December 2010 Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016

Devon Strategic Partnership

South Hams District Council 2 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016

Contents

Chapter Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5 - 6 1 PUTTING THE PLAN TOGETHER 7 - 9

1.1 Partners to the Plan 7

1.2 Geographical Area 7

1.3 Period Covered 8

1.4 The Development of the Plan 8

1.5 Sources of Evidence 8

1.6 Neighbours 8

1.7 Plan Structure 9 2 WHAT WE WANT TO ACHIEVE: 10

The Vision And High Level Outcomes 10 3 THE DEVON CONTEXT AND CHALLENGES 11 - 16

3.1 Key Challenges 11

3.2 The Place 11

3.3 The Key Facts 13

3.4 Political and Administrative arrangements 16

3.5 Strategic Housing Market Areas 16

3.6 Economic Partnership Arrangements 16 4 DETERMINING INVESTMENT PRIORITIES (2011-2015) 17 - 18

4.1 Strategic Investment Priorities 17

4.2 The Schedule of Affordable Housing Schemes 17

4.3 Process for Determining Short-Term Investment priorities for Affordable 17 Housing

4.4 Process for Determining Short-Term Investment priorities for Economic 18 Development

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 3 Chapter Page 5 2011-15 LOCAL HOUSING, EMPLOYMENT AND 19 - 28 INFRASTRUCTURE PRIORITIES

5.1 The Affordable Housing Programme

5.2 Economic Development and Infrastructure Priorities 6 CROSS CUTTING ECONOMIC PRIORITIES 29 - 31

6.1 Increasing Access to Broadband, Telephony and Mobile Connectivity 29

6.2 Work and Skills 30

6.3 The Low Carbon Economy 31 7 THEMATIC HOUSING PRIORITIES 32 - 35

7.1 Theme one: increasing the Supply of Rural Affordable Housing 33

7.2 theme two: housing for older people 33

7.3 Theme three: housing for vulnerable people 33

7.4 Theme four: improving the standard of existing private sector housing 34 8 EQUALITIES 36 9 RISKS 37 10 THE WAY FORWARD 38

10.1 Evaluating and Monitoring the Plan

10.2 Consultation and Engagement APPENDICES (Part 2)

1: Profile of the Devon Investment Plan Area (Devonomics Table).

2: Local Context

3: Dividing the HCA Investment Pot

4: Strategic Investment Priorities by Local Authority 2011 -2015

5: Summary of Deliverable Housing Schemes 2011 -2015 (Urban)

6: Summary of Deliverable Housing Schemes 2011 -2015 (Rural)

7: Status of LDF Plans.

8: Risk Log

4 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016

Executive summary

This Investment Plan sets out the critical short term, affordable housing investment requirements for the Devon Investment Plan area. The requirements are set within the wider context of the critical economic development investment needs of the area.

The Plan is not new in that it brings together key aspects of existing documents and strategies that have already been subject to extensive stakeholder consultation such as Local Development Frameworks, Sustainable Community Strategies and local housing and economic development strategies.

Recent Comprehensive Spending Review announcements have set out the most challenging agenda for change in a generation. To address these challenges public bodies and their delivery partners will need to work together to develop a joint understanding of how these challenges can be tackled.

This Plan provides a starting point for addressing some of the investment issues confronting Partners by setting out a baseline of critical investment needs and the longer term vision for the Devon Investment Plan area. This first version of the Plan is intended to start to inform discussions about priorities for investment; the timing of that investment; our understanding of the synergies between different forms of investment and how that investment can achieve the best outcomes for our communities.

Detailed proposals will evolve and will be updated in future versions of the Plan. As a ‘live’ document the Plan needs to be able to respond to opportunities and challenges that emerge during the period of the Plan. This includes Partners’ response to the Comprehensive Spending Review challenges. As policy detail emerges from the government Partners will be working together to develop their responses. It is anticipated that these responses will be set out in a second edition of this Plan during the first half of 2011/12.

The next version of the Plan will address lessons learnt from this first version, including feedback from the HCA peer review process and from Registered Providers.

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 5 Key areas of work likely to be addressed in future versions of this Plan include:

„„ Future governance arrangements.

„„ How priorities for development should be agreed in the future.

„„ A better understanding of how local rental markets work across the LIP area and the rent levels that the local markets can tolerate.

„„ The impact of the new affordable rent product, new homes bonus and institutional borrowing by Registered Providers on Partners’ capacity to develop new homes.

„„ The implications of new tenure on waiting lists and nomination arrangements.

„„ The impact of changes on households and demands for services.

„„ The potential for future regional growth fund bids.

„„ Arrangements for a on-going dialogue between Local Authorities, Providers and the HCA as the CSR changes are implemented

„„ Programme Management arrangements for Affordable Housing, when more is known about proposals for future working of the Homes and Communities Agency, Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) and Partner organisations own organisational plans.

Partners across the county of Devon have a strong starting point, as they already have a strong track record of working together to improve its economy and its housing, whether through the Devon Strategic Partnership, the Devon Economic Partnership, the Devon Planning Officers Group, the Devon Strategic Housing Group and its delivery groups or the Devon Private Sector Housing Group. Many of these partnerships extend beyond the Devon Investment Plan area to include the areas covered by the Exe Authorities Investment Plan, Plymouth and Torbay. This has the potential to provide an important mechanism for ensuring the four separate Investment Plans for the geographical area of Devon reflect the priorities for the sub-region as well as the individual localities.

6 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Chapter one: putting the plan together

1.1 Partners to the plan 1.2 Geographical area

The core strategic partners to this Plan are: Devon The areas covered by the Plan are shown in Fig 1 Strategic Partnership, Mid Devon District Council, by the light and dark green areas North Devon District Council, South Hams District Council, Torridge District Council, West Devon Borough Councils, Exmoor and Dartmoor National Park Authorities, Devon County Council and The Homes and Communities Agency. Representatives from the planning and housing departments of these partners have formed the Steering Group responsible for putting this plan together.

Local Investment Plans (LIP)

Devon LIP

Exe Authorities West Somerset Sedg

North Devon Plymouth Taunton Torbay South Somerset Torridge Mid Devon

East Devon West Dorset Exeter

Cornwall West Devon Teignbridge

Cornwall Torbay Housing Market Areas Plymouth South Hams Northern Peninusla

Exeter and Torbay

Plymouth

Fig 1. Local investment Plan Areas in the Geographical County of Devon

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 7 1.3 Period covered 1.5 The sources of evidence

The first version of this Plan focuses on the This Plan is sourced from a range of documents. period 2011/12 – 2015/16 with particular The Plan itself is neither a statutory nor a legal emphasis on the 4 year programme for the document. The documents informing the Plan are Homes and Communities Agency for 2011- referenced in footnotes throughout the document. 2015. It is recognised that there is likely to be Key sources include; a significant shift over this period in the HCA’s „ approach to investment. Partners’ response to „ Local Development Framework 1 such shifts will be dealt with in future versions Documents of this Plan. „„ Local Economic Strategies and Papers2

„„ The Local Housing Strategies and 1.4 The development of Economic Development Plans of the the plan Partner Authorities. „„ The Local Economic Assessment Report ‘Devonomics’ Consultation Draft August The Plan is not new in that it brings together 20103 key aspects of existing documents and strategies that have already been subject to extensive stakeholder consultation within 1.6 Neighbours each locality. As the Plan has developed each Partner Local Authority has been responsible for briefing its Members and Local Strategic The Exe Authorities, Plymouth and Partnership. The National Housing Federation nominated a Registered Provider representative Torbay Investment Plans for the Investment Plan Steering Group who has been responsible for feeding back progress Devon has four investment plan areas. It is on the Plan’s development to the Housing therefore important to ensure that there is Association sector. consistency between the four Plans, that the necessary strategic links are in place and that there is a balance of investment across the county of Devon that supports Devon’s overall economic growth and prosperity.

1 The starting point for this Plan has been the adopted and emerging Local Development Framework documents and the associated infrastructure planning documents and County Structure Plan (adopted 2004) developed with Devon County Council. The Partner Authorities are at different stages in the development of their statutory plans as shown in Appendix 7. This means that the level of detail available for different areas within the Plan may differ. 2 Key Source documents; • Infrastructure Planning Documents • Devon Economic Strategy. www.devoneconomy.co.uk and www.devon.gov.uk/devoneconomicstrategy.pdf • Functional Economic Market Areas. Devon Analysis 2 July 2010 • The Work and Skills Analysis 2010 for Exeter Heart of Devon, Northern Devon, Plymouth and Torbay. Produced by SLIM for productive Skills for Devon, and the Local Employment and Skills Boards (LESBs). • Pan Devon ESBs: Work and Skills Priorities November 2010. PSfD. • Employment and skills needs in Growth Points& Emerging Industries Research Phase 2: PSP Model. SLIM & Transform Research. September 2010. 3 The Devon Local Economic Assessment consultation draft ‘Devonomics’ which is web based A range of supporting documents can be downloaded from this site. The ‘Devonomics’ evidence is based on the whole county of Devon rather than the further sub-division into the Devon Investment Plan Authorities Area and Exe Authorities Area. Unless specifically stated much of the contextual data provided is for the whole County of Devon.

