Contents Page

1.0 Introduction to the Planning Process 3

2.0 Policies for the Environment 9

2.1 Introduction 9 2.2 Green Belt 10 2.3 The Countryside 12 2.4 The Built Environment 22 2.5 Open Spaces and Recreation 38 2.6 Canals 48

3.0 Policies for Development 51

3.1 Introduction 51 3.2 Housing 51 3.3 Employment 87 3.4 Transport 96 3.5 Town Centres and Shopping 106 3.6 Tourism 115 3.7 Community Facilities and Services 118 3.8 Utilities and Consumer Services 124

4.0 Resources and Implementation 129

Glossary 137

Appendices 142

Prepared by: Planning Policy and Conservation West Wiltshire District Council Council Offices Bradley Road TROWBRIDGE BA14 0RD

Tel: 01225 776655 Fax: 01225 770314

1.0 Introduction to the Planning Process

1.1 Introduction

1.1.1 The 1st Alteration to the West Wiltshire District Local Plan has been prepared by West Wiltshire District Council in accordance with the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and other government advice. The Plan guides development in the District up to the year 2011. It outlines the Council‟s policies for the use of land and related matters and the reasoned justification for them. The Plan is consistent with national planning guidance, as expressed in Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPGs) with Regional Planning Guidance (RPG10), with the planning policies of neighbouring authorities and is in general conformity with the Wiltshire County Structure Plan.

1.1.2 The Plan encourages appropriate development on specific sites, indicates where the Council intends to prepare more detailed supplementary planning guidance in the form of development briefs and helps to co-ordinate public and private investment decisions. The plan also sets the scene for the Council‟s environmental enhancement initiatives.

Context

1.1.3 Located in the southwest of England, in the County of Wiltshire, east of Bath and northwest of Salisbury, West Wiltshire has an administrative area of about 518 square kilometres (200 square miles) and is centred on the five towns of Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge, Warminster and Westbury. The District borders Somerset and the district of Bath and North East Somerset in the west and the Wiltshire districts of Salisbury, Kennet and North Wiltshire to the south, east and north respectively.

1.1.4 It is a district of great character, distinction and variety with a diverse landscape of natural beauty, and many picturesque historic towns and villages. In the northwest of the district lie the southern fringes of the Cotswolds and the impressive Limpley Stoke valley. The River Avon and its tributaries flow through the low lying central part of the District typified by mixed agricultural use. To the southeast stands Westbury escarpment with the famous White Horse and Salisbury Plain beyond. To the south lie the chalk river system of the River Wylye, the Deverills and Great Ridge. The District contains two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB); the Cotswolds AONB and the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB. In addition there are several areas identified as being of special landscape importance. The diverse landscape contains a wealth of natural habitats and many features of ecological, scientific and archaeological interest, some of which are of national and international importance.

1.1.5 Trowbridge with a population of approximately 27,000 is the principal town in the District, an important administrative and service centre and the county town of Wiltshire. Warminster, in the south of the District, is an important military and local employment and service centre with a population of approximately 17,000. Melksham in the north of the District serves as an important employment and local service centre with a population of about 17,000. Westbury, south of Trowbridge is an employment centre with good rail communications and a population of about 10,000. Bradford on Avon has a population

3 of about 9,000 and is an historic mill town of special architectural character with an attractive landscape setting located in the Western Wiltshire Green Belt.

1.1.6 The main communications links through the District are the A36 trunk road from Southampton to Bath and the A350, an important north/south route from Poole to the M4. The A361 provides the main east/west link through the District. The District has good rail links connecting to the London (Paddington) to Penzance, Cardiff to Southampton and Bristol to Weymouth lines.

1.2 Existing Development Plans

The Structure Plan

1.2.1 The Development Plan system comprises two levels of planning; Structure Plans and Local Plans. The Structure Plan, which is prepared by the County Council, establishes the strategic planning policy framework for the whole county. Local Plans elaborate on this framework. They provide the detailed development policies and proposals for districts.

1.2.2 In July 1994, the Government published the first Regional Planning Guidance for the South West (RPG10) for the period to 2011. In order to update the Structure Plan in accordance with RPG10 Wiltshire County Council published a revised Draft Wiltshire County Structure Plan in January 1996 and a Deposit Draft in August 1996. An Examination In Public (EIP) was held in early 1997 and the Report of the EIP Panel was received in August 1997. Modifications to the Structure Plan were published in February 1999. A Second EIP was held in November 1999 and the Report of the EIP Panel was received in March 2000. Further Modifications to the Structure Plan were published in June 2000. The Wiltshire Structure Plan 2011 is the approved Structure Plan applicable to this District for the period to 2011 and was adopted in January 2001.

Local Plans

1.2.3 The District Council adopted its first District Wide Local Plan in March 1996. This Plan was prepared in accordance with the Western Wiltshire Structure Plan, incorporating Alterations Nos 1 and 2 for the period to 2001.

1.2.4 The County Council is responsible for preparing and reviewing Mineral and Waste Disposal Local Plans in Wiltshire.

1.2.5 In preparing this 1st Alteration to the District Wide Local Plan the District Council took the opportunity to review and rationalise the existing adopted plan policies to reflect changes in National Guidance (to accord with new and revised PPGs) and the Wiltshire Structure Plan 2011.

1.3 Scope and Purpose of the 1st Alteration to the District Plan

1.3.1 Whilst the main purpose of the Plan is to put forward proposals for the development and use of land, it also fulfils several other important functions which can be summarised as follows:-

(i) to interpret the strategic planning policies of the Wiltshire Structure Plan 2011 through local plan policies and proposals for West Wiltshire;

(ii) to examine local issues or problems which warrant consideration but may not have been considered in the Structure Plan;

4 (iii) to identify sufficient land to meet the development needs of the Plan area for the period up to 2011;

(iv) to provide a satisfactory basis for development control decisions; and

(v) to provide, together with the Structure Plan, a means of co-ordinating the investment and development programmes of private and public organisations.

Community Planning

During the life of the District Plan 1st Alteration, the Council with partners and the wider community in West Wiltshire will be working together to develop a more joined up and sustainable approach to community development. This will reflect the needs and aspirations of our local communities. The outcomes of this work and the Council‟s proposals for taking them forward will be contained within a Community Strategy.

Government guidance is clear that development plans and community strategies need to be complementary. In preparing community strategies, local authorities need to take into account the policies contained in the adopted development plan. Once a community strategy has been established, the development plan provides the means of implementing those elements of its vision and priorities that concern the physical development and use of land in an authority's area.

Within West Wiltshire the District Plan 1st Alteration will play a key role in delivering the Council‟s Community Strategy. Its implementation will be consistent with the Council‟s approach to community planning. The Council will also have regard to its other corporate strategies and policy documents where appropriate, as material considerations in its development control decisions.

The Council recognises that the development plan remains the primary basis for the consideration of applications for planning permission to develop or change the use of land. The Council will consider the need to adopt any land use related elements of its Community Strategy as Supplementary Planing Guidance, prepared in accordance with the advice of PPG12.

1.4 Main Stages

1.4.1 The main stages undertaken in the preparation of the 1st Alteration to the District Plan are summarised below:-

1 Consultation with the public and others on Issues and Options - including „Planning for Real‟ Workshops (Autumn 1996).

2 Consideration by the Planning Policy Working Group and the Planning and Development Committee of the wide range of comments and representations received during the Issues and Options stage (winter/spring 1996/7).

3 Consultation with town and parish councils on „ The Way Forward‟ (summer 1997).

4 Consideration by the Planning Policy Working Group and the Planning and Development Committee of comments received on The Way Forward report and the preparation of a consensus housing strategy to 2011 to meet the concerns of town and parish councils (winter/spring 1997/8).

5 5 Pre-deposit consultations with town and parish councils, the public and others (late summer/autumn 1998).

6 Draft 1st Alteration placed on deposit (October 1998).

7 Revised Draft 1st Alteration placed on deposit (November 2000).

8 Pre-Inquiry Changes published (October 2001).

9 Public Local Inquiry into objections (March – September 2002).

10 Modifications proposed (November 2003).

11 Formal Adoption of the 1st Alteration.

Issues Report

1.4.2 The Council commenced consultation on Issues and Options facing the District to 2011 in October 1996. 12 „Planning for Real‟ Workshops were held throughout the District and were attended by a wide cross section of those who live and work in West Wiltshire. This was followed by a „Feedback‟ conference in Melksham in January 1997.

The Way Forward Report

1.4.3 The Way Forward Report was prepared by the Council‟s Planning Policy Working Group and set out a draft strategy for the distribution of housing growth to 2011 for consultation with town and parish councils. Specific sites for both „brown‟ and „greenfield‟ development were also floated along with proposals for changes to village housing policy generally and certain village policy limits in particular.

1.4.4 The Way Forward Report was launched at a conference for town and parish councils on 2 August 1997. At the request of the town and parish councils the consultation period on The Way Forward Report was extended to 31 October 1997.

Deposit 1st Alteration

1.4.4a The District Plan Deposit 1st Alteration was approved for development control and deposit purposes on 28 July 1998. A leaflet entitled “Planning Today for Tomorrow” was produced and 50,000 distributed through the local free newspapers to most households within the five towns of West Wiltshire and the principal villages. An audio tape of the leaflet was also produced. Five pre-deposit roadshows were held at the five towns of West Wiltshire during September and October 1998 and were well attended with over 770 visitors. All the statutory consultations were undertaken and the Plan was placed on deposit on 16 October 1998 to 27 November 1998.

1.4.4b Over 2800 representations were received from approximately 1240 individuals and organisations. The District Council‟s Planning Working Group considered these representations during 1999. The response of the District Council to these representations, together with a District Plan 1st Alteration Revised Deposit were approved at a meeting of the Council‟s Policy Committee on 4 October 2000.

Revised Deposit 1st Alteration

1.4.4c The District Plan 1st Alteration Revised Deposit was approved for development control and deposit purposes on 4 October 2000. Details of the major changes were published in

6 the October edition of West Wilts Matters, the Council produced newsletter which is distributed to every household in the District. All the statutory consultations were undertaken and the Plan was placed on deposit on 9 November 2000 to 21 December 2000

1.4.4d 640 representations were received from 204 individuals and organisations. The District Council‟s response to these representations, together with pre-inquiry changes, were approved at a meeting of the Council on 19 September 2001.

Proposed Modifications

1.4.4e A Public Local Inquiry was held between March and September 2002; 139 objectors appeared on 56 sitting days. The Inspector considered a total of 2749 outstanding objections and a Report containing his findings and recommendations was published in June 2003. The District Council considered the Inspector‟s recommendations and proposed modifications were approved as a meeting of the Council on 5 November 2003.

1.5 District Plan 1st Alteration Strategy and Main Aims

1.5.1 The District Council considers that the District Plan 1st Alteration needs to be guided by a clear strategy and a set of aims.

West Wiltshire District Plan 1st Alteration Strategy

1.5.2 The following strategy guides the aims, policies and proposals expressed in the West Wiltshire District Plan 1st Alteration and is broadly based upon the County Strategy stated in the Wiltshire Structure Plan 2011.

The District Council will encourage the continued and sustainable regeneration of the economic and physical fabric of the West Wiltshire towns in the A350 corridor, in particular Trowbridge, Melksham and Westbury, through a concentration of resources, development and positive planning measures.

In Bradford on Avon, Warminster, the villages and rural areas, the District Council will seek to achieve a sustainable balance between the competing demands for development and environmental protection.

The District Council will place particular emphasis on environmental conservation and the protection and enhancement of features of acknowledged international, national and local importance whilst continuing to meet the essential development needs of the local economy and community.

1.5.3 The District Council is working towards ensuring that the future development and growth in West Wiltshire is sustainable. It notes Brundtland‟s definition of sustainable development as being that “which meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. The District Council recognises that the planning system can play a positive role in guiding appropriate development to the right place and preventing unacceptable development.

1.5.4 In encouraging the sustainable regeneration of the West Wiltshire towns, the District Council will seek to reconcile the need for development with the need to conserve and enhance the quality of the environment. It will seek to make full and effective use of land, particularly through conversion and redevelopment of neglected, unused or derelict sites and premises. An emphasis will be placed upon urban renewal and land

7 recycling, rather than on greenfield development, thus relieving pressure on the countryside. The District Plan makes adequate provision for development and at the same time takes account of the need to protect the natural and built environment. The District Council will seek to balance the need for development with conservation interests and will not sacrifice the green spaces in the towns needed for recreation and amenity. New development will be directed to those existing settlements that have access to a range of services and facilities to reduce the length of motorised journeys and the reliance on the private car in favour of public transport, walking and cycling.

Aims

1.5.5 The aims of the West Wiltshire District Plan 1st Alteration take account of the main issues affecting West Wiltshire and have helped to guide the formulation of the policies and proposals.

1.5.6 The aims include a general policy for West Wiltshire to the year 2011 and for specific areas such as the environment, housing, employment, conservation, recreation, tourism, transport, shopping and community services and facilities. These aims preface each appropriate section in the Plan.

A Policy for West Wiltshire to the Year 2011

Aims

To establish a planning policy to the year 2011 designed to reflect and take into account the needs and wishes of the residents of the Plan area, their economic well-being and the built and natural environment of the area in which they live and work.

To continue to give firm support to the improvement of the physical fabric of the towns and villages of the District, through a range of positive planning policies and the encouragement of both public and private sector investment in new infrastructure, imaginative development schemes and environmental improvements.

1.6 Policies and Proposals

1.6.1 The policies and proposals of the Plan are set out in the following sections. Those which are specifically concerned with the maintenance and improvement of the attractive environment of West Wiltshire are listed under Policies for the Environment in Section 2. These policies set the overall scene and in some cases become the principal restraint policies affecting the future development in the District. The following section sets out policies concerned with new development including housing, employment, transport, shopping and community facilities. Section 4 examines the implementation of the Plan and the resources likely to be available.

