Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Plan

SEA Screening Document

August 2020

SEA Screening Document

LC-641 Document Control Box

Client Somerset West and Taunton Council

Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Report Title Neighbourhood Plan: SEA Screening Document

Filename LC-641_Ruishton&Thornfalcon_SEA_Screening_6_280820LB.docx

Date August 2020

Author LB

Reviewed CW

Approved ND

Photo: Thornfalcon - Church of the Holy Cross by David Cronin About this report & notes for readers

Lepus Consulting Ltd (Lepus) has prepared this report for reasonable skill, care and diligence within the terms of the the use of Somerset West and Taunton Council. There are a contract with the client. Lepus Consulting accepts no number of limitations that should be borne in mind when responsibility to the client and third parties of any matters considering the results and conclusions of this report. No outside the scope of this report. Third parties to whom this party should alter or change this report whatsoever without report or any part thereof is made known rely upon the written permission from Lepus. report at their own risk. Client comments can be sent to Lepus using the following © Lepus Consulting Ltd address.

The conclusions below are based on the best available 1 Bath Street, information, including information that is publicly available. Cheltenham No attempt to verify these secondary data sources has been Gloucestershire made and they have been assumed to be accurate as GL50 1YE published. Telephone: 01242 525222 This report was prepared between June and August 2020 E-mail: [email protected] and is subject to and limited by the information available during this time. This report has been prepared with www.lepusconsulting.com

SEA of the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP: Screening Report August 2020 LC-641_Ruishton&Thornfalcon_SEA_Screening_6_280820LB.docx

Contents 1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 This report ...... 1 1.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment ...... 1 1.3 The Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Plan ...... 2 1.4 The Parishes of Ruishton and Thornfalcon ...... 4 1.5 Relationship with the Core Strategy ...... 5 2 SEA Screening ...... 7 2.1 Strategic Environmental Assessment ...... 7 2.2 The screening process ...... 7 2.3 Relevance to the SEA Directive ...... 10 2.4 Determination of likely significant effects ...... 11 2.5 Biodiversity, flora and fauna ...... 12 2.6 Population and human health ...... 16 2.7 Transport and accessibility ...... 17 2.8 Soil, water and air ...... 18 2.9 Climatic factors ...... 22 2.10 Material assets ...... 22 2.11 Cultural heritage ...... 23 2.12 Landscape ...... 26 3 Conclusions ...... 30 3.1 SEA screening outcome ...... 30 3.2 Consultation ...... 30 Appendix A: Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP Policies ...... 31 Appendix B: Consultation Responses ...... 32

List of Figures Figure 1.1: Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area boundary (source: Somerset West and Taunton Council) ...... 3 Figure 2.1: Application of the SEA Directive to plans and programmes...... 8 Figure 2.2: European sites around Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Natural England) ...... 14 Figure 2.3: Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and SSSI Impact Risk Zones (IRZ) in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Natural England) ...... 15 Figure 2.4: Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and ancient woodland in and around Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Natural England) ...... 15 Figure 2.5: Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: DEFRA 1988) ...... 20 Figure 2.6: Fluvial Flood Zones in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Environment Agency) ...... 21 Figure 2.7: Surface water flood risk in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Environment Agency) ...... 21 Figure 2.8: Heritage assets in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Historic England) ...... 24 Figure 2.9: Location of Thornfalcon Conservation Area within the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: SWT) ...... 25 Figure 2.10: Archaeological features within the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: SWT) .. 25 Figure 2.11: Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty around Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Natural England) ...... 28 Figure 2.12: Landscape Types within Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Taunton Deane Borough Council (2011) Taunton Deane Local Plan) ...... 29

List of Tables Table 2.1: Establishing whether there is a need for SEA...... 9 Table 2.2: Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP and the SEA Directive ...... 10

Acronyms

ALC Agricultural Land Classification A&E Accident and Emergency AONB Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty BMV Best and Most Versatile EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EU European Union GP General Practitioner IRZ Impact Risk Zone LCA Landscape Character Area LNR Local Nature Reserve NCA National Character Area NHS National Health Service NP Neighbourhood Plan NPPF National Planning Policy Framework ODPM Office of the Deputy Prime Minister PP Policy or Programme PPG Planning Policy Guidance PRoW Public Right of Way SAC Special Area of Conservation SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment SPA Special Protection Area SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest SuDS Sustainable Drainage System SWT Somerset West and Taunton TDBC CS Taunton Deane Borough Council Core Strategy

1 Introduction

1.1 This report

1.1.1 This screening report has been prepared to determine whether the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Plan 2017 - 2028 (NP) should be subject to a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), in accordance with the European Directive 2001/42/EC (SEA Directive)1 and the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (SEA Regulations)2.

1.1.2 This report screens the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Plan: Draft Policies for Consultation V1 (March 2020).

1.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment

1.2.1 The basis for Strategic Environmental Assessment legislation is European Directive 2001/42/EC. This was transposed into English law by the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (SEA Regulations). Detailed guidance of these regulations can be found in the Government publication ‘A Practical Guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive’3 and the Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) ‘Strategic environmental assessment requirements for neighbourhood plans’ section4.

1 Directive 2001/42/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2001. Available at: https://eur- lex.europa.eu/legal-content/EN/TXT/PDF/?uri=CELEX:32001L0042&from=en [Date Accessed: 16/06/20] 2 The Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004. Available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2004/1633/contents/made [Date Accessed: 16/06/20] 3 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2005) A Practical Guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive. Available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/7657/practical guidesea.pdf [Date Accessed: 16/06/20] 4 Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (2019) Strategic environmental assessment and sustainability appraisal. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/strategic-environmental-assessment-and- sustainability-appraisal#strategic-environmental-assessment-requirements-for-neighbourhood-plans [Date Accessed: 16/06/20]

1.2.2 Under the requirements of the European Directive 2001/42/EC and Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004, certain types of plans that set the framework for the consent of future development projects must be subject to an environmental assessment.

1.3 The Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Plan

1.3.1 The creation of neighbourhood development plans started with the Localism Act 2011. The Act sets out a series of measures to shift power away from central government and towards local people. One of the Localism Act’s key components is the Neighbourhood Plan (NP); a new tier in planning policy which enables local people to shape the development of the community in which they live.

