Development Framework

University of Chester Development Framework

March 2012

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 1 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 2 1 Introduction

2 University of Chester – Corporate Objectives

3 The University in Chester

4 Development Framework - Policy Context

5 University of Chester – Sites

6 The Development Framework

7 Development Principles and Process

8 Appendices: Public Consultation Outcomes

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 3 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 4 Introduction

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 5 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 6 Foreword

This Development Framework has been prepared by the University of Chester to create a clear and shared framework for the University, the local planning authority and the local community to consider investment and development at the University of Chester’s sites in Chester.

The Development Framework is Accordingly, the Framework reflects The Framework specifically considers founded on the view, shared by both established and emerging planning policy the period to 2016 (in parallel with the University and Cheshire West and at national and local level. Importantly, it the University’s Corporate Strategy). Chester Council, that the University is of also reflects the University’s Corporate However, longer term principles are significant importance to the economic, Strategy and the University’s evolving also established. The Framework will be cultural and social life of the City. Estates Strategy. formally reviewed by the University in conjunction with the Council on a regular This Framework is therefore intended to The Framework focuses on the basis and will be updated in 2016. establish a clear basis upon which the future University’s three sites in Chester, physical enhancement and development namely Parkgate Road, Kingsway and The Framework will be presented to of the University’s assets in the City can Riverside. Other assets held by the the Strategic Planning Committee be considered not just in the context of University in the City are referred to in and Planning Committee and will the University’s own priorities, but also the relation to future plans. The Framework subsequently be the subject of extensive strategy for the City as a whole and the also sets out the University‘s position public consultation. well-being of the local communities, of on the management of Houses in which the University is part. Multiple Occupation (HMOs) within its The University of Chester is a successful control and more broadly considers place of learning – this Framework The Framework is also intended to inform the likely future requirement for student intends to contribute to that continuing the Cheshire West and Chester Local accommodation. success to the benefit of students, staff, Development Framework—Core Strategy. our local community and the City. This is the statutory document produced The University’s site in Warrington is by the Council which will guide all future not considered in this Development growth across the Borough. Framework.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 7 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 8 University of Chester Corporate Objectives

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 9 The University Mission, Vision and Strategic Objectives The University of Chester has a long and distinguished history. Chester College was established in 1839 as an institution dedicated to the training of teachers, an innovative concept in the early nineteenth century, and is one of the oldest institutions in higher education, pre-dating all universities in England except Oxford, Cambridge, Durham and London. The Founders of the institution, a distinguished array of leading figures of the nineteenth century, were motivated by high moral purpose, reflecting the social conditions and philanthropic moral climate of the age.

Whilst the date of its establishment is now education, training, skills and motivation to contribution to the City, the region and somewhat distant, the principles and main enable them to develop as individuals and beyond. In valuing and celebrating our purposes of the College at the time of its have lives of service in the communities long history and traditions, the University foundation have endured and continue within which they live and work. This remains dynamic and enterprising to inform the work of the University, mission, which has helped shape our in its approach to developing new embodying the concept of traditional development and diversification, continues opportunities. In particular, we are values in a modern setting. The University’s to inform our future planning and committed to engendering a sense of mission of service to the community enrichment as a University.’ pride and shared ownership in all those continues as an expression of the Christian associated with us and with what we do. foundation and its spirit and ethos now, as then, influences its life and work. Our Vision Our Objectives At the heart of the University’s vision is Our Mission our commitment to ensuring a rewarding The University’s objectives are set out student learning experience; developing in the Corporate Strategy 2012-2016 The mission of the former College has the expertise of our staff; teaching Defining Our Future: Chester 2016. remained constant throughout its history excellence; and our growing research and, as a University institution since and scholarly profile. Fundamental The Corporate Strategy is necessarily a 2005, it continues to seek: to these ideals and aspirations is the wide ranging document, centred around positive impact that the University has the continual enhancement of the learning ‘…within an open, inclusive and supportive on the lives of our students, our staff, experience, fostering research, enterprise environment, guided by Christian values, and our community, all of which underpin and knowledge exchange, promoting to provide students and staff with the the institution’s significant and growing partnership, diversity and inclusion.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 10 Of direct relevance to the Development technology, and student support services • providing facilities and services that Framework are the University’s objectives in order to enhance the overall learning support and maintain a high quality for the University’s physical environment experience of our students. In spite of learning environment and which meet which specifically seek: challenging economic circumstances, or exceed the changing requirements this investment will continue, reflecting of our students and staff; ‘To provide a modern learning and working the University’s commitment to provide • ensuring that the University’s estate is environment that meets the diverse needs all our students with every opportunity used in an efficient and cost effective of our staff, students and other users in and encouragement to support them manner at all times; a flexible, cost effective, environmentally in their individual learning and personal • pursuing best practice and securing sustainable and efficient manner.’ development journeys. The University’s value for money in all our estates pledge extends beyond its students to activities; The University is committed to include its staff, ensuring that they are • providing a safe working environment providing our students and staff with an provided with the appropriate facilities for all our staff and students. environment that meets the needs of a and resources to pursue their teaching, flourishing higher education academic research and scholarly interests. The community. This will be achieved in ways University is conscious of its obligations that complement the aesthetic character under health and safety legislation and will and environmental commitments of the at all times ensure that it provides a safe University whilst at the same time creating working environment for all our staff and an estate which is financially efficient and students. sustainable into the future. Through all of its educational activities, The quality of the University’s estate is the University is committed to promoting particularly important in helping to promote greater awareness and engagement in the image of the institution. This, in turn, respect of environmental sustainability in impacts upon student and staff recruitment, order to improve the quality of life now income generation and institutional and for future generations. We continue development capabilities. Recent years to seek to influence staff and students to have seen considerable investment embrace the opportunities they have to in the University’s estate, with several contribute to social progress, economic significant capital development projects. growth and environmental improvement. These additions to the University’s estate, This is achieved through a number of combined with changes to the nature of the activities including a commitment to student learning experience and new learning improve our environmental performance, and teaching methodologies, demand minimising waste and promoting resource creativity and prudence in the management efficiency, and, where practicable, of our primary physical resource to ensure favouring the purchasing of more that we maximise efficient space utilisation. sustainable goods and services. In particular, we recognise the need to be increasingly flexible and innovative in the way Within this context, the University is in which our learning and teaching facilities committed to the following strategic are developed and utilised. objectives:

In support of the physical estate, the • providing an environment which University has made significant investment supports effective teaching and in learning resources, information learning;

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 11 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 12 The University in Chester

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 13 Introduction

The existing estate of the University is, as noted earlier, the outcome of over 170 years of continual investment, development and enhancement to meet changing needs within the consistent themes of service to the community and educational excellence.

