use of outbuildings to support home Policy SP38: Infrastructure provision 7.91 The Local Plan supports the retention working and home-based businesses of existing community facilities and the 7.83 There remains considerable development and developer contributions 1 will be considered acceptable where this provision of essential facilities (including 1 pressure to provide for larger outbuildings. does not involve a change of use of the Development proposals shall make provision village shops and local educational Concerns have been raised that proposals main dwelling or have an adverse impact for the infrastructure and measures necessary services) in villages across the whole of for outbuildings are: (i) impacting on on the residential amenities of adjoining to ensure that the development is acceptable the National Park where there are clear 2 the character of the New Forest; (ii) 2 occupiers or the special qualities of the in planning terms in the context of the community benefits. Any proposals for increasingly being used to circumvent National Park. New Forest National Park Local Plan. Where the change of use of local commercial restrictions on residential extensions appropriate, financial contributions for services and community facilities will only and replacement dwellings; (iii) taking 3 Infrastructure provision the provision of off-site infrastructure and be considered where robust evidence is 3 up important amenity space, including measures will be sought. Appropriate new provided to demonstrate there is no longer parking provision, within the curtilage 7.86 New development, even on the relatively and improved utility infrastructure will be a need for a specific service or facility in of dwellings and this is resulting in limited scale planned for in the National permitted in order to meet the identified the longer term, a suitable replacement 4 parking being pushed beyond sites onto Park, can place extra demands on existing needs of the community. service or facility is provided, or there is 4 protected verges; and (iv) resulting in the infrastructure. In such cases where it is not Contributions will be secured through the an existing similar facility accessible to the overdevelopment of sites. possible to make the necessary provision appropriate mechanism – including the local community. on site, the Authority will seek financial 7.84 The Authority therefore continues to Community Infrastructure Levy (or any future 5 contributions from the developer in 5 carefully control proposals for outbuildings national tariff system) and Section 106 accordance with the framework provided Policy SP39: Local community through its Local Plan, while at the same agreements – as required by national policy. by national planning policy and guidance. facilities time recognising the role of outbuildings Within the context of the development In implementing this policy regard will be had 6 in supporting home-working for example. The Authority will support the retention of 6 that takes place within the National Park, to economic viability considerations at the It is important that the number, scale existing community facilities throughout developer contributions may be required site-specific level. and design of any buildings within the the National Park and prevent their loss or towards: highway and transportation curtilage of a dwelling should not detract redevelopment where they contribute to the 7 works; affordable housing; education from the character or appearance of the Community facilities and sustainability of local communities. 7 provision; recreation provision (including dwelling, the site and the surrounding services public open space enhancements); and The Authority will support the development area. The Authority will normally impose a nature conservation mitigation measures. 7.89 In pursuing the two statutory National of essential local community facilities where 8 planning condition limiting the use of the Park purposes, the Authority is committed the proposal is of clear and direct benefit to 8 7.87 The Government was reviewing the outbuilding to purposes incidental to the to fostering, ‘…the economic and social the local village or rural community; the scale national system of developer contributions dwelling on the site and excluding any use wellbeing of local communities within the of the proposed facility is proportionate to the and the Community Infrastructure Levy as habitable floorspace. National Park42.’ The special qualities of local areas; and they are accessible to the local 9 (CIL) in late 2017. The National Park 9 the New Forest National Park include its communities they will serve. Authority is a charging authority under the strong and distinctive local communities Policy DP37: Outbuildings relevant CIL Regulations, although it has and one of the strategic objectives Domestic outbuildings will be permitted not to date implemented CIL within the 7.92 Essential local community facilities are 10 identified in this Local Plan is to further where they: National Park. This remains an option for facilities that are of direct benefit to the 10 strengthen the wellbeing and sustainability the Authority in the future. immediate local community that provide a) are proportionate and clearly of local communities. an essential service, including village subservient to the dwelling they are 7.88 However, even if CIL (or any future 7.90 Local communities in the New Forest shops, pubs and village halls as well as to serve in terms of their design, scale, national tariff system to support face similar challenges to those in many small-scale health, educational services A1 size, height and massing;massing infrastructure provision) was implemented A1 rural areas. Community facilities and key and social facilities. Public open space, in the National Park there is likely to b) are located within the residential services that are essential in sustaining sport and recreational facilities are covered remain a role for Section 106 agreements curtilage of an existing dwelling;dwelling local villages are often under threat by Policy DP10. in the future to: (i) secure necessary A2 and therefore it is important that local A2 c) are required for purposes incidental to contributions towards infrastructure planning policies for the area support their the use of the main dwelling;dwelling that cannot be funded through CIL (for retention and improvement. In recent example habitat mitigation measures d) are not providing additional habitable years the planning policy framework A3 that are not deemed ‘infrastructure’, A3 accommodation;accommodation and for the National Park has supported the such as ranger provision or an education e) will not reduce private amenity space – development of new and enhanced campaign); and (ii) secure site- including parking provision –around the community facilities, such as Woodgreen specific contributions from individual dwelling to an unacceptable level. village shop, and this approach will be developments for measures that do retained. appear on the general national park-wide infrastructure list.

42 Section 62(1), Environment Act 1995

94 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 95 CHAPTER 8 Retail development within 7.95 The growing importance of local the National Park produce to the New Forest economy 1 is acknowledged and it is therefore A sustainable 1 7.93 The NPPF states that to support a strong appropriate that the Local Plan includes rural economy, local plans should promote a local planning policy supporting local economy the retention and development of local appropriate small-scale retail development 2 services and community facilities in 2 (including farm shops) outside the Defined villages, such as local shops, meeting Villages. places, sports venues, cultural buildings, 3 public houses and places of worship. 7.96 Farm shops which sell goods produced 3 National policy requires local planning on the farm do not normally require authorities to define shopping / retail areas planning permission. In addition to goods and set out policies that make clear which produced on the farm, farm shops can 4 uses will be permitted in such locations. also retail a small percentage of imported 4 goods (typically 10%) without the 7.94 In line with the Spatial Strategy for the need for planning permission. In each National Park, although there are no case, judgement needs to be exercised designated ‘town centres’ within the 5 in determining whether the scale and 5 National Park (the Defined Villages have proportion of imported goods amounts to less than 3,500 residents), successive local a retail use requiring planning permission. plans have sought to safeguard the role 6 of the four Defined Village centres of the 6 National Park in meeting some of the Policy DP41: Retail development day-to-day retail needs of local residents outside the Defined Villages 7 and visitors. The Defined Villages play a Outside the Defined Villages, small-scale 7 positive role in providing services for the convenience shops within rural settlements communities of the National Park and that serve local needs, and farm shops the Local Plan seeks to protect that role. that are part of a farm diversification will 8 This has typically been done by setting a be permitted, together with small-scale 8 proportion of the designated shopping extensions of existing shops. Any development frontages (as shown on the Policies should not extend into the open countryside Map) that should be kept in A1 (retail) 9 or have impacts on adjoining land uses. The 9 use to help promote the retention and potential effects of farm shops on other shops development of local shops within the in neighbouring villages will be assessed. Defined Villages of the National Park. 10 10 Policy DP40: Change of use from retail in the Defined Villages To support the role of the Defined Villages in meeting some of the retail needs of A1 A1 communities within the National Park, the change of use of ground floor premises from retail to other uses within the defined local A2 shopping frontages (as defined on the Policies A2 Map) will only be permitted where it will not result in the proportion of retails units in the shopping frontages of Lyndhurst and A3 A3 Brockenhurst being reduced to less than 50%; and in the frontages of Ashurst and Sway to less than 40%.

Right: working farm, Cadnam

96 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 97 8.1 This chapter sets out the strategic 8.4 The economic approach of this Local 8.6 With strong economic expansion planned and the high proportion of internationally objectives for a sustainable local economy, Plan takes into consideration some in the surrounding employment centres in protected habitats within the New Forest. 1 land management and tourism. key aspects of the economic and South Hampshire, Southern Wiltshire and Moreover, the very diverse nature of the 1 employment characteristics of the South East Dorset, the task for the local local economy means that it does not 8.2 A healthy local economy is essential National Park. There is a very low level economy will be to find ways of benefiting rely heavily on the B1 to B8 Land Use in maintaining the life and vibrancy of unemployment, which has been no from the National Park’s advantages whilst Classes that need office and industrial 2 of the National Park, providing local 2 higher than 1.5%45 for the last ten years retaining its special character. Taking spaces. Coupled with a forecast decline employment, and sustaining its rural and has been consistently lower than into account the forecasted decline in in the working age population, it is not communities. This Local Plan aims to regional and national levels during that the working age population, competition considered necessary to allocate any new support a sustainable local economy 3 period. Employment has been supported from surrounding areas, and the need land solely for employment use in this 3 which provides business and employment by a long history of investment in new to maintain the special environmental Local Plan. opportunities that benefit the National business space with recent new floorspace qualities of the National Park, supporting Park’s communities without compromising 8.9 This approach does not mean, however, development being consistent with the the economic well-being of the National 4 the special qualities and rural character that employment opportunities will long-term trend. The local economy is Park’s communities will be best served 4 of the area. This approach will help to not be created. Indeed, past trends of very diverse with the leisure, tourism, by focusing on small businesses, with deliver the Authority’s duty43 to foster development show that employment agriculture, health, and the professional, locally distinctive, higher value and low the social and economic well-being of opportunities continue to be generated scientific and technical sectors all impact types of businesses being most 5 its local communities and, in doing so, for local communities in the National Park 5 important in creating a wide range of appropriate. Given that most businesses will support New Forest District Council, area, and unemployment has consistently employment opportunities. However, in the National Park are relatively small46, Wiltshire Council and Test Valley Borough been below regional and national levels whilst many residents have high skill levels, the appropriate requirements for business in their responsibility for promoting since the designation of the National 6 the local economy would benefit from space are likely to be of a modest scale. 6 economic development in their respective Park. Given the long history of business improved skills and business support. administrative areas. 8.7 In relation to sustainable development that development that spans a wide range of Looking forward to the next few years, a is appropriate in a nationally designated economic sectors, it is anticipated that 8.3 Maintaining a high-quality natural decline in the working age population is 7 area, throughout the National Park the employment development will continue 7 environment can contribute substantial forecast. Local Plan will support: to come forward that will support economic benefits by supporting tourism 8.5 Within relatively short distances, the the wellbeing of the National Park’s and helping to attract high-value • the re-use and extension of existing National Park is surrounded by local communities. employees and businesses. Research buildings;buildings 8 employment centres, such as Lymington, 8 suggests that National Park designation 8.10 The Authority recognises, however, that Ringwood and Totton, and large urban • the redevelopment of existing employment brings economic benefits for businesses the changes to permitted development areas that provide significant employment sites for a wider range of employment both within a National Park and in the rights could lead to the loss of certain opportunities. It is, therefore, not uses;uses 9 wider region44. By successfully pursuing types of business spaces, which would 9 surprising to find that there is net out- its two statutory purposes, therefore, • retaining existing employment sites;sites have a negative impact on the local commuting by residents to these larger the National Park Authority can make economy. These losses will offset some of centres and, given their proximity, it is • farm diversification;diversification and a positive contribution to economic the new business space development that likely that some of the employment needs 10 prosperity both locally and in surrounding • home working. is brought forward in the future. In these 10 of National Park residents in the future will areas. In addition to the above, in the Defined circumstances, for the local economy to continue to be met beyond the National Villages the Local Plan will also support continue to provide sufficient employment 43 See Chapter 1: Introduction and the Environment Act 1995. Park’s boundaries. opportunities for its communities, the 44 Prosperity and Protection: The economic impact of National Parks in small-scale employment development, and visitor facilities and accommodation using Authority will not only retain all existing A1 the Yorkshire and Humber region. Council for National Parks 2006; A1 Valuing England’s National Parks: Cumulus Consultants Ltd and ICF 45 Unemployment measured by the percentage of the working age new buildings. employment sites (where not impacted by GHK – Final Report for National Parks England 2013. population that are claiming Job Seekers Allowance. the permitted development right changes), 8.8 This approach does not require the but will encourage the redevelopment allocation of new land specifically for A2 of redundant brownfield employment A2 employment development. Neither the sites for employment use by supporting a Authority’s previous Core Strategy (2010) broader range of business uses than the nor any of the Local Plans prepared by prior use. A3 the predecessor planning authorities A3 (and inherited by the Authority in 2006) included employment land allocations within the National Park in recognition of the protection afforded to the landscape

