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Home , Fyfield and Tubney, Great Coxwell, Seacourt, Shippon, Vale of White Horse

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FOREWORD 7 APPENDIX A: Site Development Templates

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 9 APPENDIX B: Land for Safeguarding for Future Transport Schemes - Maps LIST OF POLICIES 12 APPENDIX C: Land Safeguarded for Upper Thames Reservoir 1 INTRODUCTION 14 What is the Local Plan? 15 APPENDIX D: The Saved Policy from Local Plan 2011 regarding Grove The Development Plan 15 Airfield National Planning Policy 16 APPENDIX E: Conservation Areas unmet housing need 17 APPENDIX F: Scheduled Monuments 2 ADDITIONAL SITES AND SUB-AREA STRATEGIES 20 APPENDIX G: Registered Parks and Gardens Introduction 21 Unmet housing need for 22 APPENDIX H: Nationally Described Space Standards Level 1 Other housing needs 25 APPENDIX I: Primary and Secondary Retail Frontages Sub-area strategies 29 Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area 30 APPENDIX J: Local Shopping Centres South-East Vale Sub-Area 44 Western Vale Sub-Area 59 APPENDIX K: Leisure and Open Space Standards

3 DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT POLICIES 62 APPENDIX L: Alterations to the Oxford Green Belt Building healthy and sustainable communities 63 APPENDIX M: Monitoring Framework Supporting economic prosperity 77 Supporting sustainable transport and accessibility 89 GLOSSARY Protecting the environment and responding to climate change 95

4 IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 135 Introduction 136 Delivery and contingency 136

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites District Council 3 CORE POLICIES

ADDITIONAL SITES AND SUB-AREA STRATEGIES Core Policy 4a: Meeting our Housing Needs 26 Development Policy 6: Rural Workers’ Dwellings 71 Core Policy 8a: Additional Site Allocations for Abingdon-on- Development Policy 7: Re-use, Conversion and Extension of Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area 32 Buildings for Dwellings in the Open Core Policy 8b: Dalton Barracks Strategic Allocation 37 Countryside 73 Core Policy 12a: Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Development Policy 8: Community Services and Facilities 74 Improvements within the Abingdon-on-Thames Development Policy 9: Public Houses 76 and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area 42 Core Policy 13a: Oxford Green Belt 39 Core Policy 14a: Upper Thames Strategic Storage Reservoir 43 SUPPORTING ECONOMIC PROSPERITY Core Policy 15a: Additional Site Allocations for South-East Vale Development Policy 10: Ancillary Uses on Employment Land 79 Sub-Area 47 Development Policy 11: Community Employment Plans 80 Core Policy 15c: Grove Comprehensive Development Development Policy 12: Rural Diversification and Equestrian Framework 49 Development 82 Core Policy 15b: Harwell Campus Comprehensive Development Development Policy 13: Change of Use of Retail Units to Framework 51 Other Uses 83 Core Policy 16b: Garden Town 54 Development Policy 14: Village and Local Shops 87 Core Policy 18a: Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Development Policy 15: Retail Parks 88 Improvements within the South-East Vale Sub-Area 57 Core Policy 19a: Re-opening of Grove Railway Station 58 SUPPORTING SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT AND ACCESSIBILITY Core Policy 20a: Housing Supply for Western Vale Sub-Area 60 Development Policy 16: Access 91 Core Policy 47a: Delivery and Contingency 136 Development Policy 17: Transport Assessments and Travel Plans 92 Development Policy 18: Public Car Parking in Settlements 93 Development Policy 19: Lorries and Roadside Services 94 DEVELOPMENT POLICIES

BUILDING HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT AND RESPONDING TO CLIMATE Development Policy 1: Self and Custom-Build 65 CHANGE Development Policy 2: Space Standards 67 Development Policy 20: Public Art 97 Development Policy 3: Sub-Division of Dwellings 68 Development Policy 21: External Lighting 98 Development Policy 4: Residential Annexes 69 Development Policy 22: Advertisements 99 Development Policy 5: Replacement Dwellings in the Open Development Policy 23: Impact of Development on Amenity 100 Countryside 70

4 Vale of White Horse District Council Development Policy 24: Effect of Neighbouring or Previous Uses on New Developments 101 Development Policy 25: Noise Pollution 103 Development Policy 26: Air Quality 105 Development Policy 27: Land Affected by Contamination 107 Development Policy 28: Waste Collection and Recycling 108 1 Development Policy 29: Settlement Character and Gaps 111 Development Policy 30: Watercourses 113 Development Policy 31: Protection of Public Rights of Way, National Trails and Open Access Areas 118 Development Policy 32: The Wilts and Berks Canal 121 Development Policy 33: Open Space 122 Development Policy 34: Leisure and Sports Facilities 124

Development Policy 35: New Countryside Recreation Facilities 125 2 Development Policy 36: Heritage Assets 126 Development Policy 37: Conservation Areas 129 Development Policy 38: Listed Buildings 130 Development Policy 39: Archaeology and Scheduled Monuments 133

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Bridge Street, Abingdon

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 5 East St Helen Street, Abingdon Vale of White Horse District Council Foreword 1

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White Horse Hill near Uffington Foreword

This is Part Two of our Local Plan.

The Vale remains one of the top places to live and work in , combining rich, natural and man-made heritage with cutting-edge science and technology. Local Plan 2031 Part 2 (LPP2) aims to meet the needs of our community, provides for the necessary infrastructure to be put in place to support development and helps protect our beautiful countryside, historic market towns and villages from speculative development.

LPP2 was prepared under the previous administration and provides guidance about the type of development that is appropriate for our area, reflecting the difficult choices that are facing all councils across the country. It is striking a balance between competing priorities and reflects decisions that need to be made in the current strained financial circumstances.

Local Plan Part One (LPP1) was adopted in 2016 and sets out the major housing development sites in our district until the year 2031, along with the employment sites and infrastructure needed to support them. Housing sites in LPP2 will help us to deliver towards Oxford City’s housing need – which we are required to do. LPP2 provides the detailed policies that will be used to determine planning applications. It will also be used to support Didcot Garden Town.

Using this Local Plan 2031 as a starting point, we want to work in close collaboration with local people and neighbouring authorities to ensure joined-up and long-term development planning, especially for infrastructure. We wish to build on the policies within this Local Plan 2031 to provide high quality, environmentally sustainable and genuinely affordable housing as well as enhancing and strengthening our district’s status as a home for technology and innovation.

By working together, we seek to improve on our district’s quality of life, protecting its historic and rural features so that today and tomorrow’s generation will be able to bring up their families in happy, healthy and prosperous communities.

Councillor Emily Smith Councillor Catherine Webber Leader of the Council Cabinet Member for Planning

8 Vale of White Horse District Council Executive 1 Summary

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Milton Park Stores Executive Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction within the Vale and to support the achievement of sustainable development. This has been informed by co-operation with the Oxfordshire Growth Board The adopted Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Strategic Sites to apportion a ‘working assumption’ unmet need figure of 15,000 homes. The and Policies sets out the Spatial Strategy and strategic policies for the quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing need to be met within the Vale of White district to deliver sustainable development, including identifying the number of Horse is 2,200 dwellings for the period up to 2031, subject to the plan making new homes and jobs to be provided in the area. The Part 1 plan also makes process as agreed in the Memorandum of Co-operation between the local provision for retail, leisure and commercial development and infrastructure authorities in the Oxfordshire Housing Market Area. needed to support them. Chapter 2: Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies To complement the Part 1 plan, the Local Plan 2031: Part 2: Additional Sites and Detailed Policies sets out: The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out the Spatial Strategy, ‘Building on our Strengths’ to help shape where new homes will be built, where opportunities • policies and locations for the new housing to meet the Vale’s proportion of to provide new jobs will be created, and where new infrastructure and services Oxford’s housing need, which cannot be met within the City boundaries will be provided. • policies for the part of Didcot Garden Town that lies within the Vale of White Horse District The Spatial Strategy has three main strands. These are: • detailed development management policies to complement the strategic policies as set out in the Part 1 plan, and where appropriate replaces the remaining saved policies of the Local Plan 2011, and • focus sustainable growth within the Science Vale area • additional site allocations for housing • reinforce the service centre roles of the main settlements across the district, and

• promote thriving villages and rural communities whilst safeguarding The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 identified development site allocations and the countryside and village character. policies to ‘fully’ meet the objectively assessed development and infrastructure requirements for the Vale of White Horse District. It is underpinned and The Part 1 plan established three Sub-Area Strategies that ensure it is locally informed by two key core policies: distinctive and focussed on each part of the district. The three sub-areas are:

• Core Policy 1: Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development • Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe • Core Policy 2: Cooperation on Unmet Housing Need for Oxfordshire • South East Vale • Western Vale The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 sets out additional development site allocations to address the agreed quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing need to be addressed

10 Vale of White Horse District Council Executive Summary

The Part 2 plan ensures that the agreed quantum of unmet need for Oxford The additional sites in Part 2 are underpinned by Core Policy 8a: Additional to be addressed within the Vale is allocated to the Abingdon-on-Thames Site Allocations for Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area. and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area. The unmet need in the Vale will be addressed 1 through a combination of strategic sites allocated in the Part 1 plan and the The Part 2 plan includes an additional policy to ensure that development of additional sites allocated in the Part 2 plan. the MOD base at Dalton Barracks is brought forward in line with the site’s masterplan: The Part 2 plan also allocates an additional site to deliver 400 homes within the Science Vale area to provide continuing support for economic growth, to • Core Policy 8b: Dalton Barracks Strategic Allocation support the delivery of strategic infrastructure and facilitate comprehensive masterplanning. This section also updates selected Core Policies where new information has become available since preparing the Local Plan 2031: Part 1: 2 The Part 2 plan does not identify any additional site allocations within the • Core Policy 12a: Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Western Vale Sub-Area. Improvements within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area: which sets out additional land safeguarding to support the The Additional Sites to complement the Spatial Strategy are underpinned by a delivery of strategic highway schemes. number of Core Policies, in particular: • Core Policy 13a: Oxford Green Belt: which updates the Green Belt area in the Vale following a review to inform additional site allocations, to address • Core Policy 4a: Meeting our Housing Needs: sets out how the Council the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford. will address the quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford City to be • Core Policy 14a: Upper Thames Strategic Storage Reservoir: which 3 updates the area safeguarded between the settlements of Drayton, East addressed within the Vale. and Steventon.

Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area South-East Vale Sub-Area

The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 identified land for strategic housing at Abingdon- The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 focuses on housing and economic growth within on-Thames, Kennington (within parish) and Radley, on sites close to, this Sub-Area. It identified strategic housing at and Grove, on sites and easily accessible to, Oxford. The Part 2 plan allocates five additional sites within the Vale adjoining the settlement of Didcot and at the larger villages of 4 within this Sub-Area at with (within Fyfield Milton Heights, Harwell and . and Parish), at the MOD base at Dalton Barracks, and at the larger villages of and . The Part 2 plan allocates an additional site within this Sub-Area, at the local service centre of Grove.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 11 Executive Summary

This additional site in the Part 2 plan is underpinned by Core Policy 15a: to deliver the Plan’s Spatial Strategy and Sub-Area Strategies. This Part 2 Additional Site Allocations for South East Vale Sub-Area. The plan also plan sets out policies to complement the Part 1 strategic policies and provides includes additional policies to ensure that development at Harwell Campus further detail on a range of development management matters. and Grove is brought forward in line with a comprehensive development framework: Chapter 3 policies provide detailed guidance to assist day-to-day decision making on planning applications (referred to as Development Policies). The • Core Policy 15b: Harwell Campus Comprehensive Development Framework policies have been developed following a review of extant Local Plan 2011 • Core Policy 15c: Grove Comprehensive Development Framework Saved Policies and an assessment of additional detail that is required to support the Part 1 plan. An element of this section also covers the designation of Didcot as a Garden Town, particularly shaping growth already identified in the Part 1 plan and that The Part 2 policies are structured into the four thematic areas as set out in the being identified in the emerging Local Plan for . The Part 2 Part 1 plan. These are: plan includes a policy to support the implementation of the Garden Town: • Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities • Supporting Economic Prosperity • Core Policy 16b: Didcot Garden Town: which ensures proposals for • Supporting Sustainable Transport and Accessibility development demonstrate a number of key principles that contribute • Protecting the Environment and Responding to Climate Change. towards the successful implementation of the Garden Town. The policies included are: This section also updates selected Core Policies where new information has become available since preparing the Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities • Core Policy 18a: Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Improvements within the South-East Vale Sub-Area: which sets out Development Policy 1: Self and Custom-Build additional land safeguarded to support the delivery of strategic highway Development Policy 2: Space Standards schemes. Development Policy 3: Sub-Division of Dwellings • Core Policy 19a: Re-opening of Grove Railway Station: which updates Development Policy 4: Residential Annexes the area safeguarded to support the re-opening of the railway station at Development Policy 5: Replacement Dwellings in the Open Countryside Grove. Development Policy 6: Rural Workers’ Dwellings Development Policy 7: Re-use, Conversion and Extension of Buildings Chapter 3: Development Management Policies for Dwellings in the Open Countryside Development Policy 8: Community Services and Facilities The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out strategic district wide policies necessary Development Policy 9: Public Houses

12 Vale of White Horse District Council Executive Summary

Supporting Economic Prosperity Development Policy 30: Watercourses Development Policy 31: Protection of Public Rights of Way, National

Development Policy 10: Ancillary Uses on Employment Land Trails and Open Access Areas 1 Development Policy 11: Community Employment Plans Development Policy 32: The Wilts and Berks Canal Development Policy 12: Rural Diversification and Equestrian Development Policy 33: Open Space Developments Development Policy 34: Leisure and Sports Facilities Development Policy 13: Change of Use of Retail Units to Other Uses Development Policy 35: New Countryside Recreation Facilities Development Policy 14: Village and Local Shops Development Policy 36: Heritage Assets Development Policy 15: Retail Parks Development Policy 37: Conservation Areas Development Policy 38: Listed Buildings Supporting Sustainable Transport and Accessibility Development Policy 39: Archaeology and Scheduled Monuments 2

Development Policy 16: Access Development Policy 17: Transport Assessments and Travel Plans Chapter 4: Implementing the Plan Development Policy 18: Public Car Parking in Settlements Development Policy 19: Lorries and Roadside Services The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out a detailed Monitoring Framework to ensure the Core Policies are delivered, by setting out targets to monitor the Protecting the Environment and Responding to Climate Change progress towards achieving the Strategic Objectives as set out in Chapter 3 of 3 the Part 1 Plan. Development Policy 20: Public Art Development Policy 21: External Lighting The Part 2 plan sets out a Monitoring Framework which identifies how the Development Policy 22: Advertisements Council will monitor the effectiveness and implementation of the Plan for each Development Policy 23: Impact of Development on Amenity Core Policy (as set out in Chapter 2: Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies) Development Policy 24: Effect of Neighbouring or Previous Uses on New and Development Policy (as set out in Chapter 3: Development Policies). Developments Development Policy 25: Noise Pollution Core Policy 47a: Delivery and Contingency 4 Development Policy 26: Air Quality Development Policy 27: Land Affected by Contamination Development Policy 28: Waste Collection and Recycling Development Policy 29: Settlement Character and Gaps

13 Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 13 Overview The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 complements the Local Plan 2031: Part 1 by 1 setting out: • policies and locations for new housing to meet the Vale’s proportion of Oxford’s housing need, which cannot be met within the City Introduction boundaries, as agreed by the Oxfordshire Growth Board • policies for the part of Didcot Garden Town that lies within the Vale of White Horse District • detailed development management policies to complement the strategic policies set out in the Part 1 plan and replace the remaining saved policies of the Local Plan 2011, where appropriate, and • additional site allocations for housing.

This chapter summarises the role of the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 and outlines our approach to its preparation.

In particular, this chapter describes how the plan is consistent with, and has been informed by, national policy and how it meets the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), with regard to being:

• positively prepared • justified • effective, and • consistent with national policy.

View towards Wittenham Clumps 1 Introduction

What is the Local Plan? It includes district-wide policies to • Adopted Policies Map: This shows 1.4. Neighbourhood Plans can be ensure that development contributes the sites identified for development prepared by either town or parish

1.1. The Vale of White Horse Local to meeting the Strategic Objectives and areas where particular policies councils, or a neighbourhood forum, 1 Plan 2031 provides a policy framework of the plan, such as policies relating apply. It will be updated as each and where adopted, also make up for the delivery of sustainable to sustainable construction and part of the Local Plan 2031 is part of the Development Plan for development across the district. It conservation of the built, historic adopted. the district. They can provide an replaces the Local Plan 2011 and is and natural environment. important layer of planning for local made up of a number of separate 1.2. The Council’s Local areas and set out in more detail how parts. These are: Local Plan 2031: Part 1 was Development Scheme (LDS) sets a community wishes to see its area adopted on 14 December 2016. out the timetable for preparing each develop. • Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Strategic part of the Vale of White Horse Local 2 Sites and Policies sets out the • Local Plan 2031: Part 2: Detailed Plan 2031 and is available on the 1.5. Where neighbourhood plans Spatial Strategy and Strategic Policies and Additional Sites: Council’s website2. are prepared, they must be in general Policies for the district to deliver sets out policies and locations for conformity with: the policies set out sustainable development. It housing for the Vale’s proportion of The Development Plan in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1; any identifies the number of new homes Oxford’s housing need up to 2031, Strategic Policies set out in the Part 2 and jobs to be provided in the area which cannot be met within the 1.3. The Local Plan 2031 prepared plan (i.e. Core Policies); and any other for the plan period up to 2031. It City boundaries. This document by Vale of White Horse District Strategic Policies set out in future 3 makes provision for retail, leisure also contains policies for the part of Council will be used to inform planning documents in accordance and commercial development and Didcot Garden Town that lies within decisions on planning applications with the Neighbourhood Planning for the infrastructure needed to the Vale of White Horse District and across the district, in conjunction (General) Regulations 20124. support them. detailed development management with any Development Planning policies to complement Local Plan Documents (DPDs) relating to 1.6. The Council will continue to The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out 2031: Part 1. It replaces the saved minerals and waste prepared by support communities who wish to the Spatial Strategy for the location policies of the Local Plan 20111, and Oxfordshire County Council, and any prepare neighbourhood plans. Details of development across the district allocates additional development neighbourhood plans prepared by the of how the Council can help with the 4 and allocates large-scale (referred sites for housing. community3. preparation of neighbourhood plans to as strategic) development sites. are set out on the Council’s website5.

1One Local Plan 2011 policy continues to be saved (Policy H5: Grove Airfield) which is referenced by Core Policy 15a and set out in Appendix D 2http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy 3http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy 4 The Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/637/contents/made 5http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplans

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 15 1 Introduction

Figure 1.1: An illustration of the documents that make up the Vale of White Horse Local Plan 1.7. These documents together Cooperate, and demonstrate that it is: and Development Plan. make up the Development Plan Vale Development Plan for the district (see Figure 1.1). a. positively prepared All planning applications will be b. justified Vale Local Plan determined in accordance with the c. effective, and Development Plan taken as a whole, d. consistent with national policy. Vale Local Vale Local unless material considerations Plan 2031: Plan 2031: indicate otherwise. Part 1: Part 2: a. Positively prepared Strategic Detailed Sites and Policies and National Planning Policy 1.10. The NPPF states that: Policies Additional Sites 1.8. Government planning policy “The plan should be prepared and guidance is set out in the based on a strategy which National Planning Policy Framework seeks to meet the objectively (NPPF) and the National Planning assessed development and Oxfordshire Neighbourhood County Council Plans Practice Guidance (PPG). The NPPF infrastructure requirements, Minerals and sets out the Government’s planning including unmet requirements Waste Local Plan policies for achieving sustainable from neighbouring authorities development and is complemented where it is reasonable to by the PPG, which provides additional do so and consistent with guidance for practitioners. achieving sustainable 6 development” . 1.9. The Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031 has been prepared 1.11. In preparing the Local Plan, in compliance with national policy. Vale of White Horse District Council In particular, the NPPF states that has worked, and continues to work, for a local plan to be considered in partnership with its neighbouring sound, it must comply with the legal authorities under the Duty to and procedural requirements of Cooperate and has undertaken an plan making, such as the Duty to on-going process of Sustainability

6 Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 182

16 Vale of White Horse District Council 1 Introduction

Appraisal to ensure that the Local 1.14. Within Oxfordshire, co- Vale of White Horse will address the 1.18. Local Plan 2031: Part 1 states Plan 2031 delivers sustainable operative working is managed through quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing that: development. the Oxfordshire Growth Board. The need, to be provided for within the 1 Board comprises the leaders of all Vale, through the preparation of “Whilst the Local Plan 2031: 1.12. The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Oxfordshire councils, along with key Local Plan 2031: Part 2 and includes Part 2 is in preparation, the identifies development site allocations stakeholders and representatives a clear policy commitment to this Council’s housing requirement and policies to ‘fully’ meet the from business, and is supported by effect. The Policy ensures unmet will be 20,560. However, if objectively assessed development an executive committee and officer need is addressed in a timely manner, the Part 2 plan is not adopted and infrastructure requirements for working groups. Vale of White Horse informed by a robust approach to plan within two years of the the Vale of White Horse District. It is District Council also works directly making and prepared in accordance adoption of Local Plan 2031: underpinned and informed by two key with authorities within and outside the with national policy and legislation. Part 1, then from the time 2 core policies: county area where it is necessary to until the adoption of the Part plan effectively on matters of strategic 1.17. The Part 1 plan makes it clear 2 plan, the Council’s housing • Core Policy 1: Presumption and sub-regional significance or that the preparation of the Local Plan requirement will be 20,560 in Favour of Sustainable cross border interests that are not 2031 Part 2 will be closely informed plus the agreed quantum of Development Oxfordshire-wide. by the Oxfordshire Growth Board Oxford’s unmet housing need • Core Policy 2: Cooperation process to apportion the working to be addressed within the on Unmet Housing Need for 1.15. Local Plan 2031: Part 1 assumption unmet need figure of Vale of White Horse district” 7 . 3 Oxfordshire describes the process undertaken 15,000 homes. A Memorandum by the Oxfordshire Growth Board of Co-operation between local 1.19. On this basis, the Vale of Oxfordshire Unmet (referred to as the joint Oxfordshire authorities in the Oxfordshire Housing White Horse housing requirement, on Housing Need Statement of Cooperation) to Market area was signed on 26 adoption of the Vale of White Horse specify how the identified unmet September 2016, which identified Local Plan 2031: Part 2, or from two 1.13. The Duty to Cooperate set out housing need for Oxford City an agreed apportionment for the years after adoption of Local Plan in the Localism Act is both a legal should be apportioned between the quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing 2031: Part 1, whichever is sooner, will duty and test of effective plan-making. neighbouring Oxfordshire authorities. need to be met within the Vale of be at least 22,760 dwellings, subject 4 It requires cooperation on issues of White Horse as 2,200 dwellings, for to the plan making process. common concern in order to develop 1.16. Core Policy 2 of the Local the period up to 2031. sound local plans. Plan 2031: Part 1 confirms how the

7Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Strategic Sites and Policies (2016); Paragraph 1.27, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1- strategic-sites

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 17 1 Introduction

b. A justified plan 1.22. Furthermore, the Part 1 and c. An effective plan responsible for providing or managing Part 2 plans have also been informed key services, including water 1.20. The NPPF states that: by other plans and strategies, 1.24. The NPPF states that: resources, education and transport. including: the Oxfordshire Local “The plan should be the Transport Plan (LTP)9; the Strategic “The Plan should be 1.27. The Part 1 plan set out most appropriate strategy, Economic Plan (SEP)10; and other deliverable over its period examples of the Council’s when considered against strategies and programmes of the and based on effective joint commitment to working with our the reasonable alternatives, District Council, town and parish working on cross-boundary partners to ensure proper sustainable based on proportionate councils, neighbouring authorities strategic priorities” 12. planning can be achieved across evidence” 8. and other organisations. The Local administrative boundaries13. This work Plan 2031 (Parts 1 and 2) will help to 1.25. To ensure the Local Plan is ongoing and examples include: 1.21. Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out facilitate the delivery of many of the 2031 forms a realistic, deliverable a Spatial Strategy for the distribution aspirations and objectives set out in and viable plan, the Council has • the ‘Memorandum of Co-operation’ of growth across the district. The Part these other plans and strategies. worked closely with landowners between local authorities in the 1 and Part 2 plans were informed by: and developers to confirm that the Oxfordshire Housing Market Area a detailed understanding of the issues 1.23. A series of reasonable additional development sites being was signed on 26 September 2016 facing the district; a detailed range of alternatives were developed and allocated in the Part 2 plan are and remains extant. Under this evidence (including, for example, an considered to inform the Publication deliverable. A Local Plan Viability memorandum the authorities have assessment of flood risk, transport Version of the Local Plan 2031: Part Study has been published alongside agreed the apportionment of the impacts and landscape); and by 2. The reasonable alternatives are the Local Plan Part 212c. working assumption unmet need taking into account the National referred to in the Supporting Topic figure of 15,000 homes. In addition, Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Papers11. The alternatives have 1.26. The Council has worked bi-lateral discussions have taken National Planning Practice Guidance also been assessed through the closely with organisations such as place between the Vale and Oxford (PPG), and where appropriate the Sustainability Appraisal (SA), which is the Environment Agency, Natural City Council to discuss how the Housing White Paper8a to develop described further below. England, Historic England, Highways quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing locally distinctive policies. England, Thames Water and need to be addressed within the Oxfordshire County Council who are Vale can be planned for

8 Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 182 8aDepartment for Communities and Local Government (2017) Housing white paper: Fixing our broken housing market, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/housing-white-paper 9Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015-2031, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/ public-site/connecting-oxfordshire 10 Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) (2014) Strategic Economic Plan; available at: https://www.oxfordshirelep.com/about/our-strategies/our-strategic-economic-plan-sep 11A series of topic papers and technical studies are available from the Council website at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 12Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 182 12cHDH Planning and Development (2017) Local Plan 2031 Part 2: Viability Update, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 13Duty to Cooperate Topic Paper (2017), available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

18 Vale of White Horse District Council 1 Introduction

• working jointly with South beyond the plan period (i.e. after 1.29. The preparation of the Local Oxfordshire District Council and 2031)14 Plan 2031: Part 2 has involved the

Oxfordshire County Council to testing of reasonable alternatives 1 ensure we plan effectively for job • working jointly with Swindon through Sustainability Appraisal growth and housing needs along Borough Council and Oxfordshire (SA) that incorporates a Strategic with supporting infrastructure across County Council, the A420 Corridor Environmental Assessment (SEA) and the Science Vale, including Didcot Study has been published which a Habitats Regulations Assessment Garden Town (see Chapter 2 for facilitates cross border working (HRA). Both reports have been more details) and planning for growth along this published alongside this document16c. important corridor, including the • a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ New Eastern Villages 2 with South Oxfordshire District Council and Oxfordshire County • supporting work of Thames Water Council to agree an approach and, the Environment Agency to to delivering strategic highway plan for future water supply and infrastructure across the Science flood alleviation15. Vale area, including those that span the district boundaries d. Consistent with national 3 policy • working in partnership with other Oxfordshire authorities on the 1.28. The NPPF states that: Oxfordshire Infrastructure Strategy (OXIS) to plan for strategic “The plan should enable infrastructure delivery across the delivery of sustainable Oxfordshire as a whole, including development in accordance consideration for cross border with the policies in the 4 planning (beyond Oxfordshire) and framework” 16.

14Oxfordshire Infrastructure Strategy: Stage 1 and Stage 2 Report (2017), available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/oxfordshire-growth-board 15The Environment Agency is exploring proposals to reduce flood risk in Oxfordshire through its Flood Alleviation Scheme. Further information is available in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1. Thames Water is also exploring options to meet the future water supply needs of the region, and this could include the need for a major new reservoir between the villages of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon. Further information is available in Chapter 2 of this Plan 16 Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 182 16cVale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 2: Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) (2017) and Sustainability Appraisal (SA) of Vale of White Horse District Council Local Plan 2031: Part 2 (2017); both documents are available to view and access at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 19 Overview

The Part 1 plan sets out the Spatial Strategy for the district to help achieve sustainable development. This is referred to as Building on our Strengths 2 and helps to shape where new homes will be built, where opportunities to provide new jobs will be created, and where new infrastructure and services Additional Sites will be provided. The Spatial Strategy has three main strands which seek to: and Sub-Area • focus sustainable growth within the Science Vale area • reinforce the service centre roles of the main settlements across the district, and Strategies • promote thriving villages and rural communities whilst safeguarding the countryside and village character.

The Part 1 plan allocates strategic development sites to fully meet the Vale’s own housing requirement up to 2031 (20,560 homes).

This chapter sets out the additional housing allocations needed to ensure the agreed quantum of unmet housing for Oxford to be addressed within the Vale is also fully met. This requirement, as agreed by the Oxfordshire Growth Board, is for 2,200 homes to be delivered within the same period up to 2031, subject to the plan making process.

The agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford to be addressed within the Vale is allocated to the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area. Unmet need in the Vale will be addressed through a combination of strategic sites allocated in the Part 1 plan and the additional sites allocated in the Part 2 plan.

The Part 2 plan also allocates an additional site to deliver 400 homes within the Science Vale area to provide continuing support for economic growth in accordance with the Oxfordshire Strategic Economic Plan, to support the delivery of strategic infrastructure and facilitate comprehensive masterplanning.

