Dunsford © DNPA Part 2 Development 2.1.5 The English National Parks and the management policies Broads: UK Government Vision and

Circular sees the National Parks as Part 2 thriving, living, working landscapes 2.1 Introduction where sustainable development is seen in action. Sustainable development 2.1.1 recognises that the three ‘pillars’ of the The detailed development management economy, society and the environment policies for the National Park conform are interconnected. The coalition to the sustainability objectives, core Government is committed to sustainable strategic aims and policy principles of development and has refreshed the the Core Strategy Development Plan vision published by the previous 9 Document (Core Strategy) while administration in 2005. providing the more detailed guidance needed for managing development. 2.1.6 The Government’s refreshed vision 2.1.2 looks to make the necessary decisions The policies in this Part of the now to realise the Government’s aims Development Management and of stimulating economic growth and Delivery Development Plan Document tackling the deficit, maximising (DMD) are generic; they apply to wellbeing and protecting the specific types of development or specific environment, without negatively land uses throughout the National Park. impacting on the ability of future Some policies will only be applicable generations to do likewise. The to development in defined areas or refreshed vision and commitments locations, e.g. moorland, conservation build on the principles that underpinned areas, Sites of Special Scientific Interest the UK’s 2005 sustainable development (SSSIs). strategy, by recognising the needs of the economy, society and the natural 2.1.3 environment, alongside the use of The supporting text for each policy good governance and sound science. gives an overview of the planning context and sets out relevant Policy DMD1a: Presumption in international, national or local guidance. favour of sustainable development

2.1.4 When considering development The Government has confirmed that proposals the Authority will take a conservation of the scenic beauty and positive approach that reflects the landscape of the National Parks must presumption in favour of sustainable be given great weight in the planning development contained in the policies that apply and the development National Planning Policy Framework. management decisions that are made. It will always work proactively with The conservation of wildlife and applicants jointly to find solutions cultural heritage are also to be given which mean that proposals can be the same weight, being part of the approved wherever possible, and to statutory purposes for which National secure development that improves the Parks were designated, along with economic, social and environmental the requirement to promote the conditions in the area. understanding and enjoyment by the Planning applications that accord public of the National Parks’ special with the policies in this Local Plan qualities. The economic and social (and, where relevant, with policies in wellbeing of local communities in the neighbourhood plans) will be approved National Parks should be promoted without delay, unless material through policies that enable a range of considerations indicate otherwise. suitably located and designed facilities 9 Defra (2005) Securing the Future – UK to be developed and sustained. Government Sustainable Development Strategy.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 13 Adopted Version July 2013 Where there are no policies relevant General development to the application, or relevant policies are out of date at the time of making management policies

Part 2 the decision, then the Authority will grant permission unless material 2.2 Delivering National Park considerations indicate otherwise- taking into account whether: purposes and protecting © any adverse impacts of granting Dartmoor’s special qualities permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, 2.2.1 when assessed against the policies in Devon Structure Plan 2001 – 2016 (DSP) the National Planning Policy contained policy CO2, which was the Framework taken as a whole; or overarching policy for development in © specific policies in that Framework and affecting Devon’s National Parks. indicate that development should The principles of that policy have proved be restricted. to be robust and effective. The Localism Act has led to the revocation of this ‘larger than local’ layer of policy, so it is important that the thrust of DSP policy CO2 is retained. It is repeated in this DPD as policy DMD1b.

Policy DMD1b: Delivering National Park purposes and protecting Dartmoor National Park’s special qualities

Within Dartmoor National Park, the conservation and enhancement of the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage will be given priority over other considerations in the determination of development proposals. Development will only be provided for where it would: a) conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park; or b) promote the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the National Park; or c) foster the social or economic well- being of the communities in the National Park provided that such development is compatible with the pursuit of National Park purposes. In all cases, development should not detract from, and where appropriate enhance, the special qualities of the National Park.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 14 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.3 Major development in the Core Strategy, the Minerals and Waste Development Plan and other relevant policies.

2.3.1 Part 2 Government planning guidance National Policy DMD2: Major development Planning Policy Framework 2012 (NPPF) in Dartmoor National Park sets out the policy principles for the consideration of major development. Planning permission will not be granted It states that planning permission for for major development unless after major development should only be the most rigorous examination it can granted in exceptional circumstances be demonstrated that there is an (paragraph116). Major development overriding public interest in permitting relates for example to proposals that the development which outweighs extend well beyond needs at the National Park purposes and the local level, such as a new reservoir development cannot reasonably be or a major road scheme, or proposals accommodated in any other way. which could have significant effects on environmentally sensitive or vulnerable places and which should not take place in National Parks, except in exceptional circumstances. The NPPF says that applications for this scale development should be demonstrated to be in the public interest before being allowed to proceed.

2.3.2 Consideration of such applications should include an assessment of:

(i) the need for the development, including in terms of any national considerations, and the impact of permitting it, or refusing it, upon the local economy; (ii) the cost of, and scope for, developing elsewhere outside the designated area, or meeting the need for it in some other way; and (iii) any detrimental effect on the environment, the landscape and recreational opportunities, and the extent to which that could be moderated.

2.3.3 When planning permission for major development is granted it must be carried out to high environmental standards. Such proposals will generally also be subject to an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Such an assessment ensures that in-depth consideration will be given to any major development proposal. Minerals and waste development proposals will be considered against the relevant policies

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 15 Adopted Version July 2013 2.4 Military related and Defence Estates land is managed as an exemplar of conservation and development recreational opportunity. Part 2 2.4.1 2.4.3 Military training and the development Crown compliance with the planning to support it can be particularly Acts was introduced in June 2006 intrusive in the National Park, with a (although compliance with Scheduled total of around 13,000 ha used for Monument Consent is only quasi- various types of training. The conflicts statutory). This means that national between military training and National planning policy and local adopted Park purposes centre on the loss of planning policy applies to access at times of live firing, the visual determinations for military related intrusion in the landscape of warning development. Where the scale or signs, look-out shelters and flagpoles, impact of any proposal is clearly and noise intrusion from military larger than local, then such proposals activity, notably helicopters. The will be treated as major development. Dartmoor National Park Management Plan states that the National Park Authority retains a vision and ambition that military training damaging the National Park purposes should cease. Conversely, there is a strong tradition of military training on Dartmoor, there is significant public support for the military and their need to be properly trained, and the military presence undoubtedly contributes to the local economy in a variety of ways.

2.4.2 The standing liaison arrangements between the Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA) and the Ministry of Defence (MOD) are a highly effective joint mechanism for resolving differences associated with the potential incompatibility between the military use of Dartmoor and National Park purposes, and for working positively to secure maximum opportunity for both public access and conservation. The MOD also routinely submits formal and informal consultations on matters which fall outside the statutory planning system. Much of the Dartmoor training estate covers SSSIs and falls within the Dartmoor Special Area of Conservation (SAC). It is important that the international interest features of the Dartmoor SAC are not adversely affected by military related development. In the long term, the National Park Authority retains an ambition that all military training taking place on Dartmoor will be consistent with National Park purposes,

Dartmoor National Park Authority 16 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.5 Sustaining the quality 2.5.3 Good design plays a key role in of places in Dartmoor mitigating climate change, facilitating

National Park adaptation to manage change, and Part 2 promoting a more efficient use of resources (COR1 Core Strategy sustainable 2.5.1 development policy, COR8 Energy Dartmoor National Park is a unique and efficiency and sustainable buildings). The distinctive natural and cultural landscape. NPPF recognises the role of planning in, Its special qualities originate from natural ‘helping shape places to secure radical forces acting over millennia and from reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, the interaction between the natural minimising vulnerability and providing environment and human activities. resilience to the impacts of climate Within this landscape, high quality design change, and supporting the delivery of and construction are core components in renewable and low carbon energy and delivering and sustaining high quality associated infrastructure.’ (paragraph 93) places that are good to live and work in and visit. Good design responds to local 2.5.4 natural and built elements of the Good design responds in positive ways landscape, improves the quality of life, to environmental conservation objectives and promotes local distinctiveness and (see COR7, Biodiversity and geological identity. It helps to create places that are conservation). A proposal should, where attractive, well made, and able to deliver possible, make a positive contribution what people need. Good design does not to the natural environment and new mean that existing architectural styles, development proposals should look for patterns or themes should be unthinkingly opportunities to incorporate and enhance replicated; there is always a role for ecological habitats and biodiversity. innovative and refreshing design. 2.5.5 2.5.2 The Authority endorses the Commission The Government’s planning objectives for Architecture and the Built for design are set out in the NPPF: Environment (CABE) at the Design ‘The Government attaches great Council/ Design for Homes/ Home importance to the design of the built Builders Federation Building for Life environment. Good design is indivisible 1210 criteria as the standard for the from good planning and should design quality of new homes. It is a contribute positively to making places government-endorsed assessment better for people. It is important to plan benchmark, which sites of 10 or more positively for the achievement of high dwellings should seek to incorporate. quality and inclusive design for all The Authority monitors the number development, including individual of housing schemes built according buildings, public and private spaces to those criteria. and wider area development schemes.’ (paragraphs 56 and 57) 2.5.6 Good design responds to the site and its Core Strategy policies COR3 and COR4 surroundings. An understanding of this provide an overarching policy framework, should be demonstrated in new setting out the principles of good and development. All proposals will need to sustainable design. Policy DMD3 provides provide this evidence. Design and access a more detailed framework for decision statements are the way in which it is making reflecting local qualities and demonstrated that applicants have distinctiveness, responding to the needs good understanding of the site and its of both people and the environment. setting within the surrounding area.

10 CABE at the Design Council/ Design for Homes/ HBF (2012) - Building for Life 12 - Delivering Great Places to Live

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 17 Adopted Version July 2013 The statement shows how the proposal is Local Planning Authorities in the tailored to the locality; it explains planning process, assessing flood risk the scale, layout and appearance of and reducing the potential risk from

Part 2 buildings and public spaces, and provides any new development. details on access. Information, guidance and principles promoting good design 2.5.8 and development within Dartmoor The protection of water resources and National Park can be found in DNPA’s the promotion of sustainable water Design Guide supplementary planning management practices are important document. This document was adopted considerations. Sustainable drainage by the Authority and published in systems (SuDS) are appropriate in November 2011. It is intended for a practically all developments and will wide audience, and to influence all reduce the risks of flooding (by cutting those involved in the process of creating the amount of surface water entering new places and buildings or changing sewers) and pollution (by increasing existing ones. filtration of pollutants). Sustainable drainage is a concept that applies site 2.5.7 specific engineering techniques to The NPPF says that the planning increase the capacity of systems to system should aim to avoid inappropriate absorb and manage surface water. development in areas at risk of A variety of options allow local land flooding by directing development use and local community requirements, away from areas at highest risk or, where as well as traditional engineering development is necessary, making it safe components, to be combined. without increasing flood risk elsewhere. Examples of SuDS include basins and A Level 1 Strategic Flood Risk Assessment ponds; infiltration spaces (such as (SFRA) was completed for the National soakaways); and the use of permeable Park in November 2010. The main sources surfaces (such as gravel or permeable of flooding within Dartmoor are from paving). This approach has the added rivers and surface waters. There are a advantage that schemes can be number of reservoirs, which may also designed to improve amenity and present a flood risk in the event of a biodiversity. breach. Dartmoor includes the upper reaches of rivers that typically have steep 2.5.9 gradients and flow to the coast in The Flood and Water Management Act relatively steep sided valleys that have 2010 encourages the use of sustainable confined floodplains. These confined drainage. It does this by requiring floodplains and the underlying hard rock drainage systems to be approved geology result in relatively short rainfall against a set of national standards response times in the upper catchments. before building can commence and a The SFRA shows the areas of flood risk connection made to a sewer. Plans for (Zone 3) and these areas are shown on the drainage system must be approved the DMD Policies Map for information. by the ‘SuDS Approving Body’ (SAB) The SFRA also shows ‘Areas Susceptible before construction can start. Devon to Surface Water Flooding’ which, along County Council has a duty as 'Lead Local with the flood zones, are areas where Flood Authority' under the 2010 Act to special regard to flooding hazards will lead in the management of flood risk need to be had. The SFRA is a live from surface water and ground water. document that is continually updated and The County Council therefore will be applicants will need to refer to the latest the approving body, although this version of the document. Locally agreed responsibility may be delegated to surface water maps have been developed district and borough councils. The right as part of the Preliminary Flood Risk to connect surface runoff from a new Assessment for Devon, to understand development to a public sewer will be where there is surface water flood risk. conditional on the drainage system It is to be used alongside the existing being approved by the SAB. Environment Agency Flood Zones by

Dartmoor National Park Authority 18 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Policy DMD3: Sustaining the quality of places in Dartmoor National Park Development proposals should help to sustain good quality places in Dartmoor Part 2 National Park by: © responding to and reinforcing locally distinctive patterns of development, landscape and cultural heritage; © creating places that are accessible and easy to move around on foot and by cycle; © maintaining a clear distinction between public and private spaces; © creating public spaces and routes that are attractive, safe, uncluttered and which work effectively for all in society; © enabling places to be adaptable to changing social, technological, climatic and economic conditions; © protecting distinctive landmarks, buildings and views; © making best use of opportunities to incorporate public open space, hard and soft landscaping, public art features, and green infrastructure; © promoting diversity and choice through a mix of compatible developments and uses that respond to local needs; © disposing of surface water in accordance with sustainable methods that minimise the risk of flooding of property and land or the pollution of watercourses; © reflecting the principles set out in the Dartmoor National Park Design Guide supplementary planning document.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 19 Adopted Version July 2013 2.6 Protecting local Policy DMD4: Protecting residential amenity in Dartmoor National Park amenity Development proposals should not: Part 2 2.6.1 © significantly reduce the levels of Careful consideration should be given daylight and privacy enjoyed by to the potential impact of development the occupiers of nearby properties; on surrounding residential amenity; © have an overbearing and dominant in particular, the effect a proposed impact; development would have on © introduce levels of noise, vibration, neighbours. Neighbours can feel lighting, odours, fumes or dust that blocked in or overlooked by adjacent would adversely affect human development, which could also be health and well-being; dominant or overbearing, or cause © have an adverse effect on highway a loss of daylight. safety; © detract from the special qualities 2.6.2 Certain developments, in particular of the area. some industrial or commercial uses, may detract from the amenity enjoyed by existing residents by being noisy, dusty, smelly, or by creating fumes or vibration. Reasonable measures should be taken to avoid those types of disturbance and advice will be sought from the local environmental health officer. Proposals may also have the potential to raise the levels of traffic or congestion on local roads, by increasing on-street parking, being a use that involves a large element of patronage by car, or by adding to road safety risk. The acceptability of proposals causing such disturbances will depend on the level and intensity of the impact.

2.6.3 The NPPF attaches importance to the avoidance and mitigation of noise that could have adverse impacts on health and quality of life; and to the identification and protection of areas of tranquillity that have remained relatively undisturbed by noise and are valued for their recreational and amenity value (paragraph 123). Limiting the impact of light pollution on local amenity, intrinsically dark landscapes and nature conservation interests is also stressed (paragraph 125).

Dartmoor National Park Authority 20 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Environment and heritage and sheltered landscapes of valleys and fringes; policies © central high moorland with a wild

landscape of tors, clitters, bogs, Part 2 2.7 National Park landscape grassland, heather and bracken; © around the moorland core is a 2.7.1 gentler landscape of small, irregular Dartmoor is an internationally renowned pasture fields with dry stone walls landscape, which has been shaped by and banks, cut by large, terraced, thousands of years of human interaction wooded valleys which shelter with its demanding environment. It has a farmsteads and hamlets. The valleys rich diversity of habitats resulting in part have steep-sided, fast-flowing streams from non-intensive husbandry and land and a network of sunken lanes; management. The central granite block © main villages and towns lie beyond forming Dartmoor’s high moor is divided the outer edge of moor but are linked into two by the headwaters of the West to it by ancient roads and lanes; Dart River, creating the north and south © granite and slate in cottages, moorland plateaux. Half of the entire farmhouses, villages, abandoned area of the National Park is moorland, mine buildings and walls, unifies an exposed and windswept upland the landscape; whose wide horizons are punctuated by © mining industry has made a strong granite tors. There are extensive areas impact on the landscape, with of blanket bog on the poorly draining dramatically-sited spoil heaps granite base, which act as reservoirs feeding the upland rivers that radiate and ruins; from the central moorland. These rivers © very high historic interest from create steep-sided valleys with distinctive Bronze Age onwards: particular semi-natural woodland where they features include highly visible descend from the moorland core. features such as hut circles, standing Surrounding the high moor to the west, stones, reaves, field systems, hillforts. south and east is a farmed landscape, focusing principally on cattle and 2.7.3 sheep production with a little arable. A Landscape Character Assessment for This provides an attractive and distinctive Dartmoor National Park (LCA) was contrast to the high moorland. published in 2010. It divided the Important animal husbandry and National Park up into a series of discrete environmental conservation outcomes but interconnected ‘landscape character result from the management of stock types’ (LCTs) (see Figure 1). The on in-bye farmland and the Dartmoor assessment went on to highlight the key commons. The small irregular fields are characteristics (called ‘valued attributes’) punctuated by scattered farmsteads, that typify the LCTs and the forces for hamlets and villages, connected by change likely to impinge on them. narrow roads and lanes edged with A landscape strategy for each LCT is stone banks. proposed along with landscape and planning guidelines to help protect, 2.7.2 manage and guide spatial planning. England has been divided into areas with The LCA does not include an assessment similar landscape character, called National of the built up areas, but it will be Character Areas (NCAs). Dartmoor National important to consider its evidence with Park comprises one character area (no. regard to development on the edges of 150). Character descriptions have been settlements and in the countryside. published for each NCA to highlight the influences determining the character of 2.7.4 the landscape. The ‘key characteristics’ for The Dartmoor National Park LCA Dartmoor are listed below: was prepared in accordance with the © strong contrasts between open, Articles of the European Landscape windswept moors with wide views Convention (ELC). Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 21 Adopted Version July 2013 Figure 1: Landscape character types in Dartmoor National Park (taken from figure 3.1 of A Landscape Character Assessment for Dartmoor National Park 2010) Part 2

KEY

Dartmoor National Park boundary 3A: Upper Farmed and Wooded Slopes

ID: Inland Elevated Undulating Land 3C: Sparsely Settled Farmed Valley Floors

IK: Unsettled High Upland Moorland 3E: Lowland Plains

IL: Upland Moorland with Tors 3F: Settled Valley Floors

IJ: Farmed and Forested Plateau 3J: Upland River Valleys

2D: Moorland Edge Slopes U: Urban

Dartmoor National Park Authority 22 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 The ELC acknowledges that the essence Although numbers have dropped of landscape is its living, changing considerably, where they still exist, quality, and that landscape is dynamic their contribution to local amenity,

both physically and in terms of biodiversity and cultural heritage should Part 2 perceptions and opinions. It establishes be respected. Sensitive landscaping the need to recognise landscape in law; schemes or other enhancement to develop landscape policies dedicated measures can do much to conserve to the protection, management and or improve local landscape quality. planning of landscapes; and to establish procedures for the participation of the 2.7.7 general public and other stakeholders Some of the special qualities that in the creation and implementation of define Dartmoor are based on its landscape policies. It also encourages sense of tranquillity and remoteness, the integration of landscape into all qualities which are sustained by land relevant areas of policy, including uses that are not noisy or intrusive cultural, economic and social policies. and which do not add to the prevailing very low levels of light pollution. 2.7.5 Development should seek to ensure Devon County Council has put together that these special qualities that help a study called Devon’s Landscape to create Dartmoor’s unique sense of Character Assessment. Drawing on the place are not damaged or diluted. results of individual landscape character assessments (at district and National 2.7.8 Park level) to produce a new map Dartmoor will not be immune from dividing the county into areas that change – all landscapes change whether share a distinct character and identity. from natural or human forces. The Each character area comprises a challenge for Dartmoor for the 21st description of the area and what makes century is to set in place measures that it special and distinctive; past, current can respond to and influence landscape and future forces for landscape change; change whilst protecting and enhancing and guidance to protect the valued those qualities which are integral to its components as well as planning unique sense of place. guidance. This study, together with the Dartmoor National Park LCA, will Policy DMD5: Protecting the character be particularly helpful in providing a of Dartmoor’s landscape mechanism for assessing proposals for change within and around the boundary Development proposals should conserve of the National Park. and/or enhance the character and special qualities of the Dartmoor 2.7.6 landscape by:

