Farnham Neighbourhood Plan ADOPTED JULY 2017

Home , Chiddingfold, Farnham Castle, Surrey Hills AONB

Illustrations © Michael Blower www.farnham.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplan Acknowledgements

This document has been developed and produced by Farnham Town Council in close cooperation with local community volunteers with wide ranging skills and backgrounds on behalf of the Farnham community. The team would like to thank the following in preparation of the documents: • Tony Fullwood, Chartered • Waverley Borough Council for Town Planner, who was our guidance and support professional planning consultant • Events and exhibitions venues • Rachel Aves, Corporate who kindly gave their space Governance Team Leader, who was the lead officer for the Town • The community groups, local Council societies and schools in Farnham for providing support and • Michael Blower and Charles Bone comment throughout the process for providing drawings for the (see Appendix 1) Neighbourhood Plan

The Town Council and the Neighbourhood Plan team would like to thank the whole community for participating in the process and for coming together and supporting the Neighbourhood Plan over its development. © Michael Blower

CONTENTS

Section 1: Introduction Page: 4 The Farnham Neighbourhood Plan - a new type of planning document produced in Farnham.

Section 2: Farnham Now Page: 10 A brief description of the town and surrounding countryside today and the key issues that have influenced the Plan.

Section 3: Farnham Future Page: 16 A vision over the next 20 years.

Section 4: Farnham Neighbourhood Plan Strategy Page: 18 Broad planning approach for Farnham and how this conforms to higher level planning policy.

Section 5: Neighbourhood Plan Policies Page: 20 Policies to support the overall vision, including site specific allocations for new development.

Section 6: Monitoring and Review Page: 86 How the Neighbourhood Plan will be monitored and reviewed.

2 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd Policy Index

Page 23 - Policy FNP1 design of New Development and Conservation

Page 25 - Policy FNP2 Farnham Town Centre Conservation Area and its setting

Page 27 - Policy FNP3 Shop Fronts within Farnham Town Centre Conservation Area and its setting

Page 28 - Policy FNP4 Advertisements

Page 29 - Policy FNP5 Great Austins Conservation Area and its setting

Page 29 - Policy FNP6 Wrecclesham Conservation Area and its setting

Page 30 - Policy FNP7 old Church Lane Conservation Area and its setting

Page 31 - Policy FNP8 South Farnham Arcadian Areas

Page 32 - Policy FNP9 Buildings of Local Merit (Undesignated Heritage Assets)

Page 37 - Policy FNP10 Protect and Enhance the Countryside

Page 39 - Policy FNP11 Preventing Coalescence between Farnham and Aldershot; Badshot Lea and Weybourne; Rowledge and Wrecclesham; Rowledge and Boundstone and Rowledge and Frensham

Page 41 - Policy FNP12 Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA)

Page 42 - Policy FNP13 Protect and Enhance Biodiversity

Page 48 - Policy FNP14 housing Site Allocations

Page 55 - Policy FNP15 Small Scale Dwellings

Page 57 - Policy FNP16 Building Extensions Within and Outside the Built Up Area Boundary

Page 59 - Policy FNP17 Land for Business

Page 61 - Policy FNP18 Business Site Allocation - Land at Water Lane

Page 61 - Policy FNP19 Enterprise and Incubation Hub at the University of the Creative Arts

Page 62 - Policy FNP20 Rural Buildings for Business and Tourist Uses

Page 65 - Policy FNP21 East Street, South Street and Dogflud Way

Page 66 - Policy FNP22 The Woolmead

Page 68 - Policy FNP23 Farnham Town Centre

Page 69 - Policy FNP24 Neighbourhood Centres

Page 70 - Policy FNP25 Public Houses

Page 77 - Policy FNP26 Sites for New Outdoor Sports Facilities and Other Greenspace Uses

Page 78 - Policy FNP27 Public Open Space

Page 79 - Policy FNP28 indoor Sports Facilities

Page 81 - Policy FNP29 Protection of Cultural Facilities and Community Buildings

Page 83 - Policy FNP30 Transport Impact of Development

Page 84 - Policy FNP31 Water and Sewerage Infrastructure Capacity

Page 85 - Policy FNP32 Securing Infrastructure

St James Church, Rowledge © Michael Blower

The Farnham Neighbourhood Plan is a new type of planning document produced in Farnham. It is part of the Government’s new approach to planning which aims to give local people more say about what goes on in their area. This is set out in the Localism Act that came into force in April 2012.

If passed at a local referendum, the The Plan contains a vision for the on the associated Map. Nevertheless, Neighbourhood Plan will be adopted future of Farnham and sets out clear in considering proposals for by Waverley Borough Council as the planning policies to realise this vision. development, the Town and Borough plan which must be used in law to Councils will apply all relevant policies In order to develop the Neighbourhood determine planning applications in of the Plan. It is therefore assumed Plan, Farnham Town Council set up the area covered by Farnham Town that the Plan will be read as a whole a Neighbourhood Plan team which Council. It will become part of the and cross-referencing between Plan comprises four Town Councillors Development Plan alongside the policies has been minimised. supported by a number of local Borough Council’s Local Plan. volunteers. The Plan should also be read in The Plan therefore provides the local conjunction with the National Some of the Neighbourhood Plan community with a powerful tool to Planning Policy Framework, Waverley policies are general and apply guide the long term future of Farnham Borough Council’s Local Plan and throughout the Plan area, whilst others and its surrounding countryside for the Neighbourhood Plan evidence are site or area specific and apply the period 2013 to 2031. documents. only to the relevant areas illustrated

4 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Which Area Does the Neighbourhood Plan Cover? The Farnham Neighbourhood Plan relates to the designated area covered by Farnham Town Council.

The Farnham Neighbourhood Plan as with Waverley Borough Council, relates to the designated area covered Hart District Council and Rushmoor by Farnham Town Council. In preparing Borough Council. The neighbourhood the Plan, there has been dialogue plan designation was approved by with the adjoining parish councils Waverley Borough Council on 19 (Alfold Parish Council; Cranleigh February 2013. The area to which the Parish Council; Chiddingfold Parish Plan applies is shown on the Farnham Council and Seale and Sands Parish Neighbourhood Plan Designation Map. Council and Haslemere Vision) as well

Designation Map Town and Country Planning Act 1990 Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 Localism Act 2011 Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 Designation of Neighbourhood Area

Farnham Council Area Wards Farnham Bourne Farnham Castle Farnham Firgrove Farnham Hale and Heath End 0 0.5 1 1.5 Farnham Moor Park Farnham Shortheath and Boundstone Kilometres Farnham Upper Hale

Involvement in the Neighbourhood Plan Process

The Neighbourhood Plan team has followed the necessary legal steps to create the Plan.

The Neighbourhood Plan team has followed the necessary legal steps to create the Plan. Importantly the team April 2012 Neighbourhood Planning Regulations published has ensured extensive engagement with the people of Farnham and others with an interest in the area. Details February / March The first exploratory workshops of the consultation to date have been and November 2012 recorded in the Consultation Statement which is available to download from the Farnham Town Council website at May and www.farnham.gov.uk/shapefarnham Workshops on drafting the plan November 2013 or to view at the Town Council offices.

The Neighbourhood Plan Process is set out here, with the opportunities Spring / Data and evidence collection and interpretation for local involvement highlighted in Summer 2014 Options Creation dark green.

Draft Neighbourhood Plan Pre-Submission November / consultation - testing proposals for the future December 2014 development of Farnham and surrounding area

Spring 2015 / Review consultation; further evidence gathering, Spring 2016 Plan amendment and finalisation

Submission consultation (current stage) Summer 2016 6 weeks

Examination - An Independent Examiner Autumn 2016 will test the Plan

May 2017 Referendum

Adoption - Plan given full weight by WBC to May 2017 determine planning applications if approved at referendum

6 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 How the Neighbourhood Plan fits into the planning system Although the Government’s intention is for local people to decide what goes on in their area, all Neighbourhood Plans must be in line with higher level planning policy.

This means that, within the constraints In order to future-proof the Plan, the imposed by national guidance and Neighbourhood Plan team has also local policy, neighbourhoods should ensured through dialogue with the develop plans that support the strategic Borough Council that the Plan takes development needs set out in Local account of up to date evidence of Plans, including policies for housing any strategic needs and constraints and economic development, and plan identified for the area. positively to support local development, Nevertheless, if passed at a local shaping and directing development in referendum, the Neighbourhood Plan their area. Neighbourhood Plans must will be adopted by Waverley Borough comply with European Regulations on Council as the plan which must be strategic environmental assessments used in law to determine planning and habitats, the National Planning applications in the Farnham Town Policy Framework (NPPF) and generally Council area. conform to the strategic policies in the adopted Local Plan (2002). © Michael Blower

What is in the Neighbourhood Plan? What period does Although deciding where new housing and new employment should go is an the Neighbourhood important part of the Plan, it is about much more than this. The Plan is for Farnham as a whole and looks at a wide range of issues, including: Plan cover?

• Achieving high quality development • Ensuring new development complies The Farnham Neighbourhood Plan which fits well with the location with the European Directive in covers the Plan period from 2013 – relation to Thames Basin Heaths 2031. Adoption of the Neighbourhood • Protecting open space within the Special Protection Area and protects Plan in 2016 would allow for a plan town and providing new open space and enhances other biodiversity period of 15 years. alongside development interests • Preventing coalescence of the • Promoting local businesses distinctive parts of Farnham as well in Farnham town centre and as between Farnham and Aldershot neighbourhood centres as well as on other business sites around the town

• Ensuring the necessary infrastructure is in place to support development

Sustainability Appraisal To ensure that the policies and proposals set out in the Neighbourhood Plan contribute to sustainable development, it has been tested to see how well it performs against economic, social and environmental objectives.

In order to assess the sustainability The Sustainability Appraisal Report impacts of different plan and policy presents the appraisal of this options, an appraisal framework Neighbourhood Plan and demonstrates (known as a Scoping Report) was how the Policies of the Neighbourhood prepared, with input from statutory Plan meet the sustainability objectives consultees. This has helped in of Farnham. The majority of the policies developing the Plan’s vision and proposed in the Neighbourhood Plan objectives, the overall planning have a positive impact on Farnham’s strategy and individual policies that environmental, social and economic work towards achieving sustainable wellbeing. Taken as a whole, the development, offering economic, policies of the Plan have no net social and environmental benefits. At negative impact, and therefore no each stage in the Neighbourhood Plan additional mitigation is required. The preparation, an assessment has been overall effect of the implementation undertaken and recommendations of the Plan will contribute to the made as to how the sustainability of the objectives of sustainable development Plan might be improved. at Farnham.

Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) A Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) screening is required under the European Directive 92/43/EEC for plans that may have an impact on European (Natura 2000) Sites.

The HRA screening has assessed that the Neighbourhood Plan is not the impacts of implementing the screened into the HRA process. Whilst Neighbourhood Plan on local Special the Neighbourhood Plan is unlikely Area of Conservation (SAC) sites. Its to have significant adverse effects on purpose is to consider the impacts nearby European sites, the screening of the plan against the conservation recommends a number of measures objectives of the sites and to examine that could further reduce increases whether it would be likely to have in air pollution within proximity of a significant adverse effect on the European sites and, where appropriate, integrity of the site. The HRA screening these have been incorporated into the concludes that no likely significant Neighbourhood Plan. effects are expected as a result of the Neighbourhood Plan and recommends

8 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 How this Plan is organised The Plan is divided into six sections: Section 2: Farnham Now: a brief description of the town and surrounding countryside today and the key issues that have influenced the Plan.

Section 3: Farnham Future: a vision over the next 20 years.

Section 4: Farnham Neighbourhood Plan Strategy: the broad planning approach for Farnham and how this conforms to higher level planning policy.

Section 5: Neighbourhood Plan Policies: which set out policies to support the overall vision, including site specific allocations for new development. Policies are arranged in the following themes: • Environment • Housing • Business • Farnham Town Centre and Neighbourhood Centres • Leisure and Wellbeing

• Local Infrastructure

Section 6: Monitoring and Review: refers to how the Neighbourhood Plan will be monitored and reviewed.

A wide range of issues have been considered in producing the Neighbourhood Plan.

These are grouped under six themes: • Environment • Housing • Business • Farnham Town Centre and Neighbourhood Centres • Leisure and Wellbeing • Local Infrastructure

The key issues for these six themes are set out overleaf.

The main issues have been identified from research along with issues raised by local people at the various consultation events. The background reports used to help prepare the Neighbourhood Plan are referred to in more detail in Section 5.

A full report of issues raised during consultation is set out in the Consultation Statement.

10 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Environment

Residents are justly proud of Farnham. The underlying geology of the Weald as woodland, meadows along the The historic centre is designated as of Kent, Sussex and Surrey is exposed streams of the Wey and other publicly a Conservation Area for its special in a very small area and the result is owned land (such as playing-fields, architectural and historic character an exceptionally diverse landscape cemeteries and parks and gardens) and combines with an additional ten comprising chalk grassland, flood contribute to the green infrastructure distinct character areas, generally of meadows, sandy heathland and of the town; support the resident more recent development, around the woodland, some of it ancient in urban wildlife and allow the migration town. Within these areas there are origin. These varied habitats support of plants and animals through the three smaller Conservation Areas at a wide range of flora and fauna of built-up area. Great Austins, Wrecclesham and Old conservation interest including several An Air Quality Management Area has Church Lane. There is a high incidence UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) been designated in Farnham extending of heritage assets – Historic England’s priority species. As a result there are either side of the A325 through the register has some 360 listed buildings many areas within and around the town centre due to nitrogen dioxide within Farnham. At Farnham, the town which are afforded international, emissions mainly from traffic. The settlement and transport routes are national and local protected status. capacity of the local transport network concentrated in the valleys of the Wey Farnham is within the buffer zone and impacts on local air quality are which bisect the town. To the north of two European Special Protection potential limitations to significant and south, the land rises into hills and Areas (SPAs) - sites of international development within and beyond the ridges. importance: Thames Basin Heaths and Plan area. The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Wealden Heaths. Flooding has been experienced in the Natural Beauty extends into the Open green spaces, such as Farnham past and, although a major scheme plan area - to the south east of Park (a Grade II listed Historic Park along the River Wey and its tributaries The Bourne and Moor Park areas, and Garden), the Bishop’s Meadows implemented in the early 1970s has with the latter well-wooded areas and the corridor along the A31 give so far proved generally effective, providing an important part of the the town a spacious setting, although any future development must take setting of the AONB and a densely the gap between Farnham and account of potential flood risks and landscaped transition into the town. Aldershot is now narrow and there displacement to other sites. Natural England are assessing are concerns about coalescence. The whether the AONB boundary should Without careful planning, the River Wey corridor, running through be extended to encompass further distinctive character, valued areas Farnham from Wrecclesham Road areas incorporating the River Wey of open space, accessibility to the in the west to Waverley Abbey in the as it enters the town from the south countryside and sensitive landscape east, is recognised as an important (up to the A31) and areas to the south and ecology are under threat from natural asset which fulfils a number of of Rowledge (up to the Long Road). significant and inappropriately located landscape, biodiversity and recreation The landscape forms a backdrop or designed development. functions. These special sites, together which contributes to the attraction of with other natural open spaces such Farnham as a place to live and work, and plays a vital role in maintaining the health and wellbeing of the population. There are a number of areas of high landscape value and sensitivity around the town including to the north of Hale, Heath End and Weybourne in the narrow gap with Aldershot. Farnham Park and the Old Park are of landscape and historic value.

Housing

Farnham’s population has grown by In 2014, the Borough Council consulted Market Assessment (2015) provides 25,000 in the last century to around widely on 4 housing scenarios for the the most up-to-date available evidence 40,000 (2011) and will continue to Borough based on a lower objectively of housing need this has not been grow. The census tells us that in 2011 assessed housing need with different tested and the most appropriate Farnham had 16,707 dwellings (16,050 implications for Farnham. Option 4 spatial strategy for the Borough households) with a predominance of was the first preference for 80% of to meet identified need will not be family housing (68% of homes having respondents and this would have confirmed until a new Local Plan for 3 bedrooms or more). 11,961 (74% of resulted in the need for approximately Waverley Borough is adopted. The households are owned outright or with 1,800 additional homes for Farnham. Waverley Borough Local Plan Part a mortgage or loan, with 1,903 (11.8 %) Farnham is within the buffer zone of 1: Strategic Policies and Sites Pre- available for social rent, 1,829 (11.4%) the Thames Basin Heaths SPA. The Submission Draft, August 2016, signals private rent and 153 (1%) shared retained South East Plan Policy NRM6 the need for a minimum of 2,330 ownership. states that priority should be given to new homes in Farnham (including directing development to those areas homes permitted and built since The National Planning Policy where potential adverse effects can be April 2013 and anticipated windfall Framework states that avoided without the need for mitigation development) in the period 2013 - 2032 neighbourhoods should develop plans measures. In order to comply with this (the equivalent of 123 dwellings per that support the strategic development policy, housing to meet the strategic annum). There has been an extended needs set out in Local Plans, including housing need of the Borough will need period since the adoption of the Local policies for housing and economic to be directed away from Farnham. Plan which covers Farnham in 2002. In development and plan positively to the absence of an up-to-date planning support local development, taking framework the Town Council considers into account any specific policies that a Neighbourhood Plan should be in the Framework which indicate in place to help guide and coordinate development should be restricted. the future development of the area. The Strategic Housing Market Residents are keen to ensure that Assessment (2015) has identified a net development is absorbed within the housing need in Waverley Borough environmental constraints identified of 519 homes per annum as being an and can be supported by sufficient objective assessment of full need for infrastructure to ensure the quality of market and affordable housing over life of existing and future residents. the 2013 to 2033 period with a need When planning new development to achieve a range of house sizes at it is important to understand the Farnham including smaller homes characteristics of each area of the to meet demand from new and older town and designs should protect and downsizing households as well as enhance attractive areas and improve younger families. Addressing the © Doreen Allen those which are less attractive. housing needs of older people will be particularly important in Farnham The Neighbourhood Plan should given the ageing population, with 18.7% plan positively to help accommodate of the population being aged over 65 identified strategic housing need. (2011 census). In addition, the presence In relation to house building, the of the University for the Creative Arts adopted Waverley Borough Local Plan means there is a demand for student (2002) covers the period from 1991 accommodation. to 2006 and clearly does not provide an up-to-date basis for new housing provision within the Borough. Whilst the West Surrey Strategic Housing

12 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Local Economy

In the 2011 census, 20,140 residents Changes to the planning system mean business accommodation and there were economically active, many that there is increasing freedom may be a need to identify further land of whom were working outside of for businesses to change between for modern workshop space. There is Farnham. different uses but the strong local also support for small businesses and demand and good condition of business agricultural diversification. There are over 30 hectares of premises and sites is likely to mean employment space for light and Tourism plays an important part in the that the majority of existing business general business units and residents local economy and is based on visitors premises are retained. However, are keen that Farnham retains a to the historic centre and local cultural some sites are small-scale, out of thriving local economy rather than attractions. Tourist accommodation date, poorly serviced and limited by becoming a dormitory town. The is available within the town and the their location. Outmoded employment market for town centre office space is countryside beyond. land should be considered for housing strong. Other space has good access, development but there is a perceived parking and services and could be shortage of high quality modern regenerated over the Plan period. Farnham Town Centre and Neighbourhood Centres

Farnham Town Centre plays a As local population and spending for redevelopment. Both could provide major role in the local economy. increases in Farnham there will opportunities to enhance the mix of The attractive historic centre is be a need to retain and create town centre uses, particularly retail, the focus for the shopping centre, additional retail floorspace mostly for and the quality of the environment. offices, hotels and cultural facilities. comparison goods. Changes to the There are 10 neighbourhood centres Farnham is the most important of planning system mean that there is within the Plan area and one just the four town centres in Waverley increasing freedom for businesses within Aldershot serving the Badshot Borough with the greatest quantum of to change between different town Lea area. These comprise a cluster businesses and range of comparison centre uses and consequently the of shops, community services or shopping together with a good range neighbourhood plan is likely to have public open space which serve local of convenience shops and services more limited control over the precise communities such as those in The including restaurants, cafes and public mix of town centre uses. Ridgway, Rowledge, the Bourne and houses. There are not many empty There is a mixed use development Weybourne. These provide accessible retail units within the town centre planned for East Street and the services within the town’s discrete and there remains a wide range of Woolmead (a secondary retail communities and help reduce the need independent shops, though these are provision built in the 1970s) is also due to travel by car. under threat from high rents. Leisure and wellbeing

Sport contributes to community life current shortfall which will increase Cultural and entertainment facilities and wellbeing in Farnham and there over time. There is also a shortage of also play an important role in the is a range of sports clubs within the swimming-pool facilities. Farnham wellbeing of residents of Farnham. town. The Borough’s Open Space, has a public sports centre, community Farnham Hospital provides a range Sport and Recreation Study (2012) halls and fitness clubs and reasonable of services and Frimley Park and reviews the quantity and quality of a access to informal open space and the the Royal Surrey Hospitals provide wide range of open space together countryside. It will be important that emergency cover in close and with its accessibility. It concludes that new development is supported not moderate proximities. There are residents in Farnham generally have only by Suitable Alternative Natural several GP practices and a range of good access to open space with the Greenspace where appropriate but therapies available in the town. exception of natural / semi-natural also local amenity space and other greenspace; football, cricket and rugby types of open space to serve new pitches; allotments and children’s residents. open space for which there is a

Infrastructure

A main purpose of this Neighbourhood • Surrey County Council in respect of the local schools and transport network Plan is to ensure any new • South East Water in respect of water supply development is supported by adequate infrastructure development. The • Thames Water in relation to waste water treatment draft Regulation 14 Neighbourhood • Natural England in respect of SANG Plan was discussed in detail with the following infrastructure providers to • Waverley Borough Council in respect of recreation (including the swimming test whether proposed development pool) and open space provision can be supported by sufficient Future development in and outside Farnham has the potential to exacerbate infrastructure to ensure the quality of existing infrastructure issues and it is important that there is existing and future life of existing and future residents:- capacity to serve the new development proposed in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Roads and Transport

There is high car ownership in on the A287 and A325 passes right There is a single rail link to London Farnham; 49.5% of households have through the town causing additional Waterloo and peak-hour trains are access to two or more cars but 12.2% congestion and pollution. The narrow, over-crowded. Rail commuters to have no access to a car (Census historic routes create challenges London and elsewhere need to travel 2011). There is a limited bus service for promoting public transport and to the station by car, as there are throughout the town with services a safe environment for pedestrians no evening buses and thousands of in the evening or at weekends very and cyclists. Nevertheless, the poor workers drive between neighbouring limited or non-existent. There is a environment for pedestrians and boroughs on a daily basis. good rural cycle network but there are cyclists in the town centre needs to The Neighbourhood Plan needs few cycle lanes within the town. Surrey be improved. These are matters for to ensure that the impact of new County Council has prepared a plan the County Council and relate to the proposals can be accommodated showing existing on and off-road cycle management of the highway. As such within the highway network and that routes and desire lines. A scheme of they do not relate to the development more sustainable travel options works is proposed to improve cyclist of land and are beyond the scope of are introduced as a result of new safety at junctions and crossings on neighbourhood planning. proposals. major routes. There is an extensive Parental choice over school places network of Public Rights of Way across in the town adds to the congestion Education Farnham and long distance footpaths as parents drive longer distances to – St Swithun’s Way, Blackwater Valley One of the reasons people move into access a school place for their child Footpath and the North Downs Way – the town is to access good schools. often in other boroughs. run through the Plan area. Farnham has several good schools, which are over-subscribed, and South There are issues related to high Heavy volumes of traffic on major Farnham School remains the best traffic volumes and large vehicles routes and passing through Farnham state primary school in the country, on country roads in Upper Hale, town centre cause congestion at according to OFSTED. Weybourne and Badshot Lea. These peak times and contribute to climate will be exacerbated by significant change, air pollution, loss of amenity The popularity of local schools puts developments in neighbouring and create safety issues. Congestion pressure on school places for the boroughs. on the B3001 (Waverley Lane); Tilford current and predicted populations. All primary schools have undergone Road and the A31 is exacerbated by the The town is bisected by the A31 expansion and at secondary level operation of the level crossing at the Guildford to Alton road which currently Weydon School is undergoing an railway station. forms a barrier to pedestrian expansion programme. movement between north and south The historic town centre suffers Farnham. from congestion on its narrow roads At Weydon School, student numbers and through traffic (including HGVs) are projected to rise from the current number of 1,316 to 1,568 by 2021.