46 Over 90% of businesses in the National Park have 10 or fewer Local employment site employees. ‘Valuing England’s National Parks: Cumulus Consultants Ltd and ICF GHK’ – Final Report for National Parks England 2013.

98 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 99 Strategic Objective for a sustainable business requirement in the Business Policy SP43: Existing employment Policy DP44: Redevelopment of economy: Needs Survey (2014). Businesses that sites existing employment sites 1 use such technology tend to have less 1 Develop a diverse and sustainable economy that environmental impacts and can also Existing employment sites will be retained The redevelopment of established contributes to the well- being of local communities support home-working to provide more throughout the National Park. employment sites for industrial, office, business and low-key storage uses will be employment opportunities. Within the four Defined Villages the Authority 2 permitted throughout the National Park 2 will retain existing employment sites and also Policy SP42: Business and 8.13 Improving broadband and mobile where: telecommunications is an important consider additional uses on these sites to employment development a) there would be minimal additional objective set out in the Partnership Plan for allow for mixed use developments where: 3 effect on the visual impact of the site in 3 Small scale employment development will be the National Park. The Authority supports a) there is sufficient space on the existing the landscape, or on the amenities of permitted within the four Defined Villages of the rollout of superfast broadband across employment site to not only retain the nearby properties, or on traffic or other Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway. the National Park and initiatives to seek same amount of existing employment disturbances from the site;site 4 Outside these Defined Villages, small scale additional funding to provide complete floorspace, but to also accommodate a 4 employment development that helps the coverage across the National Park. further activity on the sitesite; b) where feasible, the redevelopment scheme deals comprehensively with the well-being of local communities will be 8.14 The visual impacts of telecommunications b) the intensified use of the employment full extent of the site;site 5 permitted through the re- use or extension infrastructure will be considered using space means that at least the same 5 of existing buildings, the redevelopment of national planning policy and guidance, level of employment will be retained c) the replacement buildings would be existing business use employment sites, farm to ensure that any such proposals are on the site as during the previous full appropriate to their surroundings in diversification schemes and through home- sensitively designed and sited and operational use, and additional space is terms of scale, design and materials;materials working. and 6 demonstrate that there are no suitable created for another type of useuse; and d) the redevelopment scheme would 6 Particular encouragement will be given to alternative locations. c) the additional use on the site is d) thebe contained redevelopment within scheme the existing would site businesses that help to maintain the land- 8.15 Local distinctiveness has an important compatible with the proposed beboundary. contained within the existing site 7 based economy and cultural heritage of part to play in the local economy. Many employment use and the site’s boundary. 7 the National Park, or contribute to the existing producers and entirely new neighbours in terms of its design, 8.18 The redevelopment of existing understanding and enjoyment of the National businesses related to the rural economy amenity impacts, and in relation to any 8.18 Theemployment redevelopment sites for of a existing range of Park’s Special Qualities. Providing local are benefiting from this through the local parking and traffic implications. employment sitesuses forshould a range help ofto 8 communities with a variety of employment produce and products market. There is 8 employmentsupport the economic uses should well-being help to of opportunities will also be supported where widespread recognition of the New Forest 8.17 In addition to supporting business supportcommunities the economic throughout well-being the National of these do not have an adverse impact on the Marque and an increasing number of development to sustain the well-being communitiesPark. The Authority throughout will encourage the National the Special Qualities of the National Park. small businesses, farmers markets and 9 of local communities, it is important to Park.redevelopment The Authority of redundant will encourage brownfield the 9 farm shops are using this New Forest recognise that existing employment sites redevelopmentemployment sites of forredundant employment brownfield use brand. Proposals for farm shops will be 8.11 It will be important to support new are under pressure from higher-value employmentby supporting sites a wider for employment range of business use considered under Policy DP41. small-scale business development land uses such as housing, particularly byuses supporting than the previousa wider rangeuse, other of business than 10 throughout the National Park to provide 8.16 The local economy would also benefit given the high level of house prices in the usesstorage than and the warehousing. previous use, Proposals other than for 10 the employment and services needed by from raising productivity through National Park. The Commercial Property storagesmall-scale and starter warehousing. units / offices, Proposals rural for local communities. The priority will be to improved skills and business support, Market Assessment (2017) concludes small-scalebusiness units starter and unitseasy /in offices, / out units, rural will locate such services within the Defined which are both encouraged by the that the supply of employment sites is businessbe considered units andfavourably. easy in However,/ out units, the will Villages to take advantage of existing Enterprise M3 and Swindon and Wiltshire constrained by the limited availability of beredevelopment considered favourably. of existing However,employment the A1 A1 facilities and transport links within these Local Enterprise Partnerships and the employment land and sites in the National redevelopmentsites for general of warehousing existing employment purposes villages. However, a considerable number New Forest LEADER Local Development Park. As there are limited alternative sites, siteswill not for begeneral encouraged warehousing as this purposestype of of current employment sites are already Strategy. The Local Plan recognises the it is important to retain existing sites47 for willdevelopment not be encouraged does not generateas this type significant of employment opportunities relative to the A2 located outside the Defined Villages and it importance of increasing the skills of employment use to ensure a prosperous development does not generate significant A2 will be important to enable some further the local workforce to improve their local economy and employment employmentspace required, opportunities such development relative typicallyto the business development of an appropriate employment prospects. The Authority will opportunities for local residents in the spaceresults required, in additional such traffic development and can typically have a scale where this helps improve the long- support the roles of New Forest District future. Retaining employment sites also resultsgreater in impact additional on the traffic landscape. and can have a A3 A3 term sustainability of these more rural Council, Test Valley Borough Council aims to avoid creating unsustainable greater impact on the landscape. communities. and Wiltshire Council in coordinating settlements with little or no employment 8.12 Greater use of technological and the provision of skills training for the and increasing out-commuting to jobs communication advances that aid workforce. It will also support the beyond the National Park. employment development will be provision of training facilities through the supported as these can improve efficiency re-use and extension of existing buildings 47 The Policy applies to existing employment sites which are not subject to PD rights contained in the most recent version of The and productivity, raise value-adding and the redevelopment of existing business use employment sites. Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) activity, and are identified as a key (England) Order.

