Infrastructure Programme Area Review

Developing Stratford District’s Strategic Infrastructure Projects

Final Report 10th May 2017

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review

Prepared by: Mike Woollacott & Andy McDarmaid, ATI Projects Ltd

Project Reference: ATI 064

Confidentiality, copyright and reproduction

This report is the Copyright of Stratford District Council, and has been prepared by ATI Projects Ltd. The contents of this report may not be reproduced in whole or in part, nor passed to any organisation or person without the specific prior written permission of Stratford District Council. ATI Projects Ltd accepts no liability whatsoever to any third party for any loss or damage arising from any interpretation or use of the information contained in this report, or reliance on any views expressed therein.

ATI Projects Ltd, Minerva Mill, Station Road, Alcester, Warwickshire, B49 5ET T: 01789 761367 E: [email protected] w: www.atiprojects.co.uk SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ 10.5.2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Executive Summary ...... 1 Programme Analysis Approach ...... 2 Infrastructure Working Group ~ Project Areas ...... 3 PROGRAMME AREA ~ TOURISM ...... 7 Project 12~Stratford to Warwick Avon Navigation ~ the ‘South Warwickshire Ring’ ...... 7 Project 4 ~ World Shakespeare Centre ...... 11 PROGRAMME AREA ~ ENTERPRISE ...... 13 Project 1 ~ Business Centres ...... 13 Project 1a ~ Studley Digital and Creative Hub ...... 15 Project 11 ~ Wellesbourne Innovation Campus, University of Warwick ...... 20 PROGRAMME AREA ~ REGENERATION ...... 22 Project 21 ~ Priory Square (former Co-operative Retail site), Studley ...... 22 PROGRAMME AREA ~ TRANSPORT ...... 24 Project 8 ~ Improved Rail Connectivity ...... 24 Project 9 ~ South Stratford Transport Hub ...... 29 Project 10 ~ Stratford Eastern Relief Road ...... 31 Project 19 ~ South Western Relief Roads ...... 33 APPENDICES ~ SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION ...... 35 Appendix 1 ~ Core Strategy Compliance Statements ...... 35 Appendix 2 ~ Infrastructure Project Locations ...... 37

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ 10.5.2017

Executive Summary

1. Stratford District Council is committed to a programme of infrastructure projects designed to ease traffic congestion, improve transport links, raise air quality standards, increase tourism, encourage enterprise and support inward investment.

2. Local consultants ATI Projects Ltd who have a successful track record of building initiatives and accessing funding for SDC and other local councils have been engaged to prepare a review of infrastructure projects.

3. A long list of infrastructure projects was identified by the Infrastructure Working Group (Portfolio Holder and Senior Council Officers) in conjunction with the Consultants.

4. The Consultants have taken account of recent surveys of Stratford District’s business and resident communities - ‘sounding boards’ – which provided feedback on the infrastructure project priorities.

5. The Consultants have categorized the Infrastructure projects within four categories – Transport, Enterprise, Tourism and Regeneration. These differ slightly from the surveys but in essence reflect the main themes within the Infrastructure Strategy.

6. Following an initial assessment, those infrastructure initiatives which are already being progressed, where stakeholder engagement exists or where access to external funding is likely, have received closer analysis and are summarized in this Review.

7. Individual project summaries have examined the challenges each project is to address, the background, the current situation, the main opportunities, the main issues to be faced, the next steps, the key stakeholders and the delivery forecasts.

8. Those projects considered to be outside of the direct control of the Council, or which are not yet clearly identified or are already well under way were excluded from the more detailed Programme Review.

9. Five project areas were identified as being appropriate and suitable to be worked up as ‘shovel-ready’ projects suitable for current and future funding bids.

10. In the course of their work, the Consultants have engaged with key stakeholders to identify their project objectives, their commitment to proceed and their willingness to work with the Council to achieve results.

11. Each infrastructure project reviewed was benchmarked against the Corporate Priorities included within the Core Strategy 2016, and has been cross-checked by the Council’s Policy Planning Officers as due diligence (Appendix 1).

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ 16.5.2017

Programme Analysis Approach

Project consultants ATI Projects Ltd have been appointed by Stratford District Council (SDC) to prepare a listing and carry out a review of those strategic infrastructure projects with the potential for further development and in particular could attract external funding. For a number of years, investment in key infrastructure development across the District – and indeed the pursuance of funding activities to support the development of such investment – has been limited. This Review summarises the Council’s key infrastructure projects and creates a series of pre-application project outlines. As a result of this Review, a selection of projects has been identified where there is strong evidence of stakeholder commitment and potential for external funding. Following Council approval, these projects will be subject to preparation of expressions of interest and bids for future regional and national funding applications leading to interventions which bring economic, social and environmental benefits to residents, businesses and visitors.

Method The first task was to identify and prepare a long list of 24 projects which divided into four distinct categories: a) Transport b) Tourism c) Enterprise d) Regeneration This has enabled the Consultants and the Council to cluster projects with a common focus and shared issues as against ‘stand-alone’. Whilst the sector allocation is useful, there will be a degree of overlap and integration of all four categories in order to ensure that actions planned address the combination of economic, social and environmental issues and opportunities that the infrastructure programme intends.

Individual projects have been the subject of an initial assessment of current – and changing - situation, and other existing information. The project categories covered in this Interim Report reflect the range of challenges – and opportunities – facing the Council in the short, medium and long term. The summaries highlight the likely timing of events which will impact upon project development, funding and subsequent implementation. It should be noted (as shown in the table overleaf) that a number of projects are out of the direct control of SDC e.g. A46 Highways Authority. Others are already underway as part of existing delivery projects e.g. Canal Basin – and as such have been excluded from this Programme Area Study.

The next phase of activity will focus upon those infrastructure projects which have identified potential to move forward, have good local stakeholder commitment and engagement, require a degree of further project development and have good prospects for submission of applications for external grants and other funding.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ 16.5.2017

Infrastructure Working Group ~ Project Areas

Following a review of the Infrastructure Projects longlist identified by the SDC Infrastructure Working Group, and of the Business and Residents ‘sounding board’ surveys, it became clear that whilst there were a number of project areas that could be classified as ‘of high priority or essential’, some of these were already the subject of detailed discussions, consultations, agreements and feasibility studies involving outside agencies.

It was also apparent that whilst certain projects are indeed considered important to businesses, residents and the District Council itself e.g. A46 upgrade; improved rail services to London, responsibility for the planning and delivery of such initiatives does not lie within the District Council’s power and jurisdiction.

As such, the Consultants were asked to identify those infrastructure projects which could be fairly easily worked up into ‘shovel ready projects’ and were essentially within the level of control that SDC could exert and manage. Particular attention was given to those infrastructure project areas where a strong partnership between SDC and the stakeholder groups already exists or has good potential to be cultivated. These projects are considered to have good prospects to ‘tap into’ current funding streams e.g. tourism; enterprise – and would form the next phase of preparing ‘shovel-ready’ funding applications:

 Upper Avon Navigation  World Shakespeare Centre  Studley Digital Creative Enterprise Hub  Wellesbourne Innovation Campus  Studley former Co-op site

The Review also highlighted those projects within the Transport category where a body of work has been undertaken yet where the main impetus for further development, consultation, and eventually funding lies with SDC and their development partners. Such projects were reviewed to illustrate the level of current activity and progress – as well as an identification of the challenges and timescales likely:

 Rail Connectivity to/from Stratford  South Stratford Transport Hub  Eastern Relief Road  South West Relief Road

Other project areas are as yet not clearly identified or at an early development stage: whilst these were listed, due to resource limitations they were excluded from detailed investigation. However, this sub-list will be kept under constant review to be brought forward especially as new funding or incentive programmes are announced e.g. cycle routes; electric transportation.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ 16.5.2017

Infrastructure Project Listing

SDC Infrastructure Projects Listing Summary Ref PROJECT TYPE Stakeholders (lead underlined) included 1 Business Enterprise Centres ENTERPRISE YES SDC, town councils, C&W Chamber WCC; Johnsons; SDC; other coach 2 BHX to Stratford coach link TRANSPORT NO operators 3 Stratford Masterplan TOURISM NO SDC; STC; property owners

4 World Shakespeare Centre TOURISM YES Shakespeare's Birthplace Trust; SDC; STC

5 RSC - Costume Workshops TOURISM NO Royal Shakespeare Company; SDC Highways England; WCC; SDC; 7 A46 Dual Carriageway TRANSPORT NO Environment Agency SDC, Chiltern Rail, London Midland, 8 Rail Connectivity TRANSPORT YES Visit Britain 9 South Stratford Transport Hub TRANSPORT YES SDC, Cala Homes, WCC

