Stapeley & Batherton Neighbourhood Plan

Regulation 15 Consultation Version 2.0 Stapeley & Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Regulation 15 Consultation Version 2.0

Contents

Foreword...... 3

Scope of the Plan...... 4

History of Stapeley...... 5

Vision...... 7

Aims...... 8

Green Spaces, Natural Habitats and Countryside...... 9 Justification and Evidence...... 9 Community Feedback...... 15 Policy GS 1 – Open Space within the Parish...... 15 Policy GS 2 – Green Spaces...... 16 Policy GS 3 – Landscape Quality, Countryside and Open Views...... 17 Policy GS 4 – Important Views and Vistas...... 18 Policy GS 5 – Woodland, Trees, Hedgerows, Walls, Boundary Treatment and Paving...... 18 Policy GS 6 – Extensions and Alterations to existing buildings in the open countryside...... 18 Policy GS 7 – Environmental Sustainability of buildings...... 18 Policy GS 8 – Buffer Zones and Wildlife Corridors...... 19 Policy GS 9 – Biodiversity...... 19

Transport and Infrastructure...... 21 Justification and Evidence...... 21 Policy T 1 – General Transport Considerations...... 21 Policy T 2 – Walkable neighbourhoods...... 22 Policy T 3 – Pedestrian and cycle routes...... 22 Policy T 4 – Footpaths, Cycleways and Bridleways...... 22 Policy T 5 – Cycle parking...... 23 Policy T 6 – Bus services...... 23 Policy T 7 – Improving Air Quality...... 23 Policy T 8 – Identification of underground utility assets...... 25

Community...... 26 Justification and evidence for Policy C 1...... 26 Community Feedback...... 26 Justification and Evidence for Policies C 2 – C 5...... 27 Community Feedback...... 27 Policy C 1 – Existing and New Facilities...... 28 Policy C 2 – New Business...... 28 Policy C 3 – Use of Rural Buildings...... 28 Policy C 4 – Scale, Design and Amenity...... 28

Amenities and Well Being...... 30 Justification and community responses...... 30 Supporting documents...... 31

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Policy AWB 1 – Accessible GP practices...... 31 Policy AWB 2 – Services for the elderly, disabled and for mental health...... 31 Policy AWB 3 – Provide for the sports needs of residents...... 31 Policy AWB 4 – Community Facilities...... 31 Policy AWB 5 – Community Infrastructure...... 32 Policy AWB 6 – Communications Infrastructure...... 32

Housing...... 33 Justification and Evidence...... 33 Community Feedback...... 37 Policy H 1 – Scale of Housing Development...... 38 H 1.1 Infill Development...... 39 H 1.2 Rural Exception Sites...... 39 H 1.3 Brownfield within the Parish...... 39 H 1.4 Redundant Buildings...... 39 H 1.5 Greenfield Development...... 39 Policy H 2 – Housing to Meet Local Housing Needs...... 39 Policy H 3 – Tenure Mix...... 40 Policy H 4 – Design...... 40 Policy H 5 – Phasing of Housing...... 41 Policy H 6 – Settlement Boundary...... 42 Policy H 7 – Car Parking on New Development...... 43 Policy H 8 – Adapting to climate change...... 43

Acknowledgements...... 45

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Foreword Why Neighbourhood Planning?

Neighbourhood Planning gives us as loud a voice as local government and developers.

 It’s all about improving the quality of the places we live and work, by coming up with a vision for its future,

 Gives us a chance to think about what we care about in our local area and what kind of place we all want to create,

 Because we know best about our neighbourhood; we are the local experts. Why let other people decide what happens to where we live and work?

A Neighbourhood Plan is a plan drawn up by a community. It sets out a shared vision and policies to shape future growth and development of our area. It is used by Cheshire East Council in deciding planning applications in our area, alongside the Local Plan. It also helps to identify projects that are most important to the community.

This Plan has been produced by the Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group on behalf of Stapeley and District Parish Council after many months of study, research and consultation with the local community. We have also worked closely with Cheshire East Council.

We have consulted with the community through open days, interest group meetings and surveys and we believe that this Plan reflects the views of our community. A strong message emerging from the consultation process was that the local people are proud of the rural character of the area and have a very strong desire to retain this for the foreseeable future. This was key to developing the Plan Vision.

The aims and policies of the community have all been derived from the Vision and are detailed in this Plan. We strongly believe that this Plan is robust and when formally adopted will provide the necessary guidance for Stapeley and Batherton until 2030.

Matthew Theobald, October 2016 (Chair of the Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group)

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Scope of the Plan The Neighbourhood Plan area, which comprises the Stapeley and District Parish Council area, was granted Neighbourhood Plan status on the 21st October 2014. Figure 1 details the designated area.

Figure Illustration 2: Stapeley and District Neighbourhood Area

Figure 1: Stapeley and District Neighbourhood Area 1: Stapeley and District Neighbourhood Area The Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan sets out a series of policies which, once adopted, will be used to guide development and for the preparation of and for determining all planning applications in the plan area.

The Neighbourhood Plan has been prepared in general conformity with the strategic policies of the emerging Cheshire East Local Plan. The Neighbourhood Plan is to run for the same period as this Local Plan, expiring in 2030.

The starting point for any development proposals in the plan area will be the existing Local Plan and the emerging Cheshire East Local Plan. Where development is compliant with the Local Plan the Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan will provide more detailed policy applicable to proposals within the Neighbourhood Plan area. Once it is adopted the Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan will have the status of a Development Plan Document.

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A number of projects will be identified during the Neighbourhood Planning consultation process and these will be set out in an appendix to the plan and detailed in a separate Delivery Plan document.

History of Stapeley The parish of Stapeley (SJ675496) is 2¼ miles to the SE of Nantwich. A hamlet of some 1249 acres, Stapeley also included the small settlements of Broad Lane and Butt Green and parts of Artle Brook, Haymoor Green and Howbeck Bank.

The nearby hamlet of Batherton is included in and administered by the Stapeley and District Parish Council, Cheshire East.

The heritage asset information provided here reflects the long rural history of Stapeley and its surroundings and, in so doing, contributes to the special qualities of Stapeley that should be taken into account and protected when considering future development.

Situated within the ecclesiastical parish of Wybunbury, Stapeley is referred to in the Domesday Book,1086 as Steple. Wybunbury was held by the Bishop of Lichfield when William the Conqueror granted the Earldom of Cheshire to Hugh of Avranches prior to 1077 and Hugh subsequently granted the barony of ‘The Wich Malbank’ hundred (Nantwich) to William Malbedeng (Malbank).

When William Malbank’s grandson died (also William) the barony of Wich containing Steple was divided between his 3 daughters and held by the Vernons and Audle heirs until about 1228 when Richard de Audley granted the whole of the manor of Steple to Peter de Stapleigh and this family retained the manor for the next century.

During the reign of Edward III (1327 – 1337) the township of the manor of Stapeley was bought by Richard Rope whose descendants continued ownership until about 1562 when his granddaughter took the manor in marriage to Richard Greene of Congleton. Although unrecorded, Stapeley was almost certainly primarily engaged in agriculture and small quantity salt extraction in the area of the extant ‘First Dig’ and ‘Second Dig’ lanes.

The rural agricultural nature of Stapeley almost certainly continued largely unchanged throughout the subsequent centuries until, in the 18th century, there was the development of 3 turnpike roads through the manor. These ran NE from Nantwich to Newcastle via Hough (former A500) and SE from Nantwich to Market Drayton along Broad Lane (A529) and, parallel to this, from Nantwich to London through Walgherton, Doddington and Bridgemere (A51).

Wybunbury was included in an English Heritage-sponsored Cheshire historic towns survey carried out between 1997 and 2002 and published in 2003. During this time data was gathered from a wide range of sources and entered on to the Cheshire Historic Environment (HE) Record. This document states that there are a number of medieval moated sites in the surrounding area, including Stapeley [Old] Hall (County Sites and Monuments Record CSMR 193) a moated manor house and a number of surviving 17th-century cottages and farmhouses in the area, including, Haymoorgreen Farmhouse (CSMR 193/3) on Wybunbury Lane, Stapeley

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Both of the latter farmhouses are timber-framed and unusual in retaining one or more wattle and daub panels.

All 3 buildings (Yewtree Farmhouse, Haymoorgreen Farmhouse and Stapeley [Old] Hall) are listed Grade II on the National Heritage List for England, which is the official database for all nationally designated assets (details are included in Appendix 7.1).

Both Yewtree Farmhouse and Stapeley [Old] Hall are also referenced in the Cheshire HE Record, in addition to putative 13th century deer park (Parcum de Hatherton), adjacent to Stapeley. And Yewtree Farmhouse is also listed as a monument in HE PastScape

Stapeley contains 3 more National Heritage Grade II listed houses (Manor Farmhouse, Stapeley House and Oakfield, details are included in Appendix 7.1).

While Batherton has 2 Grade II listed buildings on the National Heritage List which are also in the Cheshire HE Record (Batherton Hall and Batherton Dairy House, details are included in Appendix 7.2).

The Historic Milestone Database (accessed via the HE Gateway) shows 2 mileposts adjacent to Stapeley (opposite Greenfields, Hatherton and at Howbeck Farm, Wybunbury) as well as 2 mileposts in Stapeley itself (details are included in Appendix 7.3).

HE PastScape, taken directly from the National Record of the Historic Environment (NRHE) accessed via the HE Gateway shows 4 records for Stapeley (details are included in Appendix 7.4). The Cheshire HE record also refers to Barton's Cross at the junction of London Road and Newcastle Road and the find of a Roman coin found in a garden in Stapeley (details are included in Appendix 7.5).

Further information can be found by consulting the following websites:

English Heritage (www.english-heritage.org.uk

Heritage Gateway HE (www.heritageengland.org.uk)

Historic England National Heritage List (www.historicengland.org.uk)

Cheshire East (www.cheshirearchaeology.org.uk)

Stapeley and District Parish Council (www.stapeleyparishcouncil.gov.uk

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Vision We want Stapeley and Batherton to thrive as a vibrant and distinctive community and to evolve and grow in a sustainable way. We want to continue to provide an outstanding quality of life for current and future residents.

The Neighbourhood Plan Area is characterised by the settlements of Stapeley and Batherton located between the town of Nantwich and open countryside which is interspersed with farms and some isolated houses. Over recent years there has been a considerable amount of housebuilding in the area to accommodate the growth of Nantwich, a key service centre.

The plan area is a special place and local residents are determined to keep it that way. This is a very strong message emerging through the consultation process which has led to the publication of this, the first Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan.

People not only appreciate the social and environmental qualities of the area and the surrounding countryside but consider they have a duty to protect them for future generations which choose to live and work in the area.

The Neighbourhood Plan will aim to sustain and promote local businesses and a range of community activities and facilities. It will build upon the strong sense of community, quality of life and flourishing natural environment of the area that currently exists.

Importantly people recognise the need for some small scale housing development in the plan area over the period of the Plan, providing it is carefully controlled, the design of any housing is in keeping with the character of the area, and the environmental sustainability of the plan area is enhanced. To be considered acceptable all new development must protect the character of the plan area, maintain and enhance the form of the existing settlements retaining the important green spaces and open vistas, as well as preserving existing trees, and hedgerows and not encroaching into open countryside.

Any additional new housing should meet the needs of people who already live or wish to move into the area. Affordability will be important, primarily low cost market housing especially for young people. It is also important to meet the needs of the older residents in the plan area who wish to downsize without leaving the area.

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Aims  To encourage a thriving and prosperous community that delivers a high quality of life for all its residents

 To promote better public services, mobile phone signals and broadband to support a distinctive and flourishing local economy

 To maintain the character of Stapeley and Batherton

 To support proportionate and environmentally sustainable housing development to meet local needs

 To endorse policies that have a positive effect on the environment

 To maintain and improve the high quality natural environment

 To maintain and improve community facilities

 To improve sustainable transport with the plan area and reduce the adverse impacts of traffic

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Green Spaces, Natural Habitats and Countryside

Justification and Evidence On a national level Stapeley and Batherton lie within National Character area 61 Shropshire Cheshire and Staffordshire Plain, a pastoral area of rolling plain which is particularly important for dairy farming. More locally the Cheshire Landscape Character Assessment of 2008 identifies recognisable patterns in the landscape and classifies the Cheshire Landscape into 20 broad Landscape Character Types (LCTs). Different aspects such as geology, land form, soils, vegetation and land use have been used to identify character areas. The assessment is intended to be used as a basis for planning and the creation of future landscape strategies as well as raising public awareness of landscape character and creating a sense of place.

Details of the Landscape Character Assessment and areas of local importance are contained within the Cheshire Wildlife Trust report (“Protecting and Enhancing Stapeley’s Natural Environment” October 2015) and described in Figure 2.

Figure 2: Local Character Typology

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These are further refined and subdivided into Landscape Character Areas (LCAs):

 LCT Type 7– East Lowland Plain

 LCT Type 10 - Lower Farms and Woods

A full description of these areas is included in the Cheshire Wildlife Trust Report which will be included in the evidence base submitted with the Neighbourhood Plan and can be viewed on the Neighbourhood Plan web site.

