WA/2020/0345 - Change of use of land from forestry to a mixed use of ongoing forestry and for filming purposes (as amended by information received 30/10/2020, 18/12/2020, 04/01/2021 and 29/01/2021) at Land At Bourne Wood, Tilford Road, Farnham

Applicant : J Clark Ward: Farnham Bourne Case Officer: Gemma Paterson

Neighbour Notification Expiry Date 10/04/2020 Extended Expiry Date 24/12/2020

RECOMMENDATION A That, subject to conditions and the completion of a Section 106 Agreement to secure transport contributions within six months of the decision, permission be GRANTED

RECOMMENDATION B That, in the absence of a completed Section 106 Agreement to secure transport contributions within six months of the resolution to grant permission, permission be REFUSED 1. Summary

The application has been brought before the Area Committee at the request of the Local Ward Member, Councillor Cockburn, for Members to consider the recommended conditions, should permission be granted.

The application is for the change of use of land from forestry to a mixed use of ongoing forestry with filming activity, for no more than six months in any one calendar year and no more than eight months of consecutive filming, in order to avoid the possibility of six months each side of the year end. This application is seeking full permission following a similar temporary consent (WA/2013/0505) granted on the site in March 2014, which has since expired.

The proposal is considered to be inappropriate development within the Green Belt for which a case for very special circumstances exists to outweigh the harm cause by the inappropriateness has been justified.

The proposal would have intermittent impacts upon the landscape character of the AONB and AGLV, although these would be largely contained to the site itself, given the coverage the woods provides from wider views. The Surrey Hills AONB Officer raises no objection

Page 1 of 51 The proposal would result in an increase in traffic generation on the local network during filming events, although these would be mitigated by a proposed Travel Plan. A Section 106 would be agreed to secure a financial contribution towards the monitoring of the Travel Plan. The Highway Authority are satisfied that the proposed use would have no impacts on the safety and operation of the highway network.

The proposal would have the potential to impact on ecological features, if not managed appropriately. Potential impacts relate to increased levels of disturbance and habitat loss. However, it is deemed that previous and new mitigation measures would sufficiently address these impacts. Further, mitigation measures that have already been implemented or are ongoing (i.e. habitat creation) will continue to be maintained outside of the scope of the Environmental Management Plan. Both Natural England and Surrey Wildlife Trust are satisfied that the proposal would not cause harm to the SPA or the ecology on and adjoining the site.

The use of the land for the proposes of filming have been carried out on the site since 1999 and whilst this use does have the potential to impact upon neighbouring amenity from noise and light pollution, subject to a number of safeguarding conditions, Officers are satisfied that proposal would not cause significant harm to the amenities of the occupiers of adjacent neighbouring properties.

The report sets out that the application is recommended for approval.

2. Location Plan

Page 2 of 51 3. Site Description

The site comprises 33.7 hectares of Bourne Woods, which is located 2.5 km to the south east of Farnham. The site is accessed from an established visitor’s carpark from Tilford Road. The car park connects to a tarmac drive (Forest Drive) that runs through Bourne Wood.

Most of the Bourne Wood is designated as open access land under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. The wood is predominantly Pine with very little under-storey. Bourne Wood includes a network of informal paths and there are two bridleways within the site. BW67 runs along the east of the site and BW178 runs along the southern perimeter of the site. Public Footpath FP237 follows the western perimeter of the site.

The site has varied topography, rising from 60m AOD at the principal entrance from Tilford Road, to 95m AOD at the highest point towards the central part of the site.

The village of Lower Bourne is immediately to the north and west of the wood. There are scattered dwellings on the outskirts of Lower Bourne and close to the application site, including Dene Lane to the north, Tilford Road to the east and Clumps Road to the west.

4. Proposal

Planning permission is sought for the change of use of land from forestry to a mixed use of ongoing forestry with filming activity for six months.

Filming activities comprise the use of the woods for site preparation, which includes the construction of temporary sets where necessary, rehearsals and filming, the use of vehicles for filming and prop purposes, followed by the removal of all temporary structures.

The site preparation phase is the first phase in filmmaking, and generally includes site set up, scene dressing, set build and rehearsals. Typically, it is during this stage that vehicles such as technical units and catering will arrive on site. Such vehicles remain in situ until the end of the filming event. Set builds that occur during the working hours also remain in place until the end of the filming event.

Depending on the type of filming activity, this phase has historically been anywhere between 1 and 17 days and is on average, the longest phase of the filming activity.

Page 3 of 51 Prior to the filming phase, stage, costume and additional welfare units will generally arrive on site and remain in situ until the end of the filming event. It is during this the filming phase that there is the highest intensity of use of the site, dependant on the type of activity being filmed.

Historically, the filming phase has lasted anywhere from 1 to 9 days and is, on average, the shortest period of the filming activity, as it is the most expensive phase for the film company.

After the filming phase, there is the required time to pack up the site and complete restoration, upon completion of the filming phase. Activities include clearing the props and sets, ensuring all vehicles are offsite, cleaning any waste and completing the restoration phase.

Filming events are anticipated to be staggered throughout a calendar year. Taking into consideration the potential effects of filming, the maximum duration of filming per year are proposed as:

 No more than six months will be used for filming events in any one calendar year; and,  No more than eight months of consecutive filming events in order to avoid the possibility of six months each side of the year end.

Filming activities will usually be restricted to 6:00-21:00 Monday to Saturdays, with the exception of rehearsals, which may also take place between 08:00- 13:00 on Sundays.

Filming activities are proposed as follows:

 Filming shoots will be limited to 6:00-21:00 Monday to Friday and 6:00- 13:00 on Saturday;  Construction activities will be limited to 8:00-20:00 Monday to Friday and 8:00-13:00 on Saturday; and  Rehearsals will be limited to 6:00-21:00 Monday to Saturday and 8:00- 13:00 on Sunday.

This planning application includes the use of the site for night filming on occasion (up to 23:00).

No film shooting or construction activities will take place on Sundays. However, equipment and sets will be required to be left on site on these days if filming has not yet been completed.

Page 4 of 51 The proposal also includes welfare facilities for cast and crew. These facilities vary between film companies and chosen providers; however, often comprise portacabins, marquees and trailers. Temporary signage and security marshalling will be in place to direct staff and visitors around Bourne Wood.

The proposal also includes the continued management and enhancement of heathland habitat.

5. Existing Bridleways

Public Footpaths

The paths located within the circles are Public Footpaths.

Page 5 of 51 The paths outside of the circles are a mixture of informal paths under Countryside Right off Way Access legislation and Public Bridleways. Public Bridleways are indicated with the thicker dash marks.

6. Heads of Terms

A financial contribution of £6,150 to the Local Highway Authority for the monitoring of the proposed Travel Plan connect to the site in seeking to improve sustainable accessibility for filming purposes, to be secured by way of a legal agreement under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended).

7. Relevant Planning History

Request for Screening Opinion for EIA not SO/2020/0005 change of use from forestry to mixed 21/10/2020 forestry and filming. required

Request for Screening Opinion for EIA SO/2020/0003 change of use from forestry to mixed 27/03/2020 forestry and filming. Required

Change of use of land from forestry to a mixed use of ongoing forestry and for filming purposes. This Full WA/2013/0505 application is accompanied by an 07/03/2014 Permission Environmental Statement (as amplified by emails and letters dated 30/09/2013, 10/10/2013). Request for Scoping opinion for Scoping SO/2012/0009 change of use from forestry to Opinion 02/11/2012 forestry with filming activity. Given Temporary Change of Use of Temporary WA/2012/1254 19/10/2012 forestry land for filming purposes. Permission Request for Screening opinion for Scoping SO/2012/0008 change of use from forestry to Opinion 24/09/2012 forestry with filming activity. Given

8. Relevant Planning Constraints

Green Belt - outside any recongnised settlement Surrey Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty(AONB) Areas of Great Landscape Value (AGLV) Areas of High Landscape Value Wealden Heaths I SAC 2km Buffer Zone Wealden Heaths I SPA 5km Buffer Zone Thames Basin Heath 7km Buffer Zone

Page 6 of 51 Dedicated Land CROW Legislation Bridleway 67 & 178 & Footpath 237 Farnham Ancient Woodland 500m Buffer Zone

9. Relevant Development Plan Policies and Guidance

 Waverley Borough Local Plan (Part 1): Strategic policies and sites (adopted February 2018): SP1, TD1, NE1, NE3  Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013-2032: FNP10, FNP13, FNP27  Waverley Borough Local Plan 2002 (retained policies February 2018): D1, D4  South East Plan: Saved policy NRM6

Other guidance:

 The National Planning Policy Framework 2019 (NPPF)  The National Planning Practice Guidance 2019 (NPPG)  Waverley Economic Strategy (2015-2020)  Waverley Council’s Cultural Strategy (2016-2026)  Residential Extensions Supplementary Planning Document 2010 (SPD)  Council’s Parking Guidelines (2013)  Surrey Vehicular and Cycle Parking Guidance (2018)  Surrey Hills AONB Management Plan (2020-2025)  National Design Guide (2019)

10. Consultations and Town and Parish Council Comments

Farnham Town Council It is essential that a thorough and comprehensive EIA is undertaken prior to any decision being made regarding this planning application. Though mitigation measures have been identified in the Environmental Baseline Report and associated Environmental Management Plan, the impact of a permanent change of use must be fully assessed in an Environmental Statement. Frensham Parish Council Objection due to contravention of the Forestry Commissions own policy. Frensham is a rural area and a dark village with unlit roads narrow roads and the impact of light pollution, noise disturbance has a significant impact on not only the residents, but natural habitat and disturbance of their hunting grounds, particularly as it borders the RSPB area and can have a damaging impact on nesting birds

Page 7 of 51 and other wildlife and possible ground contamination from over use. FPC feel that such planning requests should be submitted individually and based on case by case basis of individual merits to determine and mitigate the effects on wildlife and the impact on the local community through the extra traffic and need for parking arrangements and not granted blanket permission which will have a detrimental effect on ongoing conservation and biodiversity Natural England No objection subject to conditions Surrey Hills AONB Advisor No objection subject to mitigation Surrey Wildlife Trust No objection subject to conditions County Highways Authority No objection subject to conditions Surrey Rights of Way No objection subject to conditions Officer County Archaeologist No objection Council’s Environmental No objection Health Officer (Air Quality) Council’s Environmental No objection subject to conditions Health Officer (Noise)

11. Representations

16 letters have been received raising objection on the following grounds:

 The filming people will be able to actually close the Bourne Woods to all the local walkers.