Development proposals provide many © respecting the valued attributes of opportunities for building-in beneficial landscape character types identified biodiversity or geological features as part in the Dartmoor National Park of good design. There are natural and Landscape Character Assessment; semi-natural features such as streams, © ensuring that location, site layout,

rock exposures, veteran trees, scale and design conserves and/or hedgebanks and hedgerows, and other enhances what is special or locally natural networks that help create local distinctive about landscape character; character. These should be considered retaining, integrating or enhancing in planning for development. Other © heritage and cultural components, distinctive local natural, semi-natural such as field barns and village orchards, or cultural features; should also be treated thoughtfully. © avoiding unsympathetic development Within the moorland fringe farmland, that will harm the wider landscape orchards have traditionally played a or introduce or increase light pollution; significant role in the farming economy © respecting the tranquillity and sense and as valued features in the countryside. of remoteness of Dartmoor.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 23 Adopted Version July 2013 2.8 Dartmoor’s moorland Recreation on the open moor covers a wide range of pursuits, e.g. hill walking, and woodland orienteering, letterboxing, cycling and

Part 2 hang gliding. 2.8.1 Dartmoor’s moorland forms the heart of 2.8.4 the National Park covering around 50% DNPA has prepared the Section 3 (46,000 ha) of the total area of 953 sq Conservation Map required by the km. The austere, windswept high Wildlife and Countryside (Amendment) plateaux are clothed with blanket bog Act 1985. The map shows areas of surrounded by upland heath with valley moor, heath and woodland ‘… whose mires wherever drainage is impeded. natural beauty it is, in the opinion of Lower moorland slopes are often the Authority, particularly important covered with an intimate mix of gorse to conserve’. It is important that this and heather, including a few areas of resource is protected from damaging lowland heath. All of this provides a development so as to support National unique wildlife habitat recognised for Park purposes. The areas of moor and its ecological value by the designation heath which should be conserved are of most of the open moorland as SSSIs. shown on the Policies Map (see insert) Most of this land is also included in as ‘Moor and Heath of Conservation the Dartmoor SAC, under the European Importance’. However, there may be Habitats Directive. The Dartmoor areas of moor and heath not lying Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) contains within the defined area, which are a habitat action plan (HAP) for also worthy of protection and these moorland habitat, which seeks to should be treated on their merits. conserve its ecological qualities and (See also the reference to the Moorland overall character. Vision, at paragraph 2.11.2.)

2.8.2 2.8.5 Dartmoor’s moorland is also one of the Woodland habitats cover around richest archaeological landscapes in 10% of Dartmoor. Native woodland, Europe, boasting a chronology of principally upland oakwood, dominates human activity extending back over the sides of the major river valleys: 10,000 years. Important geological and geomorphological features are present. Total area of woodland 9,718 ha Over much of the moor, the surface layers have not been greatly disturbed Total area of since the last Ice Age when Dartmoor broadleaved woodland 4,955 ha was the highest area in Britain south of Total area of the main ice sheets. coniferous woodland 4,763 ha 2.8.3 In addition there are 540 ha of scrub Most of the open moor is common and scattered woodland.11 land and has, for centuries, been used as an extensive grazing ground for 2.8.6 cattle, sheep and ponies. Moorland Dartmoor’s ancient woodlands, and grazing rights are an essential element ancient or veteran trees, are important of many hill farm enterprises. The wild for wildlife and many are statutorily quality of the open moor is also highly protected; five of Dartmoor’s oakwoods valued for its recreational potential. are National Nature Reserves (NNRs) The Dartmoor Commons Act 1985 and 17 (including the NNRs) are notified conferred a public right of access, on as SSSIs. Woodland in the Bovey and foot and horseback, to all common land. Dart river valleys form part of the Mapping of open country under the South Dartmoor Woods SAC. Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 has added some additional areas. 11 DNPA mapping 2006 Dartmoor National Park Authority 24 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.8.7 Policy DMD6: Development Upland oakwoods are also known to affecting moor, heath and woodland support many important plant and

animal species and are the subject of Within the areas of moor, heath and Part 2 a habitat action plan in the Dartmoor woodland of conservation importance, BAP. The total area of ancient semi- as shown on the Policies Map, natural woodland in Dartmoor National development will only be permitted Park extends over 2,957 ha, of which where it: 249 ha are part of ‘plantations on © would lead to the reinstatement or ancient woodland sites’. Although enhancement of damaged moorland; or relatively small in extent, at 76 ha, © conserves or enhances features of orchards still play an important role landscape, archaeological, historic or in sustaining local landscape quality nature conservation significance; or and distinctiveness, for example, © maintains or improves public access; or as at Dunsford where the conservation © is necessary for the proper husbandry area extends to include old cider of moor and heath or the management apple orchards. of the areas of woodland; or would enhance small scale recreation 2.8.8 © The major conifer plantations on opportunities and is in keeping with Dartmoor were planted through the the special qualities of the area. joint efforts of the Duchy of Cornwall and the Forestry Commission (FC) from Development affecting other areas of the 1920s onwards. Coniferous crops woodland will be considered on its merits. play an important part in the local economy. However, many of these plantations have reached the end of their first rotation. The FC is now gradually diversifying and restructuring these plantations through the implementation of long term multipurpose Forest Design Plans. Together with other woodlands, they also provide important opportunities for extensive open-air recreation.

2.8.9 There are few areas of native woodland species that have not been intensively managed for economic benefit in previous centuries. Coppicing for charcoal and tanbark was widespread but a long period of neglect after the 1940s has created management problems. Following a period when there were few marketing opportunities for this poor quality material, in recent years new markets have been developed, such as logs and woodchips for wood fired boilers along with a renewal of interest in local charcoal production. So the economic viability (and active management) of these woodlands may improve.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 25 Adopted Version July 2013 2.9 Dartmoor’s built settlement, settlement patterns, the historic buildings and other structures environment that are present, along with trees, open

Part 2 spaces and the views into and out of the 2.9.1 towns and villages, all contribute to the The characteristic settlement pattern quality and distinctiveness of the of Dartmoor-scattered farmsteads National Park’s built up areas. and hamlets-is ancient, and can be seen in the surviving traces of landscapes 2.9.3 dating back to the second millennium The physical character of town and BC. Dartmoor’s towns are generally village centres and their overall ambience strategically sited on the moorland is in great part dependent on the quality fringes in ‘gateway’ locations. The of the street scene. The shop windows, larger settlements were developed in facades and fascias of the retail and medieval times and many of them commercial premises along with the type still show the boundaries of the burgage and nature of the non-commercial plots that were a strong local feature buildings, road and footway surfaces, of medieval urban plans. In assessing kerbing, signs and lighting apparatus, all proposals for development, the affect the character and quality of the historical contexts of the built street scene. To sustain this character environment must be considered and quality, development should reflect thoroughly to ensure that sensitive traditional materials, styles and elements and areas are not damaged proportions. With proposals affecting (see also paragraphs 2.10.2 - 2.10.3). the street scene, the following factors are important: 2.9.2 Dartmoor’s built environment has a (a) retaining traditional surfaces and number of well-defined vernacular layouts, or reintroducing them; traditions reflecting historical building (b) ensuring that the scale, texture, methods, local availability of materials colour and patterns of new materials and economic and social influences. are sympathetic to the area’s The principal characteristic of character and appearance; Dartmoor’s rural buildings is the (c) retaining or reinstating street horizontal emphasis. They are generally furniture of historical or architectural constructed to a plan that is long in interest or of local distinctiveness; proportion to width, with roof lines that (d) ensuring that road signs and repeat the upland contours. Farmsteads markings are of appropriate and hamlets on the moorland fringe are appearance and quality, with no mainly simple and unfussy buildings unnecessary duplication, and fixed, built of local materials using traditional techniques. Thatch is often replaced by where possible and appropriate, to slate. Within Dartmoor settlements, buildings or existing street furniture; local character has developed based on (e) using lighting equipment that architectural styles, historical building reflects established local styles, traditions, town plan layouts and street and which is not excessive or detailing. More of a vertical emphasis is unsympathetic in intensity and colour. seen in the larger towns and villages, and buildings demonstrate a tight, close 2.9.4 knit but individual relationship with The Dartmoor National Park Design Guide neighbours. The square plan form so supplementary planning document seeks often seen in contemporary buildings is to encourage innovative, high quality uncommon. Buildings may be three design, including contemporary solutions. storeys high but seldom more and most Section 1 of the Guide focuses on the front directly onto the street. character of Dartmoor’s landscape and its Decorative features such as window built environment. The landscape and mouldings are more prevalent and buildings of the high moor and moorland greater use is made of render and fringe are described, along with the typical colour. The form and extent of a elements that make those areas so special. Dartmoor National Park Authority 26 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Policy DMD7: The quality and 2.9.6 distinctiveness of the built environment Evidence of climate change is causing increasing concern at all levels. 12 Within the built environment of The Stern Review provided evidence Part 2 Dartmoor National Park, high standards showing that climate change is a serious of design and construction will be and urgent issue. The conclusion of the promoted to conserve or enhance Review was essentially optimistic. There urban settings, settlement layouts is still time to avoid the worst impacts and distinctive historic, cultural and of climate change, if action is taken now architectural features. and around the world. Governments, businesses and individuals all need to Development proposals should: work together to respond to the challenge. Housing currently contributes (i) conserve and enhance the character around 30% of UK greenhouse gas of the local built environment emissions; therefore there is considerable including buildings, open spaces, scope for this figure to be reduced trees and other important features through energy efficient development. that contribute to visual, historical or architectural character; 2.9.7 (ii) reinforce the distinctive qualities Good design can play a role in the of places through the consideration mitigation of and adaptation to the of uses, scale, height, solid form, impact of climate change and can alignment, design detailing, promote a more efficient use of materials and finishes; resources. Measures include minimising (iii) respect the integrity of historic energy demand through the orientation town or village plans including of buildings, and maximising the use of boundary and street elements; renewable energy and efficient energy (iv) have particular regard to the quality, supply, as well as the use of ‘greener’ integrity, character and settings construction techniques to reduce carbon dioxide emissions from construction of heritage assets; and use. The choice of locally sourced (v) conserve the special characteristics building materials can also contribute of the defined Areas of Historic to energy efficient measures and Setting adjoining Conservation Areas; sustainable construction. The Design (vi) reflect the principles set out in the Guide supplementary planning document Dartmoor National Park Design sets out the principles of sustainability, Guide supplementary planning and offers advice on topics such as document. embodied energy in buildings, the principles of passive design, and Climate change, energy efficiency renewable energy sources, along with and sustainable buildings information on how sustainability may 2.9.5 be assessed. The overuse of natural resources has become an international concern. Development can have a direct impact on reducing the use of natural resources, through the reduction of construction waste, reducing travel of goods/materials and providing storage for waste in new developments to encourage recycling. Core Strategy policies COR8 and COR9 are the relevant policies.

12 HM Treasury (October 2006) Stern Review on the Economics of Climate Change.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 27 Adopted Version July 2013 2.10 The historic environment having a degree of significance meriting consideration in planning decisions, 2.10.1 because of its heritage interest. Part 2 The historic environment contributes Heritage asset includes designated greatly to the health and well-being heritage assets and assets identified by of local communities and the local the local planning authority (including economy through its influence on the local listing) (NPPF Annex 2: Glossary) character of the environment and an The NPPF also provides a definition of area’s sense of place. It also has the the ‘significance’ of a heritage asset: potential to act as a catalyst for regeneration, in particular through The value of a heritage asset to this leisure, tourism and economic and future generations because of its development; and it can stimulate and heritage interest. That interest may be inspire imaginatively designed new archaeological, architectural, artistic or development. By re-using the existing historic. Significance derives not only built fabric, resources are conserved and from a heritage asset’s physical the mixed patterns of land use that presence, but also from its setting. historic environments exhibit are likely (Annex 2: Glossary) to be, and to remain, sustainable. 2.10.4 2.10.2 Designated assets in Dartmoor With the publication of Planning Policy National Park comprise: Statement (PPS) 5 - Planning for the © scheduled monuments-designated Historic Environment - in 2010, a more under the Ancient Monuments and integrated approach to understanding Archaeological Areas Act 1979 by the richness and variety of the historic the Secretary of State for their environment was given national policy national importance; foundations. The NPPF restates the © listed buildings-designated under approach in PPS5. The guidance the Planning (Listed Buildings and acknowledges that there are Conservation Areas) Act 1990 by the components of the historic environment Secretary of State for their special that have significance because of their architectural or historic interest; ‘historic, archaeological, architectural or © conservation areas-designated artistic interest’ and those components under the Planning (Listed Buildings are called heritage assets. Some and Conservation Areas) Act 1990, heritage assets possess a degree of interest that justifies formal primarily by local authorities, for designation, such as listed buildings, their special architectural or historic scheduled monuments, and conservation interest the character or appearance areas. However, there are other of which it is desirable to preserve heritage assets that are not designated or enhance; but which have heritage value and © registered parks and gardens- which are therefore a material planning designated by English Heritage under consideration. The difference between the National Heritage Act 1983 for a heritage asset and other components their special historic interest. of the environment is that a heritage asset holds meaning for society over 2.10.5 and above its functional utility. It is Local authorities can formally identify this heritage significance that justifies heritage assets e.g. through local a degree of protection in planning heritage lists. Detailed guidance decisions. on criteria for local listing has been published by English Heritage.13 2.10.3 Occasionally, the process of determining The NPPF confirms the definition of planning permissions, listed building ‘heritage asset’ set out previously in or conservation area consents may PPS5: A building, monument, site, lead to the recognition that a heritage place, area or landscape identified as asset has significance. Dartmoor National Park Authority 28 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 It is the intention of DNPA to maintain e.g. Boulton & Paul prefabricated a local heritage list. Local authorities buildings, Victorian villas, Non- will also hold evidence of a wide range conformist chapels; of non-designated heritage assets © pre 1919 buildings in conservation Part 2 through information held on their areas; Historic Environment Record (HER). © buildings which reflect architectural Dartmoor National Park Authority fashions e.g. arts and crafts, maintains the HER for the National Park. art nouveau; 2.10.6 © historic land divisions e.g. burgage Heritage assets can possess tangible plots, and field systems; and intangible qualities. Four types of © historic pavement, road and lane heritage value are highlighted: surfaces; aesthetic, communal, historical © historic routeways, e.g. disused and evidential value: railway tracks, green lanes and © aesthetic: the ability of a heritage byways. asset to create sensory or intellectual stimulation; The historic built environment 2.10.8 © communal: the meaning of a The number of listed buildings in heritage asset for people who the National Park at March 2013 was draw their identity from it; 2,565, including 50 Grade I buildings. © historical: the linking of the past However, there are still buildings of (people, events) with the present listing quality that have not yet received through a heritage asset statutory protection. Further survey (i.e. illustration or association); work remains necessary to reveal these, and careful assessment of development © evidential: the potential of a proposals will be necessary to ensure heritage asset to yield evidence that buildings of special quality are not about the past. damaged or destroyed. Information 2.10.7 flowing from the quinquennial The list below sets out those places and Buildings at Risk Survey is used to focus features within Dartmoor National Park attention on those buildings within the (other than the designated heritage National Park that are most desperately assets) most likely to have a degree in need of essential structural repair of significance: and conservation. © non-designated archaeological Changes to historic buildings features, structures and buildings and other heritage assets on the HER (but which will not 2.10.9 necessarily be significant); Changing the use of a listed building © historic buildings which reinforce or other heritage asset may involve local distinctiveness – vernacular changes to the internal structure or farm buildings, houses and cottages external appearance to accommodate pre-1919; the proposed new use. Extensions and © sites, structures and buildings alterations can significantly affect the associated with historic industrial structure of a building. It is therefore activity; important to guard against the loss of © traditional artefacts and structures, those features and characteristics that e.g. milestones, bridges, wells, war led to the building being listed or memorials, slotted gateposts; recognised as being a heritage asset © buildings or structures which reflect in the first place. Similarly, proposals a distinctive architectural style e.g. to alter or extend such buildings must estate buildings (such as Hambleden, take account of the fact that the Bedford), K6 telephone boxes; intrinsic value of a building can be © buildings or structures which reflect 13 English Heritage (May 2012): Good Practice Guide Dartmoor’s socio-economic history, for Local Heritage Listing Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 29 Adopted Version July 2013 lost as easily by unsympathetic the Authority will look to see whether alteration or extension as by demolition. (and to what degree) the works will: Sufficient information therefore needs © detract from the original scale,