10 Eastern Relief Road TRANSPORT YES SDC, WCC Warwick University; SDC; WCC; 11 Wellesbourne Innovation Campus ENTERPRISE YES Wellesbourne Parish Council Avon Navigation Trust; VisitBritain; 12 Upper Avon Navigation TOURISM YES Canal & Rivers Trust; SDC; WDC 13 Town Centre Shared Space TRANSPORT NO SDC; STC; WCC

14 Enhanced Cycle Routes TRANSPORT NO SDC; WCC; Sustrans SDC; Stratford Town Council; 15 Stratford Canal Quarter REGENERATION NO Stratforward; property owners 16 Warwickshire/Stratford Colleges ENTERPRISE NO Colleges; SDC

17 A3400 Birmingham Road TRANSPORT NO WCC; SDC; STC; developers

18 Broadband post BDUK ENTERPRISE NO WCC; SDC; BT

19 SW Relief Road TRANSPORT YES SDC, Cala, Bloor, WCC

20 Stratford Station Refurb TRANSPORT NO London Midland; SDC SDC; Cooperative Society; Studley 21 Studley former Co-op site REGENERATION YES Parish Council 22 Long Marston Airfield REGENERATION NO SDC; Cala Homes

23 Gaydon Lighthorn Heath Village REGENERATION NO SDC; developer

24 Stratford Gateway Project ENTERPRISE NO SDC; developers

Infrastructure Project Locations It is important to note that the SDC Infrastructure Programme not only proposes actions within Stratford Town itself but includes projects that impact across the District from Wellesbourne to Studley, from Shipston to Southam, from Henley to Alcester. The location of proposed projects is shown in Appendix 2.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ 16.5.2017

Business Sounding Board ~ Strategic Projects Survey This recent study (February 2017) carried out by SDC was intended to gain feedback from the business community in Stratford upon Avon and across the District to the Council’s Strategic Review. However, responses were low – with only 54 respondents (15.4%) from a circulation of 350 businesses that make up the ‘Stratford District Business Sounding Board’. The Council is correct therefore to say that the views and opinions may not therefore be representative and should be treated with caution.

The categories of the Business Sounding Board questionnaire are broadly in line with those listed and covered within the ATI Projects Infrastructure Projects Review:

Transport - Of these, transport issues feature prominently and as such are the main focus of the Council’s Infrastructure Strategy. Key findings were:

 Rail – 67% of respondents indicating that improved rail links between Stratford upon Avon and London (frequency and journey speed), whereas 47% suggested that rail journey time to and from Birmingham should be addressed. Other rail issues were considered less of a priority.  Road – clearly with 87% of respondents highlighting the urgency to address the congestion on Birmingham Road, this remains the over-riding priority for both SDC and the County Council. 64% see the improvements to the A46 as ‘high priority or essential’ and the Eastern Relief Road is also high on the priority list (72%). All the other road infrastructure initiatives (e.g. Southam relief, cycle routes, airport coach services) received much less support.

Local Economy and Tourism The investment in science and technology workspace in the District is highly rated in the survey (57% high priority or essential). The location(s) of this ‘centre of excellence’ is unspecified. As such, development at sites such as the Wellesbourne Innovation Campus (Warwick University) and at industrial estates in Alcester, Studley, Southam, Shipston and Henley could encourage a greater concentration of science and technical mix of companies to reflect the inward investment of major companies such as JLR and Codemasters leading to an increase in the highly skilled employment opportunities across the District.

The survey does acknowledge the importance of tourism and improving the visitor experience through projects such as the Town Centre Shared Space initiative (43% high importance or essential), although as in the transport sector, cycle routes and bike schemes do not attract much support from the business respondents.

Housing, Health and Well-being The ATI Infrastructure Review was not asked to specifically address projects within these categories as part of the Infrastructure Review – but it is noted that the business respondents provided some support and anecdotal evidence that key worker housing was becoming an issue worthy of attention – especially in light of the cost of housing in the town and district. Health and Well-being projects gained some good support for improved health services and new ‘green’ spaces for activity and leisure e.g. cycle and greenways.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ 16.5.2017

Citizen’s Panel – Strategic Review The Citizen’s Panel reviews are undertaken periodically to canvas the views of residents in the District to SDC proposals. The review focuses on a limited number of policy areas each time it is undertaken with the consultation in November 2016 concerned with Transport & Infrastructure, Local Economy & Tourism, Housing and Health & Wellbeing. Responses were received from 495 residents (44.2%) from the total distribution of 1,134 questionnaires issued to the Citizen’s Panel members.

Half of the categories of the Citizen’s Panel questionnaire were in line with those listed on page 4 and covered within the ATI Projects Infrastructure Projects Review:

Transport - Of these, transport issues feature prominently and as such are the main focus of the Council’s Infrastructure Strategy. Key findings were:

 Road – 83% of respondents indicated that addressing the congestion on Birmingham Road was a ‘high/essential priority’ for both SDC and the County Council to address. Also 60% of respondents indicated the building of an Eastern Relief Road was a ‘high/essential priority’ to reduce traffic congestion in the town centre. The upgrade of the A46 received slightly less support as a high/essential priority (54%), with all the other road infrastructure.

 Rail – 58% of respondents stated that it should be a ‘high/essential priority’ to improve rail links to London from Stratford (frequency and journey speed), and 47% indicated that rail journey time to and from Birmingham should also be addressed. All other rail issues such as links to HS2 and to the Cotswold Line were considered less of a priority.

Local Economy and Tourism 51% of residents rated investment in science and technology workspace in the District as high/essential in the survey. As such, development at sites such as the Wellesbourne Innovation Campus (Warwick University) and at industrial estates in Alcester, Studley, Southam, Shipston and Henley could encourage a greater concentration of science, digital and technical mix of companies to reflect the inward investment of major companies such as JLR and Codemasters leading to an increase in the highly skilled employment opportunities across the District.

The survey does acknowledge the importance of tourism and improving the visitor experience through projects such as the Town Centre Shared Space initiative however only 26% of those surveyed considered this to be a high/essential project. Additionally as in the transport sector a bike scheme for visitors and residents did not attract much support from residents (16%).

Housing, Health and Well-being The ATI Infrastructure Review was not asked to specifically address projects within these categories as part of the Infrastructure Review – but it is noted that 55% of residents identified the need for affordable housing in the District as a high/essential priority – especially in light of the cost of housing in the town and district.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Stratford to Warwick Avon Navigation

PROGRAMME AREA ~ TOURISM

Project 12 ~ Stratford to Warwick Avon Navigation ~ the ‘South Warwickshire Ring’ The Project Challenge To extend and improve the navigation capacity of the River Avon between Stratford upon Avon and Warwick – linking up with the Grand Union canal in Warwick and South Stratford canal to create a new ‘South Warwickshire Ring’ leading to an increase in tourism, local enterprise and transport links.

Background Holidays remain the main reason for international visits to the UK, accounting for 13.9 million visits in 2015 - a rise of 2.1% compared with 20141. The impact on the UK economy is significant with earnings from overseas visitors reaching a record level of spending of £22.1 billion – an increase of £0.2 billion (1.0%) over 2014. Documented evidence2 shows that whilst a small number of visitors enjoy the canal holiday experience in England, this sector is not widely known as part of the international tourism offer. One canal boat hire company quoted by the Canal and River Trust (CRT) indicated that only 7% of their clients are from overseas. Of these just over half are from the EU, with a further 25% from the US and 10% from Australia and New Zealand. VisitBritain research indicates that major tourist markets such as Germany and the US do not associate waterways holidays with Britain – this is a strong ‘niche’ market to attract and capture. The popular tourist towns of Stratford upon Avon and Warwick are both connected to the River Avon and the Midlands canal system and are well-placed to capitalise on the tourism and enterprise opportunities that waterways can offer. Many visitors and local people already undertake longer barge and boating holidays either from Stratford or Warwick, or from other wharves on the Warwickshire Ring which includes Birmingham, Stratford, Coventry and Grand Union Canals. With new infrastructure commitment, partnership working and investment there is the potential to develop the ‘South Warwickshire Ring’ as a new circuit on the Midland river and canal network, enabling shorter 2-3 day circular canal trips between Warwick and Stratford as well as day adventures - and extending to longer barging holidays on the Warwickshire Ring. This project would promote both historic towns as a new hub for waterways tourism. It would ensure longer stays in South Warwickshire boosting visitor numbers and the local tourist economy.