14 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 There remains a strong desire to The school has developed the Weydon new school places arising from expand further and provide a sixth Sports Park in recent years which the new development proposed in form on the site, and the latest includes a number of all-weather the Neighbourhood Plan through application to do this is currently pitches and state of the art facilities increasing school places on existing with the Department for Education. for sporting activities within the school sites. If successful, it is anticipated that a and for use by the wider community. There is a thriving sixth form college further 300 students will attend the Surrey County Council expects to and Farnham is home to the University sixth form by 2021. be able to meet the demand for for the Creative Arts.

Sewage capacity

Thames Water’s five-year plan 2015 – Over the same period, Thames Water 2020 does not contain any proposals is also planning to end the sludge to improve the capacity of sewage liming operations at the STW. treatment works at Farnham and they Thames Water have indicated that have confirmed that the works will be additional wastewater network able to accommodate the development infrastructure reinforcement may be proposed in the Neighbourhood Plan. required in respect of some individual Thames Water have stated that they developments to ensure that there are intend to carry out odour improvement no adverse environmental impacts or works at Farnham Sewage Treatment increased risk of sewer flooding. Works (STW) in the current business plan period 2015 – 2020.

It is anticipated that this work will focus on the most odorous elements of the treatment process, with the covering of the inlet works, and abstraction of odorous air for treatment in an Odour Control Unit. © Farnham Town Council

Water

Farnham, being in the south east of zone 5. The WRMP indicates that, with change and there are future proposals England, is classified as being in an planned reductions in demand from to transfer water into the zone from area of severe water stress. Water the customer metering programme the south by 2040. Nevertheless, is supplied by South East Water and and enhanced water efficiency, this South East Water have assured the their Water Resources Management resource zone will remain in surplus Town Council that in the context of Plan (WRMP) sets out how they intend for average demands for the plan the WRMP their published planned to maintain the balance between period. However, for peak demands a programme will be fully able to satisfy increasing demand for water and deficit is forecast from 2020 onwards, the growth in demands in the zone. available supplies over the next 25 at which time additional schemes are South East Water have indicated that years up to 2040. The plan takes into scheduled to be delivered which will proposed development would need a account planned housing growth as satisfy demand. small amount of local reinforcement well as the potential impact of climate Farnham’s water zone is considered to supply the additional demand at change. The area of Farnham lies to be highly vulnerable to climate specific sites. within South East Water’s resource

The Vision for Farnham

The following vision has strong support from the residents and businesses of Farnham. Our vision is for Farnham to continue to thrive, meeting the changing needs of the local community by ensuring new development of high quality design fits well with, and does not erode, the character of the distinctive areas of the town and is supported by improved infrastructure.

The following is a portrait of how we Farnham remains rich in cultural hope Farnham will feel in 2031. Not activities. The museum, pottery, all of the aspects of this portrait will amateur dramatic groups, opera rely on the Neighbourhood Plan, but societies and musical groups of represent a wider vision for the future all kinds continue to thrive. The of the whole town of Farnham: new performance building is well supported. Farnham remains a most attractive place to live. The distinctive areas of Farnham Castle and its wider setting the town have retained their individual remains one of the main features in the characteristics and the town continues town and the character of Castle Street to enjoy a green and spacious setting. has been protected and enhanced.

The town centre and shops and New development has merged well businesses are flourishing. The cinema with the existing character of Farnham remains popular and the Maltings and its distinctive areas and, where retains its reputation as one of the located at the edge of the town, is well finest Arts Centres in the south-east. integrated into the countryside. Shop fronts have been refurbished to a The areas of high landscape value and very high standard and hanging signs the countryside separating distinctive have been replaced or refurbished parts of the built up area remain along the town centre’s streets and © Farnham Town Council unchanged. Farnham Park and the have become such a feature of the Old Park area, Bishop’s Meadow and town that they are included in the list Bourne Wood have been protected of visitor attractions. The Conservation from inappropriate change and remain Area enhancement measures set beautiful, natural green spaces for all out in the Management Plan and an to enjoy. The importance of the town’s enhanced pedestrian environment are green infrastructure in contributing being implemented with support from to the character of the town and its all local stakeholders. More innovative landscape setting, for the health of traffic controls in the town and the the community, providing sustainable removal of Heavy Goods Vehicles have transport links and for wildlife and improved traffic flows and air quality. climate change benefits has been fully There is a thriving evening economy recognised. with a good range of successful pubs and restaurants, both in the town centre and throughout the whole town.

16 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 The combination of public open spaces, The A31 town centre by-pass has been the inclusion of green space in new extensively planted and improvements development and the protection of made at Hickley’s Corner. Traffic trees particularly in areas where they flows have been made more efficient form part of the character of an area, between the two roundabouts at have resulted in the reinforcement Coxbridge and the Shepherd and Flock and extension of a successful green and there is improved connectivity infrastructure. between the two parts of the town located either side of the bypass. The catchment-wide approach to addressing degradation of the water The sewage plant improvements are environment, in conformity with complete, reducing the problem of the EU Water Directive and taken smells across parts of north Farnham by the Wey Landscape Partnership, and improving the water quality in the welcomed and supported by the town, river. has resulted in many enhancements, There are more sports facilities for designed to improve the natural young and old and enhanced green functioning of the River Wey and spaces across the town for recreational associated wetland habitats. A number use. of specific enhancement projects have been initiated including improved fish Sufficient school places are available passage at Waverley Abbey and in locally at all levels. © Farnham Town Council Bishop’s Meadow, and a fresh wetland habitat at Snailslynch. The extensive network of footpaths and bridleways has been preserved and enhanced by the provision of fresh paths and cycle ways in new development. Access to long-distance walks, converging on the town, has been improved by a safe route across the A31 near the BP petrol station.

Farnham has continued to thrive by adapting and evolving since the construction of its 11th century Norman castle and the 12th century when the outline of the existing town plan was recognisable. The town needs to continue to evolve over the next two decades and the Neighbourhood Plan looks to set out a planning strategy appropriate for the town and its surrounding countryside up to 2031.

The Neighbourhood Plan strategy is areas. The new Farnham Built Up Area and enhancing the town centre as a well aligned with the presumption in Boundary is shown on Map A. vibrant social and economic hub during favour of sustainable development the day and evening. The Plan looks Within the Built Up Area Boundary the contained in the National Planning to protect and enhance the historic Plan seeks high quality designs which Policy Framework (NPPF). The plan character of the town centre, with respond to the distinct character of the positively seeks opportunities to help special attention given to shop fronts individual areas of Farnham. The Plan meet the strategic development needs and advertisements. The Plan also will preserve and enhance the character of the area whilst recognising specific proposes the retention, intensification of the five conservation areas and their policies in the NPPF and retained and regeneration of existing business setting. The distinctive landscape- South East Plan (Policy NRM6). These areas which remain fit for purpose and dominated character of the southern indicate where development should be marketable. arcadian areas of Farnham is protected restricted and seek to minimise any and the Neighbourhood Plan seeks to The Neighbourhood Plan recognises adverse impacts which development preserve and extend the network of the importance of community facilities may cause to the locally-valued green spaces across the area including and services and seeks to protect local distinctive characteristics of the area. parks, recreation grounds, sports centres throughout Farnham together Following a careful assessment of the pitches, rivers, streams and footpaths, with other community and leisure evidence and responses from public allotments, cemeteries and woodland. facilities which are important to the consultation, the planning strategy is social fabric of the town. New housing development at Farnham to focus well designed development must take into account the Special Outside the revised Built up Area on brownfield sites within the built Protection Areas (SPAs) at Thames Boundary, priority will be given to up area of Farnham whilst proposing Basin Heaths and Wealden Heaths which protecting the countryside from further sites for housing development provide habitats for birds which are inappropriate development and the Plan and a new business site on a range of protected under the Birds and Habitats seeks to allow only limited development greenfield sites. Directives. Adopted regional policy outside the revised boundary. In In accordance with the NPPF, the clearly states that priority should be addition to residential extensions, it greenfield sites avoid areas at high given to directing development to those allows the retention, intensification risk of flooding; the Green Belt (and areas where potential adverse effects and regeneration of existing suitable potential extensions to the Green Belt) can be avoided without the need for business sites together with conversions, and the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding mitigation measures. extensions or new buildings for business Natural Beauty (and potential or tourist uses. All development within In summary, this would mean that extensions to the AONB). New proposals the countryside is expected to be of a housing development should be directed have been kept away from areas of high high design quality. away from Farnham. Nevertheless, the landscape value and sensitivity and Plan has taken a pragmatic approach The Neighbourhood Plan also seeks avoid increasing coalescence between which recognises the broad regional to protect and enhance biodiversity by Farnham and Aldershot; Badshot Lea policy but also seeks to meet some protecting designated sites, protected and Weybourne; Wrecclesham and of the housing need locally. Even so, species and ancient woodland and Rowledge; Rowledge and Boundstone housing sites within the area between enhancing Biodiversity Opportunity and Rowledge and Frensham. 400m and 5km of Thames Basin Areas. A built-up area boundary is defined Heaths Special Protection Area (most This Plan has been discussed with the for Farnham which seeks to enable of Farnham) must make provision for infrastructure providers to test whether development opportunities within the Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace proposed development can be supported town whilst protecting its rural setting (SANG). SANG capacity is limited at by sufficient infrastructure to ensure and the surrounding countryside from Farnham Park and without provision of the quality of life of existing and future inappropriate development. The Built further capacity this limits the housing residents. Any development permitted Up Area Boundary is proposed to be capacity of the town. will be expected to ensure provision of extended around the allocated housing The Neighbourhood Plan Strategy the necessary social, physical and green and business sites to indicate the aims to ensure that Farnham does not infrastructure needed to support the acceptance of development of these become a dormitory town by retaining proposed development.

18 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Map A: Farnham Built Up Area Boundary

Environment

Objectives High Quality Design

• To conserve and enhance the distinctive built heritage The NPPF states that good design is a key aspect of assets of the area and their setting sustainable development, is indivisible from good planning, • To ensure development is well-designed and takes into and should contribute positively to making places better for account the distinctive character and heritage of each of people. Sustainable development involves achieving positive Farnham’s individual areas improvements in the quality of the built, natural and historic environment, as well as in people’s quality of life, including • To protect the identity and distinctive character of the replacing poor design with better design. One of the different areas of Farnham and prevent the coalescence Government’s core planning principles is to always seek to of Farnham and Aldershot; Badshot Lea and Weybourne; secure high quality design and a good standard of amenity Rowledge and Wrecclesham; Rowledge and Boundstone for all existing and future occupants of land and buildings. and Rowledge and Frensham Waverley Borough Council’s adopted Local Plan • To protect and enhance the landscape around the town attaches great importance to the quality of design in new including the Surrey Hills AONB; areas of high landscape development. The Borough Council has also adopted the value and sensitivity; Farnham Park and its historic Farnham Design Statement as a material consideration setting and the well-wooded arcadian character of south (www.farnham.gov.uk/designstatement). Farnham Through evaluation, there is a good understanding of • To protect, enhance and improve connectivity between the distinctive character of the whole of the Farnham important green spaces of the whole town, including Neighbourhood Plan area including the special character the strategically important Farnham Park, the Bishop’s of the conservation areas, the distinctive character of the Meadow and the Wey corridor different parts of the town and the surrounding landscape • To maintain the integrity of all Special Protection Areas setting. (SPAs) and SSSIs • To retain and extend the diversity of wildlife and habitats throughout the Neighbourhood Plan area

20 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Map B (i) Farnham Conservation Areas

Heritage

The historic centre of Farnham, and enhance the special character of Lane Conservation Area and its setting together with four smaller areas at the Farnham Town Centre Conservation (Policy FNP7). Great Austins, Wrecclesham, Waverley Area and its setting (Policy FNP2). The Planning (Listed Buildings Abbey and Old Church Lane, are Great Austins Conservation Area in and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 designated as Conservation Areas for south Farnham is a residential area empowers the local authority to pay their special architectural and historic comprising a verdant and spacious grid particular attention to proposed character. pattern development. Wrecclesham development within, and affecting the Farnham is often quoted as the finest Conservation Area comprises setting of, a Conservation Area and Georgian town in the country and it four streets of differing distinctive gives greater control over such matters has at its heart a number of tightly knit characters (The Street, School Hill, as demolition, landscaping and trees, streets lined with listed buildings. The Beales Lane and Pottery Lane). Old and the display of advertisements. Farnham Town Centre Conservation Church Lane Conservation Area The NPPF also seeks the protection Area Appraisal (CAA) sets out in detail contains some of the oldest cottages in of the character and setting of listed the special character of the streets, the town set amongst a well-wooded buildings. Historic England’s register yards, open spaces and landscape that valley. has some 360 listed buildings within make up the Conservation Area The Neighbourhood Plan contains a Farnham. In addition, 350 Buildings of (www.farnham.gov.uk/shapefarnham). specific policy to preserve and enhance Local Merit (buildings and structures Given the quality of the environment the special character of four of these recognised as locally important and the importance of the town centre areas: Great Austins Conservation heritage assets) are also listed. to the whole of Farnham and visitors Area and its setting (Policy FNP5); beyond, the Neighbourhood Plan The heritage of the town provides an Wrecclesham Conservation Area and its contains a specific policy to preserve important context for new development. setting (Policy FNP6) and Old Church

Distinctive Character Area

A key feature of the town is the ten distinct character areas located outside the town centre conservation area. The NPPF supports the promotion or reinforcement of local distinctiveness.

Each of Farnham’s areas has an individual character ranging from the verdant character of South Farnham (Waverley) with single houses in large gardens with mature trees and hedges laid out along roads with wide green verges and street trees - to the small workers’ flint and red brick cottages along narrow, winding lanes in Hale and Heath End.

The Farnham Design Statement identifies the distinctive character of each of these areas and was adopted as a material consideration by Waverley Borough Council in 2010.

New development should respond to the distinctive character of the area within which it is located and reflect the identity of the local context of Farnham. Map B (ii) Farnham Character Areas

Each area outside of the town’s Rowledge. These areas are identified historic landscape of Old Park is also Built Up Area Boundary has its own as Areas of Great Landscape Value in identified as a sensitive landscape. distinct rural character. The Waverley the adopted Local Plan. New development must be well Borough Council Landscape Study – The Waverley Borough Council integrated into this existing townscape Part 1: Farnham & Cranleigh, 2014 Landscape Study – Part 1: Farnham & and landscape through designs (available at www.farnham.gov.uk/ Cranleigh, 2014 indicates further areas sensitive to their context. shapefarnham) includes further of high landscape value and sensitivity information on each. The Neighbourhood Plan contains at Farnham Park and to the north of a specific policy to protect and The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Hale, Heath End and Weybourne in enhance the character of the Farnham Natural Beauty extends into the the narrow gap with Aldershot. The landscape (Policy FNP10). plan area - to the south east of The Bourne and Moor Park areas. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty have the highest status of protection in relation to landscape and scenic beauty. The AONB Management Plan (available at www.farnham.gov.uk/ shapefarnham) seeks to ensure that the natural beauty, special character and the vitality of its communities are recognised, maintained and strengthened. Natural England is assessing whether the AONB boundary should be extended to encompass further areas incorporating the River Wey and areas to the south of © Farnham Town Council

22 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Design of New Development and Conservation Policy FNP1

The Neighbourhood Plan attaches Natural England data indicate that both Design of New Development great importance to preserving and the River Wey and River Blackwater and Conservation enhancing the character of the five are at some risk of flooding along Conservation Areas, together with their full length and some sections New development in accordance other heritage assets and their setting. are at high risk of flooding. One of the with the Neighbourhood Plan will It also attaches great importance to effects of climate change in Farnham be permitted where it: the distinctive character of other built will be the frequency and severity a) Is designed to a high quality up areas within the town. of flooding. The NPPF states that which responds to the heritage inappropriate development in areas and distinctive character of the Development should respect the at risk of flooding should be avoided individual area of Farnham in natural contours of a site and by directing development away from which it is located, as defined on sensitively incorporate natural areas at highest risk, but where Maps B(i) and B(ii) - Conservation features such as trees, hedges development is necessary, it should Areas and Character Areas, and ponds within the development. be made safe without increasing flood by way of: Landscape proposals should form an risk elsewhere. Flood zones 2, 3a and i. height, scale, density, layout, integral part of a planning application 3b (the functional floodplain) apply to orientation, design and materials and be in scale with the proposed parts of the Neighbourhood Plan area of buildings, development. and the Neighbourhood Plan seeks to ii. boundary treatment, The height, scale, density, layout, avoid development in areas with the iii the scale, design and materials orientation, materials and design of highest risk of flooding. of the public realm (highways, buildings should reflect the context of The design and layout of specific footways, open space and the surrounding area. Development sites and residential extensions landscape); should result in an attractive and safe is also considered in the Housing public realm. Roads and car parking b) Follows guidance in the Chapter of the Neighbourhood areas should not dominate the area Farnham Design Statement Plan but Policy FNP1 applies to all and boundary treatment to properties and the Surrey Hills AONB types of development within the such as hedges or walls should reflect Management Plan; Neighbourhood Plan area and sets out that used in the surrounding area. c) Protects and enhances heritage the quality of development that will be assets and their setting; expected for the area. d) Respects the natural contours Farnham has a history of flooding and, of a site and protects and after a particularly serious incident in sensitively incorporates natural 1968, flood measures were introduced features such as trees, hedges which along with a maintenance and ponds within the site; scheme have improved the situation. e) Is well integrated into the Nevertheless, the Borough Council’s landscape by existing and new Strategic Flood Risk Assessment and landscape buffers; f) Will not be at an unacceptable risk of flooding itself, and will not result in any increased risk of flooding elsewhere; and Monitoring Indicators g) Will not result in unacceptable Number of objections to the design of levels of light, noise, air or water development from the Town Council. pollution. Targets No design objections from the Town Council to proposed developments.

Farnham Town Centre Conservation Area

The Farnham Town Centre walls, often associated with a network The green spaces include: Conservation Area Appraisal (CAA) of passages and yards providing gaps • Gostrey Meadow identifies the special character of the which give intriguing views from the • Library Gardens streets, yards and open spaces that main roads. Over the past 200 years make up the Conservation Area and the centre has generally successfully • Museum Garden was adopted by Waverley Borough assimilated Victorian, Arts and • St. Andrew’s Churchyard Council as a supplementary planning Crafts, half-timbered mock Tudor The town centre streets in Farnham document in 2005. and modern buildings. In addition, the have an almost fully developed yards of these buildings, such as Lion Farnham is one of the earliest planned frontage, providing little space for tree and Lamb Yard, Borelli Yard and St medieval towns in the region. Today planting with the trees that do exist George’s Yard mainly in West Street there is little to be seen of the medieval really standing out in the street scene, and The Borough, are important to the town itself, other than the surviving magnifying their importance to the character of the conservation area and street plan (including the wide market character of the conservation area. form a very distinctive element of the street - Castle Street) and property town centre. The water meadows beside the River boundaries. The timber-framed Wey comprise almost a third of the properties which would have lined the In contrast to the tightly knit streets conservation area. This green space main streets were rebuilt or refaced and yards a number of open spaces, forms part of the view of the historic with new red brick symmetrical often with substantial groups of trees, town centre from the Farnham Georgian red brick town houses which are very important to the character Bypass and from the public footpaths dominate the town centre today. The of the Conservation Area. A number that cross the meadows. The rural continuous urban frontages indicate a of these are linked to the town by setting for the historic centre is a very high density, although many properties interesting alleyways or passages. important part of the character of the have large rear gardens with high

24 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 conservation area and complements infrastructure requirements identified Policy FNP2 the rural setting of Farnham Park in the Neighbourhood Plan and sought on the north side of the town centre through Policy FNP32 – Securing Farnham Town Centre (although the latter is not located Infrastructure. Conservation Area and within the conservation area). The quality of the environment and its setting The Farnham Town Centre the importance of the town centre to New development within Conservation Area Management the whole of Farnham and its visitors the Farnham Town Centre Plan (FCAMP) seeks to provide clear mean that it is vital to preserve and Conservation Area, as defined on guidance as to how to preserve and enhance the character of the Town Map B(i), and its setting will be enhance this special character and for Centre Conservation Area and its permitted where it: the enhancement and improvement setting. of the area. The FCAMP was adopted a) Is designed to a high quality In addition to Policy FNP1 - Design of by the Borough Council in 2012 as a and preserves and enhances the New Development and Conservation, material planning consideration and character of the conservation area development in the Farnham Town contains proposals for environmental and its setting; Centre Conservation Area will be enhancements to the public realm b) Retains those buildings expected to comply with Policy which may be funded through Section and other features, including FNP2 - Farnham Town Centre 106 money and the community trees, which make a significant Conservation Area and its setting. infrastructure levy (CIL). contribution to the character of the conservation area; These enhancement proposals are important to the centre of the c) Protects open spaces and views town and are included as part of the important to the character and setting of the area; d) Maintains alleyways or passages and yards and incorporates them into new development; e) Follows guidance set out the Farnham Town Centre Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan; f) Where appropriate, makes provision for the enhancement measures included within Farnham Town Centre Conservation Area Management Plan and the Farnham Design Statement; and g) Does not lead to substantial harm to or total loss of significance of a designated heritage asset.

