Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 2
Acknowledgements
The Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan has been prepared by group of volunteers, with support from South Lakeland District Council, and Kirkwells Town Planning Consultants. The Parish Council would like to thank the following for their hard work and commitment in the preparation of this Plan:
INSERT NAMES?
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Table of Contents
1.0 Introduction and Background ...... 5 2.0 Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan Vision and Objectives ...... 7 3.0 History of Lower Allithwaite Parish ...... 9 4.0 Lower Allithwaite Parish Today ...... 11 5.0 Planning Policy Context ...... 13 6.0 Neighbourhood Plan Policies ...... 15 6.1 Built Environment and Heritage Assets ...... 15 6.2 Green Infrastructure and Landscape Character ...... 18 6.3 Transport including Pedestrian Safety and Countryside Access ...... 23 6.4 Housing...... 27 6.5 Economy and Tourism ...... 32 6.6 Community Facilities ...... 33 Glossary ...... 35 Appendix 1 Relevant Planning Policies ...... 36 Appendix 2 Parish Design Guidance ...... 37 Appendix 3 Conservation Area Guidance ...... 38 Appendix 4 South Lakeland Proposals Maps ...... 39
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 4
Map 1 Lower Allithwaite Designated Neighbourhood Area
Insert psma number Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 5
1.0 Introduction and Background
1.1 The Localism Act 2011 gives Parish Councils and other relevant bodies new powers to prepare statutory neighbourhood development plans (NDPs) to help guide development in their local areas. Through neighbourhood plans, local people now have the opportunity to shape new development as planning applications are determined in accordance with the development plan, unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The South Lakeland adopted Core Strategy and saved policies of the old Local Plan (until superseded by the Development Management DPD), South Lakeland Land Allocations DPD and the Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan (once made) will be part of the statutory development plan for the area. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is a material consideration in any planning application determinations.
Neighbourhood Plan Process and Preparation
1.2 Lower Allithwaite Parish Council decided to prepare a NDP for Lower Allithwaite in October 2014 and applied to South Lakeland District Council for designation as a neighbourhood area on 15th October 2014. The application for designation was approved by the District Council on 5th February 2015. The designated Neighbourhood Area is the same as the Parish Council Boundary and is shown on Map 1. This includes the villages of Lower Allithwaite, Cartmel and outlying areas.
1.3 A steering group comprising Parish Councillors and local residents was established to progress work on the plan. The steps in preparing at Neighbourhood Development Plan are set out in Figure 1 below.
Figure 1 Neighbourhood Development Plan Process
Formal Designation Preparing the Plan Consultation (6 weeks)
South Lakeland Submit to South DC Consult for Revise Plan Lakeland DC 6 weeks
Lower Allithwaite Examination Referendum Neighbourhood Plan made
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1.4 The Lower Allithwaite NDP has been prepared taking into consideration extensive community engagement and involvement through the Lower Allithwaite Community Plan (June 2013) and the Cartmel Township Initiative, the Allithwaite Community Orchard consultation and the Allithwaite P4C Bid consultation.
Add in further community engagement as it happens in the future.
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2.0 Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan Vision and Objectives
Vision for Lower Allithwaite
By 2026 Lower Allithwaite will include two very different villages and a number of small rural settlements scattered throughout the countryside. In Allithwaite the village will be enhanced by a number of developments which are well integrated, linked directly to the village with pedestrian circulation having been significantly enhanced. Traffic management has resulted in a quieter, safer village.
In Cartmel, the heritage aspects of the village have been enhanced and protected. Traffic and parking management schemes have improved access to the many businesses and residents, and visitors benefit from improved circulation.
Neighbourhood Plan Objectives – SG check and amend
1. To raise awareness of Cartmel’s Conservation Area and protect the built environment both in the villages and in the wider countryside. 2. To protect locally significant green spaces within the villages and in the surrounding countryside from inappropriate development. 3. To protect and enhance existing levels of access to the local countryside. 4. To review parking for residents, businesses and visitors, in order to reduce the congestion caused by inappropriate parking in villages, improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. 5. To promote safer use of the wider road network, to ensure safer pedestrian and cycle access within the Parish, improve and enhance the cycle network, and improve disabled access to the footpath network. 6. To ensure housing stock meets local affordable needs and enables people of all ages to continue to resident within the local area. Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 8
7. Ensure new housing developments are small scale and meet the aspirations of low density and appropriate design. 8. To ensure the proportion of permanent dwellings to holiday homes remains at a level that supports a sustainable local community. Insert objectives on economy, tourism and community facilities.
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3.0 History of Lower Allithwaite Parish
3.1 Lower Allithwaite is a civil parish in the South Lakeland district of the English county of Cumbria. It includes the villages of Allithwaite and Cartmel, the historic Cartmel Priory, Humphrey Head and Cartmel Racecourse.
Allithwaite
3.2 Allithwaite is a small village in the Parish, located roughly 1.2 miles (1.9 km) west of Grange- over-Sands.
3.3 The Anglican parish church in the village is St. Mary's Church, built in 1864–65 and designed by the Lancaster architect E. G. Paley. There is a small primary school, Allithwaite Primary C of E School located next to the church. Both church and school were built by a legacy left to the village.
Wraysholme Tower
3.4 A mile to the south, Wraysholme Tower is a 15th-century pele tower, used as a barn and cow-house, adjoining a 19th-century farmhouse. The tower was built by the Harrington family of Aldingham. A Michael Harrington acquired a grant of free warren in Allingham in 1315. The tower is 40 feet (12 m) by 28 feet (8.5 m). It has axes north and south and is built of local limestone rubble, with angle quoins. The walls are 4 feet (1.2 m) thick at their base. There is a projecting garderobe, about 7 feet (2.1 m) square, at the south-west corner, where there is a spiral staircase. There was originally an entrance at the north-west corner.
Cartmel
3.5 Cartmel is a very attractive village in a beautiful valley setting bounded by the ridges of Hampsfell to the east and Howbarrow to the west. Within the conservation area are many fine listed buildings clustered around the Grade 1 Priory Church of St Mary and St Michael. The river and water meadows running through the heart of the village soften the hard edges of the built environment and are key features which must be protected.
3.6 The village is located 2.2 miles (3.5 km) north-west of Grange-over-Sands and close to the River Eea. The village was once known as Kirkby in Cartmel, as it was the location of the church for the large parish of Cartmel. It is the location of the 12th century Cartmel Priory.