An area towards the east of Stapeley was identified as a fundamental component of the county wide ecological network, mainly due to the presence of two Local Wildlife Sites (core areas for wildlife). This area has been recognised for its intrinsic value and also for its ecological connectivity and associated contribution to the county wide network.

The study by Cheshire Wildlife Trust identified several major areas 3 and include two areas designated as Local Wildlife Sites: Haymoor Green Farm Meadow and Nut Tree Cottage Meadows.

Figure 3: Habitat Distinctiveness

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Further areas of undesignated woodland habitat are located at Elliott’s Wood, woodland at the back of Stapeley Old Hall on Broad Lane, Millennium Wood, Smith’s Millennium Wood, woodland on the corner of Elwood Way, woodlands at New House and Pool House and woodland to the north side of the River Weaver near Ash Tree Farm. Most of these have been mapped as high distinctiveness habitat however some of these woodlands may be of plantation origin which would be considered ‘medium distinctiveness’ habitat.

The study identified undesignated areas of ‘medium habitat distinctiveness’ which provide important wildlife habitats in their own right as well as acting as ecological stepping stones. The majority of these areas are thought to be semi-natural/moderately species rich grassland. The largest parcels occur along the river Weaver and south west of Oakfield, at Haymoor Green and by the A500 at Blakelow.

The analysis by CWT identified a ‘wildlife corridor network’ (Figure 4) with high ecological connectivity within and beyond the Stapeley Neighbourhood Planning area.

Figure 4: Indicative Wildlife Corridors The major wildlife corridor tracks the course of River Weaver incorporating land of high and medium distinctiveness along its banks and links to Artle Brook. The Artle Brook provides connectivity along the southern boundary of the Neighbourhood Planning area and beyond into a ‘core area for wildlife’ identified by Econet (Figure 5).

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Figure 5: Ecological Network Mapping

River valleys such as the Weaver provide excellent ecological connectivity within the landscape with a range of floodplain, fen and woodland habitats. These habitats can support a variety of wildlife, typically birds, invertebrates and riparian mammals. Particularly notable on the River Weaver floodplain are a number of rare protected native black poplar trees.

Away from the river a series of native hedgerows, woodland and ponds provide a good level of ecological connectivity. Connections exist linking semi-natural habitat by the site of the former Stapeley Water Gardens southwards towards Stapeley Grange. The core wildlife areas of Haymoor Green Farm LWS and Nut Tree Cottage Meadows LWS are also linked to the wider countryside by hedgerows and ponds. Of particular note are the small pre-medieval fields with mature hedges close to Meadow Lane Farm.

Although the majority of ponds in the Stapeley area have been incorporated into the wildlife corridor network, a number of ponds are poorly connected, including several within the Cronkinson Estate. These are mainly old farm ponds that have been retained within new housing developments. Several of these are now becoming overgrown and will eventually lose their wildlife value without ongoing management.

Wildlife corridors are a key component of local ecological networks as they provide connectivity for species to move to and from core areas of high wildlife value/distinctiveness. For this reason

12 Stapeley & Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Regulation 15 Consultation Version 2.0 habitat enhancement along the corridor network is likely to improve the long term viability of the core high value areas. Enhancement of the corridor may be facilitated by opportunities arising through the planning process (e.g. S106 agreements, biodiversity offsetting/compensation) or through the aspirations of the local community.

In addition to the ‘core areas’ and ‘wildlife corridor network’ using the Defra Biodiversity Offsetting metric this study has identified further areas of high or medium ‘habitat distinctiveness’ (Figure 3). Although these sit outside the wildlife corridor network, they nevertheless may provide important wildlife habitats acting as ecological stepping stones. These areas comprise semi-natural or species-rich grassland, ponds and semi-natural woodlands.

Old meadows supporting species-rich grassland are the fastest disappearing habitats in the UK. These grasslands are particularly important for pollinating insects and insectivorous birds and mammals. It is extremely important that the highlighted ‘medium distinctiveness’ areas should be thoroughly evaluated in the development control process. If they are found to support species-rich grassland they should be re-classified as ‘high distinctiveness’ (priority/principal importance) habitat and they should not be built on (as stipulated in the Local Plan and the NPPF). In order to achieve no ‘net loss’ of biodiversity, compensation may be required should these areas be lost to development when avoidance and mitigation strategies have been applied in line with the guidance set out in the local plan.

The wildlife habitat in Stapeley and Batherton is mainly associated with the river Weaver floodplain, and the ponds and hedgerows which provide connectivity through the landscape. Black poplar and great crested newts are both threatened wetland species which the area is notable for. Native black poplars are particularly rare and several are located on the Weaver floodplain and in the nearby hedgerows. Pockets of semi-natural woodland and moderately species rich grassland still exist in one or two locations. A traditional orchard with numerous species of domesticated apple is located on the Cronkinson estate.

The CWT study identified important areas of UK Priority habitat and additional areas of semi- natural habitat which are also important for wildlife. These are highlighted in Fig3 and identified as either ‘high habitat distinctiveness’ or ‘medium habitat distinctiveness’. By attributing habitat distinctiveness values to different land parcels the results of CWT study should act as a guide when planning decisions are made.

Most notably the analysis identified a wildlife corridor network which largely follows the course of the River Weaver and the Artle Brook. The network also incorporates a series of valuable hedgerows and ponds and connects Local Wildlife Sites at Haymoor Green and Nut Tree Cottage Meadows with the wider countryside (Figure 6).

In accordance with the guidance relating to ecological networks set out in the NPPF, CWT recommended that the corridor network is identified in the Neighbourhood Plan and protected from development. Figure 3 shows an indicative boundary for the wildlife corridor network, however this is likely to require refinement following detailed survey work. The corridor should be wide enough to protect the high and medium distinctiveness areas identified in Figure 2 and CWT suggest that an adjacent non-developable buffer zone is identified. The buffer may be in the region of 15 metres in order to fully protect high value habitats.

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Furthermore CWT advised that measures to mitigate possible ecological impacts are included in any development adjacent to buffer zones and high/medium distinctiveness areas identified in Figure 2. An example of this may be that bat sensitive lighting is recommended for use on the outside of buildings or in car parks/pathways. Surface drainage water from developed areas should always be directed away from sensitive areas due to the risk of pollution.

Figure 6: Designated Sites

To summarise, future development of Stapeley and Batherton should respect the natural environment. The most intact landscapes, in terms of biodiversity, land form and historic/cultural associations should be valued highly when planning decisions are made. Protection and enhancement of the area's natural assets is of crucial importance to nature conservation but it is also important for the enjoyment of future generations.

Black Poplar

The Black Poplar Populus nigra ssp. betulifolia is one of the most endangered native trees in Britain with only about 7000 trees surviving. Of the 250-300 Black Poplar trees identified in Cheshire, about a tenth of the population are located in Stapeley and Batherton Parishes. These are all mature trees growing in damp conditions on flood plains or alongside ditches.

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Because of its rarity the Black Poplar receives general protection in the UK under section 13 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act. Information about the importance of Black Poplar can be found in Forestry Commission Information Note “Conservation of Black Poplar (Populus nigra L.)”, May 2004 and Natural England R&D “Technical Report W1-022/TR”.

Community Feedback Consultations on the emerging Neighbourhood Plan highlighted the following key issues in relation to Landscape and Environment:

 To treasure what we have

 Existing trees and hedgerows should be preserved and more planted to provide wildlife habitats and diversity

 To protect major assets if any identified by CWT (to be included)

 To continue to protect wildlife, especially those endangered species such as great crested newts, birds of prey and owls

 Countryside should be more accessible

 Green spaces, natural habitats and countryside must be preserved

 Green spaces should be available for wider public use

The following documents and strategies support policies GS 1 – GS 11:

 National Planning Policy Framework

 Cheshire East Local Plan 2016

 The Borough of Crewe and Nantwich Replacement Local Plan 2011

 Cheshire Wildlife Trust Survey Report 2015

Policy GS 1 – Open Space within the Parish Areas of locally important open space that have sport, recreation, amenity or conservation value, or provide open vistas and rural skylines, will be protected. The importance of these open spaces have been tested against the following criteria;

a) How close it is to the Parish

b) The green space is demonstrably special to the local community and holds a particular local significance, and

c) It is local in character and not an extensive tract of land.

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The following sites (as shown the plan included in Appendix 2), are designated as Local Green Spaces because of their local importance for sport, recreation, amenity or conservation:

LG1: First Dig Lane / London Road

LG2: First Dig Lane

LG3: Deadman's Lane

LG4: London Road

LG5: London Road / Wybunbury Road

LG6: Barton's Cross

LG7: Stapeley community centre

LG8: Peter de Stapleigh Way

LG9: Batherton Lane

LG10: Bishops Wood Gateway

LG11: Broad Lane at Maylands Farm

LG12: Broad Lane

LG13: Broad Lane / Mill Lane

A description of the significance of these designated Local Green Spaces is set out in Appendix 2 and they will be protected from development unless very special circumstances can be demonstrated.

Policy GS 2 – Green Spaces All existing areas of green space within the parishes will be protected and their quality improved.

Opportunities will be encouraged to link any additional areas of green space that are created and to address gaps in existing networks by the creation of new rights of way.

Any new accessible green space should at least meet or exceed Cheshire East Council’s standards for green, sport and play spaces and allotments.

New development will include or contribute to the provision of recreational open space for use by all the residents of the Parish in line with standards set out by Cheshire East Council.

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Justification

Open space, including gardens, small areas of open space within existing developments, allotments, recreational space, open fields, woodlands and pathways are important to us all. Natural and semi natural open space is highly valued by local residents not just for its recreational value but also for its landscape character, quiet enjoyment and biodiversity

Our policies aim to support and add weight to the policies contained in the Cheshire East Council Local Plan Strategy by designating sites as Local Green Space to safeguard them and protect them from inappropriate development.

Despite the rural setting of Stapeley and Batherton, the parishes are not well served by play provision and Policy GS 2 seeks to address this. Where developers are not able to make provision for play provision on site, financial contributions to off-site play space may be used to meet local needs, with priority given to the creation of a new recreational area in the centre of the parish to serve the wider community. (See Delivery Plan).

The Neighbourhood Plan wishes to ensure that our children and all members of the wider community have access to high quality outdoor play. Footpaths and bridleways criss-cross the parish and are enjoyed by local residents and visitors alike however more could be provided and circular footpaths created for dog walkers and joggers. The Plan aims to take opportunities to integrate any new developments with the existing rights of way network and enhance existing provision by creating new links wherever possible, particularly where there is potential to improve links to the existing network.

This policy will contribute to the sustainable development of the Parishes by promoting safer communities, creating active and healthier lifestyles, promoting participation in a diverse range of sporting, recreational and cultural activities, and protecting and enhancing the range and populations of species and the quality and extent of wildlife habitats.

Policy GS 3 – Landscape Quality, Countryside and Open Views All new development will be expected to respect and enhance the local landscape quality and visual amenity of the area ensuring that important local views and vistas into, out of and across the settlement are maintained and, where possible, enhanced and protected from development. (See Appendix 2 for a list and map respectively of important local views and vistas).

All new development will be expected to respect and enhance the setting of Stapeley and Batherton and the surrounding countryside. Locally important open spaces, that complement the rural setting and character of the parishes, will be protected as a matter of priority from unnecessary or inappropriate development.

New development in the countryside will be permitted in the following limited circumstances:

a) Development associated with agriculture, forestry or other appropriate rural enterprise where a rural location is necessary and justified;

b) The small-scale expansion of existing employment sites;

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c) The conversion of existing buildings of substantial construction to employment or residential uses;

d) Rural exception sites.

New development should seek to enhance local landscape quality wherever possible. Proposals that cause unacceptable harm to the character of the countryside or the valued rural setting of the built-up part of Stapeley that adjoins Nantwich will not be permitted.

Policy GS 4 – Important Views and Vistas New development should ensure that locally important views and vistas as described in Policy GS 1 and identified on the map in Appendix 2 are retained and, where possible, enhanced.

Policy GS 5 – Woodland, Trees, Hedgerows, Walls, Boundary Treatment and Paving All new developments should seek to protect local woodland, trees, hedgerows, wide verges, walls, boundary treatment and existing paving from loss or damage where these contribute to the character and amenity of the plan area and must demonstrate the need for the development proposed. Such development will provide for appropriate replacement planting of native species or the reconstruction of the walls, and paving on the site together with a method statement for the ongoing care and maintenance of that planting, walls and paving.

New buildings, structures or hard surfaces must be located a sufficiently distance away from significant existing trees within or adjacent to the site to safeguard them and provide for their long-term retention. Measures must be taken during construction to protect the trees from any damage in accordance with BS5837 (or any updated, equivalent standard).

Policy GS 6 – Extensions and Alterations to existing buildings in the open countryside Proposed extensions and/or alterations to existing dwellings in the open countryside should reflect the rural character of the area and will be required to be constructed of traditional materials. The design should enhance the character and appearance of the existing building and the surrounding area.

Extensions and alterations to non-residential buildings will be designed to reflect the character and appearance of the existing building using traditional materials and to be in keeping with the surrounding development.