Conservation Area © Alison Ridgeon

Shop Fronts within Farnham Town Centre Conservation Area and its setting

The town’s principal shopping streets Standard corporate images may scene. A single colour is usually most are located within the Farnham Town need to be adapted to meet particular appropriate but details might be picked Centre Conservation Area, or form circumstances and to respect the out in a contrasting colour. part of its setting. Today the ‘shop character and appearance of the Shop front window and door patterns front’ may provide the entrance to building and the surrounding area. should reflect the traditional design of uses other than a shop such as a café, The choice of materials to be used for the area. The method of window sub- restaurant or bank and the policy a shop front should normally reflect division should suit the character of applies to all types of premises in the the materials of the building in which the shop front and building. Conservation Area. The Conservation it is situated. Use of local materials is Smaller-paned designs are Area contains many fine traditional preferred, including brick, tiles and appropriate to 18th and early 19th and modern shop fronts that are an plaster, with stained or painted wood. Century buildings, such as those important element in the townscape. Plastic is generally inappropriate. in Castle Street, and larger glass A shop front photographic survey in areas are more appropriate to late 2011 concluded that the majority of Mid-18th century shop fronts were Victorian and Edwardian styles, though shop fronts within the Conservation painted in a relatively restricted subdivision may still be appropriate. Area respected the character of the range of colours, using the pigments Conservation Area in terms of design, then available and such colours Internally illuminated signs above shop colour and signage. However, vigilance remain appropriate in reflecting the fronts are generally out of character is needed to protect and enhance the historic character. A shop front colour in the Conservation Area, or if character of the Conservation Area scheme should always be selected attached to listed buildings. However, whilst recognising the importance of to harmonise with the upper floors in some cases it may be considered the continuing commercial role of the of the building and the general street appropriate to illuminate a sign with a town centre.

Within the Conservation Area and its setting, priority will be given to the retention of architecturally or historically interesting traditional shop fronts. Adapting new shop fronts to modern needs can be achieved through sensitive design. Proposals for replacing existing shop fronts will only be allowed where the existing shop front has no particular architectural or historic quality in itself or does not contribute to the character of the Conservation Area. Where replacement is allowed, the design should respect not only the building but also the overall character of that part of the Conservation Area in which it is situated.

All elements of the shop front are important including the pilasters (defining the shop width), the fascia with signage and, potentially, the cornice (defining the top of the shop front) and the stall riser (providing a solid base).

Elphicks© Aldershot, Farnham and Fleet Camera Club

26 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Policy FNP3 small spotlight or some other subtle method of illumination. Painted fascia Shop Fronts within Farnham boards, particularly in wood, are Town Centre Conservation preferred. Area and its setting One of the attractive characteristics of Farnham town centre is the Within Farnham Town Centre proliferation of brackets for hanging Conservation Area, as defined on signs. Some of these are in use - Map B(i), and its setting, proposals many are not, but many remain. In for new shop fronts, or alterations to existing shop fronts, will be the 19th century they took the form of permitted where: realistic trade symbols to identify the trade within. Some examples remain a) The proposal would not result and using these existing brackets is in the loss of a traditional shop encouraged. Hanging signs need to front or features and details of be carefully designed, to be correct architectural or historic interest; in scale, with appropriate colours and b) The proposal would be in lettering used, while still being easy sympathy with the architectural to read. style, materials and form of the building(s) of which it would form They should be safely positioned above part, except in cases where the the fascia of the shop front. building itself is architecturally Proposals will be assessed against incompatible with the character of the criteria of the shop fronts policy the area; and also against Policy FNP2 – c) The proposal would be in Farnham Town Centre Conservation sympathy with the predominant Area and its setting. Additional shop architectural style and materials front guidance can be found within the of the surrounding area; adopted Farnham Conservation Area d) The shop front would be related Appraisal (2005). to the width of the property or a logical vertical subdivision created by the upper storey; and e) Where a fascia is to be applied, it would not be internally illuminated and would be of an appropriate height which would be in scale with the overall height of the shop front and other elements of the building and would not intrude over the first floor level.

Monitoring Indicators

Number of traditional shop fronts in the Town Centre Conservation Area. Targets

No traditional shop fronts lost in the Town Centre Conservation Area.

Advertisements Policy FNP4

Whilst the Farnham Town Centre the character of the buildings and of Advertisement Control Conservation Area contains retail and the Conservation Area. Similarly, a box Within the Plan area, proposals related uses, in most cases, the level of sign (including internally illuminated for an advertisement will be advertising is restrained. signs) will usually be out of character permitted where: due to its shape, lack of intricacy Advertisements and signs, by their and detail, and use of unsympathetic a) It would not be obtrusive in very nature, need to be visible in appearance, cause visual clutter materials. order to attract attention and convey or lead to a proliferation of signs, information. However, if insensitively Standard corporate designs may appear dominant or overbearing designed or positioned they can appear need to be adapted to meet particular in the street scene, or cause as overly dominant or incongruous circumstances whilst the positioning significant harm to the appearance features within the street scene and of advertisements above ground floor of any building on which it would therefore require careful control. level (other than hanging signs) may be displayed because of its siting, not be acceptable as the majority of size, design, construction or In exercising such control over buildings in the Farnham Town Centre materials; advertisements the interests of Conservation Area have retained their b) The level of illumination would amenity and public safety are the two domestic appearance at upper floor cause no significant harm to principal tests which will be applied. levels. residential amenity and Proposals for large, dominant signs Excessive advertising defeats its own c) It would not endanger highway will in most cases be at variance with objective by creating a clutter of signs or public safety.

and destroying the common asset of an attractive, historic environment. Given the important role of Farnham town centre it is reasonable to permit some form of advertising, provided this can be incorporated without detriment to the visual amenities and character of the building or the area. Proposals will be assessed against the criteria of the advertisements policy and also against Policy FNP2 – Farnham Town Centre Conservation Area and its setting. Additional guidance can be found within the adopted Farnham CAA (2005).

28 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Great Austins Conservation Area Policy FNP5

Great Austins Conservation Area in south Farnham is a residential area Great Austins Conservation Area built in the early 1900s on a plateau. Most of the houses were completed and its setting by 1930. The area comprises a grid pattern development on the lines of a New development within the Great Austins garden suburb, with wide, straight and tree-lined streets. Houses are set Conservation Area, as defined on Map B(i), well back from the roads and the area has a spacious character. Gardens and its setting will be permitted where it: and roads were planted extensively, with many trees and the distinctive laurel hedging giving a verdant character to the area. a) Is designed to a high quality and preserves and enhances the verdant and Harold Falkner, one of Farnham’s most famous architects, used the spacious character of the conservation opportunity to build his distinctive style of houses and created twenty area and its setting; in all, in styles including Queen Anne, Wren and Arts and Crafts. In b) Protects the grid pattern layout and is addition to Policy FNP1 - Design of New Development and Conservation, set back from the road and respects the development in the Great Austins Conservation Area will be expected relatively regular building line, to comply with Policy FNP5 - Great Austins Conservation Area and its setting. c) Would not appear cramped on the site and would fit unobtrusively with the house, surrounding garden and the character of Wrecclesham Conservation Area the street; The Conservation Area Appraisal Hedges and trees are particularly d) Retains those buildings and other for Wrecclesham identifies important in roads such as School features, including trees and hedges, the special character of the Lane and Pottery Lane and should which make a significant contribution to the Conservation Area and was be retained and further planting character of the conservation area; and adopted by Waverley Borough encouraged elsewhere in the e) Where appropriate, makes provision Council as a supplementary Conservation Area as a condition for enhancement measures to the Great planning guidance in 2002. of future development. Other older Austins Conservation Area. boundary walls and railings form Wrecclesham Conservation part of the local character and Area comprises four streets of should be retained. differing distinctive characters (The Street, School Hill, Beales In addition to Policy FNP1 - Policy FNP6 Lane and Pottery Lane). One of the Design of New Development and Wrecclesham Conservation Area key features of the Conservation Conservation, development in and its setting Area and its setting is its location the Wrecclesham Conservation on a hillside overlooking the Area will be expected to comply New development within the Wrecclesham Wey Valley. Existing buildings with Policy FNP6 - Wrecclesham Conservation Area, as defined on Map B(i), are generally small scale and Conservation Area and its setting. and its setting will be permitted where it: two storeys, with red brick or a) Is designed to a high quality and render finish with small plain or preserves and enhances the character of slate roof tiles. Some are original the street within the conservation area in farm buildings. Details such as which it is located and its setting; chimneys, window design and b) Retains those buildings and other brick detailing also contribute to features, including trees, hedges and walls, the character. Farnham Pottery which make a significant contribution to the is located within the Conservation character of the conservation area; Area. The workshops and yards, which characterise much of the c) Follows guidance set out the Conservation Area, could benefit Wrecclesham Conservation Area from sympathetic development Appraisal; and and improved landscaping and d) Where appropriate, makes provision for further development along The the enhancement measures included within Street should include hedge Wrecclesham Conservation Area Appraisal boundaries and additional trees, and the Farnham Design Statement. where possible. © Farnham Town Council

Old Church Lane Conservation Area Policy FNP7

Old Church Lane Conservation Area contains some of the oldest Old Church Lane Conservation cottages in the town which are nationally and locally listed. The cottages Area and its setting in this area are varied, which reflects the history of the agricultural workers, who built them dotted among the trees on the hillside leading New development within the Old Church down from Vicarage Hill. There are white rendered examples with Lane Conservation Area, as defined hanging tiles; brick cottages and some with stone and flint detail. The on Map B(i), and its setting will be well-wooded spaces around the buildings should be maintained and the permitted where it: built environment should not dominate the hillsides. a) Is designed to a high quality and preserves and enhances the character The nature of the well-wooded valley and the relationship of the of the conservation area and its setting; dwellings to the lane should be maintained. Old Church Lane, itself, b) Retains those buildings and other becomes a footpath as it drops down to the Bourne Stream. Parking is features, including trees and woodland, difficult in the narrow lanes and careful consideration should be given which make a significant contribution to to this when development is proposed. Vine Cottage is a Grade II listed the character of the conservation area; building and dates from 1800 and is mainly red brick with a slate roof. It was the home of George Sturt, who captured the character of the Bourne c) Maintains the well-wooded spaces in the books he wrote about life in the area. around the buildings and ensures that the built environment does not dominate the In addition to Policy FNP1 - Design of New Development and hillsides; and Conservation, development in the Old Church Lane Conservation d) Where appropriate, makes provision Area will be expected to comply with Policy FNP7 - Old Church Lane for enhancement measures to the Old Conservation Area and its setting. Church Lane Conservation Area.

South Farnham Arcadian Areas

Certain parts of the town exhibit in the range of two to four acres. existing properties. In addition, there strong Arcadian characteristics where may be pressure for large areas of car The narrow, often undulating or winding the landscape is the dominant visual parking or garages but in judging such lanes in these areas are enclosed by element. The well-wooded parts of The proposals the impact of any proposal hedges and substantial numbers of Bourne and Moor Park areas provide on the character of front boundaries, mature trees, often arching across the an important part of the setting of gardens or the street scene should be road to add to the sense of enclosure. the AONB and a densely landscaped carefully assessed. In judging proposals, Hedges and trees abut the lanes and transition into the town. the fragile balance in favour of the development is generally well hidden by landscape dominating the built form The NPPF encourages the promotion or vegetation and narrow entrances. The should be retained. reinforcement of local distinctiveness. verdant edges, discrete development The extensive landscape also forms and the informal highway layout, often Policy FNP1 - Design of New part of the town’s green infrastructure without footpaths or kerbs, create an Development and Conservation seeks and provides habitats for wildlife. The informal rural character to the lanes. to ensure high quality development areas were previously designated within The character of the lanes is unified not which responds to the character of the the Waverley Borough Local Plan 2002 by the buildings themselves, but the distinctive area of Farnham by way of (Policy BE3 – South Farnham Area of verdant landscape framework and the height, scale, density, layout, orientation, Special Environmental Quality). discrete appearance of buildings. Mature design and materials of buildings and trees are also prevalent between and the scale, design and materials of the Large individually designed detached behind buildings forming the backdrop public realm (highways, footways, open houses are set well back from the road and setting for development. space and landscape. In the South and are well screened and generally Farnham Arcadian Areas any proposal, have a minimal impact on the street The dispersed nature of development including extensions and garages, will scene. For example, in laying out Moor leads to pressure to develop parts of also be expected to comply with Policy Park in the 1930s, plot sizes were set at the large gardens within the area and FNP8 - South Farnham Arcadian Areas. a minimum of one acre and were mostly to subdivide existing plots or redevelop

30 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Policy FNP8 South Farnham Arcadian Areas New development in the South Farnham Arcadian Areas, as defined in Map C, will be permitted where it: a) Would maintain the informal rural character and the well-wooded appearance of the area; b) Would retain and reinforce trees and hedged boundaries which are important to the character of the area; and c) Demonstrates that the design, layout and siting of the proposal will not have any adverse effect upon the setting and amenities of adjoining residential properties and the wider residential character of the area.

Map C South Farnham Arcadian Areas

Local Listing Policy FNP9 Throughout Farnham there are A brief description of the special buildings and structures that, while character of each building or structure Buildings of Local Merit not of sufficient special historic and/ is included in the Buildings of Local (Undesignated Heritage Assets) or architectural interest to warrant Merit evidence base accompanying designation as listed buildings, have this plan (www.farnham.gov.uk/ The effect of a proposal on the a distinct and valued local character shapefarnham). significance of Buildings of Local and/or appearance that are worthy Merit will be taken into account to of retention as part of development In accordance with the NPPF, the avoid or minimise conflict between proposals. The Neighbourhood effect of an application on the the heritage asset’s conservation Plan recognises these buildings significance of a locally listed building and any aspect of the proposal. and structures as locally important or structure of character should be heritage assets: taken into account in determining a planning application. In weighing These buildings and structures have applications that affect directly or been identified as Buildings of Local indirectly such buildings or structures, Merit as a result of: a balanced judgement will be required having regard to the scale of any harm • being very good examples of or loss and the significance of the traditional or established style, or heritage asset. unusual type; and The NPPF recognises local listings • being buildings or structures as heritage assets which should be which contribute towards the local conserved in a manner appropriate townscape or have important to their significance, so that they can historical associations; and be enjoyed for their contribution to • remaining largely intact and the quality of life of this and future not adversely affected by later generations. extensions or alterations.

Protect and Enhance Countryside outside the Town’s Built Up Area Boundary

One of the core planning principles town; formal and informal recreational of the NPPF is to recognise the amenities as well as biodiversity. intrinsic character and beauty of the Outside the Built up Area Boundary countryside. The planning strategy priority will be given to protecting for Farnham is generally to focus the countryside from inappropriate development within the defined Built development and the Plan seeks to up Area Boundary (which includes allow only limited development in the new site allocations) and to restrict countryside consistent with supporting further large scale development in the rural economy. the countryside in order to recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside around Farnham and protect the Green Belt; the Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and its setting; landscape of high value and sensitivity; the historic setting of Farnham Castle; the gaps between Farnham and Aldershot and between the distinct areas within the

32 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Landscape Protection

The landscape forms an intrinsic part given to conserving and enhancing the and enhanced by, for example, of the character and setting of the landscape, scenic beauty and cultural protecting the distinctive character town and provides informal and formal heritage in this area which has the of the landscape and managing and recreational opportunities for the highest status of protection in the enhancing the natural features which community and visitors alike. Public country. The NPPF states that planning contribute to this character. In addition engagement in the preparation of this permission should be refused for it has the aim for new development Plan has indicated that the landscape major developments in the AONB other to enhance local character and the around Farnham is highly valued and is than in exceptional circumstances environmental quality of the AONB’s identified as one of the town’s assets. and locally there is no need to allocate nationally important setting. land for development within this area. The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding The NPPF states that the planning The Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty extends to the south system should contribute to, and Natural Beauty Management Plan and east of Farnham within and enhance, the natural and local (2014-2019) sets out ways that beyond the Neighbourhood Plan environment by protecting and the countryside will be protected boundary. Great weight should be enhancing valued landscapes.

Map D – Potential extensions to the AONB

Landscape Protection Cont…

Natural England are assessing There is strong support for an extension The Study indicates that as well as the whether the AONB boundary should be of the AONB into these areas as part of high landscape value and sensitivity of extended to encompass further areas the consultation on the Neighbourhood the areas to the south of the town being incorporating the River Wey as it enters Plan. Pending the AONB boundary considered for AONB designation, there the town from the south (up to the A31) review, the AGLV should be retained for are also areas of high landscape value and areas to the south of Rowledge (up the AONB Candidate Areas and subject and sensitivity at and adjoining Farnham to the Long Road). The AONB Candidate to similar protection as the AONB. Park and to the north of Hale, Heath Areas (see Map D) are identified as End and Weybourne in the narrow gap The Waverley Borough Council Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) between Farnham and Aldershot. Much Landscape Study – Part 1: Farnham & in the adopted Local Plan and as areas of these areas form part of the adopted Cranleigh, 2014 provides the most up of high landscape value which form Local Plan’s Areas of Great Landscape to date assessment of the landscape part of the setting of the AONB (and Value. character, value and sensitivity of potentially will become part of the detailed segments of the countryside The Neighbourhood Plan seeks to retain AONB itself), their landscape character around the town (available at www. the landscape character of the areas of should continue to be conserved and farnham.gov.uk/shapefarnham). high landscape value and sensitivity, as enhanced. shown on Map E, and to avoid allocating sites for development in these areas.

34 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Map E – Areas of High Landscape Value and Sensitivity

Farnham Castle and Park

Farnham Castle ancient species-rich hedgerows) often Farnham Park running alongside a stream or ditch. It is impossible to exaggerate The New or Little Park, as Farnham The northern and western boundaries the influence of the castle and its Park was originally known, is a 320 acre (southern portion) are strongly wooded. setting on the town of Farnham. The medieval deer park, with tree-lined Clay Pit Wood, and other copses around impressive building has gazed out avenues, hidden dells, hills, valleys, it, are designated Ancient Woodland across the town for over eight hundred ponds and streams. It is designated a and provide a strong landscape feature years and its long history lives on in through the centre of the Old Park. Site of Nature Conservation Importance local place names. The refurbished Streams rise in the Old Park and flow and an area of high landscape value Keep is a scheduled ancient monument south through the landscape bordered and sensitivity. It is also a Local Nature and the complex of buildings around by woodland and hedgerows to the Reserve and is designated as a Grade II the Bishop’s Palace, including the River Wey. Bridleways such as Old Park listed Historic Park and Garden. Great Hall, the Norman Chapel and Lane and Middle Old Park and footpaths Large scale development on greenfield Waynflete’s or Fox’s Tower are Grade cross the former park with St. Swithun’s sites should avoid the AONB (and the I listed buildings, with a Grade II listed Way following the course of an ancient AONB Candidate Areas) and its setting stable block nearby. In addition, the track way used for pilgrimages to together with landscape of high value Gatehouse and outer curtain wall, Winchester bordered by an ancient and sensitivity and the sensitive historic which are medieval in origin, are also hedgerow. The landscape comprises landscape of Old Park. There remains Grade I listed buildings. a patchwork of fields bounded by a need for appropriate development The castle has always been surrounded hedges and trees with swathes of dense to recognise the intrinsic character by beautiful parkland. Though this woodland and is of high landscape and beauty of the countryside through has inevitably changed over the long sensitivity with the northern central sensitive designs in terms of scale, history of such an important building, wedge within the Old Park also being height, layout, density, materials and it still retains the character of open of high landscape value. (Waverley landscape. countryside and features of the historic Borough Council Landscape Study – landscape. Part 1: Farnham & Cranleigh, 2014). Old Park As well as contributing to an historic landscape, the ancient woodlands and The historic Farnham Old Park was hedgerows, copses and streams provide located to the west of Folly Hill and habitats for wildlife and form a strong has historic significance as the original central wildlife corridor through the Deer Park for the castle before the landscape. existing (new) Park. The origin of Old There has been a small incursion Park cannot be dated precisely but it is of residential development into this likely to have come about by 1138 when historic landscape west of Folly Hill Bishop Henry of Blois built his castle. along Old Park Lane/ Heathyfields The hunting of deer provided for the Road. Nevertheless, the rural character Bishop’s larder and King John, a great of Old Park is characteristic of North hunter, visited the castle no less than West Farnham (Farnham Design eighteen times. The park also provided Statement, 2010) and should be timber, clay for pottery and tiles (from retained for its historic interest; its what is now Clay Pit Wood) and osier sensitive landscape; its contribution to beds (west of Old Park Lane) providing the setting of the collection of Grade osiers for the basket making industry at 1 and 2 listed buildings at the castle; Crondall. its recreational value and biodiverse The landscape of Old Park still provides habitats. This area forms part of the many reminders of its origin. The adopted Local Plan’s Area of Great original boundary can mostly be traced Landscape Value. The Neighbourhood today, generally marked by road (Folly Plan seeks to avoid allocating sites for Hill and Odiham Road – now the A287) development in this area. or a continuous hedge (in some cases

36 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Map F – Old Park

Policy FNP10 Monitoring Indicators Protect and Enhance the Countryside Landscape value and sensitivity identified in the OA NB Management Outside of the Built up Area Boundary, as defined on Map A, priority will be Plan and Landscape Character given to protecting the countryside from inappropriate development. Assessment. A proposal for development will only be permitted where it would: a) Be in accordance with Policies FNP16, FNP17 and FNP20 in the Neighbourhood Plan or other relevant planning policies applying to the area, Targets b) Protect the Green Belt No deterioration in the landscape c) Conserve and enhance landscape and scenic beauty of the Surrey Hills and scenic beauty of the Surrey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and its setting – including those Areas Hills Area of Outstanding Natural of Great Landscape Value under consideration for designation as AONB, Beauty and its setting or assessed landscape or historic value d) Retain the landscape character of, and not have a detrimental impact on, elsewhere. areas shown on Map E as having high landscape value and sensitivity and Map F Old Park as having high landscape sensitivity and historic value; and e) Enhance the landscape value of the countryside and, where new planting is involved, use appropriate native species.

