Holsworthy Town Study
Core Strategy Evidence
September 2011
Contents
1. INTRODUCTION 3
2. OVERVIEW 3
3. MAJOR PLANNING 14 APPLICATIONS
4. SIZE, LAND USE AND 15 CHARACTER
5. CONSTRAINTS 15
6. RELATIONSHIPS TO 16 OTHER CENTRES
7. COMMUNITY 18
8. VISION 20
9. KEY ISSUES 21
10. POTENTIAL FOR 25 GROWTH
11. SPATIAL ISSUES 30
Holsworthy Town Study Contents
12. CONCLUSION 31
TABLES Table 1 : Population 4 Table 2 : Average Household 5 Income (2009) Table 3 : Benefit Claimants (May 5 2009) Table 4 : Development 6 Opportunities Table 5 : Sector Location 6 Quotients (2007) Table 6 : Unemployment 7 Claimants 2001 - 2011 Table 7 : Average House Prices 8 2001 - 2009 Table 8 : School Capacities and 10 Roll Forecasts (2011) Table 9 : Open Space (2010) 10 Table 10 : Landscape Types 11 (February 2011) Table 11 : Community Facilities 12 (June 2011) Table 12 : Summary of Issues 14 Table 13 : Significant Planning 15 Permissions (2011) Table 14 : Summary of Strategic 18 Plan Objectives (2011) Table 15 Identified Priority One 19 Projects (2011) Table 16 North Devon & Torridge Local Strategic Partnership 19 Federation Event - Identified Issues Table 17 : Provisional Housing 21 Requirements 2006 - 2026
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1 Introduction
1.1 This report provides an overview of the characteristics and issues which define the form and function of Holsworthy Town and how such could impact on the delivery of sustainable growth. The report presents a profile of Holsworthy that provides information and comment on such matters as: population, housing growth and needs, economic activity, service provision and infrastructure capacity, environmental considerations and development opportunities and constraints. It is through the examination of such matters that informed decisions will be enabled in relation to how best to accommodate the town’s future needs.
1.2 The purpose of the report is to support community focused consultation related to the North Devon and Torridge Joint Core Strategy. The Core Strategy being the first of the Local Development Framework development plan documents prepared by North Devon and Torridge District Councils. It is the most important document in determining how the area will evolve. Through the Core Strategy direction will be given to guide the location, form and scale of development that is required to achieve sustainable growth that will meet the areas long term needs.
1.3 It is essential that local aspirations are reflected through the Core Strategy vision and objectives. Through undertaking additional town focused consultation it is hoped that locally relevant and supported visions can be established for the towns of northern Devon. 2 Overview
2.1 Holsworthy is situated near the county border of Cornwall, in the south west of Torridge District. The town is located 26km (16 miles) southwest of Bideford, in the centre of an extensive agricultural area. Holsworthy lies at the intersection of the A388 and A3072, which provides important north-south and east-west links both within and beyond the District boundaries.
2.2 Holsworthy has had its market charter since the 12th Century. It is a typical market town with a modest population. The town benefits from a full range of social and community services, including weekly general and livestock markets, which support its role as an important rural service centre to a substantial rural hinterland. The town is characterised by a compact low rise centre focused on The Square, Fore Street and Bodmin Street and low-medium density housing to the west and north of the town centre. The valleys to the east and west along the River Deer help to define the town.
Population
2.3 The town has grown steadily over the last 20 years, with development to the east and west of the town centre. The parish population has increased by 48% over the period 1991 to 2010, providing an annualised increase of about 50 persons per year. In 1991 the population of Holsworthy was 1,890, rising to 2,255 in 2001 with a projected population of 2,795 in 2010. The rate of population growth being greatest over the period 2001-2010.
2.4 From 2001 to 2010 the population of Holsworthy has increased by 540 people. The rate of population increase in the Parish of Holsworthy, at 24% was significantly greater than that experienced in the other Torridge towns (Bideford, Northam and Great Torrington) and across the District as a whole. The variance in population growth across the referenced geographic areas is illustrated in Table 1.
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2.5 The age distribution within the Holsworthy population is generally characteristic of the wider geographic areas presented in Table 1. The proportion of the population within the age groups 0 – 19 and 40 – 59 is comparable to that of Torridge District and Devon. A degree of variance within the Holsworthy population does however occur through a lower than average proportion of the population being in the age band 40-59 and a significantly higher population proportion in the 80+ age band.
2.6 The increasing age of the areas population is reflective of a national trend. In 2008, 16% of the population of England was estimated to be aged 65 and over, within which the South West region was estimated to have the highest percentage of older persons at 19 %.
2.7 The population of Holsworthy is predicted to increase by 1,866 people(1) during the period 2006-2021, an increase of 13.7%. Within this increasing population, it is predicted that the total number of younger age groups (0-19) will decrease by 3.8%, the 20-44 age band will also reduce by 6% and the 45-65 age band will increase by 15.8%. In the older groups, 65 and above, an increase of 51.2% is predicted, but the greatest proportionate increase is expected to occur in the 70-74 age band.
Table 1 : Population
Other Torridge Holsworthy Torridge Devon Towns
Total Population
2001 2,255 31,292 58,965 1,136,500
2010 2,795 35,197 65,716 1,179,354
Change 540 3,905 6,751 42,854
% Change 23.9% 12.5% 11.4% 3.7%
Age Group Proportions (2010)
0 - 19 20.7% 21.5% 21% 21.5%
20 - 39 22.4% 21.7% 19.6% 23.9%
40 - 59 24.8% 27.3% 28.3% 27.2%
60 - 79 22.4% 23.2% 25% 21.4%
80+ 9.7% 6.3% 6.1% 6.0%
Total 100% 100% 100% 100%
Source: Office for National Statistics - Census (2001), South Devon Health Informatics Service - Family Health Services Authority (FHSA) (2010). Retrieved from: Devon Facts and
Figures (Devon County Council) - http://www.devon.gov.uk/index/councildemocracy/improving_our_services/facts_figures_and_statistics.htm
Income
2.8 Average household incomes in Torridge are the lowest of any Devon District. At £24,958 (2009), the Torridge average household income is £2,015 (8%) below the Devon average. The Holsworthy average household income at £23,994 is lower still, sitting at £964 (4%) below the District average and £2,979 (11%) below the Devon average. Table 2 illustrates geographic variance in average household incomes and the proportion of households with
1 Joint Strategic Needs Assessment Holsworthy Profile 2009: http://www.devon.gov.uk/jsna
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income levels below £15,000 and £20,000. It is clear that a high proportion of the population in Holsworthy are supported by incomes which fall considerably below the District and County levels.
Table 2 : Average Household Income (2009)
Household % Households % Households Total Income Average with an Income of with an Income of Households (Median) Less than £15,000 Less than £20,000
Torridge 29,362 £24,958 26.3% 35.1%
Devon County Council 31,804 £26,973 25.7% 34.3%
Holsworthy 1852 £23,994 28.8% 38.4%
Source: Household Income Average (Median) - CACI Paycheck data (2009) / CACI (2008).
Benefits
2.9 Benefit claims in Holsworthy exceed district, county and national levels both in respect of Income Support and Job Seekers Allowance. Levels for those aged 60 and above claiming Attendance Allowances or Pension Credit are similarly higher than the district, county and national levels (Table 3). This is likely to be linked to the high proportion of elderly or retirees and the areas low waged economy as evidenced by low household incomes (Table 2).