8

2.0 Policies for the Environment

2.1 Introduction

2.1.1 The District of West Wiltshire has a rich, attractive landscape heritage, comprising of a wide range of natural habitats, and a wealth of historic towns and villages. Its countryside offers a variety of landscapes from the undulating Cotswold hills in the north and the impressive Limpley Stoke valley, through the lower ground of the Avon Vale to the dramatic chalk escarpment of Salisbury Plain and the water meadows of the Wylye Valley. The District includes the historic towns of Trowbridge, Melksham, Westbury, Warminster and Bradford on Avon and a number of well preserved villages. The District Council is firmly committed to the preservation of the West Wiltshire environment and its built heritage but recognises the need for new development, including housing and employment development, to maintain the local economy and accommodate the demand for additional housing resulting from the growing population. Therefore, the District Council is seeking to achieve an appropriate balance between the need for conservation and development in this plan by identifying those areas or features that will be conserved and enhanced and those areas for development to meet the requirements set out in the Wiltshire Structure Plan 2011.

2.1.2 This section outlines the planning policies for conserving and enhancing the environment and is divided into five sub-sections, Green Belt, Countryside, Built Environment, Open Space and Recreation and Canals. The Green Belt sub section sets out the policies applicable to the Western Wiltshire Green Belt. The Countryside sub-section includes landscape, nature conservation and archaeology. The Built Environment sub-section sets out policies in respect of conservation areas, listed buildings, shopfronts and a number of other issues. The sub-section on Open Space and Recreation appraises present provisions, sets out policies to protect existing open space and allocates land for further recreational provision. Finally, the canals in West Wiltshire are considered and policies put forward to protect and enhance them.

Environmental Aims

To protect, conserve and enhance both the natural and manmade environment.

To protect and conserve the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, areas of nature conservation and/or scientific importance, conservation areas, listed buildings, scheduled ancient monuments and areas designated as open space in and around the towns as appropriate.

9 2.2 Green Belt

Western Wiltshire Green Belt

GB1 The Western Wiltshire Green Belt is defined on the Proposals Map. Where the outer boundary follows the general direction of a highway, but is shown as being some distance from that highway, the outer boundary is set at a distance of 90 metres from the edge of the carriageway nearest to the Green Belt boundary.

2.2.1 The area northwest of Trowbridge, as identified on the Proposals Map, is part of the Western Wiltshire Green Belt which in turn forms part of an extensive Green Belt around Bristol and Bath. The purpose of the Green Belt is to check the unrestricted sprawl of urban development, particularly that of Bristol and Bath but also other towns and villages within or adjacent to the Green Belt; to safeguard the surrounding countryside against further encroachment; to prevent the coalescence of Trowbridge and Bradford on Avon and to preserve the special historic character of Bradford on Avon.

2.2.2 The towns and villages in this part of the District are in some cases only separated by two or three miles of open countryside and are in danger of coalescence. Pressures for development are particularly acute between Bradford on Avon and Trowbridge and the villages and hamlets between Bradford on Avon and Bath.

Control of Development in Green Belt

GB2 In the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, approval will not be given, except in very special circumstances, for development other than:

(i) The construction of new buildings: (a) for the purposes of agriculture, forestry (b) providing essential facilities for outdoor sport and outdoor recreation, cemeteries and other uses which preserve the openness of the Green Belt (c) for limited affordable housing schemes for local community needs in accordance with Policy H22. (ii) The re-use of buildings provided: (a) it does not have a materially greater impact than the present use on the openness of the Green Belt (b) that the buildings are capable of conversion without major reconstruction and are of permanent and substantial construction (c) the bulk, form and general design of the buildings are in keeping with their surroundings (d) any extension to the re-used buildings and any associated uses of land surrounding such buildings do not conflict with the openness of the Green Belt and the purposes of including land within it. (iii) Change of use of land which maintains the openness of the land and does not conflict with the purposes of including such land in the Green Belt. (iv) The limited extension and/or alteration of existing dwellings provided it does not result in disproportionate additions over and above the size of the original building. (v) The replacement of existing dwellings provided the new dwelling is not materially larger than the dwellings to be replaced.

Appropriate development proposals in the Green Belt will be permitted subject to consideration of their environmental, amenity and highway implications.

10 2.2.3 The objectives of the District Council, in maintaining and preserving the Western Wiltshire Green Belt are:-

(i) to prevent the coalescence of Bradford on Avon with Trowbridge and the outlying villages to the east of Bath and; (ii) to maintain the open character of the undeveloped land adjacent to Bath, Trowbridge and Bradford on Avon and; (iii) to protect the setting and historic character of Bradford on Avon.

2.2.4 The District Council recognises that the Green Belt contains a number of rural buildings in agricultural and other uses which may appropriately be reused and could provide an opportunity for farmers to diversify their enterprises or provide accommodation for small firms. The re-use of buildings will be permitted as set out in Policy GB2 unless there are specific reasons for refusal which cannot be overcome by the use of conditions.

2.2.5 The District Council in seeking to protect the Green Belt from inappropriate development will have regard to the environmental impact of any outdoor sport and recreation proposals. Special consideration will be given to traffic generation, access, noise, visual intrusion, the protection of better quality agricultural land and impact on the natural environment. The District Council will expect buildings constructed in support of outdoor sports and recreation use to be small scale, ancillary and unobtrusive in character. The District Council will encourage the use of redundant buildings in the Green Belt to accommodate outdoor sport and recreation facilities.

Safeguarded Land - Bradford on Avon

GB3 Land will be safeguarded to meet the longer term development needs of Bradford on Avon beyond the period of the Wiltshire County Structure Plan 2011 within the area to the east of Bradford on Avon as defined on the Proposals Map. Development will not be permitted except in special circumstances for purposes other than agriculture, forestry, outdoor sport and recreation, cemeteries and other uses appropriate to a rural area.

2.2.6 The inner boundary of the Green Belt around Bradford on Avon encloses an area of land on the eastern side of the town between that boundary and the existing built-up area of the town. This area is excluded from the Green Belt to safeguard land which may be required to meet longer term development needs beyond the Structure Plan period to the year 2001. The District Council has assessed the housing land supply available in Bradford on Avon relative to the District Plan strategy, the overall land supply and the role of the town in accommodating new development and considers that there is insufficient justification to warrant the release of the safeguarded land during the period to 2011. Therefore, the District Council will continue to safeguard land for future development that may be required beyond 2011 and in the meantime, other than in special circumstances, the only acceptable proposals will be those which are appropriate within the Green Belt itself.

11 2.3 The Countryside

Countryside Protection

C1 In order to maintain the quality and variety of the countryside, the water environment, the rural landscape and wildlife, will be protected, conserved and enhanced through the control of development and positive planning measures.

Development proposals in the open countryside will not be permitted, other than those which encourage diversification of the rural economy and rural recreation, unless there is an agricultural, forestry or other overriding justification such as essential transport improvements, schemes of national importance or overriding benefit to the local economy. Acceptable mitigation measures will be implemented where appropriate.

2.3.1 The guiding principle in the countryside is that development should both benefit economic activity and maintain and enhance the environment. The District Council values the diverse and attractive areas of West Wiltshire as an important asset. The countryside, and water environment, will be protected and enhanced for the sake of their beauty, diversity of landscape, the wealth of natural resources and for nature conservation, agricultural and recreational reasons. The “Character Of England” maps produced by the Countryside Agency and English Nature broadly define the distinctive character areas of the District and its built environment. The District Council also recognises that the countryside is the workplace of many people and the rural economy should be encouraged to expand and diversify to ensure and facilitate the management of the countryside in an appropriate way to maintain the much valued pastoral landscape of West Wiltshire. Development required for the efficient provision and operation of public utilities will be permitted in the countryside, provided that there is no alternative location that is more environmentally acceptable. Acceptable mitigation measures will be required where appropriate with development in the countryside to minimise its impact on the landscape. Developers will be expected to undertake Environmental Impact Assessments where the development falls within schedule 1 or 2 of the Environmental Assessment Regulations.

Landscape

2.3.2 West Wiltshire is predominantly rural with an attractive countryside. It has a diverse landscape with a variety of differing landforms including chalk downland, woodland, river valleys and clay vales.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

C2 The national landscape importance of the Cotswolds Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Cranborne Chase And West Wiltshire Downs Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, shown on the Proposals Map, will be conserved and enhanced.

Priority will be given to the landscape over other considerations and development proposals likely to be detrimental to the special landscape character will not be permitted. Proposals for new development essential to the economic and social well- being of the rural community will be permitted, having regard to highways, access, scale, design, materials, location, siting, landscaping and other appropriate environmental considerations. Major industrial or commercial development will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated to be in the public interest, having taken

12 account of the need for the development, in terms of national considerations, the cost and scope of developing elsewhere and any detrimental effect on the environment and landscape.

2.3.3 Two parts of the District are recognised as being of national landscape importance and have been designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) by the Countryside Agency. These designated areas, the Cotswolds AONB and the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB, are indicated on the Proposals Map.

2.3.4 The Cotswolds AONB covers the River Avon valley, west of Bradford on Avon around Limpley Stoke and Monkton Farleigh. The landscape includes the gently undulating oolitic limestone plateau of the Cotswolds, with its deeply incised, heavily wooded valleys.

2.3.5 The part of the Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONB within the District covers the Wylye Valley, the Deverills, Longleat and the West Wiltshire Downs. Its landscape varies from rolling chalk downland and dry valleys, to heavily wooded areas and attractive river valleys.

2.3.6 The District Council will conserve and enhance the landscape quality of the AONBs for the benefit of the local community and visitors. It will endeavour to promote their use by the general public for rural leisure and recreational pursuits provided there would be no detrimental impact on the special landscape character of the areas, and so far as it is consistent with the needs of agriculture and forestry. The District Council will give priority to landscape considerations in respect of proposals for development within the AONBs. Proposals for golf courses and associated development within AONBs will be considered with reference to Policies R14 and R15. In both AONB‟s the District Council will have regard to the policies in the respective AONB Management Plans. Proposals for new buildings essential to the economic and social well-being of the rural community will normally be permitted and the District Council will expect schemes to have regard to the impact on the landscape. Schemes using traditional local materials which are sited and landscaped to minimise their impact on the landscape will normally be permitted.

Special Landscape Areas

C3 Special Landscape Areas, as defined on the Proposals Maps, are identified as follows:-

A Salisbury Plain B The Corsley Heath to Chapmanslade Greensand Ridge C The higher land of the Spye and Bowood Parklands D The River Frome Valley at Vaggs Hill E The southern fringes of the Cotswolds not covered by Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty designation

The landscape character of Special Landscape Areas will be conserved and enhanced and development will not be permitted which is considered to be detrimental to the high quality of these landscapes.

Proposals for development essential to the social and economic well-being of the rural community or desirable for the enjoyment of its amenities will be permitted having regard to highways, access, scale, design, materials, location, siting, landscaping and other appropriate environmental considerations.

13 2.3.7 In addition to the nationally important AONBs a number of other parts of the District are recognised as being of County-Wide landscape importance. These areas have been defined as Special Landscape Areas (SLAs), as shown on the Proposals Map. The SLAs include Salisbury Plain, the greensand ridge around Corsley Heath and Chapmanslade, Spye Parkland, Vaggs Hill and the southern fringes of the Cotswolds.

2.3.8 The District Council values the landscape character of the SLAs as a local designation which complements the nationally important AONBs. It will promote their use for rural leisure and recreation where opportunities arise, provided there would be no detrimental impact on the special landscape character of these areas. The “Character of England” maps produced by the Countryside Agency and English Nature broadly define the distinctive character areas of the District and its built environment, and provide guidance as to characteristic attributes of the SLAs.

Landscape Setting

C4 The landscape settings of the historic towns of Bradford-On-Avon and Warminster will be protected. Proposals for development will not be permitted which, by reason of their scale, siting or design, would adversely affect the appearance of important physical features which are an integral part of the character and landscape setting within the areas defined on the Proposals Map.

2.3.9 The countryside as a landscape is important in its own right by virtue of its attractive physical characteristics such as in the AONBs and SLAs, but it can also complement the built environment. The historic towns of Bradford on Avon and Warminster are surrounded by locally important landscape features that warrant protection to preserve the landscape setting of these towns.

2.3.10 It is not intended to preclude development from the whole of the landscape setting areas, but to prevent inappropriate development, such as large scale developments or buildings, which would have a detrimental effect on the views into and out of the settlements of Bradford-On-Avon and Warminster.

2.3.11 In Bradford on Avon the landforms to be protected are the steep oolitic limestone slopes adjoining the River Avon, the River Avon meadows and plateau land to the north. In Warminster, the landforms to be protected are the escarpment and hills on the lower chalk to the north and the greensand and chert-capped ridges to the south.

Nature Conservation

C4a Designated and potential sites of international importance, such as Special Protection Areas for Wild Birds (SPA), Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), or Ramsar sites, will be subject to the most rigorous examination to reflect their importance. Such sites are shown on the Proposals Map and listed below.

A Winsley Mines (candidate Special Area of Conservation); B Salisbury Plain (Special Protection Area for Wild Birds and candidate Special Area of Conservation); C Salisbury River Avon System (candidate Special Area of Conservation).

Development proposals will be assessed against a site’s conservation objectives.

14 Development that is likely to adversely affect the integrity of the site will be permitted only where there is no alternative solution and where there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest. If the site is host to a priority habitat or species, development will be permitted only if it is necessary for human health, or public safety, or for other imperative reasons of overriding public interest, or if there are benefits of primary importance to the environment.

2.3.13 The District Council recognises the importance of nature conservation interests in the development control process. It will seek to protect and conserve the sensitive sites of nature conservation importance within the District, in particular those sites identified as being of international, national or county importance, in accordance with Planning Policy Guidance Note 9 Nature Conservation.

2.3.14 A number of areas within West Wiltshire are recognised as being of international nature conservation importance. These areas have been given additional protection under European legislation through the Habitats and Birds Directives. Special Protection Areas for Wild Birds (SPAs) and Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) protect habitats and species of international importance. The chalk downland of Salisbury Plain is recognised as being of international importance by its designation as a candidate SAC. It is also internationally important for its Juniper scrub and populations of Marsh Fritillary butterfly. In addition it is designated an SPA for its populations of Stone Curlew, Quail and Hobby. Other candidate SACs in the District are Winsley Mines, part of the Bath and Bradford-on- Avon Bats SAC, because it hosts the internationally rare Greater Horseshoe bat, and the Salisbury River Avon and its tributaries. This site is internationally important for Atlantic salmon, Bullhead, Brook and Sea Lamprey, Desmoulin's whorl snail and floating Ranunculus habitat.