Preventing Coalescence

Farnham and Aldershot Protecting the separate identity of Farnham is a key objective of the Neighbourhood Plan. The gap between the built up areas of Farnham (at Badshot Lea and Weybourne) and Aldershot to the north and north east is already very narrow. This countryside comprises an area of high landscape value and sensitivity. Any intensification of development in the narrow gap beyond the defined Built Up Area Boundary would have the effect of reducing the separate identity of the two distinct settlements and increasing the coalescence between them and would be inappropriate. The remaining gap between Farnham and Aldershot should be retained to prevent the neighbouring towns merging into one another; to check the unrestricted sprawl of the two large built-up areas; to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment in this environmentally sensitive location and to preserve the setting and special character of Farnham. Even limited new development could contribute to a cumulative undermining of the effectiveness of the Built Up Area Boundary which has been designated with the protection of open countryside and the prevention of coalescence in this area. The separation with Aldershot is supported by residents. The 2014 Green Belt Review by Waverley Borough Council (available at www.farnham.gov.uk) did not propose an extension of the the Green Belt to the north of the A31 east and north of Badshot Lea to protect this gap, although this is supported by local residents. Waverley Borough Council proposes an area between Moor Park and the A31, including the River Wey, as an extension to the Green Belt. This is supported by residents. © Farnham Town Council

Other Distinct Town Areas (Badshot Lea and Weybourne; Rowledge and Wrecclesham; Rowledge and Boundstone and Rowledge and Frensham)

The residents of other distinct areas within the town are The area is identified as an Area of Great Landscape Value also keen to ensure the retention of the separate identity of in the adopted Local Plan. As an AONB Candidate Area these areas. Badshot Lea and Weybourne are separated by already identified as an Area of Great Landscape Value in the the railway line. There is also a single field gap on Lower adopted Local Plan and as an area which forms part of the Weybourne Lane which breaks the built up frontage of the setting of the AONB (and potentially will become part of the two settlements. Whilst currently not of high landscape value, AONB itself), its landscape character should continue to be this remaining gap has an important role in separating these conserved and enhanced. The area to the south of Long Road two distinct areas of Farnham. is also being recommended by Waverley Borough Council as an extension to the Green Belt. The southern part of Wrecclesham marked by the linear development along Echo Barn Lane is separated from The Neighbourhood Plan has defined a distinct edge to Rowledge by an attractive valley occupied by the Bourne the Built Up Area Boundary (Map A). Any intensification Stream and comprising woodland, trees, hedgerows and of development in the gaps beyond the defined Built Up pasture. The valley has a high landscape sensitivity meaning Area Boundary which would have the effect of reducing the it is unlikely to be able to accommodate change without separate identity of distinct areas of Farnham and Aldershot; extensive degradation of character and value. Badshot Lea and Weybourne; Wrecclesham and Rowledge; Boundstone and Rowledge The gap from Rowledge to Boundstone between Switchback and Frensham and Rowledge and increasing the coalescence Lane and Gardeners Hill Road is occupied by farmland and between them would be inappropriate. Even limited new woodland (including Ten Acre Wood) with a small stream development could contribute to a cumulative undermining of running through the centre. the effectiveness of the Built Up The gap between Rowledge and Frensham is located partly Area Boundary which has been designated with the within the plan area and partly in Hampshire to the south. protection of open countryside and the prevention of Most of this area is being assessed by Natural England to coalescence in mind. determine whether the AONB boundary should be extended.

38 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Policy FNP11 Preventing Coalescence between Farnham and Aldershot; Badshot Lea and Weybourne; Rowledge and Wrecclesham; Rowledge and Boundstone and Rowledge and Frensham Development proposals outside the Built Up Area Boundary, as defined on Map A – Farnham Built Up Area Boundary, will be assessed in terms of their potential impact upon the visual setting and landscape features of the site and its surroundings, and the potential impact upon the biodiversity of the area and other relevant planning considerations, such as the impact of traffic and noise. Proposals which either fail to demonstrate that these impacts can be satisfactorily addressed or which clearly lead to the increased coalescence of settlements within the Plan area and beyond will not be supported.

Monitoring Indicators Targets

Number of buildings developed No new buildings outside the Built outside the Built up Area Boundary up Area Boundary as defined in between Farnham and Aldershot; the Neighbourhood Plan between Badshot Lea and Weybourne; Farnham and Aldershot; Badshot Lea Wrecclesham and Rowledge; and Weybourne; Wrecclesham and Boundstone and Rowledge; Rowledge; Boundstone and Rowledge Frensham and Rowledge. and Frensham and Rowledge that increase coalescence. © Farnham Town Council Biodiversity

The NPPF states that in order to minimise impacts on biodiversity, planning policies should: • Identify and map components of the local ecological networks, including the hierarchy of international, national and locally designated sites of importance for biodiversity, wildlife corridors and stepping stones that connect them and areas identified by local partnerships for habitat restoration or creation. • Promote the preservation, restoration and re-creation of priority habitats, ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species populations, linked to national and local targets, and identify suitable indicators for monitoring biodiversity in the plan. Farnham incorporates a network of green infrastructure across the plan area including parks, recreation grounds, river, streams and footpaths, allotments, cemeteries, woodland and arcadian areas with large gardens (Map C). Map H shows the hierarchy of international, national and locally designated sites of importance for biodiversity and Biodiversity Opportunity Areas (BOAs). © Farnham Town Council

European Special Protection Areas

Farnham is within the buffer zone potential capacity of Farnham Park Policy FNP15 seeks the provision of two European Special Protection to accommodate residents from new of smaller dwellings but clearly if Areas (SPAs) - sites of international development based on a reduction in the average occupancy of dwellings importance for the breeding, feeding, the monitored average household size does rise in Farnham there is some wintering or the migration of rare and in new homes and a new visitor survey tolerance in this capacity before vulnerable species of birds. which showed that Farnham Park is additional SANG would be required. operating at a lower capacity than the The Thames Basins Heaths SPA is Certain site promoters have indicated prevailing (precautionary) figure of 75% located in the northern most part of that the effects of their development used as a basis for monitoring SANG the Neighbourhood Plan area. Retained could be mitigated through the capacity. At current monitored levels of South East Plan Policy NRM6 clearly provision of ‘bespoke’ SANG, either on- residential occupancy of 1.98 persons states that priority should be given to site or off-site. Other suitable sites may per dwelling, the Waverley Borough directing development to those areas seek this option during the plan period Council SANG Topic Paper, August where potential adverse effects can be and developers may offer their own 2016, states that the unallocated avoided without the need for mitigation bespoke solution to mitigate against any (enhanced) SANG capacity was 1,370 measures. In order to comply with this adverse effects on the Thames Basin dwellings (at 1 April 2016). This method policy, housing to meet the strategic Heaths SPA. Such mitigation measures of re-assessment has been verified housing need of the Borough will need will need to be agreed by Natural by Natural England and represents to be directed away from Farnham. England. a significant increase in the amount If, after directing development away of SANG available at Farnham Park The Borough Council undertook an from the sphere of influence of the as an avoidance measure. The table assessment of potential opportunities Thames Basin Heath SPA some below indicates a projected SANG for new SANG in the Farnham area development is to be located at capacity requirement of 1,217 dwellings (Analysis of Potential SANG Sites for Farnham, the South East Plan places resulting from the Neighbourhood Farnham for the Thames Basin Heaths limitations on such development. Plan for housing not already taken into SPA Avoidance and Mitigation Strategy, account at 1 April 2016. April 2015). This included potential Policy NRM6 states that within 400m of SANG sites put forward as part of a Call the perimeter of the SPA, the impact of for Sites exercise which accompanied additional residential development on Source of Net the Regulation 14 Neighbourhood Plan. the SPA is likely to be such that it is not Housing Dwellings possible to conclude no adverse effect Further Reg 14 65 In accordance with the Thames Basin on the SPA and therefore residential Neighbourhood Plan Heaths Special Protection Area development would be inappropriate. Housing site allocation Avoidance Strategy, individual SANG granted consent (Garden sites should meet a number of criteria. Where development is proposed Style, Wrecclesham) For example, it should be possible to within a 400m to 5km zone, mitigation complete a circular walk of 2.3 – 2.5 measures will be delivered prior to Windfall contribution 378 km around the SANG. SANGs must be occupation and in perpetuity. It adds (see Footnote 1) perceived as semi-natural spaces with that these measures will be based on Housing Allocations 774 little intrusion of artificial structures a combination of access management (see Footnote 2) except in the immediate vicinity of car of the SPA and provision of Suitable parks. For all sites larger than 4ha Alternative Natural Greenspace Total 1,217 there must be adequate parking for (SANG). The Policy NRM6 standard of visitors, unless the site is intended for SANG provision is 8 hectares per 1000 Footnotes local use. All SANGs larger than 12ha population. Such measures must be 1) In reality, some of the windfall sites in Farnham will be located outside the SPA 5 must aim to provide a variety of habitats agreed with Natural England. km buffer zone and this number represents for users to experience. Access within As the zone of influence of the Thames the maximum number of dwellings from this the SANG must be largely unrestricted source requiring SANG. Basin Heaths SPA extends 5km with plenty of space provided where it is from its perimeter, the designation 2) Amended Capacity of Allocation Sites (784 possible for dogs to exercise freely and affects most of Farnham. Farnham dwellings) minus Policy FNP14(g) West of safely off lead. Switchback Lane (10 dwellings) which will Park is the only designated SANG not rely on the capacity of the Farnham Park A total of 45 sites were assessed serving Farnham and its capacity is SANG as it is located outside the SPA 5 km against the site quality criteria for an limited. The Thames Basin Heaths buffer zone. individual SANG and only part of the Special Protection Area Avoidance restored Farnham Quarry site was Strategy Review 2016 updates the

40 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Policy FNP12 Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA) Within 400m of the SPA boundary, no net new residential development will be permitted, as mitigation measures are unlikely to be capable of protecting the integrity of the SPA. New residential development which is likely to have a significant adverse effect on the SPA beyond © Farnham Town Council 400m and within 5km of the SPA boundary (in a straight line) must considered be suitable and with good as SANG and the outcome of these provide: potential to be brought forward as discussions will be reflected in future i) appropriate contributions towards strategic SANG. Following the site reviews of the Avoidance Strategy. the provision of Suitable Alternative assessment in accordance with the The Wealden Heaths SPAs are less Natural Greenspace (SANG) at SANG Site Quality Checklist, the site of a constraint because Natural Farnham Park; or currently meets 4 out of 14 of the England does not demand the level ii) a bespoke solution to provide must/ should have’ criteria and 3 out of mitigation required in relation to adequate mitigation measures to of 5 of the ‘desirable’ criteria. The Thames Basin Heaths. avoid any potential adverse effects; site currently supports populations and of wintering birds and is known to In essence, this is because the overall support numbers of ground nesting development pressure is less, there iii) a financial contribution birds including nightingales which is a wider choice of alternative space, towards wider Strategic Access should not be disturbed by dog walkers. and therefore the habitats themselves Management and Monitoring To ensure the protection of the site’s are less vulnerable. Nevertheless, (SAMM). nature conservation interests most of certain developments, depending on Such mitigation measures shall be the site would be required to be fenced size and distance, may impact the agreed with Natural England and off with only 10.74ha of the 50ha site Wealden Heaths SPAs and therefore be provided prior to occupation of considered to be suitable for strategic mitigation may be required. This will the development and in perpetuity. SANG provision. Apart from matters need to be assessed on a case by case Where mitigation takes the form relating to meeting the quality checklist basis. Where mitigation is deemed to be of provision of SANG the following requiring resolution, the availability necessary, it will only be required for standards and arrangements will and long-term management of the developments where mitigation has not apply: A minimum of 8 hectares site would also have to be confirmed. already been provided for the Thames of SANG land (after discounting to The current owner is responsible Basin Heaths SPA. account for any existing capacity) for management of the restored should be provided per 1,000 new New residential development which site as part of the S106 Agreement occupants. The SANG should be is likely to have a significant adverse for a 20 year period but one of the readily accessed from, and well effect on the ecological integrity of provisions for SANG is that it should connected to, the development it the Thames Basin Heaths Special be provided in perpetuity (80 years). If serves including by sustainable Protection Area (SPA) will be required the site were to be confirmed it would modes of transport so that it is able to demonstrate that adequate add approximately 500 dwellings to to divert or intercept trips from the measures are put in place to avoid potential SANG capacity. Other potential proposed housing development to or mitigate any potential adverse strategic SANG sites were found to the Thames Basin Heaths SPA. effects. Such measures must be be either longer term (post 2031) based on the Thames Basin Heaths Developments of fewer than 10 prospects or principally serving other Special Protection Area Avoidance dwellings should not be required towns. The Avoidance Strategy Review Strategy, 2016 and agreed with Natural to be within a specified distance of 2016 states that the Borough Council England. In accordance with Policy SANG land provided it is ensured has commenced discussions with NRM6, developments of fewer than 10 that a sufficient quantity of SANG some of the landowners to determine dwellings are not required to be within land is in place to cater for the whether their sites are suitable, a specified distance of a SANG. consequent increase in residents available and, importantly, deliverable prior to occupation of the dwellings.

Other Sites Policy FNP13

There are two SSSIs in the plan area at By working with larger, more dynamic Protect and Enhance Heath Brow (Pleistocene Gravel) and ecosystems, it will be possible to Biodiversity at Moor Park (which is designated for create a wider range of habitats Proposals should protect and its rare alder wet woodland habitat). and their variants, which will in turn enhance biodiversity by: In addition there are several sites increase the ability of the landscape to a) Protecting Special Protection designated locally as Sites of Nature support the largest variety of species. Areas, Sites of Special Scientific Conservation Importance including BOAs are those areas where targeted Interest, and Local Wildlife Sites Farnham Park. maintenance, restoration and creation (Sites of Nature Conservation Importance), protected and There are many ancient woodland of UK Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) priority species, ancient woodland, sites in the vicinity such as Vanners priority habitats will have the greatest veteran or aged trees, and Copse, Moor Park Wood, Monks Wood, benefit. species-rich hedgerows; Edgeborough Wood, Black Lane Wood Climate change is likely to have a b) Preserving and extending and Clay Pit Wood as well as many major impact on the biodiversity ecological networks, in particular mature and veteran trees. around Farnham over the plan period those defined on Map H – Green The Surrey Biodiversity Opportunity and beyond and the network of green Infrastructure, to assist the Areas (BOAs) falling partially within the spaces should be maintained and migration and transit of flora and Neighbourhood Plan area include: enhanced to help wildlife adapt to fauna, including within the built up climate change and facilitate the area of Farnham; and • River Wey and tributaries migration of species. c) Promoting biodiversity • Farnham Heaths enhancements, including In addition, incorporating and • Puttenham and Crooksbury restoration and re-creation enhancing existing landscape features of wildlife habitats within the • North Downs Scarp: Hog’s Back such as hedgerows and trees into Biodiversity Opportunity Areas • River Blackwater new development provides important where appropriate. BOAs identify the most important areas habitats integral to important for wildlife conservation remaining in corridors for wildlife and therefore Surrey and each include a variety of attempts to exploit opportunities to Monitoring Indicators habitats, providing for an ‘ecosystem incorporate biodiversity within and Biodiversity value. approach’ to nature conservation around developments is encouraged. across and beyond the county. Targets

No net new residential development within 400m of the Thames Basin Heaths SPA boundary. All new residential development which is likely to have a significant adverse effect on the SPA beyond 400m and within 5km of the SPA boundary (in a straight line) provides appropriate Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG). No deterioration in the habitats of Special Protection Areas, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and Local Wildlife Sites in the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan area. No loss of ancient woodland, veteran or aged trees and species rich hedgerow. Number of hectares of re-created priority habitats.

42 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Map H – Green Infrastructure

Housing Objectives an up-to-date basis for new housing Option 4 was the first preference provision within the Borough. Where for 80% of respondents and this • To ensure an adequate supply and neighbourhood planning is undertaken would have resulted in the need for mix of housing to meet strategically before an up-to-date local plan is approximately 1,800 additional homes identified needs within the identified in place, collaboration between the for Farnham. environmental constraints of community and the Borough Council Farnham The Neighbourhood Plan should is critical. In developing the Farnham plan positively to help accommodate • To make the best and effective use Neighbourhood Plan, Waverley identified strategic housing need. In of brownfield sites Borough Council has taken an active relation to meeting identified need, role in advising and supporting the • To ensure the development of the Local Plan is out of date; the West local Neighbourhood Plan team, greenfield sites is well integrated Surrey Strategic Housing Market sharing evidence and information and with the adjoining countryside Assessment (2015) is untested and ensuring the Neighbourhood Plan by retaining and enhancing the most appropriate spatial strategy takes account of any relevant up-to- landscape features (such as for the Borough to meet need will not date evidence of strategic needs. woodland, hedgerows, mature be confirmed until a new Local Plan trees, watercourses and ponds) and The West Surrey Strategic Housing for Waverley Borough is adopted. providing a good standard of amenity Market Assessment, 2015 (SHMA) The Waverley Borough Local Plan space and sensitive landscape edges provides the most up to date evidence Part 1: Strategic Policies and Sites available and has identified a net Pre-Submission Draft, August 2016, Farnham Housing Stock housing need in Waverley Borough of signals the need for a minimum 10,380 homes (519 homes per annum) of 2,330 new homes in Farnham The 2011 census indicates that as being an objective assessment of (including homes permitted and Farnham had 16,707 dwellings (16,050 full need for housing over the 2013 to built since April 2013 and anticipated households). There is a predominance 2033 period. Whilst the West Surrey windfall development) in the period of family housing (68% of homes Strategic Housing Market Assessment 2013 - 2032 (the equivalent of 123 having 3 bedrooms or more). There is (2015) provides the most up-to-date dwellings per annum). The emerging an emphasis on owner occupied homes evidence of housing need available this strategic housing provision for the with 11,961 (74% of households) owned has not been tested or subjected to Neighbourhood Plan period of 2013 – outright or with a mortgage or loan, robust challenge. 2031 is therefore approximately 2214 1,903 (11.8 %) available for social rent, dwellings. 1,829 (11.4%) private rent and 153 (1%) In 2014, the Borough Council shared ownership. consulted widely on 4 housing In relation to the Farnham scenarios for the Borough based Neighbourhood Plan area, there are Housing Requirement on a lower objectively assessed specific regional and national policies housing need with different which indicate development should The National Planning Policy implications for Farnham. be restricted. Framework states that neighbourhoods should develop plans that support the strategic development needs set out in Local Plans, including policies for housing and economic development and plan positively to support local development, taking into account any specific policies in the Framework which indicate development should be restricted. In relation to house building, the adopted Waverley Borough Local Plan (2002) covers the period from 1991 to 2006 and clearly does not provide © Michael Blower

44 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Farnham is within the buffer zone Consultation on the Neighbourhood of two European Special Protection Plan has shown that residents are Areas (SPAs) - sites of international keen to see development absorbed importance for the breeding, feeding, within the environmental constraints wintering or the migration of rare identified and can be supported by and vulnerable species of birds. The sufficient infrastructure to ensure retained South East Plan Policy NRM6 the quality of life of existing and states that priority should be given to future residents. When planning directing development to those areas new development it is important to where potential adverse effects can be understand the characteristics of avoided without the need for mitigation each area of the town and designs measures. In order to comply with this should protect and enhance attractive policy, housing to meet the strategic areas and improve those which are housing need of the Borough will need less attractive. Within the constraints to be directed away from Farnham. operating in the Borough, the Neighbourhood Plan plans positively If, after directing development away to help accommodate identified from the sphere of influence of the strategic housing need. Thames Basin Heaths SPA, some development is to be located at Housing Supply Farnham, the retained South East Plan policy and NPPF places limitations on Housing Completions such development. Policy NRM6 states The Neighbourhood Plan period is that within 400m of the perimeter from 2013 – 2031. There were 180 of the SPA, the impact of additional housing completions in the years residential development on the SPA is 2013/14 to 2015/16 and therefore likely to be such that it is not possible these form part of the Plan’s housing to conclude no adverse effect on land supply. the SPA and therefore residential Sites with Planning Permission development would be inappropriate. Farnham had sites with planning Where development is proposed permission for 794 dwellings (net) at within a 400m to 5km zone, mitigation 31 March 2016. Many of the housing measures will be delivered prior to allocation site options included within occupation and in perpetuity. It adds the Regulation 14 Neighbourhood Plan that these measures will be based on have since come forward and been a combination of access management granted planning permission by the of the SPA and provision of Suitable Borough Council, including Garden Alternative Natural Greenspace Style, Wrecclesham since 31 March (SANG). The Policy NRM6 standard of 2016. SANG provision is 8 hectares per 1000 population. Such measures must be agreed with Natural England.

Other than Farnham Park which has a capacity to accommodate residents from approximately 1,370 dwellings (1 April 2016), no suitable alternative strategic SANG site is available to support additional housing in the period to 2031.

Windfall Sites permitted development rights (prior it is reasonable to expect this rate to As set out in the Planning Strategy, notifications) are extended to allow the continue during the Plan period from housing development is expected to change of use from a greater number 2019/20. Prior to this date there is a come forward within the Farnham Built of uses to residential development. risk of double counting the windfall Up Area Boundary subject to meeting There is a danger if the capacity of sites with planning permission and the policies of the Neighbourhood windfall sites is underestimated that these early years have therefore been Plan. Over the past 11 years, small the demand for SANG from this type of excluded. Small scale windfall sites are sites of less than 5 dwellings small scale sustainable development therefore expected to contribute 180 (excluding residential gardens) have would not be taken into account – so dwellings over the Plan period. frustrating the development of suitable, made a regular contribution towards It is difficult to capture all land owners’ often brownfield, sites within the Built the housing land supply in the intentions for the long term and, Up Area Boundary. Neighbourhood Plan area. A total of whilst every effort has been made to 103 dwellings have been completed There remain opportunities for small allocate suitable sites over 0.2ha, this is over this period at an average of 9.4 scale changes of use, redevelopment based on current known land owners’ dwellings per annum (excluding garden and infill development as windfall intentions. For this reason the Borough land). However, the Neighbourhood developments over the remainder Council has calculated a windfall Plan threshold for site allocations is of the Plan period, if developed in allowance of 198 dwellings at Farnham 0.2ha (equating to 6 dwellings at a accordance with Policy FNP1 - Design on large sites for the last 7 years of the density of 30 dwellings per hectare of New Development and Conservation. Plan period (2024/25 – 2030/31) based or 10 dwellings at 50 dwellings per For these reasons it is estimated that on the average per annum over the last hectare). By using the Waverley sites of below 0.2ha will generate an 11 years. Borough Council estimate there is average of 15 dwellings per annum. A total windfall supply of 378 dwellings therefore a potential to underestimate Since sites below 0.2ha are not is therefore anticipated at Farnham up the contributions from small sites. allocated in the Neighbourhood Plan, This may particularly be the case as to 2031.

Summary In total Farnham is already committed to 1,417 dwellings (31 March 2016).