100 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 101 Extensions to non-residential Sustainable tourism 8.24 With regard to tourism-related 8.25 Small-scale development of new visitor buildings and uses developments, the Authority aims facilities and accommodation will be 1 to support sustainable tourism and supported within the four Defined 1 8.19 This policy applies to a range of non- Strategic Objective for sustainable provide opportunities for enjoying the Villages. These villages already provide residential buildings and uses including tourism: National Park’s Special Qualities without many restaurants, shops and other agricultural, business, community and Support development which encourages sustainable compromising its purpose to conserve services used by visitors and together 2 tourism uses48 (excluding holiday parks 2 tourism and recreation, and provides opportunities and enhance the National Park’s natural with their access by public transport and camp sites). It seeks to maintain for enjoying the Park’s special qualities beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage. To make them more sustainable locations for existing non-residential buildings and achieve this, new tourism development tourism developments49 than elsewhere uses while avoiding potential adverse 3 will be supported. throughout the National Park and less 3 impacts on the National Park arising from 8.21 The New Forest National Park’s unique likely to have impacts on the landscape additional activity, such as increased visitor environment attracts many visitors, and and natural beauty of the area. pressures and traffic. the tourism industry is of considerable Policy SP46: Sustainable tourism 4 importance to the National Park’s development 8.26 It is also important to recognise that 4 existing serviced accommodation is economy. Spending associated with leisure Sustainable tourism development will be Policy DP45: Extensions to non- under pressure from higher value forms trips to the National Park is significant, supported where it provides opportunities residential buildings and uses of development, such as housing. Given supporting the accommodation, retail for the understanding and enjoyment of the 5 The limited extension of existing non- that serviced accommodation makes 5 and other business sectors, providing special qualities of the National Park in a way residential buildings and uses will be a significant contribution to the local employment, and thus supporting local that either enhances, or does not damage the permitted where it: economy by providing employment communities. Special Qualities. This will be facilitated by: and supporting business services and 6 a) would not materially increase the level 8.22 The development and implementation 6 a) supporting small-scale development local produce markets, retaining the of impact of the activity on the site;site of sustainable tourism in the New of visitor facilities and accommodation existing stock is considered important. and Forest involves a wide range of partners b) is contained within the existing site using new or existing buildings in Outside the National Park, the adjacent and stakeholders. The key destination 7 b) isboundary. contained within the existing site the four Defined Villages. Outside towns (including Ringwood, Lymington, management role is operated by the New 7 boundary. these villages visitor facilities will Fordingbridge and New Milton) are likely Forest Tourism Association, which has be supported through the re-use to continue to perform a particular role merged with Go New Forest Community 8.20 A limited extension will normally be or extension of existing buildings as centres for accommodation and visitor Interest Company and will promote and 8 8.20 Aconsidered limited extension as one which will normally is capable be of in line with Policy DP45 and Policy facilities and in providing a greater range 8 market the New Forest, and encourage consideredbeing achieved as one with which minimal is capable impact of DP49, and visitor accommodation of services and cultural activities. beingon the achieved overall physical with minimal appearance impact and sustainable tourism. The Authority is will be considered as part of a farm onprominence the overall of physical the building appearance and / or and site supportive of the delivery of sustainable diversification scheme as outlined in 8.27 Existing holiday parks and campsites 9 prominencein the landscape of the and building which andresults / or only site tourism and recognises the important Policy SP48SP48; provide significant opportunities to enjoy 9 in themarginal landscape changes and to which the nature results ofonly the contribution it makes to the National the special qualities of the National Park. b) retaining existing serviced visitor inexisting marginal use. changes to the nature of the Park’s communities and its economy. They are well provided for in and around accommodation where it contributes to the New Forest and this means that no existing use. 8.23 In addition to developing the 10 the sustainability of local communitiescommunities; additional camping facilities50 are needed. 10 competitiveness and economic success and c) supporting opportunities to relieve The New Forest National Park contains of the tourism sector, a great deal of c) visitorsupporting pressures opportunities where this to would relieve assist over three times the average number of work has been undertaken to promote thevisitor conservation pressures where or enhancement this would ofassist camping and touring caravan bedspaces sustainable tourism in the New Forest, internationallythe conservation or ornationally enhancement designated of per square kilometre found in any other A1 based on bringing together the interests A1 natureinternationally conservation or nationally sites. designated English national park. It is already under of visitors, the tourism industry, local nature conservation sites. considerable recreational pressure. The communities and the environment. Extensions to existing tourism developments Habitats Regulation Assessment of the This approach aims to support the local willExtensions be considered to existing in accordance tourism developments with Policies A2 Local Plan does not rule out a likely A2 tourism economy, whilst ensuring that the DP45will be and considered DP47. Development in accordance of with visitor Policies significant effect of recreation visits on the special qualities and local distinctiveness facilitiesDP45 and within DP47. the Development existing site ofof visitorthe major integrity of the internationally designated of the New Forest are conserved. There is visitorfacilities attractions within the at existing Paultons site Park of the major nature conservation sites, which make up A3 still, however, a need to raise the profile andvisitor Beaulieu attractions Motor at PaultonsMuseum Parkwill be A3 over half of the total area of the National of tourism businesses as examples of good supportedand Beaulieu if the Motor four Museum criteria in will Policy be DP44 Park. Moreover, the New Forest has a environmental practice and be bolder cansupported be satisfied. if the four criteria in Policy DP44 higher proportion of unserviced versus 48 Extensions to existing serviced accommodation and uses will be in developing the image of the National can be satisfied. serviced visitor accommodation than most supported by this Policy as long as the extension also operates as Park as a sustainable tourism destination serviced accommodation – forms of self-catering accommodation other English national parks. The large and uses that are separate from, and proposed as extensions to, focusing on the Special Qualities of existing serviced accommodation will not be supported by this the area. 49 Consistent with paragraph 28, National Planning Policy Framework. Policy. Extensions to all forms of camping and caravan use will be 50 Including all forms of self-catering camping and caravan considered under Policy DP47. accommodation.

102 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 103 amount of unserviced accommodation The land-based economy agricultural operation of the land and is added to through the high number of would be: 1 1 locations which have licences for seasonal Strategic Objective for the land-based - agricultural diversification based on an ‘pop-up’ campsites. economy: extensive system of land management, or 2 Encourage land management that sustains the 2 Policy DP47: Holiday parks and special qualities of the National Park. - non-agricultural diversification, through campsites the re-use of redundant farm buildings in line with Policy SP46 or Policy DP49, New campsites and extensions to existing 8.30 The land-based economy in the New and where it can be demonstrated that 3 holiday parks, caravan or camping sites will Forest encompasses agriculture, forestry, 3 the new use would remain ancillary to only be permitted to enable the removal of commoning and other traditional rural the farming businessbusiness; pitches from sensitive areas by the relocation businesses. Whilst providing only a to a less sensitive area, providing: 4 small proportion of local jobs, farming, (iii) Helping to support markets for local 4 a) there would be overall environmental commoning, forestry and woodland produce and products. benefits;benefits management remain vital in maintaining the land use management practices that 8.32 In the National Park the practice of b) there would be no increase in the 8.32 In the National Park the practice of 5 help conserve the landscape character and commoning is particularly recognised as 5 overall site area or site capacity;capacity and commoning is particularly recognised as cultural identity of the National Park. being integral to the maintenance of the c) the area where pitches or other essential landscape character and cultural 8.31 In relation to rural activities, the National essential landscape character and cultural facilities are removed from would be heritage of the area. Commoners’ animals Park’s Partnership Plan outlines the heritage of the area. Commoners’ animals 6 fully restored to an appropriate New remain part of the identity of the Forest 6 important role that agriculture and forestry remain part of the identity of the Forest Forest landscape, and any existing use and a major attraction for visitors. Whilst play the in rural economy and maintaining and a major attraction for visitors. Whilst rights are relinquished. commoners have rights to graze their characteristic New Forest habitats and commoners have rights to graze their animals in the historic area of common 7 landscapes. animals in the historic area of common 7 8.28 Although many sites are seasonal they grazing, they also require back-up can have a significant impact on the New grazing areas in the enclosed agricultural Forest environment, particularly those Policy SP48: The land-based lands. Consequently, it is important that 8 located in areas of designated nature economy agricultural land, which is used for these 8 conservation importance. Proposals for Land-based businesses that help maintain the purposes, is not developed or lost to ancillary developments to support seasonal overall character and cultural identity of the other uses. campsites, such as hardstandings and 9 National Park will be supported by: 8.33 Farming and farm diversification will be 9 toilets, will not be viewed favourably. In given particular support to enhance or the longer term, it would be of benefit to a) working with key organisations maintain the characteristic landscapes the New Forest environment to reduce the to ensure the future viability of and habitats, provide local produce, overall number of camping and caravan commoning through: 10 allow greater public access or create 10 pitches in the most sensitive areas. (i) enabling affordable housing for local employment. Diversification of a commoners that includes land suitable 8.29 Recently there has been a large increase scale or extent which is likely to provide for holdings (as set out in Policy SP29)SP29); in 28 day ‘pop up’ campsites which an incentive to reduce the long-term and account for some extra 7,000 overnight (ii) maintaining the supply of land available agricultural operation of the land will A1 A1 stays in the Forest. If this trend continues (ii) formaintaining back-up grazingthe supply on ofthe land enclosed available not be supported. consideration will be given to the use of lands;for back-up resisting grazing the loss on ofthe back-up enclosed 8.34 Forestry has become an important feature an Article 4 Direction to ensure this type grazinglands; resisting through the development loss of back-up or of the New Forest over the past 150 years, A2 of development is properly planned. changegrazing ofthrough use development or A2 providing local employment and training change of use. b) supporting farming and forestry that and enabling much of the timber to be b) wouldsupporting be beneficial farming and to the forestry Forest that sourced and processed locally. It will be A3 through:would be beneficial to the Forest important for the industry to adapt to A3 through: changing markets for forestry products, (i) the provision of agricultural and changing markets for forestry products, including wood fuel, and continue to (i) forestrythe provision buildings of agricultural subject to and Policy including wood fuel, and continue to champion sustainable production in the DP50forestry buildings subject to Policy champion sustainable production in the DP50; local context. (ii) farm diversification where this (ii) wouldfarm diversification help to sustain where the long-term this would help to sustain the long-term Hollands Wood campsite

