A G E N D a Please Address Any General Enquiries on This Agenda to Denise Evans, County Hall, Oxford OX1 1ND (Tel: Oxford 810169)

Committee ENVIRONMENTAL Day WEDNESDAY Sub-Committee Date 10 DECEMBER 1997 Place of Meeting County Hall, Oxford Time 10.00 am A G E N D A Please address any general enquiries on this agenda to Denise Evans, County Hall, Oxford OX1 1ND (Tel: Oxford 810169). Press enquiries should be directed to the Media Manager on Oxford 815266.

NOTE:Those items marked * have been circulated to members and officers of the Council only and are available for public inspection.

Members are reminded of the obligation to declare any interest relevant to business to be conducted at this meeting, and of the convention as to withdrawal from the meeting for the relevant item unless the interest is not one which debars the member from speaking thereon (see page G2 of the Council's Manual).

1. Election to Chair - (Liberal Democrat Group)

2. Apologies for Absence and Temporary Appointments

3. Minutes

Minutes of the meeting held on 1 October 1997 (previously circulated - see November Council Book).

4. Matters arising from the Minutes

5. Petitions and Public Address

MAJOR FINANCIAL AND POLICY ITEMS

6. QUARTERLY FINANCIAL REPORT

Report by the County Treasurer, Director of Environmental Services, Assistant Chief Executive and Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council (ENV6).

The Quarterly Financial Report sets out the position in relation to the Committee's 1997/98 budget based on the latest information available. There is an anticipated underspend of £1,107,000 which will be carried forward to next year in accordance with the Council's budget management arrangements.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to receive the report.

7. REVIEW OF CHARGES 1998/99

Report by the County Treasurer and Director of Environmental Services (ENV7).

The report sets out the basis on which charges for 1998/99 have been reviewed. Statutory and nationally agreed charges are included along with proposals for charges to be determined by Committee.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) note the statutory and nationally agreed charges;

(b) approve the charges as proposed in Annex 2 from the effective dates determined in that Annex.

8. REVENUE BUDGET 1998/99

Report by the County Treasurer, Director of Environmental Services, Assistant Chief Executive and Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council (ENV8).

Page 1 The report presents the 1998/99 draft budget for this Committee totalling £32.412m (at estimated 1998/99 outturn prices). This includes previously agreed policy and budget plans, variations allowed by the forecast report to the Strategy & Resources Committee on 30 September 1997 and inflation of approximately 3.6% including 3% for 1997/98 pay and prices and 11.7% on Flood Defence Levies.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to approve the draft budget for 1998/99 for submission to the Council via the Strategy & Resources Committee.

9. REVENUE POLICY PLANS 1998/99

Report by the County Treasurer, the Director of Environmental Services, Assistant Chief Executive and Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council (ENV9).

The Strategy & Resources Committee on 28 October 1997 confirmed the savings targets for each committee for the 1998/99 budget and instructed committees to review their savings proposals in the light of the confirmed targets and the need to fund expenditure pressures that are committed. The Council on 18 November authorised service committees to agree net reductions to their current year's expenditure and their proposals for their 1998/99 expenditure and instructed the committees to report their decisions to Strategy & Resources Committee on 17 December.

REPORT TO FOLLOW

No recommendation appears under this item because the report was not received in time for it to be processed by the Corporate Services Unit in the usual way. If the report is received, efforts will be made to have it processed and circulated to members before the meeting, but this cannot be guaranteed.

10. FEES ON CAPITAL PROGRAMME SCHEMES

Report by the Director of Environmental Services and County Treasurer (ENV10).

The Revenue Policy Plans 1998/99 report and the Capital Programme 1997/98 to 1999/2000 report considered by the Strategy & Resources Committee on 28 October both referred to the problem of funding consultants'fees on developer funded and other schemes in the Environmental Committee's Capital Programme Preparation Pool. It has become difficult to identify resources within the capital programme to meet these fees. The alternative source of finance is through the revenue budget. This report addresses the implications of funding fees on preparation pool and developer funded schemes through the revenue budget.

REPORT TO FOLLOW

11. ON-STREET CAR PARKING ACCOUNT

Report by the Director of Environmental Services (ENV11).

This report reviews the position regarding the on-street car parking account and makes recommendations as to the disposition of present and projected surpluses in the context of other parking and Oxford Transport Strategy (OTS) programme funding needs. The on-street car parking account relates to those on-street parking places where charges are made for their use, mainly the established pay-and-display areas in central Oxford, and the Abingdon and Henley residents' parking/pay-and-display schemes. Since February 1997, however, it also covers income and expenditure in relation to the "decriminalised parking" scheme for Oxford and North Hinksey.

Page 2 The report reviews the need for provision of further off street parking and the availability of car parking account surpluses to cater for this. It also considers OTS funding needs to the end of the current programme in 1999/2000.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to agree:

(a) that in the context of Structure Plan Policies and the Oxford Transport Strategy, the provision by the County Council of parking accommodation at the new Banbury Road site and the extension to the Thornhill site (current estimated cost £1.4m and £0.5m respectively) should be the first call on the application of surpluses arising from time to time in the on-street car parking account, in accordance with the phasing set out in the report (or any variation that the Committee may subsequently agree);

(b) that for the time being the funding by the County Council of further off-street parking provision would be undesirable or unnecessary and that any balance of surplus which may for the time being be available be used for other essential OTS improvement measures shown in Annex 3 to the report, or other eligible public transport or highway improvement measures that may subsequently be identified, in accordance with the provisions of Section 55 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 (as amended);

(c) that any accrued surplus in the account at the end of the current or subsequent financial years which has not been appropriated or applied for the purposes mentioned in (a) and (b) above shall be carried forward in the account to the next financial year.

12. OXFORDSHIRE STRUCTURE PLAN 2011: PANEL REPORT

Report by Director of Environmental Services (ENV12).

This report considers the recommendations of the Panel that conducted the Examination in Public of the Oxfordshire Structure Plan 2011. The County Council are required to decide what action to take on each of the Panel's recommendations and on objections and representations on issues not considered by the Panel prior to publishing proposed modifications to the Plan.

The main conclusions of the Panel on the overall strategy, amount and distribution of housing, employment, transport, green belt and minerals are outlined in the report. The main issue for the Council is the amount and distribution of housing. The report recommends acceptance of the Panel's recommendation to increase the overall amount of housing.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) agree the recommendations set out in Annexes A and Annex B to the report; and

(b) authorise the publication of proposed modifications to the Oxfordshire Structure Plan 2011: Deposit Draft as set out in Annex C to the report together with a statement explaining the modifications based on Annexes A and B.

OPERATIONAL ITEMS

HIGHWAYS AND TRANSPORT

13. TRAVELWISE CAMPAIGN

Report by Director of Environmental Services (ENV13).

The report identifies the current and planned activities of the TravelWise campaign. It describes the launch of the TravelWise "Better Ways to Work" Business Campaign, and includes proposals for taking forward a staff travel survey, as a basis for a review of staff travel, previously requested by the

Page 3 Committee.

The report draws particular attention to disturbing new statistics about Oxfordshire school children's journeys to school. The report identifies the need to reinforce the campaign's efforts to target businesses and "the school run", and recommends that a new publicity campaign be developed and launched in 1998.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:-

(a) invite the Education Committee (through the Education Management Sub-Committee) to:

(i) consider the forthcoming results of the Walk to School Week surveys;

(ii) identify ways to encourage all primary and middle schools to participate in Walk to School Week in 1998;

(ii) ask the Chief Education Officer to nominate a representative to assist the TravelWise Officer in developing school travel plans;

(b) instruct the TravelWise Officer to liaise with the District Councils over national travel awareness events such as Car Free Day;

(c) endorse the approach already taken to target businesses and instruct officers to further the partnerships with employers and especially the Chamber of Commerce;

(d) endorse the proposed partnership between TravelWise and EMAS in carrying out the staff travel survey and review of staff travel, for report to a future committee, together with recommendations for the content of a corporate travel plan;

(e) welcome the election of the TravelWise Officer to represent the south east regional area at a national level and instruct her to seek the establishment of a national profile for the TravelWise campaign and press for central government funding for a national advertising campaign.

14. NEW NATIONAL TRAFFIC FORECASTS

Report by the Director of Environmental Services (ENV14).

The recently published new national road traffic forecast projects future increases in road traffic closely related to economic growth in a fashion generally similar to the previous forecast. However, more detail is given showing, in particular, much higher than average growth on rural motorways. This reinforces previous concerns for the consequences of traffic growth on roads in Oxfordshire, particularly on those major routes where high traffic growth has occurred in recent years. It is feared that a continuing high rate of growth on A34 route will cause severe traffic problems, both on A34 and on adjacent minor roads, before traffic growth could be controlled through the provisions of the government's projected integrated transport policy.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to inform the Department of the Environment, Transport and Regions that the Council:

(a) note with concern the high rate of growth in the new national traffic road forecast and particularly the higher rates of growth of traffic demand expected on rural motorways;

(b) consider that, unless effective restraint of traffic demand on major routes can be quickly brought into effect, this will lead in Oxfordshire to rapidly increased congestion on the major routes and diversion of traffic causing safety, environmental and further congestion problems on minor roads;

Page 4 resolve capacity bottlenecks on the major routes and to adapt the routes to provide high priority to public transport use; and

(d) consider that, in view of the sustained high rate of traffic growth experienced on A34 in Oxon, a major study of the A34 route between M40 and the Oxfordshire boundary to examine how best to adapt and manage the use of this route should be undertaken by DETR in consultation with the County Council without delay.

15. A415 MARCHAM BYPASS

The Director of Environmental Services reports as follows:-

Following this Committee's decision in October 1997 to hold in abeyance the planning application for the bypass scheme, I have received several letters from individuals and a petition from an action group called DAM2000 containing over 700 signatures from Marcham residents, in support of the bypass proposal. A small number of letters subsequently received are opposed to the bypass.

The results of the petition are in contrast to the results of the consultations carried out by both the County and the Parish Councils. As reported to the Committee in October 1997, the County Council's consultation on the planning application had received 98 responses of which 25 supported the scheme as presented, 25 supported the scheme but identified changes and 48 objected to the proposal. The Parish Council's consultation had found almost 65% against the bypass.

The true opinion of local residents is unclear but there seems to be emerging support for the bypass.

The issues identified at the last meeting concerning aspects of the design are currently being investigated by our engineering consultant, WS Atkins. In order to clarify these issues I suggest that a working party be set up to enable representatives of the Parish Council and local groups to work closely with County Officers.

A report on the outcome of the investigation on the design issues will be made to the Committee in March 1998. In the meantime, if the results of the investigation show that minor amendments could result in a scheme more acceptable to Marcham residents, I suggest that the outstanding planning application be amended prior to that meeting. Any amendment of substance would however need to be brought to the Committee.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) authorise County Officers to approaching the Parish Council and local interest groups with a view to setting up a working party to consider design issues in connection with the bypass scheme;

(b) authorise the Director of Environmental Services, following consultation with the Group Spokespersons, to make minor changes to the planning application if this appears appropriate following further investigations;

16. A44 PEARTREE ROUNDABOUT TO WOLVERCOTE ROUNDABOUT BUS LANE

The Director of Environmental Services reports as follows:

Approval is sought for project appraisal H149/0 attached (ENV16) for the construction of a new inbound bus land on the A44(T) between Peatree Park and Ride and Wolvercote Roundabout, which is included in the Oxford Transport Strategy Programme with a 1998/99 start.

The scheme would be constructed on the County Council's behalf under a specific agreement or agreements with the Highways Agency, if funding is available through OTS Supplementary Credit

Page 5 Approval.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) approve project appraisal H149/0;

(b) authorise officers to conclude the necessary formal agreement or agreements with the Highways Agency for implementation of the scheme on the trunk road.

17. PARK & RIDE AT M40 JUNCTION 6 AND OTHER MOTORWAY JUNCTIONS

Report by Director of Environmental Services (ENV17).

Following the closure of an informal park and ride parking area under the motorway at Junction 6 Lewknor a joint study with officers of South Oxfordshire District Council has been carried out. Despite the closure, informal parking has continued and would be difficult to prevent. Because of the important landscape designations, alternative longer term provisions are difficult to identify but two possible sites are proposed for further consideration. In the meantime measures to improve safety of the informal parking area are suggested.

More generally, possible parking sites near the other motorway junctions are also considered in accordance with a motion by Councillor Crabbe considered at the last meeting.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) accept that it is not practical to preclude the informal park and ride operation at junction 6 and although the arrangements are unsatisfactory they will need to be allowed to continue for the short term pending identification of a longer term arrangement;

(b) accept that the temporary "no waiting at any time" order on B4009 should be made permanent and advise the Highways & Road Safety Sub-Committee accordingly;

(c) endorse the need for measures to be introduced along B4009 at M40 junction 6, including urgent consideration of low cost traffic calming measures in the context of the agreed accident remedial route study, in order to improve the safety of the short term parking situation;

(d) agree that the best options for longer term park and ride provision appear to be either the former Aston Rowant railway station site or the development site adjacent to Junction 5 Stokenchurch, and therefore ask officers to explore these two possibilities further in conjunction with local councils, bus operators and the Highways Agency; and

(e) reiterate to District Councils the request that they consider provision for more remote modal change in their local plans and seek their views on the possibility of finding suitable park and ride sites in the vicinity of motorway junctions.

18. GTE (GUIDED TRANSIT EXPRESS) FOR OXFORD

The Director of Environmental Services reports as follows:-

The report submitted to Environmental Committee on 1 October 1997 set out the way forward for the GTE project, including a proposal for the formation of a company, "GTE for Oxford Ltd" was identified. The Committee (see minute 76/97) approved this proposal in principle, subject to further investigation. The Solicitor to the Council has advised that the County Council has the legal basis for getting involved in setting up the company.

A public launch of the project took place on 15 October 1997, with the aim of securing local business and academic community support. The launch was a success and several local and

Page 6 national organisations have come forward with expressions of support. Further meetings with these will be held, to quantify their support for the project and help determine the eventual make-up of GTE for Oxford Ltd.

The details of the company have therefore not yet been concluded, although I may be able to give an oral report on progress at the meeting. The County Council's involvement in a company is a matter which requires authorisation by the Strategy & Resources Committee, and in order to avoid unnecessary delay it would be helpful if the matter was referred to that Committee for decision at their January 1998 meeting.

I therefore RECOMMEND that the Strategy & Resources Committee be RECOMMENDED to authorise the County Council's participation in GTE for Oxford Ltd on the basis of more detailed proposals to be reported to that Committee by the Director of Environmental Services following consultation with the Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council and the Environmental Committee Group Spokespersons.

PLANNING

19. LAND AT STRATFIELD BRAKE, KIDLINGTON

Report by the Director of Environmental Services (ENV19).

This report considers a request from Kidlington Parish Council to use a triangular parcel of land at Stratfield Brake south of Kidlington, for temporary use as a motorcycle track.

The land may be required for the proposed North of Oxford Park and Ride if planning consent is not granted for the preferred site adjoining the Grain Silo. The land is also in the Green Belt and there may be planning concerns. It is therefore recommended that any agreement with the Parish Council be limited to 12 months.

It is RECOMMENDED that Kidlington Parish Council be authorised to arranged supervised and controlled motorcycling by young local people on the triangular area of land at Stratfield Brake (as shown on Annex 1 to the report) for a period of not more than twelve months subject to planning permission being granted for such use, and detailed terms being agreed by the Director of Environmental Services.

20. CAR FREE HOUSING

The Council on 18 Novermber referred the following motion by Councillor Dhall to the Committee to consider and determine:-

"that, in the light of the fact that the Inspector's Report following the Examination in Public of the latest Structure Plan requires Oxfordshire to build 5,000 more houses than this authority believes appropriate, this Council resolves to ameliorate the transport implications of any new housing by asking officers to identify those sites on which car-free housing may be built, taking into account:

(a) accessibility of local facilities and employment;

(b) accessibility and convenience of public transport; and

and bearing in mind the success of such schemes in towns in Germany and Holland and, more recently, in Edinburgh."

The Committee are asked to determine the motion.

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Page 7 21. LOCAL EXCHANGE AND TRADING SCHEMES (LETS)

The Council on 18 Novermber referred the following motion by Councillor Craig Simmons to the Committee to consider and determine:-

"Oxfordshire County Council

(a) recognises that Local Exchange and Trading Schemes (LETS) have the potential to help release skills and talents within our communities and can play a role in tackling poverty and unemployment and provide an innovative approach to economic development; and

(b) notes that people in receipt of means-tested social security benefits face real barriers to their participation in LETS, which arise from the fear of losing benefit entitlement and the complexity of calculating disregarded income.

The Council therefore RESOLVES:

(1) to call for a change in the welfare benefits system which would disregard in full any income from LETS for the purpose of assessing entitlement to means-tested benefits; this would enable greater involvement in LETS for people on low incomes; and

(2) requests the Chief Executive to write to the Secretary of State for Social Security, informing her of the Council's policy and requesting her to make the necessary changes in benefit regulations as soon as possible, and to write to Oxfordshire's MPs urging them to support the proposed changes."

The Committee are asked to determine the motion.

ENVIRONMENTAL

22. ECO-MANAGEMENT & AUDIT SCHEME (EMAS)

Report by the Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council (ENV22).

The local authority Eco-Management & Audit Scheme (EMAS), was introduced into the Council on a trial basis in September 1996 as part of the Council's Agenda 21 commitment to "put its own house in order". The report describes and evaluates EMAS progress in three trial areas - Council waste, Environmental Services' Waste Management Group and the Trading Standards Service - and outlines the proposed work programme for the remainder of 1997-98. The programme includes development of existing EMAS activities, proposals to strengthen the environmental management structure and integrate environmental considerations more fully into Council activities, and a joint review, with the TravelWise Officer, of staff and members' travel, to include the staff travel survey and recommendations for a corporate travel plan.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) approve the work programme outlined in paragraph 10 of the report; and

(b) agree in principle that in any review of the Environmental Plan Budget EMAS should take priority, and the EMAS post retained at its current level.

23. TRUST FOR OXFORDSHIRE'S ENVIRONMENT (TOE)

Report by the Director of Environmental Services (ENV23).

In March 1997 the Committee authorised officers to pursue, with the waste industry and environmental groups, the establishment of an environmental body for Oxfordshire to utilise Landfill Tax rebates. There was a meeting early in October attended by County members and officers, Greenways, Grundons, district council officers and representatives of organisations with a wide range of environmental interests. As a result, a Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment (TOE) is to be

Page 8 formed. Membership will be broad, comprising waste companies, environmental interests, and the County and district councils. A management board will be responsible for drafting a strategy for spending, and allocating funds for projects.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) agree the Council's participation as a member of the Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment;

(b) nominate a member to serve on the Trust's management board, either as:

(i) a single member to serve sine die or

(ii) one member of each of the three political groups represented on the Committee, to serve in annual rotation, but with the first term also to include the time taken to set up and register the Trust;

(c) RECOMMEND the Operations Sub-Committee to approve the Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment as a Category `B' body for the purpose of the Council's Scheme of Representation on Outside Bodies.

PROCEDURAL

24. WRITING OFF BAD DEBTS

The Director of Environmental Services reports as follows (ENV24) :-

Under paragraph B.2(b) of the Council's Scheme of Delegation to Committees etc, each Committee has the delegated power to write off bad debts. It is recommended that two outstanding debts, which it has not proved possible to recover, be written off. The two debts are:

Debt A Account No. 02412 £3854 Debt B Account No. 02413 £3854

In August 1995 the National Rivers Authority identified pollution in the highway drainage system at Station Road, Witney. Two premises on the adjoining industrial estate were implicated as possible sources of the pollution and the above mentioned accounts were raised to cover the cost of the clean-up operation. Subsequent advice indicated that the evidence was too uncertain to prove that the pollution was caused by either or both premises. In addition infiltration into the highway drainage system of large volumes of clean groundwater prevented the most efficient and effective method of clearing the pollution so that the clean-up operation cost more than it otherwise would have.

Efforts to recover the debts have been unsuccessful. In view of the inability to prove responsibility for the pollution the Solicitor to the Council has advised that the debts should be written off.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to approve the writing off of the debts of £7,708 owed to the Council as described in the report.

MINUTES OF SUB-COMMITTEES

25. PLANNING SUB-COMMITTEE*

Minutes of the meetings held on 13 October (ENV25(a)) and 17 November 1997 (ENV25(b)).

Minute 67/97(b) - Enforcement of Planning Control: Procedures and Resources

Page 9 The Sub-Committee RECOMMEND the Environmental Committee:

(i) to include the need for an additional member of staff to undertake specialist enforcement work, at a cost of £30,000 per annum, as an expenditure pressure in the policy and budget planning process; and

(ii) to authorise the appointment of an additional member of staff to undertake specialist enforcement work in the event of funding becoming available for that purpose.

26. OXFORD TRANSPORT STRATEGY WORKING PARTY*

Minutes of the meeting held on 17 October 1997 (ENV26).

Minute 28/97 - Review of OTS Programme

The Working Party RECOMMEND the Environmental Committee to approve the amended programme.

Minute 31/97(2) - Parking Controls

The Working Party RECOMMEND the Environmental Committee to review, in consultation with Oxford City Council, the overall management principles applying to residents' parking in the City of Oxford.

27. HIGHWAYS AND ROAD SAFETY SUB-COMMITTEE*

Minutes of the meeting held on 6 November 1997 (ENV27).

Minute 75/97 - Consultations by Other Authorities on Traffic and Highway Schemes

E. Grimsbury - Single Regeneration Budget - Traffic Management Works

The Sub-Committee RECOMMEND the Environmental Committee to authorise arrangements for the discharge by Cherwell District Council of the County Council's powers as local highway authority and local traffic authority, so far as necessary for the introduction of traffic management and calming works and associated enhancements to lighting and signing, in West Street, School View and Howard Road, at no cost to the Environmental Committee and subject to approval of detailed proposals by the Director of Environmental Services.

G. Earls Lane, Deddington - Traffic Calming

The Sub-Committee RECOMMEND the Environmental Committee to authorise arrangements for the discharge by Cherwell District Council of the County Council's powers as local highway authority and local traffic authority, so far as necessary for the introduction of calming works, together with associated lighting, signing and carriageway markings, in Earls Lane, Deddington, at no cost to the Environmental Committee and subject to approval of detailed proposals by the Director of Environmental Services.

28. PUBLIC TRANSPORT SUB-COMMITTEE*

Minutes of the meeting held on 13 November 1997 (ENV28).

29. GYPSY SUB-COMMITTEE*

Minutes of the meeting held on 11 November 1997 (ENV29).

EXEMPT ITEM

Page 10 The Committee will be invited to resolve to exclude the public for the consideration of the following exempt item (marked E) by passing a resolution in relation to the item in the following terms:

"that the public be excluded during the consideration of the following item in the Agenda since it is likely that if they were present during that item there would be a disclosure of "exempt" information as described in Part I of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act, 1972 and specified below the item in the Agenda".

THE REPORT RELATING TO THE EXEMPT ITEM HAS NOT BEEN MADE PUBLIC AND SHOULD BE REGARDED AS STRICTLY PRIVATE TO MEMBERS AND OFFICERS ENTITLED TO RECEIVE IT.

30.E COGGES LINK ROAD, WITNEY

The Environmental Committee on 1 October endorsed an improved package of infrastructure measures for the North East Witney Development that includes funding for the Cogges Link Road. Together with existing developer funds held, the full funding of Cogges Link Road has now been virtually achieved. However, there will still be significant cash flow shortfalls. West Oxfordshire District Council has indicated that the principle of a loan to the County Council is likely to be acceptable to overcome the cash flow problem and assist early completion of the link.

The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) note that the Cogges Link Road scheme will be fully funded (including design fees) from developer contributions, but that the expected rate of developer contributions will delay completion of the scheme unless some form of bridging funding is forthcoming;

(b) welcome West Oxfordshire District Council's offer in principle to assist in dealing with the cash flow problems identified and seek early confirmation that loans and repayments on the basis set out in the tables annexed to the report are acceptable;

(c) confirm acceptance of the terms described in the report in respect of the developer contributions towards the cost of facilities to satisfy the secondary education needs arising from the development.

(Information Exempt in that it relates to any terms proposed or to be proposed by or to the authority in the course of negotiations for a contract for the acquisition or disposal of property or the supply of goods or services.)

JOHN HARWOOD Chief Executive

3 December 1997

NOTE FOR SPOKESPERSONS/GROUP LEADERS AND RELEVANT OFFICERS ONLY

The pre-meeting briefing will be held at County Hall on Friday 5 December 1997 at 2.00 pm.

Page 11 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV13

TRAVELWISE CAMPAIGN Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All

Introduction

1. This report is an update on the TravelWise campaign, describes the launch of the TravelWise business campaign, and seeks approval for future plans, including measures to address the disturbing new figures that significant numbers of Oxfordshire school children who live within half a mile of their schools, regularly travel to school by car.

Background Information

2. In 1995 the Council appointed a TravelWise Officer to provide a campaigning arm to its policy of promoting sustainable transport. Research at the time showed that road traffic was predicted to double within 20 years. 57% of journeys made by car were less than 2 miles long but could reasonably be expected to be made by other, more sustainable means. The effects of growing dependence upon the car have been felt in all areas. Excessive and indiscriminate car use creates congestion, noise and air pollution. The growth in car traffic and fewer people walking and cycling, are also the source of major health concerns about less active lifestyles across all age groups and the effects of traffic pollution on asthma and other respiratory diseases are well documented.

3. In seeking a reduction in car use, changes in attitudes are essential and Oxfordshire's eighteen month old TravelWise campaign has sought to do this by raising awareness about the nature and extent of the traffic problem. The next phase of the campaign introduces practical ways in which people can adopt more sustainable travel practices. The initiatives in this report suggest ways in which businesses, schools and individuals can make better use of the alternatives to car travel.

Work Journeys

"Better Ways to Work"

4. The TravelWise Business Campaign was launched on 19 November, at a seminar for the County's major employers. The campaign is built round an employers' resource pack, "Better Ways to Work" which suggests ways in which businesses can reduce their use of cars on business and commuter journeys by developing "green commuter plans" or business travel plans. The concept of green commuter planning is based on successful experience abroad where employers have succeeded in reducing car journeys by up to 15%. The Oxfordshire initiative is supported by 14 organisations including Oxfordshire Chamber of Commerce, Business Link Heart of England, both universities, Rover Group, and Oxford University Press.

5. It is proposed to extend and develop the initial contacts with businesses established through "Better Ways to Work", and to work in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce to continue to raise awareness about the role that all employers - including the County Council - can play in changing travel habits and promote the development of green commuter plans.

Staff Travel

6. In September 1996 the Committee asked officers to report to this Committee and the Personnel Sub-Committee on the operation of County Council staff travel policies. Following a preliminary report to the December 1996 meeting the Committee asked officers to carry out further work including a staff travel survey, as a basis for a review of staff travel. It is now proposed that work towards the review be carried out in conjunction with EMAS (Eco-Management and Audit Scheme). A progress report, prepared jointly with the Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council, is

Page 12 attached as Annex 1.

The Journey to School

Walk to School Week

7. Government statistics show that on average "the school run" accounts for 20% of peak hour congestion. An annual Countywide TravelWise Walk to School Week has been established to focus attention on the problems caused by driving children to school and involve children, teachers and parents in taking positive steps to reduce travel to school by car. In 1997 the TravelWise Officer achieved an increase in the number of schools (to 81) in Oxfordshire participating in Walk to School Week, and obtained sponsorship locally from National Power and Fox FM. One Abingdon school achieved a 97% reduction in car travel to school on the first day of the week, and responses from 10 schools which took part in Oxfordshire's unique "Hands Up Survey" showed that car use fell during the week, and then remained lower than pre-Walk to School Week levels, 2 weeks later.

8. In a separately organised survey carried out in Oxfordshire during Walk to School Week, results showed that, on average, 4 out of 10 Oxfordshire school children now travel to school by car. However car use is not restricted to children who live far from their school. Survey forms returned from 14 of the schools which took part in Oxfordshire's "Special Agents Travel Survey", show that only 3.6% of the children surveyed lived more than 2 miles away from their school, whilst 86% of County's school children lived within 1 mile and 76% lived within half a mile of their school. Even over this very short distance - roughly equivalent to ten minutes on foot - the car was still the main mode of travel to school for 22% of these children. Most alarmingly, many of these children gave as their reason for not walking to school that "it was too far".

9. The TravelWise Officer proposes to publish the full results from the Walk to School Week surveys in the New Year and make them available to all schools. But it is important that even more schools are encouraged to take part in next year's event, and that the Education Committee be encouraged to lend its support to this.

School Travel Plans and Car Parking at Schools

10. Initial results from the Walk to School Week surveys demonstrate that the mode of travel used for many school journeys is linked to an adult's journey to work. It is proposed that the concept of `green commuter planning', advanced in the TravelWise business campaign, could be adapted and applied to schools. It is therefore proposed that an Oxfordshire "School Travel Plan Action Pack" be developed with information, advice and guidance for teachers, head teachers and governors to help schools develop their own `travel plans'. This will need to be a joint project between the TravelWise Officer and Education Department colleagues.

11. The results of a questionnaire on school parking and proposals to review standards, which will be undertaken in conjunction with the Chief Education Officer, will be the subject of a future report to this Committee.

Oxford Car Free Day

12. In June this year the TravelWise Officer joined forces with Oxford City Council, rail and bus operators, both universities, Oxfordshire Health Promotion and other organisations in Oxford to organise the first Oxford Car Free Day. The purpose of the event was to raise awareness about the effects of excessive car use on the city of Oxford, and encourage people to use cars less and walk, cycle or use public transport instead. Events organised for the day included free car emissions testing at Seacourt park and ride, a `green travel race' between hospital sites, staff car park closures at the City and County Councils, and a green travel fair at Oxford Brookes University, where a voluntary car park charge was imposed for the day (with proceeds being donated to the National Asthma Campaign and used to fund more cycle racks) and car-driving staff being invited to test their fitness.

13. Although one bus operator recorded a significant increase in passengers on the day, the fall in the amount of traffic was marginal. However the event attracted a great deal of media interest which

Page 13 included feature articles in the Oxford Mail and Times, slots of radio and Central Television and 15 minutes airtime on the national BBC Breakfast News.

14. It is proposed that the County Council support next year's Car Free Day by encouraging staff who use cars for work to use other, more sustainable modes of travel on the day, and that the TravelWise Officer liaises with the District Councils over national travel awareness events such as Car Free Day.

Publicity

15. The launch of TravelWise in 1996 in Oxfordshire was supported by a tailor made publicity campaign featuring leaflets, posters and bus back advertising to spread the message as widely as possible. This campaign focused on the nature of the traffic problem, concentrating particularly on the congestion and pollution resulting from excessive car use. Research shows that people are becoming increasingly concerned about pollution from traffic. However an RAC survey revealed that motorists, whilst still very attached to their cars, accept that a significant number of the journeys that they make (30%) are not important or essential. In order to capitalise on rising public awareness of the nature and extent of the traffic problem, it is proposed that a new TravelWise publicity campaign be developed and launched across the County in 1998 drawing on the most up to date information about changed attitudes to car use and with the aim of using persuading motorists to cut out one or two unnecessary trips by car each week.

The National Picture for TravelWise

16. More than 50 local authorities are now running TravelWise, or similar travel awareness campaigns, with the effect that the campaign has achieved a national dimension, but without national co-ordination. Issues of co-ordination between local campaigns inevitably arise and the TravelWise Officer has recently met with representatives of other TravelWise authorities in the south east to share information and expertise. The TravelWise Officer was one of two people elected to represent the region at a forthcoming national TravelWise meeting, where it is hoped that the issues of how the campaign might be projected at a national level and the search for Government funding for a national advertising campaign will be discussed and progressed.

Conclusion

17. As traffic increases there is growing public concern and frustration about the effects of congestion and noise and air pollution. It is important that the Council reinforces its aim of providing for and promoting sustainable travel, and the TravelWise campaign helps to do this by promoting public awareness and understanding of the issues and encouraging individuals, businesses, schools and other organisations to play their own part in helping to ease the effects of traffic growth.

Environmental Implications

18. In promoting a change in attitudes to car use and a change in travel behaviour the TravelWise campaign supports the Council's overall policy of sustainable development and thereby helps to reduce damage to our environment.

Financial and Staff Implications

19. The recommendations in this report can be carried out within the proposed budget for 1998/99 of £36,400 (but see Annex 1 specifically in relation to the proposals for taking forward work on staff travel.)

20. TravelWise is still relatively new and there are only very limited staff resources which can practically be utilised. Therefore most initiatives have to be specially developed by the TravelWise Officer. The amount and complexity of the work carried out to date, and especially the launch of the TravelWise business campaign, would not have been possible without some temporary administrative support available from another section, (also under pressure). As the TravelWise campaign develops, schools and businesses are seeking more support, help and detailed advice. Support for the TravelWise Officer is imperative if we are to respond to requests for help, whilst continuing to move

Page 14 the campaign forward.

Implications for People Living in Poverty

21. A change in travel patterns and a greater emphasis on public transport, cycling and walking will benefit all the citizens of Oxfordshire including poorer people and the 22% of households in the County who do not own or have access to a car.

RECOMMENDATIONS

22. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:-

(a) invite the Education Committee (through the Education Management Sub-Committee) to:

(i) consider the forthcoming results of the Walk to School Week surveys;

(ii) identify ways to encourage all primary and middle schools to participate in Walk to School Week in 1998;

(ii) ask the Chief Education Officer to nominate a representative to assist the TravelWise Officer in developing school travel plans;

(b) instruct the TravelWise Officer to liaise with the District Councils over national travel awareness events such as Car Free Day;

(c) endorse the approach already taken to target businesses and instruct officers to further the partnerships with employers and especially the Chamber of Commerce;

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Background papers: Nil Contact Officer: Rachel Gover Tel: Oxford 815496

14 November 1997

Page 15 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV13

TRAVELWISE CAMPAIGN Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All ANNEX 1 STAFF TRAVEL

STAFF TRAVEL

Progress Report by Director of Environmental Services and Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council

1. In September 1996 the Committee asked officers to report to this Committee and the Personnel Sub-Committee on the costs and operation of existing County Council staff travel policies. Following a preliminary report to the December 1996 meeting the Committee resolved to:

(a) instruct officers to produce proposals for recording more accurately across all departments how staff travel on County Council business, in order to establish a baseline from which a review of staff travel could proceed;

(b) instruct officers to develop and carry out a staff travel survey to establish more information about staff's journeys to and from work and their particular travel needs when at work.

Background

2. The County Council has already introduced a number of measures to promote more sustainable travel by staff. Measures include a cycle allowance for work travel, a bicycle purchase loan scheme and the provision of pool bicycles, pool cars and transferable bus tickets for use by staff travelling on Council business. The Council has also reduced the amount of car parking spaces at its offices in central Oxford.

3. The Countywide "Better Ways to Work" Campaign described in the accompanying report shows how employers can benefit themselves and the environment by reducing work-related car travel and making better use of more environmentally friendly alternatives to `one person-one car' travel.

4. In April 1996 Environmental and Personnel Sub-Committee Group Spokespersons had already agreed a proposal that a travel survey should also be carried out among members.

Progress

4. The accompanying report on the TravelWise Campaign identifies the type and range of initiatives undertaken by the TravelWise Officer. Whilst progress on developing and carrying out the surveys has been delayed by these and other commitments on the TravelWise Officer's time, a need to gather specialist advice on the design and administration of what will be quite a complex survey has also been identified.

5. Since the Committee's resolutions on staff travel were made, the EMAS Environmental Management and Audit Scheme has been introduced to undertake a step-by-step, systematic review of the Council's environmental activities and effects and to implement programmes to manage and monitor them. A report on the progress of EMAS in three trial areas since its introduction is the subject of a separate agenda item. EMAS takes an interdepartmental approach to managing change and ensuring that the Council's environmental policies are turned into action. The Council's Environmental Management Group has now proposed that EMAS should take as its next area of action the issue of staff travel.

6. It is therefore proposed that the TravelWise Officer should work in partnership with the EMAS Officer in carrying out the travel surveys in the spring. It is further proposed that the results of the

Page 16 staff travel survey should be used as the basis for an interdepartmental review of staff travel, carried out through EMAS, and leading to the production of the report, requested by the Committee in September 1996, on how the Council's TravelWise performance can be improved and a corporate travel plan - taking into account principles of the County Council's recently published Guide to Green Commuter plans and Environmental Policy - developed and implemented.

Financial and Staff Implications

7. Initial advice has suggested that the cost of carrying out the staff travel survey may be more than originally planned for within the TravelWise budget. As the results of the study will be of value to all departments in managing their staff travel, departments will be asked to contribute either expertise or a small donation towards the cost of the survey.

8. It is clear that specialist, expert advice is needed on the design and development of the staff travel survey. It is expected that this can be found within the County Council.

DAVID YOUNG C J IMPEY Director of Environmental Services Assistant Chief Executive

& Solicitor to the Council

Contact Officers: Rachel Gover Tel: Oxford 815496 Liz Moore Tel Oxford 815286

Page 17 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV12

OXFORDSHIRE STRUCTURE PLAN 2011: PANEL REPORT Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All

Introduction

1. This report considers the recommendations of the Panel that conducted the Examination in Public of the Oxfordshire Structure Plan 2011. The County Council are required to decide what action to take on each of the Panel's recommendations before publishing proposed modifications to the Plan.

2. The main conclusions of the Panel on the overall strategy, amount and distribution of housing, employment, transport, green belt and minerals are outlined below. Annex A sets out my response to each of the Panel recommendations, taking into account the views of the Structure Plan Working Group which met to consider the Panel report. Annex B gives my response to objections and representations on matters (energy, recreation, waste and miscellaneous) which were not considered by the EIP Panel. Annex C sets out the proposed modifications to the Plan that I recommend the County Council should publish. Annex D deals with the particular issue of housing provision for Didcot. Annexes A-D are circulated in a separate bundle. Copies and a summary of all the objections and representations on the deposit draft Structure Plan are in the Members' Resource Centre.

The Panel Report

(a) The Overall Strategy

3. The Panel give strong support to the country towns strategy, but they do not consider the significantly reduced rates of growth at Bicester and Witney are justified. They see major development at Upper Heyford as unsustainable and an undesirable alternative to further development at Bicester.

(b) The Level of Housing Provision

4. Regional Planning Guidance for the South East (RPG9) indicates an annual average figure of 2467 dwellings for the period 1991-2006 i.e. c. 37000 dwellings for the whole period. The deposit draft Structure Plan proposed 37350 dwellings, including 2350 dwellings previously occupied by the USAF. The Panel accept that the 600 or so former military houses at Bicester and Upper Heyford should be taken into account. They did not accept that the other 1700 houses rented by RAF personnel should be taken into account and recommend increasing the Deposit Draft Plan figure for 1996-2006 accordingly.

5. The Panel conclude that for the period 2006 to 2011 the figure should be closer to a continuation of RPG9's 2467 a year, giving a 5 year total of 12335, over 3000 more than proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan. The Panel recommend that the overall provision should be increased by 5000 to give 35500 dwellings between 1996 and 2011 (an average of 2367 dwellings per year).

6. The Panel recommend the following changes to the proposed 1996-2011 housing distribution to accommodate the overall increase in housing:

Panel Deposit Increase recommendation draft Bicester 4200 (2700)

Page 18 1500 Didcot 5500 (4750) 750 Witney 2700 (1700) 1000 South Oxfordshire Remainder 3000 (2450) 550 Vale of White Horse 5250 (4050) 1200 ______Total Increase 5000

7. Key points are:

(i) Bicester: the Panel point to existing commitments of 2355 dwellings which could be taken up in 6 years or so. They think it unreasonable to expect a virtual halt to house building and that it would be to the town's advantage to expand further. (ii) Didcot: the Panel note the view of Didcot Town Council that the ultimate aim should be a town of at least 30000 to support the range of services and facilities which a successful town should have. They consider that the opportunities for growth at Didcot should be grasped. (iii) Witney: the Panel point to a high level of housing demand, success in providing jobs and consider that more rather than less growth should help to deal with deficiencies which concern the local planning authorities. They conclude that it is neither realistic nor desirable to try to halt, even temporarily, the growth of Witney. (iv) South Oxfordshire Remainder: the Panel are concerned at the considerable reduction proposed in the building rate in the Deposit Draft Plan (163 p.a.) compared to the Approved Structure Plan (297 p.a.) and average performance 1986-1996 (372 p.a.). (v) Vale of White Horse: the Deposit Draft Plan implies an average annual building rate of 270. The Panel do not think the case is made for such a substantial reduction from the building rate assumed in the approved Structure Plan (473 p.a.) and the average annual rate 1986-96 (565 p.a.).