Cartmel Priory
3.7 Cartmel Priory church serves as the parish church of Cartmel, Cumbria (formerly in Lancashire). The priory was founded in 1190 by William Marshal, created 1st Earl of Pembroke, intended for the Augustinian Canons and dedicated to Saint Mary the Virgin and Saint Michael. To support the new house William granted it the whole fief of the district of Cartmel. It was first colonised by a prior and twelve monks from Bradenstoke Priory in Wiltshire. The only other surviving monastic building is the Cartmel Priory Gatehouse which faces the village square. The church is an active Anglican parish church in the deanery of Windermere, the archdeaconry of Westmorland and Furness, and the diocese of Carlisle. Its benefice is united with those of St Mary, Allithwaite, St Peter, Field Broughton, St John the Baptist, Flookburgh, St Paul, Grange-over-Sands, Grange Fell Church, Grange-Over-Sands, and St Paul, Lindale, to form the benefice of Cartmel Peninsula. Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 10
Cartmel Priory Gatehouse
3.8 Cartmel Priory Gatehouse is a medieval building located at Cartmel, Grange-over-Sands, Cumbria, England. It is listed grade II* and is part of a scheduled monument. It belongs to the National Trust. The gatehouse seen from the village square
3.9 Along with the church, the gatehouse is all that remains of the Augustinian Cartmel Priory. The priory was founded in 1190 whereas the gatehouse was built about 1330. In 1536 the Priory was dissolved as part of the general reformation of Church. Most of the monastic property was demolished, but the gatehouse was by that time serving as courthouse for the manor of Cartmel, so survived. It is described by English Heritage as an excellent example of a medieval monastic gatehouse.
3.10 The building served as a grammar school from 1624 to 1790. In 1923 the gatehouse became a museum, and was used for exhibitions and meetings, before being presented to the National Trust in 1946. By 2011 it was mainly in private residential use, although the Great Room is opened to the public on several days a year.
Cartmel Racecourse
3.11 Cartmel Racecourse is a small racecourse in the village of Cartmel, now in the Ceremonial County of Cumbria, historically in Lancashire. Seven race days are held each year, starting on the Whit Holiday weekend at the end of May and ending on the August Bank Holiday weekend in August Bank Holidays.
3.12 The three-day May race meeting actually takes place over five days – allowing a day off for racegoers to enjoy the Lake District countryside in between each day at the races. The racegoers arrive so early in the day and leave so late that, unlike most racecourses, there isn't time to clear up and turn the racecourse around for consecutive days racing.
3.13 The two-day July meeting (taking place over three days, with a day off in-between) features the most valuable race at Cartmel – the Cumbria Crystal Hurdle Race, which is worth over £25,000. The August race meeting features the Cartmel Cup (a hurdle race) and the Cavendish Cup (a steeplechase).
3.14 Though the racecourse is considered to be small, it often has the third-highest average attendance of any jumps track in Britain after Aintree and Cheltenham – the largest crowds can be just over 20,000 on one day. The visitors gather in the centre of the racecourse which is bisected by the finishing straight. On one side of the straight is a very large fairground and on the other the Parade Ring and Winners' Enclosure. There is a small grandstand, but in general most of the facilities at Cartmel are temporary. The village shops are a short walk from the track and a visit to the village is often considered to be a significant part of a day at Cartmel races.
3.15 Cartmel Racecourse is noted as having a four-furlong run-in, the longest in Britain. The earliest written account of racing at Cartmel dates back to 1856, although it was certainly in action prior to that date. The course was supported by local landowners. Until World War II it was a very small course featuring primarily amateur jockeys, but in the second half of the 20th century the racing programme was expanded and professionalised. The course is situated on the Holker Estate, and in 1998 Lord Cavendish bought out the previous management team. Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 11
4.0 Lower Allithwaite Parish Today
4.1 The Designated Neighbourhood Area of Lower Allithwaite extends over 2,859 hectares and had a population of 1831 residents in 20111. Lower Allithwaite is located within South Lakeland District Council area. Its northern boundary abuts the Lake District National Park.
4.2 Tourism is a fundamental part of the local economy. However, regional North West and local niche markets are becoming increasingly competitive. As a consequence, tourist facilities need to become more specialised, offering higher quality goods and services, with a focus on added value and higher wage employment opportunities.
4.3 The Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) identifies a ‘vibrant rural and visitor economy’ as one of its four key ‘prongs’ to unleash Cumbria’s potential fully in both rural and urban areas in order to bring the best return on public and private investment. It is widely acknowledged that Cartmel already punches well above its weight in terms of the role it plays in supporting this crucial sector of the local economy.
4.4 The visitor numbers associated with The Priory and the profile and potential growth of Cartmel Racecourse are elements underpinning the Cartmel brand. This is further supported by an emerging and rapidly strengthening food and beverage offer underpinned by the village’s high profile independent businesses including L’Enclume and its associate businesses, the Village Store and its signature Sticky Toffee Pudding range of products and the businesses that have established in and around Unsworth Yard which include Hot Wines and The Red Pepper, the recently established Cartmel Cheeses, Cartmel Bakehouse and Unsworth’s Yard Brewery. The supply chain associated with these successful businesses stretches across the county and beyond.
4.5 A large proportion of the village of Cartmel is situated within high probability flood risk. The flood risk is associated with fluvial flooding from the River Eea.
4.6 The Census Statistics for Lower Allithwaite indicates that the Parish has a higher proportion older residents than South Lakeland, and England (31.5% of the Lower Allithwaite population were aged 65+ years and older compared to 24.2% in South Lakeland and 16.3% in England). A relatively high proportion of residents in the Lower Allithwaite had high levels of satisfaction within living in the area2. Time and again respondents comment on the quality of the countryside, its scenery and its tranquillity.
4.7 In terms of economic activity, the statistics indicated slightly lower or similar figures for Lower Allithwaite compared to South Lakeland area as a whole. For example, 66.9% of people aged 16-74 are economically active compared to 70.4% in South Lakeland. There are a higher number of self-employed (26.2%) compared to 20.8% in South Lakeland and 14% in England.
4.8 Lower Allithwaite has a relatively high proportion of detached houses (45.5% of dwellings compared to South Lakeland, 30.8%) and a low proportion of flats (6.0% of dwellings compared to South Lakeland 15.6%. 83.2% of households in Lower Allithwaite are owner
1 Census 2011 Neighbourhood Statistics 2 Lower Allithwaite Community Plan 2013 Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 12
occupied, compared to 73% in South Lakeland, with 5.7 of households being social rented accommodation compared to 10.7% in South Lakeland.
4.9 In terms of transport and accessibility, households are very reliant in private cars. 45.5% of 822 households (South Lakeland 42.2%) have 1 car and 34.1% (South Lakeland 29.8%) have 2 cars. In total 90.9% of households in South Lakeland have 1 car or more compared to 84.7% across South Lakeland.
4.10 The village of Cartmel is served by the nearby Cark and Cartmel railway station opened in 1857 by the Ulverston and Lancaster Railway and which is currently served by the Furness Line. Insert more information about public transport availability and services.