1 Travel Trends 2015 ~ Office for National Statistics 2 Canal and River Trust 2015

7 SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Stratford to Warwick Avon Navigation

Current Situation The Stratford Canal has a Northern and Southern section. The Northern runs from the Worcester and Birmingham Canal at Kings Norton to join the Grand Union at Kingswood. The Southern connects the Grand Union Canal at Kingswood to the River Avon at Stratford upon Avon via the Wilmcote flight and three unique iron aqueducts. From the Stratford basin, canal boats and cruisers can navigate south down to the River Severn via Evesham, Pershore and Tewkesbury and eventually back into the Birmingham canal system (the ‘Birmingham Ring’). However only a short distance of the Avon upstream of Stratford is currently navigable, meaning there is no passable river route from Stratford to Warwick to re-join the Grand Union Canal.

The Infrastructure Proposal The Avon Navigation Trust (ANT) is seeking support from the local authority stakeholders (Warwickshire County Council, Warwick and Stratford District Councils) to open up the Upper Avon to navigation and create the ‘South Warwickshire Waterway Ring’. Over 250 years ago, navigation was possible from Tewkesbury all the way to the outskirts of Warwick along the Avon3. The renovation of the 46 miles of the Lower Avon allowing navigation between Tewkesbury and Stratford was completed 43 years ago – considered by many as a great technical achievement. A feasibility study has been commissioned by the ANT to investigate the technical case for and environmental impact of restoration of the 12 miles of the upstream section of the Avon from Stratford to Warwick. This stretch has been identified by the Association of Inland Navigation Authorities (AINA) as ‘one of the few missing broad inland navigation links’ between the estuary of the Severn and other major English estuaries (Mersey, Humber, Thames, Wash).

The Opportunity This project is timely. A new regional initiative4 is currently under way to promote the ‘Warwickshire Ring’ as a stronger tourist destination offer – encouraging extended stays and greater connection with the English countryside, its market towns, heritage and history. By opening up the Upper Avon to navigation and with further investment in the canal basins in Stratford upon Avon and Warwick, this would add value to the Warwickshire Ring.

3 Daniel Defoe and others reported navigation nearly to Warwick in the 1700s. 4 “Discovering the mighty rivers and majestic canals of England” ~ Visit England / Discover England Fund call for project bids 2016

8 SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Stratford to Warwick Avon Navigation

It would extend South Warwickshire’s existing tourism offer to UK and overseas visitors by encouraging less adventurous barge holidaymakers to make day trips or undertake the shorter South Warwickshire Ring as part of a longer stay in South Warwickshire. Marketing Birmingham Ltd reports that Trip Advisor ratings show a high level of top quality visitor feedback for UK narrowboat holidays which is seen as a high quality holiday product - yet figures indicate that waterways-based holidays remain ‘under-appreciated’ by core overseas markets. This project presents a new opportunity to add to the existing international tourist reputation of the two world famous medieval market towns. A new approach to waterway holidays could be adopted which would attract longer stays in Warwickshire and enhance the visitor experience beyond the popular tourist venues of Warwick Castle, Shakespeare’s Birthplace and the RSC Theatre. This could include provision of a more flexible and ‘tourist friendly’ offer e.g. ‘door-to-door’ journey capability; fully serviced on board provision; language translation for basic boat hire familiarisation; integrated on-board/off-board packages to encourage wider contact with other tourist venues across the county.

The Benefits Interest in the Upper Avon navigation project has been led by the Avon Navigation Trust (ANT) – the statutory navigational authority for the River Avon. The Trust, run by a like-minded and enthusiastic group of professionals and volunteers, is committed to achieving the extension of navigation on the Upper Avon and linking to the Grand Union Canal. The project would create a ‘linear water park’ with enhanced wildlife sites, better walking and cycling paths, integrated angling facilities and riverside camping. It would provide wider access to the public to travel through some of the finest landscape in England. As a major infrastructure project it would maximise the existing canal basin venue in the centre of Stratford upon Avon, and would add a new interchange at Warwick between the Avon and the Grand Union Canal. The new navigation route would add value to the very successful River Festival held in Stratford upon Avon every summer which could be extended to Warwick. It would revitalise the waterways, have a significant impact upon the local and regional visitor economy, and create a wealth of new enterprises and local jobs. Indications are that the project could realise around £650m of local tourism benefit5.

Prospective Stakeholders  Avon Navigation Trust  Shakespeare’s England and Visit Britain  Stratford District Council; Warwick  StratForward; Warwick Chamber of Trade District Council; Warwickshire County  Canal and River Trust (CRT); Inland Waterways Council; town/parish councils  Commercial boat operators; landowners

5 Shakespeare’s England estimate ~ perscom

9 SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Stratford to Warwick Avon Navigation

Initial actions The Avon Navigation Trust has opened a series of high-level discussions with council officers to highlight challenges and opportunities related to the Upper Avon Navigation initiative. A Feasibility Study6 undertaken by Halcrow has identified the main technical, economic and environmental issues. The Canal and River Trust (CRT) has provided data to support the economic value of waterways7. An economic impact study is now required to provide evidence of demand and identify funding sources. The Trust welcomes support from Stratford and Warwick Districts Councils, Warwickshire County Council, CRT and other stakeholders to enable the project to be developed further.

Potential issues identified  Infrastructure costs of project – new locks and Warwick connection to Grand Union Canal  Possible resistance from landowners e.g. Charlecote Park (NT) and Warwick Castle  Feasibility and cost of new canal link at Barford  Environmental impact on Upper Avon  Local reaction to increased water traffic

Proposed next steps  Gain ‘in principle support’ from potential council stakeholders with approval to proceed further.  Engage with a wider stakeholder group e.g. Shakespeare’s England; CRT; community groups; riverboat operators; landowners to gather interest and understand main drivers and challenges.  Commission an ‘Opportunities Review’ in support of the Technical Feasibility Study for the Upper Avon (Halcrow) which would provide a funding plan, along with evidence of the added value to South Warwickshire, its businesses and communities of opening the Upper Avon to navigation and establishing the new ‘South Warwickshire Ring’ Project.

Delivery forecast Medium Term 3-10 years

6 ‘Feasibility Study for Upper Avon Extension’ Halcrow Ltd 2014 7 ‘Water Adds Value’ Report CRT and University of Northampton 2014

10 SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ World Shakespeare Centre

Project 4 ~ World Shakespeare Centre

Background The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust is an independent charity that cares for Shakespeare's heritage including the five Shakespeare Houses in and around Stratford-upon-Avon. Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust has an international reputation as the foremost organisation dedicated to preserving the unique heritage sites in Stratford upon Avon. The wider work of the Trust extends to managing one of the largest Shakespeare libraries in the world along with a significant archive of local history. It also runs a department devoted to education in Shakespeare and Shakespeare's Works, both for the public and educational institutions, and provides a programme of activities to inform and entertain throughout the year.

The Opportunity 'Shakespeare' is a global phenomenon with Stratford upon Avon at its centre and the Birthplace as its origin. The World Shakespeare Centre is a concept that encompasses the assets of the whole town and the Region and would be delivered through partnerships and manifested physically in a new development adjacent to the Birthplace in Henley Street. This would include world class visitor, research, museum and study facilities using cutting edge design and technology for which the Midlands is renowned. The Centre would reach out to new global audiences. It would extend it purpose as the centre for a global fan base both on site and online – at the same time enhancing the West Midlands Region as a leader in the creative industries and innovation. This would be a key tourism & cultural industries infrastructure project for the Region delivering high quality jobs for young people and helping to transform perceptions of the West Midlands as an exciting place to work, live and visit. This unique initiative would trigger new business opportunities and bring economic and social benefits to our local community – and great pride to Stratford upon Avon!

The Challenge The current facilities of the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust are centred in the Shakespeare Centre next to the Birthplace in Henley Street and networked across the five sites in and around Stratford upon Avon. Whilst the Centre is already acknowledged as a global centre of excellence for study, knowledge and sheer enjoyment of Shakespeare’s works, the Birthplace Trust is concerned that the outstanding repository of books, historical records, manuscripts and artefacts related to the great poet’s works are not exhibited and used to their full potential due to lack of space, quality of environment and outdated dissemination technology. The Trust is also deeply aware of the need to conserve and provide a better setting for the internationally famous Birthplace itself and the sensitivity needed to enhance the world class visitor experience. It is time to re- examine how a modern, innovative and ‘world class’ facility can be created in Stratford upon Avon – for the benefits of Shakespeare lovers everywhere.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ World Shakespeare Centre

Current Situation The Birthplace Trust is committed to ensuring that as much of the extensive collection is accessible to current and future generations of students, researchers and visitors. Trustees are examining ideas to extend the space available for exhibits, for research work and for education within the Henley Street curtilage. A collaborative stakeholder approach will ensure that the new World Shakespeare Centre is fit for purpose, does not harm or detract from the medieval splendour of the town centre and the Birthplace itself, and creates a world class venue that the town can be proud of - further enhancing Stratford upon Avon as the most important cultural visitor centre in England.