 Object to any part of Bourne Woods being closed, either temporarily or permanently

 The Bourne Woods are a diverse habitat for trees, wildlife, birds, insects, butterflies, every time a film set is permitted to set up camp all these are threatened

 Putting greater emphasis on the use of the Wood for filming is likely to increase usage. This will generate more activity from filming and from the public. This means more trampling of the site and potentially illegal disturbance of the sand lizard colony.

Page 8 of 51  The habitat is very sandy and rapidly erodes if not given the chance to recover.

 No fresh biodiversity enhancement measures are proposed with this application.

 Noise pollution can occur from helicopters and vehicles

 Noise at weekends, out of hours, increase in traffic movements and destruction of the woods would be a great detriment to all people who at some time use the woods or live nearby - particularly Clumps Road

 The proposal clearly seeks to circumvent the conditions that were placed on the previous approved application WA/2013/0505.

 Traffic on the narrow Tilford Road becomes congested causing air pollution as well.

 Enormous pantechnicon lorries attempt to move around winding corners necessitating all other vehicles to leave the road.

 Clear up must also be done thoroughly as in the past metal pieces and holes have been left.

 Without appropriate restrictions, this could result in the balance between open space and filming being lost, to the detriment of the woodland and the public that benefit from it

 Saturday afternoon and Sunday to be free of filming to allow residents the opportunity for peaceful exercise and to not be disturbed by too much noise or continuous vehicle movement through the woods, when dogs and children are running around.

 There needs to be a focal point/person responsible for all work to complain/sort problems.

3 letters of support have been received stating the following:

 The land itself has been proven to be able to be used sustainably as a mixed forestry and film site unit.

 There are very significant immediate and on-going economic benefits that filming brings to the local area

Page 9 of 51  The importance of location fee income to the Forestry Commission through filming at Bourne Wood and the strategic need for the site for filming.

 The Forestry Commission has provided Bourne Wood as a location to some of biggest US productions to shoot in the UK over the recent years which validates Bourne Woods importance as a premiere site for filming in the UK to the film & TV industry.

 Filming in the Bourne Woods has brought many economic benefits to the area, not least of all by the film crews using local businesses and services where possible but also from the many tourists that now visit to see the film site. These tourists all use local services whilst visiting which is of significant economic benefit to the local area

 Filming only takes place for short periods of time throughout the year and when proper mitigation is put in place, far less damage is done to the local environment than the many dog walkers that use the site daily.

One comment has been received stating the following:

 Suggest that only another five year period is granted for this application. This allows for another review of the conditions in five years time

Planning Considerations

12. Background

The planning history of the site is a material consideration in the assessment of this current application.

Bourne Woods is an area of managed wood, under the governance of Forestry England. The primary use of the site is for forestry and recreational purposes. Filming has occurred on the site since 1999 and has continued in varying degrees of intensity.

Initially, filmmaking activities were undertaken using Permitted Development rights awarded to Crown Land. Under those permitted development rights, the full extent of Bourne Wood could be used for filing activities up to a maximum of 28 days per year.

Page 10 of 51 Due to changes of legislation, along with an increased demand for the site, formal planning permission was sought in 2013 (WA/2013/0505) to change the use of the site from forestry to a mixed use of forestry and filmmaking. This permission was granted temporary consent in 2014.

However, some of the conditions associated with permission WA/2013/0505 proved difficult to discharge for both the applicant and the Local Planning Authority as a result of the varying needs of the filming activities and the lengthy discharge process. The result of this was an overall decrease in the amount of filming taking place over the site in recent years.

Temporary permission WA/2013/5050 expired in March 2019 and the mix used ceased, reverting the site back to forestry. Since this time, filming has taken place under Class B, Part 4 of the Town and County (General Permitted Development) (England) Order (2015) (as amended) (GPDO), which allows for the temporary use of land for any purpose for not more that 28 days in total in any calendar year and the provision on the land of any movable structure for the purposes of the permitted use.

Further to the above, in 2016, an amendment to the GPDO made further provision for permitting land to be used for filmmaking purposes under Class E, Part 4, which would allow for the temporary use of any land or buildings for a period not exceeding 9 months in any 27 month period for the purposes of commercial filmmaking and the provision of such land, during the filming period, of any temporary structures, works, plant or machinery required in connection to that use. However, two of the conditions that prevent permitted development under Class E, Part 4 is that the land in question is more than 1.5 hectares and that the land is on article 2(3) land.

As the land required at Bourne Woods exceeds the 1.5 hectare limit and falls within the category of 2 (3) land, as it is designated within the AONB, the temporary use of the land for filmmaking purposes under Class E, Part 4 is not permitted on the site.

Therefore the current situation on site is that filming making activities can only be carried out on the site under Class B, Part 4 of the GPDO, which restricts the use of the land to 28 days a calendar year.

The applicant considers this to restrictive to current needs and therefore seeks full planning permission.

Page 11 of 51 13. Existing Recreational Use

Policy LRC1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 will seek to retain, enhance and increase the quantity and quality of open space, leisure and recreational facilities and to improve access to them. Development involving the loss of open space, leisure and recreational facilities or their change of use will be supported if evidence demonstrates that:

a) The existing use is no longer required; b) No other leisure or recreational provision is required or appropriate in that area; c) Alternative provision of a suitable scale and type in a suitable location can be made; or d) The development is for an alternative sports and recreation provision, the needs of which clearly outweigh the loss, and it can be demonstrated that there are no reasonable alternative site available.

Policy FNP27 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013-2032 states that public open space will be retained and development may be exceptionally allowed where replacement provision is at least equivalent to the local community is provided.

Although the proposal would result in a permanent mixed use on the site of forestry and filming, this would be up to a maximum of six months in any one calendar year; with no more than eight months of consecutive filming events, in order to avoid the possibility of six months each side of the year end.

During any filming event, the Bourne Woods and its associated Public Car Park would remain accessible to members of the public. Furthermore, Bourne Woods would have 20 hectares of woodland in which filming would be restricted.

Therefore, whilst the proposal would result in the change of use of the site, Officers are satisfied that this would not result in the loss of a recreational facility or access to a recreational facility and would therefore accord with Policy LRC1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 and Policy FNP27 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013-2032.

14. Economic and Community Impacts

One of the themes (Theme 4) of the Waverley Economic Strategy 2018-2032 is to encourage a successful visitor economy that is right for Waverley by developing the visitor economy in a sustainable way that brings prosperity to businesses and local diversity.

Page 12 of 51 The Economic Strategy identifies long term activities and support, one of which is to encourage appropriate filming opportunities and work with local landowners to create the right planning permissions and protocols.

Chapter 12 ‘Leisure, Recreation and Culture ‘of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, identifies that Waverley has a rich and diverse cultural offer, which includes a university dedicated to the creative arts and a thriving arts centre.

The Council actively supports the arts through its own efforts and in partnership with others. It is recognised that fostering arts activities supports economic activity.’

Although currently out to consultation under Regulation 19 and therefore given limited weight, it is noted that emerging Policy DM13 of the Draft Waverley Borough Local Plan Part 2: Site Allocations and Development Management Policies Pre-Submission Document November 2020 identifies that Council recognises and acknowledges the role that film and photography can play in bringing economic benefits to the Borough’s communities.

Section 6 of the NPPF19 seeks to build strong, competitive economies, placing significant weight on the need to support economic growth and productivity, taking into account both local business needs and wider opportunities through development.

Paragraph 83 of the NPPF19 supports the development and diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses.

Forestry England are responsible for protecting, expanding and promoting the sustainable management of woodlands in England and have a duty to manage the forest for people, nature and economy.

To this extent, it manages land for conservation, heritage, timber production and for public recreation. It is a non-profit making organisation and although some income is received via Government, most revenue is generated sustainably by harvesting and selling timber and by working with commercial partners to offer new ways to experience and enjoy the woodlands and develop business activities. All income generated is utilised to manage the forests.

Forestry England have noted that they cannot rely solely on timber for revenue. To reduce reliance on Government support, diverse sources of income sustain activities. Among others, this includes letting land for commercial use.

Page 13 of 51 The filming use of Bourne Wood enables Forestry England to diversify the forestry use of the landholding, to provide an income stream to support the maintenance of footpaths and car parks, together with other projects which are less visible but equally as important, such as monitoring tree health and enhancing habitats for wildlife across England.

As well as the economic benefits the proposed use would continue to provide to Forestry England, there are wider economic opportunities and benefits provided to local businesses and services.

The Planning Statement submitted in support of this application estimates that two years filming at Bourne Woods has contributed 1.2 million to the local economy thorough catering, accommodation, security personnel, local crew employment and equipment hire.

To support this estimate, the Planning Statement outlines engagement with a film company that recently carried out an eleven day filming event at Bourne Woods that indicated where the crew spent money in the local area. This ranged from local hotels to pubs/restaurants/ cafes, chemists, skip and waste removal firms and the hiring of local staff for labouring and film extras.

The proposed use would continue to contribute towards the economic growth and productivity of these local businesses and services.

Waverley Council’s Cultural Strategy 2016-2026 identifies that Waverley is often used as a filming location.

The use Bourne Wood for filming is currently an attraction for local groups and organisations. For example, the Forestry England provides guided tours and presentations on the filming use of Bourne Wood for local schools and Bourne Wood is used by students from the UCA in Farnham to learn about film making.

Furthermore, public access to the site would remain largely unrestricted and the use of the site for filming is likely to attract more visitors to the woods, who might otherwise not visit the woods.

Whilst the economic and community benefits weigh in favour of the proposed use, these need to be taken into account in the balance of considerations, including any landscape, environmental and amenity issues.

Page 14 of 51

15. Impact on the Green Belt

Within the Green Belt there is a general presumption against inappropriate development which is, by definition, harmful and should not be approved, except in very special circumstances.