104 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 105 Re-use of existing buildings Definedmore sustainable Villages locationsare considered for housing to be Agricultural and forestry 8.41 In the case of buildings required for pony moredevelopment, sustainable and locations the approach for housing to and horse breeding, the Authority will 8.35 The re-use of existing buildings is buildings 1 development,housing outside and the the Defined approach Villages to is need to be satisfied that the enterprise 1 important for business and employment 8.40 This policy seeks to enable development housingdescribed outside in Chapter the Defined 7. Villages is is a commercial operation carried out by development to ensure the provision of necessary to sustain agricultural activity, described in Chapter 7. commoners in conjunction with grazing future employment opportunities for local 8.37 Given the importance that land including forestry and commoning. the New Forest. In the case of buildings 2 communities in the National Park. The 8.37 Givenmanagement the importance practices that have land in maintaining However, development associated 2 required in connection with the turning following policy sets out the detail of the managementthe landscape, practices the Authority have inwill maintaining support with agriculture can have a substantial out of stock onto the Open Forest, the strategic policy which supports the re-use thefarm landscape, diversification the Authority schemes willwhich support re- environmental impact, and the Authority Authority will also need to assess the of redundant buildings for employment farmuse existing diversification farm buildings schemes in accordancewhich re- will not support buildings or other 3 associated impacts of any additional 3 purposes in order to support the rural usewith existing Policies farmSP48 buildings and DP49, in whereaccordance the structures that would be damaging to the grazing pressures on the Open Forest. economy. withproposal Policies relates SP48 to and the DP49,diversification where the ecology, landscape or character of the proposalof an existing relates and to continuingthe diversification farm National Park. 8.42 A planning condition will normally be 4 ofbusiness. an existing However, and continuing where proposals farm for imposed requiring the building to be 4 Policy DP49: Re-use of buildings business.farm buildings However, do not where relate proposals to a farm for removed and the land restored to its outside the Defined Villages farmdiversification buildings doscheme, not relate the toAuthority a farm will Policy DP50: Agricultural and former condition should the building diversificationtake into account scheme, the potential the Authority of the will forestry buildings no longer be required for agricultural 5 The re-use of buildings outside Defined Villages will be permitted provided that: takebuildings into accountto continue the inpotential some form of the of Permission will be granted for buildings purposes. In assessing the functional need 5 buildingsbeneficial to agricultural continue in use, some in formparticular of required for agriculture or forestry purposes for a building, first consideration will be a) the proposal would not result in beneficialone which servesagricultural the interests use, in particularof the New given to the conversion of any existing the loss of an employment use or where: 6 oneForest. which serves the interests of the New building under the terms of Policy DP49. 6 community facility and accord with Forest. a) there is a functional need for the Policy SP39;SP39 8.38 The Authority is concerned to ensure building and its scale is commensurate 8.38 Thethat Authoritywherever ispractical, concerned New to Forest ensure b) the proposal would not involve with that need and its setting in the b) the proposal would not involve thatcommoners wherever should practical, be given New theForest a residential use (other than in landscapelandscape; 7 commonersopportunity shouldof utilising be giventhe existing the 7 accordance with Policy SP19);SP19) b) the building is designed for the opportunitystock of agricultural/forestry of utilising the existing buildings. purposes of agriculture or forestryforestry; c) the building is appropriate in scale and stockWhile ofsome agricultural/forestry agricultural buildings buildings. may 8 appearance to its location, and should Whileno longer some be agricultural required by buildings a particular may c) the site is related physically and 8 be capable of conversion without nofarm longer they maybe required still be suitableby a particular for use by functionally to existing buildings significant extension or detriment to farmcommoners, they may e.g. still for be storage suitable of for feedstuffs use by associated with the business unless itself or its surroundings. The building commoners,or housing animals, e.g. for or storage for conversion of feedstuffs to there are exceptional circumstances 9 must be structurally sound and capable ora commoners’ housing animals, dwelling. or for Accordingly, conversion theto relating to agricultural necessity for a 9 of re-occupation without re-building;re-building aAuthority commoners’ will need dwelling. to be Accordingly, satisfied that the more isolated locationlocation; and and d) in the case of agricultural or forestry Authorityagricultural will and need forestry to be buildings satisfied cannot that d) they do not involve large or obtrusive agriculturalcontinue to andfulfil forestry any beneficial buildings agriculturalcannot 10 d) inbuildings, the case the of agriculturalbuilding must or beforestry structures or generate a level of activity 10 buildings,genuinely redundantthe building in must its existing be continueuse before to giving fulfil favourableany beneficial consideration agricultural which would have a detrimental effect genuinelyuse and not redundant capable ofin fulfillingits existing any usefor theirbefore re-use giving independently favourable consideration of a farming on the National Park. usebeneficial and not agricultural capable of use.fulfilling any forenterprise. their re-use independently of a farming enterprise. beneficial agricultural use. 8.39 The re-use of purpose-built or pre- A1 8.36 This policy is intended to enable the re- 8.39 Thefabricated re-use agriculturalof purpose-built buildings, or pre- e.g. A1 8.36 Thisuse orpolicy change is intended of use of to existing enable buildingsthe re- fabricatedglasshouses agricultural or prefabricated buildings, barns, e.g. usewhich or arechange appropriate of use of to existing their New buildings glasshousesparticularly those or prefabricated of a large scale, barns, are whichForest setting,are appropriate are a re-usable to their resourceNew particularlyunlikely to bethose considered of a large favourably scale, are under A2 A2 Forestcapable setting, of conversion are a re-usable without resource significant unlikelythis policy, to beas suchconsidered buildings favourably are often under capablereconstruction of conversion and are without on sites significantwhich thisout ofpolicy, character as such with buildings the New are Forest often reconstructionmeet highway and otherare on local sites authority which outlandscape. of character This policy with thedoes New not Forest apply to A3 meetstandards. highway The andpolicy other enables local theauthority use of landscape.agricultural Thisbuildings policy thatdoes are not subject apply to a A3 standards.a building toThe change policy toenables an alternative the use ofuse agriculturalplanning condition buildings requiring that are their subject removal to a awhich building is considered to change to to be an appropriate alternative usein planningon the cessation condition of requiringagricultural their use. removal whichthe New is consideredForest under to thebe appropriatepolicies of this in on the cessation of agricultural use. theplan. New The Forest building under to be the re-used policies should of this be plan.suitable The for building the new to use be re-usedproposed should without be suitablethe need for for the additions new use or proposed extensions. without The theDefined need forVillages additions are considered or extensions. to be The Agricultural farm building, Boldre

106 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 107 Horse riding and horse 8.46 The Authority cannot control the use of Policy DP52: Field shelters and Policy DP53: Maneges keeping land for grazing. However, the keeping stables 1 of recreational horses involves a more The development of outdoor maneges will be 1 8.43 Horse riding and horse keeping have a intensive use of land which is subject to Permission will be granted for field shelters permitted provided that: long history in the New Forest and are provided that the building is: planning control. The distinction between a) they do not result in any detrimental part of the cultural identity of the New grazing and keeping is not always clear a) sensitively sited to be unobtrusive in the impact on the landscape and ecology 2 Forest. In the region of 3,500 horses are 2 although a judgement can normally be landscapethe landscape; of the New Forest;Forest and kept within and immediately surrounding made on the basis of the area of grazing the National Park51. Together with horses b) simple in appearance and modest in b) they do not involve the installation of land available per animal. As a guideline, kept by farmers and commoners, the scalescale; and oflighting. lighting. 3 the keeping of horses generally occurs 3 local equine community makes a valuable when there is less than 0.5 hectares of c) constructed of appropriate materials. The development of indoor maneges will not contribution to the local economy. 52 land per horse . The same considerations apply to stables be permitted other than in accordance with 8.44 When it is done well, horse keeping Policy DP49 (Re-use of buildings). 8.47 Other key indicators can include the although these should be located close to 4 can make a positive contribution to the 4 existence of stables and other facilities, existing buildings. management of the New Forest and and the condition of the land. 8.52 Maneges are all-weather riding arenas assist farmers and commoners seeking used for the schooling of animals and 5 to diversify their activities. But also in the 8.48 Planning applications should be 8.51 The Authority seeks to limit the the training of riders. While the Authority 5 few cases when it is done badly there can accompanied by sufficient information to proliferation of buildings in the New recognises that the availability of maneges be problems associated with overgrazed demonstrate that the associated impacts Forest, primarily because of their impact may reduce the use of the Open Forest, fields, poor fencing and inappropriate of any new recreational horse keeping on the landscape. However, the need particularly by riding schools, there are 6 lighting, all of which can lead to a use is positive rather than negative, for for field shelters (which are commonly concerns about the physical impact of 6 negative impression of horse keeping. example by including details of fencing characterised by one side of the building their development on the New Forest There are examples of both within the and landscaping. being left open) is recognised and landscape and ecology. The Authority 7 New Forest. 8.49 The high demand in land for horse grazing therefore they will normally be permitted wishes to minimise the environmental 7 8.45 Planning permission is usually required and keeping can reduce the amount of providing they are sensitively designed impact of these proposals and considers for most horse-related development. back-up grazing available for commoners’ and can be accommodated without being that this form of development is likely to However, under the General Permitted animals and there is a need to maintain an obtrusive in the landscape. The same be acceptable only where it is contained 8 Development Order 2015, there may adequate supply of back-up grazing land considerations apply to stables although within or closely related to an existing 8 be some scope to provide buildings or available to commoners53. these should be located close to existing group of buildings and makes use of enclosures associated with the keeping buildings. materials that blend in well with the New 8.50 Policy DP51 also seeks to ensure that Forest landscape. 9 of recreational horses, incidental to the horse keeping does not impinge on the 9 enjoyment of the dwelling house, in the New Forest by adding to riding activity in garden of a domestic dwelling. It will be the area and/or contributing to the erosion advisable to seek the advice on the need of the Open Forest. 10 for planning permission for such buildings 10 from the Authority. Policy DP51: Recreational horse keeping A1 A1 Permission will be granted for recreational horse keeping provided that the proposal does not: A2 A2 a) have an adverse impact on the landscape or any nature conservation interests;interests A3 b) harmfully increase riding pressures on A3 the Open Forest;Forest or 52 Defra Code of practice for the welfare of horses, ponies, donkeys c) result in the loss of back-up grazing and their hybrids (April 2013) reports that as a general rule, a horse land. will require a minimum of 0.5 hectares (1.25 acres) of good grazing if no supplementary feeding is being provided.

53 New Forest Commoning Review 2007 Full Report identified the 51 Recreational Horse Keeping in the New Forest: Update of grazing need to protect back-up grazing land from competing land uses Abbey Mead stables survey 2007. such as private horse keeping.

108 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 109 CHAPTER 9 9.1 The National Park has an extensive road between now and 2036, additional network, with a number of major trunk demands on the road network within the 1 Transport and routes and several A-roads that carry National Park will be generated. 1 high volumes of traffic from commuters, 9.6 In addition to residents and visitors, residents and visitors alike. access there are high levels of commuter traffic 2 9.2 Unlike many national parks, the New crossing the Park, particularly from 2 Forest is easily accessible by train the surrounding areas. A significant through four railway stations at Ashurst, proportion of the local workforce is either 3 Brockenhurst, Sway and Beaulieu Road, self-employed and work from home 3 which are on the London Waterloo to (about 11%) or commute to work outside Weymouth line. As such, there are real the area, particularly to Southampton. opportunities to encourage arrival by Overall there is a significant net outflow of 4 train, although these stations are currently people from the National Park travelling to 4 poorly connected to other forms of public work in urban areas such as Southampton transport. Whilst a number of bus routes (providing employment for 15% of the cross the Forest the services are greatly National Park’s working population) and 5 reduced in the evenings and at weekends. Bournemouth (providing employment 5 for 8% of the National Park’s working 9.3 The New Forest Tour, a seasonal open-top population). bus, is aimed at both visitors and residents, 6 and operates during the summer months, 9.7 The increase in traffic within and around 6 with three interlinked routes across the the National Park raises a number of Park stopping at popular villages and significant issues. Campaigns in recent major attractions within the National years have seen a reduction in the 7 Park. The Tour links to rail stations at numbers of commoners’ livestock (ponies, 7 Brockenhurst, Lymington Pier, Ashurst cattle, pigs, sheep and donkeys) killed or and New Milton, as well as ferry services injured on the Forest’s unfenced roads, 8 to the Isle of Wight and Southampton. In but the figure still remains high with 98 8 addition, a Beach Bus service also operates animals killed or injured during 2016. during the summer and links Hythe, Lepe, Every animal killed is a loss to the Forest Beaulieu and Lymington. and its commoners, and the Authority 9 is working with partners to develop 9 Strategic Objective for transport: initiatives to reduce the numbers of Reduce the impacts of traffic on the special qualities accidents year on year, including the of the National Park and provide a range of consideration of traffic calming measures 10 where appropriate. 10 sustainable transport alternatives within the Park. 9.8 Traffic speeds can be a concern to local 9.4 Across the National Park, traffic volumes communities and can contribute to human are high, especially during the summer and animal accidents. Hampshire County A1 months, and trends indicate a general Council has introduced 30 mph speed A1 increase each year on a number of routes. limits in many New Forest villages and The National Park receives an estimated advisory 20 mph limits in the vicinity of many schools. A2 13.5 million visitor days each year, with A2 the vast majority of both staying and 9.9 Traffic also detracts from the tranquillity day visitors using the car to reach their of the New Forest, and can conflict with 54 destination . other recreational users, especially on A3 A3 9.5 National predictions cite an increase in more minor roads. Over the coming total car travel of between 19% and decades, with a potential increase in 55% (depending on different scenarios) recreation pressure on the New Forest, by 2040. Combined with the impacts of it will be important to develop further 150,000 additional dwellings proposed in education and traffic management South Hampshire and South East Dorset initiatives to ensure quality of life, environmental quality and experience of visitors is not undermined. 54 Tourism South East visitor survey 2004-2005.