8 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 1.7 Summary of plan structure

Fig 2. Summary of Plan Structure

‘To achieve sustainable and inclusive growth in Devon through the development of clear priorities for investment Our Vision into housing, economic development and infrastructure’

Sustainable Increase Improve Improve the Regenerate Support communities the supply housing condition our priority vulnerable What we & the of housing affordability of existing communities clients want to sustainable & jobs housing and reduce community stock deprivation achieve infrastructure The Devon The Economy. The People. The Housing. The Place. The Institutions & Partnerships Context

1. To stimulate and support the economic recovery of the area.

2. Delivering sustainable communities not just housing growth.

3. Providing access to Affordable Housing (new and existing stock). 4. Responding to a significant increase in population size and in household numbers. The 5. Responding to the needs of an ageing population. Challenges

6. Addressing the differences in the quality of life across Devon.

7. Managing growth and protecting our natural and built environmental.

8. Delivering positive contributions to carbon reduction. Local Mid Devon North Devon South Hams Torridge West Devon Context & Priorities

1. Increasing Access to Broadband, Telephony and Mobile Connectivity. Cross- cutting 2. Work and Skills. Economic 3. The Low Carbon Economy. Priorities

1. Increasing the Supply of Rural Affordable Housing. Thematic 2. Housing for Older People. Housing 3. Housing for Vulnerable People. Priorities 4. Existing Private Sector Housing.

Equalities Equalities Way Monitoring, Evaluation and Review Arrangements Forward

Managing the Risks Risks

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 9 Chapter two: what we want to achieve Vision and high level outcomes

The Vision

The vision of this Plan is; ‘To achieve sustainable and inclusive growth in Devon through the development of clear priorities for investment into housing, economic development and infrastructure’

The Plan sets out Partners’ priorities for housing and economic development investment within their locality, as well as cross-cutting economic priorities and thematic housing investment priorities for the whole Investment Plan area. The High Level Outcomes

The six high level outcomes this Plan seeks to achieve are to:

1. Deliver sustainable communities.

2. Increase the supply of housing and jobs.

3. Improve housing affordability in urban and rural areas.

4. Improve the condition of existing housing stock.

5. Regenerate our priority communities and reduce deprivation.

6. Support vulnerable clients.

10 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Chapter three: the investment plan area context and challenges

Fig 2. Minehead Ilfracombe

Barnstaple

A377 A361 Taunton Bideford A39 South Molton Great Torrington M5 A386 Tiverton

A377 Cullompton Holsworthy Honiton A30 Crediton M5 Axminster A35 A30 Okehampton Exeter Ottery A30 St. Mary

A30 Sidmouth Exmouth Launceston A386

A380 Teignmouth A38 Tavistock A386 Major Roads Newton Abbot Torquay Local Authority Boundaries A380

A385 Paignton Plymouth Ivybridge Totnes A38 Devon

Sherford Dartmouth Dartmoor National Park Kingsbridge

Exmoor National Park

3.1 The key challenges 6. Address the differences in the quality of life across Devon. The key challenges for the Devon Investment Plan 7. Manage growth and protecting our natural and Area are to; built environment. 1. Stimulate and support the economic recovery 8. Delivering positive contributions to carbon of the area. reduction. 2. Deliver sustainable communities not just housing growth. 3.2 The place 3. Provide access to Affordable Housing (in both new and existing stock). While much of the geographical area covered by the Devon Investment Plan is predominantly rural 4. Respond to a significant increase in population in character, it includes a number of important size and in household numbers. settlements and market towns that play a key role 5. Respond to the needs of an ageing population. in meeting the needs of the community.

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 11 Plymouth Regional Centre key economic and social focal point for a large part of northern Devon, and in performing this role The Devon Investment Plan Area is adjacent to it has important links to the major market town of both the Plymouth and Torbay Investment Plan Bideford. areas, and, more specifically, the western part of The growth point developments planned for South Hams District includes major development Northern Devon peninsula were due to provide areas (at Sherford and Langage) that relate closely 21,600 new homes and 13,000 new jobs in the to the strategic development of the Plymouth area over the period up to 2026. Post RSS it is urban area in its role as a . major Regional Centre likely that the new homes figure will reduce to the Investment in this area directly contributes to region of 17,000 homes, although the 13,000 new realising the economic potential of the Plymouth jobs forecast will remain. The most significant and South Hams area and in meeting the areas’ employment opportunities are to be generated wider housing needs. in the Barnstaple, Bideford, Holsworthy and Ilfracombe areas. As well as managing growth Langage Energy Park and Sherford the North Devon growth point has significant regeneration requirements. New Community4 Investment in this area is critical to the Langage Energy Park is a key strategic employment site within the sub-region. It is economic well being of the northern important to both Plymouth and South Hams Devon area and securing the strategic District. housing needs associated with that ‘The Langage area contains some of economic role. the greatest development potential as an employment site and provides The Market and Coastal Towns one of the key locations….for the The Investment area also includes a number attraction of high value added inward of important market towns that either act as a focus for associated rural hinterlands, or, in the 5 investment.’ case of Ilfracombe, have developed as significant coastal resorts. These towns vary in size from The strategic proposal for a new community is for major centres, such as Tiverton, to smaller local approximately 4,000 dwellings by 2016 and further market towns, but they are important centres of growth to 5,500 dwellings by 2026. The strategic population, local housing, employment opportunity context for Sherford is largely geared towards and community facilities. meeting the needs of the Plymouth sub-region, particularly the high levels of need for affordable The market and coastal towns perform a housing. critical role in meeting the needs of the area. They provide a framework for the provision of Sherford is important in addressing sub-regional sustainable development at the local level – housing needs. It is therefore important that both offering access to housing, employment, education the Devon and Plymouth Investment Plans6 set and other facilities. These towns play a key role in out the cross boundary investment priorities. Mid Devon (Tiverton, Cullompton, Crediton), South Public, as well as developer, funding is required to Hams (Totnes, Kingsbridge, Ivybridge, Dartmouth), bring forward the necessary highway and public West Devon (Okehampton, Tavistock), Torridge transport provisions. (Torrington, Holsworthy) and North Devon (Ilfracombe, South Molton). Barnstaple Sub Regional Centre Economic growth and the provision of accessible In the north of the Investment Plan area, housing in these towns will therefore be Barnstaple is a sub regional centre which is a fundamental elements of the investment plans for the rest of Devon area.

4 See Appendix 2 5 Plymouth – Draft. Work and Skills Analysis. May 2010. SLIM. Productive Skills for Devon and Plymouth Employment and Skills Board 6 http://www.plymouth.gov.uk/mgInternet/mgConvert2PDF.aspx?ID=23381

12 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 The Rural Areas Planning Authority for the area. Exmoor National Park Authority has an adopted Local Plan and Outside of these towns, a significant proportion work is underway on Core Strategy/Development of the area’s population live and work in the more Policies Development Plan Documents. The rural areas including local centres and villages. economic profile of both Parks is summarised in These rural areas have important economic, social the Devonomics Consultation document. and housing characteristics that the Investment Plan will need to address. Within the rural areas, 7 some villages provide a range of essential facilities 3.3 The key facts and a level of accessibility that offer the opportunity for smaller scale sustainable development and The key features of the Devon Investment Plan investment that, cumulatively, can play a real role in economy and its housing market are summarised meeting the needs of the wider area. in this Chapter. A table containing some of the key data from the Devon Local Economic Assessment While the needs of the rural areas are sometimes (Devonomics) used is set out in Appendix 1. of a lesser scale than those of the main towns and Additional information on the local context and the urban areas, by their nature they are often more challenges facing each of the five Local Authority difficult to address through the normal housing areas and the National Parks is set out in Appendix 2. market and can have a more fundamental impact on the local community. Where information relates to the Devon Investment Plan area this is referred to as the ‘DIP area’, The Environment where information relates to the administrative county of Devon this is referred to as the ‘county The environment of the Devon Investment Plan of Devon’ and where information covers the whole area is of high quality with many special landscape geographical county of Devon (including Plymouth designations, including two National Parks, a and Torbay) this is simply referred to as ‘Devon’. World Heritage Biosphere Reserve in North Devon and four Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The People Managing growth while preserving Devon’s unique environment presents a significant challenge. The 49.2% (371,000) of the population quality of Devon’s environment is vital in its wealth of the county of Devon live in the creation whether through its natural resources and expanding renewable energy sector, its world class DIP area. 54% of the 371,000 live in landscapes and the tourists it attracts or through towns and the rest in rural areas.8 its agricultural traditions and the quality food and drink produced in the area. The coast also plays an important role in shaping locally distinctive „„ The population is increasing rapidly; communities and economies. Between 1998 and 2008 the DIP area Dartmoor includes substantial parts of Teignbridge, population increased by10.02%.9 Double South Hams and West Devon along with a very the national rate. small part of Mid Devon and is home to over 33,000 „„ The population is ageing and the number people. The Dartmoor National Park Authority is of young people is in decline10. the Planning Authority for the area and its Core Strategy was adopted in 2008. Exmoor straddles „„ Some areas have a projected reduction, both Somerset and Devon with 29% of its area or stand still, in working age population located in North Devon, it has a population of nearly between 2006 and 2016 e.g. North 11,000, 25% of whom live in the part within North Devon (-5.5%) and South Hams (0%)11 Devon. The Exmoor National Park Authority is the