Green Belt surrounding Oxford 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Introduction • reinforce the service centre roles unmet need for Oxford in the Vale. area. In order to support the Science of the main settlements across the Core Policy 2 sets a timetable for Vale area and the delivery of strategic

2.1. The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 district, and when this additional housing need infrastructure, the plan allocates an 1 sets out a Spatial Vision and Strategic will form part of the Vale’s housing additional site for 400 dwellings within Objectives that establish the direction • promote thriving villages and rural requirement, subject to the plan the South-East Vale Sub-Area. of travel for future development and communities whilst safeguarding the making process. investment in the district. They are countryside and village character. 2.10. This chapter sets out the informed by a detailed understanding 2.7. The Vale of White Horse additional sites that are allocated of issues and opportunities facing the 2.4. The Spatial Strategy set out in housing requirement, on adoption by the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 to district and reflect national and local the Part 1 plan makes provision for of the Vale of White Horse Local complement those set out in the priorities. growth of around 23,000 new jobs, Plan 2031: Part 2, or two years after Part 1 plan. The Local Plan 2031 2 218 hectares of employment land, adoption of Local Plan 2031: Part 1, (Parts 1 and 2) seeks to fully meet 2.2. The Part 1 plan also sets out the and at least 20,560 new homes to be whichever is sooner, will be at least the objectively assessed need for Spatial Strategy and strategic policies delivered during the plan period from 22,760 homes18. housing arising from the Vale of for the district to deliver sustainable 2011 to 2031. White Horse district (20,560 homes) development. The strategy, referred to 2.8. The Part 2 plan therefore and from neighbouring authorities as Building on our Strengths, helps 2.5. As has been explained in allocates additional housing sites (2,200 homes) and seeks to deliver to shape where new homes will be Chapter 1, the Part 1 plan addresses to address the agreed quantum of an additional 400 homes within the 3 built, where opportunities to provide housing need arising from the Vale of unmet housing need for Oxford to be South-East Vale Sub-Area. The Part new jobs will be created, and where White Horse District (20,560 homes). addressed within the Vale. 2 allocations are consistent with the new infrastructure and services will be The Part 2 plan seeks to address the Spatial Strategy set out in the Part 1 provided. agreed quantum of unmet housing 2.9. The Part 2 plan also sets out plan, in particular by: need for Oxford City to be met within a new policy to support the delivery 2.3. The Spatial Strategy has three the Vale, which has been identified as of the part of Didcot Garden Town • Focusing sustainable growth within main strands. These seek to: 2,200 homes17. that lies within the Vale of White the Science Vale area Horse District, as well as continuing 4 • focus sustainable growth within the 2.6. The Part 1 plan makes a clear to support the focus upon strategic • Reinforcing the service centre roles Science Vale area policy commitment for how to plan for growth across the wider Science Vale of the main settlements across the

17The Oxfordshire Growth Board signed a Memorandum of Cooperation – 26 September 2016 – which agrees the apportionment of unmet housing need for Oxfordshire; https://www.oxford.gov.uk/downloads/file/5834/gdl13_-_oxfordshire_ growth_board_-_signed_memorandum_of_cooperation 18The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 was adopted 14/12/2016: on this basis the Vale housing requirement of 22,760 will apply on 14/12/2018, or when the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 is adopted, whichever is sooner. The final housing requirement for the Vale of White Horse, taking into account unmet housing need for Oxford, will ultimately be determined through the plan making process, as set out in Core Policy 2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 21 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

district, and neighbouring the city of Oxford. This the Vale. The unmet need is met by connectivity with opportunities for process was administered by the a combination of the Part 1 strategic improvement and good access to a • Promoting thriving villages and rural Oxfordshire Growth Board. allocations and the Part 2 additional wide range of employment. communities whilst safeguarding the allocations. countryside and village character. 2.13. It is important that, in addition 2.18. It is the case that whilst the sites to addressing housing need, any 2.16. On this basis, the Part 2 plan listed above are allocated within the 2.11. This chapter also updates additional housing allocations are ensures that at least 2,200 additional Part 1 plan with the primary intention selected Core Policies where new appropriately located to address both dwellings are allocated within the of meeting the Vale’s own objectively information has become available the quantum of unmet need to be met Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford assessed need for housing, the sites since preparing the Part 1 plan, within the Vale, and the district’s own Fringe Sub-Area; and that at least are also well located to provide for for example relating to the need housing requirements. 2,200 dwellings are provided for on Oxford’s unmet housing need. Housing for additional safeguarding of land sites within this Sub-Area that are on these sites would be just as much to support the delivery of strategic 2.14. The Abingdon-on-Thames and suitably close to and accessible to available to those people falling into highway schemes. Oxford Fringe Sub-Area is closest to Oxford (Table 2.1)19. the category of Oxford’s need as and has the most frequent and reliable to those of the Vale. The Planning Unmet Housing Need for public transport linkages to Oxford 2.17. The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Inspector’s Report of the Examination Oxford with the greatest potential for future identified land for strategic housing into the Part 1 plan states: enhancements and for these reasons, on a range of sites across the district, Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford the Vale’s agreed quantum of unmet including on sites close to, and easily “In reality, it would be all but Fringe Sub-Area need for Oxford (2,200 dwellings) is accessible to Oxford. These sites impossible to determine if allocated to this Sub-Area as set out include those located to the north and a potential occupier of this 2.12. As has been explained above, by Core Policy 4a: Meeting Our north-west of Abingdon-on-Thames housing (Part 1 allocations) Vale of White Horse District Council Housing Needs. and at the larger villages of Kennington represents a Vale or Oxford has worked with the other Oxfordshire (within Radley parish) and at Radley. housing need” 20 authorities, over the past few years, 2.15. The Vale is not seeking to ring These sites are suitable locations to identify how the unmet housing fence allocations for the purposes of for development in the Vale, with 2.19. The Planning Inspector’s Report need for Oxfordshire should be addressing the agreed quantum of comparatively high levels of services of the Examination into the Part 1 apportioned between those authorities Oxford’s unmet need to be met within and facilities, good public transport plan also confirmed that Oxford City

19Site Selection Topic Paper (2017), available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 20Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 - Inspector’s Report (2016), Paragraph 25; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and- advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sites

22 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Council consider that these sites the Council’s strategy for meeting Table 2.1: Vale of White Horse Local Plan Part 1 and Part 2 Allocations that are close to and accessible to Oxford. (listed above) are well-located to the plan objectives appropriately, to provide for their own unmet housing minimise harmful impacts, such as 1 needs. In total 1,51021 dwellings are harm to the Oxford Green Belt and to Site Allocation allocated in the Part 1 plan on four maximise opportunities for mitigating North Abingdon-on-Thames (LPP1 allocation) 950 a sites closest to Oxford at Abingdon- impacts, such as increasing the use of on-Thames, Kennington (within Radley sustainable modes of travel. North-West Abingdon-on-Thames (LPP1 allocation) 200 Parish) and at Radley. North-West Radley (LPP1 allocation) 240 2.22. Dalton Barracks is conveniently South of Kennington (Radley Parish; LPP1 allocation) 270 2.20. The Council has followed a located close to Oxford and provides Dalton Barracks (LPP2 allocation) 1,200 comprehensive approach to site the potential for a high quality, 2 Total 2,860 selection, which was consistent to the sustainable Garden Village style a approach followed to inform the Part development to be created, that is The LPP1 allocation for North Abingdon-on-Thames was for around 800 dwellings, however an outline application for up to 950 dwellings received planning permission on 27 October 2017. 1 plan, and with national guidance22. easily accessible to Oxford, Abingdon- Over 400 sites were assessed and on-Thames and the surrounding area a refined list of sites were subject to by public transport, but also includes detailed assessment including being a comprehensive range of services informed by comprehensive technical and facilities on site. Around 1,200 3 evidence, such as assessing transport dwellings are allocated at Dalton impacts, landscape and flood risk. Barracks within the Part 2 plan. This is discussed in more detail later in 2.21. The site selection process this chapter (under Additional Site included considering all potential Allocations and Strategic Policies for sites within the Oxford Green Belt the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford and considering the likely impact of Fringe Sub-Area). development on the Green Belt and 4 has been informed by Sustainability Appraisal. The Part 2 plan represents Oxford Road, Kingston Bagpuize

21The LPP1 allocation for North Abingdon-on-Thames was for around 800 dwellings, however an outline application for up to 950 dwellings received planning permission on 27 October 2017. The strategic allocations within the Abingdon- on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area set out in the Part 1 Plan contribute towards a provision of 1,660 dwellings 22Site Selection Topic Paper (2017), available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 23 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Affordable Housing for Oxford with Oxford City Council and other 2.28. The Oxfordshire SHMA takes plan within the South-East Vale Sub- Unmet Need Oxfordshire authorities to plan for account of housing mix requirements Area to help meet the unmet need for housing for Oxfordshire in the longer across each of the Oxfordshire Oxford, stating, for example: 2.23. In addition to planning for the term. It is anticipated this will include authorities and recommends a mix appropriate housing requirement, the preparation of an updated Strategic suitable for both Vale and Oxford City. “Whilst the Abingdon-on- it is also important to plan for the Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) The SHMA mix favours 3 bedroom Thames / Oxford Fringe Sub- appropriate type of dwellings, and for Oxfordshire. Until the updated properties a little more than the Oxford Area is closer to Oxford, it to contribute towards the affordable Oxfordshire SHMA and Oxford City City evidence suggests (45 % vs. 39 is true that more than 3,000 housing needs of Oxford City. Local Plan are completed, it will not %). This is consistent with the Oxford dwellings proposed in the be possible to determine the precise City ‘Preferred Options’ Local Plan South East Vale (the two 2.24. The Part 1 plan sets out the affordable housing need for Oxford, 2036, which states a need for more Valley Park sites) would also Vale’s approach to affordable housing to be provided for within the Vale of 3 bedroom properties, rather than be close to Didcot Station (Core Policy 24). The Council will White Horse. smaller dwellings. with its fast and frequent rail seek 35 % affordable housing on service to Oxford” 24. sites capable of a net gain of eleven Housing Mix, Tenure and Size for 2.29. It is considered that Core Policy dwellings or more23a 23b. Oxford Unmet Need 22 already provides sufficient flexibility 2.31. It is therefore important that to support a housing mix suitable to the role of housing located within the 2.25. The allocation of affordable 2.27. Planning for an appropriate both Vale and Oxford City. However, South-East Vale is not overlooked, housing to those in need is a matter mix of housing types, size and tenure the policy also provides sufficient especially given the fast and frequent of housing policy rather than planning is clearly important. Housing mix is flexibility to support a more bespoke rail service available from Didcot to policy. Allocations will therefore be addressed through Core Policy 22 as mix on Part 2 allocations should this Oxford. However, in total, over 7,000 made in accordance with an approach set out in the Part 1 plan. This makes become necessary. dwellings are provided for within the to be agreed between Vale of White provision for a mix to be delivered in Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Horse District Council and Oxford City accordance with the Oxfordshire South East Vale Sub-Area Fringe Sub-Area, and over 13,000 Councils. Strategic Housing Market Assessment dwellings are provided for within the (SHMA) and provides flexibility should 2.30. The Local Plan Part 1 Inspector South-East Vale Sub-Area. Whilst 2.26. Vale of White Horse District the Housing Register demonstrate an also recognised the potential role of the plan identifies sites that are Council will continue to work positively alternative would be more appropriate. housing allocated within the Part 1 demonstrably close to and accessible

23aHDH Planning & Development (2014) Local Plan Viability Study, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sit-0 23bThe Local Plan 2031 Part 1 Core Policy 24: Affordable Housing has since been superseded by the National Planning Policy Framework, published July 2018. The affordable housing policy will now apply to sites of ten dwellings or more – Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (2018) National Planning Policy Framework, paragraph 63. 24Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031 Part 1 – Inspector’s Report (2016), Paragraph 56: Available at: http://www.whitehorsedc. gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sites

24 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

to Oxford (Table 2.1), it is also the the Oxfordshire Knowledge Spine. 2.36. For these reasons, 400 2.39. No additional sites are proposed case that, in reality, any of the homes Supporting the accelerated delivery additional homes are allocated within for allocation within the Western Vale allocated across the two Sub-Areas of housing within Science Vale is a the South-East Vale Sub-Area and this Sub-Area, this area does not relate 1 could contribute towards the unmet priority for the Oxfordshire LEP, along is discussed in more detail within the well to either Oxford or Science Vale housing needs of Oxford City, with delivering a comprehensive following chapter (under Additional Site and the identified housing need for this including those located in the Vale to package of strategic infrastructure. Allocations and Strategic Policies for area is already adequately planned for. the west of Didcot. Housing and infrastructure delivery the South-East Vale Sub-Area). will help to unlock the area’s potential Meeting the needs of 2.32. It is therefore not considered for economic growth and this forms 2.37. The quantum of housing Gypsies, Travellers and necessary to allocate any additional a key strand of the Council’s Spatial identified for allocation within the Part Travelling Show People sites in the Part 2 plan within the Strategy. 2 plan, as set out within the Part 1 plan 2 South-East Vale Sub-Area to (i.e. for 1,000 dwellings) is subsumed 2.40. Alongside the preparation of specifically address unmet housing 2.35. Some of the housing the Council by a combination of: updated the Part 2 plan, the council produced need for Oxford. proposed within the Part 1 plan was completions and commitments that a joint Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling deleted from the plan during the have come forward since March 2016; Show People Accommodation Other Housing Needs Examination process and did not form the additional allocations set out in this Assessment26 with allocations in the adopted plan. The plan in the Abingdon-on-Thames and Council, Oxford City Council and 2.33. In addition to planning for the Planning Inspector, when discussing Oxford Fringe Sub-Area; and those South Oxfordshire District Council. 3 quantum of unmet housing need for the deletion of these sites from the that complement the Spatial Strategy The new assessment identifies that Oxford to be addressed within the Part 1 plan, stated in his Interim and support infrastructure delivery only one new pitch is required in the Vale, the Council is also allocating Report that this: (400 dwellings) in the South-East Vale later part of the plan period (2027- additional housing to help achieve Sub-Area. 2031). No allocations for gypsy, the Council’s objective to support the “Would reduce the potential traveller and travelling show people are Science Vale area. supply of housing in the 2.38. The updated housing supply therefore proposed in the Part 2 plan. South-East Vale and position for each of the three Sub- Applications for new pitches will be 2.33. The Science Vale area houses the Council may wish to Areas is updated in Core Policies 8b, considered alongside the requirements 4 a number of significant employment consider the need to allocate 15b and 20b. The windfall allowance of Core Policy 27: Meeting the Needs sites, including the Enterprise Zone replacement sites in this area has been updated to reflect up to date of Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling sites at Harwell Campus and Milton through the Part 2 plan”25. evidence on the delivery of small sites Show People. Park, and forms the southern end of in the district since 2011. 25Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 - Inspector’s Interim Findings (2016), Paragraph 9.12, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1- strategic-sit-0 26Cherwell, Oxford City, South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Show People Accommodation Assessment (June 2017)

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 25 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 4a: Meeting our Housing Needs Additional dwellings (for example, windfalls) will be delivered through Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. The contribution of all sources of housing supply are The strategy for meeting the housing target for the Vale of White Horse is shown by the following table, which supersedes the table set out in Core set out within Core Policy 4: Meeting our Housing Needs (Local Plan Policy 4: 2031: Part 1) and includes details of the strategic allocations necessary to meet this target, along with a policy framework for development. Category Number of Dwellings This policy sets out how the Council will address housing needs arising from elsewhere in the Housing Market Area, expressly the quantum of Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 22,760 unmet housing need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2018) 6,300 White Horse of 2,200 homes, as agreed at the Oxfordshire Growth Board Housing Supply Known Commitments 13,387 meeting in September 2016. (Apr 2018 to Mar 2031) Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations 2,252a Local Plan 2031: Part 2 allocations 2,420 The housing target for the Vale of White Horse is for at least 22,760 Windfalls 1,000b homes to be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 2,252 Total Supply (at 31 March 2018) 25,359 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations (LPP1 Allocations). 2,420 dwellings will be delivered through additional allocations (LPP2 * The 2,200 dwellings for Oxford City are to be provided between 2019-2031 for 5YHLS purposes, increasing the annual requirement by 183 per annum for that period. Allocations). The agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford City a Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocated 12,495 dwellings. This figure is updated to reflect commitments. to be addressed within the Vale of White Horse of 2,200 dwellings will be b Windfall figures are updated to reflect past delivery. provided for through either strategic or additional sites within the Abingdon- on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area*. Additional site allocations also complement those set out within the Part 1 plan to assist with delivering the Spatial Strategy and supporting infrastructure delivery.

Continued overpage

26 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 4a: Meeting our Housing Needs South-East Vale Sub-Area (continued from previous page) 1 Settlement / Parish Settlement Site Name Number of Additional Allocations Type Dwellings Grove Local Service Centre North-West of Grove 400 d In addition to the strategic site allocations set out in Core Policy 4, Total 400 development will be supported at the additional site allocations through a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning authority, developer and other stakeholders, where development meets the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown by Western Vale Sub-Area 2 Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken as a whole. The following tables show how the level of housing required through Local Plan Part 2 does not allocate additional sites within the Western Vale additional sites will be distributed: Sub-Area.

Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area Settlement / Parish Settlement Site Name Number of Type Dwellings 3 East Hanney Larger Village North of East Hanney 80 East Hanney North-East of East Hanney 50 Kingston Bagpuize East of Kingston Bagpuize 600 with Southmoor with Southmoor (Fyfield and ( Parish) Tubney Parish)

Marcham South-East of Marcham 90 c The development proposed at Dalton Barracks will provide services and facilities equivalent to a Larger 4 Village. c Shippon Smaller Village Dalton Barracks 1,200 d The allocation at North-West of Grove has the capacity to deliver more housing, subject to appropriate Total 2,020 infrastructure improvements. Housing which is in addition to the 400 homes is expected to be delivered after 2031.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 27 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.1 Map showing the additional allocations across the three Sub-Areas within the Vale of White Horse District

28 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Sub-Area Strategies • South-East Vale – which includes much of the Science Vale area

2.41. The Part 1 plan establishes and contains the market town of 1 three Sub-Area Strategies, which give Wantage, the local service centre spatial expression to the plan and of Grove, as well as a number ensure that it is locally distinctive and of significant employment sites, focused on each part of our district. including Harwell Campus, Milton The three sub-areas are: Park and Didcot A Power Station. The Sub-Area also contains a • Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford number of larger villages, including Fringe – which covers the northern , , Harwell, 2 and north eastern part of the Vale Harwell Campus, Milton and Sutton and geographically has strong Courtenay. linkages with the city of Oxford. The Sub-Area contains the market town • Western Vale – which is a more of Abingdon-on-Thames, the local rural area stretching from the North service centre of Botley and several Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding larger villages, including , Natural Beauty (AONB) to the River 3 Drayton, East Hanney, Kennington, Thames, containing the market town Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor, of and several larger Marcham, Radley, Steventon and villages, including , Wootton. A large part of this area is , Stanford-in-the-Vale, designated within the Oxford Green Uffington and . Belt.

4

Market Place, Wantage

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 29 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Abingdon-on-Thames and for this Sub-Area (5,438 as set out in 2.46. Kingston Bagpuize with weekends) and help to minimise the Oxford Fringe Sub-Area Core Policy 8 within the Part 1 plan) Southmoor is a sustainable larger need for car travel. was soundly based. This is not least village offering good access to a Additional site allocations and because a substantial part of the range of services and facilities and 2.48. The larger villages of East strategic policies for the Abingdon- housing need for Vale arises from this excellent public transport connectivity, Hanney and Marcham offer a good on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- Sub-Area. especially to Swindon and Oxford. range of services and facilities and are Area Development on Land East of relatively unconstrained, and in relation 2.44. By adding the agreed quantum Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor to the sites proposed for development 2.42. This Sub-Area contains our of unmet housing need for Oxford to (within Fyfield and Tubney Parish) are not located within the Oxford largest settlement of Abingdon-on- this Sub-Area, the revised housing provides an opportunity to re-route Green Belt, or areas of floodplain, Thames, which has the greatest requirement increases from 5,438 the A415 out of the existing village which are both particularly extensive in range of services and facilities, a dwellings (Part 1 Plan: Core Policy 8) (effectively providing a bypass) and this Sub-Area. The provision of smaller good employment base, excellent to 7,638 dwellings (Part 2 Plan: Core deliver a range of local infrastructure, site allocations within the plan is also public transport links to Oxford and Policy 8a). including a new primary school. The important and necessary to ensure beyond, and it has the highest need for occupation of dwellings on this site will housing is delivered throughout the affordable housing within the district. 2.45. The Part 2 plan allocates five not begin prior to (1) the completion plan period. The wider Sub-Area contains the local additional sites within the Abingdon- of the upgrade at junction service centre at Botley, as well as on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- unless an alternative phasing plan is a number of larger villages including Area to ensure this revised housing agreed with the county council and (2) Cumnor, Drayton, East Hanney, requirement is fully met. Land is satisfactory air quality mitigation for Kennington, Kingston Bagpuize allocated in the Part 2 plan adjacent Marcham. with Southmoor, Marcham, Radley, to the sustainable larger village of Steventon and Wootton. Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor 2.47. Locating development where (within Fyfield and Tubney Parish), there is already access to frequent 2.43. The Planning Inspector at the MOD base at Dalton Barracks and premium bus routes helps to presiding over the Examination into the (Shippon) and at the larger villages maximise the viability and longevity Part 1 plan concluded that the need for of East Hanney and Marcham (Core of the services, deliver improvements and the proposed housing requirement Policy 8a)27. (increased frequency at evenings and

27More information about how we have selected the additional site allocations is set out in our Site Selection Topic Paper available from the Council website at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

30 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.2: Map showing the additional allocations within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area

1

2

3

4

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 31 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 8a: Additional Site Allocations for Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area Housing Supply Area Category Number of Dwellings

The overarching priority and Settlement Hierarchy for this Sub-Area is set Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 7,638 out in Core Policy 8: Spatial Strategy for Abingdon-on-Thames and Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2018) 2,639 Oxford Fringe Sub-Area (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) along with the strategy for addressing housing need and employment arising in the Vale of White Housing Supply Known Commitments 2,718 a Horse. (Apr 2017 to Mar 2031) Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations 523 Local Plan 2031: Part 2 allocations 2,020 b Housing Delivery Windfalls 280 Total supply (at 31 March 2018) 8,180 This policy sets out how the Council will address housing needs arising a Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocated 1,790 dwellings. This figure is updated to reflect commitments. from elsewhere in the Housing Market Area, expressly the quantum of b Windfall figures are updated to reflect past delivery. unmet housing need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of White Horse of 2,200 homes, as agreed by the Oxfordshire Growth Board in September 2016.

At least 7,638 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 523 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations (LPP1 Allocations). 2,020 dwellings will be delivered through additional allocations (LPP2 Allocations). The agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of White Horse is 2,200 dwellings, which will be provided for within this Sub-Area through either strategic or additional sites between 2019 and 2031. Additional dwellings (for example, windfalls) will be delivered through Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. The contribution of all sources of housing supply for this Sub-Area are shown in Continued overpage the following table:

32 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 8a: Additional Site Allocations for 2.49. There are concerns associated and incorporates a series of large Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- with highway impact from development structures including aircraft hangers. Area (continued from previous page) at Marcham and the village is identified The site is located close to the city of 1 as an Air Quality Management Area Oxford. Additional Allocations (AQMA). It is considered that the majority of additional traffic associated 2.51. In addition to the strategic site allocations set out in Core Policy 8, Development at Dalton Barracks development will be supported at the additional site allocations through with the proposed allocation at will provide for new infrastructure (such a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning Marcham would travel towards Oxford, as education provision/ local centre authority, developer and other stakeholders, where development meets Abingdon-on-Thames and Science and open space) and opportunities the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown by Vale (i.e. away from Marcham) and that for high quality sustainable transport new opportunities exist for improved 2 Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken as a connections between both the city of whole. The following table shows how the level of housing required within public transport, cycling and walking Oxford and Abingdon-on-Thames and 28 this Sub-Area through additional development sites will be distributed: connections in this area . The Council beyond, incorporating walking, cycling, is satisfied that the relatively small and public transport enhancements. Part 2 Allocations development (90 dwellings) proposed to the south-east of Marcham will not 2.52. It is important that this site is Settlement / Parish Settlement Site Name Number of adversely impact the AQMA located in planned for comprehensively to ensure Type Dwellings Marcham village. its potential for highly sustainable 3 East Hanney Larger Village North of East Hanney 80 development is fully realised and East Hanney North-East of East Hanney 50 2.50. The release of Green Belt land this will be guided by Core Policy Kingston Bagpuize East of Kingston Bagpuize 600 currently owned by the MOD at Dalton 8b: Dalton Barracks Strategic with Southmoor with Southmoor Barracks presents an opportunity for Allocation, which is discussed in (Fyfield and (Fyfield and Tubney Parish) a highly sustainable development, more detail below. Tubney Parish) located on substantially brownfield Marcham South-East of Marcham 90 (previously developed) land and with Shippon Smaller Village Dalton Barracks 1,200 c minimal harm to the purposes of the 4 Total 2,020 Oxford Green Belt. The former airfield site currently houses Nos. 3 and 4 c The development proposed at Dalton Barracks will provide services and facilities equivalent to a Larger Village. Regiments Royal Logistics Corps

28ATKINS (2017) Vale of White Horse District Council – Evaluation of Transport Impacts – Stage 1; SYSTRA (2017) Sustainable Transport Study for the Abingdon to Oxford Corridor, both documents are available to view and access at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 33 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Dalton Barracks Strategic airfield, but has more recently been Belt Review. community engagement Allocation used as a barracks for Nos. 3 and 4 • community ownership of land and Regiments Royal Logistics Corps. 2.58. The Council considers that long-term stewardship of assets 2.53. ‘A Better Defence Estate’ was Around half of the growth envisaged development at Dalton Barracks • mixed-tenure homes and housing published by Government in November within the plan period can be delivered has the potential to deliver a highly types that are genuinely affordable 2016. This report identified 91 sites onsite even before the military sustainable mixed-used development, • a wide range of local jobs in the operated by the Ministry of Defence units are re-located. However, it is incorporating Garden Village Garden City within easy commuting (MOD) to be released for development anticipated that the military units will principles and including new services distance of homes to deliver 55,000 homes as part of the be re-located no later than 2029. and facilities, education provision, • beautifully and imaginatively Government’s wider housing policy29. opportunities for local employment and designed homes with gardens, 2.56. The site was not considered as parkland of at least 30 hectares. combining the best of town and 2.54. One of the sites identified for a potential development site through country to create healthy release, originally by 2029, is Dalton preparation of the Local Plan 2031: 2.59. Garden Villages are ambitious communities, and including Barracks, located within the Vale of Part 1, nor by the Oxfordfordshire and locally-led proposals for new opportunities to grow food White Horse District to the west of Growth Board process to identify communities that should have high • development that enhances Abingdon-on-Thames and close to potential sites to accommodate unmet quality and good design hard-wired the natural environment, providing a Oxford. Dialogue between the Defence housing for Oxford. At the time of in from the outset30. The Town and comprehensive Green Infrastructure Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) undertaking these processes, the site Country Planning Association (TCPA) network and net biodiversity gains, and the Vale of White Horse District was not considered to be available for have developed principles to help and that uses zero-carbon and Council has identified an opportunity future development. inform the creation of Garden Villages energy-positive technology to ensure to release the site sooner than 2029 and the Council is keen to explore climate resilience and the Council is satisfied that 1,200 2.57. The Council considers that how these principles can inform • strong cultural, recreational and homes can be delivered on the site the MOD’s release of this site for the opportunity for development at shopping facilities in walkable, within the plan period up to 2031. development, especially given its size, Dalton Barracks. The TCPA principles vibrant, social neighbourhoods, and proximity to Oxford and the extent include: • integrated and accessible transport 2.55. The site consists of around 288 of previously developed land within systems, with walking, cycling hectares and contains large areas the site area, constitutes a ‘major • land value capture for the benefit of and public transport designed to of brownfield (previously developed) change in circumstances’ to justify its the community be the most attractive forms of local land. The site was originally a military assessment in the context of a Green • strong vision, leadership and transport31.