At current occupancy rates (and even Net Dwellings if these were to increase slightly) Sites which have already been completed (in the period 180 there is sufficient SANG capacity at 2013/14 – 2015/16) Farnham Park to mitigate against the adverse effects of the housing Large Sites with planning permission at 31 March 2016 695 projected to come forward as a result of the Neighbourhood Plan. Waverley Further Reg 14 Neighbourhood Plan housing site allocation 65 Borough Council is monitoring the granted consent (Garden Style, Wrecclesham) situation closely and is actively seeking further provision whilst Small Sites with planning permission at 31 March 2016 99 bespoke SANG is also allowed should this be necessary. Windfall contribution 378

Total 1417

Source: Waverley Borough Council

46 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Housing Allocations housing development. The sites pitches will need to be provided in avoid the Green Belt (and potential accordance with Policy FNP27 – Public In planning positively to help extensions to the Green Belt); the Open Space. The need for green accommodate identified strategic AONB (and AONB Candidate Areas); infrastructure on site has been taken housing need within the environmental areas of high landscape value and into account is deriving the approximate limitations of the Plan area (particularly sensitivity; Old Park historic and number of homes which could be from new households, younger families, sensitive landscape area; the South accommodated on each site. Other older downsizing households as well Farnham arcadian areas; public open infrastructure provision will need to as the specialist needs of older people), space; areas of wildlife importance; comply with Policy FNP32 – Securing further sites have been identified. Biodiversity Opportunity Areas and Infrastructure. areas at high risk of flooding. Only The Farnham Housing Land Availability The potential housing sites often adjoin the town centre Woolmead site which Assessment, 2016 (FHLAA) appraises existing residential development. has redevelopment potential for a a range of sites put forward by Development would need to ensure mixed use site is located within the landowners for their suitability, that residential amenities in respect Air Quality Management Area. Sites availability and achievability. Only sites of privacy, daylight and sunlight were within the Green Belt (or areas under of at least 0.2 hectares are considered safeguarded, through careful site layout, consideration for the Green Belt) as potential allocations as other smaller property orientation, landscaping and and those which would increase the sites can come forward as windfall sites detailed design. However, the planning coalescence between Farnham and in accordance with Policy FNP1 - Design process is not able to protect a view Aldershot; Badshot Lea and Weybourne; of New Development and Conservation. from a private property. The assessment identifies sites which Rowledge and Wrecclesham; Rowledge are suitable for housing development and Boundstone and Rowledge and The potential density of development during the Plan period. Frensham are not considered suitable. proposed in this plan responds to the The proximity of services and the density of the surrounding development. The NPPF encourages the effective suitability of access for the scale of An approximate housing capacity is use of land by reusing land that has development proposed have also been included for each site. This is based been previously developed (brownfield taken into account. on the approximate net additional land) and a number of brownfield dwellings to be achieved on these sites. In accordance with Policy FNP12, sites sites are potentially suitable for Where available, planning permissions within 5km of Thames Basin Heaths housing development. Business sites granted since 1 April 2016 have been SPA must make provision for Suitable which remain suitable locations for used to inform site capacity. business are not promoted for housing Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG). The NPPF makes it clear that development. However, there are a Sites often contain natural features neighbourhood planning provides a limited number of business sites which (such as trees, hedges and ponds) powerful set of tools for local people to are constrained, have poor access or which contribute to the local character ensure that they get the right types of are less compatible with adjoining and provide wildlife habitats and development for their community. residential uses than a residential use. corridors. In accordance with Policy The Neighbourhood Plan puts these FNP1 - Design of New Development Consultation on the Neighbourhood sites forward as options for residential and Conservation, new development Plan has given the opportunity for development. should respect the natural contours discussion with local residents about The sites have all been confirmed as of a site and protect, and sensitively the density, form, layout, dwelling available by landowners. integrate, natural features into the new mix, landscaping and access for these layout to maintain and extend the town’s sites. Responses from infrastructure Sites have been carefully assessed green network and connectivity to the providers have also been received. against specific policies in the NPPF countryside. which indicate development should be Planning requirements are set out restricted and other factors of local New development at the edge of for each site to ensure development importance (such as the coalescence Farnham must be well integrated into is designed to a high quality and of settlements; protecting the the landscape by existing and new responds to the heritage and distinctive distinctive character of individual landscape buffers of appropriate native character of the individual area of areas and retaining landscape of high species as well as through sensitive Farnham in which it is located as well value and sensitivity). Following this designs. as site specific constraints. These requirements reflect the input of local assessment, greenfield sites at the Other open space such as amenity residents and infrastructure providers. edge of Farnham have been identified space, children’s play areas and sports as potentially suitable options for

Policy FNP14 Housing Site Allocations The following sites, as defined on Map I – Housing Allocations (see Appendix 2), are allocated for housing development. Development which meets the following general development requirements and specific development guidance set out in the detailed site allocation policies below will be permitted: General Requirements Development should safeguard the residential amenities of adjoining occupiers in respect of privacy, daylight and sunlight. The allocated sites may come forward for development in phases, but proposals for development of part of a site which would prejudice eventual development of the whole allocation will not be permitted. Any proposals for development of part of the allocation will be required to demonstrate that they would not prevent the quantum of development set out below from being satisfactorily accommodated on the site.

Policy FNP14 a) Part of SSE Farnham Depot, Lower Weybourne Lane and adjoining land (Gross Area: 3.3ha. Approximate density: 35dph. Approximate capacity: 100 dwellings)

Development Guidance:

Design and Layout There is a significant opportunity to enhance the appearance of this site. Comprehensive development of this site should respond to the local characteristics of the Weybourne and Badshot Lea Character Area as set out in the Farnham Design Statement, 2010. The layout should allow a transition to the southern countryside edge. Prior to development, a review should be taken of the historic landscape character of the land off Green Lane area and any archaeological potential.

Landscape and Open Space The mature hedgerows and trees to the east, west and south of the site should be retained and enhanced to provide a landscape framework for the site and wildlife corridors. Amenity greenspace should be provided within the site together with a small area for children’s play. Features within areas of informal/ natural green space such as mounding or natural elements such as trees and open space will provide opportunities for local play. Access Vehicular and pedestrian access should be taken from the existing access off Lower Weybourne Lane, not Green Lane. The site should incorporate adequate parking provision in order to avoid traffic congestion on Weybourne Lane caused by on road parking. Traffic impacts on the crossroads at Farnborough Road and Upper Weybourne Lane should be assessed. Safe, convenient pedestrian access should be provided through the site to link to the children’s play space to the west via the footpath connection through Land west of Green Lane. A contribution should be made towards the Blackwater Valley cycle scheme between Aldershot and Farnham Town Centres and Rail Stations. Traffic calming measures to minimise vehicle speeds should be introduced within the site to help make streets safer. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan including: - Upgrades to the existing drainage infrastructure which are likely to be required to ensure sufficient capacity is brought forward ahead of the development - Transport measures resulting from the transport assessment.

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Policy FNP14 b) Land west of Green Lane, Badshot Lea (Gross Area: 3.5ha. Approximate density: 35dph. Approximate capacity: 105 dwellings) (in accordance with Planning Permission Ref. WA/2015/2283)

Development Guidance:

Design and Layout Comprehensive development of this site should respond to the local characteristics of the Weybourne and Badshot Lea Character Area as set out in the Farnham Design Statement, 2010. The layout should allow a transition to the southern countryside edge. Prior to development, a review should be taken of the historic landscape character of the land off Green Lane area and any archaeological potential. Landscape and Open Space The mature hedgerows and trees to the east and west of the site should be retained and enhanced to provide a landscape framework for the site and wildlife corridors. A substantial landscape buffer should be provided at the southern edge of development. Amenity greenspace should be provided within the site together with a small area for children’s play. Features within areas of informal/ natural green space such as mounding or natural elements such as trees and open space will provide opportunities for local play. Access Vehicular and pedestrian access should be taken from the nearest point along Green Lane from Lower Weybourne Lane. The site should incorporate adequate parking provision in order to avoid traffic congestion on Weybourne Lane caused by on road parking. Traffic impacts on the crossroads at Farnborough Road and Upper Weybourne Lane should be assessed. The footpath along the southern edge of the site should be retained to provide access to the children’s play space to the west and a contribution made towards the Blackwater Valley cycle scheme between Aldershot and Farnham Town Centres and Rail Stations. Measures should be provided to promote the use of that part of Green Lane not required for vehicular access for walking and cycling only. Traffic calming measures to minimise vehicle speeds within the site should be introduced to help make streets safer. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan including: - Upgrades to the existing drainage infrastructure which are likely to be sought to ensure sufficient capacity is brought forward ahead of the development - Transport measures resulting from the transport assessment.

Policy FNP14 c) Land at Little Acres Nursery and south of Badshot Lea (Gross Area: 4.4ha. Approximate density: 30dph. Approximate capacity: 125 dwellings)

Development Guidance:

Design and Layout Comprehensive development of this site should respond to the local characteristics of the Weybourne and Badshot Lea Character Area as set out in the Farnham Design Statement, 2010. The layout should allow a transition to the southern countryside edge with views south from the recreation ground retained through the layout and scale of development. Materials should be in keeping with existing materials in Badshot Lea (stone, slate, brick, tile, render, Victorian red brick and flint). Development should be a maximum of two stories in height. Visitors parking should be sited near the recreation ground to allow additional parking capacity for the recreation ground when available. Landscape and Open Space A new landscape buffer should be provided to the southern and eastern boundaries and to the recreation ground to the north. The mature tree line to the west should be retained. Amenity greenspace should be provided within the site. Access Two vehicular access points should be provided from Badshot Lea Road to the west and St Georges Road to the east. Safe, convenient footpath links should be provided from the site to the recreation ground to the north as well as lighting on Footpath 112 between Badshot Lea Road and St. Georges Road and a contribution towards the Blackwater Valley cycle scheme between Aldershot and Farnham Town Centres and Rail Stations. Pedestrian crossing facilities, environmental enhancements and capacity improvements should be provided at the junction of St. Georges Road with Badshot Lea Road. Traffic calming measures to minimise vehicle speeds should be introduced within the site to help make streets safer. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan including: - Upgrades to the existing drainage infrastructure which are likely to be required to ensure sufficient capacity is brought forward ahead of the development - Transport measures resulting from the transport assessment - Community space/building is suggested by the developer – this should be considered for use by the recreation ground as a sports facility such as changing rooms.

Policy FNP14 d) Land between Hale Road and Guildford Road (Gross Area: 0.2ha. Approximate density: 50dph. Approximate capacity: 10 dwellings) Development Guidance: Design and Layout Houses should front directly onto Guildford Road and the development should respond to the local characteristics of the Central Farnham – Outside Conservation Area Character Area as set out in the Farnham Design Statement, 2010. The site would suit an innovative design using traditional materials. Landscape and Open Space The treed boundary to the north should be retained. Access Access should be provided to allow safe turning in and out of Guildford Road. Sufficient resident and visitor parking

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should be provided on site to avoid congestion caused by on-road parking on Guildford Road. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Policy FNP14 e) Colemans Yard, Wrecclesham Road (Gross Area: 0.24ha. Approximate density: 50dph. Approximate capacity: 10 dwellings) Development Guidance: Design and Layout The site is located in the Wrecclesham Conservation Area and adjoining a listed building. Comprehensive development of this site should preserve and enhance the character of the conservation area and the setting of the listed building whilst providing satisfactory amenity for future occupants. Development should not exceed two storeys in height in order to respect the setting of the adjacent listed building. Landscape Existing trees and landscaping on site should be retained. Access Vehicular access should be taken from the existing access off the mini roundabout on Wrecclesham Road. The site will need to provide adequate parking provision in order to avoid detracting from the street scene and traffic congestion caused by on road parking. Safe and convenient links should be made to the footpath network. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Policy FNP14 f) Coal Yard, The Street, Wrecclesham Hill (Gross Area: 0.28ha. Approximate density: 50dph. Approximate capacity: 9 dwellings) (in accordance with Planning Permission Ref. WA/2016/1264) Development Guidance: Design and Layout The site is located in the Wrecclesham Conservation Area. Comprehensive development of this site should preserve and enhance the character of the conservation area whilst providing satisfactory amenity for future occupants. Houses should front onto Wrecclesham Hill and should be well designed in order to enhance the street scene. The development should respond to the local characteristics of the Wrecclesham Character Area as set out in the Farnham Design Statement, 2010. Landscape New singular specimen trees should feature amongst a tight urban development. Access Access should be provided to allow safe turning in and out of The Street and safe and convenient links should be made to the footpath network. The site should provide adequate parking provision in order to avoid traffic congestion caused by on road parking. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan including: - Upgrades to the existing drainage infrastructure which are likely to be required to ensure sufficient capacity is brought forward ahead of the development.

Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 www.farnham.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplan 51 Policy FNP14 g) West of Switchback Lane, Rowledge (Gross Area: 2.3ha. Approximate density: 5dph. Approximate capacity: 10 dwellings) Development Guidance: Design and Layout An informal low density development should respect the woodland setting and treed site. The northern part of the site should be very low density. Design should be in keeping with Mayfield estate with a mix of designs and enhance the character of the area. Maximum height for new homes should be single or two storeys. Landscape Mature trees on the boundary and within the site should be retained. Access A safe and suitable access should be provided off Pear Tree Lane and proposals should seek to promote sustainable travel and the adoption of Pear Tree Lane. The northern part of site could be accessed off Shrubbs Lane. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Policy FNP14 h) The Woolmead, (East Street) (Gross Area: 0.8ha. Approximate density: 125dph. Approximate capacity: 51 dwellings) (in accordance with Planning Permission Ref. WA/2015/2387) Development Guidance: See Policy FNP22 - The Woolmead Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan including: - Upgrades to the existing drainage infrastructure which are likely to be required to ensure sufficient capacity is brought forward ahead of the development.

Policy FNP14 i) Coxbridge Farm, off West Street, (Gross Area: 12.36ha. Approximate density: 30dph. Approximate capacity: 350 dwellings) Development Guidance: Design and Layout The site abuts a cluster of listed buildings in the southern corner and the design and layout of development should preserve the special architectural and historic interest of these buildings and their setting. The development should respond to the local characteristics of the North West Farnham Character Area as set out in the Farnham Design Statement, 2010. Built development should be focused on the parts of the site at lowest risk of flooding (Flood Zone 1). A Flood Risk Assessment will be required given that part of the site lies within an area of identified high and medium flood risk. Traditional materials such a red brick and a limited palette of materials should be used. The layout should have a hierarchy of streets and spaces forming distinctive areas within the site. Focal points should be created within the layout (providing some variety in design and colour at landmark locations). Houses should front on to, and be set back from, West Street with the existing hedge and supplementary tree planting providing a green buffer to minimise visual impact on this entry point to the town. The slope of the site should be considered when planning the scale and height of buildings. Buildings should not exceed two storeys in height. A sufficient green buffer must be provided to the rear of Hazel Road by way of long back gardens backing on to existing gardens to minimise visual and amenity impact on existing properties. The layout should allow a transition of densities reducing towards the countryside at the north of the site.

52 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Landscape and open space The existing residential development forms an abrupt edge with the countryside and development should be sensitively landscaped to allow a transition to the countryside edge with landscape buffers to the west and north. The existing hedgerows on West Street and through the site should be retained with the hedge on West Street supplemented by tree planting to provide a green buffer. Amenity greenspace should be provided within the site together with a small area for children’s play. On site play space should be central to the scheme, forming an integral part of the layout. Features within areas of informal/ natural green space such as mounding or natural elements such as trees and open space will provide opportunities for local play. Access Satisfactory access arrangements should be provided, including from West Street. Traffic calming measures to minimise vehicle speeds should be introduced within the site to help make streets safer. A footpath should be provided within the southern landscaped buffer within the site along West Street, to provide a safe and suitable pedestrian access from the west. Footpaths should be provided through and around the site and should link to the existing public footpath to the north. Pedestrian access should be provided from the site to the Town Centre, Potters Gate School and West Street. A pedestrian crossing to West Street may be required. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan including: - Upgrades to the existing drainage infrastructure which are likely to be required to ensure sufficient capacity is brought forward ahead of the development

Policy FNP14 j) Part of Farnham College (Tennis Courts) (Gross Area: 0.45ha. Approximate density: 30dph. Approximate capacity: 14 dwellings) (in accordance with Planning Permission Ref. WA/2014/2119) Development Guidance: Design and Layout The development should respond to the local characteristics of the Firgrove Character Area as set out in the Farnham Design Statement, 2010. Houses should front on to, and be set back from, Firgrove Hill and should be well designed in order to enhance the street scene. A courtyard layout would be appropriate. Buildings should not exceed two storeys in height. The residential amenity and privacy of existing properties surrounding the site must be safeguarded. Landscape and Open Space A replacement multi-use games area should be provided prior to development taking place. The new access should minimise impact on the hedge and trees fronting the site. The existing trees and hedge on the northern boundary and fronting the site should be protected (other than at the access point) and should be enhanced elsewhere on the frontage. New singular specimen trees should feature within the layout. Access Access should be provided from Firgrove Hill. The site should incorporate adequate parking provision in order to avoid traffic congestion on Firgrove Hill caused by on road parking. Infrastructure Contributions will be sought to meet the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan including: - Upgrades to the existing drainage infrastructure which are likely to be required to ensure sufficient capacity is brought forward ahead of the development.

The total additional dwellings for the Plan period (2013 – 31) is therefore approximately 2,201 as set out below. Allocations and anticipated windfall contributions are within Monitoring Indicators the remaining capacity of Farnham Park SANG. The total supply generally meets the Number of new dwellings delivered emerging strategic provision for the Plan period of 2,214 dwellings. within the Neighbourhood Plan area during the Plan period (net)

Source of Housing Supply Net Dwellings Number of new dwellings delivered Sites which have already been completed (in the period 180 on allocated housing sites within the Plan period (net) 2013/14 – 2015/16) Number of new dwellings delivered Large Sites with planning permission at 31 March 2016 695* on allocated housing sites within the Plan period (net) Further Reg 14 Neighbourhood Plan housing site allocation 65 granted consent (Garden Style, Wrecclesham) Targets

Small Sites with planning permission at 31 March 2016 99 2,201 new dwellings (net) over the plan period.

Windfall contribution 378 At least 784 new dwellings on allocated housing sites. Housing Allocations 784 At least 378 new dwellings on Total 2,201 windfall sites.

Footnote: - *Includes Planning Permissions Ref. WA/2015/2185 (2-3 The Borough, 11 dwellings) and WA/2015/2389 (25-27 Hurlands Close - 10 dwellings) which had resolutions to permit but no decision notices issued as of 31/3/16

Locally Appropriate Housing Size of Dwelling their needs change whilst ensuring a mix and integration of house types Mix to meet identified need In terms of the size of new homes, within the town, smaller 1 or 2 Farnham currently has a predominance Affordable Housing bedroom dwellings will be encouraged of family housing (68% of homes on smaller sites within the built up area The Strategic Housing Market having 3 bedrooms or more, 23% 2 (less than 0.2ha) where they would fit Assessment (www.farnham.gov.uk/ bedrooms and 9% 1 bedroom). Table well with the character of the area in shapefarnham) (SHMA) identifies 2 summarises the housing need for accordance with Policy FNP1 - Design that there is a need for affordable Farnham based on the SHMA, indicating of New Development and Conservation. housing (including for rent and shared a need for some additional smaller ownership) across Waveley Borough. homes over the Plan period. Research Smaller scale dwellings will also be The adopted Local Plan seeks at least shows that there is a growing need sought on larger sites (0.2ha and 30% of the number of net new dwellings for smaller units in Farnham to meet above) where there is the opportunity provided are in the form of subsidised demand from newly forming household to ensure a mix of development within affordable housing developments on and younger families as well as older the layout. The precise number of 1 or sites involving 15+ net new dwellings downsizing households. In addition, the 2 bedroom dwellings will be negotiated or sites of 0.5 ha or larger. The adopted presence of the University of Creative on each scheme. Where developers Local Plan policy will continue to be Arts means there is a demand for consider that accommodating a applied to development in Farnham student accommodation. number of 1 or 2 bedroom units would until the emerging Local Plan sets an have serious implications for the In order to meet an identified local updated policy based on the SHMA viability of developments, the Council need and to meet the objectives (www.farnham.gov.uk/shapefarnham) will encourage an ‘open book’ approach of enabling local people to stay in in the context of an evolving national and where necessary will operate the Farnham throughout their lifetime as policy framework. policy flexibly.

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Policy FNP15 Small Scale Dwellings Proposals for 1 or 2 bedroom dwellings on smaller sites within the built up area will be encouraged where they would fit well with the character of the area. Proposals for residential development on larger sites will be permitted if they incorporate an element of 1 or 2 bedroom dwellings, subject to other policies in the Plan. Proposals for sheltered housing, extra care housing and nursing homes for older people will be encouraged on suitable sites in areas close to a range of services that provide for their needs.

Monitoring Indicators

Farnham is experiencing a steady The Neighbourhood Plan supports this Number of new development increase in the number of its provision of such housing where it is proposals delivered with some 1 or 2 bedroom dwellings. population over retirement age situated in suitable locations due to the proximity to facilities, local amenity and This trend is likely to continue and will the gentle topography of the area. Targets result in more very old people. While most older people prefer to remain in All new developments on sites their own homes, the ageing population larger than 0.2ha to include 1 or 2 bed dwellings. will also mean some increased provision will be needed of housing specifically designed for older people who are likely to require community care or accommodation in nursing homes.

Table 2 Farnham Housing Need

Tenure 1 Bedroom 2 Bedroom 3 Bedroom 4+ Bedroom

Affordable housing 45.0% 28.7% 24.3% 1.9%

Market housing 8.1% 31.9% 39.7% 20.4%

Source: West Surrey SHMA Waverley Sub-Area Addendum, November 2015: Tables 15/18

Extensions Within and Outside the Built Up Area Boundary appropriate to distinctive areas identified in the Farnham Design Statement

Over the next 20 years, existing homes Scale, Height and Form Spacing and businesses within and outside the The overall scale, height and form of In terms of spacing between buildings, built up area will be extended to adapt an extension are important factors an extension to the side of a property to changing needs. The siting, scale, in achieving a successful design should normally be acceptable if it does form and materials of extensions to and should fit unobtrusively with not have a significant adverse impact on existing buildings should be in keeping the building and its setting and be the nature of space between buildings. with the original property and the compatible with the surrounding If the resultant space would be out of street scene. Consistent with Policy properties. An extension should be character in the street scene, when the FNP1 - Design of New Development subservient to the original dwelling and gaps - that are often associated with and Conservation, extensions should not dominate the original building or the landscaping or allowing longer views be designed to a high quality and locality. A range of devices are available - are important elements, then the should respond to the heritage and to subordinate an extension such as extension is unlikely to be suitable. distinctive character of the area of setbacks from the building line, lower Farnham in which they are situated. roofs, changes in materials or detailing. Extensions should also reflect the Where visible from public view, roof identity of the local context by way shape is critical to creating a successful of height, scale, spacing, design and built form. The pitch of extension roofs materials of buildings and respect should normally be as, or similar to, the the amenities of adjoining residents. roof pitch of the main property.

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Policy FNP16 Materials Privacy, Daylight, Sunlight and Outlook Building Extensions Within Good quality design relies on the choice Extensions should respect the and Outside the Built Up and combination of materials. The amenities of adjoining residents Area Boundary choice of materials should respond regarding privacy, daylight, sunlight and Building extension will be to, and reinforce, the character of the immediate outlook. permitted where it meets the area and generally, the materials of an Extensions can materially affect the following criteria: extension should match those used on privacy of adjoining occupiers. In order a) The scale, height and form fit the original building. However, often to safeguard the privacy of neighbours, unobtrusively with the existing secondary buildings or extensions windows in extensions should avoid building and the character of the were traditionally erected in different overlooking windows of habitable rooms street scene; materials which can help reinforce in any adjoining property at a close b) Spacing between buildings the subservience of the extension and distance and the private amenity area would respect the character of the maintain the visual primacy of the immediately adjacent to the rear of an street scene; original. Hence, if it is compatible with adjoining dwelling. the materials of the existing building, it c) Materials are compatible with Overshadowing occurs when an could be appropriate to use other local the materials of the existing extension is in such a location, and/or is materials on an extension. building; of a size that it would cause significant d) The traditional boundary Boundary Treatment overshadowing of a neighbour’s treatment of an area is retained property or amenity space. An extension The boundaries to properties such and, where feasible, reinforced; as hedges or walls have a significant should be designed to avoid any and significant loss of daylight or the cutting impact on the character of an area and e) The privacy, daylight, sunlight out of sunlight for a significant part of its visual amenity. They help enclose and outlook of adjoining residents the day to principal rooms (including the road space, define the boundary are safeguarded. between public and private space and lounge, dining room, kitchen and act as a strong link to the history and bedrooms) in neighbouring properties distinctive character of the area and or private amenity space. locally derived materials. When adding Daylight is the volume of natural an extension to a property, the proposal light that enters a building to provide should retain and, where feasible, satisfactory illumination of internal reinforce the traditional boundary accommodation between dawn and treatment of an area. dusk. Sunlight refers to direct sunshine Monitoring Indicators and is very much brighter than ambient Innovative Design daylight. Number of objections to the design Subject to the context, it may be of residential extensions from the Extensions should not significantly possible to arrive at an innovative Town Council. adversely affect the immediate design which responds to the positive outlook from neighbours’ windows. features of the existing building and the Targets For example, extensions should be area and ensures sufficient references designed to avoid having an outlook No design objections from the to reinforce the distinctive character from a main window, which is part of a Town Council to proposed residential of the building and its surrounding large wall of a residential extension. extensions. context.