New Forest Tour bus, central Lyndhurst 110 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 111 9.10 The principles of this transport objective likely effects of increased levels of trip Parking standards are also carried through in a number generation within the National Park by 9.16 The Hampshire Local Transport Plan 2011- 1 of other policies in this Local Plan. In addressing accessibility, road safety, air 1 2031 recognises that access to sustainable particular the Spatial Strategy (set out in quality and traffic congestion. modes of transport is often more limited Chapter 4) is based on the objective of 9.13 Of greater concern is the impact of in rural areas, and identifies a major reducing the need to travel and therefore 2 increased trip generation on the National challenge for the area to be ‘Improving 2 the location of development is based on Park arising from development outside accessibility for people without access to the most sustainable settlements in the the National Park boundary; some a car, while recognising that the car is National Park, which have the best access 150,000 dwellings are proposed for South likely to remain the main mode of travel 3 to public transport, including rail, and 3 Hampshire and South East Dorset up to for many people in rural areas’ such as the existing community facilities and services. 2036. It is important that the likely impacts New Forest. Similar objectives are echoed are researched and fully understood to in The Wiltshire Local Transport Plan 2011- 4 Policy SP54: Transport infrastructure allow the implementation of measures 2026. 4 which will mitigate the impact on the Further development of the strategic transport 9.17 These standards are set out in Annex special qualities of the National Park. network will only be supported where: 2 of this Plan and identify the required 5 a) it is an integral part of a longer-term 9.14 The National Park Authority will take level of car parking for new residential 5 strategy to address traffic congestion account of national transport policy and non-residential development. Policy on the A31;A31 or and the Hampshire and Wiltshire Local DP2 (General Development Principles) in Transport Plans with regard to the this Plan requires all new development b) alternative solutions including potential 6 consideration of any major new traffic or proposals to make adequate provision 6 traffic demand management measures demand management measures over the for parking in accordance with the have been explored and are not longer term of this Local Plan. Any such standards in Annex 2. Reduced parking feasible or appropriate. measures will not be considered without 7 provision may be acceptable in certain further detailed research and public circumstances, such as where there is 7 9.11 Only a relatively limited amount of small consultation. relatively good accessibility by public scale housing and associated development transport, or where there is clearly is proposed for the National Park. 9.15 Where proposed development would demonstrated alternative capacity. 8 Additional new or improved transport generate significant amounts of traffic 8 However, the preference is for parking infrastructure is not normally needed movement then a detailed Transport spaces to be provided within the curtilage to service this level of development. Statement or Transport Assessment will be of the dwelling. It is recommended that Consequently, the expansion of the required, as set out in national planning 9 applicants also consider the Authority’s 9 existing road network will not be policy. This will be identified on a case by adopted Design Guide Supplementary supported within the National Park, other case basis. Planning Document which sets out general than in exceptional circumstances. 10 guidance on the design and integration of 9.12 Working in partnership with Hampshire parking into new development. 10 County Council and Wiltshire Council, the Authority will use the transportation contributions it collects from larger A1 development schemes within the Park A1 under Policy SP38 to help mitigate the

A2 A2

A3 A3

Train passing Ashurst Burley

112 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 113 Access years there have been reductions in some 1 less well-used public bus services which Policy SP55: Access have added to the problem. The National 1 Park Authority recognises the importance The Authority will promote safer access and of maintaining an effective network of more sustainable forms of transport to and 2 public transport and the added value that 2 within the National Park for access to services community transport initiatives can bring. and amenities and for enjoyment, health and well-being, where appropriate by supporting: 9.20 Traffic congestion in Lyndhurst causes 3 local pollution problems and affects 3 a) local transport initiatives such as the local residents’ quality of life. It can also New Forest Tour;Tour create accessibility issues for local people b) community transport initiatives such and reduce the quality of experience for Cycle route, Beaulieu to Buckler’s Hard 4 as the Lymington to Brockenhurst visitors. A number of traffic management 4 Community Rail Partnership;Partnership measures have been trialled in order to National Park, outside of the Crown maintenance of rights of way remains c) improvements to make existing paths, reduce journey times for different flows of Lands, the Hampshire Countryside Access with Hampshire County Council and traffic. The Hampshire Local Transport Plan 5 tracks and roads safer and more user- Plan 2015-2025 together with the Wiltshire Council as the relevant highway 5 friendly;friendly identifies that future Implementation Plans Wiltshire Countryside Access Improvement authorities. will set out the following measures for the Plan 2015-2025 both highlight the need d) opportunities for the creation of a more 9.25 The Marine and Coastal Access Act 2009 National Park: for improved connectivity of routes, with joined-up network of routes for non- introduced new powers to improve particular emphasis on encouraging 6 motorised transport;transport • closer partnerships with neighbouring public access to and enjoyment of the 6 suitable routes for less mobile people. This counties to ensure a coordinated approach coastline of England. Natural England is e) appropriate improvements to public is important for the New Forest given the to transport;transport responsible for developing a suitable route transport facilities;facilities and forecast ageing population, and reflects in consultation with local communities 7 • managing the road network to protect the objectives of national planning policy 7 f) the safeguarding of disused railway and organisations, which will be subject and enhance the area’s rural character;character which promotes accessibility by public lines and roads from development that to restrictions in certain areas for nature transport, walking and cycling. It also would compromise their future reuse as • Reduction of ‘sign clutter’;clutter’ and conservation or land management supports the aims established in the 8 sustainable transport routes. • supporting local sustainable tourism purposes. The England Coast Path – ‘Recreation Management Memorandum 8 through footpath, cycle, equestrian, public including the stretch through the New of Understanding for the New Forest’ transport and rights of way improvements, Forest National Park – is due to be 9.18 National planning policy and guidance drawn up by the National Park Authority and the local transport plans all emphasise and enhancing the network to allow completed by 2020. 9 increased leisure use. in partnership with Natural England, 9 the need to reduce reliance on the car, Forestry England, the Verderers of the improve public transport and access to a 9.21 Objective 3.1 of the National Park New Forest, New Forest District Council range of services and community facilities. Authority’s Landscape Action Plan (2013) and Hampshire County Council. This 10 This will prove beneficial to both residents aims to achieve traffic management and sets out the guiding principles for the 10 and visitors alike. road design solutions that reflect their management of recreation across the 9.19 The dispersed nature of settlements in the rural context and feature a landscape-led New Forest, and will be used by relevant National Park, seasonal congestion, and approach. statutory organisations. a limited public bus network, can create 9.22 Although there are more than 325 A1 9.23 The Partnership Plan for the National Park A1 barriers to accessibility. In recent kilometres of rights of way within the (2015) sets out an action for the period 2015 to 2020 to explore the funding and feasibility for adjacent carriageway cycle A2 routes on fenced roads between main A2 settlements to improve safe access for commuting and leisure cycling, including A3 a link between Lymington and Cadnam. A3 Policy SP55 supports the principle of such coordinated routes, especially between key settlements and public transport hubs. 9.24 Under the Countryside and Rights of Way (CROW) Act 2000 the National Park Authority is the statutory access New Forest Tour at Burley authority. However, responsibility for the

114 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 115 CHAPTER 10 Monitoring Cross-boundary issues 1 Implementation 10.1 The National Park Authority produces 10.5 The importance of cross-boundary 1 a monitoring report on an annual basis partnership work is critical to the and monitoring to assess the effectiveness of the Local functioning of the National Park. Close Plan policies and consider whether they working relationships with neighbouring 2 are achieving the intended objectives authorities have been developed and 2 and targets, or if trends indicate an fostered under the ‘duty to cooperate’ early review of one or more policies is as introduced through the Localism Act 3 necessary. Reference is also made to the 2011. This will continue to facilitate a 3 relevant organisations that influence more integrated approach to a number the implementation of these policies, of cross-boundary issues such as the particularly where these are taken forward provision of green infrastructure, habitat 4 in other plans and strategies. protection, and housing provision. 4 10.2 In addition, the Authority is required to 10.6 In particular, Chapter 5 clarifies that the publish a State of the Park Report every Authority will work with Natural England 5 five years, describing any changes to the and other local authorities, as well as a 5 condition of the National Park through range of relevant stakeholders to develop the monitoring of indicators relating to a strategic approach to prevent adverse objectives in the New Forest National effects on internationally designated 6 Park Management Plan. This document nature conservation sites from recreational 6 provides data and background information pressures. As part of any strategic to set the context for the implementation approach, it will be important to monitor 7 of the Local Plan policies. potential effects, such as air pollution and recreational disturbance, to ensure that 7 Implementation and delivery any mitigation measures are effective. 10.3 There are numerous key organisations 8 involved in the day-to-day administration 8 and management of the National Park. Many are statutory agencies 9 with responsibilities covering a wider 9 geographical area (such as the county councils, Natural England, Forestry England and the Environment Agency), 10 others are local land managers or service 10 providers (including the district and borough councils). Parish and town councils also have an important role in many aspects of management at a local A1 level and in reflecting the wider views of A1 their communities. 10.4 Although the Local Plan anticipates A2 a limited level of development in the A2 National Park up to 2036 the detailed assessment of infrastructure needs is set out in the Authority’s Infrastructure A3 A3 Delivery Plan.