Part 2 to be provided with an application significance, form, quality or setting to enable a full understanding of of the building or structure; the impact of a proposal on a listed © adversely affect its archaeological, building or heritage asset. historical, architectural or artistic interest; 2.10.10 © maintain the cultural significance An applicant should provide a of the building or asset; and description of the significance of the protect the important fixtures heritage assets affected by the © development proposal and the and fittings. contribution of their setting to that Policy DMD8: Change of use, extension significance. The level of detail should and alteration of listed buildings and be proportionate to the importance other heritage assets of the heritage asset and no more than is sufficient to understand the Consent will be granted for the change potential impact of the proposal on of use, extension or alteration of listed the significance of the heritage asset. buildings and other designated heritage Heritage assets can be affected by direct assets where, having assessed: physical change or by change in their (i) the significance of the building settings. An Assessment of Significance or the asset; and should allow a full understanding of the (ii) whether the proposed development potential impact (positive or negative) will result in harm to the building or of a proposal on a heritage asset whose the asset and the scale of such harm, fabric or setting would be affected by a the Authority concludes that any harm proposed development. identified is outweighed by the public benefits the proposed development 2.10.11 will bring. As a minimum, the HER should have Where substantial harm is identified, been consulted and the heritage assets consent will not be granted unless the themselves should have been assessed proposed development will secure using appropriate expertise where substantial public benefits which necessary given the application’s impact. outweigh that harm. Where an application site includes, or is considered to have the potential to With regard to applications directly or include, heritage assets with indirectly affecting non-designated archaeological interest, developers buildings or other assets the Authority should submit an appropriate desk- will come to a balanced judgement based assessment. Where desk-based having regard to the scale of any harm research is insufficient to properly assess or loss and the significance of the the interest, a field evaluation will be building or asset. needed. This information should be set out in the planning application (within Applications should be accompanied by the design and access statement when a statement of significance to enable a this is required) as part of the sufficient understanding to be gained of explanation of the design concept. the significance of the heritage asset and During the course of building works, the potential impact of the proposal on important hidden features may be the character, appearance and setting of revealed. In this case also, an the listed building or heritage asset. opportunity must be provided Where evidence exists to suggest for records to be made. that proposed development may reveal significant hidden historic or 2.10.12 architectural features, a condition In assessing any harm that might will be attached requiring exploratory arise from the proposed works, work and recording to be conducted Dartmoor National Park Authority 30 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 prior to development commencing. Re-use involving light industry, offices, A condition will also be attached community related development, and requiring recording to be made of recreation or tourism related uses are

any significant historic or architectural other uses likely to gain support, being Part 2 features that are revealed during uses that are most likely to contribute the course of construction work. positively to the socio-economic wellbeing of Dartmoor residents. The re-use and adaptation of historic buildings in the countryside 2.10.17 2.10.13 A proposed new use should be capable Conserving and enhancing the built of being accommodated comfortably heritage of the National Park depends within the existing fabric of the building, in great part on sustaining the use of while retaining important architectural historic buildings. Where such buildings and historic features. Where significant are no longer needed in their original alterations, extension or remodelling are uses, the only guarantee of protection necessary, then the new use will not be and proper maintenance may be to acceptable, unless such works are vital to enable appropriate new sustainable protecting the structure and its setting uses to be carried on. Many, but not all, and are acceptable under Policy DMD10 of these buildings will be former (Enabling policy involving heritage agricultural buildings, such as barns or assets). It is important that new building shippons. Their sympathetic conversion work should use materials and finishes and re-use plays a part in protecting the that match the original and that full distinctive character and appearance of details of the proposal, including its the National Park’s countryside. relationship to neighbouring buildings, are available at the commencement of 2.10.14 the application process. Where there is As well as being important components doubt about whether the structural of the built heritage, historic rural condition of the building will allow buildings are physical resources and successful conversion, a full structural their re-use can help meet the need survey will be sought. Where a for floorspace for a variety of uses in residential use is sought, this must be for an economical way. New uses for the provision of affordable housing for existing buildings can help sustain rural local people or suitable accommodation communities by creating employment for those engaged in agriculture or opportunities, providing community other rural businesses. facilities, and enabling diversification 2.10.18 of the rural economy. The conversions policy (DMD9, below) applies to historic buildings that may be 2.10.15 considered ‘traditional’ within the Core Strategy policy COR2 includes context of Dartmoor’s built heritage. the principles covering development Other policies of the development plan, in the National Park’s open countryside. in particular COR15 and COR18 of the The principle most relevant to the Core Strategy, apply to the conversion conversion of historic buildings states or re-use of non-traditional buildings. that the planning objective is to provide scope for beneficial changes of use and The following qualities are typical of conversions where that will sustain the traditional Dartmoor buildings: heritage qualities of the buildings and their contribution to local character © they are constructed in a distinctive and distinctiveness. local style, of local materials or materials readily available historically; walling 2.10.16 being predominantly stone or cob For historic farm buildings, re-use related with lesser elements of brick or wood; to agriculture, forestry, farm diversification © they have a dominance of solid or other countryside based business over void; activities would be most appropriate. © they have pitched roofs; Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 31 Adopted Version July 2013 © they demonstrate, by their nature roundhouses, farm offices, fowl and plan form, an agricultural or houses, granaries, ice houses; industrial history in the Dartmoor © cart sheds; Part 2 tradition; © industrial or other non-agricultural © they were built before 1919. buildings which are considered to be of outstanding historic significance, 2.10.19 or which have internal features, The conversion of entire farmsteads, or furniture or machinery of historic with the resultant loss of the agricultural interest which cannot be retained in character and distinctiveness, has the the conversion scheme or which make potential to detract significantly from an outstanding contribution to the the character of the National Park. character of a settlement, particularly In some cases, it may be necessary to require that existing agricultural buildings within a conservation area. remain unconverted. This may be 2.10.21 achieved through a condition or planning Development through conversion obligation attached to the permission. can result in the converted building It will usually be applied where a building acquiring a set of permitted is in close proximity to a converted development rights. It is important to building and its conversion would maintain control over future changes significantly detract from the integrity to buildings where the permission was of the group or local distinctiveness. given to help sustain the character and appearance or historic features of the 2.10.20 building. It is equally important to There are certain buildings which, maintain control over the setting of the because of their special historical, building, especially where it contributes architectural, landscape or constructional to the architectural or historical characteristics, or because of their character of the locality. value within a local setting, are unlikely to be suitable for conversion. Policy DMD9: Conversion or re-use They include: of non-residential buildings outside © longhouse shippons; classified settlements © listed linhays; © farm buildings providing an essential The conversion or re-use of buildings agricultural setting for a Grade I outside classified settlements as defined or II* listed farmhouse; by policy COR2 will only be permitted © farmgroups of particular significance where the proposal: such as the best examples of estate © relates to a historic building within architecture, or buildings constructed the definition set out in paragraph for specialist activities and functions; 2.10.18; and © agricultural buildings within groups © comprises business uses and short of farmsteads of particular merit stay tourist accommodation; or or historic associations; © will provide local community © farm buildings with particularly services or facilities; or good interiors or with internal © in cases where a business or features, furniture or machinery community use has been shown of historic interest which cannot be to be not viable or feasible, will retained in the conversion scheme; provide affordable housing for © medieval and late-medieval farm local persons or accommodation buildings; for agricultural, forestry or rural © minor buildings which are unlikely enterprise workers. to be converted separately but where their use and retention unmodified should be carefully considered in any scheme, for example: ashhouses, kennels, dovecotes, pigsties,

Dartmoor National Park Authority 32 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 In all cases: considering new uses which, although (i) the building should be sited where radical or less than ideal, could lead to there is reasonable access to local the conservation of important buildings.

services and facilities preferably There may be occasions when securing Part 2 by a variety of means of transport; the future of important heritage assets (ii) the building should demonstrate may only be achievable by deviating from a form, structure or history that the normal policy framework. Enabling development is development that would is traditional within the context be unacceptable in planning terms but of Dartmoor’s built heritage; for the fact that it would bring public (iii) the building should be: benefits sufficient to justify it being • structurally sound; carried out, and which could not • appropriately sized for the otherwise be achieved. In reaching a proposed new use; judgement on enabling development, • capable of conversion without the Authority will have regard to the best the need for substantial practice advice of English Heritage. extension, alteration or reconstruction of the existing Policy DMD10: Enabling development structure; involving heritage assets • capable of conversion without requiring significant changes in Permission will only be granted for the relationship with existing enabling development to secure the ground levels; future conservation of a heritage asset (iv) the proposed conversion work where the public benefits of the should be in keeping with local proposed development decisively building styles and materials, not outweigh the disadvantages of adversely affecting the rural departing from the development plan character and appearance of the or from national policies, taking into locality or significant public views; account whether: © (v) existing significant historic or it will materially harm the architectural elements or other significance of the heritage asset special features should be or its setting; © incorporated into the design; it will avoid detrimental (vi) the overall setting of the building fragmentation of management and site should be sustained. of the heritage asset; © it will secure the long term future Permitted development rights will of the heritage asset and, where be removed in order to control the applicable, its continued use for a character and appearance of any purpose sympathetic to its conservation; subsequent extension or alteration © it is necessary to resolve problems of the converted building. Power and arising from the inherent needs of telephone cables supplying the the heritage asset, rather than the development should be placed circumstances of the present owner, underground. or the purchase price paid; © there is a source of funding that might Enabling development support the heritage asset without 2.10.22 the need for enabling development; The best use for a listed building or © the level of development is the non-designated heritage asset will often minimum necessary to secure the be the use for which the building was future conservation of the heritage originally intended. The retention of asset and of a design and type that the original use should be the first option when the future of a building is minimises harm to other public being considered. However, needs and interests. priorities change over time and a degree of flexibility is necessary when

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 33 Adopted Version July 2013 Demolition of a listed building original use or to conserve the or local heritage asset building or asset through a use 2.10.23 that is sustainable; and

Part 2 The destruction of historic buildings (v) conservation by grant-funding or should seldom be necessary. Where it has some form of charitable or public to take place, it is most likely to be the ownership is demonstrably not result of severe neglect over a period of possible. years. The demolition of listed buildings or heritage assets of significant historic Structural deterioration will be or architectural value should only be disregarded as a factor in decision- necessary in the most exceptional circumstances. The restoration of historic making where there is evidence of buildings can be encouraged through deliberate neglect or damage. the use of grant aid, assistance with the supply of appropriate materials, and Where permission for whole or partial advice on the availability of skilled demolition is granted, conditions will labour. Evidence of deliberate neglect be imposed requiring a record of the or damage to devalue the quality of an building or asset to be made, the form asset in the hope of obtaining planning that the record must take and where permission or listed building consent will the record is to be deposited. be disregarded in considering demolition proposals. Where there is no other Conservation areas course but demolition, the Authority will 2.10.24 ensure that a full record of the asset is The Planning (Listed Buildings and made and that the record is kept in a Conservation Areas) Act 1990 secure and accessible location. There places a duty on local planning may occasionally be good reasons to authorities to identify areas of historic promote the recovery and re-use of and architectural value and to designate traditional materials from a building them as conservation areas. They are that is to be demolished. defined as ‘areas of special architectural or historic interest the character or Policy DMD11: Whole or partial appearance of which it is desirable demolition of listed buildings to preserve or enhance’. and other heritage assets 2.10.25 Consent will only be granted for the There are 25 conservation areas in whole or partial demolition of listed Dartmoor National Park: buildings and other heritage assets Ashburton; Buckfastleigh; Chagford; where: Crockernwell; Drewsteignton; Dunsford; (i) it is necessary for safety reasons; or Horrabridge; Ilsington, Lustleigh; (ii) the total loss of the listed building or Lydford; Manaton; Mary Tavy; Meavy; other heritage asset is necessary to Moretonhampstead; Murchington; achieve substantial public benefits North Bovey; North Brentor; Princetown; that outweigh the loss of the building South Brent; South Tawton; South Zeal; or asset having regard to its Sticklepath; Throwleigh; Walkhampton, significance; or Widecombe-in-the-Moor. (iii) the total loss of a non-designated 2.10.26 heritage asset has been balanced A conservation area character appraisal against the significance of the asset has been prepared for each conservation and found to be convincing and area. Each appraisal describes the justified; heritage qualities of the area and (iv) the scale of partial demolition has is a source of important background been assessed against the significance material for the consideration of of the building or other asset and is development proposals. Appraisals shown to be necessary either to have a wider application as educational sustain the building or asset in its and informative documents for the Dartmoor National Park Authority local community. 34 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 A good character appraisal sets out spaces, views into and out of the area, how the area or place has evolved as together with all other features that an interesting, but unfinished story and contribute positively to the area’s character

draws out the key elements of the or appearance. Part 2 quality and character of the place. 2.10.30 2.10.27 The maintenance of the character or Designation introduces control over the appearance of a conservation area is a demolition of some unlisted buildings and principal consideration in the evaluation there is a general presumption in favour of any proposal outside the area that of retaining buildings that contribute to could affect it. Poorly designed or located the character or appearance of the area. development outside a conservation Restrictions on permitted development area can have an adverse effect on the rights (see also Article 4, paragraphy overall impression of the area. Even distant 2.10.28 below) and outdoor advertisements views towards a conservation area and the apply, and there is extra control over approach to it may contribute to works to trees. However, it is the overall impressions of its character or appearance. character of a conservation area that is important. Among many other factors, 2.10.31 local character depends on the mix of A review of conservation area boundaries uses, historic layouts and boundaries, the carried out by DNPA identified some materials used, the scale and detailing of areas immediately adjacent to existing old and contemporary buildings, vistas conservation areas that were considered to along streets, and the spaces and views have significance in historic, landscape or created between buildings. cultural terms. Although not subsequently included within conservation areas, it was 2.10.28 still felt there was a case for identifying Minor development such as domestic and acknowledging the significance of alterations and extensions can normally these areas and providing some degree be carried out without planning of protection for their particular qualities. permission under the provisions of the The areas will be entered in the HER General Permitted Development Order and special policy coverage will help to (GDPO). Article 4 of the GPDO gives local protect them. planning authorities the power to restrict these ‘permitted development rights’ 2.10.32 where they have the potential to The following ‘Areas of Historic Setting’ undermine protection for the historic have been identified and are shown environment. Using the provisions of on the Policies Map: Article 4 of the GPDO brings certain types of development back under the a) Ashburton: fossilised medieval strip control of a local planning authority fields to the north and west of the town; so that potentially harmful proposals b) Buckfastleigh: a leat and associated land can be considered on a case by case basis serving the town’s woollen industry, to through planning applications. the west of the town; c) Moretonhampstead: the site of the 2.10.29 potential Saxon settlement and glebe The purpose of designating a lands to the east and north east of conservation area is not to prevent any the town; change in the area. New development d) North Bovey: water meadows to the is appropriate where it will preserve or south of the village. enhance the character or appearance of the area. New development does not have to mimic existing buildings but should respect those elements that define the conservation area’s character or appearance. Regard must also be given to the protection of trees, open Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 35 Adopted Version July 2013 Policy DMD12: Development in 2.11 Archaeology or affecting a conservation area 2.11.1

Part 2 Development in or affecting a The history of human activity on conservation area will only be permitted Dartmoor goes back more than 10,000 where the character or appearance of years, although the visible remains date the conservation area is preserved or from about 4,000 BC to the present. enhanced. In particular: This activity has left its mark as (i) the demolition of a building within archaeological features above the a conservation area will only be ground-stone walls, earth-covered permitted where it can be shown mounds and banks, stones set upright, that either the building is in a hollows and ditches. Important dangerous condition and wholly information about the past is also beyond repair or where demolition contained in below the ground would lead to preservation or archaeological deposits. Dartmoor is enhancement of the character or one of the few areas in the country appearance of the conservation area; where it is possible to see not just (ii) where whole or substantial individual features, but collections demolition of a building within a of related features. The relatively conservation area is to be followed undisturbed state of much of this by redevelopment of the site, archaeological heritage is due to the permission for the demolition will lack of intensive farming activity or only be granted where appropriate development pressure in recent times, detailed plans for the redevelopment and because most features were built have been approved and where a using hard wearing granite. planning condition is accepted prohibiting the start of any demolition until a contract for the 2.11.2 carrying out of redevelopment of Dartmoor is one of the most significant the site has been signed; areas in England for archaeology and (iii)the change of use, extension or the density of archaeological remains alteration of a building within a is reflected in over 20,000 entries in conservation area will be permitted the HER. This continues to be updated only where the character or as research and survey reveal further appearance of the area is preserved sites and evidence. However, the or enhanced; number of sites afforded protection as (iv) good quality contemporary design scheduled monuments stands only at which enhances the character or approximately 1,200, a very small part appearance of the conservation area of the total interest. In view of the will be considered. large number of sites, their form and interrelationships, it would be Development outside a conservation impracticable to show them on the area including within the defined Areas Policies Map. These form extensive and of Historic Setting that would harm the interrelated archaeological and historic conservation area’s character or landscapes that cannot be represented appearance will not be permitted. by a distribution map. However, there is recognition of the most important Applications should be accompanied of these landscapes in the Moorland by a statement of significance to enable Vision published in 2006. The vision, a full understanding to be gained of which looks forward to 2030, identifies the potential impact of the proposal areas of blanket bog, heather moorland, on the character or appearance of the Western Heath, mires, naturally conservation area. regenerated woodland, the Ice Age geological landscape of Merrivale, Any proposal for development in or and 14 Premier Archaeological affecting a conservation area should Landscapes (PALs). be submitted as a detailed application.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 36 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 The PALs are considered to be of Conserving archaeological resources international importance, ranking 2.11.5 among the finest archaeological Dartmoor’s archaeological sites and landscapes in Europe. landscapes are irreplaceable and finite. Part 2 Once lost, they are lost forever. 2.11.3 Consideration of the effects on As the number of individual monuments archaeological interests, therefore, that are legally protected through must form part of the assessment scheduling is relatively small on Dartmoor, of all development proposals. significant sites of archaeological The Authority will seek the best importance will remain without formal possible legal protection for Dartmoor’s protection. Government planning archaeology and the most effective guidance14 recognises that there are many use of the powers and responsibilities heritage assets with archaeological interest that go with such protection, where that are not currently designated as necessary undertaking management of scheduled monuments, but which are elements of the archaeological heritage demonstrably of equivalent significance. both directly and in partnership with This may be for a variety of reasons; for others. It works with English Heritage example, some may yet to be formally through the Monument Management assessed for designation and others may Scheme and through local management have been assessed but be incapable of agreements, under which DNPA has designation as they lie outside the scope taken on the day-to-day responsibility of the Ancient Monuments and for sites in the care of English Heritage. Archaeological Areas Act 1979. The absence of designation for such heritage Policy DMD13: Protection of heritage assets does not indicate their lesser assets with archaeological interests significance. The desirability of conserving them and the contribution their setting Where an application includes, may make to their significance is a material or is considered to have the potential consideration in making planning decisions. to affect designated or non-designated There will be a strong presumption in heritage assets with archaeological favour of the physical preservation in situ interests, an appropriate method of archaeological sites and deposits that statement (a written scheme of are of local significance and form an investigation) should accompany an integral part of a local story. CS policy application. This is a written proposal COR6 provides the policy framework for for archaeological investigation of considering development involving or whatever form is deemed necessary: affecting all scheduled monuments and assessment, evaluation, excavation or other monuments and areas that are watching brief, as a statement of intent demonstrably of equivalent significance. by an archaeological organisation employed by the applicant. 2.11.4 Survey and research are essential in order to improve the understanding of the archaeological resource of Dartmoor and to achieve appropriate protection and management. It is now clear, from work undertaken in recent years, that Dartmoor is an area where nationally important integrated prehistoric, medieval and industrial landscapes survive, and where the potential for the survival of below ground archaeological evidence is also high. The form of the present day enclosed landscape is of some antiquity 14 CLG, English Heritage, DCMS (2010) and contains many archaeological sites. Historic Environment Planning Practice Guide

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 37 Adopted Version July 2013 2.12 Biodiversity and This includes biodiversity prevalent on previously developed land that needs geological conservation to be conserved and enhanced within

Part 2 any future development. The The biodiversity and earth science conservation and enhancement of richness of Dartmoor natural networks requires a co- 2.12.1 ordinated approach. Section 40 (i) The conservation and enhancement of of the Natural Environment and Rural wildlife is specifically identified in the Communities Act 2006 places a duty purposes of National Park designation. on public authorities, including local Dartmoor is internationally important planning authorities, to have regard to for its unique and rich wildlife heritage. biodiversity in exercising their functions. It is also an area of very high geological and geomorphological importance with Habitats and sites of international many natural rocky outcrops and importance artificial exposures in quarries and 2.12.3 mines. Many habitats and their In 1992, the Council of the European characteristic species are dependent Communities adopted EC Directive upon the continuation of particular land 92/43/EEC (the Habitats Directive) on the management practices. Human impacts conservation of natural habitats and of can affect natural populations and wild fauna and flora, that required the habitats: water abstraction, air and identification and classification of sites water pollution, recreational pressure or of international importance. Under this development on greenfield sites can all Directive, Special Protection Areas and have adverse effects on biodiversity. Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) These effects can be especially are designated to protect the habitats pronounced where species are already of threatened species of wildlife. under threat or are at the edge of their Within Dartmoor National Park the climatic range. Hence, the potential sites of international importance are impacts on nature conservation and designated as SACs and they cover earth science interests should be taken 25,346 ha, 26.5% of the National Park into account in the consideration of area. These areas represent some of the development proposals. best examples in the UK of habitats and species that are rare or threatened in 2.12.2 Europe. The SACs on Dartmoor are Biodiversity cannot thrive in isolation. priority sites, in that they host priority Protecting sites and important habitats natural habitat types or priority species, can only have limited benefit if those as set out in Annexes I and II to the habitats are not connected within the Directive. Within these areas, schemes wider landscape as part of a network, will only be considered acceptable if generally known as Green Infrastructure. there are overriding reasons of human The Biodiversity South West has also health and public safety, or beneficial prepared a South West Nature Map, consequences of primary importance for which identifies Strategic Nature Areas. the environment. Where a site has been Devon Biodiversity Records Centre identified or required as compensatory has enhanced the mapping to show measures for adverse effects on a certain important habitats in Devon, to European site, it will be given the same complement those produced at regional protection as the designated site and level (see Figure 2). These networks of included on the Policies Map. natural habitats provide a resource in their own right and provide routes or 2.12.4 stepping stones for the migration, The Conservation of Habitats and dispersal and genetic exchange of species Species Regulations 2010 (usually in the wider environment. Development referred to as the Habitats Regulation should aim to maintain the networks by 2010) import the requirements of avoiding or repairing fragmentation the Habitats Directive into national and isolation of natural habitats. legislation.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 38 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Figure 2: Strategic Nature Areas in and around Dartmoor National Park Part 2

KEY National Park Boundary Upland Heath

Woodland Lowland Heath

Neutral Grassland Coastal and Floodplain Grazing Marsh

Purple Moor Grass and Rush Pasture Mosaic of Habitats

© Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey 100024842.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 39 Adopted Version July 2013 Article 12 of the Habitats Directive It is for the planning committee to contains a range of prohibitions seeking determine the planning application to protect certain species (European in light of the three statutory tests.