7 The key facts about the county of Devon’s people, the place, its economy and its housing are summarised in Appendix 1. This is drawn from ‘Devonomics’ the Devon Local Economic Assessment and supplemented by work from recent work by Devon’s Learning, Employment and Skills Boards. 8 Based on 2008 population data for people living in towns below 10,000 and above 10,000. 9 There are slightly more deaths than births and change is driven by in-migration. Net migration into the county between 1998 and 2008 was 85,700. The largest number of people moving to Devon are middle aged who bring their children with them. 10 In 2008 the DIP authorities had 77,900 people aged 65 plus which is 21% of the total population. This compares to the national average of 16.2%. There is a significant projected growth in people aged 65 and over. 11 Appendix 1

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 13 The Economy 47% (£5503m) of all economic contributions within the county of Devon are generated within the DIP area i.e. within the rural economy.

„„ Competitiveness. Gross Vale Added (GVA) per employee is substantially lower than the national or regional averages12.

„„ Employment

„„ 44% (129,219) of jobs in the county of Devon are in the Devon Investment Plan area.

„„ Almost one-third of employment in county of Devon is in the public sector.

„„ A higher proportion of self employed, women and part-time employees (almost 13% compared to 9% for Great Britain).

„„ The county of Devon has high rates of self-employment.

„„ Employment growth has not increased at the same pace as population growth in some parts of the DIP area, for example Torridge.

„„ Unemployment has been lower than the national average13

„„ Skills and Learning14 Although people are generally well qualified compared with the national average there are still 39,330 people with no formal qualification.Anecdotal evidence suggests skilled people can also be under-utilised.

„„ Low Average Wages. Average wages are £61 below the national average. Gross weekly pay is just £430 compared to £460 for the South West (SW) and £491 for Great Britain (GB).

„„ Economic Sectors. The county of Devon is characterised by many small businesses15 and has four times more agricultural activity and twice as many Tourism businesses than the national average.

„„ Economy and Infrastructure. Access to high capacity broadband is regarded to be a major constraint in much of the rural county of Devon.

„„ Recession. Monthly briefings on the county of Devon’s economy are provided by Devon County Council on the Devonomics website.16 ‘The September 2010 Monthly Briefing on the county of Devon’s economy reports that ‘ The Devon economy continues to withstand the economic situation with some degree of resilience…’

12 Devonomics. In 2008 output per worker was around 73% of the national average although this does not adjust for the higher proportion of part- time workers in Devon 13 Although from a relatively low base unemployment rates doubled during the worse period of the recession. While there has been a net increase in unemployment increases have been most severe in North Devon, West Devon and Teignbridge. The county of Devon’s claimant JSA count increased by 131% between June 2008 and June 2009 compared with 87% nationally and 130% within the former SW region. 14 Torridge district has an average of 16.7% of its population with no qualifications, the highest in the region; which is similar to Plymouth (10.2%) and Cornwall (10.1%). The highest skilled district is South Hams, with over a third (35.6%) having NVQ4+; both South Hams and neighbouring Teignbridge and Exeter have >50% with NVQ3+. 15 Over a quarter of all businesses are not registered to pay VAT or employ staff. 16 http://www.devonomics.info/monthly-briefings

14 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Housing17

„„ High House Prices. Devon is unique nationally in having high house prices coupled with low wages. In the county of Devon in 2008 the average house price was £238,384. This is higher than in both the South West and UK.

„„ Affordability18. The house price earnings ratios for all of the Local Authority areas are above the average for England (6.3) and above that for the South West (7.6).

„„ Demand and Need. Devon Home Choice was introduced from January 2010. Devon Home Choice is one of the largest partnerships of local authorities and housing associations working together to allocate homes in the same way. In August 2010 over 31,500 people were registered on Devon Home Choice for social rented housing in Devon. The first six months monitoring data shows that of the 20,751 households registered for social rented housing19 in the county of Devon. Prospects for the 15,172 households in bands D and E are bleak with only 300 households from these 2 bands being housed up until 31 August (1.5% of the total number of households in the 2 bands).

„„ Across the county of Devon, there are low levels of both local authority housing stock and stock owned by Registered Social Landlords and because of this demand for social housing is high.

Private Sector Housing20

Much of the housing stock in the county of Devon is older and in need of updating. In addition to this, private rented sector stock tends to be more expensive, of poorer condition and lower energy efficiency.It is older people who often live in the poorest housing with the greater risk to health. There is a strong link between the condition of existing housing, high levels of fuel poverty and the county of Devon’s low carbon strategies to improve energy efficiency see Chapter 6 ‘The Low Carbon Economy’. „„ A high percentage of Private Sector Housing stock.

„„ The percentage of private sector dwellings is higher in Devon, Plymouth and Torbay than the average across the south west and for England as a whole.

„„ A high percentage of privately owned housing (89%).

„„ A high numbers of dwellings failing the decency standard. Thermal Comfort is the most frequent reason for a home to fail the decency standard in the county of Devon.

„„ Energy efficiency and fuel poverty21: The county of Devon has a high proportion of properties built before 1919 and which are likely to be the hardest to heat.

„„ Empty homes. Across Devon there are 5378 privately owned properties empty for longer than 6 months (DCLG 2008).

17 See Appendix 1 18 Lower quartile house price to earnings ratio. See Appendix 1 for all DIP affordability ratios. 19 At present, Devon Home Choice does not include applicants for Shared Ownership or intermediate housing. 20 References and further information • The Condition of the Private Sector Housing Stock in the South West Region • Report for the South West Regional Assembly March 2009 • Devon Affordable Warmth Strategy and Action Plan 2010 • Devon Health profiles www.healthprofiles.info • Devon state of the market report April - June 2009 21 Devon Affordable Warmth Strategy and action plan

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 15 3.4 Political and 1. achieving sustained investment in business infrastructure and

administrative arrangements 2. communications;

3. tackling worklessness and economic Devon has a complex institutional structure exclusion; with the two unitary authorities of Plymouth and Torbay, and the rest of Devon covered by a two 4. providing co-ordinated support to unlock the tier structure made up of Devon County Council, economic potential of our most seven Districts or Boroughs and Exeter City Council. 5. disadvantaged communities; 6. developing and harnessing skills to achieve a 3.5 Strategic housing market competitive economy; 7. encouraging business start-up & growth by areas promoting enterprise and

There are 3 Strategic Housing Market Areas 8. improving productivity through promotion of each with a completed Strategic Housing Market innovation & development of the knowledge Assessment (SHMA). The areas are shown on economy; Fig 1 (see page 7); some of these Housing Market 9. developing Devon as England’s “greenest Areas extend outside of Devon’s boundaries. county”. Copies of the SHMA are available on Local Authority websites as part of the Forward Planning The Devon Economic Partnership currently evidence base. operates through seven operation groups26 and delivers it objectives through five key initiatives27. The three Strategic Housing Market Areas (SHMA) are, Northern Peninsula22, Plymouth23 and the There four Local Employment and Skills Boards Exeter and Torbay HMA24. (LESB) which cover the DIP area.28 The LESB have commissioned the work and skills analysis which inform strategies to improve skills across 3.6 Economic partnership geographical Devon, especially in priority sectors. arrangements Devon County Council has led on the development of the Local Economic Assessment called ‘Devonomics’ which is at consultation draft There is an overarching Devon Economic stage and which is the main evidence base for Partnership and Strategy and Economic Delivery describing the context to the Plan29. Plan25. The Devon Economic Strategy (DES) identifies six strategic priorities: Devon County Council, alongside the Devon Economic Partnership, is leading in promoting Devon’s high speed, efficient broadband connectivity needs30, employment space strategy31 and the Low Carbon strategies32.

