Sustainability Appraisal for the Brades Village Supplementary Planning Document

SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL FOR THE BRADES VILLAGE SUPPLEMENTARY PLANNING DOCUMENT

OCTOBER 2006

For further information concerning the Brades Village SPD and related documents, please contact:

Planning Policy Section Directorate of Planning and Transportation Development House Lombard Street West Bromwich West Midlands B70 8RU

Telephone: 0121 569 4003

Fax: 0121 569 4082

E-mail: james_holliday@sandwell.gov.uk

The SA and SPD can also be found on the Council’s website at www.sandwell.gov.uk

CONTENTS

1. BRADES VILLAGE SPD 1

2. SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL 3

3. SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL METHODOLOGY 5

4. SUSTAINABILITY OBJECTIVES, BASELINE AND CONTEXT 7

5. PLAN ISSUES AND OPTIONS 19

6. PLAN POLICIES 21

7. IMPLEMENTATION 25

APPENDICES 26

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD I 1. BRADES VILLAGE SPD

1.1 Overview of the SPD

The Brades Village Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) relates to a significant portion of land located to the west of Oldbury Town Centre. The SPD focuses on a collection of allocated sites and also includes a number of non-allocated, vacant, currently in use and contaminated sites.

The area has remained largely undeveloped, partly due to contamination and a lack of development opportunities. The vision for the area is to create a sustainable extension to the existing suburban community, which will provide significant additional types of housing and open space and will assist in the general improvement of the area. The SPD establishes a comprehensive vision for the area, within a sustainable context and provides guidance to enable a co-ordinated approach to development. The SPD aims to promote and achieve the 5 objectives, listed in Table 1.

1.2 Plan Objectives

The purpose of the SPD is to provide specific guidance to assist the delivery of coordinated development in the Brades Village area. It is accepted that the area would be developed, in time without the SPD, through the development control process and the application of UDP policies and proposals. However, it is considered that this process could potentially result in piecemeal development.

The Council therefore considered it necessary to produce guidance for the Brades Village area in the form of a development strategy, which would provide an additional level of influence and control to supplement the existing UDP (2004) policies and proposals. Guidance for the area in the form of an SPD will provide a specific perspective of the local issues and opportunities, and will enable a more coordinated and prescriptive approach to the delivery of development.

Table 1. Proposed Plan Objectives for Brades Village SPD

1 Provide additional guidance for the area, to bring forward comprehensive development as part of a co-ordinated approach. 2 Provide a distinctive, high quality, connected, sustainable community environment, within which to live and enjoy recreation. 3 Improve connectivity and accessibility to public transport, alternative modes of sustainable travel and local facilities. 4 Providing sufficient, quality, accessible public open space and a network of interconnected green spaces for all users that meet the needs of the community. 5 Conserving, preserving and enhancing the natural, built and historic environments, whilst minimising environmental effects.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 1 1.3 Likely Significant Effects of the Plan

It is considered that the likely significant effects of the plan will be mostly positive, as the SPD aims to facilitate the creation of a sustainable community, provide good quality public open space, green links and additional facilities. Improvements will involve the decontamination and reuse of sections of land and will result in the general improvement of the area and setting of the Birmingham and Gower Branch Canals.

It is envisaged that there is the potential for a minimal number of effects as a result of implementing the plan including; a potential increase in the amount of surface run off and impact on the SINC (Site of Importance for Nature Conservation) and Wildlife Corridor as a consequence of development in close proximity. However, it is not considered that any of these effects will be significant.

The SEA Directive requires the preparation of a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) for plans which “determine the use of small areas at a local level” or which are “minor modifications” to plans only where they are determined to be likely to have significant environmental effects. Following the Screening Stage of the Sustainability Appraisal (SA) process, the Council, aided by the responses of the Consultation Bodies (the Countryside Agency, English Heritage, English Nature and the Environment Agency) determined that the SPD was not “likely to have significant environmental effects”.

1.4 Consultation

The SA Report was consulted on for a six week period from 17th July to 29th August 2006, in conjunction with the draft SPD and representations were taken into consideration in the preparation of the SA Report to support the Adopted SPD.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 2 2. SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL

2.1 Purpose of the SA and the SA Report

The SA process is designed to infuse robust sustainability input into the plan making process. PPS1 states that, ‘planning authorities should ensure that sustainable development is treated in an integrated way in their development plans. In particular, they should carefully consider the inter-relationship between social inclusion, protecting and enhancing the environment, the prudent use of natural resources and economic development’.

The SA process performs a valuable role of informing the plan through promoting the consideration of social, environmental and economic issues. The process also assists in the determination and justification of sustainable options through measuring plan objectives and options against SA objectives (the SA Framework).

2.2 Compliance with the SEA Directive/Regulations

The Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations (2004) states that an environmental assessment is not required for plans or programmes that determine the use of a small area at a local level or for a minor modification to a plan or programme. This is unless it has been determined that the plan, programme or modification is likely to have significant environmental effects.

In line with regulations and the SEA Directive a Screening Statement was compiled and consulted on, which determined that the preparation of an SEA for the Brades Village SPD was not necessary. A Scoping Report was later compiled and consulted on, in order to determine the scope and level of detail of the SA Report. Consultation with the Consultation Bodies; the Countryside Agency, English Heritage, English Nature and the Environment Agency determined that there was no requirement for the preparation of an SEA.

In January 2006, Sandwell Council compiled a Screening Statement and consulted on the Four Consultation Bodies in accordance with the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 and the European Directive 2001/42/EC in order to determine whether there was a requirement for the preparation of an SEA for the Brades Village SPD. The responses from the Four Consultation Bodies were as follows:

The Countryside Agency “Given the likely impact of the SPD, the Countryside Agency will not require an SEA to be produced to address our environmental interests”.

English Heritage “English Heritage concurs with the Council that the preparation of a Strategic Environmental Assessment is not required”.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 3 English Nature “It would appear that the document has the potential to result in ‘significant environmental effects’, including some that are positive… if there is any doubt, an SEA should be prepared”.

The Environment Agency “The Agency recommends that a Sustainability Appraisal is prepared as significant environmental effects are likely”.

In response to this advice the Council produced a Scoping Report (which scoped for the requirements of an SA, and not an SEA under the SEA Directive (2001)) and issued a Statement of Determination (in accordance with Reg. 9 (1)), which reiterated the views and conclusions of the Consultation Bodies, which indicated that there was no requirement for the preparation of an SEA.

2.3 Statement on the Difference the SA Process has made to Date

The SA process has helped to inform the content of the SPD and has provided a sustainable perspective through promoting the consideration of social, environmental and economic issues during its preparation. The process has facilitated the consideration of existing sustainability issues in the area, some of which have been taken into account during the preparation of the plan in an attempt to address these concerns through the implementation of the plan.

The Scoping stage enabled the Council to consult on and as a result refine the twenty Sustainability Objectives, which have been used to form the SA Framework. Plan objectives and plan options have also been refined through the SA process.