29 Ministry of Defence (MoD) (2016) A Better Defence Estate, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/better-defence-estate-strategy 30Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (2018) Garden Communities, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/garden-communities-prospectus 31Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) (2018) Understanding Garden Villages: An Introductory Guide, available at: https://www.tcpa.org.uk/understanding-garden-villages

34 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

2.60. The Council is working in links from the site to Abingdon-on- the southern part of the site should in that framework which will require all partnership with Oxfordshire County Thames. respect the historic character of phases of development to contribute

Council to plan for substantial highway Shippon and its rural approach. fairly towards the joint responsibilities 1 and public transport improvements 2.62. The Council will continue to for transport, education, open space within this Sub-Area. Plans include work with Oxfordshire County Council 2.64. The Part 2 plan makes provision and other infrastructure. provision for upgrading the A34 to ensure opportunities for public for around 1,200 dwellings at Dalton interchange at Lodge Hill; a north- transport, walking and cycling in this Barracks to be delivered within the 2.66. The Council will work with the bound bus lane between Lodge Hill area are maximised and are fully plan period up to 2031 in accordance DIO and other key stakeholders, and the Hill interchanges integrated with proposals for Dalton with Core Policies 8a and 8b and the to prepare a comprehensive on the A34; and providing for two Barracks. Site Development Template set out in development framework for the new Park and Ride sites at Cumnor Appendix A. Dalton Barracks site, which will be 2 and Lodge Hill (both close to Dalton 2.63. Dalton Barracks lies to the east adopted as a Supplementary Planning Barracks) for accessing Oxford. of a number of sites of ecological 2.65. It is therefore essential that Document (SPD). The Framework will Both of these Park and Ride sites importance, including Cothill Fen development is brought forward in line provide more detailed guidance to will be connected to key destinations Special Area of Conservation (SAC) with Core Policy 8b and contributes inform proposals for the new housing in Oxford City via a Rapid Transit and Sites of Special Scientific Interest to infrastructure in the manner set out allocated on the site. System. (SSSI’s). To provide a buffer between any proposed development on the site 3 2.61. An Abingdon – Oxford Corridor and the designated sites, the western Sustainable Transport Study has and northern sides of the site should informed the sustainable transport be retained as open space, in the form provision which should support the of parkland, which will also provide proposed development at Dalton recreational open space to residents Barracks32. The improvements outlined of the site33. The historic centre of in the study include the need for Shippon lies to the south of Dalton enhancements to the frequency of bus Barracks. It remains relatively intact 4 routes serving the site to reach ‘turn and still survives as a historic village up and go’, or premium route, standard with a rural approach from the west 7 and improved pedestrian and cycle along Barrow Road. Development on The Duisburg Gate, Dalton Barracks, Shippon

32SYSTRA (2017) Sustainable Transport Study for the Abingdon to Oxford Corridor, available at www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 33Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031 Part 2: Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) (June 2018), Paragraph 7.5.24, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 35 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.3: Site allocation boundary and Green Belt boundary at Dalton Barracks

36 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 8b: Dalton Barracks Strategic The Council will continue to work with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation, Allocation Oxfordshire County Council, Natural England and other relevant stakeholders 1 to ensure a comprehensive approach to masterplanning for the site. Additional guidance will be provided by a comprehensive development framework that All new development at Dalton Barracks will be guided by a comprehensive will be published as a Supplementary Planning Document and will ensure the approach to masterplanning the allocation. new housing allocated at Dalton Barracks is considered in the context of a comprehensive approach to the masterplanning of the site, including: The new housing allocated at Dalton Barracks will be provided to an exemplar standard and following Garden Village principles to ensure the potential i. the development is in accordance with the requirements of a travel plan for highly sustainable and accessible development is fully realised. The for the site to make the necessary contributions in order to implement 2 development will form a mixed-use community incorporating on-site services sustainable transport initiatives, including minimising car usage and and facilities, including education provision, a local centre, providing local increasing the use of public transport, walking and cycling opportunities for employment and ensuring excellent public transport, cycle way and footpath connections to Oxford and Abingdon-on-Thames. This ii. the development is in accordance with and makes the necessary development will come forward in accordance with Core Policies 8a and 8b contributions to a comprehensive landscape plan for the site, including the and the Site Development Template set out in Appendix A. provision of parkland of at least 30 hectares

3 The site is removed from the Oxford Green Belt in accordance with Core Policy iii. proposals for new development and redevelopment should demonstrate 13a. The site area, however, contains an area of land that will remain within the that there would be no adverse impact on Cothill Fen SAC and protection Oxford Green Belt and any development on this area will be limited to Green for the SSSI located to the north west of the site Belt-compatible development. This area will include parkland, located on the western and northern sides of the site that should be planned for as part of the iv. proposals for buildings and structures (including their extensions) will not overall masterplanning for the site. unacceptably harm the character and appearance of the surrounding area, taking into account their location, scale, bulk and height, and Proposals for development at Dalton Barracks must demonstrate how they 4 contribute towards a comprehensive approach to masterplanning. v. any external lighting scheme must have a minimal impact in terms of light pollution.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 37 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Oxford Green Belt 1 plan made it clear that it is not ideal work of the Oxfordshire Growth Board. 2.72. Taking this evidence into for a local plan to include alterations account, and by undertaking 2.67. The Part 1 plan demonstrated to Green Belt boundaries and indicate 2.70. A comprehensive approach to additional site specific assessments ‘exceptional circumstances’ to that further alterations may be assessing potential development sites of all available sites, including those release four strategic development necessary (i.e. to address unmet need was undertaken to inform the selection beyond the Green Belt, the Council sites around Abingdon-on-Thames, for Oxford), but that this approach of sites for inclusion within the Part has concluded that ‘exceptional Kennington (within Radley Parish) and was preferable to deleting land from 2 plan. This approach followed circumstances’ exist to justify Radley from the Oxford Green Belt. the Green Belt when it was unclear if methodology consistent with the removing from the Green Belt one The Planning Inspector’s Final Report the released land would be needed approach to preparing the Part 1 plan additional parcel of land. into the Examination of the Part 1 plan for future development. The Planning and was informed by a comprehensive states that the release of these sites: Inspector’s Report stated that: suite of technical evidence, including 2.73. This plan therefore proposes Sustainability Appraisal (SA). This to alter the Green Belt boundary to “Would have only limited “Retaining these parcels evidence included an assessment of remove land from the Green Belt impacts on the function of the of land in the Green Belt how any potential development sites at Dalton Barracks (Shippon), to be Green Belt, primarily being now would not prevent their located within the Oxford Green Belt allocated as an additional housing localised encroachment of the deletion from Green Belt contributed to the purposes of the allocation as shown by Figure 2.3 34 36 countryside” . through the ‘Part 2’ plan or Green Belt . This ensured the Part 2 (Core Policy 13a: Oxford Green any other local plan or local plan was informed by up-to-date and Belt). 2.68. The Part 1 plan also proposed plan review, if the necessary accurate information. the release of other parcels of land exceptional circumstances 2.74. The change to the Green Belt 35 from the Oxford Green Belt, as it was were to be demonstrated” . 2.71. Furthermore, the release of the at Dalton Barracks has been informed considered they may be required Dalton Barracks site by the MOD for by a detailed Green Belt Study of to contribute to addressing unmet 2.69. A local Green Belt Review, development (discussed in Paragraph the site and its surroundings37. The housing needs for Oxford. However, which considered the Vale district, was 2.53) is considered to constitute a area proposed to be removed from modifications to the plan deleted these undertaken to inform preparation of the ‘major change in circumstances’ as the Green Belt is not considered to further proposed changes to the Green Part 1 plan. A subsequent Green Belt the site was previously not considered contribute strongly to the purposes of Belt. The Planning Inspector’s Final Study, which considered Oxfordshire available. the Green Belt, particularly as much of Report into the Examination of the Part as a whole, was prepared to assist the site is previously developed land,

34Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 - Inspector’s Report (2016), Paragraph 87; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sites 35Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 - Inspector’s Report (2016), Paragraph 91; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sites 36Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 80 37Hankinson Duckett Associates (HDA) (2017) Vale of White Horse District: Green Belt Study of Local Plan Part 2 Sites, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

38 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies and so its removal will have limited considered either by the Oxfordshire impact on the function of the Green Growth Board as a potential site to Core Policy 13a: Oxford Green Belt Belt. accommodate unmet housing need 1 for Oxford, or by the Vale of White 2.75. The area proposed does not Horse through preparation of the extend beyond the Dalton Barracks Local Plan 2031: Part 1. This change The Council’s approach to development within the Oxford Green Belt is site. The openness between is considered to be a ‘major change set out in Core Policy 13 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1). Abingdon-on-Thames and Shippon, in circumstances’ Shippon and Wootton, of much of the The Green Belt boundary is amended to reflect the additional site existing airfield area, and between • assessment work, comprising a allocation at Dalton Barracks made through Core Policy 8a: Additional the proposed new development and Green Belt Study of the potential Site Allocations for Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- 2 Whitecross, are all substantially development sites considered Area. This is shown by the Adopted Policies Map and Figure 2.3 and maintained (Figure 2.3). Shippon in preparation of the Part 2 plan, Appendix L to address the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for and the existing and proposed including proposed and existing Oxford at Dalton Barracks (Shippon). development at Dalton Barracks development at Dalton Barracks, is inset to the Green Belt as it will which demonstrates that its removal The settlement of Shippon (including the proposed and existing form an integrated and continuous from the Green Belt for development development at Dalton Barracks) is inset to the Green Belt as shown on settlement albeit protecting as far would have limited impact on the the Adopted Policies Map. 3 as possible the existing character of function of the Green Belt38 Shippon. • the site is close to Oxford and • the site contains a large area of 2.76. The ‘exceptional circumstances’ has the potential to be a highly brownfield (previously developed) to justify the amendment to the Green sustainable development with land39. Belt boundary at Dalton Barracks are: excellent public transport, walking and cycling connectivity to Oxford • the availability of a highly and Abingdon-on-Thames and is 4 sustainable and significant site considered to be compatible with the for development, not previously Spatial Strategy set out in the Part 1 available, and so not previously plan, and

38Hankinson Duckett Associates (HDA) (2017) Vale of White Horse District: Green Belt Study of Local Plan Part 2 Sites, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 39Hankinson Duckett Associates Associates (HDA) (2017) Green Belt Review: Exceptional Circumstances Assessment - Dalton Barracks, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 39 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Safeguarding of land for strategic • Improvements to Frilford Lights. both of these Park & Ride sites form This will facilitate efficient access via highway improvements within the interchanges on Rapid Transit Lines, sustainable public transport modes Abingdon on-Thames and Oxford 2.79. Vale of White Horse District providing high frequency links to key to Oxford from the A34 corridor to the Fringe Sub-Area Council continues to work in destinations across Oxford City and south, Abingdon-on-Thames and the partnership with Oxfordshire County beyond. proposed new sustainable settlement 2.77. The Part 1 plan recognises Council, Highways England and other on land at Dalton Barracks. Land is that this Sub-Area benefits from stakeholders to plan for future highway 2.81. For the reasons explained also safeguarded for an upgraded excellent public transport connectivity, infrastructure improvements and to above, five locations are safeguarded footpath between Shippon and particularly to the nearby city of support the delivery of the Oxfordshire by Core Policy 12a: Safeguarding Abingdon-on-Thames. Oxford, but that there are also some Local Transport Plan 4, which has of Land for Strategic Highway transport related constraints in the been prepared to support jobs, Improvements within the Abingdon- 2.83. Finally, land is safeguarded area. These include access to the housing growth and economic vitality on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- for the possible future provision A34 at Abingdon-on-Thames and in the area40. Area (Figure 2.4). Two of these sites of a Southern Marcham Bypass. Botley, and the Drayton Road (B4017) are identified by Oxfordshire County Traffic flows through Marcham are accessing Abingdon-on-Thames from 2.80. The Local Transport Plan and Council as their preferred locations presently constrained by narrow the south. its supporting evidence proposes for the new Park and Ride sites along roads and the village centre has a number of additional transport the A34 and A420 corridors and once been identified as an Air Quality 2.78. Land is safeguarded by the Part schemes within the Abingdon-on- developed, will assist in achieving Management Area (AQMA)43. Whilst 1 plan to support the delivery of the Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- sustainable development associated there is currently no funding identified following transport schemes: Area41. Two of these are for new Park with the additional housing proposed to support the delivery of a bypass, and Ride sites for accessing Oxford in the Part 2 plan42. land is safeguarded to ensure its • South Abingdon-on-Thames Bypass from the A34 and A420 corridors in an potential long-term provision is linking the A415 to the west and effort to reduce congestion accessing 2.82. As explained above, and in not prejudiced. As the options for south of the town, including a new Oxford. These are proposed for addition to a new Park and Ride facility the schemes progress, the impact crossing delivery within the plan period up to at Lodge Hill, land is also safeguarded of the schemes will be subject to 2031 and have been identified as for an additional lane on the A34 to thorough assessment, including full • Diamond Interchange at the A34 strategic priorities for Oxfordshire accommodate a single carriageway environmental assessment. Where Lodge Hill Junction, and County Council. In addition, the north-bound bus lane between the schemes are located in areas of Local Transport Plan proposes that Lodge Hill and Hinksey Interchanges. Flood Zones 2 and 3, the flood risk

40, 41, 42 Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015-2031, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/connecting-oxfordshire 43http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and- advice/environment/pollution/air-quality

40 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies sequential test and the exception Figure 2.4: Proposed opportunities for highway, public transport, walking and cycling improvements within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford test will be undertaken as part of the Fringe Sub-Area options appraisal process. 1

2.84. The Council will continue to work with Oxfordshire County Council to investigate opportunities for improving public transport, cycling and walking within this Sub-Area, especially in the context of the new sustainable community proposed for 2 Dalton Barracks.

3

4

A34, Kennington

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 41 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 12a: Safeguarding of Land for Upper Thames Strategic Water the Upper Thames Reservoir remains Strategic Highway Improvements within the Storage Reservoir as its preferred option, if a large Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- storage reservoir solution is found to Area 2.85. The Part 1 plan safeguards land be necessary. Land safeguarded for for the possible future provision of a a proposed reservoir to the North of Strategic Water Storage Reservoir is omitted in Core Policy In addition to land safeguarded for identified transport schemes set out in within the Vale between the villages 14a: Upper Thames Strategic Core Policy 12 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) the following schemes are also of Drayton, East Hanney, Steventon, Storage Reservoir following Thames safeguarded: and to the North of Longworth (Core Water’s Fine Screening Report Policy 14: Strategic Water Storage Update (April 2017)45, which confirms i. Park and Ride site for accessing Oxford from the A420 corridor at Reservoirs). Core Policy 14 also that the site no longer needs to be Cumnor facilitates the provision for a new route safeguarded. ii. Park and Ride site for accessing Oxford from the A34 corridor at of the Wilts and Berks Canal, should Lodge Hill any proposal for a reservoir come 2.88. In order to fully reflect the forward in the future. updated plans prepared by Thames iii. Single carriageway north-bound bus lane between the Lodge Hill A34 Water (the latest plans were not Interchange and Hinksey A34 Interchange, and 2.86. Thames Water is examining reflected in the adopted version of iv. Upgraded footpath between Shippon and Abingdon-on-Thames, and the means by which sufficient water the Part 1 plan46), the Local Plan v. South Marcham Bypass linking the A415 to the west of Marcham and can be provided to meet the future 2031: Part 2 updates the area to be east of Marcham. needs of the region. The shortlisted safeguarded for the possible future options include new strategic water provision of the Upper Thames These schemes are safeguarded in accordance with Core Policy 12 and storage capacity in the Upper Thames Reservoir (Core Policy 14a). as shown by maps in Appendix B and the Adopted Policies Mapa Catchment and the possible need for a major new reservoir within the district.

a The area shown on the Adopted Policies Map illustrates where Core Policy 12 will apply. It does not seek to show a precise alignment for the transport schemes, which will need to be informed by detailed design 2.87. The draft Water Resources work, carried out in consultation with Oxfordshire County Council and other relevant parties. Management Plan (WRMP) 201944, published by Thames Water, confirms

44Thames Water (2019) draft Water Resources Management Plan 2019 (WRMP); available at: https://corporate.thameswater.co.uk/About-us/our-strategies-andplans/water-resources 45Thames Water (2017) Thames Water WRMP19 Resource Options - Fine Screening Report Update, April 2017, available at: https://corporate.thameswater.co.uk/About-us/Our-strategies-and-plans/Water-resources/Document-library/Thames-Water-reports 46Land was safeguarded in the Part 1 Plan for a future reservoir between the settlements of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon in accordance with Core Policy 14: Strategic Water Storage Reservoirs. The safeguarded area has been updated in the Part 2 Plan to include additional land for ancillary works, following evidence submitted by Thames Water at Regulation 19 stage for the Publication Version of the Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Strategic Sites and Policies.

42 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 14a: Upper Thames Strategic Storage Reservoir 1

Land is safeguarded for a reservoir and ancillary works between the settlements of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon in accordance with the proposals set out in the draft Water Resources Management Plan 2019 and Core Policy 14 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1).

This safeguarding shall end if there is no prospect of the scheme being 2 built, for example if it is not included in the finalised Water Resources Management Plan 2019 or is refused development consent.

This Policy replaces the area safeguarded between the settlements of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon as shown by the Adopted Policies Map and Appendix C. St Helen’s Wharf, Abingdon

3

4

7

Farmoor Reservoir near Cumnor

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 43 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

South-East Vale Sub-Area of the Oxfordshire ‘Knowledge Spine’; were identified as a Garden Town adjacent to Harwell Campus (North- arguably the most important and in 2015 and partnership working is West and East Harwell Campus) Additional site allocations and significant growth corridor in Oxfordshire now under way to plan for the future reduced the potential housing supply strategic policies for the South-East and one of the most important in the of the settlement and area more in the Science Vale area by 1,400 Vale Sub-Area South-East of England48. comprehensively. This will ensure dwellings. The replacement, in that Didcot can fulfil its potential as a part, of these sites within the Part 2 2.89. The South East Vale Sub-Area 2.91. For these reasons, the Sub-Area service centre at the heart of Science plan will not only provide additional provides the main focus for housing is planned to accommodate around 70 Vale and provide quality and fit-for- housing supply, but will also assist with and economic growth within the Vale % of our projected employment growth purpose facilities and services for its delivering the Spatial Strategy and the of White Horse District, as identified (15,830 of 23,000 jobs) and around 75 expanding population. aim of the plan objective to achieve by the Spatial Strategy set out in Core % of the housing identified by the Part sustainable development overall. The Policy 4: Meeting our Housing 1 plan. 2.94. The Part 1 plan identified Council considers that additional Needs within the Local Plan 2031: Part sites for strategic housing growth housing is required to: 1. The Sub-Area contains a number of 2.92. This Sub-Area contains the at a number of locations within this internationally significant Science Vale market town of Wantage, the local Sub-Area, including at Wantage • help to achieve and maintain a sites, including the Enterprise Zone service centre of Grove and extends and Grove, on sites within the Vale sustainable balance of housing and sites at Harwell Campus and Milton eastwards to Harwell and Milton adjoining the settlement of Didcot, employment within the Science Park. parishes, which sit on the western and at the sustainable larger villages Vale area by ensuring that housing edge of Didcot. The settlement of of Milton Heights, Harwell and Sutton is located close to the provision 2.90. Science Vale is also one of Didcot itself lies within neighbouring Courtenay. of new jobs and is accessible by the key growth areas set out within South Oxfordshire, but some of sustainable modes of travel the Oxfordshire Strategic Economic the housing proposed for the area 2.95. Modifications to the Part 1 plan Plan and is the focus of significant is located within the Vale and both removed two sites proposed on land • help to deliver the Science Vale investment from the Oxford and Councils are working closely to plan adjoining Harwell Campus within Strategic Infrastructure Package49 Oxfordshire City Deal announced in for the area together. the Area of through developer contributions by 2014 47. The City Deal seeks to support Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). assisting further in the achievement a wave of innovation-led growth to 2.93. The settlement of Didcot, and of sustainable development within maximise the area’s world class assets. those adjoining parishes located 2.96. The removal from the Part the Science Vale area, and Science Vale sits at the southern end within the Vale of White Horse, 1 plan of these two sites located

47, 48Oxford and Oxfordshire City Deal (2014); available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/city-deal-oxford-and-oxfordshire 49Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015-2031, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/ltp4-policy-and-overall-strategy

44 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

• support the Oxfordshire LEP priority for accelerating housing delivery

within the Oxfordshire Knowledge 1 Spine growth corridor50.

2.97. For the above reasons, the Part 2 plan allocates an additional site within this Sub-Area at the local service centre of Grove.

2

3

4

Wallingford Street, Wantage

50Oxford and Oxfordshire City Deal (2014); available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/city-deal-oxford-and-oxfordshire

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 45 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.5: Map showing additional housing allocations within the South-East Vale Sub-Area

46 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 15a: Additional Site Allocations for South-East Vale Sub-Area 1

South-East Vale Sub-Area Housing Supply The overarching priority and Settlement Hierarchy for this Sub-Area are set out in Core Policy 15: Spatial Strategy for South-East Vale Sub-Area Category Number of (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) along with the strategy for addressing housing Dwellings need arising in the Vale of White Horse and for employment. Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 11,949 b 2 Housing Delivery Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2018) 2,338 Housing Supply Known Commitments 8,580 This policy sets out an additional site allocation to complement those set (Apr 2018 to Mar 2031) Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations 1,517 a out within the Part 1 plan to assist with delivering the Spatial Strategy and Local Plan 2031: Part 2 allocations 400 supporting infrastructure delivery Windfalls 440 b Total supply (at 31 March 2018) 13,275 At least 11,949 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 3 2011 and 2031. 1,517 dwellings will be delivered through strategic a Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocated 9,055 dwellings. This figure is updated to reflect commitments. Local Plan 2031 Part 1 allocations include the saved Local Plan 2011 allocation at Grove Airfield for 2,500 homes as set out allocations (LPP1 Allocations). 400 dwellings will be delivered through an in Core Policy 15. This Local Plan 2011 allocation (Policy H5) continues to be saved. The Full Local Plan 2011 additional allocation (LPP2 Allocation) North-West of Grove. Additional Policy for this site is set out in Appendix D b Windfall figures are updated to reflect past delivery dwellings (for example, windfalls) will be delivered through Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. The contribution of all sources of housing supply for this Sub-Area are shown in the following table: 4

Continued overpage

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 47 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Grove Comprehensive Development delivering the North Grove Link Road Core Policy 15a: Additional Site Allocations Framework (NGLR) that will form an important for South-East Vale Sub-Area (continued connection between Grove Airfield and from previous page) 2.98. The Part 1 plan allocates a the A338, along with contributing to a number of sites at Wantage and range of other services and facilities. Additional Allocations Grove and these are expected to be Allocating this site will also ensure the delivered through the plan period up masterplanning for this site can be In addition to the strategic site allocations set out in Core Policy 15, to 2031. These include the site at considered alongside planning for the development will be supported at the additional site allocation through Grove Airfield, which was allocated Monks Farm and Grove Airfield sites, a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning in the Local Plan 2011 and the Policy ensuring they are fully integrated. It authority, developer and other stakeholders where development meets (H5) for this site continues to be saved is, however, expected that housing the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown (Core Policy 15a: Additional Site development on the North-West of by Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken Allocations for South-East Vale Grove site will not come forward until as a whole. The following table sets out the additional development sites Sub-Area and Appendix E). towards the end of the plan period and for this sub-area: much closer to 2031. It is therefore 2.99. It is important that the new important to consider the long-term Part 2 Allocations development planned for Wantage development potential for Grove and and Grove delivers infrastructure (such plan effectively for its delivery. Settlement / Parish Settlement Site Name Number of as new services, facilities and roads) Type Dwellings alongside the delivery of new housing. 2.101. Development of North-West Grove Local Service Centre North-West of Grove 400 c To assist with infrastructure delivery in Grove will be considered within Total 400 this area, an additional development a comprehensive development site is allocated in the Part 2 plan at framework approach that will be North-West of Grove on land between adopted as a Supplementary Planning c The allocation at North-West of Grove has the capacity to deliver considerably more housing, subject to appropriate infrastructure improvements. Housing which is in addition to the 400 homes is expected to be the Monks Farm and Grove Airfield Document (SPD) in accordance delivered after 2031. sites. with Core Policy 15c: Grove Comprehensive Development 2.100. The allocation of the North- Framework. West of Grove site will assist with

48 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

2.102. Through engagement with a • ensuring an appropriate noise buffer wide range of stakeholders, including is identified with the railway line. Core Policy 15c: Grove Comprehensive Development Framework Grove Parish Council and Oxfordshire The buffer should not contribute 1 County Council, the SPD will provide towards recreational requirements a framework to guide development of existing or future residents to maximise its potential to deliver in All new development in Grove will be guided by a comprehensive a sustainable and cohesive manner • create a new landscape development framework for the settlement, including North-West of in the longer term, having regard structure which contains the new Grove which will come forward in accordance with Core Policies 15a and to existing commitments, and the development, and 15c and the Site Development Template set out in Appendix A. following: • achieve a net gain in biodiversity The Council will work with Oxfordshire County Council, Grove Parish 2 • considering the development and help address the current deficit Council, the site promoters of the North-West of Grove site and other potential of the site to the North- in green infrastructure. relevant stakeholders to prepare a comprehensive development West of Grove so that it endures framework for Grove that will be published as a Supplementary Planning beyond the plan period, and Document that will ensure proposals are considered holistically across provide guidance on what further the Local Service Centre, including: evidence is required at the planning application stage i. understanding the cumulative infrastructure requirements for Grove, 3 taking account of existing and future needs • infrastructure requirements should be considered from the outset ii. exploring opportunities to maximise sustainable linkages between the existing settlements and the adjacent strategic site allocations, and • ensuring sustainable connections are provided with both existing and iii. understanding how future growth should maximise opportunities for planned development at Grove enhanced public transport connections, including a future railway station at Grove. 4 • opportunities for improved links with other settlements in the area

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 49 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Harwell Campus Comprehensive 2.106. The Campus already contains campus as an Enterprise Zone is vision for the Campus, but to ensure Design Framework a number of key organisations and an equally important aspect of the development is fully integrated with facilities, including: the European site’s development. The development the Campus, reflects its location within 2.103. Harwell Campus is a nationally Space Agency; the Health Protection makes a significant contribution to the North Wessex Downs Area of and internationally significant centre Agency; the Medical Research the Oxfordshire LEP business rate Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is for research and innovation and its Council; the Science and Technology income derived from development on developed to ensure that any further continued development is crucial Facilities Council’s Rutherford Enterprise Zone land and it is therefore strategic infrastructure improvements to both the success of the Oxford Appleton Laboratory; and the Diamond crucial that employment development are delivered in parallel. Economy and the national prospects Light Source. on the Enterprise Zone continues to be for job growth associated with ‘big supported. 2.112. The formerly saved Local Plan science’. 2.107. Harwell Campus is a “world 2011 Policy E7 (Harwell Science and leading hub for science technology 2.110. It is important the Campus Innovation Campus) is replaced by 2.104. The Campus is located within and business, boasting the diamond accommodates at least 3,500 net the Part 2 plan Core Policy 15b. Science Vale and is at the heart of the Light Source, the largest UK funded additional jobs in the plan period up to Council’s strategy, as set out in the scientific facility to be built for over 40 2031 and has the potential to provide 2.113. The Council will work with adopted Local Plan 2031: Part 1 to years”51. This puts the Campus in the further jobs beyond 2031, as ongoing Harwell Campus Partnership and promote Science Vale as a world-class top ten Science Parks in the world. decommissioning of the licensed site other key stakeholders to prepare location for science and technology- takes place52. a comprehensive development based enterprise and innovation. 2.108. To ensure its continued framework for the campus, which development and success, Harwell 2.111. It is essential that development will be adopted as a Supplementary 2.105. The Campus is around 294 Campus needs to compete on an at Harwell Campus is brought Planning Document (SPD). A Local hectares in total and 93 hectares of the international stage and provide a forward in line with a comprehensive Development Order (LDO) will also site were identified as an Enterprise world class environment, which can development framework including be prepared to facilitate the effective Zone in 2012. The site is allocated continue to attract inward investment, ancillary accommodation, and accelerated planning of proposals for development by Core Policy commercial enterprise and highly comprising serviced and short stay coming forward on the Campus. The 15 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1), which skilled staff. accommodation for staff and visitors53. Framework will provide more detailed is complemented by Core Policy This is important not only to ensure guidance to inform proposals for 15b (Local Plan 2031: Part 2). 2.109. Designation of much of the that new development supports the development on the site, including the need for the following:

51UKSPA - Harwell Innovation Centre; available at: http://www.ukspa.org.uk/members/harwell-innovation-centre 52Cambridge Econometrics and SQW (2014) Economic Forecasting to Inform the Oxfordshire Strategic Economic Plan and Strategic Housing Market Assessment 53Planning permission P15/V0575/EZ; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=ApplicationDetails&REF=P15/V0575/EZ

50 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 15b: Harwell Campus i. development is in accordance with and meets the requirements of a Comprehensive Development Framework travel plan for the whole campus to make the necessary contributions in 1 order to implement sustainable transport initiatives, including minimising car usage and increasing the use of public transport, walking and All new development at Harwell Campus will be guided by a cycling comprehensive development framework ii. development is in accordance with and makes the necessary Development will come forward in accordance with Core Policies 15 and contributions to a comprehensive landscape plan for the whole 15b. campus. No development will be permitted within structural areas of open space and perimeter landscaping. In considering proposals for 2 Sufficient land is made available at Harwell Campus for research, new development and redevelopment, a high quality of landscaping innovation and economic development to accommodate at least 3,500 will be required, existing important wildlife habitats will be retained net additional jobs in the plan period up to 2031 within the designated and opportunities for the creation of new wildlife will be taken, where Enterprise Zone possible

Proposals for development within the Campus must demonstrate how iii. proposals for buildings and structures (including their extensions) they contribute towards a comprehensive approach to development. will not unacceptably harm the character and appearance of the 3 surrounding area, taking into account their location, scale, bulk and The Council will continue to work with Harwell Campus, the LEP, the height, and AONB Management Board and other relevant stakeholders to prepare a comprehensive development framework for the Campus. Development iv. any external lighting scheme must have a minimal impact in terms of proposals will be considered in the context of a comprehensive approach light pollution. to the whole Campus, in accordance with the criteria set out below. Additional guidance will be provided by a comprehensive development framework that will be published as a Supplementary Planning Document 4 and include:

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 51 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

• landscape and visual assessment, including on the North Wessex Downs AONB and the development of a heights parameters plan for the campus • design statement demonstrating how development on the site will achieve exemplar design that is fully integrated with the wider Framework Masterplan and is consistent with the Council’s Design Guide SPD • ecological assessment including mitigation plans and, where considered appropriate, compensation plans • light pollution assessment • transport assessment and travel plans • historic buildings and historic environment assessment • facilities capacity study demonstrating how proposals will deliver enhanced community services, infrastructure, recreational facilities and improved retail facilities, and • statement on contamination. Diamond Light Source, Harwell Campus

52 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.6: Site allocation development boundary at Harwell Campus

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Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 53 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Didcot Garden Town science and technology to support Town Masterplan Area does not form Core Policy 16b: continued and accelerated growth of a development boundary for Didcot Didcot Garden 2.114. The Government announced businesses in these sectors. and will include substantial areas of that Didcot would become a Garden formal and informal open space and Town Town in December 2015. Garden 2.117. The Garden Town initiative will green infrastructure. The important Towns are locally-led and ambitious help to shape growth already identified separation between the surrounding proposals for new communities that through the Local Plan 2031: Part 1 villages, including for example Proposals for development work as self-sustaining places and within the Vale and that being identified Sutton Courtenay, will continue to be within the Didcot Garden Town should have high quality and good within the emerging Local Plan 2034 protected from development. Masterplan Area, as defined design embedded from the outset54. for South Oxfordshire for housing, on the Adopted Policies Map employment and infrastructure. The 2.119. To assist the delivery of the and shown by Figure 2.8, will 2.115. The designation of Didcot and emerging South Oxfordshire Local Garden Town, further detail, for be expected to demonstrate the neighbouring parishes in the Vale Plan will focus on shaping the town example in respect of design, will be how they positively contribute to of White Horse as a Garden Town is centre of Didcot and helping the area set out either in a future Development the achievement of the Didcot an exciting opportunity. Both South to function more successfully in a Planning Document (DPD) or Garden Town Masterplan Oxfordshire and the Vale of White joined-up way, whilst embracing the Supplementary Planning Document Principles (Figure 2.7). Horse District Councils are working key principles of Garden Towns. (SPD). Local Development Orders closely together and in partnership (LDOs) will also be developed to with Oxfordshire County Council and 2.118. To support the successful support the delivery of individual sites. other key stakeholders to develop a implementation of the Garden Town joined-up vision and delivery strategy initiative, seven high level principles for the area. have been developed (Figure 2.7) to help shape how development 2.116. It is important that the area proposals come forward. Proposals realises its potential as a thriving and for development within the Garden attractive location to live, work and Town Masterplan Area will be visit and in particular to provide a high expected to demonstrate how they quality service centre at the heart of comply with these principles in Science Vale. This will allow Science accordance with Core Policy 16b: Vale’s international reputation for Didcot Garden Town. The Garden

54Department for Communities and Local Government (2016) Locally-led Garden Villages, Towns and Cities; available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/locally-led-garden-villages-towns-and-cities

54 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.7: Didcot Garden Town Masterplan Principles 1. Design – The Garden Town will be characterised by design that adds value to Didcot and endures over time; it will encourage pioneering architecture of 1 buildings and careful urban design of the spaces in between, prioritising green spaces over roads and car parks. All new proposals should show the application of the Council’s adopted Design Guide SPD and demonstrate best practice design standards.

2. Local Character – The Garden Town will establish a confident and unique identity, becoming a destination in itself that is distinctive from surrounding towns and villages whilst respecting and protecting their rural character and setting. Didcot’s identity will champion science, natural beauty, and green living, in part delivered through strengthened physical connections and active public and private sector collaboration with the Science Vale.

3. Density and tenure – The Garden Town will incorporate a variety of densities, housing types and tenures to meet the needs of a diverse community. This

will include high density development in suitable locations, such as in central Didcot and near sustainable transport hubs; higher density development will be 2 balanced by good levels of public realm and accessible green space.

4. Transport and movement – The Garden Town will reduce reliance on motorised vehicles and will promote a step-change towards active and public transport through the creation of a highly legible, attractive and accessible movement network and the appropriate location of housing, employment and leisure facilities. The Garden Town will seek to improve opportunities for access to sport and physical activities through Sport England’s Active Design Principles. Cycling and pedestrian links between the Garden Town, its surrounding villages, and natural assets and the strategic employment sites will be enhanced.