Policy RE2 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 accords with the NPPF 2019 by protecting the Green Belt against inappropriate development. New development will be considered inappropriate and will not be permitted unless very special circumstances can be demonstrated.

Policy FNP10 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013-2032 states that outside the Built Up Area Boundary, priority will be given to protecting the countryside from inappropriate development. A proposal for development will only be permitted where, inter alia, it protects the Green Belt.

The construction of new buildings within the Green Belt is considered to be inappropriate development, save for the exceptions set out in Paragraph 145 of the NPPF 2019. The construction of props associated with a filming event fall outside of these exceptions and are therefore regarded as inappropriate development.

Paragraph 146 of the NPPF 2019 sets out that certain other forms of development are also not inappropriate in the Green Belt provided that they preserve its openness and do not conflict with the purposes of including land in it. This includes ‘’material changes in the use of land (such as changes of use for outdoor sport or recreation, or for cemeteries and burial grounds)’’. Therefore, the use itself is capable of being considered appropriate development, but in this instance the need for ancillary structures means that the proposal would not be.

As such, pursuant to paragraphs 143 and 144 of the NPPF 2019 and Policy RE2 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, the Council would have to consider whether very special circumstances exist to outweigh the harm cause by the inappropriateness, and any other harm. This will be considered further in this report.

16. Impact on Landscape Character

Section 85 of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 states that in exercising or performing any functions in relation to, or so as to affect, land in an area of outstanding natural beauty, a relevant authority shall have regard

Page 15 of 51 to the purpose of conserving and enhancing the natural beauty of the area of outstanding natural beauty.

The site is located within the Surrey Hills AONB and AGLV. Policy RE3 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 sets out that new development must respect and where appropriate, enhance the character of the landscape in which it is located.

The Surrey Hills Management Plan 2020-2025 sets out the vision for the future management of the Surrey Hills AONB by identifying key landscape features that are the basis for the Surrey Hills being designated a nationally important AONB.

Policy TD1 of the Local Plan 2018 (Part 1) requires development to be of high quality design and to be well related in size, scale and character to its surroundings.

Retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002 are attributed substantial and full weight respectively due to their level of consistency with the NPPF 2019.

Policy FNP10 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013-2032 states that outside the Built Up Area Boundary, priority will be given to protecting the countryside from inappropriate development. A proposal for development will only be permitted where, inter alia, it conserves and enhances the landscape and scenic beauty of the Surrey Hills AONB and its setting- including those areas of Great Landscape Value under consideration for designation as AONB and retains the landscape character of, and not having a detrimental impact on areas shown to have high landscape value and sensitivity.

Paragraph 172 of the NPPF 2019 is relevant to the consideration of this application and is states that great weight should be given to conserving and enhancing landscape and scenic beauty in National Parks, the Broads and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, which have the highest status of protection in relation to these issues. The conservation and enhancement of wildlife and cultural heritage are also important considerations in these areas, and should be given great weight in National Parks and the Broads.54The scale and extent of development within these designated areas should be limited. Planning permission should be refused for major development55 other than in exceptional circumstances, and where it can be demonstrated that the development is in the public interest. Consideration of such applications should include an assessment of:

Page 16 of 51 a) 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; b) the cost of, and scope for, developing outside the designated area, or meeting the need for it in some other way; and c) any detrimental effect on the environment, the landscape and recreational opportunities, and the extent to which that could be moderated. The proposal would involve the intermittent siting of a number of temporary structures for a maximum of six months per calendar year.

Officers have given consideration to Paragraph 172 of the NPPF 2019 in determining whether the current application constitutes major development within the AONB. Whilst there is no definition of what constitutes major development in the NPPF2019, footnote 55 of the NPPF 2019, states that whether a proposal is ‘major development’ is a matter for the decision maker, taking into account its nature, scale and setting, and whether it could have a significant adverse impact on the purposes for which the area has been designated or defined.

In considering the purposes for which the area as been designated as an AONB, The ‘natural beauty criterion’ for an AONB is as follows:

 landscape quality, where natural or man-made landscape is good quality  scenic quality, such as striking coastal landforms  relative wildness, such as distance from housing or having few roads  relative tranquillity, where natural sounds, such as streams or birdsong are predominant  natural heritage features, such as distinctive geology or species and habitat  cultural heritage, which can include the built environment that makes the area unique, such as archaeological remains or historic parkland

Therefore, in making a determination as to whether development is ‘major development’, the decision make may consider whether the development has the potential to have a serious adverse impact on the criterion for which the AONB was designated, by reason of scale, character or nature.

In considering the impact of the filming on the natural beauty of the AONB, Officers acknowledge that whilst there would be localised visual impacts inside of Bourne Woods as a result of the proposal, these would have very little impact upon wider landscape and scenic quality of the AONB as a result of the tree coverage provided by the woods.

Page 17 of 51 The proposal would not introduce any structures or material operation that would result in the relative wilderness of the AONB.

Officers acknowledge that the proposed use by its very nature would have the potential to intermittently intrude upon the relevant tranquillity of the AONB. However, the site forms a small area of the AONB that benefits from natural buffering and the high recreation value of the site significantly diminishes its tranquillity.

As demonstrated further on in this report, the proposal would continue to maintain the natural heritage of the site thorough the continued funding and maintenance of habitat sites.

The proposed change of use would not cause harm to existing cultural heritage, as demonstrated further on in this report.

Taking into consideration all the above, Officers are satisfied that, taking into consideration its nature, scale and setting, the proposal would not have a significant adverse impacts on the purposes for which the area has been designated as an AONB and is therefore considered not to be major development within the AONB.

The Surrey Hills AONB Planning Advisor has been consulted on this application and whilst noting that the proposal has the potential to impact upon the tranquillity of the AONB, has not suggested that the proposal would constitute major development within the AONB. This decision is consistent with the proposal given temporary consent under WA/2013/0505, which was also not assessed as major development in the AONB.

Notwithstanding that Officers and the Surrey Hills AONB Planning Advisor do not consider the proposal to be major development within the AONB, great weight must still be given to conserving and enhancing landscape and scenic beauty in the AONB. In considering that ‘great weight’ is applied to conserving landscape and scenic beauty during the evaluation of the proposal, Officers have regard to their legal obligation under the section 85 duty of regard in under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, as well as all other material considerations.

Whilst there would be clear and direct views of these structures and associated filming event paraphernalia/activity from the Bridleways and Footpaths within Bourne Woods, these views would be largely screened from the wider surrounding AONB by the Bourne Woods itself.

Page 18 of 51 There is also a need to consider the likely impact of the proposed use upon the relative tranquillity of the AONB, which is a key ‘natural beauty’ criterion. Whilst the level of impact is likely to vary as a result of the duration and associated activities of the filming event, it would clearly have some impact upon the relative tranquillity of the area. The proposal would create noise and disturbance as a result of the set building/dismantling, on site generators, crew formation and vehicle movements.

With respect to measures proposed to mitigate noise/disturbance on the relative tranquillity of the AONB, a Noise Management Plan prepared by Clark Saunders Associates, dated May 2014, was issued alongside planning permission WA/2013/0505 and the mitigation measures proposed within that Plan have been taken into consideration under this the current scheme, with key actions implemented through the proposed Environmental Management Plan (EMP), prepared by Mott MacDonald, reference 396732-EN-RP-002 and dated January 21 2021.

The mitigation measures proposed for landscape and visual impacts set out within the EMP are:

 9.01- Upon the completion of the filming phase, all temporary structures should be removed from Bourne Wood to limit impact on the landscape.

 9.02- Any disturbance (damage) to vegetation should be reinstated following each film to limit the impact on the landscape, with reseeding if required.

 9.03- Public access should be maintained as far as possible, with the Public Right of Way (PROW) around the periphery of Bourne Wood retained throughout the filming. Where closure of a Public Footpath cannot be avoided, permission will be sought to temporarily close the footpath.

 9.04- The mature conifers surrounding the application site should be retained to provide screening for future filming activities.

 9.05- Use local temporary screens to mitigate localised, temporary visual impacts, where necessary. This includes lighting, ensuring that directional lighting and similar is used, with lighting directed away from residences as appropriate to minimise disturbance.

 5.02- Use of silenced towable generators to avoid noise pollution, where reasonably practicable.

Page 19 of 51  5.09- A clause in the Forestry England contract requires production companies to endeavour to comply with applicable health and safety requirements and considerate behaviour, including limits on hours of operation and maintaining the tranquillity of Bourne Wood where possible.

 5.13- Follow appropriate legislation and policy when using drones for filming purposes.

 5.17- All waste associated with filming activities must be removed and disposed of in an appropriate and correct manner.

Officers acknowledge that the proposed use by its very nature would intermittently intrude upon the protected character and the relevant tranquillity of the AONB and this intermittent harm to this needs to be balanced with the greater economic and community benefits of the scheme.

17. Impact on Trees

Policy NE2 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 states that the Council will seek, where appropriate, to maintain and enhance existing trees, woodland and hedgerows within the Borough. Retained Policies D6 and D7 of the Local Plan 2002 are attributed full and significant weight respectively due to their level of consistency with the NPPF 2019.

The arboricultural feature of the site is the Pine woodland. This woodland is to be retained and would remain a public amenity.

The mitigation measure proposed for tree and woodland impacts and set out within the EMP is:

 6.32- To minimise the impact of the filming and supporting areas, the use of above ground services and appropriate provision of dry / bunded storage where necessary is required to avoid tree root severance and contamination of the soil.

The Council’s Tree and Landscape Officer has raised no objection to the proposal.

It is therefore considered that the proposed change of use is unlikely to have any significant impact upon the wooded nature of the site and, subject to conditioning the mitigation methods above in the event permission is granted,

Page 20 of 51 the proposal would accord with Policies TD1 and NE2 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 and retained Policies D1, D4, D6 and D7 of the Local Plan 2002.

18. Impact on Highways

Policy ST1 of the Local Plan 2018 (Part 1) states that development schemes should be located where it is accessible by forms of travel other than by private car; should make necessary contributions to the improvement of existing and provision of new transport schemes and include measures to encourage non-car use.