Policy GS 7 – Environmental Sustainability of buildings Favourable consideration will be given on both existing and new developments to the installation of grey water systems, ground source heat pumps and solar panels provided that the installation does not detract from the character of the area and in particular the conservation areas and any heritage assets.

New development will be encouraged to adopt a ‘fabric first’ approach to ensure long term performance to reduce energy demand and provide energy in the most cost effective way.

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Where appropriate, in all new development sustainable drainage schemes should be used to provide new wildlife areas. These may include features such as ponds, swales and permeable paving designed as part of the development and to reflect the rural character of the area.

Policy GS 8 – Buffer Zones and Wildlife Corridors New development should retain and provide for the long term protection of existing woodlands, wildlife corridors, wildlife sites, drainage ditches, brooks and culverts identified in the Cheshire Wildlife Trust Report 2015 and identified on the wildlife corridor map (Figure 4). There should be no net loss of biodiversity through new development and opportunities should be taken, wherever possible, to enhance biodiversity through the creation of new, and preferably linked, habitat sites and buffer zones within and around new development sites.

Development proposals that may affect existing wildlife habitats must be accompanied by comprehensive surveys to assess their biodiversity value and an assessment of the impact of the proposed development upon them. Planning permission should not be granted unless appropriate protection, mitigation and, where possible, enhancement measures can be secured.

Justification

The area identified as the Stapeley Wildlife Corridor network tracks the course of the River Weaver and incorporates land of high and medium distinctiveness along its banks and links to Artle Brook. Wildlife corridors are a key component of local ecological networks as they provide connectivity for species to move to and from core areas of high wildlife value.

For this reason and their importance locally habitat enhancement along the corridor network will improve the long term viability of the core high value areas.

This policy accords with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) paragraphs 109 and 117 and policies SE3 and SE6 of the Cheshire East Core Strategy.

Paragraph 109 of the NPPF states that the planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by “protecting and enhancing valued landscapes” and ‘minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures.’

Paragraph 117 of the NPPF states that planning policies should ‘promote the preservation, restoration and re-creation of priority habitats, ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species populations, linked to national and local targets, and identify suitable indicators for monitoring biodiversity in the plan;’

Policy GS 9 – Biodiversity Any development proposals that affect the identified areas of high or medium habitat distinctiveness (Figure 4) will be required to submit a comprehensive habitat survey to fully evaluate the existing biodiversity of the area and bring forward mitigation measures to reduce any ecological impacts.

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Justification

Investigations have revealed that the parishes of Stapeley and Batherton are particularly rich in wildlife and the community is keen to see this protected for future generations. Reversing the decline in biodiversity is a government priority, Stapeley and Batherton policies reiterate this by setting out clearly the community’s commitment to protect and enhance its natural environment.

This policy accords with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) paragraphs 109 and 117 and policy SE3 of the Cheshire East Core Strategy.

Paragraph 109 states that the planning system should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by “protecting and enhancing valued landscapes” and ‘minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures.’

Paragraph 117 of the NPPF states that planning policies should ‘promote the preservation, restoration and re-creation of priority habitats, ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species populations, linked to national and local targets, and identify suitable indicators for monitoring biodiversity in the plan;’

Any future development of Stapeley and Batherton should respect the natural environment. The most intact landscapes, in terms of biodiversity, landform and historic/cultural associations should be valued highly when any planning decisions are made. Protection and enhancement of Stapeley and Batherton’s natural assets is of crucial importance to nature conservation but it is also important for the enjoyment of future generations’. (CWT October 2015).

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Transport and Infrastructure

Justification and Evidence One of the issues raised during consultation on the plan was vehicle speeds across the plan area. As one of the matters arising from the plan the Parish Council would, in conjunction with Cheshire East Council as Highway Authority, seek to agree the imposition of ‘flexible speed limits’ during school hours particularly in Broad Lane in the vicinity of the school where the speed limit should be reduced from 30mph to 20 mph between 8am and 9am and 3pm to 4pm during term time. These and other traffic calming proposals will be incorporated into the Neighbourhood Plan Delivery Plan and funded by Section 106 and CIL contributions.

Another issue raised was the significant number of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs) using the plan area as a “through route”. The number of HGVs is a major safety hazard on many of the parish roads, especially on Broad Lane in the vicinity of the School.

Community responses

The following plans, documents and strategies support policies T 1 – T 8:

 National Planning Policy Framework

 Cheshire East Local Plan 2016

 The Borough of Crewe and Nantwich Replacement Local Plan 2011

Policy T 1 – General Transport Considerations All developments in the Plan area should identify the realistic level and type of traffic they are likely to generate. Owing to current levels of traffic, traffic congestion and local concerns, developments must assess the potential impact of this traffic on pedestrians, cyclists, road safety, parking and congestion within the parish and include measures to satisfactorily mitigate any impacts.

All development should maximise opportunities to walk and cycle as well as support public transport provision where possible. A sustainable travel plan will be required for developments likely to generate significant movements to and from the site.

In light of local concerns, any new development should not add to the number and size of HGVs using the highway network within the Parish.

Where a new access is created, or an existing access is widened through an existing hedgerow or wall, in order to protect the visual amenity of the locality a new hedgerow or wall to match the existing in height and plant species, shall be planted or rebuilt on the splay returns into the site. This will maintain the appearance and continuity of hedgerows, and walls within the Plan area.

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Car parking provision within all new developments should be sufficient to accommodate all the vehicles within the site that will be associated with the proposed use. Car parking on new housing development should be provided in accordance with policy H 7 of this Plan.

a) All significant proposed developments will be supported by a Transport Assessment (TA) which must demonstrate predicted levels of generated traffic and the impacts of this on key roads and junctions within the plan area.

b) In the event that the TA shows a predicted increase in congestion or average journey times on those routes that exceeds 5%, or such other figure designated by the Highway Authority, mitigating works shall be identified and implemented to bring predicted journey times back to pre-development levels unless it can be demonstrated that it is not viable following an assessment of the options and viability or other means.

c) Travel plans will be required for all major (significant) developments in accordance with the policies in the Local Plan and other policies in this plan.

d) Car parking provision on all new developments should be sufficient to accommodate all the vehicles within the site that will be associated with the proposed use. Car parking on new housing development should have regard to Policy H 7 in this plan or the most up to date car parking standards in the Adopted Local Plan.

Policy T 2 – Walkable neighbourhoods New development should be designed to create and support walkable and cycleable neighbourhoods where priority is given to the safe pedestrian and cycling connections throughout the development and importantly to services and facilities such as the town centre, employment areas, schools and public transport facilities. Such routes should be accessible for those with wheelchairs, frames, buggies and mobility aids. [http://www.designcouncil.org.uk/sites/default/files/asset/document/Building%20for%20Life %2012_0.pdf ]

Policy T 3 – Pedestrian and cycle routes a) All significant (i.e. greater than infill) residential and commercial developments must deliver, through planning obligations or otherwise, an appropriate package of pedestrian and cycle improvements for the area. These should seek to create routes, either by enhancing existing or creating entirely new routes, that encourage walking and cycling within the plan area particularly links to the town centre, the main employment centres, schools and the railway station.

b) Routes should aim to keep crossings and changes in level to a minimum and cycle routes should avoid unnecessary gradients. Routes should normally be accessible for those with wheelchairs, frames, buggies or other mobility aids.

Policy T 4 – Footpaths, Cycleways and Bridleways We will encourage the development of new footpaths and bridleways within the plan area, as well as creating new cycle paths and improvements to existing cycle paths, footpaths and bridleways.

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a) The character of existing public rights of way (PROW) must be protected in terms of safety, directness, attractiveness and convenience. No obstructions to PROW should be introduced and any amendments should follow the guidelines in the relevant National Policy.

b) Existing and new footpaths and cycleways should be well lit encouraging a feeling of safety so that they do not deter users.

c) Proposals should seek, where possible, to create cycle paths so as to provide safe and effective routes across and through the plan area. New and existing cycle tracks should be linked with the National Cycle Network.

d) As part of any development proposals financial contributions or direct provision of new infrastructure will be sought to secure improvements to rights of way and other links within the plan area.

e) Improvements to the existing public footpath cycleway and bridleway network in the plan area will be supported to create links between existing footpaths and circular routes within the plan area. The construction and appearance of new paths, tracks or links must be appropriate to the area, suitable for the intensity of use and sensitive to the character of the locality and the surrounding areas.

f) All proposed footpaths relating to new residential development shall be constructed and completed before 50% of the new homes are substantially completed.

g) Planning permission will be refused where new development would have an adverse impact on these routes in terms of their safety, directness, attractiveness and convenience.

Policy T 5 – Cycle parking The provision of secure and covered cycle parking facilities in all new housing developments and on existing and new employment developments will be provided.

Policy T 6 – Bus services a) Developments should normally be served by a regular bus service to Nantwich Station and town centre. Where existing routes do not already serve the proposed development area, new development may be expected to fund an expanded service. Developers will provide through a planning obligation such subsidy or otherwise as is necessary to ensure that the service runs for a period commencing and ending at points to be agreed with Cheshire East Council.

b) Bus stops provided in connection with (a) above shall be of an appropriate design and shall be ‘all weather’ ideally providing real time information.

Policy T 7 – Improving Air Quality All new housing developments greater than 12 units and employment developments greater than 500 m2 shall be required to place air quality monitoring equipment outside the school(s)

23 Stapeley & Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Regulation 15 Consultation Version 2.0 within the catchment area of which the development lies, in order to assess the impact that the development has had on air quality in the locality and, if required to do so in consultation with Cheshire East Council Environmental Health Department, the developer shall agree and implement a scheme for mitigation within the 12 months following completion of the development. Developers should assess baseline of air quality as part of pre-submission planning discussions. Where development is likely to give rise to (or make worse existing) unacceptable levels of poor air quality they shall not be permitted unless they provide mitigation measures to prevent such effects from occurring.

To protect air quality where it is of a high standard and improve it elsewhere. Development proposals will only be supported provided they:

a) comply with the requirements of Policy SE12 of the Cheshire East Local Plan

b) demonstrate that their traffic impacts will not decrease air quality in the Neighbourhood Plan Area

c) implement and support actions that make a positive contribution to improving air quality, such as by encouraging increased take-up of sustainable transport

d) integrate with existing policies for spatial and transport planning to reduce travel demand and open up possibilities for walking and cycling.

In addressing these requirements, proposals should provide evidence across the spectrum of pollutants, including oxides of sulphur and nitrogen, and particulates such as PM10. These should be measured by an independent organisation at key points determined by the Parish Council and include key road junctions and areas adjacent to premises such as schools and health facilities, with measurements taken at times agreed with the Parish Council.

Any impacts should take into consideration:

a) the probability, duration, frequency and reversibility of effects

b) the cumulative nature of effects

c) the fact that some individuals (particularly the young and those with respiratory disorders or genetic predisposition) may be susceptible to lower levels of pollutants

d) the trans-boundary nature effects

e) the magnitude and special effect of the effects (geographical area and population size)

f) the value and vulnerability of the area affected:

◦ special natural characteristics or cultural heritage

◦ intensive land use

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◦ exceeds environmental quality standards or limits

g) the effect on areas or landscapes which have national protection status

h) the effect of all other developments that have been approved, even if these have not yet been completed.

Policy T 8 – Identification of underground utility assets The design, type and/or location of any new development; (its hardstandings, landscaping, boundary walls etc.) should have consideration for their impact on underground utilities infrastructure assets, their on-going protection, operation and future maintenance.

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Community

Justification and evidence for Policy C 1 Vision: To preserve the unique nature of our Parish by supporting both the established, rural area and the newer, residential area by fostering a greater sense of community, building upon the current character of our Parish.

The most frequently voiced comment received from all of our consultations was “We like living here.” This section has developed through the need to preserve and protect this sentiment.

From the very first consultation our residents told us that our neighbourhood was a safe and friendly community in which to live and indeed they chose to live here for exactly these reasons. The unique blend of both rural and more urban elements of our neighbourhood contribute to people’s enjoyment of our area. It is important to our residents and our visitors to preserve, and enhance this culture in an ever changing world. During our second consultation, overwhelmingly, respondents agreed that our neighbourhood was friendly and safe and that this should be further strengthened by increasing safety for pedestrians, motorists and cyclists by ensuring that areas of our Parish are well-lit and well used.

There is also overwhelming support both in the standard responses received and in the additional comments tendered from respondents for the increase in cleanliness of our area. People very much enjoy the rural elements of our neighbourhood both open and urban but this is becoming increasingly marred by the presence of litter and dog fouling. The enjoyment of our area is at the forefront of our residents’ minds and, as a community, we are committed to maintaining and improving our safe and friendly environment.

We have received many comments referring specifically to the lack of street lighting in our area particularly on school routes and key thoroughfares; however, during the course of writing this Neighbourhood Plan, the street lights which were turned off as part of austerity measures have now been switched back on by Cheshire East Council which has responded to residents’ concerns. There are other areas of our Parish which respondents felt may benefit from increased lighting and these will be considered as part of this Neighbourhood Plan.

The feelings within our Parish regarding CCTV (Closed Circuit Television) are mixed, with some residents feeling that it would improve the safety of some areas and reduce potential vandalism; however, there was an equal number of residents who felt that CCTV is not required.