22 http://www.northdevon.gov.uk/strategic_housing_market_assessment_for_the_northern_peninsula.pdf and http://www.torridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=2281 23 http://www.southhams.gov.uk/executive_summary_-_dca.pdf www.westdevon.gov.uk 24 www.middevon.gov.uk 25 http://www.devoneconomy.co.uk/home 26 Infrastructure Delivery Group; Productive Skills 4Devon; Devon Worklessness Forum; Team Devon; DEP Executive Group; LAA Coordination and PS4D Research Steering Group 27 Invest Devon. Live Devon. Visit Devon. Team Devon. Devon Brand. 28 Northern Devon ESB, Exeter and the Heart of Devon ESB, Torbay and South Devon ESB and Plymouth ESB. 29 http://www.devonomics.info/ 30 ‘Connecting Devon’ the emerging strategy, is likely to be in press late 2010/11 31 Devon Employment Space Strategy 2009-26. http://www.devoneconomy.co.uk/home 32 http://www.devoneconomy.co.uk/home

16 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Chapter four: determining investment priorities

investment. Many of these schemes will already be 4.1 Strategic investment at an advanced stage within the delivery pipeline, priorities particularly schemes identified in years 1 and 2 of the programme. In some cases they are sites identified from an earlier Local Plan rather then the A summary of the strategic investment priorities emerging LDF. is set out in Appendix 2 ‘Strategic Priorities 2011-2016’. These are based on Partners’ Local As stated previously, the strategic priorities are Development Framework adopted or emerging drawn from Local Authority partners’ adopted core strategies. Each Partner Authority is at a or emerging Local Development Frameworks. different stage with their core strategy. This does However, in many localities, current economic affect the level of detail and certainty provided conditions have delayed sites coming forward and by different Partners within the Plan area. It is are making it more difficult to accurately assess the anticipated that the regular Investment Plan timescale for bringing forward many of these sites. updates will reflect progress with core strategies It is therefore anticipated that, if not included in the and other LDF strategies and documents.33 programme, these sites will be brought into the programme as it is reviewed and refreshed, subject In this first version of the Devon Investment Plan to investment availability and relative priority. the focus is on critical34 investment in the economy and housing, and the critical infrastructure required to bring forward priority schemes. 4.3 Process for Determining Short-Term (2011-2015) 4.2 The schedule of Investment Priorities for affordable housing schemes Affordable Housing (Table 2 & Appendix 5) The proposal is for the total affordable housing investment pot for the Devon Investment Plan In addition to the strategic investment priorities Area to be apportioned between each of the 5 a short-list of the priority affordable housing Local Authority Partners in accordance with an schemes is set out in Table 2 & Appendix 5. This agreed process set out in Appendix 3 based on ‘short-list’ may differ from the strategic priorities population size, household numbers, housing for housing as determined by the emerging LDFs growth requirements and levels of deprivation. It is (Appendix 4) due to ‘lag’ effect in bringing forward important to note that it is likely that this proposal the LDF priorities in the current economic climate. will need to be reviewed once we have more clarity The schedule of deliverable, priority schemes is as to the detailed workings of the new funding based on a Local Authority assessment of the regime for new affordable housing as set out in the strategic fit and deliverability of these schemes. consultation paper ‘Local decisions: a fairer future Schemes included have been assessed as being for social housing.’ deliverable in the next 4 years and requiring public

33 See Appendix 7 ‘Status of LDF Plans October 2010’ 34 The term ‘critical’ is taken from the county of Devon Infrastructure planning processes and reports. This Plan focuses on ‘Critical’ investment and has not included ‘Essential’ and ‘Necessary’ infrastructure in this version of the Plan.

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 17 Each Local Authority Partner has reviewed all the „„ Nil grant schemes will be monitored to affordable housing schemes currently projected develop Partners’ understanding of how to come forward in their local area over the next to improve value for money in order to 4 years, including Gypsy and Traveller Pitches35. develop more consistent approaches to Each affordable housing scheme has been recording affordable housing delivered assessed for its strategic fit and deliverability. without grant. This initial assessment has identified the short „ list of ‘technical investment priorities’ set out in „ Partners will not be promoting schemes Appendices 5 and 6. that are not sustainable. It is expected that all the schemes as presented will When the funding availability is clarified Council meet relevant HCA minimum Design and Members within each locality will determine the Quality Standards. final priorities for their area. „„ Supported Housing will need to have The Devon Investment Plan Affordable Housing secured Supporting People funding or have Programme will be made up of 3 elements: a secure alternative revenue funding stream.

„„ The provision for sub-regional strategic growth at Sherford. 4.4 Process for Determining „„ A ‘Programme’ of schemes in settlements of more than 3000 population, and Short-Term (2011 -2015)

„„ A ‘Rural Programme’ for schemes in Investment Priorities for small, rural settlements of less than 3000 population. Economic Development

The Programme will be managed in accordance The local economic development priorities in with Programme Management arrangements Table 3 page 24, and the ‘Cross Cutting Economic set up by the Partner Local Authorities. This will Priorities’ in Chapter 6, reflect the work of the include regular scheme reviews as schemes partners of the Devon Economic Partnership and progress through the development pipeline. are linked to Partner Authorities’ Local Development Detailed arrangements for the Programme Plans, the Devon Economic Partnership strategies Management will be finalised by Partners before and projects and local initiatives. 31 March 2011. The Employment Land identified in the local economic Assumptions development priorities are those sites identified within adopted or emerging LDFs and determined as a short Each Local Authority will aim to maximise and ‘stretch’ term strategic priority within Devon’s Employment funding by a range of actions to improve value for Space Strategy37. Market conditions make it difficult money (vfm) within their authority. These opportunities to assess whether these sites will be brought will be reviewed as the detail of government policy forward within the Plan period and whether public emerges over the next few months. funds will be required to unlock the sites. Many sites included within this Plan are likely to need some For example: public investment in order to bring them forward. „„ On s106 sites Partners will be working Often there is no private sector investment market towards maximising delivery of dwellings for workspaces in Devon’s smaller towns and public without grant funding/public investment. sector intervention is needed. As part of this drive all Partners will be working to establish the ‘nil grant’ position on all s106 schemes (Urban and Rural) as part of the detailed viability assessment process. ‘Nil Grant’ policies will be mindful of the required HCA Design and Quality Standards36.

35 Devon wide Gypsy and Traveller Housing Need Survey. November 2006. 36 This means that affordable homes built without grant can still meet grant requirements if required at a later stage. 37 www.devoneconomy.co.uk

18 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Chapter five: 2011 – 2015 affordable housing programme38

Summary of Affordable Housing appendix as it contains sensitive commercial information. A summary of the schedule is Investment Requirements 2011 – 2015 included in Appendix 5 and the total investment requirements shown in Table 1 below. The 39 Partner Local Authorities have submitted, to the ‘schedule’ is based on knowledge of schemes at HCA, a detailed spreadsheet or ‘schedule’ of all the time this Plan was finalised. affordable housing schemes in the development pipeline for the period 2011 -2015. This includes Following the Comprehensive Spending Review schemes that have a strong strategic fit and for actual investment available is likely to be 2011/12 and 2012/13 schemes with a high scoring significantly less than investment needed, even for deliverability. In this version of the Plan, the for critical priorities. When the actual levels of schedule of schemes does not take account investment availability are known, further of actual investment available rather it sets out prioritisation will be required by each Local what is a strategic priority, is in the pipeline and Authority. is deliverable. The full schedule is a confidential

Table 1: Total Number of Homes Requiring Investment

Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Total % Urban (inc. Sherford) 497 581 441 309 1822 74% Extra Care Units - 50 100 100 250 Rural 274 118 192 115 733 26% Sub-Total 771 749 683 524 2805 100% Sherford New Community40 - - - - 120 - TOTAL 2925

38 Based on an assessment of project deliverability and subject to viability assessments and funding availability 39 Appendix 4. Partners LA; Mid Devon DC, North Devon DC, South Hams, Torridge DC, West Devon, Devon County Council and the two National Park Planning Authorities(Exmoor and Dartmoor) 40 Subject to Sherford Phasing

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 19 Programme Management and Capacity

Having prioritised investment requirements, Partners will need to review their options for ‘stretching’ the investment and put in place arrangements for managing the Programme.

Programme management arrangements will be finalised once greater clarity has been obtained on;

„„ How the investment process will be managed by the HCA, and

„„ The outcome of discussions between the HCA and local Registered Providers relating to the emerging Framework Agreement and the Affordable Rent Model41.