The University of Chester operates League Tables Ten subjects taught at the University of from three sites in the City, namely Chester have been singled out by three Parkgate Road, Riverside and Kingsway. In the Sunday Times University Guide major national newspaper league tables These are considered in more detail 2012 the University is placed sixth as representing the very top of their field later in the Framework document. The highest institution in the North West, in key areas of their work. The 10 leading University’s site in Warrington, which ahead of much larger institutions such subjects are as follows: is not considered in this Development as Liverpool John Moores University, Framework, provides a particular focus Edge Hill University and Manchester • Archaeology; for Public Sector and Creative Industries Metropolitan University. In addition the • English; studies. University comes second regionally • Food Science; for teaching excellence (78.9%), and • French; In Chester, the University provides a fourth for the percentage of students • Geography; wide range of courses for approximately gaining graduate level jobs, which use • Maths; 9900 full time and part time their degree (73.8%). The quality of • Theology and Religious Studies; undergraduates and postgraduates. teaching and employability of graduates • Social Work; The University is a significant asset and are among the University’s priorities for • Sport and Exercise Sciences; presence in the City. ensuring that it delivers high added value • Subjects Allied to Medicine. for its students. Excellence in Education Students at the University of Chester Ofsted Assessment 2011 rate their courses extremely highly. In Importantly, the University enjoys a the 2011 National Student Survey (NSS), The University of Chester is an ‘Outstanding very good reputation, as indicated by which is anonymous and independent, Provider’ of Initial Teacher Training. The its ranking in national league tables, the the overall satisfaction rate for the recently published Ofsted Initial Teacher assessment of its courses by national University was 84%. This is the highest Education Inspection report found that the agencies such as Ofsted, and the score the University has ever achieved overall effectiveness of Primary teacher employability of graduates. and 2% higher than the national average. training scored an ‘Outstanding’ Grade 1 and Secondary teacher training received a

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 14 ‘Good’ Grade 2. The employment-based training route (Graduate Teacher Programme or GTP) also scored an ‘Outstanding’ Grade 1, while the Initial Teacher Education (ITE) Programme for Further Education received an award of ‘Good’ Grade 2.

This assessment of the University is reflected in its ranking as the 12th best university in the country for its delivery of Initial Teacher Training in the annual and nationally recognised Good Teacher Training Guide 2011. This makes it the highest ranking institution in the North West for teacher training.

Graduate Employability The University of Chester is listed in the Sunday Times University Guide 2012 as having the second lowest graduate unemployment figures in the North West. The independent Unistats website shows that for the second consecutive year the University of Chester is the highest ranking university in the North West for former students securing a graduate level job after completing their programme of study. 81% of graduates in 2011 gained graduate level employment, which is an increase on the 78% achieved last year.

In addition, figures released by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) show that students from the University of Chester were ‘bucking’ the national unemployment trend, with the number of those finding jobs within six months of graduating continuing to increase. The HESA statistics showed that 93% of the University’s degree students secured employment or further study after graduating last year (09/10) – an increase from 91.2% the previous year (08/09).

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 15 The Growth of the University in Chester, 1995 - 2008 In the period to the 1990s, measured and steady change took place in the University’s estate reflecting the established context for higher education.

However, the pace of change in higher designed to increase the number of and key strategic location, has had the education has accelerated in recent undergraduate students engaged in higher opportunity to develop an increasingly decades, requiring the University to education to 50% of the Age Participation impressive and broad-ranging portfolio of adapt and innovate in order to respond to Rate. The pace of change slowed only academic programmes, whilst retaining changing demands and expectations both with the onset of recession, a tightening its long-standing commitment to training of policy makers and of the broadening of Government spending, and latterly, the individuals for careers of service. Its range of client groups which now extends changes to the funding regime. growing reputation was acknowledged in beyond the student body to include its attainment of University status in 2005 significant stakeholders from the business, The trend in student numbers in Chester over and research degree-awarding powers industrial, social and cultural sectors. the period 2002 to 2011 is set out below: in 2007, and in the past fifteen years, the University has responded to Government The pattern of incremental growth over In this period of expansion of the imperatives to increase the opportunities many decades was radically altered from higher education sector as a whole, the available to study at undergraduate and the mid-1990s by Government policies University of Chester, set in an attractive postgraduate level.

2002/3 2003/4 2004/5 2005/6 2006/7 2007/8 2008/9 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 Full and part time post and undergraduates studying in Chester 5547 6133 6518 8150 8618 9230 9469 9610 9899 10188* Full time undergraduates studying in Chester 3954 4366 4684 5242 5600 5832 5676 5763 5963 6182* *As at March 2012

Economic Benefits by exporting the value of the City and its Whilst the growth of the University potential to the wider world. The University has generated significant benefits, the The expansion of undergraduate student has also added to the vitality and cultural University is conscious of the need numbers within the University from the mid diversity of the City. to manage the environmental and 1990s to 2008 has had, and continues to community impact of our activities, have significant benefits for the University, A draft Economic Impact Assessment both to deliver our own sustainability the City of Chester and the region. These prepared on behalf of the University agenda, but also to ensure a positive include the broadening of educational underlines the contribution it makes to and mutually beneficial relationship opportunity, the growth of the institution, the City and region: with the communities within which we both in size and reputation, and the • The employment of over 1800 (1220 work, and with the City as a whole. The substantially increased economic impact of fte) members of staff; University pursues this approach across the University in terms of jobs and inward • An annual pay roll of approximately a number of areas and by various investment on the City, the borough and the £45,500,000; means, but of particular relevance to region. The University has become a major • Payments to suppliers of around the Development Framework are the economic generator, not solely by bringing £27,000,000; approaches to transport and student academic, commercial and research • An overall contribution to the economy accommodation. interests and expertise into the City, but also of some £298,000,000.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 16 A Sustainable Approach impacts and the range of travel choices particularly mobility requirement or with a available at the University; commute of 10 miles or more are eligible; to Transport • encouraging the improvement of existing • In connection with the recent approval public transport access, both directly for a 196 bed accommodation block at The University, as a significant employer and available from the University and from the Parkgate Road site, the University centre of learning, inevitably generates a within the immediate catchment; has committed to a local survey of on- substantial number of trips into and around • encouraging increased walking and street parking; the City. However, every effort is taken to cycling access to the University through • The University provides a significant amount minimise the number and length of trips and the management and improvement of a of cycle parking facilities at all its sites. to encourage the use of public transport, network of safe and convenient routes to/ cycling and walking instead of the private car. from the University campus; Car parking and the use of cars by students is • seeking to reduce single occupancy Student Accommodation also actively managed, to ensure that, as far vehicle trips to the University and as possible, local residents are not adversely encouraging the most efficient use of Strategy affected by on-street parking generated by those car trips that must continue to be University staff or students. This is particularly made by car sharing schemes; Since the mid-1990s, throughout the the case at the Parkgate Road site. Given the • minimising the impact of University country, there has been a significant residential location of Kingsway, car parking at related activities (in terms of congestion, increase in the number of young, full-time the site is controlled to respect local amenity, noise, pollution, and parking) upon local undergraduate students living away from whilst the City centre location of Riverside residents around the University campus; home. However, the proportion of students is reflected in the approach to car parking • encouraging the continuing health and living in accommodation owned or managed management at that site. welfare of all students, staff and visitors. by universities has declined in the last two decades, in part because provision could The University agreed a Travel Plan The University’s commitment to managing not maintain pace with the rapid growth in with the local authority in 2005 and this its travel demands is reflected in a number student numbers, but also because students is reviewed and refined as part of any of its policies: have increasingly opted to live in mainstream new, significant development proposals rather than purpose built accommodation. requiring planning permission. The Travel • Permanent staff are required by their Plan commits the University to: contract of employment to live within 30 As noted earlier, significant growth at the • ensuring that lack of access to the miles of their place of work; University took place between the mid private car does not represent a barrier to • Students in University managed 1990s and 2008. Since 2008, student accessing the University of Chester and its accommodation in the City are required numbers have remained broadly stable. resources. This is addressed through the to sign a commitment not to bring their Full-time undergraduate student numbers promotion of a wide range of travel options car to the City; in Chester increased from 3954 in 2002/3 to at the University that are available to all; • Car parking is managed by a permit 5832 in 2007/8. The University currently has • raising employee, student and visitor system. Some passes are provided to 16,800 students (c. 10,000 fte) on all sites, awareness regarding travel to work students, but generally only those with a including a major campus in Warrington.