Table 3 : Benefit Claimants (May 2009)
Percentage of: Holsworthy Torridge Devon National
16 - 59 years olds claiming income support 5.9% 4.5% 3.9% 5.6%
16 - 64 year olds claiming jobs seekers allowance 3.1% 2.8% 2.0% 3.7%
Total Population claiming disability living allowance 3.7% 4.8% 4.2% 5.2%
65 and older claiming attendance allowance 22.3% 16.0% 17.3% 18.2%
60 and older claiming pension credit 25.1% 17.0% 15.3% 20.6%
Source:Department for Works and Pensions: retrieved from Holsworthy Devon Town Profile 2010 (DCC)
Employment
2.10 The Dobles Lane Industrial Estate, shown on Map 1, is the main employment area in Holsworthy. The industrial estate provides the base for a range of manufacturing and service based industries. Further expansion of employment opportunities is being provided through a 2.6 hectare/ five plot extension to the estate, which is now under construction.
2.11 Table 4 indicates the level of employment land available for development within Holsworthy's industrial estates. There is very little remaining capacity within the industrial estates; recent development at Dobles Lane has resulted in the use of the last significant area within the estate. Most plots in the older part of the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate, approximately 1.73 hectares, are now complete. Employment land in Under Lane is occupied by Cornwall and Mole Valley Farmers, with no capacity for any new industrial development.
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Table 4 : Development Opportunities
Planning Permissions Gross Site Area (Ha)
Industrial Estate Complete Without With No Longer Not Commenced in Current Planning Planning Available for Commenced Year Permission Permission Employment
Dobles Lane 2.99 1.5 1.73 0 4.72 0 Business Park
Under Lane 0 0 0 0 [1.79] 0
Total 2.99 1.50 1.73 0 4.72 0
Source: Torridge District Council Employment Land Monitoring (2011)
2.12 The Rural Devon Employment Land Review (2008) identified that Holsworthy has approximately 780 economically active residents. The report also determined that support for employment should be provided through increasing the supply of serviced employment land and small flexible industrial units and that the environmental quality of sites will become increasingly important. Such considerations are applicable to all of the district towns, which serve as employment centres.
2.13 Table 5 shows location quotients for broad employment sectors in Holsworthy(2) and other reference areas for comparison. The quotient shows the importance of each sector for a local area. Agriculture and fishing is the most important and strongly represented sector in Holsworthy. The agriculture and fishing sector is more important in the town than it is in Torridge District, where it is also over represented. Construction is the second most important sector. Energy and water is another strong sector due to the presence of the bio-gas plant. Manufacturing and public administration, education and health are also sectors which stand out as locally significant.
Table 5 : Sector Location Quotients (2007)
Holsworthy Torridge Devon
Agriculture and Fishing 36.63 6.74 1.69
Energy and Water 1.35 0.63 1.92
Manufacturing 1.10 131 0.92
Construction 1.62 1.57 1.22
Distribution, hotels and restaurants 0.87 1.14 1.17
Transport and Communications 0.40 0.67 1.02
Banking, Finance and Insurance etc 0.65 0.52 0.63
Public Administration, Education and 1.1 1.11 1.13 Health
Other Services 0.87 0.91 0.97
Source: Annual Business Inquiry (ABI) (2007), retrieved from Economic Impact Assessment of Holsworthy Livestock Market Relocation, Roger Tym & Partners (November 2009)
2 Holsworthy for this measure is defined based on statistical lower super-output areas
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2.14 The economic value of the agriculture sector to Holsworthy and related parishes is supported by the presence of a livestock market(3). There are large catalytic impacts resulting from the presence of the livestock market. The diversity of the Holsworthy economy is dependant to a significant extent on the strong presence of agriculture. The direct impact of the livestock market is 62 full time employees and a gross added value of £1,517,000 for the Holsworthy, Bude, West Devon and Beaworthy area. The total net impact of the livestock market is 226 full-time Equivalent jobs generating £7.3 million (Gross Value Added) to the local economy. Proposals for an agri-business centre, incorporating a new livestock market are subject to development. An out of town facility to the north of Holsworthy will replace the existing market which increasingly cannot meet modern day livestock market requirements. The stated value of the livestock market to Holsworthy has driven the need to maintain, secure and improve facilities that will act as an agricultural hub for the area.
Unemployment
2.15 Unemployment levels, shown in Table 6 are relatively low across the comparison areas. Employment in Holsworthy is supported through opportunities provided by the growth of the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate and activity growth at the Holsworthy Livestock Market. Unemployment rates in Holsworthy have historically been comparable with Devon and lower than District averages. However, the 2011 unemployment rates in Holsworthy exceed District levels and are considerably higher than the County average.
Table 6 : Unemployment Claimants 2001 - 2011
Holsworthy Torridge Devon
Year 2001 2006 2011 2001 2006 2011 2001 2006 2011
Number unemployed 7938n/a 1,121 816 1,135 8,581 6,138 10,159
% of working age (16 - 64) 1.5%n/a 3.2% 3.1% 2.1% 2.9% 2% 1.4% 2.2% population
Source: Official labour market statistics, NOMIS (February 2011)
House Prices
2.16 Average house prices in Holsworthy (Table 7) increased at a rate higher than that experienced across Devon and nationally over the period 2001-2009. In 2009 the average property price in Holsworthy was £227,919 which exceeded the Torridge average by about 8%. The average house price in Torridge in 2009 was £211,200; within the district area the highest ward average was £327,500 (Tamar side) and the lowest was £149,822 (Clovelly Bay) and £153,229 (Bideford South).
2.17 Property prices across all areas have been subject to reduction from 2007 and current market conditions suggest this trend has continued. Despite the recent house price falls, average property prices in Holsworthy have increased significantly over the period from 2001. Taking into account the average household incomes (Table 2) in relation to house prices, housing will continue to be unaffordable to the majority of new market entrants. The 2009 house price to household income ratio in Holsworthy was 9:1.
3 Economic Impact Assessment of Holsworthy Livestock Market Relocation; Roger Tym & Partners (November 2009)
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Table 7 : Average House Prices 2001 - 2009
Overall % Increase Average Prices 2001 2003 2005 2007 2009 2001/ 2009 (£)
Holsworthy(1) 97,917 157,459 217,232 250,776 227,919 133%
Devon 112,813 165,264 208,323 241,523 223,636 98%
England & 92,183 129,632 157,880 179,905 157,033 70% Wales
1. Devon Town Profile Area
Source: Land Registry: retrieved from Holsworthy Devon Town Profile 2010 (DCC)
Housing Supply
2.18 At April 2011 there were 1371 Council Tax banded properties in Holsworthy. The majority of properties fell within Council Tax bands A (31.6%) and B (23.7%). Only 5% of Holsworthy properties were in Council Tax band E or above. In comparison, 25.7% of all Torridge properties are within Council Tax band A, 21.8% in band B and nearly 15% are in band E or above.
2.19 Housing completions for the period 1991 to 2000 amounted to 102 dwellings and for the period 2001 to 2011, 297 dwellings were built. The rate of housing growth in Holsworthy increased from an annual rate of about 10 units between 1991 and 2000, to 27 units per annum during 2001 - 2011. Figure 1 illustrates annual growth rates, indicating significant annual fluctuations between high and very low periods of residential growth. It is clear that locally significant peaks occurred during 2002 - 2003 and 2008 - 2009.