Part 2 Protected Species [EPS]). There are Specific guidance on the South Hams prohibitions against the deliberate SAC has been published by Natural capturing, killing or disturbance and England.15 This guidance provides against the damage or destruction of a detailed information on the significance breeding site or resting place of an EPS. of the foraging areas and strategic flyways of Greater Horseshoe bats 2.12.5 which fall outside of the designated The Habitats Directive provides for the SAC boundary. Key agencies and derogation from these prohibitions for authorities have supported the specified reasons and providing certain approach set out in the guidance conditions are met. Those derogations through co-ordinated working in are transposed into the Regulations by assessing impacts and potential way of a licensing regime that allows enhancement of the South Hams SAC. what would otherwise be an unlawful act to be carried out lawfully. Among the Habitats and sites of national reasons why a licence may be granted, importance and the reason relied upon by developers 2.12.7 when seeking a licence to carry out There are 42 SSSIs in Dartmoor National operations for the purposes of Park, covering an area of 26,267 ha. development, is that there are imperative Four of these areas are also National reasons of overriding public interest why Nature Reserves). Natural England the operation should be carried out. views these sites as the essential core Natural England is the licensing authority. of nature conservation interest and as In addition to satisfying itself that one part of a strategic national network. of the reasons provided for by the They represent a selection of the best Regulations exists, in this case imperative examples of wildlife habitats, geological reasons of overriding public interest, features and landforms in England. before granting a licence Natural England must also be satisfied that there is no 2.12.8 satisfactory alternative and that any In assessing any development proposal action licensed will not be detrimental to that could affect a SSSI, particular the maintenance of the population of the regard will need to be paid to the species at favourable conservation status individual site’s national importance. in its natural range. The reason for The need for development must clearly granting the licence, together with the be shown to outweigh the nature two conditions that must be met before conservation value of the site itself and a licence can be granted, are what the national policy to safeguard such Natural England refers to as the three sites. The Wildlife and Countryside statutory tests. Amendment Act 1985 requires public bodies to take reasonable steps, 2.12.6 consistent with the exercise of their The Regulations also provide that a statutory functions, to further the competent authority, including a planning conservation and enhancement of the authority must, in the exercise of any of special interest of SSSIs. Strict tests must their functions, have regard to the be applied to minimise adverse effects. requirements of the Habitats Directive so far as they may be affected by the exercise Habitats and sites of local importance of those functions. There will be 2.12.9 circumstances in which planning authorities In addition to the statutory designated will be required to form a view on the sites, there are other areas of likelihood of a licence being granted by biodiversity and geological importance. Natural England. Devon Wildlife Trust, the Woodland 15 South Hams SAC: Greater Horseshoe Bat consultation Trust and other bodies manage sites zone planning guidance (Natural England) 2010. within Dartmoor.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 40 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Road verges are often areas rich in 2.12.11 wildlife; the Highway Authority has been A CWS is not a legal or statutory advised of important verges and it follows designation, like a SSSI, but more

a maintenance programme designed to of an ‘informative label’. However, they Part 2 conserve their special characteristics. are valuable enough to deserve some Land lying within the area of moor, recognition. The Devon Biodiversity heath and woodland of conservation Records Centre identifies these sites in importance also support a wide range order to help with the planning and of wildlife and geological interests. implementation of national and local 2.12.10 conservation projects and to County Wildlife Sites (CWS) are places acknowledge the diversity of the wildlife considered to be important for the they contain. CWS recognition does not wildlife they contain. They may include demand any particular actions on the pieces of old broadleaved woodland, part of the landowner and does not give small fields of traditional pasture that the public rights of access. It does not have not been drained, re-seeded or prevent the owner from carrying out fertilised, fragments of heath and other any usual farming operations on the rough ground or moor, and pieces of site, nor are there any obligations to permanently boggy or waterlogged manage the site in a particular way. ground. BAP Key habitats BAP Key species © Moorland © Golden Hair Lichen © Upland heath [P] (+ other lichen, moss and fern spp.) [P] © Lowland heath [P] © Deptford Pink [P] © Grass moor © Flax-leaved St John’s Wort © Blanket bog [P] © Heather © Raised mire [P] © Greater Butterfly Orchid © Valley mire [P] © Bog Orchid © Woodland © Irish Lady’s Tresses [P] © Upland oakwood [P] © Vigur’s Eyebright [P] © Parkland [P] © Wild Daffodil © Wet woodlands [P] © Blue Ground Beetle [P] © Plantation © Bog Hoverfly [P] © Freshwater © High Brown Fritillary [P] © Torrent rivers [P] © Large Blue Butterfly [P] © Streams [P] © Marsh Fritillary [P] © Reservoirs © Narrow-bordered Bee Hawk-moth [P] © Ponds [P] © Pearl-bordered Fritillary [P] © Rhôs pasture [P] © Southern Damselfly [P] © Haymeadows and species © Atlantic Salmon [P] rich grasslands [P] © Buzzard © Field boundaries © Cirl Bunting [P] © Hedges [P] © Curlew [P] © Walls © Golden Plover © Isolated/veteran trees © Dunlin © Rocks © Ring Ouzel [P] © Rocky outcrops [P] © Red Grouse [P] © Quarries © Skylark [P] © Caves © Woodlark [P] © Mines © Greater Horseshoe Bat © Buildings (+ other bat spp) [P] © Dormouse [P] © Otter [P]

[P] Indicates a national priority habitat or species as defined and listed in the UK Steering Group report and subsequent UK Action Plans.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 41 Adopted Version July 2013 2.12.12 The Department for Environment, Food In February 2001 the Dartmoor and Rural Affairs (Defra) considers16 that Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) was biodiversity offsetting has the potential

Part 2 published. This covers species and to deliver planning policy requirements habitats of local importance for for compensation for biodiversity loss in Dartmoor’s biodiversity and established a more effective and measurable way. a programme, with measures and targets, for local delivery. Seven HAPs Policy DMD14: Natural environment, and 13 individual species action plans biodiversity and geodiversity (SAPs) are set out in the BAP covering all the key habitats and species Development proposals will conserve, identified in the Biodiversity Profile. enhance and/or restore biodiversity Of the 328 identified actions, 303 and geodiversity within Dartmoor have been completed or in progress. National Park by: A follow on plan is now being produced. © providing Special Areas of Conservation with the highest level 2.12.13 of protection and enhancement; Regulation 37 of the Habitat Regulations © furthering the conservation and 1994 says that development plans enhancement of nationally protected should include policies to encourage sites, habitats and species; the management of features of the © conserving, enhancing or restoring landscape that are of major importance priority habitats, species and for fauna and flora. The conservation geodiversity assets identified in the status of natural habitats should not be adversely affected; the aim is to Dartmoor Biodiversity Action Plan; achieve favourable conservation status. © protecting and where appropriate A mitigation hierarchy (below) sets enhancing other defined sites, out priorities for the treatment of features, habitats, species or biodiversity interests in assessing networks or natural processes of development proposals: ecological or geological importance; © ensuring that effective avoidance or Avoid-ensuring that negative impacts on-site mitigation measures are put do not occur as a result of planning in place where there may be an decisions by, for example, locating adverse effect on biodiversity or development away from areas of geodiversity interests. In rare cases, ecological interest. off-site compensation may be feasible and acceptable. There Mitigate-reducing negative impacts, should be no net loss of biodiversity for example, through changes to project or geodiversity as a result of design, construction methods or the development. timing of work, enhancing or restoring other interests or areas on a site so its overall ecological value is retained, or incorporating new biodiversity areas within the development proposal.

Compensate-making up for the loss of, or permanent damage to, biodiversity that cannot be mitigated onsite. Where some harm to biodiversity is reduced through mitigation, compensation will represent the residual harm which cannot or may not be entirely mitigated.

16 Defra (July 2011) Biodiversity offsetting. Background Dartmoor National Park Authority 42 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.13 Renewable energy be considerable. Indeed, there could be landscape benefits in such proposals, particularly if the need for extensive

2.13.1 overhead cabling was thereby reduced. Part 2 The Authority acknowledges that improving Nevertheless, where there is existing the generation and supply of renewable renewable energy infrastructure in the energy can play an important role in locality, the marginal effect of further reducing the amount of carbon dioxide development on landscape quality, released to the atmosphere, thereby helping watercourses, wildlife and archaeological to mitigate climate change effects. There interests and the setting of building is a wide range of technologies that fall groups should be carefully assessed. within the ambit of renewable energy (RE): © biomass; 2.13.3 © anaerobic digestion; Householders are now permitted to © waste to energy; install some domestic-scale renewable © micro hydrogeneration; energy technologies (known as © solar photovoltaics (PV) (usually roof microgeneration), including solar mounted, including solar slates and thermal and solar PV on a building or tiles but also including stand alone stand alone, ground source and water [domestic] and field-scale deployment); source heat pumps, and flues for biomass boilers, in certain locations without the © solar hot water (again, usually roof need for planning permission. However, mounted but can be stand alone) the equipment must be sited to minimise solar space heating; © its effect upon the amenity of the area © ground source heat pumps and once the equipment is no longer (via boreholes, trenches, aquifers needed it must be removed. All wind and surface water); turbines and air source heat pumps will © air source heat pumps; still require planning permission, as will © micro district heating (e.g. involving the installation of any technology when ground source heat pumps or biomass it is not on or within the curtilage of a boilers or Combined Heat and Power); dwelling house. Any installation that © stand alone wind energy including involves works to a listed building will small-scale and building mounted also require listed building consent.17 wind turbines (typically no more 2.13.4 than 15 metres to blade tip) both Renewable energy technologies present a horizontal and vertical axes. range of planning issues that need to be considered in determining renewable 2.13.2 energy proposals: Core Strategy policy COR10 sets the overall © landscape effects-local and approach to the treatment of renewable extensive; energy proposals on Dartmoor. Energy © impact on water environments, schemes aimed principally at the generation including biodiversity and of power for regional or national supply recreational elements; would be viewed as major development, © other biodiversity impacts, for i.e. schemes that are more national than example impacts upon the South local in character. Major development Hams SAC; 18 should not take place in the National © impact on local amenity and the Park save in exceptional circumstances - quality of the environment, Policy DMD2 sets out the principles. including the historic built Wind farms, in particular, would be likely to environment; cause unacceptable damage to the special © traffic generation-for biomass qualities of the National Park. While a and waste to heat projects. large scale project may be difficult to justify 17 Full details are available in The Town and Country in a nationally designated landscape, the Planning (General Permitted Development) contribution to overall targets from a broad (Amendment) (England) Order 2008 uptake of smaller scale initiatives, at single 18 South Hams SAC: Greater Horseshoe Bat consultation zone planning guidance property and local community level, could (Natural England) 2010. Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 43 Adopted Version July 2013 2.13.5 Because of their height, the potential deployment in groups (as wind farms),

Part 2 and with their introduction of moving parts (rotary blades) into the landscape, wind turbine developments can have landscape-scale effects. The same is true of large-scale PV developments, potentially covering up to 5 ha or more in a single development. The Government’s Feed-in Tariff scheme has helped promote such schemes. Landscape impact, ecological and archaeological assessments will normally be required for such developments, and determination would be in accordance with the major development policy, DMD2.

Policy DMD15: Small scale renewable energy schemes

Proposals for the development of small scale renewable energy schemes within Dartmoor National Park will be permitted where they comply with the following criteria: (i) the landscape character of the area is not harmed by the development itself or the cumulative impact with other similar development nearby; (ii) no significant material harm results from, in particular, size, scale, shape, colour, glare and reflectivity; (iii) biodiversity and geodiversity interests, archaeological and cultural heritage assets, natural drainage qualities and soil stability are not harmed; (iv) the tranquil character of the National Park is not harmed by: © operational noise levels, including mechanical and aerodynamic noise; © shadow flicker or reflected light effects; © odour; © vibration effects; (v) emissions to air, ground or watercourses are minimised.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 44 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.14 Hazardous installations The controls are concerned with the storage and use of hazardous substances and potentially polluting which could, in quantities at or above activity specified limits, present a major off-site Part 2 risk and they enable breaches of control 2.14.1 which may present serious risks to be The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) dealt with quickly and effectively. is responsible for notifying the Authority of relevant ‘consultation zones’ around 2.14.4 hazardous sites where toxic, highly reactive, Where the presence of a hazardous explosive or flammable substances are substance is directly associated with a present. The Authority is required proposed development, local planning to consult the HSE in respect of certain authorities are able to exercise a degree proposals to develop land in the vicinity of control over the siting and use of of hazardous installations and sites where hazardous substances through the the land falls within a notified consultation development management system. zone. The National Park contains two This hazardous substances consent hazardous installations with notified procedure allows for control to be consultation zones and these are shown on exercised over the presence of hazardous the Policies Map; one is at Buckfastleigh substances whether or not associated centred on a liquid gas supply facility; development requiring planning the other is at Okehampton Camp centred permission is involved. Responsibility for on its liquid petroleum gas storage. determining hazardous substances consent applications, for checking claims for 2.14.2 deemed consent, and for administering Within the notified zones, the HSE and enforcing the procedure, rests with must be consulted on all residential the hazardous substances authority, development; retail, office and industrial which is usually the local planning development above certain floor areas; authority dealing with any associated and any development likely to result in application for planning permission. a material increase in the number of This means that within Dartmoor National persons working in or visiting the notified Park, the National Park Authority is also area. Particular regard must be had to the hazardous substances authority. any development involving vulnerable sections of the community such as the very Policy DMD16: Development involving young, the sick or the elderly; hotels and hazardous installations and substances other developments where people may be Development will not be permitted: unfamiliar with their surroundings; and (i) within a Health and Safety Executive leisure and recreational developments notification zone where the proposed which may result in a large number of development would prejudice the safe people congregating in one place. operation of the notified installation or where the proposed development 2.14.3 would be adversely affected by the The Planning (Hazardous Substances) operation of the notified installation; Act 1990 and the Regulations made (ii) if the proposal involves the use, under that Act require hazardous production, storage or management substances consent to be obtained for of hazardous substances that would the presence of hazardous substances result in unacceptable risk to public at or above specific amounts, known as health or safety, the general amenity controlled quantities. The controls19 of the area or environmental interests. ensure that hazardous substances can be kept or used in significant amounts only after the responsible authority has had the opportunity to assess the degree of risk arising to persons in 19 The statutory framework for the controls is the surrounding area, and to the contained in the Planning (Hazardous Substances) environment. Act 1990 and associated Regulations. Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 45 Adopted Version July 2013 2.15 Development on 2.15.4 Defra oversees the contaminated land contaminated land legislative regime under Part 2A of the

Part 2 Environmental Protection Act 1990.20 2.15.1 The regime plays two main roles. Firstly, it Most soils contain some small amounts of helps drive market solutions. The existence contaminants, which may be due to the of legislation has prompted many companies presence of natural minerals but levels holding problematic land to take action of risk are usually very low. However, voluntarily. Secondly it also sets the some land has the potential to pose minimum standard for dealing with unacceptable levels of risk to human contamination when land is redeveloped health or the environment. Land may (as a minimum, sites must not qualify as be contaminated as a result of industrial contaminated land once they have been or manufacturing activity or as a result developed). The regime can be brought of past activities, such as having been a into play directly when there is no market landfill site, or a metalliferous mining site, solution. The Act requires local authorities or a site where coal gas was produced. (district authorities) to inspect their areas to Land is only considered to be find contaminated land. Where such sites ‘contaminated land’ in the legal sense are found, the authority must make sure if it poses an unacceptable risk. ‘reasonable’ remediation is undertaken, and decide who will pay. The idea is that the 2.15.2 polluter should pay, followed by the current Government policy on the treatment of owner and, land contamination applies the principles of in cases where no one can be found to pay, preventing new contaminated land being the local authority may take action itself. created, while taking a risk based approach to tackling historical contamination. With Policy DMD17: Development on regard to historical contamination, since the contaminated land mid-1990s successive governments have Where development is proposed on a site adopted an approach that encourages that is known or suspected to be affected market action wherever possible and holds by contamination, planning permission regulatory intervention in reserve for when will not be granted until: there is no prospect of a market solution. The principal driver for the remediation of © appropriate investigation and contaminated land is the redevelopment assessment has been undertaken to and regeneration of brownfield land. identify the nature, extent and risks associated with the contamination; and 2.15.3 © evidence has been provided that Within the National Park, some remediation can be undertaken to contaminated sites may exhibit industrial reduce any risk to an acceptable level archaeological qualities that would qualify to deliver a site that is suitable for its them as heritage assets. Of particular proposed use. note are sites on the western side of the National Park, around Mary Tavy, linked to Conditions will be imposed to ensure that the copper mining industry and sites along remediation measures are completed and the Teign valley on the eastern side linked the site is rendered suitable for use before to lead and silver mining. Such sites will development commences. need careful assessment when treatment or redevelopment is proposed. As well as 20 Guidance on Contaminated Land Legislation sites of known contamination, there will (Environmental Protection Act 1990) can be found in Defra Circular 01/2006. It forms part of the Part 2A be other sites that come to light as a result legal regime. It elaborates on various aspects of the of investigations undertaken prior to a Act, including the definition of ‘contaminated land’; planning application being submitted. identification and remediation; and liability for who pays for remediation. The Contaminated Land As so many of Devon’s rivers have their (England) (Amendment) Regulations 2012 elaborates source on Dartmoor, development that on various details of the Part 2A regime, such as involves contaminated land will need to dealing with issues like, for example what qualifies as a ‘special site’; public registers; remediation be carefully assessed to ensure that there is notices; and the rules for how appeals can be made no pollution of ground and surface waters. against decisions taken under the Part 2A regime. Dartmoor National Park Authority 46 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.16 Development on The Authority will use planning conditions or agreements in appropriate unstable land circumstances. Where there are reasons

for suspecting instability, the developer Part 2 2.16.1 will be required to submit a ground Underground cavities or tunnels, unstable stability report. slopes, or land of low load-bearing capacity, can create unstable ground Policy DMD18: Development on unstable conditions. In these areas, natural land geological or man-made processes may trigger subsidence or settlement. Other Development involving the erection causes of subsidence include quarrying, of buildings or structures on unstable which may destabilise slopes, and the land must be accompanied by a stability consolidation and decay of organic report. Where instability is present, materials within landfill sites. Settlement planning permission will only be occurs through the compaction of poorly granted where acceptable remedial consolidated, compressible or shrinkable measures are agreed in writing with soils. Peat and alluvial soils are typically the Authority and where there are waterlogged and are liable to settling if arrangements in place to ensure that de-watered. The movement that results such measures will be carried out prior can damage or destroy buildings and to, or if appropriate concurrently with, structures and threaten public safety. development. A condition may be Once ground movement has occurred, attached to the permission to ensure an area can remain unstable for a long that regular monitoring of ground time and relatively minor actions or stability is undertaken. changes in the local environment may trigger further movements.