Development proposals should be consistent with the Surrey Local Transport Plan and objectives and actions within the Air Quality Action Plan. Provision for car parking should be incorporated into proposals and new and improved means of public access should be encouraged.

The application is supported by a Transport Statement, prepared by Mott MacDonald, reference 396732-TP-RP-001 and dated February 2020, a Framework Filming Activity and Logistics Plan, prepared by Mott MacDonald, reference 396732-TP-RP-002 and dated February 2020 and a Travel Plan, prepared by Mott MacDonald, reference 396732-TP-RP-003 and dated February 2020.

The Transport Statement has considered the nature of the site in respect of capturing traffic movements and has chosen to undertake a 12 hour flow assessment, rather than peak hour assessment. The County Highway Authority has not objected to this approach.

The site preparation phase and post filming phases would generate movements from main contractors and sub contractors involved in site and ground preparation/clearance, general deliveries to the site of material and equipment and movement of crew to and from the site. These stages include arrivals and departures of HGV’s, dependant upon the activities taking place at any one time on the site.

The filming stage itself would generate a higher movement of crew, extras and actors; general and specialist deliveries (special effect vehicles lighting livestock) and again includes arrivals and departures of HGV’s, dependant upon the activities taking place at any one time on the site.

The trip generation assessment uses data provided by Forest England based on the historic use of the Site during a timeframe of 07:00 – 19:00 which indicates that a typical filming event can introduce up to 200 vehicles with 400 associated vehicle movements to the existing road network.

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In considering the existing traffic generation on the existing road network, this would result in a 12% increase to the existing traffic flow on Tilford Road, a 3% increase to the existing traffic flow on Station Hill and a 1% increase in traffic flow to the A31 between 07:00-19:00.

As well as a trip generation assessment, two sensitivity tests was carried out, which considers the impact of the proposal to road users such as pedestrians and cyclists. The results of these sensitivity tests have concluded that in the maximum threshold for trip generation for any filming activity should not exceed 476 vehicles. A separate planning application would be require for any filming activity that would generate over and above a 476 vehicle trip generation.

The mitigation measures proposed for highway impacts and set out within the EMP are:

 5.15- For information regarding transport mitigation measures, refer to the Travel Plan and Filming Activity Logistics Plan and discuss implementation with the Recreation and Filming Ranger.

 5.16- Should the proposed number of vehicles entering Bourne Wood exceed 476 daily, a separate planning application will need to be submitted to Waverley Borough Council for consent.

 5.18- No signs, devices or other apparatus may be erected within the linings of the highway without approval from the Highway Authority.

The County Highway Authority has undertaken an assessment in terms of the likely net additional traffic generation, network capacity, access arrangements and parking provision and is satisfied that the proposed change of use would not have a material impact on the safety and operation of the adjoining public highway, subject to conditions and securing a financial contribution towards the monitoring of the proposed Travel Plan by way of a Section 106 Agreement.

This recommendation is based on the assumption that a condition will be imposed on any permission granted limiting the use of the site for filming activity for a maximum of 6 months in any calendar year.

In respect of parking provision, the public parking area accommodates 15-18 vehicles and will not be used by traffic generated through the filming activities.

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In respect of parking for vehicles associated with a filming event, as detailed in the supporting Framework Filming and Logistics Plan, it is expected that filming companies will use mini-buses and coaches to collect and return personnel to and from pick-up points between local accommodation and crew parking bases, using the allocate areas identified within the site. However, there have been arrangements with local land owners, both recently and in the past, to utilise their land for vehicle parking under permitted development rights.

This is time limited for each piece of land (28 days), but ultimately by the number of daily traffic movements on Tilford Road relating to the filming use, which forms part of this application. If the time limit was expired on a particular piece of land, then a land owner would either have to apply for planning permission for change of use of land to provide vehicle parking, or the filming company would need to find an alternative site for crew vehicle parking.

It is anticipated that there is unlikely to be the need for more than 28 days per calendar year, because this scale of parking is only required for larger filming events. In most cases, it is envisaged that parking can be accommodated on- site in the area shown on the Logistics Plan as the ‘main set-down’ and ‘welfare areas’.

In light of the above, Officers are satisfied that, subject to the securing the financial contributions to monitor the proposed Travel Plan by way of a Section 106 Agreement, conditioning the mitigation methods above as well as the recommended County Highway Authority conditions, in the event permission is granted, the proposal is considered to comply with Policy ST1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 and the Council’s Parking Guidelines Document (2013).

19. Impact to Access and Recreation to Bourne Woods

Bourne Wood is dedicated for public open access under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (the CRoW Act). This means that people have the right to walk where they please through the woods and open areas of Bourne Woods (subject to the Commission’s byelaws). Forestry England manage these areas.

The Public Footpaths and Public Bridleway within the site are Public Rights of Way that are managed by Surrey County Council.

Page 23 of 51 The proposal would change the use of 33.7 hectares of Bourne Woods to a mixed use, leaving 20 hectares of woodland where no filming activity is allowed.

When a filming event is taking place, the public continue to have full access to the public car park and access to the areas within the site where actual filming is not taking place. It is understood that care will be taken to minimise the area used for a filming.

Although the proposed use would allow filming anywhere within the 33.7 hectare site, it is unlikely that any, one filming event will require the full 33.7 ha site to be used.

As landowner, Forest England are, under the CRoW Act, entitled to apply to Natural England for a closure of the public rights of access by foot within the woodland for up to 28 days per calendar year on any area of land. This restricted use of access rights is a formal process that the Forestry England can undertake on behalf of the film company to close the relevant section of Bourne Wood to the public.

This would only be for safety reasons in situations where potential public harm could occur during the film shooting. Even during peak filming periods, public access is largely maintained during filming and marshalled by security personnel.

It is not within the remit of Forestry England to restrict use of the Public Footpaths and Public Bridleway. Any temporary closure of these Public Rights of Way must be made to Surrey County Council.

Where Forest England use their discretion to restrict use of access rights under CRoW Act, the public would be able to continue to use the Public Footpaths and Public Bridleway. Signage and, where appropriate, security, will be in place for filming events to direct recreational users during filming event.

Mitigation measures proposed for recreational access as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 5.03- Filming events to be communicated to local public via signage boards or informing local neighbours.

 5.04- It is the duty of the filming company to engage in appropriate protocol, ensuring the correct procedures are undertaken, including a Code of Practice for security guards and engagement with the public.

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 5.05- Information boards in the car parking area and footpath entrance from Clumps Road need to be updated regularly which will display seasonal information about Bourne Wood and the filming use, guiding visitors on where to seek quiet recreation.

 5.06- Install temporary signs along bridleways, providing residents with information about access rights during filming.

 5.07- A permissive footpath should be maintained during filming activities, linking the footpaths from Old Frensham Road and Clumps Road into the woodland. In addition, security marshals should be stationed on these routes, when required.  5.08- Any visitors and residents should be informed of any recreational opportunities and any filming use.

Officers are satisfied that filming events would not result in a significant loss of recreational value of Bourne Wood, as Forestry England’s restricted use of access rights would be limited to 28 days per calendar year and during these times, the public are able to continue to access the 20 hectares of wood that falls outside of the site and utilise the existing Public Footpaths and Public Bridleway.

20. Impact on Residential Amenity

Policy TD1 of the Local Plan 2018 (Part1) seeks to ensure that new development is designed to create safe and attractive environments that meet the needs of users and incorporate the principles of sustainable development. Retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002 are given substantial and full weight respectively due to their consistency with the NPPF 2019.

Policy FNP1 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013-2032 permits development where it will not result in unacceptable levels of light and noise pollution.

Policy FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013-2032 permits development where the privacy, daylight, sunlight and outlook of adjoining residents are safeguarded.

The site has a known history for filming events on an intermittent basis since 1999.

Page 25 of 51 It is considered that there would be no loss of privacy, outlook or daylight/sunlight as a result of the proposed change of use, as a result of the site being some distance from any nearby residents and the site being screened by the Bourne Wood itself.

The two main issues for consideration under residential amenity are therefore considered to be noise/disturbance and light pollution.

Mitigation measures proposed to safeguard residential amenity as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 5.01- Establish a 50m buffer zone to protect the occupiers of Clumps Road from noise pollution. Permanent signage to remain in place along the buffer zone to remind production teams not to film within the buffer zone.

 5.02- There is a requirement for filming companies to use silenced towable generators to avoid noise pollution, where reasonably practicable.

 5.03- Filming events to be communicated to local public. For a normal filming event, communication to the local public will be via signage boards at the main entrances. For night filming, local neighbours will be notified prior to start of filming.

 5.08- Any visitors and residents should be informed of any recreational opportunities and any filming use.

 5.10- For any activities that are not addressed within the EMP, filming company will need to submit a Method Statement in agreement with Forestry England. Forestry England will ensure the activity is appropriately managed in accordance with their statutory responsibility.

 9.05- Use local temporary screens to mitigate localised, temporary visual impacts, where necessary. This includes lighting, ensuring that directional lighting and similar is used, with lighting directed away from residences as appropriate to minimise disturbance.

The previous application (WA/2013/0505) was conditioned to restrict construction activities, including deliveries, to 08:00-18:00 Monday to Friday and 08:00-13:00 on Saturdays. This condition related to the site preparation, filming and site restoration phases (Condition 3).

In this current application, the proposal seeks for construction activities be limited to 08:00-20:00 Monday to Friday and 8:00-13:00 on Saturday.

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Although an additional two hours per day are proposed to be available for such purpose beyond that conditioned under WA/2013/0505, Officers consider that presence of the 50 metre Buffer Zone and tree coverage would significantly reduce any noise or disturbance associated with construction activities.

Under WA/2013/0505, filming was restricted to 06:00-21:00 Monday- Saturday, with the exception of night shoots a maximum of 7 nights a year, with the night filming restricted until midnight (Condition 4).

In this current application, the proposal seeks for filming to be limited to 6:00- 21:00 Monday to Friday and 6:00-13:00 on Saturday, with rehearsals requested until 21:00 on Saturdays. Furthermore, the proposal would also introduce rehearsals on a Sunday, between 08:00 – 13:00.