5. Heritage – the Garden Town will conserve and enhance heritage assets, both designated and non-designated, within and adjacent to the development

area. This includes the Scheduled Monuments of the settlement sites north of Milton Park and east of Appleford and any archaeological remains and historic 3 landscapes and / or landscape features identified in the Oxfordshire Historic Environment Record, the Oxfordshire Historic Landscape Character Assessment, other sources and / or through further investigation and assessment.

6. Landscape and Green Infrastructure – New development in the Garden Town will enhance the natural environment, through enhancing green and blue infrastructure networks, creating ecological networks to support an increase (or where possible achieve a net gain) in biodiversity and supporting climate resilience through the use of adaptation and design measures. The Garden Town will also seek to make effective use of natural resources including energy and water efficiency, as well as exploring opportunities for promoting new technology within developments. Innovative habitat planting and food growing zones will characterise the Garden Town and, in turn, these measures will support quality of life and public health. 4 7. Social and community benefits – The planning of the Garden Town will be community-focused, creating accessible and vibrant neighbourhoods around a strong town centre offer of cultural, recreational and commercial amenities that support well-being, social cohesion and vibrant communities. The Garden Town will embrace community participation throughout its evolution. It will promote community ownership of land and long-term stewardship of assets where desirable.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 55 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.8: Didcot Garden Town Masterplan area

56 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Safeguarding of land for strategic an Oxford – Cambridge Expressway Core Policy 18a: Safeguarding of Land for highway improvements within the and Government’s commitment in 55 Strategic Highway Improvements within the South-East Vale Sub-Area the Autumn Budget 2017 could South-East Vale Sub-Area 1 have benefits in relieving traffic 2.120. The South-East Vale Sub-Area congestion on the A34 and bringing Land is safeguarded to support the delivery of a new Thames River contains much of the Science Vale further investment to the Science Vale Crossing between Culham and Didcot, in accordance with Core Policy 56 area, Enterprise Zone sites, other area . It could also have significant 18 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1). significant employment locations environmental impacts that need and forms the southern part of the careful consideration, depending This policy updates the area safeguarded as shown by the Adopted Oxfordshire Knowledge Spine; on the exact route chosen. The Policies Map and Appendix B. 2 perhaps the most significant growth Council will continue to engage in In addition to land safeguarded for identified transport schemes set out in corridor identified in Oxfordshire the process to ensure that matters Core Policy 18 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) the following schemes are also and one of the most important in the of relevance to the district are safeguarded: South-East of England. considered appropriately, including better understanding of any forecast • dedicated access to / from the A34 to Milton Park 2.121. For these reasons, the South- environmental impacts. It is expected • provision for a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the A34 at East Vale Sub-Area forms the focus that construction would commence at Milton Heights of employment and housing growth the end of the next Road Investment 3 within the Vale and is supported by a Strategy period (RIS2, 2020 to 2025). • Cinder Track cycle improvements comprehensive package of strategic These schemes are safeguarded in accordance with Core Policy 18 and infrastructure. This includes highway 2.123. Core Policy 17: Delivery of as shown by maps in Appendix B and the Adopted Policies Mapa. infrastructure set out in the Science Strategic Highway Improvements

Vale Area Strategy that forms part of within the South-East Vale Sub- aThe area shown on the Adopted Policies Map illustrates where Core Policy 18 will apply. It does not seek to the Oxfordshire Local Transport Plan Area (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) show a precise alignment for the transport scheme, which will need to be informed by detailed design work, 4. identifies a package of strategic carried out in consultation with Oxfordshire County Council and other relevant parties. highway infrastructure necessary 4 2.122. The announcement by the to ensure planned employment and Department for Transport to explore housing development in the area

55HM Treasury (2017) Autumn Statement 2017, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/autumn-budget-2017-documents 56Department for Communities and Local Government (2016) Oxford to Cambridge Expressway Strategic Study: Stage 3 Report, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/oxford-to-cambridge-expressway-strategic-study-stage-3-report and HM Treasury (2016) Autumn Statement 2016, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/autumn-statement-2016

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 57 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

can be sustainably accommodated Council, and for this reason, land is and requires all new development safeguarded in Core Policy 18a: Core Policy 19a: Re-opening of Grove Railway to contribute to the delivery of these Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Station schemes. Highway Improvements within the South-East Vale Sub-Area to avoid 2.124. Core Policy 18: Safeguarding their future delivery being prejudiced. Land is safeguarded to support the re-opening of the railway station at of Land for Transport Schemes in Land is also safeguarded for Cinder Grove in accordance with Core Policy 19 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1). the South-East Vale Sub-Area (Local Track cycle improvements. This policy updates the area safeguarded at Grove as shown by the Plan 2031: Part 1) safeguards land Adopted Policies Map and Appendix B. for 12 strategic highway schemes to 2.127. Land is safeguarded for the ensure the delivery of these schemes Culham to Didcot Thames River Three potential options are identified at this stage to allow flexibility for is not prejudiced. Crossing in the Local Plan 2031: Part feasibility studies. 1, in accordance with Core Policy 18. 2.125. Vale of White Horse District Council continues to work in 2.128. Ongoing work has identified Re-opening of Grove Railway the provision of a new station until the partnership with Oxfordshire County a need to amend the area of land detailed feasibility work is completed Council, Highways England and other safeguarded for the Culham to Didcot 2.129. The Council continues to and a preferred location identified. key stakeholders to plan for highway Thames River Crossing (referred to support the re-opening of a railway On this basis, the safeguarded area infrastructure in this area and work in Local Plan 2031: Part 1 as ‘a new station at Grove in accordance with is updated in accordance with Core is ongoing to continue to plan for the strategic road connection between the Core Policy 19: Re-opening of Policy 19a: Re-opening of Grove future needs of the area. A415 east of Abingdon-on-Thames Grove Railway Station and is working Railway Station. As the options for and the A4130 north of Didcot’). On in partnership with Oxfordshire County the schemes progress, the impact 2.126. Additional strategic highway this basis, it is proposed that the Council and others to investigate of the schemes will be subject to infrastructure schemes (dedicated safeguarded area is updated in how this ambition could be realised thorough assessment, including full access to / from the A34 to Milton accordance with Core Policy 18a. within the plan period. Feasibility work environmental assessment. Where Park and pedestrian and cycle bridge has been undertaken to inform the schemes are located in areas of over the A34 at Milton Heights) are preferred location of a new station, Flood Zones 2 and 3, the flood risk being investigated as part of ongoing which was not available to inform the sequential test and the exception test work led by Oxfordshire County Part 1 plan. This work has identified will be undertaken. a need to safeguard a wider area for

58 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Western Vale Sub-Area need for Oxford to be addressed within Plans, or come forward through the above, the Part 2 plan does not the Vale. Core Policy 20a clearly Development Management Process, identify any additional site allocations

2.130. The Western Vale Sub-Area demonstrates that this requirement has where in accordance with the within the Western Vale Sub-Area. 1 is predominantly rural in character been adequately planned for, although Development Plan. and contains the historic market additional development may still be town of Faringdon and a number of allocated in future Neighbourhood 2.132. For the reasons explained attractive rural villages. It forms an important part of the district and it was necessary for the Part 1 plan to make provision for appropriate development within this Sub-Area (less than 15 % 2 of the Part 1 allocations). However, the Western Vale Sub-Area contains less opportunity for strategic employment growth than, for example, the South- East Vale Sub-Area, and may be considered less well related to Oxford than, for example, the Abingdon-on- 3 Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area (Figure 2.9).

2.131. The housing requirement for this Sub-Area is updated by Core Policy 20a: Housing Supply for Western Vale Sub-Area in-line with changes made to the Abingdon-on-Thames 4 and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area to reflect the residual necessary to meet the agreed quantum of unmet housing Folly Tower, Faringdon

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 59 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 20a: Housing Supply for Western Western Vale Sub-Area Housing Supply Vale Sub-Area Category Number of Dwellings Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 3,173 The overarching priority and Settlement Hierarchy for this Sub-Area are set out in Core Policy 20: Spatial Strategy for Western Vale Sub-Area Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2018) 1,323 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) along with the strategy for addressing housing Housing Supply Known Commitments 2,089 need arising in the Vale of White Horse and for employment. (Apr 2018 to Mar 2031) Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations 212 a Local Plan 2031: Part 2 allocations 0 Housing Delivery Windfalls 280 b Total Supply (at 31 March 2018) 3,904 This policy updates the housing supply for the Western Vale Sub-Area to aLocal Plan 2031: Part 1 allocated 1,650 dwellings. This figure is updated to reflect commitments. ensure consistency with the other two Sub-Areas located across the district. bWindfall figures are updated to reflect past delivery. There is no contribution towards the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of White Horse within this Sub-Area and no additional site allocations are set out within the Part 2 plan.

At least 3,173 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 212 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations (LPP1 Allocations). Additional dwellings (for example, windfalls) will be delivered through Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. The contribution of all sources of housing supply for this Sub-Area are shown in the following table:

60 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.9: Map showing strategic growth within the Western Vale Sub-Area

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Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 61 Overview The Local Plan 2031 (Parts 1 and 2) sets out a planning policy framework to guide development in the Vale up to 2031. The plan’s policies seek 3 to achieve a balance between delivering new housing, supporting economic growth and protecting the Vale’s high quality natural and built Development environment. The Part 1 plan sets out strategic district-wide policies necessary to Management deliver the plan’s Spatial Strategy and sub-area strategies. The Part 2 plan policies complement the Part 1 strategic policies and provide further Policies detail on a range of specific matters. The policies in this chapter provide more detailed guidance to assist day-to-day decision making on planning applications (referred to as Development Policies). These policies have been developed following a review of extant Local Plan 2011 saved policies, which they replace, and an assessment of whether any additional detail is required to support the implementation of the Part 1 plan. This assessment has taken account of a number of evidence-based studies that help to inform the plan.

The Part 2 policies are structured into the four thematic areas as set out in the Part 1 plan. These are:

• building healthy and sustainable communities • supporting economic prosperity • supporting sustainable transport and accessibility, and • protecting the environment and responding to climate change.

View towards Harwell Campus 3 Development Management Policies

Building Healthy and Housing Policies • Development Policy 1: Self and out criteria to guide development in Sustainable Communities Custom Build – which promotes the open countryside 3.4. The housing policies within Self Build and Custom Build to meet 1 Introduction Local Plan 2031: Part 2 aim to enable the need highlighted within the Self • Development Policy 6: Rural the specific needs of current and Build Register Workers’ Dwellings – which sets 3.1. A key role of the Local Plan future residents to be met in relation out the Council’s approach to 2031 is the delivery of housing to to the sub-division of dwellings, • Development Policy 2: Space enabling rural workers’ dwellings to fully meet the identified need and to residential annexes, Self-Build and Standards – which seeks to ensure support rural businesses, and ensure the housing provided is of an Custom-Build, and ensuring dwellings internal space of housing is delivered appropriate type to meet the district’s are built to appropriate space to an appropriate standard to • Development Policy 7: Re-use, requirements standards. reflect the needs of the community. Conversion and Extension of 2 This includes the optional building Buildings for Dwellings in the 3.2. The Part 1 plan identifies the 3.5. The policies in the Part 1 plan regulations and the nationally Open Countryside – which sets overall housing need for the district seek to prevent isolated development described space standards out the measures where the re- and sets out a Spatial Strategy that in the countryside, other than where use or conversion of buildings for directs development towards the most exception policies apply57. However, • Development Policy 3: Sub- housing will be appropriate in the sustainable locations. the Council recognises that instances Division of Dwellings – which open countryside. can apply where housing may be sets out measures to ensure sub- 3 3.3. The Part 1 plan also identifies appropriate in the open countryside division of housing is appropriately Community Facilities Policies a number of strategic district-wide and for this reason, the Part 2 plan designed and executed policies (Core Policies 22-27) that sets out policies to enable small- 3.7. Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Core ensure the supply of housing is scale rural housing development in • Development Policy 4: Policy 7 – Providing Supporting of the right size, type and tenure the open countryside in the context Residential Annexes – which Infrastructure and Services seeks to meet the needs of existing and of replacement dwellings, the re-use seeks to ensure that residential to ensure the provision of services future residents. To help achieve the of existing dwellings or dwellings for annexes are designed appropriately and facilities, to support the delivery strategic objectives set out within rural workers. of sustainable development within the 4 the Part 1 plan, the Part 2 plan sets • Development Policy 5: district. out policies that provide additional 3.6. The housing policies set out in Replacement Dwellings in the detailed guidance on specific matters. the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 are: Open Countryside – which sets 3.8. The Part 2 plan policies relating

57Development in open countryside will not be appropriate unless specifically supported by other relevant policies as set out in the Development Plan or national policy, as stated in Core Policy 4: Meeting our Housing Needs in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 63 3 Development Management Policies

Reading Road, Wantage

64 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies to community facilities seek to ensure Custom-Build58. Self-Build and Custom- appropriate protection of existing Build housing is defined as dwellings Development Policy 1: Self and Custom-Build facilities and guide the provision of built or completed by (or commissioned 1 new community facilities to accessible by) an individual or association of The Council will support the provision of plots for sale to self and custom and viable locations. individuals to be occupied as homes by builders. those individuals59. 3.9. Policies relating to community Self and Custom-Build plots may contribute towards affordable housing facilities set out within the Part 2 plan are: 3.11. The recent Self-Build and provision and will need to comply with Core Policy 24: Affordable 60 Custom Housebuilding Act 2015 and Housing. • Development Policy 8: Housing and Planning Act 201661 place Community Services and a number of duties on Local Planning Where plots on majora development sites have been made available 2 Facilities – which provides Authorities (LPAs). These include and marketed appropriately for at least 12 months but have not sold, the guidance where community keeping a register of individuals and plot(s) may either remain on the open market as Self or Custom-Build services and facilities, including associations who have expressed an or be offered to the Council or a Housing Association as land to deliver village and community halls, will be interest in acquiring serviced plots or in additional affordable housing within 3 years of the date of a planning supported, and custom build. LPAs should also have permission. • Development Policy 9: Public regard to the demand recorded on Houses – which provides the register in the preparation of Local After 3 years, if the plot has not been sold to a self or custom builder and 3 protection for retaining existing Plans. The Housing and Planning Act no affordable housing provider has expressed an interest in delivering public houses. 2016 also requires LPAs to permit the affordable housing on the land, in accordance with Core Policy 24, the development of sufficient serviced developer will be able to develop the land for further private housing. plots to match the demand on their Housing Policies The Council will develop a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) Self-Build and Custom Build Register. to provide detailed guidance on planning for Self- and Custom-Build Self-Build and Custom-Build development within the Vale of White Horse district. 3.12. Vale of White Horse District 3.10. The NPPF requires local Council and South Oxfordshire 4 planning authorities to address the District Council have asked aAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010 need for all types of housing, which individuals and organisations includes provision for Self-Build and looking to buy land to build their own

58Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 159, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework 59Housing and Planning Act 2016, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2016/22/contents/enacted 60Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015; available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/17/contents/enacted 61Housing and Planning Act 2016; available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2016/22/contents/enacted

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 65 3 Development Management Policies

home to express their interest. The support opportunities for Self and concluded that government regulations residents throughout their lives. Council maintains an up to date Custom Build in the district where and space standards should be Self and Custom-Build Register that in accordance with Core Policy 3: simplified and recommended two 3.18. Part M(4) of the Building demonstrates interest in Self-Build Settlement Hierarchy and Core approaches: the Optional Building Regulations 201066 sets out the and Custom-Build within the district. Policy 4: Meeting our Housing Regulations for High Accessibility accessibility standards for dwellings, As of October 2018, there were Needs and the Development Plan Standards and the Nationally with requirements set out in three 272 recorded interests for Self and taken as a whole. Described Space Standards. The categories as summarised in Custom-Build in the district, although implementation of either approach by Table 3.1. Category 1 sets out the a number of these related to both 3.15. Where opportunities arise LPAs is optional, but in order to adopt minimum standards required for Vale and South Oxfordshire districts62. for Self-Build plots to be provided these approaches, evidence and dwellings, however LPAs can choose through major development justification is required64, 65. to set Optional Higher Accessibility 3.13. The Council will positively proposals, the Council will support Standards than these minimum encourage opportunities for Self-Build their provision in small clusters where 3.17. The Oxfordshire Strategic standards based on local evidence67. provision to support those who wish they are appropriately designed and Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) to construct a Self or Custom-Build incorporated into the masterplan for 2014 demonstrates that there is a 3.19. The Nationally Described home. The Council’s Housing Delivery the site and consistent with other need for housing to be delivered in Space Standards identify standards Strategy (2017)63 demonstrates that policies within the Development Plan. the Vale of White Horse District for for the space within new dwellings the majority of those interested in people with specific requirements, and are suitable for application across Self-Build are looking for individual Space Standards such as the older population, and all tenures. The standards set out plots to allow them to construct a people with disabilities. Core Policy requirements for the minimum gross bespoke home and the Self and 3.16. Following the publication of the 26: Accommodating Current internal (floor) area and storage of Custom-Build Register will be used to Housing Standards Review in 2015, and Future Needs of the Ageing new dwellings. The PPG is clear bring together interested parties. the Government launched a new set Population identifies the need for that where a local planning authority of technical standards for internal housing to be designed to meet wishes to require the Nationally 3.14. The Council will therefore spaces in new buildings. The review the changing needs of the district’s Described Internal Space Standards,

­62The Council retains a register to record self and custom build interest in the Vale for internal use for monitoring purposes. Individuals and organisations can also register their interest for plots for self-build and custom-build in both Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire Districts. Further information on self and custom build is available on the Council website at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/application-advice/ general-planning-advice/custom-and-self 63The Council has prepared a Housing Delivery Strategy in partnership with South Oxfordshire District Council, available at http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/housing/ joint-housing-delivery-strategy 64Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Councils have prepared a Housing Delivery Strategy, accompanied by a series of technical studies including: Wessex Economics (2017) – Housing Study: To support the development of a joint Housing Delivery Strategy for South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse, available at http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/housing/joint-housing-delivery-strategy 65Department for Communities and Local Government (2014) Planning Practice Guidance: Ref 56-005-20150327; available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/housing-optional-technical-standards 66HM Government (2010) The Building Regulations 2010 – Approved Document M – Access to and use of buildings: Volume 1 – Dwellings, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/access-to-and-use-of-buildings-approved-document-m 67Department for Communities and Local Government (2015) Technical housing standards – nationally described space standard, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/technical-housing-standards-nationally-described-space-standard

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they can only do so through their space standards (these are set out Local Plan68. in Appendix H) for one and two Development Policy 2: Space Standards bed market housing and affordable 1 3.20. The Housing Delivery Strategy housing as set out in Development Proposals for new residential development should meet the following (2018) has identified a need for the Policy 2: Space Standards. space standard requirements except where it can be demonstrated they district to implement different levels would be unviablea. of the nationally described internal

Proposals for one and two bedroom market homes, and all affordable Table 3.1: Part M of Building Regulations 2010 housing, will need to ensure they are in accordance with the Ministry Category Definition 2 of Housing, Communities and Local Government’s Technical Housing Standards - Nationally Described Space Standard Level 1 as set out in M4(1) Category 1 - Visitable A new dwelling makes reasonable provision for most people, including Appendix H. dwellings wheelchair users, to approach and enter the dwelling and to access and use the b Proposals for major residential development should ensure 15 % of facilities. market dwellings and all affordable housing are constructed to the Category 2 standard as set out in the Building Regulations Approved A new dwelling makes reasonable M4(2) Category 2 - Accessible provision for most people to access the Document M Part 2. 3 and adaptable dwellings dwelling. It incorporates features that make it potentially suitable for a wide For site of 100 units or more, 5 % of affordable housing should be built to range of occupants, including older Category 3 standard and an allowance of 2 % of market housing will be people, those with reduced mobility and delivered to Category 3 standards if there is demonstrable need. some wheelchair users.

A new dwelling makes reasonable M4(3) Category 3 - Wheelchair provision, either at completion or at a point following completion for a wheelchair user to 4 aViability should be set out in an independent viability assessment on terms agreed by the relevant parties, user dwellings including the Council, and funded by the developer. This will involve an open book approach. live in the dwelling and use any associated bAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010 private outdoor space, parking and communal facilities.

68Department for Communities and Local Government (2014) Planning Practice Guidance, Ref: 56-002-20160519; available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/housing-optional-technical-standards

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3.21. Where LPAs intend to Market Assessment70 (SHMA) consider and demonstrate: provision Policy 2: Space Standards, and in adopt both the Optional Building recommends a suitable housing mix of adequate living space; an particular will need to comply with Regulations for Higher Accessibility to meet the district’s needs. The appropriate layout of rooms; adequate Level 1 of the National Housing Standards and the Internal Space delivery of this housing mix will be noise insulation measures; the Described Standards. Standards, the impact of their delivery implemented through the application availability of adequate parking within on viability needs to be considered. of Core Policy 22: Housing Mix. the site; and the provision of adequate 3.25. The Sub-Division of dwellings A Viability Assessment has been garden and other amenity space. are considered to be separate units undertaken alongside preparation 3.23. The housing mix identified by Proposals need to demonstrate which require their own facilities of the Part 2 plan and includes an the Oxfordshire SHMA includes the compliance with Development and living spaces. This differs from assessment of these standards. need to provide for some smaller This concludes that the policies will housing units. These are particularly not have a detrimental impact on useful to help provide housing for Development Policy 3: Sub-Division of Dwellings viability. However, the PPG69 is clear younger households and for those that where there are instances that looking to downsize. The Council development may not be viable, therefore recognises that the sub- The sub-division of dwellings will be permitted provided that: the requirement of delivering the division of existing units can help to Optional Building Regulations Higher provide a proportion of the smaller i. each dwelling will be completely self-contained and have adequate Accessibility Standards should not housing units needed, and that sub- living space in accordance with Development Policy 2: Space be applied. Development Policy 2 division can make an effective use Standards therefore includes some flexibility in of land. However, the sub-division of ii. it is of a good quality design which maintains or enhances the character relation to viability. larger housing units can sometimes and appearance of the building, street scene and surroundings in give rise to a detrimental effect on a accordance with the Council’s Design Guide SPD ‘Sub-Division’ of Dwellings building’s design and the amenity of iii. there would be no demonstrable harm to the amenity of the occupiers neighbours and the surrounding area. of neighbouring properties, and 3.22. As part of new housing iv. adequate and safe access to each of the dwellings is achieved. and provision there is a need to ensure an 3.24. To ensure accommodation is appropriate parking is provided in accordance with Core Policy 35: appropriate balance of housing types. provided of an appropriate standard, Promoting Public Transport, Cycling and Walking. The Oxfordshire Strategic Housing proposals for sub-division need to

69Department for Communities and Local Government (2014) Planning Practice Guidance, Ref: 56-002-20160519; available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/housing-optional-technical-standards 70GL Hearn (2014) Oxfordshire Strategic Housing Market Assessment, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031/evidence-base/strategi

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Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) surrounding area (Development 26: Accommodating Current 3.30. It is essential that proposals which have separate bedrooms but Policy 23: Impact of Development and Future Needs of the Ageing for residential annexes demonstrate shared facilities. The sub-division of on Amenity) and that measures to Population, and for this reason there is a strong functional 1 dwellings require planning permission minimise any adverse effect on the Development Policy 4 is set out relationship between the existing which is monitored on an annual amenity of neighbouring properties below to address this requirement. dwelling and the annex, and the basis, whilst HMO’s can be completed are an integral part of the proposal. annex is within the curtilage of the under Permitted Development Rights71. 3.28. The sub-division of housing units should also ensure that safe and Development Policy 4: Residential Annexes 3.26. The sub-division of units can appropriate access is provided as well also give rise to significant changes as the provision of adequate parking, 2 in the external appearance of which should be in accordance with Proposals for both detached and attached residential annexes will be dwellings and their curtilage. It is the Highway Authority’s guidance73 permitted provided that: therefore essential that good design and the Council’s Design Guide SPD74. is incorporated into proposals to Compliance with Core Policy 35 and i. it has been demonstrated there is a strong functional relationship minimise their impact on the character Development Policy 16: Access, will between the existing dwelling and the proposed annex and appearance of the building and also need to be demonstrated. ii. the annex is within the curtilage of the existing dwelling surrounding area, and to maintain or iii. the size, scale, location and design of the annex is subordinate to the 3 enhance its character. Compliance Residential Annexes existing dwelling with Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Core iv. it is appropriate in size to meet its stated purpose Policy 37: Design and Local 3.29. Residential annexes within the v. there would be no demonstrable harm to the amenity of neighbouring Distinctiveness and the adopted curtilage of existing dwellings can help residents Design Guide72 will be critical. to meet accommodation needs of vi. adequate and safe access is achieved, and growing families, such as for families vii. the design and siting of the annex is capable of being reasonably 3.27. Proposals will also need to to support older or disabled relatives. integrated with the function of the original dwelling once the need for it demonstrate that they do not lead Such proposals are not covered by has ceased, without creating an independent dwelling unit in the future. 4 to an impact on the amenity of the Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Core Policy

71The change of use from Use Class C4 to a single dwelling with up to six residents (Use Class C3) is covered by Permitted Development Rights. Proposals involving the change of use of an HMO that exceeds this threshold will require planning permission 72Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/ local-development-framework/supplementar-2 73Oxfordshire County Council (2014) Transport for New Developments: Transport Assessment and Travel Plans, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/transport- new-developments 74Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/ local-development-framework/supplementar-2

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existing dwelling. This will apply for residents. Safe and appropriate both detached and non-detached access to the annex would also Development Policy 5: Replacement Dwellings in the units. Where the proposal is for a need to be achieved. The design Open Countryside detached unit, the conversion of an and access of an annex should be in outbuilding would be preferable over accordance with the Council’s Design In the open countryside, the replacement of an existing dwelling will be construction of a new building. Guide SPD75. permitted provided that:

3.31. The size, scale, location and Replacement Dwellings in the i. it is for a new dwelling which replaces an existing dwelling and only on design of the annex needs to be Open Countryside a one-for-one basis appropriate and subordinate to the ii. it is situated on the site of the original dwelling unless an alternative existing dwelling. Although the Council 3.33. The Council is seeking to site can be shown to have equal or greater benefits for the locality, and supports, where appropriate, the use avoid the development of new and iii. the size, scale, mass, footprint and visual impact of the new dwelling of annexes, overdevelopment will isolated dwellings in the countryside respects the rural character, locality and landscape setting. not be supported, nor the provision in accordance with the NPPF76. of singular independent units where However, where dwellings are they would otherwise be considered constructed on previously developed inappropriate. For this reason, land and replace existing dwellings and mass and comparison of the proposals will need to ensure they on a one-for-one basis, they will be replacement dwelling. can demonstrate how the annex considered in accordance with Core could reasonably be integrated into Policies 3 and 4 in the Local Plan 3.35. The replacement dwelling the original dwelling, should the need 2031: Part 1, and Development should be on the site of the original for the annex cease in the future. Policy 5: Replacement Dwellings in dwelling unless it can be demonstrated The future use of annexes as single the Open Countryside. that an alternative location has equal dwellings will not be supported. or greater benefits, for example, in 3.34. Proposals will need to terms of its effect on the landscape. 3.32. Proposals should demonstrate demonstrate how they respect the they would not lead to a detrimental rural character, landscape and their impact on the amenity of the locality in the open countryside, surrounding area or neighbouring through appropriate size, scale,

75Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/local-development-framework/ supplementar-2 76 Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Paragraph 55

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Rural Workers’ Dwellings rural enterprise, or in its locality. Development Policy 6: Rural Workers’ Dwellings 3.36. The Council supports the 3.38. Proposals from new rural 1 provision and growth of rural enterprises requiring a rural worker The provision of a rural worker dwelling in the open countryside will be enterprises in the district and is aware dwelling will need to demonstrate permitted provided that: that the demands of rural businesses how the business will be viable and i. it is essential, and can be demonstrated there is an existing need for can sometimes necessitate the need sustainable for the longer term. If the one or more permanent full-time workers to be readily available at all for one or more employees to live proposal complies with this policy, times for the rural enterprise to operate viably either at, or close to, their place of permission will be given for temporary ii. the functional need cannot be met by other suitable and available work. This demand can arise from a accommodation for the first three 2 existing dwellings in the locality of the rural enterprise range of rural based enterprises, such years before an application for a iii. the rural enterprise is economically sustainable, has been established as farming, forestry, and commercial permanent dwelling will be considered. for at least 3 years and is likely to remain economically viable for the equine related businesses. The foreseeable future Council will therefore support the 77 iv. the size and scale of the dwelling is commensurate with the needs of need for rural workers’ dwellings in the rural enterprise, and the open countryside where there is a v. it respects the landscape setting, local character, and its locality. demonstrable need in order to sustain the effective operation of a viable rural 3 Development proposals will be required to submit a financial appraisal to business. A financial appraisal will demonstrate that criteria (i) and (iii) are met. need to be provided with any proposal.

If a rural worker dwelling is essential to support a new rural enterprise it 3.37. The proposal will need to should be provided temporarily by a caravan, a wooden structure which demonstrate that there is no suitable can easily be dismantled, or other temporary accommodation for the first available existing accommodation in three years. the vicinity of the rural business (such Planning permission will be subject to an appropriate occupancy as the nearest settlement) or buildings 4 condition, restricting its occupation to a person who is directly employed suitable for re-use and conversion to on a permanent full-time basis by a rural enterprise in the locality. residential use, either on the site of the

77The definition of rural workers includes those taking majority control of a farm business. 78Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Paragraph 55

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Bradfield Barn, Station Road, Grove

72 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Re-use, Conversion and Extension new developments in the countryside. Development Policy 7: Re-use, Conversion and of Buildings for Dwellings in the Extension of Buildings for Dwellings in the Open Open Countryside 3.41. Conversions need to be of Countryside 1 a standard that would not result in 3.39. As set out above, new isolated the need for substantial alteration In the open countryside, the re-use, conversion and extension of buildings homes in the open countryside are or rebuilding. To demonstrate this, for housing will be permitted provided that: contrary to national policy78 and should proposals need to provide a structural be avoided. However, under special report and, where relevant, a detailed i. the building is of permanent and substantial construction and is circumstances, developments that survey of the original building. If the capable of conversion without extensive reconstruction. A structural re-use redundant or disused buildings proposal would result in a complete survey will be required and a detailed survey may be required, where may be appropriate, if the resultant or substantial reconstruction of the appropriate 2 development enhances the setting of buildings, then the proposal will be ii. it respects the character, appearance and setting of the original the development. On this basis, the considered under other relevant building, and Council supports the appropriate re- policies in the development plan iii. it respects the rural landscape, character and locality, and use or conversion of buildings in the regarding new development in the iv. it retains features of architectural or historic merit, where appropriate. open countryside. countryside.