Potential issues identified  It is vitally important for the success of any new developments by the Trust in Henley Street that these are supported and enhanced by other key infrastructure projects in and around the town – transport links, hospitality and shared space in particular.  Any property redevelopment in such an important and protected environment will raise planning, heritage and access issues, requiring time, care and consultation.  Disruption during redevelopment will have an impact not only on the Trust’s activities but also many small businesses in and around Henley Street.

Prospective Stakeholders  Shakespeare’s Birthplace Trust  StratForward  Stratford-on-Avon District Council  Shakespeare’s England / Visit Britain  Royal Shakespeare Company

Proposed next steps  Exploratory meetings to be held between SBT, SDC, STC and other stakeholders to identify the ambitions of the Trust, and the key issues and risk that might be expected. Note: These meetings are currently ‘on hold’ due to other internal priorities and will be re-opened upon SBT instigation.  A feasibility study will be needed to outline the main benefits, challenges and opportunities that an International Shakespeare Centre would create.  Funding plans should be developed to identify the likely sources of public and private funding that would be available and accessible for the project. Delivery forecast Medium Term 3-10 years

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Business Centres

PROGRAMME AREA ~ ENTERPRISE

Project 1 ~ Business Centres

The Challenge To provide appropriate and affordable facilities along with a level of enterprise support to new entrepreneurs across Stratford District to boost skills, growth and jobs as laid out in the Coventry & Warwickshire Strategic Economic Plan (Section 6.32 “to accelerate support for start-ups where there is currently little or no provision.”)

Background Stratford District has suffered from a lack of start-up activity in recent years. Whilst there is mounting evidence that business start-up rates are steadily increasing across the UK, the highest rates appear perhaps unsurprisingly in the city areas with more rural areas having less success – as shown by the 2015 Heat Map8 below for the West Midlands region:

This can be seen as evidence that start-up rates in Stratford District are below other areas of Coventry and Warwickshire. This is further evidenced by CWLEP: “One of the key dynamics of a local economy stems from an increasing supply of new business start-ups. In Stratford upon Avon District, business formation rates have yet to regain ground lost, indicating a spatial dimension to new business start-up in the CWLEP area.”9 The 2013 Stratford District Business Survey has shown that support for business start-ups is a key priority in helping to generate growth. However, start-up activity has not returned to pre-recession (2008) levels. This is due in part to a lack of suitable smaller start-up space (<50m2). The Survey revealed that 54% of companies considered there is not enough suitable sites or premises available. This lack of small office provision has also been identified by ‘Invest in Warwickshire’ (April 2016) who concluded that there is a lack of available commercial space for sale or rent across the District especially suited to micro-business occupation (evidenced by a local property trawl which included WCC sources as well as external sources Rightmove and Estates Gazette).

8 http://startupbritain.org/startup-tracker 9 CW LEP Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) Section 6.3 13

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Business Centres

Current Situation SDC is committed to development of business enterprise and skills across the District, recognising the importance of jobs and the value of business to our local economy. The Council is keen to support the wider aspirations of Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) in this activity. SDC and its partners have started to address this challenge by applying successfully for Growth Deal funding which has enabled the establishment of Venture House as Stratford’s new centre for business support and growth. This centre is supporting individuals to start their own business and also helps more established micro businesses (less than 5 employees) make the transition from home- based business start-up to commercial premises through the provision of short licence ‘easy in – easy out’ office terms.

Venture House has already proven a successful initiative and continues to attract new entrepreneurs in and around Stratford town. This successful blueprint could be applied to establish other business workspace centres across the district – in Henley, Shipston and especially in Southam and Studley where higher levels of deprivation and youth unemployment have been identified, encouraging and facilitating residents and young people to start their own businesses.

There have been several business centres initiatives across South Warwickshire. Minerva Mill Innovation Centre in Alcester provides flexible workspace and offices to established SMEs although they did operate a successful business incubator providing easy-in, easy-out facilities for start-ups from 2000 – 2005 funded through the AWM Market Town Initiative. Shipston Enterprise Centre appears to be no longer open to providing business start-up support. Insight Park in Southam is the only example of a Live:Work scheme across the District – although the Priory Square development proposed for Studley will provide another ‘live:work’ micro-business complex (SDC Infrastructure Project Area 21).

The Infrastructure Proposal Three project sites have been identified as potential for local business start-up centres in Studley, Southam and Henley. These are included as ‘sub-projects’ and outlined in more detail below. There is also the potential to identify a suitable location for a business start-up facility in Shipston on Stour – although the previous initiative funded and supported by SDC requires careful investigation and a study of ‘lessons learned’ prior to any further commitment.

SDC Corporate Priorities supported by this Project Area: 1 (a) To positively embrace the Local Enterprise Partnership to influence its plans, priorities and impact upon our District. 1 (c) To encourage new small businesses throughout the district through focussed initiatives such as the provision of business incubation units. 2 (g) A commitment to provide agreed solutions to remediate sites considered to be detrimental to the character and amenity of the District and its localities. 3 (b) Ensuring that we manage our assets to meet the needs of our communities and services and where appropriate delivering commercial returns

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Business Centres

Project 1a ~ Studley Digital and Creative Hub

Background Studley is home to a wide range of small businesses – located around the town with a number in the Birmingham Road / Studley Point area. However the town does not have ‘easy-in, easy-out’ facilities for new start-up businesses and entrepreneurs as found in Stratford and Alcester. Business start-ups must move into Redditch to access affordable and well-supported business incubation workspace.

The Opportunity The ‘Studley Centre’ has been unoccupied for some time and is in the ownership of Warwickshire County Council. Formerly housing the youth club and other facilities, the building is on the County Council’s Asset of Community Value List – and it has been the intention to dispose of this asset. However due to the potential interest from community groups10 and for purposes that might benefit the community in general, this intention to dispose has been suspended pending further community development ideas.

SDC wishes to investigate the business case and local demand for an Enterprise Centre located within the Studley Centre building, providing specialist workspace for young local entrepreneurs working or starting in the digital and creative sector. The Hub would be managed by SDC and operate in partnership with WCC and other business support organisations. As with Venture House in Stratford, this project could attract Local Growth funding and provide Studley town with a much needed boost to business and jobs. In addition, it would align with the live/work scheme being proposed at Priory Square (Project 21 - the former Coop site, Alcester Road) – creating in effect a ‘Studley Innovation Zone’.

Justification Questions regarding the provision of incubation centres for start-up businesses were not included in the most recent SDC Citizens Panel and Business Sounding Board consultations. Due to the ongoing success of Venture House and the potential for attracting grant funding, this initiative would make a positive contribution to local enterprise and the regeneration of Studley creating new businesses and jobs in the digital and creative sector and in line with the Industrial Strategy being developed for the West Midlands.

10 http://www.ardenmarches.co.uk/news/2016/04/press-release-studley-centre/ 15

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Business Centres

Current Situation Discussion has taken place with Warwickshire County Council (Steve Smith, Head of Physical Assets), with regard to the potential use of ‘The Studley Centre’ as a Digital and Creative Hub – and using the SDC’s business start up experience gained through the operation of Venture House. ATI are liaising with both SDC and WCC to move this potentially exciting project forward.

Proposed next steps

 Meetings with WCC to investigate options and progress costs for building occupancy.  Meetings with SDC and other stakeholders in Studley to identify synergies in aligning the Digital and Creative Hub with the development of the former Co-op site and other opportunities into a coherent enterprise regeneration plan for Studley.  Review concepts, once prepared by architects, to develop a business plan for the new digital hub to support future grant funding opportunities.

SDC Corporate Priorities supported by this Project Area: 1 (d) Maximise the benefit of the local tourism industry including support for the local Destination Management Organisation, Shakespeare's England. 3 (a) Seek opportunities to work with our partners to achieve benefits for our residents. 3 (d) Work with our partners to improve the District's infrastructure including broadband, transportation, education, utilities and emergency services.