1.3.2 The Parishes of Ruishton and Thornfalcon jointly applied for designation as a Neighbourhood Area for the purposes of producing a NP in April 20165. The Neighbourhood Area boundary was formally approved by Taunton Deane Borough Council on 15th July 20166.

1.3.3 Taunton Deane Borough Council and West Somerset Council dissolved in 2019 and a new council for the geographical area that covered the former two councils was created: Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT). Once the NP has been ‘made’ by SWT, it will form part of the development plan for the district.

1.3.4 The Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP covers the Parishes of Ruishton and Thornfalcon (see Figure 1.1) and sets out planning policies for the Neighbourhood Plan Area for the period 2017 to 2028.

5 Ruishton and Thornfalcon Parish Council (2016) Application for the formal designation of a neighbourhood area. Available at: http://www.ruishton.org.uk/Parishcouncil/np/Documents/application.pdf [Date Accessed: 19/06/20] 6 Somerset West and Tanton Council (2016) Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Development Plan. Available at: https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/planning-policy/neighbourhood-planning/ruishton-and- thornfalcon-neighbourhood-development-plan/ [Date Accessed: 19/06/20]

Figure 1.1: Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area boundary (source: Somerset West and Taunton Council)

1.3.5 The NP must have appropriate regard to existing policy, including:

• The NPPF7 and related Planning Practice Guidance advice8; • The adopted Taunton Deane Borough Council Core Strategy 2011 – 2028 (TDBC CS)9; and • The Taunton Deane Adopted Site Allocations and Development Management Plan10.

7 Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (2019) National Planning Policy Framework. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-planning-policy-framework--2 [Date Accessed: 16/06/20] 8 Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (2019) Planning Practice Guidance. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/planning-practice-guidance [Date Accessed: 16/06/20] 9 Taunton Deane Borough Council (2012) Adopted Core Strategy 2011 – 2028. Available at: https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/media/1061/adopted-core-strategy-2011-2028.pdf [Date Accessed: 16/06/20] 10 Taunton Deane Borough Council (2016) Taunton Deane Adopted Site Allocations and Development Management Plan. Available at: https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/media/1070/sadmp-adopted-2016-document.pdf [Date Accessed: 16/06/20]

1.3.6 A summary of the NP’s policies can be found in Appendix A. These are associated with the NP’s five overarching objectives as follows:

• Community; • Housing; • Traffic and transport; • Environment and heritage; and • Economy and employment.

Consultation

1.3.7 The NP is subject to public consultation, which provides an opportunity for the public and local organisations to comment on the NP. Statutory consultees will also be invited to comment. After consultation, responses will be taken into account and used to prepare a ‘submission draft’ of the NP.

1.3.8 The submission version of the NP is then subject to inspection by the Independent Examiner. If the Independent Examiner approves the NP it will then be subject to a local referendum. If 50% or more of people voting in the referendum support the NP, then the NP will be adopted, gain statutory status and become part of the Development Plan for SWT.

1.4 The Parishes of Ruishton and Thornfalcon

1.4.1 Ruishton and Thornfalcon are two Parishes (hereafter referred to as ‘the Neighbourhood Area’) located to the east of Taunton, in the county of Somerset (see Figure 1.1). Ruishton lies approximately 3.9km to the east of Taunton town centre, and Thornfalcon lies approximately 5.3km to the east.

1.4.2 The A358 crosses through the Neighbourhood Area, and the M5 passes to the west, separating the Neighbourhood Area from the outskirts of Taunton. The Taunton Gateway Park and Ride is located just within the Neighbourhood Area adjacent to the Blackbrook Interchange on the M5. The River Tone lies close to the northern boundary of the Neighbourhood Area, with a small proportion crossing through the Neighbourhood Area just north of Ruishton village.

1.4.3 The Neighbourhood Area contains three distinct villages of Ruishton, Thornfalcon and Henlade, surrounded by largely open countryside, with the predominant surrounding land use being agriculture. Ruishton is the largest settlement in the Neighbourhood Area, containing the majority of the Neighbourhood Area’s services and facilities including a primary school, church and village hall.

1.4.4 According to the 2011 Census11 the populations of Ruishton and Thornfalcon totalled 1,473 and 119 people, respectively, giving a total population within the NP area of 1,592 people.

1.4.5 There are a number of important biological and historic features within and surrounding the Neighbourhood Area. The ‘Somerset Levels & Moors’ Special Protection Area (SPA) and Ramsar site is located approximately 1.8km north east of the Neighbourhood Area. Historic features within the Neighbourhood Area include several Grade II* and II Listed Buildings, as well as the Grade I Listed ‘Church of St George’ and ‘Church of the Holy Cross’.

1.5 Relationship with the Core Strategy

1.5.1 The NP is a land-use plan, prepared for town and country planning purposes. It sets out a framework for future development consents within the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Parishes. As noted above, once adopted, the NP will form part of the Development Plan for Somerset West and Taunton, alongside the adopted TDBC CS and other development plan documents or supplementary planning documents.

1.5.2 The NP sets out a series of policies that, once made, will be used to guide development and help to determine future planning applications. This important legal position means that it has to have regard to national planning policy and needs to be in ‘general conformity’ with the strategic planning policies set out in the TDBC CS.

11 Nomis (2011) Usual resident population. Available at: http://www.nomisweb.co.uk/census/2011/ks101ew [Date Accessed: 19/06/20]

1.5.3 NPs are smaller in geographic scale than Core Strategies and serve to add further detailed policies and proposals to these documents. The Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP and the TDBC CS will form part of the development plan for the area once the NP is ‘made’.

1.5.4 Paragraph 13 of the NPPF12 states that “neighbourhood plans should support the delivery of strategic policies contained in local plans or spatial development strategies; and should shape and direct development that is outside of these strategic policies”.

1.5.5 Should the NP be significantly refined in the future, a re-screening of any significant amendments should be undertaken for the purposes of the SEA screening process.