Rehearsals would not require the number of crew or equipment associated with filming and would therefore cause less noise or disturbance than filming. In light of the mitigation measures proposed, Officers are satisfied that the mitigation methods proposed would prevent any significant harm to the amenities of the occupiers of surrounding properties by way of noise or disturbance.

The proposal would introduce unlimited night filming opportunities to the site, although these events would be restricted to 23:00 Monday – Friday, with no night filming on Saturday, Sunday or Public Holidays.

Although this is more flexible than Condition 4 of WA/2013/0505, which allowed a film maximum of 7 days night film activity in a calendar year, the filming would be restricted to 23:00, instead of midnight.

Officers acknowledge that the proposals could result in noise and disturbance above and beyond any experienced under WA/2013/0505 as a result of unlimited night filming. However, during the temporary consent period of WA/2013/0505, documentation supporting his application advises that night filming took place three times on site. Night filming on the site is therefore considered to be occasional, rather than a regular occurrence.

Officers consider that presence of the 50 metre Buffer Zone and the existing tree coverage would serve to mitigate any noise or disturbance associated with night filming. Furthermore, mitigation method 5.03 of the EMP requires filming companies to notify local neighbours of a night shoot, prior to the event taking place, in order to inform neighbours.

Page 27 of 51 In light of the above and with recommended mitigation methods set out in the EMP secured, Officers consider that the levels of noise/disturbance associated with unlimited night filming activity would not significantly harm the amenities of the occupiers of the surrounding residential properties to the extent that would warrant a reason for the refusal of this application.

The Council’s Environmental Health Officer has reviewed the details of the application and the mitigation methods set out in the EMP in respect to impact on neighbouring amenity and has raised no objection to proposal.

Subject to conditioning the mitigation measures as outlined above in the event permission is granted, Officers are satisfied that the proposal would not cause significant harm to the amenities of the occupiers of surrounding residential properties in accordance with Policy

21. Effect on the SPA and SAC

The site is located within the Wealden Heaths I SPA 5km Buffer Zone and the Wealden Heaths I SAC 2km Buffer Zone.

The application is accompanied by a Habitats Regulation Assessment, prepared by Mott MacDonald Ltd, dated September 2020 which demonstrates that the proposed use would not displace recreational visitors from Bourne Woods and therefore increase in recreational pressure on these sites. This is as a result of Bourne Woods remaining open for public recreation during a filming event.

Furthermore, there would be there would be no direct impact on the SPA and SAC as no habitat loss or direct disturbance would be caused by continued filming within the site.

Natural England have confirmed that they have no objection to the proposal in respect to the impact upon the SPA and SAC.

Therefore, the proposal is considered acceptable in accordance with Policy NE1 of the Local Plan 2018 (Part 1).

22. Biodiversity and compliance with Habitat Regulations 2017

Policy NE1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 states that the Council will seek to conserve and enhance biodiversity. Development will be permitted provided it retains, protects and enhances biodiversity and ensures any negative impacts are avoided or, if unavoidable, mitigated.

Page 28 of 51 Policy FNP13 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013-2032 states that proposals should protect and enhance biodiversity by Proposals should protect and enhance biodiversity by: a) Protecting Special Protection Areas, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, and Local Wildlife Sites (Sites of Nature Conservation Importance), protected and priority species, ancient woodland, veteran or aged trees, and species-rich hedgerows; b) Preserving and extending ecological networks, in particular those defined on Map H – Green Infrastructure, to assist the migration and transit of flora and fauna, including within the built up area of Farnham; and c) Promoting biodiversity enhancements, including restoration and re- creation of wildlife habitats within the Biodiversity Opportunity Areas where appropriate.

Further, Circular 06/2005 states ‘It is essential that the presence or otherwise of protected species and the extent that they may be affected by the proposed development, is established before planning permission is granted.’

The Thursley, Hankley and Frensham Common (Wealden Heaths Phase I SPA) is located just over 2km southeast of Bourne Wood and the Thursley, Ash, Pirbright and Chobham SAC, are located some 2.0km to the south-east of the site. The site is covered by the Wealden Heaths SAC Buffer Zone. The site is situated close to the Moor Park and Gong Hill SSSIs.

To the south-east of the site, and on the opposite side of Tilford Road lies an area of Ancient Woodland and to the south-east is the Farnham Heath RSPB Nature Reserve.

The site is therefore sensitive from an environmental and nature conservation point of view and has ecological value.

A number of common, protected and notable species, including reptiles, mammals, birds and invertebrates have been recorded in the site and the surrounding area. Species of key consideration are four key wildlife groups; bats, sand lizards, heathland birds and invertebrates.

In assessing the impact of the proposed change of use on the ecology of the site, findings from the previous permission (WA/2013/0505) and its associated documentation, including:

 Habitat Management Plan for Sand Lizards, prepared by Amphibian and Reptile Conservation and dated April 2015 2019 (Appendix F of the

Page 29 of 51 Environmental Baseline Report, prepared by Mott MacDonald Ltd, dated September 2020).

 Bourne Wood Reptile Mitigation Interim Monitoring Report, prepared by ARC Ecological Service, dated April 2019 (Appendix F of the Environmental Baseline Report, prepared by Mott MacDonald Ltd, dated September 2020).

 Background Ecological Data Search (Surrey Biodiversity Information Centre, April 2019).

Furthermore, an ecological walkover of the site was undertaken in 2019 and an Environmental Baseline Report; Breeding Bird Study Report and Habitats Regulation Assessment, all prepared by Mott McDonald Ltd were undertaken in September 2020 for this current scheme.

Bats

A desk study contained within the Environmental Statement accompanying the previous permission (WA/2013/0505), which was based on the Forestry England monitoring programme confirmed the presence of eight bat species have been confirmed within 2km of Bourne Wood. The area is considered to have low conservation value for bat roosts due to the dominate pine tree species within the woods, which considered not suitable for roosting bat. Furthermore, no bat roosts have been recorded within Bourne Wood filming location or immediate surroundings.

Bat boxes were erected on trees as part of the previous permission (WA/2013/0505), outside of the approved filming area and if used by bats, would not be impacted by any filming activities.

Impacts:

Bats, if roosting nearby, may be disturbed by light, noise and vibration. Night filming often involves the use of bright artificial lights, which could potentially impact on foraging routes and wildlife corridors, often used by bats.

Mitigation:

The work undertaken as part of the Habitat Management Plan for Sand Lizards, prepared by Amphibian and Reptile Conservation and dated April 2015 2019 (Appendix F of the Environmental Baseline Report, prepared by Mott MacDonald Ltd, dated September 2020) has also improved the quality and amount of foraging opportunity for bats and is therefore likely to have

Page 30 of 51 increased the number. The mitigation measures below have taken this increase in forging into consideration.

The likelihood of bats roosting across Bourne Wood is low, as there are few trees within and adjacent to the site that offer some roosting potential for bats. Bat boxes have been erected as part of the previous permission (WA/2013/0505) outside of the site and therefore would not be impacts by the proposed change of use.

Mitigation measures proposed for bats as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 6.17 - Filming use will be restricted to a maximum of six months in any one year. During the bat breeding season (June-July) a pattern of 2 nights filming, 4 nights off, 2 nights filming and 4 nights etc… will be allowed.

 6.18 - Outside bat breeding period up to seven consecutive nights of filming allowed, followed by a four-night break.

 6.19- Where more than seven nights consecutive filming is required, then an assessment by a suitably qualified ecologist will be undertaken to determine level of impact.

 6.20 - Before any filming is undertaken within Bourne Wood, the filming location will be checked against Forester Web (database).

 6.21- If a bat roost is known to be present, then restrictions in this area will be implemented such as a 10m exclusion buffer and that no direct light to fall upon the feature.

Sand Lizards/Widespread Reptile Species

There is a low population of sand lizards present within the site, situated within acid grassland, ruderal, ephemeral, scrub and ericaceous vegetation within the site.

The main sand lizard habitats are on the southern boundary along a south facing strip, ideal for egg laying. A sand lizard population is also located within Gong Hill and an offsetting area situated at the north-eastern section of Bourne Wood.

Impacts:

Page 31 of 51 Any impact that could result in the death of sand lizards or loss of dependable habitat, should be considered substantial, due to the protected nature of the species.

The larger the scene, the more people and machinery that is likely to be present, which is likely to lead to a greater disturbance on sand lizards. There are several direct impacts associated with continued filming that could hinder sand lizard populations including accidental burning, loss of habitat and impacts from construction traffic, due to the proximity to the egg laying areas.

Furthermore, dust, vibration and regular human activity in proximity of the sand lizards foraging areas have potential to reduce their ability to forage, which would reduce their likelihood or survival through starvation. This would be a major issue if foraging was disrupted during their breeding season, which could result in a decline in the population.

Mitigation:

As part of the previous permission (WA/2013/0505), a Habitat Management Plan for Sand Lizards, prepared by Amphibian and Reptile Conservation, dated April 2015 (Appendix D of the Environmental Baseline Report, prepared by Mott MacDonald Ltd, dated September 2020) was set out, managing the population by creating new sand lizard habitat, which is fenced off and excluded from filming activities.

The sand lizard habitat is to continue to be retained and enhanced as part of this Habitat Management Plan. The Habitat Management Plan led to the population figure remaining stable and increasing in recent years (as reported in the Bourne Wood Reptile Mitigation Interim Monitoring Report, prepared by ARC Ecological Service, dated April 2019 (Appendix F of the Environmental Baseline Report, prepared by Mott MacDonald Ltd, dated September 2020).

No translocation of sand lizards will be undertaken as a result of the proposed use. The site area for filming (red line boundary) remains as per the previous planning permission and intensity of filming activity is not expected to increase. However all potential impacts on sand lizards will continue to be managed as per the existing Habitat Management Plan for Sand Lizards

Mitigation measures proposed for sand lizards as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 6.09- The sand lizard focus areas will be retained and enhanced with features including hibernacula and sand strips, during filming the focus

Page 32 of 51 areas will be protected. Sand lizard habitat creation is still being undertaken and this measure will apply for any newly created habitat.

 6.10- New wildlife corridors will continue to link the focus areas into sand lizard habitat within Bourne Wood and outside of the site boundaries.