Sites of Special Scientific Interest

C5 Development affecting Sites Of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), including those shown on the Proposals Map and listed below, will not be permitted where it would have an adverse impact on wildlife habitats or important physical features, unless the proposals can be subject to conditions which prevent damaging impact or if other material factors are sufficient to override the special nature conservation interest.

A Midford Valley Woods B Gripwood Quarry C Spye Park D Bratton Downs E Westbury Ironstone Quarry G Cley Hill H Scratchbury and Cotley Hills I Starveall and Stony Down J Brimsdown Hill K Tytherington Down L Stockton Wood and Down M Inwood, Warleigh N Picket and Clanger Woods O Winsley Mines P Upton Cow Down Q Salisbury Plain R Longleat Woods S Salisbury River Avon System

15 T Steeple Ashton

2.3.14a West Wiltshire has a rich biodiversity and a wide range of wildlife habitats with many rare and nationally important flora, fauna, geological and physiographical features that should be protected from harmful development. A number of areas within the District, including flower-rich neutral meadows, ancient semi-natural woodlands, river corridors and wetlands and substantial areas of chalk grassland, are recognised as being of national conservation and/or scientific importance and have been designated Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) by English Nature.

C6 Areas Of High Ecological Value (AHEVs), Regionally Important Geological or Geomorphological Sites (RIGs), and Sites Of Nature Conservation Interest (SNCIs) will be protected from detrimental development. These features are defined on the Proposals Map:

The AHEVs are: A The Cotswolds B Spye Park C Salisbury Plain West D The Deverills E Salisbury River Avon System F Grovely / Great Ridge

Development proposals in or near AHEVs, RIGs, or SNCIs will not be permitted if considered harmful to the ecological interest of these scarce and vulnerable habitats or if it would result in the serious loss of flora and fauna, unless there is no suitable alternative or if other material factors are sufficient to override the special nature conservation interest. Where development is permitted, proposals will be subject to conditions or planning agreements that prevent damaging impacts on wildlife, habitats or important physical features.

2.3.15 Several broad zones of high wildlife and nature conservation importance have been identified in West Wiltshire, known as Areas Of High Ecological Value (AHEVs), and are shown on the Proposals Map. These cover the extensive vulnerable habitats of the Cotswolds, Spye Park, Salisbury Plain West, the Deverills, the Salisbury River Avon system and Grovely/Great Ridge. Special regard will be paid to the maintenance of these areas of high ecological value through the strict control of development.

2.3.16 The Government is supporting local authorities to produce local Biodiversity Action Plans (BAPs) for their areas. In recognition of the importance of biodiversity within Wiltshire, a local BAP was published in 2002 which contains habitat and species action plans for maintaining the county‟s biodiversity. The Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, supported by the District Council, is undertaking a programme of identifying and monitoring SNCIs which include a variety of habitats regarded as being of substantive local nature conservation value across the District and within Wiltshire. A current record of the sites, and of the District‟s biodiversity, is held at the Wiltshire and Swindon Biological Records Centre. These records include information about the informal geological and landform designation RIGs. The biodiversity value of SNCIs and RIGs will be safeguarded when considering planning applications.

16 Landscape Features

C6a Development which would have an adverse effect on the integrity and continuity of the District’s characteristic landscape features, listed below, and their associated wildlife (wild flora and fauna), will only be permitted if the planning benefits of the proposal outweigh the harm to the local nature conservation interests.  Ponds  Hedges  Stone walls  Water courses  Chalk grasslands  Historic parklands  Semi-natural and ancient woodlands

Appropriate management of these features will be encouraged:  generally, in accordance with the Wiltshire Biodiversity Action Plan  specifically, by the use of conditions on planning permissions and by the use of planning agreements and management agreements with landowners and developers.

2.3.16a In addition to the designated sites, there are other natural features of the landscape which are of value to wildlife. The linear and continuous structure of such features serve as links which allow for the movement of wild flora and fauna and so help to maintain the overall abundance and diversity of the district‟s biodiversity. All but one of the features listed in the policy are the subject of habitat action plans in the Wiltshire BAP which identifies site management actions and targets to promote biodiversity.

Protected Species

C7 Planning permission for any development that would adversely affect, either indirectly or directly, any legally protected plant or animal or its habitat, will not be granted unless the proposals can be subject to conditions and planning agreements which will secure their protection at the site.

2.3.17 The protection of designated sites is one of the main ways of protecting rare plants and animals. However, in addition to this some species, such as bats, badgers, barn owls, great crested newts, water voles, native crayfish, and otters are protected in law wherever they live. The Wildlife And Countryside Act (1981) makes it an offence to kill, injure, take, or intentionally damage, destroy or obstruct any protected species and their places of shelter.

2.3.18 The District Council will secure the protection of protected species when determining applications for new development which, if carried out, would be likely to result in harm to the species or its habitat. However, it is the developer‟s responsibility to ensure that they do not break the law when undertaking development. Consequently, where it is known or suspected that there may be protected species on a planning application site, the developer will have to supply details as to what species is present, its population levels, how the proposals will impact on the species, and what measures can be undertaken to mitigate against the impact. Information on the location of protected species in the District can be obtained from the Wiltshire and Swindon Biological Records Centre.

17 Woodlands

C8 Where possible, mixed and broadleaved woodlands will be conserved and small woods will be retained. Special attention will be paid to retaining ancient semi-natural woodland as a nature conservation resource. Development proposals will not be permitted that would result in the loss or harm of woodland habitat.

2.3.19 The District Council recognises and values the importance of woodlands, in particular mixed and ancient semi-natural woodland, as a wildlife habitat and nature conservation resource, as features in the landscape and as a recreation resource. They will be protected from development where possible. Although recognising that new woodland planting is outside the scope of the planning system, the District Council will generally encourage the provision of new community woodland, in appropriate locations, in the interests of nature conservation, landscape enhancement and recreation. New woodland planting should have regard to the “Character Of England” maps produced by the Countryside Agency and English Nature, which broadly define the distinctive character areas of the District. Unimproved chalk grassland and flower rich neutral meadow habitats are not considered suitable locations for new woodland.

Rivers

C9 Development proposals should ensure that they do not adversely affect the water quality, quantity, amenity, visual quality or value as a wildlife habitat of a river or watercourse and associated wetlands. Permission will not be granted for works affecting a river or watercourse where there would be significant harm to landscape, visual amenity, nature conservation interests, public enjoyment or a risk of flooding. Bank protection works should include the use of appropriate materials and protect nature conservation interests.

2.3.20 As well as their important drainage functions, the rivers and watercourses are important for water quality, nature conservation, fisheries and recreation and contribute to the character of an area and landscape. River corridors and wetlands can form links that are crucial for wildlife and their habitats.

Local Nature Reserves

C10 Local Nature Reserves (LNR) and other nature reserves, including the following, as shown on the Proposals Map will be protected:

A Smallbrook Meadows, Warminster (LNR) B Conigre Mead, Melksham (WWT) C Green Lane and Smith’s Well Woods, Trowbridge (WWT) D Picket and Clanger Woods, Yarnbrook (WT) E Still Meadow, Winsley (WWT)

Development likely to have an adverse effect on an LNR will not be permitted unless it can be clearly demonstrated that there are reasons for the proposal which outweigh the need to safeguard the nature conservation value of the site. Where development is permitted, the damage should be kept to a minimum through the use of conditions and planning agreements. Small scale development which complements the function of the nature reserves will be permitted.

18 2.3.21 The District Council has one designated Local Nature Reserve (LNR) at Smallbrook Meadows, Warminster, as shown on the Proposals Map, managed in conjunction with the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust (WWT). The Trust has established nature reserves at Conigre Mead, Melksham, Green Lane Wood, Trowbridge, and Still Meadows, Winsley. The Woodland Trust (WT) also has a nature reserve at the Site Of Special Scientific Interest at Clanger Wood, near Yarnbrook. The District Council will encourage further nature reserve designations and positive habitat management schemes where opportunities arise.

Military Land

C11 The conservation and enhancement of the biodiversity, archaeological heritage and landscape character and quality of military land, in particular, the Salisbury Plain Training Area, will be sought.

Objection to Ministry of Defence development proposals, arising from its operational requirements, will not be raised provided such proposals are not considered detrimental to nature conservation interests, the archaeological heritage and/or the landscape character and quality by reason of their scale, siting or design.

Redundant Military Land

C12 Proposals for the reuse of redundant military land or buildings within the settlement boundaries of the towns will be considered having regard to the need to maximise the potential of previously developed land for new development. Proposals for development on redundant sites within the open countryside or immediately adjacent to the towns will be required to provide only for local or specialised needs which require a countryside or urban fringe location.

All proposals will be considered with regard to: A Maximising the reuse or the conversion of existing buildings of substantial and permanent construction and of architectural merit; B The maintenance of the open character of sites within the open countryside or adjacent to the towns; C The avoidance of harm to the landscape character or nature conservation interest of the site and its surrounds; D The avoidance of harm to the amenities enjoyed by occupiers of adjoining properties; E The accessibility of the site by foot, bicycle and public transport; F The highway capacity of the existing road network, access arrangements and the provision of adequate car parking.

2.3.22 The Ministry of Defence (MoD) is a major landowner within the District and its activities have a significant impact on the local environment, in particular, Salisbury Plain. The District Council recognises that following the end of the Cold War and the publication of the Strategic Defence Review in 1998, there may be significant changes in the MoD‟s operational requirements in the District and that sites may need to be expanded or declared surplus to requirements during the Plan period. The 1995 Rural White Paper and 1997 Guidelines on the Disposal of Surplus MoD Property encourage close co-operation between local planning authorities, Government Offices and the MoD to ensure that these changes take full account of the development plan framework and the needs and aspirations of the local community. Making the best use of surplus previously developed MoD land within the towns will reduce the need to develop greenfield sites

19 but sites located in the open countryside or immediately adjacent to towns should not accommodate new uses which should be located within existing urban areas. Housing or employment proposals and any development involving substantial construction on open land or which generates major traffic movements will not be permitted on sites located within the open countryside or immediately adjacent to the towns during the Plan period. For larger redundant sites, planning briefs will be prepared jointly by the District Council, Wiltshire County Council and the MoD.

2.3.23 The District Council recognises the international importance of Salisbury Plain in respect of its nature conservation value and its importance in landscape and archaeological terms. This is reflected in the designation of the area as a Site of Special Scientific Interest, a Special Protection Area for Wild Birds, a candidate Special Area of Conservation and the numerous Scheduled Ancient Monuments on the Plain. It is appreciated that without the strict management and control of the Ministry of Defence the land would not be of such value. However, the District Council is concerned over the potential detrimental impacts to the countryside and vulnerable wildlife habitats that may result from unchecked military activities and associated developments. Therefore, in considering Ministry of Defence development proposals arising from its operational requirements, the District Council will have regard to the impact of such proposals on the nature conservation resource, archaeological heritage and the landscape character and quality.

Archaeology

Nationally Important Sites

C13 All Scheduled Ancient Monuments and other nationally important sites and monuments will be protected and preserved in situ. Planning permission for development proposals in or near such sites which would be damaging and/or detrimental to the monument and its setting will not be permitted.

2.3.24 Archaeological remains are a finite and irreplaceable resource providing information about the past. West Wiltshire has a rich and varied archaeological heritage including sites and monuments from many differing historical periods, such as the Prehistoric, Celtic, Romano-British, Saxon and Medieval periods. The District has a number of Scheduled Ancient Monuments recognised for their national importance. In addition the County Archaeological Service has identified a large number of sites of comparable importance, which are listed in the County Sites and Monuments Record. The nature of archaeology will also mean that some sites of national importance may as yet remain undiscovered, and these too will be worthy of physical protection. With all archaeological remains of national importance there is a presumption in favour of their physical preservation if they and their settings are affected by proposed development. Consequently, all known monuments of national importance, both the Scheduled Ancient Monuments and the non-scheduled monuments identified by the County Archaeological Service, are worthy of preservation in situ. All Scheduled Ancient Monuments and urban and rural areas of known archaeological interest are identified on the Proposals Map. Non-scheduled monuments and areas of higher archaeological potential are identified within Appendix Ab. Developers are advised to seek the advice of the County Archaeological Service when proposed development would impact on any of these sites.

20 Archaeological Field Evaluation

C14 An archaeological field evaluation will be required where development proposals would affect a site of known archaeological interest or where evidence suggests the existence of such a site. An archaeological field evaluation may be requested prior to a decision on an application for development where the archaeological value of the site is as yet unknown.

2.3.25 Where development proposals affect a site of known archaeological interest or evidence suggests the existence of such a site, the District Council will continue to seek specialist advice from the County Archaeological Service. The archaeological importance of some sites is not yet known and on the advice of the County Archaeologist the Council may request an archaeological field evaluation of the site to be submitted with any application for planning permission.

Archaeological Assessment

C15 Archaeological assessment will be required for development proposals within the Areas of Archaeological Interest, or affecting an area of 1 hectare or more within Areas of Higher Archaeological Potential, as shown on the Proposals Map. The results should be submitted with the planning application.

2.3.26 The County Archaeological Service has identified 10 Areas of Higher Archaeological Potential within the rural landscape areas of West Wiltshire and 5 Areas of Archaeological Interest within the historic town centres of West Wiltshire. In these areas, development proposals should be supported by a desk based archaeological assessment usually utilising the County Sites and Monuments Record. Where an archaeological issue is identified, the Council may request an archaeological field evaluation of the site in accordance with Policy C14.

Archaeological Investigation and Recording

C16 In considering applications for development on sites of archaeological value, or in areas of archaeological significance, where the physical preservation of remains is not warranted, planning permission will be granted provided the archaeological value of the site is adequately recorded. Consideration will be given to the use of conditions and/or agreements to ensure that adequate access, time and resources are available to allow investigation, recording and dissemination of archaeological evidence prior to the start of development.