4.11 In Heritage terms, there is one Conservation Area within the Parish (Cartmel), 96 Listed Buildings, of which 1 is Grade I, and 3 are Grade II*, 5 Scheduled Monuments and 1 Historic Park and Garden.
4.12 The Parish shares a border to the north with the Lake District National Park, and to the west, the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
4.13 The southern section of the parish includes part of the Morecambe Bay RAMSAR site, which is designated a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), and a Special Protection Area (SPA).
4.14 The Parish also contains several areas of Ancient Woodland.
4.15 SG – sum up in a few sentences how you see Lower Allithwaite today and how the Plan is going to help guide the area as it continues to develop up to 2025.
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5.0 Planning Policy Context
5.1 Neighbourhood Development Plans must have regard to national policies and advice and be in general conformity with the strategic policies of the development plan for the area. It is therefore important that as the Plan is prepared, the emerging draft policies reflect this higher level planning framework.
5.2 National planning policy is set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)3 published in 2012. This sets out in paragraphs 6 and 7 that the purpose of the planning system is to contribute to the achievement of sustainable development, and that the planning system has to perform an economic role, a social role and an environmental role.
5.3 Neighbourhood planning is addressed in paragraphs 183-185:
183. Neighbourhood planning gives communities direct power to develop a shared vision for their neighbourhood and deliver the sustainable development they need. Parishes and neighbourhood forums can use neighbourhood planning to:
● set planning policies through neighbourhood plans to determine decisions on planning applications; and
● grant planning permission through Neighbourhood Development Orders and Community Right to Build Orders for specific development which complies with the order.
184. Neighbourhood planning provides a powerful set of tools for local people to ensure that they get the right types of development for their community. The ambition of the neighbourhood should be aligned with the strategic needs and priorities of the wider local area. Neighbourhood plans must be in general conformity with the strategic policies of the Local Plan. To facilitate this, local planning authorities should set out clearly their strategic policies for the area and ensure that an up-to-date Local Plan is in place as quickly as possible. Neighbourhood plans should reflect these policies and neighbourhoods should plan positively to support them. Neighbourhood plans and orders should not promote less development than set out in the Local Plan or undermine its strategic policies.
185. Outside these strategic elements, neighbourhood plans will be able to shape and direct sustainable development in their area. Once a neighbourhood plan has demonstrated its general conformity with the strategic policies of the Local Plan and is brought into force, the policies it contains take precedence over existing non-strategic policies in the Local Plan for that neighbourhood, where they are in conflict. Local planning authorities should avoid duplicating planning processes for non-strategic policies where a neighbourhood plan is in preparation.
5.4 Local Strategic Planning Policy is set out in several local development plan documents (DPD) as follows:
5.5 The South Lakeland Local Plan 2006 ‘Saved’ policies, which will eventually be superseded by the South Lakeland Local Plan Development Management Policies DPD.
3 https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/6077/2116950.pdf
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5.6 The South Lakeland adopted Core Strategy (2010) which sets out an overall vision setting out how the district and places within it should evolve, strategic objectives for the area focusing on key issues, a strategy for the delivery of these objectives, and an explanation of how the delivery process will be monitored.
5.7 A full list of relevant policies is included at Appendix 1.
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6.0 Neighbourhood Plan Policies
This section sets out the planning policies to guide development in Lower Allithwaite up to 2025. The policies are defined below each objective. Whilst the policies are divided between the objective the plan should be read as a whole. 6.1 Built Environment and Heritage Assets
Objective 1 - To raise awareness of Cartmel’s Conservation Area and protect the built environment both in the villages and in the wider countryside.
6.1.1 Lower Allithwaite is an area of great landscape and beauty. Farming provides the landscape and the landscape provides a thriving tourism industry. The local heritage is what gives a place its character. The existing built environment and local heritage are often forgotten elements when it comes to development. The built and historic environment should be conserved and where possible enhanced for future generations to enjoy the beauty.
Community Consultation
6.1.2 A questionnaire was conducted in 2012, and the results fed into the production of a Community Plan for the Parish in 2013. The frequently voiced message was one that the future was that the area and the villages would stay the same. On the whole respondents appreciated how their village looked, and the surrounding countryside was as much if not more important.
6.1.3 Most people felt that alterations or repairs to buildings were in keeping with the village tradition (51% compared with 16% who did not) and that older or more historic buildings were well looked after (57% against 7%). However, neither satisfaction nor dissatisfaction were strong. Residents from Cartmel felt there should be greater enforcement and supervision of conservation area planning principles. Plastic or otherwise inappropriate windows and doors were mentioned frequently.
6.1.4 Cartmel Conservation area is an asset to the Parish. Cartmel was historically situated in the historic county of Lancashire within the Furness peninsular that was popularly known as ‘Lancashire beyond the sands’. It is now located within the modern county of Cumbria and the local government district of South Lakeland and is a medium sized village, the civil parish of which had a resident population of 1,783 in 2003 and 1,811 in 2011. The conservation area includes not only the two separate built up areas that form the settlement but also the immediate landscape setting around the village to the north, south, and west, as well as a narrow corridor of meadow land which separates the two discrete areas.
6.1.5 The following policies seek to ensure that all development within the Parish is of an appropriate design and nature that allows the parish to grow in a way that retains the existing character.
6.1.6 The Parish Council consider that that existing legislation, National Planning Policy, and South Lakeland Core Strategy and associated documents provide appropriate protection for Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 16
Heritage assets in the form of Statutory Listed Buildings. However, protection of Cartmel Conservation Area and non-designated assets are a priority for the Parish Council.
South Lakeland Policy
6.1.6 The South Lakeland Core Strategy has a general design policy (CS8.10) as follows:
The siting, design, scale and materials of all development should be of a character which maintains or enhances the quality of the landscape or townscape and, where appropriate, should be in keeping with local vernacular tradition.
Where necessary, the Council will publish planning and design guidance dealing with particular sites or types of development.
Designs that support and enhance local distinctiveness will be encouraged. New developments should protect and enhance key local views and features / characteristics of local importance and incorporate layouts that reinforce specific local distinctiveness.
6.1.7 The Core Strategy also seeks to protect the historic environment through Policy CS8.6 as follows:
The Core Strategy supports:
• The safeguarding and, where possible, enhancing of historic environment assets, including their characteristic settings and any attributes that contribute to a sense of local distinctiveness. Such assets include listed buildings and features (both statutory and locally listed), conservation areas, scheduled ancient monuments and registered parks and gardens. • Seeking the adaptive reuse of redundant or functionally obsolete listed buildings or important buildings within conservation areas, without harming their essential character. • The preparation of a list of buildings and features of local architectural or historic importance in order to assist in the planning of a prioritised programme of conservation management for such buildings and features. • The production of conservation area management plans to identify and explain how the Council will seek to preserve and enhance the special interest of such areas. • Actions that will ensure the proper conservation of all heritage assets, giving particular priority to those identified as being at risk. • Working with owners of heritage assets to ensure their maintenance and repair accessibility and, where opportunities exist, there use as an educational resource. · • Consideration of the introduction of tighter controls within conservation areas and other sites or areas of heritage importance by implementing Article 4 (2) Directions to control certain types of permitted development, which, if unchecked, would cause harm to the special character and appearance of such areas. • The safeguarding and, where possible enhancement of, locally important archaeological sites and features within the historic environment.