12 Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (2019) National Planning Policy Framework. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-planning-policy-framework--2 [Date Accessed: 16/06/20]

© Lepus Consulting for Somerset West and Taunton Council 6 SEA of the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP: Screening Report August 2020 LC-641_Ruishton&Thornfalcon_SEA_Screening_6_280820LB.docx 2 SEA Screening

2.1 Strategic Environmental Assessment

2.1.1 SEA seeks to ensure that environmental considerations are part of the process of preparing certain plans and programmes. The objective of the SEA Directive is to provide for a high level of protection of the environment and to contribute to the integration of environmental considerations into the preparation and adoption of plans and programmes, with a view to promoting sustainable development. It helps to ensure that, in accordance with the Directive, an environmental assessment is carried out of certain plans and programmes which are likely to have significant effects on the environment.

2.1.2 The process for determining whether or not an SEA is required is called screening. In order to screen, it is necessary to determine if a plan will have significant environmental effects using the criteria set out in Annex II of the SEA Directive and Schedule I of the SEA Regulations. A determination cannot be made until the three statutory consultation bodies have been consulted: The Environment Agency, Natural England and Historic England.

2.1.3 Within 28 days of its determination, the local planning authority, by virtue of its legal responsibility for NPs, must publish a statement, setting out its decision. If they determine that an SEA is not required, the statement must include the reasons for this.

2.2 The screening process

2.2.1 The Localism Act requires NPs to be in general conformity with the strategic policies of the adopted development plan for the local area. In this instance, the NP must be in general conformity with the TDBC CS.

2.2.2 Paragraph 009 of the PPG ‘Neighbourhood Planning’ section states: “Where a neighbourhood plan is brought forward before an up-to-date Local Plan is in place the qualifying body and the local planning authority should discuss and aim to agree the relationship between policies in:

• the emerging neighbourhood plan • the emerging Local Plan • the adopted development plan

with appropriate regard to national policy and guidance”.

2.2.3 Figure 2.1 presents a diagram prepared by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) (2005). This shows the application of the SEA process to plans and programmes. The sequential approach in the flow diagram can be used to screen the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP.

2.2.4 Table 2.1 uses the questions presented in Figure 2.1 to establish whether there is a need for SEA for the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP.

Figure 2.1: Application of the SEA Directive to plans and programmes13.

13 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (2005) A Practical Guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive. Available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/7657/practical guidesea.pdf [Date Accessed: 16/06/20]

Table 2.1: Establishing whether there is a need for SEA. Stage Y/N Reason

Is the PP (plan or programme) subject The plan constitutes an NP, which will be to preparation and/or adoption by a subject to independent examination and national, regional or local authority OR brought into legal force if it receives 50% or Yes prepared by an authority for adoption more affirmative votes at referendum. The through a legislative procedure by NP would form part of the statutory Parliament or Government? (Art. 2(a)) development plan for SWT.

Is the PP required by legislative, Communities and neighbourhoods have a regulatory or administrative provisions? right to produce an NP, however it is not (Art. 2(a)) required by legislative, regulatory or administrative bodies. If the NP is adopted, it No would become part of the statutory development plan for SWT meaning it should continue to be screened under the SEA Directive.

Is the PP prepared for agriculture, The NP is a land-use plan and sets the forestry, fisheries, energy, industry, framework for future development consents transport, waste management, water within the Ruishton and Thornfalcon management, telecommunications, Neighbourhood Area. tourism, town and country planning or No However, the NP is unlikely to set a land use, AND does it set a framework framework for consent of projects in Annex 1 for future development consent of of the EIA Directive. projects in Annexes I and II to the EIA Directive? (Art 3.2(a))

Will the PP, in view of its likely effect on See Chapter 3. sites, require an assessment for future No development under Article 6 or 7 of the Habitats Directive? (Art. 3.2 (b))

Does the PP set the framework for The NP does set the framework for future future development consent of projects development consent of projects. Yes (not just projects in Annexes to the EIA Directive)? (Art 3.4)

Is it likely to have a significant effect on See sections 2.5 – 2.12 and Chapter 3. Yes the environment? (Art. 3.5)

Is the PP’s sole purpose to serve The NP is intended to be an influential national defence or civil emergency, OR document for the adopted TDBC CS. is it a financial budget PP, OR is it co- No financed by structural funds or EAGGD programmes 2000 to 2006/7? (Art 3.8, 3.9)

2.3 Relevance to the SEA Directive

2.3.1 Question 8 within the ODPM guidance (see Table 2.2) refers to whether the NP would have a significant effect on the environment. The criteria for determining the likely significance of effects from Annex II of the SEA Directive and Schedule 1 of the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004, can be used to screen the NP. Sections 2.5 – 2.12 consider the likely environmental effects of the plan.

Table 2.2: Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP and the SEA Directive Criteria (from Annex II of SEA Directive and Response Schedule I of Regulations)

The characteristics of plans and programmes

(a) the degree to which the plan or programme The NP is prepared for town and country sets a framework for projects and other planning purposes and will form a part of the activities, either with regard to the location, development management framework for nature, size and operating conditions or by Ruishton and Thornfalcon Parishes once made. allocating resources

(b) the degree to which the plan or The NP must be in general conformity with the programme influences other plans and strategic planning policies set out in the programmes including those in a hierarchy adopted TDBC CS and the National Planning Policy Framework. The NP forms part of the statutory development plan for SWT.

(c) the relevance of the plan or programme for There are opportunities to integrate the integration of environmental environmental considerations within the considerations in particular with a view to Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP. The NP promoting sustainable development contains policies that aim to conserve important aspects of the built and natural environment, as well as retaining and improving the local amenities and heritage assets for the benefit of the local community (see Appendix A).

(d) environmental problems relevant to the No environmental issues were identified plan or programme relevant to the Plan.

(e) the relevance of the plan or programme for The NP is a land-use plan and sets the the implementation of Community legislation framework for future development consents on the environment (for example, plans and within the Ruishton and Thornfalcon programmes linked to waste management or Neighbourhood Area. It also sets out policies water protection) which planning applications within the NP area will need to adhere to.

Criteria (from Annex II of SEA Directive and Response Schedule I of Regulations)

Characteristics of the effects and of the area likely to be affected

(a) the probability, duration, frequency and The NP is not expected to result in any reversibility of the effects significant environmental effects.

(b) the cumulative nature of the effects The NP is not considered to have any cumulative effects and is not thought to contribute to cumulative impacts in combination with the adopted TDBC CS.

(c) the transboundary nature of the effects The NP is not expected to give rise to any significant transboundary environmental effects.