2002/3 2003/4 2004/5 2005/6 2006/7 2007/8 2008/9 2009/10 2010/11 2011/12 Number of University bed spaces in Chester SOURCE: University of Chester 830 848 874 890 1001 1004 1006 1017 1054 1057 Number of private bed spaces in Chester occupied by University of Chester students (estimated)* 2090 2560 2109 2655 Number of students studying from own home or living with parent/guardian (estimated)* 2117 1880 2050 2075 *This data reflects consistency in terms of how the latter two categories were defined from 2008/9 onwards by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). It is also reliant on information being supplied to the University by its students in accordance with these HESA definitions.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 17 Throughout this period of rapid growth, the The University managed accommodation and a static position or possibly small- provision of suitable and suitably-located comprises 1053 University owned scale reduction in student numbers is residential accommodation has remained accommodation bed spaces and 90 the most likely outcome. a continuing challenge. Whilst there are University managed beds. The University significant benefits to residential areas and to accommodation ranges from rooms in Future strategy will take account of this the City as a whole deriving from the presence converted Victorian houses to modern position and is reflected, as appropriate, of students (added dynamism, cultural purpose-built units. The University owned in the Development Framework. diversity and other positive effects, including accommodation is exclusively used for the major impact on the local economy), first year undergraduate and international instances of over concentrations of student students. Returning and postgraduate Issues for the Future housing in residential areas can have an students are housed in University adverse influence on amenities and services, managed accommodation or in the As noted earlier, the purpose of the impacting on local residents particularly on private sector. Development Framework is to establish matters such as an increase in the demand for a shared basis for considering how the on-street parking leading to congestion and The University has increasingly development of the University estate will competition for parking places; problems with recognised that the acquisition of be considered in the future. Clearly, in the accumulation of refuse and other forms of existing residential properties for use as developing the Framework, it is important rubbish; issues of noise disturbance; and the student accommodation (often referred to establish the factors which may effects of an increasingly transient population to as HMOs), as the primary response influence change in the years to come. changing the demographic composition of to the increased demand for residential such neighbourhoods. accommodation in the period from 1995- Following a number of years of 2008, has placed progressively increasing reasonably strong and consistent In Chester, the expansion of higher pressures upon local communities. As a government support and funding for education up to the current level, first consequence, a number of communities the growth of the higher education, reached in 2008, has had the effect of adjacent to the University have experienced there is now an extremely volatile policy increasing concentrations of students in (and continue to experience) both the environment and it is likely to remain residential areas, particularly adjacent to benefits and detrimental effects of so for several years. This will generate, the Parkgate Road site leading at times to ‘studentification’. significant uncertainty with regard to concerns amongst the local community. investment funding and student numbers. Since 2008 the University has no longer In 2011-12, there are approximately 6,182 regarded the acquisition of existing The recent change from the block grant full time undergraduate students on courses houses as an adequate solution to funding of institutions, to a system in at the three University sites in Chester. 67% student accommodation requirements which funding is derived from students (4138) of these lived in Chester, as defined and has been proactively considering through higher course fees with an by CH1 to CH4 postcode area, reflecting alternative approaches to this issue. In institutional quota determined by the preference for accommodation close to the process, a wide range of options adherence to fee limits, has created an campus. Of these: has been considered. Two important unpredictability both in overall student • 61% lived in privately rented factors have influenced the University’s demand, and the demand at individual accommodation; approach, namely: institutions. These matters are subject • 28% lived in accommodation to recent policy changes which link managed by the University or in • the strong preference amongst students the setting of fee levels by institutions privately-managed halls of residence; to live very close to the University, with the potential to secure additional • 4% lived with a parent or guardian; notably the Parkgate Road site; and student numbers, only available to those • 5% remained in their own home • the University has concluded that institutions setting average fee levels at (these were mainly mature students). further major growth of the scale below £7500 per year. (This is a snapshot at March 2012.) experienced in recent years is unlikely,

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 18 Views on the impact on future demand the University’s development objectives Notwithstanding this approach, and of this shift from block grants to higher will be focused particularly on those in the interests of its students, those tuition fees for individual students vary opportunities and requirements to improve of the local residential communities widely and the impact on recruitment the educational related facilities (i.e. the and of the City, the University will of individual university strategies on incremental upgrade of the existing estate continue to consider any and all fee levels across the English higher within the context of the Development feasible proposals, contributing education sector is not yet apparent. Framework) and to manage the University’s actively through the provision of residential accommodation in a way advice on changing student demand Some commentators believe the that continues to meet the changing and information on its own plans for substantial increase in the cost of higher requirements of students and which residential provision. This process will education to students to compensate reflects a commitment to take appropriate be undertaken in collaboration with for reductions in direct grant aid from opportunities to move away from instances Cheshire West and Chester Council, government will reduce demand. Despite of the perceived over-concentration of whose role is to guide future growth universities being required to maintain HMOs in certain areas. across the Borough and to determine or, in some cases, increase the intake of any future planning applications in students from lower income backgrounds, On that basis, incremental changes to accordance with the development plan many consider that these groups will provision, including new supply provided (in this case, currently and principally actually be discouraged from entering on campus by the University, together the Regional Spatial Strategy 2008 higher education by the prospect of high with appropriate new private sector and the Chester District Local Plan levels of debt. The contrary view suggests supply, is considered to be effective 2006) unless there are other overriding that the economic climate and rising as a future strategy for the University material considerations that indicate the unemployment will generate increased in managing the demand for student permission should not be given. demand to enter higher education. The residential accommodation. This approach impact of students opting to reduce their is reflected in the application submitted in This approach is reflected in the costs and debt burden by studying at December 2011 to the Council and since Development Framework, notably as it university, whilst remaining living with approved, for a 196 bed accommodation relates to the Parkgate Road site. parents is, as yet, unknown. block on a site at Parkgate Road.