Residential development opportunities in the Holsworthy Parish at April 2010 amounted to 286 dwellings, which comprised of 79 dwellings on sites subject to construction and a further 207 dwelling on sites with planning permission on which no works had commenced. An additional significant site; the former Holsworthy Showground site, achieved consent in April 2010, the development of which will result in the delivery of an additional 141 houses.
The Torridge District Local Plan currently determines the scope of permissible development, which in respect of Holsworthy relates generally to that which falls within a defined development boundary for the Town.
Affordable housing need in Holsworthy, as across the wider Torridge area in both urban and rural locations is a significant issue. The referenced affordability ratio illustrates the variance between average local household income levels and house prices. The Strategic Housing Market Assessment described the Holsworthy Market Town Area as "a relatively remote settlement with a Medium value sales and Higher value new home market.”
The draft Holsworthy Town Council local housing needs report (March 2011) identified a need for thirty five affordable homes over the next five years through a mix of rented and shared ownership properties. Having regard to the identified need and the scale of future vacancies through re-lets of social housing and new provision achieved and planned (most significantly on the former Holsworthy Showground site), it is probable that there will be no need for any additional affordable housing in Holsworthy over the survey period to 2016.
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Figure 1 Annual Housing Completions 1991 - 2011
Source: Torridge District Council Annual Housing Completions Monitoring, 1991 - 2011
Deprivation
2.20 Torridge is ranked 188th from 326 local authorities in the English Indices of Deprivation (2010). At a local level Torridge is the third most deprived district council area in Devon. Deprivation issues in Torridge relate to the presence of barriers to housing and services, (physical and financial accessibility of housing and key local services), education, skill and training and the quality of the living environment (immediate home surroundings). Within these measures of deprivation(4), the majority of Torridge experiences higher than average levels of deprivation. More positively, the majority of Torridge falls with in the top quartile (least deprived) of the deprivation measure for crime, which takes account of recorded crime rates.
2.21 Indices of deprivation for Holsworthy(5) indicate the presence of above average deprivation in respect of: income, employment (involuntary exclusion of the working age population) the living environment and more significantly (within the bottom quartile) skills and training. Holsworthy performs above the average in respect of deprivation measures in respect of health deprivation and disability (premature death and impairment of quality of life) and crime and also in respect of barriers to housing and services (within the top quartile).
Health
2.22 Within Holsworthy there is a health centre, a hospital and dental surgeries, but deficiencies exist in respect of NHS dentist health care and some other health services. For example, there are no maternity beds or mental health facilities and the mortuary has been
4 http://www.communities.gov.uk/document/statistics/pdf/1871208pdf. 5 Local Super Output Area E01020294: http//www.imd.communities.gov.uk/InformationDisplay.aspx
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closed. Local people have to travel to Exeter, Barnstaple or Okehampton for a full range of health services.
Education
2.23 Holsworthy’s pre-school, primary school and Community College have capacity (Table 8) to accommodate additional pupil numbers with regard to current and projected future (until 2015) enrolled pupils. Devon County Council's Education Service indicate that these figures do not take into account current housing approvals. Planned and soon to be delivered development at Holsworthy (Table 12) will however result in increased pupil numbers that could take both schools closer to their maximum capacities. Site constraints at the primary school would prevent an expansion of the existing school if the need to accommodate significant additional pupil numbers resulted for the continued growth of the town. For higher education pupils either travel to Petroc (formerly North Devon College) in Barnstaple or to Budehaven Community School in Bude, North Cornwall, which has a sixth form facility.
Table 8 : School Capacities and Roll Forecasts (2011)
Net Total Total Forecast Forecast Forecast Capacity Number Number Number Number Number Name June on Roll on Roll on Roll on Roll on Roll 2011 2009 2010 2011 2013 2015
Holsworthy Church of England 299 269 252 246 230 232 Primary School and Nursery Unit
Holsworthy Community College 726 705 707 685 677 642
Total 1,025 974 959 931 907 874
Source: Devon County Council Education Service (2011)
Open Space
2.24 Table 9 shows that there is a good range of open space typologies in Holsworthy although deficiencies are identified in respect of natural and accessible countryside and allotments / community gardens.
Table 9 : Open Space (2010)
Typology Number Hectares Deficiency
Parks and Formal Gardens 1 2.99 No
Natural / Accessible Countryside 5 207.07 Yes
Play Areas 9 0.88 No
Allotments / Community Gardens 2 0.30 Yes
Cemeteries / Churchyards 9 3.33 No
Civic Space 1 0.09 No
Total 27 214.66 No
Source: Draft Torridge Open Space Assessment (April 2010)
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Heritage
2.25 There are 23 listed buildings in Figure 2 St Peter & St Paul's Church, Holsworthy Holsworthy, including the Grade ll* Derriton Viaduct and the Church of St Peter and St Paul. The majority of listed buildings are located within the Holsworthy Conservation area. The Conservation Area, shown in Map 1 is focused around the historic Square in the town centre. Originally designated in 1973, the Conservation Area was extended in 2001 to include part of Victoria Street and Chapel Street.
Landscape
2.26 The Joint Landscape Character Assessment for North Devon and Torridge(6), provides guidance for the conservation and enhancement of the areas special landscape qualities. The landscape qualities in Holsworthy are reflective of the areas agricultural base. A summary of key aspects of the two landscape types present in the Holsworthy area are set out below.
Table 10 : Landscape Types (February 2011)
Type Commentary
1F Farmed Lowland High open tracts of Culm grassland and moors. Moorland & Culm Grassland Special qualities include the Culm grassland habitats, traditional management regimes, small fields, isolated farms and high levels of tranquillity and remoteness.
The overall strategy is to protect the farming system, critical for Culm grassland habitat and to integrate new development into the landscape setting.
5A Inland Elevated High and undulating farmland. Undulating Land Special qualities include long views, a patchwork of fields, the rural landscape and the tranquillity of the area.
The overall strategy is to protect the role in agriculture, to protect the open ridgelines and the long ranging views and to ensure that new development is integrated into the land scape setting.
Source: Joint Landscape Character Assessment for North Devon and Torridge Districts (February 2011) - http://www.torridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=6374
6 Joint Landscape Character Assessment for North Devon and Torridge Districts (February2011) - http://www.torridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?Articleid=6374
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Community Facilities
2.27 Holsworthy has a good range of community facilities Figure 3 Memorial Hall and services as set out in Table 11. Recent improvements to this range included: the opening of a Waitrose supermarket in June 2009, the completion of the Memorial Hall refurbishment in May 2007 and the opening of a Children’s Centre (Sure Start) in November 2008. Future additional facilities that could result from development include a new supermarket on the site of the Holsworthy livestock market if redevelopment proposals proceed.