At a minimum programme management arrangements will need to include a regular performance review including scheme progress, project deliverability and draw down of investment. There is also potential for sharing details of good practice in ‘stretching’ investment and improving procurement efficiencies. There may be potential for some delegation of HCA functions but this will need a full assessment of resources needed and an assessment of the most cost effective way forward. This will be dealt with in future versions of the Plan.

Where additional capacity is needed for master- planning work on strategic sites this has been identified in Table 2.

41 Local Decisions: a fairer future for social housing consultation. Annex. Page 56. November 2010.

20 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Table 2. Local Authority Affordable Housing Investment and Master-Planning Requirements 2011 – 2015

Deliverable Affordable Housing Projects (subject to funding) 2011-15 Urban Affordable Urban Homes Affordable Rural Homes Extra Care Housing TOTAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING Master-planning Needed

120 - - 120 £5.3 m over 4 years

A further 120 required to be funded from the Plymouth Local Investment Plan Sherford

372 61 50 483 Crediton Station Approach and Phase 1 on s106 site  Cullompton Phase 1, 2, 3 and 4  Tiverton  • Belmont Hospital sites • Town Hall site • Tumbling Fields • Oakfields • Farleigh Meadows Mid Devon • Eastern Extension Phase 1 (2014/15) A 50 bed extra care housing scheme at Tiverton Other A pipeline of approximately 61 rural, affordable homes across the District 408 126 - 534 Barnstaple (inc. Fremington) • Series of smaller s106 sites (Bear St, Long Meadow Drive, Tolgate, Bynsworthy Lodge, Wilkey Close, Gorwell, Anchorwood Bank) • Transco/National Grid site • North Devon Hospital • The Green, Fremington • North Devon Homes PRC. Phasing to be agreed Ilfracombe • Colossus Hotel • Chambercombe

North Devon • Greenways South Molton • Adaptacar site Other • South Street, Braunton Other • A pipeline of approximately 126 rural, affordable homes across the District

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 21 Deliverable Affordable Housing Projects (subject to funding) 2011-15 Urban Affordable Urban Homes Affordable Rural Homes Extra Care Housing TOTAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING Master-planning Needed

399 313 100 812 Note: Sites are subject to subject to the adoption of the SHDC Development Plan Document Dartmouth  • Great Cotton P 1 and P 2 • Collingwood Road Kingsbridge • Land to the NW of Kingsbridge • Extra Care Housing  Ivybridge • East of Ivybridge LDF site Totnes • Culverdale P2 South Hams • Riverside • Follaton Farm • Ashburton Road • Baltic Wharf • Dairycrest site P1 • Extra Care Housing Other • A pipeline of approximately 313 rural, affordable homes across the District 389 139 50 578 Bideford/Northam  • Westward Ho! • East –the –Water (Polyfield, Bakers Site, Grenville College, Abbotsham Road) • Tarka Regeneration • Nuttabery • Town centre regeneration site (Mixed use) • Meddon St  • Extra Care - 50 bed space scheme 2013/14 Holsworthy • Former Showground site • Livestock Market site Great Torrington Torridge • Former creamery site (mixed use) • Rolle Court • Bow Hayes Other • Gypsy and Traveller Pitches or transit provision • Close care housing scheme at Holsworthy and at Great Torrington. • Older Persons Remodelling • Homeless Hostel Refurbishment • A pipeline of approximately 139 rural, affordable homes across the District

22 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Deliverable Affordable Housing Projects (subject to funding) 2011-15 Urban Affordable Urban Homes Affordable Rural Homes Extra Care Housing TOTAL AFFORDABLE HOUSING Master-planning Needed

254 94 50 398 Okehampton  • Crediton Road Phases 1-4 (Local Plan site) Tavistock • Abbey Rise  • Callington Road Phases 1-4 (Local Plan site) • 50 bed space Extra Care Housing Scheme (LDF) West Devon West Other • A pipeline of approximately 94 rural, affordable homes across the Borough 1822 733 250 2805 1822 – Affordable homes in urban settlements 733 – Homes in small rural settlements (less than 3000 population or less) TOTAL 250 – Extra care housing units Dartmoor’s affordable housing schemes that are in the pipeline for 2011-15 are included in the total homes for West Devon and South Hams. DNP schemes are also shown separately in Appendix 6 along with the Teignbridge schemes for DNP. This is to give a complete picture for DNP rural affordable housing needs. Dartmoor has a strategic requirement for affordable homes in its 2 main urban centres of Ashburton and Buckfastleigh and there are further identified needs within its smaller rural settlements Dartmoor (DNP) See appendix 4 and 6. Opportunities for cross subsidy are limited in the Park. Buckfastleigh and Ashburton fall within Teignbridge District Council which is part of the Exe Authorities LIP. Exmoor’s Affordable housing schemes that are in the pipeline for 2011-15 are included in the totals for North Devon District Council. Exmoor

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 23 Table 3. Local Authority Economic Development Investment Priorities 2011 – 2015

Cross Cutting Themes

Critical Priorities 2011-15 Authority Public Investment Public Needed Broadband Connectivity & Skills Work Low Carbon Economy

Crediton Well Park Employment Land (4,150 sq metres)   Link road between the Lords Meadow Industrial Estate and A377.  Cullompton Employment Land at North West Cullompton and Week Farm, Cullompton   (total 55,000 sq metres) Junction 28 on the M5 needs upgrading.   A Cullompton Eastern By Pass distributor road   Tiverton Employment Land (130,000 sq metres) at Eastern Urban Extension.   A new junction from the A361 to serve the Tiverton Eastern Urban Extension     Mid Devon A new road link to Heathcoat Way and traffic calming on Blundells Rd One of the 3 Devon RDP Broadband Pilot Area is an arch to the North of Tiverton Other Improvement of Junction 27 of the M5   (Facilitates the future employment and other developments in the Exe and Culm Valley areas). Improved access to fast Broadband and mobile connectivity across the District     Provision of small scale employment sites in Bampton, Bow and Kentisbeare    as allocated in the Mid Devon DPD Barnstaple Anchorwood bank and Severn Brethern Flood Risk Alleviation and  regeneration schemes. 5ha of employment land at Roundswell.  Work-hub within Barnstaple central area   Renewable Energy Hub at Yelland – 5ha of employment land     Reconfiguration of North Devon College Campus and establishment   of a Creative Industries Centre Ilfracombe Regeneration initiatives based on harbour, seafront and town centre   Business park extension at Mullacott Cross of 5ha, work-hub development     and superfast broadband connectivity to the town. One of the areas identified as a DCC Broadband Pilot is to the    South of Ilfracombe.

North Devon South Molton Pathfields employment land next phase 5ha, including an agri-business   centre and town centre regeneration Redevelopment of the secondary school and sports infrastructure.  One of the 3 Devon RDP Broadband Pilot Areas is a ring around South &   North Molton. Other Improved access to fast Broadband and mobile connectivity across     the District Redevelopment of Chumleigh secondary school.  The Lyn Hydro scheme at Lynmouth.  

24 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Cross Cutting Themes

Critical Priorities 2011-15 Authority Public Investment Public Needed Broadband Connectivity & Skills Work Low Carbon Economy

All Housing 5,500 dwellings to 2026 (phasing to be confirmed)    Extra Care Housing  Economic Development A total of 18 ha of employment land to 2026    Skills Training   Support for Business Growth including managed workspace facilities   Transport and Connectivity Super Fast Broadband connectivity    Main street link Upgrade of Deep lane Junction  High Quality Public Transport (HQPT) infrastructure to Plymouth City Centre   including Park and Ride Modal Shift opportunities for sustainable transport modes  Schools and Education 3 Primary Schools   1 Secondary School   Youth Centre  Healthcare and Social Care  Health & Wellbeing Centre (3,800m2)  Children’s Centre  Adult Social Care Base  Pharmacies

42  Dentists  Landscape and Open Space 200ha Community Park  Sherford 5ha Urban and Civic Parks  Wildlife Corridors  Semi-natural open space  Outdoor sport pitches and courts Indoor Swimming Pool Community Infrastructure Town Hall  Library   Place of worship Community Theatre  Re-use and repair site  Recycling Centre   Public Toilets Community website   Community wind turbines  Emergency Services Type 2 Police Station  Town Centre Police Facility Ambulance Rest Facility Other Community Trust  Sustainable Construction to Area Action Plan targets 

42 Sherford Infrastructure requirements are subject to final phasing and viability. See Sherford Area Action Plan August 2007.

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 25 Cross Cutting Themes

Critical Priorities 2011-15 Authority Public Investment Public Needed Broadband Connectivity & Skills Work Low Carbon Economy 40,000 sq metres employment workspace as first phase of 140,000 sq metres high quality low carbon employment space.     Super fast Broad Band connectivity   HQPT link to Sherford and to Plymouth City.  