These radical changes to the funding of higher education, both for individuals and institutions, have created major uncertainties for universities across the sector in all the key areas of the planning of future provision (student demand, curriculum development, facilities, accommodation, staffing levels). Predictions of future demand in such a climate, and particularly the commitment of major investment to support such predictions with this range of unknown variables, demands particular caution.

However, the balance of probability and the planning assumptions within the University favour broadly static student numbers, at least in the short term. As such

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 19 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 20 Development Framework Policy Context

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 21 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 22 Policy Context The Development Framework is to be considered within the context of policy at national and local level, notably in the areas of sustainable growth objectives, education policy and planning policy.

UK Government - higher education sector, in which funding have to compete for the student numbers will follow the decisions of learners. outside its core allocation and the core Plan for Growth The White Paper was withdrawn in will reduce every year. The stated aim is to January 2012, although its central policy create an open, dynamic and affordable In 2011, HM Treasury and the Department imperatives have been retained. higher education system, with more for Business Innovation and Skills competition and innovation and a level published its ‘Plan for Growth’. The proposed changes, representing the playing field for new providers, including The Plan is intended to create a path for most radical transformation of higher further education colleges and private the UK towards sustainable long term education funding in decades, will have institutions that wish to be part of the economic growth and as an overarching extensive impact on the sector and, in the English higher education system. strategy for Government Policy. course of the next three years, at least, will generate a degree of uncertainty in the As part of these reforms, controls have The Plan establishes four ‘ambitions’, planning of student numbers for individual been removed on those places, taken including the creation of ‘a more institutions and are set to change the by students who achieve AAB grades educated workforce that is the most shape of the sector as a whole. or above at A-level or equivalent, flexible in Europe’. the intention being that, in 2012/13, This White Paper proposes that the institutions should be able to recruit as The Government recognises the role public money that supports higher many of such students as they can, with of higher education institutions in education will shift from block grants that the longer-term aim being to widen the delivering on this agenda which it universities and colleges receive from the threshold, ensuring that the share of intends to facilitate through initiatives, Higher Education Funding Council for places liberated from number controls such as the amended Higher Education England (Hefce) towards repayable tuition altogether rises year on year whilst Innovation Fund. loans made to students to take to the balancing the need to drive improvement institution of their choice. A two-stage in the sector with protection for taxpayers consultation period is underway, to be and the avoidance of unnecessary Higher Education Policy concluded in 2012, on the longer-term turbulence. method for allocating teaching grant in In Autumn 2011, the Government published 2013/14 and beyond, to take account of In addition, Hefce has been instructed a White Paper on the future of higher the progressive implementation of these to redistribute up to 20,000 new entrant education, entitled “Students at the Heart funding reforms. places in 2012/13, to make it easier for of the System”, which proposed radical high quality, good value providers to offer changes to the funding of higher education, The consequence of these changes is more places, introducing competition into designed to deliver a more responsive that from year to year, every institution will the higher education market, to incentivise

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 23 all institutions to operate as efficiently most from their courses and to respond student numbers and the associated as possible. This will enable growth in to student demand for well-resourced development of the physical estate and institutions, whose full-time fees average provision. organisational infrastructure with any no more than £7,500 per annum (net of degree of confidence, is impaired. fee waivers) and can clearly demonstrate In terms of both institutional and sector the quality of their provision. planning, it is not possible to know at this stage exactly how students’ and Planning Policy It is in these provisions that the basis institutions’ behaviour will be affected by of the uncertainty rests. these proposals, and, in the light of the Planning Policy establishes the context funding reforms and economic climate, within which development proposals It is intended that there will be an historic trends are unlikely to be an are considered and therefore is of increase in the number of places made effective guide to future behaviour. These direct relevance to the Development ‘contestable’ in this way in future uncertainties and gaps in the evidence Framework. years, to create greater dynamism in also make it difficult to quantify the risks the allocation of places. The White to students’ opportunities. Planning policy is established at both Paper considers it essential that further national and local levels. education colleges and alternative Government assumptions about providers wishing to develop innovative students’ preferences, and institutions’ and low cost approaches to delivering provision that may underpin these National Planning Policy Higher Education are not inhibited by proposals, are therefore also very student number controls. uncertain. Such assumptions extend In 2011 the Government published to the impact on overall levels of the draft National Planning Policy The proposals in the White Paper, student demand, the attractiveness and Framework. This document establishes seen together with reforms to teaching sustainability of lower-priced provision, a presumption in favour of sustainable funding, signal a period of fundamental the move for further education colleges development. The planning system is change, with the prospect of greater to extract themselves from partnerships used to protect and enhance the natural, instability in the higher education sector, with universities, and the effectiveness built and historic environment whilst over a short period of time, as a result of of the regulatory control to be exercised providing for the needs of the economy further proposed funding and regulatory across a much broader, more diverse and communities. Planning policies and changes. A degree of dynamism in range of institutions (including private decisions are, amongst other things, to: student numbers at each institution is providers) that students are likely to the inevitable consequence of a system consider. • make effective use of land; where more funding follows the student. • protect and enhance environmental There are also a number of risks inherent The principles of a planning and and heritage assets; in proposed changes to the regulation development framework, set out in this • manage development to promote of student numbers, and no precedent document, will continue to inform the sustainable transport patterns. to assist institutions or the sector to University’s approach to the management quantify them. of its student numbers and the related developments of the administrative and Chester District Local Plan The current student number controls residential estate. However, in the context restrict the freedom of any institution of these imminent radical changes, in The existing Local Plan for Chester is the to increase its undergraduate entrant the period to 2015, or until the evidence Chester District Local Plan, adopted in numbers. However, the two central of the effects of these reforms has been 2006. The majority of the Plan will remain proposals in the White Paper reduce the monitored and evaluated, the future in force until such time as it is replaced freedom of institutions to offer places to remains uncertain and, consequently, the by the Local Development Framework students whom they believe will benefit ability of individual institutions to plan which is considered later in this section.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 24 A number of policies are relevant to the and objectives for the area, together One City Plan University’s sites in the City. However, the with a spatial strategy, policies, and a key policies are as follows: framework to monitor the effectiveness of Chester West and Chester Council is the Plan. The Core Strategy will provide in the process of preparing a City-wide Parkgate Road – part of the eastern the framework for the production of other, plan known as ‘The One City Plan’. side of the site is within the Liverpool more detailed, LDF documents that will Although it is a non-statutory document it Conservation Area. The Glenesk site, cover specific areas and topics. is intended that the Plan will be used by to the north of the Parkgate Road site, Chester Renaissance, CW&C Council and is identified as being removed from the The Core Strategy seeks to assist in partners to guide the City’s development. Green Belt, to cater for the expansion of the creation of a vibrant economy for education facilities at the University of Cheshire West and Chester and sets the It will co-ordinate and drive a programme Chester. Land to the west of Glenesk, following objectives: of public and private investment and also in the ownership of the University, development activity into Chester City and immediately to the west of the Deva • To ensure sufficient school places are centre over the next 15 years. The draft Link, is designated as Green Belt. available for all age groups and to document sets the overarching vision facilitate improvements to the quality and direction of travel for the City, under Kingsway – the site, including existing of facilities for education and skills which all projects should sit. It is driven buildings, is designated as green space, development. by prioritisation, implementation and which is generally to be protected. • To attract inward investment and delivery. promote a dynamic, competitive Riverside – the site is within the Chester economy. The One City Plan makes reference to the City Centre Conservation Area and in an • To attract major retailers to the key importance of the University and rightly area, identified as being a cultural area City and town centres in the Borough considers that it is a significant asset for and historic site. and to protect and enhance the vitality the City of Chester. and viability of the town, district and village centres. The draft Plan states that in order to Draft Cheshire West • To support and improve tourist support growth, the City must work attractions and facilities. better with its educational institutions, in and Chester Local • To provide the necessary employment particular the University of Chester. land and associated infrastructure to Development Framework enable provision of a wide range of The draft Plan commits the Council to well-paid employment opportunities in supporting the University of Chester to The Local Development Framework is a variety of sectors. place itself at the heart of a ‘University the emerging statutory planning policy City’ – building relationships with local document for the Borough. The Core The University has an important role businesses and communities, and Strategy is the key document within the to play in contributing to the economy encouraging entrepreneurship. portfolio of Local Development Framework and will help the Council achieve the (LDF) documents. objectives set out in the Core Strategy. In It is also recognised that the University’s so doing, the University will contribute to graduates have the potential to be the The Core Strategy is intended to set the LDF and also seek to retain existing City’s future residents thereby retaining out the spatial vision for the Borough of rights and land designations and, where their skills, spending power and Cheshire West and Chester area over the appropriate and subject to planning relationship with the City, all of which is whole Plan period (up to 2026), together constraints, will also seek to extend such which is beneficial for the City over the with objectives and policies designed to designations in accordance with the long term. achieve the vision. It will be made up of a changing requirements of the University. number of key parts, including the vision