Table 11 : Community Facilities (June 2011)
Facility Number
Banks 4
Churches 5
College 1
Dental Surgeries 3
Doctor Surgery 1
Hospital 1
Leisure Centre 1
Library 1
Optician Practices 1
Pharmacy 2
Police Station 1
Post Office 1
Primary School 1
Public House 5
Sport Pitches Football 2
Cricket 1
Rugby 0
Supermarkets 2
Community Halls 2
Vet 2
Source: www.visitholsworthy.co.uk
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Sport and Recreation
2.28 The Holsworthy Recreation Needs Assessment (September 2008) concluded that there is a shortfall of sport facilities in Holsworthy. The report recommends, amongst other matters that more sports pitches are provided, with cricket facilities at Stanhope Park needing upgrading and links to and from StanhopePark improved. Facility improvements, in the form of a sports pitch, changing rooms and skatepark are however now enabled as an essential element of the consented mixed use development on the site of the former Showground. Additional opportunities for facility enhancement were identified in the Playing Fields Strategy for Torridge (October 2010), including the possible reuse of disused tennis courts into a multi use games area.
Transport
Public Transport
2.29 Holsworthy has relatively good bus and coach services to and from Bude, Bideford, Barnstaple, Launceston and Exeter. The service between Bude and Exeter is every two hours, Monday to Saturday, while the Bude to Barnstaple bus leaves Holsworthy five times a day. The surrounding villages off the main bus routes are less well served with a bus service once or twice a day. Only the X9 Exeter and Bude service has a late night service, with the last bus leaving Holsworthy at 2207 hours.
2.30 Within the Holsworthy area an alternative source of transport for those who have difficulty in accessing public transport, have no access to transport or have special mobility needs is provided by the North Tamar Community Transport Association in the form of a ring and ride bus service. A Wheels to Work programme funded by Devon County Council provides further assistance for people living in isolated rural communities. The scheme seeks to provide transport solutions to individuals, aged 16-65, who are experiencing difficulties in accessing training, employment and/or educational opportunities due to the lack of suitable public or private transport to work.
Cycling
2.31 National Cycle Route 3, known as the West Country Way passes through Holsworthy along the disused railway line, linking with National Cycle Route 27, known as the Devon Coast to Coast Route. The cycle routes are shown on Map 1.
Walking
2.32 Recreational walking is supported by Ruby Walks and the Ruby Way Trail. Short Ruby walks are located in and around town, which provide attractive vistas of the Derriton Viaduct and the surrounding open country side. Access to the wider countryside is provided by the Ruby Way Trail. Progress is being made to complete the Ruby Way Trail which will provide a walking and cycling link from Hatherleigh, passing through Holsworthy and on to Bude. Devon County Council and Cornwall Council are currently pursuing outstanding link points on the trail. Other popular walks near Holsworthy are located at Holsworthy Wood and Cookworthy Forest.
Tourism
2.33 The historic market town lies in Ruby Country, an area described as being off the beaten track and undiscovered, where walking, cycling, horse riding and other outdoor
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pursuits are popular attractions. Holsworthy is a traditional market town, with a focus on service provision that has strong links to the agriculture sector. Direct benefits from tourism are limited. Available opportunities for tourism are related to the use and attraction of the surrounding countryside. Within Holsworthy, lodging facilities for visitors to the area are limited to 3 providers of Bed and Breakfast and pub based accommodation. There is however a wide range of accommodation, including caravan and camping provision and self-catering accommodation in nearby villages and countryside.
Summary
2.34 A summary of issues pertinent to Holsworthy are summarised in Table 12.
Table 12 : Summary of Issues
Topic Commentary
Population Significant population growth between 2001 and 2010, with continuing growth projected within which there will be an increasingly aged population.
Income Below the County and National average.
Benefits Relatively low claim rates.
Employment The agriculture sector is of particular importance, which is supplemented by a range of business focused on the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate.
Unemployment Relatively low unemployment rates, although recent increases have extended local levels above District and County rates.
House Prices Significant property price increases experienced since 2001 and current average house prices in excess of District and County levels.
Housing Supply Recent high levels of housing growth, with further significant opportunities for new housing on sites that are under construction or with planning permission.
Deprivation Overall modest levels of deprivation but above average levels in respect of income, employment, the living environment and skills and training.
Health The Holsworthy area is supported by a range of health services but a lack of specialist facilities including maternity and mental health, requires residents to travel to the larger centres.
Schools The schools, primary and secondary are close to capacity and site constraints would result in expansion difficulties for the primary school.
Community Facilities Holsworthy has a good range of accessible community facilities.
Transport Relatively poor public transport.
Tourism The tranquillity of the countryside and outdoor recreation attracts tourists to the wider area.
3 Major Planning Applications
3.1 Table 13 provides a summary of consented and significant planning applications in or close to Holsworthy at April 2011.
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Table 13 : Significant Planning Permissions (2011)
Application Site Address Proposed Status Reference
1/1661/2005/FUL Simpson Barton Erection of 67 holiday lodges, conversion Not Started Fishery and extension to barns for amenity, to include staff flat. Alteration to existing access and use of old railway track as a cycleway.
1/1966/2003/FUL Rydon Fields (Phase 27 dwellings Under IV) construction
1/0336/2008/FUL Rydon Fields (Phase 55 dwellings Decision V) Pending(1)
01/0277/2004/REM Rydon Park 58 dwellings for the over-55s and Under associated development. construction
01/1493/2007/FUL River Tamar Way 5 new industrial plots Under construction
01/0047/2010/FULM Part of former 46 affordable houses Under Showground Site construction
01/0606/2009/OUTM Former Showground Up to 160 dwellings (56 affordable), sports Under Site pitch, changing rooms and skate park Construction
1. Subsequently permitted - 17/05/2011
Source: Torridge District Council Planning Department (2011)
4 Size, Land Use and Character
4.1 Facilities and employment opportunities are accessible by the majority of the town’s population. The town centre is within easy walking distance from nearby residential areas as illustrated by Map 1. Holsworthy is well connected by bus routes, walking and cycling routes. The town centre is compact, but the scale of retail, related service provision and employment opportunities are good for a town of Holsworthy’s size. Although residential land uses are well represented, pockets of community and open space uses occupy key sites. 5 Constraints
Flooding
5.1 The Torridge Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (Level 1) identifies the extent of flood risk in Holsworthy. Map 2 illustrated the presence of land within Flood Zones 2 and 3 principally adjoining the eastern and western branch of the River Deer. The areas subject to flood risk will be constrained in respect of future development opportunities.
Topography
5.2 The valleys to the east and west of Holsworthy have relatively moderate to steep slopes whilst the valley to the south of the livestock market is much gentler in gradient. The slope of the land north of the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate is also relatively gentle.
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Landscape
5.3 The countryside surrounding Holsworthy is not subject to any designated sensitive landscape policies (Torridge District Council Local Plan 1997-2011) such as Areas of Great Landscape Value or Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The open countryside around the built up area nevertheless has special characteristics. The Joint Landscape Character Assessment for North Devon and Torridge Districts, as previously referenced elaborates on these landscape qualities.
Conservation
5.4 The Holsworthy Conservation Area covers most of the town centre, from High Street in the north to Uplands Terrace in the south. A large number of Grade II listed buildings are located within the Conservation Area. Both the Holsworthy Viaduct and the Derriton Viaduct, formerly used to carry the now lost railway line, are listed. Market Cross, a mid 19th Century Sandstone Ashlar in The Square and the White Hart Hotel are also listed. 6 Relationships to Other centres
6.1 Holsworthy has strong links with surrounding towns and villages. The town acts as an important service centre for the smaller villages and hamlets, providing a range of services, local shopping, education, health, community facilities and employment opportunities.