(d) Other Matters

8. The Panel note that PPG7 establishes that the main focus of new development in development plans should be on existing towns and villages consistent with the overall objective of sustainability. They however give support to changes suggested by the County Council prior to the EIP to the employment policies to refer to restraining employment generating development in Oxford and in the rural areas.

9. On transport the Panel conclude that in general the transport policies support the distribution of development and appear to be consistent and integrated with land use policies. They consider that the Structure Plan cannot significantly influence car use and there is little or no prospect of viable public transport services becoming available in sparsely populated areas. They thus do not accept that substantial diversification of rural employment as advocated by some would be consistent with the transport policies.

10. They agree that the Oxford Green Belt should be seen as an important strategic element in terms of sustainability. Circumstances are not so exceptional as to justify a review of a Green Belt so recently fully established. The Panel conclude, however, that there might be some scope for limited releases aimed specifically at Oxford's local housing needs.

11. The Panel endorse the identification of a limited number of broad locations (in policy M2) where the principle of sharp sand and gravel working is acceptable. Any alteration in the precise allocation of areas for mineral working in the Eynsham-Cassington-Yarnton area will be a matter for determination in the future review of the Minerals Local Plan.

Page 19 Comments of the Director of Environmental Services

12. The District Councils will have the opportunity to comment on the proposed modifications. Initial responses to the Panel's report have, however, been received from Cherwell and Vale of White Horse District Councils (copies are in the Members Resource Centre). Both district councils are concerned about the Panel's proposed housing provisions and changes to policies, in particular the deletion of G5 and amendment of T16.

13. The Panel's support for the `country towns' strategy and protection for the Oxford Green Belt and transport policy is welcome. The Panel's recommendations on transport policies are essentially points of detail. The key issue for the Council is whether to accept the Panel's recommendation on the overall amount of housing or whether to risk intervention by central government if a lower figure were proposed.

14. The increases proposed will have significant implications for the places concerned. However, my initial reaction is that the levels of development could be accommodated reasonably satisfactorily, although the potential amount of development in the rural areas of the Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire is not desirable in transport terms.

15. At the Structure Plan Working Group Councillor Hook suggested that the Council should consider accepting an increase of only 3200 dwellings (1800 less than the Panel recommend) to be distributed as follows: Additional Dwellings Panel Suggested Recommendation Alternative Bicester 1500 1000 Didcot 750 750 Witney 1000 500 South Oxfordshire Remainder 550 250 Vale of White Horse 1200 700 5000 3200

16. The suggested alternative figures reflected concerns about infrastructure provision (in Bicester and Witney in particular), the impact of development, potential coalescence of settlements and, notwithstanding the Panel's comments, that account should be taken of the 1700 USAF houses rented from the private sector.

17. Members might if they wished reasonably propose a figure some 300-600 less than the Panel suggest with limited risk of intervention by Government. However, on a countywide basis over a 15 year period such a reduction is relatively insignificant (only 20-40 houses a year) and it could significantly delay the process of adopting the plan if the Council was unable to agree quickly on a distribution. I think that if the Council maintained the view that the 1700 houses rented by the USAF justified not increasing the housing provision the Government would intervene, both because of the scale of reduction proposed and because the Panel considered this issue fully at the EIP. Intervention by Government could well result in the Council being directed to adopt a distribution that includes only district wide figures which could undermine the strategy.

18. I think the Council needs to adopt the Structure Plan as soon as reasonably possible to:

(a) provide certainty, and a framework for the review of district local plans which run only to 2001;

Page 20 (b) stave off attempts by developers to exploit any development plan vacuum by gaining consents on appeal; and (c) enable it to complete the Structure Plan process so that it can be fully involved in the review of regional guidance which, in my view, is likely to pose a far greater potential threat to the county's environment.

19. I recommend therefore, that the County Council should accept the Panel's recommendations on the amount and distribution of housing.

20. A particular issue for the EIP was the way the Structure Plan dealt with the housing provision for Didcot because of the proximity of the district council boundary. The background to this issue is set out in Annex D. My recommendation, which was endorsed by the Structure Plan Working Group, is that the final distribution of housing for Didcot between South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse should be determined in an early alteration to the Structure Plan.

21. I think the majority of the Panel's recommendations on other matters are broadly acceptable. They have taken on board a number of changes suggested by the County Council prior to the EIP. There are however some concerns (see Annex A), many of which are shared by Districts. I suggest a number of changes to the Panel's redraft of policy G1 covering the overall strategy and I do not accept the suggested deletion of policies T1 and T2. I am somewhat concerned about the Panel's comments on policies on development in open countryside (G5 and T16) and that development in villages can help promote sustainability. More dispersed patterns of development, and in particular job growth in rural areas, will lead to increased traffic on minor roads as the Panel themselves recognise (see paragraph 9 above). For this reason I do not accept the Panel's recommendation on policies G5 and E3. I welcome however the Panel's comments on rural diversification and support for suggested changes to policies covering the rural areas (see paragraphs 12 and policies E1, E2 and E6).

22. The Panel's comments in relation to Oxford's local housing needs can be considered in the run up to the next review of the Structure Plan. Other detailed points are covered in Annex A.

Financial and Staff Implications

23. The final stages of the Structure Plan Review can be met from existing resources. Delay in adopting the Plan and/or intervention by the Secretary of State could result in additional costs (including possibly a requirement for a further EIP) and would divert staff from other work.

Environmental Implications

24. The Structure Plan seeks to provide for necessary development in a way that is sustainable.

Implications for People Living in Poverty

25. Policies which seek to reduce dependence on travel by private car may help people in poverty. The Structure Plan however provides only a framework for making a real impact on the lives of people living in poverty.

RECOMMENDATIONS

26. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) agree the recommendations set out in Annexes A and B to the report; and

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Page 21 Background papers: Nil Contact Officer: Chris Cousins, tel. 815459 Ian Walker, tel. 815588 14 October 1997

Page 22 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV23

TRUST FOR OXFORDSHIRE'S ENVIRONMENT (TOE) Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All

1. The 1996 landfill tax regulations allowed landfill companies to reclaim up to 20% of the tax they pay to spend on environmental projects. Companies also have to make a contribution from their own funds. To be eligible for funding, projects have to fall within a number of (fairly broad) categories and be promoted or endorsed by an independent `environmental body' registered with Entrust, the regulatory organisation for such bodies.

2. On 12 March 1997 the Environmental Committee authorised officers to pursue, with the waste industry, environmental groups and Entrust, the establishment of a single environmental body for Oxfordshire, subject to consultation with the Group Spokespersons on emerging issues, including membership of the body, on the understanding that the County Council could neither dictate membership nor hold overall control (EC Minute 29/97).

3. Greenways have pledged £25,000 which triggers an additional £225,000 tax rebate to an Oxfordshire body. Grundons have also pledged financial support. A meeting was held at County Hall early in October attended by County members and officers, Greenways, Grundons, district council officers and representatives of organisations with a wide range of environmental interests. As a result, a Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment (TOE) is to be formed. Membership will be broad, comprising waste companies, environmental interests, the County and district councils.

4. A management board will be responsible for drafting a strategy for spending, and allocating funds for projects. This strategy will be subject to ratification by the membership of the Trust as a whole. The board will comprise up to three "waste" representatives, three environmental interest groups and three local authority representatives. One local authority place has been offered to district councils jointly which, if they accept, will leave two places to be filled by the County Council. Following discussion with the Group Spokespersons, it is expected that these should be one officer and one councillor Ä whom the Group Spokespersons have been asked to nominate.

5. A meeting of the provisional management board is taking place on 8 December. I will report orally on the outcome. I anticipate the management board may meet say four or five times a year, perhaps more initially, to organise the set up and registration of the Trust with Entrust. On the basis that the committee agree the proposed arrangements, designation as a Category `B' body (bodies useful to the Council's work) would be appropriate, entitling the member appointed to represent the Council on the management board to travelling and subsistence allowances when attending the board meetings.

Environmental Implications

6. Creation of and representation on the Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment offers the chance to reclaim Landfill Tax money for a diverse range of projects which can benefit the environment.

Financial and staff Implications

7. Involvement in this project will take some time from existing staff resources. There should be no other significant costs to the County Council.

Implications for People Living in Poverty

8. There are no direct implications for people living in poverty.

RECOMMENDATIONS

Page 23 9.The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) agree the Council's participation as a member of the Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment;

(b) nominate a member to serve on the Trust's management board, either as:

(i) a single member to serve sine die or

(c) RECOMMEND the Operations Sub-Committee to approve the Trust for Oxfordshire's Environment as a Category `B' body for the purpose of the Council's Scheme of Representation on Outside Bodies.

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Background papers: Nil

Contact Officer: Rob Dance, Tel : Oxford 815077

21 November 1997

Page 24 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV22

ECO-MANAGEMENT & AUDIT SCHEME (EMAS) Report by Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council

Background

1. EMAS was introduced into the Council on a trial basis in September 1996 as part of the Council's Agenda 21 commitment to "put its own house in order". A part-time (0.75 FTE) EMAS Officer was appointed in September 1996 for one year, subsequently extended by six months to April 1998.

2. The purpose of EMAS is to review and manage the Council's effects on the environment (both direct and indirect) and to establish environmental good practice and continual improvement in environmental performance. In doing so it can also bring benefits in terms of cost savings, legislative compliance, and improved efficiency.

3. The importance of EMAS as the cornerstone of local authorities' Agenda 21 initiative and a key tool in improving their environmental performance was highlighted by the Audit Commission in its report It's a Small World, published earlier this year, on the environmental stewardship role of local authorities.

The Trial Areas

4. The three areas selected or volunteered for the EMAS trial are council waste (direct effect); the Waste Management Group in Environmental Services (indirect effect); and the Trading Standards Service. Each area, through a series of departmental or interdepartmental working groups, has been approached using EMAS procedures to identify and manage their significant environmental effects.

(a) Council Waste Areas of council waste identified for inclusion in a management programme include paper, electronic and electrical equipment, batteries, and furniture. A copy of the waste programme is in the Members' Resource Centre. Guidelines for the purchase, disposal, and monitoring of these items are to be published in early 1998 following consultation with departmental Administrative Officers, and a drive has begun to introduce recycling schemes into outlying council offices and sites. The existing recycling scheme in central offices has been reviewed and procedures tightened, including transfer of the disposal of confidential waste to an independent specialist contractor and a staff awareness campaign on recycling procedures.

(b) Waste Management Group (Environmental Services) The draft programme resulting from a review of this service area includes a household waste minimisation campaign (already under way) and a strategic review of the options for the long-term development of waste disposal in Oxfordshire. The completed programme is due for publication in early 1998.

(c) Trading Standards Service The Service's draft management programme, based on a review of its environmental effects and environmental awareness workshops for all its staff, focuses on staff travel, office waste, purchasing, and service effects. Measures like increased flexi-place working to reduce staff travel, and a number of initiatives to minimise paper use, have already been put into effect. In addition, TS Direct, the Service's 24-hour information service on the internet, has the potential for reducing paper usage in the office, at home, in business premises and at a range of consumer organisations and business support agencies.

Environmental Policy

5. The Council has published an Environmental Policy, agreed by Environmental Committee on 11

Page 25 June 1997, stating its aims for future environmental development based on the initiatives it has already undertaken and the requirements of EMAS. The policy was developed through full consultation with staff and their representatives, elected members and the public.

Other EMAS Activities

6. Other activities initiated by EMAS have been the inclusion of environmental procedures in the new staff and management induction packs, and a Central Buying Consortium project to publish a Green Purchasing Best Practice Guide, with Oxfordshire as the lead authority of the 16-strong local authorities' group. EMAS continues to develop links with local business and education through talks, meetings and advice.

Environmental Stewardship Audit: District Audit Report

7. District Audit approved the Council's Agenda 21 and EMAS implementation in their interim report on Environmental Stewardship at Oxfordshire County Council and have offered to conduct an Environmental Stewardship Awareness Survey amongst staff and members, the findings of which will be included in their final report to the Council early in 1998.

Evaluation of Initial Stages of EMAS Implementation

8. Although the implementation of EMAS has been slowed by pressure on staff time and resources across all departments, the review and programme stages in the trial areas are already demonstrating the actual and potential benefits to be gained from the systematic approach of an environmental management system, not only in purely environmental terms but also in:

(a) cost savings (for example from reduced waste disposal costs - an estimated £6000 a year in central offices through the diversion of waste from landfill to recycling, with possible further savings by extending the recycling scheme to other offices and encouraging the removal of heavy or bulky items from the waste stream through re-use or recycling);

(b) legislative compliance (reviewing and monitoring existing and planned activities, such as confidential waste disposal, or the disposal of fluorescent tubes, to ensure that we continue to observe statutory requirements in the handling and disposal of all types of waste);

(c) strategic planning (monitoring developments in key areas such as waste management legislation and technologies or producer "take-back" to provide an informed basis for long-term planning);

(d) improved efficiency and effectiveness (as in the recent EMAS review of procedures, roles and responsibilities in the central offices recycling scheme) and the maximisation of resource use;

(e) partnership with local education, business and community groups to conserve and protect the environment through educational campaigns (such as the household waste minimisation campaign) and promotion of environmental awareness and good practice as an integral part of service delivery (for example the opportunity that the Trading Standards Service internet information service provides for both its customer groups and itself to reduce paper use).

9. The EMAS process has also highlighted the importance of efficient monitoring procedures and corporate communications facilities, and will recommend improvements in these areas to chief officers.

Future Programme

10. The planned work programme for EMAS in the remainder of 1997-8 is to:

Page 26 (a) continue the development of the existing programmes in the areas of council waste, household waste disposal, Trading Standards, and purchasing;

(b) strengthen the environmental management structure through the designation of a lead chief officer and a lead environmental officer in each department, with an enhanced role for the Environmental Management Group, in order to improve interdepartmental communications and raise the profile of environmental issues;

(c) work with departments to set up their management arrangements to implement EMAS, and require departments to submit an annual environmental report to programme committees on progress in implementing the Environmental Policy;

(d) undertake a detailed corporate review of the Council's environmental effects at a meeting of chief officers and members in order to agree corporate environmental objectives based on the Environmental Policy and as required by EMAS;

(e) work with TravelWise to undertake a staff travel survey as the basis for an interdepartmental review of staff and members' travel leading to a corporate travel plan and monitoring system, as outlined in the separate report on the TravelWise Campaign.

Financial and Staff Implications

11. Progress and monitoring of EMAS implementation could be severely affected by the likely high level of cuts in the Environmental Plan Budget. However, I consider that EMAS is currently the most important activity funded from that budget because of its potential to improve the Council's own environmental performance (see Environmental Implications below) and it is therefore proposed that in any spending review affecting the Environmental Plan Budget EMAS should take priority, and the EMAS post retained at its current level.

Environmental Implications

12. EMAS has demonstrated how positive improvements in the Council's environmental performance can be achieved, both as an objective for the County Council itself and as an example for other bodies. Withdrawal of support for EMAS would halt the progress being made and damage the potential for further improvements.

Implications for People living in Poverty

13. There are no direct implications arising from this report.

RECOMMENDATION

14. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) approve the work programme outlined in paragraph 10 of the report; and

(b) agree in principle that in any review of the Environmental Plan Budget EMAS should take priority, and the EMAS post retained at its current level.

C.J.IMPEY Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council

Background Papers: Oxfordshire County Council Environmental Management Programme, Council Waste (refer to contact officer) Contact Officer: Susie Ohlenschlager, Tel Oxford 810148

November 1997

Page 27 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV14

NEW NATIONAL ROAD TRAFFIC FORECASTS Report by the Director of Environmental Services

Introduction

1. The Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions (DETR) has published a new National Road Traffic Forecast (NRTF) to replace the forecast published in 1989. The new forecast is based on the DETR's up-to-date research which has modernised and extended the forecasts to suggest how traffic growth could affect various areas differently. The forecasting process includes an estimate of how demand could interact with the largely fixed supply of road space, taking into account rerouting and changed time of travel to avoid congestion. Disaggregated results will be available to show expected traffic growth by road type, area type, region, time of day etc. Some of these results are published with the forecast.

Results of the New Forecast

2. From 1996 to 2025 the new forecast predicts overall traffic growth of 52% (within a range of 31% and 71%) compared with the previous forecast of 68% (within a range of 53% and 83%). From 1996 to 2011 (the end date of the current review of the Structure Plan) it is 28% compared with 35%. Most of the difference between the forecasts is attributable to a small reduction in the allowance for economic growth in the new forecast. Economic growth for the period 1988 to 1996 was less than expected and resulted in less traffic growth, 18½%, compared with the central forecast of 25% in the 1989 NRTF. A diagram and some more detailed comparisons between observed traffic and the old forecasts, and between the old and new forecasts, are shown in Annex 1.

3. For the period 1996 to 2011 the highest rates of growth now forecast are for light vans, 44%, and articulated lorries, 46%. Traffic on motorways is forecast to rise by 47%: on rural motorways, 52%, and urban motorways, 29%. The higher forecast growth on motorways is consistent with the record of traffic growth over the last 8 years: on motorways growth was 35%, compared with growth on all roads of 18½%.

4. By 2016 the morning peak hour typical journey times on urban motorways are forecast to rise by 69% and on rural motorways by 20%. It is estimated that, as a consequence of increased journey times in 2016, travel within centres of conurbations will be restrained (i.e. not undertaken) by 7%; similarly travel on rural motorways will be restrained by 3%.

Comments on the New Forecasts

5. Although traffic growth over the last 8 years was less than forecast (compared with the "central" growth in the previous NRTF), the difference is accounted for by the less than expected economic growth in the period. The new NRTF continues to assume that growth in traffic demand will be closely linked to the growth of the economy. The forecasts of increased traffic pressures within the major urban areas are a new feature of NRTF. However these problems have been apparent for many years already, and in Oxford, for instance, they are being addressed through the Oxford Transport Strategy.

6. The new forecasts of higher than average traffic growth on rural motorways reflect past experience that, statistically, traffic growth has been much higher on the major routes. Previously, the Department of Transport used the same future growth forecast for all roads, which underestimated the rate at which problems would arise on the major routes. Work undertaken in 1992 for the Countryside Commission suggested that, because of the constraints on traffic growth in urban areas, traffic growth on rural roads generally would be above average. However, this conclusion is not reflected in the new NRTF, which forecasts larger car ownership increases in urban areas, despite the local road capacity constraints, and low rural traffic growth. More detailed comment on

Page 28 the apparent discrepancy between these two results has to await the promised publication of the working papers relating to the DETR's new forecasts.

7. The new forecasts do not, of course, take into account the government's intended new approach of an integrated transport policy, to be promoted in a White Paper in the Spring. However, the new forecasts are not static, and the DETR say that they will be rerun as necessary to take account of changed circumstances. The County Council have advised the government of their view that quite radical measures will be needed to make a significant impact on the link between car use and growing personal income. Whilst the Government will be able to bring some influence on car use through the regulations currently available, it is likely to take several years to formulate and to enact the sort of legislation that will be needed to achieve any significant control on a continuing trend of increasing car use.

Implications for Oxfordshire

8. The new forecasts, predicting continued traffic growth following economic growth, reinforce previous concerns for the consequences of traffic growth on roads in Oxfordshire. The small reduction in the rate of forecast growth is offset by the higher than average rates of growth described in the new forecasts on rural motorways and some urban roads. However, these results are general and may not apply equally in Oxfordshire. The implication of the new forecast in presenting different rates of growth in different areas is that the single national growth figure will not be appropriate for Oxfordshire: growth forecasts for different classes of road and in different areas of the county (or for the county as a whole) will have to be found from local application of the new forecasting process.

9. Until more reliable local forecasts are available, my principal concern is for those major routes that have had the highest traffic growth in recent years. High growth of traffic demand on these routes seems set to continue and there seems to be no prospect in the short term of any effective government action to halt this. In the major urban areas, the other domain of above average forecast traffic demand, we are undertaking, or have programmed, integrated transport studies to address the pressures of traffic growth.

10. Parts of the M40, A34 and A40 routes have been identified previously by DETR as suffering high capacity "stress". Whilst there has been very little growth on the A40 route the M40 and A34 routes in Oxfordshire have sustained high traffic growth over several years which has lead to capacity problems at the M40 junctions and along the A34 route. The new forecasts reinforce fears that traffic growth on these routes will continue at rates above the national average. This will, besides leading to congestion on these routes, lead to traffic diverting from the major routes onto unsuitable minor roads causing local traffic problems.

11. I conclude that the need for a comprehensive study of the A34 route, where high growth could rapidly worsen existing problems, is now more urgent than I suggested previously to the Committee in October. In the short to medium term, investment to safely accommodate existing traffic with some growth, particularly targeting junctions, will be needed, whilst at the same time preparations need to be made for longer term management of the route which will be dependent on the provisions of the government's adopted integrated transport policy.

Environmental Implications

12. The new traffic growth forecasts show traffic projections mainly similar to the previous forecasts but with more emphasis on the likelihood of overloading major routes which will result in problems on adjacent minor roads.

Financial and Staff Implications

13. Responding to problems caused by increased traffic on minor roads, if this is allowed to happen, would be a considerable burden on staff and financial resources. There may be increased pressures on financial and staff resources if a new need arises to determine local traffic growth forecasts in support of bids for transport improvement projects.

Implications for People Living in Poverty

Page 29 14. There appear to be no implications particularly related to people living in poverty

RECOMMENDATIONS

15. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to inform the Department of the Environment, Transport and Regions that the Council:

(a) note with concern the high rate of growth in the new national traffic road forecast and particularly the higher rates of growth of traffic demand expected on rural motorways;

(c) consider that increased funding will be needed in the short to medium term to resolve capacity bottlenecks on the major routes and to adapt the routes to provide high priority to public transport use; and

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Background papers: Nil

Contact Officer : Nigel Birch. Tel : Oxford 815582

24 November 1997

Page 30 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV14

NEW NATIONAL ROAD TRAFFIC FORECASTS Report by the Director of Environmental Services ANNEX 1 DETAILS OF TRAFFIC GROWTH FROM 'TRANSPORT STATISTICS (GB) 1997' AND FROM THE NATIONAL ROAD TRAFFIC FORECASTS OF 1989 AND 1997

A new National Road Traffic Forecast (NRTF) was published in October 1997 by the DETR in place of the previous NRTF published in 1989. The new NRTF covers the years 1996 to 2031. The previous NRTF covered the period 1988 to 2025. The new NRTF gives a central forecast, considered to be the most likely outcome, and high and low growth forecasts which are intended to show the extent of uncertainty in the forecasts. The previous NRTF gave only a high and a low growth forecast: the average of these is taken as the central growth forecast for the previous NRTF. The tables below and diagram on the following page also rely on the traffic statistics from `Transport Statistics Great Britain', 1997 Edition, September 1997.

Growth in 8-year Period (%) previous NRTF Observed Growth 1988-1996 Low High

Gross Domestic Product 16.7 28.7 12 All motor traffic (excluding motorcycles) 18.9 31.4 18.6

traffic by vehicle class (% in 1988) 20.1 33.3 18.7 Cars and Taxis 82.6% 17.2 29.2 26.3 Light Vans 8.7% 6.5 11.5 2.3 Heavy Goods (up to 3 axles) 4.7% 18.4 33.2 23.3 Heavy Goods (4 or more axles) 2.8% 10.9 19.6 10.0 All Heavy Goods 7.5% nfg nfg 12 Bus and Coach 1.2%

traffic by road type (% in 1988) Motorway 14.5% 35.2 Non built-up trunk 13.9% 20.8 Non built-up principal 13.6% 22.5 Built-up trunk and principal 19.9% 8.7 All minor roads 38.1% 13

Growth Forecasts in 15-year Period (%) LOW NRTF CENTRAL NRTF HIGH NRTF 1996-2011 previous previous previous new new new

Gross Domestic Product 32.7 45.9 59.1 All motor traffic (excluding motorcycles) 25.7 41.3 43.1 17 34.4 traffic by vehicle class (% in 1996) 28 Cars and Taxis 82.7% 27 41.8 Light Vans 9.2% 16 34.4 37 Heavy Goods (rigid) 4.3% 32.1 27 58.6 Heavy Goods (articulated) 2.7% 31 45.3 56 All Heavy Goods 7.0% 3 44 22 Bus and Coach 1.1% 33 12 58 5.3 46 44.4 traffic by road type (% in 1996) 15 24.8 36 Motorway (rural) 13.1% nfg 25 nfg 20 Motorway (urban) 3.6% 1 nfg 11 All Motorway 16.7% Rural trunk and dual 'A' 11.3% Other rural roads 34.0% Urban roads 38.0% 52

Page 31 29 47 29 22 25 nfg - no forecast given.

Page 32 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV12

OXFORDSHIRE STRUCTURE PLAN 2011: PANEL REPORT Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All ANNEX C Policies in the Deposit Draft Plan and Proposed Modifications, Part 1

( You may have trouble in reading the tables in this annex because wide tables cannot be satisfactorily reproduced on screen)

Click here for part 2

OXFORDSHIRE STRUCTURE PLAN 2011

Policies in the Deposit Draft Plan and Proposed Modifications

CHAPTER 5 - GENERAL

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

G1 The general strategy is to seek to ensure that development in Re-word Policy G1 as follows: Oxfordshire is sustainable by: "The general strategy is to provide a sustainable planning a)protecting the environment, character and natural resources of framework for development to meet housing, economic and other the county by limiting the overall level of development; requirements over the period 1996 to 2011 in ways which will: b)favouring development in locations which reduce the need to travel particularly by private car and encourage walking, cycling anda)help to meet the objectives of regional policy to secure a shift in the use of public transport and in which a reasonable range of the balance of development from the west to the east of the region; services and community facilities exist or can be provided; b)protect the environment, character and natural resources of the c)concentrating developments which generate a lot of journeys in county by restraining the overall level of locations which are capable of being well served by public transport; d)making the best use of land and buildings within built up areas to reduce the need for the development of green field sites, while not permitting development on important open spaces;

Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney will be the preferred locations for new development. Elsewhere in the County development and consequent expansion of population will be limited. develo pment ; c) favour locatio ns where: (i) the need to travel, particu larly by private car, can be reduc ed;

Page 33 (ii) walkin g, cycling and the use of public transp ort can be encou raged; and (iii) a reaso nable range of servic es and comm unity faciliti es exist or can be provid ed; d) conce ntrate develo pment s which gener ate a lot of journe ys in locatio ns which are or are capabl e of being well served by public transp ort; e) secur e the best use of

Page 34 existin g buildin gs and the re-use of previo usly develo ped land in locatio ns which are consis tent with the transp ort princip les of this plan so as to reduc e the need for the develo pment of green field sites whilst: (i) respe cting the import ance of maint aining and improv ing the enviro nment in both rural and urban areas, and (ii) protect

Page 35 ing import ant open space s.

The preferr ed locatio ns for develo pment will be Banbu ry, Bicest er, Didcot and Witney .

In rural areas, local plans will make appro priate provisi on for develo pment and in doing so will have particu lar regard to the econo mic and social well-b eing of local comm unities .

Page 36 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV25(b)

PLANNING SUB-COMMITTEE - 17 NOVEMBER 1997 MINUTES of the meeting commencing at 2.00 pm and finishing at 2.47 pm

Present:

Voting Members:

Councillors Nils R. Bartleet, Brenda Churchill, A.D. Crabbe, Mrs C. Fulljames, Dave Green, Steve Hayward, MacKenzie, Anne Purse, G.A. Reynolds, Don Seale and Harry Wyatt.

Ex Officio:

Councillors Neville F. Harris (in place of Councillor Bob Langridge) and Bill Bradshaw (in place of Councillor Dermot Roaf).

Officers:

Whole of meeting: G. Warrington (Chief Executive's Office); C. Cousins, J. Duncalfe and J. Griffin (Environmental Services).

The Sub-Committee considered the matters, reports and recommendations contained or referred to in the agenda for the meeting, together with a Schedule of addenda tabled by the Chief Executive. Copies of the agenda, reports and Schedule of addenda are attached to the signed Minutes, and in relation thereto the Sub-Committee determined as follows:-

63/97 ELECTION TO CHAIR

RESOLVED: that Councillor Purse (Liberal Democrat) be elected to chair the meeting.

64/97 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND TEMPORARY APPOINTMENTS

Apologies for absence and Group Leader substitutions were reported as follows:

Apology from Temporary Appointment/Substitute

Councillor Sylvia Tompkins - Councillor Langridge Councillor Harris Councillor Roaf Councillor Bradshaw

65/97 MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting of the Sub-Committee held on 13 October 1997 were approved and signed.

66/97 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

Minute 61/97 - Progress on authorised Enforcement Action

(i) New Manor Farm, Marston

In response to Councillor MacKenzie, Mr Duncalfe reported that the Environment Agency had now responded regarding clearance. They were concerned about the special waste contained in the site and the potential for groundwater pollution. They estimated the cost

Page 37 of clearance at £35,000 which constituted the Agency's entire budget for the Thames West Area for this type of operation. They were seeking clarification of their powers to undertake clearance of the site but would be requesting that the County Council consider funding a joint approach

Members asked officers to inform the Agency that the County Council had no funds available to participate in a joint operation. In view of the risk of pollution, the control of which was a Agency responsibility, the Agency should be asked to clear the waste as a matter of urgency.

(ii) Waterstock Golf Course

In response to Councillor Bradshaw, Mr Cousins advised that on 12 November 1977 the Planning Urgency Sub-Committee had authorised further stop and enforcement notices in respect of waste which had been brought into other areas of the site. The notices had been served in the afternoon of 12 November 1997 with effect from Sunday 16 November 1997. He confirmed that any further activity was now unauthorised and that there had been no activity at the site that morning.

67/97 ENFORCEMENT OF PLANNING CONTROL: PROCEDURES AND RESOURCES (Agenda Item 6)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PL6) which set out the main enforcement provisions, the County Council's current procedures and the resources available to take enforcement action.

Officers had tabled a revised recommendation in the schedule of addenda.

During the course of debate members expressed a desire to see an improvement in performance in enforcement action but recognised that that had to be seen in the context of the extreme pressures being placed on the County Council's budget.

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Wyatt, seconded by Councillor Churchill and carried by 8 votes to 0) that:

(a) the range of planning functions which the Director of Environmental Services is authorised to discharge be expanded to include the following:

"Initiating the following enforcement action in any particular case: • service of an enforcement notice; and/or • service of a stop notice; and/or • applying for an injunction; subject in each case to: (a) the concurrence of the Solicitor to the Council; (b) prior consultation with the Group Spokespersons and the Local Member on the basis that any one of the Spokespersons could require reference of the matter to the next meeting of the Sub-Committee; (c) the Director, the Solicitor to the Council and the Group Spokespersons being satisfied that in all the circumstances it was necessary for such action to be taken urgently in order to limit or prevent material damage to the environment or prejudice to planning policies.";

(b) the Environmental Committee be RECOMMENDED:

(ii) to authorise the appointment of an additional member of staff to undertake specialist enforcement work in the event of funding becoming available for that purpose.

Page 38 68/97 COUNTY COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATIONS (Agenda Item 7)

The Sub-Committee considered the following current applications for County Council Development.

Application No: C.26/97 (detailed). Erection of 2400 MM high security boundary fence and gates, and stopping up of existing maintenance access to Overthorpe Road, Grimsbury St Leonard's CE School, Overthorpe Road, Banbury. Application No: O.10/97 (detailed). Retention and continued use of Pratten Building as Day Nursery for staff members of Oxford City Council and Oxfordshire County Council for a temporary period of 5 years, St Thomas Day Nursery, St Thomas Street, Oxford. Application No: S.24/97 (detailed). Change of use from staff flat to offices for Social Services (to house a Mental Health Team for a temporary period of three years and Transport Team for one year), Orchard House EPH, Sandford Road, Littlemore. Application No. S.25/97 (detailed). Renewal of consent for a single prefabricated classroom unit E117 for a temporary period of 2 years, Nettlebed CP School, High Street, Nettlebed. Application No: S.26/97 (detailed). Renewal of consent for a prefabricated classroom unit E011 for a temporary period of 5 years, Aston Rowant CE School, School Lane, Aston Rowant. Application No: V.09/97 (detailed). Renewal of consent for a two classroom prefabricated building T027 for a temporary period of 2 years, John Mason School, Wootton Road, Abingdon.

RESOLVED: that :

(a) Application O.10/97 (St Thomas Day Nursery) be approved as recommended in the schedule appended to the report subject to an additional condition requiring access for people with disabilities;

(b) the Chief Planning Officer be authorised to approve Applications S26./97 (Aston Rowant CE School) and V.09/97 (John Mason School) subject to conditions and to first consulting the Sub-Committee Spokespersons, in the event of an objection from either District;

(c) the remaining applications be approved as recommended in the schedule appended to PL7, subject to the detailed wording of the recommended conditions being agreed by the Chief Planning Officer.

69/97 MINERALS REVIEW: APPLICATION FOR DETERMINATION OF NEW CONDITIONS FOR PLANNING PERMISSION (REF. M162/49) FOR EXTRACTION OF STONE AT WOODEATON QUARRY (REF. 97/01804/CM) (Agenda Item 8)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PL8) on an application to determine new conditions for a planning permission at Woodeaton Quarry. Mr Cousins reported that the applicants had requested that consideration of the application be deferred and had agreed an extension of time to allow for this.

RESOLVED: that the application for new conditions to be attached to planning permission M162/49 be deferred to the next meeting of the Sub-Committee.

70/97 APPLICATION BY DAVID MCDOWELL LTD FOR A WASTE TRANSFER STATION AND RECYCLING FACILITY AT GROVE TECHNOLOGY PARK (FORMERLY WANTAGE BUSINESS PARK), WANTAGE, OXON (APPLICATION NO ECH/1432/17-CM) (Agenda Item 9)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PL9) on a proposal to set up a waste transfer station and recycling facility at Grove Technology Park. The application had been deferred from the October meeting.

RESOLVED: that subject to a routeing agreement to include a ceiling on the number of HGVs accessing/egressing the site each day, planning permission be granted for the development

Page 39 proposed in application no ECH/1432/17ÄCM, subject to the conditions listed in annex 2 to PL9.

...... in the Chair

Date of signing ...... 1998

Page 40 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV29

GYPSY SUB-COMMITTEE - 11 NOVEMBER 1997 MINUTES of the meeting commencing at 10.00 am and finishing at 12.20 pm

Present:

Voting Members:

Councillors Ted Cooper, Dhall, Margaret Ferriman, Mrs Humphries, Mrs Diana Ludlow, Kieron Mallon (in place of Councillor Keith Mitchell), Mrs Jan Morgan, G.A. Reynolds and Harry Wyatt.

Ex Officio:

Councillors Nils R. Bartleet (in place of Councillor Bob Langridge) and Brian L. Hook (in place of Councillor C.H. Shouler).

Officers:

Whole of meeting: J Leverton (Chief Executive's Office); I Moss and A Burn (Environmental Services).

The Sub-Committee considered the matters, reports and recommendations contained or referred to in the agenda for the meeting, together with a Schedule of Addenda tabled at the meeting. Copies of the agenda, reports and Schedule of Addenda are attached to the signed Minutes, and in relation thereto the Sub-Committee determined as follows:-

8/97 ELECTION TO CHAIR

RESOLVED: that Councillor Wyatt (Liberal Democrat) be elected to chair the meeting.

9/97 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND TEMPORARY APPOINTMENTS

Apologies for absence, temporary appointments and Group Leader substitutions were reported as follows:

Apology from Temporary Appointment/Substitute

Councillor Langridge Councillor Bartleet Councillor Mitchell Councillor Mallon Councillor Shouler Councillor Hook

10/97 MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting of the Sub-Committee held on 25 February 1997

11/97 PETITIONS AND PUBLIC ADDRESS

The following request to address the meeting had been agreed

Request from Agenda Item

Mr Ted Tolputt 7. The Furlong Gypsy Caravan Site, Chairman, Standlake Parish Council Standlake

Page 41 12/97 ORDER OF BUSINESS

RESOLVED: to consider Agenda Item 7 immediately after Agenda Item 5.

13/97 THE FURLONG GYPSY CARAVAN SITE, STANDLAKE (Agenda Item 7)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (GSC7) on the effects of the Standlake Gypsy Caravan Site on the village and specific problems facing local businesses.

Mr Tolputt advised the Sub-Committee of a sharp increase in the local crime rate, especially affecting the nearby business, since the gypsy site had opened, and particularly over the last 5 months. He referred especially to a general lack of discipline among the younger residents. The Parish Council wanted the causes of the problems to be removed and failing that the closure of the whole site.

The Chair, in his capacity as local member, endorsed Mr Tolputt's remarks and gave further details of the depredations suffered by local business concerns.

In the course of a lengthy debate, it was noted in particular that the increased local crime rate appeared to correlate with the opening of the site in 1995, but not with the arrival of particular families; that the main problems appeared to be related to vandalism and other misbehaviour among young adults; that eviction was inappropriate without substantive evidence of infraction, which was not currently available; that although a formal agreement with West Oxfordshire District Council had not yet been signed, the District Council were undertaking all management functions in accordance with the terms agreed in principle at the outset; and that whilst a number of children were integrating well, there appeared to be a problem over some children whose parents had previously elected to make private arrangements for their education.

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Wyatt, seconded by Councillor Mrs Morgan and carried unanimously):

(a) to note the report;

(b) that officers continue to monitor the situation and report back to the next meeting of the Gypsy Sub-Committee;

(c) that officers warn all gypsy families on the site (both orally and in writing) that the Sub-Committee at their next meeting would consider:

(i) moving selected families off the site; or

(ii) closing the site permanently;

(d) to ask officers to prepare the necessary reports to enable the options to be considered;

(e) (on an amendment by Councillor Dhall, accepted by the proposer and seconder with the consent of the Sub-Committee) to explore the issue of integration of young adults into the local community;

(f) (on an amendment by Councillor Mrs Morgan, accepted by the proposer with the consent of the Sub-Committee) to advise the Education Management Sub-Committee of this Sub-Committee's concern about reported delays in taking into the school system those children resident on the site for whom previous arrangements for their education at home had ceased, and to ask that Sub-Committee and the Chief Education Officer to take urgent action in respect of those delays.

14/97 REVIEW OF POLICY FOR THE CONTROL OF UNAUTHORISED ENCAMPMENTS (Agenda Item 6)

Page 42 The Sub-Committee considered a report (GSC6) reviewing the day to day application of controls of unauthorised encampments, with particular reference to the presence of large groups of travellers in transit; the existence of fewer places for travellers in transit; and families who wished to live in Oxfordshire but who had no authorised site and refused to go on County Council owned sites.

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Cooper, seconded by Councillor Ferriman and carried nem con) to ask officers to report further to the next meeting, following discussion with District Council officers, on the issue of transit site provision, the report to cover in particular:

(a) the number of highway lay-bys that had been closed in the past and the practicality and cost of reopening some or all of them;

(b) the numbers of gypsies known to be in transit through Oxfordshire over a given period; and

(c) (on an amendment by Councillor Wyatt, accepted by the proposer and seconder with the consent of the Sub-Committee) the practicality, cost and possible location of a 12 months trial transit site.

...... in the Chair

Date of signing ...... 1997

Page 43 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV25(a)

PLANNING SUB-COMMITTEE - 13 OCTOBER 1997 MINUTES of the meeting commencing at 2.00 pm and finishing at 3.05 pm

Present:

Voting Members:

Councillors Nils R. Bartleet, Brenda Churchill, A.D. Crabbe, Mrs C. Fulljames, Dave Green, Steve Hayward, David Nicholson (in place of Councillor Harry Wyatt), Anne Purse, G.A. Reynolds, Jack Steer (in place of Councillor MacKenzie), Don Seale and Sylvia Tompkins.

Ex Officio:

Councillors Neville Harris (in place of Councillor Bob Langridge), Tim Horton (in place of Councillor Dermot Roaf) and Brian L. Hook (in place of Councillor C.H. Shouler).

Officers:

Whole of meeting: R. Hanson and G. Warrington (Chief Executive's Office); C. Cousins, J. Duncalfe, J. Griffin and J. Morrell.

The Sub-Committee considered the matters, reports and recommendations contained or referred to in the agenda for the meeting, together with a schedule of addenda tabled by the chief Executive. Copies of the agenda, reports and schedule of addenda are attached to the signed Minutes, and in relation thereto the Sub-Committee determined as follows:-

50/97 ELECTION TO CHAIR

RESOLVED: that Councillor Purse (Liberal Democrat) be elected to chair the meeting.