2.3.27 Development plans cannot require developers to finance archaeological works in return for planning permission. Where development threatens sites of archaeological interest the ideal situation is to preserve the site in situ. However, in some cases such preservation is not merited, so the District Council will require the developer to enter into an agreement to excavate and record the site and disseminate the results prior to the commencement of any development.

21 2.4 The Built Environment

2.4.1 West Wiltshire has a rich heritage in the built form of towns and villages with fine examples of historic buildings from many architectural periods, some of which are listed as being of special architectural or historic interest. In particular, the town of Bradford on Avon is regarded as being of special character.

Conservation Areas

C17 The special character or appearance of the designated conservation areas and their settings in West Wiltshire, including those shown on the Proposals Map and listed in Appendix A will be preserved and enhanced.

The designation of further conservation areas under Section 69 of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 will be considered from time to time where such areas are of special architectural or historic interest in the local context. Proposals will be formulated and published for the preservation and enhancement of the designated conservation areas.

2.4.2 The District Council recognises the importance of conserving the built form, not just from an architectural preservation and historical point of view but because of the contribution made by an attractive built environment to the local economy, by attracting tourists, and for the well-being of the local community. A number of conservation areas have been designated by the District Council to preserve and enhance the special character of those parts of the District (see Appendix A). Further conservation areas may be designated from time to time by the District Council during the period of the Plan.

2.4.3 The District Council will from time to time formulate proposals for the preservation and enhancement of the designated conservation areas subject to the availability of resources. Any proposals will be the subject of full public consultation.

New Development in Conservation Areas

C18 Proposals for new development in a conservation area will be permitted only if the following criteria are met:-

A The development will preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area; B The plot layout, scale, form and detailed designs are characteristic of the area; C Historically important boundaries and street patterns, trees, walls, railings and other means of enclosure which contribute to the area’s character are retained; D Open spaces and views into, out of and within the area, which are important to its character, are protected; E Materials and colours which blend with their setting are used. Traditional local materials will be expected, except in locations away from public view.

22 2.4.4 Within conservation areas or outside, where development proposals would affect the setting, in particular, views into or out of the area, the preservation of their special character and/or appearance will be the primary consideration. In respect of new residential development it is unlikely that standard house designs will be acceptable for sites within conservation areas. Rather, the design and layout should reflect the characteristics of buildings in the locality. In conservation areas where character assessments or village design statements have been formally adopted by the Council as supplementary planning guidance, developers will be expected to take account of the characteristics of the locality identified in these documents.

Alterations in Conservation Areas

C19 Proposals to alter an unlisted building in a conservation area which require planning permission will be permitted only if the following criteria are met:-

A The alteration will preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area; B The design is sympathetic to the scale, form and fenestration of the building, and the alteration retains features of the existing building which are important to the character of the area; C Matching materials, characteristic of the local area, are used; D Open spaces, means of enclosure, trees and other features which contribute to the character of the street scene are retained or enhanced.

Change of Use in Conservation Areas

C20 A change of use of a building in a conservation area will be permitted, subject to other planning policies, provided that the new use will not require any changes in the appearance or setting of the building which would be detrimental to the special character or appearance of the area.

2.4.5 Cumulative smaller changes to the appearance of conservation areas can also harm their character. This is particularly so when the essential nature of an area is its grouping of buildings of similar style, character and materials. The Council will therefore exercise strict control over minor alterations to ensure that the District‟s conservation areas are preserved and enhanced. In exceptional cases the Council will consider the imposition of a direction under Article 4 of the General Permitted Development Order 1995, where the effect of cumulative permitted changes on the appearance of buildings is clearly causing a detrimental effect on the character or appearance of a conservation area.

Planning Permission in Conservation Areas

C21 Planning permission will not be granted in outline form for development in conservation areas or their immediate settings or where it would affect a listed building or its setting. All applications in such cases should be submitted in detail.

2.4.6 The District Council will normally require an application for planning permission to be in detailed form, in or immediately adjacent, to conservation areas, or where it would affect a listed building or its setting, in order to ascertain and control the effect of development proposals on the environmental character of the area.

23 Demolition in Conservation Areas

C22 Consent will only be granted for the demolition of buildings in conservation areas where the proposed demolition and any replacement development will not adversely affect the character or appearance of the conservation area.

Proposals to rebuild demolished buildings will be expected to include the reuse of old building materials where appropriate.

2.4.7 The character of the conservation areas can be altered just as much by demolition as by new development. In assessing any proposal for demolition in a conservation area, account will be taken of the importance of the building as a part of the area‟s architectural or historic interest, the effects of the demolition on the character and appearance of the locality and the wider effects on the conservation area as a whole.

2.4.8 If the District Council grants consent for the demolition of a listed building or other buildings in the conservation areas, but considers it important that the building should be immediately replaced, it will make the consent subject to a condition that the building shall not be demolished before a contract for the redevelopment of the site has been entered into.

Street Scene

C23 Within the District’s conservation areas the retention of the better quality street furniture will be encouraged. Good quality suitable designs will be sought for any new street furniture, street surfaces and boundary treatments. Where possible, the suspension of new overhead cables will be discouraged and existing cables removed. Street lighting and other illuminated features should not adversely affect the character or appearance of the conservation areas.

2.4.9 The character of the street scene contributes significantly to the character of the conservation areas. Street furniture, street surfaces, boundary treatments, lighting and overhead cables all influence this character and need particular attention to maintain and enhance the special qualities of the District‟s conservation areas.

Advertisements

C24 Applications for advertisements will be considered with regard to the interests of amenity and public safety. The size, form and location of advertisements will therefore be required to:

A Respect the appearance of a building or the visual character of the local environment, including any features of historic, architectural or cultural interest; B Avoid distracting or confusing passers-by thereby impeding the safe operation of any form of traffic movement.

Proposals for advertisements designed to direct people to specific locations will not be permitted in Areas of Special Control of Advertisements if they would cause harm to amenity and highway safety. In other locations, wherever practicable, applicants will be encouraged to combine their essential advertising needs in the form of an officially

24 approved highway sign to meet the needs of the whole community, in the interests of amenity and highway safety.

Strict controls will be exercised over the design and location of advertisements within conservation areas to ensure that they preserve and enhance the local environment. Fully illuminated fascia boxes, projecting boxes, sheet or strip signs across premises will only be permitted where they preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area. Individually illuminated and applied letters and symbols, and traditional hanging board signs may be acceptable if well designed and sited generally at fascia level.

2.4.10 Sensitively designed and located advertisements, in the form of signs and shop fascias can contribute positively to the local environment, particularly if they are painted and are externally illuminated. However, the size, form and location of advertisements should be carefully controlled to ensure that they respect local amenity, in terms of the appearance of a building or the visual character of the local environment and that they do not present a hazard to public safety. In certain environmentally sensitive areas, such as conservation areas and designated Areas of Special Control of Advertisements, stricter controls will apply to ensure that the appearance of these areas is preserved and enhanced.

Shopfronts

C25 Shopfronts of aesthetic or historic merit should be retained, particularly within the District’s conservation areas; proposals for the alteration of traditional shopfronts will not be permitted unless it can be demonstrated that the new frontage would not harm the local environment.

A new shopfront should reflect the proportions, scale, style, character, age and detail of the building of which it forms a part and be in compatible materials. In conservation areas new shopfronts should respect the character and appearance of the locality.

In conservation areas and on shopfronts of historic merit, only shop blinds of a traditional design which do not harm the appearance of the shopfront or street scene will be permitted.

The installation of security measures which are detrimental to the appearance of the shop front or the street scene will not be permitted.

2.4.11 Traditional shop fronts add much to the character of town centres and conservation areas. Some old style shop fronts have been lost and replaced by inappropriate designs and styles. The District Council seeks to maintain traditional shop fronts where possible and will consider proposals to replace or alter shop fronts against their impact on the character of the area in which the shop front is located. The Council will produce supplementary planning guidance on the design of shop fronts, blinds and security measures on historic buildings and conservation areas.

25 Maintenance of Buildings

C26 The maintenance of buildings listed as being of architectural or historic interest and others within conservation areas will be sought through the application of the following:-

A Continued support for schemes of grant aid for buildings in Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge and Warminster; B Permitting appropriate development proposals which utilise vacant floorspace within buildings, particularly in town centres; C Subject to other planning policies, permitting proposals for change of use where this will secure its future maintenance, and its character, appearance, features of historic interest and setting will not be adversely affected; D Subject to the availability of resources, maintaining the condition of buildings of architectural or historic interest and using statutory powers to ensure that they do not fall into a state of disrepair as a result of neglect; E Consideration of the possible relaxation of other planning policies, in special circumstances, if this would secure the retention of a building of architectural or historic interest provided the proposal would not be detrimental to the local environment or to the character of the building.

2.4.12 The neglect of a building can ultimately lead to its destruction. The measures listed in Policy C26 aim to encourage the maintenance of buildings without making unnecessary or inappropriate alterations whilst recognising the need to secure the viable use of buildings.

Listed Buildings

C27 The character of buildings listed as being of special architectural or historic interest in the District will be protected. Planning permission or listed building consent will not be granted for any development that would adversely affect the character or setting of any listed building.

2.4.13 The District Council is concerned that the character and settings of the District‟s listed buildings should be conserved and enhanced. Subject to the availability of resources, the District Council will monitor the state of buildings listed as being of architectural or historic interest in West Wiltshire.

Alterations and Extensions to Listed Buildings

C28 Alterations and extensions to a building listed as being of Special Architectural or Historic Interest will only be permitted provided the following guidelines are followed:-

A The essential form of the building is not adversely affected; B Features of architectural or historic interest are retained unaltered; C The loss of or damage to the historic fabric of the building is minimised; D Any new details are designed so as to match or be in keeping with, and respect, the character of the building; E Materials to be used match those of the existing building, or exceptionally are of a colour and finish sympathetic to the existing materials.

26 2.4.14 In the case of listed buildings, alterations can destroy the inherent character of the building. However, it is often possible to carry out works which may enlarge the building or improve facilities but which do not detract from the building‟s character. In some cases the only way to extend a listed building is by building to an identical style and with totally matching materials. In other cases, by the use of a sensitive contemporary design, a new element can be successfully added to a listed building without detracting from its character. Works should seek to minimise the loss of or damage to the constructional materials and structural features of the existing building which contribute to its historic interest. The District Council will apply Policy C28 to proposals to alter or extend listed buildings of special architectural or historic interest.

Demolition in Listed Buildings

C29 In considering applications for the demolition of a listed building, special regard will be given to the desirability of preserving the building, its setting or its special features and the application will be considered against the following criteria:-

A The intrinsic and relative importance of the building and its contribution to the local scene particularly if it is within a conservation area; B The architectural merit and historic interest of the building; C The condition of the building and the cost of its repair and maintenance; D The suitability of the building for any alternative use and the importance of the alternative use for the site; E The adequacy of efforts made to retain the building in use; F In exceptional cases, the overriding advantages to the local community which may accrue as a result of the demolition.

2.4.15 There may be pressure for the demolition of listed buildings in some circumstances. This will be resisted where possible and only be permitted in exceptional cases where, for example, the advantages of demolition for the town or village as a whole, are considered greater than the advantages of retaining the building, taking account of such factors as job creation, improving social facilities or highway improvements in the national or local interest.

Skylines

C30 Development will not be permitted where it would have a detrimental impact on the skyline above the towns of Bradford on Avon and Warminster.

2.4.16 The skylines of Bradford on Avon and Warminster add much to the character of the towns. It is a principal concern that the skylines of Bradford on Avon and Warminster are not disrupted by insensitive intrusive development.

Historic Parks and Gardens

C31 The retention and, if appropriate, the restoration of all historic parks and gardens will be encouraged. Development which would adversely affect these parks and gardens will not be permitted.

27 2.4.17 English Heritage has compiled a Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in England and, according to their historical layout, features and architectural ornaments, has graded the gardens either I, II* or II. The inclusion of gardens on this register does not give any additional statutory protection but it is intended to draw attention to the important historic gardens and parks as an essential part of the nation‟s heritage and to make local authorities and developers aware of their existence in order that they may be safeguarded when new development is planned.

2.4.18 West Wiltshire has several historic parks and gardens particularly in the north, in and around Bradford on Avon (see Table 1). Those of particular note are the Grade I parks and gardens of Iford Manor, Westwood, an early twentieth century terraced and sculptural garden in Italian style and Longleat which has a large landscaped park and a formal garden.

Table 1 - Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest in West Wiltshire

Location Grade Iford Manor Westwood I Longleat Horningsham I Belcombe Court Bradford on Avon II* The Courts Holt II Great Chalfield Manor Atworth II The Hall Bradford on Avon II Trowbridge General Cemetery, Trowbridge II

Source: English Heritage

2.4.19 The District Council recognises the historic interest of these parks and gardens and their importance as part of the nation‟s heritage and will seek to safeguard them against the effects of inappropriate development.

Design

C31a Proposals for new development will be required to respect or enhance:

A Townscape and landscape features and views; B Existing patterns of movement, activity and permeability; C The quality of architecture of surrounding buildings; D Historic layout and spatial characteristics.

Proposals for new development on prominent or sensitive sites will be required to :

A Pay particular attention to proportion, composition, form, massing and scale; B Utilise high quality materials, finishes, and details; C Integrate landscaping into the design as appropriate; D Minimise the visual impact of roads, vehicles and parking areas.

A design statement may be required for prominent or sensitive sites, which should analyse the site, show how the proposal relates to the existing built context and patterns of movement, and set out the principles behind the building and landscape design.

28 2.4.19a The District Council recognises the importance of good urban design in enhancing the quality of the local environment. Good design can be a stimulus to investment and a key factor in revitalising urban areas and creating sustainable development. It should also ensure the creation of streets and spaces which are safe, accessible and pleasant. Where an area retains a strong local identity, it is important that this is reinforced by new development. Particular care should be taken over the quality of new development which has a major impact on its local environment.

Landscaping

C32 Proposals for development should make provision for landscaping, including the protection of existing trees, hedges and other natural features of the site, for new planting and for appropriate earth mounding and hard features including surface treatment and boundary enclosures. Where appropriate, consideration of wildlife interest should form part of the proposals for landscaping.