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 25 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 26 University of Chester Sites

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 27 2

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 28 As noted earlier, the University 1. Parkgate Road of Chester currently occupies the 2. Kingsway Campus following three sites in Chester: 3. Riverside

This section of the Development Framework sets out an overview of the physical context, role and building character of each site. This, in the context of the University’s vision and objectives, the policy background and the issues facing the University in the years to come, provides a basis for establishing a land use framework for each site in the following section – ‘The Development Framework’.

The approach to the management of the University’s residential accommodation is also considered.

1. Parkgate Road, Chester

Parkgate Road is the University’s main This land has been reserved in the City of The landform generally falls away from site in the City. The University, and Chester Local Plan for expansion land for the City centre and Parkgate Road to the formerly as Chester College, has had the University. The University also owns a north and west towards the canal. The a presence on the site since 1839. It is parcel of land to the west of the Glenesk landform rises reasonably steeply to the therefore a well established feature in this site and the Deva link. Both of these sites east of Parkgate Road with a number of part of the City. are currently open land. residential areas, notably Abbots Bank, being at a significantly higher level than the The site is on the northern edge of the Parkgate Road is a primary route into land of the Parkgate Road site. City Centre and lies predominantly to the City of Chester, well served by public the west of Parkgate Road (A540). The transport with bus stops available in The principal site access is at the Parkgate Road site also comprises a close proximity to the main entrance of Exton Park access on Parkgate Road. number of administrative buildings off the campus. The Parkgate Road site lies Secondary entrances on Cheyney Road Liverpool Road (A5116) to the west of on an important gateway to the City from are used for servicing and providing Parkgate Road, notably Holly Bank, the north, including from the M56. pedestrian access to Halls of Residence. Rockmount, the Rigg Building, and 24 Liverpool Road. The Shropshire Union Canal runs along The areas around the Parkgate Road site the western side of the main Parkgate are predominantly residential. The site also includes land to the north Road site and as noted earlier, the former of the former Mickle Trafford to Marsh Mickle Trafford railway line runs to the Railway line, known as the Glenesk site. north of the existing built area of the site.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 29 07

08 03 03

01 05

04 06 09 01 02 10

01 02 03 04 05 06

01 Existing sports/leisure facilities 06 Canal corridor and public footpath 02 Historic built environment 07 Longer term potential/aspirations 03 Primary parking areas 08 Newer, high quality buildings 04 Main entrance 09 Older buildings 05 Modest scale residential properties 07 08 09 of traditional design and construction

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 30 Function / Uses larger, often providing a third storey at roof from traditional red brick, which is level. In addition there are also a number characteristic of the surrounding area. As The site covers approximately 13 ha and of Edwardian villas in this area, which are the University has grown and developed provides a variety of accommodation characterised by simpler architectural over time contemporary buildings have to cater for the everyday needs of the detailing and modest proportions. been constructed, adopting the building students, which includes the following styles reflective of the period of time key uses/accommodation: Residential properties to the south of the in which they were constructed. This University are more modest, generally incremental and organic development • University Hall of Residence; two storey terraced town houses. of the campus has created an extremely • The Students’ Union; varied urban form with a variety of • Learning Resource Centre; Although there are differing architectural materials used across the campus. • Laboratories; styles in the surrounding area, there Newer buildings have been added • Lecture theatres; is commonality in the use of building throughout the years and although the • Teaching rooms; materials with the local red brick and style varies considerably, there is a • Staff rooms; slate predominating, and a high level of relatively consistent use of red brick to • Staff offices; consistency in the scale of buildings, reflect the historic character of the area • General University reception area; most of which are predominantly (such as the newly constructed Binks • Administrative offices; and two and three storeys. Building for example). The exceptions are • Sports and leisure facilities. Price Tower which is a 1960’s concrete Architecture and Materials construction (although this has now Local Area - Built Character been re-clad) and the modern teaching The Parkgate Road site has grown accommodation buildings located in the The south-eastern section of incrementally over the years, adapting to northern part of the site, which have large the campus is located within the changing times and increased pressures amounts of glazing. Parkgate Road Conservation Area and demands. Consequently, the built and has considerable heritage value. environment of the Parkgate Road Scale and Massing Its character is derived principally campus is extremely varied and is made from the predominance of Victorian up of a collection of buildings of varying The campus incorporates a wide range architecture in the form of large villas architectural style, form and function, of buildings, which varies hugely in terms and terraces. The area contains several reflecting how the University has evolved of form, function, scale and mass. The listed buildings, including the Grade II* and developed over time. range of building size varies from large University Chapel, and a large number footprint, four and five storey functional of the older properties have Article 4 There are a number of historic buildings education buildings to small scale Directions. within the site, reflecting the University’s individual houses. The large functional long and established history. This buildings, are primarily located in the The buildings in the surrounding area date historic core of the site is focused along northern part of the campus, but there predominantly from the mid-nineteenth the Parkgate Road frontage between are also a number of taller buildings, such century to early twentieth century when Cheyney Road and Exton Park. A notable as the Binks Building and the nine storey the principal routes into Chester became building in this area is the University Price Tower, located close to the site popular residential locations. The villas Chapel, located on the corner of Cheyney entrance on the eastern side located on Parkgate Road are typical Road and Parkgate Road, which is a of the campus. Victorian architecture with attractive bay Grade II* listed building. windows and decorative door surrounds. Price Tower, which was constructed There are also a significant number of The University’s historic buildings in the 1960’s, is the tallest structure mid to late Victorian properties which are are predominantly constructed and owing to the building’s height it is