Measuring the plan objectives against the twenty sustainability objectives enabled the Council to assess whether it was likely for conflicts to arise between the aspirations of the plan and the pursuit of sustainability as a result of implementing the SPD.

The process identified that there are a number of potential, though somewhat unavoidable conflicts between the plan objectives and the sustainability objectives, which stimulated the consideration of potential mitigation measures.

The process also provided the opportunity to measure the likely significant effects of the plan and the plan options against the twenty sustainability objectives, which determined and justified the most suitable option for bringing forward sustainable development within the Brades Village area.

Whilst assisting in the preparation of the SPD, the SA process has also facilitated the consideration of what indicators will be used to monitor the document.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 4 3. APPRAISAL METHODOLOGY

3.1 Approach Adopted to the SA

The SA process for the Brades Village SPD has followed that set out in the guidance provided by PPS12 (2004) and Sustainability Appraisal of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Documents (2005).

The process involved measuring the plan objectives against twenty sustainability objectives derived from the 4 key objectives of the Draft West Midlands Regional Sustainability Framework (2005). These are:

• to develop sustainable communities; • to protect and enhance the environment; • to ensure prudent, efficient use of natural resources; and • to develop a flourishing, diverse and stable economy.

3.2 Background to the SA Process

The SA process, which has informed the plan since preparation on the Brades Village SPD began in October 2005, has been carried out by Sandwell MBC Planning Officers.

Work on the SA has been consulted on with the ‘Consultation Bodies’ (The Countryside Agency, English Heritage, English Nature and the Environment Agency) at the Screening and Scoping Stages in line with regulations and the SEA Directive.

The SA Report underwent public consultation in conjunction with the Draft Brades Village SPD for a period of six weeks from July 2006. This period of formal consultation involved the public, local groups, organisations, authorities, agencies, government bodies etc.

3.3 Difficulties Encountered in Compiling Information or Carrying out the Assessment

There is a wide range of Borough wide information available, however, there is relatively limited information that deals specifically with the SPD area by which to form a comprehensive appraisal due to the localised nature. Therefore, baseline indicators that apply to the wider neighbourhood, ward and town context have been used as a guide, though it is recognised that this information will not present a true reflection of the area.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 5 3.4 Plan Options

The two options below were considered for the Brades Village area during the preparation of the SPD and the SA.

• Option 1: The existing UDP policies provide the basis for decisions on development in the Brades Village area.

• Option 2: An SPD is prepared to provide additional, supplementary guidance to the existing UDP policies, which will provide a wider perspective, identify development opportunities and assist the delivery of coordinated development in the area.

Based on the findings of the SA process, Option 2 was taken forward as the preferred sustainable approach.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 6 4. SUSTAINABILITY OBJECTIVES, BASELINE AND CONTEXT

4.1 Relevant Policies, Plans and Programmes

The Brades Village SPD has been prepared within the context of a wide range of policies, plans and programmes. These include Planning Policy Guidance Notes and Planning Policy Statements at the national level, the West Midlands Regional Spatial Strategy at the regional level and the Sandwell Unitary Development Plan at the local level. A full list of these is provided in Appendix 1 (page 26).

4.2 Description of the social, environmental and economic baseline characteristics and the predicted future baseline

Baseline information provides the indicators from which targets can be set and then used to monitor the progress of the SPD.

Current baseline information indicates that: • The population of the Brades Village neighbourhood has decreased significantly. • Crime figures within the Brades Village Neighbourhood have improved, though not to the extent of the Borough average. • There is a significant proportion of contaminated land within the Brades Village SPD area. • The Birmingham Canal and Gower Branch Canal do not fair well against the Environment Agency criteria for water quality regarding chemistry, nitrates, biology and phosphates.

It is anticipated that the implementation of the plan will be the catalyst for a number of positive effects in the local area. However, it is expected that these will have a limited effect on the baseline information provided below as the Brades Village SPD area is a very localised section of the wider area to which the Baseline Information applies.

It is envisaged that as a result of the implementation of the Brades Village SPD there will be: • a significant increase in the resident population; • an increase in the amount of vehicular traffic; • an increase in the number of people living in Brades Village using public transport; • an increase in the generation of particles contributing to air pollution; and • a reduction in the number of contaminated sites.

(In order to offset the possible effects of the implementation of the Brades Village SPD, mitigation measures, as identified in Paragraph 6.3 will be considered and applied where necessary.)

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 7 The collection of baseline information (Task A2), “provides the basis for predicting and monitoring effects and helps to identify sustainability problems and ways of dealing with them” (ODPM, 65:2005).

There is a variety of local information available at regional, sub-regional, borough, town, ward and neighbourhood level, from a range of sources including census data and research and monitoring conducted by various agencies.

A full list of relevant baseline information is provided in Table 2 below

Table 2. Baseline Information

Social Issues Baseline indicator(s) Comment(s)

Population of the Plan Area 1991 to 2001 -9.4% change from 1991 compared with - plan area 3.4 for the Borough. Population of Oldbury Town 1991 to 2001 -2.5% change from 1991 compared with - Oldbury Town 3.4 for the Borough (allowing for boundary changes which have occurred). Index of Multiple % of towns SOA’s within the Oldbury fairs well on the IMD (2004) Deprivation (IMD) worst 20% nationally, and in compared to other Sandwell Towns, with 2004 Sandwell over 15% of its SOAs outside the worst 40% nationally, and none within the worst 5%.

Brades Village is 49th most deprived out of the 79 Sandwell neighbourhoods. IMD Income Oldbury fairs slightly better than Sandwell. Brades Village is the 49th most deprived neighbourhood. IMD Employment Oldbury ward (7.2%) fairs much worse than Sandwell (6.0%). Standardised ratio of Limiting National average is 100; any higher score is Long-term Illness worse than average. Brades Village (110.9) is better than Oldbury Town (114.9), which is in turn better than the Sandwell average of 121.1. IMD Education, Skills & Oldbury fairs slightly better than Sandwell. Training IMD Barriers to Housing and Oldbury fairs slightly worse than Sandwell. Services Reported crimes Reported crimes per 1000 of 2002 - 149.5 per 1,000 (146.3) population in Brades Village 2003 - 154.6 per 1,000 (146.3) against Sandwell 2003 - 163.2 per 1,000 (140.2) 2004 - 100.2 per 1,000 (98.2) Crime figures are evidently improving. Housing Tenure % of Owner Occupation and % Owner occupation (69.3%) is higher than (2001 Census) of Council Rented Sandwell average (60.3) and council rented (13%) is lower than Sandwell average (26.6). Ethnic composition Census 2001 Brades Village (24%) has a higher BME % of the population than Sandwell (20.3%).