2.4.20 The District Council considers landscaping to be an integral part of most new development as it allows new developments to blend into the surrounding area. Where possible, the District Council will seek the retention of existing site features to help give maturity to any proposed development.

Recycling

C33 Proposals for new housing developments of 50 or more dwellings will make provision for a recycling station of approximately 10 square metres unless adequate and convenient provision already exists in the locality.

2.4.21 The Council has been actively promoting a recycling scheme and has prepared a Recycling Plan covering the whole of the District providing a designated area in each community for this purpose. The target aim of the Council is to recycle 25% of all the area‟s household waste by making recycling easy and convenient for residents of the District. The Council would like to further expand recycling of materials already collected and in addition to collect waste oil, dry cell batteries and, perhaps, plastics. Since March 1992 the Council has already added textile bank collections and mixed can collection banks. To continue to further the aims of recycling household waste, all new developments of 50 houses or more will be required to provide an area 10 square metres for the provision of a recycling station unless adequate and convenient provision already exists in the locality.

Resource Consumption and Reduction

C34a Development will only be permitted where all practical measures for the following have been included in the design, layout and siting of the proposal.

A Energy efficiency – design for low energy demand through orientation, siting, construction, ventilation B Water use efficiency – use of grey water and low water units and use of natural techniques to treat waste water C Waste minimisation – efficient use of materials in construction, reuse of materials on site, use of reclaimed or recycled materials, use of local materials

29

This policy will apply to planning applications for 10 or more dwellings, or for other types of development, a site area of more than one hectare.

2.4.22 The development of land is a major use of resources and materials. The continued use of non renewable natural resources damages the natural environment and contributes to global warming. Through the establishment of a sustainable pattern and level of development, making full and effective use of land within the urban areas, reducing the need to travel and encouraging alternative means of transport, the District Plan will help to reduce resource consumption. The detailed location and design of new development can have a major impact on energy consumption and the District Council will seek to ensure that the choice of siting, and layout of development has taken account of the need for energy efficiency. The District Council will also seek to encourage water efficiency measures including the re-use of grey water and the collection and re-use of rainwater and waste minimisation measures including the reduction, recycling and re- use of waste materials. Further guidance for applicants on these and related matters can be found in the District Council‟s Guidelines for Sustainability Checklist which has been adopted as Supplementary Planning Guidance..

Renewable Energy

C34 Renewable energy generation proposals, including Wind Farms and Wind Turbines, will be permitted in appropriate locations having regard to :

A Visual impact on the landscape, particularly in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Special Landscape Areas, including the cumulative impacts of potential similar generators in the locality;

B Impact on areas and features of natural, ecological, historic and archaeological interest, in particular Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Sites of Nature Conservation Importance, Areas of High Ecological Value and Scheduled Ancient Monuments;

C The environmental and visual impact of associated ancillary development including new access roads, buildings, power lines and connections to the electricity distribution network;

D Impact on residential amenity and pollution effects on air quality, noise, vibration, fumes and odour levels, management and disposal of residuals and by-products, aqueous and effluent management;

E Highway capacity of the existing road network, particularly where transportation of raw materials is a major consideration, safety and access;

F Materials, scale, siting, design, screening and landscaping.

Proposals which do not maintain the openness of the Western Wiltshire Green Belt and which conflict with the purposes of including land in it will not be permitted except in very special circumstances. Major renewable energy generation proposals, in particular Wind Farms and Turbines, will only be permitted in Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty where they can be demonstrated to be in the public interest, having taken account of the need for the development, the cost and scope of developing elsewhere and any detrimental effect on the environment and landscape.

30 Provision should be made for the removal of apparatus and reinstatement of the site to an appropriate use should the generating proposal cease operation.

2.4.23 Global environmental issues concern us all, as global warming from the increasing „greenhouse effect‟ is resulting in climatic change. The Government wishes to stimulate the exploitation of renewable energy sources to reduce the use of fossil fuels wherever they have the prospect of being economically attractive and environmentally acceptable. Renewable energy is the term used to cover energy sources that occur naturally and repeatedly in the environment such as solar, wind and falling water together with energy derived from plant material i.e. biofuels and combustible or digestible industrial, agricultural or domestic waste materials. Increased use of renewable energy locally will help reduce the global use of fossil fuels and atmospheric pollution. West Wiltshire has potential for straw, arable, coppice, farm manure, poultry litter, landfill gas, municipal solid waste and sewage sludge renewable energy schemes. The scope for wind generation is limited by the sensitive landscape character in parts of the District where suitable wind speeds occur, notably Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and by the Salisbury Plain Military Training Area.

2.4.24 The District Council notes the advice set out in Planning Policy Guidance Note 22 Renewable Energy and will apply Policy C34 to any proposals for renewable energy generation submitted. The District Council will require an Environmental Assessment to be undertaken for major renewable energy generation proposals. The Council accepts the desirability of encouraging alternative forms of energy generation but notes that this objective has to be balanced against other planning policy considerations such as protection of the natural environment.

Light Pollution

C35 Proposals for development which include a lighting scheme will be permitted only where:

A the minimum amount of lighting necessary to achieve its purpose is proposed; B glare and light spillage from the site is minimised; C there is no adverse impact on the amenity and safety of neighbouring uses and on transport users, including pedestrians; D there is no adverse impact on the wider environment, in particular on conservation areas, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and other rural landscapes.

2.4.25 Lighting provides positive benefits during darkness hours. In particular, it permits use of scarce sports and recreation resources for longer hours during the winter period and helps to achieve additional security and safety at night, particularly in the context of road users and pedestrians. It can also be used for aesthetic reasons, for example floodlighting at Longleat House.

2.4.26 However, the spillage of light into the environment from poorly designed lights can have a number of adverse effects. Floodlighting can harm the privacy of and be a nuisance to neighbouring residential areas. Dazzle and glare can also be a potential road hazard and can cause deep shadows, actually compromising safety and security around warehouses, car parks and other areas. Outside and adjacent to urban areas, lighting can cause “skyglow”, reducing the visibility of the stars in the night sky and reducing the feeling of remoteness in rural areas, which is an essential part of the character of many

31 rural landscapes. Badly designed lighting is also inefficient in terms of energy consumption.

2.4.27 To ensure that future proposals which include lighting schemes do not have an adverse effect upon local amenity, highway safety and the surrounding environment, particularly within conservation areas and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty where the visual quality of the environment is of especial importance, proposals will be considered against the criteria in Policy C35. The Countryside Commission has produced a document entitled “Lighting in the countryside : Towards good practice” and the District Council will have regard to this advice when considering future lighting schemes.

Noise

C36 Noise generating development (such as road, rail and air transport and some industrial uses) will not be permitted if it would be liable to result in unacceptably high levels of noise being experienced by the occupiers of existing or proposed noise sensitive development (such as housing, hospitals and schools).

Noise sensitive development will not be permitted if its proposed occupiers would be subject to unacceptably high levels of noise from existing or proposed noise generating uses.

Development will be permitted where unacceptably high levels of noise can be avoided through appropriate attenuation or other measures undertaken as part of the development.

2.4.28 Excessive noise can cause annoyance and stress and adversely affect the quality of life enjoyed by individuals and communities. Noise from within domestic premises can be minimised through increasing standards in building design covered by Building Regulations and by ensuring that developments such as flat conversions adhere to guidelines produced by the District Council‟s Planning Unit, in association with the Council‟s Housing Department.

2.4.29 However, noise sensitive land uses, such as housing, hospitals and schools can be affected by noise from other sources, such as road, rail and air traffic, industrial and mineral extraction processes, military activity and late night sporting, leisure and entertainment activities. The District Plan has an important role to ensure that noise sensitive developments are located away from existing and proposed sources of noise and that new noise generating development are located in areas where noise is not such an important consideration or where its impact can be minimised. The District Council will have regard to the noise guidance contained within Planning Policy Guidance Note 24: Planning and Noise when considering new noise sensitive or noise generating development and will seek to mitigate the impact of noise through the use of conditions or planning obligations.

Contaminated Land

C37 When it is known or strongly suspected that a site is contaminated to an extent which may adversely affect a proposed development, or where it is considered that the development if permitted could cause environmental harm, appropriate site investigation work will be required to be carried out to identify the nature and extent of any contamination present before the planning application is determined.

32

Where the likelihood of existing contamination is only slight, planning permission may be granted subject to conditions requiring appropriate site investigation and assessment to be carried out before the development is permitted to start.

In both instances, any appropriate remedial measures will need to be agreed before the commencement of the development, and carried out in strict accordance with the agreed remediation scheme.

2.4.30 The redevelopment and reuse of previously developed urban land is a key element in achieving more sustainable patterns of development. However, sites previously used for industrial or other uses may have given rise to historic ground contamination which can create special problems. In particular, contamination unless treated could affect a proposed development, or development itself could disturb contaminated ground conditions creating a hazard in the wider environment.

2.4.31 When considering development proposals on land that has in the past been used, or is currently being used, for a use which may have caused it to be contaminated by noxious substances, the District Council will expect appropriate site investigation work to be carried out and a suitable reclamation solution agreed before the development proceeds. Where it is strongly suspected that the site is seriously contaminated, site investigation works may need to be carried out before the District Council can decide whether the development is acceptable in principle.

2.4.32 The District Council will liaise closely with pollution control authorities, such as the Environment Agency, and will encourage prospective developers to contact the Council at the earliest possible stage. The District Council will ensure that all appropriate measures are taken to safeguard the environment through the use of planning conditions and / or legal agreements.

Nuisance

C38 Proposals will not be permitted which would detract from the amenities enjoyed by, or cause nuisance to, neighbouring properties and uses. Consideration will be given to such issues as any loss of privacy or overshadowing, levels or types of traffic generation, the storage of hazardous materials, the generation of unpleasant emissions such as odour, fumes, smoke, soot, ash, dust or grit, the extension of existing unneighbourly uses and the creation of an untidy site.

Development will not be permitted if the amenities of its occupiers would be affected adversely by the operation of existing or proposed neighbouring uses.

2.4.33 The District Council aims to minimise the effects of development on neighbouring properties, particularly in relation to industrial development. It is not intended to prevent the growth of employment opportunities but to ensure that where development is proposed due regard is given to the likely impact on neighbouring areas. Similarly, when determining the appropriate location of new housing and other amenity sensitive land uses, due regard must be given to the proximity and likely impact of existing industrial or other uses of land on the potential future occupiers.

33 Environmental Enhancements

C39 The District Council will undertake environmental improvement schemes throughout the District and support improvement proposals to be undertaken by other agencies, groups and businesses. Environmental improvements are proposed in the following areas, as defined on the Proposals Map:-

Trowbridge Newtown Area Melksham Bank Street/Lowbourne Market Place Church Street/High Street Warminster Silver Street Westbury Market Place Edward Street

2.4.34 There are parts of the District which would be improved by environmental enhancement. Environmental schemes which may include hard and soft landscaping, such as tree and shrub planting, new street furniture and lighting, greatly improve the appearance of the street scene and can also benefit wildlife and nature conservation interests. A number of schemes are proposed throughout the district of varying sizes. A programme of environmental enhancement including tree planting will be undertaken by the District Council to improve and enhance those areas identified in Policy C39. Other schemes will be considered subject to the availability of resources.

Tree Planting

C40 In seeking to conserve the character and appearance of an area, trees of visual amenity value will be retained, particularly within conservation areas, and Tree Preservation Orders will be made to protect the important individual or groups of trees where appropriate.

Where permission is granted for the felling of a tree covered by a Tree Preservation Order, it will be a requirement that at least one replacement tree, of a species and size appropriate to the locality, is planted, unless the tree is an individual to be felled within a woodland. Any tree felled as dead, dying, dangerous or for the abatement of a nuisance will be replaced by another tree of an appropriate size and species in the immediate locality.

Tree planting schemes, using native species characteristic of the local area, are proposed in the following areas:

Bradford on Avon: Poulton Field Open space within residential areas north of Trowbridge Road Land at Ashley Road Barton Farm

Melksham: River Avon Clackers Brook Bowerhill Roundabout Land east of Melksham Hampton Park

34 Semington-Melksham Diversion Stratton House

Trowbridge: Canal Road Estate and Hammond Way Studley Green Stallards Field Inner Relief Road Bradley Road/Frome Road Timbrell Street Frome Road Silver St Lane Holbrook Lane Cedar Grove The football ground and adjacent land, County Way Rear of Wesley Road Bythesea Road Hilperton Road TA Centre, Bythesea Road Broad Street Former Brewery Site Ashton Mills Court Street Land at Staverton Triangle New Terrace, Staverton Land north of Paxcroft Way Land south of The Grange Blue Hills, Devizes Road North of Green Lane Land at Southview Land at West Ashton Road Land south of Paxcroft Mead

Warminster: Junction of Boreham and Woodcock Roads Portway/Gas House Farm Lake Pleasure Grounds and Henfords Marsh Bore Hill Area Westbury Road Grovelands Way R/O Vicarage St/West St Land at West Street Land off George Street Land fronting Boot Hill Rear of Westbury Road Fairfield Road Station Road Imber Road Land at Market Place and East Street The Close Land north of Victoria Road

35 Westbury: Trowbridge Road Roundabout Adjacent to Northacre/Brook Lane Industrial Estate Uitenage Farm Station Road Land off Oldfield Road Coalyard site, Bratton Road Becks Mill Land adjacent Westbury Hospital North of Westbury Leigh Land at Station Road

Where public open space and water features are provided in new developments that are not used for formal recreation use, the biodiversity value of the area will be maximised through the planting of native species characteristic of the local area.