6.1.8 The Parish have produced a Design Guide for future development in the Parish included at Appendix 2.
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Draft Policy LANP1 – Design Principles
All new development will be expected to respond positively to the key attributes of the parish and local design features of the villages. Development will not be supported where it has a detrimental impact on the character of the area in which it is located. All new development will be supported when it meets the following criteria, where relevant:
(a) Development is located in areas of the lowest level of flood risk in accordance with the NPPF; (b) Demonstrates consideration has been given to the use of brownfield sites/conversion of existing buildings; (c) Is capable of being connected to essential infrastructure services with capacity; (d) does not have a detrimental effect on residential amenity by reason of noise or other nuisance; (e) does not have a severe cumulative adverse effect on the safe and efficient operation of the existing transport and road infrastructure; (f) does not result in the loss of an area which makes a significant contribution to public amenity by virtue of its open space character, appearance and function; (g) Includes measures that seek to improve pedestrian facilities and linkages in the Parish and between villages to encourage walking and cycling, wherever possible; (h) Makes a contribution to local identity, and sense of place; (i) Is suitable in terms of the overall design and appearance of the proposed development (including size, scale, density, layout, access) when assessed in relationship with surrounding buildings, spaces, and other features of the street scene; (j) Has taken account of the Lower Allithwaite Parish Design Guide (Appendix 2); (k) Uses, and where appropriate re-uses, local and traditional materials or suitable artificial alternatives; (l) Contributes to reducing carbon emissions, including maximising solar gain through orientation of properties, where possible; and (m) Includes adequate off-street parking, and private and public amenity space for future residents. (n) Does not preclude the implementation of future footpath links throughout the Parish
Draft Policy LANP2 – Development within Cartmel Conservation Area and its setting
All new development within or adjacent to Cartmel Conservation Area (Map 2) will be expected to maintain and where possible enhance the positive attributes Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 18
of the Conservation Area and its setting. Development proposals will be supported where they:
(a) Maintain the historic pattern of development by respecting the historic layout associated with historic plots and the historic evolution of development in the immediate area; (b) Give priority to the retention of architectural important buildings (Appendix 3), where possible; (c) Complement the human scale, height and massing of the existing historic development in the immediate streetscape and the wider conservation area; (d) Reflect the proportion of solid to void (opening to wall) found in the elevations of traditional buildings and employ robust detailing, avoiding use of applied features; (e) Reinforce local identity by the use of the traditional materials used in the conservation area; (f) Re-use traditional buildings which contribute to townscape quality; and (g) Take account of guidance relating to the Conservation Area included in Appendix 3
6.2 Green Infrastructure and Landscape Character
Objective 2 - To protect locally significant green spaces within the villages and in the surrounding countryside from inappropriate development.
Community Consultation
6.2.1 The Community Plan questionnaire results indicate that open spaces in the villages were greatly valued – 91% of respondents indicated such spaces were very or fairly important. In addition, the quality of the surrounding countryside was seen as being of equal or more importance.
6.2.2 70% of people stated that they admired views every single day, these ranging across all areas of the parish. Walking was the most popular activity with 86% of people walking at least weekly and most of them daily. Apart from pure relaxation, which came second to walking, a variety of sports and other leisure activities was listed – cycling, gardening, horse riding, running and many more. Various different open spaces throughout the locality were listed, including footpaths generally, Cartmel park and woods (mentioned by both Allithwaite and Cartmel residents) and Wartbarrow Lane and Fell (Allithwaite). The use of the community centre and playing fields was also referred to.
National Guidance and South Lakeland Policy
6.2.3 Paragraph 76 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) advises that “local communities through local and Neighbourhood Development Plans should be able to identify for special protection green areas of particular importance to them. By designating land as Local Green Space communities will be able to rule out new development other than in very special circumstances”. Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 19
6.2.4 Paragraph 77 of the NPPF advises that “the Local Green Space designation will not be appropriate for most green areas or open space. The designation should only be used:
• where the green space is in reasonably close proximity to the community it serves;
• where the green area is demonstrably special to a local community and holds a particular local significance, for example because of its beauty, historic significance, recreational value (including as a playing field), tranquillity or richness of its wildlife; and • where the green area concerned is local in character and is not an extensive tract of land.”
6.2.5 The South Lakeland Core Strategy sets the spatial strategy for the Cartmel peninsula in Policy CS4 and in relation to environment states that the Council and its partners will:
• Protect and enhance the diverse character and local distinctiveness of the area and promote high quality and locally distinctive design. • Designate (as required) a series of green gaps to prevent the coalescence of individual settlements and thereby protect their individual character and setting. • Protect the network of green infrastructure and important environmental characteristics and, in partnership with landowners, promote their positive use and management. • Ensure that new development safeguards and enhances the natural environment – notably the international designations within the area, including Morecambe Bay and Roudsea Wood, and County Wildlife Sites, and opportunities are taken to create new habitats. • Secure the preservation and enhancement of the very distinctive character and appearance of Cartmel village and ensure that its characteristic landscape setting is protected from harmful development.
6.2.6 The South Lakeland Land Allocations DPD identifies in Policy LA1.9 Green Gaps, an area of land between Grange over Sands and Allithwaite to maintain the visual and functional separation of the two villages.
6.2.7 The South Lakeland Land Allocations DPD also identifies areas of Public Open Space, Amenity Open Space (no public Access) and outdoor sports facilities as identified on the South Lakeland proposals maps in Appendix 4.
6.2.8 The Neighbourhood Plan, through the guidance in the NPPF, gives Parish Council’s the ability to identify further areas of land for protection subject to the criteria in Paragraph 6.2.4 Draft Policy LANP3 Protecting Local Green Space
The following local green spaces as shown on Map 3 are designated in accordance with paragraphs 76 and 77 of the NPPF:
Quarry
Development will be ruled out except in very special circumstances, for example, where essential public utility infrastructure is necessary that cannot be located elsewhere. Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 20
Table 1 – Local Greenspace Lower Allithwaite – NPPF Criteria (SG to complete)
Number and name Distance from Special qualities / local Extensive of site local community significance tract of land
Quarry
6.2.9 Multi-functional green infrastructure is important to underpin the overall sustainability of a development by performing a range of functions including flood risk management, the provision of accessible green space, climate change adaptation and supporting biodiversity. An example of a green infrastructure provision is sustainable drainage systems. These can deliver benefits for people and for wildlife and make a valuable contribution to the local green infrastructure network. Actions such as re-naturalising watercourses can also bring multifunctional benefits, including benefiting flood attenuation. Woodland planting can also help mitigate flooding. Research indicates that green roofs/living roofs can reduce run-off and thereby the risk of surface water flooding; reducing the requirement for heating and air- conditioning; and providing habitat for wildlife.