Super Output Areas - small areas of the Borough derived from the 2001 Census

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 8

Environmental Baseline indicator(s) Comment(s) Issues

Local nature Number and status of The canal network is designated as a conservation designations wildlife corridor. The Gower Branch Canal designations is designated as a SINC. Cultural heritage Number and status of The Upper Two Locks and the Bottom importance and designations Lock at Brades Locks on the Gower Branch condition Canal are all Grade II Listed. Dereliction/ No figures available Site contamination is a normal expectation contamination/ in many parts of Sandwell. There are 3 ground conditions former landfill sites identified within the SPD area in addition to general problems associated with industrial heritage. Flood Zones Flood Zones The land surrounding the watercourses adjoining the plan area is at a 1% and 0.1% risk of flooding. Water Quality The Birmingham Canal and the Gower Branch Canal run through the area and are both of poor quality. Results taken from the convergence of the Birmingham / Wolverhampton level and the Gower Branch Canal equate to D - fair (chemistry), 1 - very low (nitrates), D - fair (biology) and 5 - very high (phosphates). Air Quality Inclusion in AQMA All of Sandwell is in an Air Quality Management Area and Dudley Road East is identified as an area that is likely to exceed the 2005 air quality objective for annual mean Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) levels. Noise Pollution Statutory nuisances There are industrial processes operating in close proximity to residential areas. Accessible Quality Proximity/accessibility and score Blakeley Hall/Brades Hall Open Space, Open Space (value/quality) of open space Tividale Community Centre, Former (Green Space Audit) Gower Tip

Economic Issues Baseline indicator(s) Comment(s)

Strength of the local Jobs in the Sandwell economy 1998-2001: number of full-time jobs fell by economy 5.1% (UK = 3.1%). Number of economically active 1999-2001: Sandwell fall from 75.9% to 75.3% (UK 78.7% to 78.6%). Economic Average annual gross earnings 1999-2002: Sandwell score fell from 90.6% performance for full-time employees. of UK level to 86.6%. Reflects high dependence on low value manufacturing. Gross Value Added per hour West Midlands has the lowest GCVA per worked hour of any UK region. Link with living GDP per head of population 2003: Sandwell and Dudley together standards produce only 83% of gross value per head for UK. Employment sector Manufacturing/service sector 1991-2001: number of manufacturing jobs make-up employment ratio. in Sandwell declined by 22.7% Investment Share of foreign direct West Midlands received 12.4% in 2000/1 - investment highest outside London/SE. Total number of VAT-registered 1997-2001: up from 203.25 to 219.16 (UK businesses per 10,000 291.79 to 299.73), perhaps reflecting high population. proportion of small businesses.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 9 4.3 Social, Environmental and Economic Issues and Problems

A number of both existing and potential issues facing the Brades Village SPD area were identified at the Scoping stage of the SA process, as a result of site visits and the analysis of area based information. Please refer to Table 3 below.

. Table 3. Sustainability Issues in Brades Village

1 Demand for housing land 2 Congestion and road safety 3 Poor ground conditions - contaminated land 4 Poor quality of natural environment and biodiversity 5 Access to a range of local facilities 6 Access to good quality open space 7 Low educational attainment 8 Crime and safety 9 Pollution - air quality 10 Areas at (low) risk of flooding 11 Unemployment

The identification of sustainability issues and problems is, “an opportunity to define key issues for the SPD and to develop sustainable plan objectives and options” (ODPM, 66:2005).

A number of sustainability issues relevant to the Brades Village area have been identified as a result of the analysis of the baseline information that has been collected and the relevant plans and programmes that have been identified.

A number of sustainability issues emerge from the Black Country Study, which identifies that: • some areas have high levels of deprivation including poor health, crime, housing quality, education and skills; • some areas have a poor quality environment including biodiversity, soil, air and water quality; • there is concern about traffic growth and the impact on climate change; • there is a need to modernise and diversify the economy; • there is a need to improve the quality and range of the housing stock.

The Oldbury Town Planning Statement, identifies a number of key issues facing the Brades Village area, which are addressed by the policies contained within the UDP (2004): • demand for housing land • pressure on industrial land • transportation • open spaces, green spaces and play space • provision of community services

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 10 Demand for Housing Land Despite a projected decline in population, there is a projected growth in the number of households in the Borough due to new household formation. The Sandwell Housing Needs Survey (2002) indicates that many households will be unable to purchase a home even at the lower end of the open market.

The Draft Oldbury Housing Strategy (2006) outlines five key housing priorities: • to improve all social rented housing to a decent standard by 2010 • to enable significant improvement to stock condition in the private sector occupied by vulnerable people • to ensure an adequate supply of good quality accommodation that provides choice and meets existing and future housing needs and aspirations • to restructure housing markets and bring about housing led neighbourhood renewal • to ensure that our housing service and provision is people focussed.

Pressure on industrial land The UDP notes that manufacturing still remains an important part of Sandwell’s economy despite its general decline. There is a shortage of good quality industrial land in the Borough, and there is continuing pressure to re- use existing industrial land for housing and other purposes.

Transportation The Brades Village SPD area is well served with transport links via the Wolverhampton Road and Dudley Road East and the efficient operation of a number of bus routes. However, the Dudley Road East is frequently congested as it experiences large volumes of heavy traffic. The Birmingham Canal and Gower Branch Canal both provide opportunities for walking, cycling and recreation, though the natural environment is in need of enhancement.

Open spaces, green spaces and play space The Brades Village SPD area does not comprise any formal areas of designated Community Open Space, though there are a number of vacant, previously developed sites that enhance the ecological tapestry. The canal network provides valuable habitats for flora and fauna, with the designation of wildlife corridors and Sites of Important Nature Conservation (SINCs), though considerable improvements to the conservation of the natural environment are required.

Provision of Community Services There are a number of existing local facilities, but there is an evident desire for the further provision of local and neighbourhood facilities.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 11 The key issues identified by Oldbury Town Team during consultation with the community in Brades Village and Rounds Green for the production of the Brades Village Local Action Plan (2004) were:

• crime including anti social behaviour, drugs and harassment • road safety and the need for traffic calming and car parking • a need for a greater number of small, local shops • a lack of leisure and recreational opportunities and facilities for young people • pollution • a lack of leisure opportunities and facilities for older people • a general lack of meeting places • low educational attainment • fly tipping, graffiti and litter throughout the built and natural environment • remote access to parks and green spaces

In summary, the key community concerns relate to anti-social behaviour & crime, activities & facilities for young people, and quality parks, open spaces and streets.