Business Objectives evidence of business needs available industrial sites to help maintain this this has not been tested or subjected to buoyant and balanced local economy • To support a balanced local economy robust challenge. and to consider the release of surplus with a thriving town centre office sites that are no longer fit for purpose. sector and a range of business units • Retention, intensification and (including for creative industries) regeneration of designated existing The Employment Land Review Update with good access around Farnham business areas including support (2014) shows that there is a significant for development of start-up units for supply on a wide range of sites and • To retain and regenerate well- small businesses that the great majority is acceptably located existing business sites • A business site allocation including located, although some sites are in The Local Economy support for development of start-up need of modernisation to meet current The most recently available census units for small businesses business needs. Other space has good access, parking and services and could shows that in 2011, 20,140 of Farnham’s • Support for an Enterprise and be regenerated over the plan period. residents were economically active, Incubation Hub at the University of However, some sites are small-scale, many of whom were working outside of the Creative Arts Farnham. out of date, poorly serviced and limited • Conversion of buildings in rural by their location. Outmoded industrial The economy of Farnham is relatively areas which seeks to provide sites should be considered for housing broad based and although dominated business uses or tourist facilities development. by the service sector (including offices • Encourage working from home There is also one site comprising and retail premises focused on the e.g. via provision of high speed modern purpose-built office town centre) this is balanced by over broadband 30ha of land for light or general accommodation at Bridge Court, • Retention, intensification and industry and warehousing. The Town Wrecclesham (0.41ha) which is well- regeneration of existing business Centre section of the Neighbourhood located and fit for purpose. areas Plan covers economic development Taking account of these findings the The Employment Land Review Update in the town centre whilst this section emphasis of the policy is on seeing the (2014) (available at www.farnham. concentrates on provision for light or continuation and making effective use gov.uk/shapefarnham) considers general industry and warehousing of existing sites which remain fit for that overall the demand for light and located on industrial estates and purpose and for which agents confirm general industrial floorspace in the in converted rural buildings in the a continuing demand. countryside. However, this section Borough will decline in the period to also refers to one site of modern 2031, leading to a surplus of industrial Changes to planning legislation mean office accommodation which is located land. that Prior Approval can be sought for any size of office building to change to outside the town centre. Conversely for Farnham, the any number of dwelling houses. The Employment Land Review Update The adopted Waverley Borough Local only matters the Council can consider (2014) illustrates that the highest level Plan (2002) covers the period to 2006 are transport and highway impacts, of transactions for leased industrial and clearly does not provide an up-to- any contamination risks on the site, and warehousing floorspace premises date basis for new future employment and any flooding risks. provision within Farnham. Where was in Farnham (March 2012 – March neighbourhood planning is undertaken 2014). Local agents have also reported From October 2017 until 30 September before an up-to-date Local Plan is strong demand for such premises in 2020 changes will also be permitted in place, collaboration between the Farnham (available at www.farnham. from B1(c) light industrial premises community and the Borough Council gov.uk/shapefarnham). The town has to residential use. Any alterations is critical. In developing the Farnham a low vacancy rate for all types of to introduce new windows or doors, Neighbourhood Plan, Waverley business premises at around 2.4% or provide external features such as Borough Council has assisted the local (September 2011) and recent site individual drives and hardstanding Neighbourhood Plan team by sharing surveys support this finding. Farnham will result in the proposal needing to evidence and information such as the residents are keen to retain a thriving be the subject of a normal planning Employment Land Reviews and Update local economy rather than becoming application. (2014). Whilst the Employment Land a dormitory town. The main challenge Reviews provide the most up-to-date is therefore to safeguard good quality

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Policy FNP17 The majority of Farnham’s business sites comprise light or general industry or Land for Business storage/ warehousing and are in good The sustainable development of Farnham’s economy condition; have low vacancy rates and will be supported by the retention, intensification and are in demand. It is likely that they will regeneration of the following existing business sites as remain in such uses through the Plan defined on Map J (see Appendix 3). period and it is desirable to retain such uses in order to retain local employment Where development remains within planning control, and continue to provide premises for the following sites, as defined on Map J – Land for which there is a demand. Farnham’s light/ Business (see Appendix 3), will be retained in business general industrial and warehousing/ use unless it can be demonstrated that there is no storage sites are seen as a flexible reasonable prospect of their take up or continued use resource that can be adapted, through for business purposes during the Neighbourhood Plan intensification, redevelopment, or change period. of use if necessary, for a range of different a) Guildford Road Council Depot (0.95ha) types of business use, including new and b) Coxbridge Business Park (8.7ha) expanding sectors of the local economy. c) Riverside Industrial Park (0.6ha) It is recognised that some of these sites are located outside the Built up Area of d) Riverside Business Park (0.3ha) Farnham but their designation as business e) Farnham Business Centre (0.5ha) sites gives support to the principle f) Hurlands Business Centre (0.53ha) of intensification and regeneration of existing sites where necessary to better g) Farnham Trading Estate and Monkton Park (1.01ha) meet modern business needs. Local h) Bourne Mill Business Park (rear part only) (0.46ha) engagement and formal consultation has i) Grove Bell Industrial Estate (0.99ha) revealed strong support for the retention of existing business sites listed in FNP17. j) Farnham Business Park (Broadmede) (1.9ha) The development of start-up units to k) Hones Yard, Waverley Lane (0.38ha) support the establishment and early l) Abbey Business Park (1.4ha) development of small businesses will m) Century Farm, Badshot Lea (0.61ha) be supported in suitable locations. n) The Factory, Crondall Lane (0.5ha) All proposals will be subject to FNP1 – Design of New Development and o) Surrey Sawmills (0.86ha) Conservation and FNP10 – Protect and p) Bridge Court, Wrecclesham (0.41ha) Enhance the Countryside. q) St. Paul’s House, East Street (0.05ha) r) St. Stephen’s House, East Street (0.07ha) s) Millenium Centre, West Street (0.91ha) t) Headway House, Crosby Way (0.66 ha)

Business site allocation industrial uses and would be suitable of a high quality design and not result for business use. in unacceptable levels of light, noise, There is a perceived shortage of air or water pollution. high quality modern accommodation The NPPF makes it clear that for light industrial uses within neighbourhood planning provides a Farnham and, whilst these may be powerful set of tools for local people Monitoring Indicators to ensure that they get the right types provided through the regeneration of Number of designated business sites existing sites, there may be a need of development for their to identify further land for modern community. Consultation on the New business floorspace delivered on allocated business site workshop space. In order to retain Neighbourhood Plan further flexibility in terms of local has given the opportunity for sites for new business development discussion with local residents about Targets (including support for development of the layout, landscaping and access for Designated business sites remain start-up units for small businesses) the proposed site. predominantly in business use the Neighbourhood Plan allocates In accordance with Policy FNP1 – (B1; B2 and B8) an additional business site for Design of New Development and development (Map K). The 4.87 hectare Business site allocation developed Conservation, development should be site abuts the sewage works and during the Plan period

Map K – Business Site Allocation

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Policy FNP18 University for the Creative Arts to join the Creativity Professionals Business Site Allocation - team and potentially develop a new MA Land at Water Lane (Gross The University of the Creative Arts course in Professional Practice. The (UCA) proposes the development of Area: 4.9ha) development of a specialist industry a Games Design and Creative Media on the UCA campus which builds on Land at Water Lane, Farnham, as Enterprise and Incubation Hub at the the strengths of UCA and seeks to defined on Map K, is allocated Farnham Campus. This development create employment opportunities as a business site. would build on UCA’s existing is compatible with the business Development Guidance: strengths in this specialist area by objectives of the Neighbourhood Plan. Buildings should be of a high fostering business support, incubation quality design and fit in well and start-up companies. UCA already with adjacent business uses on has courses associated with media Policy FNP19 Farnham Trading Estate. technology companies. Existing landscape around the Developing the Hub at the Farnham Enterprise and Incubation edge of the site including the Campus aims to help address low Hub at the University for screen along Monkton Lane graduate retention levels in the Local the Creative Arts should be retained and enhanced Enterprise Partnership (LEP) area in Proposals for a Games Design to provide a landscape framework accordance with the LEP’s Strategy and Creative Media Enterprise and screening to the business by making the Campus a business area. and Incubation Hub at the development host. University of the Creative Arts Vehicular access should be taken (UCA) campus will be supported from Water Lane Roundabout on UCA is working with Enterprise M3 where it complies with other the B3208. Safe pedestrian and to secure funding from the Local Neighbourhood Plan policies. cycle access should be provided to Growth Fund. UCA would contribute the site. the land, infrastructure and services, academic support and expertise, staff

Conversion and Expansion of under 500 square metres have been The design and height, scale and Rural Buildings for Business able to change to a number of other materials of any extension should meet and Tourist Uses uses; Use Classes A1 (Shops), A2 with the requirements of Policy FNP16 (Financial & Professional Services), A3 – Building Extensions Within and The NPPF states that Neighbourhood (Restaurants and Cafes), B1 (Business), Outside the Built Up Area Boundary. B8 (Storage and Distribution), C1 Plans should promote a prosperous Development should not result in a (Hotels), and D2 (Assembly and rural economy as follows: large, bulky or intrusive building in Leisure). More recently, this has been • Support the sustainable growth and the landscape which is likely to have a extended to C3 (residential use). expansion of all types of business detrimental impact on an area largely The Neighbourhood Plan wishes to and enterprise in rural areas, both free from development. The impact of continue to enable the reuse of suitable through reuse of existing buildings the development on the countryside rural buildings for small scale, low and well-designed new buildings; is clearly greater if located in a highly impact business and tourism uses. • Promote the development and visible location. However, the test diversification of agricultural and The National Planning Policy of impact still applies even if there other land-based rural businesses; Framework allows well designed new are limited or no public views of it business premises in the countryside. as, if allowed, the argument could • Support sustainable rural tourism Whilst the principle of such be repeated, with a potentially more and leisure developments that development is therefore acceptable, serious cumulative impact on the benefit businesses in rural areas, the Plan also seeks to protect and urbanisation of the countryside as well communities and visitors, and enhance high quality and sensitive as public amenity value and for these which respect the character of the landscapes and formal and informal reasons would be unacceptable. In countryside. This should include recreational amenities, prevent the some locations any development may supporting the provision and coalescence of Farnham and Aldershot be inappropriate. expansion of tourist and visitor as well as other distinctive areas and facilities in appropriate locations to minimise impacts on biodiversity. where identified needs are not met For these reasons, any proposals for Policy FNP20 by existing facilities in rural service new buildings will need to be suitably centres. located and of appropriate scale, form Rural Buildings for Business Although agriculture (including and design so as to comply with Policy and Tourist Uses forestry) now provides a very small FNP11 - Preventing Coalescence Outside the Built Up Area percentage of employment within between of Farnham and Aldershot; Boundary, as defined on Map the Town Council area, it remains an Badshot Lea and Weybourne; A – Farnham Built Up Area important part of the rural economy Rowledge and Wrecclesham; Boundary, and Land for Business and is also instrumental in protecting Boundstone and Rowledge and sites, as defined in Appendix 3, the character and appearance of the Rowledge and Frensham, Policy the following proposals will be landscape and potentially enhancing FNP10 - Protect and Enhance the permitted: local biodiversity. The rural economy Countryside and Policy FNP13 – a) Where development remains has been changing during the past Protect and Enhance Biodiversity, and within planning control, the decades, with a trend towards would result in a high quality design in change of use of a rural building to farms diversifying from traditional accordance with Policy FNP1 - Design business or tourist uses; activities, primarily through the re- of New Development and Conservation b) A well-designed new building use of farm and other rural buildings as well as not adversely affecting the for business or tourist uses; for commercial, non-agricultural amenities of local residents and other c) A proportionate and well- purposes. countryside users. designed extension of an existing building in business or tourist use. Tourism also plays an important part Similarly, the small scale, low impact in the local economy and a small The scale and form of any proposal extension of rural buildings in business should not adversely affect the number of hotels, guest houses, or tourist use will only be permitted character and appearance of the bed and breakfast and self-catering where it can be demonstrated that it countryside, the locality and the accommodation are available in the is essential for the operation of the amenities of local residents and countryside outside the town centre. existing occupier and in accordance other countryside users. From 2013, agricultural buildings with these countryside policies.

Farnham Town Centre and Neighbourhood Centres Objectives • To retain and enhance the attractive historic market town centre as the economic and social hub of Farnham • To retain a range of unit sizes within the town centre to promote a variety of retailers, including independent stores, and a thriving evening economy with a range of pubs and restaurants • To protect the clusters of shops and services at neighbourhood centres serving the local communities of Farnham

Farnham Town Centre Farnham is an attractive historic town The town centre boundary has centre which contains a mix of shops, been defined in the Neighbourhood The NPPF identifies the aims of restaurants, cafes, public houses, Plan around this range of principle town centres and suggests that the offices, cultural attractions and facilities and is shown in Map L. It main uses which should be focused facilities such as the library and the is proposed to exclude the northern within them are retail development, museum as well as some residential end of Castle Street from the adopted leisure and entertainment facilities, premises (often above the shops). Town Centre boundary as this area offices and arts, culture and tourism is occupied almost exclusively by development. residential properties.

Map L – Town Centre Boundary

Retail provision The total floorspace requirement The site is best suited to retail Shops are focused on West Street, for the town’s comparison goods, development on the ground floor to Downing Street and The Borough, and including overtrading, is estimated to help meet the need for additional associated yards leading from them. be 20,871 sqm (gross) and 14,610 sqm retail floorspace in the town centre. East Street and South Street have (net) over the Plan period. In order to diversify the size of retail units within the town centre, the site retail frontages but are separated Whilst internet shopping was taken should include a number of larger from the principal shopping streets into account in the Town Centres retail units. Upper floors are suited to by the A325 and A287. There remains Retail Study, if trends towards internet residential development bringing life a range of unit sizes and independent spending are greater than projected, to the town centre during the day and shops but these are under threat from the amount of additional retail night. high rents and high parking charges. floorspace required in the town centre Vacancy rates have increased. would decrease. The existing planning consent contains a multiplex cinema but a Waverley Borough Council’s Town Land between East Street, revised scheme should review the Centres Retail Study Update, 2013 South Street and Dogflud Way (available at www.farnham.gov. scale of the cinema and incorporate Land between East Street, South uk/shapefarnham) undertook a a smaller cinema and multi-purpose Street and Dogflud Way has had comprehensive ‘health check’ performance space to accommodate planning permission for some time of Farnham town centre which drama, dance and other performance for a major mixed-use redevelopment provided an updated quantitative and events. The site should also including new shops, restaurants and qualitative assessment of floorspace accommodate replacement day care cafes, a cinema and new housing. requirements up to 2033. facilities of at least equivalent space to This scheme has the potential to the Gostrey Centre to meet the need The Study concluded that Farnham deliver 9,814 sqm of retail floorspace for convenient town centre community is well served by major foodstores and potentially satisfy Farnham’s space. Basement car parking should and only a low number of shoppers needs for not only the short term be provided. Vehicular access should head to other major centres for their but the majority of the Plan period. be from Dogflud Way. food shopping. Farnham also offers The Neighbourhood Plan wishes to the greatest quantum and range of support the redevelopment of this site, The location of the site forms part comparison shopping in Waverley though if a revised proposal were to of the setting of the town centre Borough (such as clothes; furniture; come forward during the Plan period, conservation area and forms an electrical goods; books; jewellery the Neighbourhood Plan would seek important gateway into the town and luxury goods). In each category to enhance the currently approved centre. One of the characteristics of goods, a significant percentage scheme. of the town centre buildings is their of trade is captured within the town as well as the surrounding rural area. Such residents have a choice of destinations and the road network encourages movement toward Guildford but, despite this, Farnham is a popular destination. The assessment of the town’s provision of convenience goods (mainly food) shows that whilst there is a potential need for 1,517 sq m floorspace (net) during the Plan period, this is not of a scale to justify a new store. It may, however, provide some basis for the possible improvement or extension of one or more existing foodstores in the town during the Plan period. © Charles Bone

Policy FNP21 b) the scheme is visually well related, narrow frontages within which sits and physically well connected, to a shop front and tall windows giving East Street, South Street adjoining development including the a vertical emphasis to development. and Dogflud Way Woolmead Development Site; Buildings are generally no more than c) the scheme contains an attractive Land at East Street, South Street 4 storeys in height with a pitched roof town square; and Dogflud Way, as defined on and are built along a slightly varied Map M, is allocated for mixed use d) the Marlborough Head public building line to the back edge of the development and should include house, East Street, is retained or, footway adding interest to the street retail development including a if it can be demonstrated that this scene. Farnham is also characterised number of larger units (ground would prevent a comprehensive by contrasting public spaces from floor); residential development development of the site, its façade is narrow alleyways to wider streets. (upper floors); a cinema and multi- retained; purpose performance space and Opportunity should be taken to e) an attractive and enhanced public day care facilities or equivalent incorporate a hierarchy of interesting realm is created along East Street community facilities. Development pedestrian spaces. The development with improved pedestrian linkages will be permitted where: provides the opportunity to create to the rest of the town centre an attractive town square away from a) it is designed to a high quality especially towards South Street and the traffic which acts as a focus for which responds to the heritage and the Borough together with enhanced pedestrian movement and provides a distinctive character of the town landscaping and street furniture; and centre conservation area; comfortable space in which to dwell. f) vehicular access is from Dogflud The Marlborough Head public house is Way located on the East Street gateway and is a Buildings of Local Merit (buildings and structures recognised as locally important heritage assets). The building or, exceptionally, if this would prevent a comprehensive development of the site, its façade should be retained on East Street. Only a high quality development which responds to the heritage and distinctive character of the town centre conservation area would be acceptable in this location in compliance with Policy FNP1 - Design of New Development and Conservation, FNP2 - Farnham Town Centre Conservation Area and its setting, Policy FNP3 - Shop Fronts within Farnham Conservation Area and its setting and Policy FNP4 - Advertisements within Farnham Conservation Area and its setting. If feasible, development could extend to South Street bringing the opportunity to significantly enhance this street.

Map M - East Street, South Street and Dogflud Way

Policy FNP22 The Woolmead slightly varied building line to the back The Woolmead development, built in edge of the footway adding interest to The Woolmead the street scene. There are prominent the 1970s, is of a scale and mass which Land at the Woolmead, as defined are at variance with the surrounding locations to the north west and south east of the site where the opportunity on as defined on Map N, is area and has redevelopment potential allocated for mixed use and should during the Plan period as a mixed-use for a landmark building or feature should be taken. This may include include retail development (ground scheme comprising principally retail floor) and residential development floorspace on the ground floor including increased scale, notable physical features or a change in materials but (upper floors). Development will be larger units to attract new retailers with permitted where: residential development above bringing this should be sensitive to its context. a) it is designed to a high quality life to the town centre during the day Given the location of the site at which responds in terms of scale, and night. Basement car parking should the historic core of Farnham, an mass, design and materials to the be provided. Service access should be archaeological assessment of this site heritage and distinctive character from Woolmead Road. will be required to inform development of the town centre conservation There are four public frontages to this proposals which may lead to the area; site which forms part of the setting of need to undertake a programme of archaeological investigation of the b) an archaeological assessment the town centre conservation area and of the site has been undertaken provides an important gateway into site to inform development proposals. Should this result in the identification and where necessary and feasible the town centre. Only a high quality the design of development development would be acceptable in of well-preserved or stratified archaeological remains that can provide has preserved in situ any this location in compliance with Policy archaeological remains that can FNP1 - Design of New Development evidence of the origins and history of Farnham, the design of development provide evidence of the origins and and Conservation, FNP2 - Farnham history of Farnham; Town Centre Conservation Area may need to be carefully considered c) a landmark building or feature and its setting, Policy FNP3 - Shop to preserve these in-situ or allow is included to the south east and Fronts within Farnham Conservation interpretation of them in order to north west corners of the site; Area and its setting and Policy FNP4 contribute to the historic character of - Advertisements within Farnham the town centre and its distinctive sense d) the scheme is visually Conservation Area and its setting. One of place. well related, and physically of the characteristics of the town centre well connected, to adjoining buildings is their narrow frontages development including the East within which sits a shop front and tall Targets Street, South Street and Dogflud windows giving a horizontal emphasis Way Development Site; Map M to development. Buildings are generally Town Centre retail and mixed use - East Street, South Street and no more than 4 storeys in height with site allocations developed during Dogflud Way the Plan period. a pitched roof and are built along a e) an attractive and enhanced public realm is created along East Street with improved pedestrian space and linkages to the rest of the town centre especially towards South Street and the Borough together with enhanced landscaping and street furniture; and f) service access is from Woolmead Road.

Monitoring Indicators

New retail floorspace delivered on allocated Town Centre site Map N – Woolmead Development Site

Offices The town centre has two hotels (The Change of use from small shops The town centre is the focus for Mercure Farnham Bush Hotel and the (up to 150sqm) to residential use is Farnham’s service sector. Offices are Bishop’s Table Hotel) which are an not permitted development within located within the older Georgian and important component in the town’s the Conservation Area. The town Victorian premises as well as modern economy. centre’s principal shopping streets of West Street, Downing Street and office blocks including the Millennium In recent years, the ability to use a The Borough are located within the Centre; Headway House; St Georges property for a range of uses without Conservation Area. The range of shop Yard; St Paul’s House and St Stephen’s the need for planning permission has units with their distinctive shop fronts House. increased. For example: is an integral part of the character of The Waverley Employment Land Review • A shop can be changed to a bank or the Farnham Town Centre Conservation Update, August 2014 projects that building society without planning Area. In any event, permitted demand for office space (Use Class B1a permission. development rights are still intended and B1b) will outstrip supply over the • Premises in B1(a) office use can to allow the protection of valued and Plan period, with additional floorspace change to C3 residential use, subject successful retail provision in key required. Local agents report a strong to prior approval covering flooding, shopping areas, such as town centres, demand for town centre offices, highways and transport issues and while bringing underused shop units particularly the modern premises. contamination. back into use outside those areas. Restaurants, Cafes and Public Houses • Buildings with shop (A1), financial Whilst some flexibility in the short In common with other towns, the and professional services (A2), term over how the town centre is made number of restaurants and cafes restaurants and cafes (A3), (public up may be helpful in maintaining a within the town centre has increased houses (A4), hot food takeaways dynamic centre, the Neighbourhood over recent years. Alongside public (A5), offices (B1), non-residential Plan is about the longer term. houses they add to the variety of uses institutions (D1) and leisure facilities Consultation responses have identified in the town centre and support the (D2) uses will be permitted to change the town centre as a key economic and night time economy. Whilst generally use for a single period of up two social hub which helps to define the interspersed with shops, there is now a years to A1, A2, A3 and B1 uses. town. concentration of places to eat and drink at the southern end of Castle Street. Leisure and Entertainment Facilities The range of cultural attractions within, and close to, the town centre is important to the vitality of the town centre during the day and night and more detail is included within the Leisure and Wellbeing section of the Plan. Tourism The historic town centre and its cultural attractions attract many visitors. Farnham has three trails around the town for visitors to follow, using a free booklet. The first is the heritage trail, which takes visitors to historic features within the town and the other is the craft trail, which leads visitors to the historic and modern centres of craft. The third is a tree trail.