51/97 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND TEMPORARY APPOINTMENTS

Apologies for absence, temporary appointments and Group Leader substitutions were reported as follows:-

Apology from Temporary Appointment/Substitute

Councillor Roaf Councillor Horton Councillor Langridge Councillor Harris Councillor MacKenzie Councillor Steer Councillor Shouler Councillor Hook Councillor Wyatt Councillor Nicholson

52/97 MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting of the Sub-Committee held on 1 September 1997 were approved and signed.

53/97 PETITIONS AND PUBLIC ADDRESS

The following request to address the meeting had been agreed,

Request from Agenda Item

Page 44 John Drake 11. Elm Farm Quarry, Stratton Audley, John Drake & Co. Nr Bicester.

54/97 ORDER OF BUSINESS

RESOLVED: that item 11 be taken as the first item of business.

55/97 UNAUTHORISED DEPOSIT OF WASTE; LAND AT ELM FARM QUARRY, STRATTON AUDLEY, NR BICESTER (Agenda Item 11)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PL11) which concerned the unauthorised deposit of waste at Elm Farm Quarry.

Mr John Drake addressed the Sub-Committee on behalf of the applicants. He referred to the history of the site and the need to infill as soon as possible. The Parish Council supported the company's proposals. It was intended only to deposit inert waste.

Also tabled were two letters from the applicants' solicitors which stated that in their view the report before the Sub-Committee was so incomplete, inaccurate and misleading as to render unreasonable any decision authorising enforcement action.

In order to allow officers to respond on these complex matters it was -

RESOLVED: that the Urgency Sub-Committee be authorised to determine whether or not to authorise the assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council to serve:

(a) an enforcement notice to prevent the importation and deposit of waste materials to Elm Farm Quarry; and

(b) in consultation with the Director of Environmental Services a stop notice to prevent further import of waste to the site.

56/97 COUNTY COUNCIL PLANNING APPLICATIONS (Agenda Item 6)

The Sub-Committee considered the following current applications for County Council development:-

Application No: C.12/97 (outline). Construction of replacement Day Centre and associated offices, temporary access road, parking spaces and landscaping, Blenheim Drive, Blenheim Road, Kidlington. Application No: O.09/97 (detailed). Renewal of consent for two classroom prefabricated building (Ref: E056) for a temporary period of 5 years, Windmill First School, Margaret Road, Headington, Oxford. Application No: S.22/97 (detailed). Erection of prefabricated two classroom building for Bishopswood Special School for a temporary period of 5 years, Sonning Common CP School, Grove Road, Sonning Common.

RESOLVED: that the applications be determined as recommended in the schedules appended to PL6, subject to the detailed wording of the recommended conditions being agreed by the Chief Planning Officer.

57/97 PLANNING APPLICATION FOR ERECTION OF NEW PRIMARY SCHOOL: ICKNIELD SCHOOL, LOVE LANE, WATLINGTON (Agenda Item 7)

In September 1997 this Sub-Committee approved a planning application for a new primary school in Watlington and asked the Chief Planning Officer to seek guidance from the Road Safety and TravelWise Officers, in consultation with Watlington Parish Council, on measures to be

Page 45 incorporated in the plans for the new school to facilitate walking and cycling to the school as opposed to children being taken there by car.

The Sub-Committee considered the following suggestions from officers. Well lit, secure cycle sheds should be provided and the existing unauthorised footpath into the school from Pyrton Lane regularised. The latter point would require further investigation as there was no footpath on Pyrton Lane onto which any new footpath link could connect. Other footpath links outside the application area could be desirable but no funding was currently available. If an acceptable safe link could be achieved from Pyrton Lane, then the wording of an appropriate planning condition would need to be delegated to the Chief Planning Officer. Lighting generally for those walking and cycling should be improved, and the school should develop a comprehensive travel awareness/education programme encompassing children, staff, parents and governors to include such things as participation in Walk to School Week and signing up to "Footsteps".

Councillor Horton said that his greatest concern centred on access from the Love Lane/Pauls Way area. The distance from the unofficial Pyrton lane access to the main access would involve a ¾ mile journey for parents and pupils.

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Purse, seconded by Councillor Mrs Fulljames and carried nem con) that:

(a) conditions be added to the original recommendation of approval which cover, amongst other things:

(1) provision of cycle parking facilities at the new primary school;

(2) the lighting of certain lengths of footpath and cycle routes within the school site; and

(b) to request the Education Committee in conjunction with the Highways & Road Safety Sub-Committee to seek safer cycling and pedestrian access for children to the Icknield School site;

(c) the TravelWise and Road Safety Officers be requested to discuss with the Headteacher of the new primary school a comprehensive travel awareness/education programme for journeys to and from school.

58/97 APPLICATION NO 97/01200/OUT: FAMILY LEISURE PARK, LAND AT OXFORD ROAD AND MIDDLETON STONEY ROAD, BICESTER (Agenda Item 8)

The County Council had been consulted on this proposal as Structure Plan Authority by Cherwell District council. The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PL8) which assessed the proposals against approved and draft Structure Plan policies and government advice on sustainable development in PP6 AND PPG13.

Mr Cousins reported that a letter had been received from the applicants' agent confirming that further information on sequential testing would be available within the next two weeks and requesting that consideration of the application be deferred. He advised that the officers report had referred to the absence of this information together with a detailed assessment of the impact of the proposals. Cherwell District Council would not be considering this proposal until December/January which allowed the application to come back to the November meeting of the Sub-Committee. However, he mentioned that the Sub-Committee in January 1997 (Minute 5/97) had requested the District Council consider the implications of this application together with the proposals for an extension to Bicester Village retail development.

RESOLVED: that consideration of application No. 97/01200/OUT be deferred to the November meeting of the Sub-Committee pending further information from the applicant.

59/97 AN APPLICATION BY DAVID MCDOWELL LTD FOR A WASTE TRANSFER STATION AND

Page 46 RECYCLING FACILITY AT GROVE TECHNOLOGY PARK (FORMERLY WANTAGE BUSINESS PARK), WANTAGE, OXON (APPLICATION NO ECH/1432/17-CM) (Agenda Item 9)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PL9) on a proposal for a waste transfer station and recycling facility at Grove Technology Park.

At the applicants request it was -

RESOLVED: that consideration of application ECH/1432/17-CM be deferred to the November meeting of the Sub-Committee.

60/97 AN APPLICATION BY BEN SMITH AND SONS (WANTAGE) LTD FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF EARTH BUNDS TO REDUCE THE NOISE NUISANCE SUFFERED BY RESIDENTS, THE WHARF, MILL STREET, WANTAGE. (APPLICATION NO WAN/2550/3-CM) (Agenda Item 10)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PL10) on a proposal to construct noise bunds to overcome a Statutory Noise Nuisance suffered by residents neighbouring the scrapyard site.

Ms Morrell advised that the applicants had now agreed to enter into an agreement to limit noise generation behind the bunded area.

RESOLVED: that planning permission be granted for the development proposed in application no WAN/2550/3subject to conditions as set out in Annex 2 to PL10 and an agreement restricting noise generating activities to behind the bunded area.

61/97 PROGRESS ON AUTHORISED ENFORCEMENT ACTION (Agenda Item 12)

The Sub-Committee had before them a Schedule (PL12) of progress on enforcement action which had previously been authorised in respect of branches of planning permission.

Mr Duncalfe updated the Sub-Committee on the following items:

Item 1 (New Manor Farm, Marston) the Environment Agency had indicated that funds could be made available to clear the site because of the special waste that been deposited on the site.

Item 6 (Hundridge Farm, Ipsden) an enforcement notice would be served.

Item 10 (Sonning Eye Pit, Sonning Eye) a breach of condition notice had been drafted and submitted to the Solicitor to the Council for approval.

Item 11 (Waterbridge Farm, Adderbury) an appeal had now been received.

RESOLVED:

(a) to note the report;

(b) to ask officers to write to the Environment Agency welcoming the possible clearance of the Manor Farm site.

62/97 DELEGATED POWERS (Agenda Item 13)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PL13) which requested further delegation of powers to allow the Director of Environmental Services to respond to consultations from other local planning authorities.

RESOLVED: that the list of planning functions delegated to the Director of Environmental

Page 47 Services specified in Annex 1 to PL13 be expanded to include responding as strategic planning authority to consultations from other local authorities on the implications for the Structure Plan or the Minerals and Waste Local Plan of policies and proposals in draft local plans and structure plans subject to first consulting the Sub-Committee Spokespersons.

...... in the Chair

Date of signing ...... 1997

Page 48 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV27

HIGHWAYS & ROAD SAFETY SUB-COMMITTEE - 6 NOVEMBER 1997 MINUTES of the meeting commencing at 10.00 am and finishing at 11.30 am

Present:

Voting Members

Councillors Nils R. Bartleet (in place of Councillor Sandra Mold), Fiona Campbell, Brenda Churchill, Ted Cooper, D.J. Dawes, Farrow, Mrs. J. Heathcoat, Tim Horton, Colin Lamont, Richard Marchant, Alan Roberton and Tony Stockford (in place of Councillor Richardson).

Ex Officio:

Councillors Bill Bradshaw (in place of Councillor Dermot Roaf), Sam Segaran (in place of Councillor Bob Langridge) and Brian L. Hook (in place of Councillor C.H. Shouler).

Officers:

Whole of meeting: J. Leverton and D. Evans (Chief Executive's Office); Director of Environmental Services, K. Welham and R. Williams.

Part of meeting: S. Bates and A. Mortlock (Environmental Services).

By Invitation:

Sergeant P. Smith and Constable A. Leather, Thames Valley Police.

67/97 ELECTION TO CHAIR

RESOLVED: that Councillor Bartleet (Labour) be elected to chair the meeting.

68/97 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND TEMPORARY APPOINTMENTS

Apologies for absence, temporary appointments and Group Leader substitutions were reported as follows:

Apology from Temporary Appointment/Substitute

Councillor Langridge Councillor Segaran Councillor Mold Councillor Bartleet Councillor Richardson Councillor Stockford Councillor Roaf Councillor Bill Bradshaw Councillor Shouler Councillor Hook

69/97 MINUTES

The Minutes of the Highways Sub-Committee meeting held on 28 August 1997 were approved and signed.

Page 49 70/97 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

Minute 59/97 - Henley Town Centre Parking Review

In response to a question by Councillor Horton, Mr Leverton informed members that the draft traffic regulation orders had not yet been published due to constraints on officer time as a result of the current recruitment freeze.

Minute 61/97 - A. Proposed Health Professionals Permit Scheme

In response to a question by Councillor Dawes, Mr Welham reported that the City Council had defined the term "carer" as a professional carer who was employed by the Health Authority and based in a Health Centre. No date had been given to implementation of the scheme due to financial constraints.

Minute 63/97 - Requests From Parish Councils, Traffic Advisory Etc. Oxford Road (north), Abingdon

Mr Welham informed members that following a meeting with Abingdon Town Council provision would be made for better signing on the approach to the site as it was felt a refuge island would not be feasible and a zebra crossing would be too dangerous. A pelican crossing would be the best option at the site but the Town Council felt that this would be too expensive for them to fund.

71/97 LOCAL SAFETY SCHEMES: PROVISIONAL TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT AND ACCIDENT REMEDIAL PROGRAMMES 1998/99 (Agenda Item 6)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (HW6) which set out proposed outline allocations for the 1998/99 Traffic Management and Accident Remedial Programmes, together with an amendment to the 1997/98 Traffic Management Programme.

RESOLVED: to:-

(a) approve the draft allocations set out in Annex 1 to allow further preparation of detailed programmes for approval at the February meeting;

(b) approve the substitution of scheme 1896 (Wantage-Grove Cycle Route, Denchworth Road, Mably Way to Witan Way) for the A417, East Challow to King Alfred's School cycle facilities in the 1997/98 Traffic Management Programme, the A417 scheme being retained for possible future implementation.

72/97 30 MPH SPEED LIMITS (Agenda Item 7)

The Environmental Committee on 1 October 1997 had adopted the Sub-Committee's recommendations in the introduction of 30 mph speed limits in settlements, subject to the necessary resources to fund the project becoming available; and to detailed arrangements for the implementation of the project being agreed by this Sub-Committee in the light of a report to be prepared following consultation with the Environmental and Highways Group Spokespersons. The Sub-Committee had before them that report (HW7) which detailed matters including the implementation sequence of the project, the type of settlements to be incorporated, publicity and estimated costs.

Councillor Heathcoat moved and Councillor Roberton seconded that the Sub-Committee adopt the recommendations set out in the report but with the deletion of the words "but without this giving a preferential treatment to the benefactor" in sub-paragraph (e).

Councillor Stockford, seconded by Councillor Cooper proposed an amendment to restore the deleted words. The amendment was put to the vote and carried 8 votes to 5.

Page 50 The motion as amended was therefore put and it was -

RESOLVED: (by 9 votes to 0) to agree the following practical details for implementation of the 30 mph speed limits in settlements project in the event of the necessary finance becoming available:

(a) that the word "settlement" be not defined but that in each case the most appropriate limit be identified in conjunction with the local councils;

(b) that all 40 mph limits in settlements be converted to 30 mph (except where assessed as being inappropriate in relation to an individual road);

(d) that the project be implemented District by District starting with South Oxfordshire and then continuing in a clockwise order, with any changes in Oxford City made over the period of the project;

(e) that financial contributions be sought and encouraged from local councils and businesses but without this giving a preferential treatment to the benefactor;

(f) that following the establishment of funding for the project, a leaflet be published setting out the reasons for the project, a draft timetable and an explanation of some of the practicalities of implementation.

73/97 PARKING CONTROLS (Agenda Item 8)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report by County and City officers (HW8) which had been presented to the Oxford Transport Strategy Working Party on 17 October on the control of existing areas of free on-street parking available to commuters, and enforcement of existing and future controlled/residents' parking zones. The Working Party had resolved:

"(a) to affirm the need for further controlled parking zones and effective enforcement of existing controlled zones to reduce present levels of free on street commuter parking in accordance with OTS objectives, and for that purpose to endorse:

(i) the introduction at the earliest opportunity of restraint on resident permit issue at a level of two permits per dwelling or less in appropriate locations, with reductions for existing permit holders phased in over a maximum of three years, in order to reduce longer term demand;

(ii) early assessment of opportunities to enhance the residents' on-street provision in existing controlled zones in association with the introduction of shared use visitor/short stay parking controlled by time restrictions and/or pay and display charges, to seek to achieve a better balance between the spaces available and restrained demand for residents parking and to improve accessibility for residents' visitors and other short stay users;

(iii) review of locations where existing restrictions could be usefully relaxed to help meet peak resident demands in the evenings and weekends;

(iv) consideration of the introduction of additional enforcement in existing and proposed controlled zones in advance of the reconsideration of permit charges to ensure OTS objectives were met;"

and were recommending this Sub-Committee and the City Highways & Traffic Committee accordingly.

RESOLVED: to adopt the recommendations of the Oxford Transport Strategy Working Party and to

Page 51 resolve accordingly.

74/97 WHEATLEY: TRAFFIC CALMING (Agenda Item 9)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (HW9) on responses received to public consultation on proposed traffic calming measures in the centre of Wheatley.

Councillor Horton expressed the thanks of the local member Councillor Anne Purse, for the work carried out by Environmental Services staff.

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Horton, seconded by Councillor Bartleet and carried nem con) that:

(a) the consultation responses and the officers' observations thereon be noted;

(b) the scheme details shown on drawing nos. BD5435/R3001revA, R3002revA, B3006revB, B3007revA, F3008 be approved for implementation prior to the publication of the 20mph speed limit Order;

(c) the 20mph speed limit Order be processed when staff resources permitted, subject to the reference of any objections to the Sub-Committee for consideration in the usual way.

75/97 CONSULTATIONS BY OTHER AUTHORITIES ON TRAFFIC AND HIGHWAY SCHEMES (Agenda Item 10)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (HW10) and supplementary report (HW10 supplement) which set out consultations by Oxford City Council and Cherwell District Council.

A. London Road Traffic Arrangements

The City Council had raised a number of concerns following a safety audit of the bus lane in London Road, Headington. Some planned remedial work had been carried out and more was planned.

RESOLVED: to:-

(a) note the safety audit report and the actions already taken;

(b) agree to consider any proposals brought forward by the City Council in the future for changes to the present scheme to improve safety, but to inform the City Council that this appeared unlikely to attract priority for County funding.

B. London Road and Botley Road Shared Footway

The City Cycles Sub-Committee had expressed concern about shared pedestrian/cycle use of footways, especially in Botley Road and London Road, Headington.

RESOLVED: to:-

(a) note the concern expressed by the City Council about the continued use of shared cycle-pedestrian facilities but retain this as an option where there were no sensible alternatives and where there were clear benefits in introducing such a scheme;

(b) recognise the benefits of better definition of cycle facilities within such arrangements and agree that provision should be made for a different surface texture or colour where new facilities were introduced once the outcome of the ongoing trials are known;

(c) consider the introduction of a similar differing surface texture or colour for existing shared use cycle facilities on a phased basis as and when funding could be made available;

Page 52 (d) not agree to a review of the existing Botley Road facilities at the present time but review the provision in the light of progress on (b) and (c) above;

(e) consider any necessary change to the London Road cycle route brought forward in due course by the City Council in the context of progress on (b) and (c) above.

C. Abingdon Road/Weirs Lane Junction Ä Proposed Right Turn Ban

Noting the weight of local concern about the right-turn ban from Abingdon Road into Weirs Lane published by the City Council at the County Council's request the Oxford Transport Strategy Working Party on 17 October 1997 had resolved "to adopt the following principles in respect of the Abingdon Road/Weirs Lane junction, namely, that:

(a) the need for buses to move more freely along Abingdon Road, and to minimise the flow of traffic in Donnington Bridge Road, should be endorsed as essential pre-requisites of the Cornmarket and High Street restrictions;

(b) officers should be asked to produce the best possible engineering solution to the Abingdon Road/Weirs Lane junction which did not involve a right turn ban;

(c) the need for a right turn ban (either full or part-time) should be reconsidered in light of (b) above at a special meeting of the Working Party and thereafter by the Highways & Road Safety Sub-Committee (or the Urgency Sub-Committee if necessary) and City Highways and Traffic Committee with a view to determining the basis of any submissions to the public inquiry on this issue;

(d) those residents living in the immediate vicinity of the Abingdon Road/Weirs Lane junction who had already written letters concerning the proposed right-turn ban, and the organisers of the petition thereon, should be invited to a meeting to discuss the problems they believe they would face, subject to prior consultation with local County and City Councillors prior to the meeting;

(e) the effect on junction capacity of providing a pedestrian phase should be investigated;

(f) the provision of further speed enforcement measures in Abingdon Road should be investigated;" and to RECOMMEND this Sub-Committee accordingly and seek the concurrence of the City Highways and Traffic Committee.

RESOLVED: to:-

(a) adopt the recommendations of the Oxford Transport Strategy Working Party but endorse the specific principle of improvements to the Abingdon Road/Weirs Lane junction as an essential prerequisite to the introduction of the Cornmarket and High Street restrictions;

(b) authorise the Urgency Sub-Committee to determine the form of the improvements to be introduced at the Abingdon Road/Weirs Lane junction following the completion of further work assessing alternative options to a right turn ban.

D. Car Park Charges Review

The City Council had consulted the County Council on proposed revised charges in their central area and suburban off-street car parks.

RESOLVED: to:

(a) thank the City Council for consulting the County Council on their car park charges review and inform them that the County Council:

Page 53 (i) had no comment to make on the generality of the proposed charges; and

(ii) consented to the promotion of an Order or Orders insofar as necessary to bring any part of the proposals into effect;

(b) authorise the promotion of revised charges in the Oxford central area on-street car parks in general conformity with the revised charges to be introduced by the City Council, subject to the detailed revisions being determined by the Director of Environmental Services following consultation with the Group Spokespersons.

E. Grimsbury - Single Regeneration Budget - Traffic Management Works

Cherwell District Council had requested agency powers to undertake traffic management and calming works in West Street, School View and Howard Road, Banbury as part of the Grimsbury Single Regeneration Budget programme during the present financial year.

RESOLVED: that the Environmental Committee be RECOMMENDED to authorise arrangements for the discharge by Cherwell District Council of the County Council's powers as local highway authority and local traffic authority, so far as necessary for the introduction of traffic management and calming works and associated enhancements to lighting and signing, in West Street, School View and Howard Road, at no cost to the Environmental Committee and subject to approval of detailed proposals by the Director of Environmental Services.

F. Bridge Street Car Park, Banbury

Cherwell District Council wished to replace six pay and display spaces in the area of the Bridge Street car park with hackney carriage stands, to help meet the present demand for hackney carriage stands when the existing Castle Street stands were to be lost as a result of the planned redevelopment of the town centre.

RESOLVED: that consent be given to Cherwell District Council to amend the Order regulating the Bridge Street car park as described in the report.

G. Earls Lane, Deddington - Traffic Calming

ITEM OF URGENT BUSINESS

In accordance with Standing Order 19(3) and the provisions of the Local Government (Access to Information) Act 1985, the Chair asked the Sub-Committee to discuss the report as a matter of urgent business on traffic calming measures in Earls Lane, Deddington. He declared himself satisfied that the matter was urgent as the work was budgeted to be undertaken this financial year, which it would not be possible if consideration were left until the next meeting of the Sub-Committee and the March meeting of Environmental Committee.

Cherwell District Council had requested agency powers to undertake calming measures in Earls Lane, Deddington, on behalf of (and funded by) Deddington Parish Council. These comprised carriageway markings on a sharp bend and the installation of 2 chicane islands with associated lighting and signing.

RESOLVED: that the Environmental Committee be RECOMMENDED to authorise arrangements for the discharge by Cherwell District Council of the County Council's powers as local highway authority and local traffic authority, so far as necessary for the introduction of calming works, together with associated lighting, signing and carriageway markings, in Earls Lane, Deddington, at no cost to the Environmental Committee and subject to approval of detailed proposals by the Director of Environmental Services.

76/97 REQUESTS FROM PARISH COUNCILS, TRAFFIC ADVISORY COMMITTEES ETC (Agenda Item 11)

Page 54 The Sub-Committee considered a report (HW11) which set out requests received from various bodies and individuals during the past quarter and assess their relative priorities for investigation.

RESOLVED: that the priorities for assessment of traffic management measures in Annex 1 to the report (and amended as set out in the Schedule of Addenda) be endorsed.

77/97 PROJECT APPRAISALS: KENNINGTON & HINKSEY HILL ROUNDABOUTS (Agenda Item 12)

The Sub-Committee considered two detailed project appraisals for A423(T) Kennington Roundabout (HW146) and A34(T) Hinksey Interchange (HW147).

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Horton, seconded by Councillor Bartleet and carried nem con) to:

(a) approve the scheme shown on Drawing No. TS/1/1371/5 to provide traffic signal control of the Kennington Roundabout and Hinksey Interchange for implementation as part of the Oxford Transport Strategy programme:

(b) approve project appraisals HW146 and HW147;

(c) RECOMMEND Strategy & Resources Committee to approve project appraisal H146 since the estimated cost exceeds £500,000;

(d) authorise officers to conclude the necessary formal agreement or agreements with the Highways Agency for implementation of the scheme on the trunk road and adjoining County roads;

(e) ask officers to negotiate with the Highways Agency to seek to ensure that the management systems of the traffic signals within the City and those planned for the ring road could be coordinated, should this prove desirable; and

(f) instruct officers to seek to ensure that safe arrangements were provided for cyclists negotiating the Hinksey Interchange and the Kennington Roundabout.

78/97 LAND ACQUISITION: SKIMMINGDISH LANE, BICESTER AND A415/A338 FRILFORD SIGNALS (Agenda Item 13)

The Sub-Committee considered a report concerning the assembly of land to enable the completion of these schemes.

RESOLVED:

(a) to authorise the acquisition of the additional land required for the Skimmingdish Lane, Bicester scheme as shown on drawing no. 296/B100/a, and the making and submission to the Secretary of State for confirmation of a Supplementary Compulsory Purchase Order for that land;

(b) to authorise the making and submission to the Secretary of State for confirmation of a Compulsory Purchase Orders for the land required for the A415/A338 Frilford Junction Traffic Signals scheme as shown on drawing no. 1129/F110.

79/97 WITNEY: A415 DUCKLINGTON LANE (Agenda Item 14)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (HW14) which informed members that it had not been possible to progress the stopping up of land at Ducklington Lane, Witney due to the staff resource implications.

Page 55 RESOLVED: to authorise the Director of Environmental Services to take no further action for the implementation of the stopping up procedure for the drainage reserve at Ducklington Lane, Witney, shown stippled on drawing no. 929/G100, until he was satisfied that it would be possible to do so without material diversion of staff resources from other work.

80/97 LAND SURPLUS TO HIGHWAY NEEDS (Agenda Item 15)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (HW15) which detailed areas of land in Chalgrove, Bicester and Blewbury which had been held for highway purposes or had previously formed part of the public highway but which had now been identified as being surplus to highway needs.

RESOLVED: to declare surplus to the Council's requirements as local highway authority the areas at Chalgrove, Blewbury and Bicester shown hatched on drawings 786/G141 and 786/G142 and shown crosshatched on drawing 786/G140a respectively, subject in the case of the land at Chalgrove and Bicester to Stopping Up Orders extinguishing highway rights first being obtained.

...... in the Chair

Date of signing ...... 1998

Page 56 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV19

LAND AT STRATFIELD BRAKE, KIDLINGTON Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: Kidlington South

Introduction

1. In January 1996 the Environmental Urgency Sub-Committee recommended the Operations Sub-Committee to authorise the disposal by lease of the 81 acre site at Stratfield Brake to Cherwell District Council and the Woodland Trust, the land to be used for sports pitches and a community woodland. That was agreed by the Operations Urgency Sub-Committee and the leases have been completed.

2. The triangular area of land between the A4260 and the A4165, shown hatched on the plan attached as Annex 1 was excluded from the lease to the Woodland Trust, who would have been interested in incorporating it into their community woodland scheme, as it was one of the sites identified as possibly suitable for the North of Oxford Park and Ride. The nearby site adjoining the grain silo was the preferred site. An application for planning permission for development of a Park and Ride on that site has been submitted and called in by the Secretary of State. There will be a Public Inquiry in April next year. If planning permission is not granted then it will probably be necessary to review the sites previously considered including the triangular Stratfield Brake site. In the meantime it would not be appropriate to consider other long term uses for that land.

Use by Motorcyclists

3. In July this year Kidlington Parish Council asked for permission to use the land for young motorcyclists during the school summer holiday. The motorcyclists were using a site elsewhere in Kidlington and were causing noise nuisance and disturbance to nearby residents. The Parish Council, the Police and the Environmental Health Officer at the District Council considered that the Stratfield Brake site would be preferable and that allowing it to be used for motorcycling would avoid nuisance and possibly crime elsewhere in Kidlington during the summer school holiday.

4. As the request from the Parish Council was not received until just before the beginning of the school holiday there was not time to put a report to the Committee but the Group Spokespersons and the local members were consulted and agreed the Parish Council's request.

5. The Parish Council were therefore permitted to organise motorcycling by young people on the land for not more than 28 days in total from the end of July to the beginning of September. The restriction on use meant that planning permission was not required, although the District Council's Planning Officer was advised of the arrangements.

6. The Parish Council, the Police, and the District Council's Principal Environmental Health Officer all wrote at the end of the school holiday stating that they viewed the arrangement as being successful.

7. The Parish Council has now requested a longer term arrangement and has made a statutory application to the District Council for planning permission for change of use of the land to a motorcycle track. Their request has been supported by the local member and by the local police.

Comments of the Director of Environmental Services

8. As explained above, it might be necessary to reconsider this site for a Park and Ride if planning permission is not granted for the grain silo site. It should be noted that the District Council, Kidlington Parish Council, and Gosford and Water Eaton Parish Council all objected to the park and ride planning application at the grain silo site.

Page 57 9. It is questionable as to whether the use of this land for motorcycling is appropriate to the green belt. It might be classed as outdoor sport and recreation, which is an appropriate green belt use. However, draft Structure Plan policy G4 makes it clear that development in the green belt is inappropriate unless "it maintains openness and does not conflict with the purposes of the green belt": these include checking the growth of Oxford and preventing ribbon development and urban sprawl, preventing the coalescence of settlements, and assisting and safeguarding the countryside from encroachment, all of which might be said to be in conflict with the proposed development. A temporary planning permission for a period of 12 months would give an opportunity to see whether the proposed development could be accommodated without undue harm to the green belt. In any event, I would be likely to recommend that any planning application was advertised as a departure from the development plan.

10. Although it was made clear to the Parish Council that the permission for use during the school summer holiday was for not more than 28 days and was to end in September there has been unauthorised use since then. If there is a further agreement with the Parish Council then it might well encourage pressure for it to be available.

11. There were no formal complaints from residents of nearby houses during the summer holiday although there have been informal complaints by golf club members.

Conclusions

12. There is strong local support for the further use of the land by local young motorcyclists. The land is not being used for any other purpose at the present although it may be required for a Park and Ride if planning permission is not granted for the preferred site. If it is not used for the Park and Ride then it would be appropriate to reconsider whether the site should be leased to the Woodland Trust for use as part of the community woodland, a use which would be appropriate in the green belt. Any further agreement with the Parish Council should therefore be for a limited period of twelve months, subject to planning permission being granted and to the use being properly organised and controlled. There should be provision in any agreement that if the use causes a nuisance or is not properly supervised then it can be terminated.

Financial and Staff Implications

13. If there is a further agreement with the Parish Council then there would be a small revenue income. Some staff time, and professional fees, would be expended.

Environmental Implications

14. All access to the site would be taken from the existing access from the A4165. There would be no access allowed to the area of woodland at the south end of the site. The planning implications are dealt with above.

Implications for People Living in Poverty

15. There are none arising directly from this report.

RECOMMENDATION

16. It is RECOMMENDED that Kidlington Parish Council be authorised to arranged supervised and controlled motorcycling by young local people on the triangular area of land at Stratfield Brake (as shown on Annex 1 to the report) for a period of not more than twelve months subject to planning permission being granted for such use, and detailed terms being agreed by the Director of Environmental Services.

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Background papers: Letter from the Clerk to Kidlington Parish Council dated 15 September 1997

Page 58 Letter from Inspector Carole Haveron, Kidlington Police Station dated 19 September 1997 Letter from Mr R Lowther, Principal Environmental Health Officer, Cherwell District Council dated 19 September 1997.

Contact Officer: Neil Monaghan, Tel: Oxford 815712

24 November 1997

Page 59 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV17

PARK AND RIDE AT M40 JUNCTION 6 AND OTHER MOTORWAY JUNCTIONS Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All

Introduction

1. Prompted by the closure of the informal parking area beneath the motorway bridge at Junction 6; M40, Lewknor in May 1997 a joint Study was initiated by Oxfordshire County Council and South Oxfordshire District Council Officers to look at the provision of alternative park and ride facilities.

2. Additionally, the Environmental Committee on 1 October 1997 adopted a motion by Councillor Crabbe proposing the investigation of the possibility of providing car parking facilities at the M40 motorway junctions in Oxfordshire in order to enable drivers to park their vehicles and board coaches, buses or shared cars, and to bring a report on the investigation to this meeting.

3. This report sets out the conclusions of the joint study into alternatives to the informal parking at Junction 6 and gives an initial assessment of the scope for more extensive provision at motorway junctions generally. Plans illustrating the various sites are in the Members' Resource Centre and will be on display at the meeting.

Background

4. In recent years an informal park and ride facility had become established at M40 Junction 6, Lewknor, for passengers travelling to and from Oxford and London, up to 30 cars regularly being parked in the vicinity. Bus stops are located on the B4009 on both sides of the motorway bridge (see plan attached). In order to be close to the bus stops drivers would leave their vehicles parked on the B4009 roadside verges adjacent to and beneath the motorway bridge.

5. London express coaches briefly leave the M40 at Junction 6 to pick up and set down passengers. Junction 6 was a good location for a bus stop as there was a demand from the surrounding rural villages for a bus service to and from Oxford and London; it provided an easy access onto and off the M40; and it allowed fuel duty rebate to be claimed. (Fuel duty rebate is a scheme in which the government refunds part of the duty on the tax paid on fuel to public transport operators. In order to claim this rebate the service must qualify as a local service and have stops within 15 miles.)

6. On 28 April 1997 barriers were erected, at the request of the Police, to cordon off the verge beneath the motorway bridge and a temporary `no waiting at any time' order imposed on the B4009 extending either side of the bridge. The Police were concerned about public safety implications at a time of terrorist activity. County officers also considered there were road safety benefits in restricting parking.

7. As a result of the closure of the parking area drivers are now parking on the B4009 roadside verges some distance from the bus stops. Some drivers are parking in Lewknor village and this has caused concern amongst the local residents. There have also been a number of protests from drivers at the closure on the grounds that it is contrary to the interests of more sustainable travel practices and because of concerns about safety whilst walking between the parked cars and the bus stops. The road is unlit and the verge is uneven making walking difficult hence pedestrians often walk on the road. Vehicles travel at high speeds along this stretch of the B4009 and in this remote rural location drivers would not expect to see pedestrians. This poses a real danger which is accentuated during the Winter months.

8. The accident record on B4009 over the last five years (April 1992 to March 1997) has been analysed. A total number of thirty accidents occurred in the vicinity of Junction 6. However, only one of these accidents appeared to be directly attributable to the parking manoeuvres associated with the bus stops.

Page 60 The Study

9. We have carried out a number of surveys to establish the basis of the parking at the junction. A first interview survey was undertaken in April this year, prior to the closure of the parking area followed by a second interview survey in October, six months after the closure. In October, to complement the interview survey, a survey of parked cars in Lewknor village and a count of parked vehicles in the vicinity of Junction 6 were used to verify the results of the interview survey. The methodology and results of the surveys are given in Annex 1.

10. The main conclusions are that:

Ä the majority of the people parking at Junction 6 originate in South Oxfordshire within seven miles radius; all were travelling to London; Ä most bus users travelled by car and parked (68%) others were dropped off (29%); Ä the closure of the informal parking area under the bridge at Junction 6 does not appear to have deterred people from using the bus service, or parking in the area; Ä drivers are predominantly parking on the B4009 roadside verges and in the lay-bys to the west of Junction 6; only a small number of vehicles appear to park in Lewknor village.

Views of Local Parish Councils and South Oxfordshire District Council

11. The parishes of Lewknor and Aston Rowant lie to the west and east of Junction 6 respectively. Lewknor Parish Council has expressed road safety concerns about the parking situation at Junction 6 both before and after the closure of the informal parking area. Since the closure the Council have expressed further concern over the displacement of parking vehicles into the village. Parish Councillors value the bus service to Junction 6 because it provides a facility for local residents, particularly for travel to and from Oxford.

12. Aston Rowant Parish Council also generally support the bus service, as a benefit to the village. However, the Parish Council is concerned about the environmental and visual impact of car parking at Junction 6.

Possible Solutions

13. The principle of transferring individual car journeys to buses is in line with County Council policies aimed at more sustainable travel practices. However, in seeking to find a solution other policies, particularly those aimed at protecting the open countryside, also have to be taken into account.

14. The Police consider that a return to the situation prior to the closure of the parking area is not acceptable. The parking area under the bridge was closed for reasons of security and road safety and they consider that the situation should remain unchanged. We have also considered the possibility of seeking to totally discourage all parking but given the freedom of operation of bus operators, the local benefits of the bus services and the practical impossibility of preventing all parking, we believe that this should be rejected.

15. We have also considered the scope for using public transport to access the bus stops at Junction 6 to discourage parking. Currently there is a feeder bus that runs to the bus stops from Watlington four times a day each way from Monday to Friday and twice a day each way on a Saturday. However, this service is not sufficient to make it a serious alternative to the car and only covers a small part of the catchment area. The provision of additional feeder buses would be costly and could not easily cover the dispersed catchment area.

Short Term Measures

16. It is not practical to totally prevent the informal park and ride activity at Junction 6 and, depending on the decision on longer term measures, it could be some time before a more permanent solution is found. In the meantime conditions for pedestrians need to be made safer and it is proposed that a temporary gravel footpath be urgently provided along a short section of B4009 to encourage parkers to keep off the road. Also it is proposed that low cost traffic calming measures along

Page 61 B4009 in the vicinity of the junction should be considered urgently in the context of the agreed accident remedial route study for B4009.

Longer-Term Solutions

17. Possible sites for a more permanent car park have been investigated. Such provision would need to allow for a significantly larger number of cars than are now parking at the junction and would inevitably need to incorporate security measures with a consequence of a need for lighting. Any such car parking provision around Junction 6 is likely to meet with strong environmental objections. Junction 6 lies in open unlit countryside, on the edge of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and part is designated as an Area of High Landscape Value.

18. The only site for a car park in the immediate vicinity that has emerged, which could be well screened, is the site of the former Aston Rowant Railway Station: This is located off the A40 to the east of Junction 6 (see plan). The site of 0.8 hectares, is owned by the County Council and could accommodate in excess of two hundred parking spaces. It lies within an Area of High Landscape Value, just outside but on the boundary of the Chilterns AONB. However, use of this site would require the bus operators to divert onto the A40 at Junction 6 and rejoin the M40 at Junction 5. For commercial reasons they may be unwilling to do this.

19. Sites at adjacent junctions along M40 and A40 between Oxford and the County boundary have also been considered. Junction 7 Milton Common is unsuitable because it has limited access and Junction 8 lies within the Oxford Green Belt. The possibility of parking combined with the service area being developed at Junction 8 has been discounted because of its confined site. An extension to Thornhill Park and Ride has also been considered as part of the study. Both the Oxford Bus Company and Stagecoach already use a bus stop at Thornhill for London-bound buses. However, the prime purpose of Thornhill is to serve Oxford and it is not well suited to the catchment of bus passengers currently using Junction 6. Just beyond the County boundary towards London is Junction 5 at Stokenchurch. There is a site at Ibstone Road Stokenchurch designated for commercial development, that could offer potential for a park and ride facility. The location of this site is shown on the attached plan. A preliminary meeting with Buckinghamshire County Council and Wycombe District Council officers suggested that further investigation of such provision at Junction 5 is worthwhile and is being progressed.

Park and Ride Car Parks at Other M40 Junctions

20. In accordance with the motion by Councillor Crabbe, we have undertaken a preliminary investigation of the scope to establish car parks in the vicinity of the other M40 junctions in Oxfordshire. Similar problems to those at Junction 6 arise with most areas surrounding the junctions having special designations. The important principal, enshrined in Regional Planning Guidance, of M40 being a corridor for movement not for growth, also has to be taken into account.

21. Only the junctions at Wendlebury (Junction 9) and Ardley (Junction 10) are relatively unconstrained but lie in open countryside and in the vicinity of both there have been major development proposals, eventually rejected after appeals. The main constraints affecting the remaining junctions are Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Grade 1 and 2 Agricultural Land and Green Belt. Areas of High Landscape Value affects Lewknor (Junction 6) , Milton Common (Junction 7) and Banbury (Junction 11). In accordance with a previous resolution of the Committee, District Councils have been asked to consider the provision for more modal change (related to Oxford) in their Local Plans. It is proposed that they should also now be asked to consider provision related to M40.

Financial and Staff Implications

22. The cost of the provision of low cost traffic calming at Junction 6 would be £5,000. The further investigation of long term provisions for park and ride will need to be undertaken by existing Environmental Services staff.

Environmental Implications

23. Whilst the encouragement of public transport use through the provision of park and ride facilities

Page 62 accords with environmental objectives of sustainable travel, the local impacts of car parks and traffic could conflict with environmental policies aimed at protecting the countryside.

Implications for People Living in Poverty

24. There are no direct implications for people living in poverty.

RECOMMENDATIONS

25. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(b) accept that the temporary "no waiting at any time" order on B4009 should be made permanent and advise the Highways & Road Safety Sub-Committee accordingly;

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Background papers: Nil Contact Officer: Sarah Hollinshead - Tel : Oxford 815933 26 November 1997

Page 63 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV17

PARK AND RIDE AT M40 JUNCTION 6 AND OTHER MOTORWAY JUNCTIONS Report by the Director of Environmental Services

ANNEX 1 REPORT OF SURVEYS OF PARKING AT JUNCTION 6, M40, 21 OCTOBER 1997

Background

Prior to the closure of the informal parking area under the bridge an origin and destination survey was carried out at Junction 6. Drivers were interviewed as they left their vehicles. This survey was carried out on Tuesday 22 April 1997.