4.4 Sustainability Objectives

The Council developed twenty Sustainability Objectives (please refer to Table 3 below) derived from the 4 key objectives of the Draft West Midlands Regional Sustainability Framework (2005), which are:

The Sustainability Framework (please refer to Table 4 below) was constructed in order to identify any conflicts between the aspirations of the plan objectives and the sustainability objectives.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 12

Table 4. Proposed Sustainability Objectives for Sandwell

Develop Thriving, Sustainable Communities 1 Increase the opportunities for all communities and stakeholders to participate in and contribute to decisions which affect their quality of life within Sandwell 2 Reduce crime, fear of crime and anti-social behaviour 3 Improve health and reduce inequalities in access to health and social care 4 Reduce poverty and disadvantage, taking into account the particular difficulties of those facing multiple disadvantage 5 Improve access to education and lifelong learning for all 6 Improve access to services for all 7 Increase cultural and recreational activity for all communities 8 Provide decent homes for all Enhance and Protect the Environment 9 Value, enhance and protect built environment assets and other features of cultural value 10 Value, enhance and protect important natural assets including biodiversity 11 Encourage high quality, attractive and safe built and natural environments 12 Improve air, water and soil quality 13 Reduce contributions to climate change through energy efficiency and use of renewable energy Ensure Prudent and Efficient Use of Natural Resources 14 Conserve natural resources 15 Increase transport choice and reduce the need to travel 16 Minimise growth in waste and encourage re-use, recycling and recovery Develop a Flourishing, Diverse and Stable Economy 17 Improve and regenerate the economy to provide jobs for all 18 Increase high quality employment opportunities whilst recognising the contribution of unpaid work 19 Ensure everyone has the skills they need to access the job they want 20 Increase the development of new businesses by making Sandwell an attractive location to start, expand or relocate a business

Table 5: Compatibility of Brades Village SPD with SA Objectives

Brades Sustainability Objectives Village SPD Plan Objectives 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20

Objective 1 - 3 3 - - - - 3 - - 3 3 3 X ------

Objective 2 - 3 3 - - 3 - 3 - - 3 3 3 X 3 - - - - -

Objective 3 - - 3 - - 3 - - - - 3 - 3 - 3 - - - - -

Objective 4 - - 3 - - - 3 - - 3 3 3 - 3 ------

Objective 5 ------3 - 3 3 3 3 - 3 ------3 (positive), - (neutral), X (negative).

Plan Objective 1 versus SA Objective 14: Possible conflict as Plan Objective 1 seeks to bring forward comprehensive development where as SA Objective 14 seeks to conserve natural resources, however there will be no impact on local resources. A negative impact is likely to occur as materials and land will be used up.

Plan Objective 2 versus SA Objective 14: Possible conflict as Plan Objective 2 seeks to bring about new development and SA Objective 14 seeks to conserve natural resources, however there will be no impact on local resources. A negative impact is likely to occur as materials and land will be used up.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 13 There may be cases where an envisaged neutral impact may have a more significant impact than initially predicted. E.g. there may not be a direct impact on wildlife corridors, SLINCS and SINCS, however, these sites/areas may experience indirect effects. There may also be impacts on other areas of biodiversity that are not officially recognised or designated and where development (and the decontamination of sites) would be the preferred option. Mitigation measures will be considered and applied to offset these effects where necessary.

4.5 The Sustainability Appraisal Framework

The Sustainability Framework consists of a range of baseline information, with selected indicators and targets by which to measure the progress of the SPD.

Table 6. Sustainability Appraisal Framework

SA Objectives Headline Detailed Indicators(s) Source Indicator(s)

1. Increase the Opportunities for, and Numbers of organisations participating SMBC opportunities for all levels of, participation e.g. resident/tenant/trader. Level of communities and in the AAP/SA process. response to community engagement. stakeholders to participate in and contribute to decisions which affect their quality of life within Sandwell.

2. Reduce crime, fear of Level of different types Crimes per 1,000. Police Crime crime and anti-social of crime, resident Fighting behaviour. surveys of perception of Crimes in policing target areas. Team / crime. Oldbury Town Team

3. Improve health and GP services locally, Number of facilities within certain PCT reduce inequalities in other social/health care distance. SMBC access to health and locally. social care.

4. Reduce poverty and Index of Multiple Deprivation overall and on particular IMD disadvantage, taking into Deprivation. ‘scores’. Position relative to Town, account the particular Sandwell, England. difficulties of those facing multiple disadvantage.

5. Improve access to Adult Education Number of facilities within certain SMBC education and lifelong participation. distance. learning for all. Access to education opportunities.

6. Improve access to Access to shops, Number of facilities within certain SMBC services for all. services locally. distance e.g. shops, P.O.s, childcare.

7. Increase cultural and Access to leisure, Number of facilities within certain SMBC recreational activity for recreation or cultural distance e.g. play, open space, youth all communities. activities. provision, leisure or recreation facilities.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 14

8. Provide decent homes Housing quantity and Completions for houses and affordable SMBC for all. “affordability”. Housing houses. Percentage of affordable houses standards. against policy target. Number of houses at Decent Homes standard.

9. Value, enhance and Condition, retention, Amount of vacant or underused or SMBC protect built loss of built contaminated land brought into environment assets and environment. development. Loss of or damage to other features of cultural protected buildings or areas. value.

10. Value, enhance and Condition, retention, Amount of or change to nature SMBC, protect important natural loss of natural conservation designations, plants, B&BC assets including environment. species. WLT. biodiversity.

11. Encourage high quality, Quality of local Quality appraisal of schemes in SPD area SMBC. attractive and safe built environments. (based on compliance with Adopted and natural SPG). environments.

12. Improve air, water and Level of air, water and Percentage of rivers or canals of good or EA. soil quality. soil quality. fair quality. Pollution levels. Levels of SMBC. air pollution.

Reclamation of previously contaminated land leading to new development.

13. Reduce contributions to Levels of energy Numbers of energy-efficient SMBC climate change through efficiency, and use of developments or schemes (BREEAM or energy efficiency and renewable energy. Ecohome standards). use of renewable energy.

14. Conserve natural Reduction in use of As above, plus percentage of SMBC resources. natural resources. development on brownfield land.

15. Increase transport choice Travel modes and Traffic/HGV levels. SMBC and reduce the need to volume. Levels of passenger travel and proportion travel. of journeys undertaken by non-car modes, including walking and cycling, workers and residents. Density of development. Connections to transport network.

16. Minimise growth in Levels of waste and Household waste/recycling. SMBC waste and encourage re- recycling. Use of recycled materials in use, recycling and development. recovery.

17. Improve and regenerate Levels of economic Numbers of firms. SMBC the economy to provide activity. Amount and type of loss or gain in jobs for all. designated employment sites.

18. Increase high quality Levels of new Numbers of high quality employment SMBC employment opportunities. Support opportunities. opportunities whilst for voluntary activity. Level of support to voluntary sector. recognising the contribution of unpaid work.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 15

19. Ensure everyone has the Qualifications and skills Qualifications/skills at different SMBC skills they need to access levels. ages/levels. IMD the job they want.

20. Increase the Opportunities for and Planning consents, business start-ups, SMBC development of new take-up of new and growth/loss of employment, land businesses by making expanding businesses. availability. Sandwell an attractive location to start, expand or relocate a business.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 16 5. PLAN ISSUES AND OPTIONS

5.1 Strategic Options

The generation of options or alternatives is a main requirement of the Sustainability Appraisal process and performs and important function in identifying the most sustainable approach.

The type of potential options and alternatives is very limited due to the fact that the focus is on land already allocated for housing in the UDP (2004) and that SPDs are not permitted by legislation to allocate land. The Council therefore identified two plan options (as stated in Section 3.4) that were considered to be appropriate.

• Option 1: The existing UDP policies provide the basis for decisions on development in the Brades Village area.