 6.11- New sand lizard habitat will be created within Bourne Wood throughout the lifetime of this planning permission.

 6.12- No filming activities shall be carried out within the sand lizard exclusion zone at any time. This area shown as the "retained and protected sand lizard habitat" on the Indicative Proposals Plan No. 1302/P2. This encompasses an area of 200m length

 6.13- A dedicated warden will oversee filming proposals in sand lizard sensitive locations and liaise with film crew prior to filming activities.

Mitigation measures proposed for widespread reptile species as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 6.14- Widespread reptile species will be catered for by managing habitat suitable for reptiles within Bourne Wood.

 6.15- New hibernacula will be created along with basking areas and woodland edge habitat to make Bourne Wood more suitably for reptiles.

 6.16- A dedicated warden will oversee filming proposals in sensitive locations for reptiles, carrying out reptile walkover surveys prior to filming being undertaking.

Heathland Birds

The Breeding Bird Study Report, prepared by prepared by Mott McDonald Ltd and dated September 2020 recorded 38 potential breeding species across Bourne Wood. Bourne Wood continues to be a suitable site for breeding birds and the creation of additional heathland habitat and environmental controls put in place for Sand Lizards are thought to have been of benefit for heathland birds.

Impacts:

Filming could potentially impact on heathland birds through the temporary disturbance of heathland habitat and heathland birds through noise, vibration, lighting and dust. The previous permission (WA/2013/0505) identified that

Page 33 of 51 increased filming for consecutive months of the year and on consecutive years could lead to a gradual decline in habitat quality.

Mitigation:

As part of the previous permission (WA/2013/0505) , new heathland area was set up to mitigate any loss of habitat and disturbance within the Bowl and site, which provided increased habitat availability for heathland birds.

Furthermore, Farnham Heath restoration project has had a positive impact on heathland birds, allowing them a place to relocate, away from the disturbance within the site. Increased heathland habitat away from the filming areas, but near Bourne Wood provide a positive opportunity for heathland birds to forage and breed without the disturbance of filming activities.

Mitigation methods measures proposed for heathland birds as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 6.22- Heathland habitat within Bourne Wood will continue to be maintained and managed for throughout this planning permission.

 6.23- Rides within Bourne Wood will be enhanced to increase foraging habitat for heathland bird species

 6.24- This planning permission will maintain the trees within Bourne Wood for nesting birds. No trees will be removed as a result of this planning permission.

 6.25- Additional heathland habitat created since last application will be managed to benefit a wide range of bird species.

 6.26- Should any nesting or breeding birds be found within the area affected by the filming activities, then measures should be undertaken to ensure they are undisturbed.

 6.27- Nesting bird check to be undertaken by a suitably experienced and qualified person for 'potentially activity' damaging activities' undertaken during the main nesting and breeding bird season, March to August (inclusive). December to June (inclusive) for Crossbill in coniferous woodland

Invertebrates

Page 34 of 51 The lowland heathland, acid grassland and woodland ride habitats have the potential to support ruby-tailed wasp, red barbed ant, spider-hunting wasp, heath tiger beetle and so on. A grayling butterfly was only recorded as an incidental find during reptile surveys in 2013, forming part of the Environmental Statement accompanying the previous permission (WA/2013/0505), with it being the only recorded notable species of invertebrate found within Bourne Wood. This grayling butterfly was found on short turf acid grassland which is kept short as part of the management regime for filming.

Impacts:

The main impacts on invertebrates through filming are through habitat loss and degradation, for example sand banks and strips are susceptible to disturbance from footfall.

Regular recreational pressure will help maintain sandy paths, but a variety of vegetation is very susceptible to death from excessive trampling, such as heather, heathland and acidic grassland. Increased filming could result in further tramping of this vegetation, which could cause a decline in invertebrate species which rely on these plants.

Furthermore, dust and mud deposited on vegetation may limit invertebrate’s ability to forage, resulting in indirect deaths. The likelihood of this impact would be limited to the roads, paths and the Bowl.

Mitigation:

As part of the previous permission (WA/2013/0505), new heathland area was set up to mitigate any loss of habitat and disturbance within the Bowl and site, which provided increased habitat availability for invertebrates.

Mitigation methods measures proposed for invertebrates as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 6.28- Heathland habitat will be retained and a mosaic of vegetation types and structures, sand strips and banks will be maintained for a wide range of Invertebrate species.

 6.29- New standing dead wood habitat and log pile habitats will be created in different locations throughout Bourne Wood,

 6.30- Woodland edge habitats to be enhanced throughout Bourne Wood, improving woodland habitat for non- flying species and creating new habitat for other Invertebrate species

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 6.31- Bilberry stands will be retained where appropriate throughout the woodland understorey within Bourne Wood.

Natural England have reviewed the ecology documents supporting this application and are satisfied that the proposed change of use is limited to an area from which Sand Lizard populations are no longer present. However, Natural England note that it is important that any habitat currently used by Sand Lizards is not impact upon by the proposal.

Natural England have raised no objection to the proposed change of use, subject to conditions to secure a review of the issued Natural England Licence to determine whether amendments are required, an updated Sand Lizard Habitat Management Plan to consider the ongoing viability, maintenance and funding of the created sand lizard habitat as a result of the permanent nature of the change of use and a further survey to consider the potential of re- colonisation of translocated sand lizards in the area and associated impacts/mitigation measures.

Surrey Wildlife Trust has advised that the ecology documents submitted in support of this application appear appropriate in scope and methodology and provide a suite of measures to avoid and mitigate for adverse impacts on protected species present within and adjacent to the filming site. Surrey Wildlife Trust therefore raise no objection to the proposed change of use, subject to a condition to ensure that activities should be undertaken only in strict accordance with the ongoing impact avoidance, mitigation and monitoring prescriptions detailed within the Environmental Management Plan’; ‘Environmental Baseline Report’; ‘Breeding Bird Survey’ and ‘Habitat Regulations Assessment’, all prepared by Mott McDonald Ltd and dated September 2020.

UK BAP Habitat

Areas of UK Biodiversity Action Plan (UK BAP) priority habitats are present within the site which include Lowland Heathland, which makes up approximately 25% of the site, and Lowland Acid Grassland. However, these habitat features are in poor condition due to disturbance from recreational and filming activities such as trampling, especially the acid grassland which has a high degree of ephemeral species not normally linked to the BAP habitat. This grassland was previously allowed 6 months to recover from filming activities per year, with funding used to rejuvenate the grassland.

Impacts:

Page 36 of 51 There is potential for some acid grassland and heathland habitat to be lost through temporary set building and decommissioning and trampling by people and machinery.

Mitigation measures proposed for UK BPA Habitat as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 6.02- Management and monitoring of lowland heathland and acidic grassland will continue

 6.07- New BAP Lowland Heathland and Dry Acid Grassland is still being created within Bourne Wood to mitigate for the loss of the habitat. No further creation is being proposed.

 6.08- Areas of the acidic grassland situated within the application site will continue to be managed and monitored between filming, ensuring this vegetation has time to recover.

Further flora mitigation measures proposed as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 6.01 The creation and restoration of new heathland was conditioned under the previous planning permission to mitigate the impact on existing heathland areas and to mitigate for any loss in habitat and impact on species at the population level.

 6.03- The existing reptile focus areas will be managed and protected to retain their lowland heathland flora, sandy basking areas and southern facing aspects.

 6.04- Removal of Gaultheria and Rhododendron to continue.

In light of the above, Officers are satisfied that the proposed change of use would not prejudice the ecological value of the site, subject to conditioning the mitigation measures as outlined above, as well as the recommended Natural England and Surrey Wildlife Trust conditions, in the event permission is granted, in accordance with Policy NE1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 and the requirements of the NPPF 2019.

23. Air Quality

Retained Policy D1 of the Waverley Borough Local Plan 2002 states that the Council will have regard to the environmental implications of development and will promote and encourage enhancement of the environment and that

Page 37 of 51 development will not be permitted where it would result in material detriment to the environment by virtue of noise and disturbance or potential pollution of air, land or water, including that arising from light pollution. In the same vein Policy D2 states that the Council will seek to ensure that

Although the site does not fall within the AQMA Buffer Zone, the AQMA is approximately 2.6km to the north west of the site, within Central Farnham. The proposal would result in more vehicles associated with the site, including light and heavy goods vehicles, which could result in direct impacts upon the AQMA.

The Baseline Assessment, prepared by Mott MacDonald, dated September 2020 identifies that whilst filming and set activities within the site themselves would not directly impact upon the AQMA, vehicles associated with the filming travelling through the AQMA would.

Mitigation methods measures proposed to safeguard the out within the proposed EMP are:

 4.01- A traffic marshal will be employed at Bourne Wood during site preparation, rehearsals, filming and the removal of all temporary structures, to prevent vehicle queues at the entrance and egress.

 4.02- Any special effects involving fires will be strictly controlled by production company staff.

 4.03- All vehicles within Bourne Wood negatively impact on the air quality. Therefore, all stationary vehicles will switch off engines and ensure idling is kept to a minimum.

 4.04 - There is a mandatory speed limit within Bourne Woods of 20mph at all times, this is shown by signs at the entrance of Bourne Woods

 4.05- There are many sensitive receptors within Bourne Woods and on proximity, such as residents and visitors. The disturbance from filming activities should be kept to a minimum and where significant disturbance is unavoidable, inform affected residents. A significant disturbance relates to the emissions of Nitro Dioxide (NO2) or fine particle matters (dust) (PM10), which may have a detrimental effect on the AQMA

 4.06- Farnham and Farnham No.1 AQMA are sensitive to traffic emissions, therefore all traffic associated with filming activities should avoid travelling through this area.

Page 38 of 51 The Council’s Air Quality Officer has reviewed the mitigation measures and has raised no objection to the proposal on air quality grounds.

Subject to conditioning the mitigation measures as outlined above in the event permission is granted, Officers are satisfied that there would be no adverse impacts upon the relevant Farnham AQMA as a result of the proposal, which would therefore accord with retained Policy D1 of the Waverly Borough Local Plan 2002.