2.4.35 The District Council recognises the valuable contribution made by trees in both the built environment and the open countryside. Visually, mature trees help to establish the character of an area and are important wildlife habitats particularly in urban areas. Conservation area designation provides some measure of safeguarding protection for trees which are not the subject of Tree Preservation Orders. The District Council will consider making Tree Preservation Orders, where appropriate, if a tree or group of trees make a significant contribution to the character and appearance of an area. Where permission is given for the felling of a tree covered by a Tree Preservation Order the approval will be accompanied by a requirement for the planting of at least one replacement tree of a species and size appropriate to the locality unless a single specimen within a woodland is to be felled. Six weeks notice has to be given to the District Council to carry out works to trees in conservation areas including felling unless the tree is dead, dying, dangerous, causing a nuisance or will be felled under a statutory duty. In the case of trees felled because they are dead, dying, dangerous, or causing a nuisance, the District Council will seek to ensure their replacement by another of an appropriate size and species. The District Council, as part of its environmental enhancement programme, will continue to plant new trees. There are parts of the District which would benefit environmentally from tree planting and a number of schemes are proposed in those areas identified in Policy C40. To improve the biodiversity value of new developments, the trees planted should be native species characteristic of the local area. Where public open space and water features are incorporated within new developments, those that are not used for formal recreation purposes should be planted with native species characteristic of the local area. This will promote the creation of new habitats, which are of interest both for their nature conservation and informal recreation value.

Areas of Opportunity

C41 In seeking to improve the local environment, proposals for the redevelopment and/or rehabilitation of the following areas, as defined on the Proposals Map, to the uses specified below will be permitted provided that design, access, traffic and parking issues are satisfactorily resolved:-

A Land at former GEC Site, Beanacre Road, Melksham Proposed Uses: Industrial, warehousing, distribution, commercial, workshops, leisure, retail and service uses; B Land East of Edward Street, Westbury

36 Proposed Uses: Shopping, residential or office uses; C Vivash Park Proposed Uses: Light industrial, recreation and community facilities; D Land at the Midlands, Holt Proposed uses: Light industrial, workshops, offices, and residential.

2.4.36 There are parts of the District‟s towns which have fallen into a state of dereliction and decay. These areas are ripe for rehabilitation or redevelopment, either because the uses there, or the buildings that house them are obsolete, or because the area is generally underused. The District Council in pursuance of its aim to improve and enhance the local environment will encourage and normally permit proposals for the rehabilitation or redevelopment of these areas which would result in significant improvement to the local environment. Development briefs have been prepared for some of the following sites and are available free of charge from the Council offices.

Land at Beanacre Road Melksham

2.4.36a This site is adjacent to the Leekes „Out of Town‟ Department Store, and includes 2.83 hectares of land and buildings which were the premises of GEC. The District Council considers the site an important employment opportunity at a gateway to the town. It is suitable for comprehensive redevelopment drawn from the identified range of uses ie industrial, warehousing distribution, commercial, leisure, retail and service uses. Retail proposals will be considered against the criteria set out in Policy SP3 and should not seriously adversely affect the vitality and viability of Melksham town centre. A development brief has been prepared for this area.

Land east of Edward Street Westbury

2.4.42 This site has potential for redevelopment. It is outside the commercial centre but would lend itself to a use which is complementary in nature.

Vivash Park Westbury

2.4.43 This area consists of several derelict and underused sites which would be particularly suitable for recreational development, light industrial workshops and community facilities to help uplift such a neglected area to the benefit of the adjacent housing areas. Early consultation with the Environment Agency is necessary regarding the need to solve surface water disposal problems arising from development. A development brief has been prepared for this area.

Land at the Midlands Holt

2.4.43a The Midlands in Holt is primarily an industrial area, and this distinctive industrial characteristic of the village gives it the feeling of a small town. It is necessary to retain the traditional buildings due to their importance in the conservation area. Consequently, a mix of uses is proposed, including light industrial, workshops and offices. Conversion of some of the older buildings, which have been continuously vacant for a long time, may be appropriate for residential use in order to preserve and enhance the conservation area. In permitting residential schemes, regard must be taken to the proximity of employment uses in order to minimise disturbance from noise and odour nuisance. In view of the previous uses on the site, the degree of potential contamination may also need to be investigated.

37 2.5 Open Space and Recreation

Recreation Aim

To conserve existing resources and to allocate land for additional facilities to meet the increasing recreational needs of the District.

Recreational Space

2.5.1 Recreation and leisure pursuits are becoming ever more important elements of modern life with the increasing emphasis on healthy, active living and therefore pressures on and for local recreation provision are increasing. Over the years there has been an uneven development of recreational opportunities in the District, and a largely uncoordinated approach to securing further facilities. The urban areas have continued to expand without adequate provision being made for the recreational needs of the growing population.

2.5.2 The Government recognises the importance of sport and recreation as underpinning people's quality of life. It sets out in Planning Policy Guidance Note 17: Planning for Open Space, Sport and Recreation (2002) the objective of ensuring that everyone has access to high quality and well maintained and managed open spaces, sports and recreational facilities. To achieve this, the Government advises that local authorities should undertake robust assessments of local need and audits of existing provision to enable the establishment of effective strategies for the future provision of open space, sports and recreational facilities..

2.5.3 West Wiltshire District Council published a Recreation Land Survey in November 2000, which compared the existing recreation provision in the District's five urban areas against the adopted open space standards for the District. This study identified that within the District's urban areas there is a deficiency in formal and informal playing space accessible to the general public, particularly of playing pitches and children's play areas. The study concluded that new housing provision that does not make provision for playing space will exacerbate the current shortfall. In addition, local needs for open space provision have emerged from a number of community planning workshops and the emerging Community Strategy has identified the provision of additional open space as a major objective. For the purposes of this Plan, therefore, the District Council has endorsed the adoption of a minimum standard for outdoor playing space of 6 acres per thousand population.. However, the District Council is planning to undertake a comprehensive reassessment of recreation needs in the medium term and to review the current adopted standards as part of a future review of this Plan.

Adequacy of Provision

2.5.4 The Recreation Land Survey and other documents identify a number of ways to reduce the identified shortfall in provision in urban areas. These include maximising the use of dual use facilities and by providing all weather pitches, capable of intensive use. In rural areas the provision of playing fields and other outdoor facilities will be kept under review and the needs of individual communities will be monitored in association with Parish Councils and other local interest groups where this is appropriate. In villages, sport and recreation provision may need to be pursued by dual use of school facilities, provision of village halls or appropriate conversions of farm buildings and will be subject to the availability of financial resources for such purposes. These facilities may be required to

38 serve several villages to ensure they are viable and in such circumstances the transport implications for villagers will need to be assessed.

Recreational Space

R1 The maintenance and improvement of formal and informal outdoor recreational facilities in the Plan area will be sought and the sports and recreational needs of local communities will be kept under review. The effective use of existing recreational areas and the creation of new amenities will be encouraged where needs and opportunities are identified.

2.5.5 Policy R1 commits the District Council to monitor the supply of and demand for outdoor sporting and recreational facilities, to seek to make the most effective use of existing facilities, and to identify deficiencies and opportunities for further provision. The Council will review the findings of the Recreation Land Survey (2002), in particular through the carrying out of a detailed and thorough needs assessment and an audit of existing provision, to ensure that future provision meets the needs of the people of West Wiltshire.

Protection of Recreational Space

R2 Development will not be permitted where this would involve the loss of existing playing fields, play spaces and other recreational land, whether publicly or privately owned. These sites, including those listed in Appendix B and shown on the Proposals Map, will be protected from development, unless:

(i) the sports and recreational facilities can best be retained and enhanced through the redevelopment of a small part of the site; (ii) alternative provision of equivalent community benefit is made in the immediate locality; or (iii) it can be demonstrated that there is an excess of sports pitch provision and public open space in the area, taking account of the recreational and amenity value of such provision.

2.5.6 Policy R2 identifies existing recreational spaces and seeks, through positive safeguarding measures, to ensure that these important and scarce facilities are not lost through their development. These facilities have recreational and amenity value, and also make an important contribution to the green space of urban environments. They can help to meet the growing need for recreational land in local communities, while private facilities and education land can potentially reach wider public use, better utilising the total stock of facilities. Instances where this protection may be relaxed relate only to circumstances where an over supply of sports pitches or public open space can be demonstrated, where alternative provision is made, or where facilities are retained through development of part of the site only. The „area‟ referred to in Policy R2 (iii) is the catchment area for any facility lost to the development, taking into account the development itself and any new provision it provides. The site at Sandpits Lane, Steeple Ashton, is temporarily protected under this policy but may be required by the County Council as a school site at a future date. The proposed link road at Bowerhill under Policy T4(E) across the existing Bowerhill Playing Fields will necessitate the relocation of the existing pavilion and basketball court in accordance with Policy R2 (i) above.

39 Dual Use of Education Land

R3 Proposals for the dual use of school playing fields will be encouraged to help meet the demand from local communities for sports pitches and other formal sports provision. The development of such facilities, considered surplus to educational needs, for uses other than recreation will only be permitted if the criteria set out in Policy R2 are satisfied.

2.5.7 The dual use of school playing fields will be sought through negotiation with school boards of governors and the local education authority. In particular, dual use of playing fields provided at the proposed new secondary school, Trowbridge will be encouraged for the benefit of the local community. Central government is keen to make the best use of school facilities for community recreation purposes and has published guidance to local authorities on the matter. The disposal of sites considered surplus to educational needs has, in the past, not fully recognised the continuing important recreational and amenity value which the sites provide to the wider community. School playing fields should not be disposed of until it has been established that the sites will not be required in the longer term for school or community use. School sites are especially important in meeting the need for pitch sports.

Open Space in New Housing Developments

R4 Residential development proposals of ten or more dwellings will not be permitted unless appropriate provision for public open space is made in accordance with the standard of 2.43 hectares (6 acres) per 1,000 population, as detailed in Appendix C. The provision of formal and informal facilities for children’s use will be a particular requirement in new development. In other developments, where the achievement of the standard may be unrealistic or inappropriate, suitable arrangements will be considered such as contribution towards or the provision or improvement of facilities nearby, to be secured through legal agreements and planning obligations under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Sheltered housing schemes will be required to provide amenity open space consistent with the scale and kind of the development and with the character of the area.

2.5.8 The District Plan adopts the NPFA‟s 6 acre standard and the District Council will apply it to all major new housing developments. This is a minimum standard of provision for outdoor play space and is made up of elements of formal pitches for adult use as well as equipped playgrounds and informal play space for children‟s use. Survey work has revealed a consistent shortfall in provision, particularly of playing pitches and equipped children‟s play areas within West Wiltshire. Policy R4 requires that standards of provision be met in all new housing developments, with the minimum standard for children‟s use to be met at all times and in all circumstances. The NPFA has developed a hierarchy of children‟s play space, from local to neighbourhood provision, the principles of which should be incorporated within new developments where appropriate. Supplementary Planning Guidance will be produced to provide developers with a clear and accessible, step-by-step guide to the provision of open space in accordance with Policy R4.

2.5.9 In smaller housing developments and sheltered housing schemes where these standards cannot realistically be met or are inappropriate, other arrangements may be considered, such as are stated in Policy R4. Appendix C gives further guidance on this matter.

40 Further Provision of Recreation Space

R5 Land is identified for recreational use, as broadly shown on the Proposals Map, suitable for and consistent with the character of the area at:-

1 Land east of Melksham (4.5 hectares/11 acres in new housing development) 2 Land east of Bowerhill, Melksham (4 hectares/10 acres in new housing development) 3 Open land adjacent to Pathfinder Way, Bowerhill (10.8 hectares/ 26.7 acres maximum increase) 4 Open land in Hilperton Gap, Trowbridge 5 Hammond Way, Trowbridge (0.6 hectares/1.5 acres) 6 Holbrook Park, Trowbridge (2 hectares/4.9 acres) 7 South of the River Biss, Trowbridge (0.2 hectares/0.5 acres in new housing development) 8 Staverton Triangle, Trowbridge (0.5 hectares/1.2 acres in new housing development) 9 New Terrace, Staverton (0.4 hectares/0.9 acres in new housing development) 10 Land north of Paxcroft Way, Trowbridge (1.4 hectares/3.5 acres in new housing development) 11 Land south of The Grange, Hilperton (0.8 hectares/2.0 acres in new housing development) 12 Blue Hills, Devizes Road, Hilperton (0.2 hectares/0.5 acres in new housing development) 13 North of Green Lane, Trowbridge 14 Land at Southview, Trowbridge (1.8 hectares/4.4 acres in new housing development) 15 Land at West Ashton Road, Trowbridge (0.6 hectares/1.5 acres in new housing development) 16 Land south of Paxcroft Mead, Trowbridge (3.3 hectares/ 8.2 acres in new housing development 17 Land at Station Road, Westbury (1.1 hectares/2.7 acres in new housing development) 18 Land adjacent Westbury Hospital, Westbury (0.15 hectares/0.4 acres in new housing development) 19 South of Oldfield Park, Westbury (1 hectare/2.47 acres) 20 North of Westbury Leigh (Leigh Park) (6.2 hectares/15.3 acres in new housing development) 21 Vivash Park, Westbury (10 hectares/24.7 acres) 22 Fore Street, Warminster (1.4 hectares/3.5 acres) 23 Smallbrook, Warminster (3.6 hectares/8.9 acres) 24 Land north of Victoria Road, Warminster (1.2 hectares/3 acres in new housing development)

Proposals for new recreational space and facilities will be permitted having regard to landscape, environmental, residential amenity and highway considerations.

2.5.10 Policy R5 identifies new recreational spaces, often within new housing developments, which have been secured through legal agreement or are required in allocations elsewhere in the District Plan. These sites will help towards the achievement of improved facilities for outdoor recreation across the West Wiltshire towns, and will be protected from built development, where appropriate, in accordance with Policy R2. The recreation space requirement at Hammond Way, Hilperton is annotated diagrammatically to allow for development of land in this area to make appropriate siting of such facilities as part of a comprehensive development package between the County Council and District Council. This will allow for the recreation land to be provided on either or both of the land parcels and will be subject to the granting of planning permission for the development. The open space survey referred to in para 2.5.4 and

41 2.5.5 above identified a deficiency of provision particularly in formal sports pitches in the Melksham area. In addition, the proposed new infrastructure and economic growth in the Bowerhill area will require a reorganisation of local open space provision both committed in the District Plan (adopted 1996) and currently existing. Policy R5 (3) identifies land to the west of Pathfinder Way (some 10.8 hectares) which is accessible, appropriately located and capable of accommodating formal open space provision to address the above issues. At Land north of Westbury Leigh (Leigh Park) the residential capacity is anticipated to be 1030 so that an open space requirement of 6.2 hectares is required in accordance with R5(20). A further 1 hectare is also required of R5(19) in order to compensate for land lost at Oldfield Road when the link road was constructed. The additional 1 hectare will be provided as part of the Land north of Westbury Leigh (Leigh Park) development (Policy H13).