6.2 Waitrose is the only supermarket in Holsworthy, which together with the facilities in the town centre provide retail services to the town. The range in quality and quantity could be viewed as supporting a limited customer base. Local residents consequently travel to other centres or utilise supermarket home delivery services to achieve a wider retail choice. The other centres used include: Bude (Sainsburys and Morrisons), Bideford (Tesco, Morrisons and Asda) and Launceston (Lidl and Tesco).
6.3 Employment is supported by businesses at the Dobles Lane and Underlane Industrial Estates together with the services and facilities provided in the town centre. The majority of Holsworthy's working residents, work within and around Holsworthy although a significant proportion, about 35%, work further a field within Torridge District or into Cornwall.
6.4 The lack of sixth form facilities at Holsworthy Community College require that children who wish to undertake further education have to travel to Bideford, Bude or Barnstaple. The nearest agricultural college is Duchy College at Stoke Climsland, south of Launceston.
6.5 Evening entertainment in Holsworthy is limited. Local residents have to travel to Great Torrington or Barnstaple for theatre entertainment and Bideford or Barnstaple for a cinema.
6.6 Bude is only 15km (9 miles) and Launceston 22km (14 miles) from Holsworthy. A relatively short distance, which determines that there are strong links between the three towns, The connections to the larger but more distant centres at Bideford (30km/18 miles) and Barnstaple (45km/28 miles) are not as significant. However, for higher order services such as a district hospital or specialist health care services, when facilities are not locally available then residents need to travel to Barnstaple, Exeter or Plymouth. The nearest international airport is located in Exeter and the closest universities are located in Exeter and Plymouth.
16 Holsworthy Town Study Holsworthy Town Study MAP 1: EXISTING LAND USES N
HOLSWORTHY INDUSTRIAL ESTATE
A388
STANHOPE PARK
A3072
900m
600m
300m
RIVER DEER
A388
LEGEND: Industry Principal Open Spaces Development Boundary Conservation Area
Retail Community Facilities Parish Boundary Livestock Market A388 Main Roads
Ruby Way Bus Routes 600m Distance from Town Centre Holsworthy Town Study
6.7 Commuting pattern information provided by the 2001 Census, provides a useful guide as to work related travel patterns between the areas main towns. Accepting that some change may have occurred during the intervening time, the 2001 Census indicates that 64% of the working population from Holsworthy work within the town and that commuting occurs on the basis of 11% in to North Cornwall,1% to Exeter, 3% to Bideford and 2 % to Barnstaple. The remainder of Holsworthy's working residents commute to a wide range of other destinations within and beyond the district and county boundaries. 7 Community
7.1 The Holsworthy Area Community Strategic Plan (April 2004) and subsequent Review (2011) identifies town specific objectives and priority projects. A snap shot of the main issues and projects are summarised in Tables 14 and 15.
Table 14 : Summary of Strategic Plan Objectives (2011)
Objectives Issues
Vibrant and Thriving Economy Create a strong commercial centre; Skilled Workforce; Family friendly working environment; Market the area; Support agriculture; Improve communications; Tourism; Local markets for local products; and Environmental business initiatives.
A Future for Our Young A range of housing needs; People Good post 16 educational facilities; Affordable and convenient transport; and Support for young people.
Respecting The Environment Good urban design; Promote renewable energy; Promote recycling; New housing to have minimal impact on the landscape; Promote cultural heritage and traditions;and New gateways.
Working In Partnership Local Strategic Partnership working; Community pride; and Support community projects.
Promoting Quality of Life Accessible high quality leisure, entertainment and recreational facilities for all; Services; Support visitors; Good public transport; Opportunities for walking, cycling, horse riding and dog walking; Improved infrastructure; Community education; Support for the elderly; and Improve communication and people being creative.
18 Holsworthy Town Study Holsworthy Town Study
Table 15 Identified Priority One Projects (2011)
Priority One Projects Status
Refurbish the memorial hall Completed in April 2008
Ruby country initiative Limited company set up in March 2009
Livestock market / agri- business Delivery stage is underway
Relocate the show grounds Land purchased at Killatree and Show relocated in 2007
Community Housing trust established that will have Affordable housing provided 15 properties
Accessible woodlands New Trail
Waste audit & recycling Completed by En Vision
Wheels to work Very successful and working well
Broadband Holsworthy now has broadband
Business directory and website Website set up but further development required
Local food for local schools Implemented
Bridle paths Progress in surrounding areas
Ruby way established, progress to connect outstanding Off road cycling links
Sports accessibility audit No update
Post 16 education Well Park purchased
District heating main Unviable
7.2 Through the 2010 North Devon and Torridge Local Strategic Partnership Federation event the following issues were identified as important in respect of the future development of Holsworthy.
Table 16 North Devon & Torridge Local Strategic Partnership Federation Event - Identified Issues
Health Safety
More sheltered houses Improve safety and security Need mental health care Design out crime Expand the medical centre Need a maternity ward
Sport and Leisure Roads
Link youth clubs to schools Make the town square one-way Improve drainage for existing playing fields Build a new road from Cross Park to the new Need a cinema and skate park agri-business site Provide after school and weekend activities Widen the main road to improve traffic flows, for young people especially for lorries Improve sports club facilities Improve visibility of Waterloo roundabout Divert large lorries from Waterloo Road Provide extra parking in the town centre Increase the height of the railway bridge
Holsworthy Town Study 19 Holsworthy Town Study
Health Safety
Footpaths / Cycle Paths IT/ Communications
Pedestrian crossings across Trewyn Road Improve the mobile signal New pedestrian and cycle paths Implement 3G and broadband coverage Improve pavements Improve signage for lorries Promote children walking to school
Education Economy
Provide a new school for those aged 3 - 16 to Develop a skills centre replace the existing school Develop a trade skills centre Provide a new sixth form centre Explore bio-gas opportunities
8 Vision
8.1 To guide the future growth of Holsworthy, in scale, direction and scope, it is necessary to establish a locally accepted vision for the town. It is through the North Devon and Torridge Core Strategy that such a vision can be defined. To assist in the determination of a new vision for Holsworthy that will look to shape the form and function of the town over the next 20 years it is worth reviewing previously proposed visions.
8.2 The vision in the Holsworthy Area Community Strategic Plan (Review April 2011), which looks to Holsworthy in 2020 is: -
“To make the Holsworthy area a centre for sustainable economic and enterprising activity, to be a leader in adding value to its agricultural output and to provide all the social, education and recreational requirements to enrich and fulfil the lives of all members of the community whether inhabiting or simply visiting the area. This is to be done in a way that is conducive to maintaining the positive attributes and quality of life that the area presently provides and which minimises environmental damage or positively enhances the environment of the area.”
8.3 The key elements provided by the vision are:
Holsworthy to be a centre for sustainable economic and enterprising activity; Add value to agricultural output; Provide social, educational and recreational requirements; and Minimise environmental damage or enhance the environment.
8.4 The January 2010 draft of the North Devon and Torridge Core Strategy contained the following vision for Holsworthy for the period to 2026:
8.5 “Housing and employment growth at Holsworthy will achieve greater self-sufficiency for the town and its large rural catchment. Regenerated key town centre sites and urban fringe development will achieve balanced development that enhances and utilises the town’s environmental assets. The town will develop as an agricultural-business centre of excellence, secured through a new livestock market and agri-business centre that serves the Torridge area and beyond. The vibrant and thriving economy will secure opportunities for future generations in a sustainable community.”