Left: path through Norley Wood

116 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 117 INDICATOR TARGET DATA SOURCE INDICATOR TARGET DATA SOURCE 1 1 OBJECTIVE 1: Protect and enhance the natural environment of the National Park, OBJECTIVE 2: Conserve and enhance the cultural heritage and historic environment including the natural beauty of the landscape and the range of habitats and species. of the National Park, especially the wealth of individual characteristics that contribute to its local distinctiveness. 2 Policies: SP4, SP5, SP6, SP7, DP8, SP9, DP13, SP15 2 Policies: DP2, SP16, SP17, DP18 Mitigation measures funded by No target New Forest developer contributions National Park Planning applications refused on the basis of Not to allow development that would NFNPA 3 Authority impacts on the historic environment have adverse impacts on the Park’s 3 (NFNPA) historic environment

Planning applications refused on Not to allow development that would NFNPA Planning applications refused on Not to allow development that would NFNPA 4 landscape grounds have adverse impacts on the Park’s design grounds be incompatible with the character of 4 landscape the area

5 Planning permissions granted contrary to the Zero applications NFNPA, Number of heritage assets on the ‘Heritage at No target, but to provide a NFNPA 5 Environment Agency advice on water quality Environment Risk’ Register contextual indicator Agency

6 Condition of water courses Percentage of river length achieving Environment OBJECTIVE 3: Plan for the likely impacts of climate change on the special qualities of 6 water quality rating of ‘good’ or above Agency the New Forest. (chemical and biological grading) Policies: SP11, DP12, DP13, SP14 7 Implementation of water efficiency use NFNPA 7 Level and type of renewable and low carbon Increase in numbers of NFNPA Planning applications refused on the basis of Not to allow development that would NFNPA energy schemes permitted applications permitted impacts on the coast have adverse impacts on the Park’s coast 8 Planning permissions granted contrary Zero applications NFNPA; 8 Change in areas and populations of Net increase in areas of biodiversity Natural England; to the Environment Agency advice on Environment biodiversity importance, including: importance Hampshire flooding grounds Agency (i) change in BAP priority habitats and species Biodiversity 9 Areas subject to Air Quality Management Improvement in air quality levels in New Forest 9 (ii) change in areas designated for their Information Action Plans (Lyndhurst) Lyndhurst – in line with Government’s Air District Council, intrinsic environmental value including Centre Quality Strategy objectives Environment sites of international, national, regional or Agency 10 sub-regional significance. 10

Monitor levels of windfall development within To ensure potential urban edge impacts NFNPA 400m of the New Forest Special Protection of windfall development within 400m Area (SPA) and Special Area of Conservation are mitigated A1 A1 (SAC)

Provision of public open space In line with the Authority’s Open Space NFNPA A2 Standards. No net loss of existing A2 open space

Work with neighbouring authorities to monitor To establish the trend of movement in NFNPA, Natural A3 A3 changes in air quality – including ammonia and critical levels of pollutants for the New England and acid deposition – on the New Forest’s Natura Forest’s Natura 2000 sites and work neighbouring 2000 sites with partners on a strategic mitigation planning package if significant effects are likely to authorities affect the integrity of sites.

Keyhaven

118 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 119 INDICATOR TARGET DATA SOURCE 1 1 OBJECTIVE 5: Promote appropriate housing to meet local needs and maintain the vibrant communities of the National Park. 2 Policies: SP19, SP20, SP21, SP22, SP23, SP24, SP25, SP26, SP27, SP28, SP29, SP30, DP31, 2 DP32, SP33

Location and type of new housing permitted To meet the Local Plan requirement of NFNPA, 3 and completed 800 dwellings between 2016 and 2036 Hampshire 3 County Council

Allotments, Lyndhurst Location and type of affordable housing 50% on appropriate sites in Defined NFNPA 4 permitted and completed Villages; rural exception sites elsewhere 4

INDICATOR TARGET DATA SOURCE Applications permitted for agricultural or - NFNPA forestry workers’ dwellings 5 OBJECTIVE 4: Strengthen the wellbeing, identity and sustainability of rural 5 communities and the pride of local people in their area. Net additional pitches permitted for gypsies, 1 gypsy and travellers pitch required up NFNPA Policies: DP10, DP34, DP35, DP36, DP37, SP38, SP39, DP40, DP41 travellers and travelling showpeople to 2036. 21 travelling showpeople plots 6 required up to 2036 6 Proportion of new employment development, To ensure the four Defined Villages NFNPA; dwellings, retail uses and community facilities remain the focus for development Hampshire in the four Defined Villages County Council 7 OBJECTIVE 6: Develop a diverse and sustainable economy that contributes to the well-being of local communities throughout the Park. 7 Density of new dwellings completed Not to allow development that would NFNPA; be incompatible with the character of Hampshire Policies: SP42, SP43, DP44, DP45 the area County Council 8 Type and location of new employment land No net loss of employment sites NFNPA, 8 No. and size of replacement dwellings Not to allow development that would NFNPA available (business use classes B1 to B8) Hampshire permitted / completed be incompatible with the character of County Council the area 9 Existing employment sites lost due to the - NFNPA, 9 Planning applications refused on the basis of Not to allow development that would NFNPA implementation of permitted development Hampshire over-enlargement of a dwelling be incompatible with the character of rights, e.g. change of use from office County Council 10 the area to residential 10

Levels of developer contributions received To ensure mitigation measures NFNPA and spent are implemented OBJECTIVE 7: Encourage land management that sustains the special qualities of the National Park. A1 Location and type of community facilities Net gain in facilities / improved facilities NFNPA, A1 Policies: SP48, DP49, DP50, DP51, DP52, DP53 permitted / completed Hampshire County Council Applications permitted for agricultural and NFNPA A2 forestry buildings A2 Location and type of retail Retain retail uses in 50% of the NFNPA; development permitted shopping frontages in Lyndhurst and Hampshire Applications permitted for recreational NFNPA Brockenhurst, and 40% in Ashurst and County Council horsekeeping and associated development A3 Sway shopping frontages A3 Numbers of practising commoners and stock Verderers of the New Forest

120 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 121 Annex 1

INDICATOR TARGET DATA SOURCE 1 The special qualities of the 1 OBJECTIVE 8: Support development which encourages sustainable tourism and recreation, and provides opportunities for enjoying the Park’s special qualities. New Forest National Park 2 Policies: SP46, DP47 2 Planning applications for new or improved To ensure the four Defined Villages NFNPA A1.1 The special qualities of the New Forest are those qualities that define it, make it unique and visitor facilities and accommodation remain the focus for visitor facilities and immediately recognisable and, when taken together, distinguish it from all other parts of the 3 accommodation country. 3 A1.2 These qualities are fundamental to the two purposes of the National Park and are the underlying

reason for its designation. Although particular features that we value about the New Forest today may alter over time, conserving the essence of the place, and ensuring its uniqueness can be 4 OBJECTIVE 9: Reduce the impacts of traffic on the special qualities of the National 4 Park and support a range of sustainable transport alternatives within the Park. experienced by future generations, is the central priority for the National Park and is at the heart Policies: SP54; SP55 of this ManagementLocal Plan. Plan.

5 Level of road traffic in the Forest, especially on - Department for 5 A31 Transport daily flow statistics; 6 Hampshire 6 County Council

Animal accidents involving commoners’ stock - Verderers of the 7 within the National Park New Forest 7

Enhancements to public rights of way Increase / improve footpaths, cycleways Hampshire and bridleways County Council, 8 Wiltshire Council 8

Numbers of people using the New Forest Tour Year on year increase NFNPA 9 Bus and Beach Bus 9