2.16.2 Within the National Park, unstable land may be present around areas of historic mining activity. For example, 19th century mining of copper and tin ores in the Horrabridge area has resulted in a legacy of mine related hazards, including the presence of concealed shallow mine workings and shafts. Other types of ground disturbance may have taken place, and unstable slopes or geological formations are in evidence around the central Dartmoor granite massif.

2.16.3 The Authority will not permit development if it is likely to be at risk from ground instability during its anticipated lifetime or if it is likely to cause ground movements within or beyond the boundaries of the development site. However, land should not be sterilised unnecessarily and development may be permitted if adequate mitigation measures can be undertaken to secure the long term stability of the site and surrounding areas.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 47 Adopted Version July 2013 Social well-being policies The services in the Local Centres provide for the requirements stemming from the needs of the settlement itself and its

Part 2 2.17 Sustainable surrounding rural hinterland while those in the Rural Settlements usually communities cater for a more local need. 2.17.4 2.17.1 New retail and commercial development While the provision, maintenance and should take place within the towns and improvement of some local services are villages of the National Park and not the responsibility of statutory agencies, generally on the edge of settlements many others are provided by local bodies or within the open countryside, unless and community organisations. Village the development is a farm shop or halls, community centres, cemeteries, commercial or business use undertaken recreation and sport grounds and some as a part of an acceptable farm car parks are usually managed by parish diversification exercise or as part of an councils, local recreation trusts or other existing tourism business. Development voluntary organisations. The Authority should be easily and readily accessible is committed to sustaining and improving to customers, meaning that a location the range of these community facilities within the main shopping area is wherever possible. favoured or, failing that, on the edge of the shopping area. Locations on the 2.17.2 edges of settlements are inappropriate The Authority is also committed to as these have the potential to generate helping sustain and improve where unacceptable levels of traffic from possible the range and quality of and through the settlement involved. commercially provided facilities, such as Likewise, the development of shops, post offices and public houses that retail outlets on employment estates are important to the continued vitality of (also generally ‘out of town’) is not Dartmoor’s communities. Although the encouraged. They may also compete with the existing commercial area in towns and villages of the National Park the heart of the town or village to the are relatively small (all less than 4,000 detriment of its character and vitality. population) they support a range of such services. Local patronage is 2.17.5 complemented by tourist spending. Wherever possible, through its planning There has been some loss of services, powers, and by working in partnership such as general stores and post offices, with other stakeholders, the Authority garages, banks and public houses, over will seek to ensure that as full a range recent years and this has caused much of facilities as possible is sustained and concern in the affected communities. that proposals for appropriate new or Some of those lost services have been improved shops, services and facilities replaced by mobile provision, e.g. mobile are encouraged. The provision of bank services, while in some communities professional or financial services (Class the dual use of a commercial service has A2), for example building societies or enabled other services to be retained or solicitors’ offices, in convenient locations established, e.g. public house and a is also important to meet the needs of village shop at Manaton. local people. Such facilities can reduce the need to travel to larger centres and Local services and facilities they also provide local employment. 2.17.3 2.17.6 The Local Centres all have a reasonably The availability of local shops, post comprehensive range of services and offices and public houses, among community facilities and each has a distinct others, are important ingredients of a central area with a range of shops and sustainable community. The closure of other commercial and business premises. these facilities can mean increased The extent of the central areas is described inconvenience for local people and in the relevant settlement section. sometimes hardship. Dartmoor National Park Authority 48 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.17.7 Permission will not be granted: The Authority wishes to ensure that © for development proposals to significant erosion of the range of convert shops, post offices and other shopping opportunities in the central commercial premises falling within Part 2 shopping areas of the Local Centres does Use Classes A1 (shops), A2 not take place through the conversion of (professional and financial services) premises to dwellings. However, the use and A4 (drinking establishments) to of such premises for professional or other uses within the main shopping financial services will in principle be areas of the Local Centres; or acceptable. The Authority will also resist for a proposal that involves the loss the loss of a facility that represents the © only one of its kind in the settlement of the last general store, public it serves, unless it is satisfied that the house or post office in any ongoing use is not economically viable settlement; or acceptable alternative provision is unless evidence has been submitted proposed elsewhere in the settlement. with the application that the property Such considerations will be particularly has been offered for sale or rent or important in the case of proposals which lease on the open market and at a would involve the loss of the sole realistic price for a continuous period general store, post office or public of not less than 12 months; and house in a town or village. immediately prior to the application being submitted the local community Policy DMD19 Provision and retention has been given an opportunity to bid of local services and facilities for the ownership and management of the asset. Development intended to improve the range of community facilities within the In the case of the last general store, National Park will be permitted where post office or public house in any the facility is aimed at contributing to settlement, the offer price must reflect improving the well being of the resident the value of the premises for that population of the local community and specific purpose. To enable business it is well related to the built form of the viability and valuation to be properly settlement it serves. Development considered, an independent report may involving or comprising the loss of an be requested. existing community facility will only be permitted if compensatory provision is made as part of the proposals or the Authority is satisfied that the facility is not capable of being sustained.

Proposals for the development of shops, professional and financial services, cafés/restaurants and drinking establishments will be permitted: (i) within the defined settlement boundary of the Local Centres or the built up area of Rural Settlements and where they are well related to the centre of the community they are intended to serve; or (ii) where they are part of a permitted agricultural diversification scheme; or (iii) where they are part of an existing or permitted recreational or tourism enterprise.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 49 Adopted Version July 2013 2.18 Telecommunications should be sensitively designed and sited and the developer must demonstrate development that there are no suitable alternative

Part 2 locations that have lesser landscape 2.18.1 impact. Good telecommunications are an essential part of modern life. Advances 2.18.4 in communications technology and Individual residents and local communities increasing demands for extra capacity may also have concerns over the siting of and new mobile delivered services will masts. It is important that consultation continue to place demands on the and discussion take place between landscape because of the need to erect operators, DNPA and local communities structures and masts in locations that before applications are submitted. comply with the technical demands of Health considerations and public concern telecommunications systems. The Mobile about masts are not normally material Operators Association, which represents considerations in determining planning the main UK mobile phone network applications. The International operators on planning issues, sends Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation information to local authorities on an Protection guidelines set out acceptable annual basis about mast sites within their radiation emission levels for such area. The information covers operators' equipment. The Government view existing sites and envisaged new proposals is that if a proposed development for the next 12 months. These rollout meets these guidelines, it should not plans provide an opportunity at an early be necessary for a planning authority stage for the Authority to discuss the to consider the health effects further. operators' plans for the forthcoming year Policy DMD20: Telecommunications and to work together to find an optimum development solution for mobile network development in the area. Telecommunications development will only be permitted where: 2.18.2 (i) the siting and external appearance of Telecommunications development has the apparatus would not damage the limited permitted development rights landscape character of the immediate within the National Park. Most new vicinity or of the locality when viewed development requires a specific planning from publicly accessible land; or permission. The open and relatively (ii) in cases where installation is proposed treeless landscape of moorland means on a building, the apparatus has, so far that masts can be highly visible. Farmland as is practicable, been sited so as to and woodland areas can also suffer minimise the adverse effect on the adverse landscape effects. Where new external appearance of the building; and masts are needed, due regard for the (iii) applicants have shown evidence that conservation and enhancement of the they have explored the options of wildlife, natural beauty, cultural heritage erecting apparatus at alternative sites and special qualities of the National Park or on existing structures that are should be demonstrated, and the fullest operationally suitable and less possible use of ‘stealth technology’ should obtrusive, or have investigated the be made to disguise and integrate the options of camouflage techniques or installations into the landscape. alternative methods that would minimise adverse visual impact; and 2.18.3 (iv) applicants have considered the need to It is reasonable therefore to expect include additional structural capacity to applicants for masts to provide evidence take account of further demand for that, in seeking to minimise adverse network development. landscape effects, they have carefully A condition will be applied requiring considered the use of existing masts, the removal of all structures and the buildings and other structures before reinstatement of the site if the seeking to erect a new mast. Proposals development becomes redundant.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 50 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.19 Housing The definition of ‘affordable housing’ 2.19.4 The Government has provided a definition

Affordable housing for local people of affordable housing (see box below). Part 2 2.19.1 The Authority uses this definition for the The Core Strategy puts forward the purposes of implementing planning overarching aim for housing in Dartmoor policies in respect of affordable housing. National Park. It recognises that there must be active encouragement and Affordable housing is defined as: promotion of affordable housing Social rented, affordable rented and delivery in the National Park’s towns and intermediate housing, provided to villages, but that careful consideration eligible households whose needs of where that housing is located will be are not met by the market. needed in order to protect the National Eligibility is determined with regard to Park’s special qualities. local incomes and local house prices. Affordable housing should: 2.19.2 include provisions to remain at an The strategic aim emphasises the priority affordable price for future eligible for affordable housing delivery, as being households or for the subsidy to be the best approach to maintaining recycled for alternative affordable balanced communities on Dartmoor. housing provision. Over the years, open market housing development in Dartmoor National Park Social rented housing is: has substantially exceeded the provision owned by local authorities and private of affordable housing. In the period registered providers (as defined in section 2001/02 to 2006/07, 581 dwellings were 80 of the Housing and Regeneration Act built, but only 107 (18%) were 2008), for which guideline target rents affordable dwellings for local needs. are determined through the national rent However, the Local Plan (adopted in regime. It may also be owned by other 2004) put in place policies which sought persons and provided under equivalent to restrict opportunities for the rental arrangements to the above, as development of open market housing agreed with the local authority or with and the Core Strategy (adopted in 2008) the Homes and Communities Agency. increased those restrictions even further. Affordable rented housing is: Over the period 2007/08 to 2010/11, let by local authorities or private registered 286 dwellings were built (23% providers of social housing to households affordable) but the proportion of who are eligible for social rented housing. affordable housing units permitted Affordable Rent is subject to rent controls during this period rose to 52%. In years that require a rent of no more than 80% 2009/10 and 2010/11, the proportion of of the local market rent (including service houses built that were affordable had charges, where applicable). risen to 44% of all completions. Intermediate housing is: homes for sale and rent provided at a cost above social 2.19.3 rent, but below market levels subject to Recent parish housing surveys have the criteria in the Affordable Housing shown that there is a continuing need definition above. These can include for affordable housing in National Park shared equity (shared ownership and settlements and while there has been a equity loans), other low cost homes for small reduction in house prices in recent sale and intermediate rent, but not years, differentials between local affordable rented housing. incomes and house prices remain very Homes that do not meet the above large and mortgage finance is now more definition of affordable housing, such difficult to obtain without a substantial as “low cost market” housing, may not deposit. The aim must therefore be to be considered as affordable housing continue to encourage high levels of for planning purposes. affordable housing delivery for the foreseeable future. Source: National Planning Policy Framework 2012

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 51 Adopted Version July 2013 2.19.5 where open market would be It is expected that the majority of appropriate, the proportion of affordable housing in the National Park affordable housing in new development

Part 2 will continue to be provided by will be ‘not less than 50%’. Policy COR2 Registered Providers, but other local looks to at least 60% of the housing organisations such as self-build groups provision over the plan period being and community development trusts may located in the Local Centres and land is also play a role in delivery provided that allocated in the Local Centres in this plan the dwellings remain affordable for local to meet this target. These allocations people into the future. In addition, the seek to provide for the existing level of private sector can also assist and the affordable housing need that has been National Park Authority has in recent identified in the respective settlements years permitted privately provided and to provide for additional provision houses (in practice on small infill sites) during the life of the plan where where their sale price or, rental level, possible. The remainder of the size and occupancy are controlled dwellings will essentially be to provide through a Section 106 agreement. for affordable housing in the Rural The model historically used has provided Settlements and housing needed in the a modest number of units and sought a countryside to serve the needs of the 25% reduction in sale price or rental agricultural and forestry industries, and from market prices which should also to serve those enterprises with an have reflected the existence of the essential requirement to locate in the occupancy restriction, and a restriction open countryside. Because of the of the size of the dwellings to 80 sq environmental constraints that apply metres to retain their affordability. across the National Park, it should be Permitted development rights have been borne in mind that development removed from such properties so that opportunity is limited and it will not be they do not become unaffordable. possible to cater for all locally arising There may be scope for some flexibility housing demand or indeed need and in this model to allow intermediate the plan does not seek to do this. housing to be provided for those with larger families or who have special care 2.19.7 needs but, in such cases, a greater The housing policy framework that now discount on sale price would be likely applies sees a minimum of one-for-one to be needed. In all cases the Authority provision of affordable dwellings within would expect the discount to be not less a scenario that limits the opportunity for than 20% below the open market price. open market housing provision to the This matter will be clarified further Local Centres. In the National Park within the Authority’s Affordable circumstances, it is particularly Housing supplementary planning appropriate to maximise the provision document. of affordable housing associated with open market development. There will Housing provision over the plan period inevitably be viability pressures on co- 2.19.6 provision of affordable housing in mixed The Core Strategy sets an indicative housing schemes and the development level of residential development in must clearly be viable from a developer’s Dartmoor National Park of 50 units perspective. To enable schemes to come per year, equivalent to a total of 1,000 forward, the value of the land must units in the plan period 2006 to 2026. reflect the requirement for a high As discussed above, a large number percentage of affordable housing. of open market dwellings have been Moreover, it appears that government completed already and it is important grant will not, at least over the next now to ensure that as high a proportion few years, generally be available to help as possible of the additional dwellings fund affordable housing in these mixed are affordable dwellings for local needs. tenure schemes. Wherever possible, the Policy COR15 of the Core Strategy states open market component should seek that even in those limited circumstances to meet other housing needs that have

Dartmoor National Park Authority 52 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 been identified in the locality. This could Under the new arrangements, for example include housing for the government funding is generally elderly in the locality who wish to directed towards providing only for the

downsize where a local requirement has delivery of dwellings provided under Part 2 been established. The affordable housing affordable rent. It is envisaged that the will normally be expected to be provided housing benefit system will need to be within the development site but used where necessary to ensure that the exceptionally a commuted sum in lieu of properties are affordable for local provision may be considered which would people in housing need by helping to enable provision to be made elsewhere in meet the shortfall between social and the locality. affordable rents. However, where opportunities allow, the Authority will 2.19.8 continue to look at whether individual It is important that affordable housing schemes can provide opportunities for policy is supported by an up to date delivering social rent. It is felt that the strategic housing viability assessment general split between the various rental (SHVA). A SHVA looks in detail at the options and shared ownership/equity economics of providing affordable housing products of 70:30 is appropriate, as a component of an open market scheme however, as indicated above, these and provides evidence for where such proportions will be judged on a case provision could be promoted and by case basis according to the nature delivered. The Authority commissioned a of the identified local need. SHVA, which was completed in March 2011. It looks in detail at the provision of 2.19.10 different types of affordable housing There is no expectation that the National in a range of development scenarios in Park will provide housing to help fulfil different ‘value areas’ of the National Park. the constituent districts’ strategic housing It will assist the Authority, affordable provision and the Authority’s housing housing providers and other developers ‘target’ is strictly related to the needs that in considering the feasibility of developing arise within the National Park. However, and delivering this form of housing. the acceptability of individual schemes It indicates that in the current economic will depend essentially on whether they climate it will be very challenging to deliver help to meet identified need for high proportions of affordable housing affordable housing in the immediate across the National Park, particularly in locality of the community where the high value areas. In practice, some development is proposed. This means flexibility may need to be considered that reliable evidence of the extent of but the Authority continues to feel that local need at parish level is required. requiring high levels of affordable housing The Community Council of Devon, is essential to achieving the strategy that through the work of the Rural Housing underpins this plan. Enabler, prepares parish housing need reports which look in detail at local need 2.19.9 over a five year period. Priorities for Policy COR15 provides guidance on the split surveys are identified by the National between social rented housing and Park Authority with its constituent district intermediate housing both in the councils and following consultation with affordable housing component of a cross- the local community. subsidised scheme and also where 100% affordable housing is sought. It states that 2.19.11 around 70% of affordable housing There is a wide range of housing needs development should be social rented within the National Park, reflecting the housing provided by registered providers breadth and mix of its communities. with the balance being intermediate With larger cohorts of elderly people housing. It acknowledges that becoming a prominent part of the total circumstances differ in different places and demographic picture there will goes on to say that the precise split will undoubtedly be more demand for be determined on a site by site basis. accommodation to suit their needs.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 53 Adopted Version July 2013 At the other end of the spectrum, there is 2.19.13 a need for accommodation for younger An eligible household is one where there people, of a type and size they can afford is a clear need for accommodation, an

Part 2 and in the right locations. Emergency and inability to afford local accommodation short term accommodation for the at current open market prices and homeless is another type of provision conformity with relevant local occupancy entirely, as is accommodation, including criteria. transit sites, for gypsies and travellers. Building to Lifetime Homes standards 2.19.14 ensures that new dwellings are flexible The Authority will operate a cascade to and adaptable to create and encourage wider areas over an appropriate period better living environments for everyone, of time to secure the mortgageability of from raising small children, to coping with properties where mortgage finance is illness, or dealing with reduced mobility involved and to ensure that properties do later in life. In developments of more not remain vacant over a long period of than five dwellings, the Authority will time. However, the initial starting require that, subject to viability, 50% category will generally be those who of the units are constructed to Lifetime fulfil the definition of ‘local’ in Homes standards. paragraph 2.19.12.