8.6 Draft Core Strategy consultation responses provided the following direction in respect of the proposed vision and development strategy for Holsworthy.
20 Holsworthy Town Study Holsworthy Town Study
Housing growth will be supported by infrastructure delivery, education and recreation provision and employment growth; Development will respect and reflect the scale and character of the town and its surrounding environment; Provision of new housing and employment opportunities to take account of community needs and aspirations; and Regenerate the town centre and develop an agri-business centre. 9 Key Issues
Housing
9.1 A housing target for Holsworthy (Table 17) was provided in the Pre-Publication North Devon and Torridge Joint Core Strategy. This target was intended to meet the overall Torridge requirement of 10,700 dwellings (2006-2026) contained within the Draft Revised South West Regional Spatial Strategy(1). Following consultation responses to the referenced Core Strategy and the intended revocation of regional strategies announced through the Localism Bill, North Devon and Torridge District Councils have decided to review the proposed level of housing for each district area and consequently for Holsworthy. Locally determined housing targets will be established through the North Devon and Core Strategy.
9.2 To meet the continuing economic and social needs of Holsworthy, indications are that growth will continue in the short to medium term and that additional land release will be required to meet long term needs. There are current development opportunities that could result in the delivery of about 280 additional dwellings, most significantly about 200 market and affordable homes on the former Showground site.
9.3 The housing land supply in Holsworthy is formed by sites which are subject to planning commitments or are now subject to development. There are no Torridge District Local Plan allocated housing sites that have not been developed or that are proceeding to completions. Additional land release for housing to meet the towns medium to long term needs will be required.
Table 17 : Provisional Housing Requirements 2006 - 2026
Dwellings
Housing Requirement 1,070
Completions 2006 - 2009 93
Commitments 31 March 2009(1) 199
Additional non-strategic provision 778
1. includes dwellings under construction, existing planning permissions and outstanding local plan allocations
Source: Pre-Publication North Devon and Torridge Joint Core strategy (January2010)
1 Draft Revised Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West, Development Policy B www.gos.gov.uk/gosw/planninghome/691545/
Holsworthy Town Study 21 Holsworthy Town Study
Employment
9.4 The Rural Devon Employment Land Review (2006) identified the need for about 35 hectares of employment land to be provided within Torridge District for the period to 2026. The Land Review also recommended the application of a flexible approach to meeting employment needs and to guard against the loss of employment land. The need to support town centre regeneration, including at Holsworthy, was identified as important to accommodate office requirements and encourage smaller business premises provision. The presence of an appropriately skilled workforce, business development support and infrastructure which meets the requirements of a modern local economy was identified as being of equal importance in achieving economic change.
9.5 Although the Land Review did not Figure 4 Dobles Lane Industrial Esate recommend additional land release at Holsworthy, achieved development has resulted in a scale of economic growth beyond anticipated rates. Development has started on the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate extension that will deliver an additional 9 industrial units providing 26,923 m2 of site development including 4,985 m2 of building development. Most of the available plots within the industrial estate are developed and there is no further allocated employment land in Holsworthy.
9.6 Further employment land release is required to maintain economic development and encourage diversity in the towns economic base to support balanced growth over the next 20 years. Land release will be required that is suitable in respect of general employment activities and in relation to a new livestock market and associated development. An expansion of employment opportunities, including facilities to support the agricultural sector will be essential to support Holsworthy as a sustainable community.
Retail
9.7 The Torridge Retail Study (2006) Figure 5 The Town Square determined that Holsworthy had a range of facilities to meet most of the day to day needs of its population, but that the town experienced significant expenditure leakage to the higher order centres of Bideford and Barnstaple. The facilities however have been enhanced from the point of Study by the development of an improved Somerfield Store, which is now operated by Waitrose. The recommendation from the Study was that proposals for convenience stores should meet local rather than strategic needs, the provision of which would largely be a matter of commercial judgement.
22 Holsworthy Town Study Holsworthy Town Study
9.8 The Retail Assessment of the Holsworthy Cattle Market Site prepared for Torridge District Council (April 2010)(2), confirmed the continuing loss of expenditure from leakage to other retail centres, significantly at Bude, with smaller amounts leaking to Barnstaple, Bideford and Launceston. In 2010 the market share for Holsworthy was estimated at only 21.1%. The 2010 retail assessment provided support to extend the level of convenience goods provision in Holsworthy, which was taken forward by a Site Development Brief for the HolsworthyAgri-BusinessPark and Livestock Market Redevelopment. The Report determined that a new food supermarket, located in an edge of centre location would increase the level of retained expenditure within the town as a consequence of the presence of an improved retail offer. It concluded that the presence of an additional large store would increase the towns competitive edge that could result in a clawing back expenditure from Launceston, Bideford, Bude and Barnstaple.
Regeneration
9.9 A new agri-business centre, incorporating Figure 6 Proposed Agricultural Business Centre a relocated livestock market is planned to be developed on a greenfield site to the north of Holsworthy. The importance of retaining a livestock market in Holsworthy is considered to be critical to maintaining the towns function as an important rural service centre.
9.10 When operational the site of the existing livestock market will be released for redevelopment to provide a mixed use development of housing and retail that will contribute to meeting the town’s long term housing needs and increase the attraction of Holsworthy as a service centre. Torridge District Council have endorsed a development brief(3)that will guide the sites linked development. Public consultation undertaken during the preparation of the referenced development brief provided strong support for both proposals.
Community
9.11 Consultation responses to the Figure 7 Community Hospital Pre-Publication North Devon and Torridge Joint Core Strategy (January – March 2010) highlighted community concerns regarding the adequacy of community services and facilities, particularly in respect of educational needs. Improvements in health facilities are also sought by the Town Council to avoid the need for the residents of Holsworthy to travel to Barnstaple and Exeter.
Infrastructure
9.12 Indications from South West Water are that there is sufficient water supply to support new development both planned in accordance with the Torridge District Local Plan and
2 Draft Retail Assessment of the Holsworthy Cattle Market Site, Under Lane Holsworthy (Savills - On Behalf of Torridge District Council) 2010 3 Holsworthy Agri-Bussiness Park and Livestock Market Redevelopment Development Brief (March 2011)
Holsworthy Town Study 23 Holsworthy Town Study
further development that will be defined through future development plans. Maintained dialogue with South West Water will ensure issues related to water are identified if such arise.
9.13 Indications are that the sewage treatment works are at capacity in Holsworthy. Further improvements in respect of an expansion of sewerage capacity will be required to support development that results in additional discharge into public sewers. Discussions with South West Water are required to ensure future development proposals are accompanied by appropriate infrastructure improvements.
Transport
9.14 The Draft Devon and Torbay Local Transport Plan 3 (January 2011) includes Holsworthy as one of 28 Devon Market and Coastal Towns in Devon. The Strategy for these towns includes: -
Promoting sustainable / low carbon travel; Improve the connectivity of local transport with the strategic bus network; Improve connections from towns to larger urban centres; and Improve opportunities for and encourage walking, cycling and outdoor leisure.
9.15 In accommodating development proposals in Holsworthy opportunities to achieve sustainable transport and related links should be pursued in addition to ensuring that development is supported by necessary highway improvements.