10 10

A1 A1

A2 A2

A3 A3

Horseriders, Longslade View

122 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 123 A1.3 The special qualities of the New Forest, identified through public consultation in 200755 are: • tranquillity in the midst of the busy, built-up south of England. 1 • the New Forest’s outstanding natural beauty: the sights, sounds and smells of ancient The tranquillity and sense of remoteness that can still be found in many parts of the National Park 1 woodland with large veteran trees, heathland, bog, autumn colour and an unspoilt coastline, with is a quality of importance to many people. The relative peace and naturalness, combined with views of the Solent and Isle of Wight. the open and unfenced landscape of much of the area, gives a sense of space and freedom. This contrasts with the increasingly built-up and intensively managed landscape of southern England The National Park encompasses a wide variety of different landscapes, from the woodlands 2 and provides a means of release from the pressures of modern life. 2 and rolling heathland in the centre of the Forest, to the flat and wild coastline and the farmed landscape of small fields, hedgerows and narrow lanes. Together these form an extensive area of • wonderful opportunities for quiet recreation, learning and discovery in one of the last unspoilt and ancient countryside, with hidden villages and hamlets, which has largely been lost extensive gentle landscapes in the south including unmatched open access on foot and horseback. from other parts of lowland Britain. 3 The gently rolling countryside of much of the National Park represents a traditional English 3 • an extraordinary diversity of plants and animals and habitats of national and international lowland landscape that feels familiar and safe, and is accessible to many people. There is open importance. access on foot or horseback to more than 30,000 hectares (116 square miles) in the centre of the National Park, and an extensive network of footpaths, bridleways and cycle paths across the 4 The mosaic of lowland heath, mire, ancient pasture woodland and Forest lawns that forms 4 rest of the area. There are many opportunities for quiet recreation and the exploration of the the Open Forest is unique in Britain and Europe. In addition, the Solent coastline comprises landscape, while a range of visitor facilities and organised events make it easy for people to learn extensive areas of mudflats, salt marsh and shingle, backed in places by low cliffs, supporting more about different aspects of the New Forest. large populations of wintering wildfowl and waders. The inter-connectedness and scale of these 5 habitats allows many rare or restricted species of plants, birds, animals and insects to thrive, as • a healthy environment: fresh air, clean water, local produce and a sense of ‘wildness’. 5 well as the commoner species that are in many cases declining elsewhere in the country. In total Quality of life within the National Park is underpinned by the overall environmental quality of the 56% of the National Park is designated for its national or international nature conservation value – area. The coastal location and prevailing south westerly winds means that air pollution is generally a far higher proportion than any other English national park. 6 low, and water quality in the New Forest rivers and streams, and on the coastal beaches, is also 6 • a unique historic cultural and archaeological heritage, from royal hunting ground, to ship- good. The variety of food and other products produced and sold locally continues to increase, building, salt making and 500 years of military coastal defence. giving the opportunity for people to live healthily and sustainably and at the same time support the local economy. 7 The cultural landscape of the New Forest has developed continuously from prehistoric times to the 7 present. A wealth of features have survived to indicate this long use by human society, including • strong and distinctive local communities with a real pride in and sense of identity with their more than 340 Bronze Age barrows, a number of fine Iron Age hill forts and many Roman local area. pottery production sites. Throughout the area there are numerous remnants of medieval and The New Forest communities have a strong cultural identity, with a wealth of local traditions 8 later buildings, enclosures and other earthworks associated with the royal forest. The main rivers 8 and a thriving commoning community. Many local people have a strong sense of New Forest supported a boat and shipbuilding industry and the coastal salt workings were among the most history and are deeply committed to the protection of the area. Local dialect, unique place names, important in the country during the 18th Century. The National Park has 214 scheduled ancient rural skills and traditional events still continue, while new village events created by local people monuments, constituting almost 10% of all scheduled monuments in the South East region, may become the traditions of the future. Community life is constantly evolving and adapting 9 together with many important unscheduled sites. 9 to modern ways of living and working. Many communities are involved in work to help shape • an historic commoning system that maintains so much of what people know and love as ‘the the future of their local area and in initiatives to make their villages or towns more socially and New Forest’ forming the heart of a working landscape based on farming and forestry. economically sustainable. Local businesses continue to thrive, often providing services or products 10 for residents and visitors, or taking advantage of the recognised image and distinctiveness of the Although common rights were once widespread in Britain and Europe, they have been lost in 10 New Forest. many areas due to the enclosure of common land and the disafforestation of former royal forests. The New Forest remains one of the few extensive lowland commons where rights are still widely practised and a strong commoning culture continues. Over the centuries commoning has largely been responsible for shaping the distinctive landscapes and habitats of the Open Forest. There A1 A1 were six traditional rights of common, several of which are still practised today: the right of mast allows the turning out of pigs to feed on the acorn crop, while common pasture allows the grazing of ponies, cattle and donkeys. A2 A2 • the iconic New Forest pony together with donkeys, pigs and cattle roaming free. The grazing of ponies and cattle has always been central to the pastoral economy of the New Forest. The animals are free to roam over the Open Forest, across the unfenced roads and along A3 many of the verges within the Perambulation. In recent years between 6,000 and 7,400 ponies, A3 cattle, donkeys, pigs and sheep have been depastured on the Forest as a whole. They are one of the most obvious and distinctive features of the area, and for many visitors they are undoubtedly a very important part of their experience of the New Forest.

Donkeys at Beaulieu 55 New Forest National Park Authority paper 191/07: A Statement of Special Qualities for the New Forest National Park Authority (June 2007).

124 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 125 Annex 2

1 Car parking and cycle standards 1

A2.1 `This annex sets out the required parking standards, rather than maximum or minimum standards. 2 All new development proposals should comply with these standards. Reduced parking provision 2 may be acceptable in certain circumstances, such as where there is relatively good accessibility by public transport. 3 Residential Leisure facilities and places of public assembly 3 Type Car parking standard Cycle parking standard Type Car parking standard Cycle parking standard Hotels / motels / guest houses / 1 space per bedroom 1 stand per 6 staff or Individual Communal 2 4 boarding houses 1 per 40m 4 1 bedroom units 1 space per unit 1 stand^ 1 stand Eating and drinking establishments 1 space per 5m2 dining area/ bar area / 1 stand per 6 staff or 2-3 bedroom units 2 spaces per unit 2 stands^ 1 stand dance floor 1 per 40m2 4 or more bedroom units 3 spaces per unit 2 stands^ 1 stand Places of worship/church halls 1 space per 5 fixed seats and 1 space 1 stand per 6 staff or 5 Active elderly with warden control 1 space per unit 1 stand per 4 staff per 10m2 open hall 1 per 40m2 5 Nursing and rest homes 1 space per 4 residents 1 stand per 4 staff and 1 space per staff Retail development 6 ^ Where a garage is provided for storing sufficient cycles, individual cycle parking will not be required Type Car parking standard Cycle parking standard 6

2 Commercial development Non-food retail and general retail 1 space per 20m Greater of 1 space per 6 staff or (covered retail areas) 1 per 300m2 Type Car parking standard Cycle parking standard 7 Non-food retail and general retail 1 space per 30m2 Greater of 1 space per 6 staff or 7 B1 (a) office 1 space per 30 m2 1 stand per 150 m2 (uncovered retail areas) 1 per 300m2 B1 (b)(c) high tech/light industry 1 space per 45 m2 1 stand per 250 m2 Food retail 1 space per 14m2 covered areas Greater of 1 space per 6 staff or 8 B2 general industrial 1 space per 45 m2 1 stand per 350 m2 1 per 300m2 8 B8 warehouse 1 space per 90 m2 1 stand per 500 m2

Education establishments 9 9 Type Car parking standard Cycle parking standard Schools 1.5 spaces per classroom * 10 16+ Colleges and further education 1 space per 2 full time staff * 10 Day nurseries / playgroups (private) 1.5 spaces per 2 full time staff 1 stand per 6 full-time staff and creches * Cycle provision to be assessed on an individual case-by-case basis

A1 Health establishments A1 Type Car parking standard Cycle parking standard Health centres 5 spaces per consulting room 1 stand per 2 consulting rooms A2 A2 Doctors, dentists or veterinary surgery 3 spaces per consulting room or 1 space per 6 staff

A3 A3

126 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 127 Annex 3

1 Local connections criteria 1

A3.1 Policy SP20 (Specialist Housing for Older People) states that a planning obligation will be secured 2 to ensure that the occupancy of new specialist housing for older people is confined in perpetuity 2 to a local person (and their dependents). This is defined as someone who has a minimum period of a total of 5 years permanent residence within parishes in the National Park. 3 A3.2 Similarly, new affordable housing provision on development sites in the National Park – either on allocated sites (Policies SP22 to SP26); windfall sites (Policy SP27); or rural exception sites (Policy 3 SP28) – is provided for local people in housing need. The allocation of affordable housing is managed by the housing authorities in the National Park (New Forest District Council, Wiltshire 4 Council and Test Valley Borough Council). 4 A3.3 The allocation of affordable housing within the National Park will be guided by the policies and criteria of the respective housing authorities. Each of the three constituent housing authorities 5 (New Forest District Council, Wiltshire Council and Test Valley Borough Council) has their own 5 local connections criteria for allocating affordable housing, and the National Park Authority will liaise with the relevant housing authority when affordable housing is granted permission. New Forest District Council is the housing authority for the majority of the National Park and set out 6 below is a summary of the local connections criteria applied by the District Council in allocating 6 affordable housing for local people. A3.4 All of the main settlements in the National Park (including the Defined Villages of Ashurst, 7 Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway) are designated as ‘local connection areas’ by the housing 7 authority New Forest District Council. This means that only applicants with a local connection will normally be considered for the housing available. The allocation of housing for local people in need is administered by New Forest District Council via their Homesearch Allocation Scheme. 8 The strength of a local connection with the rural parishes of the National Park will be defined 8 according to the following bands: • Band A: Persons who live or have their work-base in the parish and have done so for longer than 9 10 years, or who have lived in the parish for longer than 10 years previously, or a designated key- 9 worker performing an essential service for the village community where there is an established need for an applicant to be re-housed to maintain the service. 10 • Band B: Persons who live or have their work-base in the parish and have done so for longer than 5 years, or who have lived in the parish for longer than 5 years within the last 15 years, or whose 10 parents, siblings or adult children live in the parish and have done so for 10 years or longer. • Band C: Persons who live or have their work-base in the parish and have done so for longer than 2 years, or who have lived in the parish for longer than 2 years within the last 15 years, or whose A1 parents, siblings or adult children live in the parish and have done so for 5 years or longer. A1 A3.5 Applicants who do not fall into any of these bands will not have a local connection. A3.6 Where there are no local people meeting the definition above and properties are vacant, a A2 cascade approach will apply and the planning obligation will allow other local persons with a A2 minimum period of 5 years permanent and continuous residence in an adjoining parish to qualify. A3.7 A planning obligation will be secured to ensure that occupancy of the dwelling(s) is confined to A3 persons in local housing need in perpetuity. A3