Langage Deep Lane Junction and possibly Voss Junction improvements and a   southern road connection. Hotel, Restaurant/Café and ancillary site services.  Dartmouth Provision 2 ha employment land at Townstal  Other Critical Investment; Sport and play provision, public open space, health facilities, school facilities  and a community hub. Kingsbridge Provision for 5ha of new employment land  Other Critical Investment; Enhanced pedestrian and cycle linkages around the town, particularly to the  town centre Ivybridge Provision for 5ha of new employment land  Sport, Play and Public Open Space.  Enhanced Pedestrian and Cycle access Totnes 5ha of new employment land.  Potential mixed housing and employment development at:   • Dairy Crest • Riverside • Baltic Wharf South Hams A385 Corridor Management  Park & Change sites on outskirts of Totnes. Enhanced pedestrian, cycle, and public transport linkages around the town,   particularly across and along the River Dart Community College (Kevics). Enhanced facilities on a single site, including  sport provision and upgraded teaching facilities. Possible Primary School re-location. Enlargement of GP Surgery One of the DCC areas identified for a Broadband Pilot is to the estW of   Totnes Totnes is a priority town for Managed Workspace Provision43   Other Improved access to fast Broadband and mobile connectivity across the     District 3ha (in total) of employment land on small sites (of no more than 0.5ha)  1.73 ha harbour and fish quay regeneration (and marine support   infrastructure) to include the provision of complementary employment workspace and ancillary development.

43 ‘Low Carbon Workspace to Meet the Demand of Micro and Small Businesses in Devon. RedC for DCC. 2010

26 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Cross Cutting Themes

Critical Priorities 2011-15 Authority Public Investment Public Needed Broadband Connectivity & Skills Work Low Carbon Economy

Bideford/Northam Employment land at: • Bideford East (Cleave Wood) and   • Bideford West (9 Acre Plantation)  Regeneration: Five key sites across Bideford   Regeneration of Westward Ho!  Provision of a Community Hub building within Bideford Town Centre to   improve access to services A39 junction improvements,   Critical road link between Clovelly Road and Abbotsham Road to support   strategic allocation Flood defence and mitigation works   A Renewable Energy Skills Centre linked to the Atlantic Array development.   Holsworthy New agri-business centre.   Mixed use development of Supermarket and housing on existing Livestock  Market site. Torridge Other: • Road and junction improvements required to enable housing and   employment growth • Additional sewage capacity will be needed to support the housing growth  Great Torrington Small scale managed workspace units on former Creamery site.  Transport investment is critical to the housing delivery. Additional medical facilities Other Improved access to fast Broadband and mobile connectivity across the     District Small employments sites of about 3ha in larger rural villages.    Renewable energy developments linked to community payback schemes   The Solar Park at Winkleigh

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 27 Cross Cutting Themes

Critical Priorities 2011-15 Authority Public Investment Public Needed Broadband Connectivity & Skills Work Low Carbon Economy

Okehampton 10 hectares of employment land   Approximately 6 hectares of open space and recreation facilities Other Critical Infrastructure • Provision of a new road link between Exeter Road and Crediton Road  • Provision of (or contributions to) infrastructure associated with the  development either on or off-site in accordance with the Infrastructure Delivery Plan including the provision of a town centre access road and other town centre traffic relief measures Tavistock 13 hectares of employment land.  Other Critical Infrastructure • Approximately 5 hectares of open space • The relocation and expansion of Tavistock Primary School  West Devon West • The enhancement of health and social care services  • The reinstatement of the railway line to Bere Alston and associated  infrastructure. • Provision of (or contributions to) infrastructure associated with the  development, either on or off-site in accordance with the Infrastructure Delivery Plan including highway junction improvements. • Enhancements to the town centre  Other • Development of workspaces where there is insufficient private sector   investment to bring forward constraining growth in small and medium sized businesses Provision of approximately 2 hectares of employment land in local centres   (mostly in the 2011 -2016 period). Improved access to fast Broadband and mobile connectivity across the   District 

Park Car park development Sewage Treatment Capacity  Road and footpath Infrastructure  Dartmoor National One Planet Dartmoor (Low Carbon Project)44 

44 http://www.dartmoor-npa.gov.uk/index/lookingafter/laf-climatechange/laf-oneplanetdartmoor.htm

28 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Chapter six: cross cutting economic priorities

The three cross cutting economic As a large rural county, Devon is amongst the UK’s most poorly served areas46. Devon County Council investment priorities are critical analysis suggests that 9% of all premises in to Devon’s future prosperity and Devon receive either no connection, or a very slow connection (less than the basic 2 Mbps target set are a response to the following by Digital Britain). Rural Devon is also at high risk characteristics of Devon’s economy: of not receiving next generation fast broadband and has poor mobile broadband coverage.

From an economic perspective, fast „„ Ambitions for a low carbon economy and comprehensive connectivity supports business low carbon living. growth, innovation, profitability and resilience. „„ High numbers of home based and micro Socially, connectivity enables the delivery of public businesses. services such as health care, education, and local content. Connectivity has an important part „„ High numbers of self-employed people. to play in delivering the environmental agenda (for example, reducing travel by enabling remote „ „ Geographical dispersed market and working and virtual meetings), and critically, coastal towns. investment in connectivity helps to remove the digital divide.

6.1 Cross cutting economic Across rural Devon, over 11% of rural businesses cite lack of connectivity as the major constraint on priority one - increasing access their growth and the productivity of their business. With productivity levels well below the UK average to broadband, telephony and (output per worker = £32,000, UK = £45,000), 45 caused by peripherality, a small local market, mobile connectivity distance to major population areas and a weak transport infrastructure, the case for investment in Investment in high speed, efficient broadband connectivity and the skills to make use of ICT is connectivity is vital to the future prosperity of the compelling. Devon economy, rural sustainability and housing delivery.

45 An assessment and practical guidance on next generation access (NGA) risk in the UK. 112pp. Published by Communities and Local Government, March 2010. Commissioned from Analysys Mason. Link: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/communities/pdf/1493040.pdf Next-generation access: final report for the South West RDA. 59pp. Published by SWRDA, March 2010. Commissioned from Analysys Mason. Link: http://southwestrda.org.uk/news_and_events/2010/march/idoc.ashx?docid=0d772882-02f6-41cf-8dbeff97ba825954&version=-1 Van Reenen, J. et al, 2010. The Economic Impact of ICT FINAL REPORT (SMART N. 2007/0020). 217pp. Published by the EU. Commissioned from Centre for Economic Performance, London School of Economics. Link: http://ec.europa.eu/information_society/eeurope/i2010/docs/eda/econ_impact_of_ict.pdf Digital Britain Final Report. 245pp. Published by Department for Culture, Media and Sport And Department for Business, Innovation and Skills, June 2009. Link: http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20100511084737/ http://www.culture.gov.uk/images/publications/digitalbritain-finalreport-jun09.pdf 46 The Devonomics Report includes a map of Broadband connections speeds across Devon (page 66 of that Report)

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 29 However, Devon has a high proportion of The priorities common across the whole of the businesses located in “the final third” – the 33% sub-region are: of UK premises who are unlikely to have a high „ speed connection provided by the open market „ improve young people’s understanding of by 2017. In fact, it is estimated that within Devon, and aspirations for work; nearly 50% of premises are unlikely to have high „„ support the development of generic speed connectivity by 2017, without some sort employability skills; of intervention. Nationally, Analysis Mason have calculated that rural Devon was on the 3rd decile „„ increase the supply of apprenticeships; of their Social Impact Score (1 = deprived, 10 = not deprived) and on the 5th decile of their Social „„ support the acquisition of technical Deprivation score, both used to help assess the and STEM skills (science, technology, demand and likely investment in fast broadband engineering and maths); across the UK. „„ promote enterprise education for young Current investments that are planned by the people; private sector include fast fibre to the cabinet „„ improve access to co-ordinated business (FttC) in Exeter and Ivybridge, and upgrades support; to exchanges in Sidmouth, Honiton, Totnes, Tavistock, Dawlish and Barnstaple that will „„ promote leadership and management deliver faster speeds within those market towns. development; With clear evidence of market failure, Devon County Council, together with district authorities, „„ promote graduate retention. is actively co-ordinating efforts to improve In the areas of Devon covered by this Plan, connectivity, which include direct investment in there is additional emphasis on: five community broadband projects, investment in both business and community ICT skills, „„ enable access to local employment compiling a detailed evidence-base, identifying opportunities; funding sources, lobbying government and campaigning on the issue. „„ address rural barriers to training and employment; The emerging Connecting Devon Strategy includes proposals for the development of ICT „„ create business ambassadors; skills and for adaption to new communication „„ provide specialist support for land based technologies. As such the Broadband Priority links industries. to the Skills and Work cross cutting priority. In conjunction with the membership of the Employment and Skills Boards, training providers 6.2 Cross cutting economic and relevant agencies, these priorities are informing formulation of action plans. There is priority two - work and skills particular emphasis on the geographical areas where substantial growth is anticipated and the Analysis of work and skills needs and supply sectors of the economy expected to grow. across Devon, Plymouth and Torbay has been The relevant research reports are available on: undertaken during January-October 2010. The www.devoneconomy.co.uk/research-steering-group. project used the four Employment and Skills Board areas of: Northern Devon; Exeter and the Heart of In the meantime, there has been considerable Devon; Torbay and South Devon; Plymouth as the activity both in capital investment for training and basis for: provision of training. In this Plan area, some of the notable developments include: „„ collating a common evidence base; „„ Petroc’s Creative Industries Centre in „„ gathering perspectives and interpretations Barnstaple; of the evidence base; „„ A new Bideford College; „„ developing a common understanding of the evidence and priorities for change, „„ New library and community hub in investment and action. Cullompton.