The responses have also indicated that the facilities and meeting places for young people are limited and that this should be addressed in order to allow younger people to define their own activities.

Community Feedback Consultations on the emerging Neighbourhood Plan revealed the following key issues in relation to Community Infrastructure that policy C 1 needs to address:

 To retain and provide local services that will sustain the community

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 To resist the loss of the shops and other community facilities unless it can be demonstrated that all reasonable efforts have been made to secure their continued use

 To assess the impact that all new development may have on community infrastructure

 Provision of new leisure facilities in the Parish

The following plans, documents and strategies support these policies:

 National Planning Policy Framework

 Cheshire East Local Plan 2016

 Crewe and Nantwich Replacement Local Plan 2011

Justification and Evidence for Policies C 2 – C 5 The majority of established businesses in the plan area are livestock and arable farming, horticultural and equestrian with a number of ‘hidden businesses’ and sole traders primarily working from home.

In addition to a strong agricultural presence, reflected in the rural nature of the Parishes, there is a small retail parade including a convenience store and food outlet, a public house, two business parks incorporating a microbrewery, bespoke craft workshops, several multi-national companies and the RSPCA Wildlife Rescue Centre. The Parishes are also home to a wide variety of micro and small businesses.

The Neighbourhood Plan sets out to maintain and encourage the local economy and to support the local community. It will support the expansion of small businesses and enterprises in the plan area as well as rural tourism and local facilities that will benefit the local economy and the wider community whilst respecting the rural character of the area.

Community Feedback Consultation on the emerging Neighbourhood Plan revealed the following issues in relation to the Local Economy that policies C 2 – C 5 seek to address:

 To promote and support existing businesses and the continued prosperity of the parish

 To retain the existing shops and other facilities within the parish

The following plans, documents and strategies support policies C2 - C5:

 National Planning Policy Framework

 Cheshire East Local Plan 2016

 The Borough of Crewe and Nantwich Replacement Local Plan 2011

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Policy C 1 – Existing and New Facilities The retention, continued use, refurbishment and improvement of all the community buildings and their associated uses together with the shops and public houses will be supported. The relocation of services or facilities within the Parish will be supported where it can be demonstrated that there will be no loss but there will be an equal level or greater level of service and accessibility for the community.

Proposals that result in the loss of community facilities, including local shops and public houses, must demonstrate that the existing use is no longer viable through an appropriate marketing exercise and where possible provide appropriate mitigation.

Proposals for the provision of new community facilities and improvements to existing facilities will be supported provided that the proposals would not have significant harmful impacts on the amenities of residents or on other neighbouring uses.

Policy C 2 – New Business Proposals which extend existing, or promote new, small scale employment opportunities within existing buildings, or groups of buildings, in the plan area will be supported where it can be demonstrated that the development will positively benefit the local economy and provides the opportunity for local employment and training.

Any proposal should not have an adverse impact upon the character and appearance of the locality or the amenity of adjoining properties.

Policy C 3 – Use of Rural Buildings The re-use, conversion and adaptation of permanent, structurally sound, rural buildings of substantial construction for small business, farm diversification, recreation or tourism will be supported subject to:

a) The proposed use being appropriate to a rural location

b) The conversion and/or adaptation works proposed respecting the local character of the surrounding buildings and local area

c) The local highway network being capable of accommodating the traffic generated by the proposed new use and adequate car parking being provided within the site.

Policy C 4 – Scale, Design and Amenity All new employment development must be of a high quality of design which:

a) complements and enhances where appropriate the size, height, scale, mass, materials, layout, access and density of existing adjoining development

b) demonstrates that the amenities of neighbouring dwellings will not be adversely affected through overlooking, loss of light or outlook, over dominance or general disturbance

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c) provides an appropriate level of landscaping, planting and screening which complements and enhances the character of the local area

d) has assessed any impact upon local heritage assets or areas of local interest to avoid unacceptable harm

e) has assessed any impact upon the local highway network to avoid unacceptable harm.

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Amenities and Well Being

Justification and community responses Stapeley and Batherton is a unique area. It is reliant on Nantwich for so many of its amenities and facilities and, given the amount of development that has taken place over the last 20 years, with the addition of very few amenities, it is of paramount importance that the wellbeing of our residents is foremost in the minds of anyone developing in our Neighbourhood Area. The importance of wellbeing is reflected in the responses we have received from our community through the consultations that have taken place during the Neighbourhood Plan process. The accessibility of services such as Doctors, Dentists, Chemists, Post Offices, and indoor and outdoor Sports Facilities, should be of importance moving forward as the anecdotal evidence and perceptions of the community are that these facilities are very stretched and that, even though statistics show that there is capacity at these local services in Nantwich, the reality of using them is a very different story.

Our area is beginning to build a community. From the consultation answers we have received, it is apparent that the ability to partake in activities in a local setting is what our Community needs. The Community Hall is utilised by small groups of people and this is embraced by the community.

There has been an overwhelming agreement that improved technological connectivity is a must for our neighbourhood. Having said that, it must be done in the right way and there is equally strong feeling that there should be a minimal level of mobile, wireless signals in areas that are close to schools and where possible, any domestic dwellings.

During the course of the consultation process issues arose concerning the ability of the schools to provide for the additional children from the new family homes, both in Stapeley and Batherton, and the ability of the schools to:

 respond both to rising local demand and to the rising birth rate

 improve some school accommodation

 not adversely affect the already unacceptable traffic congestion and parking on some roads.

Whilst the Parish Council wishes to support the local schools to enable them to provide the best opportunities for young people it has no policies for the school sites in this plan. Therefore, the Parish Council will welcome the opportunity to work with Cheshire East Council and other relevant authorities to address the issues outlined above; and recognises that any proposed new policies regarding the educational use of land in the Parishes will be subjected to the full Neighbourhood Plan consultation process and scrutiny.

Some of the actions will be addressed in the Delivery Plan (Appendix 6).

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Supporting documents The following plans, documents and strategies support these policies:

 National Planning Policy Framework

 Cheshire East Local Plan 2016

 Crewe and Nantwich Replacement Local Plan 2011

Policy AWB 1 – Accessible GP practices Any new development of 15 or more houses must, by means of financial contribution or otherwise, support the provision of facilities so that new residents have access to a GP practice within a reasonable distance (2km), subject to agreement with the healthcare provider and unless the existing services are already capable of providing this service to new residents.

Policy AWB 2 – Services for the elderly, disabled and for mental health Proposals to provide facilities for and or improved specialist care for the elderly, the physically and learning disabled and mental health services will be supported and encouraged.

Policy AWB 3 – Provide for the sports needs of residents Contributions towards existing outdoor sports facilities within our Neighbourhood Plan area will be encouraged in accordance with Cheshire East Council’s sporting strategy. Any developments for new or enhanced sports facilities must be inclusive (e.g. suitable for residents with disabilities) be accompanied by car parking and sites which are easily accessible by public transport, walking and cycling will be supported.

Policy AWB 4 – Community Facilities Proposals for new uses, buildings or land for public or community use, that reflect the needs of the community, that emerged from the consultation process, should be:

a) for all age groups

b) in suitable locations

c) served by a choice of sustainable transport options

d) of an appropriate scale and flexible in design to enable multiple uses throughout the day.

Any new facilities should be accessible to all and take account of existing provision in the town.

Proposals for the provision of new community facilities will be supported provided that the proposals would not have significant harmful impacts on the amenities of residents or on other neighbouring uses.

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Policy AWB 5 – Community Infrastructure All new development will be expected to address the impacts and benefits it will have on the community infrastructure and how any impacts can be mitigated.

Financial contributions paid direct to the local community as a result of New Homes Bonus, Section 106 contributions or any Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) proposals will be pooled to deliver priorities identified in the Neighbourhood Delivery Plan.

The provision of community infrastructure by developers in lieu of financial contributions will be supported where such community infrastructure projects are identified in the Neighbourhood Delivery Plan. (see Appendix 3 for the use of Section 106 and CIL to mitigate the impacts of new development).

Policy AWB 6 – Communications Infrastructure Proposals which seek the expansion of electronics communication networks and high speed broadband along with improvements to connectivity will be supported where the applicant has fully explored the opportunities to erect apparatus on existing buildings, masts or other structures; where the numbers of radio and telecommunication masts are kept to a minimum consistent with the efficient operation of the network; and where the development has been sited and designed to minimise the impacts on the character and appearance of the area.

Applications for residential development must contain a ‘Connectivity Statement’ and will provide for suitable ducting to enable more than one service provider to provide a fibre connection to individual properties from connection chambers located on the public highway, or some alternative connection point available to different service providers.

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Housing

Justification and Evidence On 26th February 2016, Cheshire East Council approved the proposed changes to the Local Plan Strategy. Whilst the areas of Snow Hill, Nantwich, and Kingsley Fields, Nantwich, are included as development sites in the plan, there are no strategic housing allocations in the Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan area. However, a need for housing in the Parish has been identified by the Stapeley and Batherton Housing Needs Assessment, (January 2016, see supporting documents) but as detailed later in this policy, this housing need will be met by current housing construction in the Parish, by sites in the Parish with full planning permission and by sites in the Parish with outline planning permission. In addition, there are two sites within the Parish that are subject to planning appeals. In the unlikely event of a shortfall of the housing need within the Parish, as Nantwich is (for Local Plan purposes), a Principal Town, the wider Nantwich area outside the Parish will see the construction of some 1,500 houses in the Local Plan period. However, the Neighbourhood Plan does allow for alternative sites to come forward during the Plan period. Figure 7 describes the strategic sites in and around Nantwich that are included in the Cheshire East Local Plan 2016.

Figure 7: Strategic sites in Nantwich included in the Cheshire East Local Plan 2016

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In the responses to the questionnaires we circulated regarding the housing, you told us that the Stapeley Gardens development should be the only large scale housing development in the plan area, that only 25 new houses should be built in the plan area between 2010 and 2030 and that these should be infill and small in scale, there should be some affordable houses to buy or rent and, any new housing developments built should provide a mix of new homes.

Using the ‘Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan: Housing Needs Assessment’ report January 2016, for guidance, the justification and policies set out below reflect your view.

The Cheshire East Local Plan sets the agenda for housing growth in rural areas, allowing communities to plan for the future through Neighbourhood Plans and other mechanisms, which will facilitate appropriate levels of development to meet local needs.

Within the plan area, sympathetic, well designed and sustainable small scale development will be permitted, to meet localised objectively assessed needs and priorities together with the conversion of buildings or infilling of a small gap with up to 2 dwellings. Development should not exceed the capacity of existing services and infrastructure unless the required improvements can be made.

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) confirms that the local community is best placed to understand its needs for local services and specific housing needs. Neighbourhood Plans and other mechanisms including Community Right to Build Orders and Rural Exception Sites aim to satisfy these needs. The Cheshire East Local Plan also confirms that any developments in settlements should be of a scale and design that respects the character and rural setting of the area. In response to this policy context the development of the Neighbourhood Plan has involved extensive consultation with the community on the appropriate scale of development, a survey and analysis of housing needs and an evaluation of the form and characteristics of Stapeley and Batherton and its capacity to accommodate development.

Delivering a choice of homes to meet housing requirements, including low cost market housing, is a key issue and Stapeley and Batherton recognises the need for a small amount of sustainable housing development in scale and character to reflect Policy PG2 in the Cheshire East Local Plan. Whilst it is not the intention to cap the overall amount of development, the rate of sustainable growth should be in line with the forecast that some 493 bungalows, 1 and 2 bed houses and houses suitable for older people will need to be accommodated over the Local Plan Period 2010 - 2030 to reflect organic growth of the area. It is against this background and the views of the community that the housing policies have been formulated.

Within Stapeley and Batherton, since the start of the Local Plan Period from April 2010, the status of housing development in the area as at 1st March 2016, is described in Table 1.

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Stapeley and Batherton housing status, April 2010 to 1st March 2016: completions, full planning applications, outline planning applications and sites under appeal

Completions Full planning Application granted - outline Applications under Application number Site 04/2010 to Notes permission - not built planning permission appeal 01/03/2016 12/1574N Former Stapeley Water 142 4 Gardens (Phase 1) 12/2186N Land adjacent to 40 Broad 1 Lane, Stapeley 10/1250N Foolpenny Hall, Stapeley 9 12/0742N The Brambles, 61 London 2 Road, Stapeley 12/3747N Land at The Maylands Farm, 189 Stapeley Refused by Secretary of State 14/1139N Land between 65 and 81 4 London Raod Stapeley 14/2363N 32 Broad Land Stapeley 1 14/2155N Former Stapeley Water 171 Gardens (Phase 2) 14/4802N Second Dig Lane, Stapeley 1 14/0622N The Cedars, Wybunbury Lane, 1 Stapeley 15/1745N Land east of Butt Green House, 2 Wybunbury Lane, Stapeley 15/3868N Land to rear of 144 Audlem 104 Public enquiry held in September Road, Nantwich 2016 Totals 144 175 19 293

Grand total - excluding appeal 338 applications

Grand total - including appeal 631 applications

Note: Houses constructed as replacements for demolished houses are not included in the above.