Definitions of ‘local people’ for planning Delivering land for housing purposes 2.19.15 2.19.12 A settlement boundary defines land that Where affordable housing is permitted, is considered for the application of then all such housing will be subject to an planning policy to be within the occupancy restriction. The National Park settlements. It does not indicate that Authority defines ‘local’ for the purposes land within the boundary is automatically of applying affordable housing policy and suitable for development and will drafting planning obligations as follows: therefore be given planning permission. (i) those people currently living in the Other relevant policies still apply. parish of provision, or a rural parish Settlement boundaries have been adjacent to the parish of provision, identified for all the main settlements and having done so for a period of (the Local Centres) to assist policy at least five years; or interpretation. (ii) those people who have lived in the parish of provision or a rural parish 2.19.16 adjacent to the parish of provision The National Planning Policy Framework for a period of five years but have (NPPF) continues to require Local moved away in the past three years; or Planning Authorities to undertake (iii)those people who have a strong local Strategic Housing Land Availability connection with the parish of provision Assessments (SHLAAs) to look at a or a rural parish adjacent to the parish range of sites for housing development of provision by virtue of, for example, and to determine whether they are upbringing or current employment. developable and deliverable. The The eligible adjacent rural parishes will National Park Authority has produced be specified in the planning obligation two SHLAAs (2009 and 2010) for the according to the individual location of the whole of the National Park. The SHLAA development. Parishes adjacent to the has helped to advise the settlement parish of provision containing a town or allocations in the plan and wider other large community lying substantially housing delivery prospects. outside the National Park will not be considered to be an adjacent rural parish 2.19.17 to the parish of provision. Adjacent Sites solely for affordable housing are parishes containing a Local Centre will not allocated in some Local Centres and are normally be considered to be an adjacent shown on the settlement inset maps. rural parish to the parish of provision. The site value should reflect that exclusive use. Other allocations give an

Dartmoor National Park Authority 54 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 indication of the split sought between 2.19.20 affordable and open market housing Policy DMD21 indicates the and the community or environmental circumstances where housing will be

benefits that need to be provided as permitted in the Local Centres. In all Part 2 part of those developments. cases, any development must not compromise the character and 2.19.18 appearance of the area or the setting The Authority will continue to operate of a listed building and should be a rural exceptions policy to provide acceptable in terms of highway safety additional affordable housing to meet and the amenity of surrounding clearly identified local needs where this is properties. The policy indicates that needed during the life of this plan. The development will be possible on small rural exception sites policy provides infill plots within an existing built flexibility within the planning system to frontage within the settlement enable affordable housing to be boundary. Since the Government has delivered in response to clearly identified now specifically excluded garden land local needs. Significant numbers of from the definition of previously dwellings in the National Park have been developed land, proposals for the achieved through this means. This type development of garden land will fall of development is only permitted on sites within this category of infill within or adjoining the built up area of a development. However, the Authority Rural Settlement or the settlement recognises the importance of garden boundary of a Local Centre. The land to the townscape and the amenity effectiveness of the policy will be of communities and will adopt a very monitored annually by the Authority. If cautious approach to proposals for such levels of affordable housing are not development. Planning permission will being provided to meet clearly identified only be granted where the scale and local needs then the Authority will give type of development and the layout of consideration, exceptionally and in line the site permits a development that is with national policy, to allowing some sympathetic to the character and market housing to facilitate necessary appearance of the site and its affordable housing provision. Further surroundings, and the quality of the detail will be included in the Authority’s local environment and local amenity is Affordable Housing SPD as necessary. On not compromised. There should be no such sites, it is expected that the housing assumption that permission will be would normally be provided by a granted for residential development on registered housing provider, either for such sites. rent or on a shared equity/ownership basis. Exception sites must be in scale Policy DMD21: Residential development and keeping with the settlement they in Local Centres are within, or adjoining, and are In the Local Centres, new dwellings therefore generally small scale. will be permitted within the designated settlement boundaries: Housing policy framework (i) on previously developed land; or 2.19.19 (ii) on small infill plots within an The three housing policies set out existing built frontage; or below are based on the strategic aims (iii) where they will be provided through and planning principles contained in the conversion or subdivision of the Core Strategy, in particular policies existing residential or non- COR2 (the settlement strategy) and residential building; or COR15 (providing for limited new (iv) on other sites where the housing to meet local needs). development would facilitate They are a distillation of the principles significant environmental applying to, respectively, housing within improvement or the delivery of Local Centres, housing within Rural essential social, cultural or economic Settlements, and housing in the open infrastructure; or countryside of the National Park. (v) on sites allocated in this document.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 55 Adopted Version July 2013 In all cases, except as where indicated 2.19.22 in a specific settlement policy, the Housing development in the open proportion of affordable housing to meet countryside of Dartmoor is limited to

Part 2 local need should not be less than 50% a very narrow set of circumstances. of the units provided, although this may However, the National Park is a living be varied where a higher proportion of and working landscape and some people open market housing can be shown to will need to live in the countryside to run be essential to secure the overall viability agricultural, forestry and certain other of development or the delivery of rural-based businesses. With regard to significant local infrastructure provision the last category, such businesses (e.g. of clear benefit to the local community. horse racing or livery stables) must Exceptionally, where the need for demonstrate that the operational affordable housing cannot be met within demands of the enterprise require the settlement boundary, and there is a workers to be in close and ready specific local need identified for such proximity. The Authority will use housing, then permission will be granted planning conditions or secure legal for a development on suitable sites agreements as appropriate to ensure that adjoining the settlement boundary. the accommodation remains available in In such cases all the housing will be perpetuity for the approved use. required to be affordable. Policy DMD23: Residential development 2.19.21 outside Local Centres and Rural Housing development in Rural Settlements Settlements is restricted to small scale development to supply the need for Outside the Local Centres and Rural affordable housing arising locally. Settlements, planning permission for The ‘exceptions policy’ approach, which a dwelling will only be granted where: enables development to take place in (a) it is required for an agricultural what is essentially open countryside on holding, a forestry enterprise or the edge of settlements, will be used if a rural-based business; or that is shown to be the only feasible way (b) the proposal comprises the in which affordable housing could be conversion of an existing building delivered for the local community and to an affordable dwelling and the the site is suitable. Infill development on conversion is compliant with Policy garden land would be subject to the DMD9; or same considerations as in Local Centres. (c) the proposal comprises low impact residential development and is Policy DMD22: Residential development compliant with Policy DMD30. in Rural Settlements Where a new building is proposed, the Unless identified in the settlement following criteria should be satisfied: proposals, no new open market housing (i) there is no satisfactory existing will be permitted in the Rural building that could be converted Settlements. All new housing will need to provide the accommodation: to be affordable and located on small (ii) there is a clearly established existing infill plots within an existing built functional need for a worker to be frontage and within the settlement or readily available at most times; provided through the acceptable (iii) the accommodation need relates to a conversion of an existing building. full-time worker or one solely or Exceptionally, where a specific parish mainly employed on the holding need for affordable housing has been or enterprise; identified, then development tailored to (iv) the holding or rural-based business meet those needs will be permitted on enterprise has been established for at suitable land within or adjoining the least three years, profitable for at settlement and well related to its least one, is currently financially existing built form. sound and has a clear prospect of remaining so;

Dartmoor National Park Authority 56 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 (v) the need for permanent Extensions will not be permitted where: accommodation cannot be met by (a) the dwelling does not have planning another suitable and available permission, is unauthorised or

dwelling on the holding or unit immune from enforcement action Part 2 or in the locality; (including buildings used as (vi) the building should be on a scale dwellings which have the benefit appropriate to the functional of a Certificate of Lawful Use requirement of the holding or rural- or Development); or based business and sited such that it (b) the dwelling only has the benefit of does not cause harm to the a temporary planning permission; or character and appearance of the site (c) for dwellings other than those or the landscape character of the specified in (a) (b) and (d), their total area. A site adjacent to existing habitable floorspace, unless clear buildings will generally be regarded design considerations indicate as the most appropriate. otherwise, will be increased by more than 30% (and for the purposes of Extensions and alterations to dwellings this policy, ‘total habitable floorspace’ 2.19.23 shall include conservatories, In order to provide for changing family mezzanine floors, loft and attic circumstances, it is often more conversions and garage conversions, expedient to add an extension to an but exclude unconverted garages, existing property than to move to a cellars and roof voids, and larger one. However, an extension that outbuildings); or is unsympathetic to the existing building (d) dwellings have been limited in size can damage the quality of that building to maintain their affordability; or and detract from the character and (e) dwellings are limited by condition appearance of the surrounding area. for workers in agriculture, forestry It is also important that the amenity of and other essential rural enterprises the area is not harmed. In circumstances and the existing building together where permission for a dwelling has with the proposed extension exceeds been granted to help meet the local 120 sq metres of habitable floorspace. need for affordable housing, then it is felt that additional restrictions on Ancillary residential development extensions are merited to ensure that 2.19.24 the property remains affordable. On occasions, family circumstances may lead to a need to provide accommodation Policy DMD24: Extensions and which is ancillary to the main dwelling alterations to dwellings but provides a degree of independence for the occupant. Where this can be Extensions and alterations to dwellings satisfactorily accommodated within will be permitted, provided that both the curtilage, this may prove to be a individually and cumulatively with any satisfactory solution. However, it is not previous enlargements of the dwelling, the intention of this policy to facilitate they: a process of incremental development (i) represent a design approach that and increasingly independent reflects the principles of the occupation such that a new guidance on extensions and independent dwelling becomes alterations to dwellings set out in established over the course of time. the Dartmoor Design Guide Policy DMD25: Ancillary residential supplementary planning document; accommodation and (ii) are compliant with policy DMD5; and Proposals for ancillary accommodation, (iii)will not adversely affect the including those providing self-contained appearance of the dwelling, its facilities, will be permitted where it curtilage or immediate surroundings, can be demonstrated that the existing even if not generally visible from dwelling or an extension is functionally public viewpoints. capable of hosting the proposed use.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 57 Adopted Version July 2013 The development will be subject to a dwelling in the countryside, where condition ensuring that it remains normally policy applies strong constraints ancillary and tied to residential use of against development. While this can

Part 2 the main dwelling. Where the ancillary enable better quality housing to be accommodation is located within the provided it has caused some concerns. curtilage in a nearby separate structure, It can result in major changes to the a legal agreement may be required to character of an area, and some structures ensure that the use of the accommodation put forward for demolition can have remains ancillary to the principal dwelling. intrinsic heritage, architectural or cultural interests or associations. Replacing such Agricultural occupancy conditions buildings also involves a consequent loss 2.19.25 of embedded energy and additional Where housing has been permitted to carbon generation through the new meet the needs of agriculture or other construction. Where there are rural businesses and that need no demonstrable environmental benefits to longer exists, then the occupancy be achieved, a replacement dwelling may condition attached to the planning be permitted. Where such development permission will not be removed. is permitted, the increase in volume However, it will be possible to vary allowed over the original will be limited, this following a 12-month period of and the expectation will be that advertisement offering the property for permitted development rights will sale for the purpose for which it was normally be removed. granted in the first place and at a realistic price. The agreement of the Policy DMD27: Replacement dwellings vendor will be sought to restrict the occupancy of the property as an In order to protect the distinctiveness of affordable dwelling for local people as places and to conserve energy embodied defined by paragraphs 2.19.1 to 2.19.14 in existing structures, dwelling houses above at a price significantly below the should be retained. Where it can be open market price thereby retaining the demonstrated that replacement and property to serve local needs. rebuilding would lead to: © enhancement of the local environment Policy DMD26: Removal of agricultural and the removal of a structure in and holiday use occupancy conditions serious disrepair or which is a threat An application for the removal of an to public safety; or occupancy condition on a dwelling will © a major additional improvement in only be approved where: energy efficiency which could not be (i) evidence has been submitted with achieved by modification or adaptation the application that the demand by of the existing building; and applicable persons for that type of © the building is not on or would not be accommodation no longer applies a candidate for inclusion on the and that the dwelling has been Dartmoor National Park Historic offered for sale, rent or lease for a Environment Record; and period of at least twelve months at © a price that realistically reflects the the proposed replacement is on a scale existence of the condition; and that is sympathetic to its location (ii) the applicant is willing to enter into replacement of the existing structure a legal agreement that the property will be permitted. is reserved for occupation by local In all cases the volume of the replacement people as an affordable dwelling. dwelling will not exceed the volume of Replacement dwellings in the the existing structure, excluding detached countryside ancillary structures such as sheds and 2.19.26 garages, plus an additional 15%. Development involving replacement The expectation will be that permitted dwellings in the countryside has become development rights will normally a popular route to achieving a new be removed. Dartmoor National Park Authority 58 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Residential caravans However, a requirement for transit sites 2.19.27 was identified, which amounted to a Residential caravans are not generally total of 27 pitches to 2011 linked to the

considered to be an appropriate form strategic routes, A38 and A30, with a Part 2 of development for full-time residential 3% per annum increase following. occupation in the National Park. However, The Authority will look to the relevant there may be occasions when their district or borough council for advice temporary use could be appropriate, as on future levels of need. Future survey for instance, during the construction of a work undertaken, which includes strategic new dwelling, during substantial alteration housing market needs assessment studies, or extension to an existing dwelling or will provide further evidence of the during the establishment of a new farming accommodation needs of gypsies and enterprise. If a dwelling is necessary travellers, as may any joint survey to service a new farming business, and work undertaken at county level. there is clear evidence of intention to The accommodation needs and provision develop the business, sound financial will be kept under review. Work has planning is in place, a functional need taken place to identify sites within 1 km has been proven and no other suitable of the A30 and A38, as an appropriate accommodation is available, government area of search, with limited success. guidance indicates that for the first three A site assessment matrix has been years accommodation should normally be developed, working with a specialist provided by a caravan or other temporary consultant on gypsy and traveller needs. accommodation. That matrix is set out in Annex 1. It applies a sequential scored assessment Policy DMD28: Residential caravans to judge the suitability of sites based on: (i) location, policy and environmental Except as provided for in policy DMD29, constraints; the permanent siting of residential (ii) access and infrastructure criteria; and caravans will not be permitted. Where (iii) deliverability, design and impact special circumstances apply that make the considerations. provision of residential caravans desirable, such as where on-site accommodation is The policy below covers proposals for essential to support a new farming or both permanent and transit sites. rural-based business, or where a new dwelling is to be constructed, permission Policy DMD29: Accommodation for for a residential caravan will be granted gypsies and travellers for a temporary period of up to three years. Evidence should be provided Proposals for permanent or transit sites of a functional need for the residential for gypsies and travellers will only be caravan and a firm intention to proceed permitted where there is a demonstrable with the new business or proposed need for such development in the development. identified area of the National Park.

The accommodation needs of gypsies For permanent sites, the site should and travellers conform to the policy framework on 2.19.28 sustainable development and residential The accommodation requirements of development set out in the Core Strategy. gypsies and travellers are part of the overall accommodation needs to be met For transit sites, the site should conform across a local planning area. In 2006, a to sustainability criteria set out in the Devon-wide Gypsy and Travellers Housing National Park’s Gypsy and Traveller Needs Assessment was undertaken and Transit Site Assessment Matrix. the figures were examined during preparation of the Regional Spatial In both cases, the site must be of a Strategy. Within Dartmoor National Park, scale that will not dominate communities there was no demonstrable need for nor harm the amenity of neighbouring permanent residential sites. residents.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 59 Adopted Version July 2013 Low impact residential development Policy DMD30: Low impact residential in the open countryside development in the open countryside 2.19.29

Part 2 Some travelling people, and others Low impact residential development who wish to adopt a low environmental in the open countryside will only be impact lifestyle, live in traditional permitted where: benders or yurts. These are temporary (i) the proposal will make a positive structures for which no conventional environmental, and/or social and foundations are required and are economic contribution; and constructed of natural materials. (ii) all activities and structures on site The low environmental impact of this have low impact in terms of the type of lifestyle revolves around low environment and use of resources; visual impact, the use of renewable and or local materials for construction of (iii) opportunities to reuse buildings the dwellings, and low resource use in which are available in the proposal’s everyday living. Where there is minimal area of operation have been visual or environmental harm, or harm investigated and shown to be to the residential amenity of adjacent impracticable; and properties, and where the site can be (iv)the development is well integrated restored to its former condition when into the landscape and does not occupation ceases, there will be no have adverse visual effects; and objection in principle. Care must be (v) the proposal requires a countryside taken to ensure that no harm is caused location and is tied directly to the by associated requirements such as land on which it is located, and vehicular access and car parking, sheds involves agriculture, forestry or and domestic paraphernalia. This policy horticulture; and does not cover structures such as cabins (vi)the proposal will provide sufficient or caravans. As this policy introduces a livelihood for and substantially meet departure from the constraints normally the needs of residents on the site; applied to residential development in and the countryside, then applications will (vii) the number of adult residents be subject to rigorous assessment. should be directly related to the Permissions will only be granted initially functional requirements of the on a temporary basis. enterprise; and (viii) in the event of the development involving members of more than one family, the proposal will be managed and controlled by a trust. In the first instance, permission will be granted on a temporary basis for a three year period. A permanent permission will only be granted where it can be demonstrated that all relevant criteria have been complied with in full.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 60 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Health and well-being 2.20.3 DNPA’s Recreation and Access Strategy21 policies shows how the recreational

opportunities presented by large scale Part 2 2.20 Public open space countryside features can be used and managed in integrated ways, ways that and sports facilities support both National Park purposes. The Recreation and Access Strategy: 2.20.1 © sets a clear vision for sustainable High quality, well maintained open informal recreation and access in spaces, sport and recreation facilities, the National Park; which are available and accessible, © provides clear policies on how add greatly to people's quality of life. DNPA will manage recreation on Local networks of high quality and well managed and maintained open spaces, Dartmoor; sports and recreational facilities help © helps shape detailed annual action create places in built up areas that are plans in order to prioritise the seen as attractive, clean, safe and usable. allocation of DNPA resources; © identifies and strengthens 2.20.2 partnerships for delivery and develops The green natural, semi-natural and opportunities to draw down external managed areas within settlements funding. have come to be known as ‘green infrastructure’. The definition set It goes on to identify areas where out by Defra (October 2011) states: different management aims apply. These are: ‘Green infrastructure is a planned © areas of heavy recreation use; network of green spaces and other © areas for exploration and tranquillity; environmental features including © quiet areas; street trees, gardens, green roofs, © areas of opportunity. community forests, parks, rivers, canals and wetlands.’ It encourages sustainable transport links, long distance walking routes and cycle Green spaces in towns and villages routes (see Figure 3). perform vital functions as areas for nature conservation and biodiversity and 2.20.4 can act as green corridors linking built up Open spaces, sports and recreational areas with open countryside. Within the facilities have a role to play in wider countryside of Dartmoor, green promoting healthy living and preventing infrastructure can be considered on a illness, and in the social development of larger scale; this is especially important children of all ages through play, when seen as part of the Authority’s sporting activities and interaction with work to promote the second purpose of others. These areas can play a major National Park designation. Work to this part in improving people's sense of well end must not harm the special qualities being in the places in which they live. that typify Dartmoor. Development Open space can act as a focal point for proposals that would generate noise community activities, provide or disturbance, or adversely affect the opportunities for people for different open character of Dartmoor, eroding ages, abilities and outlooks to mix its tranquillity, would not be acceptable. together and thereby improving social The NPPF provides local communities inclusion. with opportunities through local and neighbourhood plans to identify for special protection green areas of particular importance to them 21 Dartmoor National Park Authority (2010) (see ‘Local Green Space’, paragraphs Dartmoor National Park Recreation and 76 and 77). Access Strategy 2011-2017 Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 61 Adopted Version July 2013 Access on Dartmoor Figure 3: Dartmoor Area Recreation 2.20.5 Management Plan KEY The Dartmoor Commons Act 1985

Part 2 gives a right of public access to 35,145 ha Areas of Heavy Recreation Use of common land in the National Park Already attract a wide range of users. High along with the right to ride on quality visitor infrastructure will be provided horseback. It enables management to be at key access points within these areas and undertaken by DNPA through the resources allocated for maintenance. Area exercise of byelaws, and by the Dartmoor management plans will be required to Commoners’ Council through regulations conserve and enhance special features. governing agricultural use of the commons. Access to a further 7,132 ha Areas for Exploration and Tranquillity has been secured through Access Moorland areas where infrastructure is Agreements. There is access to a further carefully located at key access points and 3,013 ha, allowed by the National Trust, moor gates. Users will need to navigate and Forestry Commission and South West plan their own routes or go with a guide. Water or through other agreements or Events and group activities will be carefully mechanisms. The total access land at managed, especially in the bird breeding December 2010 amounted to 46,663 ha. and lambing season. This includes additional public rights of access, on foot, to moor, heath, down Quiet Areas and registered common land that has These areas provide wildlife havens and been conferred through the Countryside solitude. Legal access will be maintained but and Rights of Way Act 2000. recreational infrastructure will be minimal. Guided and self-guided walks and events 2.20.6 will be discouraged. In addition to the 46,663 ha of access land there are 734 km of public rights Areas of Opportunity of way comprising footpaths, bridlepaths These areas offer scope for increased use and by-ways. The Definitive Map of if managed sustainably with improved Public Rights of Way shows all the recreation infrastructure. rights of way in the National Park. In determining planning applications, Linking Town and Country the Authority will ensure that these Provision of sustainable and transport links, for rights of way are protected. example walking, cycling and public transport.