30 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Also, substantial effort has been channelled into The low carbon economy in Devon can be schemes both to help people into employment and advanced by: to raise their skills levels once employed, such as: „„ Delivery of the Household Energy „„ Future Jobs Fund; Management Strategy48, assisted in Devon by the activities of partnerships „ „ Skills for Life; such as Cosy Devon49 and the incentives „„ Employability training; offered by utilities for installation of energy efficiency measures. „„ Programmes geared to specific sectors „ and client groups; „ The support for businesses in Devon which has recently been announced to „„ ‘new skills’ related to ICT and social build on the success of the Renewable enterprise. Energy for Devon project. 50 „„ Delivery of new settlements and growth 6.3 Cross cutting economic points in Devon and the associated renewable energy and energy saving priority three - the low measures associated with them, as identified in the East of Exeter Sustainable 47 carbon economy Energy Strategy.51 „„ The delivery of low carbon aspects of This cross cutting theme has relevance because: LDFs, realising the potential for carbon reduction arising from the PPS1 evidence „„ The county of Devon is almost wholly base – for example heat and energy reliant on imported energy supplies. demand mapping. „„ The DIP area has renewable energy „„ Encouraging sustainable construction resources to exploit to assist achievement through exemplar projects such as the of national carbon reduction targets. Exeter Passiv Haus and the work of the „„ There are opportunities to make gains EARTH centre at Bicton College. in carbon reduction through fitting „„ Contributing to strategic renewable energy energy efficiency and renewable energy generation opportunities through projects technologies in existing buildings; such as the Atlantic Array; the energy hub and, in low carbon master planning at Yelland and the potential for solar PV, and sustainable construction of new biomass, and energy from waste. development.

„„ Stimulating the growth of commercial sectors supporting the low carbon economy requires investment in business growth and support, skills and training. 47 „„ There are carbon reduction gains to References: be made in assisting businesses of all http://www.devonomics.info/documents/low- carbon-economy-context-devon-economy sizes to reduce their energy demand and http://www.devonomics.info/documents/strengths- production of waste and be generally weaknesses-opportunities-and-threats-moving-low- more efficient in their use of natural carbon-economy-devon resources. http://www.devonomics.info/documents/low-carbon- economy-appendices for analysis of the low carbon „„ Much community regeneration activity is Devon economy associated with climate change groups http://www.devon.gov.uk/index/economyenterprise/ devoneconomicstrategy.htm for the Devon Economic and movements such as Transition Towns. Partnership strategy 48 http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/what_ we_do/consumers/saving_energy/hem/hem.aspx 49 http://www.cosydevon.co.uk 50 http://www.regensw.co.uk/business-support/ supporting-devon-businesses 51 East of Exeter New Growth Point Energy Strategy. Final Report 30th April 2008

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 31 Chapter seven: thematic housing priorities

The four thematic Housing priorities address issues and priorities that are common across the DIP area and where partnership working is fundamental to achieving successful outcomes. These themes also reflect work that cuts across the whole of the administrative county of Devon, including both DIP Authorities and Exe Authorities.

Theme one: increasing the The aims are: supply of rural affordable 1. To jointly manage a programme of rural, housing affordable housing developments in Devon 2. To maximise procurement efficiencies in order to improve the number of affordable housing As a predominantly rural area investment in the completions smaller rural settlements of the county of Devon is vital to both its economic and social sustainability. 3. To share good practice in order to strengthen community engagement, improve the All of Devon’s rural authorities have agreed efficiency of delivery, reduce/stretch public to work together to establish a five year rural investment and maintain the quality and affordable housing programme in Devon. Partners standard of housing design include the five Local Authorities within the DIP, East Devon and Teignbridge within the Exe 4. To promote affordable housing investment Authorities and the two National Parks, Dartmoor in Devon’s smaller rural settlements. and Exmoor. An ‘indicative’ programme of (Settlements classified in the Gazette as being schemes for the Devon Investment Plan area is of 3000 population or less) shown in Appendix 6. This programme has been actively built up between 2008-11 and the strategic 5. To improve the connection between affordable fit and deliverability of all schemes have been housing investment and employment assessed by the relevant Local Authority. However, opportunities. in managing the programme it is important to note 6. To improve efficiency and effectiveness in the that substitutions may be required if schemes are enabling of new rural affordable housing delayed and the timing of delivery will be affected by funding availability. There is greater certainty as The term of the Programme is 4 years (2011 to to the timescale for schemes coming forward for 2015) to match HCA programme with an annual development in years 1 and 2 of the Programme. programme review.

The aims, objectives, outputs and monitoring In the past 3 years Partners have worked together arrangement will be set out in a Delivery Plan, successfully in order to increase delivery from a which is being developed with Devon Rural baseline of 77 homes per year to a projected 160 Housing Partnership and Devon’s Rural Housing homes per year. It is recognised that investment Enabler Programme. This Plan will reflect cuts may impact significantly on our collective emerging government polices for delivery and ability to deliver in future. This calls for greater co- funding mechanisms as well as supporting operation and understanding of how we can work the ‘Localism’ agenda within Devon’s rural together to sustain delivery. communities.

32 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Fig 3. Estimation of population age in Devon

Devon County Council has commissioned the Council to select preferred development partners Somerset and Dorset Community Land Trust commenced on 13th September 2010. HCA Project to extend its work into Devon in order to funding to support delivery of the Strategy will provide support to communities wanting to use ensure successful implementation, but it is Community Land Trusts as a means of providing recognised that an innovative approach will more affordable housing in their community. It is be required which may require a public/private important that this initiative works alongside other funding partnership. The Strategy also identifies delivery routes to maximise the efficiency and the need for 167 units of ‘close care’ or ‘virtual effectiveness of delivery. extra care’ units – these may not necessarily require new build solutions. Theme two: housing for Modernisation of Sheltered Housing: A strategic review53 of older persons housing support services older people is currently being implemented to modernise the way housing support services are delivered to older people. This has led to the removal of By 2031 over a quarter of the population of Devon the requirement to receive support services will be aged 65 years and above (see Figure 3 from the tenancy agreement for those living in above). sheltered housing. A number of sheltered housing providers have now completed a review of their Older Person Housing Priorities assets, which has led to a number of current sheltered housing schemes being identified Extra Care Housing: Devon Commissioning as no longer fit for purpose, or requiring some 52 Strategy for Extra Care Housing identifies the modernisation improvements. It is a priority to need for 19 schemes of fifty flats by 2020 and ensure accommodation provided for older people identifies the towns where these are required. is accessible and fit for purpose for the current and The earliest a scheme will be opened by will be future ageing population. in 2013/14. A joint tender exercise with Wiltshire

52 http://www.devon.gov.uk/commissioning_strategy_for_extra_care_housing_version_9_ma__8230_-4.pdf 53 http://www.devon.gov.uk/jcb_op_hsg_supp_rev_210108_v2-2.pdf

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 33 Theme three: housing for People with Mental Health vulnerable people Problems This JSNA sets out a vision for the future, where In April 2010 Devon County Council produced core accommodation based services will move Accommodation and Support JSNAs (Joint people onto independent housing with flexible Strategic Needs Assessments) for people with support. This aims to provide intensive short term learning disabilities and people with mental health accommodation based services to move people problems. The JSNAs are being developed out of residential care, as well as prevent people to understand the needs of those that require from being admitted to hospital/residential care. accommodation and support to live independently. These individuals will then move onto independent In addition, the Devon District Authorities have housing, thus ensuing that the core services do commissioned a JSNA for the homeless that can not become silted up. provide an evidence base to help inform priorities and commissioning decisions. Future versions of Although existing support services can be this Plan will be updated as evidence emerges remodelled to deliver a flexible service, there about the needs of additional vulnerable groups. will be a requirement to access independent accommodation to achieve the strategic vision. Homeless People District Councils will have a role to play, although there is insufficient social housing to meet all the move on needs. Access to the private rented The JSNA is due to be completed in November sector will be crucial to ensure that individuals 2010 and will; can move on from the core services, as well as „„ Identify existing need, including the needs those who need to move on from other services. of vulnerable groups such as rough It is envisaged that there will be 77 units of core sleepers, young people, offenders, victims accommodation (including 37 units for dual of domestic abuse and people with drug diagnosis), based within existing supported and/or alcohol problems housing if appropriate, with 544 people being supported to live independently in the community. „„ Map services and resources and identified how they are used. Theme four: improving the „„ Identify gaps in services.