A second set of surveys were carried out at Junction 6 on 21 October 1997 six months after the closure of the parking area. The aim of these surveys was primarily to identify where drivers were now parking as a result of the displacement of parking underneath the bridge. However, in order that aspects of the October survey could be compared to the survey undertaken in April, the origin and destination survey was repeated and the number of people using the service was monitored. The surveys used to collect the required information were:

1 Origin and destination interview surveys 2 Parking beat survey 3 Vehicle counts survey

1 Interview Survey

Bus users were interviewed as they waited at the bus stop (London bound) at Junction 6, M40 between 0545 and 0900 hours. The questionnaire comprised of a number of short questions these were:

(a) What type of vehicle did you use to travel to this bus stop (b) How many people were there in that vehicle (c) Where did you start your journey (d) Origin purpose (e) Where will you end your journey (f) Destination purpose (g) Where have you parked your vehicle (if applicable)

This survey is a repeat of that carried out in April 1997 but with the additional parking question (g). To aid with this question (g) the areas for parking were split into five zones:

Zone 1 B4009 west of motorway bridge (verges and lay-bys) Zone 2 Watlington Road, west of Western Road (Lewknor Village) Zone 3 High Street, east of Western Road (Lewknor Village) Zone 4 North east of Junction 6 (Lambert Arms Hotel and adjoining lane) Zone 5 South east of Junction 6 (A40/B4009 junction and lay-bys)

Results

Between 0545 and 0900 hours a total number of 34 people were interviewed. Of these 23 (68%) arrived by car and parked; 10 (29%) were dropped off by cars (2 of which arrived in taxis) and 1 (3%) arrived by motorcycle and parked. Except for those people that were dropped off there was nobody who was car sharing. A steady flow of people arrived from 0545 hours onwards at a rate of approximately five people every half hour up until 0830 hours when the number of people arriving at the bus stop fell dramatically.

Of the 24 parked vehicles 22 (92%) were parked on the B4009 west of the motorway bridge (Zone 1); 1 (4%) was parked in Watlington Road west of Western Road (Zone 2) and 1(4%) was parked in Lewknor High Street east of Western Road (Zone 3).

The origins of the 34 people interviewed were as follows:

Page 64 Place of origin No. of people Place of origin No. of people

Watlington 5 Drayton St Leonard 1 Stokenchurch 4 Cuxham 1 Thame 4 Benson 1 Tetsworth 3 Shabbington 1 Chalgrove 3 Stoke Talmage 1 Chinnor 3 Ibstone 1 High Wycombe 1 Kingston Blount 1 Stonor 1 Unknown 2 Aston Hill 1 ____ Total 34

Nobody who was interviewed lived in Lewknor village.

The destination of everybody interviewed was London. Throughout the period of the survey it was observed that there were two people waiting to catch the bus in the Oxford direction.

All of the people interviewed were travelling from home to work.

2 Parking Beat Survey

The aim of the parking beat survey was to record the parking patterns of vehicles within Lewknor village and from this to calculate the duration of stay of vehicles. This survey technique was used in Lewknor to determine whether drivers were parking in the village and walking to the bus stops at Junction 6.

The parking beat survey was carried out between 0530 and 0930 hours. To obtain a sufficient level of detail in the survey, Lewknor village was split into 2 areas:

Area 1 (Zone 2) Watlington Road, west of Western Road up to the B4009 Area 2 (Zone 3) High Street, east of Western Road

Every half hour the registration numbers of parked cars were recorded. This included cars parked on the road and in lay-bys only. It did not include cars parked in driveways or cars parked in private car parks such as the school and pub car parks.

Results

The results of the parking beat survey are shown in the following Tables:

TABLE 1 Parking Beat Survey 21 October 1997 (Area 1) Lewknor Village Watlington Road, west of Western Road

Half hour starting

0530 0600 0630 0700 0730 0800 0830 0900 Totals 10 10 9 9 8 7 7 7 +/- -1 - +1/-2 -1 -7 +1/-1

TABLE 2 Parking Beat Survey 21 October 1997 (Area 2) Lewknor Village Ä High Street, east of Western Road

Half hour starting

0530 0600 0630 0700 0730 0800 0830 0900 Totals 17 17 14 14 15 12 11 11 +/- -3 - +1 +2/-5 +6/-7 +4/-4

Page 65 From Tables 1 and 2 it can be seen that at 0530 hours there were 10 vehicles parked in Watlington Road, west of Western Road up to the B4009 (Area 1) and 17 vehicles parked in the High Street, east of Western Road (Area 2). It is probable that all of the vehicles parked at this time in the morning belonged to residents. By the end of the survey period the number of vehicles had decreased to 7 in Area 1 and 11 in Area 2 reflecting the movement of people that had, for example, left home to go to work.

The results from Area 1, primarily a residential area show that one car parked in the village at around 0900 hours. This car was parked on the roadside opposite the houses at the top end of Watlington Road. The time of arrival of this car ties in with the results of the interview survey which records a person interviewed in the half hour starting 0830 hours that had parked in Zone 2 i.e. Watlington Road west of Western Road. The origin of the journey of this parked car was Aston Hill. This suggests that possibly local knowledge was used in deciding where to park.

The results from Area 2 reflect more vehicle movement than that in Area 1. This is likely to be because of the location of the School and the Post Office in the High Street. The results indicate that there are several vehicles that stay for a short length of time. This is particularly noticeable from 0830 hours onwards. It was observed that parents were dropping children at the school at this time. The appearance of a car that parked near to the bottom of Church Road at approximately 0800 hours (and was still there at 0930 hours) fits in with the interview survey in which a person was interviewed who had parked in Zone 3 i.e. High Street east of Western Road at around the same time.

There were still cars parked in Lewknor High Street at the end of the survey. As 0930 hours was the cut off point it is impossible to establish if the drivers arriving at this time were parking in the village to use the bus stops at Junction 6. However it is likely these cars were visiting the school and involved in other delivery activities in the village. The decrease in people interviewed at the bus stops after 0830 hours tends to support this.

3 Vehicle Count Survey

A count of parked vehicles was carried out along the B4009 to the eastern and western sides of the motorway bridge between 0530 hours and 0930 hours. The area of the B4009 surveyed included vehicles parked in the lay-bys and on the roadside verges of the B4009.

The results of this survey are shown in the following Tables:

TABLE 3 Vehicle Count Survey 21 October 1997 B4009 east of the motorway Bridge

Half hourly starting

0530 0600 0630 0700 0730 0800 0830 0900 Cars 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Motorbike 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 LGV 1 1 1 1 0 1 0 0 HGV 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Bus 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

TABLE 4 Vehicle Count Survey 21 October 1997 B4009 west of the motorway bridge

Half hourly starting

0530 0600 0630 0700 0730 0800 0830 0900 Cars 5 6 10 15 17 21 24 23 Motorbike 0 0 0 0 1 1 1 1 LGV 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 HGV 1 1 1 1 1 0 0 0 Bus 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1

Table 3 shows that none of the drivers using the bus stops at Junction 6 parked to the east of the motorway

Page 66 bridge. This was fully supported by the results of the interview surveys. The driver of the van seen in a lay-by to the east of the motorway bridge between 0530 and 0700 hours was resting and at 0800 hours a highway maintenance van appeared in the same lay-by for a short time only.

To the west of the motorway bridge five cars and one lorry were already parked on the verges of the Hill Road/B4009 junction and in the adjoining lay-by at 0530 hours. The lorry driver was resting and left just after 0730 hours. The main trend in parking activity here was an increase in vehicles parking from 0600 hours to 0900 hours at a rate of four or five vehicles per half hour. From the interview surveys it can be seen that this trend fits in with the pattern of people arriving at the bus stop.

All of the vehicles parking to the west of the motorway bridge along the B4009 were using the verges at the Hill Road/B4009 junction, the adjoining lay-by and the facing lay-by on the opposite side of the road. The highest number of vehicles that were parked at the Hill Road/B4009 junction was 21 vehicles recorded at 0800 hours. The following increases in vehicle numbers, up to 24 vehicles at 0830 hours, was as a result of vehicles using the lay-by on the other side of the road which until 0830 hours had been used as a stopping off point rather than as a longer term parking place.

A total of 24 people were interviewed at the London bus stop who had parked their cars and 2 people were observed waiting for an Oxford bound bus. This equates with the 26 vehicles that were parked to the west of the motorway bridge along the B4009 and in Lewknor village at 0900 hours.

Comparison of the Results of the October survey with those of the April survey

April survey October survey No. of people interviewed 32 34 No. of cars parked 25 26 No. of people dropped off 8 10 No. of people car sharing 4 0 Journey origins Similar Similar Journey purpose Home to Work Home to Work Destination London London Busiest time 0710 Half hour starting 0700

From the table above it can be seen that the two surveys produced very similar results. The October survey did not record any car sharing. This was picked up in the earlier survey because drivers were interviewed as they left their parked cars. In the October survey drivers were interviewed at the bus stop hence this manoeuvre was missed.

Page 67 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV11

ON-STREET CAR PARKING ACCOUNT Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All

Introduction

1. This report reviews the position regarding the Council's on-street car parking account and makes recommendations as to the disposition of present and projected surpluses in the context of other parking and Oxford Transport Strategy (OTS) programme funding needs.

2. The County Council are legally bound to maintain a specific on-street car parking account, which historically related solely to those on-street parking places where charges are made for their use, namely, the established pay-and-display areas in central Oxford, the Abingdon and Henley residents' parking/pay-and-display schemes and the smaller pay-and-display schemes in Thame and Wallingford. Since February 1997, however, when the Special Parking Area/Permitted Parking Area ("SPA/PPA") decriminalised parking scheme for Oxford and North Hinksey was brought into effect, the Council are required to account for operational income and expenditure in respect of the PPA/SPA separately from any on-street parking operations in the remainder of the County. This separation does not however extend to declared surpluses.

3. The on-street parking account was last reviewed in December 1994/February 1995 in the context of the emerging OTS programme. Progress on development and costing of individual OTS schemes, and projected availability of on-street parking surplus to help fund them, has been reviewed regularly by the OTS Working Party, most recently on 17 October 1997.

Current Position

4. The on-street parking account for Oxford has consistently produced a surplus of income over expenditure since the County Council introduced the present pay-and-display system in 1990, operated through contractors. In February 1995 the Committee agreed to appropriate £1.3m of the then surplus to establishing a project fund for park and ride improvements (Banbury Road and Thornhill extension); in budget decisions in 1995, 1996 and 1997 the Council decided to use sums totalling £2.375m to fund public transport support and highway improvement projects. In the Revenue Policy Plans report earlier on the agenda I am confirming the proposal I made to the October meeting that a further £0.5m be used to support the public transport revenue budget in 1998/99. (It will be recalled that this proposal was expressed to be subject to production of the present report.)

5. The present and projected surplus, taking the above transfers into account, but assuming costs and charges remain at their present level, is as follows:

Actual/Projected Cumulative Surplus at Start of Year (£000): 1997/98 1998/99 1999/2000 -180 521 1021 6. The following sections of this report explain the constraints that apply to the use of the identified surplus, and what are seen as the priority calls upon it.

Legal Constraints

7. Section 55 of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984 strictly prescribes how on-street parking revenue surpluses may be used. The section is set out in full in Annex 1, and the key provisions are summarised in the flow chart at Annex 2.

8. In recent years, this Committee have made strong representations to Central Government, through the former Association of County Councils, that these strict rules should be relaxed so as to allow

Page 68 authorities more flexibility in the application of surpluses. The Association supported Oxfordshire's representations so far as facilitating the application of surpluses to transport-related projects, but there have been no indications that the Government was likely to be receptive on this point. Pending any possible change in the law, the projects on which surpluses may currently be spent are, in terms of the position in Oxfordshire:

(a) the provision and/or maintenance of off-street car parking accommodation by the County Council; (b) contributions towards the costs of provision and/or maintenance of off-street car parking accommodation by other County Councils or "other persons" (in the opinion of the Solicitor to the Council, this does not include District Councils); and (c) public transport support and/or highway improvements, if it appears to the County Council that expenditure by them on the provision of further off-street car parking accommodation is unnecessary or undesirable.

9. As members will be aware, a complaint has recently been made that the County Council have not correctly observed the limitations imposed by Section 55; in particular that the County Council are permitted to make contributions to District Councils and are legally obliged to make contributions to Districts' off-street parking running costs (option (b) above) before they can consider spending under (c). The point has been raised by the complainant with the District Auditor, whose response is awaited. In the meantime, the Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council has reviewed the legal position in detail and is satisfied that the advice that has previously been given to the Committee and Council was correct, and that no such obligation exists.

Policy Background

10. County Council policy decisions in July 1988 (for Oxford) and February 1989 (for other areas) create a strong presumption that surplus accruing from on-street parking for payment should be used (subject to the constraints mentioned above) for projects in the area within which the surplus arose. Available surplus arising from the Oxford and North Hinksey SPA/PPA would therefore be expected to be used to support Oxford area projects, and the Committee have previously accepted that this should mean projects comprised in or supporting OTS.

11. It may be noted that the SPA/PPA designation order provision referred to in Note ¹ in Annex 1 does not appear to affect the application of surpluses outside the strict limits of the area of the SPA/PPA. However, it does preclude use of parking account funds generated in Oxford for underwriting the costs of introducing or amending parking schemes elsewhere in the County.

Off-Street Parking Needs

12. The powers to provide and maintain off-street car parks are available to both County and District Councils, but at the time of local government reorganisation in 1974, because public off-street car park property and revenues passed to the new Districts, a presumption was created that the County Council would not normally exercise their concurrent powers. This Council have therefore been content to leave this service to the District Councils with the exception of the Oxford City Park and Ride car parks.

13. In previous years District Councils put forward their own proposals for expenditure on car parking for inclusion in the annual Transport Policies and Programme (TPP) which is approved by this Committee and forwarded to the DETR in support of the Council's bid for Transport Supplementary Grant and Supplementary Credit Approval (SCA) and other borrowing approvals. Through this process the County Council have been made aware of car parking provision that District Councils wish to make throughout the County. (This process will in fact cease in future due to the deletion of off-street car parking from the TPP funding provision except for park and ride provision and decriminalised parking schemes.)

14. When the Committee considered the application of surpluses from the on-street car park account in 1994/95, it was concluded - in the light of the provision proposed by the District Councils - that there was no evidence that expenditure by the County Council on off-street car parking in general was either necessary or desirable. However, as indicated above, the Committee did recognise the need,

Page 69 in the context of OTS, to provide financial support for the improvement and expansion of Oxford's Park and Ride service, by establishing a project fund for the new Banbury Road park and ride car park and the extension of Thornhill.

15. This is considered still to be the case, but there is now a need to review the financial requirements of the two schemes. The total cost is now estimated to be £1.9m, an increase of £0.6m over the 1994 estimate used in setting up the project fund. The programmed phasing is as follows:

(£000) 1997/98 1998/99 1999/2000 Banbury Road 50 450 900 Thornhill 20 480 -

The first call on surplus as it becomes available should therefore be to meet these costs as they arise, once the current appropriation of £1.283m has been used upon completion of the Thornhill extension and Phase 1 (500 spaces) of Banbury Road.

Other Identified OTS Needs

16. The present OTS programme shows a continued need for funding from parking surpluses for both park and ride provision and supporting highway improvements as follows:

Total OTS Package Costs at July 1997/98

£ , 0 0 0

93/94 94/95 95/96 96/97 97/98 98/99 99/00 Total Credit Approval - 800 1,350 1,100 1,100 2,432 1,545 8,327 Developer Contributions 250 - 345 183 873 1,119 - 2,770 On-Street Parking Funding 300 - 105 320 795 1,155 900 3,575 Other Funding 84 57 63 313 185 85 3,020 3,807 TOTAL COST OF PACKAGE 634 857 1,863 1,916 2,953 4,791 5,465 18,479

17. OTS expenditure up to the end of 1996/97 was £5.27m - of which £3.25m has been funded from SCA, £0.778m from developer contributions, £0.725m from parking funds (including £300,000 of SPA set up costs) and £0.517m from other sources (including City Council expenditure). Further OTS expenditure of some £13.209m will be required to complete the programme in the period to the end of 1999/2000. This includes £3.977m shown for further SCA funding, which at present levels of allocation is in practice unlikely to exceed £2m, leaving a shortfall of £1.977m to be funded from other sources.

18. The loss of £2.375m parking surpluses to other non-OTS uses during the past three years has thus far not impeded the OTS programme as a result of utilising other funding sources, but it is now likely to have a significant impact on the Committee's ability to fund the remainder of the programme within the required timescale.

Conclusions

19. There is a projected shortfall of OTS funding in relation to those schemes currently proposed to be funded from the on-street parking account up to 1900/2000 of £0.251m. To this must be added the likely under-allocation of SCA of some £1.977m over the last two years of the programme. Clearly any further use of car parking surpluses for non-OTS uses will have a significant impact on the timing of the present OTS programme.

20. It is therefore suggested that first priority be given in the application of surpluses as shown in paragraph 5 above to meet continued park and ride scheme needs in relation to OTS (estimated

Page 70 additional requirement £0.6m), and the remaining expected surpluses be given priority for the funding of other priority OTS schemes identified in Annex 3, amended as necessary to reflect the outcome of future TPP allocations.

Environmental Implications

21. The release of funds to enable OTS to be implemented will assist in the achievement of significant environmental benefits in Oxford.

Financial and Staff Implications

22. Financial implications are set out in the body of the report. There are no direct staffing implications.

Implications for People Living in Poverty

23. There are no direct implications but implementation of the OTS programme will have benefits for those not having access to a car.

RECOMMENDATIONS

24. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to agree:

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Background papers: Nil Contact Officer: Mike Rant Tel : Oxford 815706

26 November 1997

Page 71 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV11

ON-STREET CAR PARKING ACCOUNT Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All ANNEX 1 EXTRACT FROM ROAD TRAFFIC REGULATION ACT 1984 (as amended)

Financial provisions relating to designation orders

55. (1)¹ A local authority² shall keep an account of their income and expenditure in respect of parking places for which they are the local authority and which are- (a) ...... ³ (b) ... designated parking places. (2) At the end of each financial year any deficit in the account shall be made good out of the general fund, and (subject to subsection (3) below) any surplus shall be applied for all or any of the purposes specified in subsection (4) below and, in so far as it is not so applied, shall be appropriated to the carrying out of some specific project falling within those purposes and carried forward until applied to carrying it out. (3) If the local authority so determine, any amount not applied in any financial year, instead of being or remaining so appropriated, may be carried forward in the account kept under subsection (1) above to the next financial year. (3A), (3B) ...... (4) The purposes referred to in subsection (2) above are the following, that is to say- (a) the making good to the general fund ...... of any amount charged to that fund under subsection (2) above in the 4 years immediately preceding the financial year in question; (b) meeting all or any part of the cost of the provision and maintenance by the local authority of off-street parking accommodation, whether in the open or under cover; (c) the making to other local authorities, or to other persons of contributions towards the cost of the provision and maintenance by them, in the area of the local authority or elsewhere, of off-street parking accommodation, whether in the open or under cover; and (d) if it appears to the local authority that the provision in their area of further off-street parking accommodation is unnecessary or undesirable, the following purposes- (i) meeting costs incurred, whether by the local authority or by some other person, in the provision or operation of, or of facilities for, public passenger transport services, and (ii) the purposes of a highway or road improvement project in the local authority's area.

NOTES

¹The order giving effect to the Oxford and North Hinksey SPA/PPA has substituted, for that area, a new S.55(1), requiring the Council, "to keep an account - (a) of their income and expenditure in respect of designated parking places ... in the permitted parking areas; and (b) of their income from additional parking charges ... in respect of vehicles found within the special parking areas and the expenditure incurred by them in relation to that area by virtue of any provision of Part II of the Road Traffic Act 1991 as it applies in relation to that area." and has added a new subsection (1A) which requires the Council "as soon as reasonably practical after the end of each financial year ... [to] forward to the Secretary of State a copy of the account for that year".

²Section 45(7) of the 1984 Act defines "local authority" (for England) as "the council of a county, metropolitan district, or London borough or the Common Council of the City of London".

³...... indicates omitted wording relating only to London, Wales and/or Scotland.

Page 72 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV11

ON-STREET CAR PARKING ACCOUNT Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All ANNEX 2 ONPARKING FOR PAYMENT: RESTRICTIONS ON APPLICATION OF SURPLUS

Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984, Section 55

YEAR END SURPLUS IN ONPARKING ACCOUNT

CARRY FORWARD INTO OR APPLY TO ONE OR MORE NEXT YEAR'S ON- OF THE FOLLOWING

STREET ACCOUNT PURPOSES .....

Making good any OR Meeting the cost OR Contributions to OR amount transferred of provision and/or the costs of other to the account from maintenance by local authorities* or the authority's the authority of persons in providing general fund in the off-street parking and/or maintaining preceding 4 years accommodation such accommodation

IF the authority is satisfied that provision by the authority of further off-street parking in its area is unnecessary or undesirable ....

Page 73 Subsidising public OR Highway improvement transport services schemes under Part V or facilities Highways Act 1980

* in shire counties, "other local authorities" appears to apply to county councils only

Page 74 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV11

ON-STREET CAR PARKING ACCOUNT Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All ANNEX 3 "ESSENTIAL PRE-REQUISITE" AND OTHER OTS SCHEMES TO BE FUNDED FROM PARKING SURPLUSES

"ESSENTIAL PRE-REQUISITE" AND OTHER OTS SCHEMES TO BE FUNDED FROM PARKING SURPLUSES (including priority schemes currently shown for SCA funding but likely to be affected by the expected shortfall in SCA allocation)

£000 £000 1997/98 1998/99

Seacourt Access Improvement 60 360 Science Area Measures 10 95 Banbury Road/Parks Road Junction Improvement 60 A44 Peartree Park & Ride Bus Lane Study 70 * Station Area Junction 500 * Abingdon Road/Weirs Lane Junction Improvement 150 250

Total 350 1,205

* schemes currently programmed for SCA funding

Page 75 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV28

PUBLIC TRANSPORT SUB-COMMITTEE - 13 NOVEMBER 1997 MINUTES of the meeting commencing at 2.00 pm and finishing at 3.25 pm

Present:

Voting Members:

Councillors Nils R. Bartleet (in place of Councillor Olive Stedman), Mrs Dee Bulley, Liz Clements, Dhall, Neil Fawcett, Colin Lamont, Brian Law, Kieron Mallon, Sandra Mold, Jim Moley and David G. Turner.

Non-Voting Member:

Dr Geoffrey Newman

Ex Officio:

Councillors Bill Bradshaw (in place of Councillor Dermot Roaf) and Councillor Brian L. Hook (in place of Councillor C.H. Shouler).

Officers:

Whole of meeting: J. Leverton and J. Dean (Chief Executive's Office); R. Williams, R. Helling and R. Waters (Environmental Services); M. Elliott (County Treasurer's Department); I. Reveco (ORCC Transport Officer); and D. Whelan (Access Officer).

The Sub-Committee considered the matters, reports and recommendations contained or referred to in the agenda for the meeting, together with the following additional papers:

- Schedule of Addenda;

- Revised report - Waiting List of Items for Future Implementation (Agenda Item 13);

- Addendum to exempt report PT14E.

Copies of the agenda, reports and additional papers are attached to the signed Minutes, and in relation thereto the Sub-Committee determined as follows:-

61/97 ELECTION TO CHAIR

RESOLVED:that Councillor Turner (Liberal Democrat) be elected to chair the meeting.

62/97 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND TEMPORARY APPOINTMENTS

Apologies for absence, temporary appointments and Group Leader substitutions were reported as follows:

Apology from Temporary Appointment/Substitute

Councillor Roaf Councillor Bradshaw Councillor Shouler Councillor Hook Councillor Stedman Councillor Bartleet

63/97 MINUTES

Page 76 The Minutes of the meeting held on 4 September 1997 were approved and signed.

64/97 MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES

Minute 48/97 - Rail Service to Grove/Wantage Station

Mr Helling reported that Strategy & Resources Committee had agreed to provide funding to the sum of £15,000 for the pre-feasibility study work on the Grove/Wantage station scheme and that officers, in conjunction with Railtrack, were in the process of getting the study under way.

He further reported that a public exhibition had been arranged and would take place on 12 February 1998 in Grove and on 13/14 February 1998 in Wantage.

Minute 57/97 - Electric Bus Service

Mr Helling reported that Environmental Committee had agreed to fund the extra costs of the service on the understanding that the contract was subject to termination at 3 months notice. He added that Stagecoach had asked for a delay in the handover and that the revised planned handover date from Oxford Bus Company to Stagecoach was 24 November 1997.

65/97 FINANCIAL POSITION STATEMENT (Agenda Item 6)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PT6) which set out the Sub-Committee's present financial position.

With reference to paragraph 4, Mr Helling reported that the effect of inflation increases added £8,000 to the Sub-Committee's annual rate of expenditure, giving a revised annual rate of £1,187,000. A small overspend was forecast for 1997/98, subject to any further variations that might occur before the year end.

RESOLVED: to note the financial position as set out in the report.

66/97 CHANGES IN ARRANGEMENTS FOR CONTRACT SERVICES (Agenda Item 7)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PT7) on progress in relation to the service enhancements which had been contemplated by Chiltern Queens.

RESOLVED: to:

(a) advise Chiltern Queens that, if no acceptable proposal for enhancement of the services provided by contracts S60, S62 and S65 had been received by 22 December 1997, consideration would be given to the termination of these contracts from 12 April 1998; and

(b) authorise the officers, in consultation with the Public Transport Group Spokespersons, to determine the future of these contracts in accordance with (a).

67/97 REVIEW OF BCTA AND READIBUS RING-A-RIDE SERVICES (Agenda Item 8)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PT8) which reviewed three Dial-a-Ride schemes for which funding had been agreed until 31 March 1998. The schemes under consideration were the Thursday service in Banbury currently provided by the Banburyshire Community Transport Association (BCTA) and services currently provided by Readibus into Reading from Tokers Green and between Henley and Reading.

Dr Newman reported CCTMIP's support for continuation of the Thursday BCTA service as a specific County Council supported service; and also for the proposed Readibus Oxford service (whilst

Page 77 expressing reservations as to the present prospects for integration with the shopmobility scheme).

Mr Helling reported support for continuation of the Henley and Tokers Green services, whilst recognising the need for enhanced publicity to maintain and increase patronage. He also reported some proposals received from Readibus for revised services to give users a wider choice of destinations.

RESOLVED: to:

(a) pay Banburyshire Community Transport Association (BCTA) to continue the Thursday Dial-a-Ride service in Banbury in accordance with the existing Service Agreement for a further 3 years commencing on 1 April 1998, the payment to be up to £7284.16 per annum, but with annual inflation adjustments on and from 1 April 1998;

(b) pay Readibus up to £879.23 per annum, but with continuing annual adjustments for inflation, to continue the service from Dyson's Wood, Tokers Green and Chazey Heath for a period of 4 years commencing on 1 April 1998;

(c) in respect of the services between Henley and Reading, enter into an agreement with Readibus to continue funding at the current level with annual inflation adjustments from 1 April 1998 to 31 July 1999, but in accordance with the following revised service pattern:

(i) no change to the Friday service;

(ii) a once weekly service from Sonning Common to Reading via Gallowstree Common and Kidmore End;

(iii) a monthly service to Oxford from places currently served by the Reading-Henley route; and

(iv) a monthly service to Wallingford from places currently served by the Reading-Henley route.

68/97 REVIEW OF GRANTS (Agenda Item 9)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PT9) which invited consideration of a number of applications for grants for locally organised transport schemes, funding for which expired on 31 March 1998.

RESOLVED: to:

(a) agree that Cuddesdon and Denton Parish Council might conduct a survey of local transport needs utilising unspent money from the 1996/97 grant for the Extra Transport Scheme;

(b) note that no funding was being requested for the Cuddesdon and Denton Extra Transport Scheme which was to close, but that a request for local transport funding might be submitted once the survey had been analysed;

(c) pay North Hinksey Parish Council up to £858 per annum for the financial year 1998/99 to secure continuation of the weekly shoppers' service from North Hinksey to Oxford, subject to this payment representing no more than half the cost of that service and the remaining cost being met by North Hinksey Parish Council; and

(d) pay Weston-on-the-Green Parish Council up to £650 per annum for the financial years 1998/99 and 1999/2000 (with no inflation adjustment) to make up the difference between fares and costs on the Parish Council's Shoppers' Service, provided that the service continued to use volunteer drivers.

69/97 CESSATION OF FREE TRANSPORT TO COLLEGES FOR POST-16 STUDENTS

Page 78 (Agenda Item 10)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PT10) which explored the immediate effects for public transport of the decision by Education Committee to cease funding for transport to school/college for students over 16 years of age and which outlined some possible ways forward.

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Lamont, seconded by Councillor Bulley and carried nem con) to instruct officers to conduct a minimalist exercise in all areas in Spring 1998, to consist simply of drawing the opportunity of catering for the student market on local bus services to operators' attention (including information on existing student numbers) and expressing a willingness to consider changing subsidised bus services (subject to no service reduction) to facilitate this.

70/97 COTSWOLD LINE FOUR COUNTIES GROUP (Agenda Item 11)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PT11) advising them of a request for the County Council to provide a chair and secretarial support for the Cotswold Line Four Counties Group during the forthcoming year, and, in the light of this, recommending a reappraisal of Oxfordshire's continued participation.

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Clements, seconded by Councillor Moley, and carried by 10 votes to 0) to advise all other individual members of the Cotswold Line Four Counties Group that Oxfordshire County Council:

(a) would continue to participate in the Cotswold Line Four Counties Group and would provide a chair and secretary for the next four meetings but with no further financial allocation above the contribution of £3,000 already agreed by this Sub-Committee; and

(b) (on an amendment by Councillor Lamont, seconded by Councillor Mallon and accepted with the consent of the Sub-Committee, by the proposer and seconder) were seeking to implement a large number of rail and other segregated public transport projects, which already tended to suffer delay due to staff constraints and therefore, whilst willing to participate, would not be able to take on the task of managing the consultant's study.

71/97 REQUESTS FOR NEW PUBLIC TRANSPORT SERVICES (Agenda Item 12)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PT12) informing them that the 2 outstanding requests for new public transport services from Wootton (Abingdon) Parish Council and the National Children's Homes were under investigation.

RESOLVED: to note that the outcome of investigations into the two outstanding requests would be reported to the Sub-Committee in February 1998.

72/97 WAITING LIST OF ITEMS FOR FUTURE IMPLEMENTATION (Agenda Item 13)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PT13) which listed those items which they had decided they would have funded but for restrictions on the Sub-Committee's finances.

With reference to the reported protest at the withdrawal of subsidy for Service C12, Councillor Mold proposed and Councillor Bartleet seconded that subsidy be paid to maintain the service in the event of termination of its present unsubsidised operation. On being put to the vote the motion was lost by 3 votes to 8.

Councillor Clements proposed and Councillor Bartleet seconded that the items nevertheless be included on the waiting list. On being put to the vote the motion was lost by 4 votes to 6.

RESOLVED:

Page 79 (a) to take no further action with respect to Service C12;

(b) (on a motion by Councillor Fawcett, seconded by Councillor Moley and carried by 6 votes to 0) to place service V76 on the waiting list; and

73/97 EXEMPT ITEMS

RESOLVED: that the public be excluded during the consideration of items 14E, 15E and 16E in the Agenda since it was likely that if they were present during those items there would be a disclosure of "exempt" information as described in Part I of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act, 1972 and specified below each item in the Agenda, i.e. information relating to:-

(a) the financial or business affairs of any particular person (other than the authority) (Agenda Items 14E and 16E);

(b) any particular applicant for, or recipient or former recipient of, any service provided by the authority. (Agenda Item 15E);

PROCEEDINGS FOLLOWING THE WITHDRAWAL OF PRESS AND PUBLIC

74/97 REVISIONS TO RAIL SERVICES (Agenda Item 14E)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PT14E) which detailed the proposals which had come to the attention of the officers to date, for implementation with the Summer 1998 timetable.

RESOLVED: to communicate to train operating companies the conclusions in paragraphs 17-19 of the report, as revised and to emphasise concern about the projected Great Western westbound service pattern at Didcot, mid morning.

75/97 REVIEW OF OCVA RING-A-RIDE SERVICE (Agenda 15E)

The Sub-Committee had before them a report (PT15E) on the "County" and "City" Ring-a-Ride services provided by Oxfordshire Council for Voluntary Action (OCVA), for which funding agreements were due to expire on 31 March 1998; and giving details of bids received to provide these services. Mr Helling confirmed the price details given in the report.

Dr Newman spoke in support of continuation of services. He added that CCTMIP had written to the Secretary of State urging emphasis to the promotion of Ring-a-Ride schemes, on the basis that small, fully adapted buses proved very valuable for use in the rural areas and that larger, low-floor buses were unlikely to be suitable for accessible transport in rural areas.

The Chair referred to correspondence between Mr Helling and the Director of OCVA arising from the invitation issued to OCVA and other bodies to submit competitive bids to provide this service. He indicated his view, and the Sub-Committee concurred, that this approach had in the circumstances been appropriate.

RESOLVED: to:

(a) pay Oxfordshire Council for Voluntary Action (OCVA) an annual amount in accordance with the formula agreed on 26 January 1995 until 31 March 2001 to continue to provide the City

Page 80 and County Ring-a-Ride services;

(b) subject to there being no objections from other parishes served on that day, request OCVA to reschedule the Tuesday "County" bus operation to either Monday or Thursday as requested by Chalgrove Parish Council;

(c) seek an agreement between BCTA and OCVA whereby all Kidlington Ring-a-Ride services pass to BCTA with OCVA taking responsibility for the Chipping Norton Dial-a-Ride;

(d) request CCTMIP to investigate the preferred destination of users of the "County" Ring-a-Ride with particular reference to the suggestion that reducing journeys to Oxford would allow more intensive use in the local areas.

76/97 PUBLIC TRANSPORT INFORMATION ON COMPUTER (Agenda Item 16E)

The Sub-Committee considered a report (PT16E) which discussed the options for the possible reinstatement of public transport information on OXCIS and for the introduction of facilities for Internet users to obtain such information.

RESOLVED:

(a) not to proceed at present with proposals for replacing the timetable database, resuming availability on OXCIS, or introducing an Internet facility; but

(b) to add these projects to the "waiting list of items for future implementation", at the prices indicated in Confidential Annex 2 to the report; and

(c) to note that the report which would be submitted to a forthcoming meeting on the provision of a telephone enquiry service might need to review the provision of computer timetable information as a means of providing information to telephone operators.

...... in the Chair

Date of signing ...... 1998

Page 81 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV26

OXFORD TRANSPORT STRATEGY WORKING PARTY - 17 OCTOBER 1997 MINUTES of the meeting commencing at 10.00 am and Finishing at 11.55 am

Present:

Voting Members:

Councillors: Nils R. Bartleet, Bill Bradshaw and Brian L. Hook.

City Councillors Jean Fooks, Alex Hollingsworth and John Tanner.

Ex Officio:

Councillors Terry Joslin (in place of Councillor Bob Langridge), Margaret Godden (in place of Councillor Dermot Roaf) and C.H. Shouler.

Officers:

Whole of meeting: J. Leverton (Chief Executive's Office); Director of Environmental Services, K. Welham, R. Williams and D. Seroczinski; A. Diver, J. Cramer and P. Mann (City Environmental Services Department); W. Reed (City Central Services Department).

The Working Party Committee considered the matters, reports and recommendations contained or referred to in the agenda for the meeting, copies of which agenda and reports are attached to the signed Minutes, and in relation thereto determined as follows:-

23/97 ELECTION TO CHAIR

RESOLVED: that Councillor Bradshaw (Liberal Democrat) be elected to chair the meeting.

24/97 APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE AND TEMPORARY APPOINTMENTS

Apologies for absence and Group Leader substitutions were reported as follows:-

Apology from Substitute

Councillor Langridge Councillor Joslin Councillor Roaf Councillor Margaret Godden

25/97 MINUTES

The Minutes of the meeting held on 25 July 1997 were approved and signed, subject in Minute 17/97 to the following amendments:

* in sub-paragraph (d), for all the words up to "paragraph 8(a)-(c) of OTSWP8", substitute: "to ask officers to undertake further examination of which schemes were essential pre-requisites and which were essential components but not pre-requisites, as listed in ..."

* in sub-paragraph (d)(i), for all the words up to "except for Botley Road Stage II", substitute: "all the schemes listed should be regarded as possible pre-requisites"

* after sub-paragraph (d)(ii) add:

Page 82 "(iii) provision of parking controls in Norham Manor and a connecting bus service from a Park & Ride (ideally Banbury Road) should be considered an essential pre-requisite;"

26/97 STATEMENT BY COUNCILLOR BRADSHAW

Further to Minute 11/97, Councillor Bradshaw reported that in respect of any matter under consideration to which his interest as non-executive director of Lothian Regional Transport might relate, the Secretary of State had granted a dispensation enabling him to speak and vote at meetings of the Working Party.

27/97 SCHEME PROGRESS (Agenda Item 6)

The Working-Party considered a report (OTSWP6) which updated members on schemes in progress and under development.

In relation to paragraph 5 of the report, Mr Mann advised that planning applications for Seacourt and Thornhill park and ride sites would now be lodged during November, and that design work would now be undertaken during the planning process in order not to prejudice the programmed implementation date of May-June 1998.

In relation to paragraph 6 of the report, Councillor Hollingsworth advised that there had been a very substantial drop in the incidence of crime at Pear Tree since security measures had been introduced there, with no measurable abstraction of usage of the car park or transfer of parking to residential roads.

In relation to paragraph 5 of the report, Mr Welham undertook to write to Working Party members as to the implications for buses, cyclists and pedestrians of the two trunk road interchange schemes in the context of Department of Transport, Environment and the Regions requirements.

RESOLVED: to:

(a) note the report;

(b) ask officers to seek discussions with Railtrack and relevant train operators on the provision and protection of facilities for pedestrians and cyclists in the Rail Station area, particularly in relation to the proposed Becket Street car park;

(b) ask officers as a matter of principle to arrange for relevant local County and City councillors to be consulted prior to publication of OTS schemes.

28/97 REVIEW OF OTS PROGRAMME (Agenda Item 7)

The Working-Party considered an amended OTS programme (OTSWP7) compiled further to the Working Party's instructions in minute no 17/97(d)/(e).

RESOLVED: to

(a) endorse the amended programme (OTSWP7) as a basis for achieving implementation of the Cornmarket Street and High Street measures by the end of March 1999, subject to reordering of the parking control schemes as follows: 1. Norham Manor 2. Summertown 3. North Oxford (if then required)

(b) RECOMMEND the Environmental Committee to approve the amended programme.

Page 83 29/97 CENTRAL AREA ORDERS: PUBLIC INQUIRY ARRANGEMENTS (Agenda Item 8)

The Working-Party considered a report (OTSWP8) updating members on arrangements for the public inquiry into the published draft Traffic Regulation Orders for the central area measures; and the development of a new traffic model.

Mr Reed reported that a pre-inquiry meeting had now been arranged for 26 November. Assuming the inspector would be prepared to adopt an approach to the inquiry similar to that laid down for a local plan inquiry, programming would be largely in the control of the local authority.

Mr Williams reported that steps had been taken with the consultants to remedy slippage in the traffic model programme.

RESOLVED: to:

(a) note the progress towards the public inquiry;

(b) ask officers to explore the following, in order to minimise the possibility of delay arising from the inquiry process:

(i) any possible steps that might be available to ensure that if the inquiry were to overrun the anticipated 3 weeks, it could be continued at least into the following week;

(ii) whether the inquiry inspector could be persuaded to report substantially earlier than the 3 months allowed for in the amended OTS programme.

30/97 ABINGDON ROAD STAGE 2 (Agenda Item 9)

The Working Party had before them a report (OTSWP9) on the outcome of the Workshop design group meetings for the Stage 2 scheme and the City Highways & Traffic Committee decision in relation to the published right turn ban at the Weirs Lane junction.

RESOLVED: (on a motion by Councillor Tanner, seconded by Councillor Fooks, amended in the course of debate with their and the Working Party's consent and carried nem con) to adopt the following principles in respect of the Abingdon Road/ Weirs Lane junction, namely, that:

(b) officers should be asked to produce the best possible engineering solution to the Abingdon Road/Weirs Lane junction which did not involve a right turn ban;

(e) the effect on junction capacity of providing a pedestrian phase should be investigated;

Page 84 (f) the provision of further speed enforcement measures in Abingdon Road should be investigated;

and to RECOMMEND the Highways & Road Safety Sub-Committee accordingly and seek the concurrence of the City Highways and Traffic Committee.

31/97 PARKING CONTROLS (Agenda Item 10)

The Working Party had before them a report (OTSWP10) on possible operational changes to the existing controlled parking schemes which would need to be applied also to any new zones.

Councillor Hollingsworth and Councillor Tanner having moved and seconded as set out in the resolution below, Councillor Hook moved and Councillor Bartleet seconded the addition, after the words "controlled zones" in (a)(iv) of the words "in accordance with County Policy".

The amendment was lost by 3 votes to 1.