Policy FNP23 Monitoring Indicators The Neighbourhood Plan seeks A1 uses within West Street, to retain the shopping role of the Farnham Town Centre Downing Street and The Borough Town Centre through maintaining Within the town centre, as defined Smaller units (150sqm) within a dominant presence of shops in on Map L, proposals including Use the Town Centre West Street, Downing Street and The Classes A1-A5, B1, C1 and D1 will Borough; ensuring a range of shop be permitted where the proposal units; acknowledging the potential would not result in: Targets at East Street and allocating the a) non-A1 uses becoming the A1 uses remain the dominant use Woolmead site for retail development dominant ground floor uses within within West Street, Downing Street at ground floor (Policies FNP21 - East West Street, Downing Street and and The Borough Street, South Street and Dogflud Way The Borough; No loss of smaller units (150sqm) and FNP22 - The Woolmead). Whilst b) such a concentration of non-A1 within the Town Centre within the the loss of offices cannot generally be uses as to lead to a significant Plan period prevented, the Neighbourhood Plan interruption of the shopping expects that much of the good quality frontage; office stock will remain in office use c) the loss of smaller units during the Plan period due to high (150sqm); or demand. Restaurants, cafes and public d) the loss of hotel accommodation houses add to the variety of uses in the unless sufficient evidence town centre and support the night time is provided to the Council to economy and this variety should be demonstrate that the continued maintained in the long term. The town operation is no longer financially centre hotels are important to the viable. town’s business community and tourist offer and should be retained.

Neighbourhood Centres Policy FNP24 Outside the town centre, one of As with the town centre, the ability Farnham’s characteristics is the to use a property for a range of Neighbourhood Centres provision of neighbourhood centres uses without the need for planning Within the following that serve a local area. A key permission has increased. neighbourhood centres, as defined characteristic of neighbourhood Nevertheless, permitted development in Appendix 4 (map O): centres is that they provide a cluster rights are still intended to allow the • Frensham Road in the Bourne of units in Use Class A (such as protection of valued and successful • Station Hill shops; public houses; restaurants retail provision in key shopping and takeaways) or Use Class D1 areas. Prior approval for such a • Firgrove Hill (such as such as primary schools, change of use is required including • Ridgway Road near the Bourne GPs, libraries, places of worship and an assessment of shopping impacts • Farnborough Road in Heath End community halls) within convenient in relation to the effect of the • St. Mark’s Place, Sandy Hill in walking distance (100m) of one development on the sustainability Upper Hale another. In addition, well related public of key shopping centres and the • Upper Hale Road open space may also be regarded as provision of services. In Farnham, • Willow Way in Hale part of the hub of a neighbourhood. the distance of neighbourhoods from • The Street in Wrecclesham Convenient parking is also available the town centre means that local • The Long Road at Cumstey’s to serve many of the neighbourhood convenience shops, together with other Corner in Rowledge centres. This ensures that centres community services, are important A range of shops (including Use provide a local focus for an area to the sustainability of the local Class A1), services (including Use and the opportunity for sustainable neighbourhoods which they serve. Classes A2, A3, A4, A5 and D1) and pedestrian and cycle access and The Neighbourhood Plan seeks to convenient car and cycle parking linked trips. Consultation on the resist the loss of small scale local will be maintained. Neighbourhood Plan issues has shops where they are clustered with Appropriately located additional indicated the importance of such other community facilities as part of a retail or service floorspace will neighbourhood centres and there is neighbourhood centre. be permitted where the proposal significant support for the retention is of a scale appropriate to the of the range of shops and services centre and would not materially found in the centres identified in the undermine the existing balance Neighbourhood Plan. of uses. Secure public cycle parking should be provided where The following areas have been defined adequate and convenient cycle as Neighbourhood Centres and are parking does not already exist shown on Map O. elsewhere in the neighbourhood (Appendix 4): centre. Change of use between shop use (A1) and non-A1 Uses will • Frensham Road in the Bourne not be permitted where this would • Station Hill lead to the loss of an A1 unit able Monitoring Indicators to serve the day to day needs of the • Firgrove Hill Number of shops (including Use community or required to ensure • Ridgway Road near the Bourne Class A1), services (including Use that the centre is capable of • Farnborough Road in Heath End Classes A2, A3, A4, A5 and D1 in the meeting the day to day needs of the community during the Plan period. • St. Mark’s Place, Sandy Hill in Upper designated Neighbourhood Centres in 2016. Exceptionally, such a change of Hale use may be permitted where • Upper Hale Road Targets sufficient evidence is provided • Willow Way in Hale to the Council to demonstrate that the operation of the shop is No loss of the shops (including Use • The Street in Wrecclesham no longer financially viable and Class A1), services (including Use • The Long Road at Cumstey’s Corner where there are no other realistic Classes A2, A3, A4, A5 and D1 within in Rowledge proposals for retail or service the designated Neighbourhood uses on the site. Centres.

Public houses Policy FNP25 Public houses are an important the Neighbourhood Plan will seek to community facility within Farnham, retain public houses except where Public Houses many of which are located within the an equivalent accessible facility is The loss of a public house will Town Centre and Neighbourhood available to the population served and/ be resisted where possible. Centres. The change of use of a public or it can be demonstrated that the Exceptions will be made where house is allowed without planning operation of a public house facility on a an equivalent accessible facility consent to a shop (A1), financial and site is not financially viable. is available to the population professional service (A2), restaurant served and/or where evidence is or café (A3) subject to building not Monitoring Indicators provided to the Council to show being an Asset of Community Value. that the operation of the facility Temporary permission (for 2 years) is Number of public houses in the is no longer financially viable and also allowed without planning consent Neighbourhood Plan area in 2016. where there are no other realistic to an office (B1). proposals for a public house use on the site, including through Consultation responses have identified Targets Community Right to Buy. the importance of public houses to No loss of public houses in the the social fabric of the town and, Neighbourhood Plan area. where planning consent is required,

Leisure and Wellbeing Objectives • To protect and enhance public open spaces used for • To improve sports provision in and around Farnham recreational purposes throughout the area, including • To protect the cultural attractions and community links between open spaces and leisure activities, buildings of the town and ensure new provision in association with new development Public Open Spaces The Environment section of the The NPPF stresses the need to ensure Waverley Borough Council has plan attaches great importance to effective planning for high quality undertaken an open space audit in the protection of networks of green open spaces, sport and recreation accordance with government guidance spaces, commonly referred to as green facilities based on robust assessments (Open Space Study, 2012) which infrastructure, which can provide a of the existing and future needs of contains standards for each type of wide range of environmental benefits. communities. open space. The conclusions of the In addition, many of the green spaces Open Space Study in terms of existing The NPPF advises that the are used for recreational purposes. provision of each type of open space assessments should include the in Farnham are set out below. In The NPPF states that access to high following information: addition, an increase in the number of quality open spaces and opportunities • Quantitative elements (how much dwellings within Farnham up to 2031 for sport and recreation can make an new provision may be needed); will put pressure on existing open important contribution to the health space and will require an improvement and well-being of communities. • A qualitative component (against to the existing quality or quantity of It requires planning policies that which to measure the need for open space provision. The amount of promote opportunities to improve the enhancement of existing facilities); increased provision based on existing local open space network, and create and commitments and future housing high quality public open spaces within • Accessibility (including distance options for each type of open space is new development, which encourages thresholds and consideration of the also set out below. the active and continual use of public cost of using a facility). areas.

Parks and Gardens Natural / Semi-Natural Greenspace The quality of all natural and semi Most properties in Farnham have good Whilst there is limited provision natural greenspace is considered to access to Parks and Gardens. Others of smaller areas of natural/ semi- be good and/or (in the case of SSSIs) at the edge of the town generally have natural open space within Farnham, favourable or improving. In order to access to large private gardens or there is good access to larger areas. maintain the current provision and the countryside. There is no need to The Thames Basin Heaths SPA not put further pressure on sensitive provide additional parks and gardens is partly located in the northern habitats, it is important to retain to supplement the current provision. most part of the plan area and is the existing natural / semi- natural Nevertheless, in order to maintain the vulnerable to increased recreational greenspace. current provision, it is important to retain pressure. Part of Farnham Park also The need for further SANG in the existing parks and gardens. There is acts as a Suitable Alternative Natural association with residential also a need to improve the quality of the Greenspace (SANG) though capacity development is included in Policy following parks and gardens: to accommodate additional usage at FNP12 – Thames Basin Heaths this site is limited. • Boundstone Recreation Ground Special Protection Area (SPA). (Farnham) • Hale Reeds Recreation Ground (Farnham) • Oast House Crescent Recreation Ground (Farnham) • Sandy Hill Top Space (Farnham) • Brambleton Park (Farnham) (former landfill site still producing methane which limits its use) In terms of the provision of additional Parks and Gardens in association with new residential development, the following standard is set in the PPG17 Open Space Study:

Parks and Gardens: Quantity Standard - 0.2ha per 1000 people Quality Standard - © Farnham Town Council Parks and gardens should be welcoming, safe, clean and inviting spaces that are well Green Corridors - including river not be lost to improve connections maintained with a good mix of (eg River Wey and its tributaries) to the rights of way network or other natural and built amenities. and canal banks, cycleways and green corridors particularly where other rights of way. they arise through new development. Accessibility Standard - Policy FNP30 - Transport Impact of 15 minutes walk, There is an extensive network Development in the Infrastructure approximately 800m of Public Rights of Way across section aims to meet these Farnham, particularly given its rural objectives. Networks of open space character and the areas of natural Parks and Gardens are generally large in allow the migration of flora and fauna and semi-natural greenspace. scale and therefore would not be provided and this will become increasing Existing designated rights of way on individual housing sites in Farnham. important as the climate changes. should continue to be protected Instead, developer contributions will be Policy FNP13 – Protect and Enhance in the Neighbourhood Plan. No sought for improvements to the existing Biodiversity also seeks to preserve quantitative standard is set for new parks and gardens within the town. and extend ecological networks. provision but opportunities should

Amenity Greenspace The following standard is set in the Amenity greenspace is most PPG17 Open Space Study: commonly, but not exclusively, found in housing areas or as part of town centres and business areas – and Amenity Greenspace: includes village greens. Its primary Quantity Standard - purpose is to provide opportunities 0.8ha per 1000 people for informal activities close to home Quality Standard - or work, or enhancement of the Amenity greenspace should be appearance of residential or other well maintained, clean and litter © Farnham Town Council areas. Most properties in Farnham free. It should be welcoming Churchyards and Cemeteries have good access to amenity and provide a visually attractive greenspace. Others at the edge of environment. The management of Permission was given in 2010 to 6ha of the town have access to large private dogs and any mess created needs land at Upper Hale Road, Farnham for gardens; natural semi-natural to be integrated into the site. another woodland burial site. greenspace or the countryside. Accessibility Standard - There is no revealed need to allocate There is no need to provide additional 15 minutes walk, approx. 800m additional land for church yards or amenity greenspace to supplement cemeteries in Farnham. the current provision. Nevertheless, in order to maintain the current Amenity greenspace should generally provision, it is important to retain the be incorporated on individual housing existing amenity greenspace. Any new sites in Farnham. Where appropriate, development over the next 20 years the amenity greenspace should be will result in a population increase provided in the more sensitive parts which will result in an increasing need of a site where development would be for amenity greenspace within the more intrusive in the landscape. newly developed areas. © Michael Blower

Provision for Children and The Companion Guide to PPG17 In terms of provision for Children and Young People suggests however, that this approach Young People in association with new North Farnham collectively is shown tends to result in children’s play being residential development, the following to be over the current overall provision allocated to the more ‘unbuildable’ standard is set in the PPG17 Open of 0.04ha per 1000 people but this parts of housing sites and often Space Study: is due to the provision in Farnham ignores the needs of older children, Park. However, individually, all wards such as teenagers. It suggests that in fall below the 0.04ha provision with new housing developments, it would Provision for Children the exception of Castle ward. Some be better to ‘design in’ children’s play and Young People: of Farnham’s play areas are being as an integral part of the housing Quantity Standard - updated. There is a need to look at environment, rather than to tuck it 0.25 ha per 1,000 people of ways of providing new or extended away in fairly sanitised play areas. specific play equipment for playspace in North and South In order not to make the existing children and young people, Farnham, particularly in Upper Hale. poor provision worse, it is important including both designated Play England advocate the following to retain the existing provision for equipped play space, and national accessibility standards: Children and Young People. informal play space. Quality Standard - • Local Areas of Play (LAPs): Sites should be clean/ litter accompanied walking distance 100m free and provide a safe, fun and (straight line distance 60m). Play England define these as ‘doorstep stimulating environment where playable spaces’. possible for children of all ages. Areas should be set aside as • Local Equipped Areas of Play dog free. Sites should be in (LEAPs): walking distance 400m areas easily accessible by foot (straight line distance 240m). to the local community they are • Neighbourhood Equipped Areas intended to serve with limited of Play (NEAPs): walking distance barriers to access such as main 1,000m (straight line distance 600m). roads. Accessibility Standard - Fields in Trust standards are to be used: Local Areas of Play (LAPs): accompanied walking distance 100m (straight line distance 60m). Local Equipped Areas of Play (LEAPs): walking distance 400m (straight line distance 240m). Neighbourhood Equipped Areas of Play (NEAPs): walking distance 1,000m (straight line distance 600m).

Given the accessibility distances for children and young people, provision of this type of open space should be well integrated into a site in a convenient, well located and safe part of the housing environment. Playground © Aldershot, Farnham and Fleet Camera Club

Allotments There is a waiting list for allotments Allotments have a wide catchment The distribution of allotments shows within Farnham but demand for many area – 15 minute walking distance - provision in Farnham in the central of these will eventually be met through and therefore would not be provided on area of the town with the northern the turn-over of plots. Nevertheless, individual housing sites in Farnham. and southern wards not within 800m there is clear unmet demand and Instead developer contributions will of an allotment: eg Hale and Heath in order to maintain the current be sought for improvements to the End and Upper Hale and Wrecclesham provision, it is important to retain the existing allotments or a new allotment and Rowledge, Bourne and Moor Park existing allotments and replace any allocation. that are under pressure. wards. The housing allocations and expected The current allotment waiting list In terms of allotments which should windfall sites would lead to the need shows the strongest demand in Moor be provided with new residential for an additional area for allotments Park and Wrecclesham and Rowledge. development, the following standard of some 0.5 hectares. It has not been is set: possible to allocate a suitable site in this Neighbourhood Plan but the Ward Waiting situation will be monitored and the Hale and Heath End 2 Allotments Town Council will continue to try to Quantity Standard - identify a suitable site, including an Castle 6 0.2 ha per 1000 persons extension to existing allotments, as Quality Standard - a separate project during the Plan Weybourne & Badshot Lea 8 A well maintained, clean/ litter period. free site, level with good quality Moor Park 10 soil, drainage and access to a good water supply. Wrecclesham & Rowledge 16 Accessibility Standard - Bourne 2 15 minutes walk, approx. 800m

Firgrove 2

Shortheath/Boundstone 5

Non Farnham 13

Total 64

Source: Farnham Town Council, June 2016

Outdoor Sports Facilities • Rowledge Cricket Club - more • Frensham Pond Sailing Club/ Sport contributes to community life playing space required to meet Sailability - modernisation of and well-being in Farnham and this senior league and junior section clubhouse and ancilliary facilities; playing requirements; category of open space includes • Farnham Swimming Club - increased privately or publicly owned facilities • Farnham Cricket Club - new or teaching, training and competitive with natural or artificial surfaces, substantially modernised/extended swimming pool time/space. including tennis courts, bowling pavilion; greens, sports pitches, golf courses, In order to maintain the current athletics tracks, school and other • Farnham Rugby Club - more playing provision to serve current needs (and institutional playing fields, and other space adjacent to current site as potentially assist with future needs), outdoor sports areas. many juniors are already having to it is essential to retain the existing play away from the club and club sports pitches. There is also a need Site locations and pitch provision are house; to improve the quality of some sports identified in the Waverley Playing Pitch grounds. Pavilions on public recreation • Farnham Town Football Club - new Strategy, 2013. The following types of grounds will require replacement clubhouse/changing rooms and need pitches are covered in the strategy, or modernisation during the life of to reflect the FA’s ground grading including those not currently available the Plan, including the recreation requirements; for community use: grounds at Wrecclesham, Rowledge, • Football (mini, youth, adult) • Farnham United (youth) Football Club The Bourne, Weybourne, Badshot - car parking and clubhouse needed; Lea, Hale, Heath End and Farnham • Cricket could be relocated if a suitable Park. Finally, whilst disability sport in • Rugby Union (mini, youth, adult) quality alternative were available; Farnham is well catered for, mainly with activities such as swimming • Hockey (synthetic turf pitches) • Badshot Lea Football Club - a current ground move to the former Farnham and sailing, over the lifetime of the The following number of pitches are Rugby United Football Club ground Plan more emphasis will need to be located in Farnham in Wrecclesham must reflect the FA’s placed on sporting opportunities and ground grading requirements; provision to meet the demands from Sport Pitches disabled sports enthusiasts of all ages • Badshot Lea Youth Football Club - and abilities. Adult football 27 more playing space required to meet demand and keep club together; In terms of sports pitches which should be provided with new Youth football 9 • Badshot Lea Cricket Club - require residential development, the following larger playing space; standard is set in the Waverley Playing Mini-soccer 16 • Aldershot & Farnham Hockey Club Pitch Strategy, 2013. This is close to the NPFA standard currently used in Cricket 14 (Heath End School) - new ancillary facilities; the adopted Local Plan: Rugby Union 7 Pitch Standard Per 1000 ppl ATPs 2 Adult football One adult pitch (1.2ha) per 5,000 people 0.24ha All pitches 74 Youth football One youth pitch (0.75ha) per 3,200 people 0.23ha Source: Waverley Playing Pitch Strategy, 2013 Mini-soccer One mini-soccer pitch (0.2ha) per 5,000 people 0.04ha The following sports clubs have, or are projected to have, significant needs Cricket One cricket pitch (1.2ha) per 2,800 people 0.43ha to meet the demand for more space and/or new provision or major Rugby Union One rugby pitch (1.25ha) per 6,000 people 0.21ha improvements to their ageing facilities during the timeframe of the Plan: All pitches 1.15ha

Source: Waverley Playing Pitch Strategy, 2013

Policy FNP26 As each new pitch requires a The Neighbourhood Plan identifies substantial population growth to land suitable for future sports pitch Sites for New Outdoor support it, sports pitches will be provision at the Sita (Suez) former Sports Facilities and Other landfill site in Runfold and at Weydon provided off site through developer Greenspace Uses contributions. The standard is to have Lane (Brambleton Park), which the population within a 15 – 20 minute have long term potential for the Land at Weydon Lane (Brambleton walk or drive of the nearest pitch. provision of sports pitches subject to Park), as shown on Map P, and at environmental considerations. The the Runfold South Quarry Site, as A new synthetic turf pitch would Weydon Lane site is a former landfill shown on Map Q, is allocated for require an increase in population site which is surrounded by housing new outdoor sports facilities and of 12,000 people. As this is not development. In order to become other appropriate greenspace proposed, new demand is likely to be available for sports pitches, the site uses, including new sports pitches, met through the dual-use of school would need to be capped. Subject to associated changing rooms and facilities. environmental considerations, the supplementary landscaping, site could accommodate two sports The housing allocations and expected subject to environmental and land pitches and associated pavilions and restoration considerations. windfall sites would lead to the is allocated for such use to help meet need for an additional area of some the need for additional sports pitches 3.25 hectares of sports pitches (the during the plan period. equivalent of approximately 3 adult football or rugby pitches; or 20 mini- Targets soccer pitches – or any combination to Monitoring Indicators meet the local need at the time). Delivery of identified Sports Pitches Provision of Sports Pitches. in the Plan period.

Map P – Proposed Site for Sports Pitches – Weydon Lane, Brambleton Park

The Runfold site is a former landfill site located just off the A31 on the Guildford Road. The site is within the countryside and is currently undergoing a 20 year landscape restoration plan. Remediation measures are required to the landfilled area regarding land settlement. Part of the site is already in use by Barfield School for sports and activities. A site suitable for two further sports pitches can be accommodated on the remainder of the landfill site although the precise location of the pitches is to be agreed with the landowner. For this reason, the Runfold site (excluding the school sports area), as shown on Map Q, is designated as a broad location for two sports pitches and associated pavilions in the medium to longer term. Map Q – Broad Location for Sports Pitches – Runfold

Policy FNP27 Residential development proposals Monitoring Indicators will be expected to provide for new Public Open Space accessible public open space to the Number of hectares of public open following standard either through space lost due to development. Public open space, as defined on on site provision or a financial Map H – Green Infrastructure, will contribution to off site provision. Targets be retained and, where appropriate, On larger sites, amenity greenspace will be enhanced. Development and children’s and young people’s No loss of public open space during may exceptionally be allowed equipped space will be provided the Plan period. where replacement provision of at on site. Provision should include least equivalent value to the local arrangements for maintenance of community is provided. the open space.