2.20.7 Enclosed Land Disused railway tracks can provide the Existing public rights of way will be maintained. potential for informal recreational use by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Dartmoor National Park Boundary As cyclists do not have a right to cycle Key Market Towns (Gateways) on common land (except on bridlepaths and permitted routes), the establishment Other settlements of access along old railway tracks that Toilets Maintained by DNPA cross moorland can be a great benefit. Those sections of the National Cycle Toilets Maintained by Others Route that pass through Dartmoor have Information Centres made use of stretches of old railway line. The principle of creating traffic free Maintained by DNPA recreational routes is welcomed. Information Centres However, schemes must respect the need to safeguard important archaeological Maintained by Others and ecological sites, and will depend Bus Network for success on the co-operation of Haytor Hoppa Route landowners and the ability to overcome physical problems on the route. Long Distance Walking Routes Cycle Routes Dartmoor National Park Authority 62 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Figure 3: Dartmoor Area Recreation Management Plan Part 2

© Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey 100024842.

1 Southern Town Corridor 3 North and West Dartmoor To develop walking and cycling links To promote the existing recreational route utilising public rights of way and network, develop new links and circuits, unclassified county roads (green lanes) and attract new audiences and public transport 4 High Dartmoor Forests 2 Eastern Woods and Reservoirs Make better recreational use of Forestry To improve opportunities for informal Commission forests and opportunities recreation and develop walking and to link them cycling opportunities linked to key market towns and public transport Shading of all areas is diagrammatic and proposed management prescriptions relate to land where there is currently public access.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 63 Adopted Version July 2013 Public open space and sports facilities and quantitative or qualitative deficits 2.20.8 or surpluses of open space, sports and Local people need their own recreation recreational facilities in the local area,

Part 2 and sports facilities, which can range and locally derived standards for the from children’s play areas, through provision of such facilities should be set. accessible green open space for informal The supply of community related open recreation to the more formal sports space in the National Park has been halls, playing pitches and swimming mapped and quantified by the pools. Provision can often be enhanced Authority (Dartmoor National Park through the dual use of facilities at Open Space, Sport and Recreation Study schools. These areas and facilities play 2010). The survey adds to data already an important role in making a village or held on land open to public access by town a healthy, attractive and desirable identifying areas of particular types place to live. Where proposals are well (and above size thresholds) within or located and accessible to a range of associated with classified settlements. people and do not harm important This survey identifies the size, type, landscape, cultural or wildlife interests, use and location of all sites. the provision of new public areas and The types of open space identified were: sports facilities is encouraged. The © allotments; planning system plays a role in ensuring © amenity greenspace; that there is adequate, good quality and © cemeteries and churchyards; accessible provision. This is achieved by © civic spaces; protecting existing provision and © outdoor sports pitches and areas; through facilitating the development of © play space. new amenity and sports developments through planning gain. Following on 2.20.10 from the provision of sites, their good The survey shows the number and management by local councils, area of sites within the classified community groups and private settlements and gives a simple overview organisations is vital in ensuring that of notable good provision, or shortfall facilities are maintained properly for (such as settlements with a large purpose and available for use. amount of space for outdoor sport, or settlements with no allotment 2.20.9 provision). Some settlements close Government guidance in the NPPF to the National Park boundary may (paragraph 73) indicates that planning have well-used areas which lie just policies should identify specific needs outside the National Park boundary.

Table 1: Dartmoor National Park open space quantity and accessibility standards

Type of provision Quantity Accessibility

Parks and gardens Need to be considered An area of not less than on a case-by-case basis 2 ha within 2 km (straight line distance) in Local Centres

Outdoor sports provision 1.1 ha per 1,000 people Within 15 minutes walk (1,000 metres straight line distance) in Local Centres

Children’s play space 0.3 ha per 1,000 people Within 5 minutes walk (280 metres straight line distance) in Local Centres

Dartmoor National Park Authority 64 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 The survey showed that all the Local Protection of recreational and amenity Centres have a shortage of play space open space in parts of their built up areas, and that 2.20.12 there are number of Rural Settlements The open spaces survey highlighted Part 2 that have no formal play space or area evidence that many towns and villages for outdoor sports at all. Where it across Dartmoor suffer a shortage of appears that additional need for open space and sports facilities. The such facilities is generated by a new overarching principle is that existing (normally housing) development, resources should be protected from the Authority will seek a planning change of use. Any proposals for such obligation to secure provision either change of use must have convincing within the site or on a site which is justification, and must not lead to a well related to the development. shortage of open space locally or result in alternative provision that is less 2.20.11 accessible, if approval is to be given. The standards that will apply in looking to the provision of open Policy DMD32: Protection of recreational space in relation to community related and amenity open space development conform to those used by the constituent districts and are Community open space, sport and set out in Table 1, below. recreation areas will be protected. Policy DMD31: Provision of new Any development on such areas will recreational and leisure facilities only be permitted where: (i) alternative provision of public open Planning permission for recreational space of equivalent benefit or better development will be granted where recreational standard in terms of development is: quantity and quality is made (i) to provide or improve information available at another appropriate and or interpretation services based on equally accessible location; or promotion of education or (ii) it is an area or part of an area of enjoyment of the special qualities poor quality which is unsuitable for of the National Park; or recreation, and compensatory (ii) for small scale enterprises based on enhancements to existing public the intrinsic qualities of the National open space in the locality are Park or the improvement or implemented; and extension of existing permitted (iii) there will be no adverse effects visitor facilities; or on the character and appearance (iii)for the provision or improvement of the locality or settlement by the of indoor and outdoor recreation, change of use of the site. leisure and sports facilities serving the needs of local communities Horse related development within the National Park where 2.20.13 those facilities are well related to Horse owning and riding is an the settlement they are intended to increasingly popular activity, which serve and are accessible; or helps many people enjoy Dartmoor’s (iv)to establish footpaths, community special qualities in a unique way. It also paths or other recreational routes makes a valuable contribution to the across the countryside. local economy, by providing business Proposals should conserve or enhance for feed suppliers, farriers, vets, etc. landscape character including views Owners of horses have an important from publicly accessible locations and part to play in helping to protect the biodiversity, geodiversity and Dartmoor’s special qualities. cultural heritage qualities of the locality. Planning agreements will be 2.20.14 needed for the on-going management With the rising popularity of of recreation, leisure or sports facilities recreational horse keeping, the provided as part of new development. cumulative landscape effects of stables, Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 65 Adopted Version July 2013 field shelters, hardstandings, fences, Policy DMD33: Horse related exercise areas, jumps, etc is becoming development noticeable. The sub-division of pasture

Part 2 land to form individual horse paddocks Development related to recreational can also have adverse effects on local or commercial horse keeping will be landscape character and quality. This is permitted subject to the following becoming particularly noticeable around criteria: some of Dartmoor’s towns and villages. (i) adequate land, buildings and facilities should be available for 2.20.15 the number of horses to be kept The use of land for keeping horses for on the land; recreational purposes, and the (ii) existing buildings are used wherever establishment of commercial equestrian possible. Where new buildings are enterprises (such as livery, the keeping needed they are well-related to and breeding of racehorses and pony existing buildings and other local trekking) require planning permission. features, are commensurate in scale All such developments should be of the with the number of horses to be smallest scale necessary, and should be kept on the land and the amount related to the grazing capacity of the of land available for use by those land. In order to protect the local horses; environment and landscape quality, (iii) it can be demonstrated that the proposals should indicate how ancillary proposal, on its own or cumulatively development including accesses, with other nearby horse related parking, boundary treatments, lighting, development, will not harm local storage, waste disposal, jumps and landscape character; sub division of fields will be treated. (iv)for commercial equine enterprises, Commercial enterprises can involve a wider environmental assessment a variety of impacts, ranging from will be required; greatly increased traffic movements (v) the proposal should reflect the to damaged surfaces in areas of open principles set out in the Authority’s moorland. Such proposals will be subject Design Guide supplementary to an environmental assessment. planning document.

2.20.16 The British Horse Society has established standards to ensure both the welfare of horses and the effective husbandry of land-0.4 ha (1 acre) per horse is required where the animal is kept wholly at grass. The proportional area needed falls if two or more horses are kept in this way or if they are stabled. It is important to ensure that this form of development and local intensification does not adversely affect the local environment or landscape character of the National Park. The South West Protected Landscape Forum, the British Horse Society and other bodies have produced guidance22 specifically focused on equestrian development in protected landscapes, which is a useful source of information on all the factors involved.

22 SW Protected Landscapes Forum, British Horse Society, FWAG, SW RDA (2009) Horses, the Landscape and You – Equestrian Guide to Keeping Horses in Protected Landscapes

Dartmoor National Park Authority 66 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Economy and transport 24.2% of GDP, followed by distribution services, 15.4%; and hotels and catering policies 9.2%. Manufacturing accounted for 8.8%,

and agriculture and forestry, 4.2%. Part 2 Per capita GDP (2008) was £14,660, 2.21 Sustainable economic as against the UK figure of £21,119. growth 2.21.3 2.21.1 Unemployment rates in the National Park The NPPF sets out the Government’s as a whole have generally remained objectives for sustainable economic below both regional and national rates growth: – and unemployment has not been © plan proactively to meet the regarded as a major problem. development needs of business and In March 2013, the National Park support an economy fit for the rate was 2.4%, with a SW region rate of 2.7% and a rate for England of 3.8%. 21st century (paragraph 20); promote the vitality and viability of © 2.21.4 town centres, and meet the needs Within the National Park, the supply of consumers for high quality and of potential employment land for accessible retail services (paragraph 23); development is low. Survey work looking and at the occupation levels of employment © raise the quality of life and the estates in the National Park shows a environment in rural areas by consistently high occupancy rate. promoting thriving, inclusive and Reflecting the buoyancy of the real estate locally distinctive rural economies /business services sector in the National (paragraph 28). Park economy, office space has also been taken up well. No sites are allocated in Those objectives are equally as relevant this planning document for employment to a National Park as to other areas of development. However, there is scope the country. Dartmoor hosts a wide within the strategic economic growth range of businesses and industries, policy, COR18, to enable appropriate sites offers distinctive and vibrant town to come forward for development to centres, and has countryside of great enable existing businesses to grow and to environmental and economic value. allow new small scale enterprises to start The Authority has worked with its up. In addition, there are existing constituent districts, and other business employment sites within settlements that and commercial stakeholders to support could be redeveloped or regenerated, small to medium sized enterprises in the such as the wool store and tanning works Park. The National Park socio-economic at Buckfastleigh, to provide additional duty (see section 1.2.4) forms an integral business space. Bearing these factors in element of the Authority’s operations. mind, the retention of employment land Business activities contribute to the for business purposes must remain the overall character of Dartmoor as a living presumption unless there are substantial and working landscape. and clear benefits to be gained by permitting a change of use. 2.21.2 An economic model of the National 2.21.5 Park was developed in 2000 and has Some industrial and commercial activities been updated regularly since. It enables require buildings of large volume or an estimation to be made of the total large open-air storage areas and space Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of the for vehicle manoeuvring, loading and National Park and indicates the parking. Other uses or processes may contribution of different economic result in high levels of noise or produce sectors to the local economy. In 2008 dust or smell, or air, water or soil the largest contributor was the real pollution. Where these sorts of uses estate/business activities sector with have a significant environmental impact,

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 67 Adopted Version July 2013 or require a level of vehicle movements Policy DMD34: Agricultural, forestry which would cause problems on the and rural business related development local route network, or are intrusive by

Part 2 nature of the process carried out, they Agricultural, forestry and other rural are considered to be inappropriate in enterprise related non-residential the National Park. development will be permitted where the proposal complies with the Agriculture and forestry following criteria: 2.21.6 (i) there is a demonstrable need that is Using land or existing buildings for the proportionate to the use of the land; purposes of agriculture or forestry does (ii) it relates well to local landscape not constitute development. Depending features and other building groups; on size and other criteria, and as long as (iii) it is located and oriented with reasonably necessary for the purposes of respect to local topography agriculture, the construction, extension so as to reduce intrusive effects; or alteration of a building is permitted. (iv) it demonstrates a scale and form However, within the National Park a that is well related to its function; ‘notification’ system operates under (v) it will not cause unacceptable harm which details of new farm and forestry to biodiversity, geodiversity and buildings, the extension and alteration archaeological and cultural heritage of buildings, farm and forest roads, assets, natural drainage or soil stability; waste deposits and some excavations (vi)efficient use is made of existing have to be submitted to the Authority, buildings; enabling control over the siting, design (vii) existing non-traditional structures and external appearance of such made redundant by the proposed buildings and works. Other rural development are removed. enterprise related development, which is not principally based on agriculture or A condition will be attached to forestry, does not have the benefit of any permission for a new building permitted development rights. requiring it to be removed if it becomes redundant for its original 2.21.7 purpose and there is no other Where planning permission for acceptable use. Power and telephone agricultural, forestry or other rural cables supplying the development enterprise related development has to should be placed underground. be sought, the guiding principles are that the proposed development should Farm diversification represent, environmentally and 2.21.8 technically, an appropriate way of Farming is the principal land use in meeting the needs of the enterprise. the Dartmoor National Park and helps The protection of local amenity, sustain its special qualities. With including landscape character, the increasing pressure on agricultural settings of heritage assets, biodiversity incomes, diversification of farm and geodiversity protection, and surface enterprises can provide the extra drainage, is important. It can also be revenue that is needed to sustain advantageous in terms of conserving enterprises. Care must be exercised to built assets and local character if existing ensure that diversification proposals and, in particular, traditional buildings promote National Park purposes while are re-used. In order to protect the supplementing farm and forestry special qualities of the National Park incomes and sustaining the principal in the long term, conditions will be enterprise. The special needs of hill attached requiring that any structure farming, which has helped to create and which is permitted should be removed shape the character and distinctiveness when it becomes redundant. Power and of upland Dartmoor, are recognised. telephone cables supplying the Environmental stewardship schemes and development should be placed appropriate farm diversification schemes underground. can play an important role in support.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 68 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Well conceived schemes for business Some classes of advertisements are purposes that are consistent in their excluded from planning control, for scale with their rural location will be instance, advertisements on enclosed

encouraged. They could include land or on a moving vehicle. Other Part 2 building conversion for business specified classes of advertisement have purposes, holiday accommodation, deemed consent, for instance, public horse stabling, farm shops, food transport information boards, forecourt processing, farm visits, pick your advertisements, small notices and signs own, and farm trails. on premises, and professional and trade signs. If an advertisement is not Policy DMD35: Farm diversification excluded from control and does not benefit from a deemed consent, express Planning permission will be granted for development to support farm consent of the local planning authority diversification enterprises where the must be sought. proposal complies with the following 2.21.11 criteria: In determining an application for (i) it is located on the farm holding or advertisement consent, only two issues on land directly associated with the may be considered-the interests of operation of the farm and is intended amenity and public safety. Within the to support the farm enterprise; National Park, the aims will be to ensure (ii) it is consistent in its scale and that signs and advertisements do not environmental impact with the harm the amenity and special qualities character and appearance of the area; of the National Park environment or (iii) it is based on the scope to add value prejudice road safety. Advertisement to the agricultural output of the control is particularly important in holding and/or the commercial relation to listed buildings, other opportunities offered by the farm’s heritage assets and conservation areas, buildings, or environmental qualities where character, appearance and or cultural heritage assets. historic integrity are additional factors Traditional buildings should be used in to be taken into account. Sustaining preference to other types of structures. the vigour of local businesses is To ensure that any development important to the economy of National remains ancillary and tied to the farm Park communities and visitors. The aim enterprise, planning agreements will be will be to achieve acceptable solutions used or conditions will be imposed. that do not detract from visual amenity or reduce road safety and yet are fully Signs and advertisements supportive of the local economy. 2.21.9 Apart from the centre of Buckfastleigh, Policy DMD36: Advertisements and the whole of Dartmoor National Park signing policy lies within an Area of Special Control of Advertisements (ASCA). The On-site signs and advertisements will designation enables the Authority to be permitted where: exercise additional control over the (i) the sign or advertisement is an siting and appearance of most kinds appropriate size and shape and of advertisements, billboards and signs. of a high standard of design; It also extends the Authority’s power to (ii) there will be no adverse effects on deal with boards displaying local events public or highway safety; and entertainment notices, advance (iii) the proposed sign or advertisement, direction signs and public safety notices. in association with existing signs and advertisements, does not result 2.21.10 in adverse cumulative impact; The term ‘advertisement’ covers a (iv) no harm will be caused to the wide range of signs, boards and notices. character and distinctiveness of the It includes fascia signs and canopy signs, locality or the wider landscape of estate agents’ boards, flag advertisements the National Park. and town and village name plates. Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 69 Adopted Version July 2013 Joint signing schemes will be promoted Policy DMD37: Advance signs where benefits to local character, amenity and highway safety can be Advance signing of individual