6.2.10 Proposals may present opportunities to incorporate features such as roosting opportunities for bats, the installation of bird nest boxes or the use of native species in the landscape planting and we advise including within a green infrastructure policy the requirement for ecological enhancements. Draft Policy LANP4 Green Infrastructure and Biodiversity
Lower Allithwaite supports a range of protected and vulnerable species. The Neighbourhood Plan is recognised as an important local tool in ensuring that new development has a positive impact on green infrastructure supporting local wildlife and habitats.
Proposals for new development will be required to:
(a) Incorporate green infrastructure, particularly where it can mitigate the negative impact of the development. (b) Demonstrate how the design has taken into account its potential impact on local habitats and species. (c) Ensure that appropriate measures are put in place to protect wildlife and enhance biodiversity and important habitats. Appropriate measures may include for instance use of swift bricks, bat and owl boxes, and ensuring that new and converted buildings provide nesting and roosting spaces for bats and birds. A mixture of native species typical of this locality should be incorporated in landscaping schemes. (d) Protect and enhance linkages between open spaces supporting the improvement and enhancement of existing footpath networks. (e) Retain existing hedgerows that have a positive impact on the character of the area, where possible. Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 21
(f) Ensure no adverse impact either directly or indirectly, on international, national or locally-designated sites.
6.2.11 Lower Allithwaite has a wealth of significant natural heritage assets. These include:
• Morecambe Bay RAMSAR site, • Morecambe Bay Pavements (SAC), • Morecambe Bay Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), • Morecambe Bay Special Protection Area (SPA). • Roudsea Wood and Mosses National Nature Reserve (NNR) • Roudsea Wood and Mosses Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) • Roudsea Wood and Mosses Special Area Conservation (SAC) • Humphrey Head Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), • Barker Scar Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), • Wart Barrow Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), • Outley Mosses Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), • Ancient Woodland sites as follows: - Collkeld Wood - Humphrey Head Wood - Kirkhead Wood - Hesketh Wood - Cark Shaws - Nicholas Wood - Rye Croft Wood - Hagg and Scroggs Wood - Deanholme Wood - Waitham Wood - Old Park Wood - 5 additional areas of ancient replanted wood - 2 additional areas of ancient and semi natural woodland
6.2.12 In addition, the Parish shares a boundary with the Lake District National Park to the north, and the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) to the west.
6.2.13 In terms of Landscape Character, Lower Allithwaite falls within two National Character Areas which are
• NCA 19 – South Cumbria Low Fells • NCA 20 Morecambe Bay Limestones
6.2.14 The majority of the Parish lies within the Morecambe Bay Limestones Character Area. Morecambe Bay Limestones National Character Area (NCA) is a lowland landscape arcing round the head of Morecambe Bay consisting of conspicuous limestone hills with prominent scars, cliffs, screes and exposed limestone pavements separated by areas of low-lying undulating farmland.
6.2.15 The margins of Morecambe Bay have been formed by faulted outcrops of Lower Carboniferous Limestone, forming upstanding blocks and bare limestone scars, pavements and cliffs. Lower-lying undulating pastoral areas are found between the hills and the coast, Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 22
including a larger-scale rolling landscape to the west and a smaller-scale landscape that contrasts with the surrounding limestone hills to the east. The character of the landscape is shaped by underlying geology, with areas of flat open grazing marsh framed by dramatic limestone outcrops, extensive salt marshes and sand flats re-profiled by the tides, and intimate mosaics of limestone woodland and limestone grasslands. The dynamic landscape of the coastal fringe is dominated by the intertidal foreshore with extensive areas of mudflat, sand flat and salt marsh backed by low limestone cliffs, pebble beaches or manmade defences.
6.2.16 Insert section in relation to drumlin/coastal dunes landscape and River Eea
6.2.17 As can be seen from the questionnaire responses, the community consider it a priority for the Neighbourhood Plan to protect the character of the landscapes surrounding the villages and in the wider Parish. Draft Policy LANP5 Protecting and Enhancing Local Landscape Character around Lower Allithwaite
New development should include landscaping schemes which aim to protect and enhance local landscape character in the Parish.
New development on the fringes of the villages should aim to:
(a) Preserve the landscape setting of Cartmel and Allithwaite. (b) Those parts of the locally significant views identified on Map 4 that are visible from locations that are freely accessible to members of the general public should be preserved and not significantly detracted from. Developments should take into consideration any adverse impacts on these views through landscape appraisals and impact studies. (c) Preserve and enhance the areas of ancient woodland in the Parish. (d) Promote high quality residential design that respects local townscape and landscape character and reflects local vernacular building styles, layouts and materials. (e) Conserve existing landscape features such as trees and hedges as intrinsic parts of new development. (f) Seek to minimise the encroachment of development into visually exposed landscapes. (g) Seek to preserve and enhance the integrity and fabric of historic buildings and their settings, particularly where new uses are proposed, through the use of appropriate styles and sustainable locally distinctive materials; (h) Has taken account of the Lower Allithwaite Parish Design Guide (Appendix 2);
6.2.18 The Parish Council also consider light pollution to be a significant risk to the natural environment, and propose the following policy to alleviate any future issues.
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 23
Draft Policy LANP6 Dark Skies
To minimise light pollution and to maintain the views of night time skies, planning proposals that include external lighting will have to demonstrate the following:
(a) They have undertaken an assessment of the need for lighting and can demonstrate need; and (b) The nature of the proposed lighting is appropriate for its use and location. The Institution of Lighting Professionals (ILP) has provided guidance on acceptable levels of illumination for specific areas.
Applicants will be required to assess the need for lighting, including lighting on a timer, whether the benefits of the lighting outweigh any harm caused and any alternative measures available i.
6.3 Transport including Pedestrian Safety and Countryside Access
Objective 3 - To protect and enhance existing levels of access to the local countryside. Objective 4 - To review parking for residents, businesses and visitors, in order to reduce the congestion caused by inappropriate parking in villages, improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety. Objective 5 - To promote safer use of the road network, to ensure safer pedestrian and cycle access within and between villages, improve and enhance the cycle network, and improve disabled access to the footpath network.