Table 1: Status of housing development as at 1st March 2016

Thus, 319 houses will be completed in the near future, (144 + 175) whilst, as of March 2016, 19 houses have outline planning permission and 293 houses are subject to determination, giving a potential total of 631 houses. On 11th August 2016, The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government dismissed the appeals for planning application 12/3747N. The developer has applied for leave for a Judicial Review of the Secretary’s decision.

In his decision letter, the Secretary of State found that the adverse effects of granting planning permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the [National Planning Policy] Framework as a whole. The letter cited a number of policies within our Neighbourhood Plan, namely GS2, GS3, H1 and H6, as being relevant to the decision. With regard to the Nantwich settlement boundary, weight was given to the existing boundary as the site “is not a place where it would be appropriate for the settlement boundary to flex”. Furthermore, he considered that it would not be possible to prevent the harm caused to the character and appearance of the countryside, were the appeal be upheld. The harm caused was also found to be in conflict with the NPPF. The Secretary of State took account of large scale housing approvals in Nantwich in reaching his decision.

On 29th September 2016, a consortium of several developers submitted a reserved matters application for 997 houses to be built on Kingsley Fields, land to the north of Nantwich. Whilst this large development is not within the Neighbourhood Plan area, it too forms part of the wider Nantwich area described in Figure 7, and as such will contribute to the overall housing requirement for our area.

The Housing Needs Assessment report (“Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan: Housing Needs Assessment”, Housing Vision, January 2016), identifies the mix of houses required in the area and how many houses will be needed until the end of the Plan period in 2030. It identifies:

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 a very large increase in the requirement for 2 bed flats or houses

 a very large increase in the requirement for 2 bed housing suitable for older people including downsizing flats, bungalows and houses and for housing with care and support

 a decrease in the requirement for 3 bed or larger houses.

The Housing Needs Assessment notes that the number of bungalows, 2 bed flats or houses and housing suitable for older people is 493. However, the major housing development in the area (Stapeley Gardens) identifies only 68 of the 317 houses on that development as suitable for the local area, the remaining 249 houses do not meet the needs of Stapeley and Batherton. (See Appendix 5 Local Housing Need Assessment Report, paragraph ES33).

The same is true of the applications for 293 houses still to be determined. As shown below, the majority do not meet the objectively assessed needs of the Parish as identified in the Housing Needs Assessment report:

• Wainhomes application for 104 houses – 1 and 2 bedroom houses in plan - 9 meet the identified need

• Muller Homes application for 189 houses – outline planning application so no details of split of housing but assuming 30% of 189 is affordable housing and have 1 and 2 bedrooms - approximately 56 houses meet the identified need.

Thus, only 65 of the 293 houses yet to be determined meet the needs of the area as identified in the Housing Needs Assessment. Ideally, we would like only appropriate houses for our area's housing needs.

With this in mind, the majority of the 493 houses identified by the Housing Needs Assessment are either completed or under construction and noting that potentially, permission for 293 houses under appeal could be granted, the Neighbourhood Plan proposes that if there is requirement for new houses in the Parish, these should be sited on small developments of up to 10 houses and that these houses should be a mix of bungalows, 1 bedroom or 2 bedroom houses and houses suitable for older people. It also recommends no co-location which means that one group of new houses cannot be built next to another creating a larger development, as this would be prejudicial to the character of the area and would have significant social and environmental impacts upon the adjoining existing housing.

The Cheshire East Local Plan (PG2) directs new housing development to Key Service Centres. Nantwich, Stapeley and Acton are identified as a Key Service Centre and the Neighbourhood Plan Policy H 1.5 has identified the potential for small developments of up to 10 houses, on greenfield sites, within an extended settlement boundary.

Consultations have also indicated the desire to allow limited infill and re-use of brownfield sites and this is reflected in Policies H 1.2 and H 1.4 of the Neighbourhood Plan. This is in line with the Cheshire East Local Plan Policy MP1 and Policies SD1 and SE2 which aim to maximise the use of brownfield land.

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Consultations and the 2015 Housing Needs Assessment have shown a need for Affordable Housing (see Glossary Appendix 7). It is important that Affordable Housing is offered in the first instance to occupants who have a Stapeley and Batherton connection. This is in line with Local Plan Policy SC5 and NPPF. This approach aims to stimulate early engagement between a developer and an Affordable Housing provider to assure themselves (and subsequently the local community) that Affordable Housing Need is thoroughly proven.

In supporting Cheshire East Local Plan (Policy SE1) Stapeley and Batherton wishes to see high quality design and sustainable construction in new housing developments. This is reflected in Policies H 4 and H 8 which includes the use of the latest Government Housing Standards and Building for Life 12 in appropriate circumstances (see the Glossary for definitions of Lifetime Homes and Building for Life 12).

To reflect the area's distinctiveness and variety of architectural styles which have evolved from its organic growth, Policy H 5 requires all the new housing developments to be phased equally over the Plan Period, 2015 to 2030. Since the start of the Plan Period in 2010, 144 dwellings have been completed and 175 dwellings have full planning permission so these will be discounted from the overall commitment of 493 new dwellings. It is essential that any new approvals are of a type required in the Parish and are phased to take account of the actual development of these existing commitments and any changes in housing requirement which may occur over the Plan Period. Phasing is also required to enable the limited capacity of local services and facilities, for example the local primary and secondary schools and Heath Centre, to make provision for an increased population.

The local community together with Cheshire East, is best placed to understand its needs for local services and specific housing requirements as has been identified in the Housing Needs Assessment report. Neighbourhood Plans and other mechanisms including Community Right to Build Orders and Rural Exception Sites aim to satisfy these needs. Any development in Stapeley and Batherton should be of a scale and design that respects its character and rural setting.

The Neighbourhood Plan has been prepared to be in general conformity with the strategic policies in the Cheshire East Local Plan and will be reviewed periodically or when the Local Plan is amended or changed by Cheshire East and those changes have a material impact on the Neighbourhood Plan.

Community Feedback Consultation on the emerging Neighbourhood Plan revealed the following key housing issues that policies H 1 – H 8 seek to address:

• to deliver a housing growth strategy tailored to the objectively assessed identified local housing needs and context of Stapeley and Batherton

• to encourage sensitive development which protects and enriches the landscape, character and built setting of the plan area

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• to provide proportionate and environmentally sustainable housing development as local need arises

• phase development over the lifetime of the Plan

• the number and type of affordable homes built will be determined by Stapeley and Batherton’s needs, established in the recent Housing Needs Assessment, January 2016, and by consideration of developments within the surrounding area. Stapeley and Batherton’s housing needs will be reassessed every 5 years by Cheshire East Council taking into account the Housing Needs Assessment report (January 2016), demographic projections, developments in the area, local surveys and Cheshire East Council’s Strategic Housing Market Assessment

• a proportion of new housing will be encouraged to be constructed to meet Building for Life 12, the industry standard for the design of new housing developments

• allow the expansion of the settlement boundary to accommodate developments of up to 10 houses maximum without co-location with any other new housing development

• allow infill within the settlement boundary of up to 2 dwellings in a small gap in an otherwise built up frontage

• allow redevelopment of brownfield sites where this would meet all the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan

• allow small rural exception sites of up to 5 houses immediately adjoining the settlement boundary without co-locating with other new developments

• all new housing developments shall provide a mix of size, design and type of dwellings including social, low cost market housing and starter homes as identified in the Housing Needs Assessment, January 2016.

The following plans, documents and strategic policies support the housing policies:

 National Planning Policy Framework

 Cheshire East Local Plan 2016

 Crewe and Nantwich Replacement Local Plan 2011

 Housing Needs Assessment 2016

Policy H 1 – Scale of Housing Development New development will be supported in principle provided that it is small scale, and in character with Stapeley and Batherton and delivered over the period of the Plan and falling within the following categories.

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H 1.1 Infill Development Infilling of a small gap in the built area an otherwise built up frontage of up to 2 dwellings in character and scale with adjoining development, within the settlement boundary.

H 1.2 Rural Exception Sites Sites of up to 10 houses to meet local needs and in character with adjoining developments on sites within or immediately adjacent to the settlement boundary of Stapeley and Batherton, with the aim of enhancing their role as sustainable settlements whilst protecting the surrounding countryside.

H 1.3 Brownfield within the Parish The redevelopment of brownfield sites within the plan area will be encouraged, where they are neither suitable for nor capable of employment development to meet the Housing Needs Assessment of Stapeley and Batherton and satisfy in all other respects the policies contained in the Neighbourhood Plan.

H 1.4 Redundant Buildings The re-use, conversion and adaptation of permanent, structurally sound, rural buildings of substantial construction to meet the objectively assessed Housing Needs Assessment, which would lead to an enhancement of the character of the area and will be supported subject to:

a) the proposed use being appropriate to its location

b) the conversion and/or adaptation works proposed respecting the local character of the surrounding buildings and local area

c) the local highway network being capable of accommodating the traffic generated by the proposed new use and adequate car parking being provided within the site.

H 1.5 Greenfield Development To meet the Objectively Assessed Housing Need a maximum of 10 new houses will be permitted on any one available and deliverable greenfield site immediately adjacent to the existing settlements of Stapeley and Batherton. Such developments should not be co-located with other new housing development unless there are demonstrable sustainable benefits from doing so.

Policy H 2 – Housing to Meet Local Housing Needs Development that meets an Objectively Assessed Housing Need identified in the latest Parish Housing Needs Assessment or, if out of date, the most appropriate objectively assessed review of housing need in the future, will be subject to planning conditions and/or planning obligations requiring the first occupants to be residents of Stapeley and Batherton or with a local connection or employment in the Plan Area, then adjoining parishes and finally Cheshire East. Within any new development the affordable housing provided shall be ‘pepperpotted’ within that development and not grouped together. In the case of essential agricultural dwellings the same criteria shall apply, and occupants will be employed or last employed in agriculture. Any housing

39 Stapeley & Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Regulation 15 Consultation Version 2.0 provided to meet a local housing need when it is completed and subsequently becomes vacant shall be made available from that time for a period of 6 months for occupation by people who meet the local housing need criteria.

All new housing developments shall include an element of low cost market housing and starter homes in addition to any affordable housing to contribute to a mixed and balanced community as identified by the Stapeley and Batherton Housing Needs Assessment report, January 2016, included in Appendix 5.

Policy H 3 – Tenure Mix Proposals for Affordable Homes in the Parish must be of a tenure, size and type to help meet the locally identified housing need and contribute to a mixed, balanced and inclusive community where people can live independently longer. The tenure mix shall be agreed with the Local Planning Authority prior to the submission of a planning application and shall have regard to the most up to date local housing assessment (a definition of Affordable Housing is included in the Glossary).

Policy H 4 – Design All new housing proposals within the plan area must demonstrate good quality design. This means responding to and integrating with local surroundings and landscape context as well as the built environment.

In Stapeley and Batherton good design means:

a) complements and enhances where appropriate the size, height, scale, mass, rural skyline, materials, layout, access and density of existing development in the plan area including where appropriate the provision of chimneys

b) demonstrates that the amenities of neighbouring dwellings will not be adversely affected through overlooking, loss of light or outlook, over dominance or general disturbance

c) provides adequate street lighting to enhance house security, pedestrian safety and the safety of road users

d) provides an appropriate level of landscaping which complements and enhances the rural character of the local area

e) provides garden space commensurate with the size of the dwelling proposed, the prevailing pattern of development in the locality and the likely needs of the prospective occupiers

f) provides for the changing needs and life-styles of an ageing population and will be encouraged to build a proportion of new homes to Lifetime Homes standard in accordance with current national guidance, Building for Life 12

g) new development will be expected to respond positively to the local character of its immediate environment particularly the conservation areas in the plan area by showing

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an understanding of the qualities which make up this character. All new development should be accompanied by a Design and Access Statement and demonstrate a high quality of design and a good standard of amenity for existing and future occupiers of the proposed development, at the same time ensuring that the amenities of neighbouring properties will not be adversely affected

h) the use of good quality local materials such as red Cheshire brick, sandstone as well as more innovative materials will be encouraged provided they are sympathetic to the context in which they are proposed and maintain the local vernacular and enhanced sense of place

i) innovation to achieve low carbon sustainable design that meets the BREEAM Quality Mark standard will be encouraged

j) good design should provide sufficient external amenity space, refuse and recycling storage, car and bicycle parking and on all new housing developments conveniently located dog bins (faeces disposal points) to ensure a high quality and well managed street scape

k) the gross residential density of any new housing development should be 18 to 20 houses per hectare in character with the plan area, respecting the semi-rural nature of Stapeley and be designed to give an impression of spaciousness with uniform houses and plots being avoided, (see policy H 8 Car Parking). The gross residential density refers to the type of housing needed in the area as identified by the Housing Needs Assessment report. If larger houses are built there must be a commensurate reduction in the gross residential density.

H 4.1 Planning permission will not be granted for development of poor design that fails to take the opportunities available for improving local character and quality of the plan area and the way it functions.

Policy H 5 – Phasing of Housing Cheshire East Council’s Local Plan relates to 2010 to 2030 and according to figures released by Cheshire East Council and accepted by the Local Plan Inspector, the total number of houses required in Cheshire East is 36,000. Cheshire East Council has allocated housing development to local Service Centres with Nantwich as a whole (including Stapeley and Batherton) requiring 2 new houses over that period. (Cheshire East Cabinet report for Local Plan Strategy, 21 July, 2015, paragraph 12.8.).