5.2 Comparison of the social, environmental and economic effects of the options

The determination of the most appropriate plan option in terms of accordance with sustainable principles is the main purpose of the Sustainable Appraisal process. This is achieved through the comparison of the two differing plan options against the sustainability objectives.

A simple method, based on that set out in Government guidance was used to measure the impacts of the two plan options on the sustainability objectives (please refer to Table 7 below). Scores were given for positive and negative impacts, 2 - indicating a strongly positive impact, 1 - indicating a positive impact, 0 - indicating a neutral impact, -1 - indicating a negative impact and ? - indicating where a impact is uncertain.

Though both options have their merits for facilitating sustainable development in the Brades Village area Option 2 was considered most appropriate, as it will facilitate the coordinated development of a sustainable community within the local area. The selection of Option 1, the application of UDP policies without the preparation and implementation of an SPD would result in the continuation of vacant and contaminated land, the pressure for incoherent/piecemeal development, the degeneration of the canal environment and the general lack of coordinated development.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 17 Table 7: Assessing the Impacts of the Options (SPD and the Saved Policies within the UDP, 2004)

SA Objectives Option 1: The existing Sandwell UDP Option 2: An SPD is prepared to policies provide the basis for decision provide additional, supplementary on development in the Brades Village guidance to the existing UDP policies. area.

Score Commentary/ Score Commentary/ Explanation Explanation

Develop Thriving Sustainable Communities

1 Increase the opportunities for 1 Limited consultation would 2 The SPD provides an all communities and be carried out as a opportunity for specific stakeholders to participate in requirement of the planning localised consultation. and contribute to decisions application process. which affect their quality of life within Sandwell

2 Reduce crime, fear of crime 1 UDP Policy UD3: Security 2 The SPD contains specific and anti-social behaviour and Safety, ensures that new principles for the Brades development addresses Village area that will security and safety issues. encourage movement and surveillance.

3 Improve health and reduce 1 UDP Policy CS1: Health and 0 The SPD doesn’t make any inequalities in access to Social Services Facilities, reference to health facilities, health and social care encourages such provision though there is potential for where appropriate provision under Policy H2.

4 Reduce poverty and 1 UDP policies are geared to 1 The SPD will address poverty disadvantage, taking into providing homes and facilities by providing a significant account the particular according to people’s needs. amount of affordable homes. difficulties of those facing multiple disadvantage

5 Improve access to education 1 UDP Policy CS2: Community 1 The SPD proposes to retain and lifelong learning for all Uses, encourages such existing community/lifelong provision where appropriate, learning facilities within the Policy H2: Principal Housing area, whilst significantly Sites, provides scope for increasing the local catchment ancillary uses. population.

6 Improve access to services for 1 As 3 and 5 1 As 3 and 5 all

7 Increase cultural and 1 The UDP promotes the 2 The SPD promotes the recreational activity for all provision of community open provision of a new, communities space and play space in centralised community open association with new space and proposes to retain residential development. The existing community facilities protection of open spaces, the to aid the development of a open space network and sustainable community. sports is promoted.

8 Provide decent homes for all 1 UDP policies SO5: Housing 2 The SPD stresses the and H10: People and their importance of securing an Housing Needs, encourage appropriate mix of housing, in the creation of sustainable order to assist in the creation communities incorporating a of a sustainable community. mix of housing types, sizes and tenure in accordance with the Borough’s Housing Strategy.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 18

Enhance and Protect the Environment

9 Value, enhance and protect 1 UDP conservation policies set 2 The SPD provides specific built environment assets and out how the historic design guidance, with the other features of cultural environment is to be incorporation of listed value conserved. structures within an indicative layout.

10 Value, enhance and protect 1 UDP policies set out how the 2 The SPD is geared to making important natural assets Borough’s natural assets will a feature of the canal location including biodiversity be preserved and enhanced. and will seek to preserve and enhance the setting of the canal and the wildlife corridor and SINC.

11 Encourage high quality, 1 UDP policies are set out to 2 The SPD is geared to creating attractive and safe built and create sustainable a high quality, sustainable natural environments environments. environment.

12 Improve air, water and soil 1 UDP policies are both 1 The SPD will provide the quality specifically and generally catalyst for the improvement geared to reducing pollution of air, water and soil quality. and improving air quality by promoting sustainability.

13 Reduce contributions to 1 UDP policies SO2: Energy 0 New development within the climate change through Conservation and SO3: SPD area will be expected to energy efficiency and use of Renewable Energy are geared use sustainable design and renewable energy to promoting sustainable construction methods for energy use. buildings and infrastructure.

Ensure Prudent and Efficient Use of Natural Resources

14 Conserve natural resources 1 UDP policies (H3) and 2 The SPD provides an proposals promote the re-use indicative layout for of previously developed land. coordinated development that would involve the re-use of previously developed land.

15 Increase transport choice and 1 UDP policies and proposals 1 The SPD promotes reduce the need to travel are geared to promoting coordinated residential development in sustainable development in close locations and sustainable proximity to 2 bus showcase modes of transport. routes with priorities for pedestrian and cycle links.

16 Minimise growth in waste 1 UDP policies are in place to 1 The SPD advocates the re-use and encourage re-use, minimise waste and of currently contaminated recycling and recovery encourage recycling. land.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 19

Develop a Flourishing, Diverse and Stable Economy

17 Improve and regenerate the 2 UDP policies and proposals 1 The thrust of the SPD is economy to provide jobs for are geared to protecting residential, however, it may all business/industrial land, with provide an opportunity to the aim of contributing encourage the use of local towards economic growth, labour during the construction revitalising the local economy phase of the development and stimulating job process. opportunities.

18 Increase high quality 0 N/a 0 N/a employment opportunities whilst recognising the contribution of unpaid work

19 Ensure everyone has the skills 0 N/a 0 N/a they need to access the job they want

20 Increase the development of 1 UDP policies clearly define 1 The SPD advocates the new businesses by making areas for the location of new separation of residential areas Sandwell an attractive business and industry. from business/industrial uses. location to start, expand or relocate a business

TOTALS 19 UDP 24 SPD

5.3 Social, Environmental and Economic Issues Considered

There is a range of issues facing the Brades Village area and it is considered that the best means of addressing these would be to adopt a coordinated approach to development.

5.4 Other Options Considered

The UDP (2004) policies and proposals currently provide the planning framework for the Brades Village area, which limits the scope for potential options as SPDs are to be prepared in accordance with the UDP and are not permitted to allocate land. However, the current planning framework does provide a certain amount of scope for incorporating ancillary community uses as part of large residential proposals.

Due to these limitations only two options were considered as referred to in Section 5.1.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 20 6. PLAN POLICIES

6.1 Significant social, environmental and economic effects of the preferred option

The process of comparing the plan options determined that Option 2: Preparation of an SPD, would be the most sustainable method of facilitating development in Brades Village. As documented in Section 3 a compatibility matrix was utilised to evaluate the plan objectives and the sustainability objectives in order to identify as to whether they were compatible, in conflict or neutral and whether there are likely to be any potential effects.