Community Consultation
6.3.1 The Community Plan questionnaire results indicate that respondents viewed road traffic (57%), parking (53%) and safety (39%) as serious concerns, which were very much intertwined. These issues particularly affected the centre of the villages but also, to an extent, the wider area. The volume and speed of traffic were a concern and a reduced speed limit, particularly within the villages, was the most supported of the presented options.
6.3.2 Parking was seen as a significant problem. 53% of people confirmed this, the proportion being higher for Cartmel (62%). The problem was a daily one rather than particularly during holiday periods and related to parking in the villages (51% seeing this as a major or minor problem) rather than outside one’s home (a major or minor problem for 27%).
6.3.3 In both villages the combination of narrow roads and indiscriminate parking created real difficulties. Allithwaite respondents commented how parking both sides of the road could make it difficult for large vehicles to get through. The school run was considered part of the Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 24
problem. The location most complained about in Allithwaite was Church Road, a particular difficulty for people wanting to park near their home.
6.3.4 Despite these views, a number of respondents felt parking was not really an issue in the village but that the situation would be helped if homeowners who had a drive used it.
6.3.5 In Cartmel the problem was almost everywhere, but especially in the centre, where again indiscriminate parking made things difficult. The extent of parking by business owners and employees, unrestricted by any short stay regulation, was commented on; parked delivery vehicles were also a regular problem.
Cartmel Township Initiative
6.3.6 Recommendation on a wide range of issues were made as part of the Cartmel Township Initiative resulting in an Action Plan to carry forwards as follows:
1 Introduce a Restricted Parking Zone across the village - This measure will require an associated dedicated consultation period and Cumbria County Council (CCC) approval.
2 Introduce short term time limited public parking bays in the centre of the village - This measure will require an associated dedicated consultation period and Cumbria County Council (CCC) approval.
3 Introduce residents' parking permit regime across Cartmel’s Restricted Parking Zone - This measure will require an associated dedicated consultation period and Cumbria County Council (CCC) approval.
4 Formalise business parking permit scheme on the Racecourse car park - Will need an attractive pricing regime to encourage uptake together with effective promotion.
5 Improve signage - Develop a signage strategy focusing on clearer directions to the village centre car park, points of interest around the village and parking restrictions.
6 Improve coach parking -and lay over provision, travelling anti-clockwise along The Causeway - Likely to require a review of on-street parking regime around the junction between Aynsome Road and The Causeway as part of the new restricted parking zone measures.
7 Promote Cartmel as a good destination for coach trips - Will require an update of the Cumbria4Coaches promotional leaflet and liaison with Cumbria Tourism.
8 Riverside enhancements - Implementing a well-designed hard and soft landscape scheme along the river edge to create an attractive amenity for visitors and residents.
9 Cycle Facilities - Measures would include provision of cycle parking/hire facilities to promote recreational cycling around the village for visitors.
10 Formalise race day access arrangements to enable one-way entry/exit of Racecourse car park - Upgrading of the route for public use across private land will need to be progressed in consultation with CCC. Will require directional signage at the threshold with the public highway. Any proposed highway works to improve the exit route from the racecourse should be undertaken in accordance with Cumbria County Council Highway Design Standards. Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 25
11 Improve lighting across Racecourse car park, along routes to and from it and within the village - Design and impact will need to be managed carefully to maintain the rural character and avoid light pollution.
12 Introduce one-way entrance arrangement to Racecourse car park - Should only be implemented once exit improvements via the race-day access gate have been implemented. Will need signage on the public highway.
13 Co-ordinated programme of environmental improvements in conjunction with potential introduction of one-way working - Comprehensive programme of environmental improvements across the village – focusing on the public spaces either side of The Square. Key elements in such an approach would be:
1. A gateway feature at the southern end of The Square to signify entry into the historic core of the village;
2. Agree with CCC and SLDC the pallet of materials for surface treatment improvements;
3. A new pedestrian bridge connecting Ford Road with The Square
South Lakeland Policy
6.3.7 Policy CS4 of the South Lakeland Core Strategy relating to the Cartmel peninsula states that The District Council will work with partners to improve public transport as part of a comprehensive sustainable transport network within the Cartmel Peninsula Area to support planned future growth.
6.3.8 Policy CS9.2 of the South Lakeland Core Strategy relates to Developer Contribution. This states that the Council will require new developments to secure improvements which are necessary to make the development acceptable by planning condition or obligations, and these must be phased so as to be in place in accordance with any agreed time frame prior to the occupation of an agreed number of units.
6.3.9 Planning obligations may also be required for maintenance payments, to meet the initial running costs of services and facilities and to compensate for loss or damage caused by development.
6.3.10 The Council will work with developers and service providers to secure the necessary improvements to the following types of infrastructure and determine the appropriate range and level of provision /contributions:
Physical infrastructure, which could include –
• Transport relating to highways/roads, rail, waterways, bus/other vehicular public transport, cycle, bridleway and pedestrian access and the securing of Travel Plans; • Waste recycling and management facilities; • Water facilities; • Drainage and flood defence/prevention measures; • Other utilities such as gas, electricity and telecommunications services.
Social/Community infrastructure, which could include –
• Health Care facilities; Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 26
• Education including local labour, training initiatives and childcare; • Community facilities (for example libraries, community centres/village halls, cultural, leisure and religious facilities).
Green infrastructure, which could include –
• Recreation provision (including open space, allotments, play and sport facilities); • Biodiversity; • Enhancement of the public realm, including public art, civic space and the historic environment.
6.3.11 In addition, Policy CS10.2 states that the Council will work with partners to promote a network of safe cycle and walking routes linking residential areas with employment areas, town and local centres, schools, recreational open space and facilities Draft Policy LANP7 - Traffic Management and Transport Improvements
Proposals to improve road safety and traffic management throughout the Parish will be fully supported
Developer contributions and Community Infrastructure Levy payments will be sought towards the following: • Highway improvement schemes to promote the safety of pedestrians and cycle users; • Traffic calming measures, pedestrian priority schemes and the reduction in traffic speeds on routes throughout the Parish; • Highway measures identified in the Cartmel Township Initiative Action Plan.
Do you want to include any further measures in this section?
Draft Policy LANP8 - Footpaths/cycleways/connectivity
Proposals for the enhancement and improvement of the existing footpath/cycleway network, and the provision of new links as shown on Map 5, will be supported.
• All new proposals should include the following enhancements to maximise accessibility to residents and to support local biodiversity: • enhanced public access and appropriate signage from residential areas; • new footpaths and cycle routes linking to existing and new networks; and • linkages to wildlife corridors and provision of landscaping and planting along routes to support local biodiversity objectives such as provision of new areas of woodland, new hedgerows, grassland and wetland habitats.
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 27
6.4 Housing
Objective 6 - To ensure housing stock meets local affordable needs and enables people of all ages to continue to resident within the local area. Objective 7 - Ensure new housing developments are small scale and meet the aspirations of low density and appropriate design. Objective 8 - To ensure the proportion of permanent dwellings to holiday homes remains at a level that supports a sustainable local community.