RESOLVED:

(1) (on a motion by Councillor Hollingsworth, seconded by Councillor Tanner and carried by 5 votes to 0):

(a) to affirm the need for further controlled parking zones and effective enforcement of existing controlled zones to reduce present levels of free on street commuter parking in accordance with OTS objectives, and for that purpose to endorse:

(iii) review of locations where existing restrictions could be usefully relaxed to help meet peak resident demands in the evenings and weekends;

(iv) consideration of the introduction of additional enforcement in existing and proposed controlled zones in advance of the reconsideration of permit charges to ensure OTS objectives were met;

(b) to RECOMMEND the Highways & Road Safety Sub-Committee and the City Highways & Traffic Committee accordingly;

(2) (on a motion by Councillor Bradshaw, seconded by Councillor Bartleet and carried nem con) to RECOMMEND the Environmental Committee to review, in consultation with Oxford City Council, the overall management principles applying to residents' parking in the City of Oxford.

Page 85 ...... in the Chair

Date of signing ...... 199

Page 86 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV24

WRITING OFF OF BAD DEBTS Report by the Director of Environmental Services

Introduction

1. Under paragraph B.2(b) of the Council's Scheme of Delegation to Committees etc, each Committee has the delegated power to write off bad debts. The report recommends that two outstanding debts, which it has not proved possible to recover, be written off.

Debts to be Written Off

2. The two debts are:

Debt A Account No. 02412 £3854 Debt B Account No. 02413 £3854

3. Efforts to recover the debts have been unsuccessful. In view of the inability to prove responsibility for the pollution the Solicitor to the Council has advised that the debts should be written off.

Financial Implications

4. The financial implications are contained in the report.

Environmental and Staff Implications and Implications for Persons Living in Poverty

5. There are no implications arising from this report. The bad debts will be written off against the road maintenance budget.

RECOMMENDATION

6. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to approve the writing off of the debts of £7,708 owed to the Council as described in this report.

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Background papers: Nil Contact Officer: Maureen Elliott Tel: 01865 815868

27 November 1997

Page 87 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV6

QUARTERLY FINANCIAL REPORT Report by the County Treasurer, Director of Environmental Services, Assistant Chief Executive and Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council

Introduction

1. This report shows the 1997/98 budget for this Committee, together with the projected year end variation based on the latest information available (Annex 1).

2. The balance brought forward from 1996/97 (column 10) remains provisional until the accounts have been signed off.

3. Members and Officers were asked during the last committee cycle to consider the existing format of the Quarterly Financial Report (QFR) and put forward proposed enhancements. The QFR Panel are in the process of considering potential changes for implementation in future reports. For this cycle, the existing format is retained.

Virements and Supplementary Estimates (Column 5, Annex 1)

4. £51,000 of the savings on staff costs arising from the recruitment freeze (EN1, EN2, EN3) have been transferred to Public Transport Revenue Support (EN4) to be used to continue the Electric Bus Subsidy for a further year from 26 October 1997.

5. A net reduction of £4,000 in the Repairs and Maintenance budget has been vired from Operations Sub-Committee. This relates to an overspend in 1996/97 of £6,000 on Highways Depots (EN2) and an underspend of £2,000 on Waste Disposal (EN 6).

Projected Year End Variations

Year End Committee Variation (Column 8, Annex 1)

6. Annex 1 (Column 8) shows a predicted overspend of £588,000 on the 1997/98 base budget. This is due mainly to spending in the current year on work deferred from 1996/97 and is being financed from amounts brought forward from 1996/97. The overall position is:-

£ Balance brought forward from 1996/97 ( - ) 1,695,000 Planned overspend in the current year 588,000 Projected carry forward to 1998/99 ( - ) 1,107,000

7. The projected carry forward to 1998/99 reported in October was £635,000. The increase of £472,000 has arisen mainly on Waste Disposal (EN 6).

Projected Carry Forward to 1998/99 (Column 11, Annex 1)

8. The projected underspends to be carried forward to 1998/99 comprise the following.

EN1 Transport Implementation ( - ) £109,000

There is an anticipated underspend on staff costs of £107,000 arising from the recruitment freeze

Page 88 and the redeployment of staff. The remaining £2,000 relates to savings on staff travel.

EN2 Highways Maintenance ( - ) £167,000

The implementation of the National Central Computerised Street Works Register has now been abandoned but will be replaced by a National Referencing System of Roads. The full implications are not yet known but it is expected that the project will be further delayed. £128,000 will be carried forward to 1998/99 to offset costs, £108,000 of which has been brought forward from 1996/97. £24,000 of the predicted underspend on this service head relates to savings arising from staff vacancies due to the recruitment freeze. The remaining £15,000 relates to an anticipated saving on staff travel.

EN3 Transport Policy ( - ) £208,000

£192,000 was carried forward from 1996/97 for Integrated Transport Studies in Abingdon, Witney, Banbury and Didcot. It is now expected that the study for Abingdon will not be completed before the end of the financial year, and that expenditure on the studies for Banbury and Didcot will not be incurred until 1998/99. £147,000 will be carried forward to 1998/99 to meet the costs of these studies in that year. £50,000 was carried forward from 1996/97 for the Speedwatch Campaign. This project is now expected to spend only £5,000 in the current year and the remaining balance of £45,000 will be carried forward to 1998/99. £10,000 of the estimated underspend relates to savings arising from staff vacancies due to the recruitment freeze and the remaining £6,000 relates to an anticipated saving on staff travel.

EN4 Public Transport Revenue Support ( - ) £30,000

Of the £51,000 vired from savings in staff costs to continue the Electric Bus Subsidy for a further year, £30,000 will be carried forward to 1998/99 to cover the subsidy to 25 October 1998.

EN5 Land Use Planning ( - ) £57,000

Now that the majority of costs are known, the expected underspend arising from the Structure Plan Examination in Public which took place in July 1997 has risen to £35,000. Additional income on Planning Application fees of £20,000 is also expected plus £2,000 savings on staff travel.

EN6 Waste Disposal ( - ) £382,000

The contractual claim in respect of Dix Pit received in 1996/97 is now not expected to be settled during 1997/98. £442,000 brought forward from 1996/97 to meet the potential costs of the claim will be carried forward to 1998/99. Revised figures for the OWL contract reflect an increase in the volumes of domestic waste during the year and as a result contract costs are likely to increase by £50,000 during the current year. This will be offset by additional one-off income of £50,000 from trade waste. In addition there is an increase in tonnage being tipped at Ardley Waste Disposal site as a result of the introduction of wheelie bins byCherwell District Council. This is expected to result in an overspend of £60,000 in 1997/98.

EN7 Gypsy Sites ( - ) £10,000

There is a potential underspend of £10,000 on the base budget for site management costs. This will be carried forward to 1998/99 to offset probable budget reductions in 1998/99.

EN8 Management and Support Services ( - ) £137,000

Page 89 Budgets for Advertising, Interview expenses and Training will be underspent by £14,000 as a direct result of the recruitment freeze and the previous policy on internal first appointments. A one off payment of £50,000 has been received from Cherwell District Council for services provided by Oxfordshire County Council in 1995/96 and 1996/97 in respect of land searches carried out on behalf of the District Council. In addition there are anticipated savings of £60,000 on computing, £10,000 on the Ordnance Survey Licence and £3,000 on staff costs due to the recruitment freeze.

EN10 Environmental Plan ( - ) £7,000

A saving of £7,000 in relation to the Agenda 21 project is anticipated on staff costs due to the recruitment freeze.

Financial, Staff and Environmental Implications and Implications for People Living in Poverty

9. This report is solely concerned with finance. There are no environmental or staff implications or implications for people living in poverty arising directly from the report.

RECOMMENDATIONS

10. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to receive the report.

CHRIS GRAY County Treasurer

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

STEPHEN CAPALDI Assistant Chief Executive

CHRIS IMPEY Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council

Background Papers: Nil

Contact Officer: Maureen Elliott Tel: Oxford 815868

27 November 1997

Page 90 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV7

REVIEW OF CHARGES 1998/99 Report by the County Treasurer and the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: All

Introduction

1. This report sets out the basis upon which charges for 1998/99 have been reviewed.

Presentation

2. Charges in columns 6 and 7 of the attached Annexes are inclusive of VAT where appropriate, to provide a better indication of the charge to the customer.

Statutory and Nationally Agreed Charges

3. Details of these charges are provided in Annex 1.

Charges Determined by Committee

4. Details of the proposed charges are provided in Annex 2 (column 7), together with the present charge (column 6) for comparative purposes. The basis used for calculating charges are set out in column 9. Where a nominal increase is shown or where charges may need to be updated during 1998/99 as costs vary, further information is included in the remarks column.

Estimated Income

5. On 30 September Strategy & Resources Committee set a framework for drawing up the 1998/99 budget and policy planning process and this assumed that income would increase by 3.0%. Therefore a comparison of the total estimated income from the proposals is compared with this:

Estimated income from proposed charges 371,400 Less current budgeted income for 1997/98 plus 3.0% 358,800 Surplus 12,600

The surplus of £12,600 has been used to count towards the policy and budget plan savings identified on Planning Applications in the budget report.

Financial, Environmental and Staff Implications and Implications for People Living in Poverty

6. There are no direct environmental, staff or poverty implications arising from this report. The financial implications are contained within the body of the report.

RECOMMENDATIONS

7. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to:

(a) note the statutory and nationally agreed charges;

(b) approve the charges as proposed in Annex 2 from the effective dates determined

Page 91 in that Annex.

CHRIS GRAY County Treasurer

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

Background papers: Nil

Contact Officer: Maureen Elliott, Tel: Oxford 815868

24 November 1997

Page 92 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV8

REVENUE BUDGET 1998/99 Report by the County Treasurer, the Director of Environmental Services, Assistant Chief Executive and Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council.

Summary

1. This report presents the base budget for 1998/99 and the Committee is requested to approve the draft budget, detailed in the accompanying booklet, for submission to the Council via Strategy & Resources Committee.

Introduction

2. The budget preparation process is being carried out in two distinct parts:

(i) Service Committee Draft Budget

This updates the 1997/98 Committee budgets to a 1998/99 draft budget (at 1998/99 outturn prices), including variations and inflation allowed by Strategy & Resources Committee, for onward submission to Council via Strategy & Resources Committee.

(ii) County Council Stage

The Strategy & Resources Committee and Council, in light of the local government finance settlement and capping announcements, consider the service committee draft budgets and determine the final budget including the allocation of policy and budget plans for 1998/99.

3. To produce the service committee 1998/99 draft budget, the 1997/98 budget is updated for:

(a) estimated inflation (as agreed by Strategy & Resources Committee on 30

September 1997) to 1998/99 outturn prices;

(b) previously agreed policy and budget plans (agreed by the Council in August

1997 and included in the published Policy and Budget Plans 1997/98

booklet);

Committee on 30 September 1997.

Draft Budget 1998/99

4. The draft budget for 1998/99 totals £32.412m, which is an increase of £1.445m (4.67%) on the 1997/98 budget. The increase of £291,000 on the Flood Defence Levy is outside the control of this Committee. The budget controlled by the Committee has therefore increased by £1.154m (4%). The movement from the 1997/98 to 1998/99 budgets is analysed below:

£000 £000

1997/98 Budget 30,967 Inflation to 1998/99 outturn prices 1,118 Previously agreed policy and budget plans (-) 20

Page 93 Allowable variations 347

1,445

1998/99 draft budget (1998/99 outturn prices) 32,412

5. Strategy & Resources Committee determined that certain budgetary pressures, e.g. increments, should not be allowed increases to the budget. It is expected that these expenditure pressures should be managed by Chief Officers. All such pressures have been absorbed within the budget for this Committee.

Financial, Staff and Environmental Implications and Implications for People Living in Poverty

6. There are no implications arising directly from this report. However, the final decision on the budget will clearly have financial and staffing implications and major implications for the environment and people living in poverty.

RECOMMENDATION

7. The Committee are RECOMMENDED to approve the draft budget for 1998/99 for submission to the Council via the Strategy & Resources Committee.

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

CHRIS GRAY County Treasurer

CHRIS IMPEY Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council

STEPHEN CAPALDI Assistant Chief Executive

Background papers: Nil

Contact Officer: Maureen Elliott Tel: 01865 815868

27 November 1997

Page 94 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV16

A444 PEARTREE ROUNDABOUT TO WOLVERCOTE ROUNDABOUT BUS LANE Division(s) affected:Oxford Cherwell and Wolvercote

OUTLINE PROJECT SUBMISSION APPRAISAL NO. H149/0

NAME OF SCHEME: A44(T) Peartree Roundabout to Wolvercote Roundabout Bus Lane

Committee(s): ENVIRONMENTAL Proposed Start Year: 1998/99

Basis of Estimate: Term contract rates and recent prices for similar work.

1. DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT

Construction of a new inbound bus lane on the A44(T) between Peartree Park and Ride and Wolvercote Roundabout.

2. NEED FOR PROJECT

The bus lane provision is one of 90 individual schemes which make up the Oxford Transport Strategy. The Strategy's primary objective is to bring about substantial environmental improvements in the city centre.

A major part involves increasing priority for buses on the radial route approaches to the central area. The proposal results from a bus lane feasibility study carried out to identify bus priority provisions on the A44(T) from Peartree to Wolvercote Roundabout.

Bus priority on the A44(T) southbound will make an important contribution to the Oxford Transport Strategy, improve the attraction of bus travel therefore encouraging people to transfer from cars to buses to travel into Oxford city centre.

3. CONSISTENCY WITH SERVICE STRATEGY

The scheme complies with Structure Plan policies T6 and T7.

4. ANALYSIS OF ALL REALISTIC OPTIONS

Three options were initially identified to provide a dedicated bus lane provision on the A44(T) southbound.

One option would have utilised an existing access road near the Wolvercote roundabout but was rejected at an early stage due to engineering difficulties. The remaining two options, A and B, were the subject of a feasibility report dated December 1996. (A copy is in the Members' Resource Centre.)

Option A would provide a full length bus lane within existing highway land adjacent to the southbound carriageway. However, realignment of some 200 metres of the existing dual carriageway on the immediate approach to Wolvercote roundabout would be required.

Option B would provide a partial bus lane with peak period traffic signals. The bus lane would terminate some 200 metres before the Wolvercote roundabout at which point the bus would merge into the existing southbound carriageway. Traffic signals in the form of a bus gate would be used to facilitate this merge during peak periods.

Page 95 5. PREFERRED OPTION

Option B is the preferred option due to its lower capital cost and greater first year rate of return benefit. It is felt that the signalised exit from the bus lane will also be beneficial in helping to discourage abuse of the facility by car users.

6. FUNDING

Funding for the scheme will be through credit approval as part of the Oxford Transport Strategy Package.

Preliminary design is proposed to be funded from on-street car parking surplus approrpriated for that purpose to allow work to progress on the scheme with a view to construction in 1998/99.

7. FINANCIAL/STAFFING IMPLICATIONS

Cost of the scheme is estimated at £334,000 (1997/98) and is programmed for start of construction in 1998/99. Detailed design and site supervision is expected to be undertaken by the Highways Agency's Network Agents, Kennedy and Donkin. Management of the scheme is to be carried out by staff of Environmental Services.

8. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPLICATIONS

The impact of the scheme has been kept to a minimum due to works being contained mainly within the existing highway. Land outside of the existing highway will be required to construct the scheme and it is hoped this can be acquired by agreement.

Benefits will be achieved to the overall environment of the city centre and along its radial routes by better use of public transport resulting in a reduction in traffic, noise and pollution in these areas.

9. RESOURCE APPRAISAL

This is attached.

DAVID YOUNG CHRIS GRAY Director of Environmental Services County Treasurer

Contact Officer: Mike Collins Tel: Oxford 815877

25 November 1997

Page 96 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV10

FEES ON CAPITAL PROGRAMME SCHEMES Report by the Director of Environmental Services and the County Treasurer.

Introduction

1. The Revenue Policy Plans 1998/99 report and the Capital Programme 1997/98 to 1999/2000 report considered by the Strategy and Resources Committee on 28 October 1997 both referred to the problem of funding consultants fees on developer funded and other schemes in the Environmental Committee's Capital Programme Preparation Pool. It has become difficult to identify resources within the capital programme to meet these fees. The alternative source of finance is through the revenue budget. This report addresses the implications of funding fees on preparation pool and developer funded schemes through the revenue budget.

Capital Programme Preparation Pool

2. In January 1996 the Strategy and Resources Committee approved the splitting of the Capital Programme into two sections. Schemes for which full funding, including fees, is available form the firm programme on which work may proceed. Schemes which are not fully funded form the preparation pool for each committee and currently work cannot be undertaken until the scheme is fully funded - except for a small provision for design work included in the 1997/98 programme.

3. No such provision has been made for 1998/99 and future years so consequently no work can be carried out on the design of these schemes. Some schemes (where construction costs are funded) are held in the preparation pool only because of the lack of funding for consultants fees. This is an untenable position as design work must be carried out in advance and there is the need to take most schemes through lengthy statutory procedures.

Developer Funded Schemes

4. A report on Developer Funded Schemes considered by this Committee in December 1996 (Agenda Item 47E) outlined the problems relating to funding shortfalls on these schemes, including fees. The main points in that report are summarised below.

5. Developer contributions are generally negotiated on the basis of specific items (e.g. road schemes, school improvements etc.) and developers agree to provide the finance for these infrastructure improvements. There are at present some 80 agreements with developers for County Council services and infrastructure, the majority for transport capital schemes mainly linked to development in the "country towns" and Oxford City. Over the past 15 years infrastructure worth some £60m has been achieved through negotiations with developers. This includes financial contributions secured in agreements and land secured for schools.

6. Contributions are often received as part payment for infrastructure with more than one developer making contributions towards the full cost. Design fees are normally in addition to these costs and developers have historically believed strongly that the design costs should be the Council's contribution towards these schemes. This is understandable bearing in mind that it is not just roads and transport infrastructure but also school land and school buildings etc. which benefit from developer funding - so subventing other committees' expenditure. Indeed some existing agreements specifically exclude the use of the contribution for fees - although we now actively pursue and often obtain design fees as an integral part of the infrastructure contributions.

7. Obtaining full funding of schemes from developers has been getting more and more difficult. In order for the Council to obtain the most favourable agreements it is important that developers/landowners are assured that contributions are used for the purposes outlined in the agreement and that money is not used elsewhere (for example for payment of consultants fees)

Page 97 without the agreement of the developer. Failure to give such an assurance could damage the Council's credibility with developers and district councils and so have detrimental effects on current and future negotiations.

8. It is vital that the Council continue to obtain contributions from developers as this is now the only source of funding for capital schemes outside of the TPP process apart from some limited capital receipts from the sale of land or property.

9. Many developer agreements include a payback clause under which contributions are repayable to the developer if construction is not carried out within a certain timescale, even if some costs have already been incurred. This could lead to serious difficulties in the provision of infrastructure related to service areas such as transport and education. It is essential that such a situation is not allowed to happen.

10. The following table sets out the application of developer contributions in recent years.

Year Environmental Education Total Committee Committee

£000 £000 £000

1993/94 1,138 0 1,138

1994/95 3,925 256 4,181

1995/96 3,497 657 4,154

1996/97 1,726 1,219 2,945

Totals 10,286 2,132 12,418

11. Consultants fees of £756,000 on Environmental Committee developer funded schemes have been paid in the same period. As design fees are incurred in advance there is no direct relationship between the level of spend on schemes and the cost of fees in a particular period.

12. Fees for these schemes have largely been funded through the capital programme although, where it has been legitimate to do so, some have been met from developer contributions. Since the loss of £2.2m Revenue Contribution to Capital Outlay (RCCO) in 1991/92 and with the current serious financial position on the Capital Programme it is no longer possible to fund these fees from existing capital resources.

13. In the past the capital programme in total has benefited from significant levels of capital receipts obtained by the forerunner departments of what is now Environmental Services. Some £10m of receipts from the sale of the Smallholdings estate was used to fund the capital programme and was not earmarked specifically for Environmental Committee or Operations Sub Committee schemes. Infrastructure worth some £60m has been achieved through negotiations with developers in the past 15 years including financial contributions and land secured for schools. All committees also benefited from Revenue Contributions to Capital Outlay which ceased in 1991/92.

14. In sum the Council's revenue budget problems of the past few years have created a capital funding problem which is focused (unfairly) on Environmental Committee fees.

Environmental Committee Schemes

15. The current firm capital programme contains £23.5m of developer funding, £17.5m for Environmental Committee schemes and £6m for the Education Committee. The Environmental Committee preparation pool contains schemes worth £23.7m which have proposed start dates in 1998/99 and 1999/2000. For the period covered by the latest capital programme the estimated unfunded fee requirement at 1997/98 Outturn Prices for developer funded schemes in the preparation pool is:

Page 98 £000

1998/1999 643

1999/2000 and after 1,263

16. The preparation pool also contains £18m of developer funded schemes which have not yet got a proposed start date because they are dependent on associated development.

17. The December 1996 report on Developer Funded Schemes included an undertaking that fees will be defrayed from developer contributions where this can be done. It was then estimated that £100,000 per year for five years could be found. This source of funding has not been taken into account in the current capital programme.

18. Even with this amount available there is still a considerable shortfall in funding for 1998/99 and later years. There is no base budget provision in the Committee's revenue budget which could be diverted towards the funding of fees without impacting on services in other areas.

19. A short term measure would be to divert the money to be provided in the 1998/99 budget for the repayment of interest on developer contributions towards the funding of fees. However while this would allow work on some schemes to proceed in 1998/99 it would create further problems in later years when provision would have to be made both for fees and the repayment of interest.

Other Schemes

20. The Preparation Pool also contains schemes included in the TPP submission for funding in 1998/99 and beyond. Design work is necessary in advance if schemes are to be ready to proceed when funding is approved. Funding for fees is only available from the year the project is approved. All fees incurred in advance of this must be met by the Council. Failure to undertake schemes within a financial year because of lack of preliminary design could have serious effects on future funding of TPP bids as underspend is clawed back by central government.

21. The current Environmental Committee Preparation Pool contains potential TPP funded schemes worth £ 27.7m with start dates up to 1999/2000. These include the Committee's annual programmes and schemes arising from Integrated Transport and Land Use Studies. The total fee requirement for theses schemes is in excess of £2m , most of which will be met through the TPP process if and when the schemes are approved. The cost of the preliminary design work on all schemes falls on the Council. It is essential that budgetary provision is made to enable preliminary design work to be carried out on schemes included in the TPP submission.

Conclusions

22. The cessation of RCCO and current problems in the overall financing of the Council's Capital Programme has brought the issue of the funding of fees on Environmental Committee schemes to a head. This has been highlighted by the changes in the presentation of the capital programme in recent years and the allocation of resources specifically to committees rather than to the programme as a whole. The shortfall on fees is not solely an Environmental Committee problem but the result of the different ways in which capital expenditure is financed. Fees on Education Committee schemes, for example, may be charged against ACG or SCA unlike highways schemes where funding approval is specific.

23. The main sources of finance for the Environmental Committee capital programme are developer contributions and approvals through the TPP process. Both of these have limitations in respect of the funding of fees. Developer contributions are subject to the terms of individual agreements and TPP funding through TSG and SCA is subject to government regulation.

24. Continued funding in 1998/99 and later years of fees on developer funded schemes is essential . Failure to provide such funding would prevent implementation of schemes which are, by definition, essential to meet growth which has taken place and could ultimately result in

Page 99 payback of contributions and the loss of this essential infrastructure. This would have severe adverse effects on other Council services (especially Education) as well as the services provided by this Committee.

25. It is vital that the principle of funding consultants fees on developer funded schemes be accepted in order to avoid the loss of funding for essential infrastructure. The level of funding required will vary from year to year depending on variations in the programme. A minimum of £100,000 per year is available from existing agreements to help finance consultants fees but the remainder will have to be found from other Council resources.

26. It is recommended that £500,000 per year be provided from revenue for consultants fees on developer funded schemes, subject to annual revision in light of the projected programme and that this proposal be forwarded to Strategy and Resources Committee as an expenditure pressure in the 1998/99 budget.

27. Similarly funding of consultants fees for preliminary design on schemes included in the TPP submission each year is essential if maximum benefit is to be obtained from limited and decreasing funding approval.

28. It is recommended that base budget provision of £200,000 per year be provided from revenue for consultants fees for preliminary design on schemes included in the TPP submission and that this proposal be forwarded to Strategy and Resources Committee as an expenditure pressure in the 1998/99 budget.

29. The Director of Environmental Services will continue to seek alternative ways of financing fees on developer funded and other preparation pool schemes.

Financial Implications

30. These are mostly contained in the report. The Engineering Services Consultancy contract is due to be reviewed and to go out to tender in early 1998. Uncertainty about the future workload could push up tender prices.

Staff Implications

31. Most of the work for capital schemes is carried out by the Engineering Services Consultancy. Failure to fund fees will lead to a rapid loss of skilled and experienced staff. They will not be easy to replace quickly if and when the funding situation eases and our ability to deliver the programme could be seriously impaired. In-house resources do not exist to plug the gap, even partially.

Environmental Implications and Implications for People Living in Poverty

32. There are none arising directly from this report.

RECOMMENDATIONS

33. The Environmental Committee is RECOMMENDED to:

(a) note that if design fees are not funded progress will virtually cease on the preparation of Developer Funded and SCA funded schemes;

(b) rcommend Strategy and Resources Committee to approve in principle the funding from revenue of fees on developer funded schemes and on other preparation pool schemes subject to resources being available;

(c) frward to Strategy and Resources Committee consultants fees of £500,000 per year on developer funded schemes (subject to annual revision `in the light of the projected programme) and £200,000 per year on other preparation pool fees as an expenditure pressure in the 1998/99 budget.

Page 100 DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services.

CHRIS GRAY County Treasurer.

Background papers: Nil

Contact Officer: Maureen Elliott, Tel Oxford 815868

1 December 1997

Page 101 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV09

REVENUE POLICY PLANS 1998/99 Report by the Director of Environmental Services, the Assistant Chief Executive, the Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council and the County Treasurer.

Introduction

1. The Strategy and Resources Committee on 28 October 1997 resolved to:-

(a) confirm the target savings agreed by the Chief Executive in consultation with the County Treasurer and the Group Leaders of the main groups and to instruct all Committees to commence consultation in respect of all cuts listed in their respective target savings forwarded to this Committee; this consultation process to include an identification of methods by which some service provision may be continued by means of increased charges, development of self-help schemes for users or partnership working with voluntary organisations, the private sector, District Councils, Parish and Town Councils and the Health Service;

(b) instruct committees to analyse their expenditure pressures as indicated in paragraph 31 of the Revenue Policy Plans 1998/99 report to the Strategy Resource Committee;

(c) instruct committees to review their savings proposals in the light of the confirmed targets and the need to fund expenditure pressures that are committed, advise MALL Committee that it is essential that they agree the necessary £500,000 savings to be effective from 1 April 1998 which have been temporarily funded from the book fund and to remind that Committee that they must identify a further £500,000 for 1998/99;

(d) ask the Political Groups to set up budget negotiating teams to consider the 1998/99 budget settlement including any decisions which could be taken at the County Council's meeting on 18 November and to note that in order to facilitate this process officers will be identifying from the lists at Annex 2:-

(i) those proposals which if agreed and implemented in 1997/98 would yield savings in the current financial year; and to quantify those savings;

(ii) those proposals affecting 1998/99 and onwards that could be agreed in November thus giving the longest possible lead time and maximising the savings in 1998/99;

(iii) those proposals which could be agreed and implemented in the current financial year without effect on the current level of service provision e.g. service improvements, new projects, etc.;

(iv) those proposals which would require consultation before a final decision could be made;

(v) those proposals which have extreme negative implications for people living in poverty who:-

(2) cannot afford to replace privately what they will lose;

and

(3) will lose a service on which they are, or have become, dependent, and the loss of which will severely affect the quality of their lives;

Page 102 (e) instruct officers to initiate as soon as possible the relevant consultation process for those savings proposals, e.g. the closure of establishments, which require consultation before a final decision can be made;

2. The Council, on 18 November 1997, resolved:

(a) in the light of the provisional settlement which seems to have been delayed until early December, to ask political groups to discuss and make recommendations for changes in policy and budget plans for 1997/98 and 1998/99 to service committees meeting in December in advance of the final budget agreement;

(b) to authorise service committees to agree net reductions to their current year's expenditure and their proposals for their 1998/99 expenditure;

(c) to instruct service committees to report their decisions to a rearranged meeting of the Strategy and Resources Committee on Wednesday 17 December at 10.00am;

(d) to authorise the Strategy and Resources Committee to determine whether or not to continue the vacancy freeze;

(e) to clarify the Strategy and Resource Committee decision at Minute 110/97(c) by instructing officers:-

(i) to carry out consultation at the earliest opportunity in respect of proposals which legally require consultation before a final decision can be made; and

(ii) to inform users and other interested parties of other proposals for cuts in services in the context of considering methods by which some service provision may be continued by means of increased charges, development of self help schemes for users or partnerships working with voluntary organisations, the private sector, District Councils, Parish and Town Councils and the Health Service.

3. The total target set for this committee is £2.35m. The Policy Plan report considered by this Committee in October 1997 and referred to Strategy and Resources Committee identified savings options to meet all the targets except Waste Disposal. It also identified a number of expenditure pressures for which no finance is available.

4. The Annexes review the savings options put forward in October and the undesirable changes that will have to be made to those options to make up for the inability to achieve the Waste Management target and to meet those expenditure pressures that may be seen as unavoidable. They also analyse the expenditure pressures over four categories as instructed by Strategy and Resources Committee. No reductions in the current years expenditure are proposed.

5. Annex 1 is the report by the Director of Environmental Services.

Annex 2 is the report by the Chief Executive's department.

Financial and Staff Implications

6. The financial implications are addressed in the annexes to the report. Any decision made on the future of the School Crossing Patrol Service will have implications for staff involved in the provision of that service. Further budget cuts will increase the pressure and insecurity on staff who have already been subjected to major changes and will have a detrimental effect on staff morale.

Environmental Implications

7. The cumulative effects of cuts on the road maintenance budget already made plus the effects of options for further cuts in this report will make roads and footways less safe for all road users with an increased risk of death and injury. The vulnerable, such as elderly pedestrians and those whom

Page 103 we want to encourage to cycle and walk - schoolchildren for example, will be discouraged from making their journeys this way. People's surroundings will become run down and shabby as roads break up, weeds grow unchecked, street lights break down and drains clog up. The diversity of plants on road verges will reduce as scrub growth takes over vacant areas. Poorer surfaces lead to increased wear and tear in vehicles and higher fuel consumption. Public transport cuts will reinforce the idea that a car is a must.

Implications for People Living in Poverty

8. Any reduction in public transport services will have implications for people living in poverty who are less likely to have alternative means of transport. Cuts in the economic development budget will significantly affect the Council's ability to work in partnership with other organisations on a number of initiatives to assist people in poverty.

RECOMMENDATIONS

9. The Committee is RECOMMENDED to

(a) agree proposals for reductions in this Committee's budget for 1998/99;

(b) report these decisions to the meeting of the Strategy and Resources Committee on 17 December 1997;

(c) endorse the proposal that any increase in SSA resulting from an increase in urban road lengths be put back into the road maintenance budget.

DAVID YOUNG Director of Environmental Services

STEPHEN CAPALDI Assistant Chief Executive

CHRIS IMPEY Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council

CHRIS GRAY County Treasurer

Contact Officers. Maureen Elliott, Environmental Services Tel: Oxford 815868 Stephen Capaldi. Assistant Chief Executive Tel: Oxford 815466 Chris Impey, Assistant Chief Executive and Solicitor to the Council Tel: Oxford 815307

1 December 1997

Page 104 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV09

REVENUE POLICY PLANS 1998/99 Report by the Director of Environmental Services, the Assistant Chief Executive, the Assistant Chief Executive & Solicitor to the Council and the County Treasurer. ANNEX 1

1. The confirmed savings targets for Environmental Service are:

£000

Environmental Services 1,800

Waste Disposal 500

Total 2,300

2. Annex 1, Table 1 sets out the savings options referred by this Committee to Strategy and Resource Committee in October updated to include the amendments needed to produce the additional savings identified later in this report. The table has been extended to include a column indicating whether the savings option affects the current level of service (A), requires consultation (B) or has implications for people living in poverty (P).

Expenditure Pressures

3. Annex 1, Table 2 sets out the expenditure pressures identified for this committee in October. Some of the figures have been amended to reflect more up to date information. As requested by Strategy and Resources Committee the pressures have been analysed between

(A) Overspends from 1997/98. (B) The ongoing effects of such overspends (C) New commitments and (D) Other desirable pressures.

No announcement has yet been made on the expected increase in Landfill Tax so it has not been possible to quantify this pressure.

4. A new expenditure pressure has been added as a result of the Planning Sub Committee's resolution on 17 November that an additional member of staff be employed to undertake specialist enforcement work at a cost of £30,000 per year and that this be included in the Policy and Budget planning process as an expenditure pressure.

5. A report elsewhere on this agenda outlines the problems with the funding of fees on Developer Funded and Preparation Pool schemes in the Capital Programme and identifies a need for funding to be provided from revenue resources. I consider the funding of such fees to be a corporate rather than an Environmental Committee issue as the problem has resulted directly from the decision to withdraw revenue contributions to capital.

Review of savings options

6. The saving options categorised as plans for which there is no effect on current levels of service include savings on computing, staff costs and travel costs totalling £240,000. These are ongoing savings resulting from the departmental merger in 1996 and have been achieved by restructuring sections and individual jobs, redeploying staff within the department and critically examining all vacancies as they occur. Since its formation, Environmental Services has been operating a type of vacancy freeze similar in many ways to that which was imposed by the Council on all departments in August. In those areas where comparative statistics are available staff numbers are among the lowest in the country.

Page 105 7. The savings have not been achieve without pain. 16 senior posts were cut including a complete tier of senior management. The work that these people previously carried out has not disappeared but is being done by the remaining staff , many of whose jobs have changed significantly . Large scale regradings have, so far, been avoided.

8. The savings identified this year have been achieved without further job losses but through efficiency measures. All divisions are operating under pressure and many staff work considerable amounts of unpaid overtime on a regular basis while attempting to deliver services from already underfunded and ever decreasing budgets. Many of the areas in which we operate have real life threatening potential if sufficient resources are not made available.

9. The total base budget saving resulting from the restructuring is nearly £0.5m which is a significant contribution to the Council's overall savings in 1997/98 and 1998/99. This should not be underestimated and has entailed significant pain. The transfer of staff from headquarters to area offices has probably helped relations with local parishes and communities.

School Crossing Patrols 10. The proposal to cut School Crossing Patrols was made because of the size of the cuts imposed on this committee. Its withdrawal would undoubtedly lead to high levels of public protest. A Zero Based Review of this service which is nearly complete identifies various options for savings in addition to complete withdrawal of the service. These include reductions in the number of sites, reductions in hours and transferring responsibility for the service to schools - to be provided on an optional basis from their own funds. All of these options would enable some savings to be achieved. I am arranging for Spokespersons to see a draft of the ZBR overview and will report further orally at committee.

11. It has also been suggested politically that responsibility for the service and the existing budget be transferred to the Education Committee or the schools. If the budget were transferred to Education along with responsibility for the service I would expect the savings target for this committee to be reduced accordingly.

12. The School Crossing Patrol budget includes the costs of one FTE (£22,000) in Environmental Services who provides a training and monitoring role. For Road Safety reasons it would be best if this function and role remained in Environmental Services if school crossing patrols are to continue. Any budget transfer would therefore be limited to £230,000. (FYE 1998/99 Prices)

13. If the budget were transferred to Education the costs of any redundancy payments which might subsequently arise would have to be met from Education budgets.

Road Maintenance

14. The three major concerns resulting from the very low level of spending which will remain from the cuts proposed in my October report are: - the certainty of an increased risk of injury or death for all road users, pedestrians, cyclists or drivers. - the certainty that roads and the equipment on them will fall apart. - the certainty of rapidly escalating costs needed eventually to right all the damage being caused while spending is so low and unsustainable.

15. If the Strategy and Resources resolution is to be met additional cuts to those proposed in October now have to be made to make up for unachievable cuts in Waste Disposal and to meet the cost of introducing the new 30 mph speed limit policy. (see below) The effects of this new, higher level of cuts on top of an already woefully inadequate budget are addressed in paragraphs 28 - 32.

Additional proposals to meet the savings targets and expenditure pressures.

16. The remainder of the report deals with cuts additional to those identified in the report to the October meeting of this Committee. In order to assess the full implications of the proposed cuts members are asked to bring that report (ENV7 ) to this meeting.

Page 106 17. The savings target of £1.8m set for Environmental Services was met in the report considered by this Committee in October. No savings were identified on Waste Management. Since that meeting the Highways and Road Safety Sub Committee has approved revised proposals for the introduction of 30 MPH Speed Limits in all settlements over a four year period at an estimated cost of £212,000 per year. The Planning Sub Committee has recommended an additional member of staff be employed to undertake specialist enforcement work at a cost of £30,000 per year and that this be included in the Policy and Budget planning process as an expenditure pressure. A further £8,000 savings can be made by updating the figure for School Crossing Patrols to 1998/99 prices in accordance with the Draft Revenue Budget.

18. This effectively means that a further £734,000 of savings has to be found from Environmental Services budgets before any consideration is given to the other expenditure pressures.

19. Making such savings is very difficult indeed. Because of the structure of the committee's budget the majority of any additional cuts will have to come from the road maintenance budget. My previous report on Policy Plans 1998/99 to this committee in October outlined the serious underfunding on road maintenance and the long term effects of making further cuts to meet short term objectives. More cuts will have serious road safety consequences.

20. In desperation and in order to minimise the additional cut on road maintenance which would be necessary to meet the committee target I have identified the following options, some of which are for one year only.

Waste Disposal. £200,000 net (One year only)

21. The Zero Based Review of Waste Disposal is nearing completion but no base budget savings have been identified. Expenditure in this area is not optional. The County Council, as waste disposal authority has a duty to dispose of all waste collected by the district councils, the collection authorities. District Council policies, such as the introduction of wheelie bins, which have been proven to increase the volume of waste collected, can impact seriously on County Council costs. The cost of disposal is constrained by the terms of existing long term contracts with site operators. In the medium term the only way that waste disposal costs can be reduced is by a reduction in the volume of waste to be disposed of.

22. A one-off cut of £58,000 in the budget for site restoration could be made. A permanent cut in this budget is not possible because of the need to comply with planning conditions.

23. £442,000 of underspends have been set aside as a provision to meet the costs of a claim on Dix Pit. As a one off measure I propose that £242,000 of this be used to help meet the committee savings target but with the proviso that £100,000 of this be used on a Waste Minimisation campaign.

24. My report to this committee in October explained that the medium / long term waste strategy must be founded on a policy to constrain the amount of waste requiring disposal. The trend is already for increasing waste levels which demographic growth will add to in the future. If no measures are taken to minimise waste the increasing costs could not be managed within existing budgets. There are also overwhelming environmental reasons for minimising waste.

25. A waste minimisation strategy is currently being developed and a pilot study is being carried out with schools to inform children of the implications of waste and to encourage them to adopt practices compliant with the waste hierarchy i.e. minimisation, re-use, recycling , disposal. We also want to undertake a (TravelWise type) minimisation campaign and have the agreement, in principle, of the local press to work with us. Our best estimate of the likely cost of a full campaign to promote waste minimisation to the public, local retailers and other businesses is in the order of £100,000 but it may be possible to secure some sponsorship. There may well not be immediate savings and it is difficult at present accurately to predict the long term savings.

Public Transport Revenue Support. £100,000

Page 107 26. My previous proposals did not include any cuts on Public Transport expenditure and indeed additional expenditure pressures of some £150,000 were identified. However if this department is expected to find extra savings to meet the shortfall on Waste Disposal and in order to minimise the cut on Road Maintenance I have no alternative but to suggest a cut of £100,000 on Public Transport Revenue Support. This would, of course, run directly counter to the Council's policy of discouraging private car use and the objectives of the TravelWise campaign.

27. Members will be aware that the Electric Bus service can be withdrawn at three months notice. The next review of subsidised services is due at the next meeting of the Public Transport Sub Committee in February and covers services in the Oxford and Abingdon areas. Painful decisions could be required especially if tender prices continue their recent rise but there is scope for savings here if cuts are unavoidable. The main impact is likely to be felt in cuts in service in the Oxford area where encouraging use of public transport is a particularly important part of the Council's transport strategy. The detail of the cuts should be left to the Public Transport Sub Committee.