Prospective Stakeholders  Stratford-on-Avon District Council  Warwickshire County Council  Studley Parish Council

Delivery forecast Short-Medium Term 2-3 years

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Business Centres

Project 1b ~ Old Railway Station, Henley-in Arden

Background Full Planning Permission was granted in January 2009 (now lapsed) for alterations and extensions to a vacant railway station building owned by Network Rail to form a two-storey office block (shown below) of some 558m₂ with associated 12-bay car parking (08/02959/FUL)11. The applicant was a private developer Great Western Developments (Henley in Arden) LLP Reg No. OC316304. Network Rail, WCC and Henley Parish Council were all engaged during the 2008/09 planning application process.

Prospective Stakeholders  Stratford District Council  Network Rail (site/property owner)  Great Western Developments (Henley) LLP  Warwickshire County Council  Beaudesert & Henley Joint Parish Council  CW Chamber of Commerce.

Proposed next steps 1) Undertake a business needs analysis in and around Henley to establish the interest for workspace and managed business support services for start-up and early stage SMEs. 2) Discuss planning issues with SDC Planning. 3) Contact Network Rail & Great Western Developments to identify their plans.

Delivery forecast of sub-project Short Term 1- 3 years

11 https://apps.stratford.gov.uk/eplanning/AppDetail.aspx?appkey=KA9X02PM03Y00 17

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Business Centres

Project 1c ~ The Grange, Southam Background The Grange Hall complex was built in 1977 and is jointly owned by Southam Town Council and by SDC – who are classed as ‘The Stewards’ with representatives from both councils overseeing the running of the Hall and other buildings on site. Day-to-day administration of the Main Hall is dealt with by the Hall Management Committee - all volunteers.

The Main Building is currently well used as a community hall, offering a functions and live entertainment venue for the town. There is the potential to convert other buildings on the Grange Hall site into business start-up premises – and it is understood that there is potential funding available from the HS2 Business and Local Economy Fund for such a purpose. Currently there is no evidence of any regular office/workspace being offered to start-ups and micro-businesses in Southam, with the exception of live/work units being offered at Insight Park. It will be a priority to identify whether the Council-owned building adjacent to the Main Hall is suitable for such a purpose – and what impact this might have upon the community usage and facilities e.g. parking as a result of extended use as office premises.

Southam has a thriving small business community, with the town website listing more than 150 SMEs in and around the town http://www.southam.co.uk/business/. However, none of these appear to offer workspace or business start-up support - save for the professional legal and accounting service companies in the town. Businesses are well-served by the Southam Business Forum12 – which organises a regular monthly breakfast forum for businesses and supported by Stratford District Council.

Stakeholders  Stratford District Council  Warwickshire County Council  Southam Town Council  Hall Management Committee  Southam Business Forum  Southam College (11-18 Academy) Proposed next steps 1. Undertake a needs analysis in Southam to identify if there is a requirement for new business start-up office accommodation. 2. Identify other suitable premises (public or privately owned) in Southam for start-up space. 3. Investigate HS2 Business and Local Economy Fund potential

Delivery forecast of sub-project Short Term 1 - 3 years

12 http://www.southam.co.uk/business/southam-business-forum/ 18

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Business Centres

Project 1d ~ Shipston Business Start Up Facility

Background: The Council has invested effort and resource at least twice in recent years to provide ‘easy in – easy out’ workspace, facilities and support in Shipston on Stour. An initial project was established with support from Coventry University ‘Vision Works’ following a demand survey carried out by David Irwin Associates in 200413 . This established a small business support centre in Council premises in the middle of the town.

A second initiative developed as Stour Enterprise Centre occupying part of Astech Mill where funds were sourced to provide flexible managed workspace for small businesses. This Centre now appears to have closed, although virtual business services are offered by Stour United Businesses (SUBS) http://www.subs.org.uk/

The town is however well-served by several rural business parks in the locality including:  Blackwell Business Park, Blackwell (comprising 26 units - 3 miles from Shipston)  Ditchford Farm Business Park (10 studios and offices - 2 miles from Shipston)  Woodlands Business Centre, Long Compton (comprising 3 units – 5 miles from Shipston)  Grove Business Park, Atherstone-on-Stour (5 serviced offices – 9 miles from Shipston)  Atherstone Hill, Atherstone-on-Stour (7 serviced offices – 9 miles from Shipston)

Stakeholders  Stratford District Council  Warwickshire County Council  Shipston Town Council  Stour United Businesses (SUBS)

Proposed next steps 1) Examine the reasons for closure of the Stour Enterprise Centre; establish ‘lessons learned’ 2) Subject to findings above, undertake a needs analysis in Shipston to identify if there is any requirement for business start-up office accommodation. 3) Identify possible sites where SDC might encourage start-up workspace facilities

Delivery forecast of sub-project Short Term (1 - 3 years)

13 http://www.irwingrayson.com/ 19

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Wellesbourne Innovation Campus, University of Warwick

Project 11 ~ Wellesbourne Innovation Campus, University of Warwick Purpose To develop a new Innovation Campus – ‘a space that will burst with innovative thinking’ in areas of agriculture, medicine, energy and technology – creating an inspirational environment that will forge and host influential business and industry collaboration and enable Warwick University’s outstanding intellectual capital to count in the real world. The Challenge The Innovation Campus will respond directly to the Midland’s regional drive towards improved economic regeneration and resilience – providing an ideally located, ‘best of class’ centre for the incubation of ideas into practice, the exchange of intellectual investment with industry-leading companies, and the nurturing of skills and jobs to support the local and regional economy. Background The Wellesbourne Campus – owned by the University and formerly the home of Horticultural Research International (HRI) – is a 450 acre site with a long track record as an internationally recognised centre for translational research in sustainable agriculture, horticulture and food security. The site is home to the renowned School of Life Sciences14 and Warwick Crop Centre15, with a range of well-equipped buildings, laboratories and indoor/outdoor field research facilities. The campus hosts a number of SMEs and large companies, and all of the research facilities are used for collaborative programmes with industry. Whilst located in beautiful rural surroundings, the campus benefits from great connectivity – and lies within a 5-mile range of Stratford-upon-Avon, the M40, Warwick Parkway and Leamington mainline rail station and the popular residential towns of Leamington Spa and Warwick.

Current Situation Wellesbourne Campus is identified within the Stratford-on-Avon District Council Core Strategy as providing ‘a significant opportunity to expand research and employment activities and jobs in the District in an accessible and attractive location’. Currently more than 400 people work at the campus. The site is not bound by Green Belt jurisdictions and currently provides 73,000 sq ft of offices, workshops, conference halls, laboratories, glasshouses and research units, ancillary welfare provision, a children’s nursery, some residential accommodation for staff and storage areas. The ambition for the site is to expand the facilities and workspace to attract innovative businesses, to extend the University’s collaboration potential with industry, to promote inspiration and investment and development in harmony with neighbouring communities.

14 Warwick School of Life Sciences was ranked 2nd in the UK for Agriculture, Food and Veterinary Research in the Government’s Research Excellence 2014 15 http://www2.warwick.ac.uk/fac/sci/lifesci/wcc 20

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Wellesbourne Innovation Campus, University of Warwick

Potential issues identified  Highways – Wellesbourne campus lies on a fast stretch of the A429 Wellesbourne to Warwick road: further developments on the site will necessitate traffic calming measures such as roundabout and pedestrian crossings.  Public transport – moving employees and students away from individual car transport is good for the campus, the environment and the locality. Low emission bus services will be a key introduction – with the potential to work with WCC and SDC in developing a public transport hub at the Wellesbourne Campus site.  Local acceptance – Warwick University is already engaging with parish councils and community representatives to publicise the plans for the new Innovation Campus and to allay fears that there is no intention to turn the campus into residential or standard industrial use.  Sustainability and land use – Warwick University is committed to encouraging infrastructure, technology, natural environment and behaviours that enhance sustainability across the campus.

Proposed next steps  Warwick University held an exploratory meeting with SDC Infrastructure Portfolio Holder and Executive Director (5th January 2017) to introduce outline plans for the Wellesbourne Campus site.  Subsequent meetings with SDC Project Consultants ATI Projects (16th February 2017) have provided further scoping information as part of this Infrastructure Project Review.  Warwick University to maintain liaison with SDC with particular regard to transport issues, business relocation and planning.

SDC Corporate Priorities supported by this Project Area: 2 (c) Embrace the landscape and environmental protection provided by our Core Strategy when considering new development. 3 (d) Work with our partners to improve the District's infrastructure including broadband, transportation, education, utilities and emergency services.