(d) the risks to human health or the There are no anticipated risks of the NP on environment (for example, due to accidents) human health.

(e) the magnitude and spatial extent of the The magnitude and spatial extent of the effects (geographical area and size of the effects outlined in (a) are not thought to population likely to be affected) extend further than the Plan area.

(f) the value and vulnerability of the area likely It is considered unlikely that the NP would to be affected due to: adversely impact the special natural characteristics or cultural heritage features (i) special natural characteristics or cultural within the Neighbourhood Area. The NP heritage would not be expected to cause exceedances (ii) exceeded environmental quality of environmental standards or lead to standards or limit values intensive land use. (iii) intensive land-use

(g) the effects on areas or landscapes which The NP is unlikely to result in any adverse have a recognised national, Community or impacts on protected landscapes. international protection status

2.4 Determination of likely significant effects

2.4.1 A summary of baseline conditions and an assessment of the potential effects of the NP against each of the topics set out in Annex I (f) of the SEA Directive is presented in the following sections. The NP policies are set out in Appendix A.

2.5 Biodiversity, flora and fauna

2.5.1 There are several European designated sites within the landscape surrounding the Neighbourhood Area (see Figure 2.2). ‘Somerset Levels and Moors’ SPA and Ramsar site covers several parcels of land, the closest of which is located approximately 1.8km north east of the Neighbourhood Area. ‘Hestercombe House’ Special Area of Conservation (SAC) is situated approximately 4km to the north west, and ‘Quants’ SAC is approximately 8.5km to the south west. Other European sites surrounding the NP area include ‘Holme Moor and Clean Moor’ SAC which lies 16km to the west, and ‘Exmoor and Quantock Oakwoods’ SAC approximately 16km to the north west.

2.5.2 A number of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) are located around the Neighbourhood Area (see Figure 2.3), the closest of which is ‘Thurlbear Wood and Quarrylands’ SSSI, situated approximately 650m to the south. The SSSIs ‘Fivehead Woods and Meadow’ and ‘Fivehead Arable Fields’ lie approximately 3.5km and 4.5km, respectively, to the east of the Neighbourhood Area. ‘Curry and Hay Moors’ SSSI is located approximately 1.8km to the north east, and ‘West Sedgemoor’ SSSI is located approximately 4.3km to the north east. These two SSSIs coincide with the ‘Somerset Levels and Moors’ SPA and Ramsar site. Furthermore, ‘Hestercombe House’ SSSI is located approximately 4km to the north west.

2.5.3 Ruishton village in the north west of the Neighbourhood Area lies within a SSSI Impact Risk Zone (IRZ) which states that “all planning applications (except householder) outside or extending outside existing settlements/urban areas affecting greenspace, farmland, semi natural habitats or landscape features such as trees, hedges, streams, rural buildings/structures” should be consulted on with Natural England. The majority of the Neighbourhood Area is located within an IRZ which indicates that “any residential development of 50 or more houses outside existing settlements/urban areas” should be consulted on.

2.5.4 Barrington Hill National Nature Reserve (NNR) is located approximately 4.7km to the south east, designated for its species-rich neutral grassland14. There are several Local Nature Reserves (LNR) nearby in Taunton, including ‘South Taunton Streams’ approximately 250m to the north of the Neighbourhood Area and ‘Children’s Wood/Riverside Park’ LNR approximately 650m to the north west (see Figure 2.4). ‘South Taunton Streams’ LNR comprises a series of wetland habitats along the Black Brook, Galmington Stream and Mill Stream15. ‘Children’s Wood/Riverside Park’ LNR supports a variety of habitats including a lake, grass banks and woodland16. ‘Bickenhall Orchard’ LNR is also located approximately 3.6km to the south east.

2.5.5 Within the Neighbourhood Area itself, there are two stands of ancient woodland (see Figure 2.4). These are ‘Stoke Wood’, situated in the south east, and a section of ‘Huish Coppice’ to the south west. Other nearby ancient woodlands include ‘Knowl Wood’, ‘Ten-Acre Coppices’ and ‘Thurlbear Wood’, all of which are located within 600m to the south of the Neighbourhood Area.

2.5.6 ‘Stoke Wood’ and ‘Huish Coppice’ ancient woodlands also coincide with deciduous woodland priority habitat. There are some small stands of deciduous woodland and traditional orchard priority habitat scattered across the NP area, as well as an area of coastal and floodplain grazing marsh and good quality semi-improved grassland priority habitats to the west.

14 Natural England (2008) Somerset’s National Nature Reserves. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/somersets-national-nature-reserves/somersets-national-nature- reserves [Date Accessed: 19/06/20] 15 Taunton Deane Borough Council (no date) Taunton Watecourses Nature Reserve. Available at: http://www.somersetrivers.co.uk/PDF/SouthTauntonWatercoursesNature.pdf [Date Accessed: 19/06/20] 16 Natural England (2003) Children’s Wood/Riverside LNR. Available at: https://designatedsites.naturalengland.org.uk/SiteLNRDetail.aspx?SiteCode=L1082967&SiteName=children%27s%20 wood&countyCode=&responsiblePerson=&SeaArea=&IFCAArea= [Date Accessed: 19/06/20]

2.5.7 Policy E2 of the NP seeks to protect undesignated assets with biodiversity value including “hedgebanks, hedgerows and treelines”. Furthermore, Policy E1 of the NP states that Local Wildlife Sites, priority habitats and ecological corridors “should be protected from inappropriate development not essential to maintain and enhance their biodiversity and the habitats they support”. It is suggested that the wording of this policy is revised to promote development throughout the Neighbourhood Area which would contribute towards wider ecological networks and deliver measurable net gains in biodiversity, and not only protect the sites identified in Map E1 of the NP, but also those in the surrounding area.

2.5.8 Overall, the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP would not be expected to result in adverse impacts on the biodiversity, flora and fauna within the NP area.

Figure 2.2: European sites around Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Natural England)

Figure 2.3: Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and SSSI Impact Risk Zones (IRZ) in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Natural England)

Figure 2.4: Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and ancient woodland in and around Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Natural England)

2.6 Population and human health

2.6.1 Approximately 1,592 people live in the Neighbourhood Area, the majority of whom reside in the village of Ruishton. Policies under the ‘housing’ theme seek to ensure that the needs of the local population are met, including through providing homes suitable for families and older people, as well as sheltered accommodation. Furthermore, TDBC CS Policy CP4 states that “25% of new housing should … be in the form of affordable units” and that housing should “reflect locally evidenced need in respect of type, size and tenure”.