3.40. Appropriate re-use and 3.42. The re-use and conversion of be supported. Proposals that extend 3 conversion of buildings in the buildings also needs to be in keeping the original building alongside the countryside can avoid existing with their surrounding rural character re-use and conversion of the original buildings being left vacant and thus and locality as well as respecting the building, need to demonstrate they are prone to vandalism and dereliction. character and setting of the original proportionate to the original building. The re-use of these buildings can help building. Many old rural buildings to enhance the rural character and are of traditional design, often 3.43. Proposals located within the locality, particularly where traditionally constructed using local materials Oxford Green Belt will need to comply designed buildings are brought back and thus are in keeping with the rural with Core Policy 13: Oxford Green 4 into use and their appearance is character and locality. Proposals Belt and other relevant policies in the enhanced. Re-use and conversion can that lead to the enhancement of the Development Plan. also help to reduce the demand for traditional design of the building will

78Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Paragraph 55

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Community Facilities 3.46. The Part 1 plan supports the Policies provision and retention of community Development Policy 8: Community Services and services and facilities and seeks to Facilities Community Services and Facilities enhance their vitality and sustainability wherever possible. Core Policy a. Development proposals for the provision of new or extended community 3.44. Community services and 3: Settlement Hierarchy, as set facilities and services, including village and community halls will be facilities play a key role in creating out in the Part 1 plan, classifies the supported, particularly where: and sustaining healthy and inclusive settlements in the Vale according to communities. The quality and their role and function based on an i. they are located within or adjacent to the built-up area of an accessibility of community services, assessment of their local services existing settlement such as schools, places of worship, and facilities80. ii. they would clearly meet an identified local needa, and village and community halls and iii. they are accessible for all members of the community and promote libraries is important as part of 3.47. Alongside Core Policy 3: social inclusion. maintaining sustainable and viable Settlement Hierarchy, the Part 1 places. plan also seeks to direct growth to the b. Development proposals that would result in the loss of existing most sustainable locations, namely community facilities and services, including village and community 3.45. The NPPF79 refers to the the Market Towns, Local Service halls, will only be supported where it can be demonstrated that: importance of retaining and developing Centres and Larger Villages (Core local services and community facilities, Policy 4: Meeting our Housing iv. it would lead to the significant improvement of an existing facility, or which include public houses, local Needs). Directing appropriate the replacement of an existing facility equally convenient to the shops and places of worship, to help levels of development to our most local community it serves and with equivalent or improved facilities support economic growth within rural sustainable settlements helps to v. the facility is no longer economically viable for the established use, areas. Furthermore, paragraph 70 protect and support the viability of our or there is a suitable and sustainable alternative that is located of the NPPF sets out the need to important community services and nearby, and plan positively for the provision of facilities. vi. the facility is no longer required. community facilities and to protect against their unnecessary loss. 3.48. The Council will continue to a a local standard is applied to village and community halls. This is set out in Appendix K. support the protection of existing

79Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Paragraph 28 80Town and Village Facilities Study (2014); available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/ dynamic_serve.jsp?ID=1019020330&CODE=635CCD4D8303E9C0DA94AB93C9E40587

74 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies community services and facilities. provision is an improvement to or community centres meet appropriate be expected to guide proposals for Development Policy 8: Community is equivalent to the facility lost, and quality and accessibility measures. major development82. New provision or

Services and Facilities sets out is conveniently located to serve the Developers should take this standard improvements to existing facilities will 1 criteria to inform proposals that community. into account, along with the Council’s be met through either the Community would involve new provision, or the Local Leisure Facilities Report Infrastructure Levy (CIL), or Section loss of an existing facility. Proposals 3.51. Village and community halls are (2016)81, when preparing their 106 planning obligations in accordance involving the loss of an existing recognised as essential community proposals. with Core Policy 7: Providing facility will need to provide evidence facilities. They are often used to host Supporting Infrastructure and to demonstrate how the facility is no a variety of community events and 3.54. The local standards for village Services. longer economically viable and / or no activities, as well as contributing towards halls and community centres will also longer meets a local need. Proposals developing community cohesion within 2 involving the change of use of local new and existing developments. shops and / or other Class A uses will be assessed in accordance with 3.52. The Council will support Development Policy 13: Change of proposals that involve the provision Use of Retail Units to Other Uses. of new village and community halls that are well located to serve the local 3.49. Proposals that are likely to community. Proposals for the loss 3 involve the loss of a public house of existing village and community will be assessed in accordance with halls will only be supported where Development Policy 9: Public developers are able to demonstrate Houses. that the criteria in Development Policy 8: Community Services and 3.50. Proposals for redeveloping Facilities are adequately met. services or facilities that either lead to an improvement in the provision or 3.53. A local standard has been 4 would result in alternative provision will developed ( ) to ensure Appendix K St Mary’s Church, Longworth be supported provided the alternative proposals for new village halls and

81Vale of White Horse District Council (2016) Local Leisure Facilities Report; available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 82As defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010

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Public Houses price and that there are no reasonable prospects for the building being used Development Policy 9: Public Houses 3.55. Public houses are often for an alternative community use. valued as local facilities within the communities they serve. For example, Proposals that would result in the loss of a Public House will only be they may provide a meeting point, permitted where it can be clearly demonstrated that: provide a venue for local events and i. the retention of the public house is not economically viable and it can more generally provide both social be demonstrated that all reasonable efforts have been made to sell and economic benefits. The Part 1 or let the property as a public house on the open market at a realistic plan seeks to retain and improve the price, and vitality and sustainability of the Vale’s ii. there is no reasonable likelihood of a suitable alternative facility or rural communities, principally by service of benefit to the local community making use of the building. supporting appropriate development, especially at the Vale’s larger villages.

3.56. To help support the vitality of rural communities, the Council will expect all reasonable options for retaining Public Houses to be considered before alternative uses will be supported. Development Policy 9: Public Houses sets out policy criteria for proposals that would involve the loss of a public house. In accordance with this policy, evidence will be required to demonstrate that the retention of the public house is no longer economically viable, that it has The Flowing Well, been marketed at a realistic market

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Supporting Economic 3.60. Strategic Employment Sites are Employment Policies • Development Policy 10: Ancillary Prosperity set out in Core Policy 6: Meeting Uses on Employment Land Business and Employment Needs 3.63. The Part 1 plan Core Policy – which seeks to support the 1 Introduction and safeguarded by each Sub-Area 6 allocates land for additional new provision of ancillary uses on Strategy (Core Policy 8: Spatial employment development over existing employment land 3.57. The Local Plan 2031 plans Strategy for Abingdon-on-Thames the plan period at a number of key for and supports a strong and and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area; Core strategic locations. The Part 1 plan • Development Policy 11: sustainable economy with particular Policy 15: Spatial Strategy for Core Policy 28 supports proposals Community Employment Plans – focus on promoting Science Vale as South East Vale Sub-Area; and for additional employment uses which encourages a more localised a world-class location for science Core Policy 20: Spatial Strategy for on unallocated sites, subject to approach to recruitment, associated and technology-based enterprise, Western Vale Sub-Area). certain criteria and Core Policy 29 with new development, and 2 especially the Enterprise Zone sites at safeguards the strategic employment Milton Park and Harwell Campus. 3.61. The Part 1 plan also identifies sites identified in the plan for future • Development Policy 12: Rural a number of strategic policies (Core employment uses. Diversification and Equestrian 3.58. The Local Plan reinforces Policies 28-32) that establish Developments – which supports the service centre role of the main a planning policy framework to 3.64. The Part 2 plan policies proposals for rural diversification settlements across the district, further support economic and retail provide additional guidance enabling and new equestrian uses and promotes thriving villages and rural development across the district. appropriate ancillary uses at strategic buildings in the countryside. 3 communities, and supports the rural These policies cover: Change of employment sites which support economy. Use; Further and Higher Education; existing and new employment Retail Policies Development to Support the Visitor generating uses and promote the use 3.59. The Part 1 plan makes provision Economy; and New Employment of Community Employment Plans 3.66. Alongside the Part 1 plan Core for around 218 hectares of strategic Development on Unallocated Sites to foster a more localised approach Policy 32: Retail Development and employment land for new employment and for Retail Development and other to skills and employment. Other other Main Town Centres Uses, development, in accordance with our Main Town Centre Uses. employment policies aim to support the retail policies within the Part 2 assessed need83, which is anticipated rural diversification and enable plan provide additional guidance on 4 to deliver approximately 23,000 jobs in 3.62. The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 equestrian developments. other types of retail, including village the plan period up to 2031. sets out additional detailed policies to and local shops, retail parks and for complement those set out in the Part 1 3.65. Policies relating to employment change of use. plan. set out within the Part 2 plan are:

83 URS (2014) Vale of White Horse Employment Land Review Update

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3.67. The retail policies in the Part 2 plan are:

• Development Policy 13: Change of Use of Retail Units to Other Uses – which sets out measures to support proposals involving the change of use of retail units in different locations and includes the following sub-policies: • Development Policy 13a: Primary Shopping Frontages • Development Policy 13b: Secondary Shopping Frontages • Development Policy 13c: Town Centres Uses • Development Policy 13d: Faringdon Town Centre, and • Development Policy 13e: Local Shopping Centres

• Development Policy 14: Village and Local Shops – which seeks to protect existing village and local shops and supports proposals to meet local needs, and

• Development Policy 15: Retail Parks – which sets out guidance for proposals for change of use on retail parks. 102 Park Drive, Milton Park

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Employment Policies main employment uses of the sites. The provision of larger scale retailing, Development Policy 10: Ancillary Uses on Ancillary Uses on such as food superstores and non- Employment Land 1 Employment Land food retail warehouses, for example, could prejudice the availability of Proposals for uses other than B1, B2 and B8 business uses on existing 3.68. Providing facilities ancillary land for other business uses. The employment land will be permitted if the following criteria are satisfied: to the main business uses on large use of Local Development Orders employment sites helps to make them (LDOs) or Supplementary Planning i. the proposal is primarily designed to provide for users of the more attractive to incoming firms and Documents (SPDs) can also support employment site improve the quality of the working the sustainable development of ii. the use is ancillary to the main business or employment function of the environment for employees. Ancillary employment sites by providing further wider site, and 2 facilities also help employment sites to guidance. iii. the use, either alone or combined with other existing or proposed uses, develop sustainably by reducing the would not adversely affect the vitality and viability of any town centre or need for traffic movements. 3.71. The Part 1 plan supports shopping centre (including local centres) or the social and community appropriate new employment vitality of a nearby village. 3.69. The need for ancillary facilities development in the Vale and is particularly important at some of the recognises the need to protect existing In connection with any planning permission, conditions may be imposed Vale’s most significant employment employment sites. The Council will to limit the scale of the operation and to restrict the range of activities 3 sites, such as the Enterprise Zone consider proposals for alternative uses proposed or goods sold, where necessary, to ensure that the criteria set sites at Milton Park and Harwell on employment sites in accordance out above are met. Campus, as these have developed with Core Policy 29: Change of Use from historic sites that are located of Existing Employment Land and Proposals will also be permitted where they are considered acceptable away from larger settlements. Harwell Premises, particularly where they through an adopted Local Development Order or Supplementary Planning Campus and Milton Park both contain provide ancillary supporting services. Document. a range of ancillary facilities that include cafés, restaurants, shops and 3.72. In accordance with Core 4 recreation and sporting facilities. Policy 29, Development Policy 10: Ancillary Uses on Employment 3.70. It is important that any ancillary Land sets out criteria to support the uses are appropriate, to support the provision of ancillary uses on existing

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employment land, such as business contained within a CEP seek to parks and industrial estates, provided mitigate the impacts of development Development Policy 11: Community Employment the proposals are small in scale. through ensuring local people can Plans better access employment, skills, and Community Employment Plans training opportunities arising from All new development proposals should demonstrate how opportunities for development. CEPs can also help to local employment, apprenticeships and training can be created and seek 3.73. Sustainable development create the proper alignment between to maximise the opportunities for sourcing local produce, suppliers and can include new jobs or should the jobs created and a local labour services, during both construction and operation. make it easier for jobs to be force with the appropriate skills. created locally, and a key principle CEPs can reduce the need to source The Council may require the submission of a site-specific Community 84 of National Planning Policy is employees from outside of the area, Employment Plan (CEP) for the construction and operation of majora to drive and support economic reducing the need for longer distance development sites, using a planning condition or legal agreement. development. Development should commuting. therefore consider how to maximise The CEP should be prepared in partnership with the District Council and opportunities to deliver the greatest 3.75. The Oxfordshire Strategic any other partners to deliver the agreed CEP. The CEP should cover, but 85 benefit for local communities. Economic Plan identifies the not be limited to: importance of CEPs as an action to 3.74. Providing jobs and training help deliver the People Programme, i. local procurement agreements for the local community offers the in particular by addressing exclusion ii. apprenticeships, employment and training initiatives for all ages and opportunity to generate and share from the labour market, upskilling and abilities, and increased economic prosperity. other measures to help young people iii. training and work experience for younger people including those not in Community Employment Plans and adults who are marginalised or education, employment or training. (CEPs) prepared in partnership with disadvantaged from work. CEPs will developers, the council, and skills assist with delivering the council’s aAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010. providers can play an important role in Corporate Plan 2016-202086 strategic achieving this. A CEP is an employer- priorities to optimise employment led initiative which can form part of opportunities; encourage local planning obligations for significant apprenticeships and local workforce developments. The measures

84Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 9, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework 85Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) (2014) Strategic Economic Plan; available at: http://www.oxfordshirelep.org.uk/content/strategic-economic-plan 86Vale of White Horse District Council Corporate Plan 2016-2020; available at: http://www. whitehorsedc.gov.uk/about-us/how-we-work/corporate-plan

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schemes that benefit our young Supporting a Prosperous Rural providing agricultural equipment hire people; support the Government’s Economy and maintenance facilities can gain

objective of achieving full employment, economic advantages in the purchase 1 and; ensure that the skills needed by 3.77. National policy supports the of larger and more specialised our employers are identified, and that need for economic growth in rural machinery. training programmes are in place to areas to create jobs and prosperity87. provide a skilled labour force. It seeks to support sustainable growth 3.79. The Part 1 plan supports and expansion of all types of business appropriate development to help 3.76. To support this approach, all and enterprise in rural areas, including meet the local needs of the Vale’s new development is encouraged the development and diversification of rural communities. In particular, to maximise opportunities for local agricultural and other land-based rural Core Policy 28: New Employment 2 economic development and we businesses. It also seeks to promote Development on Unallocated Sites may seek the preparation of CEPs the retention and development of local sets out the Council’s approach for for major development. Where a services and community facilities in the provision of new employment CEP is required developers will be villages, such as local shops. development on unallocated sites, provided with a template as a basis. including in rural areas. This policy Through discussion with the council, 3.78. The NPPF also encourages supports the re-use, conversion and appropriate targets and outcomes for rural diversification as a source of adaptation of existing buildings for 3 the site-specific CEP will be agreed. extra income to help rural businesses, employment in rural areas, subject to The CEP will then be subject to regular including agricultural businesses88. a number of criteria. review and monitoring meetings with Some producers could benefit the council. We will provide assistance from getting closer to the market, to identify appropriate local partner for example by establishing farm agencies and organisations to work shops to sell their produce direct to with and support the developer to the public. In other cases, it may be facilitate the timely delivery of the CEP. beneficial for producers to provide 4 View across Faringdon other services. For example, farmers

87Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 28, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework 88Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 28, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework

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Rural Diversification and the keeping of horses for private use Development Policy 12: Rural Diversification and Equestrian Development and the business of horse breeding, Equestrian Development training and livery, will be supported 3.80. In accordance with Core Policy where they are appropriate within Proposals for rural diversification will be supported provided they are 28, Development Policy 12: Rural the landscape and fully accord with ancillary to, and related to, the existing business enterprise. The re-use, Diversification and Equestrian other planning policies set out in the conversion or adaptation of suitable existing buildings will be determined Development sets out guidance to Local Plan 2031 and all other material in accordance with the requirements of Core Policy 28. Proposals may support and promote proposals for planning considerations. be subject to a condition to safeguard their use in the interest of the local rural diversification where they are economy. ancillary to the main use of the site, or 3.82. The provision of rural workers’ relate to the existing enterprise. The dwellings is set out separately under Farm shops will be supported where it can be demonstrated that they do following policy applies to proposals Development Policy 6: Rural not undermine the viability and vitality of shopping provision in nearby requiring full planning permission Workers’ Dwellings. villages. Control over the types of produce sold may be sought by and will be relevant to cases where planning condition. the planning authority has power to Retail Policies determine whether prior approval Proposals for the keeping, rearing, training and livery of horses on a is required. Where proposals are 3.83. The Part 1 plan seeks to commercial basis will be permitted where: located within the Oxford Green Belt, strengthen the service centre role of Core Policy 13: Oxford Green Belt the Vale’s Town Centres and Local i. the proposed premises will have safe access from the site to public in the Part 1 plan will also apply. Shopping Centres by maintaining and bridleways, gallops or other exercise areas in order to avoid conflict enhancing their vitality and viability. between horses and other public highway users, and 3.81. Development Policy 12 The plan’s Spatial Strategy reinforces ii. the proposal does not unacceptably impact upon the site and the also supports proposals for new the service centre roles of the Vale’s amenity of its neighbours. equestrian use and buildings in main settlements by concentrating the countryside, provided they are retail provision in the town centres of accessible and appropriate to the Abingdon-on-Thames, Wantage and landscape and the surrounding Faringdon, and the local centres of environment. Development proposals Grove and Botley, as defined in the involving new equestrian use and Adopted Policies Map. buildings that are associated with

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Changes of Use of Retail Units such as restaurants, cinemas and to Other Uses businesses90. Development Policy 13: Changes of Use of Retail Units to Other Uses 1 3.86. National policy supports the 3.89. The Primary and Secondary need to clearly define Primary and Shopping Frontages have been Development Policy 13a: Primary Shopping Frontages Secondary Shopping Frontages in updated through preparation of the designated centres and to make clear Vale of White Horse Retail and Town Proposals within primary frontagesa involving a net loss of Class A1 retail which uses are acceptable in such Centres Study (2017). This work space at ground floor level will not be permitted, unless a marketing locations. However, new permitted recommends some minor changes exercise of 12 months demonstrates that the site or premises are not development rights have been to these retail areas and new areas reasonably capable of being used or redeveloped for these uses. introduced allowing change of use to be designated. New Primary 2 from retail to other uses, including Shopping Frontages are proposed for aAs defined on the Adopted Policies Map or where amended through an adopted Neighbourhood A1 (shops) to A2 (professional and Kings Walk and Limborough Road in Development Plan financial services) uses, without the Wantage. New Secondary Shopping need for planning permission89. Frontages are proposed for the Square and Ock Street in Abingdon- 3.87. Town Centre areas are on-Thames, and for Arbery Arcade 3.84. The Part 1 plan supports 3.85. The Part 1 plan also supports designated in Abingdon-on-Thames, in Wantage. All of these are shown 3 the function of the Market Town of proposals for new retail development Wantage and Faringdon. Primary in Appendix I and further detail is Abingdon-on-Thames and the Local and town centre uses in Market and Secondary Shopping Frontages available within the Study91. Service Centre of Botley to provide Towns and Local Service Centres, are identified in the town centres of main shopping and commercial uses for in line with Core Policy 32: Retail Abingdon-on-Thames and Wantage. 3.90. All proposals will be required residents and visitors of the Vale, in line Development and other Main Town to be of high-quality design that with Core Policy 10: Abbey Shopping Centre Uses. 3.88. Primary Frontages are likely contributes positively to making better Centre and the Charter and Core to include a high proportion of retail places to live and work in line with Policy 11: Botley Central Area. uses, which may include food, drinks, Core Policy 37: Design and Local 4 clothing and household goods. Distinctiveness and the Design Secondary Frontages provide greater Guide SPD or other relevant policies opportunities for a diversity of uses in the Development Plan.

89The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/596/contents/made 90Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Annex 2, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework/annex-2-glossary 91Nathaniel Litchfield and Partners (NLP) (2017) Retail and Town Centres Study Update, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

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3.91. The Council will consider the of existing provision and the amenity Faringdon Town Centre, and applicants will be expected to impact of proposals on the amenity of neighbouring uses. This policy • Development Policy 13e: Local demonstrate that the unit(s) is no of neighbouring uses in accordance includes five sub-policies covering Shopping Centres – which seeks longer viable for its present, or any with Development Policy 23: the following scenarios for proposals to support the change of use from other realistic and suitable, retail Impact of Development in Amenity, involving a change of use from retail retail to other uses within Local use. They must demonstrate that the Development Policy 24: Effect of to other uses: Shopping Centres (Appendix J). unit(s) has remained un-sold or un-let Neighbouring or Previous Uses on for at least 12 months. In addition, New Developments, Development • Development Policy 13a: Primary 3.94. Development proposals applicants will need to provide Policy 25: Noise Pollution and Shopping Frontages – which involving a net loss of Class evidence relating to the marketing any other relevant policies in the seeks to protect retail space within A1 retail space in designated of the unit(s) for its present use for Development Plan. Primary Shopping Frontages Primary Shopping Frontages will a minimum period of 12 months up be assessed in accordance with to the date at which the planning 3.92. Core Policy 32 supports a • Development Policy 13b: Development Policy 13a. In seeking application was lodged. Applicants sequential approach for proposals Secondary Shopping Frontages to demonstrate that the unit(s) has no are encouraged to contact the Council involving new retail and other main – which seeks to support the reasonable prospect of being used to discuss the scope of the marketing town centre uses outside of the change of use from retail to other or redeveloped for retail purposes, exercise. designated Primary and Secondary uses within Secondary Shopping Shopping Frontages and town centre Frontages subject to a set of criteria areas. This policy also supports proposals for the change of use to • Development Policy 13c: Other retail and other main town centre uses Town Centre Uses – which seeks in suitable locations. to support the change of use from retail to other uses within the town 3.93. In line with Core Policy 32, centres of Abingdon-on-Thames the Part 2 Development Policy 13: and Wantage and supports access Change of Use of Retail Units to to upper floors in town centres Other Uses supports the change of use from retail to other uses, subject • Development Policy 13d: to criteria including the impact on the Faringdon Town Centre – which function, character and appearance seeks to protect retail space within Bury Street, Abingdon

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Development Policy 13b: Secondary shopping frontages Development Policy 13c: Other Town Centre Uses 1 Proposals within secondary frontagesa involving a change of use at Proposals in the town centres of Abingdon-on-Thames and Wantage ground floor level from Class A1 (Retail) to uses within other A Classes, to (other than on the ground floor of premises in the primary and secondary offices (Class B1), to healthcare facilities (within Class D1), to amusement frontages) within classes A2, A3, B1 (offices), for healthcare facilities / entertainment uses and for residential accommodation (Class C3), will (within class D1), for amusement / entertainment uses and for residential be supported if the following criteria are met: accommodation (class C3) will be supported, provided there would be no demonstrable harm caused to the living conditions of any neighbouring i. the proposal would not individually, or cumulatively with other non- residents in terms of noise, odours or general disturbance. retail uses, cause harm to the function, character or appearance of the 2 existing shopping provision or to the town centre as a whole Conditions may be applied relating to the hours of opening, sound ii. the proposal would add to the range and variety of goods and services proofing and control of cooking odours where appropriate to ensure available to the local residents, and that environmental, highway or other problems are not created and that iii. there would be no harm caused to the public amenity of the town residential amenities are protected. centre or living conditions of any neighbouring residents in terms of noise, odours or general disturbance. New shopping and commercial development (including changes of use) within the town centres of Abingdon-on-Thames, Faringdon and Wantagea 3 Conditions may be applied relating to the hours of opening, sound shall, where possible, incorporate specific provision to maintain or improve proofing and control of cooking odours where appropriate. the means of access to upper floors.

aAs defined on the Adopted Policies Map or where amended through an adopted Neighbourhood aAs defined on the Adopted Policies Map or where amended through an adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan Development Plan

4

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Development Policy 13d: Faringdon Town Centre Development Policy 13e: Local Shopping Centres

Proposals within Faringdon Town Centre involving a change of use from Within the existing local shopping centres at Peachcroft, Abingdon-on- retail (within Class A1, A2, A3) to other uses including residential (Class Thames, Mill Brook Park and Grovelands at Grovea, proposals involving a C3), healthcare facilities (within Class D1) or office (Class B1) uses will change of use from Class A1 (retail) to Classes A2 (professional services) not be permitted on ground floor frontages unless they retain active and A3 (food and drink) will be supported provided that: frontages in accordance with the Design Guide Supplementary Planning Documents and comply with other relevant policies of the Development i. the proposal would not individually, or cumulatively with other non- Plan. retail uses, cause harm to the function, character or appearance of the existing shopping provision or to the town centre as a whole New residential, healthcare or office uses will be permitted on upper ii. the proposal would add to the range and variety of goods and floors subject to no demonstrable harm being caused to the living services available to the local residents, and conditions of any neighbouring residents in terms of noise, odours and iii. there would be no harm caused to the public amenity of the town general disturbance. centre or living conditions of any neighbouring residents in terms of noise, odours or general disturbance.

Proposals involving a change of use to residential (Class C3) or office (Class B1) uses will not be permitted at ground floor level. Such uses will be permitted on upper floors subject to criteria (i) and (iii) above being met.

aAs defined by the Adopted Policies Map or where amended through an adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan

Market Place, Faringdon

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Village and Local Shops other local services to enhance the sustainability of communities. Development Policy 14: Village and Local Shops 3.95. The Council recognises the 1 importance of small neighbourhood 3.98. The Part 1 plan seeks to ensure shops, particularly village shops, to that development is supported by Proposals for the development or extension of village and other local local communities. Village shops a sufficient range of services and shops with less than 500 sq.m gross retail floorspace, designed to meet located in the Larger and Smaller facilities and particularly focuses the day-to-day needs of the local population, will be permitted provided Villages and local shops, such as development in the rural areas to they comply with other relevant policies in the Local Plan 2031. individual corner shops, located in maintain the vitality and sustainability the Market Towns and Local Service of local services, as well as Proposals that result in the loss of a village shop and or local shop will be Centres, play a key role in creating supporting appropriate development permitted provided that it demonstrates: 2 and sustaining healthy, inclusive in Smaller Villages to help meet the communities. local needs of rural communities. i. the building is or has become unsuitable for its existing use and is no longer economically viable, taking into account all reasonable efforts 3.96. The retention of existing village 3.99. Development Policy 14: made to sell or let the property on the market at a realistic price, and and local shops or the provision of Village and Local Shops seeks to ii. there is no reasonable likelihood of a suitable alternative facility or new ones is key to the development of protect the loss of existing village service of benefit to serve the needs of the local community making sustainable and inclusive communities. and local shops, subject to criteria, to use of the building. 3 ensure that local shopping provision 3.97. National policy is clear for the is retained to help meet the local need to promote the retention and needs. The policy also supports development of local services and proposals for village and local shops communities’ facilities in villages, in at a small scale where they accord particular the need to guard against with relevant policies in the Local Plan the unnecessary loss of valued 2031. facilities and services where this would 4 reduce the communities ability to meet day-to-day needs. It also recognises the need to plan positively for the provision of community facilities and

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Retail Parks centres being the highest priority for new retail development. Development Development Policy 15: Retail Parks 3.100. The District currently has two proposals over 1,000 sq.m of floor significant Retail Parks; Fairacres space in the town centres and 500 Retail Park, Abingdon-on-Thames sq.m of floor space elsewhere will Uses on retail parks within the district, including at Fairacres in Abingdon- and Tower Retail Park, need to be supported by an impact on-Thames and Seacourt Tower Retail Park in Botley, will be restricted to Botley. These have been established assessment to assess the likely stores selling bulky goods. to provide outlets for bulky goods. impacts on existing retail provision. Both are located in edge of town Change of use on retail parks within the district to convenience retail locations that are outside the main 3.103. In line with Core Policy 32, uses, or for new convenience retail units, will only be permitted if: town centre of Abingdon-on-Thames Development Policy 15: Retail and the Local Service Centre of Parks, seeks to restrict uses at the i. the impact assessment required under Core Policy 32 demonstrates Botley. existing retail parks at Fairacres in that the development would not have a detrimental impact on the Abingdon-on-Thames and Seacourt existing retail provision in the town centre of Abingdon-on-Thames or 3.101. The Part 1 plan seeks to Tower in Botley to stores selling bulky the Local Service Centre in Botley, and support a strong and sustainable goods. ii. it can be demonstrated that there are no suitable alternative sites economy within the district. The within Abingdon-on-Thames town centre or the Botley Central Area Spatial Strategy seeks to deliver 3.104. The policy also supports sustainable growth by reinforcing proposals for convenience retail uses the service centre roles of the subject to specific criteria, including main settlements, in particular taking into account impacts on concentrating larger shopping, existing retail provision and assessing tourism and community facilities alternative locations. at Abingdon-on-Thames, Botley, Faringdon, Grove and Wantage.

3.102. Core Policy 32: Retail Development and other Main Town Centre Uses sets out a sequential test for retail development, with town

88 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Supporting Sustainable 17. Core Policies 12, 18, 19 and 21 accessibility and through supporting • Core Policy 36: Electronic Transport and Accessibility also safeguard land to support the key improvements to the transport Communications - sets out future delivery of strategic highway network, including a specific policy the district’s intention to ensure 1 Introduction improvements. relating to the A34 (Core Policy 34). that electronic communication infrastructure, in particular superfast 3.105. The Spatial Vision and Strategic 3.107. Chapter 2 of this plan (Local • Core Policy 33: Promoting broadband, is provided in new Objectives of the Local Plan 2031: Plan 2031: Part 2) sets out how the Sustainable Transport and development, which will maximise Part 1 seek to encourage sustainable agreed quantum of unmet housing Accessibility - sets out how opportunities for working and modes of transport and a reduction need to be addressed within the the Council will work with the accessing services at home. in the need to travel wherever Vale will be addressed by allocating County Council and others to possible. This is consistent with the additional development sites. Chapter promote sustainable transport and 3.110. The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 2 objectives set out in the NPPF and the 2 also augments our Sub-Area accessibility including measures set sets out more detailed Development Oxfordshire Local Transport Plan 492 Strategies, where new policies are out in the Local Transport Plan. Management policies that seek to (updated 2016). The Local Transport needed to support the additional provide additional detailed guidance Plan includes Area Strategies for the development sites, or where new • Core Policy 34: A34 Strategy - on specific matters to complement Science Vale area and the A420, information is available to support the recognises that the Council will those policies listed above and as set which are both located within the Vale planning of these areas. continue to work with Highways out in the Part 1 plan. of White Horse. England and Oxfordshire County 3 3.108. Additional future transport Council in planning for managing 3.111. The Part 2 transport policies 3.106. The Part 1 plan also identifies schemes are therefore supported traffic on the A34, including provide additional guidance to ensure a number of site-specific proposals by Core Policies 12a, 18a and addressing Air Quality impacts on proposals adequately evaluate their and policies relating to transport and 19a (Chapter 2). These relate, in the route. transport impacts and provide safe these are set out in our three Sub- particular, to an identified need for air and suitable access. There are also Area Strategies. The spatial focus for quality improvements and the wider • Core Policy 35: Promoting Public two specific policies addressing local new jobs and homes to be located in Oxfordshire Public Transport Strategy. Transport, Cycling and Walking - issues relating to car parking and lorry the Science Vale area is recognised sets out how the Council will ensure services. 4 by the Part 1 plan as requiring a 3.109. The Part 1 plan also identifies that new development promotes comprehensive package of supporting a number of strategic policies (Core public transport, cycling and 3.112. The transport policies set out transport infrastructure and this is set Policies 33-36) which seek to promote walking, and within Local Plan 2031: Part 2 are: out in more detail by Core Policy sustainable transport modes and

92https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/connecting-oxfordshire

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• Development Policy 16: Access – which sets out the key requirements for suitable and safe access within development proposals

• Development Policy 17: Transport Assessments and Travel Plans – which provides additional guidance on the information required within Transport Assessments or Statements and Travel Plans

• Development Policy 18: Public Car Parking in Settlements – which seeks to protect and improve the quality of car parks in appropriate settlements, and

• Development Policy 19: Lorries and Roadside Services – which seeks to enable and focus lorry and roadside services at appropriate locations.