Prospective Stakeholders  Stratford-on-Avon District Council  Warwickshire County Council  Wellesbourne Parish Council  Highways England  Transport operators

Delivery forecast Short / Medium Term 2-5 years

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Former Studley Co-operative Site

PROGRAMME AREA ~ REGENERATION

Project 21 ~ Priory Square (former Co-operative Retail site), Studley

Background Priory Square – a vacant site adjacent to the Co-operative Store in the heart of Studley - is a strategically important site in the heart of the village and has been derelict for over 10 years in spite of a number of residential proposals. The council proposes to bring it back into use as a mixed start- up enterprise and residential (‘live/work’) complex to bring business vitality and jobs, provide affordable homes and improve the village environment. In 2016, a Growing Places grant of £200,000 was awarded by the Coventry & Warwickshire LEP (CWLEP). This was secured to undertake remedial works to the site bringing it up to a base condition which will be attractive for commercial development.

Current Situation ATI Projects is working with SDC officers to move the Priory Square project forward, thus securing the Growing Places grant. Discussions have commenced between SDC and the Co- operative as the owners of the site alongside meetings with local councillors. The meetings with councillors have also identified another building in the town, the Studley Centre (Project 1a above), which is also currently unused so this is being considered alongside the derelict Priory Square site for enterprise regeneration investment in the town – providing innovative workspace for digital and creative entrepreneurs. SDC will be opening discussions with representatives of a consortium who have indicated their desire to develop the site and whom are in negotiations with the Co-op about purchase of the land.

Proposed Next Steps

 SDC, supported by ATI Projects, will review the proposals tabled by the proposed developer and also seek to obtain more robust estimates for the structural reinforcement work required for the roadway at the rear of the site.  Sources of enterprise funding will be investigated aimed at adding value to the existing live/work proposals for Priory Square in synergy with the proposed Digital and Creative Hub (Project 1a).  A mapping exercise to assess and confirm the interest from local digital and creative businesses in clustering around the Priory Square and proposed new Digital Hub.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Former Studley Co-operative Site

Potential issues identified During the bid to the Growing Places Fund a detailed risk register was produced. The key risks which would stop the redevelopment of the Priory Square are:  Co-op do not sell land at market value limiting interest from developers.  Private development partner cannot secure private sector funding.  Development and occupation delayed through prolonged negotiations.

SDC Corporate Priorities supported by this Project Area: 1(c) To encourage new small businesses throughout the district through focussed initiatives such as the provision of business incubation units. 2(a) Facilitate the delivery of housing targets including working with developers to identify suitable land and locations for developments and ensuring 35% affordable housing provision. 2(c) Embrace the landscape and environmental protection provided by our Core Strategy when considering new development. 2(g) A commitment to provide agreed solutions to remediate sites considered to be detrimental to the character and amenity of the District and its localities.

Prospective Stakeholders  Stratford-on-Avon District Council  Studley Parish Council  Warwickshire County Council  Cooperative Society

Delivery forecast Immediate (1-3 years)

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Improved Rail Connectivity

PROGRAMME AREA ~ TRANSPORT

Project 8 ~ Improved Rail Connectivity

The Challenge To improve access to Stratford upon Avon by rail for tourists, other visitors and commuters through increased services and better connectivity to mainline routes to and from London, Manchester, Birmingham and Birmingham International airport (via Solihull).

Background Stratford upon Avon is currently served by two railway stations: one near the town centre and the second, Stratford Parkway station close to the A46 and served by the Park and Ride. All rail services head north before the line splits north of Wilmcote. One route continues north towards Birmingham with the other heading north east via Bearley to meet the Chiltern main line south of Hatton and providing services north to Solihull and Birmingham or south to Leamington Spa and on to London.

The current rail services from Stratford upon Avon direct travel to/from Birmingham Moor Street and Birmingham Snow Hill (via both Shirley and Solihull) currently operated by London Midland. Rail services towards Leamington and further south are operated by Chiltern Rail. Connections to other franchises, such as First Great Western, then can be made at Leamington or Banbury. From the franchise map shown above only Chiltern Railways and London Midland are able to provide services directly to/from Stratford.

To provide an overview of the current rail provision into/from Stratford to be made, services are split into two sections a) those serving Leamington and onwards to London, and b) those serving Birmingham. The assessment is based upon the franchise timetables which are valid up to 10th December 2016.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Improved Rail Connectivity

a) Current Provision – Stratford upon Avon to/from London Analysis of current daily rail provision to/from London is shown in the tables below. It should be noted that other routes are available which require two or more changes – these have not been included below on the grounds of inconvenience – journeys take longer and are not economically justifiable:

Weekdays – Stratford upon Avon to/from London

1 Change required at Direct Total Leamington Oxford Bicester Birmingham Dorridge Stratford 3 6 1 9 upon Avon to 0 0 19 (125 mins) (146 mins) (172 mins) (161 mins) London London to 2 5 1 7 3 Stratford 0 18 (132 mins) (129 mins) (130 mins) (159 mins) (121 mins) upon Avon

Weekends – Stratford upon Avon to/from London

1 Change required at Direct Total Leamington Oxford Bicester Birmingham Dorridge Stratford to 1 6 8 0 0 0 15 London (129 mins) (121 mins) (158 mins) London to 7 7 0 0 0 0 14 Stratford (115 mins) (121 mins)

Note: Shortest journey times shown in brackets.

In summary for visitors to travel to/from Stratford upon Avon to/from London, very few direct train services are available. The majority of journeys (>50%) whether during the week or at the weekend will require passengers to change at Leamington with the remainder of services needing passengers to travel to Birmingham to change trains and then head back south – a long journey and unlikely to be followed by many travellers! The situation improves only slightly on return journeys from London to Stratford upon Avon during the week - and at weekends only a change at either Leamington or Dorridge is required.

Timing and availability of rail services, especially early morning and late evenings deserves particular attention and discussion with franchise operators – and becomes an important factor for both commuters and for evening theatre visitors (Stratford and London) both during the week and at weekends.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Improved Rail Connectivity b) Current Provision – Stratford upon Avon to/from Birmingham The extent of the current rail provision to/from Birmingham is shown in the tables below with the shortest journey times shown in brackets: Weekdays – Stratford upon Avon to/from Birmingham

Direct via Direct via 1 Change Total Shirley Solihull at Hatton Stratford to 22 11 2 35 Birmingham (51 mins) (55 mins) (75 mins) Birmingham 18 12 4 34 to Stratford (50 mins) (43 mins) (87 mins)

Weekends – Stratford upon Avon to/from Birmingham

Direct via Direct via 1 Change Total Shirley Solihull at Hatton Stratford to 18 8 0 26 Birmingham (54 mins) (51 mins) Birmingham 17 9 0 26 to Stratford (51 mins) (43 mins)

In summary travellers from Stratford upon Avon to Birmingham are serviced by regular direct services via Shirley and also now via Solihull (which has recently been introduced). During the week this is supplemented by some trains via change at Hatton - however as shown in the table above, travelling this route can take up to twice as long as the direct service. Again there are issues with timing and availability of rail services, especially early morning and late evenings impacting upon commuter and theatre journeys.

Southern rail link via Honeybourne In the context of ‘improved rail connectivity’ the prospect of re-instating the southern rail link should be included. Since the closure to freight in 1976 and removal of track in 1979, there have been several studies (e.g. Arup 2012) investigating the feasibility of restoring a rail link between Stratford-upon- Avon and Honeybourne enabling trains to connect to the Hereford-Oxford-London line currently operated under the Great Western franchise.

The Arup Report16 suggested a £76 million investment to restore about 10km of route and build an intermediate station at Long Marston – which could yield a cost/benefit ratio of better than 2:1, partly thanks to savings in journey time but also because it would provide a boost to tourism and could provide a rail freight service, thereby reducing congestion.

The re-opening of the southern link from Stratford upon Avon remains a contentious issue – with a balance of local residents and businesses for and against the project. Main issues include loss of green space, cost, environmental impact, HGV freight transfer. SDC has a ‘neutral’ position but will continue to explore options working with local organisations, Network Rail and franchise operators.

16 Stratford to Honeybourne Railway Reinstatement - Business Case Study Arup 2012 26

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Improved Rail Connectivity

Prospective Stakeholders

 London Midland, Chiltern Rail & Great Western as train operators.  Network Rail as responsible for the national rail timetable and as the owner of the infrastructure.  Stratford District Council, Warwick District Council, Warwickshire County Council, Shakespeare’s England and Visit Britain as responsible for the South Warwickshire visitor economy.