24. Archaeology

The need to safeguard and manage Waverley’s rich and diverse heritage, including all archaeological sites, is set out in Policy HA1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018.

The site is not located within an Area of High Archaeological Potential. However, due to the size of the site and pursuant to retained Policy HE15 of the Waverley Borough Local Plan 2002, it is necessary for the application to take account of the potential impact on archaeological interests. Mitigation methods measures proposed to safeguard the historic environment as set out within the proposed EMP are:

 8.01- Localised ground disturbance will avoid known archaeological sites and these will be marked up prior to work commencing (erecting a 5m buffer where feasible) to ensure no inadvertent impacts occur to the archaeological sites. Where filming activities require excavation that is more obtrusive than standard forestry practice, an archaeologist will be consulted to see if a watching brief is appropriate

 8.02- If for whatever reason the known heritage in the Archaeological Management Strategy sites cannot be avoided or are specifically required for filming, then contact should be made with an archaeological service provider for advice if there is a potential for significant ground disturbance, which then may involve their presence while filming activities are being undertaken. The crossing of any earthworks should be avoided. Where no other options are available, the utilisation of existing breaks within linear earthworks should be investigated as a possible alternative to access particular areas, following advice from archaeological advisors.

 8.03- Where substantial ground disturbance (i.e. excavation beyond routine forestry practice or filming) is to take place, the beat officers will request an archaeological watching brief to mitigate for the potential presence of buried archaeological deposits, such as identified prehistoric remains. Where substantial ground disturbance has previously taken

Page 39 of 51 place, a watching brief may not be required but advice will be sought from archaeological advisors should the ground disturbance have a high potential to impact on archaeological features.

The County Archaeologist has reviewed the archaeological mitigation measures and is satisfied that an appropriate framework will be provided to ensure archaeological remains are not threatened by the proposed mixed use. The County Archaeologist has therefore raised no objection to the proposal. Subject to conditioning the mitigation measures as outlined above in the event permission is granted, Officers are satisfied that there would be no adverse archaeological implications and the proposal would accord with Policy HA1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 and retained Policy HE15 of the Waverly Borough Local Plan 2002.

25. Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017

The proposal falls within the broad definition given in paragraph 10 (b) (urban development projects) of Schedule 2 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017 (the EIA Regulations) and is situated within a sensitive area as defined in Regulation 2 of the EIA Regulations and therefore required screening.

The application was accompanied by a request for Screening Opinion under Regulation 6 of the Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 2017 (SO/2020/003, adopted March 2020).

Having regard to the impact of the scheme on the Surrey Hills AONB, the potential for recreational pressure on the nearby SPA and SAC and the potential effects on protected bird species both within and surrounding the site, the Council concluded that the proposal constituted EIA development.

A further Screening Opinion was made to the Council in September 2020 (SO/2020/0005, adopted October 2020) with further information to address the adverse impacts outlined in the previous Screening Opinion.

Following this further Screening Opinion, the proposal is considered not to be EIA development under either Schedule 1 or 2 of the EIA Impact Regulations 2011 (as amended).

26. Town and Parish Council Representations

The representations received in relation to the application by the Town and Parish Council’s are noted and have been carefully assessed by Officers.

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It is considered that the concerns raised by the Parish Council in respect of highway safety, residential amenity and biodiversity have been addressed in the above report.

It is noted that the representation from Farnham Town Council was received prior to the adoption of Screening Opinion SO/2020/0005, adopted October 2020.

27. Third Party Representations

The majority of the concerns raised by third parties in relation to this application have been carefully assessed and addressed by Officers in the report above.

In respect to noise pollution from helicopters, the use of helicopters for filming activities does not form part of this application. However, it is noted that under Class B, Part 4 of the Town and County (General Permitted Development) (England) Order (2015) (as amended) (GPDO) helicopters are permitted to take off and land at temporary sites, provided the site is not used for more than 28 days in any one calendar year.

The need for a focal point/person responsible for the site during filming activities appears to be a common theme in the representations and this has been addressed by 5.05 of the EMP.

The application sought is for permanent permission and as such it would be unreasonable to impose a further temporary consent. As discussed below in the report, Officers are satisfied that, should permission be granted, a condition requiring a review of the EMP every five years would be a suitable alternative to a further temporary consent.

Whilst it is acknowledged that the current application does not provide any fresh biodiversity enhancement measures beyond those significant benefits associated with WA/2013/0505, it does ensure the continued management and enhancement of those habitats.

28. Very Special Circumstances

For reasons outlined in the above report, the proposal would constitute inappropriate development in the Green Belt which, by definition, is harmful.

Paragraphs 143 and 144 of the NPPF 2019 state that inappropriate development by definition, is harmful and should not be approved except in

Page 41 of 51 very special circumstances. Very special circumstances will not exist unless the potential harm to the Green Belt is clearly outweighed by other considerations.

The proposal would change the use of the land to a mixed forestry and filming use that would involve, intermittently, the erection of temporary structures for a maximum of 6 months per calendar year, which would have some impact, at times, upon the openness and visual amenities of the Green Belt.

The proposed temporary structures could be significant in scale and the use of the site for the parking of vehicles and trailers, together with the siting of other film associated structures, such as tents and marquees, would be spread throughout the site, adding to the overall impact.

However, the paraphernalia associated with a filming event would be intermittent and only be in place for a limited period of any calendar year. Officers are satisfied that, by way of conditions in the event permission is granted, the land could be reinstated to its former condition and appearance.

The temporary nature of the proposed change of use limits the amount of harm to Green Belt, with filming activity restricted to six months of the year and limited to a portion of Bourne Wood. There would be clear signage and marshalling provided around any filming event, to ensure the openness of Bourne Wood can still be enjoyed without the interruption of a filming event.

Through use of the site for filming previously the Forestry Commission has been able to diversify the landholding, from open semi-woodland landscape to include areas of heathland. The proposal would allow for further heathland retention. The proposals would enhance Biodiversity consistent with paragraph 109 of the NPPF.

The filming activities provides additional income to the revenue stream that Forestry England gets from Government Grants and from timber production, which is then used to fund forestry managements and initiatives across the South East Forestry England managed sites. The benefits of such management are for the purposes of ensuring that the woods remains an attractive destination for public recreation.

Furthermore, the filming use on the site has, and would continue, to contribute to the local economy. Creative England, a not-for-profit organisation that supports the creative industries in England, has carried out research to demonstrate the extent to which film activity positively contributes to the economy. The calculated the average amount a typical television production’s estimated spend is £18,000 - £22,000 per day on local employment and

Page 42 of 51 services, and a major feature film around £42,000. These figures are based upon actual production data over a period of several years collected by Creative England and are approved by both the British Film Institute and the Production Guild.

Surrey Film Office have calculated that filming at Bourne Wood alone, has contributed around £1.2 million to the local economy, within just two years. These figures build upon the research conducted by Creative England and are an estimate of what is being spent on local businesses

On this basis, it is concluded that these other considerations are sufficient to clearly outweigh the harm to the Green Belt already identified in respect of inappropriateness and would represent very special circumstances, the proposal would accord with Policy RE2 of the Local Plan (Part 1) and guidance contained in the NPPF.

29. Conclusion

The application site has been used for a number of films since 1999 and has therefore become a well established and attractive location for film use. The application seeks the change of use of land from forestry to a mixed use of ongoing forestry with filming activity, for no more than six months in any one calendar year and no more than eight months of consecutive filming, in order to avoid the possibility of six months each side of the year end.

It is considered that the proposal has important socio-economic-environmental benefits that amount to very special circumstances that outweigh any potential harm to the Green Belt and the purposes of including land within it.

It is acknowledged that the proposal would have some impact upon the landscape character and tranquilly of the AONB, and great weight is given to this impact in the planning balance. However, Officers have given significant weight to the presence of existing natural visual buffer features of the site, the high use of the site for recreational purposes, the important socio-economic- environmental benefits of the proposal and the mitigation measures set out in the EMP when balancing these impacts against the conserving landscape and scenic beauty of the AONB. Therefore, whilst there may be some impact upon the AONB as a result of the proposal, the existing circumstances on site, the proposed mitigation measures and the significant socio-economic- environmental benefits resulting from the proposal would outweigh any potential harm identified to the AONB. Officers are therefore satisfied that they have had regard to their legal obligation under the section 85 duty of regard in under the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, as well as all other material considerations.

Page 43 of 51 The proposal has also not raised any objection from the Surrey Hill AONB Officer, who has advised that the application submission has been well researched, assessed, documented and presented and in particular, reviewed against any need for an Environmental Impact Assessment and environmental mitigation measures have been included in the proposal. Therefore, subject to planning conditions being imposed on any permission to incorporate the mitigation measures, safeguard the forest, the environmental value of the site and its public enjoyment, Surrey Hill AONB Officer considers that the application should not be refused on AONB grounds.

It is also acknowledged that the proposal would impact upon the residential amenities of occupiers by way of noise/disturbance and light pollution. However, it is considered that the levels would not significantly exceed those associated with the use that has been continuous on the site since 1999 and would be mitigated to an acceptable level by measures set out in the EMP.

It is considered that the documentation supporting this application has demonstrated that the proposal would not cause harm to existing ecology and biodiversity on site, subject to mitigation set out in the EMP and recommended conditions. The proposal has not raised any objection from either Natural England or the Surrey Wildlife Trust.

Subject to conditions, the proposal would not cause harm to the operation of, nor impact upon the safety of, the surrounding highway network. The proposal has not raised any objection from the County Highway Authority.

Public access to Bourne Woods will always be maintained during filming events. The Surrey Rights of Way Officer has reviewed the application and raised no objection to the proposal, subject to conditions.

Whilst it is noted that Forestry England have existing obligations to review existing Managements Plans and Licences under UK Woodland Assurance Scheme (UKWAS) and the UK Forestry Standard (UKFS), in the event that planning permission is granted, it considered reasonable to recommend a condition to review the EMP every five years, to ensure that the conditions contained within remain fit for purpose, particularly in respect to the retention, protection and enchantment to biodiversity on site.