„„ Identify future need. standard of existing private „„ Identify priorities for commissioning. sector housing „„ Identify opportunities for jointly commissioned services across the county The context for Devon’s Private Sector Housing is and across statutory commissioners. set out in Chapter 3.

„„ Identify the wider cost benefits to The future of investment in private sector housing the public purse of the prevention of is uncertain as the impact of recession is felt homelessness and the successful across the sector and Partners await clarification management of crisis homelessness. from the HCA on future investment opportunities. Total four year investment requirements are People with Learning Disabilities estimated to be in the region of £4.25m in order to meet critical investment private sector housing At least an additional 425 units of supported living needs. This investment focuses on: are required, across the whole Devon County Council area, over the next five years, either „„ Disabled Facilities Adaptations to secure as cluster flats or dispersed accommodation. independent living and offset the demand In addition a limited amount of specialist for specialist new build accommodation. accommodation may also be required. „„ Achieving Decent Homes Standard for The JSNA recommends that the delivery of vulnerable people. housing options is co-ordinated at a county level, „„ Bringing empty homes back into use. with project groups in each district to identify specific housing solutions.

34 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 The Devon Private Sector Housing Group (DPSHG) Fuel Poverty have developed a Forward Plan which will enable limited resources to be targeted effectively and for Devon accommodates a larger percentage of fuel efficiencies to be made through economies of scale poor households in comparison to the South West and sharing expertise/partnership approaches. The region; approximately 14% equating to over 70,000 work of DPSHG covers the whole of Devon not just households are estimated to be in fuel poverty (that the DIP area. DPSHG have a range of initiatives is they spend more than 10% of their income on underway to improve the quality of private rented fuel). 32.8% of homes fail to meet decent homes sector housing, build tenant confidence, prevent standards; almost 24% of these fail to provide a Assured Shorthold Tenancy breakdown and improve reasonable degree of thermal comfort. Most at risk the condition of existing stock. This includes joint are older people, single parent families and people training on enforcement strategies for empty homes; with poor health or disabilities who may have a developing quality standards for Houses in Multiple higher than average need for warmth. Occupation; developing and promoting effective schemes of landlord accreditation and a potential The Low Carbon Agenda ‘kitemark’ for landlords wanting to advertise homes through Devon Home Choice, the Devon-wide A significant refurbishment of Devon’s housing is Choice Based Lettings Scheme. required to reduce carbon emissions and enable homes to be affordably heated and powered. A Adaptations and Minor Repairs large proportion of cavity walls and lofts still need to be insulated and more expensive measures Currently, people living in Devon who require such as solid wall insulation, glazing, heating assistance in adapting their home in order to system upgrades are needed. The Governments maintain their independence within it are waiting Low Carbon Transition Plan details how the UK’s too long for public funded Disabled Facilities Grant carbon reduction targets contained in the Climate (DFG). Demand for DFG’s in Devon has always Change Act (2009) will be delivered and the highest exceeded the funds available and in practice most proportion of emissions reduction will be delivered Councils are unable to process cases other than in domestic housing. Significant financial investment those in the highest category of need. Devon programmes are now being created, including feed District Councils currently fund approximately £2.5m in tariffs for electricity generation (April 2010), the DFG’s per annum through the Home Improvement Renewable Heat incentive (June 2011), the Green Agency, and a further £912,000 on repairs. Deal for energy efficiency (June 2012) and a new energy company obligation (January 2013). This Many older people’s homes require only creates the opportunity to refurbish a significant minor works to prevent the occurrence proportion of Devon’s housing stock, making homes of what are sometimes quite substantial more comfortable and affordable to heat and power, creating significant numbers of local jobs and growth, risks to health and safety. Often older as well as reducing local carbon emissions. To realise households do not have the means this opportunity, local authorities need to develop to carry out these minor works and and lead partnerships with energy companies and businesses to access funding, develop the local therefore require assistance. Under the supply chain and deliver refurbishment programmes. Housing Health & Safety Rating System, Devon’s Energy efficiency initiatives will play a major over 6,000 private houses have Category part in making a dwelling comfortable and healthy. One hazards that require an estimated Devon has submitted a bid for European Union funding £18.8 million minor works to correct. to help with domestic energy efficiency and is working with social landlords as key agencies within the bid. However, the Chartered Institute of Environmental Health’s cost calculator Meeting Housing Need estimated that over £35m of health benefits would be realised if these works Improving the condition available of are funded and carried out. existing private sector housing stock is important in relieving some of the pressure on new housing provision in the County.

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 35 Chapter eight: equalities

An Equality Impact Assessment involves assessing the likely or actual effects of policies or services on people in respect of at least disability, gender and racial equality. It helps to make sure the needs of all groups are taken into account when a service or new policy is developed and implemented or when a change is made to a current policy or service. The main purpose of an equality impact assessment is to pre-empt the possibility that a proposed policy could affect some groups unfavourably.

The Key Strategic Policy documents referenced in this Plan will have been subject to an Equalities Impact Assessment e.g. all LDF policies and the Sustainable Communities Strategies.

Any policies, strategies or procedures that fall out of the Investment Plan will need to be assessed and equalities should always be taken in to consideration when it comes to access to and building of individual sites.

36 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Chapter nine: risks

Appendix 8 contains a Risk Log for this Plan54. This Log will be owned by regularly reviewed by Partners to the Plan through the Programme Management arrangements.

Key risks identified as at December 2010 include:

„„ Insufficient investment and resources to deliver critical priorities.

„„ Insufficient clarity on priorities.

„„ Weak local market intelligence affecting partners’ understanding of what markets can tolerate and what rents local people can afford.

„„ Not responding to the challenges and opportunities provided by the new national policy framework quickly enough e.g. the Localism Bill, changes to CIL and s106 agreements, housing benefit and welfare benefit changes.

„„ Poor communication between partners and between partners and key stakeholders leading to poor investment decisions.

„„ Insufficient community engagement throughout the development process resulting in a lack of community support.

„„ Insufficient political engagement resulting in a lack of member support

„„ Higher risks and costs of rural housing impacting on Registered Providers’ willingness to maintain a rural programme.

„„ Loss of Rural Housing Enablers weakening community engagement and community capacity.

„„ Growth without improving access to affordable housing.

„„ Delivery of housing developments rather than sustainable communities. We get the housing but not the necessary infrastructure or the required percentage of affordable housing.

„„ Strategic sites not being brought forward in the timescale due to a combination of a lack of public investment and a weak market.

54 Appendix 8

Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 37 Chapter ten: the way forward

Evaluating and Monitoring the Plan

It is anticipated that this Plan will be updated regularly with the timing of any revised Plan being timed so that it can influence the budget setting arrangements of the key agencies.

The first version of the Plan does not include proposals for future governance arrangements which may be needed to address future decision making and to determine how agreement on priorities can be established. Such proposals will need to be looked at, together with Programme Management arrangements for Affordable Housing, when more is known about proposals for future working of the HCA, Local Enterprise Partnerships (LEPs) and Partner organisations own organisational plans. In the future, it is possible, that the area covered by this Investment Plan will be reviewed to reflect the Localism agenda. Consultation and Engagement

The detail within this Plan is drawn from existing strategies and plans which have already been subject to extensive and sometimes, statutory, consultation processes.

The consultation for this Plan has focused on key stakeholders. This has included members, key officers and departments within the Partner Local Authorities, other public agencies and delivery partners. The Devon Strategic Partnership (DSP), has overall responsibility for the governance for the Plan. This has enabled consultation with the key ‘other public agencies’ through the Devon Strategic Partnership.

In addition, each Partner Local Authority has been responsible for briefing its Executive and Local Strategic Partnership and, if necessary, obtaining approval for the Plan. Engagement

Future versions of this Plan may require wider consultation and need to include community engagement. The process for this has not yet been agreed.

38 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 Final Draft - Devon Investment Plan 2011 - 2016 39 Investing in Devon

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