6.4.1 The result of the Community plan questionnaire in 2012, indicated that housing was a burning issue amongst the community. In addition, it was felt that any housing development should be small scale: 57% were in favour of just 1 to 3 houses, whereas just 9% would support developments of 10 or more. On the other hand, the great majority of respondents showed strong support for affordable housing, 75% regarding this as very or fairly important. 71% of respondents supported the principle of building for local occupancy, particularly for people connected with the parish.
South Lakeland Policy
6.4.2 The South Lakeland Land Allocations DPD includes several housing allocations in the Lower Allithwaite Parish as follows:
Settlement Site Area Phase 1 Phase 2 (Hectares) 2013- 2018- 2018 2023 Allithwaite LAND SOUTH OF GREEN LANE 0.8 22 Allithwaite LAND REAR OF BARN HEY 1.1 30 Allithwaite LAND NORTH OF JACK HILL 0.98 27 (SL/2014/0800) Granted - 1 Allithwaite LAND TO REAR OF ALMOND 0.4 11 BANK Cartmel LAND AT HAGGS LANE 2.2 19 20 Cartmel CARTMEL STABLES, CARTMEL 0.48 15 RACECOURSE
6.4.3 South Lakeland Policy CS6.2 states that The Core Strategy seeks to ensure that:
• New developments offer a range of housing sizes and types, taking account of the housing requirement of different groups of society, including the need to deliver low cost market housing as part of the overall housing mix. • All new housing should be easily adaptable for everyone, from young families to older people and individuals with a temporary or permanent physical impairment. The Council will seek housing to be built to Lifetime Homes standards in accordance with its requirement at a national level through building regulations.
6.4.4 The provision of purpose-built and/or specialist accommodation for the elderly, in appropriate locations within selected settlements in accordance with CS1, and well served by Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 28
public transport and local services, will be supported, provided that it does not detract from the character of the surrounding areas or involve the use of land safeguarded for employment purposes where the need for such safeguarding remains. The Council will liaise and negotiate with the County Council Adult Social Care Services how older persons housing needs will be accommodated using findings contained within relevant studies and reports (such as the 2009 Planning4Care Report).
6.4.5 Applicants should ensure that plans submitted for planning permission, together with the accompanying access statement, explain how each of the design criteria as required at a national level through building regulations relating to for Lifetime Homes standards has been satisfied in the proposal. The Council will work in partnership with developers and other housing providers to address the housing requirements.
6.4.6 The Parish Council consider it very important to have some control over the design of these sites, where planning permission has not already been granted.
6.4.7 The following policy, read in conjunction with other relevant polices within this Neighbourhood Development Plan seeks to guide future developers to ensure the proposals are in keeping with the location of the sites. Draft Policy LANP9 – New Housing in Lower Allithwaite
Over the plan period, within the defined settlement boundaries for Allithwaite and Cartmel, (as defined on the SLDC Proposals map in Appendix 4), proposals for new housing development will only be supported where they meet the following criteria:
(a) Reflect the size, role and function of the village and relates well to the existing layout of the village; (b) Give priority to the development of suitable brownfield sites, where possible; (c) Are of a high standard of design in accordance with policies LANP1, and LANP2 (where relevant) and make a positive contribution to the surrounding environment and rural landscape (LANP5). Proposals should not feature generic designs and should display how they take account of the locally distinctive character of the area in which they are to be sited; (d) Do not result in a loss of protected open space as identified by South Lakeland District Council (e) Do not result in the loss of a Local Green Space as identified in this Neighbourhood Plan; (f) Do not result in the loss of a community facility identified in Policy ; (g) Reflect the design of properties in the immediate surrounding areas (h) Include direct pedestrian/cycle links to existing village facilities (i) Ensure safe vehicle and pedestrian access (j) Ensure no impact on residential amenity of existing dwellings (k) Explore the use of renewable energy including solar gain within the design (l) Respect existing natural and built features on the site (m) Take account of the Lower Allithwaite Parish Design Guide (Appendix 2). Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 29
6.4.8 With regards to existing households in the Parish, the following date on house sizes and tenures has been extracted from the Census 2011 data.
Number of bedrooms in existing households (Census 2011) 50.0%
40.0%
30.0%
20.0%
10.0%
0.0% No Bedrooms 2 Bedroom 3 Bedrooms 4 Bedrooms 5 Bedrooms 6 or More Bedrooms
Lower Allithwaite Parish South Lakeland North West Region
Tenure of existing households (Census 2011) 60.0% 50.0% 40.0% 30.0% 20.0% 10.0% 0.0% Owned; Owned; Shared Living Rent Owned Owned with a Ownership Free Outright Mortgage or (Part Owned Loan and Part Rented)
Lower Allithwaite Parish South Lakeland North West Region
Draft Policy LANP10 – Ensuring a mix of types, sizes and tenures
All proposals for new housing development will have to demonstrate how they contribute to maintaining an appropriate mix of tenures, types and size of dwelling in the Parish. This shall be assessed in accordance with the latest information available.
Affordable Housing will be provided in accordance with South Lakeland District Council’s relevant policies. Affordable dwellings will be available for people with a local connection in housing need in accordance with South Lakeland District Council’s housing policy. The Parish Council will support the provision of 1,2 and 3 bed Affordable Homes on a site. Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 30
Sites including affordable housing should integrate both affordable housing and market housing across a site. Development that leads to concentrations of different types and tenures of homes in separate groups on a site will not be supported. The Parish Council support the integration of mixed sizes and tenures across each site.
6.4.8 Over 10% of properties in the Lower Allithwaite Parish are recorded as second homes. This is the highest level in South Lakeland outside of the Lake District National Park. There are also xx properties which have been granted planning permission as a holiday lets. In order to meet the housing needs of local people, bring greater balance and mixture to the local housing market and create new opportunities for people to live and work here, to strengthen our community and the local economy the Lower Allithwaite NDP also supports the provision of full time principal residence housing. This is new housing which has to be used as the principal residence of the household living in it, but does not have the price controls that affordable housing does, or any local connection requirement.
6.4.9 Over the last ten years, the increase in the number of dwellings was 8% (907 in 2001, 981 in 2011), however the increase in resident population in the Parish amounted to 4% ( 1758 in 2001, 1831 in 2011), and the number of households increased by 5.9% (776 in 2001, 822 in 2011)
6.4.10 The Parish Council consider it important to have some control over further second homes, to ensure the sustainability of existing communities and the viability and vitality of the existing villages.
Insert Map of properties in Cartmel Draft Policy LANP11 – Principle Residence Requirement
Due to the impact upon the local housing market of the continued uncontrolled growth of dwellings used for holiday accommodation (as second or holiday homes) new open market housing, excluding replacement dwellings, will only be supported where there is a restriction to ensure its occupancy as a Principal Residence.