30 mph Speed Limits. £120,000

28. The Highways and Road Safety Sub Committee on 6 November agreed details for the implementation of 30 mph Speed Limits in all settlements on Oxfordshire over a four year period starting with South Oxfordshire. No budget provision has been made for this project. The only way of funding it is to divert money from the road maintenance budget. In order to minimise any further cuts on this budget it is intended to seek contributions towards the implementation of speed limits from parish councils. There have been indications that contributions would be forthcoming and a letter has been sent to all parish councils in South Oxfordshire asking for their support. I aim to raise £120,000 in this way.

Planning Enforcement. £30,000 (One Year Only)

29. In view of the severe financial pressure facing the committee funding for an additional post is difficult to provide. There is undoubtedly a need for faster and more effective enforcement action against unauthorised development It would be possible to fund such a post for one year only from savings on the budget for the Structure Plan Examination in Public.

Road Maintenance. £284,000

30. The proposed cuts for each highway maintenance activity to achieve the full target are shown in Annex 1 Table 3. These cuts result in:

- no planned carriageway resurfacing on any road no matter how much traffic it carries (other than on principal roads with whatever Transport Supplementary Grant capital funding we are awarded)

- taking down and not replacing structurally unsafe lighting columns.

- reducing rural grass cutting to just visibility areas with one instead of two swathe cuts at the road edge.

- urban grass cutting reduced to four cuts a year (there is a basic road safety case for this minimum standard and contracts make further savings difficult) - no weedkilling whatsoever on footways and along kerb lines.

- attending only to highway trees that are an immediate danger to the public or a severe nuisance to adjoining properties.

31. The certainty of increased risk for all road users of injury or death arises because all maintenance activities have a strong road safety reason behind them. Lack of grass cutting affects visibility at critical points, increasing chances of misjudgements by drivers and pedestrians. Lack of cleaning leads to standing water on roads and loss of control of vehicles at speed. Missing streetlights

Page 108 create dangerous night time conditions for everyone. Broken, potholed surfaces are dangerous for cyclists. Worn road surfaces lead to skidding accidents - far more than are ever reported, which can be particularly disabling to elderly people. A recent AA survey found that elderly pedestrians are more afraid of falling on uneven footways than they are of being mugged.

32. The certainty of roads and equipment falling apart hardly need explaining. Making these cuts means giving up all the works that are essential to the long term survival of roads on most of the network. Keeping these roads safe - for a while- will depend on an already inadequate patching budget that increasingly will have to be diverted to the busier roads because the cuts have ended all large scale repairs on them. The current footway repair budget has been protected but has been heavily cut in previous years and is far below what it needs to be to halt the spread of uneven, broken footway surfaces. Cuts to the street lighting budget leave no money for replacing unsafe, corroded columns. We ought to replace about 1200 columns a year , this year we managed 120, next year there will be none. In the end we are bound to be in breach of our statutory duty to maintain the highway on many of our roads, quite how soon will depend on the weather as much as anything,. Closing roads is not possible. Warning signs provide a temporary defence against actions for breach, but not permanently.

33. The certainty of rapidly escalating costs to put right the damage being caused while spending is so low, which at some time we will have to do, arises from increasingly severe damage to roads already needing repair and to a rapid increase in the rate at which roads and footways deteriorate because they are not being resurfaced or surface dressing. After only two years of this very low spending level it could cost an extra £20m on top of the existing urgent backlog of £40m.

34. Other consequences of the cuts will be an increasing shabbiness of the roads around people's homes as weeds grow unchecked, drains clog up and footways and roads become broken. The diversity of plant life on our road verges will diminish as scrub growth takes over vacant areas. The agency agreements we have with some parishes whereby they undertake weedkilling for a very small payment will have to end, running counter to our policy of partnership. Again payments to district councils and to parishes who do their own urban grass cutting will be reduced. The reduced standards of grass cutting will require negotiation with and some payment to the Council's contractor.

Increased income from charges

35. We have looked at the possibility of increasing the range and scale of charging but it looks like we will not be able to increase income by increasing charges or imposing new charges. The charges we can make to statutory undertakers and the circumstances in which charges can be applied are fixed by legislation. (the base budget includes income of £44,000 from this source) We have no legal power to impose charges for skips and scaffolding because the Highways Act does not expressly refer to charges in connection with licensing these activities. This regrettable conclusion has been reached following research among other local authorities and is supported by legal advice backed by case law.

Increase in Highway Maintenance SSA

36. As road maintenance is, in effect, being asked to fund the new speed limits it is only right in my view that any increase in SSA resulting from an increase in urban road lengths be put back into the road maintenance budget and that the Environmental Committee endorse this. Increases in SSA should start in 2000/2001 and build as more speed limits are introduced. We will need much, much more than any increase in SSA is likely to provide to put right the damage caused in the meantime.

Conclusions

37. The proposals listed above will meet the target set for this department by the Strategy and Resources Committee as instructed. I cannot recommend any of them.

David Young Director of Environmental Services.

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Report by Chief Executive

It is proposed that the £50,000 cut to be implemented by the Chief Executive's department should be apportioned as follows:-

Economic Development: £20,000

Environmental Plan: £30,000

Implications for Environmental Plan Budget

It is proposed that the County Council's most effective was of implementing Agenda 21 is to put our own house in order and that the EMAS (environmental management) work should take priority over other projects.

The budget for "external" Agenda 21 work will be deleted. In addition it is proposed that the Environmental Monitoring Officer's post will not be replaced when the current officer leaves at Christmas. The means that the Council will be unable to meet one of the key commitments in the Council's recently published Environmental Policy, "to monitor and report on the stage of Oxfordshire's environment".

The contribution to the Oxfordshire Energy Advice Centre and the OSCAs scheme will be reduced by 50%.

Proposed expenditure for 1998/99

EMAS (salary cost 0.8 FTE) 15,000

Energy Advice Centre 4,000

OSCAs 1,000

Publishing Costs 1,000

Total: 21,000

Economic Development Initiatives budget 1998/99

The current budget is £59,000. The cut proposed is 34% of the total. Proposal to achieve this are set out below. They should be seen as provisional, depending on final member agreement of the Economic Strategy for 1998/99 in March. They should also be seen as minimum figures as new initiatives will emerge in the four months between now and the beginning of the new financial year. One example is the bid currently being put together for £500,000 to the DTI for the Oxfordshire Biotechnet which the County Council is already an important partner.

Thames Valley Economic Partnership £6,000 Oxfordshire Co-operative Development Agency £5,500 Unemployed Workers and Claimants Union £4,000 NORBIS £2,000 Central England Screen Commission £1,000 TBAC £1,000 RITTS Programme £500

Total £20,000

Page 111 This allows all these projects to continue to get some funding except the Screen Commission where I propose to try to continue to support them through a fee from the filming income we currently obtain.

CHRIS IMPEY Assistant Chief Executive and Solicitor to the Council

STEPHEN CAPALDI Assistant Chief Executive

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

Reword policy G2 as follows:

G2 All development should: G2All development should:

a)be of a scale and type appropriate to the site and its a)be of a scale and type appropriate to the site and its surroundings; surroundings; b)not cause unacceptable harm to the environment, ecology and b)incorporate a high quality of layout, design and landscaping; and amenities of the area; c)be designed so as to reduce the need to travel and encourage c)be both located and designed so as to reduce the need to travel the use of walking, cycling and public transport and and encourage the use of walking, cycling and public transport andtelecommunications as alternatives to the car. telecommunications as alternatives to the car; d)not cause transport or highway problems or traffic-related environmental problems; e)be accessible to all, including those whose mobility is impaired where the type and scale of development warrants it; f)incorporate appropriate provision for services and community facilities; g)incorporate a high quality of layout, design and landscaping.

G3 Proposals for development will not be permitted unless the planning authorities are satisfied that the infrastructure directly required to service the development, necessary on or off site transport measures, community facilities, services and environmental improvements have been or will be provided. Contributions will be sought from developers and/or landowners in accordance with Government advice . No change.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

G4 Within the Green Belt around the built up area of Oxford land will be kept permanently open and development severely restricted. The purposes of the Green Belt are to:

a)preserve the special character and landscape setting of Oxford; b)check the growth of Oxford and prevent ribbon development and urban sprawl; c)prevent the coalescence of settlements; d)assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment; e)assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

The construction of new buildings in the Green Belt is inappropriate unless it is for:

agriculture and forestry essential facilities for outdoor sport and outdoor recreation, cemeteries and other similar uses of land which preserve the openness of the Green Belt and do not conflict with the purpose of including land in it; limited extension, alteration or replacement of existing dwellings; limited infilling in existing villages, and limited affordable housing for local community needs; limited infilling or redevelopment of major existing developed sites identified in local plans.

Care will be taken to ensure that the visual amenities of the Green Belt are not injured by development within, or conspicuous from, the Green Belt which, although not prejudicial to its main purpose, might be inappropriate by reason of siting, materials or design.

Repla ce `The constr

Page 114 uction of new buildin gs in the Green Belt is inappr opriat e unles s it is for:' with `Devel opme nt in the Green Belt is inappr opriat e unles s it maint ains its openn ess and does not conflic t with the purpo ses of the Green Belt and, in the case of new buildin gs is for ....'

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

G5 In the open countryside, sporadic and ribbon development and No change. development in the vicinity of motorway or major road junctions will not be permitted. Special consideration will be given to development proposals for agricultural, forestry or outdoor recreational needs or for other uses appropriate to a rural area which cannot reasonably be accommodated in a nearby settlement.

G6 All new developments should aim to incorporate the principles of No change. energy and resource conservation as far as possible, in particular through passive solar design, providing high levels of insulation, water conservation measures, and using recycled construction materials wherever practicable.

In any highway schemes the maximum proportion of recycled or secondary materials consistent with currently prevailing standards should be used.

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CHAPTER 6 - TRANSPORT

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

T1 Measures will be introduced to reduce the need for private car Replace policies T1 and T2 with new policy T1, as follows: travel. `Measures will be encouraged which reduce dependence on T2 Wherever practicable, priority will be given to pedestrians, cyclists private motorised transport and give greater priority to pedestrians, and public transport over private motorised transport. cyclists and public transport.'

T3 Comprehensive policies will be defined in local plans to protect and improve the environment in towns and to give priority to Renumber as T2. Delete `in towns'. pedestrians, cyclists and public transport, to make suitable provision for servicing and to promote safety.

T4 Improved provision will be promoted for pedestrians and people Renumber as T3. whose mobility is impaired by a variety of measures, including:

a)pedestrian priority and traffic free areas in town centres; b)development of a comprehensive network of safe and secure pedestrian routes, particularly in urban areas; c)promotion of measures to provide satisfactory access including access to public transport for people whose mobility is impaired.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

T5 Improved provision will be promoted for cyclists by a variety of Renumber as T4. measures including:

a)promotion and development of a countywide network of safe, direct and attractive cycle routes, with particular emphasis on routes within urban areas and which link urban areas with their hinterlands. This network should be defined in local plans and provide convenient and safe access to schools, workplaces, shops and transport, community and recreational facilities;

b)provision of adequate and secure cycle parking at all major developments, park and ride sites and stations;

c)encouraging provision for cycle carriage on public transport services. Delete part c).

T6 The provision of convenient, reliable, secure and high standard public transport services will be encouraged. Measures including both management of existing highways and provision of new infrastructure which will give advant age to Renumber as T5. T7 public transp ort will be imple mente d where they can be shown to offer an overall benefit .

The Renumber as T6. use of public transp ort will be promo

Page 118 ted by encou raging improv ed integr ation betwe en differe nt mode s of transp ort and improv ed interch ange faciliti es. Measu res which reduc e advers e enviro nment al impact s of buses will be encou raged.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

T8 A comprehensive approach will be adopted to the provision and Renumber as T7. management of car parking space so as to:

a)limit the use of the car; b)improve the attraction of existing town centres and seek to maintain their vitality and viability whilst maintaining the balance between competing centres; c)encourage greater use of walking, cycling and public transport and reduce reliance on the car; d)encourage redevelopment of unsuitably located public and private car parking spaces; e)providing parking for operational purposes including for people whose mobiility is impaired; f)help the achievement of transport objectives through local authority control of or influence over publicly available car parking.

T9 The County Council will encourage the investigation and support Renumber as T8. the development of new regional rail links that will achieve a more economical and less environmentally damaging way of carrying goods and passenger traffic than further development of the strategic highway network.

T10 Any action will be resisted which would prejudice the retention of Renumber as T9. existing rail facilities which could feasibly be reopened to passenger or freight use.

Existing or disused railway lines which could feasibly be reused as transport corridors for pedestrians, cycle or public transport use will be protected. Development which would prejudice this role will not be permitted.

In the last sente nce replac e `not be permit ted' with `be

Page 120 resist ed'.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

T11 The County Council will investigate the following public Renumber as T10. transport schemes and evaluate their impact on the environment:

a)a new rail station at Kennington; b)segregated lanes for bus services between Oxford and the Witney area; c)improved public transport links between the railway in Oxford, central Oxford and main employment areas, segregated busway links between central Oxford and the edge of the city, and use of the Cowley branch line; d)improved links between the railway and main employment areas in Banbury, Bicester and Didcot.

T12 The County Council will oppose highway proposals that could lead Renumber as T11. to increased use of county roads but will encourage proposals which:

a)benefit public transport services; b)significantly reduce accidents; c)improve the pedestrian or cycle route network; d)improve the local environment; e)are necessary to serve development.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

T13 The following network of roads is defined to serve as the major Renumber as T12. routes for through and lorry traffic. These should be used in preference to the county inter-town routes or other roads:

M40; A34 (Wendlebury to Berkshire); A40 (Wheatley to Gloucestershire); A41 (Wendlebury to Buckinghamshire); A43 (Ardley to Northamptonshire); A420 (Oxford to Wiltshire); the Oxford ring road; and an appropriate connection between the A34 and A40.

The following lower tier of county inter-town routes should be used in preference to less suitable roads:

A44 (Peartree to Gloucestershire); A418 (A40 to Buckinghamshire); A422 (M40 to Northamptonshire); A423 (A40 to Warwickshire); A4130 and A4074 (Oxford ring road to Berkshire); and B4031 (Buckinghamshire to Northamptonshire).

The County Council will take measures to reinforce this hierarchy of routes and discourage or reduce the use of more minor roads.

T14 The Department of Transport proposes the following national trunk Add road scheme: `the A44 Priority 1 - A43 dualling between M40 and Northamptonshire (A40 including reconstruction of Junction 10 on M40. to Peartr ee)' after `A43 (Ardley to Northa mpton shire)'.

Renub er as T13.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

T15 The frequency of service areas on the major through routes and Renumber as T14. county inter-town routes will be limited. Only high standard service areas will be permitted where there is a need for improved roadside services and where they would not cause serious environmental problems, jeopardise road safety or conflict with other development plan policies.

T16 The carriage of freight by rail, pipeline or waterway rather than road Renumber as T15 will be encouraged. Freight distribution centres should be located with direct access to the rail, pipeline or waterway networks and in or immediately adjoining major settlements. They will not be permitted in the open countryside.

T17 Traffic management measures will be introduced to: Renumber as T16.

a)secure safe access in urban areas for pedestrians and those Delete the words `in urban areas' in a). with impaired mobility; b)secure safety for cyclists and priority on the cycle route network; c)secure priority for public transport on routes where traffic is subject to delay; d)improve safety for all road users; e)reinforce the road network heirarchy and control use of unsuitable roads by non-local traffic; f)reduce harmful effects of traffic on people and the environment.

T18 Without prejudice to other transport policies, priority will be given to measures that are expected to lead to a significant reduction in accidents.

Renu mber as T17.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

T19 Proposals for development will be permitted only if they are Renumber as T18. Replace `permitted only if they are acceptable' acceptable in the light of the following criteria: with `considered'.

a)the existing transport situation, the aims of the local transport strategy and existing local car parking and traffic management measures; b)access for pedestrians, cyclists and those whose mobility is impaired; c)the requirements of public transport; d)the impact of generated traffic including servicing traffic on existing settlements and roads; e)highway access and servicing arrangements; f)the safety of all highway users; g)the likely resource implications for the highway authority.

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CHAPTER 7 - CONSERVING AND ENHANCING THE ENVIRONMENT

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

EN1 Developments which would have an unacceptable environmentalRe-word policy EN1 as follows: impact because of their nature, size, location or cumulative `The nature, size, location or cumulative effects of a development effects will not be permitted. should not have an unacceptable environmental impact.'

EN2 Environmental measures will be sought:

a)to reduce the adverse effects of development proposals and In part a) replace `reduce' with `minimise'. b)to maintain and enhance the landscape and the quality of the built environment.

EN3 The best and most versatile agricultural land will be protected Re-word policy EN3 as follows: from development taking into account its quality as assessed by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. `The best and most versatile agricultural land will be protected from development, unless there is an overriding need identified in the development plan.'

EN4 The natural beauty of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty will be conserved.

EN5

Develop ments Replace policies EN4 and EN5 with new policy EN4 as follows: which would `The natural beauty of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty will conflict be conserved to reflect their national importance. Proposed with thisdevelopments should not conflict with this aim. aim will not be Elsewhere local planning authorities will take account of the permitteimpact of proposed developments on local landscape character. d. Development will be permitted only if it does not unacceptably damage the local landscape.' The local plannin g authoriti es will take account of the impact of

Page 127 propose d develop ments on local landsca pe characte r. Develop ment which would unaccep tably damage the local landsca pe will not be permitte d.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

EN6 Development will not be permitted which would damage: Renumber as EN5. Replace "Development will not be permitted which would damage:" with "The following sites of at least a)sites of European wildlife importance; national importance will be protected from damaging b)National Nature Reserves and Sites of Special Scientific development:" Interest; and c)sites which support specially protected species.

On other sites of acknowledged nature conservation importance development will be permitted only if there is an overriding strategic need or damage to the ecological interest can be prevented by the use of conditions or planning obligations.

EN7 The local planning authorities will promote: Renumber as EN6.

a)management agreements to help protect and enhance sites and features important for nature conservation; b)opportunities for creating new habitats.

EN8 Development which would damage woodlands which are Renumber as EN7. Insert `and hedgerows' after `woodlands' in important for landscape, ecological, amenity or forestry reasons the first sentence. will not be permitted. The local planning authorities will encourage the planting of appropriate new woodlands and trees.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

EN9 The fabric and setting of listed buildings and conservation areas Renumber as EN8. will be preserved and where appropriate enhanced. Other elements of the historic environment, including parks and gardens,Modify the first sentence to read as follows: battlefields and historic landscapes will also be protected from harmful development. `The fabric and setting of listed buildings will be preserved, and the character or appearance of conservation areas will be preserved or enhanced.'

EN10 The conservation of Oxford's architectural and historic heritage andRenumber as EN9. its landscape setting will take priority in considering proposals for development in and around the city.

EN11 Development which would harm nationally important Renumber as EN10. archaeological remains or their settings will not be permitted. Where development affecting archaeological remains is allowed it Replace the first sentence as follows: should include appropriate measures to secure their preservation in situ or where this is not feasible, recording of archaeological `There will be a presumption in favour of physically preserving features before development. nationally important archaeological remains, whether scheduled or not, and their settings.'

EN12 Development which would lead to an unacceptable deterioration in water quality or unacceptaRenumber as EN11. Re-word as follows: EN13 bly damage `Development should not lead to unacceptable deterioration in the water water quality or the water environment.' environm ent will not be permitted.

DevelopmRenumber as EN12. Add `unless appropriate flood protection and ent in the compensation measures can be provided' to the end of the policy. flood plain or which would result in an unaccepta ble risk of flooding will not be permitted.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

EN14 Development will only be permitted where adequate water Renumber as EN13. resources for the development already exist or can be readily provided without risk to existing abstractions, water quality, the water environment or nature conservation.

EN15 Proposals for major new reservoirs in Oxfordshire will be permittedRenumber as EN14. only if there is a proven need for increased water resources which cannot be met in more economical and environmentally less intrusive ways, and all reasonable measures to manage demand for water, including controlling loss through water leakage, have been taken.

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CHAPTER 8 - DEVELOPING THE LOCAL ECONOMY

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

E1 In the main towns of Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney the Renumber as E2. provision of land for employment generating development will be made:

a)to accommodate firms which need to be located in the area and for the expansion and relocation of existing firms; b)so as to provide an appropriate balance between the number In b) replace "provide" with "achieve". and type of jobs and the size and skills of the local workforce; c)to provide jobs accessible from new housing areas by walking, cycling and public transport, in particular through mixed use developments.

In c) replace E2 A limited amount of land for employment generating development "new will be made available in Abingdon, Carterton, Chipping Norton, housing" Faringdon, Henley, Thame, Wallingford and Wantage and Grove. with "residenti al".

RenumbeE3 Throughout the County proposals for premises for small firms (up r as E3. to about 500 square metres) or for firms whose sources of supply, Add commercial linkages, labour supply and markets make the before `A specific location necessary for them will normally be permitted in limited _' appropriate locations.

Outside the main towns in policy E2 the provision of land for employm ent-gener ating developm ent will be restrained and limited to activities which do not give

Page 133 rise to excessive or inappropri ate traffic.

RenumbeE4 Proposals for employment generating development which would r as E4. generate a demand for housing which exceeds the existing or planned housing provision will not be permitted.

Renumbe r as E5. Reword as follows:

`In consideri ng proposals for employm ent generatin g developm ent which would generate a demand for housing, account will be taken of the existing or planned housing provision.'

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

E5 In Oxford, where the existing employment use ceases, proposals Renumber as E1 and re-word as follows: for redevelopment to residential or mixed employment-residential use will be encouraged in appropriate circumstances. `In Oxford the provision of land for industrial, office, and warehouse uses (class B) will be restrained. Such development will be expected to take place on land that is already used or allocated for that purpose. Where the existing employment use ceases, favourable consideration will be given to proposals for redevelopment for residential or mixed employment/residential use where they would be environmentally acceptable.'

E6 Proposals for employment generating development which support Re-word policy E6 as follows: the diversification of Oxfordshire's rural economy will be permitted in appropriate locations. `Proposals for small scale employment generating development which support the diversification of the rural economy will normally be permitted in appropriate locations, taking particular account of the general need to reduce the need to travel by private vehicles. The conversion of existing rural buildings for employment generating use will normally be permitted, provided that:

a)they are of permanent and substantial construction; b)it would not harm the viability of a nearby town or village or cause transport or highway problems or traffic related environmental problems; c)their form, bulk and general design are in keeping with their surroundings; and d)if the buildings are in open countryside, they are capable of conversion without major or complete reconstruction.'

E7 Tourism projects which are based on the conservation and enjoyment of the county's inherent qualities and heritage will be encouraged in appropriate locations, particularly where the proposed development is accessible by foot, cycle or public No change. transport.

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CHAPTER 9 Ä HOUSING

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

H1 Provision will be made for 30,500 additional dwellings (net) to be Replace '30,000' with '35,500' in the first sentence. Amend table built between 1 April 1996 and 31 March 2011. The provision will and figures as follows: be distributed as follows: TOTAL 1996-2006 2006-2011 1996-2011 Cherwell 7,150 2,600 9,750 Oxford 2,500 1,250 3,750 South Oxfordshire 4,800 2,400 7,200 Vale of White Horse 2,750 1,300 4,050 West Oxfordshire 4,300 1,450 5,750

TOTAL 21,500 9,000 30,500

The main locations for housing will be at Banbury (about 3,900 dwellings), Bicester (about 2,700 dwellings), Didcot (about 4,750 dwellings), Oxford (about 3,750 dwellings), and Witney (about 1,700 dwellings).

Land at RAF Upper Heyford will provide for a new settlement of about 1,000 dwellings (including existing vacant dwellings) i.e. about 700 dwellings net.

Elsewhere local plans should guide the location of housing according to the following principles:

a)most new housing development should take place in larger settlements where a reasonable range of employment, services and community facilities exist or can be provided and which are capable of being well served by rail or other public transport, and where the need to travel by private vehicles can be reduced;

TOTAL

Page 136 1996-201 1 Cherwell

11,250 Oxford

3,750 South Oxfordshir e (excluding Didcot)

8,500 Vale of White Horse (excluding Didcot)

5,250 Didcot

5,500

West Oxfordshir e

6,750

TOTAL

35,500

Amend second paragraph as follows: `Bicester (about 4,200 dwellings) , Didcot (about 5,500 dwellings) and Witney

Page 137 (about 2,700 dwellings) .'

Replace last paragraph and a), b), c) and d) with:

`Elsewher e most new housing developm ent should take place in larger settlemen ts where a reasonabl e range of employm ent services and communit y facilities exist or can be provided. Significant additional housing developm ent, including inappropri ate infill should be avoided where this is likely to result largely in car commutin g to urban centres and where travel needs are unlikely to be well

Page 138 served by public transport.'

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

H1 contd b)avoid any significant additional housing development, including Add to end of policy: inappropriate infill, where this is likely to result largely in car commuting to urban centres and where travel needs are unlikely to`Local Plans should phase the provision of housing so that land is be well served by public transport; released gradually throughout the plan period and to ensure the a)provide for appropriate development within the existing provision of necessary infrastructure, services, facilities and other communities which have a reasonable range of employment, improvements. services and community facilities; b)restrict development in settlements which do not have a The final distribution of the housing allocation for Didcot between reasonable range of services and community facilities. South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse districts will be determined in an early alteration of the Structure Plan.'

H2 a)Land at RAF Upper Heyford will provide for a new settlement of about 1,000 dwellings (including existing vacant dwellings) and a primary school and appropriate community, recreational and employment opportunities. b)The future use of the whole of the area covered by the former airbase will be guided by a comprehensive planning brief to be approved by the local planning authority in consultation with the County Council and other relevant agencies. c)Substantial landscaping and other environmental improvements will also be required on the site in association with any development. d)The new settlement should be designed to encourage journeys to be made by foot, cycle or public transport rather than by private car. Measures to encourage the use of bus and rail and to seek to minimise the impact of traffic associated with the development on the surrounding road network will be required.

No change.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

H3 a)Provision will be made for a variety of dwellings in terms of location, size and density, according to the character of the site and of the locality, local housing requirements, and the achievement of satisfactory living conditions. b)Proposals which make more effective use of the housing stock, for example by the conversion and improvement of existing dwellings and housing areas, and properties in town centres will be encouraged. c)New sites should be well related to existing and proposed Delete part c). employment, shopping, recreational, educational and community facilities so as to reduce the need to travel, favour journeys by foot, cycle or public transport and achieve high quality and human-scale environments.

H4 Provision will be made for affordable housing where this will meet No change. specific local needs. Local surveys will identify the level of these needs. The location of such provision, and the agency to provide such dwellings are matters for local determination. Any provision should be subject to permanent and enforceable arrangements to ensure that the social benefits of the development will be passed on to subsequent occupants.

H5 Provision will be made for adequate accommodation for gypsies by ensuring that sufficient residential and transit sites are provided. Only in exceptional circumstances will permission be granted for sites in the Green Belt or in an

Area of Outstandi Delete the second sentence. ng Natural Beauty.

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CHAPTER 10 Ä TOWN CENTRES AND RETAILING

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

S1 Most new retail development will be located within or adjacent to existing town centres. The local planning authorities will support proposals which seek to maintain and enhance the vitality and viability of existing shopping centres by:

a)extending the range and quality of shops and facilities; b)improving the environment, character and quality of a centre; c)encouraging diversity of uses including residential accommodation; and d)improving access for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.

S2 accessibl e by a Replace policies S1 and S2 with new policy TC4 as follows: choice of means of `Major new development in towns should be located in accordance transport with the sequential approach. First preference should be for town other thancentre sites, followed by edge of centre sites, district and local the privatecentres, and only then in out-of-centre sites that are accessible by car. a choice of means of transport.

ProposalsProposals should sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of for town centres by: shopping developm (i)extending the range and quality of shops and other central ent will befacilities; considere(ii)improving the environment, character and quality of a centre; d in light (iii)encouraging diversity of uses including residential of the accommodation; following (iv)improving accessibility by all modes of movement. criteria: In considering proposals for out-of-centre development which a) the attracts a lot of people (including retailing, commercial and public likely offices, entertainment, leisure and other such uses) which should effect of be consistent with the above criteria, the following will also be

Page 142 the taken into account: proposed developm (i)the likely harm to the development plan strategy; ent, (ii)the impact on the vitality and viability of existing town centres and together the rural economy; with other (iii)their accessibility by modes of travel other than the car; recent (iv)their likely overall effect on travel patterns and car use.' and proposed developm ents in the locality, upon the vitality and viability of existing town, district and local centres and village shops; b) the extent to which the site is accessibl e by walking, cycling and public transport; c) the acceptabil ity of the proposal in terms of the generatio n of car-borne trips, the impact on the overall level of traffic, car parking and highway safety considera tions.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

S3 Proposals for shopping development sufficient to meet the day toRenumber as policy TC3. day shopping needs of the local population, within or convenient to existing and proposed residential areas in towns and villages will be permitted.

New Insert new policy TC1 as follows: Policies `Further shopping provision will be permitted in the existing shopping centres of Banbury and Oxford to meet the comparison and specialised requirements of the population of the wider catchment areas of these towns.'

Insert new policy TC2 as follows:

`The principal locations for major new shopping development will be in the country towns of Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney.'

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CHAPTER 11 Ä RECREATION AND LEISURE

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

R1 Proposals for recreation, leisure or arts development should be No change. well related to their catchment populations and should be readily accessible by pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.

R2 The provision of recreation, arts and community facilities will be sought in association with new development and encouraged in settlements where there are deficiencies. Any contributions towards such provision will be directly related in scale to the level of need created by any proposed development. The County Replace "any proposed development" with "the development Council will seek to provide leisure facilities in cooperation with proposed". interested bodies, particularly in schools where they can be used jointly with the community.

R3 The local planning authorities will encourage optimum use to be No change. made of existing countryside recreation facilities and resources. Opportunities to create new facilities in appropriate locations will be supported.

R4 The local planning authorities will seek to increase and improve access to the countryside.

The existing network of public rights of way including routes in towns will be maintained and improved. Development which would damage the rights of way network No change. will be resisted.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

R5 The character and environment of the River Thames and its No change. immediate valley will be protected and where appropriate enhanced.

Proposals for development which will adversely affect the rural and tranquil nature of the river and its setting, including proposals for new permanent moorings on the main river channel, will not be permitted. Recreational development associated with the River Thames should generally be located within nearby towns and villages rather than the open countryside. Increased public access alongside the river will be encouraged, where appropriate. Development that would restrict public access will not be permitted.

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CHAPTER 12 Ä ENERGY

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

EG1 Proposals for the development of renewable sources of energy willNo change. be permitted subject to their impact on the environment, local communities, and traffic generation. They should be located as close to the source material as possible.

EG2 The County Council supports the development of wind energy. No change. However, proposals for wind turbines will only be permitted subject to consideration of their impact on:

a)the landscape and visual amenity; b)local communities, in terms of noise, shadow flicker and telecommunications interference; and c)sites of ecological or historic importance.

EG3 As far as legislation allows, proposals for new large conventional Insert `or other non renewable' after `conventional'. power stations will be expected to demonstrate that alternatives to additional generating capacity including investment in energy conservation measures have been considered.

EG4 Proposals for new energy generating plant should include a Add `Wherever practical' to the beginning of the policy. scheme for combined heat and power or the recovery of waste heat for use in other processes.

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CHAPTER 13 Ä MINERALS

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

M1 The County Council will grant planning permission for mineral working in appropriate locations having regard to the need to Delete text after `having regard to the need to' and replace with: ensure a steady supply of materials for local markets and to meet Oxfordshire's agreed share of regional and gravel requirements. `a)maintain a land bank of permitted reserves for aggregates throughout the Plan period in line with Government guidance; b)meet Oxfordshire's agreed share of sand and gravel requirements; c)ensure a steady supply of materials for local markets.'

M2 The County Council accepts the principle of sharp sand and gravel No change. working in:

a)The Sutton Courtenay area (between Sutton Courtenay and Abingdon); b)The Sutton Wick area (south of Abingdon and north west of Sutton Courtenay); c)The Stanton Harcourt (Lower Windrush Valley) area (downstream of Witney to Newbridge); d)The Eynsham-Cassington-Yarnton area.

M3 The County Council will grant planning permissions in appropriate No change. locations for borrow pits to serve major construction projects. Borrow pits will not be permitted where there is an equally acceptable site already permitted or allocated for extraction. They will not be regarded as setting a precedent for further extraction.

M4 The County Council will encourage the use of suitable waste and No change. recycled products as substitutes for locally dug materials.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

M5 Planning permission will be granted for mineral exploration No change. provided that satisfactory steps are proposed:

a)to safeguard the amenities of local residents and the environment; b)for vehicular access; c)for restoration of the site.

M6 The County Council will object to development where it would No change. sterilise important mineral resources which could be worked under current development plan policies.

M7 Before granting planning permission for the extraction of minerals No change. the County Council will need to be satisfied that the land will be progressively restored within a reasonable time scale to an acceptable use that is appropriate to its location and immediate area.

M8 The County Council will seek to secure the environmental improvement of old mineral working sites which have not been Delete `old' and insert , `, or are not being,' after `which have not restored to modern standards. been'.

M9 The County Council supports the use of rail, waterways, conveyors,No change. haul roads and pipelines for transporting minerals where feasible and environmentally advantageous.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

M10 The County Council will not grant planning permission for mineral Reword policy as follows: development unless the appropriate routes that minerals traffic will take between the production site and the principal road network `Before the granting of planning permission the County Council will are first agreed. seek to agree the appropriate routes that mineral traffic will take between the production site and the principal road network.'

M11 The County Council will grant planning permissions for processingNo change. plant and other industries associated with mineral working on appropriate operational mineral working sites. The permissions will not extend beyond the life of the working.

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CHAPTER 14 Ä WASTE MINIMISATION, TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL

Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

WD1 Provision will be made and proposals encouraged to minimise No change. waste generation, increase re-use and recycling of materials, convert waste to energy and use landfill gas as energy, and reduce the amount of waste which has finally to be disposed of by landfill.

WD2 Provision will be made to treat and/or dispose of all of No change. Oxfordshire's waste except for that which requires specialised facilities of a sub-regional or regional nature.

WD3 Provision will be made to accept waste from London and other No change. parts of the South East for treatment and/or disposal within Oxfordshire, provided that the treatment or disposal is consistent with regional, structure and local plan policies. Proposals for the treatment or disposal of waste from London requiring road transport for the principal component of its journey will not be permitted.

WD4 Provision will be made for sufficient landfill sites to dispose of that No change. waste which remains to be disposed of once minimisation, re-use, recycling and reduction policies have been applied. The County Council will control the release and location of landfill sites so that waste which has to be landfilled is used to assist the progressive restoration of mineral workings to appropriate after-uses with the least possible harm to the environment.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

WD5 Waste disposal by landfill will only be allowed into old mineral Delete `old mineral workings' and replace with `sites where workings. Planning permission for landraising and other forms of mineral extraction has taken place'. landfill will not be granted unless it can be demonstrated that it is necessary to improve the agricultural quality of the land.

WD6 The County Council may grant planning permission in appropriate No change. locations for borrow tips for the disposal of excavated material from major construction projects.

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Policies Proposed in the Deposit Draft Plan Proposed Modifications

Key Diagram Transport

Amend A44 to be shown as a major route between A40 and Peartree.

Amend A418 (A40 to Buckinghamshire) to be shown as a county inter-town route and to be connected to A40.

Developing the Local Economy

Amend as follows:

-add È1' symbol for Oxford -amend È1' symbols for Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney to È2' -amend È2' symbols for Abingdon, Carterton, Chipping Norton, Faringdon, Henley, Thame, Wallingford and Wantage and Grove to È3'.

Housing

Amend the proportional circles representing the principal locations for housing development as follows:

-Bicester; circle to represent 4,200 dwellings -Didcot; circle to represent 5,500 dwellings -Witney; circle to represent 2,700 dwellings.

Town Centres and Retailing

Add `TC1' symbols for Banbury and Oxford to reflect their sub-regional role as shopping centres.

Add `TC2' symbols for Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney as the principal locations for new shopping development.

Key

Amend key to incorporate changes in policy numbers and symbols.

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OXFORDSHIRE STRUCTURE PLAN 2011 - DIDCOT, DIRECTIONS OF GROWTH STUDY

1. The report to Environmental Committee on 12 March 1997 on the objections to the Deposit Draft Structure Plan referred to objections from South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse District Councils to the way the Structure Plan dealt with the housing provision for Didcot. Policy H1 incorporates the provision for Didcot in the South Oxfordshire total but recognises the possibility that some of the development could take place in the Vale of White Horse rather than South Oxfordshire, requiring some redistribution of the figures 2. In order to meet the objections at the EIP, an approach to resolving the issue was agreed with South Oxfordshire and the Vale of White Horse District Councils. The district councils have jointly begun a programme of pre-local plan work, which was intended to enable single district wide figures to be incorporated in the Structure Plan at the proposed modifications stage. Alongside this, the County Council with the promoters of major development at Didcot are undertaking a traffic study. 3. In their report the EIP Panel have supported the study and procedure as presented by the County Council and agreed that it would be premature to try to allocate housing figures between the districts at this stage. 4. Since the EIP progress on the transport study has been slower than expected, partly because the increase in provision recommended by the Panel is leading to additional technical work, and partly because of difficulty in resolving details where these require agreement of all parties in the study group (representatives of developers of land to the north and west together with representatives of two district councils and the County Council). Delay in obtaining results of the transport study will inevitably delay the district councils' pre-local plan work. 5. In addition, the district councils are unlikely to be willing to proceed with public consultation on options until the County Council has decided whether or not to accept the increased figure recommended by the Panel. 6. The result of these delays is that the transport study and the district councils' pre-local plan work could not be completed in time for the outcome to be incorporated in proposed modifications as originally planned unless the process of adopting the Structure Plan is delayed. Delaying the proposed modifications and adoption of the Structure Plan until a decision is reached on the direction of growth at Didcot is not desirable for three main reasons: a) the Council could be severely criticised for appearing to delay adoption unreasonably; b) adoption of the Plan will enable local plan preparation to begin, and will give a firm policy basis for dealing with potential areas of development pressure such as Upper Heyford; c) there is a risk that adoption of the Plan could be overtaken by the review of Regional Guidance. 7. In view of these factors, and as a public commitment has been made to resolving the direction of growth at Didcot after a thorough assessment of the issues, I believe that the Council should progress quickly with adopting the Plan, but in doing so a door should be left open to alter the Plan as soon as possible when the programme of work on Didcot has been completed. 8. The Structure Plan Working Group have endorsed an approach which separates the housing provision for Didcot from the South Oxfordshire total in policy H1, in effect giving a South Oxfordshire figure without Didcot, a Vale of White Horse figure, and an independent figure for Didcot, with a commitment to an early alteration to the Structure Plan. 9. In order that the district councils can formally begin the local plan review process it will be important that an alteration is carried out as quickly as possible after the Structure Plan has been adopted. To give an indication, the following approximate timetable is thought to be feasible:

Early 1998 - proposed modifications to the Structure Plan on deposit. March 1998 - completion of transport study.

Summer 1998 - public consultation on the options for location of development at

Page 154 Didcot by district councils.

- adoption of the Structure Plan.

Autumn 1998 - district councils consider direction of growth for Didcot.

Winter 1998 - Environmental Committee consider proposed alteration of the Structure

Plan to distribute the housing provision for Early 1999 - Didcot between districts. proposed alteration to the Structure Plan on Summer 1999 - deposit.

EIP held if necessary, Panel report received. Autumn/Winter 1999 -

proposed modifications if necessary and adoption of the alteration.

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NB: Only representations relating solely to policies in the deposit draft plan are considered in this Annex. Representations on the explanatory text will be considered when the explanatory memorandum is re-written following adoption of the Plan.

CHAPTER 9 - HOUSING

POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

H5 35. Waterstock Parish Meeting What is meant by `adequate While the County Council no longer 149. Cherwell District Council accommodation' and explain how has a statutory duty to make and by whom this will be provision for gypsies in their area, determined; policy requires local planning authorities are clarification and should be nevertheless required to have regard supported by a strategic framework to their accommodation needs and to be prepared in consultation with make appropriate site provision in district councils to identify suitable local plans. The text should be sites. expanded to be clearer in setting this out.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy H5.

H5 219. Government Office for the Delete reference to the Green Belt; As the plan is meant to be read as a South East and AONBs, and AHLVs. whole I agree that the reference to 258. Oxford Preservation Trust development in the Green Belt and 292. Shilton Parish Council the AONB is not strictly necessary. 293. Vale of White Horse District Council

Recommendat ion: That the last sentence of policy H5 be deleted. Policy to read:

Provision will be made for adequate accommodatio n for gypsies by ensuring that sufficient residential and transit sites are provided.