Part 2 achieved by adopting a comprehensive businesses will be permitted where this: approach to local signing and (i) improves road safety; or advertisement. (ii) draws attention to a business that has direct access onto a county road, Advance signs but which is not easily seen from it; 2.21.12 or Environmental and highway (iii) draws attention to a tourist business considerations dictate against the that is not located on the Dartmoor proliferation of individual private Route Network. advance signs. However, there may be occasions where these signs are necessary Only the minimum number of advance on purely safety grounds or to draw signs necessary to meet the objectives public attention to a business that is set out above will be permitted. In all not easily seen from the public highway. cases, signing must comply with policy It is important to prevent the DMD36. proliferation of signs on county roads that could result from businesses set back In exceptional circumstances, from but having access onto such roads. advertisement signs will be permitted One advance sign on each direction of where they relate to non-commercial approach would be appropriate. For uses or the operations of charitable tourism businesses not having a direct organisations. access onto a county road, only the minimum number of signs necessary to inform and direct visitors to the enterprise will be permitted.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 70 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 2.22 Transport Policies Work is also going forward at the local level to increase access and mobility opportunities over local networks, for 2.22.1

instance the Wray Valley Trail, which will Part 2 Through its effect on the pattern of eventually run from Moretonhampstead development, planning can help reduce to Bovey Tracey. There are long term the need to travel, reduce the length of aspirations for other links, such as from journeys and make it safer and easier for Moretonhampstead to Okehampton people to make use of public transport, and Tavistock. cycling and walking. The NPPF states: 2.22.4 ’Encouragement should be given to The role of technology will continue to solutions which support reductions in expand, thereby reducing the need to greenhouse gas emissions and reduce travel. Many everyday activities can be congestion. In preparing Local Plans, done through the internet. It is local planning authorities should recognised that poor access to therefore support a pattern of information and communications development which, where reasonable technology is acting as a constraint on to do so, facilitates the use of many rural businesses, affecting their sustainable modes of transport’ growth and turnover. A high-speed (paragraph 30). and reliable broadband service is now considered as essential as utilities such 2.22.2 as telephones, electricity and gas. In rural areas, planning policy generally The Government has made available has sought to direct housing, jobs, funding, through Broadband Delivery shopping, leisure etc. development to UK, to ensure that the UK has the larger settlements with good public best broadband network in Europe by transport connections. In Dartmoor 2015. There may be some contingent National Park, the objective is to development needed, e.g. at promote better access to facilities telecommunications masts and without having to use private transport, telephone exchanges, to facilitate and to encourage visitor access in the network improvements. environmentally friendly ways. This does not mean that appropriate development Dartmoor Traffic Management Strategy needed to support family life and 2.22.5 business in the more remote parts of The Dartmoor National Park Traffic Dartmoor, which are totally dependent Management Strategy was prepared on access to private means of transport, jointly by Devon County Council and will be discriminated against. Clearly, the Dartmoor National Park Authority. ensuring that people, wherever they live It was adopted as policy and published on Dartmoor, have access to essential in 1994. It broke new ground, being services is vital to sustainable living. the first such traffic management strategy prepared for a National Park. 2.22.3 Since 1994, many of the proposals have Although generally regarded as part of been tried and succeeded; others have the recreation and tourism provision, been tried and failed. An update of the high quality cycle routes and public rights strategy was carried out jointly by the of way are also important to local Authority and Devon County Council communities and the public’s health and in 2005. That exercise concluded that well-being. Parts of the National Cycle while progress had been made on Network cross Dartmoor, for example, implementing the strategy since 1994, NCR27 (the Granite Way) crosses the its essential aims remained valid but west side of the moor, and a number that a fresh look at priority areas for of promoted walking trails, such as the action was needed to advise future Two Moors Way and the Templer Way, work programmes and the Devon also operate. Local Transport Plan.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 71 Adopted Version July 2013 2.22.6 The Dartmoor Route Network The Traffic Management Strategy 2.22.9 Review of Priorities for 2005-2011 Dartmoor’s roads have developed to serve

Part 2 sets out priorities for action under the needs of local people and travellers the following headings: crossing the moor. The physical capacity © visitor traffic of these roads and their alignment is, in © access to remote and sensitive areas the main, unsuited to larger vehicles and © coach routes heavy flows of recreation traffic. © caravans Potential traffic generation, road safety and the adequacy or otherwise of the © public transport local road network will be relevant © public rights of way factors in many planning decisions © access for the less mobile and in some cases may be overriding. heavy goods vehicles © A hierarchy of routes-the Devon Road © safety and driver awareness Network-applies throughout the county. © development control Within Dartmoor, the appropriate use of © design and local distinctiveness the Route Network is encouraged by © working together. publicity, signing and selective Traffic Regulation Orders. The Policies Map Devon and Torbay Local Transport Plan shows the Dartmoor Route Network. 2.22.7 National routes are suitable for all The Devon and Torbay Local Transport vehicles; primary county routes are A class Plan-3 (LTP3) vision is: roads suitable for most types of traffic; secondary county routes are B class roads ‘Devon & Torbay’s transport system suitable for medium sized vehicles; access will offer business, communities and routes are suitable for cars and other individuals safe and sustainable small vehicles; service routes are suitable travel choices. The transport system only for cars or very small vehicles will help to deliver a low carbon (see Figure 4). An advisory coach route future, a successful economy and network has also been developed and a prosperous, healthy population progressively refined, to assist coach living in an attractive environment’. operators in their journeys through Dartmoor (see Figure 5). 2.22.8 To achieve the LTP3’s vision the strategy 2.22.10 has five key strands: The width and alignment of many © deliver and support new development of the roads on Dartmoor is such that and economic growth; additional traffic flows, particularly of © protect the existing transport network large or heavy vehicles, is not by making the best use of the acceptable. The potential for mitigating transport asset and prioritising adverse traffic generation and road maintenance; safety effects of development should © work with communities to provide be explored. Production of a traffic safe, sustainable and low carbon assessment and transport plan will be transport choices; needed for most major development. © strengthen and improve the public Contributions to the provision of transport network; transportation infrastructure may ease © become the ‘place to be naturally the problems that would result from a active’ by developing and investing particular development. Agreements requiring traffic management, traffic in the rural and urban cycle and calming or contributions to public walking network. transport provision, may also make a The Authority will continue to work proposal acceptable. Core Strategy actively with Devon County Council policy COR21 sets out the underlying as the highway authority in taking principles governing planning for relevant proposals forward. transport in Dartmoor.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 72 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Access onto the highway Provision of car parks 2.22.11 2.22.12 Where proposed development requires The ability of Dartmoor’s road network

access onto the county road network, and car parks to accommodate an Part 2 this must be capable of being provided increasing number of visitors’ cars is in a safe and environmentally limited. It is not practicable, nor would it acceptable manner. The class of road as be desirable in landscape terms, to cater set out in the Dartmoor Route Network for peak demand. The Authority does is relevant. Hedgebanks and hedges, not anticipate a significant increase in trees, traditional gateways and other parking capacity in rural areas except roadside features and monuments add in areas of opportunity24 where a greatly to the character of Dartmoor’s need is agreed. The public car park at road network. Care must be taken to Princetown is well used and the feasibility protect the quality of these landscape of providing an extension will be and heritage assets. Where necessary, considered. Car parking provision within schemes should be accompanied by an many villages is very limited, and the assessment of the traffic impact on the amount of off-street parking that is route, to the satisfaction of the Highway available is in short supply. Parking Authority. Where the trunk road problems are exacerbated by visitors’ cars. network is concerned (within Dartmoor This planning framework provides only the A30 and A38 roads), the opportunity for improving capacity where Highway Agency’s views will also be needed and where it is environmentally taken into account. Wherever possible, acceptable. Funding such provision is access issues should be resolved at the likely to be problematic. outline application stage. The Highway Management Protocol for Devon’s Policy DMD39: Provision of new car parks Protected Landscapes23 provides useful guidance. Planning permission will be granted for community car parks within or Policy DMD38: New accesses onto adjacent to the Local Centres and the public highway Rural Settlements where the proposed development: Planning permission for development © is necessary to alleviate traffic or which includes a new or improved environmental problems; or access onto a public highway will only © is necessary to provide for tourist be granted where, having regard to demand. the standard, function, nature and use of the road, a safe access can be Development should conserve the provided in a way which does not character and appearance of the locality. detract from the character and Outside designated settlements, new car appearance of the locality. parks will be permitted where: Particular attention should be given © there is evidence that overriding to the need to retain hedgebanks, traffic management or recreation hedges, walls and roadside trees. management benefits can be achieved; Where a proposal is for a new access and to improve a substandard access, © there is good accessibility from an a condition will be applied requiring appropriate standard of road on the the substandard access to be closed Dartmoor Route Network; and up in an appropriate manner. © a sustainable drainage scheme is incorporated into the design; and © there would be no material harm to 23 Craggatak Consulting (August 2009) for the Devon the character and appearance of the Highway Partnership locality or views from publicly 24 As set out in the Area Recreation Management Plan (Figure 1) in the National Park Authority’s accessible locations. Recreation and Access Strategy for Dartmoor 2010-2017

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 73 Adopted Version July 2013 Figure 4: Dartmoor Route Network Part 2

National Route

County Primary Route

County Secondary Route

Access Route

Service Route

© Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey 100024842.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 74 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Figure 5: Dartmoor Coach Route Network Part 2

Recommended coach routes, accessible by vehicles up to 12m x 2.5m (53 seater coach)

Routes passable with care by vehicles up to 10m x 2.39m (43 seater coach)

One way system

Special restrictions in the Dart Valley Holne Bridge and Newbridge-Traffic Orders prevent use by any vehicle longer than 10m (33ft). Hexworthy Bridge-The bridge can only be negotiated by coaches with maximum dimensions of 10m x 2.4m and only in the direction shown. Dartmeet-Coaches longer than 10m (33ft) can only approach and leave via Two Bridges.

© Crown copyright and database rights 2013 Ordnance Survey 100024842.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 75 Adopted Version July 2013 Parking provision for new development such space would exacerbate local 2.22.13 traffic circulation problems. The level of car parking provided in new

Part 2 development plays an important role in 2.22.15 the promotion of sustainable transport For retail and leisure development choices and the reduction of traffic located in town centres or on the edge related problems. Improvement of of centres, local authorities may permit opportunities for access by alternative levels of parking above the national modes can help reduce congestion, standards provided that they are accidents and air pollution and improve satisfied that the parking will serve the access opportunities for all sections town centre as a whole. The NPPF sets of society. The guidance in Planning out the latest national policy guidance Policy Guidance 13 (PPG13) which said on setting transport standards. It says that development plans should set that if setting local standards for maximum parking levels for residential residential and non-residential development has been revoked by the development, local planning authorities Secretary of State (January 2011). As far should take into account: as non-residential uses are concerned, © the accessibility of the development; no minimum standards are prescribed, © the type, mix and use of other than parking for disabled people. development; © the availability of and opportunities 2.22.14 for public transport; For residential development in the © local car ownership; and National Park, the parking provision © an overall need to reduce the use guidelines are based on the number of high-emission vehicles. of residents’ and visitors’ car parking (NPPF, paragraph 39) spaces likely, on the basis of experience in Devon, to be needed by the type of 2.22.16 development. A parking provision Local planning authorities adopt assessment may be provided by the maximum parking standards reflecting developer or sought by the Authority local circumstances for non-residential in circumstances where less than the development falling below the relevant normal minimum number of car parking thresholds. However, it would not be spaces would be appropriate. appropriate to put tight constraints on the parking space that is provided for Policy DMD40: Off-street parking provision new development on Dartmoor. Many for new development: residential places have no access to regular public transport services, and other resources Off-street car parking for residential such as cycle paths or even pavements development should be provided, either may not be present. The remote rural within the curtilage of the property or areas also present their own special allocated elsewhere at the following access problems. There may also be levels: environmental reasons, for instance the © for detached and semi-detached need to conserve the quality of historic dwellings: a minimum of two spaces places, why a more flexible approach per dwelling; should be applied within the National © for bedsits, flats, and terraced Park. A transport assessment may be dwellings: a minimum of one and provided by the developer or sought by the Authority in circumstances half spaces per dwelling or unit. where a proposal to exceed the normal maximum number of car parking spaces Car free development will be considered may be appropriate. favourably where reasonable alternative parking provision exists. Off-street car parking space provided as part of development will be protected where there is evidence that loss of

Dartmoor National Park Authority 76 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Policy DMD41: Parking provision for Policy DMD42: Development affecting new development: non-residential a public right of way

The level of vehicle parking and Development that would increase Part 2 servicing facilities to be provided with vehicular traffic on footpaths, bridlepaths non-residential development shall not or byways open to all traffic to the exceed the maximum specified in the detriment of their enjoyment by walkers parking provision guidelines as set out and riders will not be permitted unless below, or as specified in the submitted there are overriding social, economic or and approved Transport Assessment. environmental conservation benefits arising from the proposal. 2.22.17 Conflicts may arise where private vehicular rights exist over public rights of way used by walkers and riders. Planning decisions should not exacerbate the potential for conflict.

Use (Use Class) Maximum non-operational Operational servicing parking standards (gross requirement (gross floorspace [m²]) floorspace [m²]) A1 Shops (including 1 space per 14m² Supermarkets: garden centres) Staff: 1 space per 100m² >1000m² - 1 lorry space

A2 Financial & As shops (A1) N/A Professional Services

A3 Restaurants & cafes 1 space per 5.5m² 1 lorry space & A4 Drinking (dining area) establishments 1 space per 2m² (drinking customer area) Staff: 10% of customer parking

B1 Business 1 space per 28m² Except for light industry (a) Offices (other than A2) – 1 lorry space (b) Research & Light industry – 1 lorry space development of per 1000m² products or processes (c) Light industry

B2 General industrial 1 space per 32.5m² 1 lorry space per 100m²

B8 Storage & 1 space per 200 m² Distribution

C1 Hotels (including 1 space per bedroom 1 lorry space boarding house or Restaurant & Bar guesthouse) (see A3 & A4) Staff: 10% customer parking

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 77 Adopted Version July 2013 2.23 Tourism Policies The local road network should be capable of serving the proposed 2.23.1 development adequately and safely. Part 2 The tourism industry is an important Wildlife, geological and archaeological generator of income on Dartmoor. interests can be easily damaged and may The Dartmoor Economic Model showed be difficult if not impossible to replace; that the hotels and catering sector they must therefore be safeguarded. produced 9.2% of the total economic Much of the National Park is valued for output (Gross Value Added) of the being wild and remote; those qualities National Park in 2008. Figures from a must be protected. There are limits to STEAM25 economic model showed total the amount of use that remote areas tourist spend (which includes indirect can sustain before the quality of the spending and VAT) in Dartmoor for recreational experience is diminished 2009, 2010 and 2011 of £144.0m, for all. £152.0m and £156.8m respectively. Tourism can, however, impact on the 2.23.4 local environment in terms of Outside settlements, the protection development pressures, increased traffic of the landscape, environment and the flows, car parking demand and dilution special qualities of the National Park of some of the special qualities of the is the overriding policy principle. National Park, in particular its Proposals for visitor attractions must tranquillity. The development of the therefore be considered carefully. tourist industry must not be at the Strategic Policy COR18 covering business expense of those special qualities. development gives additional guidance. A more flexible approach can be taken 2.23.2 towards proposals within Local Centres Development of the tourist industry and Rural Settlements. The conversion within Dartmoor depends upon co- of appropriate buildings offers a positive operation and mutual understanding way of conserving the existing built form between the National Park Authority, of a settlement and can help to ensure tourism agencies and the tourist industry that development will relate well to operating both within the National Park the character of the surrounding area. and in the wider area. To this end, the Care will be needed to ensure that Dartmoor Partnership Ltd has been incremental development of visitor established to provide a networking attractions does not harm the character mechanism and to help co-ordinate the of the area. Large scale tourism activities of a variety of organisations development, unrelated to Dartmoor’s working for the development and special qualities and which could equally promotion of sustainable tourism on well be located elsewhere, cannot be Dartmoor and its sphere of influence. justified. Such proposals will be determined under Policy DMD2. Visitor attractions 2.23.3 Policy DMD43: New visitor attractions Proposals for visitor attractions should and development of existing enterprises draw on the special qualities of the National Park - its distinctive landscape New tourism development and and natural beauty, its cultural heritage the expansion of existing tourism and history, its biodiversity - making use businesses will be permitted where: of the opportunities that the National (i) the proposal will provide Park offers for quiet, informal, open air opportunities for visitors to increase recreation. Core strategic policy COR19 their awareness, understanding and sets the overall approach to tourism enjoyment of the special qualities of development. Proposals should respect the National Park in a way that the quality of the landscape and the conserves or enhances those special local built environment, with their scale, qualities; siting and design complementing and, wherever possible, enhancing the locality. 25 Scarborough Tourist Economic Activity Model. Dartmoor National Park Authority 78 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 Figure 6: Staying visitors to Dartmoor by type of accommodation Part 2

(ii) the proposal will not generate an 2.23.6 increased level of activity, including There may be opportunities in Local noise, that would significantly detract Centres and Rural Settlements for from the experience of visitors and new hotel and guest house businesses the quality of life of local residents; where these will not detract from the (iii) the development can be satisfactorily distinctive character of the settlement. accessed from the road network or by The extension and improvement of other sustainable modes of transport existing facilities and the conversion of including public transport, walking, large houses or other large buildings is cycling or horse riding; also justifiable; it adds to the provision (iv) it will make use of an existing of additional bed spaces and can building. Proposals for new buildings improve the quality of provision without will be expected to demonstrate that major impact on the landscape. It also the facility cannot be satisfactorily helps the local economy. The provision accommodated within an existing of bed and breakfast facilities and building at the location. camping and bunk barns also adds to the variety and amount of accommodation Tourist accommodation on offer and usually will have a limited 2.23.5 impact on the locality. Accommodation enterprises play a large part in generating tourism income 2.23.7 in the National Park. Figure 6 shows The provision of newly built holiday staying visitors by type of accommodation flats and cottages amounts to the over recent years, taken from the development of new dwellings for STEAM model. which there is no overriding justification. While as a result there may be marginal improvements which would benefit the local economy, the effect on the Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 79 Adopted Version July 2013 countryside and built environment With resurgence in holidays within the will usually outweigh those benefits. UK, many campsites have extended the The subdivision of existing residential range and choice of accommodation.

Part 2 properties to provide holiday flats is This can include such structures as yurts also undesirable where this will remove (round tents with padded canvas roof permanent accommodation from the and walls) and camping pods (small local housing market, to the detriment wood or metal structures often of of National Park residents. innovative design). Providing such structures are small scale, are easily 2.23.8 moved and removed and there is no The conversion of traditional buildings adverse effect on landscape character, or other non-residential buildings there is no reason why they should to provide holiday accommodation not be used to improve the will be acceptable where proposals accommodation offer. comply with policies COR19 and DMD9. Exceptionally, permission will be Policy DMD44: Provision of tourism granted as part of a farm diversification accommodation exercise (under policies COR20 and DMD35) to convert other buildings, Planning permission for tourism where permission would otherwise development will be permitted where it be refused. In such circumstances, comprises: conditions will be attached restricting (i) new small scale hotels and guest the use to holiday accommodation only. houses or the conversion of existing The replacement of substandard holiday buildings for short stay flats will also be acceptable if this would accommodation within Local Centres lead to an improvement in the quality and the conversion of existing of the local environment. buildings for short stay accommodation within Rural 2.23.9 Settlements; The impact of static holiday caravan sites (ii) small scale sympathetic extensions in the National Park can be considerable. and alterations to hotels and guest This type of development can detract houses; from the distinctive character of the (iii) accommodation in large houses in National Park landscape. The expansion the countryside, including the of existing sites will not be permitted. conversion to ancillary serviced Redevelopment of existing sites to accommodation and self catering provide chalet accommodation may, units of buildings in close proximity however, be acceptable where this to the main dwelling and where improves local amenity. Provision of new management of the tourism touring caravan sites should take place enterprise is undertaken from outside the National Park where there that dwelling; is better access for towed caravans. (iv)accommodation provided as part Proposals intended to upgrade and of an acceptable farm diversification improve the amenity of existing sites exercise; will be permitted. (v) replacement of substandard holiday units where that would lead to an 2.23.10 improvement in the character and Tent and, in some locations, motor appearance of the locality; caravan sites are less intrusive and do not (vi)small scale tented camping sites require such good road access as touring including camping pods or other caravan sites. Where such proposals are similar structures provided as part of linked to a farm diversification exercise, a farm diversification exercise where or are located near a Local Centre or there is no harm to the landscape; Rural Settlement, and where a need (vii) works to existing caravan, chalet for a facility clearly exists, then or lodge sites to reduce adverse proposals will be considered favourably. environmental effects or improve visual amenity.

Dartmoor National Park Authority 80 Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document Adopted Version July 2013 New holiday accommodation will be subject to conditions to ensure that: © the accommodation is occupied for

holiday purposes only; and Part 2 © the accommodation is not occupied as a person’s sole or main place of residence; and © the owners/operators of the accommodation maintain an up-to- date register of the names and main home addresses of all occupiers and that they make this information available to the Authority on request.

Dartmoor National Park Authority Development Management and Delivery Development Plan Document 81 Adopted Version July 2013