Trowbridge Football Stadium

R6 Proposals for the development of a football stadium site within the District will be supported provided:-

1 That there is no conflict with Structure or other Local Plan policies; 2 That the proposal does not conflict with the amenity of the surrounding area in terms of noise and visual intrusion; 3 That the design, highway, access and parking considerations can be resolved; 4 That this site is not within the Western Wiltshire Green Belt.

2.5.11 The District Council recognises the important role that a new football stadium could have in providing sporting and recreational facilities for the people of Trowbridge and the District as a whole. The former Frome Road football ground and adjacent land is allocated for housing development. The District Council supports the development of a new stadium site within the District having regard to the criteria contained in Policy R6.

Trowbridge Cricket Ground

R7 The Trowbridge Cricket Ground area, as defined on the Proposals Map, is allocated specifically for cricket and associated recreational use unless an appropriate alternative provision is to be made in the locality. Part of the area adjacent to the main pitch, annotated on the Proposals Map, is in the ownership of the Health Authority. No development will be permitted on this particular area unless it is specifically required to be used for improved community health care facilities.

2.5.12 Trowbridge Cricket Ground is an important local facility and is used as the County Cricket Ground where a number of international cricket matches have been held in recent years. A part of the overall area in use for the cricket ground is in the ownership of the Health Authority. In order to secure the continued viability of the cricket ground, its practice facilities and its ability to stage major events, it is important that this part of the area remains in use in association with the existing pitch. It is acknowledged, however, that should the Health Authority require the land to provide enhanced health care facilities, then it ought to be utilised for that purpose.

42 Greenspace Network

R8 The development of a greenspace network will be sought in and around the urban areas within the District. Development proposals will be permitted which extend and enhance existing riverside walks and recreational areas and seek to secure and maintain public access to the banks of rivers and canals where appropriate. The establishment of Local Nature Reserves as part of the network will also be considered.

2.5.13 The identification of green wedges, informal recreation spaces and networks of linear routes between recreational destinations within and on the edge of urban areas can serve to maximise the use of natural riversides, woodlands and meadows. This can be beneficial to local communities by providing a safe and pleasant network of green space away from road traffic and also to wildlife conservation by protecting habitats and wildlife corridors within urban areas. The provision of appropriate land and facilities in developing this network may be secured through legal agreements and planning obligations under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 where appropriate. The District Council recognises the importance of the current public access and use of Longleat Estate and woodlands for recreational purposes and notes that the Longleat Estate has produced an „Estate Plan‟ which includes a number of recreation proposals likely to come forward during the Plan period. Any such proposals will be considered against the relevant Structure and District Plan policies.

Country Parks

R9 Land is allocated in the following areas, as identified on the Proposals Map, for use as urban fringe country park:

A Land adjoining the River Biss and Blackball Brook, Trowbridge B Land adjoining Paxcroft Brook, Trowbridge C Land between Trowbridge and Southwick

Wildlife conservation will be facilitated through the protection and enhancement of aspects of wildlife interest.

2.5.14 The River Biss and its tributary the Blackball Brook at Trowbridge is an attractive recreational asset which also provides an important green wedge right into the town centre. It is considered that there are excellent opportunities to develop areas alongside the River Biss and its tributary the Blackball Brook into an urban fringe country park to be known as Biss Meadows Country Park with a riverside walkway into the town centre. It will also provide important community facilities for residents living in the new housing areas off West Ashton Road and south of Paxcroft Mead. The Park will provide a pedestrian and cycle route around to the Paxcroft Mead development. Land at Paxcroft Brook is also identified as a country park and is safeguarded for recreational uses. Urban fringe parks will be promoted in consultation with the Environment Agency to ensure that the efficiency of the flood plain corridor is maintained, flood storage provided for and that the ecological character of any riverside walkway is conserved and improved in an appropriate manner. Further consideration will be given to the establishment of Local Nature Reserves within such parks where appropriate.

2.5.15 The District Council is pursuing the concept of developing a country park on land between the built-up area of Trowbridge and the village of Southwick.

43 Poulton Field Bradford on Avon

R10 More effective use of Poulton Field, Bradford on Avon will be sought for recreational purposes. Development proposals for recreational use will be permitted and the improvement of on-site facilities and the dual use of adjacent school fields for wider community use will be encouraged.

2.5.16 Poulton Field, Bradford on Avon comprises two areas totalling approximately 7 hectares, which are in use as playing fields. The western field is education authority land serving the Fitzmaurice Primary School; the eastern field is owned by the District Council. It is considered that more use could be made of the Poulton Field area if the reclaimed clay pit to the west were used for car parking (Policy CA4). The District Council recognises the interests and obligations of the education authority but feels that the two fields should be considered as a whole, for dual use by the general public, and include improved facilities such as changing rooms, formal courts etc providing enhanced sporting opportunities for the local area and the town as a whole.

Footpaths and Rights of Way

R11 The protection, enhancement and use of the public rights of way system will be sought. Where appropriate, extensions and improvements to the network will be sought as part of development proposals. In addition:-

A A footpath will be provided along Clackers Brook, Melksham and land on either side of the watercourse is identified for informal recreation use, as defined on the Proposals Map.

B A footpath will be provided along the east bank of the River Avon in Melksham, creating a riverside walkway between Murray Walk and Western Way.

2.5.17 Within built up areas, footpaths, towpaths and bridleways play an important recreational role linking urban open spaces together. They also provide opportunities for access to and enjoyment of the open countryside. Footpaths and public rights of way also form part of a more general transportation network allowing people to choose a more sustainable means of transport to the private car when travelling between homes and local facilities. Policies R11 and T12 therefore seek to encourage the development and use of the public rights of way network, including further suitable provision within new developments particularly in urban fringe locations. The signposting of footpaths to recreational facilities such as the Wilts and Berks Canal to Lacock, is another issue which will be taken forward. Wiltshire County Council is the authority with powers over rights of way and as such will be involved in issues such as the requirement of legal agreements and planning obligations, under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, to secure such facilities within new developments.

44 2.5.18 At Melksham the open land adjacent to Clackers Brook forms a green wedge through the residential area east of the town centre. Policy R11(A) will provide a small linear park in pursuance with the green space network Policy R8, with a footpath linking to the open area of the King George V Recreation Ground and the River Avon. The development of further residential land to the east of Melksham will provide for an extension of the footpath and greenspace network. Policy R11(B), together with this, will provide a pleasant and safe pedestrian network across town and along the riverside. The riverbank provides an excellent opportunity for the establishment of a walkway. The Council has provided a path north of town bridge along the edge of the park, and will extend this via a bridge link along the riverbank to Murray Walk. South of town bridge the development of Sainsburys has provided for a pathway through to the nature reserve at Challymead. The District Council will liaise with the Environment Agency in the development of these projects.

Allotments

R12 Development proposals which involve the loss of existing allotment sites will not be permitted unless appropriate alternative provision is made elsewhere, or it can be demonstrated that there is no longer demand for such a use locally.

2.5.19 Allotments can contribute to the greenspace of urban environments, as well as providing for a specific recreational demand from the public. Sites should not be lost unless replaced elsewhere or their use is proved to be no longer in demand.

Sailing Lakes

R13 The recreational use of existing sailing lakes will be safeguarded and development proposals will be permitted which enhance such use, subject to environmental and highway considerations.

Proposals for further new sailing lakes and associated facilities will be permitted elsewhere in the District having regard to location, environmental and highway considerations, in consultation with the Environment Agency.

2.5.20 The sailing lakes at Station Road, Westbury and Shearwater on the Longleat Estate are important recreational resources. The sailing lake at Station Road, Westbury is also an extremely attractive and important feature for wildlife interest on the northern edge of Westbury and on the approach to the station. The development of Policies H14 and E1C will afford the opportunity to provide better access to the lakeside, including pedestrian access along the southern edge of the lake and the water‟s edge. Shearwater is a very popular destination for local people and visitors providing a first class area for quiet informal recreation. This use should be safeguarded and enhanced with the provision of improved facilities for sailing and angling together with improvements to footpaths, interpretation, bird hides and picnic areas. The District Council will encourage the provision of facilities to allow the disabled access for angling, sailing and informal recreation. Any proposals at Shearwater will be considered against relevant Structure and District Plan policies particularly those relating to the protection of the AONB.

45 Golf Courses

R14 Proposals for golf courses and ancillary development essential to golfing should be located and designed to ensure harmony with the surrounding countryside, to conserve the natural environment and nature conservation interests. Proposals for development within the Cotswolds and Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty will be subject to particular scrutiny, in this regard. Proposals will be subject to the following considerations:

1 Any adverse impact of such proposals upon the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, landscape setting to towns, Areas of High Ecological Value, areas of recognised archaeological importance, Scheduled Ancient Monuments, and other interests of acknowledged importance including the conservation of the natural beauty of the landscape and the protection of Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas for wild birds, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Regionally Important Geological or Geomorphological Sites, Local Nature Reserves, protected species and Sites of Nature Conservation Importance; 2 The loss of high grade agricultural land where land of lower quality is available elsewhere; 3 The appropriateness of any other related development that may then or subsequently form part of any proposal in terms of visual, environmental and highway considerations; 3a The impact of the proposal upon the environment due to the provision of water supplies and the disposal of surface water; 4 Traffic generation, highway safety, parking provision and the effect on any public rights of way. 5 The use of imported material will be strictly controlled to avoid harm to the environment.

2.5.21 Over recent years there has been a marked increase in pressures for golf course and driving range developments, in response to increased consumer demand for such facilities. The large areas of land associated with golf courses and their pressure upon areas of high landscape quality has raised important planning issues. In West Wiltshire there have been similar pressures, the major area for the concern being considerations of golf course development proposals within the Cotswolds and Cranborne Chase and West Wiltshire Downs AONBs.

2.5.22 Policy R14 seeks to control these pressures by protecting areas designated for constraint, while allowing developments which will contribute to and enhance the character of the landscape and nature conservation value of the particular area. The Environment Agency requires that provision be made for summer irrigation by positive means through the collection and storage of winter rainfall and flows.

Development at Golf Courses

R15 Proposals for development associated with golf course proposals, such as golf driving ranges, hotels and restaurants, will be considered as a separate issue to the main use and will be subject to the following considerations:-

1 The appropriateness of the proposal to any associated development or proposal; 1a The impact of the proposal upon the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, landscape setting to towns, Areas of High Ecological Value, areas of recognised archaeological importance, Scheduled Ancient

46 Monuments, and other interests of acknowledged importance including the conservation of the natural beauty of the landscape and the protection of Special Areas of Conservation, Special Protection Areas for wild birds, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Regionally Important Geological or Geomorphological Sites, Local Nature Reserves, protected species and Sites of Nature Conservation Importance; 2 The impact of the proposal upon the amenities of the countryside and nearby residents, including any visual or noise intrusion; 3 The appropriateness of measures such as artificial lighting and fencing within these areas; 3a The impact of the proposal upon the environment due to the provision of water supplies and the disposal of surface water; 4 Traffic generation, highway safety and parking provision; 5 The development does not conflict with other Structure or District Plan policies.

2.5.23 Golf driving ranges, hotels, restaurants and other associated development seek to locate at golf courses and in doing so create a development issue which is wider than that of the golf course use itself. Such facilities may be incongruous to a countryside setting and may also generate excessive traffic movements on country roads. Policies R14 and R15 will be used to determine the total impact of such developments upon the amenities of the local area.

Indoor Facilities

R16 Development proposals for indoor sporting, leisure, cultural and recreational facilities will be permitted provided they are in scale and harmony with the character of their locality, do not detract from the local environment or create highway or parking problems.

2.5.24 The provision of indoor facilities for sport and recreation is an important element of the wider provision for leisure opportunities. Indoor halls, courts, pools, etc offer all year round undercover facilities and help to meet a large public demand for sports activities. In West Wiltshire there are leisure centres and sports halls across the District, but these operations suffer from fragmentation resulting in a lack of better quality facilities.

2.5.25 There is a need for a major new sporting complex in the District and for a new sports hall in Bradford on Avon, as identified by Sport England. The dual use of school facilities is one area where existing facilities can be brought into wider public use, at reduced public expenditure. Such arrangements are particularly suitable for rural communities where indoor sports provision is scarcer and unlikely to be provided by a local leisure centre.

2.5.26 Other indoor leisure and recreational facilities, such as theatres, cinemas and art centres are also desired in the District for their contribution to the social wellbeing and leisure opportunities of the local population. Proposals for such developments, often privately funded, will be welcomed and normally permitted in appropriate locations. A leisure strategy has been produced by the District Council to help identify priorities for new provision.

47 2.6 Canals

2.6.1 Parts of two canals can be found within West Wiltshire, the Kennet and Avon Canal, a restored waterway under the management of British Waterways, and the Wilts and Berks Canal which was abandoned in 1914 and has recently begun to be restored by the Wilts and Berks Canal Amenity Group. The canals have enormous potential both as features in the landscape and for their historical, architectural, nature conservation, recreational and educational value. The District Council is promoting the use of the canals and has approved a general policy statement on canals in the District to ensure that the amenities required are developed in a way which protects the canal environment and the associated countryside (See Appendix F).

Kennet and Avon Canal

CA1 Proposals for recreational and tourist development in appropriate locations on the Kennet and Avon Canal will be permitted, having regard to Policy GB2, provided they do not detract to an unacceptable degree from the character of the canal, its ecological value or particular location. Access and parking issues should be satisfactorily resolved and the development should be integrated into the existing footpath, cycleway and public transport network.