Public Transport
9.16 The relatively infrequent bus service, particularly in the evening, means that residents from Holsworthy and surrounds rely on their car. Increased car dependency encourages people to drive causing even more congestion and CO2 emissions. Poor public transport impacts on young people, especially those wanting to travel further a field for evening entertainment and to access employment and services. Inadequate public transport disproportionately affects those without a car and those with mobility challenges. It also does not give people a choice about whether or not to leave the car at home.
Car Parking
9.17 Torridge District Council currently provides Figure 8 Entrance to Manor Car Park 166 parking bays at the Holsworthy Manor car park and 92 bays at the Well Park car park. The Town Council believes that there is a shortage of car parking in the town centre, particularly on market days when on street parking is removed. This has resulted in car parking in residential areas and in Bodmin Road an important through route, causing traffic congestion.
Cycling
9.18 Improved links to the National Cycle Network and other cycle ways would provide residents and visitors with modal choice in respect of access to services and facilities, employment opportunities and the wider countryside.
24 Holsworthy Town Study Holsworthy Town Study
Walking
9.19 Funding from S106 contributions and Devon County Council will deliver a new footpath link from Rydon Road to West Croft Road. As required from development, additional pedestrian links should be pursued to ensure modal choice within the town. The Town Council would like to expand walk ways along river valleys around Holsworthy. 10 Potential for Growth
10.1 The following areas and sites, which are defined in Map 2, have been assessed with regard to their potential to accommodate future development. No view is provided with regard to the overall scale of required future development, the following comments relate only to the suitability of the identified sites to accommodate development.
10.2 The spatial implications of development will be dealt within the subsequent section. The potential capacity of each area has not been provided although such information is available within other published material. Additional detail in respect of each site area is contained within the North Devon and Torridge Core Strategy Strategic Site Assessment (June 2009) and related Sustainability Appraisals, which are available to view on the Council’s website(). The North Devon and Torridge Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment also informs the comment below, this document is also available to view on the Councils website(1).
10.3 Development opportunities to accommodate the towns short term needs are available within the built form of Holsworthy. The current development limits of Holsworthy, through consented development on allocated and unallocated redevelopment sites provides for a range of housing and employment development opportunities. Ideally infill development, the use of suitable sites within the built form of the town, including regeneration sites, should be utilised in advance of the release of additional greenfield sites. This is being achieved in Holsworthy through the advancement of development on: the former Showground site, Rydon Fields, the extension of the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate and planned mixed use development on the livestock market site.
Higher Manworthy (1)
10.4 The site is situated to the north of the Figure 9 View From Quagmire Lane built up area of the town in a countryside location, approximately 2.4km (1.5 miles) from the town centre. The site comprises a vacant (from development), flat field, which is relatively open in nature, although a broad leaved plantation covers about a third of the site. Access to the site would be achieved via Quagmire Lane. Open fields border the site on all boundaries except for a bio-gas Plant which is located beyond the north west corner of the site.
1 http://www.torridge.gov.uk/index.aspx?articleid=2265
Holsworthy Town Study 25
Holsworthy Town Study
10.5 If the site is developed to provide an agri-business centre highway and other infrastructure requirements may be considered to be necessary to support the proposal. Wildlife and visual impacts on the landscape may result from development; mitigation measures may be required to overcome impacts generated as a consequence of development.
10.6 The site was not submitted for consideration as part of the North Devon and Torridge Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment.
East of Dobles Lane (2)
10.7 Land east of Dobles Lane, as identified in Map 2, comprises vacant agricultural land. The eastern boundary of the site adjoins the built form of the town and the development boundary defined in the Torridge District Local Plan. Access to the contained sites can be achieved from Dobles Lane and Canal Road (A388), which provide firm boundaries to the potential development area. Canal Road, one of the main routes into Holsworthy from the north and Dobles Lane serves the near by Industrial Estate. The Holsworthy Hospital and medical centre is located to the west of the potential growth area, which is considered to be generally well located in relation to employment, recreation and health services.
10.8 The land, east of Dobles Lane is formed Figure 10 Land Near Health Centre by open fields, within which the central area contains a moderate slope but such is considered not be prejudicial to development. The far northern part of the assessed area is subject to flood risk and in part is marshy in nature. There are well-developed hedges and mature trees within the site(s). Development may have a negative impact on wildlife.
10.9 Within the undeveloped area to the east of Dobles Lane two sites were reviewed by the Strategic Housing Market Assessment; Land at Lower Manworthy was determined through assessment not to present a developable housing opportunity having regard to the sites distance from the town centre and the potential negative impacts on existing neighbouring land uses. The second site, on land to the south of the hospital, was determined to be a developable site, i.e. one which could come forward for development after a five year period from the 2010 Strategic Housing Market Assessment.
South of Stanbury Cross (3)
10.10 The area comprises agricultural land and Figure 11 Land North of Oakfield woodland. Access to the site could be achieved from A388. The western part of the area, from the mid point of the site slopes relatively steeply to a stream which is affected by flooding. The surrounding land to the north and east is mostly farmland in an open countryside location. The western part of the assessed area adjoins the Torridge District Local Plan defined Holsworthy development boundary, which reflects the extent
Holsworthy Town Study 27 Holsworthy Town Study
of the Kingswood Meadow Estate. Development of the area, particularly near the stream, may have a negative impact on wildlife.
10.11 The majority of the area between Stanbury Cross, Waterloo Road, the stream and North Road was considered though the Strategic Housing Market Assessment. Two sites were assessed, both were determined to be developable, providing opportunities for urban extension in relatively close proximity to the town centre. The yield potential from the site which included part of the river valley was however subject to discount as a result of the identified flood risk.
South of Waterloo Road (4)
10.12 The predominantly agricultural land lies Figure 12 Land Near Waterloo Road to immediately east of the built up area of Holsworthy. The area adjoins the Holsworthy development boundary. The southern area contains a significant amount of woodland and some domestic curtilage. Much of the land, between Waterloo Road and the disused railway is affected by flooding and some of the east facing slopes are steep. The area around the pond, in the central area is used for recreation and several footpaths pass through the area. The presence of the river valley, woodland and large pond within the area would reduce the development potential of the site in respect of efficient land and development could negatively impact wildlife near the river.
10.13 Access to the area is poor. Achieving satisfactory access to the northern and southern elements of the area would be problematic; a major highway reconfiguration would be required by the Highway Authority. Development could result in a negative visual impact on the Grade II listed Holsworthy viaduct and significantly the potential loss of a well used recreational area.
10.14 Two sites, located south of Waterloo Road were reviewed by the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment; land adjoining the development boundary, a narrow linear site between Waterloo Road and Churchill Road and a substantial site, from the river valley to Windmill Road were assessed, both were determined to be developable.
Under Lane / River Deer Corridor (5)
10.15 The area includes land between the Figure 13 Land South of Derriton Viaduct River Deer and the western boundary of the Torridge District Local Plan defined development boundary. The area is largely in agricultural use. The Derriton Viaduct and the River Deer corridor are important features within the assessed area. Potential points of access into the southern sites would be from Under Lane or Bodmin Street. Access to sites adjoining Glebe Meadows and Pins Park would be problematic as a consequence of the constrained nature of the adjoining highway network.