Initial action taken ATI Projects has held discussions with Shakespeare’s England, VisitBritain and Chiltern Rail to identify the current position and potential barriers to increased frequency of rail services to/from Stratford upon Avon. The key outcomes were: a) Past discussions with Chiltern Rail indicate that the franchise operator does not consider that rail travellers changing at Leamington or Dorridge to get to Stratford is a problem. b) The overall numbers of visitors to Stratford is around 5 million per year yet there seems to be little data on how they travel (modes, routes). c) A regional “destination pass” for tourist attractions is being considered and adding rail Stratford upon Avon Station travel to the package could be a serious consideration.

Potential issues identified  Stratford upon Avon stations are at the end of the railway line – in essence a ‘branch line’.  London Midland and Chiltern Rail hold the franchises to operate into/out of Stratford upon Avon so no other rail operators e.g. Great Western can put on any direct services.  There is little evidence of actual modes of transport for visitors/tourists travelling to/from Stratford upon Avon.  Without a strong business case there seems little chance of an increase in direct rail service provision to Stratford upon Avon, especially from London.  There is significant under-utilisation of the new Stratford Parkway (compared with Warwick Parkway): improvement of facilities and ‘last mile’ transport links into Stratford Town Centre and to other tourist venues in South Stratford upon Avon Parkway Warwickshire might improve usage and the business case for increased rail services.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Improved Rail Connectivity

Proposed next steps a) Carry out a study of transport modes used by visitors to Stratford upon Avon to identify / confirm the main barriers to rail network usage and suggestions for improvements. b) SDC to become involved in the development of the “Destination Pass” proposal which is currently under consideration by Shakespeare’s England. c) Continue discussions with London Midland and Chiltern Rail to build a case for increased service provision to/from Stratford upon Avon. d) Consider working with WDC, Network Rail and Chiltern Rail to provide better signposting and information facilities at both Warwick and Leamington stations to provide a warmer tourist welcome to South Warwickshire venues and simplify passenger change-over. Warwick Rail Station

SDC Corporate Priorities supported by this Project Area 1 (b) Maximise the use of National funding opportunities such as the City Deal and Regional Growth Fund to boost business opportunities in our area; Work with our partners to ensure that new development provides the necessary schools and transport infrastructure for local residents, especially the working population. 1 (d) Maximise the benefit of the local tourism industry including support for the local Destination Management Organisation, Shakespeare's England. 2 (c) Embrace the landscape and environmental protection provided by our Core Strategy when considering new development. 3 (b) Ensuring that we manage our assets to meet the needs of our communities and services and where appropriate delivering commercial returns. 3 (d) Work with our partners to improve the District's infrastructure including broadband, transportation, education, utilities and emergency services. 3 (e) Identify opportunities to improve access to local services, especially for those in remote communities.

Delivery forecast Immediate (0-3 years)

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ South Stratford Transport Hub

Project 9 ~ South Stratford Transport Hub

The Challenge To facilitate and enable the construction of a Transport Hub south of the River and linking with the expanding housing development at Long Marston Airfield to provide: a. A Park and Ride style facility for visitors to Stratford upon Avon arriving from the south. b. A public transport shuttle service operating along the Greenway linking Long Marston Airfield development with the Park and Ride and into the Recreation Ground. c. Safe cycle and walk ways into the town centre. The aim will be to reduce the risk of congestion from new residents of the Long Marston Airfield development and visitors from the Cotswolds and further south.

Background Long Marston Airfield south of Stratford-on-Avon is to be the location of a new garden village – confirmed in late 2016 as part of the Government’s plans to create tens of thousands of new homes across the UK. The construction of a south western link road (Project 19) to connect the B439 Evesham Road in the west to the B3400 Shipston Road to the south, incorporating a new bridge to cross the River Avon is included in the development plans related to Long Marston ‘Garden Village’ (see map left). This proposal is aligned to infrastructure improvements to be triggered by Phase 2 of the development project. This provides the opportunity for a new and innovative Transport Hub on the southern outskirts of the town – introducing low emission public transport vehicles e.g. electric trams as part of a multi-modal transport network into the town centre. Current Situation The recent (December 2016) announcement17 of Government approval for the Long Marston Airfield development (‘Garden Village’) will mean that road and transport infrastructure proposals will need to be developed concurrently with the housing and infrastructure development at the Airfield (Phase 2). Along with the South Western Relief Road, the transport plan would require some consideration around a multi- modal route into the heart of Stratford upon Avon. One possible route could be the redevelopment of the Stratford Greenway for this purpose – other ‘off highway’ routes should be investigated. It will be important that any public transport infrastructure introduced must be complimentary to other leisure amenities provided by the Greenway e.g. walking, cycling.

17 http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/local-news/government-reveals-garden-village-least-12393572 29

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ South Stratford Transport Hub

The ideal location for a transport hub has yet to be investigated – likely to include a park and ride facility with easy ‘hop on – hop off’ access to an electric tramcar or similar running south to the airfield and north into the town. In addition, if the Greenway was redeveloped, a route would need to be determined to cross the current River Avon and Severn Meadows Road and deliver passengers to the Recreation Ground.

The Rosebird Park and Ride located within the Waitrose complex on Shipston Road closed due to lack of passengers. The new transport hub would provide a different service – an ‘off road’ route into the town centre using low emission vehicles and encouraging local users and visitors approaching from the south.

Potential issues identified  The location of the Transport Hub will be critical. Such a Transport Hub should be well-related to routes into Stratford from the south, encouraging visitors to park rather than in the town centre, and attracting local use, especially from residents from the Long Marston Airfield development.  The Greenway is a popular leisure facility for residents and visitors and forms part of the National Cycle Network (Route 5) managed by Sustrans18. Any changes to the character and safety of this facility should take account of objections locally and regionally – and must be mitigated through promotion of benefits e.g. reduced congestion in town; zero emission transport used; safety.  Implementation of this project should take full account of the possibility of a southern rail link.

SDC Corporate Priorities supported by this Project Area: 1 (d) Maximise the benefit of the local tourism industry including support for the local Destination Management Organisation, Shakespeare's England. 2 (c) Embrace the landscape and environmental protection provided by our Core Strategy when considering new development. 3 (a) Seek opportunities to work with our partners to achieve benefits for our residents. 3 (d) Work with our partners to improve the District's infrastructure including broadband, transportation, education, utilities and emergency services. Prospective Stakeholders  Stratford District Council; Warwickshire County Council; Stratford Town Council  Transport operators and manufacturers  Cala Homes (Developer)

Delivery forecast - Medium Term 5-10 years

18 www.sustrans.org.uk/route/stratford-greenway 30

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Stratford Eastern Relief Road

Project 10 ~ Stratford Eastern Relief Road

The Challenge To provide a north-eastern relief road that will reduce congestion in the town, lower the number of heavy goods vehicles crossing Clopton Bridge from Atherstone-on-Stour and Long Marston business parks, improve transport links for major employers such as NFU Mutual (Tiddington) and Warwick University (Wellesbourne Innovation Campus), and provide an alternative route towards the M40 interchange.

Background The need for an Eastern Relief Road has been discussed for many years as a means of easing traffic congestion in the town.

It was considered in one of the options outlined in the Strategic Transport Assessment in October 201219 as a part of the Local Development Framework. This report stated that “The results show that a Town Centre Improvement (TCI) package in Stratford-upon-Avon and new highway infrastructure in the form of an Eastern Relief Road (ERR) and Western Relief Road (WRR) are likely to provide significant congestion relief in the town”.

The Eastern Relief Road would involve a combination of new road sections and upgrading of existing local roads to the east and north of Stratford upon Avon – dependent upon the route chosen. One possible route via Pimlico Lane has been identified and avoids the need for a highly contentious and environmentally challenging northern Avon bridge crossing. This route would start on the Banbury Road close to the Business and Technology Park, joining up with Tiddington Road and connect to the Stratford Road close to the Baraset Barn Pub before heading east to meet with the A429 at Wellesbourne. Alternative routes are also being considered such as one located further east towards Wellesbourne.

Current Situation There is a potential development of the former Horticultural Research International site at Wellesbourne into a new Innovation Campus by Warwick University (Project 10). This development, coupled with the expanding commercial and residential areas around Wellesbourne and Stratford, is likely to require an improved alternative road to Stratford than the A46 from the Warwick Longbridge interchange – especially for transport travelling to and from Stratford and to the south. Further expansion of employment on these sites would lead to increased levels of traffic especially for HGVs – adding to the pressure in Stratford town centre and especially on Clopton Bridge.

19Strategic Transport Assessment Oct 2012 Warwickshire County Council Highways 31

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Stratford Eastern Relief Road

Potential issues identified  The Boundry and Pimlico Lanes eastern route will require identification of a suitable alignment between Banbury Road and Wellesbourne Road.  Without further improvements to the Wellesbourne – Stratford Road e.g. around Charlecote Park the increased traffic resulting could lead to increased traffic accident risk.  Improved roads often lead to property developer interest – and in turn greater road traffic numbers.  There may be a need for some compulsory purchase of properties which could be achieved through negotiation – whichever eastern route is eventually selected.