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 31 visible from all points of the campus and The quality of the buildings on the site There are secondary entrances on from outside of the campus forming a varies considerably. The site does benefit Cheyney Road, utilised for servicing and dominant feature in the local area. This from some high quality modern premises pedestrians and to gain access to Halls building has recently been refurbished and a number of good quality buildings of Residence. Circulation around the to a high standard and re-clad with providing teaching accommodation. In Parkgate Road site could be improved, modern materials and glazing, which addition, there are a number of good with pedestrian only areas and clear, has considerably improved its visual quality historic buildings on the site, defined cycle routes. appearance. which create an attractive character. Green Space Notwithstanding the nine storey Price However, there are a number of buildings Tower, the scale of buildings across the on the site, which are underutilised and The campus has a relatively green feel, campus can generally be described as are approaching the end of their life span. owing to the sports pitches, mature four and five storeys. However, there Some of these buildings are also in a poor landscaping and trees and a number are also a number of two to three storey state of repair and provide poor quality of smaller, more intimate landscaped buildings which occupy large footprints accommodation. Over time and subject to amenity areas providing opportunities and make relatively inefficient use of the funding and other matters, the opportunity for recreation. Views over the sports site and could be put to better use as the will be taken to demolish the poor quality pitches towards the canal are particularly campus is improved over time. buildings, which are nearing ‘end of life’, attractive, with a number of mature to release development opportunities. trees along the western boundary of the Estate Condition/Quality University. Accessibility and Access The University has grown incrementally The Shropshire Union Canal directly over a period of 170 years, and, as a The main entrance to the campus is from adjoins the western boundary, providing consequence, the urban form of the Parkgate Road on the eastern side of the an attractive canal side setting to this campus is extremely varied. Owing campus. The University currently lacks a part of the site. However, the canal is to the limited space on campus there high profile main site entrance, with the not accessible from the site, since the are currently few opportunities for new existing entrance point being relatively adjacent footpath is a public right of development without major intervention/ discreet with limited signage. In addition, way. There is a fence along the western redevelopment of existing buildings or this entrance into the site is narrow and boundary of the Parkgate Road site, areas of surface level car parking. results in some conflict between traffic to prevent access to the campus for and pedestrians. security reasons.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 32 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 33 2. Kingsway Campus Existing Role / Uses The University acquired the former Kingsway High School in 2006, which has The Kingsway site is a 20-minute walk undergone extensive maintenance work and improvement to create a modern, high from the Parkgate Road Campus, and is quality educational facility. There is a high quality public realm and circulation spaces focused on the creative arts. The campus within the heart of the site. provides for the following:

• Drama; • Dance; • Photography; • Fine Art; • Graphic Design; • Journalism; • Popular Music.

The site accommodation includes:

• seminar rooms fully equipped with iMacs, data projectors and interactive white boards; 04 • 4 large rehearsal and performance studios, with extensive lighting rigs 01 10 and projection facilities; 11 • dedicated fine art studios; 06 • printmaking, sculpture wood and 03 textile workshops; • sculpture metal workshop and foundry; 09 • photographic shoot studio and darkroom; • music equipment, including instrument 04 amps, electric and acoustic piano and 04 synths, electric and acoustic drum kits and PA gear; 08 • sound proofed music rehearsal studios; 12 04 • 3 interactive journalism newsrooms; • 11 state-of-the-art IT laboratories; and • a virtual library with DVD viewing 02 screens.

Owing to its former use, the site benefits from an extensive area of playing field to 05 07 the rear of the main building. Entrance Massing

Imagery ©2012 Bluesky, Infoterra Ltd & COWI A/S DigitalGlobe, GeoEye, The main building has a large footprint Getmapping plc, Infoterra & Bluesky, TerraMetrics, Map data ©2012 Google and is up to three storeys in height.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 34 Landscaping Car parking

The site itself has a green feel, owing to The existing car park is to the north of the up and drop off turning space to the west the large grass playing pitches, mature main building and caters for those visiting of the main building. trees and landscaping around its borders. or utilising the site, with additional pick Character of the Area

The Kingsway site is located within a residential area, with modest scale family dwelling houses directly adjoining each boundary. The surrounding area is characterised by modest, two storey, terraced housing of post war construction. The housing is predominantly red brick construction, but there are also a number of pre-fabricated dwellings.

There are some older 1930’s semi-detached properties to the west of the site, which are constructed from red brick with tiled roofs and traditional architectural detailing.

Architecture and Materials

The Kingsway Building is of post war construction and has recently undergone a comprehensive refurbishment to a high standard, providing high quality teaching accommodation. The Building has been re-clad in modern materials, greatly enhancing its visual appearance.

In addition, the car parking and circulation areas between the buildings have recently been upgraded as part of the refurbishment works.

The majority of the campus is occupied by the playing fields and the existing building and therefore there are limited opportunities for further development of the site. The refurbishment of the existing buildings makes best use of the existing building and owing to the proximity of residential properties there are limited opportunities for further expansion.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 35 3. Riverside The University’s Riverside site, the former County Hall Building, was acquired and opened in 2010 and accommodates the Faculty of Health and Social Care and the Faculty of Education and Children’s Services, together with a number of administrative and support departments.