Forest care home

128 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 129 Comprehensive development 1 Glossary The housing site allocations in the Local Plan should each be brought forward in a holistic manner. 1 This will ensure consistency of design and will enable consideration to be given to the phasing of development and the provision of supporting infrastructure. The Authority will not accept sites Adjacent commons being artificially sub-divided into multiple applications to avoid making contributions to necessary 2 Commons in a variety of ownerships outside the Crown Lands, but included within the Perambulation infrastructure. 2 by the New Forest Act, 1964. Conservation areas Conservation areas are established under Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and 3 Affordable housing 3 Social rented, affordable rented and intermediate housing, provided to eligible households whose Conservation Areas) Act 1990, which imposes a duty on local planning authorities to designate as needs are not met by the market. Eligibility is determined with regard to local incomes and local conservation areas, any ‘areas of architectural or historic interest the character or appearance of house prices. Affordable housing should include provisions to remain at an affordable price for future which it is desirable to preserve’. 4 eligible households or for the subsidy to be recycled for alternative affordable housing provision. 4 Crown Lands Ancient and Ornamental (A&O) Woodlands The land owned by the Crown vested in the Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Crown Land in the New Forest is managed on behalf of the Secretary of State by Forest 5 A local term applied to pasture woodlands within the Crown Lands that are grazed by deer and 5 commoners’ stock. They are ancient in origin (they have been woodlands continuously since 1600, Enterprise (part of Forestry England), overseen locally by the Deputy Surveyor. and probably much earlier) and are of very high nature conservation and cultural heritage value. Defined Villages 6 Ancient woodland The four main villages within the National Park – Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway – which 6 A general term used for woodlands which have had a continuous history since at least 1600, and provide a range of facilities and services for their surrounding communities. probably much earlier. They are of very high nature conservation and cultural heritage value. Depastured stock 7 Article 4 Direction Commoners’ stock which are turned out to graze on the Open Forest. 7 Issued by the National Park Authority, the effect of an Article 4 Direction is to remove certain permitted development rights, meaning that a planning application would be required for that Ecosystem services The benefits provided by ecosystems that contribute positively to society. Examples include products 8 form of development to take place. Article 4 Directions are usually focused on a specific site or 8 geographical area. such as food and water, regulation of floods, soil erosion and disease outbreaks, and non-material benefits such as recreation. Back-up grazing / back-up land 9 Enclosed pasture land which forms an integral part of the commoning economy. Generally it is Enclosed land 9 located close to a commoner’s holding. Its uses include overwintering of stock, raising store cattle, Fenced land from which the commoners’ stock are excluded, both in Crown and private ownership. making hay or silage, tending sick animals and young stock, finishing ponies for riding, and preparing stock for market. Forest lawns 10 Grassland which is relatively rich in nutrients (often due to winter flooding of streams). The lawns are 10 Commons important for the grazing of stock and frequently have a rich and distinctive flora. Defined areas of land which are subject to rights of common. The present Perambulation of the New Forest (New Forest Act, 1964) includes both common land owned by the Crown and public bodies Fragile Areas whose special qualities and features are easily damaged. A1 and privately-owned commons and manorial wastes. There are also a few registered commons A1 outside the Perambulation (such as Whiteparish and Pennington Commons). Habitats Regulations Commoners of the New Forest The European Habitats Directive has been transposed into national law through The Conservation A2 Those people eligible to use rights of common. In the New Forest this is based on the occupation of (Natural Habitats, &c.) Regulations, 1994 (as amended), commonly known as the ‘Habitats A2 specific land to which common rights are attached. Practising commoners are those who exercise Regulations’. their rights and pay marking fees to the Verderers. Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) A3 A3 Common rights In line with the requirements of the Habitats Regulations, the HRA procedure assesses whether a The New Forest Atlas of Common Rights was prepared under the 1949 New Forest Act, using plan or project will have a likely significant impact on a Natura 2000 site, and if so, an ‘appropriate the register of New Forest Claims published in 1858. The 1964 New Forest Act extended the assessment’ is required. The HRA is undertaken by the ‘competent authority’ which is normally the Perambulation to include the adjacent commons. A further Atlas of Rights was prepared defining planning authority. land to which rights are attached in added areas. There are six different rights of common in the New Forest. Common of pasture (the right to turn out ponies, horses, cattle and donkeys) and common of mast (the right to turn out pigs in the pannage season in autumn to feed on acorns and beech nuts) are the most commonly used today.

130 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 131 Heritage asset Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) 1 A building, monument, site, place, area or landscape identified as having a degree of significance Large-scale developments (typically relating to energy, transport, water, or waste) which require 1 meriting consideration in planning decisions, because of its heritage interest. Heritage asset includes a type of consent known as ‘development consent’. The Planning Act 2008 introduced a new designated heritage assets and non-designated assets identified by the local planning authority development consent process for NSIPs which was subsequently amended by the Localism Act 2011. (including local listing). 2 National Nature Reserves (NNRs) 2 Heritage at Risk Register Nationally-important sites for nature conservation, where conservation is the primary land use. The register is an annual Historic England publication that identifies the most important heritage Designated under the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act, 1949. assets at risk of damage or loss. 3 National Parks & Access to the Countryside Act 1949 3 Historic Environment Record (HER) The 1949 Act which established the statutory National Park purposes which continue to provide the A database of known historic sites and features across the National Park. legal framework for our national parks today. 4 4 Inclosure woodland National Park Management Plan Those areas of the Crown Land enclosed under earlier statutes and retained by the New Forest Act The National Park Management Plan sets out the framework for everyone to work together to deliver 1877 for the purpose of growing timber and trees. Many of the Inclosures are still fenced to prevent the two statutory Park purposes. The Management Plan is not a Plan for the Authority alone, but a 5 grazing of stock, but now have wider recreational, amenity and nature conservation uses. Plan for the National Park as a place. 5 Intermediate housing National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) 6 Intermediate housing are dwellings for sale and rent provided at a cost above social rent, but below First published in 2012, the NPPF sets out the Government’s planning policies for England and how 6 market levels subject to the criteria in the Affordable Housing definition above. These can include these are expected to be applied. The NPPF provides a framework within which local people and their shared equity (shared ownership and equity loans), other low cost homes for sale and intermediate local planning authorities can produce their own distinctive local and neighbourhood plans, which rent, but not affordable rented housing. reflect the needs and priorities of their communities. 7 7 Listed building National Planning Policy Guidance (NPPG) A building recognised to be of national historic importance, designated and protected under Planning The online NPPG resource – first launched in 2014 – provides more detailed guidance on the (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act, 1990. Government’s national planning policies. 8 8 Local community facilities Open Forest Facilities of direct benefit to the immediate local community that provide a service, including village The unenclosed Crown Lands and adjacent commons which are subject to common rights. 9 shops, pubs and village halls as well as small-scale health and educational services, sports and social 9 facilities. Perambulation The historic term for the boundary of the area governed by Forest law. It is now the area within the Main community facilities cattle grids over which commoners’ stock are able to roam freely. It is defined in the New Forest 10 These include a wide range of facilities and services that benefit the local communities of the Defined Act 1964 and encompasses Crown Land, adjacent commons and certain areas of road verge and 10 Villages and surrounding smaller villages, encompassing small-scale leisure, sports and social uses, unenclosed land outside the Open Forest. such as community centres, local museums and libraries, as well as health and educational facilities and utility infrastructure services. New Forest villages will continue to look to the towns outside the Permitted development rights National Park for larger scale community services and facilities of district, county and region-wide Planning permission is not required for certain minor development. These are called ‘permitted A1 importance. development rights’ and are more restrictive in certain areas such as national parks. A1 Manege Ramsar site A2 An area specifically designed or used for the training of horses and riders. A wetland of international importance, especially for wildfowl, designated under the Ramsar A2 Convention on Wetland of International Importance. Market housing Houses for sale or rent on the open market. Registered Parks and Gardens A3 A3 A site included on the Register of Historic Parks and Gardens in England. National amenity societies The Ancient Monuments Society; the Council for British Archaeology; the Georgian Group; the Robust Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings; the Victorian Society; and the Twentieth Century Sensitive areas are defined as being those most at risk of damage by recreational activity. They Society are identified as being the national amenity societies. This means that they must be notified by typically have nature conservation and cultural heritage designations and fragile habitats such as bogs the National Park Authority of any application to demolish all or part of a listed building: or are the most tranquil and remote. More robust areas are those that have greater physical resilience and capacity to absorb recreational activities.

132 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 133 Scheduled monument Special Qualities 1 A designated archaeological site, building or structure of national importance that is protected from These are the qualities that define the New Forest, make it unique and immediately recognisable 1 destruction or change under the provisions of the 1979 Ancient Monuments and Archaeological and, when taken together, distinguish it from all other parts of the country. These qualities are Areas Act. fundamental to the two purposes of the National Park and are the underlying reason for its designation. A list of these can be found in a separate Annex of the Plan. 2 Section 106 agreement 2 This refers to the benefits or safeguards, often for community benefit, secured by way of a legally Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) binding agreement between the local planning authority and a developer as part of a planning The Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive provides high level of protection of the approval. These are usually provided at the developer’s expense; for example, affordable housing, environment by integrating environmental considerations into the process of preparing certain plans 3 community facilities or mitigation measures. and programmes. In accordance with this Directive, an environmental assessment must be carried 3 out of certain plans and programmes which are likely to have significant effects on the environment, Semi-natural habitats including Local Plans. 4 Habitats such as ancient woodland, heathland and meadows, which are rich in wildlife and appear 4 ‘natural’, but have been created to a greater or lesser extent by the influence of long-term human Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANGs) management. This applies to virtually all habitats in the UK. The name given to new green space provision that is of a quality and type suitable to be used as mitigation for development likely to affect protected habitats. 5 Sensitive sites 5 Sensitive areas are defined as being those most at risk of damage by recreational activity. They Sustainability Appraisal (SA) typically have nature conservation and cultural heritage designations and fragile habitats such as bogs A sustainability appraisal is a systematic process that must be carried out during the preparation of 6 or are the most tranquil and remote. a Local Plan. Its role is to promote sustainable development by assessing the extent to which the 6 emerging plan, when judged against reasonable alternatives, will help to achieve environmental, Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (SINC) economic and social objectives. Non-statutory sites of local importance for nature conservation, identified by county councils and 7 wildlife trusts and given some level of protection by local planning policies. Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) 7 Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are designed to mimic the natural drainage of surface water, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) typically managing rainfall close to where it falls. Nationally important sites for nature conservation designated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 8 1981. Tranquillity 8 A state of peace, quiet and calmness – usually used in the context of artificial intrusions (such as noise Social rented affordable housing and the presence of visual disturbance) into the relatively natural environment of the National Park. 9 Rented housing owned and managed by local authorities and registered social landlords, for which 9 guideline target rents are determined through the national rent regime. This may also include rented Verderers of the New Forest housing owned or managed by other persons and provided under equivalent rental agreements to The Court of Verderers is a statutory body reconstituted under the New Forest Act 1877. The the above, as agreed with the local authority or with the Housing Corporation as a condition of grant. jurisdiction of the Verderers extends over the areas within the Perambulation which are subject to 10 rights of common. They have duties and powers under the New Forest Acts for the protection and 10 South East Dorset administration of the rights of common, the welfare of the commoners’ animals and the regulation of The urban areas including Christchurch, Poole, Bournemouth and parts of East Dorset. development which affects commonable land. South Hampshire sub-region A1 The urban areas encompassing the Waterside, southern Test Valley, Southampton, Eastleigh and A1 other settlements west to Portsmouth, represented by the PfSH authorities (Partnership for South Hampshire). A2 A2 Special Area of Conservation (SAC) Areas designated under the EC Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora (The Habitats Directive) 1992 as being of European importance for habitats and species. A3 A3 Special Protection Area (SPA) Areas of European importance for birds, designated under the EC Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds 1979 (the Wild Birds Directive).

134 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036 135 1

A2 Contact us A3 New Forest National Park Authority look for: newforestnpa Lymington Town Hall, Avenue Road, Lymington SO41 9ZG Please contact us if you would like to receive this publication in another Telephone: 01590 646600 format such as large print or Braille [email protected] All photographs © NFNPA medialibrary www.newforestnpa.gov.uk unless otherwise stated. NPA 00973. Printed on environmentally-friendly paper. September 2019. Printed on environmentally-friendly paper. 00973. NPA 136 New Forest National Park Local Plan 2016-2036