Recommendation

That permission be GRANTED subject to the following conditions:

1. Condition The plan numbers to which this permission relates are 396731-MMD- 00-XX-DR-L-0001 P2, 396731-MMD-00-XX-DR-L-0002 P2 and

Page 44 of 51 396731-MMD-00-XX-DR-L-0003 P2. The development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved plans. No material variation from these plans shall take place unless otherwise first agreed in writing with the Local Planning Authority.

Reason In order that the development hereby permitted shall be fully implemented in complete accordance with the approved plans and to accord with Policy TD1 of the Local Plan 2018 (Part 1) and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

2. Condition With the exception of the 50 metre Buffer Zone to Clumps Lane, the area in red shown on the approved plan 396731-MMD-00-XX-DR-L- 0001 P2 shall be used for the purposes of the activities identified and these activities shall not take place outside of these areas without the prior written consent by the Local Planning Authority.

Reason In order to protect the rural and landscape character of the area and to protect the amenities of adjoining properties in accordance with Policies RE2, RE3 and TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies FNP1, FNP10 and FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032 and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

3. Condition Filming activity on the site shall be for a maximum period of 6 months in any calendar year and limited to 8 consecutive months spread over two calendar years.

Reason In order to protect the rural and landscape character of the area and to protect the amenities of adjoining properties in accordance with Policies RE2, RE3 and TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies FNP1, FNP10 and FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032 and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

4. Condition There shall be no filming activities outside the hours of 06:00 and 21.00 Monday to Friday and 06:00 and 13:00 on Saturdays, with the exception of night filming activity. There shall be no filming or night filming activities on Sundays, Bank Holidays or Public Holidays.

Reason

Page 45 of 51 In order to protect the rural and landscape character of the area and to protect the amenities of adjoining properties in accordance with Policies RE2, RE3 and TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies FNP1, FNP10 and FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032 and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

5. Condition

Night filming activity shall not take place beyond 23:00. Prior to the use of the site for any night filming activity, the applicant shall inform local neighbours of any night filming activity, together with associated details, in accordance with 5.03 of the Environment Management Plan.

Reason In order to protect the rural and landscape character of the area and to protect the amenities of adjoining properties in accordance with Policies RE2, RE3 and TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies FNP1, FNP10 and FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032 and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

6. Condition There shall be no rehearsal activities outside of the hours of 06 06:00 and 21.00 Monday to Saturday and between 08:00 to 13:00 on Sundays. There shall be no rehearsal activities on Bank Holidays or Public Holidays.

Reason In order to protect the rural and landscape character of the area and to protect the amenities of adjoining properties in accordance with Policies RE2, RE3 and TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies FNP1, FNP10 and FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032 and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

7. Condition No construction activities, including deliveries and site reinstatement, shall take place outside of the hours of 08:00 and 20:00 hours Monday to Friday and 08:00 and 13:00 on Saturday. There shall be no construction activities on Sundays, Bank Holidays or Public Holidays.

Reason In order to protect the rural and landscape character of the area and to protect the amenities of adjoining properties in accordance with Policies RE2, RE3 and TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies

Page 46 of 51 FNP1, FNP10 and FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032 and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

8. Condition All activities associated with a filming event shall be carried out in strict accordance with the relevant details set out in the Environmental Management Plan, dated January 2021.

Reason In order to protect the rural and landscape character of the area and to protect the amenities of adjoining properties in accordance with Policies RE2, RE3 and TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies FNP1, FNP10 and FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032 and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

9. Condition The Environmental Management Plan, dated January 2021 shall be subject to review every five years from the date of this decision, unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Local Planning Authority.

Reason In order to protect the rural and landscape character of the area and to protect the amenities of adjoining properties in accordance with Policies RE2, RE3 and TD1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018, Policies FNP1, FNP10 and FNP16 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032 and retained Policies D1 and D4 of the Local Plan 2002.

10. Condition The means of access to the site for the purposes of filming activity shall continue to be from the Tilford Road/Forest Drive junction only.

Reason In the interests of highway safety in accordance with Policy ST1 of the Waverley Borough Local Plan (Part 1) 2018.

11. Condition No new development shall be undertaken until space has been laid out within the site in accordance with a revised scheme to be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority to continue to provide 20 public car parking spaces. The parking/turning area shall be used and retained exclusively for its designated purpose.

Reason

Page 47 of 51 In the interests of highway safety in accordance with Policy ST1 of the Waverley Borough Local Plan (Part 1) 2018.

12. Condition Prior to the use of the site for filming activity the applicant shall:

a) Submit for the written approval of the Local Planning Authority, in consultation with the Highway Authority, a Filming Activity Logistics Plan, in general accordance with the aims and objectives of the Mott Mcdonald Framework Filming Activity and Logistics Plan dated February 2020 (ref: 396732-TP-RP-002).

b) The applicant shall then implement the approved Filming Activity Logistics Plan, and for each subsequent use of the site for filming activity, maintain and develop the plan to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority, in consultation with the Highway Authority.

Reason In the interests of highway safety in accordance with Policy ST1 of the Waverley Borough Local Plan (Part 1) 2018.

13. Condition Prior to the use of the site for filming activity the applicant shall:

a) Submit and pay the monitoring fee for the written approval of the Local Planning Authority a Travel Plan in accordance with the aims and objectives of the National Planning Policy Framework (2018) and in general accordance with the Surrey County Council Guidance on Travel Plans and following the 'Travel Plan' document produced by Mott MacDonald, dated February 2020 (ref:396732-TP-RP-003).

b) The applicant shall then implement the approved travel plan and for each subsequent filming activity on the site, thereafter maintain and develop the travel plan to the satisfaction of the Local Planning Authority.

Reason In recognition of Section 9 'Promoting Sustainable Transport' in the National Planning Policy Framework 2019 and in accordance with Policy ST1 of the Local Plan (Part 1) 2018.

14. Condition

Page 48 of 51 Prior to the use of the site for filming activity, a new or updated Habitat Management Plan to ensure the ongoing viability of the created Sand Lizard Habitat and addressing how the ongoing maintain ace of the Sand Lizard Habitat is to be implemented and funded, shall be submitted to and approved by the Local Planning Authority in writing. The use shall be carried out in full accordance with the approved details.

Reason To ensure that protected species of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 are not endangered or disturbed by the development in accordance with Policy NE1 of the Waverley Borough Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 and Policy FNP13 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032.

15. Condition Prior to the use of the site for filming activity, an updated assessment of any potential impacts from the proposed change of use upon both the Sand Lizard Habitat and the habitat from which the Sand Lizards were translocated from shall be submitted to and approved by the Local Planning Authority in writing. The use shall be carried out in full accordance with the approved details.

Reason To ensure that protected species of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 are not endangered or disturbed by the development in accordance with Policy NE1 of the Waverley Borough Local Plan (Part 1) 2018 and Policy FNP13 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032.

16. Condition The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with all the recommendations as outlined in the Environmental Management Plan (EMP), prepared by Mott MacDonald, reference 396732-EN-RP-002 and dated January 21 2021, the Environmental Baseline Report, the Breeding Bird Study Report and the Habitats Regulation Assessment, all of which were prepared by Mott MacDonald Ltd and dated September 2020.

Reason To ensure that protected species of the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 are not endangered or disturbed by the development in accordance with Policy NE1 of the Waverley Borough Local Plan (Part

Page 49 of 51 1) 2018 and Policy FNP13 of the Farnham Neighbourhood Plan 2013- 2032

Informatives

1. The Filming Activity Logistics Plan should provide information on the management of the transport requirements associated with each of the four phases of filming activity. This should include as a minimum information on: (a) On-site layout and parking arrangement. (b) Any off-site parking facilities for personnel. (c) HGV and Service/Delivery Vehicle Movements (detailing a routing strategy; the number of movements per day; arrangements for ensuring the proportion of movements during the AM (8-9am) and PM (5-6pm) peak hours is kept to a minimum). (d) Measures to keep the public highway clean and prevent the creation of a dangerous surface in the public highway. (e) Arrangements for transporting cast/crew by private coach and mini- bus.

2. The permission hereby granted shall not be construed as authority to obstruct the public highway by the erection of scaffolding, hoarding or any other device or apparatus for which a licence must be sought from the Highway Authority Local Highway Service Group.

3. The permission hereby granted shall not be construed as authority to carry out works on the highway or any works that may affect a drainage channel/culvert or water course. The applicant is advised that a licence must be obtained from the Highway Authority Local Highway Service Group before any works are carried out on any footway, footpath, carriageway, verge or other land forming part of the highway. The applicant is also advised that Consent may be required under Section 23 of the Land Drainage Act 1991. Please see www.surreycc.gov.uk/people-and-community/emergency-planning-and- community-safety/floodingadvice

4. The developer is reminded that it is an offence to allow materials to be carried from the site and deposited on or damage the highway from uncleaned wheels or badly loaded vehicles. The Highway Authority will seek, wherever possible, to recover any expenses incurred in clearing, cleaning or repairing highway surfaces and prosecutes persistent offenders. (Highways Act 1980 Sections 131, 148, 149).

Page 50 of 51 5. The applicant is advised that a number of Public Rights of Way cross the application site and it is an offence to obstruct or divert the route of a right of way unless carried out in complete accordance with appropriate legislation.

6. Safe public access must be maintained at all times. If this is not possible whilst work is in progress then an official temporary closure order will be necessary. Notice, of not less than 6 weeks, must be given and the cost is to be borne by the applicant.

7. There are to be no obstructions on the public right of way at any time, this is to include vehicles, plant, scaffolding or the temporary storage of materials and/or chemicals.

8. Access along a public right of way by contractors' vehicles, plant or deliveries can only be allowed if the applicant can prove that they have a vehicular right. Surrey County Councils' Countryside Access Group will look to the applicant to make good any damage caused to the surface of the rights of way connected with the development.

9. Applicants are reminded that the granting of planning permission does not authorise the obstruction or interference with a public right of way. The changes to existing activities within this planning proposal may require amendments to the previously issued Natural England License and this should be examined by a suitably qualified ecologist to ensure no offences are committed.

10. The Council confirms that in assessing this planning application it has worked with the applicant in a positive and proactive way, in line with the requirements of Paragraph 38 of the National Planning Policy Framework 2019.

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