08 01 01 09 06

10 07

04 02

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 36 01 Historic built environment 02 Chester Castle 03 River Dee 04 Public Open Space 01 02 03 04 05 05 Chester City Centre 06 Residential properties 07 Main Riverside building 08 City Centre 09 Historic development 10 Chester Castle 06 07 08 09 10

Character of the Area Massing Accessibility

The Riverside site is located on the The Riverside Building has recently The site is located within the City edge of the historic core of Chester been refurbished and is an attractive Centre and is therefore within a highly and directly adjacent to Chester Castle. four storey period structure with grand sustainable location, benefiting from Consequently, the character of the proportions and a strong presence in excellent access to public transport and surrounding area is an historic urban the area. The Building occupies almost a host of services and facilities all within environment. The site fronts onto the the entire site and therefore there is walking distance. River Dee and is in close proximity to very limited opportunity for further the old City Walls. The Riverside site has development on the site, which is also Car Parking a strong presence and is highly visible, constrained by the close proximity since it fronts onto public open space of historic buildings and the site The University provides 230 car parking and the River Dee. topography. spaces in three locations, immediately adjacent to the Building.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 37 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 38 The Development Framework

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 39 The Development Framework The Development Framework for the University of Chester is presented to form a shared view of the development of the University’s estate in the future.

This is intended to foster a mutually Parkgate Road will continue to be the (namely the 196 bed student beneficial relationship between University’s main site in the City. It will accommodation block and the Food the University, the Council and the remain a focus for investment in the existing Resource Centre); community. As noted earlier, the estate and will be the location for the • To maintain and improve, where Development Framework is intended limited amount of new development, which appropriate and possible, the specifically to cover the period to 2016, may take place to 2016. This approach accessibility and safety of the site and with general principles established for reflects the scale and importance of the site its access points for pedestrians, the longer term. Given the uncertainty to the University, its accessibility and the cyclists and drivers; over higher education funding, it is potential development opportunities at the • To maintain the planning policy not envisaged that the University will site. It is also a reflection of the relatively designation of the Glenesk site as a grow to any significant extent in the constrained nature of the Kingsway site and longer term opportunity for University period to 2016. Specifically in terms of the clear conservation context at Riverside. development; student numbers and accommodation • To continue to implement, review requirements, it is the University’s view and refine the agreed Travel Plan, that, based on close analysis of the Parkgate Road Campus to encourage sustainable transport anticipated patterns of recruitment, patterns; undergraduate student numbers will Role • To manage the car park resource, remain broadly static over the next five to within the twin aims of encouraging eight years. Parkgate Road will remain the main staff and students to travel to the site University site in the City and will continue by means other than private car and Therefore, in terms of the management to accommodate a full range of functions minimising the occurrence of on-street of the estate the focus will be on, covering teaching, administration, student parking generated by visitors to the where possible and appropriate, the and staff welfare, sports and leisure Parkgate Road site; improvement of our existing resources facilities and student accommodation. • To maintain residential amenity through and environment in the context of the the appropriate design and location of University’s Corporate Plan and the Priorities to 2016 improvements to the environment or effective management of our student built estate or new development; accommodation at broadly current The priorities for Parkgate Road to 2016 • To contribute, as appropriate, to the levels. will be: preservation and enhancement of the Parkgate Road Conservation Area; Within this context, the Development • To maintain and improve, where possible, • To deliver current proposals, Framework will focus on each of the the existing built estate and environment in addition to the Price Tower main sites in Chester and also consider through appropriate investment; refurbishment, principally the Food the future management of the University • To accommodate the limited new Resource Centre and Student managed, residential accommodation. development envisaged by the Accommodation block developments, University beyond current plans subject to confirmation of funding; and

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 40 • To consider, following the completion 1. North West Car Park; and so is relatively unconstrained. of the current student accommodation 2. Parkgate Road North; The ecological corridors of the canal project, the need for, scope for, and 3. Central Car Park; immediately to the west and the former deliverability of, additional student 4. Alexandra House adjacent railway line to the north will need to be accommodation on site, consistent accommodation blocks; considered in any future development with this Development Framework 5. Former Rugby Pitch (part of) and proposals. and the approach to managing the car parking; University student residential portfolio. 6. Small Hall; The University does not presently 7. Former De Bunsen Building; envisage the development of this site in Development Framework 8. Glenesk. the foreseeable future. The Development Framework plan outlines 7. Establishing a long term, viable and Parkgate Road North the spatial strategy for the Parkgate Road sustainable new use for the Rockmount site. Key elements of this are: building, which is consistent with the This site is currently occupied by a character of the building, its location in number of residential bungalows, used 1. The focus on preserving and a Conservation Area and the protection by University staff. In design terms the enhancing, where possible, the of residential amenity. properties are out of keeping with the character of Parkgate Road character of Parkgate Road and are an Conservation Area through the Opportunity Sites inefficient use of land on the University’s maintenance and, where necessary, principal site in the City. investment in those buildings, which The Development Framework identifies make a positive contribution to a series of potential opportunities sites Land to the rear of this area has recently character. at the main campus. Other than the received planning approval for the Food 2. Maintaining Exton Park as the Glenesk site, these are predominantly Resource Centre. principal access to the site and to car parking or increasingly outmoded identify appropriate opportunity for University buildings. The development In the longer term, the site offers the improvements. of any of the car parking sites would potential for additional development 3. Seeking to establish the area around the need to be considered within the and importantly the development of entrance to the Binks Building as the context of the agreed Travel Plan, an additional vehicular access point to reception and focal point for visitors. the need for on-site car parking and the University. This would need to be 4. Considering in the longer term the the potential impacts of on-street car carefully considered, taking account of potential for an additional access point parking. amongst other things sight lines along off Parkgate Road to the north of the Parkgate Road, the proximity of the site, in association with the Parkgate North West Car Park former railway bridge to the north and Road North opportunity site. local residential amenity. 5. Respecting the ecological corridor This is one of the main car parks, although role of the Canal and former railway a little detached from the heart of the Development of the site would need to through sensitive consideration site. This location may be suitable for enhance the character of Parkgate Road of lighting, development proposals development in the long term, although and prevent the overlooking of existing and other matters. its use as car parking, perhaps intensified properties to the east of Parkgate Road. 6. Generally identifying the scope for any through the use of decking, is likely to Two or three storey development of new development, away from sensitive remain the principal use of the site. teaching, administration or similar uses site boundaries and focusing any or car parking may be acceptable in this development in the foreseeable future The site is relatively secluded and is location. on one of seven opportunity zones: not adjacent to any residential areas

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 41 Central Car Park Former Rugby Pitch Former De Bunsen Building

This is a centrally located opportunity Part of this site, adjacent to the Seaborne The De Bunsen Building was demolished site, currently used for car parking. The Library, is suitable for development and in 2008. The site is partly located site is suitable for a range of University has approval for a 196 bed student within the setting of Astbury and Fisher related uses. Its development would accommodation block. accommodation blocks. The site is need to respect the proximity of adjacent suitable for uses compatible with these residential properties, some of which Small Hall adjacent uses, such as car parking, are privately owned, and the Parkgate teaching or administration uses. Road Conservation Area. Two storey The site of Small Hall is suitable for development, perhaps rising to three the development of a range of uses, Glenesk site storey toward the heart of the site, may including teaching, administration and be acceptable in this location. residential. Development could be to the The Glenesk site is a green field order of four storeys and would need development opportunity, reserved for Alexandra House adjacent to reflect the site’s position adjacent to University development. The site is accommodation blocks the focal point to the front of the Binks specifically allocated for the expansion Building, the proximity of the principal of the educational facilities at the This site is currently occupied by three, access to the site and the nearby University of Chester. Consideration in increasingly outmoded, residential Conservation Area. the development of this site will include accommodation blocks. These offer a linkages to the main site, access onto redevelopment opportunity from the Parkgate Road and residential amenity. medium term. The site is likely to be suitable for development at a scale of three to four storeys.