Radley Train Station

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Access sustainable transport modes 3.118. Development Policy 16: can be maximised”94. Access sets out some additional

3.113. Improving the quality of new detail to complement that provided by 1 development and achieving high 3.116. The NPPF also stresses the Core Policy 35: Promoting Public design standards is a priority for the importance of: Transport, Cycling and Walking, Local Plan 2031: Part 1, as supported Core Policy 37: Design and Local by Core Policy 37: Design and • the efficient delivery of goods and Distinctiveness, and other Part 1 Local Distinctiveness, which sets supplies policies. out criteria that all new developments need to demonstrate are met. • giving priority to pedestrian and cycle movements 2 3.114 The physical form and qualities of a place shape the way it is used and • safe and secure layouts which the way people and vehicles move minimise conflicts, and Development Policy 16: Access through it. The NPPF is clear that development proposals should ensure • considering the needs of people “safe and suitable access to with disabilities95. All proposals for new development will be required to be of high the site can be achieved for quality design in accordance with Core Policy 37: Design and Local 3 all people”93. 3.117. Core Policy 37: Design and Distinctiveness. In addition to those criteria set out in Core Policy 37 Local Distinctiveness sets out and other relevant Local Plan policies, proposals for development will also 3.115. Furthermore, the NPPF states twelve criteria that all development need to provide evidence to demonstrate that: that proposals should comply with to ensure they are comprehensively i. adequate provision will be made for loading, unloading, circulation, “plans and decisions should planned; these include consideration servicing and vehicle turning, and ensure developments for connectivity, and the safe ii. acceptable off-site improvements to the highway infrastructure that generate significant movement and access for all users (including traffic management measures), cycleways, public rights of 4 movement are located where so developments are not overly way and the public transport network can be secured where these are the need to travel will be dominated by vehicular traffic. not adequate to service the development. minimised and the use of

93Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 32 94Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 34 95Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 35

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Transport Assessments and helps to support a comprehensive Travel Plans approach to their assessment and the Development Policy 17: Transport Assessments and identification of appropriate mitigation Travel Plans 3.119. Promoting sustainable modes measures, should they be necessary. of travel, such as through public Proposals for amajor development will need to be supported by a transport, cycling, and walking, is a key 3.121. A Transport Assessment should Transport Assessment or Statement and Travel Plan in accordance with priority for both Vale of White Horse set out the transport issues relating Oxfordshire County Council guidance, including their Walking and Cycling District Council and for Oxfordshire to a proposed development. It will be Design Standards, and the latest National Planning Practice Guidanceb. County Council. These modes of travel used to help us determine whether The scope of the assessment should be agreed with the County Council can help to reduce congestion, make a the impact of the development is as the highway authority, in association with the district council, as the positive contribution to local air quality acceptable and therefore should planning authority. Highways England should also be consulted as and help to encourage active and be supported by appropriate traffic appropriate, in accordance with Highways England guidancec. healthy lifestyles­96 for communities modelling and take account of any within the Vale. For this reason, the particular local sensitivities, such as The Transport Assessment and Travel Plan should consider opportunities Part 1 plan sets out the requirement those relating to air quality, noise and / to support the take up of electric and / or low emission vehicles, in for major development proposals or safety. accordance with latest best practice, and in particular if part of mitigation to be supported by a Transport identified in line with Development Policy 26: Air Quality. Assessment or Statement and Travel 3.122. Mitigation measures may be Plan (Core Policy 35: Promoting required to address the transport The Transport Assessment and Travel Plan will need to demonstrate Public Transport, Cycling and impacts of development. The consistency with Core Policy 37: Design and Local Distinctiveness Walking) which will need to take into Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) in addition to the sustainable transport priorities identified in Local Plan account Oxfordshire County Council Regulation 123 list should be referred 2031: Part 1 and other relevant Local Plan policies. and National Planning Practice to*, as some infrastructure projects a As defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010. 97 Guidance . and types will be wholly funded by CIL. b Refer to Oxfordshire County Council Guidance for New Developments, available at https://www.oxfordshire. Where applicable, mitigation measures gov.uk/cms/public-site/transport-new-developments; Oxfordshire County Council Walking and Cycling Design Standards (2017), available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/transport-development- 3.120. Ensuring that proposals for may be required through Section control-tdc and CLG (2014) Travel plans, transport assessments and statements, available at: https://www. development are accompanied by 106 and Section 278 agreements. gov.uk/guidance/travel-plans-transport-assessments-and-statements c appropriate supporting information Transport Assessment or Statements Highways England (2015) The Strategic Road Network: planning for the future (2015) and Highways England and Circular 02/2013: the strategic road network and the delivery of sustainable development.

96Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015 – 2031 – Active & Healthy Travel Strategy, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/ltp4-countywide-strategies 97 Refer to Oxfordshire County Council Guidance for New Developments, available at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/transport-new-developments; Oxfordshire County Council Walking and Cycling Design Standards (2017) available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/roads-and-transport/transport-policies-and-plans/transport-new-developments/transport-development-control and Department for Communities and Local Government (2014) Travel Plans, Transport Assessments and Statements, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-plans-transport-assessments-and-statements * No longer exists following recent changes to CIL by government

92 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies and Travel Plans will be required Public Car Parking in Settlements under condition through Section 106 Development Policy 18: Public Car Parking in agreement. 3.124. The promotion of public Settlements 1 transport, cycling and walking remains 3.123. A Travel Plan should set out an important priority, especially to Within the town centres of Abingdon-on-Thames, Wantage and Faringdon how a development will be managed, provide good access to town centres and the local centres at Abingdon-on-Thames, Botley, Faringdon, Grove post occupation, to meet targets for for employment purposes or for the and Wantage, as defined by the Adopted Policies Map, the loss of public car journeys to and from the site and higher order goods and services they car parking, particularly for short stays, will not be permitted if it would promote sustainable travel. It should provide. However, in a rural district adversely affect the vitality and viability of these centresa. comprise a package of measures and like the Vale, it is also important that initiatives with the aim of reducing high quality car parking continues to Any proposals for the replacement of parking should demonstrate how 2 the number of car journeys made be made available. This is particularly replacement provision will be made of equivalent capacity, accessibility by people travelling to and from the important for those living in the more and convenience. site by providing greater choice. It rural areas of the district who may should also take account of initiatives not have access to public transport or Proposals for improving the quality of town centre parking provision will be identified by local organisations, for other sustainable transport options. supported, particularly where the proposals complement Core Policy 32: example, schools may have an interest Retail Development and other Main Town Centre Uses. in whether safety improvements are 3.125. The provision of high quality 3 needed for key walking and cycling parking in town centres is supported aProposals should be accompanied by an assessment of parking using parameters agreed by the District and Local Town or Parish Council and demonstrate that the viability of the town and local centre will not be routes. by the NPPF, that states, for example, affected. that “Local authorities should seek to improve the quality of parking in town centres so 3.126. Proposals for improving Plan 2031: Part 1, the Design Guide that it is convenient, safe and or replacing town centre parking Supplementary Planning Document100 secure” 98 and highlights the need provision will be supported where the and Oxfordshire County Council’s to protect the viability of facilities that proposals complement Core Policy Parking Standards101. 4 99 provide for ‘day to day needs’ . 32: Retail Development and other Main Town Centre Uses in the Local

98Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 40 99Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 70 100Vale of White Horse Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (2015), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/local-development-framework/ supplementar-2 101Refer to Oxfordshire County Council Guidance for New Developments, available at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/transport-new-developments

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3.127. The district will therefore concerns over safety in relation to the continue to support the availability A34, and in line with Core Policy 34: Development Policy 19: Lorries and Roadside Services of suitable and sufficient car parking A34 Strategy, the district will continue within town and local centres to work with Highways England, and ensure that proposals for the County Council and others The provision of additional service facilities (including facilities for their redevelopment provide for on exploring and reviewing route refuelling, car and lorry parking, toilets, refreshment facilities and picnic an equivalent level of parking in improvements on this road. The A420 areas) along the A420 and A34 will be permitted within the boundaries of accessible and convenient locations. also performs a strategic function for the following sites identified on the Adopted Policies Map: Where appropriate, the district will also transport access between Oxford and support plans for improving the quality Swindon and the appropriate provision i. Milton Interchange of car parking provision including the of service facilities along this important ii. Buckland, and provision of segregated pedestrian route can help to contribute towards iii. Park Road, Faringdon. walkways within car parks. the promotion of road safety. In line with Core Policy 34: A34 Strategy, the Council will continue Lorries and Roadside Services 3.130. However, whilst safety to work with Highways England, the County Council and others on considerations on these roads imply assessment of proposals for any new lorry and / or roadside service 3.128. The NPPF states that local a need to support roadside facilities, areas along the A34 and A420 in the Vale of White Horse where these are authorities should work with other there is a need to guard against the seen as required as part of the on-going development of the Route Based stakeholders to develop strategies for unnecessary proliferation of sites. Strategy and / or other highway safety reviews. the provision of roadside facilities for There is also a need to ensure that motorists to support the safety and high standards of provision can be welfare of the road users102. achieved on existing sites before looking to new sites. These two • Milton Interchange on the A34, and 3.129. Within the Vale of White objectives will be achieved through Horse District, there are currently Development Policy 19: Lorries and • Buckland and Park Road, Faringdon two main routes identified on which Roadside Services. The existing on the A420 roadside service improvements will sites on the A34 and A420 are located will generally be supported. Firstly, at: central government has identified

102Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 31

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Protecting the topic areas: design; landscape; Green the impact of development on the provision of adequate and Environment and Infrastructure; leisure and historic neighbouring amenity appropriate facilities for the sorting, Responding to environment storage and collection of waste for 1 Climate Change • Development Policy 24: Effect of development proposals 3.134. The policies in Local Plan Neighbouring or Previous Uses Introduction 2031: Part 2 relating to Protecting on New Developments – which • Development Policy 29: the Environment and Responding to sets out measures to ensure new Settlement Character and Gaps – 3.131. The Local Plan 2031 seeks to Climate Change are: occupiers are less affected by which sets out measures to ensure protect the natural, built and historic existing or neighbouring uses that proposals do not compromise environment and respond to climate • Development Policy 20: Public important gaps between settlements change. The Spatial Vision and Art – which seeks to support or • Development Policy 25: Noise 2 Strategic Objectives help to achieve encourage the promotion of public Pollution – which seeks to ensure • Development Policy 30: this by setting out a policy framework art in new development new development is acceptable in Watercourses – which seeks to ensure new development achieves relation to noise pollution to ensure that watercourses are high-quality design standards and by • Development Policy 21: External accommodated appropriately within responding to climate change. Lighting – which sets out measures • Development Policy 26: Air new development to ensure that development Quality – which seeks to ensure 3.132. The Part 1 plan identifies a involving external lighting is all new development adequately • Development Policy 31: Protection 3 number of strategic policies (Core appropriately designed and located considers air quality of Public Rights of Way, Policies 37 - 46) that help to National Trails and Open Access maintain and achieve a high-quality • Development Policy 22: • Development Policy 27: Land Areas – which seeks to support environment across the district. These Advertisements – which Affected by Contamination – improvements to the Public Rights policies set out how the Council will sets out measures to ensure which sets out measures to ensure of Way Network and Open Access seek to respond to climate change that development involving land affected by contamination Areas, and to protect National Trails and continue to protect the Vale’s advertisements is appropriately is appropriately remediated and historic, built and natural environment designed and located mitigated • Development Policy 32: The Wilts 4 and Berks Canal – which seeks to 3.133. This section includes policies • Development Policy 23: Impact of • Development Policy 28: Waste support the long-term vision for the that apply across the whole district Development on Amenity – which Collection and Recycling – which restoration of the Wilts and Berks under a number of environmental sets out measures to minimise sets out measures to ensure Canal

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• Development Policy 33: Open • Development Policy 37: Design 3.138. The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Space – which sets out measures Conservation Areas – which sets out a strategic policy framework and local standards for the provision sets out measures to ensure 3.135. Good design is a key aspect of to support the delivery of high quality of open space in association Conservation Areas are protected sustainable development and should design, in particular through Core with new developments and the from inappropriate development contribute positively to making better Policy 37: Design and Local protection of existing open space in places. New development should Distinctiveness and Core Policy the Vale • Development Policy 38: Listed create a sense of place and distinct 38: Design Strategies for Strategic Buildings – which sets out the character where people will feel safe and Major Development Sites. In • Development Policy 34: Leisure Council’s measures for assessing and be proud to live and work. addition, the Council has an adopted and Sports Facilities – which sets development proposals that affect a Design Guide Supplementary out measures and local standards Listed Building and / or its setting 3.136. The importance of achieving Planning Document (SPD), which sets for the provision of leisure and sport good design in new developments out more detailed guidance to ensure facilities in association with new • Development Policy 39: can also contribute towards improving that new development is provided to developments and the protection of Archaeology and Scheduled health and well-being, by creating the highest quality standards that are existing leisure and sports facilities Monuments – which sets out opportunities for social interaction and appropriate for the Vale. in the Vale the Council’s approach to the by making people more active within conservation and enhancement the community103. 3.139. The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 • Development Policy 35: New of Scheduled Monuments, provides further guidance to support Countryside Recreation Facilities nationally important archaeological 3.137. The Vale of White Horse District and encourage the promotion of – which supports the development remains and other non-designated consists of a network of historic market public art in association with new of small-scale countryside archaeological sites towns and other settlements that are development along with providing recreational facilities in the open set in a diverse and attractive rural guidance for development associated countryside landscape. It is therefore important with external lighting, advertisements, that new development respects the and the impact on amenity and • Development Policy 36: Heritage local character and distinctiveness of previous uses. Assets – which sets out the these towns and villages in the Vale. Council’s approach to conserve and enhance heritage assets in the Vale

103Sport England (2015) Active Design, available at: https://www.sportengland.org/media/3426/spe003-active-design-published-october-2015-email-2.pdf

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Public Art have secured many examples of 104 public art across the district . These Development Policy 20: Public Art 3.140. Public art can improve the include the artistic gates for Kingston 1 quality of new developments, and Bagpuize Millennium Green, Kingston along with high quality design can help Bagpuize with Southmoor, the East For all proposals for major developmenta, or sites larger than 0.5 to create stimulating and rewarding Hendred Owl Trail and the Betjeman hectares, the provision of public art will be sought that makes a significant environments that are of benefit to Statue at the Vale and contribution towards the appearance of the scheme or the character of the current and future generations. It Museum, Wantage. area, or which benefits the local community. can also play a significant part in the character of the public realm, 3.142. The Council will seek to support Applicants will be required to set out details for the provision of public art, creating distinctive places, as well as public art within new development including its location and design in accordance with the Council’s Design 2 forming legible features. Public art schemes in accordance with its Arts Guide SPD. can include, for example, traditional Development Strategy. Public art aAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010. sculptures, innovative designs of should be considered at an early stage signs, gateways and paving or major of the design process. Developers will landmark or urban design features. be expected to demonstrate as part identity for an area. pride and identity, encourage public of the Design and Access Statement enjoyment and engagement, promote 3.141. National policy places an that the inclusion of public art has 3.143. Developers will be expected the renewal of social skills or support 3 emphasis on public art in design and been considered as part of their to contribute towards the provision the local economy. Proposals that place-making for new developments. development proposals, taking into of public art in order to help improve contribute towards the appearance Successful schemes can make account the design and location in the appearance of the scheme of a scheme, for example, to make a places more interesting, exciting and accordance with the Council’s Design in accordance with the Council’s positive contribution to the character aesthetically pleasing for residents Guide SPD. Development Policy Developer Contributions SPD105. of an area or draw inspiration from and the community. Public art 20: Public Art seeks to promote local culture and history to improve incorporated into public spaces can quality art within new developments 3.144. The Council will support the ‘sense of place’, will also be also help to bring neighbourhoods by encouraging partnership working proposals for art within residential supported. 4 together and provide a space for between professional artists and and commercial development that social activities and civic life. The craftspeople and encouraging local benefits the local community and Council’s Arts Development Team participation to help establish an helps to establish civic or corporate

104 http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/sports-and-leisure/arts/public-art-vale 105Vale of White Horse District Council (2017) Developer Contributions – Delivering Infrastructure to Support Development Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/delivering-infrastructure/section-106-plan

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External lighting a detrimental impact on an area’s for all types of outdoor lighting, it Local Distinctiveness (in the adopted character. Pole-mounted light fittings is important that the impact on the Local Plan 2031: Part 1). 3.145. Light can be seen as a form are often required for many sport and amenity of the surrounding area of pollution, where it impedes a view recreation facilities and the height is considered when determining 3.149. Development proposals located of the night sky or causes glow in and number of these fittings can applications that involve the use within the North Wessex Downs Area the countryside, and can harm local be obtrusive, particularly if located of external lighting. This can be of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) biodiversity. Light fittings can also within the open countryside or in a particularly important when related to or its setting should seek to avoid and affect the visual amenity of an area. Conservation Area. illuminated advertisements, security reduce light pollution, including control For example, inappropriately designed floodlights for commercial and of lighting schemes that threaten the and/or located spotlights can have 3.146. Given the increasing demand residential premises, street lighting integrity of dark night skies, taking and floodlights for outdoor sports and account of the North Wessex Downs recreational facilities. AONB Management Plan106. Development Policy 21: External Lighting 3.147. Although some lighting 3.150. Applications for the display of is considered to be Permitted advertisements that involve an element Development that involves external lighting will be permitted provided that: Development, the Council will of external lighting should demonstrate ensure applications that involve the that the proposal would not have an i. there would not be an adverse effect on the character of the area, the use of lighting will be determined adverse effect on the local character amenity of neighbouring uses or on local biodiversity in accordance with Development or the amenity of neighbouring uses, ii. there would not be a hazard for pedestrians or people using any type Policy 21: External Lighting. and would not cause harm towards the of transportation, and safety of pedestrians. iii. the lighting proposed is the minimum necessary to undertake the task 3.148. The Council will expect for which it is required applicants to demonstrate, through 3.151. Where permission is granted preparation of a lighting strategy, that for a proposal that involves external Where permission is granted for external lighting, conditions may be they have appropriately considered the lighting, the Council may impose imposed that require: design of their scheme in accordance planning conditions to mitigate the with Development Policy 21, the impacts from external lighting. iv. the fitting of devices to reduce glare and light spillage, and principles set out in the Design Guide v. restricting the hours during which the lighting may be operated. SPD, Core Policy 44: Landscape 3.152. In certain circumstances, and Core Policy 37: Design and applicants may be required to take

106North Wessex Downs AONB Management Plan 2014-2019, available at: http://www.northwessexdowns.org.uk/uploads/File_Management/NWD_Docs/About_Us/Management_Plan/NWD_AONB_Management_Plan_2014-19.pdf

98 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies appropriate measures to control the signage, including, for example: fascia level of illumination, glare, spillage of signs on shops; poster hoardings; Development Policy 22: Advertisments light, angle and hours of operation. highway signage; and pole mounted 1 This is particularly relevant where signs at petrol stations. Proposals for advertisements should demonstrate how they contribute to external lighting could affect an maintaining or achieving a safe, attractive and well-designed environment, adjacent area of Green Infrastructure 3.156. Advertisements are essential and: or other areas with light sensitive to commercial activity in the district biodiversity. and as the range of premises with i. not cause a hazard for pedestrians or people using any type of flexible opening hours expands, the transportation 3.153. The Council encourages demand for illuminated advertisements ii. not obscure or hinder any interpretation of any traffic sign, railway sign, applicants to use the Institution continues to increase. Unsympathetic, 2 or aid to navigation by water or air of Lighting Professionals (ILP) poorly-positioned or intrusively iii. not hinder the operation of any device used for the purpose of security Guidance Notes for the Reduction of illuminated signs can harm the or surveillance or for measuring the speed of any vehicle Obtrusive Light (2011) that contains appearance of a building or area iv. not adversely affect the historical significance of buildings, or the design and installation guidance and may also cause a hazard to character of an area through size and setting and recommendations in different pedestrians, including people with v. not contribute to an unsightly proliferation or clutter of signage in the Environmental Zones107. visual impairments and road users. vicinity and detract from the amenity of the street scene vi. not cause visual intrusion by virtue of light pollution into adjoining 3 3.154. In assessing proposals 3.157. The Council considers that residential properties and avoid light pollution of nearby wildlife that would generate external illuminated signs can, if carefully habitats, and lighting, reference must also be designed, be appropriate in vii. not include flashing internal or external illumination. made to Development Policy 22: commercial areas where they can Advertisements. provide visual interest and vitality. environment within their vicinity. For visually intrusive, the Council will Advertisements 3.158. Advertising hoardings and example, in residential areas, they are encourage developers to consider the stand-alone boards may also detract likely to be visually intrusive and spoil design, size, materials and the degree 4 3.155. Advertisements cover a wide from the quality of the townscape of the appearance of the neighbourhood. of illumination108. range of external display material and the district, and lead to a poor visual To ensure advertisements are not

107The Institute of Lighting Engineers (2000) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Light Pollution, available at: https://www.gov.je/SiteCollectionDocuments/Planning%20and%20building/SPG%20Lightpollution%202002.pdf; The Institute of Lighting Professionals (2011) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light; available at: https://www.theilp.org.uk/documents/obtrusive-light/ 108Vale of White Horse Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) (2015), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/local-development-framework/supplementar-2

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3.159. Advertisement proposals where, cumulatively, they would spoil will not cause harm to the amenity of overshadow or visually dominate are guided by national policy and the appearance of a town centre or neighbouring or nearby properties. existing properties or adversely guidance, the Town and Country the open countryside. The Council will affect their existing levels of privacy. Planning (Control of Advertisements, encourage businesses in the same 3.166. Amenity can be compromised Furthermore, it is important that the England) Regulations 2007, and location to combine their advertising by new development in a number design of new development minimises subsequent amendments. needs for this reason. of ways: through detrimental loss of any impacts, both for the short and daylight and sunlight to existing and long term. 3.160. The Council will seek to 3.163. Development Policy 22 also adjacent occupiers; loss of privacy ensure that no harm is caused by ensures that advertisements do not and outlook, and harmful noise, odour, 3.168 The Council will consider the the cumulative effects of illuminated cause visual intrusion by virtue of light vibration and air pollution from existing impact of development proposals advertisements associated with pollution, and avoid flashing internal and proposed developments. on amenity in accordance with commercial property. or external illumination. Development Policy 23: Impact of 3.167 Care should be taken to Development on Amenity. 3.161. Proposals for development 3.164. Where advertisements are ensure new development does not involving the use of illuminated proposed in relation to business advertisements will need to premises, the Council may seek demonstrate compliance with appropriate mitigation through a Development Policy 23: Impact of Development on Development Policy 22: planning condition to reduce any Amenity Advertisements along with other harmful impacts, for example, Development proposals should demonstrate that they will not result in relevant policies: Core Policy 37: limiting the hours of operation of any significant adverse impacts on the amenity of neighbouring uses when Design and Local Distinctiveness; illumination. considering both individual and cumulative impacts in relation to the Core Policy 39: The Historic following factors: Environment; and Development Impact of Development on Amenity Policy 21: External Lighting. i. loss of privacy, daylight or sunlight 3.165. In addition to applicants ii. dominance or visual intrusion 3.162. Developers will be required to demonstrating that their proposals iii. noise or vibration ensure that proposals for illuminated achieve high design standards (in iv. dust, heat, odour, gases or other emissions advertisements will not harm or accordance with Core Policies 37 v. pollution, contamination or the use of / or storage of hazardous detract from amenity and public safety. and 38 and the Design Guide SPD), it substances; and Advertisements may not be acceptable is also important that their proposals vi. external lighting.

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Effect of Neighbouring or Previous mitigation measures should be Uses on New Developments incorporated into the proposal as Development Policy 24: Effect of Neighbouring or Previous Uses on New Developments agreed with Council officers. 1 3.169 Development Policy 23: Impact of Development on Amenity 3.172. Proposals should also Development proposals should be appropriate to their location and should seeks to ensure that development demonstrate conformity with Core be designed to ensure that the occupiers of new development will not be proposals are acceptable in amenity Policy 37: Design and Local subject to adverse effects from existing or neighbouring uses. terms, including for neighbouring Distinctiveness and Policy 38: Development will not be permitted if it is likely to be adversely affected by uses. However, it is equally important Design Strategies for Strategic existing or potential sources of: to ensure that any potential effects and Major Development Sites and of neighbouring uses would not the Design Guide Supplementary i. noise or vibration 2 harm the occupiers of the proposal. Planning Document along with: ii. dust, heat, odour, gases and other emissions Potential impacts could include: Development Policy 23: Impact iii. pollution, contamination of the site or its surroundings and hazardous noisy uses or activities; sources of of Development on Amenity; substances nearby pollution or odour; land affected by Development Policy 25: Noise iv. loss of privacy, daylight or sunlight contamination; and installations using Pollution; and Development v. dominance or visual intrusion, or or storing hazardous substances. Policy 27: Land Affected by vi. external lighting Contamination. 3 3.170 Development Policy 24: The Effect of Neighbouring or Previous Uses on New Developments requires applicants to consider any potential adverse impacts from existing and potential sources.

3.171 Where proposals for new 4 development are likely to lead to adverse impacts to occupiers by neighbouring uses, appropriate

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Noise Pollution policy, the Council will ensure that of environmental noise. Depending measures from the developer to where new development may create on the level of environmental noise, control the exposure to noise through 3.173. Noise and associated vibration additional noise, and in instances the impact can in some cases be planning conditions. For example, can have an adverse impact on where new development would be satisfactorily mitigated, allowing noise- developers may be required to insulate environmental amenity and on sensitive to the existing acoustic sensitive development to proceed buildings, erect screens or natural biodiversity, and may have a range environment, the impact of noise will on the affected site. The Council will barriers, ensure adequate distances of sources, which can include: road not cause an unacceptable impact on require an appropriate scheme of are established between noise and traffic; trains; aircraft; commercial amenity. mitigation that should have regard the noise sensitive land use or limit the uses; and entertainment premises. to the need to provide a satisfactory operating times of a potentially noisy 3.177 Development Policy 25: environment for future occupiers and activity. 3.174. Noise pollution can lead to Noise Pollution seeks to ensure take account of other material planning harmful impacts on health and well- that development proposals set considerations such as urban design. 3.181. Developers will be expected to being, which may be from direct or out a scheme of mitigation, where take into account the council’s noise indirect sources, for example, through noise-generating development 3.179. Proposals for noise-sensitive planning guidance to ensure noise is the loss of sleep or by affecting would otherwise result in an development in areas with elevated adequately addressed and mitigated relaxation and social interaction. unacceptable impact on neighbouring noise levels, and / or proposals within their development proposals. uses, environment or biodiversity. for noise-generating development Developers should further engage with 3.175. The planning process can assist Developers should also take into in noise-sensitive locations, will the Council’s Environmental Health by ensuring that, as far as possible, account Core Policy 44: Landscape be required to provide evidence team early during the planning process ‘noise sensitive’ developments, such in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1 if of existing levels of environmental to help ensure the approach taken is as dwellings, schools, hospitals and proposals are likely to impact on noise and the measures needed acceptable. nursing homes are located away from the landscape, including the North to bring noise down to acceptable existing sources of noise. Furthermore, Wessex Downs AONB and / or its levels109. This will typically require development types that may be setting. the submission of an assessment associated with generating noise can of environmental noise and scheme be located in areas where noise will be 3.178. The policy also ensures that of mitigation as part of a planning less likely to lead to harmful impacts. noise-sensitive uses are located and application. designed in such a way that they 3.176 In accordance with national are protected from existing sources 3.180. The Council may also seek

109Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, Acoustic & Noise Consultants, Institute of Acoustics (2016) Draft Professional Practice Guidance on Planning & Noise - New Residential Development; available at: http://www.association- of-noise-consultants.co.uk/propg-planning-noise-new-residential-development/; World Health Organisation (1999) Guidelines for Community Noise; available at: http://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/environment-and-health/noise

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Development Policy 25: Noise Pollution 1

Noise-Generating Development v. the location, design and layout of the proposed development vi. measures to reduce noise within the development to acceptable levels, Noise-generating development that would have an impact on including external areas, and environmental amenity or biodiversity will be expected to provide an vii. the need to maintain adequate levels of natural light and ventilation to appropriate scheme of mitigation that should take account of: habitable areas of the development.

i. the location, design and layout of the proposed development In areas of existing noise, proposals for noise-sensitive development ii. existing levels of background noise 2 should be accompanied by an assessment of environmental noise and an iii. measures to reduce or contain generated noise, and appropriate scheme of mitigation measures. iv. hours of operation and servicing.

Development will not be permitted if mitigation cannot be provided within Development will not be permitted if mitigation cannot be provided to an an appropriate design or standarda. appropriate standard with an acceptable design.