Between April 2010 and March 2016, 319 new houses have received full planning permission and of those, 144 have been completed in Stapeley and Batherton. As can be seen, this more than covers Cheshire East Council’s housing requirement for the area and is nearly 75% of the need identified by the Housing Needs Assessment, albeit the majority of these houses being of an unsuitable type to satisfy local needs. To ensure an appropriate phased delivery of housing over the Neighbourhood Plan period, 2010 to 2030, the 174 remaining new homes proposed by the Housing Needs Assessment report (493 minus 319), should be delivered equally in each of the three remaining 5 year periods of the Neighbourhood Plan (see the following indicative schedule), unless:

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a) any demonstrable increase in local housing need is identified by the local planning authority, and

b) planning permission is granted to any of the sites under currently appeal.

If planning permission is granted to any of the 293 houses under appeal, an equal number of houses will be discounted from the remaining 156 houses required in the plan period.

This policy allows for alternative sites to come forward through the plan period accompanied by the provision of local infrastructure including, where appropriate, contributions to sustainable transport measures, green infrastructure, local services and community facilities will be made.

The delivery of new homes in the Plan area against the above schedule will be reviewed by the Parish Council in partnership with the local planning authority at the end of each phasing period and, where necessary, may be updated to adapt to market conditions or an advance or lessening of a local need.

When assessing whether delivery rates within the plan area are being met, monitoring will also take into account any net increase or decrease of units elsewhere in the parish brought about by demolition, conversion or new build of additional dwellings on windfall or exception sites.

A schedule of permissions granted and houses completed in the plan area since April 2010 is included in Table 1.

Policy H 6 – Settlement Boundary Planning permission will be granted for a minimum of 156 new homes to be built in the plan area in the period from April 2010 to March 2030 on sites within the carefully extended Settlement Boundary providing that none of the 293 houses under appeal are granted planning permission. If planning permission is granted to any of the 293 houses under appeal, an equal number of houses will be discounted from the remaining 156 houses required in the plan period (see Policy H 5).

Development in the Neighbourhood Plan Area will be focussed on sites within or immediately adjacent to Stapeley, with the aim of enhancing its role as a sustainable settlement whilst protecting the surrounding countryside. The Neighbourhood Plan proposes a Settlement Boundary for Stapeley and Batherton based upon the existing defined Settlement Boundary in the Crewe and Nantwich Local Plan 2005.

The purposes of the Settlement Boundary are as follows:

a) to direct future housing, economic and community related development in the Neighbourhood Plan Area to the existing settlement, to enhance its role as a resilient and sustainable community and to protect the surrounding open spaces and countryside

b) to contain the spread of the settlement, by reinforcing its core area and maintaining an effective and coherent built up-rural edge

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c) that proposals for housing development outside the Settlement Boundary will only be granted where they comply with the criteria set out in Housing Policy H2 (Scale of Housing Development), or in exceptional circumstances; such as any new dwelling required for the essential need of an agricultural worker to live permanently at or near their place of work in the countryside.

Where the current Settlement Boundary is moved to allow development, as specified above, a new boundary will be established on the edge of the new development and will connect to the previous boundary at its nearest points.

This policy establishes the key spatial priority for the Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan, within which context all its other policies are based.

Policy H 7 – Car Parking on New Development New housing developments will be required to provide a minimum of two off-road parking spaces for units with 1-2 bedrooms. Houses with 3 or more bedrooms are not required in the area however if 3, 4 and 5 bedroomed houses are granted consent then 1 off-street parking space shall be provided within the curtilage of the property for each bedroom. Garages provided as part of any new development shall be able to accommodate a standard family car and allow for access and egress by the driver when the car is in the garage.

Sheltered housing units and / or older persons' retirement units will be required to provide a minimum of one parking space per unit, one warden space, and a ratio of one visitor space per two units.

All other forms of development will be expected to provide a level of off-road parking which adequately serves the use proposed.

Policy H 8 – Adapting to climate change New developments should seek to achieve the highest standards of sustainable development possibly in line with the most up to date guidance and regulations incorporating features that improve environmental performance thereby reducing carbon emissions. These could include:

a) reducing the use of fossil fuels

b) promoting the efficient use of natural resources, the re-use and recycling of resources, and the production and consumption of renewable energy

c) adopting and facilitating the flexible development of low and zero carbon energy through a range of technologies

d) linking the provision of low and zero carbon infrastructure in new developments to existing buildings

e) adopting best practice in sustainable drainage

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f) adopting a ‘fabric first’ approach to ensure long term performance of every new building to reduce energy demand and provide energy in the most cost effective way.

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Acknowledgements Stapeley & District Parish Council acknowledges with thanks, the support and assistance of the following people, groups and organisations during the process of developing the Neighbourhood Plan.

The Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group comprising parish councillors John Davenport, Peter Groves, Jo Hillman, Martin Malbon and Matthew Theobald, together with volunteer members: Pat Cullen, Val Ingram, Sue Pritchard and Noel Wagstaff.

Andrew Cliffe (Head Teacher, Brine Leas School) and Mary Hennessy-Jones (Head Teacher, Pear Tree School) both of whom contributed in the early part of the process.

Andrew Thomson, Planning Consultant, who guided the Steering Group through the process.

Advice received from John Heselwood of Cheshire Community Action and Tom Evans.

Cheshire East Council Spatial Planning Team.

Locality for financial support.

Cheshire Wildlife Trust for the ecological survey of the area.

Housing Vision Ltd. for conducting a comprehensive housing needs assessment for the area.

The late Hazel Carstensen for proof-reading the draft Neighbourhood Plan prior to publication.

Mapping: Unless otherwise stated, all maps are reproduced from Ordnance Survey mapping with the permission of Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office. © Crown copyright.

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Appendices to Regulation 15 Consultation version 2.0 Stapeley & Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Appendices to Regulation 15 Consultation version 2.0

Contents

Appendix 1 Useful Contacts...... 2 Cheshire East Council Planning...... 2 Stapeley and District Parish Council...... 2 Cheshire Association of Local Councils (ChALC)...... 2 Locality...... 2 Cheshire Wildlife Trust...... 2

Appendix 2. Plan and list of important local green spaces...... 3 Character of Stapeley and Batherton Parishes...... 3 Local Green Spaces...... 7 Local Green Space LG1: First Dig Lane / London Road (compliance rating 8)...... 8 Local Green Space LG2: First Dig Lane (compliance rating 9)...... 9 Local Green Space LG3: Deadman's Lane (compliance rating 8)...... 11 Local Green Space LG4: London Road (compliance rating 7)...... 13 Local Green Space LG5: London Road / Wybunbury Road (compliance rating 8)...... 15 Local Green Space LG6: Barton's Cross (compliance rating 8)...... 16 Local Green Space LG7: Stapeley community's centre (compliance rating 8)...... 18 Local Green Space LG8: Peter de Stapleigh Way (compliance rating 8)...... 20 Local Green Space LG9: Batherton Lane (compliance rating 7)...... 21 Local Green Space LG10: Bishops Wood Gateway (compliance rating 8)...... 23 Local Green Space LG11: Broad Lane at Maylands Farm (compliance rating 9)...... 25 Local Green Space LG12: Broad Lane (compliance rating 7)...... 27 Local Green Space LG13: Broad Lane / Mill Lane (compliance rating 8)...... 28

Appendix 3. Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy...... 29 What Are Section 106 Funds?...... 29 Planning Policies & Negotiations...... 29 How & When To Get Involved?...... 29 When Do We [Cheshire East Council] Receive Monies?...... 30 Paying Monies Back...... 30 Key Considerations...... 30 Contact & Questions...... 30 Community Infrastructure Levy...... 31

Appendix 4. Permissions and Completions Since April 2010...... 32

Appendix 5. Local Housing Needs Assessment...... 33

Appendix 6. Projects to be carried forward into the Neighbourhood Plan Delivery Plan...... 34

Appendix 7. Historic buildings in Stapeley and Batherton...... 35

Appendix 8. Glossary...... 36

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Appendix 1 Useful Contacts

Cheshire East Council Planning Southern Area Customer Service Centre Delamere House Delamere Street Crewe CW1 2JZ Telephone: 0300 123 5014 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.cheshireeast.gov.uk/planning/view_a_planning_application/contact_planning.aspx

Stapeley and District Parish Council Clerk to the Council Telephone: 01270 812065 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.stapeleyparishcouncil.gov.uk/

Cheshire Association of Local Councils (ChALC) Park View Business Centre Combermere Whitchurch Shropshire SY13 4AL Telephone: 01948 871314 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.chalc.org.uk/

Locality 3 Corsham Street London N1 6DR Telephone: 0345 458 8336 Email: [email protected] Website: http://locality.org.uk/

Cheshire Wildlife Trust Bickley Hall Farm Malpas SY14 8EF Telephone: 01948 820728 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.cheshirewildlifetrust.org.uk

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Appendix 2. Plan and list of important local green spaces The National Planning Policy Framework Paragraph 77 describes the criteria for designation of a Local Green Space: “The Local Green Space designation will not be appropriate for most green areas or open space. The designation should only be used:

 Where the green space is in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves;

 Where the green area is demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular local significance, for example because of its beauty, historic significance, recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of wildlife; and

 Where the green area concerned is local in character and is not an extensive tract of land.”

Character of Stapeley and Batherton Parishes The rural part of our parish is notable in several ways. Of particular interest are:

• Ancient salt making heritage (First Dig Lane and Second Dig Lane)

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• The Parishes are traversed by three long distance footpaths (Walking the Past, Crewe and Nantwich Circular Walk, The Two Saints Way). All three footpaths follow the route marked in black below. All other public rights of way in the Parish are also indicated.

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• Historic and listed buildings (Grade II Listed)

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• Used by many residents and visitors for walking, cycling routes (the two loops that connect the built up and rural parts of the parish – a landscape that makes the routes valuable to our community)

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Local Green Spaces Within our Neighbourhood Area, 13 Local Green Spaces have been identified. Their location is described by the numbered red circles on the map below. Each candidate for Local Green Space has been assessed for its compliance with the three criteria above, including a rating for the degree of compliance with each criterion (a higher rating indicates greater compliance with a maximum score of 3 for each criterion and 9 for all three criteria combined).

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Local Green Space LG1: First Dig Lane / London Road (compliance rating 8)

NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in The green space is framed by a significant road reasonably close proximity to 3 junction the community it serves? Is the green area The juxtaposition of road, farm land and agricultural demonstrably special to a local buildings is typical of the Parish. The widely used 2 community. Does it hold a Crewe and Nantwich Circular Walk public footpath particular local significance? runs through the southern part of the green area. Is the green area concerned Views are bounded by the farm, roadways and local in character and not an 3 natural boundaries, all within a few hundred yards. extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG2: First Dig Lane (compliance rating 9)

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NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in One of just three roads running West/East in the reasonably close proximity to 3 Parish the community it serves? The area is of “historic value as indicated by the name; “Dig” refers to a place for “salt extraction by the digging of a trench and filling it with water, then boiling the water off in shallow pans to retrieve the salt.” This area is typical of a rural view within our Parish, Is the green area with no kerbs, hedges extending to the edge of the demonstrably special to a local road. 3 community. Does it hold a Views along and through the area are demonstrably particular local significance? different from the more built up roads in the Parish. The area is used by many as part of a circuit for running, walking and cycling around the Parish. The Lane also forms part of two significant Cheshire public footpaths; the Crewe and Nantwich Circular Walk and “Walkiing the Past” route between Weston and Acton" Is the green area concerned local in character and not an Bounded by the width of the road and its length. 3 extensive tract of land

10 Stapeley & Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Appendices to Regulation 15 Consultation version 2.0

Local Green Space LG3: Deadman's Lane (compliance rating 8)

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NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in Located towards the centre of the Parish, this green reasonably close proximity to space connects the two main North/South roads 2 the community it serves? through the Parish. Can be viewed from both London Road and Broad Lane. Is the green area High biodiveristy value, is an ancient bridleway that demonstrably special to a local has historic significance. The area provides community. Does it hold a recreational value for walkers, cyclists and horse 3 particular local significance? riders to connect otherwise isolated parts of the Parish. Is the green area concerned Bounded by the width of the Lane and its length, local in character and not an with broken views to adjacent agricultural land. 3 extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG4: London Road (compliance rating 7)

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NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria A vista with a footpath on one side, small in scale, Is the green space in semi urban in character. Can be viewed from 2 reasonably close proximity to London Road and is accesible by a Public Footpath the community it serves? that crosses the space.