2.6.2 The nearest NHS hospital with an A&E department is Musgrove Park Hospital, located approximately 4.2km to the west of the Neighbourhood Area. There are no GP surgeries within the Neighbourhood Area; the nearest GPs include Warwick House Medical Centre and Taunton Vale Healthcare approximately 1.4km to the north west in Taunton, and Creech Medical Centre approximately 500m to the north in Creech St Michael.

2.6.3 Local facilities within the Neighbourhood Area are limited to Henlade Post Office and SPAR at Thornfalcon Garage. However, there are several shops, supermarkets and facilities located nearby in Taunton.

2.6.4 NP Policy C4 seeks to protect existing facilities (The Ruishton Inn, The Nags Head and Henlade Post Office) from change of use. Policy T4 in the NP supports new development which would “enhance accessibility to local amenities including the school, community facilities and services”.

2.6.5 Furthermore, under the ‘economy and employment’ theme in the NP, Policy Ec1 seeks to protect existing employment and commercial developments from loss. NP Policies Ec3 and Ec5 would support small businesses and new local employment opportunities within the Neighbourhood Area.

2.6.6 Residents in the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Parishes would be expected to have good access to a diverse range of rural habitats and open space in the surrounding countryside. Policy C2 of the NP would ensure that play, sports and recreation facilities within the Neighbourhood Area (Ruishton Park, Henlade Close, the School Playing Field and the Scout Hut) are protected from loss as a result of future development, and Policy C3 seeks to encourage proposals which would result in additional or improved facilities to meet local needs. Additionally, Policy T4 of the NP would support proposals which improve connectivity between green infrastructure and local green space.

2.6.7 Although there may be somewhat limited access to local facilities in the Neighbourhood Area, overall, a significant adverse impact on population and human health would not be anticipated as a result of the NP.

2.7 Transport and accessibility

2.7.1 Whilst not an Annex 1(f) topic in itself, transport and accessibility interact with a number of the topics such as population and human health, material assets and climatic factors.

2.7.2 Ruishton Church of England Primary School is located in the south east of Ruishton village, and therefore, residents in the Neighbourhood Area would be expected to have good access to these educational facilities. The nearest secondary schools are located in Taunton and are likely to be accessible via bus, including Richard Huish College and Bishop Fox’s Community School, both located approximately 2.5km to the west of the Neighbourhood Area.

2.7.3 There are several Public Rights of Way (PRoW) and pavements linking the settlements and facilities in the Neighbourhood Area, however, there are no dedicated cycle routes. Policies T2 and T4 in the NP would support improvements to the Neighbourhood Area’s footpath and cycle networks, which could potentially help to encourage sustainable and safe access to local facilities including schools and employment. Policy H5 seeks to ensure that, where viable and feasible, new residential development would incorporate design guidance to create walkable communities and encourage active travel.

2.7.4 There are several bus stops within the Neighbourhood Area providing regular services to nearby towns and settlements including Yeovil, Axminster and Stoke St Gregory. These are primarily located along the A358. In addition, the Taunton Gateway Park and Ride provides frequent bus services into Taunton. Taunton Railway Station is located approximately 2.7km to the north west of the Neighbourhood Area, and provides regular services to London Paddington, Cardiff, Plymouth, Penzance and Leeds.

2.7.5 In accordance with Strategic Objective 6 of the TDBC CS, development within the Neighbourhood Area should seek to “improve accessibility between homes, jobs and services and achieve a major change in travel behaviour towards walking, cycling and public transport”. NP Policy T1 outlines the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Transport Plan and subsequent Traffic Management Plan, outlined under NP Policy T1, the outputs of which could help to inform a local strategy to help reduce local reliance on personal car use.

2.7.6 Overall, it is not anticipated that the NP would have an adverse impact on transport and accessibility.

2.8 Soil, water and air

2.8.1 The Neighbourhood Area is situated almost entirely on Grade 3 Agricultural Land Classification (ALC), with a small proportion in the north Grade 4 ALC (see Figure 2.5). Future development within the Neighbourhood Area could potentially result in a loss of ‘best and most versatile’ (BMV) land17.

17 The ALC system classifies land into five categories according to versatility and suitability for growing crops. The top three grades, Grades 1, 2 and 3a, are referred to as the Best and Most Versatile (BMV) land. Site-specific surveys are required to identify Sub-Grades 3a and 3b. Natural England (1988) Agricultural Land Classification of England And Wales: Revised criteria for grading the quality of agricultural land. Available at: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/6257050620264448?category=5954148537204736 [Date Accessed: 22/06/20]

2.8.2 The River Tone passes to the north of the Neighbourhood Area, with a small section of the river entering the NP Area to the north of Ruishton. A large area in the north of the Neighbourhood Area along this watercourse is located within Flood Zones 2 and 3, as well as a small section to the west of Henlade (see Figure 2.6). There are also large areas of surface water flood risk across the Neighbourhood Area, primarily located along roads and field boundaries (see Figure 2.7).

2.8.3 NP Policy E4 states that “development proposals should demonstrate that they do not increase local flood risk, with particular regard to locations of known surface water flooding identified on up-to-date surface water flood risk map”. Furthermore, the policy also encourages developments to incorporate Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) in order to mitigate surface water run-off and would support development of new flood defences along the river. It is recommended that this policy could be enhanced through encouraging the conservation, restoration and enhancement of the river corridor in order to improve natural flood resilience.

2.8.4 In accordance with TDBC CS Policy CP1 ‘Climate Change’ and CP8 ‘Environment’, any future development proposals within the Neighbourhood Area would be required to demonstrate that a “sequential approach and exceptions test to flood risk” has been carried out and that flood risk is not exacerbated.

2.8.5 Air and noise pollution are often associated with traffic sources. The A358 passes through the centre of the Neighbourhood Area, and the A378 passes through the NP Area in the south west. The M5 lies adjacent to the Neighbourhood Area, to the west. Development within 200m of a main road could potentially expose residents to air and noise pollution18.