The matrix shows that both sets of objectives were broadly compatible or neutral, with only a small number of exceptions, which is evidence that the plan will be looking to bring forward development in a sustainable manner

It is anticipated that the implementation of the Brades Village SPD will result in a number of secondary, cumulative and synergistic effects.

6.2 Predicting and Evaluating Effects

Housing There is potential for new housing in the SPD area to provide a positive effect in the form of a dynamic statement for the area, whilst relating to the underlying historic context provided by canal structures. There is potential for housing in poor condition to be restored or incorporated within new schemes. The development of new housing will help to improve the townscape and the environment within the area e.g. along Dudley Street East and areas currently requiring intervention (regenerating) e.g. Fisher’s Bridge. There is potential to replace (and relocate) non-conforming industrial uses (which subsequently create heavy traffic) with new housing, which will improve the quality of the residential environment. It is anticipated that significant residential development would have a synergistic effect on local air quality.

Economy It is evident that the realisation of UDP proposals in the SPD area will have a direct effect on the local economy, as a number of industrial units would be replaced with housing, coupled with the fact that there are no proposals for the creation of any additional employment within the area. There is potential to mitigate these negative effects by means of facilitating relocation to suitable, local sites to retain both the local workforce and local business, though this may be a complex process.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 21 Transportation It is anticipated that the implementation of the SPD will have secondary and cumulative effects on the highway network, as a result of the additional number of cars in the area placing additional demand on the carrying capacity of the roads, with specific reference to existing junctions, due to the projected population increase. New housing development will have a beneficial synergistic effect on public transport, as sites will collectively reach a critical threshold, thus making public transport more viable and communities more sustainable.

Local Services/Facilities There is potential for the implementation of the plan to have a synergistic effect on local resources, as an increase in population may place a demand on existing facilities. This demand may result in making existing services more viable and where there are no existing services current policy provides the opportunity for new housing development to incorporate mixed uses.

Open Space There are no formal open spaces designated within the SPD area, though there are a number of vacant grassland sites. Implementation of the SPD would result in the development of a significant proportion of these sites for housing, however, it is suggested that a suitable site is identified for the provision of a sustainable public open space, with complimentary green links. This process will assist the mitigation of the loss of nature to development.

Nature Conservation It is anticipated that the implementation of the SPD will have both cumulative and synergistic effects on the existing biodiversity within the area. There are a number of non-designated sites that are of ecological value, which would be effected by future potential development. However, it is evident that the benefits of redeveloping these contaminated sites would outweigh the negatives. Though there may also be opportunities to mitigate the negative effects through careful layout and design of schemes, protection of existing habitats (where necessary) and the provision of alternative habitats (new green spaces and green links), as there are numerous areas of designated nature conservation in close proximity.

Historic Environment It is envisaged that the implementation of the Brades Village SPD will not have a detrimental effect on the historic environment, but will instead improve the setting of listed canal structures through careful layout and design.

6.3 Consideration of Uncertainty and Risk

The SPD was prepared amid the uncertainty of the developability of certain sites, due to ground conditions, the number of landowners and the lack of control over the sequence of potential development and timescales for completion. The flexibility of the SPD provides the ability to be reactive to events whilst also providing pro-active guidance for development.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 22 The SPD provides additional guidance for development within the Brades Village area and not a rigid masterplan for development, and therefore it is not a concern that sites may not come forward for development within the phased sequence or timescale, as it is envisaged that the guidance would help to prevent the potential for future development being compromised. It is evident that development coming forward at different stages may create a temporarily incoherent environment with potential for impacts on housing and industry, though mitigation measures (e.g. boundary treatments) will be considered and applied where necessary to offset these.

Initial consideration was given to the plan not being implemented with the policies and allocations made within the UDP (2004) continuing to provide the policy framework for development within the Brades Village area. The preparation of an SPD was determined as the preferred option, as it would provide more detailed guidance to enable co-ordinated development.

It is accepted that circumstances may dictate that the SPD undergoes amendment during the LDF process in order to take account of the evolving contexts.

6.4 How social, environmental and economic problems were considered in developing the preferred option

A number of social, environmental and economic issues facing the Brades Village area were identified and later included within the Scoping Report (please refer to Section 4.3). The identification of these issues has subsequently helped to form and refine the plan objectives in an attempt to provide a solution. Due to the wide range of issues it is evident that there will not be one single universal solution. However, it is considered that a coordinated approach to new development in the area would provide the most appropriate method of pursuing the plan and sustainability objectives and also addressing the identified issues.

6.5 Proposed Mitigation Measures

It has been established that the plan and sustainability objectives are broadly compatible and thus it is envisaged that there will not be any significant conflict between bringing forward new development and the pursuit of sustainability. However, a number of mitigation measures have been considered in the preparation of the SPD in order to facilitate a coordinated approach to development.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 23 Housing In order to facilitate coordinated development within the area, which may prove complex due to levels of contamination, it is proposed that new housing is located on sites of less severe contamination, that can be decontaminated to an appropriate standard. There may be an opportunity to provide public open space on sites that are deemed to be less suitable for housing because of ground conditions. If this is not proved to be the case then it may be possible as part of future developments to negotiate that a section of land is set aside for public open space.

Employment It is apparent that the realisation of UDP (2004) proposals in the SPD area will have a direct and secondary impact on local employment as this may increase the pressure for residential development on additional sites. This impact may be mitigated by assisting and encouraging the relocation of local businesses to local, viable sites, with a view to retaining the local workforce, employment opportunities and business.

Transportation Though it is envisaged that the creation of a new community may make local public transport more viable, it is also anticipated that there will be a big impact on the local road network. Congestion along sections of Dudley Road East and the New Birmingham Road is common during certain periods and a number of junction improvements are planned. In addition other junction improvements may be required. The potential for ‘rat running’ through the SPD area will be overcome through the incorporation of street furniture and a home zone approach to streetscape design, installing the pedestrian as the priority.

Nature Conservation It is anticipated that development within the SPD area will not have any significant adverse effects on the wildlife corridor and site of importance for nature conservation. It is anticipated that the general improvements and the provision of additional open space and green links will complement and enhance their setting. There are a number of non-designated sites that are of ecological value, which would be effected by future potential development. However, there are opportunities to mitigate the negative effects through careful layout and design of schemes, protection of existing habitats (where possible) and the provision of alternative habitats, as there are numerous areas of designated nature conservation in close proximity.

Air Quality Dudley Road East is identified as an air quality hot spot where NO2 levels are likely to exceed national air quality objectives and it is envisaged that the realisation of UDP (2004) proposals will further contribute to these levels. Therefore, consideration will be given to the use of planning conditions in order to ensure that negative effects are mitigated, e.g. the frontages of new development set back from the road, use of ventilation technologies and screening in the form of planting.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 24 7. IMPLEMENTATION

7.1 Proposals for Monitoring

The Council undertakes the monitoring of a range of plans and programmes, including the UDP (2004). The new planning system requires LPAs to monitor a range of issues, which are publicised in the latest Sandwell Annual Monitoring Report (AMR, 2005) and include: • socio-economic trends • new housing and demolitions • new employment land and employment land lost • new retail • the delivery of facilities and services • delivery of proposal sites • effectiveness of policy

LPAs are required to include information relating to the progress of implementing LDDs within their AMRs. Subsequently, information relating to the implementation of the Brades Village SPD will be included in forthcoming editions of the AMR where the findings of SA monitoring will be consolidated.