Sufficient guarantee must be provided of such occupancy restriction through the imposition of a planning condition or legal agreement. New unrestricted second homes will not be supported at any time.
Principal Residences are defined as those occupied as the residents’ sole or main residence, where the residents spend the majority of their time when not working away from home.
The condition or obligation on new open market homes will require that they are occupied only as the primary (principal) residence of those persons entitled to occupy them. Occupiers of homes with a Principal Residence condition will be required to keep proof that they are meeting the obligation or condition, and be Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 31
obliged to provide this proof if/when South Lakeland District Council requests this information. Proof of Principal Residence is via verifiable evidence which could include, for example (but not limited to) residents being registered on the local electoral register and being registered for and attending local services (such as healthcare, schools etc.).
6.4.11 The Parish Council also consider that opportunities for housing in the surrounding hamlets in the Parish should also be available to the local community.
6.4.12 South Lakeland Policy CS6.4 states that housing development proposals outside of the settlement boundaries in the Service Centres, and where it does not constitute infilling or rounding off in the smaller villages and hamlets without boundaries will only be considered where they provide 100% affordable housing under the following exception site criteria:
• There is clear evidence of local support for the scheme, having regard to the views of the Parish Councils within the Local Area Partnership • There is clear and robust evidence of housing need. • The housing will be affordable in perpetuity and for people with a local connection. • The scheme is of a scale and style appropriate to its immediate surroundings. • There is clear evidence of the viability of the scheme. • The scheme demonstrates good design that is sympathetic to the local area.
6.4.13 The Council will facilitate a rolling programme of Housing Needs Surveys to provide evidence of local need. The Core Strategy also supports the development of Community Land Trusts (CLTs) as a vehicle for the Community Led Affordable Housing. The Council will continue to utilise resources from additional Council Tax from Second Home owners to allocate directly to affordable housing initiatives. Draft Policy LANP12 – Housing in Existing Hamlets and Farmsteads Is this the kind of policy you were thinking of?? The presumption is in favour of the retention of existing traditional buildings in the countryside, where appropriate. New housing development will only be permitted in existing hamlets and farmsteads in accordance with the relevant South Lakeland policies and subject to the following criteria:
• The conversion of traditional agricultural buildings to dwellings will be permitted providing: - The building forms part of an existing group of buildings and is not in an isolated location (visually and physically); and - There is no detrimental effect on the form, design, character and setting of the building; and - The building is capable of conversion without significant extension; and - The building is structurally sound and capable of conversion without the need for complete or substantial reconstruction; and - The conversion will not have a detrimental impact on the appearance or character of the landscape; and Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 32
- The conversion is in keeping with the character of the landscape, reflecting local distinctiveness, vernacular style, scale, feature and building materials; and - The conversion would not be detrimental to the continued agricultural operation of the site as a whole.
• The rebuilding or replacement of existing dwellings is acceptable subject to the following criteria: - The residential use of the property should not have been abandoned. - There would be no adverse impact on the landscape in relation to the setting, design or character of new dwelling.
Draft Policy LANP13 – Development in Rural Gardens Is this the kind of policy you were thinking of?? The development of residential garden ground for housing will only be supported in the following circumstances 1) The site area is equal to or less than 0.2 ha in size; and 2) The site is regarded as infill plots; 3) There is no adverse impact on the character or amenity of the area; 4) The development is in accordance with all other relevant policies within this plan.
6.5 Economy and Tourism
Objectives need to be included for tourism/Economy.
6.5.1 Justification to be completed at a later date
Draft Policy LANP14 – Supporting existing local employment
The loss of existing employment premises will only be permitted when:
1. The employment premises have been empty for over 12 months and during that time actively marketed without securing a viable alternative employment use or equivalent, or 2. better provision is made elsewhere within the parish to replace the proposed loss of local employment space.
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 33
Draft Policy LANP15 – Supporting new employment opportunities
Development proposals resulting in new local employment, including in rural enterprises and live/work facilities, will be supported where:
1. They utilise brownfield sites or existing buildings, or demonstrate such suitable sites or premises are unavailable in which case they should not use the best or most versatile agricultural land or lead to the loss of green infrastructure of acknowledged importance; 2. They are of a scale that does not have a significant adverse impact on their landscape setting, or on residential amenity, and they demonstrate satisfactory traffic access arrangements.”
Draft Policy LANP16 – Holiday Parks and Touring/Camping sites
Development of new sites or the extension or intensification of existing sites for caravans, lodges and tents, including static caravans or other year round stationed units, will be supported only where there would be no harm to the character of the countryside and the site is capable of being effectively screened by landform, trees or planting. The layout of such units will be required to avoid a rigid pattern which would not be in keeping with the surroundings. Ancillary facilities to serve the visitors staying on the site must be on or immediately adjacent to the site in existing buildings or new buildings which are of a form, bulk and general design in keeping with their surroundings.
The design, height and colour of future units shall have regards to the surrounding landform, long distance views and landscaping.
On touring sites, a seasonal period of use will be imposed unless there would be no harm to the character or amenity of the countryside.
6.6 Community Facilities
Objectives need to be included for protection/enhancement of community facilities.
6.6.1 Justification to be completed at a later date
Draft Policy LANP17 – Provision, Retention and Enhancement of Community facilities
The Parish Council will permit proposals for new, and improvements to existing, Community Facilities, provided that: 1. adequate provision for parking is provided; Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 34
2. the site is, wherever possible, located in or adjacent to the settlement boundary; 3. the site is accessible by walking and cycling; 4. there are opportunities to integrate services; 5. detrimental impacts on road safety or traffic flow can be satisfactorily mitigated in the interests of both road users and users of the proposed development; and 6. the proposal would not have an adverse effect on residential amenity.
There will be a presumption in favour of the protection of existing facilities. The change of use of local community facilities, as listed below, will only be permitted for other health, education or community type uses (such as village halls, local clubhouses, health centres, schools and children’s day nurseries), unless one of the following can be demonstrated:
(a) The proposal includes alternative provision, on a site within the locality, of equivalent or enhanced facilities. Such sites should be accessible by public transport, walking and cycling and have adequate car parking. (b) Satisfactory evidence is produced that, over a minimum period of 12 months, it has been demonstrated that there is no longer a demand for the facility.
The facilities are listed as follows:
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 35
Glossary
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 36
Appendix 1 Relevant Planning Policies
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 37
Appendix 2 Parish Design Guidance
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 38
Appendix 3 Conservation Area Guidance
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 39
Appendix 4 South Lakeland Proposals Maps
Lower Allithwaite Neighbourhood Development Plan to 2025 –Discussion Draft April 2016 40