Is the green area Tranquil in nature, bounded by good examples of demonstrably special to a local mature trees. Has recreational value due to the 2 community. Does it hold a footpath running though it. particular local significance? Is the green area concerned local in character and not an Bounded by the natural hedgerows and mature trees. 3 extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG5: London Road / Wybunbury Road (compliance rating 8)

NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in reasonably close proximity to Accessible by all users or the road or footpath. 3 the community it serves? Gateway to the Parish with footpath on one side, Is the green area small in scale, semi urban in character. demonstrably special to a local The area provides a juxtaposition of nature and 2 community. Does it hold a sympathetic development over many decades, particular local significance? describes part of the essence of our parish. Is the green area concerned local in character and not an Yes. 3 extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG6: Barton's Cross (compliance rating 8)

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NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in View accessible by all users of this stretch of road 2 reasonably close proximity to and grassed public spaces. the community it serves? Marks the boundary between the Parish and Is the green area Nantwich town. There are wide verges either side of demonstrably special to a local Newcastle road. The area also provides a Green 3 community. Does it hold a Gap between housing developments. particular local significance? The green space is thought to be the site of the battle of Bartons Cross. Is the green area concerned The area is bounded by housing developments, the local in character and not an Crewe – Shrewsbury railway line, Newcastle Road 3 extensive tract of land and London Road.

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Local Green Space LG7: Stapeley community's centre (compliance rating 8)

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NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in Seen from much of one of the three West/East roads 3 reasonably close proximity to in the Parish the community it serves? The road deliniates the settlement boundary. Rich hedgerows and a piece of land that is designated as Is the green area a public access space as a result of a S106 demonstrably special to a local agreement early in 21st 2 community. Does it hold a Century. particular local significance? More recent development that borders this area shows the more modern approach to highways with cycleway, lighting, etc. Is the green area concerned View bounded by the hedgerows to the South and local in character and not an 3 the combined cycle/footway to the North. extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG8: Peter de Stapleigh Way (compliance rating 8)

NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in Seen from much of one of the three West/East roads 3 reasonably close proximity to in the Parish the community it serves? The road delineates the settlement boundary. Rich Is the green area hedgerows and trees provide a counterpoint to the demonstrably special to a local nearby development. 2 community. Does it hold a More recent development that borders this area particular local significance? shows the more modern approach to highways with cycleway, lighting, etc. Is the green area concerned View bounded by the hedgerows to the South and local in character and not an 3 the combined cycle/foot-way to the North. extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG9: Batherton Lane (compliance rating 7)

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NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in Accessible from the parish, links with a Public 2 reasonably close proximity to Footpath that crosses the Parish boundary. the community it serves? Is the green area Part of a walking route around the parish utilising demonstrably special to a local public footpaths. The area offers a tranquil walking 2 community. Does it hold a environment, with views towards the houses on particular local significance? Broad Lane. Typifies the rural part of the parish. Is the green area concerned Views are bounded by woodland to the West and local in character and not an 3 Broad Lane to the East. extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG10: Bishops Wood Gateway (compliance rating 8)

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NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in reasonably close proximity to One of the Gateways to the Parish. 3 the community it serves? Is the green area Used by walkers, has grassed area and trees. demonstrably special to a local Provides a marker at the Gateway to the Parish and 2 community. Does it hold a a visible separation from Nantwich. particular local significance? Is the green area concerned The area is bounded by Bishops Wood, Broad Lane local in character and not an 3 and hedgerows. extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG11: Broad Lane at Maylands Farm (compliance rating 9)

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NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in Directly adjacent to Broad Lane, marking a bend in 3 reasonably close proximity to the highway. the community it serves? Is the green area Locally valuable stand of Scotts Pines at Maylands demonstrably special to a local Farm a distinctive natural feature of the Parish. 3 community. Does it hold a Many of these trees are subject to Tree Preservation particular local significance? Orders, reflecting their local significance. Is the green area concerned Directly adjacent to Broad Lane, can be viewed from local in character and not an 3 several hundred yards away when travelling North. extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG12: Broad Lane (compliance rating 7)

NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Viewed directly from Broad Lane across the hedge, Is the green space in both from houses along the Lane and the public reasonably close proximity to 2 footpath running along the Eastern side of the the community it serves? highway. Is the green area View across worked fields to London Road. demonstrably special to a local Provides a value to all those walking, cycling, 3 community. Does it hold a running along Broad Lane as a middle distance view, particular local significance? pepperpotted with housing built over many decades. Is the green area concerned Bounded by the houses to the West of London local in character and not an 2 Road. extensive tract of land

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Local Green Space LG13: Broad Lane / Mill Lane (compliance rating 8)

NPPF Paragraph 77 Community's assessment Rating Designation criteria Is the green space in Public road provides access to the views. A public 3 reasonably close proximity to footpath meets Mill Lane partway along its length. the community it serves? One of only two roads in Batherton. The area has Is the green area recreational vaue as it is extensively used by walkers demonstrably special to a local and dog owners. The area provides access to the 3 community. Does it hold a River Weaver and several public footpaths; the particular local significance? “Crewe and Natnwich Circular Walk” and the “Walking the Past” route between Weston and Acton. Is the green area concerned View limited by the curve in Mill Lane and field local in character and not an 2 boundaries. extensive tract of land

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Appendix 3. Section 106 and Community Infrastructure Levy Section 106 Agreements

What Are Section 106 Funds? ‘Section 106 Agreements’ (also known as Planning Agreements /Planning Gain/Developer Contributions/Community Infrastructure Levy) under Section 106 (s106) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) are negotiated between the Council and the applicant/developer (and any others that may have an interest in the land) and are legally binding. When a planning application is submitted to the Council, an assessment is carried out to determine the level of adverse impact of the proposed development. S106 Agreements are used to mitigate any adverse impacts by securing: contributions; services; affordable housing; infrastructure; and amenities either by undertaking specific works and/or a monetary contribution (commuted sum) to enable the Council to undertake the relevant works itself. The requirements for s106 funding will vary according to the size, viability, impact and nature of the proposed development. All planning applications are assessed on a case by case basis and not all developments will require obligations. The key legal and policy tests for establishing a Planning Obligation are defined in the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 and National Planning Policy Framework which state that s106 Agreements should only be used where they meet all of the following:

• necessary to make the development acceptable in planning terms;

• directly related to the development; and

• fairly and reasonably related in scale and kind to the development.

Planning Policies & Negotiations Local Planning Policies, Supplementary Guidance and Neighbourhood Plans etc. form the basis of the Council’s justification for s106 requirements and subsequent negotiations. It is essential to understand this policy context.

How & When To Get Involved? It is vital that the process for dealing with s106 monies is robust, effective and transparent. The Council encourages all Ward, Town and Parish Councillors to take an early active role in agreeing and negotiating the content of a s106 Agreement during the planning consultation process. An invitation to comment on an application is issued by the Planning Case Officer by email to individual Ward Councillors and also to the Town/Parish Council Clerk.

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Where a s106 forms part of the planning application, you are advised to submit s106 comments/proposals regardless of your support or objection.

When Do We [Cheshire East Council] Receive Monies? Not all monies are received upon completion and signing of the s106 Agreement. Payments are often linked to a ‘trigger’ such as commencement of development, occupation, completion of a road etc. When s106 Agreements are triggered and the monies received by the Council, Ward Councillors are notified, including the amount and scope of the funds received. The s106 Monitoring Officer allocates a Council ‘Scheme Manager’ based on the service to deliver.

Paying Monies Back If s106 money is not spent i.e. within the agreed specified period set out in the Agreement or where the planning permission was not implemented, it can and must be returned to the applicant/developer. The s106 Officer alerts Service Managers and Ward members of impending one and two year deadlines so that this is avoided.

Key Considerations

• Any funding required must be in line with national and local legislation and policies

• The agreement is legally binding between the parties

• The Council holds the funding on trust for the developer/landowner – ensuring that the funding must be spent in accordance with the agreement

• Monies are allocated to specific projects for implementation at specific times and cannot be transferred/redirected to other areas or projects

• Funding is sometimes in the pipeline, dependant on triggers and phasing of development

• Funding is sometimes not forthcoming at all as contributions are linked to implementation of planning permission

• The Council’s position demonstrates successful negotiation and effective monitoring

Contact & Questions If you have any questions or need further information, please contact the s106 Monitoring Officer: Judith Cosgrove Telephone: 01270 686733 Email: [email protected] Information taken from Cheshire East Council “Factsheet Planning S106” June 2016

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Community Infrastructure Levy The community infrastructure levy is a new levy that local authorities in England and Wales can choose to charge on new developments in their area. Our overview document provides a quick guide to the levy. The levy is designed to be fairer, faster and more transparent than the previous system of agreeing planning obligations between local councils and developers under section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. In areas where a community infrastructure levy is in force, land owners and developers must pay the levy to the local council. The charges are set by the local council, based on the size and type of the new development. The money raised from the community infrastructure levy can be used to support development by funding infrastructure that the council, local community and neighbourhoods want, like new or safer road schemes, park improvements or a new health centre. The community infrastructure levy:

• gives local authorities the freedom to set their own priorities for what the money should best pent on

• gives local authorities a predictable funding stream that allows them to plan ahead more effectively

• gives developers much more certainty from the start about how much money they will be expected to contribute

• makes the system more transparent for local people, as local authorities have to report what they have spent the levy on each year

• rewards communities receiving new development through the direct allocation of a proportion (15% or 25% depending on whether a Neighbourhood Plan is in place) of levy funds collected in their area. Parishes with a neighbourhood plan will receive 25% of any community infrastructure levy arising from developments in their area compared to parishes without a neighbourhood plan who will receive 15%. Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/2010-to-2015-government-policy-planning- reform/2010-to-2015-government-policy-planning-reform Appendices 1 and 2

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Appendix 4. Permissions and Completions Since April 2010 Permissions and Completions since 2010 are detailed in the table below.

Stapeley and Batherton housing status, April 2010 to 1st March 2016: completions, full planning applications, outline planning applications and sites under appeal C o m p le ti o n s Full planning Application granted - A p p lic a ti o n s A p p lica ti o n n u m b e r S it e 04/2010 to permission - not outline planning N o t e s under appeal 0 1 /0 3 /2 0 1 6 b u ilt p e r m is s io n Former Stapeley Water 1 2/15 74N 142 4 Gardens (Phase 1) Land adjacent to 40 Broad 1 2/21 86N 1 Lane, Stapeley 1 0/12 50N Foolpenny Hall, Stapeley 9 The Brambles, 61 London 1 2/07 42N 2 Road, Stapeley Land at The Maylands Farm, To be determined by Secretary of 1 2/37 47N 18 9 S ta pe ley S ta te Land between 65 and 81 1 4/11 39N 4 London Raod Stapeley 1 4/23 63N 32 Broad Land Stapeley 1 Former Stapeley Water 1 4/21 55N 17 1 Gardens (Phase 2) 1 4/48 02N 1 Second Dig Lane, Stapeley The Cedars, Wybunbury 1 4/06 22N 1 Lane, Stapeley Land east of Butt Green 1 5/17 45N House, Wybunbury Lane, 2 S ta pe ley Land to rear of 144 Audlem 1 5/38 68N 10 4 Road, Nantwich No date set for Public Inquiry To t a ls 1 4 4 1 7 5 1 9 2 9 3

Grand total - excluding 3 3 8 a p p e a l a p p lic a ti o n s

Grand total - including 6 3 1 a p p e a l a p p lic a ti o n s

N o t e : Houses constructed as replacements for demolished houses are not included in the above. Status of housing development as at 1st March 2016

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Appendix 5. Local Housing Needs Assessment The Housing Needs Assessment Report can be downloaded from the Stapeley & District Parish Council website.

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Appendix 6. Projects to be carried forward into the Neighbourhood Plan Delivery Plan Project Responsibility Parish Council and Cheshire East Air Quality (monitor air quality) Highways

Litter/Dog Fouling (education and provision of more Parish Council bins)

Parish Council and Cheshire East Well Lit Streets Highways

CCTV (increased CCTV coverage) Parish Council

Traffic Congestion (reduce traffic congestion at peak Parish Council and Cheshire East times) Highways

High Speed Broadband Parish Council and BT Open reach

Parish Council and Cheshire East New Central Recreation Area Planning

Parish Council and Cheshire East Creation of Circular Footpaths Highways and Planning

Parish Council and Cheshire Wildlife Work with landowners to improve wildlife corridors Trust

Parish Council and Cheshire Wildlife Undertake Phase 1 Biodiversity surveys Trust

Parish Council and Clinical Availability and Accessibility of Health Services Plan Commissioning Group

These projects are not listed in order of priority. The order of completion will be determined by the finance available and community involvement. It is anticipated that some of these projects are initiated in the first 5 years of the Neighbourhood Plan. Volunteers to either lead, or take an active role in, any of these projects are warmly welcomed and encouraged.

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Appendix 7. Historic buildings in Stapeley and Batherton 7.1 National Heritage Grade II listed buildings in Stapeley:  Yewtree Farmhouse (List Entry Number 1330147), Annions Lane, Stapeley (SJ 68162 50168)  Haymoorgreen Farmhouse (LE No 1138555), Wybunbury Lane, Stapeley (SJ 67920 50874)  Stapeley [Old] Hall (LE No 1138553), 190 London Road, Stapeley (SJ 66984 50733)  Manor Farmhouse (LE No 1330148), Newcastle Road, Stapeley (SJ 67544 51727)  Stapeley House (LE No 1138552), London Road, Stapeley (SJ 67068 50470) and  Oakfield (LE No 1138554), Stapeley [Newmans Lane] Road, Stapeley (SJ 67526 49818).