28 Holsworthy Town Study Holsworthy Town Study
10.16 Much of the River Deer valley has relatively steep slopes and is at risk of flooding. Large tracts of land in the river valleys comprise of woodland, which without disturbance would be limiting in respect of development. Development may have a negative impact on wildlife and have a visual impact on the Derriton Viaduct, a listed structure and an important part of the National Cycle route. Close proximity to the sewerage treatment works, located to the southwest of the town, could impact on the development capacity of the adjoining site.
10.17 Two sites, within the southern area, to the south and west of Under Lane were reviewed through the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment, both were determined to be developable. A further site west of Glebelands was determined not to be developable as a consequence of flood risk, restricted highway access, potential impact on wildlife and the Local Plan allocation and established recreation use in connection with the Holsworthy Community College.
Rydon Road / Trewyn Road (6)
10.18 The area is located on gentle sloping land to the north of Rydon Road, west of Trewyn Road and to the east of the River Deer; it is predominantly in agricultural use. A disused quarry contained within the area is located near the River Deer to the west. The Torridge District Local Plan defined development boundary adjoins the southern limits of the assessed area.
10.19 Much of the land adjacent to the River Figure 14 Land North of Rydon Road Deer is affected by flooding and is lined by a substantial area of woodland. Access to the area is achievable from Rydon Road (A3072) the main Bude – Holsworthy Road and Trewyn Road.
10.20 The Pre–Publication Joint North Devon and Torridge Core Strategy identified the area as a potential future housing growth point that would contribute to meeting the towns long term housing needs within and beyond the plan period ( 2006-2026). The Pre-Publication Core Strategy also identified the area as a location for a new primary school and that through development a road link between from Rydon Road and Trewyn Road would be achieved. The need for a Masterplan was identified to ensure appropriate comprehensive development.
10.21 The majority of the area between Rydon Road,Trewyn Road and Deer Valley was reviewed through the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment. The assessed areas, presented as three sites, were determined to be developable. As part of the assessment the Highway Authority reiterated a wish to achieve a road link between the A3072 and Holsworthy industrial estate to reduce the scale of traffic movements though the town centre.
East of Trewyn Road (7)
10.22 The agricultural land is located to the west of the newly extended Dobles Lane Industrial Estate; it does not include the former Show Ground site which is being developed to provide a mixed use scheme of housing and recreation. The assessed area is well defined by existing development provided by the referenced industrial estate and new housing development and physical features provided by the highway network and a stream to the north, which introduces flood risk, but to a limited extent in respect of land coverage.
Holsworthy Town Study 29 Holsworthy Town Study
10.23 The area does not have any significant Figure 15 Field Adjacent to Trewyn Road constraints to development; it adjoins the Torridge District Local Plan defined development boundary and the Pre–Publication Joint North Devon and Torridge Core Strategy identified the area for employment use as a western extension to the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate.
10.24 The land to the west of the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate was not considered through the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment. 11 Spatial Issues
11.1 The housing requirement set out in the Pre-Publication North Devon and Torridge Joint Core Strategy (January 2010) is to be reviewed. The intended revocation of the Regional Spatial Strategy now enables the District Council to locally determine the district housing target, subject to evidential justification, which provides an opportunity to revisit housing targets for the districts towns and rural area. The growth opportunities and options for Holsworthy are consequently now subject to review having regard to spatial issues affecting the town.
Housing
11.2 Opportunities for housing development in Holsworthy are provided through a limited range of sites, which are currently subject to development. Further provision is anticipated through the redevelopment of the Holsworthy Livestock to the south of the town centre. Despite the presence of housing sites to address immediate and medium term needs, the absence of currently available long term development options will require the release of additional development sites to meet future housing needs. The scale and location of additional land release is now a matter for consideration.
Employment
11.3 It is important that employment opportunities are enhanced to support the anticipated population growth provided by already planned and future levels of housing growth. Maintaining and enhancing the value of the agriculture sector, significantly through the development of an agri-business centre, will be critical to achieving balanced and sustainable growth within the town. In addition to the proposed agri-business centre, including a relocated livestock market, it is important to accommodate the needs of related employment activities and to provide opportunities for other sectors that could contribute to a broadening of the town’s economic base. Although the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate has been extended there will be a need for further land release to accommodate and encourage increased levels of economic activity in the town. Opportunities for additional land release could be provided as a further extension to the Dobles Lane Industrial Estate and/or through new site provision adjoining the agri-business centre.
Retail
11.4 Maintaining the range and quantity of retail and other town centre facilities in Holsworthy is important to support its role as a rural service centre. To increase the attraction of the town as a retail centre and increase self containment, additional capacity both on a quantitative and qualitative basis is required. Additional and appropriate retail provision could
30 Holsworthy Town Study Holsworthy Town Study
significantly reduce the level of expenditure leakage from the town to near by centres. A new food store is proposed on the site of the current Livestock Market, for development when the existing use has been successfully relocated to the north of the town. In accommodating a further supermarket in the town, it will be important to address the potential impact on the town centre.
Social
11.5 The need for additional educational capacity will be assessed as a consequence of future levels of planned development, it is anticipated that additional primary school provision will be required following the completion of currently planned development. Opportunities for an additional primary school may be required; such will be dependant on the overall scale and phasing of future housing development.
11.6 Additional health facilities will be required to improve self containment. There appears to be expansion capacity at or near the existing health centre and hospital. This is significant given the importance of Holsworthy as a market town which serves a substantial rural hinterland. With regard to new sports facilities, new pitches are to be provided at the former Show Ground site as part of consented development.
Infrastructure
11.7 There is sufficient water supply, but not sufficient sewage treatment capacity to support significant levels of additional development. When the location(s), scale and phasing of additional growth, for housing and employment development, is established, South West Water will be consulted to establish required improvements. A traffic management strategy is required to reduce congestion and coordinate the movement of people and vehicles around the town; such is being undertaken in support of the proposed linked development of the new and existing livestock market sites.
11.8 Opportunities to achieved green infrastructure improvements through development and County Council initiatives will be pursued, including improved cycle ways and footpaths along adjacent river corridors. 12 Conclusion
12.1 This report has been undertaken to support future decision making for Holsworthy. It is hoped that through an appreciation of current circumstances and issues within the town that planning for the future can better address the needs and aspirations of the towns population.
12.2 In undertaking an assessment of Holsworthy, the town is identified as being modest in size, but with a substantial rural catchment. The town hosts a weekly market and provides a wide range of services; it has strong connections to the farming community and the surrounding rural area. Holsworthy has stronger links to Bude and Launceston than to Bideford and Barnstaple.
12.3 Flood risk is present in areas adjoining the River Deer and topography in the related valleys to the east and west of the town pose some constraints to development; these features provide definition to the form of the town. Constraints to development at Holsworthy are generally limited in scale and although such would guide the future direction of development opportunities, they would not be prejudicial to securing a range of suitable development opportunities to meet the towns long term, social and economic needs.
Holsworthy Town Study 31 Holsworthy Town Study
12.4 The Town Council is concerned about limited health care provision, a lack of sixth form education, a shortage of sport pitches and inadequate public transport.
12.5 Overall there is some need for new housing, employment land, a new supermarket at the Livestock Market site and the provision of an agri-business centre. Regeneration of the Livestock Market site is a priority.
12.6 A total of seven growth options have been identified for consideration to accommodate the towns future development needs.
32 Holsworthy Town Study Aerial View of Holsworthy (2010)
N