2.8.6 Any future development within the Neighbourhood Area would be likely to increase the volume of traffic and associated emissions, contributing to poor air quality. Policy H5 of the NP seeks to ensure that residential development in the Neighbourhood Area would “have or cause no adverse impact on the amenity of neighbouring uses (such as noise, tranquillity, light pollution, enjoyment of space...)”.

18 The Department for Transport (DfT) in their Transport Analysis Guidance (TAG) consider that, “beyond 200m, the contribution of vehicle emissions from the roadside to local pollution levels is not significant” Available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/transport-analysis-guidance-webtag [Date Accessed: 10/01/20]

2.8.7 As discussed in section 2.7, in line with the requirements of the TDBC CS, development within the Neighbourhood Area should aim to increase sustainable transport links by modes other than cars. The NP could be improved through inclusion of a policy which reiterates this aim and seeks to protect and improve air quality within the Neighbourhood Area.

2.8.8 At this stage, it would be considered unlikely that the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP would result in significant adverse impacts on soil, air and water resources in the Neighbourhood Area.

Figure 2.5: Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: DEFRA 1988)

Figure 2.6: Fluvial Flood Zones in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Environment Agency)

Figure 2.7: Surface water flood risk in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Environment Agency)

2.9 Climatic factors

2.9.1 There are high levels of car ownership within the Neighbourhood Area which has led to traffic congestion and car parking problems. Any future development within the Neighbourhood Area could potentially exacerbate these issues, and lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions associated with a greater number of vehicles in the Neighbourhood Area. Policy T5 of the NP seeks to provide additional public off-street parking, in order to combat local parking issues.

2.9.2 SWT declared a Climate Emergency in February 201919, and as such, measures should be incorporated within the NP to significantly reduce Ruishton and Thornfalcon’s contributions towards the causes of climate change. To this end, Policy H5 of the NP would ensure that any new residential developments within the Neighbourhood Area “demonstrate that they have been ‘future-proofed’ and adapted to mitigate against effects of climate change through measures such as, but not limited to, SuDS, ‘passiv haus' design layouts to maximise solar gain, use of renewable energy technologies beyond national standards and so on where viable and feasible”.

2.9.3 These policies would be expected to contribute towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions within the Neighbourhood Area. Overall, the NP would be unlikely to result in a significant impact on climate change.

2.10 Material assets

2.10.1 The material assets topic considers social, physical and environmental infrastructure. This sub-section should be read alongside ‘Population and human health’, which details health and social infrastructure implications of the NP; ‘Climatic factors’, which considers transport infrastructure in terms of sustainable transport; ‘Soil, water and air’, which considers water infrastructure and agricultural land classification; and the ‘Biodiversity, flora and fauna’ sub-section, which considers environmental infrastructure.

19 Somerset West and Taunton Council (2020) Climate Emergency. Available at: https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/climate-emergency/ [Date Accessed: 25/06/20]

2.10.2 As mentioned in section 2.6, NP Policy Ec1 seeks to protect existing employment and commercial developments, and Policies Ec3 and Ec5 would ensure that new small businesses and local employment opportunities within the Neighbourhood Area, accompanied by sustainable travel plans, are supported. Policy T4 would support new development which would enhance accessibility to local services and facilities.

2.10.3 It is considered unlikely that the NP would have significant adverse impacts on material assets within the Neighbourhood Area.

2.11 Cultural heritage

2.11.1 There is a total of 35 Listed Buildings located within the Neighbourhood Area, largely concentrated within the three settlements of Ruishwick, Thornfalcon and Henlade (see Figure 2.8). There are 29 Grade II Listed Buildings and three Grade II* Listed Buildings; ‘Remains of Churchyard Cross in Churchyard about 7m south of Porch Church of St George’, ‘Musgrave Farmhouse’ and ‘Henlade House’. There are two Grade I Listed Buildings, ‘Church of St George’ in Ruishwick and ‘Church of the Holy Cross’ in Thornfalcon. Five Listed Buildings including the ‘Church of the Holy Cross’ are located within Thornfalcon Conservation Area (see Figure 2.9).

2.11.2 There are several archaeological sites within the Neighbourhood Area (see Figure 2.10). This includes the ‘Turnpike Road, Hartrow to Ashill’, ‘Chard Canal’ and ‘Taunton to Chard Railway’ which cross the Neighbourhood Area. To the north of Thornfalcon there are several archaeological features including ‘Moat, Lower Farm, Thornfalcon’ and ‘Fishponds, N of Thornfalcon’. Other notable features within the Neighbourhood Area include a large archaeological site ‘Park, Henlade House, Henlade’ to the south east of Henlade village.

2.11.3 There are no Scheduled Monuments or Registered Parks and Gardens (RPG) in the Neighbourhood Area. The ‘Hatch (Beauchamp) Court’ RPG is located approximately 1.3km to the south east.

2.11.4 Policy E3 of the NP aims to ensure that “the historic environment will be conserved and enhanced” and would require that any development proposals affecting heritage assets, or their settings, demonstrates that there would be no adverse impact on the historic value and character.

2.11.5 Therefore, the NP would be expected to prevent future development resulting in adverse impacts on the historic environment.

Figure 2.8: Heritage assets in and around the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Historic England)

Figure 2.9: Location of Thornfalcon Conservation Area within the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: SWT)

Figure 2.10: Archaeological features within the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: SWT)

2.12 Landscape

2.12.1 ‘Blackdown Hills’ AONB is located approximately 2km to the south west of the Neighbourhood Area, and the ‘Quantock Hills’ AONB is located approximately 5.7km to the north west (see Figure 2.11). Any future development should ensure it aligns with the aims stated within each of the AONB Management Plans to protect and enhance the special qualities of the wider area surrounding these nationally designated landscapes20 21.

2.12.2 Exmoor National Park is situated approximately 19.5km to the north west of the Neighbourhood Area. The nearest County Parks are ‘Ham Hill’ Country Park, situated approximately 19km to the south east, and ‘Grand Western Canal’ Country Park, situated approximately 19km to the south west. Due to the location of these parks, future development within the Neighbourhood Area would be unlikely to result in an adverse impact on the landscape features.