7.2 National Heritage Grade II listed buildings in Batherton:

 Batherton Hall (LE No 1312824), Broad Lane, Batherton (SJ 65966 49866) and  Batherton Dairy House (LE No 1138572), Batherton Lane, Batherton (SJ 65684 50474)

7.3 Mileposts The Historic Milestone Database (accessed via the HE Gateway) shows 2 mileposts adjacent to Stapeley (opposite Greenfields, Hatherton and at Howbeck Farm, Wybunbury) as well as 2 mileposts in Stapeley itself:

 A cast iron post by the A51 south of Stapeley House, Stapeley (SJ67150 3) and  A cast iron post on the verge on the SW side of the A529 near the Batherton boundary, Stapeley (SJ 66721 49975)

7.4 National Record of the Historic Environment shows 4 records for Stapeley:  Monument No 72721, fragmentary earthwork remains of moat and site probably the site of the medieval Stapeley Hall, extant 1612 demolished 1810 (SJ 65 SE 7)  Monument No 8373550, late 17th century house, Broad Lane, Stapeley (SJ65 SE 34)  Monument No 873550, Double-ditched soil mark identified from air photography, Stapeley (SJ 65 SE 30)  Monument Yew Tree Farmhouse, a late 16th/early 17th century timber framed farmhouse with 18th century additions, Stapeley, (SJ 65 SE 45)

7.5 Cheshire HE record references:  Barton’s Cross (Monument SMR 189) mentioned in injunctions for Nantwich in 1538 and shown on a map of 1831 at the junction of London Road and Newcastle Road, Stapeley (SJ 65 SE) and  The find of a Roman coin of Constantine found in a garden in Stapeley (SJ 65 SE). Date 347 – 348 mint mark either Alexandria, Nicomedia or Antioch

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Appendix 8. Glossary Affordable Housing - Social rented, affordable rented and intermediate housing, provided to eligible households whose needs are not met by the market. Eligibility is determined with regard to local incomes and local house prices. Affordable housing should include provisions to remain at an affordable price for future eligible households or for the subsidy to be recycled for alternative affordable housing provision. Social rented housing is owned by local authorities and private registered providers (as defined in section 80 of the Housing and Regeneration Act 2008), for which guideline target rents are determined through the national rent regime. It may also be owned by other persons and provided under equivalent rental arrangements to the above, as agreed with the local authority or with the Homes and Communities Agency. Affordable rented housing is let by local authorities or private registered providers of social housing to households who are eligible for social rented housing. Affordable Rent is subject to rent controls that require a rent of no more than 80% of the local market rent (including service charges, where applicable). Intermediate housing is homes for sale and rent provided at a cost above social rent, but below market levels subject to the criteria in the Affordable Housing definition above. These can include shared equity (shared ownership and equity loans), other low cost homes for sale and intermediate rent, but not affordable rented housing. Homes that do not meet the above definition of affordable housing, such as “low cost market” housing, may not be considered as affordable housing for planning The sequence of allocating affordable housing will be to those with a local connection then to those in adjoining parishes and finally to the remaining Cheshire East area. Amenity – An element that contributes positively to the overall character or enjoyment of an area. Backland development - Development of 'landlocked' sites behind existing buildings, such as rear gardens and private open space, usually within predominantly residential areas. Such sites often have no street frontages. Biodiversity – A measure of the number and range of plants and animals and their relative abundance in a community. Brownfield Land – Previously developed land that is or was occupied by a permanent structure, including the curtilage of the developed land and any associated fixed surface infrastructure. Building for Life 12 – The industry standard endorsed by government for designing new homes in England, based on 12 key criteria. Cheshire East Council – The Local Authority for Stapeley and Batherton Code for Sustainable Homes – The Code for Sustainable Homes is the national standard for the sustainable design and construction of new homes. This is a voluntary national standard for

36 Stapeley & Batherton Neighbourhood Plan Appendices to Regulation 15 Consultation version 2.0 new homes. It assesses, rates and certifies the environmental performance of new homes on a scale of zero to six, with six being a design and construction that minimises environmental impact. Co-location – the building of new housing immediately adjacent to another new housing development within the Plan period 2015 – 2030. Community Facilities – Facilities providing for the health, welfare, social, educational, spiritual, leisure and cultural needs of the community. Community Infrastructure – The basic facilities, services and installations needed for the functioning of a community or society. It includes community buildings and halls, leisure facilities, cultural facilities, education services, and healthcare facilities. Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) – A charge allowing Local Authorities to raise funds from owners and developers of land who undertake new building projects in their area. Community Right to Build - The Community Right to Build gives groups of local people the power to deliver the development that their local community wants, with minimal red tape. Communities may wish to build new homes or new community amenities, and providing they can demonstrate overwhelming local support, the Community Right to Build will give Communities the powers to deliver this directly. Consultation Statement – A Consultation Statement accompanying the Neighbourhood Plan is required by the Localism Act. The Consultation Statement must explain how the community were consulted and how this informed the Neighbourhood Plan. Curtilage – The area of land, usually enclosed, immediately surrounding a dwelling house. Delivery Strategy – A document accompanying the Neighbourhood Plan that sets out a strategy for delivering and monitoring the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan. It includes the infrastructure and initiatives associated with the Plan area. This is a ‘live’ document that will be updated throughout the Plan period. Design and Access Statement – A report accompanying and supporting a planning application. The Local Planning Authority requires it for most development proposals apart from householder applications. These reports explain the design thinking behind a planning application. Development – Defined under the 1990 Town and Country Planning Act as the carrying out of building, engineering, mining or other operations in, on, over or under land, or the making of any material change in the use of any building or other land. Most forms of development require planning permission. Development Plan – A plan comprising the Development Plan Documents contained within the Local Development Framework. This includes adopted Local Plans and neighbourhood plans, and is defined in Section 38 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. Dwelling mix – The mix of different types of homes provided on a site. A mix may typically include a range of house types from 2 bedroom to 5 bedroom houses.

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Employment Land – Development of land for employment uses, public and community uses and main town centre uses (but excluding housing development). Evidence Base – The researched, documented, analysed and verified evidence for preparing the Neighbourhood Plan. It consists of many documents produced over a period of years by the Local Authority as part of the process of developing its Core Strategy. Evidence Base Summary – A document produced as part of the process of developing the Neighbourhood Plan. It supports the Plan by summing up the relevant Evidence Base and explaining how decisions were made as to where new development should be located in Stapeley and Batherton. Examination – An independent review of the Neighbourhood Plan carried out in public by an independent examiner. Exception Sites – see definition of Rural Exception Site. Green Corridors – Green spaces that provide avenues for wildlife movement, often along streams, rivers, hedgerows or other natural features. Green corridors connect green spaces together. Green Spaces – see Open Space. Greenfield – Land on which no development has previously taken place. Gross density – The number of dwellings per hectare when the calculation of the site area includes the whole site. Habitat Regulations - The European Union Habitat Directive aims to protect the wild plants, animals and habitats that make up our diverse natural environment. The directive created a network of protected areas around the European Union of national and international importance. The protected areas are called Natura 2000 sites. If a development is likely to affect a Natura 2000 site, an assessment under the Habitat Regulations is required. Independent Examiner – Anyone with appropriate qualifications and skills and who meets certain requirements set out in the Localism Act. This could be a planning consultant or other planning professional, an employee of another local authority or a planning inspector. Infill Development – Infilling is defined as the filling of a small gap (with up to 2 dwellings) in an otherwise built-up frontage in a recognised settlement. Infrastructure – All the ancillary works and services which are necessary to support human activities, including roads, sewers, schools, hospitals etc. Intermediate Housing – See definition under Affordable Housing. Lifetime Homes – The Lifetime Homes standard is a set of 16 design criteria that provide a model for building accessible and adaptable homes. Each design feature adds to the comfort and convenience of the home and supports the changing needs of individuals and families at different stages of their lives.

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Local Wildlife Sites – Sites with ‘substantive nature conservation value’, they are defined areas identified and selected locally for their nature conservation value based on important, distinctive and threatened habitats and species with a national, regional and local context. Local Development Document – An individual part, usually a plan, of the Local Development Framework. Local Development Framework – The portfolio of Local Development Documents. Localism Act – An Act of Parliament that became law in April 2012. The Act introduces a new right for local people to draw up ‘Neighbourhood Development Plans’ for their local area. Local Housing Needs – See Appendix 3 Local Plan - The plan for the future development of the local area, drawn up by the local planning authority in consultation with the community. In law this is described as the development plan documents adopted under the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. Current core strategies or other planning policies, which under the regulations would be considered to be development plan documents, form part of the Local Plan. The term includes old policies which have been saved under the 2004 Act. Low Cost Market Housing – Private sector housing that will be available to local residents who cannot afford to buy houses generally available in the open market. Market Housing – Properties for sale or rent where prices are set in the open market. Mixed use – Development where more than one use is proposed. A site could have houses, shops and community facilities for example. One building could be used for different purposes such as offices over shops. National Planning Policy Framework – The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published by the Government in March 2012. It sets out the Government’s Planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied. Neighbourhood Plan Group – A group of local people representing the Parish Council, community groups and businesses that informed and guide the work on the Stapeley and Batherton Neighbourhood Plan. Neighbourhood Plan – The full title in the Localism Act is ‘Neighbourhood Development Plan’. It is a plan document for a defined area subject to examination and approval by local referendum. It will be used in the determination of planning applications. NERC – Natural Environment Research Council Net Density – The number of dwellings per hectare when the calculation of the site area excludes features such as open space, landscape buffers and access roads.

New Homes Bonus - The New Homes Bonus is a grant paid by central government to local councils for increasing the number of homes and their use. The New Homes Bonus is paid each year for 6 years. It’s based on the amount of extra Council Tax revenue raised for new-build homes, conversions and long- term empty homes brought back into use. There is also an extra payment for providing affordable homes.

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Open Countryside –The area outside the settlement boundary. Open Space – All spaces of public value, including public landscaped areas, playing fields, parks and play areas and areas of water such as rivers, canals, lakes and reservoirs, which may offer opportunities for sport and recreation or act as a visual amenity and a haven for wildlife. Open Vista – A view into, out of or across the village of open countryside and the surrounding area. Plan Period – The period for which the Neighbourhood Plan will set policy for Stapeley and Batherton. This will be from the adoption of the Plan until 2030 by agreement between Parish Council and Cheshire East Council. Public Open Space – see Open Space above Referendum – A general vote by the electorate on a single policy question that has been referred to them for a direct decision. In the case of the Neighbourhood Plan, the referendum will decide whether or not to adopt the Plan. Registered Social Landlord – Independent housing organisation registered with the Tenant Services Authority under the Housing Act 1996. Independent not-for-profit housing providers, regulated by the government and also known as Housing Associations. They offer homes for rent or shared ownership for people in housing need. Residential Amenity – The quality of the living environment for occupants of a dwelling house including its associated external spaces Rural Exception Site – Small sites used for affordable housing in perpetuity where sites would not normally be used for housing. Rural exception sites seek to address the needs of the local community by accommodating households who are either current residents or have an existing family or employment connection. Small numbers of market homes may be allowed at the local authority’s discretion, for example where essential to enable the delivery of affordable units without grant funding. Section 106 Agreements - Planning obligations under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended), commonly known as 106 agreements, are a mechanism which make a development proposal acceptable in planning terms, that would not otherwise be acceptable. They are focused on site specific mitigation of the impact of development. S106 agreements are often referred to as 'developer contributions' along with highway contributions and the Community Infrastructure Levy. Settlement - Settlements may be defined as cities, towns, villages and small settlements. The precise definition of which category each settlement falls into, will be part of the development plan process for each locality. Settlement Boundary - This defines the limits of development and makes clear where development will and will not be allowed, regardless of other constraints. SSSI – Site of Special Scientific Interest.

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Sustainable Development - Resolution 42/187 of the United Nations General Assembly defined sustainable development as meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The UK Sustainable Development Strategy Securing the Future set out five ‘guiding principles’ of sustainable development: living within the planet’s environmental limits; ensuring a strong, healthy and just society; achieving a sustainable economy; promoting good governance; and using sound science responsibly. Sustainability Appraisal – A process of appraising policies for their social, economic and environmental effects, which must be applied to all Development Plan Documents. Strategic Environmental Assessment – Assessments made compulsory by a European Directive (the SEA Directive). They are to be implemented in planning through Sustainability Appraisals of Development Plan Documents and Neighbourhood Plans. Swales - Shallow broad and vegetated channels designed to store and/or convey runoff and remove pollutants. They can be designed to promote infiltration where soil and groundwater conditions allow. Transport Assessment – An assessment of the availability of, and levels of access to, all forms of transportation. In relation to a proposed development it identifies what measures will be required to improve accessibility and safety for all modes of travel particularly for alternatives to the car such as walking, cycling and public transport and what measures will need to be taken to deal with the anticipated impacts of the development. Use Classes – The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) Order 1987 (as amended) puts uses of land and buildings into various categories known as ‘Use Classes’. Wildlife Corridor – Strips of land, for example along a hedgerow, conserved and managed for wildlife, usually linking more extensive wildlife habitats. Windfall sites – Sites not allocated for development in the Neighbourhood Plan that unexpectedly come forward for development.

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