P a g e 1 5 6 Page 157 ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE - 10 DECEMBER 1997 AGENDA ITEM ENV12

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CHAPTER 11 - RECREATION AND LEISURE

POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

General 36. Eynsham Society Would welcome statement that The loss of recreational land and existing playing fields will be important open space is covered by preserved. Policy G1 (e) as recommended to be modified by the County Council and is referred to in the explanatory text.

Recommendation: that no change be made to the policies.

General 38. Gosford and Water Eaton Support recreational policies Support welcomed Parish Council 70. Rural Development Commission

General 116. Oxfordshire Playing Fields Add new policy: See comments under no. 36 above. Association `The County Council will normally resist any loss of existing recreational or playing field space, including school playing fields unless comparable alternative sites are made available.'

General 117. Deddington Parish Council Emphasis on River Thames - no lesser importance should be given to the Cherwell R5 recognises the special General 160. The Sports Council Valley. recreational value and potential offered by the River Thames and is justified by the national and regional significance of the River. Other river courses are referred to in the explanatory text and the balance to be struck between encouraging recreational use and safeguarding the environment is covered by other policies in the recreation and environment chapters.

Recommendation: that no change be made to the policies. i) Need Policy G1 sets out the general

Page 158 to identify strategy for the location of locations for development to 2011; locations major which reduce the need to travel are recreational favoured; major development in the facilities. open countryside will not be appropriate.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

General 160. The Sports Council contd ii) Needs to be policy to See comments under no. 36 above. protect playing fields and public open space whilst allowing their disposal in certain circumstances.

General 265. Environment Agency Need to recognise recreational See comments under no. 117 significance of other waters in the above. county not just the River Thames.

R1 63. Wendlebury Parish Council Support. Support welcomed. 241. Oxford Pedestrian Association

R1 90. British Waterways Board Fails to include reference to other While the waterways offer an non-car modes of transport, alternative mode of transport their particularly those using water. potential is limited. The likelihood of significant modal transfer to water based transport for travel to recreation facilities is not considered to be as great as for other modes of non-car travel.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R1.

R1 101. Hockaday Associates Catchment populations are drawn from wide mixture of urban and rural locations. Accessibility by private car is important. Reliance on This policy is consistent with the foot and bicyclePlan as a whole which seeks to inappropriate. locate development in locations which reduce the need to travel by Amend R1 afterprivate car. Referring to accessibility "..... should be by private car would be inconsistent accessible by with this aim. ..." add: "private car as Recommendation: that no change well as by be made to policy R1. alternative means of transport."

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OXFORDSHIRE STRUCTURE PLAN 2011: PANEL REPORT Report by the Director of Environmental Services Division(s) affected: AllOC ANNEX B RESPONSE TO REPRESENTATIONS ON ISSUES NOT COVERED BY THE EIP PANEL, Part 4

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

R1 116. Oxfordshire Playing Fields Add: This suggested amendment would Association `normally' before `readily accessible'weaken the aim of the Plan to locate and `where practical' after `public development where it can help to transport'. reduce the need to travel by private car.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R1.

R1 215. Rugby Cement Add: It is for the Local Plans to identify `the development of major major developed sites in the developed sites in the countryside countryside. Proposals for their and former mineral workings for redevelopment would need to be such uses will be encouraged in judged against the policies in the appropriate circumstances.' Structure Plan, in particular the Plan's aim to locate development in locations which offer alternatives to the private car as in G1 c) and e) as proposed to be modified.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R1.

R1 292. Shilton Parish Council After `population' insert: Proposals for development will be ", should not impact adversely on considered against policies in the their amenities." Plan as a whole.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R1.

R1 293. Vale of White Horse District Council

It is not clear what this policyPolicy R1 encourages the provision is trying to of new sport and recreational achieve. Any facilities close to where the demand commercial is and thereby where it can help to provision is reduce the need to travel by private likely to be car. Policies elsewhere in the Plan reasonably rule out major facilities in well located to inappropriate locations. its catchment population or it Recommendation: that no change would not be be made to policy R1.

Page 162 viable. Policy gives impression that Oxfordshire may be a suitable location for a major regional facility. If purpose is to minimise the need to travel, this is covered by other policies. Delete R1.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

R2 98. Eynsham Parish Council After `.... where there are See comments under General, no. deficiencies' add: 36 above. `the County Council will encourage new provision and safeguard recreational open space on land in its ownership.'

R2 99. Barton Willmore Planning Amend last sentence to read: Policy R2 does not preclude the Partnership "The County Council will support the provision of leisure facilities on land provision of leisure facilities in or in schools not owned and settlements and schools in controlled by the County Council. cooperation with interested bodies This can be made clear by where they can be used jointly with amending the explanatory text. The the community." last part of this policy indicates the County Council's commitment to the Land ownership is not normally a provision of recreational facilities for planning consideration. Policy community use. should apply to schools other than those owned by the County Council. Recommendation: that no change The amendment recognises fundingbe made to policy R2. for leisure facilities often comes from a variety of sources. Policy should be extended to schools outside settlements which equally have a need for leisure facilities.

R2 116. Oxfordshire Playing Fields Add to end of policy: Association `.... as measured against the NPFA `Six Acre Standard'.

In all new developments It is a matter for the Local Plan to R2 134. Didcot Town Council provision of provide guidance on and encourage 260. Steeple Aston Parish play space to playing space provision. Council the requirement of Recommendation: that no change `the Six Acre be made to policy R2. Standard' should normally be required ....'

Support. Support welcomed.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

R2 165. HBF Important that `substantial' or `major'Contributions towards or provision of incorporated in relation to recreation facilities can only be development proposals from which sought in accordance with open space provision will be sought.Government advice. This policy expands on and supports policy G3 Cumulative contributions to a which was supported by the EIP general fund would be a Panel. development tax contrary to guidance. This policy does not imply cumulative contributions. Insert `sought' after `any contributions'.

The inclusion of the word `sought' Insert `from new development' after does not add clarity to this part of the `towards such provision'. policy. It is already stated in the first sentence. Replace `any proposed' with `that'. This is implicit in the sentence and does not further the clarity of the statement.

I agree that the wording of this part of the policy could be improved by replacing `any proposed' with `the development proposed'.

Recommendation: that policy R2 be amended to read:

The provision of recreation, arts and community facilities will be sought in association with new development and encouraged in settlements where there are

Page 165 deficiencies. Any contributions towards such provision will be directly related in scale to the level of need created by the development proposed. The County Council will seek to provide leisure facilities in cooperation with interested bodies, particularly in schools where they can be jointly used with the community.

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POLICY RESPONDENT AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

R2 292. Shilton Parish Council Add to end: All development proposals will be `...... provided that such provision considered against policies in the does not impact adversely on the Plan as a whole. amenities of the area.' Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R2.

R3 184. Ian Giuliani Support. Support welcomed.

R3 292. Shilton Parish Council Add "provided that new facilities in Development proposals will be the countryside should not threaten considered against the policies in the rural character, conservation the Plan as a whole. areas, sensitive ecological sites encourage highway problems, in Recommendation: that no change particular the generation of an be made to policy R3. unacceptable volume of private car use.'

R4 260. Steeple Barton Parish Support. Support welcomed. Council 284. Garsington Parish Council

R4 33. E.W.M. Smith No mention of bridleways in the Public rights of way include policy. bridleways.

RecommendatR4 45. Ramblers Association Amend: "The County Council in ion: that no cooperation with other public change be authorities, and landowners will made to policy seek...", and R4. Insert `and will be extended by encouraging landowners to dedicate new rights or way, or by the Council itself making path creation orders where appropriate.'

The County Council is committed to the maintenance and enhancement of the rights of way network - the explanatory

Page 167 text explains in detail how the Council seeks for achieve this.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy R4.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

R4 75. Smith-Woolley The creation of new rights of way The County Council, as explained in 76. " should be by agreement. the supporting text, will seek through 80. " Amend R4 as follows: agreement with relevant bodies the "The County Council, will, by improvement of the rights of way agreement, seek to increase and network. improve ....." Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R4.

R4 184. Ian Guiliani Add: `encourage footpaths and The policy seeks to improve the bridleways between settlements'. rights of way network, this includes the creation of new rights of way. Comprehensive networks of routes for pedestrians are also encouraged by the transport policies.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R4.

R4 263. Oxfordshire Friends of the Amend R4 The policy applies to the existing Earth (i) so that it applies to all public network of public rights of way. It is rights of way; unclear what is meant by (i).

(ii) addresses the problem of motorised vehicles using off-road routes and seek to restrict their use.

(ii) The problem ofR4 265. Environment Agency There is no specific policy relating to four-wheel the need to protect and enhance the drive vehicles line of the Thames Path. Suggest causing new policy or amend R4. damage to the countryside is highlighted in the supporting text, as is the need for advice on this matter from central Government.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy

Page 169 R4.

Policy R4 R5 39. Mrs Marjorie Randolph After second sentence add: seeks to `..... excepting application by riparian protect and owners, resident at the site, for improve the private mooring for own use. Such existing rights applications to be conditional and of way network, considered on their own merits and including without prejudice.' national trails. These could be referred to in the explanatory text.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy R4.

All proposals for development will be considered on their merits on the basis of this policy. The suggested amendment is a matter of detail for local plans to consider.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy R5.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION.

R5 45. Ramblers Association The River Thames and its The reference to the `River Thames Oxfordshire Area immediate valley should be defined and its immediate valley' is clearer more accurately as `The River than `The River Thames Corridor'. Thames Corridor'. Increased access to rivers is dealt The scope of the policy should be with by policy R3 and the explanatory extended to provide for increased text. Also, see comments under public access where appropriate General no. 117 above. alongside rivers, such as the Cherwell, Evenlode and Windrush. Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R5.

R5 92. Brightwell cum Sotwell Amend to include: See comments under No. 39 above. Parish Council `excepting riparian owners who have a dwelling on the site may make an application for an application to be considered, without prejudice, for a mooring for private not commercial.'

R5 152. Steventon Parish Council Strengthen wording to read: `The character and environment of the River Thames, its tributaries, and its immediate valley will be protected and where appropriate enhanced.'

This policy relates R5 241. Oxford Pedestrian Support. specifically to Association the River Thames because of its significance. Other policies in the Plan protect the water environment more generally.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy R5 .

Page 171

Welcome support.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

R5 265. Environment Agency Policy emphasises the river's The importance of the River Thames tranquillity and character. Should be as a recreational resource is reference to its national/internationalreferred to in the supporting text and significance as a recreational it is why there is a specific policy in waterway. Policy could be more the plan. The policy was drawn up positive in encouraging appropriate taking account of the Recreation recreational provision. Strategy for the Thames and the work towards the creation of a Thames Path. The County Council considers the policy strikes the right balance between encouraging recreation activity along the river whilst protecting its character.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R5.

R5 268. Wallingford Town Council Replace last sentence with It is unrealistic to rule out any `Development will not be permitted'. development along the River Thames. See comments under no. 265 above.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy R5.

R5 292. Shilton Parish Council Access along the River Thames is Increased public access along the good. Greater access could invite River Thames will only be erosion. Delete last two sentences. encouraged where appropriate.

Include Windrush.

See comment under General, no. 117 above.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy R5.

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CHAPTER 12 - ENERGY

POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

General 5. Dr D L & Mrs A R Julier Support policies. Support is welcomed. 32. East Hagbourne Parish Council 70. Rural Development Commission

General 263. Oxfordshire Friends of the Energy chapter should include all All types of renewable energy Earth forms of renewable energy development which require planning development. Would like policies permission are covered by policy which address wind turbines, EG1, and passive solar design is micro-hydro power projects; encouraged by policy G6. Energy pyrolysis of tyres, digestion of from waste schemes, including organic wastes, use of photovoltaic through decomposition of waste, are cells or thermal solar panels on encouraged by policy WD1. The buildings, passive thermal design ofenergy chapter goes on to discuss buildings, and utilisation of low those renewable energy grade heat using heat pumps. technologies which are likely to be of Should prohibit `mass burn' waste significance for Oxfordshire, or which incineration. raise particular issues.

Policies for waste minimisation, treatment and disposal are in chapter 14 of the Structure Plan, and are based on a hierarchy which would not prohibit incineration with energy recovery as an option before resorting to landfill.

Recommendation: that no change be made to the policies.

EG1 184. Ian Giuliani Add: "..... and be related and responsive to local energy demands and economy". To Whilst being sympathetic to the support G6, to desirability of generating and using gain maximum energy locally, it would not be advantage of appropriate to restrict renewable ambient/renew energy development to only those able projects. For example projects technologies which are supported by NFFO are and to assess linked to the national grid and should

Page 174 impact and not be discouraged. It would also be value of difficult to assess as there is no exporting publicly available information about surplus energy use and demand in the energy. county.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy EG1.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EG1 225. The Green Party EG1 is a tautological statement - it The meaning of ènvironment' in this attempts to reconcile the policy is clear from the explanatory environmental benefit of renewable text relating to this policy. energy with ìts impact on the environment'. Perhaps define Recommendation: that no change ènvironmental impact' more be made to policy EG1. specifically as visual and physical impact.

EG2 31. Royal County of Berkshire Proposals for wind turbines should Wind turbines do not necessarily be located away from publc rights of need to be located away from public way, highways, housing and other rights of way and highways, and sensitive land uses. Wind farms in policy EG2 allows consideration of Oxfordshire could potentially be the impact of proposals on local located close to the Berkshire communities, the landscape and border. sites of ecological importance. The fact that wind farms could be located near the border of an adjoining local authority area is not a planning policy matter.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy EG2.

EG2 63. Wendlebury Parish Council Support - would not wish EG2 to be diluted. 94. ETSU (for the DTI) Support encouragement of wind energy subject to environmental safeguards, and amendments made to EG2 [refers to amendments made to EG2 in consultation draft].

Support is welcomed. EG2 292. Shilton Parish Council

Add to policy Conservation areas are covered in `d) the setting general terms in EG2 c), `sites of of conservationecological or historic importance'. areas'. Proposals would also need to be considered against policy EN9 on the historic environment. There is also no requirement under Government policy to protect the setting of conservation areas as

Page 176 there is the setting of listed buildings.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy EG2.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EG3 145. CPRE Oxfordshire Branch Consider inclusion of Environment Whilst sympathetic that only the best Agency directive that BATNEEC (Bestavailable technology should be used Available Technology Not Entailing for new combustion plants, this is a Excessive Cost) should be rejected matter for the Environment Agency as appropriate for determining and district councils as part of planning applications, and that only Integrated Pollution Control and BAT (Best Available Technology) Local Authority Air Pollution Control should be considered for new introduced by the Environmental combustion plants. Protection Act 1990. This requires operation of the BATNEEC principle. PPG23 states that the planning system should not duplicate controls which are the statutory duty of other authorities.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy EG3.

EG3 184. Ian Giuliani Delete `new large conventional'. AddThis policy is included in the Plan to `non renewable energy', to embrace give a policy basis for considering atomic power station. proposals for large conventional power stations such as Didcot B, but it could equally apply to other non renewable sources of energy.

Recommendation: that policy EG3 be amended by inserting `or other non renewable' after `conventional'.

EG3 202. Drexfine (Holdings) Ltd Clarify so as not to prevent the Waste to energy technologies are introduction of new generation plant encouraged under policies EG1 and associated with for example, waste WD1. disposal or recycling activities.

This policy EG3 225. The Green Party All new power generation should be relates to large based on renewable or waste with conventional compulsory CHP where compatible. power stations Development of conventional power and the need to stations is a backward step, conserve fossil incompatible with Agenda 21, and fuels. should be opposed in the Structure Plan. Recommendat ion: that no

Page 178 change be made to policy EG3.

The purpose of this policy is to provide a basis for considering proposals not to encourage their development. Legislation does not allow consideration of whether additional generation capacity from conventional sources is needed or not, despite any views local authorities may have on this.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy EG3.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EG3 293. Vale of White Horse District Delete policy - it is a procedural Policy EG3 does not indicate Council rather than a land use matter and proposals may be acceptable. It indicates that a further new provides a basis for considering a conventional power station may be proposal if one came forward. There acceptable. This should not be was no such policy basis for encouraged in the Plan. considering the Didcot B application which was of major significance in Oxfordshire.

Recommendation: that policy EG3 is retained.

EG4 145. CPRE Oxfordshire Branch Policy EG4 should include a A reference to this strategy is too reference to `The UK Strategy for detailed to be included in policy EG4 Combined Heat and Power'. itself, and it would be more appropriate to refer to it in the explanatory text.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy EG4, but consideration is given to referring to the UK Strategy for Combined Heat and Power in the explanatory text.

EG4 155. National Power Appropriate to word EG4 similarly to The purpose of policy EG4 is to give EG3; `Proposals for new energy more positive encouragement to generating plant will be expected to combined heat and power than the demonstrate that schemes for wording suggested by National combined heat and power or the Power would give. However, the recovery of waste heat for use in policy could be amended to other processes have been recognise that it may not always be considered.' practical for energy generating schemes to include combined heat and power.

RecommendatEG4 219. Government Office for the Seems to have little direct ion: that policy South East connection with land use planning. EG4 be amended by inserting `Wherever practical' to the beginning of the policy.

Page 180

Policy EG4 reflects County Council policy to move towards more sustainable forms of development, including making the best use of resources. In relation to policy G6, the EIP Panel accepted the argument that efficiency in the use of energy was so important that a structure plan policy was justified.

Recommendat ion: that policy EG4 be retained.

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CHAPTER 14 - WASTE MINIMISATION, TREATMENT AND DISPOSAL

POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

General 18. BFI Ltd To affirm the County Council's WD1 encourages the reuse and commitment to waste recycling add recycling of waste material and this new policy: is expanded upon in the explanatory text. The Plan does not refer to `Provision for adequate waste specific waste processing facilities recycling facilities convenient for the nor to their location as these are major urban areas will be made at matters appropriate to the Local mineral working sites, existing or Plan. allocated industrial and employment sites, and other appropriate Recommendation: that no change locations.' be made to the policies.

General 32. East Hagbourne Parish Support. Support welcomed. Council

General 219. Government Office for the Omits mention of composting See comments under no. 18 above. South East facilities.

General 263. Oxfordshire Friends of the Delete waste section. Policies Earth should reflect UK/European guidance. Suggest following policies:

1) The Authority will consider proposals for waste disposal and other types of waste management facility within a hierarchy of priorities:

i) Waste The Plan as written sets out a waste avoidance and hierarchy in the explanatory text minimisation; which is consistent with national and ii) European guidance. Repair and reuse; iii) Materials recovery and

Page 182 recycling; iv) Energy recovery; v) Disposal with minimum environmental impact.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

General contd 263. Oxfordshire Friends of the The Authority will set waste Waste recycling targets are set out in Earth contd reduction and recycling targets in thethe Targets and Indicators section, context of a strategy to reduce waste Appendix 1. arisings. The Authority will also apply strict environmental protection standards to all waste treatment, disposal or waste management facilities using planning conditions to implement standards wherever appropriate.

2) The Authority will not permit the development of landfill capacity unless it can be demonstrated that the waste cannot be managed through measures to promote avoidance, minimisation, reuse and recycling. No recyclable waste will be landfilled, and the fill material must be rendered as biologically and chemically inert as practicable.

3) The Authority will not permit the development of new incinerator capacity unless it can be demonstrated that the waste cannot be managed through measures to promote avoidance, minimisation, reuse and recycling. No recyclable waste will be incinerated. The Authority will expect incineration proposals to incorporate the highest design and operating standards to minimise pollution, including a commitment to handle waste ash as special waste.

Policy WD4 allows for landfilling of residual waste

Page 184 remaining after waste minimisation, recycling and waste reduction policies have been applied.

Refer to comments above on the waste hierarchy..

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

General contd 263. Oxfordshire Friends of the 4) The Authority will not permit The disposal of specific types of Earth contd. investigation for, or construction of, waste is a matter for the local plan facilities for the disposal of and/or the Environment Agency as radioactive waste. Codisposal of regulator. low level wastes with other wastes will not be permitted at conventional Recommendation: that no change disposal sites. be made to the policies.

WD1 94. ETSU Support. Support welcomed.

WD1 145. CPRE Oxfordshire Branch Include: `That the District Council The whole Plan is underpinned by wishes to foster sustainable the need to work towards achieving development when considering sustainable forms of development. waste disposal.' The Plan sets out a waste hierarchy which gives priority to waste minimisation, reuse and recycling and treatment.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD1.

WD1 192. SAGA Add policies to favour siting of See comments under General, no. recycling centres at sand and gravel 18 above. and waste disposal sites.

WD1 202. Drexfine (Holdings) Ltd. Add policy to set out the waste The waste hierarchy is set out in the hierarchy. explanatory text and is reflected in the policy.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD1.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

WD3 75, 76 Smith-Woolley With waste minimisation policy `A Sustainable Waste Planning coming into effect London should Strategy for the South East deal with its own waste. 1992-2011 (SERP 160)', adopted by SERPLAN's constituent authorities, envisages significant diversion of waste from landfill through waste minimisation, reuse and recycling across the region, and that by 2010 only residual waste is landfilled. Even so, London is currently incapable of accommodating its own waste and so some of it must be accommodated in Oxfordshire. London is expected to achieve reductions in the export of untreated waste to zero by 2010.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD3.

WD3 121. G A Reynolds There should be no road transport ofThe policy states that the transport of imported waste. waste from London will not be permitted where transport by road is the principal component of the journey. It is inevitable that some road transport will be used e.g. from source to rail depot.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD3.

WD3 145. CPRE Oxfordshire Branch Do not agree to the continuous acceptance of waste from London. Suggest: `Provision will not be made long term to accept waste from London or other parts of the South East for waste unless sustainable practices are carried out by those who create the waste, to reduce the waste at source. Oxfordshire will not support problems from unsustainable practices being imported into Oxfordshire.'

P a g e 1 8 7 See comment under nos. 75 WD3 192. SAGA Delete last sentence - it is and 76 above. impracticable and unacceptable.

All of London's waste planned to be imported will come by rail. The policy does allow for road transport for an element of the journey.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy WD3.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

WD3 252. Oxford Preservation Trust Add: `no waste recycling plant will The Plan should be read as a whole. 259. Jim Hall be permitted in the Green Belt.' Policy G4 protects the Green Belt from inappropriate development.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD3.

WD3 292. Shilton Parish Council Object. The County Council should See comments for nos. 75 and 76 refuse to accept the raising of the above. intake of waste from London.

WD4 62. Stratford on Avon District Concerned that there is an Working within the waste hiearchy Council over-reliance on landfill sites. Plan endorsed by the County Council, should promote environmentally future provision of landfill sites will friendly alternatives. be made only for residual waste material. This is set out in policies WD1 and WD4 and explanatory text.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD4.

WD4 75. Smith-Woolley Support. Support welcomed. 76. Smith-Woolley 145. CPRE Oxfordshire Branch

WD4 138. MAFF

Conflict with MPG9. Add: It is intended the Plan is read as a `The best and whole. Policy EN3, as proposed to most versatile be modified, deals with the agricultural protection of the best and most land must be versatile agricultural land. restored so as Reference will be made in the to preserve its explanatory text to there being a long term presumption against mineral potential as a working on grades 1, 2 or 3a land high quality unless it is demonstrated that a high agricultural standard of restoration to agriculture resource.' will be achieved.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD4.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVIDES AND RECOMMENDATION

WD4 292. Shilton Parish Council Add proviso that disposal by landfill Policies which deal with the detailed will not be adverse to the amenities impact of proposals for waste of local residents. disposal are in the adopted Minerals and Waste Local Plan.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD4.

WD5 58. Smith and Sons Clarify that `landraising' is For the period of this Plan, (Bletchingdon) Ltd acceptable when associated with minimisation, reuse and recycling old mineral workings. and development of alternative waste technologies together with existing permitted void space are intended to deal with Oxfordshire's waste. Landraising will not therefore be generally acceptable in existing or proposed sites. The text can be amended to clarify this.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD5.

WD5 63. Wendlebury Parish Council Support. Support welcomed. 75. Smith-Woolley 76. Smith-Woolley

WD5 192. SAGA Landraising can be beneficial and 276. A B P Mockler should be allowed where it provides the most suitable waste disposal option; policy unnecessarily restrictive, add: `or that environmental benefits will result that outweigh the inherent objections.'

See comments under 58 above. WD5 252. Oxford Preservation Trust

Give policy The Plan should be read as a whole. Green Belt Policy G4 covers development in the caveat. Green Belt.

Recommendation: that no change be made to policy WD5.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

WD5 265. Environment Agency Add: `or where this is clearly the The Plan should be read as a whole. best option for the water The Plan has a policy in the environment.' Environment Chapter that addresses development affecting the water environment.

Recommendation; that no change be made to policy WD5.

WD5 292. Shilton Parish Council Add proviso that disposal by landfill See comments for no. 292, policy will not be adverse to amenities of WD4 above. residents.

WD5 294. Environmental Services Policy too restrictive. Reference to The County Council is committed to Association landfill space only applies to 2006 changing the way in which waste is so further permissions will be managed so that as much as required. Local Plan does not possible is reused, recycled or contain a similar policy. Delete treated before it is disposed of. This policy. approach underpins the waste policies. If the Council's waste policies help to move the management of waste up the waste Allowing landfill only into old mineral hierarchy, there will be sufficient workings is dependent on the landfill space until 2011. progress of mineral extraction which bears no relation to the quantities of waste needing disposal. Also Local Plan does not have a policy excluding landraising. Proposals for landraising should be considered on their merits.

The reference WD6 157. Ms Phillipa Saunders After `projects' add `only where such to `old' mineral material cannot be recycled'. workings is misleading as it is not meant to refer to planning permissions granted many years ago but to existing and proposed sites for mineral

Page 192 extraction. I suggest that `old mineral workings' is deleted and replaced with `sites where mineral extraction has taken place'.

Also refer to comments for no. 58 above.

Recommendat ion: Delete `old mineral workings' and replace with `sites where mineral extraction has taken place'.

This is not seen as a necessary addition as it only repeats what is stated earlier in the Plan, notably in policy WD4.

Recommendat ion: that no change be made to policy WD6.

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MISCELLANEOUS

POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

Misc 2. Health and Safety Executive No inclusion of any reference to The model policies suggested are development near hazardous considered to be too detailed to use installations (model policy as a basis for Structure Plan statements suggested). policies. The location of new development near to existing hazardous installations raises specific issues which are better dealt with in local plans. Existing policies provide an adequate basis for considering proposals for new hazardous installations e.g. policy EN1.

Misc 29. Civil Aviation Authority Stress importance of the Local planning authorities are safeguarding consultation required to consult the Civil Aviation procedure. Authority or the Ministry of Defence on certain prescribed types of development proposals within safeguarded areas. It is not considered necessary or appropriate for the Structure Plan to refer to a specific consultation procedure.

Recommendation: that no change be made to the policies.

Misc 59. Vodafone Ltd Plan omits a specific telecommunications policy contrary 148. B.T. plc to advice in PPG8 and PPG12.

Vodafone suggested policy:

In determining whether The suggested policies are too approval of specific for a Structure Plan and are siting and matters more appropriate for appearance is inclusion in Local Plans. required or considering Recommendation: that specific applications forpolicies on telecommunications are planning not included in the Plan.

Page 194 permission from licensed telecommunica tions operators the Council will need to be satisfied that:-

1) The siting and external appearance of apparatus, including any location or landscaping requirements have been designed to minimise the impact of such apparatus on amenity, while respecting operational efficiency;

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

Misc contd 2) Antenna have, so far as is practicable, been sited so as to minimise their effect on the external appearance of the building on which they are installed;

3) Applicants for large masts have shown evidence that they have explored the possibility of erecting antennas on an existing building, Mast or other structure;

4) Applicants have considered the need to include additional structural capacity to take account of the growing demands for network development, including that of other operators. B.T. suggested policy:

The local planning authorities will normally grant planning permission for telecommunications development. Where there is a conflict with environmental objectives such development will only be allowed where:

1. There are no satisfactory alternatives for telecommunications available.

2. There is no reasonable possibility of sharing existing facilities.

3. In the case of radio antenna and masts, there is no reasonable possibility of erecting antennae on an existing bulding or other structure.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

Misc contd Any development should be sited and designed so as to minimise its visual impact, subject to operational and technical requirements.

Misc 74. Smith-Woolley A separate policy should be includedUrban fringe is difficult to define and 75. dealing with urban fringe issues. is not a significant issue for 76. Oxfordshire as it is for some 77. metropolitan areas. Policy G4 deals 79. with the Oxford green belt. 80. 82. Recommendation: that no new 83. policy on urban fringe issues be included.

Misc 76. Smith-Woolley The Plan underplays the importance As far as design of development is a of good design. strategic issue, it is included in policy G2 as recommended to be modified.

Recommendation: that no additional amendments in respect of design of development are made.

Misc 7. General Aviation Awareness Council 139. British Gliding Association

Plan fails to recognise importance ofPolicies relating to existing Misc General Aviation. Lack of policy to aerodromes in Oxfordshire are too retain and protect aerodromes. detailed to be incorporated in the Structure Plan and are more appropriate in local plans.

Recommendation: that no policy relating to aerodromes be included.

233. Strongly concerned that Plan fails to After discussions with Thames Thames Valley contain or make any clear reference Valley Police, officers have Police to community safety. undertaken to include stronger references to the need to consider community safety issues throughout the Plan in the explanatory text where appropriate.

Page 197 Recommendation: that no change be made to the policies.

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POLICY RESPONDENT NO. AND NAME REPRESENTATIONS AND COMMENTS BY THE DIRECTOR OF OBJECTIONS ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Misc 282. Eulined Morgan If Brundtland definition of Government advice is that Structure sustainability is to be taken Plans make provision for at least 15 seriously, policies could exist within years from the base date of the Plan. a larger timescale, say to 2050. Structure Plans are reviewed regularly, about every 5 years.

Recommendation: that no change be made to the timescale of the Plan.

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A. RESPONSE TO THE RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE EIP PANEL

The comments and recommendations of the EIP Panel and Director of Environmental Services' response and proposed actions on each policy that was considered by the Panel is set out below.

CHAPTER 5 - GENERAL

POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

G1 The general strategy is to seek to ensure that development in

Oxfordshire is That Policy G1 be replaced by: sustainable by: The general strategy is to provide a sustainable planning framework for development to meet a)protectinghousing, economic and other requirements over the the period 1996 to 2011 in ways which will: environmen

Page 200 t, character a)help to meet the objectives of regional policy to and natural secure a shift in the balance of development from resources the west to the east of the region; of the b)protect the environment, character and natural county by resources of the county; limiting the c)favour locations where: overall level(i) the need to travel, particularly by of private car, can be reduced; developme (ii) walking, cycling and the use of public nt; b)favouring developme nt in locations which reduce the need to travel particularly by private car and encourage walking, cycling and the use of public transport and in which a reasonable range of services and community facilities exist or can be provided; c) concentrati ng developme nts which generate a lot of journeys in locations which are capable of being well served by public transport; d)making the best use of land and buildings within built up areas to reduce the need for the developme nt on green

Page 201 field sites, while not permitting developme nt on important open spaces; Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney will be the preferred locations for new developme nt. Elsewhere in the County developme nt and consequent expansion of population will be limited.

transport The Panel recommend deleting references to can be limiting development and population expansion. encouragedThey have sympathy with those who felt the and impression could be given that the policy was (iii) a biased against development. They see it as a reasonable matter of presentation rather than intent. range of Limitations are implicit in the overall amount of services housing to be provided and in the policies to and protect the environment. Policy G1 in the approved Structure Plan refers to "restraining the overall level community of development". The phrase has been important facilities in articulating the overall strategy and has been exist or can used a lot in responses to planning applications. I be recommend modification of policy G1 to replace "limiting" with "restraining". provided; d) The Panel do not justify the reference to objectives concentrateof regional policy. However, I have no objection to developme its inclusion as giving some wider context for the nts which overall strategy. generate a lot of Changes to G1 b) and c) (now c) and d)) are journeys in acceptable clarifications. locations which are I think the changes to G1 d) (now e)) covering the or are redevelopment of land in rural areas are too open capable of ended and could bring unacceptable pressures to being well develop a wide range of rural land uses. The local served by environment is not the only consideration: public transport implications, for example, could be transport; significant. The Panel delete reference to e)secure "important open spaces" but do not explain why. I

Page 202 the best think a reference to "important open spaces" use of should be retained because of the concerns about existing the loss of open space. buildings and the re-use of previously developed land so as to reduce the need for the developme nt of green field sites, whilst

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

G1 contd respecting the importance of maintaining and The Panel include a reference to Oxford although I improving the environment in both rural and urban see no clear justification for this from the Panel areas. Outside the city of Oxford the preferred other than a recognition of Oxford's role in the life of locations for development will be Banbury, Oxfordshire. It could be interpreted that Oxford is a Bicester, Didcot and Witney. In rural areas, local preferred location for development generally. I plans will make appropriate provision for think it should not be included. development and in doing so will have particular regard to the economic and social well-being of The Panel include a final sentence which is local communities intended to refer to the well being of rural areas. I find it unobjectionable.

Recommendation: that policy G1 is modified as recommended by the Panel except for:

a)the addition of "by restraining the overall level of development" to the end of G1 b) b)in G1 e): i) insert "in locations which are consistent with the transport principles of this plan" after "land". ii) insert "protecting important open spaces" after "urban areas". iii) delete "Outside the city of Oxford".

The policy to read: The general strategy is to provide a sustainable planning framework for development to meet housing, economic and other requirements over the period 1996 to 2011 in ways which will:

a)help to meet the objectives of regional policy to secure a shift in the balance of development from the west to the east of the region; b)protect the environment, character and natural resources of the county by restraining the overall level of developme nt; c)favour locations where: (i) the need to

Page 204 travel, particularly by private car, can be reduced;

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION . G1 contd (ii) walking, cycling and the use of public transport can be encouraged; and (iii) a reasonable range of services and community facilities exist or can be provided; d)concentrate developments which generate a lot of journeys in locations which are or are capable of being well served by public transport; e)secure the best use of existing buildings and the re-use of previously developed land in locations which are consistent with the transport principles of this plan so as to reduce the need for the development of green field sites, whilst: i) respecting the importance of maintaining and improving the environment in both rural and urban areas, and ii) protecting important open spaces.

The preferred locations for development will be Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney.

In rural areas, local plans will make appropriate provision for development and in doing so will have particular regard to the economic and social well-being of local communities.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

G2 All development should: That Policy G2 be deleted. The Panel took the view that this policy duplicates provisions in other policies. Not all elements of a)be of a scale and type appropriate to the site and policy G2 are duplicated by other policies in its surroundings; particular the issue of quality of development and b)not cause unacceptable harm to the design, the importance of which is stressed in environment, ecology and amenities of the area; PPG1. Given concerns about the impact of c)be both located and designed so as to reduce development and the need for better quality of the need to travel and encourage the use of development I think these elements of policy G2 walking, cycling and public transport and should be retained. telecommunications as alternatives to the car; d)not cause transport or highway problems or Recommendation: that the Panel's traffic-related environmental problems; recommendation to delete policy G2 is not e)be accessible to all, including those whose accepted; and that Policy G2 be modified to read mobility is impaired where the type and scale of as follows: development warrants it; f)incorporate appropriate provision for services and G2 All development should: community facilities; g)incorporate a high quality of layout, design and landscaping.

a) be of a scale and type appropriate to the site and its surroundin gs; b) incorporate a high quality of layout, design and landscapin g; and c) be designed so as to reduce the need to

Page 207 travel and encourage the use of walking, cycling and public transport and telecommu nications as alternative s to the car.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

G3 Proposals for development will not be permitted That policy G3 is retained. Recommendation: that the Panel's unless the planning authorities are satisfied that recommendation that policy G3 is retained is the infrastructure directly required to serve the accepted. development, necessary on or off site transport measures, community facilities, services and environmental improvements have been or will be provided. Contributions will be sought from developers and/or landowners in accordance with Government advice.

G4 Within the Green Belt around the built up area of That as suggested by the County Council, the Oxford land will be kept permanently open and second part of Policy G4 be introduced by revised development severely restricted. The purposes of wording: the Green Belt are to: "Development in the Green Belt is inappropriate a)preserve the special character and landscape unless it setting of Oxford; b)check the growth of Oxford and prevent ribbon development and urban sprawl; c)prevent the coalescence of settlements; d)assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment; e)assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

The construction of new buildings in the Green Belt is inappropriate unless it is for:

agriculture and forestry; maintains its The revised wording was submitted to the Panel openness before the EIP as a possible change to the policies and does that would be acceptable to the County Council in not conflict response to comments by the Oxford Preservation with the Trust, South Oxfordshire District Council and purposes ofothers. the Green Belt and, in Recommendation: that the Panel's the case of recommendation to modify policy G4 as new suggested by the County Council is accepted. buildings isThe policy to read: for ...." Within the Green Belt around the built up area of Oxford land will be kept permanently open and development severely restricted. The purposes

Page 209 of the Green Belt are to: a)preserve the special character and landscape setting of Oxford; b)check the growth of Oxford and prevent ribbon development and urban sprawl; c)prevent the coalescence of settlements; d)assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment; e)assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

G4 contd essential facilities for outdoor sport and outdoor Development in the Green Belt is inappropriate recreation, cemeteries and other similar uses of unless it maintains its openness and does not land which preserve the openness of the Green conflict with the purposes of the Green Belt and, Belt and do not conflict with the purpose of in the case of new buildings is for: including land in it; limited extension, alteration or replacement of agriculture and forestry; existing dwellings; essential facilities for outdoor sport and limited infilling in existing villages, and limited outdoor recreation, cemeteries and other similar affordable housing for local community needs; uses of land which preserve the openness of the limited infilling or redevelopment of major existing Green Belt and do not conflict with the purpose of developed sites identified in local plans. including land in it; limited extension, alteration or replacement of Care will be taken to ensure that the visual existing dwellings; amenities of the Green Belt are not injured by limited infilling in existing villages, and limited development within, or conspicuous from, the affordable housing for local community needs; Green Belt which, although not prejudicial to its limited infilling or redevelopment of major main purpose, might be inappropriate by reason of existing developed sites identified in local plans. siting, materials or design. Care will be taken to ensure that the visual amenities of the Green Belt are not injured by development within, or conspicuous from, the Green Belt which, although not prejudicial to its main purpose, might be inappropriate by reason of siting, materials or design.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

G5 In the open countryside, sporadic and ribbon That policy G5 be deleted. The Panel consider the provisions of the policy are development and development in the vicinity of covered elsewhere in the plan. I do not agree. The motorway or major road junctions will not be provisions of the policy are not stated elsewhere in permitted. Special consideration will be given to the draft plan. There was very limited outright development proposals for agricultural, forestry, or objection to the policy and considerable support in outdoor recreational needs or for other uses the submissions on the deposit draft plan. GOSE appropriate to a rural area which cannot did not take issue with this policy when they reasonably be accommodated in a nearby commented on the deposit draft plan. settlement. Policy EN7 in the approved Structure Plan has proved very useful in providing a clear policy response to development proposals, for example at junctions on M40. G5 is a clear and important statement of policy which I think should be retained.

Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation is not accepted and that policy G5 be retained.

G6 All new developments should aim to incorporate the principles of energy and resource conservation as far as possible, in particular through passive solar design, providing high levels of insulation, water conservation measures, and using recycled construction materials wherever practicable.

In any highway schemes the maximum proportion of recycled or secondary materials consistent with currently prevailing standards should be used.

That policy G6 be retained. Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation that policy G6 be retained is accepted.

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CHAPTER 6 - TRANSPORT

POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

T1 Measures will be introduced to reduce the need for The deletion of policies T1 and T2. The Panel are of the opinion that Policies T1 and private car travel. T2 do not contribute anything to the plan which is not already stated in Policy G1. T1 is covered in G1 T2 Wherever practicable, priority will be given to only in terms of location of development. T2 is pedestrians, cyclists and public transport over covered in T3 only in terms of local plans private motorised transport. implementation. There is therefore still a need for a policy to express the general transport intentions not covered elsewhere.

Recommendation: that policies T1 and T2 are replaced with new Policy T1:

"Measures will be encouraged which reduce dependence on private motorised transport and give greater priority to pedestrians, cyclists and public transport."