2.12.3 The majority of the Neighbourhood Area is located within the National Character Area (NCA) ‘Mid Somerset Hills’. A proportion of the Neighbourhood Area in the west is located within ‘Vale of Taunton and Quantock Fringes’ NCA.

20 Blackdown Hills AONB (2019) Blackdown Hills AONB Management Plan 2019 – 2024. Available at: https://blackdownhillsaonb.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/bhaonb_management_plan_2019-24.pdf [Date Accessed: 23/06/20] 21 Quantock Hills AONB (2019) Quantock Hills AONB Management Plan 2019 – 2024. Available at: https://48fa8ee2- f61a-422a-9950-c815534779fc.filesusr.com/ugd/11909d_409a89b90ab64120b421a156d23bd9d4.pdf [Date Accessed: 23/06/20]

2.12.4 Within Ruishton and Thornfalcon Parishes, four Landscape Character Areas (LCAs) have been identified22: ‘Low Vale’, ‘North Curry Ridge’, ‘River Flood Plain (Bathpool)’ and ‘Limestone Scarp (Corfe)’ (see Figure 2.12). The majority of the Neighbourhood Area lies within the ‘Low Vale’ LCA, which is characterised by “gently undulating to flat land, with odd hills and ridges … pockets of mainly broadleaf woodland and numerous orchards”. ‘North Curry Ridge’ LCA to the south east of the Neighbourhood Area comprises “a moderately steep-sided ridge … with many thickly wooded hedgerows”. ‘River Flood Plain’, to the north of Ruishton, is formed of “farmed flood plains, with trees and open river edges”. ‘Limestone Scarp’, covering a small proportion of the NP Area to the south, is characterised by “steep sided very densely wooded scarp slope … distinctive alkaline calcareous soils”.

2.12.5 ‘Thorn Hill, Thornfalcon’ is identified as a Special Landscape Feature. The hill offers a viewpoint across Thornfalcon village and the surrounding landscape. This site would be protected from development under NP Policy E1.

2.12.6 Policy C1 of the NP identifies three Local Gaps surrounding the village of Ruishton. Protecting these Local Gaps from development would help to ensure that each settlement within the Neighbourhood Area retains its distinct sense of place. This would be likely to help prevent coalescence, reduce the potential for adverse impacts on the landscape, and benefit the community through retaining each settlements’ identity.

2.12.7 Policy C1 of the NP, in accordance with the TDBC CS Policy DM2, would ensure that development in the countryside surrounding existing settlements would only be supported where they “maintain the open character of the landscape … enhance wildlife corridors … [and] … protect areas of landscape importance and visual amenity”.

22 Taunton Deane Borough Council (2004) Taunton Deane Local Plan. Available at: https://www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk/planning-policy/adopted-local-plans/taunton-deane-local-plan- 2004/ [Date Accessed: 25/06/20]

2.12.8 NP Policy H5 states that any new development should “complement and enhance the local character and rural context” and sets out guidelines for the scale, form, accessibility and amenity. This would be expected to ensure that future development is sympathetic to its surroundings and is of an appropriate layout and design. In addition, Policy E3 seeks to ensure that the historic character and significance of the Neighbourhood Area, in particular within Thornfalcon Conservation Area, is conserved and enhanced.

2.12.9 Furthermore, Policies T3 and T4 of the NP seek to ensure that new or extended pedestrian or cycle routes “have no adverse impact on landscape character”. Policies Ec4 and Ec5 of the NP would only permit farm diversification or new local businesses where they are in conformity with the landscape character and setting.

2.12.10 Overall, a significant impact on the landscape as a result of the NP would not be expected.

Figure 2.11: Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty around Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Natural England)

Figure 2.12: Landscape Types within Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Area (source: Taunton Deane Borough Council (2011) Taunton Deane Local Plan)

3.1 SEA screening outcome

3.1.1 This report has explored the potential significant environmental effects of the proposed Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP with a view to determining whether an environmental assessment is required under the SEA Directive.

3.1.2 In accordance with topics cited in Annex 1(f) of the SEA directive, significant effects on the environment are considered to be unlikely to occur as a result of the NP.

3.1.3 It is recommended that the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP should not be screened into the SEA process.

3.2 Consultation

3.2.1 This report has been subject to consultations with Natural England, Environment Agency and Historic England. Their comments are presented in Appendix B.

© Lepus Consulting for Somerset West and Taunton Council 30 SEA of the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP: Screening Report August 2020 LC-641_Ruishton&Thornfalcon_SEA_Screening_6_280820LB.docx Appendix A: Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP Policies

Policy Policy Name No. Policies for the Community C1 Protection of established communities C2 Protecting Existing Play, Sports and Recreation Facilities and Pitches C3 Support for New and Improved Play, Sports and Recreation Facilities and Pitches C4 Protection of Community Assets C5 Community Engagement Policies for Housing H1 Protecting the Identity of the Villages H2 Providing New Housing Suitable for Local Need H3 Providing for Elderly Residents H4 Providing Community Facilities with new Residential Development H5 Protecting the Environment from Adverse Impacts of Residential Development Policies for Traffic and Transport T1 Planning for Transport and Traffic Solutions T2 Provision of Safe Cycle and Pedestrian Travel T3 Protecting Existing Rights of Way T4 Promoting New and Improved Rights of Way and Cycle Routes T5 Off-road Car Parking Capacity Policies for Environment and Heritage E1 Protecting Wildlife Sites and Habitats E2 Protecting Banks, Hedges and Trees E3 Protecting Our Heritage E4 Ensuring no Net Increase in Flood Risk E5 Flood Defences Policies for Economy and Employment Ec1 Protecting Existing Employment Provision Ec2 Improving Broadband Provision Ec3 Supporting Small Businesses Ec4 Farm Diversification Ec5 Supporting Local Business and Employment Ec6 Establishing a Community Hub

© Lepus Consulting for Somerset West and Taunton Council 31 SEA of the Ruishton and Thornfalcon NP: Screening Report August 2020 LC-641_Ruishton&Thornfalcon_SEA_Screening_6_280820LB.docx Appendix B: Consultation Responses

Ms C Wright Our ref: WX/2019/133266/SE- Senior Environmental Consultant 02/SC1-L01 Lepus Consulting Ltd Your ref: 1 Bath Street Cheltenham Date: 14 July 2020 GL50 1YE

Dear Ms Wright,

RUISHTON AND THORNFALCON NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN STRATEGIC ENVIRONMENT ASSESSMENT (SEA) SCREENING

Thank you for consulting the Environment Agency regarding the above SEA Screening.