Noise-Sensitive Development 3 Noise-sensitive development in locations likely to be affected by existing aCurrently set out in British Standards 4142:2014 and 8233:2014. The Council is currently developing sources of noiseb will be expected to provide an appropriate scheme of guidance relating to noise mitigation. b mitigation to ensure appropriate standards of amenity are achieved for Busy roads, railway lines, aerodromes, industrial / commercial developments, waste, recycling and energy plant, and sporting, recreation and leisure facilities. future occupiers of the proposed development, taking account of:

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Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 103 3 Development Management Policies

Water Quality including the provision of supporting environmental and physical demand new development, without adversely infrastructure, in the Vale110 is carefully of growth on water resources and affecting abstraction, river flows, 3.182. The pollution of controlled planned to help achieve the objectives supply and wastewater collection and water quality, agriculture, fisheries, waters may pose a risk to human set out in the WFD111. treatment. It identifies opportunities amenity or nature conservation. health and lead to an impact on for more sustainable planning and wildlife. It is therefore important the 3.185. Development would be improvements so proposals do not 3.189. In circumstances where planning process is used, as far considered unacceptable if it led to exceed the existing water cycle development may be likely to have as possible, to minimise the risk of a deterioration in WFD status, or capacity. an adverse impact on water quality, it pollution caused by new development. prevents the waterbody achieving will be necessary for a detailed water ‘good’ ecological status. 3.187. Core Policy 43: Natural quality assessment to be undertaken. 3.183. Maintaining and enhancing Resources seeks to ensure that The need for an assessment will water quality of rivers, lakes and 3.186. National policy requires developers make provision for the depend on the type or location of new underground water bodies can also councils to consider the need to plan effective use of natural resources, development be important because they can be effectively to protect and enhance including the need for proposals to an important source of water and local surface water and groundwater cause no deterioration in, and where 3.190. Where development is allowed, can provide a valuable amenity and to allow new development to proceed, possible, achieving improvements in, the Council may require developers recreational resource. while avoiding costs at the planning water quality. to undertake measures to ensure that application stage. In doing so, a proposed development does not 3.184. The Water Framework Directive councils should consider the type or 3.188. In line with Core Policy 43: contaminate surface or groundwater (WFD) requires that all ‘water bodies’ location of new development where Natural Resources the Council will resources, including ponds, streams including rivers, lakes, estuaries, an assessment of the potential impact therefore resist developments that and other watercourses. Works may coastal waters and groundwater, on water bodies may be required. pose unacceptable risk to water also be required to remedy historical achieve a good ecological status. The Council has worked with the quality. Core Policy 43 will help to contamination to protect these water Under the WFD, all water bodies are Environment Agency and Thames ensure that development is either resources. classified by current and future water Water to prepare an addendum to located where adequate water quality, ecological, hydromorphological the Water Cycle Study which is an resources are already available, 3.191. The Environment Agency (EA) and chemical status. It is therefore update to the study that informed or where new provision of water has published a Thames River Basin important that future development, the Part 1 plan. This assesses the resource can be made to serve the Management Plan112 that identifies areas

110Core Policy 7: Providing Supporting Infrastructure and Services in the adopted Local Plan 2031: Part 1 111Vale of White Horse Water Cycle Study (2015); available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning- and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031/evidence-base 112Environment Agency (2015) Thames River Basin Management Plan; available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/river-basin-management-plans- 2015#thames-river-basin-district-rbmp:-2015

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of poor water quality and assesses 3.193. Air quality within the Vale of surface watercourses, lakes, canals and White Horse District is predominantly Development Policy 26: Air Quality groundwater for various characteristics good, although there are specific areas 1 including those that may be required where air pollution exceeds the levels to achieve a ‘good’ ecological status. set by European and UK regulations. Development proposals that are likely to have an impact on local air The Council will support the EA and For this reason, the Council has quality, including those in, or within relative proximity to, existing or other partners to prevent groundwater declared three Air Quality Management potential Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) will need to demonstrate pollution and improve surface water Areas (AQMAs), which relate to measures / mitigation that are incorporated into the design to minimise any quality. In accordance with Core Policy elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide impacts associated with air quality. 43: Natural Resources, proposals (NO2). These are located at Abingdon- Where sensitive development is proposed in areas of existing poor air will be expected to include sufficient on-Thames, Botley and Marcham. 2 quality and / or where significant development is proposed, an air quality information to demonstrate how they assessment will be required. have taken into account the Thames 3.194 Development proposals River Basin Management Plan. located within these areas will need The Council will require applicants to demonstrate that the development to demonstrate how they take into will minimise the impact on air quality, both during the construction process Air Quality account the Council’s Air Quality and lifetime of the completed development, either through a redesign 114 Action Plan in accordance with of the development proposal or, where this is not possible or sufficient, 3.192. National planning policy is Core Policy 43: Natural Resources. through appropriate mitigation in accordance with current guidance. 3 clear on the importance of taking into account the potential impacts of air 3.195 Proposals will be considered in Mitigation measures will need to demonstrate how the proposal would quality when assessing development accordance with Development Policy make a positive contribution towards the aims of the Council’s Air Quality proposals. Furthermore, legislative113 26: Air Quality. Early engagement Action Plan. limits are set for concentrations of with the Council’s Air Quality Officer Mitigation measures will be secured either through a negotiation on a major air pollutants that may impact is encouraged to help ensure the scheme, or via the use of a planning condition and / or planning obligation on public health, amenity and approach taken is acceptable. depending on the scale and nature of the development and its associated local biodiversity, such as airborne 4 impacts on air quality. particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. 3.196 It is likely that an Air Quality Assessment will be required, where

1132008 Ambient Air Quality Directive; available at: Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010; available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/1001/pdfs/uksi_20101001_en.pdf 114Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Air Quality Action Plan, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/environment/pollution/air-quality

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proposals are of a large scale and cemeteries or waste operations may 1990, Building Regulations and / or likely to have a significant or natural habitats and contributing to not be appropriate within SPZs. This Environmental Permitting Regulations. cumulative impact upon local air the pollution of surface waters and is particularly notable within SPZ1, the quality, particularly where development groundwater. area immediately around the drinking 3.203 Development Policy 27: is located in or within relative proximity water source. Land Affected by Contamination to an AQMA. The level of assessment 3.199 Land contamination is often a requires developers to address will depend on the nature, extent and result of previous industrial activities 3.201 National policy and guidance all land contamination risks to the location of the development. such as fuel storage, vehicle is clear that the responsibility for development, environment, controlled maintenance, landfills, gasworks safe development on sites affected waters and adjacent land associated 3.197 Any air quality assessments and other industrial activities. Other by contamination lies with the with the development. and other related work should be locations, such as rural areas, may developer and / or landowner. The undertaken by a competent person contain contaminants from agricultural developer / landowner is responsible 3.204 Development Policy 27: / company in line with best practice practices, natural occurrence, for identifying land affected by Land Affected by Contamination and the Council’s emerging Air Quality unsuitable made ground used in contamination, ensuring that will be used by the Council to Developer Guidance115. previous developments, or as a result remediation is undertaken to secure a assess and determine the suitability of leaching, gas or groundwater safe development and that the land is of development proposals by Land Affected by Contamination contamination from surrounding land. suitable for its proposed use. considering the potential implications of any existing contamination for 3.198 The Government has 3.200 Source Protections Zones 3.202 The need to adequately deal the new development, environment, encouraged councils to consider (SPZs) are mapped zones that with contamination is a national controlled waters and adjacent land, the need to reclaim and redevelop are used to identify areas close to requirement, and efforts should be and to also ensure that developers brownfield land rather than greenfield drinking water sources where the made to reduce the potential risk are able to demonstrate that the sites. Brownfield land is land that has risks associated with groundwater or harm caused to human health, proposal will prevent unacceptable been previously developed, often for contamination are greatest. property and the wider environment. risk from pollution in the future. industry and so where the potential Developments within SPZs must The Council has a legal duty to for contamination may be greater. not increase the risk to drinking address contamination in accordance 3.205 Where development, The contamination of land can have water supply abstraction. Types of with European Directives, for example, redevelopment or re-use is adverse impacts on health and social development associated with risks of the Water Framework Directive, proposed on or adjacent to land well-being, as well as damaging high pollution, including, for example, the Environmental Protection Act that is suspected or known to be

115Environmental Protection UK and Institute of Air Quality Management (2017) Land-Use Planning and Development Control: Planning for Air Quality; available at: http://www.iaqm.co.uk/text/guidance/air-quality-planning-guidance.pdf

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contaminated, proposals should 3.209 Where the Council is satisfied Development Policy 27: Land Affected By be accompanied by an appropriate that the development is viable, subject Contamination level of information in the form of a to any further contaminated land 1 Contaminated Land Preliminary Risk investigations and / or remedial works, Proposals for the development, redevelopment or re-use of land known, or Consultant Report. This would typically planning permission may be granted suspected, to be contaminated, will be required to submit a Contaminated consist of a desk-based study and a subject to appropriate conditions Land Preliminary Risk Consultant Report. site walkover as a minimum. or obligations that ensure any land Where development involves a particularly vulnerable usea to contamination is addressed. contamination and land is not suspected, or known to be contaminated, a 3.206 Where development involves Contaminated Land Questionnaire will be required. a particularly vulnerable use to 3.210 Applicants who are aware contamination and land is not suspected, of possible land contamination 2 Planning conditions may be imposed where the Council is satisfied that all or known to be contaminated, a will be encouraged to engage in risks associated with the development, environment, controlled waters and Contaminated Land Questionnaire will pre-application discussions with neighbouring land uses from land affected by contamination have been be required as a minimum116. the Council’s Contaminated Land identified and the development is viable. Officer and, where appropriate, 3.207 These assessments should be the Environment Agency, prior to Proposals that fail to demonstrate that the intended use would be submitted with the planning application submitting a planning application. compatible with the condition of the land, or which fail to exploit and undertaken in accordance with This will indicate whether further 3 appropriate opportunities for decontamination, will be refused. the Council’s best practice and current preliminary investigations, intrusive national guidance117. site investigations data and remedial aDevelopments that are classed as particularly vulnerable to contamination include: residential (limited to creation of new residential units); nursing homes; allotments; schools; nurseries and crèches; children’s proposals may be needed before a playing areas and playing fields; and mixed use development, including vulnerable proposals. 3.208 Further works will be required planning application can be determined. before a planning application is determined if the developer has not provided sufficient information to demonstrate that the development is 4 considered viable.

116Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Council’s (2016) Contaminated Land Questionnaire; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/environment/pollution/contaminated-land/contaminated- land-planning-advice 117Oxfordshire Contaminated Land Group Consortium (2017) Oxfordshire Planning Advice Note: Dealing with Land Contamination During Development – A Guide for Developers, available at: http://www. whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/environment/pollution/contaminated-land/contaminated-land-planning-advice; Environment Agency (2016) Land Contamination: Technical Guidance; available at: https://www.gov.uk/ government/collections/land-contamination-technical-guidance

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Waste Collection and Recycling Development Policy 28: Waste Collection and Recycling 3.211. National Policy requires councils to consider the importance of waste provision and management All development proposals will be expected to be should be integral to the design of the proposed alongside other land uses when consistent with the Council’s Waste Planning Guidance. development. In assessing recycling and refuse looking at development opportunities. provision, the following points should be considered: For development proposals, the Council will consider In promoting good urban design, favourably the use of sustainable waste management new development should integrate v. the level and type of provision, having regard to the initiatives, where they are likely to provide environmental opportunities for local waste above requirements and relevant space standards and financial benefits management. vi. the location of the provision, having regard to the need to provide and maintain safe and convenient 1. Development proposals for residential use must ensure: 3.212. The key role of the Local access for occupants, while also providing Plan 2031 is to ensure that proper i. sufficient space is provided for the storage of satisfactory access for collection vehicles provision is made for waste and individual or communal recycling and refuse vii. the impact of the provision on visual amenity, recycling, storage and collection, containers, and having regard to the need to minimise the and opportunities are taken for ii. access is provided that is safe for existing users / prominence of the facilities and screen any incorporating re-use and recycling residents and for refuse and recycling collection external provision facilities in all new developments. vehicles. viii. the impact of the provision on health and amenity of neighbouring development and the proposed 2. Development proposals for non-residential use must 3.213. The Council will encourage development, and ensure: developers to make provision for the ix. the security of the provision against scavenging pests, vandalism and unauthorised use. effective use of natural resources, iii. sufficient space is provided for the storage of including minimising waste and making communal recycling and refuse containers, and Recycling and refuse storage should be separate from provision for the recycling of waste on iv. provision is made that is adequate for the proposed cycle storage, car parking and key circulation areas. site, in accordance with Core Policy use class. 43: Natural Resources. Development will not be permitted if recycling and The location and design of recycling and refuse provision refuse provision that meets the above requirements cannot feasibly or practicably be provided.

108 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

3.214. In line with Core Policy 43, Landscape aspects of landscape character. will be applied using the most up-to- Development Policy 28: Waste Proposals will be expected to: date evidence and landscape studies

Collection and Recycling seeks Landscape Character available from Natural England, the 1 to ensure that proposals for new • incorporate appropriate landscape District and County Council, and from development provide adequate 3.217. The Vale of White Horse proposals that reflect the character the North Wessex Downs AONB facilities for the sorting, storage and occupies an attractive part of the of the area through appropriate Board. The most up-to-date study collection of waste and to further Upper . It consists of design and management, and prepared by the Vale of White Horse encourage sustainable waste a distinctive and diverse landscape • preserve and promote local is the Vale of White Horse Landscape management initiatives. incorporating the rolling sweep of distinctiveness and diversity Character Assessment (2017)119. the chalk downs (including parts of and, wherever possible, enhance 3.215. For development proposals, the North Wessex Downs Area of damaged landscape areas. 3.221. Proposals will also be considered 2 developers will be required to Outstanding Natural Beauty; AONB), in accordance with Core Policy 37: provide adequate storage space for wide vistas of the lowland clay vale, 3.220. The Part 1 plan makes it clear Design and Local Distinctiveness wheeled bins in accordance with the the rising limestone Corallian Ridge, that Core Policy 44: Landscape and the Council’s Design Guide SPD. Council’s Waste Planning Guidance. the and areas of floodplain The Council will particularly support of the River Thames. development proposals that use sustainable waste management 3.218. The Part 1 plan seeks to protect, 3 initiatives, including for example, home and where possible enhance, key composting, water butts, grey water features that contribute to the nature schemes and on street litter bins. and quality of the district’s landscape.

3.216. Refuse and recycling storage 3.219. In particular, Core Policy 44: and collection facilities should be Landscape, as set out in the Part 1 designed and provided in accordance plan, identifies the most important with the Council’s adopted Design landscape features that should be 4 Guide SPD and Vale of White protected and enhanced and requires Horse and South Oxfordshire proposals to demonstrate how they View from White Horse Hill, Uffington District Council’s Waste Planning have responded to these identified Guidance118.

118Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Council (2015) Waste Planning Guidance; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/recycling-rubbish-and-waste/our-policies-and-your-questions/future- planning-pr-0 119Hankinson Duckett Associates (2017) Vale of White Horse Landscape Character Assessment, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 109 White Horse Hill near Uffington

110 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Settlement Character and Gaps countryside, principally in order to maintain its rural character except Development Policy 29: Settlement Character and Gaps 3.222. The conservation of the intrinsic where consistent with rural exception 1 character and beauty of the countryside policies120. Development proposals will need to demonstrate that the settlement’s is a core planning principle of the NPPF. character is retained, and physical and visual separation is maintained 3.225. The district’s countryside between settlements. 3.223. The Spatial Strategy for the performs an important role in Local Plan 2031: Part 1 supports protecting parts of the open Development proposals will be considered in the context of Core Policy the need to promote thriving villages countryside that are accessible by the 4 in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1, and in addition, will only be permitted and rural communities, whilst Public Rights of Way network. These provided that: safeguarding the countryside and provide recreation and amenity value 2 village character. The Part 1 plan for residents and visitors of the Vale i. the physical and visual separation between two separate settlements is supports appropriate development alike. The open countryside also acts not unacceptably diminished in Smaller Villages to help meet the to separate and provide a setting for ii. cumulatively, with other existing or proposed development, it does not local needs of rural communities. the district’s individual settlements. compromise the physical and visual separation between settlements, and Core Policy 3: Settlement iii. it does not lead to a loss of environmental or historical assets that Hierarchy classifies the settlements 3.226. The Council recognises the individually or collectively contribute towards their local identity. in the Vale according to their role and importance of safeguarding the 3 function. In particular, villages not separate identity and characteristics included within this classification are of individual settlements as well as the enhance, the important landscape our Housing Need in the Part 1 considered to form part of the open open gaps that help separate these settings of settlements. plan and the Landscape Character countryside. places. This separation protects the Assessment when assessing local character and distinctiveness that 3.228. Development Policy 29: development proposals that are 3.224. The Part 1 plan supports the gives each settlement a unique identity Settlement Character and Gaps located between settlements. Such need to protect the local character and that is cherished and valued. seeks to protect further against the proposals will be assessed, having distinctiveness of rural settlements loss of physical or visual separation taken into account the individual 4 and the open countryside. Core 3.227. Core Policy 44: Landscape, between settlements. In applying effects of the proposal, the cumulative Policy 4: Meeting our Housing set out in the Part 1 plan, includes the this policy, the Council will take into effects of existing and other Needs restricts development in the need to protect, and where possible account Core Policy 4: Meeting proposed development or the loss

120Development in open countryside will not be appropriate unless specifically supported by other relevant policies as set out in the Development Plan or national policy, as stated in Core Policy 4: Meeting our Housing Needs in the Local Plan 2031 Part 1.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 111 3 Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities

species. Fed from aquifers in the chalk maintain and improve the natural Development Policy 30: Watercourses rocks of the North Wessex Downs, environment including GI and the water is characterised as having waterways. Core Policy 45: Green 1 high clarity and quality with a stable Infrastructure ensures a net gain in Development of land that contains or is adjacent to a watercourse will only temperature regime. It is the quality GI is achieved for new development be permitted where it would not have a detrimental impact on the function of the water as well as the in-stream proposals. The Part 1 plan recognises or setting of the watercourse or its biodiversity, or the detrimental impact and bankside habitats that make chalk the contribution of waterways and river can be appropriately mitigated. streams so important for a variety of corridors to the character, biodiversity Plans for development adjacent to or encompassing a watercourse should rare and protected species, including, and landscape quality in the Vale. include a minimum 10 m buffer zone along both sides of the watercourse for example, White Clawed Crayfish, Core Policy 46: Conservation and 2 to create a corridor of land and water favourable to the enhancement of Otters and Water Voles. Chalk streams Improvement of Biodiversity in the biodiversity. in the Vale arise from the escarpment Part 1 plan ensures that proposals of the North Wessex Downs, and the likely to harm links between priority Proposals which involve culverting a watercourse are unlikely to be headwaters are often associated with habitats or corridors for priority species considered acceptable. spring-line villages. Examples include achieve a net gain in biodiversity either the and Ginge Brook. through appropriate mitigation or off- Development which is located within 20 m of a watercourse will setting. require a construction management plan to be agreed with the Council 3.240. It is estimated that only around 3 before commencement of work to ensure that the watercourse will be a quarter of Britain’s chalk streams 3.242. In line with these Part 1 policies, satisfactorily protected from damage, disturbance or pollution. are achieving good ecological Part 2 sets out Development status under the Water Framework Policy 30: Watercourses to ensure Directive125. The health of all that watercourses are positively 3.238. Of specific note are the Vale’s under Section 41 of the Natural watercourses are under pressure integrated in the design of new globally rare chalk streams. There are Environment and Rural Communities from a variety of issues including development from the outset, and around 224 known chalk streams in Act (2006)124. abstraction, pollution originating from that the ecological importance of the England, which constitutes over 85 % urban developments, and increased watercourse is not compromised, 4 of the total world resource. As a result 3.239. The geology of chalk streams human associated disturbance. and biodiversity is retained and Chalk Rivers have been specifically produces characteristic features that enhanced. By giving consideration identified as a priority for conservation support special wildlife habitats and 3.241. The Part 1 plan seeks to to the watercourses from the start of

124S41 Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1991/59/contents 125World Wildlife Fund (WWF) (2015) The State of England’s Chalk Streams, available at: http://assets. wwf.org.uk/downloads/wwf_chalkstreamreport_jan15_forweb.pdf

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 113 3 Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities

the design process, it is possible to and habitats protection from • create, maintain and enhance zone may be allowed, but should make the most of attractive riverside increased disturbance associated with wildlife corridors which can also still be accompanied by detailed settings that can form natural areas of development. The extent of the buffer be used as part of the green plans to show how the land will be GI useful for informal recreation and is dependent on the size and nature infrastructure networks within managed to promote biodiversity, other ecosystem services. Proposals of the development, but it should be a development and how maintenance access to should consider how access to minimum of 10 metres wide, measured the watercourse will be created. watercourses can be improved for from the top of each bank and • prevent permanent overshadowing Wherever possible, a minimum 10m all users (depending on biodiversity remain free of any built development. of the water by buildings buffer should be maintained. Where sensitivities) including provision for Where a watercourse flows through development occurs on land outside those with mobility impairments. a development, a buffer zone should • reduce the risk of pollution caused the boundaries of an existing be provided on both sides of that by run-off, and settlement a significantly wider 3.243. All development proposals watercourse . Larger developments buffer is likely to be required. adjacent to watercourses should should provide further buffering, and • reduce incidences of flooding by aim to avoid damaging impacts on these additional areas can be used for allowing water storage and the • seek to reinstate buffer zones where the watercourse, its biodiversity or informal recreation. natural drainage of rainwater. previous land uses or development historical significance and provide have not provided this, and mitigation for any unavoidable 3.245. Undeveloped buffer zones are 3.246. Proposals should: impacts. All development proposals important as they can help to: • where a buffer zone is not included that incorporate watercourses should • include long term management in a proposal, justification must ensure that the watercourse is • allow the watercourse to undergo plans for the buffer zone which be provided by the developer protected from the development and the natural processes of erosion retain and enhance its biodiversity to the satisfaction of the local aim to provide enhancements to the and deposition and natural value planning authority before planning watercourse that benefit biodiversity changes to the bank profile without permission will be granted. and other ecosystem services. necessitating intrusive and harmful • where a 10 m wide buffer zone is bank protection works not considered possible by the local 3.247. Buffer zones should be reserved Buffer zones planning authority (for example in as a natural or semi-natural habitat, • provide space for semi-aquatic dense urban areas where existing free from built development and formal 3.244. Buffer zones are important and terrestrial habitats which are development comes closer to the landscaping. Soft infrastructure such along watercourses to give species important to the lifecycle of many watercourse), a smaller buffer as pedestrian footpaths should be kept species

114 Vale of White Horse District Council 1

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Bridge Street, River Thames, Abingdon

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 115 Icknield Way near Harwell

116 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities to a minimum, for example a footpath a watercourse should be taken. New the risk of flooding due to the risk that provides limited pedestrian access culverting should be avoided and only of blockage; restricted access can to the watercourse is more likely to used as a last resort as: make maintenance and clearing of 1 be considered acceptable than one blockages more complicated. which closely follows the length of the • the absence of sunlight, natural watercourse. Buffer zones should be banks and vegetation means that 3.250. For these reasons, sites for new planted with native species that are culverts are not usually able to development with existing culverts naturally found by local riversides. sustain significant life will be expected to investigate It should not form domestic land or the feasibility of de-culverting parking areas of any kind, but may • changes in the channel dynamics the watercourse. Where bridges form part of the requisite GI for new resulting from the flow are focused are proposed as an alternative 2 developments. into a particular route to culverting, the construction method should take into account 3.248. Watercourses should be • culverts are often protected from the importance of maintaining an designed into the development to blockage by screens, which usually obstruction free bank for wildlife. create a safe space, overlooked by, and makes the culvert impenetrable to where possible, fronted by, dwellings animals such as otter, water voles, 3.251. It should be noted that in or other buildings, and forming an fish and invertebrates addition to any planning permission, 3 attractive part of the development with consent is required from either the a positive impact on the visual amenity • culverts can prevent the movement Environment Agency or the Lead and character of the settlement. of species along the river corridor Local Flood Authority to carry out any and lead to animals, such as otters work within 8 metres of a watercourse. Culverts and other large mammals, being forced onto roads in order to seek 3.249. Culverting a watercourse has food and shelter. Not only can this an impact on the ecology of the lead to animal deaths, it can also 4 watercourse by removing habitat and lead to road traffic incidents, and fragmenting the channel and its river corridor. All opportunities to de-culvert • culverting can significantly increase

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Public Rights of Way, National Thames Path. Trails and Open Access Areas Development Policy 31: Protection of Public Rights of 3.254. The Ridgeway is one of the Way, National Trails and Open Access Areas Protection of Public Rights of Way, oldest routes in Europe. The trail Development on and / or over public rights of way will be permitted National Trails and Open Access runs from Overton Hill, near Avebury where the development can be designed to accommodate satisfactorily Areas in , to Ivinghoe Beacon the existing route, or where the right of way is incorporated into the in , and offers development site as an attractive, safe and continuous route. Alternative 3.252. Public Rights of Way, National attractive views and, in most places, routes will need to be made equally or more attractive, safe and Trails and designated Open Access a sense of remoteness to visitors and convenient to rights of way users. Areas are an important resource for residents in the Vale. health and well-being, recreational The Council will actively seek opportunities to improve the accessibility and tourism activities and for their 3.255. The Thames Path is a long and the addition of new connections and status upgrades to the existing tranquillity, landscape, ecological and distance walking trail, following the rights of way network, including National Trails. Proposals of this nature historical significance to the Vale. route of the River Thames. Starting will be supported where they would not lead to increased pressure on Such routes and areas also provide from its source in the , the sensitive sites, such as those of important ecological value. both residents and visitors to the route passes features such as water Vale with an opportunity to access, meadows and the historic Market Development will not be permitted where proposals remove, narrow or enjoy and experience the diversity of Town of Abingdon-on-Thames. materially impair the approved line of the Thames Path or Ridgeway farmed and open countryside areas National Trails, key connecting routes, and / or public access to them. used for a number of recreational 3.256. The Council supports the activities, including walking, cycling continued need to protect and and horse-riding. further enhance these long-distance recreational paths. National Trails Public Rights of Way 3.253. National Trails are long distance routes designated under legislation, 3.257. National policy recognises two of which run through the Vale. Public Rights of Way as an important These are the Ridgeway and the component of sustainable transport

118 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities

links that should be protected or Open Access Areas 3.263. The Part 2 plan sets out be improved for all users, including enhanced. Paragraph 75 of the NPPF Development Policy 31: Protection provision for people with physical requires councils to seek opportunities 3.260. Open Access Areas are of Public Rights of Way, National disabilities. Alternative provision must 1 to provide better facilities for rights of identified in the Countryside and Trails and Open Access Areas meet the statutory tests and legal way users by adding links to existing Rights of Way Act 2000 as areas of to ensure development proposals process and be necessary to enable rights of way networks, including open country and / or common land. improve access to rights of way that development130. This policy also National Trails126. These areas are important to the Vale are safe and attractive. Developers ensures the continued protection of in providing for a range of recreational will also be encouraged to consider National Trails and key connections. 3.258. The Oxfordshire Rights of Way activities including walking, sight- how access to rights of way can Management Plan 2015-2025127, seeing, bird watching, climbing and produced by Oxfordshire County running. 2 Council, sets out the vision for the management and improvement of 3.261. The areas of Open Access land access to the rights of way network are defined and mapped by Natural by identifying opportunities for England128, with additional mapping by improvements to the network. Oxfordshire County Council to show access points and permissive linking 3.259. The Council will seek to routes­129. 3 protect public rights of way and long- distance footpaths so that the routes 3.262. Core Policy 37: Design and their existing recreational and and Local Distinctiveness in the amenity value are not undermined Part 1 plan and the Design Guide by new development. Opportunities SPD, ensures proposals for new to improve the access to, and the development are of a high-quality addition of links to the existing rights design that meets recreational needs, of way network, including National including the need to link or integrate 4 Trails, will be supported. Public Rights of Way with the existing The Causeway, Steventon development pattern.

126Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 75 127Oxfordshire County Council (2014) Oxfordshire Rights of Way Management Plan 2015-2025, available at: https:// www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/residents/environment-and-planning/countryside/countryside-access/rights-way-management-plan 128Natural England (2017) CRoW & Coastal Access Maps, available at: http://www.openaccess.naturalengland. org.uk/wps/portal/oasys/maps/MapSearch 129Oxfordshire County Council (2017) Countryside Access Maps, available at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/countryside-access-maps 130Section 257 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990

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Wilts and Berks Canal Canal as a navigable waterway to 3.268. The historic line of the Wilts and from the historic line to the south of deliver a community asset and GI Berks Canal should be safeguarded Abingdon will also be safeguarded 3.264. The Wilts & Berks Canal is corridor, linking Wiltshire, Swindon from development that would in accordance with Development an important historic feature in the and Oxfordshire. prejudice the canal’s restoration. Policy 32: Wilts and Berks Canal. landscape and links the River Thames If future development were to come at Abingdon-on-Thames with the 3.266. Restoration works have been 3.269. Development Policy 32: forward to the south of Abingdon, the Kennet and Avon Canal at Semington undertaken on sections of the canal that Wilts and Berks Canal safeguards route of the canal will be reviewed near Melksham. The historic route are located within the Vale, including at the historic route of the canal. The through a masterplanning process of the canal crosses the Vale from Shrivenham, Wantage, Grove, Drayton policy also ensures that proposals for in accordance with Core Policy 38: south of Shrivenham, passing through and the creation of a new junction at restoring the canal demonstrate that Design Strategies for Strategic the settlements of Uffington, West Abingdon. These restored sections the potential impacts of restoration and Major Development Sites in the Challow, East Challow, Wantage and now provide a valuable ecological and on the existing wildlife and natural Local Plan 2031: Part 1. Grove, to Abingdon-on-Thames. The nature conservation resource. The environment have been fully historic line of the Wilts and Berks full reinstatement of the canal’s entire considered, both locally and as part 3.271. Proposals for the restoration Canal is identified on the Adopted towpath would enhance the route’s of the whole restoration scheme. The of the canal must take into account Policies Map. recreational and socio-economic value. policy ensures that invasive non- the status and objectives of relevant native species have been considered existing waterbodies in the area, as 3.265. The canal ceased to function as 3.267. The Council supports in in terms of their presence in existing set out in the Thames River Basin a navigable route in 1914 and the Wilts principle the restoration of the Wilts reaches of the canal, and how their Management Plan (2015), prepared & Berks Canal Trust is now working & Berks Canal located within the spread, through any newly connected under the Water Framework Directive. to a long-term vision towards the full Vale. Once restored, the canal reaches of the canal network, will be The proposals will need to identify restoration of the canal. Wiltshire, would bring significant benefits in prevented. where the source of water will be Swindon and Oxfordshire Canal terms of attracting visitors to the obtained from to ensure that it will not Partnership has recently published Vale, contributing towards the local 3.270. The future restoration of the have a detrimental impact on existing its Restoration Strategy for the economy, promoting sustainable canal will follow the historic route waterbodies, or aquatic and semi- completion and future development transport, including for pedestrians, as shown on the Adopted Policies aquatic habitats of the Wilts & Berks Canal131. This cyclists and horse riders, and Map. As the historic route to the strategy sets out the Partnership’s providing an important element of the south of Abingdon has already 3.272. The preparation of masterplans vision to restoring the Wilts & Berks strategic GI network in the district. been developed, an exception and supporting documents will assist

131Wiltshire, Swindon and Oxfordshire Canal Partnership (2015) A Restoration Strategy for the Completion and Future Development of the Wilts & Berks Canal; available at: http://www.canalpartnership.org.uk/index.php/restoration-strategy

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Development Policy 32: Wilts and Berks Canal 1

The Council will continue to safeguard a continuous route corridor for Proposals for the reinstatement of the canal along its historic alignment restoration of the Wilts & Berks Canal using the historic line wherever will need to demonstrate that the cultural, historic and natural environment possible, as identified on the Adopted Policies Map. will be protected and enhanced, with no overall adverse effect, and that potential impacts on ecology, landscape, flood risk, water resources The Council will support schemes for the restoration of the canal in line (abstraction) and water quality have been fully assessed and taken into with the delivery plan identified in the Wiltshire, Swindon & Oxfordshire account. Proposals for the reinstatement of discrete sections of the canal Canal Partnership Restoration Strategy by: will also need to demonstrate that the potential environmental impacts 2 of the restoration project as a whole have been assessed and taken into i. ensuring that development protects the integrity of the canal corridor account. alignment and its associated structures ii. ensuring that where the canal is affected by development, the Where directly related to the development, financial contributions may be alignment is protected or an alternative alignment is provided, and sought via legal agreements towards the improvement or restoration of iii. ensuring associated infrastructure of development does not prejudice the related canal and towpaths and appropriate mitigation. the delivery of the canal.