SDC Corporate Priorities supported by this Project Area 1 (b) Work with our partners to ensure that new development provides the necessary schools and transport infrastructure for local residents, especially the working population. 1 (d) Maximise the benefit of the local tourism industry including support for the local Destination Management Organisation, Shakespeare's England. 2 (c) Embrace the landscape and environmental protection provided by our Core Strategy when considering new development. 3 (a) Seek opportunities to work with our partners to achieve benefits for our residents. 3 (d) Work with our partners to improve the District's infrastructure including broadband, transportation, education, utilities and emergency services.

Prospective Stakeholders  Stratford-on-Avon District Council  Warwickshire County Council  Town and Parish Councils  Transport operators  Warwick University (Wellesbourne Technology Park)  Other business park operators seeking better motorway access routes.

Delivery forecast Medium Term 5-10 years

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ South Western Relief Roads

Project 19 ~ South Western Relief Roads

The Challenge To facilitate and enable the construction of the South Western Relief Road around Stratford upon Avon, reducing congestion through better management of the road network, and demonstrating the added value to the town, its residents, businesses and visitors.

Background The plans for a South Western Relief Road have been put forward as a solution to the current and likely traffic congestion in this area. The Western Relief Road which will be to the west of Shottery and will be delivered as part of the Bloor Homes development was identified in the Local Plan adopted in 2006 (now replaced with the Core Strategy adopted 2016) and included within the current Warwickshire Local Transport Plan (under consultation March 2017). The Strategic Transport Assessment in October 2012 was carried out as a part of the Local Development Framework. This report stated that “The results show that a Town Centre Improvement (TCI) package in Stratford-upon-Avon and new highway infrastructure in the form of an Eastern Relief Road (ERR) and Western Relief Road (WRR) are likely to provide significant congestion relief in the town”. In the Warwickshire Local Transport Plan, the County Council confirmed that the road would be needed, and that it would receive funding as part of residential developments at Long Marston Airfield and in Shottery (Cala Homes and Bloor Homes respectively). This infrastructure project has two components (shown in yellow and maroon in the road plan above):

‘Long Marston Link Road’ (yellow) The construction of a new link road to connect the B439 Evesham Road in the west to the B3400 Shipston Road to the south, incorporating a new bridge to cross the River Avon and the Greenway and aimed at reducing the risk of town centre congestion created by the new Long Marston Village development. This proposal forms part of the development agreement for the ‘Garden Village’ and will incorporate a Transport Hub to provide a multi-modal transport network into the town centre (Project 9).

‘Shottery Relief Road’ (maroon) The construction of a new link road to connect the B439 Evesham Road with the A46 Alcester Road would complete the south-western relief road. This relief road would link Alcester Road and Evesham Road and create a boundary around the new residential development to the west of Shottery.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ South Western Relief Roads

Current Situation

Long Marston Link Road The recent (December 2016) announcement20 of Government approval for the Long Marston Airfield development will mean that the road and transport infrastructure proposals will need to run concurrently with the housing and infrastructure development proposed by Cala Homes (Phase 2). This section of the south-west relief road will require a new bridge to span the River Avon and the Stratford Greenway and enable any future increased public transport route on the Greenway itself e.g. train; tram.

Shottery Relief Road Studies show that the relief road would not only remove through traffic from the town, thereby relieving local traffic congestion, but it would also reduce traffic in the Conservation Area and improve visitor access to the tourist areas around Anne Hathaway’s Cottage. Being in a cutting, the relief road would not be visible from Anne Hathaway's Cottage which would be some 250m from the nearest point on the relief road. The use of a low-noise surface and additional screening planned for the relief road would minimise any potential impact of an increase in background noise levels that might be perceived in the garden of the Cottage. Although a new development would inevitably increase the number of cars on the road, journey times through and around the town are expected to decrease as a result of this additional infrastructure.

SDC Corporate Priorities supported by this Project Area: 1 (b) Work with our partners to ensure that new development provides the necessary schools and transport infrastructure for local residents, especially the working population. 1 (d) Maximise the benefit of the local tourism industry including support for the local Destination Management Organisation, Shakespeare's England. 2 (c) Embrace the landscape and environmental protection provided by our Core Strategy when considering new development. 3 (a) Seek opportunities to work with our partners to achieve benefits for our residents. 3 (d) Work with our partners to improve the District's infrastructure including broadband, transportation, education, utilities and emergency services.

Prospective Stakeholders  Stratford-on-Avon District Council  Transport operators  Warwickshire County Council  Cala Homes (Developer)  Town and Parish Councils  Bloor Homes (Developer)  Highways England

Delivery forecast Medium Term 5-10 years

20 http://www.coventrytelegraph.net/news/local-news/government-reveals-garden-village-least-12393572 34

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Appendices

APPENDICES ~ SUPPORTING DOCUMENTATION

Appendix 1 ~ Core Strategy Compliance Statements

Stratford District Council Planning Policy Team has produced a brief Core Strategy compliance statement for each project summarised within the Infrastructure Projects Review: Project 8 – Improved Rail Connectivity Policy CS.26: Transport and Communications: Stratford-on-Avon District Council [and] Warwickshire County Council … will work together to achieve the objectives and implement the proposals in the Local Transport Plan, with particular emphasis on encouraging modal shift with greater use of more sustainable forms of transport.

Project 9 – Long Marston Airfield Transport Hub Proposal LMA: Long Marston Airfield The phased delivery of highway and transport infrastructure as set out in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan, to include:  any specific schemes that may be identified as necessary to mitigate local traffic impacts, including in Stratford-upon-Avon and rural communities. Frequent public transport services to Stratford-upon-Avon, including the station, and Honeybourne Station, potentially using the route of the former railway line between Stratford and Honeybourne. Policy AS.1: Stratford-upon-Avon Area Strategy The Council will apply the following principles in considering development proposals and other initiatives relating to the Stratford-upon-Avon area. D. Transport 5. Assess the provision of a park-and-ride facility on the southern side of the town.

Project 10 – Stratford Eastern Relief Road There is no reference to such a road in the Core Strategy.

Project 19 – South Western Relief Road Proposal LMA: Long Marston Airfield The phased delivery of highway and transport infrastructure as set out in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan, to include:  connection to the strategic highway network (A46) at Wildmoor through the construction of a south-western relief road between A3400 Shipston Road and B439 Evesham Road, together with a road between B439 and A46 Alcester Road to be provided by others.

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Appendices

Project 12 – Stratford to Warwick Avon Navigation Policy CS.24: Tourism and Leisure Development Increased access to and use of canals and navigable waterways in the District will be encouraged, including the provision of moorings and marinas where it respects and works with the natural features and function of the watercourse. Any proposed extension to or creation of new navigable waterways must ensure there are no overall detrimental impacts on the natural environment.

Project 4 – International Shakespeare Centre Policy CS.24: Tourism and Leisure Development The role of tourism will be increased by supporting the growth and improvement of existing attractions and by encouraging new attractions … in order to support the local economy and to provide the opportunity for local communities to enjoy the benefits that are derived.

Policy AS.1: Stratford-upon-Avon Area Strategy The Council will apply the following principles in considering development proposals and other initiatives relating to the Stratford-upon-Avon area: C. Economic 7. Support the creation of a new learning and research centre on Henley Street for the enjoyment and study of Shakespeare.

Project 1 – Business Centres Policy CS.22: Economic Development Development that provides for a wide range of business and commercial activity will be promoted in sustainable locations in order to support and foster the growth and competitiveness of the District’s economy, provide more jobs and improve the vitality of the local business environment.

Project 21 – Former Studley Co-operative Retail site Policy AS.8: Studley Area Strategy The Council will apply the following principles in considering development proposals and other initiatives relating to the Studley area: A. Environmental 2. Support projects to assist the environmental regeneration of the village centre.

Paul Harris MRTPI Senior Planning Policy Officer ~ 3rd March 2017

SDC Infrastructure Programme Review ~ Appendices

Appendix 2 ~ Infrastructure Project Locations

SDC Infrastructure Project Review

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SDC Infrastructure Project Review

Contact details: Mike Woollacott Greenwatt Technology Minerva Mill Innovation Centre Station Road Alcester Warwickshire B49 5ET

Tel: 01789 761367 Mob: 07901 916694 Email: [email protected] Web: www.atiprojects.co.uk