For issues that fall within the Environment Agency’s remit I can confirm we do not consider the emerging Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Development Plan is likely to have significant environmental effects.

However, we have recently commented to the Ruishton and Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Plan Administrator on the following policies which are repeated here for information:

E4 – Ensuring no Net Increase in Flood Risk and E5 – Flood Defences

Within this plan are areas of Flood Zone 3 and 2 which are at high and medium probability of flooding. Flood Zone 3 has an indicative annual probability of flooding in 1 in 100 years or less from river sources (i.e. it has a 1% or greater chance of flooding in any given year). Flood Zone 2 has an indicative annual probability of flooding between 1 in 100 and 1 in 1000 years from river sources (i.e. between 1% and 0.1% chance in any given year).

We would recommend that new development does not occur within these areas and is steered to low flood risk areas. We would expect this to be encouraged through the planning process and Sequential Test as stated in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

Flood Risk Assessment’s would be required for any new development that is sited within the floodplain. The FRA would be required to demonstrate the proposal is not at risk from flooding, and that there is no increase in risk for any third parties. This would be for the lifetime of development and include an allowance for climate change.

Please note that the Environmental Permitting (England and Wales) Regulations 2016 require a permit or exemption to be obtained for any activities which will take place:

Environment Agency Rivers House, East Quay, Bridgwater, Somerset, TA6 4YS. Customer services line: 03708 506 506 www.gov.uk/environment-agency Cont/d..

- On or within 8 metres of a main river (16 metres if tidal). - On or within 8 metres of a flood defence structure or culverted main river (16 metres if tidal). - Involving quarrying or excavation within 16 metres of any main river, flood defence (including a remote defence) or culvert. - In a floodplain more than 8 metres from the river bank, culvert or flood defence structure (16 metres if it’s a tidal main river) and you don’t already have planning permission.

This would include proposals to improve water management and flood defences.

For further guidance please visit https://www.gov.uk/guidance/flood-risk-activities- environmental-permits or contact our National Customer Contact Centre on 03702 422 549. The applicant should not assume that a permit will automatically be forthcoming once planning permission has been granted, and we advise them to consult with us at the earliest opportunity.

River corridors should be valued for wildlife and amenity reasons.

If you wish to discuss any of the above I can be contacted on the number below.

Please quote the Agency’s reference on any future correspondence regarding this matter.

Yours sincerely

Richard Bull Sustainable Places - Planning Advisor

Direct dial 02030 250287 Direct e-mail [email protected]

End 2

Date: 28 August 2020 Our ref: 321716 Your ref: Ruishton & Thornfalcon

Catherine Wright Lepus Consulting Ltd Hornbeam House 1 Bath Street Crewe Business Park Electra Way Cheltenham Crewe GL50 1YE Cheshire CW1 6GJ BY EMAIL ONLY [email protected] T 0300 060 3900

Dear Ms Wright,

Ruishton & Thornfalcon Neighbourhood Plan - SEA SCREENING

Thank you for your consultation on the above dated 08 July 2020, which was received by Natural England on the same date.

Natural England is a non-departmental public body. Our statutory purpose is to ensure that the natural environment is conserved, enhanced, and managed for the benefit of present and future generations, thereby contributing to sustainable development.

Screening Request: Strategic Environmental Assessment

From the material supplied with this consultation, it is our understanding that the plan does not allocate sites for development. Therefore it is our advice that in so far as our strategic environmental interests (including but not limited to statutory designated sites, landscapes and protected species, geology and soils) are concerned, that there are unlikely to be significant environmental effects from the proposed plan.

Advice regarding the Somerset Levels & Moors Ramsar Site

The plan area is located within the catchment of the Somerset Levels & Moors Ramsar Site. This is an area in which Natural England advise that any developments/allocations with the potential to add to nutrient loads (phosphorous) are likely to be subject to a Habitats Regulations Assessment.

Neighbourhood Plan Guidance on the assessment of Neighbourhood Plans, in light of the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (as amended), is contained within the National Planning Practice Guidance. The guidance highlights three triggers that may require the production of an SEA, for instance where:

a neighbourhood plan allocates sites for development the neighbourhood area contains sensitive natural or heritage assets that may be affected by the proposals in the plan the neighbourhood plan may have significant environmental effects that have not already been considered and dealt with through a sustainability appraisal of the Local Plan.

We have checked our records and based on the information provided, we can confirm that in our view the proposals contained within the plan will not have significant effects on sensitive sites that Natural England has a statutory duty to protect.

We are not aware of significant populations of protected species which are likely to be affected by the policies / proposals within the plan. It remains the case, however, that the responsible authority should provide information supporting this screening decision, sufficient to assess whether protected species are likely to be affected.

Notwithstanding this advice, Natural England does not routinely maintain locally specific data on all potential environmental assets. As a result the responsible authority should raise environmental issues that we have not identified on local or national biodiversity action plan species and/or habitats, local wildlife sites or local landscape character, with its own ecological and/or landscape advisers, local record centre, recording society or wildlife body on the local landscape and biodiversity receptors that may be affected by this plan, before determining whether an SA/SEA is necessary.

Please note that Natural England reserves the right to provide further comments on the environmental assessment of the plan beyond this SEA/SA screening stage, should the responsible authority seek our views on the scoping or environmental report stages. This includes any third party appeal against any screening decision you may make.

For any new consultations or to provide further information on this consultation, please send your correspondences to [email protected].

Yours sincerely

Darren Horn Lead Planning Adviser Somerset Team [email protected]

Ecological Services

Green Infrastructure

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment

Landscape Character Assessment

Habitats Regulations Assessment

Strategic Environmental Assessment

Sustainability Appraisal

1 Bath Street Cheltenham GL50 1YE

T: 01242 525222

E: [email protected]

W: www.lepusconsulting.com

CHELTENHAM

Lepus Consulting t: 01242 525222 1 Bath Street w: www.lepusconsulting.com Cheltenham e: [email protected] Gloucestershire GL50 1YE