North West car park Central car park Parkgate Road - North

All-weather facility Running Track Tennis Courts

Glenesk site Glenesk site Small Hall

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 42 Key Parkgate Road Conservation Area Opportunity Sites: 8 1. North West Car Park 2. Parkgate Road North 3. Central Car Park 4. Alexandra House 1 5. Former Rugby Pitch 6. Small Hall 7. Former De Bunsen Building 8. Glenesk Site Focal Point 3 2 Current Principal Access Current Secondary Service Access Potential New Access Forthcoming Food Resource Centre Habitat Corridors

6 5

All-weather facility Running Track Tennis Courts 7

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 43 Riverside Kingsway Role Role

Riverside will remain a prestigious Kingsway will remain an important To facilitate this, notably at weekends teaching and administration site in the teaching and community activity and and to support the teaching role of the heart of the City. sports site for the University in the context site, the University, in consultation with of its suburban residential location. the Council and the local community, will Priorities to 2016 take the opportunity to consider whether Priorities to 2016 current hours of use restrictions could be The priorities for Riverside to 2016 will be: amended to allow for additional use in The priorities for Kingsway to 2016 will be: the evenings and weekends. • To maintain, and where appropriate improve, the existing built estate and • To maintain, and where appropriate It is accepted that this is only likely to environment through appropriate improve, the existing built estate, be appropriate with the introduction of investment reflecting the site’s facilities, and environment through acoustic fencing in key locations and historic status; appropriate investment, reflecting the enhanced landscaping reasonably to • To continue to implement, review site’s existing character and suburban protect residential amenity. Any changes and refine the agreed Travel Plan, residential location; to the hours of use of the car park would to encourage sustainable transport • To continue to implement, review need to be the subject of a planning patterns; and and refine the agreed Travel Plan, application, which would be considered • To contribute, as appropriate, to the to encourage sustainable transport by the local planning authority on its preservation and enhancement of the patterns; and merits, taking account of the views of City Centre Conservation Area. • To reflect the site’s suburban local residents. residential location in the approach Development Framework to managing the site and to protect residential amenity, whilst seeking The Riverside site is a significant asset to maximise the site’s role as an of the University in an established, educational, cultural and historic location in the City Centre. No sporting resource. significant development is envisaged in the foreseeable future at the site. Development Framework Investment in the site will focus on improvements in the existing The Development Framework for accommodation, respecting heritage Kingsway envisages little or no constraints. development for the foreseeable future. Investment will be focused on improving existing facilities. Where new development does take place it will be broadly within the general extent of the existing, developed footprint.

A short term objective will be to reinstate the former playing fields to a high standard, to support greater use by University sports teams.

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 44 University Managed Student Accommodation – Framework Strategy

The University recognises its obligation • Realising proposals for additional • An on-going dialogue between the to work closely with the Council and on-site provision of student University and the local planning other stakeholders, to monitor the accommodation, as approved for a authority regarding the University’s impact of student accommodation in the 196 bed development; future plans and forecasts of student community and to respond accordingly • Active management by the numbers to inform the authority’s within financial and other constraints. University of the University-owned approach to the consideration of HMO properties in areas where planning applications for privately It is important for the University to work the community is concerned about managed student accommodation in closely and productively with Cheshire over concentration of student the City. West and Chester Council and the accommodation and where such a local community in the provision of strategy would deliver real benefits; The University would also expect the appropriate solutions, which may include • Considering, following the completion Council to consider its approach to appropriate new provision, including on of the current proposals for student encouraging best practice by landlords the Parkgate Road site and the evolution accommodation at Parkgate Road, the as part of a wider management of a strategy to mitigate the worst effects scope for additional on-site provision strategy for HMO and private, rented of ‘studentification’ in the local residential within the context of financial and accommodation in the City. communities through a managed approach. other constraints and the wider requirements of the University; This approach will be discussed and • The robust application of the developed with the Council and other University’s expectations on students stakeholders commencing in 2012. as tenants to respect the property Elements of the Framework Strategy and the community, within which they for the management of the University’s live, and to act responsibly and with residential accommodation will include: consideration for others; and

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 45 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 46 Development Principles and Process

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 47 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 48 Development Principles and Process

The University of Chester acknowledges its important role in the economic and community life of the City. The University is committed to the sustainable development of its estate and in fostering a positive and mutually beneficial relationship with the local community and other key stakeholders including Cheshire West and Chester Council.

Principles In managing its estate at the Parkgate 6. Continue to work with the Council, the 5. Directly consult the University on any Road, Kingsway and Riverside sites community and other stakeholders, to policies or proposals which may be of and its residential accommodation, the ensure a positive relationship between relevance to its corporate strategy and University will: the University and City as a whole. this Development Framework.

1. Reflect the principles established in In turn, and given the consultation with this Development Framework and the Council on this Framework and the Process other relevant documents, such as the shared view of the importance of the local Development Framework and the University to the City, it is expected that In considering development proposals One City Plan; Cheshire West and Chester Council, the University will: 2. Aim to attain the highest achievable will, without prejudice to their statutory standards of design and sustainability functions and legal obligations: 1. Work closely with the local planning in all developments; authority; 3. Develop proposals, which reflect the 1. Work positively with the University to 2. Take account of the approach character and role of each site and deliver shared objectives; and principles established in this preserve and / or enhance local character; 2. Consider and respond to the Development Framework; 4. Maintain, and wherever possible development needs of the University in 3. Reflect and respond to local planning, enhance, the relationship between the light of its position as a key asset design policy and other relevant University sites with nearby residential in the life and future of the City; policies; areas, whilst managing the estate in an 3. Reflect the key elements of the 4. Undertake pre-application public efficient and effective manner; Framework in relevant planning and consultation on proposals, to seek 5. Continue to manage travel and parking other policy documents; input on design options and solutions. demands and encourage the use of 4. Take account of the Framework in the modes of transport other than the consideration of planning applications private car; put forward by the University;

The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 49 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 50 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 51 The University of Chester Development Framework, 2012 52