Type of Green Space Quantitative Std per 1000 ppl Parks and Gardens 0.2ha Amenity Greenspace 0.8ha Children’s & young people’s equipped space 0.25ha Allotments 0.2ha Outdoor Sports Pitches 1.15ha Total 2.6ha

For the purposes of this policy, provision for children and young public open space includes people, allotments, churchyards parks and gardens, natural and and cemeteries and outdoor sports seminatural greenspace, green facilities. corridors, amenity greenspace,

Indoor Sports Facilities The Borough Council-owned Farnham a range of activities on an informal of access to indoor sports facilities Leisure Centre is located at Dogflud basis. Some schools in Farnham located both within and outside of the Way close to Farnham town centre. have excellent sports facilities both Borough and that there is currently An extensive refurbishment scheme for the general public to hire and no evidence that an increase in resulted in an improved swimming for linking sports development population will have a significant pool, extended gym, and refurbished opportunities with local sports clubs. impact. However, when combined with sports area in 2010. The Leisure Such facilities could be used more government policies and programmes Centre plays an important part in widely, especially in the evenings, to increase the general level of activity the provision of community sport weekends and holidays. The dual and health of the population, the and fitness, especially in respect of use of school facilities can provide potential housing development at community access and affordability necessary recreational provision and Farnham and neighbouring authorities and because there are ‘pay and play’ enhance the role of the school as a and the existing demand especially opportunities. The opportunities are focal point for the community. There is at peak times, the levels of usage are limited when demand exceeds supply potential for further dual use provision likely to require additional provision during peak times, especially for the (where physical constraints allow of indoor sports facilities in the Plan swimming pools and the sports hall. this) in order to supplement existing period. The lack of pool space affects not community facilities. The providers of only clubs but residents. Some large education facilities are encouraged clubs, such as the Farnham Swimming to make provision for the dual use of Policy FNP28 Club, need more swimming space facilities for recreational and other to accommodate club training and purposes, where these are well placed Indoor Sports Facilities events. Further, a number of clubs are to serve local needs. The adaptation Buildings which provide indoor looking for permanent homes, such and extension of existing educational sports facilities, including as Farnham Floorball Club and The facilities should be carried out with community halls and schools, Farnham School of Tae Kwon Do and a view to allowing use by the general will be retained and, where this situation will fluctuate over the public. More options to accommodate appropriate, enhanced to provide life of the Plan. The Leisure Centre current or emerging sports clubs a high playing standard. may require modernisation/expansion and activities need to be identified, New development should during the life of the Plan. including better access to community contribute to increased indoor halls and school’s facilities. sports facilities. The town also has some excellent and modern private health club facilities. The Waverley Borough Council Open Schools are encouraged to allow Space Study, 2012 also considered community access to supplement In addition, there are indoor facilities indoor sports facilities. The Study existing sporting facilities. in the town which are under-used. concluded that there was a good level These should be made available for

Health Facilities There are several GP practices and a range of therapies available in the town. Farnham Hospital provides a range of services and Frimley Park and the Royal Surrey Hospitals provide emergency cover in close and moderate proximities. The capacity of GP and Hospital services is not considered to be a constraint to the level of residential development proposed in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Locally Important Cultural Facilities One of the core planning principles St. Andrew’s Church in the town centre Outside the Town Centre in the NPPF is to ensure that local is not only a Grade II listed building, The Crafts Study Centre is attached strategies to promote health, social which dates back to the Middle Ages to the University of the Creative and cultural wellbeing are supported. but also has some very modern Arts. It is a specialist museum and The NPPF also states that provision meeting-rooms, designed by the research centre open to the public. of social, recreational and cultural architect, Ptolemy Dean. The modern The collection includes calligraphy, facilities are a key factor in facilitating structures and removal of the old ceramics, textiles and furniture. Nearby social interaction and delivering pews has enabled the church to host is the James Hockey Gallery, a public healthy, inclusive communities. It concerts, art exhibitions and dramatic exhibition space, which presents work is important to plan positively for works. The grave of William Cobbett is of lasting educational importance. these facilities and guard against in the churchyard. The New Ashgate Gallery, in the unnecessary loss. The library offers more than just books Waggon Yard car-park is run by a Farnham has a wealth of talent, which and computers. It has workshops and charitable trust, which seeks to support must be encouraged and supported. activities for children throughout the local artists in all media. There are choirs, which have achieved year. The library gardens have hosted The Memorial Hall, just outside the national fame as well as theatre charity fairs and fund-raising concerts. town centre, has been a well-used groups, operatic societies and dance The Museum of Farnham is located on venue for concerts and drama. There groups for all ages. There are art West Street. It is situated in an elegant are several similar halls throughout exhibitions throughout the town. Grade I listed Georgian townhouse. It the town, which are used for amateur There are several outreach projects, to has a walled garden and garden room, dramatics. Some of these are include more of the community in the which is used for talks and exhibitions. connected to local churches. cultural activity of the town. Within Farnham there is a range of locally important cultural attractions, including theatre, museums and arts facilities. In addition, Farnham has a number of community or village halls which are used for community activities throughout the year and host history groups, talks by local experts, meetings and amateur dramatic presentations.

Within the Town Centre The Farnham Maltings offers a diverse programme of activities including theatre, cinema, craft, music and comedy and is renowned throughout South-East England, whilst also operating as a community centre. Farnham Castle is the jewel in the crown of Farnham attractions. It dates back to the 12th century and the Norman keep is open to the public daily, from February to December. There is also a small exhibition, which © Michael Blower describes the history of the Castle. Guided visits around the castle, itself, are available on Wednesdays.

Policy FNP29 The pottery at Wrecclesham is one activities throughout the year and are of the best preserved examples of an important cultural resource for the Protection of Cultural a Victorian pottery in England. The distinct areas of Farnham. To maintain Facilities and Community pottery is currently undergoing the social fabric of Farnham, the range Buildings extensive renovation, which will of existing well used facilities needs provide not only space for ceramic- to maintained and enhanced. The Buildings which provide cultural attractions or facilities including based organisations but also public need is accentuated as the amount of community halls will be retained access space for meetings and additional development in the town and, where appropriate, enhanced. exhibitions. The unique buildings increases. are being sympathetically restored There may be pressure to convert and already provide a centre for existing community buildings to excellence in ceramics and other other uses such as residential crafts and continue the long history development during the Plan period. Monitoring Indicators of potterymaking on site. These Whilst it is possible to change the use Number of cultural attractions or creative activities are complemented of a community hall to a shop (A1), facilities including community halls by a growing number of small financial and professional services within the Neighbourhood Plan area businesses in the range of refurbished (A2), restaurant/ cafe (A3) and office in 2016. outbuildings and there are plans for a (B1) uses for a single period of gallery to showcase local artists. up two years, the Neighbourhood Targets Community or village halls in Plan is about the longer term. The No loss of cultural attractions or Rowledge, Wrecclesham, Weybourne, Neighbourhood Plan will resist the facilities including community halls Badshot Lea, Hale, North West loss of such facilities which contribute within the Neighbourhood Plan area Farnham, the Bourne, Firgrove and significantly to the social fabric of during the Plan period. Moor Park are used for community Farnham.

Infrastructure Objectives • To ensure sufficient infrastructure capacity is provided • To improve air quality within the town centre in a timely manner, appropriate to the scale of new • To ensure Farnham’s extensive network of footpaths, development bridleways and cycle ways is protected and where • To ensure new development is well connected to the possible extended through new development to continue facilities of Farnham by a range of transport modes, to provide access to local facilities and the countryside including walking, cycling and public transport and, • To increase school places at all levels where appropriate, makes suitable provision towards • To ensure sufficient sewage treatment capacity is new sustainable transport infrastructure available to serve new development

Infrastructure Provision Roads and Transport (via A325), approximately 900 dwellings In the context of the Neighbourhood The NPPF is clear that transport at Queen Elizabeth Barracks, Church Plan, infrastructure comprises proposals need to be balanced in Crookham in Hart (via A287) and about the physical (eg roads, footways, favour of sustainable transport modes, 4,250 dwellings at Aldershot Urban cycleways, sewers); social (eg schools; giving people a real choice about how Extension to the north (via A325 or GPs) and green (eg natural and semi they travel. However, the government A331 Blackwater Valley Relief Road). natural greenspace and sports pitches) recognises that different policies and With existing peak hour congestion, infrastructure necessary to support measures will be required in different it is important that future proposals development. communities and opportunities to do not exacerbate this situation. This maximise sustainable transport Neighbourhood Plan seeks to manage Other sections of the draft solutions will vary from urban to rural transport through controlling the Neighbourhood Plan have stated the areas. amount and location of development, need to: promoting alternative modes of There is high car ownership in Farnham travel and Surrey County Council has • retain existing green infrastructure and heavy volumes of traffic on major and provide new open space in been consulted on bringing forward routes and passing through Farnham appropriate transport proposals. association with development; town centre which cause congestion at Residential development proposals • ensure the provision of Suitable peak times. The historic town centre will be expected to demonstrate Alternative Natural Greenspace in suffers from congestion and HGVs. that suitable sustainable transport relation to housing proposals; The national air quality objectives for Nitrogen Dioxide are being exceeded connections from the site by safe, • retain existing cultural facilities, either side of the A325 through the town convenient and direct footpaths, including community halls; centre mainly due to traffic congestion. cycle routes and public transport are available or will be provided to the town • retain and enhance the shopping There is a rail link to London Waterloo centre and the nearest Neighbourhood facilities in the town and and a limited bus service throughout Centre; primary school; secondary neighbourhood centres; and the town. Whilst there is a good rural cycle network there are few cycle lanes school and public open space. All new • increase the provision of indoor within the town. There is an extensive development will be expected to provide sports facilities. network of Public Rights of Way across safe vehicular and pedestrian access into the site and promote pedestrian The remainder of this section Farnham and long distance footpaths safety beyond the development. In considers future provision of roads – St. Swithun’s Way, Blackwater Valley accordance with the NPPF, planning and transport; schools; sewage Footpath and the North Downs Way – policies should protect and enhance capacity and water. run through the Plan area. public rights of way. Development brought forward through the Neighbourhood Plan will have an Travel planning can play an important impact on the transport situation of role in promoting sustainable transport Farnham. Further, there are proposals alternatives. Surrey County Council has adjacent to the town which are likely published good practice guidance on the to have a traffic impact on local roads thresholds for and preparation of Travel such as 4,000 dwellings at Whitehill- Plans and these should be followed in Bordon Ecotown in East Hampshire the Neighbourhood Plan area.

Policy FNP30 development would provide, or Where adequate transport contribute towards, appropriate infrastructure is not available to serve Transport Impact of measures which will address the the development, the development Development identified inadequacy and assist walking, cycling, public transport should provide, or contribute towards, Proposals will be permitted where and other highway improvements; appropriate measures which will they meet the following criteria: address the identified inadequacy f) Development proposals would not a) Safely located vehicular and significantly add to traffic congestion and assist walking, cycling, public pedestrian access where adequate in the town; transport and other highway visibility exists or could be created; improvements and traffic management g) Development proposals would not b) Larger scale development add inappropriate traffic on rural measures which promote pedestrian proposals are accompanied by a lanes and would not require highway safety such as safer routes to school. Travel Plan works or footpaths which would Proposals which would add c) Residential development result in unsympathetic change to significantly to traffic congestion in proposals ensure that sustainable the character of a rural lane; Farnham will make traffic conditions transport links, including walking h) Development in areas of poor air and air pollution worse and would and cycling links are provided to quality or development that may have the principal facilities including therefore be unacceptable. Road an adverse impact on air quality will the town centre and the nearest traffic is the main contributor to poor be required to incorporate mitigation neighbourhood centre; the nearest air quality in the town centre which is measures to reduce impact to an bus stop; primary school; secondary acceptable level. Permission will be designated an Air Quality Management school and public open space; refused where unacceptable impacts Area. Future development should d) Employment and other non- cannot be overcome by mitigation. avoid adverse impact on air quality residential development proposals i) Development proposals would in this area where there is a need located outside the town centre maintain or enhance the existing to improve air quality. Impacts from ensure that sustainable transport local footpath and cycle network and development changes which are links are provided to surrounding where possible extend the network outside the plan area, but which will residential areas; the nearest bus through the site and connect the affect Farnham’s infrastructure, will stop and the town centre and the development to them. be appraised and identified with the nearest neighbourhood centre; relevant infrastructure provider for e) Where adequate transport mitigation requirements. Policy FNP30 infrastructure is not available – Transport Impact of Development. to serve the development, the The Neighbourhood Plan needs to test that the impact of new proposals can be accommodated within the Monitoring Indicators Targets highway network and to ensure that more sustainable travel options Traffic accident frequency and No increase in the number of are introduced as a result of new severity within the Neighbourhood injury accidents reported in the proposals. Plan area. Neighbourhood Plan area. Air Quality Improvement in NO2 levels within the Town Centre Air Quality Management Area

Education Farnham, being in the south east of all new developments. Developers Farnham has several good schools, England, is classified as being in an will be required to demonstrate that which are over-subscribed and there area of severe water stress. Water there is adequate capacity both on and is a thriving sixth form college and the is supplied by South East Water. The off the site to serve the development University for the Creative Arts. Water Resources Management Plan and that it would not lead to amenity (WRMP) sets out how South East impacts for existing users. In some The popularity of local schools puts Water intends to maintain the balance circumstances this may make it pressure on school places for the between increasing demand for water necessary for developers to carry out current and predicted populations. and available supplies over the next 25 appropriate appraisals to ascertain Nevertheless, Surrey County years up to 2040. The plan takes into whether the proposed development Council expects to be able to meet account planned housing growth as will lead to overloading of existing the demand for new school places well as the potential impact of climate network infrastructure. Where there arising from the new development change. The area of Farnham lies is a capacity constraint the Council proposed in the Neighbourhood Plan within South East Water’s resource will require the developer to provide through increasing school places on zone 5. The WRMP indicates that, with a detailed water and/ or drainage existing sites. Where capacity is not planned reductions in demand from strategy informing what infrastructure available to serve new development, the customer metering programme is required, where, when and how it contributions will be sought towards and enhanced water efficiency, for will be delivered. school expansion. the plan period this resource zone Water and Sewerage Infrastructure will remain in surplus for average Thames Water’s five-year plan 2015 – demands. However, for peak demands Policy FNP31 a deficit is forecast from 2020 2020 does not contain any proposals Water and Sewerage to improve the capacity of sewage onwards, at which time additional treatment works at Farnham and they schemes are scheduled to be delivered Infrastructure Capacity have confirmed that the works will be which will satisfy demand. Farnham’s Planning permission will be able to accommodate the development water zone is considered to be highly granted for developments proposed in the Neighbourhood Plan. vulnerable to climate change and which increase the demand for They have also stated that they intend there are future proposals to transfer off-site water and wastewater to carry out odour improvement works water into the zone from the south infrastructure where: Sufficient at Farnham Sewage Treatment Works by 2040. Nevertheless, South East capacity already exists or extra in the current business plan period Water have assured the Town Council capacity can be provided in time to serve the development which will 2015 – 2020. that in the context of the WRMP their published planned programme will ensure that the environment and Thames Water have indicated that be fully able to satisfy the growth in the amenity of local residents are not adversely affected. additional wastewater network demands in the zone. They indicate infrastructure reinforcement may be that proposed development would required in respect of some individual need a limited amount of local developments to ensure that there are reinforcement to supply the additional no adverse environmental impacts or demand at specific sites. The Water increased risks of sewer flooding and Act enables South East Water to this is set out in the Neighbourhood charge developers for a contribution Plan site allocation policies. towards any reinforcement and new In accordance with Planning Policy mains required as a result of new Guidance, when there is a capacity development to ensure they maintain constraint and improvements in levels of service for both new and off-site infrastructure are not existing customers. programmed, planning permission The Council will seek to ensure that will only be granted where appropriate there is adequate water supply; infrastructure improvements will be surface water; sewerage network and completed prior to occupation of the sewage treatment capacity to serve development.

Infrastructure Contributions The development of sustainable can be funded by the levy including Other public and private sources of communities requires the provision transport, schools, play areas, funding may be available to contribute of a wide range of local facilities and parks and green spaces, cultural to the local priorities listed. services. and sports facilities and health and If the CIL Infrastructure Development Waverley Borough Council has social care facilities. This gives local Plan is not in place, pooled adopted a Planning Infrastructure communities flexibility to choose what contributions may be sought from up Contributions Supplementary Planning infrastructure they need to deliver to five separate planning obligations Document (2008) which supplements their development plan. for an item of infrastructure. The a number of saved Local Plan policies The Neighbourhood Plan has identified limit of five applies to types of general seeking developer contributions. infrastructure requirements needed to infrastructure contributions, such as This is currently used as the basis for support new development. These are: education and transport. In assessing seeking contributions towards local • Traffic management measures which whether five separate planning infrastructure from residential and create an enhanced pedestrian obligations have already been entered commercial development towards environment and improved air into for a specific infrastructure project education (primary and secondary); quality within the Town Centre or a type of infrastructure, local libraries; playing pitches and play planning authorities must look over • Sustainable transport measures space; sports and leisure centres; agreements that have been entered which assist walking, cycling and community facilities; environmental into since 6 April 2010. public transport including improved, improvements and transport. sympathetically designed signage to In future, most development link up the network of footpaths and will be expected to contribute other green spaces Policy FNP32 towards infrastructure through the • Road and junction improvements Securing Infrastructure Community Infrastructure Levy. to ease congestion and traffic Any development permitted will The levy is intended to help pay management measures for the infrastructure required to be expected to ensure provision • Farnham Park Suitable Alternative support new development though it of the necessary social, physical Natural Greenspace (SANG) and green infrastructure should not be used to remedy pre- needed to support the proposed existing deficiencies unless the new • Conservation Area enhancement measures set out in the Town Centre development, or the additional development makes the deficiency Conservation Area Management infrastructure identified in the more severe. Plan Neighbourhood Plan, which should Most buildings that people normally be provided in a timely manner, or • Restoration and re-creation use will be liable to pay the levy, once through developer contributions of wildlife habitats within the introduced, and all but the smallest subject to an appropriate Biodiversity Opportunity Areas building projects will be expected to assessment of viability. • An additional area for allotments make a contribution towards additional of some 0.5 hectares infrastructure that is needed as a result of their development, subject to • Increased school places Monitoring Indicators an appropriate assessment of viability. • Additional areas of sports pitches Waverley Borough Council as the at Runfold and at Weydon Lane Infrastructure delivered through charging authority will set the levy and (Brambleton Park), developer contributions, including will decide on what infrastructure the • Increased indoor sports facilities S106 contributions and Community funding is spent, taking into account Infrastructure Levy. The Community Infrastructure Levy the clear local infrastructure priorities (CIL) is the government’s preferred set out in the Neighbourhood Plan. The Targets vehicle for the collection of pooled Community Infrastructure Levy should contributions and the Town Council All infrastructure identified in the normally be spent on infrastructure would wish to see the above projects Neighbourhood Plan and within needs in the locality of the scheme that included in the Borough Council’s Waverley Borough Council CIL generated it. CIL Infrastructure Development Plan Schedule within the Farnham area, to be delivered by the end of the The Planning Act 2008 provides a wide and the timely release of funding to Plan period. definition of the infrastructure which implement these local priorities.

Effective monitoring is an essential component in achieving Where monitoring shows that progress towards targets is sustainable development and sustainable communities. unsatisfactory the Town Council will review the situation Monitoring provides crucial information to establish what is and, where necessary, take remedial action. This may happening now and whether policies are working. include proactive measures to bring forward sites for development or action to secure the timely provision of The Neighbourhood Plan sets out the long-term spatial infrastructure. If necessary the Neighbourhood Plan will be vision for Farnham with agreed objectives and policies to formally reviewed. deliver the vision in the period up to 2031. Where relevant, targets are set in the Plan against which the delivery of the policy will be measured. Monitoring will evaluate the progress being made towards delivering the spatial vision and assess the extent to which the policies are being implemented.

86 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Appendix 1

Acknowledgement of community groups, local societies and schools in Farnham

Aldershot, Farnham and Fleet Friends of Farnham Park Runfold Action Group Camera Club Gong Hill Residents’ School Lane Residents’ Badshot Lea Community Association Association Association Gorselands Residents’ Searle Road Residents’ Badshot Lea Infants School Group Association

Barncroft Management Great Austins Preservation South Farnham Infants Company Trust School

Bishops Meadow Trust Guildford Road / Forge South Farnham Junior Close Residents’ School Bourne Conservation Group Association South Farnham Residents’ Bourne Residents’ Hale Corner Residents’ Association Association Association St. Andrew’s School Castle Street Residents’ Hale Institute Association St. George’s Church, Highfield Close Residents’ Badshot Lea Cedarways Residents’ Association Association St. John’s Road Residents’ High Park Road Residents’ Association Chantrys Community Association Association St. Peter’s School Homepark House Residents’ Crooksbury Road Residents’ Surrey Wildlife Trust Association Association The Farnham Society Lancaster Avenue Residents’ Dippenhall, Runwick and Association Tilford Road Residents’ Doras Green Residents’ Association Association Long Garden Walk Residents’ Association Trafalgar Court Residents’ Douglas Grove Residents’ Association Association Moor Park Residents’ Association University for the Creative Farnham Buildings Arts Preservation Trust NW Farnham Residents’ Association Waverley Cycle Forum Farnham Chamber of Commerce Old Church Lane Residents’ Weybourne Residents’ Association Association Farnham Conservation Area Management Group Park View Residents’ Weydon School Association Farnham Sports Council Wrecclesham Village Potters Gate Primary School Society Farnham Visitors Forum Residents’ Association of Firgrove Court Residents’ Sandy Hill Association Rowledge Primary School Frensham Vale Action Group Rowledge Residents’ Association

Map I – Housing Allocations

88 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 a) Part of SSE Farnham Depot, Lower Weybourne Lane and adjoining land

b) Land west of Green Lane, Badshot Lea

d) Land between Hale Rd and Guildford Rd

88b Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 e) Colemans Yard, Wrecclesham Road

f) Coal Yard, The Street

h) The Woolmead

88d Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 i) Coxbridge Farm

j) Part of Farnham College Tennis Courts

Map J – Land for Business

89 Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 a) Guildford Rd Council Depot (0.95ha) EM01

b) Coxbridge Business Park (8.7ha) EM02

d) Riverside Business Park (0.3ha) EM04

89b Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 e) Farnham Business Centre (0.5ha) EM07

f) Hurlands Business Centre (0.53ha) EM10

h) Bourne Mill Business Park (rear part only) (0.46ha) EM30

89d Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 i) Grove Bell Industrial Estate (0.99ha) EM12

j) Farnham Business Park (Broadmede) (1.9ha) EM17

l) Abbey Business Park (1.4ha) EM20

89f Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 m) Century Farm, Badshot Lea (0.61ha) EM24

n) The Factory, Crondal Lane (0.5ha) EM26

p) Bridge Court, Wrecclesham (0.41ha) EM13

89h Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 q) St. Paul’s House, East Street (0.05ha) EM08

r) St. Stephen’s House, East Street EM09

t) Headway House, Crosby Way EM22

89j Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 Appendix 4: neighbourhood centres

Map O – Neighbourhood Centre Maps

2) Station Hill

90a Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 3) Firgrove Hill

4) Farnborough Road in Heath End

6) St Marks Place, Sandy Hill

90c Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 7) Upper Hale Road

8) Willow Way in Hale

10) The Long Road, Rowledge

90e Map data shown may contain Ordnance Survey © products supplied by Pear Technology Services Ltd © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 © Crown Copyright and database rights 2017 PSMA Ordnance Survey ® licence number EUL 0100052258 www.farnham.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplan 91 Email: [email protected] Tel: 01252 712667 Web: www.farnham.gov.uk Farnham Town Council, Council Offices, South Street, Farnham, Surrey GU9 7RN Town Clerk: Iain Lynch

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Printed: September 2017