The Brades Village SPD focuses on an area of land at a very localised level and therefore it is considered that undertaking monitoring at a level that reflects the scale of the plan would be more appropriate.

The Government advises LPAs to only monitor significant sustainability effects. It has been documented that the Council do not consider there will be any significant negative effects as a result of the implementation of the plan.

Consequently the Council will therefore undertake monitoring during the implementation of the SPD to ensure that the targets identified through the appraisal process are being pursued.

Indicators currently monitored in the Council’s AMR include: • Net Completions each year from 1998/99 • Projected residential completions • Total outstanding Residential Requirement • Housing Trajectory Figures • Type of Land used for Residential Development • Residential Density • Affordable Housing Completions by Tenure • Percentage of Eligible Housing sites granted Planning Permission providing Affordable Housing • Car Parking Provision for New Residential Developments • Percentage of New Housing in Sustainable Locations • Open Space provision by Six Towns • Percentage of Eligible Open Spaces Managed to Green Flag Award

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD 25 Table 8: Appendix (Relevant Policy, Plans and Programmes) Key objectives, targets and indicators relevant to the SPD and SA Implications for the SPD and SA

PPS 1: Delivering Sustainable Development (2004) The PPS provides guidance for the preparation and content of all LPA documents with regard to pursuing sustainable development as part of an The SPD will provide guidance that advocates the pursuit of sustainable development in an integrated approach. integrated manner, promoting outcomes in which environmental, economic and social objectives are achieved.

PPG3: Housing (2000) and Draft PPS3: Housing (2005) The PPS: • The SPD will reflect targets for the development of new housing on brownfield land. • provides guidance relating to housing capacities, densities, development ratios on brownfield land and the attitude to employment land; • The SPD will provide supplementary guidance regarding housing densities within the SPD area, • seeks to encourage the provision of housing to meet the requirements of the whole community, including those in need of affordable and in line with additional guidance. special needs housing; • seeks to encourage the provision of a greater choice and a better mix in the size, type and location of housing; • provides a national target of 60% of additional housing to be provided on previously developed land or through conversions.

PPG4: Industrial, Commercial Development and Small Firms (1992) The PPG : • The SPD is not geared to creating new industrial development within the SPD area, however • the integration of the conflict between the pursuit of economic growth and the quest for environmental good sense; local relocation is encouraged where new housing development may be at the expense of • the weighing up of the importance of industrial and commercial development with that of maintaining and improving environmental quality existing industry. when constructing development plans; • Relocated industry would be expected to be compatible with government environment • taking a positive approach to the location of new business developments and the assistance of small firms through the planning system; objectives. • allowing locational demands for industry to be a key consideration in drawing up plans.

PPS9: Biodiversity and Geological Conservation (2005) The PPS emphasises the importance of applying an integrated approach to the maintenance, enhancement, restoration and additions to The SPD will aim to preserve and enhance the biodiversity and geological conservation interests biodiversity and geological interests. through SPD guidance.

PPS12: Local Development Frameworks (2004) The PPS: The SPD will provide additional guidance to existing UDP (2004) policy and will be constructed in • provides LPAs with the guidance by which to prepare their documents under the new LDF system; accordance with LDF legislation, regulations and guidance incorporating early • advises LPAs on how to engage the public in the planning process; community/stakeholder involvement. • provides guidance on the SA and SEA processes by which the likely social, environmental and economic effects of the plans can be appraised.

PPG13: Transport (2001) The PPG advocates: The SPD will promote the use of and access to sustainable modes of transport. • the integration of planning and transport at the national, regional and local level; • The formulation of policies for environment, land use planning, education, health and wealth creation; • accessibility to jobs, shopping, leisure facilities; • reducing the need for the car by improving access to public transport and promoting walking and cycling; • accommodation of housing principally within urban areas.

PPS15: Planning and the Historic Environment (1994) The PPG provides guidance on the preservation and enhancement of the character and appearance of special areas of interest, buildings and The SPD will provide guidance for the preservation and enhancement of the listed canal structures, structures. buildings of historic value and areas of character within the SPD area.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD Appendix 26 PPG17: Planning for Open Space, Sport and Recreation (2002) The PPG advocates: The SPD will provide guidance for the provision and enhancement of open space and other areas, • assessment of needs and opportunities for sport and recreation provision; which can provide amenity value and recreational opportunities. • safeguarding open space; • the resistance of pressures for development of open space; • The provision of universal access and safety of users.

PPS23: Planning and Pollution Control (2004) The PPS states that: The SPD will provide guidance to prevent harmful development and suggest ways by which to • LPA’s should include appropriate policies for the remediation of contamination; mitigate the impact of pollution. • LDDs should include appropriate policies and proposals for dealing with the potential for contamination and the remediation of land so that it is suitable for the proposed development/use; • Consideration should be given to these factors during the preparation of DPDs and the determination of planning applications; • Matters concerning air, water and land quality can be addressed through planning conditions and obligations.

PPG25: Planning and Flood Risk (2001) and Draft PPS25: Planning and Flood Risk (2005) The PPG and Draft PPS: The SPD will provide guidance that takes account of the risk based approach (though no new • seek to ensure that development is safe and not exposed unnecessarily to flooding by considering flooding on a catchment wide basis; allocations will be made) and requests the consideration of SUDS. The SPD will be informed by • seek to reduce and not increase flood risk; Environment Agency flood information until a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment has been • seek to ensure flood plains are used for their natural purposes, continue to function effectively and are protected from inappropriate produced and therefore certain proposals may be requested to include a Flood Risk Assessment. development.

Sandwell Unitary Development Plan (2004) Provides the land use policy framework for the borough guiding how land should be developed or protected to ensure that there are homes, jobs, The SPD will develop guidance to facilitate the co-ordinated delivery of UDP policies and transport choices, shops, green spaces and other important facilities available to everyone, whilst being mindful of the social, economic and proposals. environmental context.

Oldbury Town Planning Statement (2004) The document identifies key areas of opportunity, change or conservation in Oldbury that require the intervention of an area based planning The SPD will develop the provisional plan boundary and an awareness of the general issues within approach and documents the main associated issues. the SPD area. The SA will explain methods by which these may be mitigated.

Regional Policy Guidance Note 11 Regional Spatial Strategy (2004) The RSS sets out the strategic overview for the region and identifies 4 key strands to make the West Midlands a better place for all: The SPD will provide guidance that will enable contribution to the relevant objectives. • Urban Renaissance - promoting the MUAs as vital, attractive places to live, work and invest; • Rural Renaissance - regenerating the countryside by addressing low incomes and skills, and access to services and jobs; • Diversifying and modernising the region’s economy - linking growth to meeting needs and reducing social exclusion; • Modernising transport infrastructure - supporting the sustainable development of the Region.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD Appendix 27 Phase One Revision of the RSS: the Black Country Study (2005) The document sets out strategic objectives for the area and provides advice on regeneration priorities, urban capacity and employment land etc. The SPD will provide guidance that will enable contribution to the objectives and targets where The four objectives for the Black Country are: relevant. • to reverse out migration; • to raise income levels; • to change the socio-economic mix; • to transform the environment.