T3 Comprehensive policies will be defined in local That `in towns' be deleted from Policy T3. The Panel think the application of this policy only to plans to protect and improve the environment in urban situations illogical. I agree that it would have towns and to give priority to pedestrians, cyclists greater merit expressed as a generally applicable and public transport, to make suitable provision for policy. servicing and to promote safety. Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy T3 is accepted. The policy to read:

Comprehensive policies will be defined in local plans to protect and improve the environme nt and to give priority to pedestrian s, cyclists and public transport, to make suitable provision for servicing and to promote safety.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

T5 Improved provision will be promoted for cyclists by That policy T5 (c) be deleted and the reference to The Panel conclude that policy T5 (c) does not a variety of measures, including: the carriage of cycles on public transport be made relate to planning control. in the explanatory text. a)promotion and development of a countywide Recommendation: that the Panel's network of safe, direct and attractive cycle routes, recommendation to modify policy T5 is accepted. with particular emphasis on routes within urban The policy to read: areas and which link urban areas with their hinterlands. This network should be defined in Improved provision will be promoted for cyclists local plans and provide convenient and safe by a variety of measures, including: access to schools, workplaces, shops and transport, community and recreational facilities; a)promotion and development of a countywide b)provision of adequate and secure parking at all network of safe, direct and attractive cycle major developments, park and ride sites and routes, with particular emphasis on routes within stations; urban areas and which link urban areas with c)encouraging provision of cycle carriage on public their hinterlands. This network should be transport services. defined in local plans and provide convenient and safe access to schools, workplaces, shops and transport, community and recreational facilities; b)provision of adequate and secure parking at all major developments, park and ride sites and stations;

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

T10 Any action will be resisted which would prejudice That the last sentence `not be permitted' be The proposed change would make the wording the retention of existing rail facilities which could deleted and `resisted' inserted. consistent with the first sentence in the policy. feasibly be reopened to passenger or freight use. Recommendation: that the Panel's Existing or disused railway lines which could recommendation to modify policy T10 is feasibly be reused as transport corridors for accepted. The policy to read: pedestrians, cyclists or public transport use will be protected. Development which would prejudice Any action will be resisted which would prejudice this role will not be permitted. the retention of existing rail facilities which could feasibly be reopened to passenger or freight use.

Existing or disused railway lines which could feasibly be reused as transport corridors for pedestrians, cyclists or public transport use will be protected. Development which would prejudice this role will be resisted.

T13 The following network of roads is defined to serve as the major routes for through and lorry traffic. These should be used in preference to the county inter-town routes or other roads:

M40; A34 (Wendlebury to Berkshire); A40 (Wheatley to Gloucestershire); A41 (Wendlebury to Buckinghamshire); A43 (Ardley to Northamptonshire);

A420 (Oxford to The A44 (Peartree to Gloucestershire) be listed as The A44 (Peartree to Gloucestershire) is not a Wiltshire); a first tier route in policy T13. trunk road and is appropriately listed as a county the Oxford inter-town route. However A44 (A40 to Peartree) is ring road; a trunk road. and an Recommendation: that the Panel's appropriate recommendation to modify policy T13 is not connection accepted but that A44 (A40 to Peartree) be listed between as a major route. the A34 and A40. The policy to read:

The The following network of roads is defined to following serve as the major routes for through and lorry lower tier of traffic. These should be used in preference to county the county inter-town routes or other roads:

Page 216 inter-town routes M40; should be A34 (Wendlebury to Berkshire); used in A40 (Wheatley to Gloucestershire); preference A41 (Wendlebury to Buckinghamshire); to less A43 (Ardley to Northamptonshire); suitable roads:

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

T13 contd A44 (Peartree to Gloucestershire); A44 (A40 to Peartree); A418 (A40 to Buckinghamshire); A420 (Oxford to Wiltshire); A422 (M40 to Northamptonshire); the Oxford ring road; and A423 (M40 to Warwickshire); an appropriate connection between the A34 and A 4130 and A4074 (Oxford ring road to Berkshire); A40. and B4031 (Buckinghamshire to Northamptonshire). The following lower tier of county inter-town routes should be used in preference to less The County Council will take measures to reinforce suitable roads: this hierarchy of routes and discourage or reduce the use of more minor roads. A44 (Peartree to Gloucestershire); A418 (A40 to Buckinghamshire); A422 (M40 to Northamptonshire); A423 (M40 to Warwickshire); A 4130 and A4074 (Oxford ring road to Berkshire); and B4031 (Buckinghamshire to Northamptonshire).

The County Council will take measures to reinforce this hierarchy of routes and discourage or reduce the use of more minor roads.

T16 The carriage of freight by rail, pipeline or waterway rather than road will be encouraged. Freight distribution centres should be located with direct access to the rail, pipeline or waterway networks and in or immediately adjoining major settlements. They will not be permitted in the open countryside.

That `normally' be inserted after `distribution The Panel comment that in invariably requiring centres should' and after `They will not'. freight distribution to have direct access to non-road facilities and excluding it from the open countryside they find the policy unacceptably exclusive.

As the Panel recognise, policy T16 seeks to encourage the use of transport modes other than road for the movement of freight. The policy emphasises the desirability of locating distribution centres with direct access to non-road facilities; the qualification "normally" is not appropriate. Government advice on the use of "normally" has not been consistently applied in Oxfordshire. GOSE did not take issue with this policy when they commented on the deposit draft plan. I cannot

Page 218 envisage circumstances where the location of a distribution centre in open countryside would be acceptable as the Panel appear to imply, particularly in view of the emphasis in RPG9 that M40 should be regarded as a corridor of movement rather than development.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

T16 contd Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation is not accepted and that policy T16 is not modified.

T17 Traffic management measures will be introduced That `in urban areas' be deleted. While the Panel accept that the overwhelming to: majority of traffic management measures likely to be undertaken will be in urban areas they do not a)secure safe access in urban areas for consider that rural areas should appear to be pedestrians and those with impaired mobility; excluded from consideration. b)secure safety for cyclists and priority on the cycle route network; Recommendation: that the Panel's c)secure priority for public transport on routes recommendation to modify policy T17 is where traffic is subject to delay; accepted. The policy to read: d)improve safety for all road users; e)reinforce the road network hierarchy and control Traffic management measures will be use of unsuitable roads by non-local traffic; introduced to: f)reduce the harmful effects of traffic on people and the environment. a)secure safe access for pedestrians and those with impaired mobility; b)secure safety for cyclists and priority on the cycle route network; c)secure priority for public transport on routes where traffic is subject to delay; d)improve safety for all road users; e)reinforce the road network hierarchy and control use of unsuitable roads by lorries and non-local traffic; f)reduce the harmful effects of traffic on people and the environment.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT OF DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

T19 Proposals for development will be permitted only if That `permitted only if they are acceptable' be The Panel recommend the change in recognition they are acceptable in the light of the following deleted and `considered' be inserted. that transport considerations are to be balanced criteria: against other matters rather than being interpreted as overriding. a)the existing transport situation, the aims of the local transport strategy and existing local car Recommendation: that the Panel's parking and traffic management measures; recommendation to modify policy T19 is b)access for pedestrians, cyclists and those accepted. The policy to read: whose mobility is impaired; c)the requirements of public transport; Proposals for development will be considered in d)the impact of generated traffic including servicing the light of the following criteria: traffic on existing settlements and roads; e)highway access and servicing arrangements; a)the existing transport situation, the aims of the f)the safety of all highway users; local transport strategy and existing local car g)the likely resource implications for the highway parking and traffic management measures; authority. b)access for pedestrians, cyclists and those whose mobility is impaired; c)the requirements of public transport; d)the impact of generated traffic including servicing traffic on existing settlements and roads; e)highway access and servicing arrangements; f)the safety of all highway users; g)the likely resource T3 to T19 implication s for the highway authority.

These policies will require renumberin g if the recommen dation to replace policies T1 and T2 is agreed.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT OF DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

CHANGES TO EXPLANATORY TEXT: Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendations be taken into account when the explanatory text is redrafted following adoption of modified policies. The Panel recommend the following:

a)Para. 6.15 - reference to the carriage of cycles on public transport. b)Paras. 6.20-6.22 - reference be made to Park and Ride schemes and the problem of providing public transport in the remoter rural areas. c)Para. 6.37 - transfer reference to an east-west rail link to para. 6.34. d)Para. 6.38 - transfer reference to a third Thames crossing to para. 6.41. e)Para. 6.35 - further consideration be given in the wording of the preamble of Policy T12. f)Para. 6.34 - that the list of schemes be divided into those expected to be supported by developers' contributions and others and that the latter be reconsidered in relation to the likelihood of their implementation within the plan period.

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CHAPTER 7 - CONSERVING AND ENHANCING THE ENVIRONMENT

POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EN1 Developments which would have an unacceptable That Policy EN1 be modified to read `The nature, At the EIP the issue of whether the words `will not be environmental impact because of their nature, size, size, location or cumulative effects of a development permitted' are acceptable in policies was discussed. location or cumulative effects will not be permitted. should not have an unacceptable environmental The Panel have accepted the view of GOSE that the impact'. wording of EN1 forms too rigid a framework. Although the Panel's recommendation is not as strong as the policy in the deposit draft, it is considered to be an adequate and straightforward expression of a broad strategic principle.

Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy EN1 is accepted.

EN2 Environmental measures will be sought: That Policy EN2 be modified in accordance with the The County Council suggested amending policy County Council's suggestion. EN2 by replacing `reduced' with `minimise' in order a)to reduce the adverse effects of development to clarify the intent of the policy to meet an objection proposals and from the Vale of White Horse District Council. b)to maintain and enhance the landscape and the quality of the built environment. Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy EN2 as suggested by the County Council is accepted. The policy to read:

Environmental measures will be sought:

a) to minimise the adverse effects of developme nt proposals and b) to maintain and enhance the landscape and the quality of the built environme

Page 223 nt.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EN3 The best and most versatile agricultural land will be That Policy EN3 be modified in accordance with the To reflect new Government advice in PPG7 and protected from development taking into account its County Council's suggestion, together with the comments from MAFF and others the County Council quality as assessed by the Ministry of Agriculture, insertion of `permanent' before `development'. suggested amending policy EN3. Fisheries and Food. The Panel have supported the Quarry Products Association's suggestion to insert `permanent' in the policy to recognise that it is possible to restore land to high agricultural quality after mineral working. Although the intention of this is to take into account the temporary nature of minerals development, it is possible that it could be used to justify other types of temporary or theoretically reversible development on high quality agricultural land. I consider that a reference in the explanatory text would be more appropriate for example in a similar way to policy M9 (a) in the approved Structure Plan which states there will be a presumption against mineral working on grades 1, 2 or 3a land unless it is demonstrated that a high standard of restoration to agriculture will be achieved.

Recommendation:

(a)that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy EN3 as suggested by the County Council is accepted; (b)that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy EN3 with the insertion of `permanent' is not accepted, but that a reference is included in the explanatory text to allow for the possiblity of mineral working on high quality agricultural land where it is demonstrated that a high standard of restoration to agriculture will be achieved.

The policy to read: The best and most versatile agricultural land will be protected from development, unless there is an overriding need identified in the development plan.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EN4 The natural beauty of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty will be conserved. Developments which would conflict with this aim will not be permitted.

The local planning authorities will take account of the EN5 impact of proposed developments on local landscape character. Development which would unacceptably damage the local landscape will not be permitted.

Development will not be permitted which would damage EN6

a)sites of European That the County Council modify Policies EN4, EN5 No guidance is given by the Panel as to how policies wildlife and EN6 to reflect the levels of protection to be EN4, EN5 and EN6 might be reworded to meet their importance;afforded to the various categories of designated recommendations. The text of the Panel's report nature conservation and landscape areas and that also states that `will not be permitted is not an b)National locally-determined designations be reviewed and admissable phrase', and recommends that the Nature justified in local plans. policies are reworded in a positive form. At the EIP Reserves officers argued that policies EN4, EN5 and EN6 do and Sites of reflect the relative significance of national and local Special sites, and that the wording `will not be permitted' Scientific provides a clear framework for decision making. Interest; However, as the Panel's recommendations appear and to be based on the views of GOSE which were made c) sites strongly at the EIP, on balance I consider it would be which preferable to accept their recommendations and support reword the policies to draw out the differences specially between designations in EN4 and EN5 and remove protected `will not be permitted' from EN4, EN5 and EN6. species. Presentationally this may be best achieved by On other merging EN4 and EN5 into one landscape policy. sites of acknowledg I do not consider it is necessary to amend the ed nature hierarchy of nature conservation sites in policy EN6, conservatio which distinguishes between international/national n sites, and `other sites of acknowledged nature

Page 226 importance conservation importance', which are the Alert Map developme sites. There are only 3 proposed sites of European nt will be importance in Oxfordshire (Special Areas of permitted Conservation), which are already SSSIs. To give only if there greater protection to these would effectively devalue is an the protection given to SSSIs which are of national overriding importance. Therefore no change should be made strategic need or damage to the ecological interest can be prevented by the use of conditions or planning obligations. to this policy except to remove `will not be permitted'.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF E NVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EN4 I consider that the reference to reviewing and EN5 justifying local designations in relation to landscape EN6 contd (AHLVs and AGLVs) would be better dealt with in the explanatory text. Policy EN5 gives a lead to district councils to move towards a character based approach to landscape protection as advocated in PPG7 and this should be explained in the explanatory text.

In terms of nature conservation, local designations have been recorded on Alert Maps by the County Council and BBONT and are sites which are of at least county importance. They are not designated in local plans, but are used by local planning authorities to alert them that development proposals may affect a significant nature conservation site. In these circumstances I do not consider it is appropriate for the Structure Plan to refer to reviewing these sites in local plans.

Recommendation:

(a)that the Panel's recommendation to modify policies EN4 and EN5 to reflect the levels of protection afforded to national and local landscape designations is accepted, but is not accepted for policy EN6 for the reasons set out above; (b) that the Panel's recommendations to amend policies EN4, EN5 and EN6 to reflect that locally-determined designations be reviewed and justified in local plans is not accepted for the reasons set out above, but that the move towards the character based approach to landscape protection is explained in the explanatory text;

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICDS AND RECOMMENDATION

EN4 (c) that the Panel's recommendation that policies EN5 EN4, EN5 and EN6 should be worded in a positive EN6 form is accepted; and Contd (d)that policies EN4, EN5 are merged and amended to become new policy EN4, and EN6 is amended and renumbered EN5 as follows:

EN4The natural beauty of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty will be conserved to reflect their national importance. Proposed developments should not conflict with this aim.

Elsewhere local planning authorities will take account of the impact of proposed developments on local landscape character. Development will be permitted only if it does not unacceptably damage the local landscape.

EN5The following sites of at least national importance will be protected from damaging development:

a) sites of European wildlife importance; b) National Nature Reserves and Sites of Special Scientific Interest; and c) sites which support specially protected species.

On other sites of acknowledged nature conservation importance development will be permitted only if there is an overriding strategic need, or damage to the ecological interest can be prevented by the use of conditions or planning obligations.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EN8 Development which would damage woodlands That Policy EN8 be modified by the insertion of The Panel have recommended including hedgerows which are important for landscape, ecological, `hedgerows' after `woodlands' in the first sentence in this policy to reflect that new regulations have amenity or forestry reasons will not be permitted. and that the explanatory text clarify the situations to come into force to protect hedgerows under certain The local planning authorities will encourage the which it applies regarding the creation of new circumstances (The Hedgerows Regulations 1997). planting of appropriate new woodlands and trees. woodlands. This does not raise any issues of strategic concern and this recommendation should therefore be accepted.

The second part of the recommendation relates to the explanatory text. The Panel consider it is not clear how the County Council would encourage tree and woodland planting within the scope of planning control. Further text could be added to explain that this could be achieved through the control of development, including mineral working and restoration.

Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to insert `hedgerows' after woodlands in policy EN8 and that the explanatory text clarify the situations to which it applies to the creation of new woodlands is accepted. The policy to read:

Development which would damage woodlands and hedgerows which are important for landscape, ecological, amenity or forestry reasons will not be permitted. The local planning authorities will encourage the planting of appropriate new woodlands and trees.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EN9 The fabric and setting of listed buildings and That Policy EN9 be modified in accordance with the The County Council suggested amending policy conservation areas will be preserved and where County Council's suggestion. EN9 to reflect comments that it confuses the appropriate enhanced. Other elements of the purposes of listing buildings and designating historic environment, including parks and gardens, conservation areas. battlefields and historic landscapes will also be protected from harmful development. Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy EN9 as suggested by the County Council is accepted. The policy to read:

EN9The fabric and setting of listed buildings will be preserved, and the character or appearance of conservation areas will be preserved or enhanced. Other elements of the historic environment, including parks and gardens, battlefields and historic landscapes will also be protected from harmful development.

EN11 Development which would harm nationally importantThat the first sentence of Policy EN11 be modified toThe Panel's recommendation for amending policy archaeological remains or their settings will not be read `There will be a presumption in favour of EN11 does not appear to permitted. Where development affecting preserving nationally important archaeological archaeological remains is allowed it should include remains, whether scheduled or not, and their appropriate measures to secure their preservation insettings'. Mention of the need, where appropriate to situ or where this is not feasible, recording of seek Ancient Monument Consent should be made in archaeological features before development. the explanatory memorandum. weaken its intent which is to protect nationally important archaeologi cal remains. The wording proposed closely follows PPG16. However, this also refers to the presumptio n in favour of the

Page 231 physical preservatio n of nationally important remains, compared to other remains where preservatio n by record (resulting in the physical destruction of the remains) may be appropriate. For the greatest clarity it is proposed that the word `preserving' is qualified by inserting `physically'. The recommen dation relating to the explanatory text is also acceptable.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EN11 contd Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy EN11 is accepted, with the addition of `physically' to the modification to the first sentence of policy EN11. The policy to read:

EN11There will be a presumption in favour of physically preserving nationally important archaeological remains whether scheduled or not, and their settings . Where development affecting archaeological remains is allowed it should include appropriate measures to secure their preservation in situ, or where this is not feasible, recording of archaeological features before development.

EN12 Development which would lead to an unacceptable That Policy EN12 be modified to read `Development Recommendation: that the Panel's deterioration in water quality or unacceptably should not lead to unacceptable deterioration in recommendation to modify Policy EN12 is damage the water environment will not be permitted water quality or the water environment.' accepted.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

EN13 Development in the flood plain or which would result That Policy EN13 be modified in accordance with theThe County Council suggested amending Policy in an unacceptable risk of flooding will not be County Council's suggestion. EN13 to reflect comments that the policy and the text permitted. were confusing.

Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy EN13 as suggested by the County Council is accepted. The policy to read:

EN13Development in the flood plain or which would result in an unacceptable risk of flooding will not be permitted unless appropriate flood protection and compensation measures can be provided.

EN7 These policies will require renumbering if the to recommendation to combine policies EN4 and EN5, EN15 and renumber EN6 are agreed.

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CHAPTER 8 - DEVELOPING THE LOCAL ECONOMY

POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

E1 In the main towns of Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney the provision of land for employment generating development will be made:

a)to accommodate firms which need to be located in the area and for the expansion and relocation of existing local firms; b)so as to provide an appropriate balance between the number and type of jobs and the size and skills of the local

E2 workforce; That policy E1 be listed as policy E2 and be modified c)to provide as follows: jobs accessible `In the main towns of Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and from new Witney the provision of land for housing employment-generating development will be made: areas by walking, a)so as to achieve an appropriate balance between cycling and the number and type of jobs and the skills of the public local workforce; transport, inb)to provide jobs accessible from residential areas particular by walking, cycling and public transport, in particular through through mixed use developments where mixed use appropriate. developme nts. Outside the main towns in Policy E1 (Deposit Draft

Page 235 Plan E2) above the provision of land for employment-generating development in local plans will be restrained. A limited amount of land will be made available in Abingdon, Carterton, Chipping Norton, Faringdon, Henley, Thame, Wallingford and Wantage and Grove.'

A limited amount of land for employmen t generating developme nt will be made available in Abingdon, Carterton, Chipping Norton, Faringdon, Henley, Thame, Wallingford and Wantage and Grove.

Amalgamat The Panel recommend an amalgamation of policies e with policyE1 and E2. E1 Ä see I think the two policies should be kept as separate above. policies which together with E5 (renumbered as E1) set out a hierarchy of locations.

The main change to the original policy E1 is the deletion of E1 a) which the Panel thought was a general consideration applicable to all locations better expressed either as part of a general policy or in the explanatory text.

They also think the test of need has no basis in national advice and is unduly restrictive. They also see undue scope for interpretation of "local". I do not agree that E1 a) is necessarily applicable to all locations. It could, for example, if applied countywide, lead to inappropriate development in rural areas. The policy does however give support to established firms in accordance with the overall strategy and the Council's Economic Strategy and I think should be retained.

Prior to the EIP the County Council suggested a possible change to policy E2 to refer to restraint of employment generating development. The Panel accept the change but with an additional reference to "in local plans". Local plans are not the only mechanism by which land could be released and I think therefore this change should not be made. I also think the policy should be amended to meet

Page 236 concerns about traffic..

Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendations that E1 a) be deleted, that E2 is amalgamated with E1 (renumbered E2), and addition of "in local plans" is not accepted. It is also recommended that "_. and limited to activities which do not give rise to excessive or inappropriate traffic" be added to the first sentence of policy E2 (renumbered as E3). The policies to read:

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

E1 Policy E2 E2 contd In the main towns of Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney the provision of land for employment-generating development will be made:

a)to accommodate firms which need to be located in the area and for the expansion and relocation of existing local firms; b)so as to achieve an appropriate balance between the number and type of jobs and the skills of the local workforce; c)to provide jobs accessible from residential areas by walking, cycling and public transport, in particular through mixed use developments where appropriate.

Policy E3 Outside the main towns referred to above the provision of land for employment-generating development will be restrained and limited to activities which do not give rise to excessive or inappropriate traffic. A limited amount of land for employment generating development will be made available in Abingdon, Carterton, Chipping Norton, Faringdon, Henley, Thame, Wallingford and Wantage and Grove.

E3 Throughout the County proposals for premises for That policy E3 be modified by the deletion of The policy in the Deposit Draft Plan is identical to small firms whose sources of supply, commercial `necessary' and inclusion of `appropriate'. the policy in the approved Structure Plan. linkages, labour supply and markets make the `Appropriate' is not the correct `test' and gives a quite specific location necessary for them will normally be different meaning to the policy. permitted in appropriate locations. Recommendation: that the Panel's recommedation to modify policy E3 is not accepted. No change to policy E3 except for consequential change to policy number (see below).

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

E4 Proposals for employment generating development That policy E4 be modified as follows: Recommendation: that the Panel's which would generate a demand for housing which recommendation to modify policy E4 is accepted. exceeds the existing or planned housing provision `In considering proposals for employment will not be permitted. generating development which would generate a demand for housing account will be taken of the existing or planned housing provision.'

E5 In Oxford, where the existing employment use That policy E5 be listed as policy E1 and be modifiedPrior to the EIP the County Council suggested a ceases, proposals for redevelopment to residential as follows: possible change to include after "Oxford" "the or mixed employment-residential use will be provision of land for employment generating encouraged in appropriate circumstances. In Oxford the provision of land for industrial, office, development will be restrained. Where ...." in and warehouse uses (Class B) will be restrained. response to comments by Oxford City Council. The Such development will be expected to take place on Panel considered that restraint of employment land that is already used or allocated for that generating uses is justified in order to protect the purpose. Where existing employment use ceases, city's distinctive character. They support however a favourable consideration will be given to proposals suggested modification by Oxford City Council to for redevelopment for residential or mixed make specific reference to Class B uses, which I employment/residential use where they would be think is acceptable. environmentally acceptable.

The Panel E6 Proposals for employment generating development That policy E6 be modified in accordance with the also prefer which support the diversification of Oxfordshire's Council's proposal. `favourable rural economy will be permitted in appropriate considerati locations. on will be given' to `will be encouraged ' which they see as an uncertain term.

Recommen dation: that the Panel's recommen dation to modify policy E5 is accepted.

Prior to the EIP the County

Page 239 Council suggested a possible change to the policy to reflect comments by the Rural Developme nt Commissio n, Association of Rural Businesse s in Oxfordshire and others.

Recommen dation: that the Panel's recommen dation to modify policy E6 is accepted. The policy to read:

"Proposals for small scale employmen t generating developme nt which support the diversificati on of the rural economy will normally be permitted in appropriate locations, taking particular account of the general need to reduce the need to travel by private vehicles. The

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

E6 contd conversion of existing rural buildings for employment generating use will normally be permitted, provided that:

a)they are of permanent and substantial construction; b)it would not harm the viability of a nearby town or village or cause transport or highway problems or traffic related environmental problems; c)their form, bulk and general design are in keeping with their surroundings; and d)if the buildings are in the open countryside, they are capable of conversion without major or complete reconstruction."

E3 to E5 These policies will require renumbering if the recommendations above are accepted.

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CHAPTER 9 - HOUSING

POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

H1 Provision will be made for 30,500 additional That Policy H1 should read: dwellings (net) to be built between 1 April 1996 and 31 March 2011. The provision will be distributed as `Provision will be made for about 35,500 additional follows: dwellings (net) to be built between 1 April 1996 and 31 March 2011. TOTAL 1996- 2006- 1996- 2006 2011 2011

Cherwell 7,150 2,600 9,750 Oxford 2,500 1,250 3,750 South Oxfordshire 4,800 2,400 7,200 Vale of White 2,750 1,300 4,050 Horse West Oxfordshire 4,300 1,450 5,750

TOTAL 21,500 9,000 30,500

The main locations for housing will be at Banbury (about 3,900 dwellings), Bicester (about 2,700 dwellings), Didcot (about 4,750 dwellings), Oxford (about 3,750 dwellings) and Witney (about 1,700 dwellings).

Land at Upper Heyford will provide for a new settlement of about 1,000 dwellings (including existing vacant dwellings) i.e. about 700 dwellings net.

The provision See the main report (paragraphs 12 to 18). will be distributed The Panel propose that the `phasing' of housing as follows: provisions should be deleted and that the District Councils should deal with the question of phasing in Cherwell local plans. I think the Structure Plan should give strategic guidance on phasing for the preparation of local plans to ensure that land is released gradually throughout the plan period so that land is not used 11,250 up early in the plan period, and phased to reflect Oxford concerns about the provision of necessary infrastructure etc.

3,750 The Panel concluded that the reference to Upper

Page 242 South Heyford was superfluous since policy on Upper Oxfordshire Heyford is fully dealt with in policy H2.

8,500 The criteria in policy H1 are based on criteria in Vale of PPG13 and policies RUR3 and RUR4 in the White approved Structure Plan. They attracted few Horse comments at the deposit stage. Whilst I agree with 5,250 the Panel that the broad provisions are covered West generally by G1 c) I think that the references to larger Oxfordshire settlements in H1 a) and commuting and public transport in H1 b) should be retained.

6,750 Policy H1 needs also to address the issue of the distribution of the housing allocation for Didcot (see main report paragraph 20 and Annex D).

Recommendation: the EIP Panel's 35,500 recommendation to modify policy H1 is accepted subject to: The main i)reference to the phasing of housing land; locations for housing will be Banbury (about 3,900 dwellings), Bicester (about 4,200 dwellings), Didcot (about 5,500 dwellings) and Witney (about 2,700 dwellings). ii) the addition of "Elsewhere most new housing developme nt should take place in larger settlement s where a reasonable range of employmen t services and community facilities exist or can be provided. Significant additional

Page 243 housing developme nt,

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

H1 contd Elsewhere local plans should guide the location of including inappropriate infill, should be avoided housing according to the following principles: where this is likely to result largely in car commuting to urban centres and where travel a)most new housing development should take place needs are unlikely to be well served by public in larger settlements where a reasonable range of transport." employment, services and community facilities exist iii) Reference to the distribution of the housing or can be provided and which are capable of being allocation for Didcot being determined as an well served by rail or other public transport, and alteration to the Plan. where the need to travel by private vehicles can be reduced; The policy to read: b)avoid any significant additional housing development, including inappropriate infill, where `Provision will be made for about 35,500 additional this is likely to result largely in car commuting to dwellings (net) to be built between 1 April 1996 and urban centres and where travel needs are unlikely to 31 March 2011. The provision will be distributed be well served by public transport; as follows: c)provide for appropriate development within the existing communities which have a reasonable TOTAL range of employment, services and community facilities; 1996- d)restrict development in settlements which do not have a reasonable range of services and community 2011 facilities.

Cherwell

11,250 Oxford

3,750

South Oxfordshir e (excluding Didcot) 3,000 Vale of White Horse ( " " )

Page 245 5,250 Didcot

5,500 West Oxfordshir e

6,750

35,500

The main locations for housing will be Banbury (about 3,900 dwellings), Bicester (about 4,200 dwellings), Didcot (about 5,500 dwellings) and Witney (about 2,700 dwellings).

Elsewhere most new housing developme nt should take place in larger settlement s where a reasonable range of employmen t services and community facilities exist or can be provided. Significant additional

Page 246 housing developme nt, including inappropria te infill, should be avoided where it is likely to result largely in car commuting to urban centres

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

H1 contd and where travel needs are unlikely to be well served by public transport."

Local Plans should phase the provision of housing so that land is released gradually throughout the plan period and to ensure the provision of necessary infrastructure, services, facilities and other improvements.

The final distribution of the housing allocation for Didcot between South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse districts will be determined in an early alteration of the Structure Plan.

H2 a)Land at RAF Upper Heyford will provide for a new The Panel confirm the County Council's proposal for The Panel's support for policy H2 and approach on settlement of about 1,000 dwellings (including Upper Heyford and of policy H2. Upper Heyford is welcomed. existing vacant dwellings) and a primary school and appropriate community, recreational and Recommendation: that policy H2 is retained. employment opportunities. b)The future use of the whole of the area covered by the former airbase will be guided by a comprehensive planning brief to be approved by the local planning authority in consultation with the County Council and other relevant agencies. c)Substantial landscaping and other environmental improvements will also be required on the site in association with any development. d)The new settlement should be designed to encourage journeys to be made by foot, cycle or public transport rather than by private car. Measures to encourage the use of bus and rail and to seek to minimise the impact of traffic associated with the development on the surrounding road network will be required.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

H3 a)Provision will be made for a variety of dwellings in That policy H3 be deleted. The Panel consider that the policy is adequately terms of location, size and density, according to the covered by the general and transportation policies or character of the site and of the locality, local housing in the case of H3 a) is more appropriately dealt with requirements, and the achievement of satisfactory in local plans. living conditions. b)Proposals which make more effective use of the There was no overall objection to the inclusion of housing stock, for example by the conversion and this policy in the deposit draft. H3 a) and b) are improvement of existing dwellings and housing covered in policies in the approved Structure Plan as areas, and properties in town centres will be giving appropriate strategic guidance. H3 b) extends encouraged. G1 e) by making specific reference to effective use of c)New sites should be well related to existing and the existing stock and town centre properties and proposed employment, shopping, recreational, supports policy S4. I agree that H3 c) is covered by educational and community facilities so as to reduce the general and transport policies. the need to travel, favour journeys by foot, cycle or public transport and achieve high quality and Recommendation: that the Panel's human-scale environments. recommendation to modify policy H3 is not accepted and that only H3 c) be deleted. The policy to read:

a)Provision will be made for a variety of dwellings in terms of location, size and density, according to the character of the site and of the locality, local housing requirements, and the achievement of satisfactory living conditions. b)Proposals which make more effective use of the housing stock, for example by the conversion and improvement of existing dwellings and housing areas, and properties H4 Provision will be made for affordable housing where That policy H4 be retained as proposed in the in town this will meet specific local needs. Local surveys Deposit Draft Plan but with the word `affordable' centres will will identify the level of these needs. The location of replaced by `low cost and subsidised housing'. be such provision, and the agency to provide such encourage dwellings are matters for local determination. Any d. provision should be subject to permanent and enforceable arrangements to ensure that the social benefits of the development will be passed on to subsequent occupants.

The proposed amendmen t was suggested by the

Page 249 Governmen t Office for the South East. The Governmen t Circular on Planning and Affordable Housing (C13/96) says the term "affordable housing" is used to encompass "low cost" and "subsidised " housing although the circular refers generally to affordable housing. I think it more sensible to retain the phrase "affordable housing" and rely on the explanatory text to the Structure Plan to explain what it encompass es (see para. 9.13 of the Deposit Draft).

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

H4 contd There were objections to the last sentence of policy H4 on the grounds that it was not a requirement that could be applied to all schemes. Neither the Panel nor GOSE found it objectionable.

Recommendation: that the Panel recommendation to modify policy H4 is not accepted. No change to policy H4.

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CHAPTER 10 - TOWN CENTRES AND RETAILING

POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

- - That policies S2 and S1 of the approved Structure PPG6 advises that the Structure Plan should set out Plan be incorporated in that order. a hierarchy of centres from city centre through town centre and district centre to local centres and village centres.

The Panel believe a hierarchy could be useful in determining the scale of development appropriate to any particular centres. The Panel consider that while policies S1 and S2 in the approved Structure Plan do not explicitly define an hierarchy they communicate more clearly the aims of PPG6 in this matter. The Panel are inclined to agree with the view put forward on behalf of the County Council that the definition of levels of the hierarchy below that of the four `country towns' is more suitably dealt with in local plans which can take account of local circumstances in assessing the case for retail development.

Because the policies in the chapter are concerned with a range of town centre activities, not just retailing (see comment on deposit draft policies S1 and S2 below), I suggest renumbering them as "TC" rather than "S".

Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to incorporate policies S1 and S2 from the approved Structure Plan is accepted and that the "S" policies be given the preface "TC". The policies to read:

Policy TC1: "Further shopping provision will be permitted in the existing shopping centres of Banbury and Oxford to meet the comparison and specialised requirements of the population of the wider catchment areas of these towns".

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

- - Policy TC2: "The principal locations for major new shopping development will be in the country towns of Banbury, Bicester, Didcot and Witney."

S1 Most new retail development will be located within orThat policies S1 and S2 of the Deposit Draft Plan be adjacent to existing town centres. The local planningamalgamated and modified as a single policy as authorities will support proposals which seek to follows: maintain and enhance the vitality and viability of existing shopping centres by: Policy S4

a)extending the range and quality of shops and "Major new development in town centres should be facilities; located in accordance with the sequential approach. b)improving the environment, character and quality ofFirst preference should be for town centre sites, a centre; followed by edge-of-centre c)encouraging diversity of uses including residential accommodation; and d)improving access for pedestrians, cyclists and public transport.

Out of centre retail development will be permitted only if there is no suitable site within or adjacent to an existing centre, the development would not harm the vitality and viability of existing shopping centres, and the site is accessible by a choice of means of transport other than the private car. sites, district and Attention was drawn in the objections and at the EIP local to the almost exclusive preoccupation with retailing centres, in the policies in this chapter despite its title. There and only was also concern that the policies should properly then in reflect the sequential test as a measure of the out-of-centr acceptability of major retail development proposals. e sites that In proposing the changes to policies S1 and S2 the are Panel drew attention to the need to relate them to accessible town centre development in general. They also by a choice consider that the criteria for out of centre of means ofdevelopment so be those in PPG6 and that the transport. sequential test is so critical in the determination of planning applications for major development that it Proposals should be prominently embodied in the policy. should sustain andAs the second sentence of the proposed policy lists enhance the sequence of sites it would be more appropriate if the vitality the first sentence did not refer to "centres". The and viability emphasis on town centre development in general is

Page 253 of town to be welcomed. I do however think that the centres by: recognition of town centres as places where people live should be retained with the specific reference to (i)extendingresidential accommodation. the range and quality The last part of the recommended policy refers to of shops "out of centre retail development" which would not and other include other types of development such as leisure central facilities. It would be more appropriate to amend facilities; "retail development" to cover other types of use. (ii) improving the environmen t, character and quality of a centre; (iii) encouragin g diversity of uses; (iv) improving accessibilit y by all modes of movement.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

S2 Proposals for shopping development will be In considering out of centre retail development Recommendation: that the Panel's considered in the light of the following criteria: which should be consistent with the above criteria, recommendation to modify policies S1 and S2 is the following will also be taken into account. accepted, subject to: a)the likely effect of the proposed development, together with other recent and proposed (i)the likely harm to the development plan strategy; i)the deletion of "centres" from the first sentence. developments in the locality, upon the vitality and (ii)the impact on the vitality and viability of existing ii)In the second paragraph add "including viability of existing town, district and local centres town centres and the rural economy; residential accommodation" after "uses"; and village shops; (iii)their accessibility by modes of travel other than b)the extent to which the site is accessible by the car; walking, cycling and public transport; (iv) their likely overall effect on travel patterns and c)the acceptability of the proposal in terms of the car use." generation of car-borne trips, the impact on the overall level of traffic, car parking and highway safety considerations. ii)replacing "out of centre retail developme nt" with "out of centre developme nt which attracts a lot of people (including retailing, commercia l and public offices, entertainm ent, leisure and other such uses)".

The policy to read:

"Major new developme

Page 255 nt in towns should be located in accordanc e with the sequential approach. First preference should be for town centre sites, followed by edge-of-ce ntre sites, district and local centres, and only then in out-of-cent re sites that are accessible by a choice of means of transport.

Proposals should sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of town centres by:

(i) extending the range and quality of shops and other central facilities; (ii) improving the environme nt, character and quality of a centre; (iii) encouragin g diversity of uses including residential accommod ation; (iv)

Page 256 improving accessibilit y by all modes of movement.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

S2 contd In considering proposals for out of centre development which attracts a lot of people (including retailing, commercial and public offices, entertainment, leisure and other such uses) which should be consistent with the above criteria, the following will also be taken into account.

(i)the likely harm to the development plan strategy; (ii)the impact on the vitality and viability of existing town centres and the rural economy; (iii)their accessibility by modes of travel other than the car; (iv) their likely overall effect on travel patterns and car use."

S3 Proposals for shopping development sufficient to That policy S3 as it exists in the Deposit Draft Plan District Councils and other rural interests were meet the day to day shopping needs of the local be inserted immediately after the above policies. concerned that retail outlets in villages should enjoy population, within or convenient to existing and strategic protection in planning terms. The Panel proposed residential areas in towns and villages will consider that policy S3 of the approved Structure be permitted. Plan meets these concerns in a sufficiently explicit way, although they think it more logical for it to follow the reinstated approved Structure Plan policies (see above).

Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation is accepted.

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CHAPTER 13 - MINERALS

POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

M1 The County Council will grant planning permission That in accordance with the County Council's In responding to the Deposit Draft Plan the for mineral working in appropriate locations having suggestion policy M1 be modified to read: Government Office for the South East and the regard to the need to ensure a steady supply of aggregates industry advocated reference in a policy materials for local markets and to meet "The County Council will grant planning permission to Oxfordshire's share of the current South East Oxfordshire's agreed share of regional sand and for mineral working in appropriate locations having regional apportionment of sand and gravel gravel requirements. regard to the need to: production. To meet these representations the County Council suggested, prior to the EIP, a change a)maintain a landbank of permitted reserves for to policy M1 which the Panel support. aggregates throughout the Plan period in line with Government guidance; Recommendation: that the Panel's b)meet Oxfordshire's agreed share of sand and recommendation to modify policy M1 is accepted. gravel requirements; c)ensure a steady supply of materials for local markets."

M6 The County Council will object to development whereThat the modification of policy M6 be considered in it would sterilise important mineral resources which the light could be worked under current development plan policies. of paragraph Representatives of the aggregates industry believed 10.6 above. policy M6 to be too restricting in that it failed to take account of minerals which might become important in the future. The Government Office for the South East suggested the insertion of an additional step in the policy to encourage the extraction of minerals before development took place. The Panel consider the Council should review the policy in the light of these comments.

The policy relates to all minerals. Policy M6 is supported by policies SD10 and SD11 in the Minerals and Waste Local Plan. These policies describe in more detail how strategic policy M6 will be implemented and cover GOSE's points.

Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy M6 is not accepted. No change to policy M6.

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POLICY DEPOSIT DRAFT PANEL RECOMMENDATION COMMENT BY DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES AND RECOMMENDATION

M8 The County Council will seek to secure the That in accordance with the County Council's Policy M8 in the Deposit Draft Plan deals only with environmental improvement of old mineral working suggestion policy M8 be modified to read: sites where operations have ceased. Prior to the sites which have not been restored to modern EIP the County Council suggested a change to meet standards. "The County Council will seek to secure the the representations of the Government Office for the environmental improvement of mineral working sitesSouth East. which have not been, or are not being, restored to modern standards." Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy M8 is accepted.

M10 The County Council will not grant planning That in accordance with the County Council's The aggregates industry objected to policy M10 on permission for mineral development unless the suggestion policy M10 be modified to read: the ground that it could apply to requirements appropriate routes that minerals traffic will take inappropriate to a legal agreement. Prior to the EIP between the production site and the principal road "Before the granting of planning permission the the County Council suggested a change to meet the network are first agreed. County Council will seek to agree the appropriate representations. routes that mineral traffic will take between the production site and the principal road network." Recommendation: that the Panel's recommendation to modify policy M10 is accepted.

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