Proposals designed to develop the canal’s recreational and nature 3 conservation potential, in particular, the use of the old line of the canal for walking and cycling, will be supported. the consideration of the likely overall an application to demonstrate that the access to the Wilts and Berks Canal. impacts of the canal restoration spread of invasive non-native species, Development proposals located on scheme and how to minimise or and the disturbance to the existing or adjacent to the route of the canal mitigate any likely negative effects. ecology and water supply have been will be expected to contribute towards 4 fully considered. the improvement or restoration of 3.273. The Council is likely to the canal. Financial contributions expect a developer to undertake an 3.274. The Council will support will have to comply with relevant Environmental Assessment as part of appropriate measures to improve legislation and national advice.

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Leisure Policies Major Commercial Leisure Facilities Development Policy 33: Open Space 3.275. Open space, leisure and sports facilities make a valuable contribution 3.278. Major commercial leisure towards improving the health and facilities such as sports halls, a. Proposals for majora residential developments will be required to well-being of local communities and swimming pools and cinemas are provide or contribute towards safe, attractive and accessible open increasing opportunities for social considered as main town centre space in accordance with the open space standards as set out in interaction across the district. uses as reflected by Core Policy Appendix K including: 32: Retail Development and other i. children’s play and youth provision 3.276. The Part 1 plan seeks to Main Town Centre Uses, as set ii. public open space (15% of the residential area), and improve the health and well-being out in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1. iii. allotments. of Vale residents by ensuring The policy is based on a sequential development is supported by a approach, which aims to locate these b. Development of open space will only be permitted provided that: sufficient range of services and types of development within the town facilities, creating well designed and centre boundaries wherever possible. iv. when assessed against the Open Spaces Report, it is clearly shown attractive places and protecting and This approach is consistent with that the open space is surplus to requirements; or enhancing the natural environment. paragraphs 23, 24, 26 and 27 of the v. the loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced by NPPF132. equivalent or better provision in terms of scale, quantity and quality in a 3.277. The Part 2 plan provides suitable and accessible location; or detailed policies that focus on new vi. the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the provision of open space, leisure and needs for which clearly outweigh the loss; or sports facilities, protecting existing vii. the proposed development is ancillary to the main use of the site and facilities, and providing support for strengthens its public open space function. small-scale recreational facilities within the countryside. aAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010.

132Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Paragraph 23, 24, 26 and 27

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Open Space, Leisure and be enjoyed by residents and visitors of 3.283. A combined standard for Development proposals that result in Sports Facilities the Vale alike. amenity green space, parks the loss of open space will need to and gardens will apply for new demonstrate that the proposal would 1 Open Space 3.281. Amenity green space also developments to ensure multi- either provide a community benefit or forms part of public open space functional green space is incorporated that alternative provision of equal or 3.279. Open space can be defined as and this is recognised as informal and designed appropriately. better value will be provided. primarily open land, whether green or recreational spaces, communal hard surfaced, that offers important green spaces in and around housing 3.284. In order to ensure that adequate opportunities for sport and recreation, developments, and village greens. new provision is made and existing as well as providing visual amenity. Their primary purpose is to improve deficiencies are not exacerbated, Open space can include, but is not and enhance the appearance of the the Council will require the provision 2 limited to: areas of public open space local environment and to enhance the of open space in association with that have a recreational function (e.g. well-being of residents. new development in line with parks, gardens and amenity green Development Policy 33: Open space); children’s play and youth 3.282. There is a good level of access Space. provision (e.g. designated equipped to a range of open spaces across the playing space); and allotments. district, although the provision of open 3.285. Major development proposals Full definitions of the types of open space does vary within individual will need to provide or contribute 3 space provision within the Vale are settlements. The Vale of White Horse towards public open space that is contained within Appendix K. Open Spaces Report133 highlights safe, accessible and of high quality, in where any shortfalls in open space accordance with the standards set out 3.280. Parks and gardens form part provision exist across the district in Appendix K. 15% of the proposed of public open space and are defined and provides an assessment of the residential area should be provided as as formal green spaces that include: quantity, quality, and accessibility public open space. urban parks; country parks; forest of open spaces, and identifies any parks; and formal gardens. They future requirements for the provision 3.286. The Council will continue 4 provide accessible, high quality usable of children’s play and youth provision to protect existing open spaces in public open space for informal and and allotments. accordance with Development formal recreational activities that can Policy 33: Open Space.

133Vale of White Horse District Council (2016) Open Spaces Report, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

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Leisure and Sports Facilities applicants to inform their proposals. Development Policy 34: Leisure and Sports Facilities 3.287. Access to both indoor and 3.289. The provision of leisure and outdoor leisure and sports facilities is sports facilities will be determined important to allow local communities in accordance with Development a. New housing developments will be required to provide or contribute and residents to participate in sporting Policy 34: Leisure and Sports towards indoor and outdoor leisure and sports facilities in accordance activities and contribute towards Facilities and the application of with the local standards as set out in Appendix K. their health and well-being. Outdoor the local standards contained in On sites of major developmenta financial contributions towards providing or sports facilities can include: natural Appendix K. improving off-site provision will be required. or artificial playing pitches; bowling greens; tennis courts and Multi Use 3.290. Developers will be expected to b. Development of existing leisure and sports facilities will only be Game Areas (MUGA’s). Indoor sports refer to the Council’s Priority Action permitted provided that: facilities can include: sports halls; Plan136, which identifies the specific swimming pools; athletics tracks; and projects and future priorities for sport i. when assessed against the Leisure Facilities Study, Local Leisure gyms. Full definitions of the types of and leisure facilities in the Vale. Facilities Study and / or Playing Pitch Study, it is clearly shown that sports and leisure facilities within the the leisure and / or sport facility is surplus to requirements; or Vale are provided in Appendix K. 3.291. Where more than one ii. the loss resulting from the proposed development would be development is taking place on replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of scale, quantity 3.288. The Vale has a good level of adjoining sites, the Council will and quality in a suitable and accessible location; or provision and access to a range of expect developers to consider how iii. the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, leisure and sports facilities. The Vale the provision of sports and leisure the needs for which clearly outweigh the loss; or of White Horse Playing Pitch Study134 facilities can be coordinated locally. iv. the proposed development is ancillary to the main use of the site and the Vale of White Horse Leisure and strengthens its function. Facilities Study135 provide an up- a to-date assessment of the quality, As defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010. quantity, and accessibility of each type of leisure and sport facility in the district. The most recent and up-to- date studies should be utilised by

134Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Playing Pitch Study, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 135Vale of White Horse District Council (2014) Leisure and Sports Facilities Study 2013-2031, available at: www. whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP1; Vale of White Horse District Council (2016) Local Leisure Facilities Study, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 136The Priority Action Plan is set out in the Council’s up to date Playing Pitch Study and Leisure and Sports Facilities Study.

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New Countryside Recreation related to the visitor economy within Proposals need to demonstrate Facilities the Oxford Green Belt or the North there is no harm to the AONB, Green

Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Belt, heritage assets and that the 1 3.292. The countryside is used Natural Beauty (AONB), provided it settlement character and ecology of extensively for informal recreational respects the scale and character of the area is respected. activities, such as walking, cycling, the locality and is consistent with running, riding and fishing. National other relevant policies set out in the policy and guidance makes clear the Development Plan. importance of supporting sustainable rural tourism and leisure activities, 3.295. The Council will support especially where they benefit proposals for small scale recreational 2 communities and visitors. facilities in the countryside that may include the provision of small picnic 3.293. The Part 1 plan seeks to sites, roadside parking areas, viewing Development Policy 35: New Countryside support a strong and sustainable points and interpretation facilities. Recreation Facilities economy, recognising the role that Proposals should consider how the Vale’s open countryside and access can be improved for all users surrounding rural settlements can play including provision for those with Development proposals for small scale countryside recreational facilities 3 in promoting a visitor economy, whilst mobility impairments. will be supported, provided that: improving the health and well-being of i. it does not harm the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural residents and visitors alike. 3.296. In line with Core Policy 31: Beauty and / or its setting Development to Support the Visitor ii. it is consistent with Core Policy 13: Green Belt 3.294. Core Policy 31: Development Economy, the Local Plan 2031: Part iii. it does not adversely impact on heritage assets to Support the Visitor Economy 2 sets out Development Policy iv. it is located within good access to public transport and will not impact encourages new development to 35: New Countryside Recreation on the existing Public Rights of Way Network advance the visitor economy for leisure Facilities to provide support for 4 and business purposes. The policy small scale proposals for recreational v. it respects the settlement character, locality and intrinsic beauty, and supports small-scale development facilities in the open countryside. vi. it does not harm the ecology of the area.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 125 3 Development Management Policies

The Historic Environment Monuments, Conservation Areas and Registered Parks and Gardens. Heritage Assets Development Policy 36: Heritage Assets 3.300. The Part 1 plan seeks to ensure 3.297. The Vale of White Horse all new development conserves benefits from substantial heritage and enhances the natural, historic, assets that make a positive cultural and landscape assets of the Proposals for new development that may affect heritage assets contribution towards the district’s Vale. Core Policy 39: The Historic (designated and non-designated) must demonstrate that they conserve local character and distinctiveness. Environment sets a framework and enhance the special interest or significance of the heritage asset and They also have wider social, cultural, to ensure proposals conserve its setting in accordance with Core Policy 39 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1), economic and environmental benefits and enhance heritage assets in and particularly where they: by encouraging community pride and accordance with national policy and i. make a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness and / promoting tourism. legislation. or ii. make a positive contribution towards wider social and economic 3.298. National policy and guidance 3.301. The Part 2 plan incorporates benefits and / or places significant emphasis on the Development Policy 36: Heritage iii. provide a viable future use for a heritage asset that is consistent with need to conserve heritage assets Assets, which sets out how the conservation of its significance, and / or in a manner appropriate to their development proposals will be iv. provide a sustainable, non-damaging use for a heritage asset that is significance, so they can be enjoyed considered in the context of the social, currently at risk of neglect, decay or other threats. and continue to contribute towards environmental, cultural and economic the quality of life of current and future significance of the assets. Heritage assets are an irreplaceable resource, and will be conserved in a generations. manner appropriate to their significance, so that they can be enjoyed for 3.302. The Oxfordshire Historic their contribution to the quality of life of existing and future generations. 3.299. Heritage assets may be Landscape Characterisation (HLC) classified as either Designated or prepared by Oxfordshire County Continued overpage Non-Designated and both can be Council and Historic England important to consider through the forms part of the evidence base to planning process. Heritage assets support the Local Plan 2031 and include Listed Buildings, Scheduled will be a material consideration

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in the determination of planning 3.304. Development proposals should applications137. The HLC helps also take into account the principles set

Development Policy 36: Heritage Assets to inform our understanding and out in the Council’s Design Guide SPD. 1 (continued from previous page) management of the Vale’s historic landscape. The study examines 3.305. The Council will make information When considering the impact of a proposed development on the the historical and archaeological about the significance of the historic significance of a designated heritage asset, great weight will be given to processes that have influenced the environment gathered as part of plan- the asset’s conservation (and the more important the asset, the greater landscape and helps identify the making or development management the weight that will be given). This is irrespective of whether any potential specific characteristics that make the publicly accessible. harm amounts to substantial harm, total loss or less than substantial Vale’s landscape locally distinctive. 2 harms to its significance. The Oxfordshire Historic Environment Record (HER) provides an overview Any harm to, or loss of, the significance of a designated heritage asset will of the historic environment and require clear and convincing justification. archaeological monuments and features in the district. In weighing applications that directly, or indirectly affect non-designated heritage assets, a balanced judgement will be made having regard to the 3.303. Developers should refer to sources of information on the historic scale of any harm or loss and the significance of the heritage asset. 3 environment such as the HLC, the 138 These judgements will be made in accordance with national policy. HER , the National Heritage List for England139 and, where relevant, Developers will also be expected to report, publish and deposit the results Conservation Area Character of any investigations into heritage assets with the Historic Environment Appraisals, early on to ensure Record (HER) and the relevant local and county authorities. their proposals are based on an understanding of the significance of any heritage assets that may be affected. 4

137Oxfordshire County Council and Historic England (2017) Oxfordshire Historic Landscape Characterisation Project, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/oxfordshire-historic-landscape-characterisation-project 138Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Historic Environment Record, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/historic-environment-record 139Historic England (2017) The National Heritage List for England, available at: https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/hpg/heritage-assets/nhle/

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Conservation Areas example can be found on the east 3.310. Proposals that would lead to appropriately designed to reflect the side of Stert Street in Abingdon-on- the harm or loss of a non-designated Conservation Area’s special interest 3.306. Conservation Areas are Thames. This distinctive pattern of heritage asset, including those on and character and its surrounding designated due to their historic or development, of tightly knit narrow the local list, will be assessed in features. architectural interest. They form buildings with rear plots, makes a accordance with Development Policy an important and visible part of the positive contribution towards the 36, Development Policy 37 (where 3.313. Historic shopfronts are a finite Vale’s cultural heritage and enhance character and local distinctiveness of relevant) and national policy. resource, which should be restored the attractiveness of individual the area. or preserved where possible. settlements for residents and visitors 3.311. Development Policy Proposals for new shopfronts, or the alike. 3.309. Core Policy 39: The 37: Conservation Areas sets alteration to an existing shopfront, Historic Environment sets out the out measures to ensure that within commercial centres should 3.307. As required under Section 69 Council’s approach to planning for Conservation Areas are protected ensure the design reflects the special (1) of the Planning (Listed Buildings Conservation Areas, for example, from inappropriate development. interest and traditional characteristics and Conservation Areas) Act setting out a commitment to prepare Proposals located in a designated of existing shopfronts within the 1990, the Council has designated Conservation Area Character Conservation Area will need to satisfy settlement in accordance with the Conservation Areas to cover parts Appraisals and Management Plans. a number of criteria to show it can Design Guide SPD and Development of the district that are of special The Council continues to review the conserve or enhance the special Policy 37: Conservation Areas. architectural or historic interest. There district’s Conservation Areas and interest, character and appearance are 52 Conservation Areas in the will prepare or update Conservation of the asset. This can include the Vale. These are listed in Appendix E. Area Character Appraisals on a setting of the Conservation Area, the rolling basis140. The Council will resist relationship with the landscape, the 3.308. The pattern of development development proposals that would local character and distinctiveness, in a locality may contribute to a lead to harming Conservation Areas. or the wider social and environmental Conservation Area’s special interest. As part of this process, buildings, effects. For example, some of the older parts structures and features that are of of the Vale’s towns and villages reflect particular interest will be identified 3.312. Developers should also take patterns of development created by and added to the list of such assets into account the relevant principles burgage plots (medieval rental plots developed under Core Policy 39.141 set out in the Council’s Design with long narrow curtilages). An Guide SPD to ensure proposals are

140 Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 141 Historic England (2016) Local Heritage Listing: Historic England Advice Note 7, available at: https://historicengland.org.uk/images-books/publications/local-heritage- listing-advice-note-7/

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Development Policy 37: Conservation Areas 1

Proposals for development within or affecting the setting of a Conservation v. be sympathetic to important spaces such as paddocks, greens, Area must demonstrate that it will conserve or enhance its special interest, gardens and other gaps or spaces between buildings which make a character, setting and appearance. Development will be expected to: positive contribution to the pattern of development in the conservation area i. demonstrate that it contributes to the conservation area’s special vi. ensure the wider social and environmental effects generated by interest and its relationship within its setting the development are compatible with the existing character and ii. take into account important views within, into or out of the conservation appearance of the conservation area, and 2 area and show that these would be retained and unharmed vii. ensure no loss of or harm to any building or feature that makes a iii. respect the local character and distinctiveness of the conservation area positive contribution to the special interest, character or appearance of in terms of the development’s: siting; size; scale; height; alignment; the conservation area unless the development would make an equal or materials and finishes (including colour and texture); proportions; greater contribution in terms of public benefit. design; and form, in accordance with the Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document and any relevant Conservation Area Character Wherever possible the sympathetic conservation or restoration and re-use Appraisal of structures which make a positive contribution to the special interest, 3 iv. be sympathetic to the original curtilage of the dwelling and pattern of character or appearance of the Conservation Area, will be encouraged to development that forms part of the historic interest of the conservation prevent harm through the cumulative loss of features that are an asset to area the Conservation Area.

4

Vale of White Horse District Council 129 3 Development Management Policies

Listed Buildings Building should be exceptional and would require convincing Development Policy 38: Listed Buildings 3.314. The Vale has over 2000 justification in terms of public listed buildings, ranging from benefit. Applications involving country houses to cottages and listed buildings should describe the Proposals for additions or alterations to, or the demolition of, a Listed includes structures such as bridges, significance of any heritage assets Building (including partial demolition), and/or for development within the memorials, telephone kiosks and affected, proportionate to the asset’s curtilage, and/or within the setting of, a Listed Building must demonstrate gravestones. significance and the proposal. In that they will preserve or enhance its special architectural or historic some circumstances, further surveys interest and significance. 3.315. A listed building is contained and analysis may be required prior in the National Heritage List for to the application being determined. Proposals directly affecting a Listed Building must demonstrate that they England142. Listing identifies a building Heritage Statements, Statements of will be sympathetic to the Listed Building and its setting in terms of its as showing special architectural and Significance and Impact Assessments siting, size, scale, height, alignment, materials and finishes (including historic interest, and gives it statutory should be produced in line with colour and texture), design, form and character, in order to retain the protection so that it can be protected current best practice and relevant special interest that justifies its designation through appropriate design, for future generations. national guidance. in accordance with Core Policy 37 and the Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document. 3.316. The listing of a building applies 3.318. Core Policy 39: The Historic to the interior as well as exterior, and Environment seeks to conserve and Proposals within the setting of a Listed Building must demonstrate that includes any object or structure fixed enhance designated heritage assets, they will: to the building, or that forms part including Listed Buildings. Proposals of the land143. Listed Buildings form that would harm the significance of i. respect, preserve or enhance features that contribute to the special part of our communal heritage; their such assets and their setting will be interest and significance of the building, including, where relevant, outward appearance and internal resisted in line with Core Policy 39: structures and trees, the historic curtilage or context, such as burgage make-up contributes to the local Historic Environment and national plots, parkland or fields or its value within a group and / or its setting, distinctiveness of the Vale’s historic guidance. such as the importance of a street frontage or traditional shopfronts, landscape. designed landscapes or historic farmyards. 3.319. Development Policy 38: 3.317. The NPPF makes clear Listed Buildings provides further Continued overpage that any harm or loss of a Listed guidance to ensure applicants

142 Historic England (2017) The National Heritage List for England, available at: https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/hpg/heritage-assets/nhle/ 143 Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990

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Development Policy 38: Listed Buildings (continued from previous page) 1 Proposals for the change of use of a Listed Building or building within its curtilage will be viewed favourably where it can be demonstrated that the new use can be accommodated in a manner appropriate to its significance and historic character without any adverse effect on the special architectural or historic interest of the building and its appearance or character. 2 demonstrate that proposals within 3.321. Any alteration or extension or affecting the setting of a Listed to a Listed Building must take into Building would enhance their account its significance and special significance, whilst respecting architectural and historic interest, the existing local character and and should not detract from or distinctiveness. overwhelm the existing building. 3 Extensions or new development in the 3.320. Proposals for the partial or curtilage of a Listed Building should total demolition of a Listed Building normally be clearly subservient to will only be permitted in exceptional the original building in appearance, circumstances in accordance with with appropriate textures and colours national policy144, provided an of materials to protect or enhance applicant can demonstrate that its the historic significance taking into significance would not be diminished account the Council’s Design Guide 4 and no pertinent details of its SPD and any other relevant guidance. appearance or construction would be 13th-century stone barn, lost.

144 Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 132

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3.322. Applications for reasonable Park or Garden will be assessed Vale’s distinctive landscape. Castle. adjustments to Listed Buildings in accordance with Development to improve access for people with Policy 36: Heritage Assets and 3.327. The Vale also contains a wealth 3.329. Some nationally important mobility issues or disabilities, which Paragraphs 132 and 133 of the NPPF. of ancient settlements including those sites are selected for protection would not otherwise significantly from the prehistoric period, the Roman as Scheduled Monuments by the harm the fabric of the building and, Archaeology and Scheduled occupation and the Saxon, Norman government on the advice of Historic if necessary, could be removed Monuments and medieval periods. Examples England. At present there are 69 without harm to the significance of of sites of archaeological interest Scheduled Monuments within the the building at a later date, will be 3.325. Archaeological remains are a include the Neolithic Long Barrow at district. Scheduled Monuments considered favourably. finite and irreplaceable resource that Wayland Smithy, the Iron Age hillfort are given statutory protection represent a unique record of past at , the Roman temple under the Ancient Monuments and Registered Parks and Gardens times. The remains are often fragile at Frilford, the lost medieval villages Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which and highly vulnerable to damage at Seacourt and Tulwick (near Grove) requires consent to be obtained from 3.323. The Vale of White Horse District and disruption by development or and the White Horse itself, thought to the Secretary of State for any works has eight Registered Parks and agricultural activity. date from the . that affect them. These are listed in Gardens that are identified by Historic Appendix F. England on the National Heritage List 3.326. The Vale has an important 3.328. A network of historic routes also for England145. These are shown on archaeological heritage, with remains exist as an archaeological feature, 3.330. Some non-scheduled the Adopted Policies Map and listed dating back to prehistoric times, and ranging from pre-historic tracks such archaeological sites may in Appendix G. There are also many is home to an extensive range of as The Ridgeway, Roman roads, demonstrably be of equivalent non-designated historic parks and archaeological features, including medieval coffin ways, salt roads, and significance to Scheduled Monuments gardens of local interest. The Council burial mounds, field systems, historic droveways, to later turnpike roads, and should be considered subject will seek to work with Oxfordshire routes and ancient settlements. The historic waterways and canals. These to the policies for Scheduled Gardens Trust and others to establish majority of these features are buried routes are integrated into the Vale’s Monuments. Other non-designated a local list of historic parks and below ground, although there are landscape and serve an important archaeological assets are protected gardens. some features, for example, The function in linking settlements and under the government’s policy on Barn at Great Coxwell, which are forming a unique setting for the Vale’s non-designated heritage assets146 3.324. Proposals that would lead to situated above ground that provide a distinctive landscape features, such and Core Policy: 39 The Historic the harm or total loss of a Registered significant contribution towards the as White Horse Hill and Uffington Environment in the Part 1 plan.

145Historic England (2017) The National Heritage List for England (NHLE); available at: https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/ 146Department for Communities and Local Government (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 139

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Development Policy 39: Archaeology and Scheduled Monuments 1

Development will be permitted where it can be shown that it would not be of the NPPF apply. detrimental to the site or setting of Scheduled Monuments or nationally For other archaeological remains, the effect of a development proposal important designated or non-designated archaeological remains. on the significance of the remains, either directly or indirectly, will be When researching the development potential of a site, applicants will be taken into account in determining the application. As such assets are also expected to undertake an assessment of appropriate detail to determine irreplaceable, the presumption will be in favour of the avoidance of harm. The scale of the harm or loss will be weighed against this presumption whether the site is known or is likely to contain archaeological remains, and 2 demonstrate how the development proposals have had regard to any such and the significance of the heritage asset. remains. Where harm to or loss of significance to the asset is considered to be Where the assessment indicates known archaeological remains on site, justified, the harm should be minimised and mitigated by a programme and development could disturb or adversely affect important archaeological of archaeological investigation, including excavation, recording and remains and / or their setting, applicants will be expected to: analysis. Planning permission will not be granted until this programme has been submitted to, and approved by, the local planning authority, i. submit an appropriate archaeological desk-based assessment, or and development should not commence until these works have been 3 ii. undertake a field evaluation (conducted by a suitably qualified, satisfactorily undertaken by an appropriately qualified organisation. The archaeological organisation) where necessary. results and analysis of findings subsequent to the investigation should be published and made available to the Historic Environment Record (HER) Nationally important archaeological remains (whether scheduled or and the relevant local and county authorities. demonstrably of equivalent significance) should be preserved in situ. Development proposals that would lead to substantial harm or total loss of significance of such remains will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances where: 4 iii. it can be clearly and convincingly demonstrated that the substantial harm or loss is necessary to achieve substantial public benefits that outweigh that harm or loss, or all of the circumstances in paragraph 133

Vale of White Horse District Council 133 3 Development Management Policies

3.331. The Part 1 plan ensures that 3.334. Proposals will need to 3.336. Development proposals that new development conserves and demonstrate that development are likely to lead to the substantial enhances designated heritage would not have a detrimental harm or total loss of significance of assets and non–designated heritage impact on the site and / or its nationally important archaeological assets and their setting, including setting. An assessment should be remains will be assessed against Scheduled Monuments and assets of undertaken that refers to records the criteria in Development Policy archaeological importance. such as the Oxfordshire Historic 39: Archaeology and Scheduled Landscape Characterisation (HLC) Monuments, in particular the need to 3.332. Developers are encouraged and Oxfordshire County Council’s demonstrate that the substantial harm to take into account Core Policy Historic Environment Record (HER) or loss is necessary to achieve public 39: The Historic Environment and to determine whether a site has or is benefits that outweigh that harm or the Oxfordshire Historic Landscape likely to contain known archaeological loss. Characterisation Project (published remains. by Oxfordshire County Council and 3.337. Proposals affecting other Historic England) when considering 3.335. Depending on the outcome of archaeological remains will be proposals for development. this assessment, developers may assessed by the Council based on be required to submit an appropriate the degree of harm to the significance 3.333. In line with Core Policy archaeological desk-top based of the asset versus the public benefits 39: The Historic Environment, assessment or a field evaluation of the development proposal. Development Policy 39: conducted by a suitably qualified Archaeology and Scheduled archaeological organisation for 3.338. Where the substantial Monuments provides greater instances where there are known harm or loss to such assets is guidance to support the conservation archaeological remains on site. In the justified, the Council will expect the and enhancement of Scheduled event that significant archaeological developer to minimise the harm Monuments, nationally important materials are discovered once works through appropriate mitigation archaeological remains and other are commenced, the developer measures, including a programme of non-designated archaeological sites should contact Oxfordshire County archaeological investigation, agreed that are of demonstrably equivalent Council’s archaeological officer for by the Council, based on excavations, significance. further advice. recording and analysis.

134 Vale of White Horse District Council Overview This chapter sets out a detailed monitoring framework to ensure the plan 4 policies are delivered. It sets out: • what will be delivered by each policy • targets to monitor progress towards achieving the Strategic Objectives Implementing as set out in Local Plan 2031: Part 1, and 1 • what action we will take if the policies do not deliver in accordance with the targets. the Plan The implementation of the plan will be reported against the targets through the Authority’s Monitoring Report.

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Chalk Horse, White Horse Hill near Uffington 4 Implementing the Plan

Introduction Enterprise Partnership, neighbouring authorities, developers, infrastructure 4.1. Monitoring the Local Plan 2031 providers, local communities and Core Policy 47a: Delivery and Contingency policies is important to ensure they interest groups and other organisations are effectively being delivered, that relating to the ‘Duty to Cooperate’. they continue to be relevant to the Core Policy 47a will work in tandem with Core Policy 47 to ensure local area, and meet the requirements 4.5. The Council will publish effective monitoring of both Local Plan 2031: Part 1 and Local Plan of national planning policy. information at least annually to 2031: Part 2. 4.2. This chapter sets out how show progress with Local Plan If the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 policies are not delivered in accordance we will implement the strategy and implementation in its Authority with the Monitoring Framework set out in Appendix M the contingency includes clear arrangements for the Monitoring Report. measures identified in the Monitoring Framework will apply. delivery, monitoring and review of the plan and its policies. 4.6. The Council has included a As with Local Plan 2031: Part 1, if the development of the additional Monitoring Framework at Appendix sites and Sub Area Strategies identified in Local Plan 2031: Part 2 Delivery and Contingency M, which identifies how the Council is not taking place as envisaged, the Council, in conjunction with its will monitor the effectiveness and partners, will investigate the reasons for the situation and will implement 4.3. We will continue to work jointly implementation of the Local Plan 2031: appropriate action which may include one or more of the following: with stakeholders to deliver Local Part 2 for each policy. The Council i. seeking alternative sources of funding if a lack of infrastructure is Plan 2031 objectives. This will include recognises that appropriate action will delaying development or causing significant problems as a result of partnership working with both public need to be taken if implementation of new development; agencies and the private sector and the plan is clearly off track. ii. seeking to accelerate delivery on other permitted or allocated sites is necessary to ensure development iii. identifying alternative deliverable sites that are in general progresses in a manner consistent with 4.7. The Council is also aware accordance with the spatial strategy of the Part 1 Plan, through the the strategy identified in this plan. that the plan needs to be resilient to changing circumstances and be appropriate mechanisms; and if required iv. undertaking a partial or full review of the Local Plan 2031, if 4.4. To deliver the visions and flexible and responsive if the plan is investigation indicates that its strategy, either in whole or in part, is objectives in this plan, the Council will not delivering in accordance with the no longer appropriate. work collaboratively with key partners Monitoring Framework. Core Policy and stakeholders involved, this 47a: Delivery and Contingency, sets includes (and is not limited to) the Local out the Council’s intended approach.

136 Vale of White Horse District Council