The study sets a number of strategic aims including: • Accommodate within the Black Country all of the generated household growth from 2011; • Raise demand and household incomes to the UK average by 2033; • Achieve parity with the national profile of social grade in the population, by increasing the proportion of A/B grades from 14.8% to 22% by 2033; • Protect and enhance the environment and create a safe, attractive and healthy place to live and work; • Create 160,000 new jobs; • 100,000 more people with qualifications; • Attract over 400,000 sqm new non-food shopping floor space beyond current plans; • Provide for and attract 1.45m sqm to accommodate growth of 101,000 jobs in office employment; • Transform 4,000 Ha of existing employment land for modern business and housing; • Accommodate 44,000 more households to 2021 and 71,000 in total to 2031.

West Midlands Sustainable Development Framework (2005) Sets out a framework based on nine sustainability principles and four key objectives for the West Midlands in order to achieve the vision of a The SPD will provide guidance that will enable contribution to the objectives listed. sustainable West Midlands: • developing thriving sustainable communities; • enhancing and protecting the environment; • using natural resources prudently and efficiently; • developing a flourishing, diverse and stable regional economy.

Provisional West Midlands Local Transport Plan (2004) Sets out a framework of strategies and proposals for prioritising major transport investment in the region to meet the transport objectives for the The SPD will provide guidance that will enable contribution to the objectives listed, however, it is region: envisaged that congestion and pollution may increase. • reducing congestion; • improving accessibility; • reducing pollution; • making transport safer for all.

Birmingham and Black Country Biodiversity Action Plan (2000) The Action Plan focuses on aspects of local ecology, which are in need of protection or conservation, and sets targets and methods for ensuring The SPD will provide guidance in accordance with UDP policy and proposals therefore the continued presence of wildlife in Birmingham and the Black Country in a series of habitat and species action plans. safeguarding designated areas of nature conservation. In addition the SA Report will recommend potential mitigation measures on other sites that will enable contribution to the objectives.

Regional Biodiversity Strategy for the West Midlands (2005) The regional biodiversity strategy for the West Midlands aims to focus attention on the most important priorities for biodiversity in the region, The SPD will provide guidance in accordance with UDP policy and proposals therefore set out in 5 key challenges: safeguarding designated areas of nature conservation. In addition the SA Report will recommend • maintaining and improving the condition of habitats, species and ecosystems; potential mitigation measures on other sites that will enable contribution to the objectives. • developing an area based approach to restoring wildlife; • monitoring the condition of habitats, species and ecosystems; • re-connecting and integrating action for biodiversity with other environmental, social and economic activity; • coping with the impacts of climate change.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD Appendix 28 Sandwell Plan, the Sandwell Community Plan (2004) The Sandwell Plan sets out the overarching aims of the council in five different areas: The SPD will provide guidance that will enable the SPD to contribute to the relevant objectives. • promoting a lifelong learning society - create a culture of learning with more skills and qualifications; • improve health and achieve the prerequisites of health - tackle health inequality, raise life expectancy and quality of health; • revitalising the Sandwell economy - creating wealth and providing jobs without harming the environment; • restructuring Sandwell’s physical environment - making Sandwell a more attractive place in which to live, work and invest; • creating a safer Sandwell - crime and disorder is the number one concern for Sandwell people, all partners must contribute to making Sandwell safer and feel safer.

The purpose of the Sandwell Plan is to promote the social, economic and environmental well-being of the Borough. “The Sandwell of 2020 will be a thriving, sustainable, optimistic and forward-looking community”. The main challenges are identified: • reverse the trend of people moving away from Sandwell; • raise income levels; • attract and retain more people with higher levels of skills; • strengthen existing businesses and diversify the economy.

Sandwell Neighbourhood Renewal Strategy (2000) Provides a framework for the renewal of communities in Sandwell and improved management of services at neighbourhood level leading to a The SPD will provide guidance that takes account of the Brades Village Local Action Plan (2004). better quality of life. Includes Local Action Plans for specific neighbourhoods.

Sandwell Air Quality Action Plan The whole of Sandwell is designated an Air Quality Management Area for annual average nitrogen dioxide levels. A co-ordinated borough-wide The SPD will provide guidance that supplements UDP Policy, taking account of the issue of air action plan will be produced to address the causes of pollution and to adopt effective control measures. quality in the regeneration of the area.

Draft Oldbury Housing Strategy (2006) The broad objectives of the document are: The SPD will provide guidance that is flexible and recommends taking account of latest housing • to improve all social rented housing to a decent standard by 2010 strategy and housing need and demand survey figures, enabling the SPD to contribute to the • to enable significant improvement to stock condition in the private sector occupied by vulnerable people objectives. • to ensure an adequate supply of good quality accommodation that provides choice and meets existing and future housing needs and aspirations • to restructure housing markets and bring about housing led neighbourhood renewal • to ensure that our housing service and provision is people focussed.

Sandwell Economic Development Strategy Provides clear direction for the future economic development of Sandwell to support delivery of the Borough's Community Strategy and specific The SPD will provide guidance that will enable the contribution top objectives where applicable. strategic objectives of partners.

Sandwell Parks and Green Spaces Revised Improvement Plan Strategy (2006) The strategy provides strategic aims, management objectives and identifies priorities for improving parks and green spaces and providing high The SPD will provide guidance supplementing existing UDP Policy that will enable contribution to profile parks and green spaces with a wide range of facilities in partnership with local groups. the objectives.

Sandwell MBC Sustainable Development Strategy Draws together the Council’s strategies and action plans in order to integrate sustainability issues into all Council policies and activities. The SPD will provide guidance that will enable contribution to the objectives.

Sandwell School Organisation Plan 2004-2009 A five-year rolling plan setting out how the LEA will provide primary and secondary education. The SPD will provide guidance that will take account of the education agenda.

Towards 2010 A plan to invest in local health and social care services and buildings in Sandwell (and Birmingham). The SPD will provide guidance that will enable the contribution to the objectives where applicable.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD Appendix 29 The Crime Reduction, Community Safety & Drug Strategy 2005/2008. The Safer Sandwell Partnership coordinates initiatives to reduce crime. Priorities for 2005-2008 are domestic burglary, vehicle crime, violence, The SPD will provide guidance in line with existing UDP Policy and the Community Safety SPG and anti social behaviour. that will enable contribution to the objectives.

British Waterways Seeks to conserve, improve, and promote inland waterways as a catalyst for regeneration. The SPD will provide guidance that supplements existing UDP Policy to improve the environs of the canal network within the SPD area and maximise the regeneration potential that the resource provides.

SA Report for the Brades Village SPD Appendix 30