2.6.2 The Kennet and Avon Canal has been restored to full navigation and was officially reopened in August 1990. The reopening of the canal has undoubtedly increased the amount of waterborne traffic and general interest in the canal itself. Due to long-term leakage and embankment stability problems, the Kennet and Avon Canal Partnership was formed in 1994 to safeguard the future of the canal. It submitted a bid to the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF), which resulted in an award of £25 million in 1997. As a condition of the Lottery Grant, a Conservation Plan had to be prepared to guide the programme of works. The Plan aims to conserve the canal‟s heritage, nature conservation value, and environs, whilst balancing this in as sustainable way as possible against the needs of its users.

2.6.3 Two marinas have been established on the Kennet and Avon Canal, one at Widbrook Farm, Bradford on Avon, the other at Hilperton. Both were in areas identified as requiring additional off-line mooring facilities in British Waterway‟s original Leisure Strategy. The Structure Plan advocates better use being made of the canal for water based recreation. The Canal Partnership‟s Conservation Plan recognises that the economic vitality of the canal is important in ensuring its future. However, visitors are attracted to the canal by its special character, and so proposals for recreation and tourist development need to be rigorously assessed in terms of their environmental impact. In any proposals for development, particular regard will be paid to their location. Developments in the Western Wiltshire Green Belt and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty will be critically assessed in the light of other relevant plan policy considerations.

2.6.4 The District Council promotes the use of the Kennet and Avon Canal for leisure purposes and where appropriate will identify sites for improved pedestrian access and environmental improvements. The Council has completed a car park at Avoncliff as part of a joint environmental enhancement scheme with British Waterways, also the provision of steps along the length of Moulton Drive, Bradford on Avon to improve access to the canal.

48 Canal Related Tree Planting

CA2 Gripwood, Bradford on Avon, as defined on the Proposals Map, is proposed for tree planting.

2.6.5 As the canal enters Bradford on Avon it changes to a more urban character which contrasts well with the rural nature of much of its route. The canal passes along the edge of Gripwood as it runs to the south of the country park. The trees make an impressive backdrop and the tree planting identified for the area is intended to assist with the wood‟s management, to maintain mature tree cover and to complement tree planting carried out in other areas along the canal.

Canal Related Environmental Enhancement

CA3 The stretch of canal between the wharf and Bradford Marina, as defined on the Proposals Map, is proposed for environmental enhancement.

2.6.6 The stretch of canal between Bradford on Avon wharf and the marina would benefit from further improvement including pedestrian access from the proposed car park at the Clay pit housing site.

Wilts and Berks Canal

CA4 The restoration and reconstruction of the Wilts and Berks Canal as a navigable waterway is supported in principle. Schemes will be permitted that are designed to develop the canals recreational and nature conservation potential, in particular the use of the old line of the canal for walking and interpretation. The historic alignment of the canal will be protected from inappropriate development with a view to its re-establishment as part of a navigable waterway and development which is likely to destroy the original alignment of the canal or its associated works will be resisted. The District Council will also seek to assist the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust and the Canal Partnership in the search for a new line for the canal at Melksham to join the old line at or before the border with North Wiltshire District. Proposals for a new line must demonstrate there will be no overall adverse effect on the natural environment. Schemes will be permitted to develop the canal’s recreational and nature conservation potential, in particular the use of the old line of the canal for walking and interpretation.

2.6.8 The Wilts & Berks Canal originally ran from the Kennet and Avon Canal at Semington north through Melksham and on towards Lacock. Despite being abandoned in the early 20th century its alignment is still visible in many places. The Wilts and Berks Canal Amenity Group was established in 1977 [now the Wilts & Berks Canal Trust] and has since started work to restore various sections of the canal and proposes to restore it to full navigation. Reintroduction of the canal has great potential to bring benefits in terms of recreation, tourism, employment generation and nature conservation.

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2.6.9 Much of the original line of the canal through Melksham has since been built on; however the line can be followed, and the District Council will support its identification by signage where appropriate. Other parts of the original line also have potential for interpretation, particularly the junction with the Kennet and Avon Canal at Semington, and the Council will support in principle the development of a footpath network based on a restored canal towpath linking with other appropriate rights of way where the canal has been lost under development. The Council supports in principle the restoration of the Wilts and Berks Canal and will attempt to safeguard any agreed line for a new cut from barriers to navigation. The Wilts & Berks Canal Trust is examining possible route options but this work was not sufficiently complete to allow a single preferred route to be considered as part of this District Plan. The Council will review that part of the District Plan which is concerned with the canal at the earliest opportunity subject to the necessary work having been completed to demonstrate that an agreed route is technically feasible and that there is a reasonable prospect of it being delivered within the Plan period. Additional facilities for sewage disposal and waste collection need to be considered when the line is selected and all proposals must demonstrate that there will be no overall adverse effect on the natural environment.

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3.0 Policies for Development

3.1 Introduction

3.1.1 Although the District Council does not have direct control over population growth or the local economy, the policies on housing, employment and transport set out in the District Plan will not only influence the rate of growth and where new development should take place but also help improve the range of housing available and increase the number of jobs and local services in the area.

3.2 Housing

Housing Aims

To ensure that there is an adequate supply of land and an appropriate mix of house types and sizes to meet the housing requirements of the whole community including the provision of affordable housing to meet local needs.

To create more sustainable patterns of development in order to improve the quality of housing environments and meet wider social and economic needs, whilst conserving the natural environment and non-renewable resources.

To maximise the proportion of housing development taking place on previously developed sites to help meet the regional target of 50% of all housing development within the Plan period.

Housing Land Provision

H1a In West Wiltshire District provision is made for the development of about 14,000 additional dwellings for the Plan period 1991-2011.

3.2.1 Strategic guidance on housing land provision for the period 1991-2011 is provided by the Wiltshire Structure Plan 2011. Provision is made in the Wiltshire Structure Plan 2011 for about 14,000 additional dwellings to be built in West Wiltshire between 1991 and 2011.

3.2.2 In accordance with the Structure Plan Strategy and the District Plan Strategy outlined in paragraph 1.5.2, this growth will be concentrated in the towns of Trowbridge, Melksham and Westbury with lesser allocations in Bradford on Avon and Warminster in recognition of their environmental constraints. As a result the population of the District is expected to increase by 16,100 from around 109,300 in 1991 to 125,400 in 2011.

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Completions and Permissions

3.2.2a Dwellings completed since 1991, dwellings under construction and unimplemented planning permissions make up a large proportion of the overall housing land supply in West Wiltshire. Table 3 shows that, as at 1 April 2001, these "commitments" totalled 8,893 dwellings. An allowance for demolitions is effectively built into the Structure Plan figure for each area, being calculated as part of the forecast of population, households and dwelling requirements. This allowance takes account of the continuous process of minor demolitions and other losses and is based upon recorded trends. However, in recent years the scale of some demolitions and replacement schemes has become much larger. Wiltshire County Council and the District Council therefore now identify and discount completions on larger schemes of 10 or more dwellings, including large social rented housing PRC replacement schemes. Smaller schemes continue to be covered by the existing allowance. The housing land supply figures for West Wiltshire as at 1 April 2001 therefore do not include 598 replacement dwellings built, under construction or not started on these larger sites (1991-2001).

Table 3: Housing Land Supply April 2001: Housing Completions, Dwellings under Construction, Unimplemented Permissions

Housing Dwellings Unimplemented Total Completions under Permissions Completions / 01/04/1991 - Construction Permissions 31/03/2001 Trowbridge 2537 240 950 3727 Bradford on Avon 398 24 60 482 Melksham 774 18 353 1145 Warminster 746 25 134 905 Westbury 796 51 580 1427 Trowbridge Rural 673 67 129 869 Warminster Rural 269 5 64 338

Totals 6193 430 2270 8893 (West Wiltshire District)

Source: Wiltshire County Council, Environmental Services Department

Adopted District Plan Allocations and Other Large Commitments

3.2.2b A number of housing sites either form part of adopted District Plan allocations which are in the process of being developed or have planning permission subject to the completion of legal agreements. Although technically not firm commitments, they are likely to receive planning permission and therefore should be taken account of in the overall housing land supply. As at 1 April 2003 there were 369 dwellings identified from these types of site. A schedule of these sites is set out in Appendix D.

Urban Brownfield Allocations

3.2.2c The District Council has assessed the capacity of the towns and villages of West Wiltshire to accommodate further housing in accordance with the sequential approach set out in PPG3 (2000). This assessment has taken account of the results of an Urban Housing Capacity Study carried out by independent consultants for the Council in 2001.

52 3.2.2d The District Council supports the national, regional and strategic policies to maximise the use of previously developed (brownfield) land to meet future housing needs. This Plan identifies a number of previously developed (brownfield) sites within urban areas for development. Policies H3 and H4 identify these sites. In total, these urban brownfield allocations amount to 1,343 dwellings.

Windfall Allowances

3.2.3 Despite the identification of many urban sites during the plan preparation process, it is impossible to identify and allocate all the sites within the built up areas of West Wiltshire on which new housing will be developed. The District Council therefore proposes to make allowances during the remainder of the Plan period for unidentified sites or „windfall sites‟. These are small or medium sized sites which are likely to come forward for development through the normal planning process which are currently not identified for housing. No allowance has been made for greenfield windfalls. On the basis of the results of the Urban Housing Capacity Study, the District Council proposes to include a windfall allowance of 117.6 dwellings per year.

Urban Extension Allocations

3.2.5 Having assessed the housing capacity of urban areas within the District and identified suitable sites to be allocated, the District Council has identified suitable urban extensions to meet the overall housing requirement to the year 2011. Policies H6-H14 identify these sites. In total, these urban extension allocations amount to 2,925 dwellings.

Non-Implementation Allowance

3.2.5a Not all housing proposals, permitted or allocated, are developed in practice. In order to ensure that actual completions total about 14,000 dwellings by 2011, the District Council accepts that the overall housing supply should be "discounted" to allow for an element of non-implementation. Table 4 identifies this discounting element in the calculation of total housing supply.

3.2.6 Taking account of net housing completions since April 1991, dwellings under construction, planning permissions not started, other large commitments, the windfall allowance, identified urban brownfield allocations, urban extension allocations and the non- implementation allowance, the housing position as at April 2001 is presented in Table 4.

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Table 4: Total Housing Land Supply April 2001

Completions/ Adopted Windfall Urban New Totals Permissions District Plan Allowance Brownfield Allocations 04/1991- and other Allocations 31/03/2001 Large Commitments Trowbridge 3727 78 607 1550 5932 Bradford on 482 35 130 0 647 Avon Melksham 1145 56 43 750 1994 Warminster 905 12 278 190 1385 Westbury 1427 153 285 435 2300 Trowbridge Rural 869 22 0 0 891 Warminster Rural 338 13 0 0 351 1176 1176 Totals (before 8893 369 1176 1343 2925 14706 discounting) Discount -114 -18 0 -226 -292 -650 for non- implementation Totals (after 8779 351 1176 1117 2633 14056 discounting)

Source: Wiltshire County Council, Environmental Services Department

Phasing

H1b Sites allocated for housing development in the Plan will be subject to phasing restrictions as set out in Appendix Da. The phasing table will be reassessed at the end of each phase to ensure that the District’s housing requirements continue to be met through the Plan period

3.2.6a In order to ensure that priority is given to the development of brownfield land within urban areas, the release of land allocated in the Plan for housing development must be managed. The development of allocated sites will therefore be phased through the rest of the Plan period. The phasing table in Appendix Da sets out the sites suitable for development within each time phase of the remaining Plan period.

3.2.6b The majority of urban brownfield sites are phased for release in Phase 1, based upon a relative sustainability assessment, status in the current planning framework, and practical considerations, such as land assembly and access constraints. Some urban brownfield sites have identified site or ownership constraints which may result in a delay in their implementation. These site are identified for release in Phase 2, although the District Council will not prevent these sites from being released earlier, should they come forward during Phase 1.

3.2.6c The phasing table identifies certain urban extension sites as greenfield infill sites suitable for development in Phase 1. These greenfield sites are surrounded by proposed development and will complete major planned extensions to Trowbridge and Westbury which are currently under construction and will thereby contribute to sustaining local centre and other planned facilities. The majority of urban extensions are phased for

54 release during Phase 2, to ensure that priority is given to the development of urban brownfield land. 3.2.6d The Government recognises that certain sites are critical to the delivery of a Plan strategy, e.g. major urban extensions. The District Council considers housing allocations H6 – East of Melksham and H11 – South of Paxcroft Mead to be strategic urban extensions. These sites represent important extensions to Melksham and Trowbridge respectively which will involve the delivery of major public infrastructure. The identification of these allocations as strategic sites ensures that recognition is given to the long lead in times necessary to put proposed infrastructure into place, in accordance with Government guidance. Therefore, whilst these sites are planned to contribute to the District's housing supply in Phase 2, planning and infrastructure arrangements will need to be progressed through Phase 1.

3.2.6e Phasing restrictions must be responsive to the emerging housing land supply situation. Therefore, the District Council will monitor the housing land supply and will produce an Annual Monitoring Report. If there is a persistent and significant gap between what has been planned for, and what is occurring in reality, the District Council will consider re- assignment between phases.

3.2.6f Any changes to the phasing table will be prepared as Supplementary Planning Guidance and will be approved following public consultation.

Monitoring

3.2.6g The District Council assists Wiltshire County Council with the production of quarterly and annual Housing Land Availability reports, which are published. These reports contain information on the rate of the granting of permissions, the completion of consents and the types of sites involved. The District Council will use this information to monitor the effectiveness of the phasing table in delivering the housing aims of the Plan. An annual monitoring report will be produced.

Further Housing Development Within Towns

H1 Proposals for housing development within the built-up areas of Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge, Westbury and Warminster will be permitted provided that:

A Siting, layout and design considerations are satisfactory and they are in keeping with the character of the surrounding area; B They would not create inappropriate backland or tandem development; C They provide adequate services for the disposal of surface water, without increase of flood risk to downstream riparian owners; Ca They provide adequate water supplies, sewerage and sewage treatment, without adversely affecting the environment; D They do not result in the loss of an open area or visual gap important for recreation or amenity reasons; E They protect and conserve important nature conservation interests; F They provide safe and convenient connection to existing and planned pedestrian, cycle and public transport networks, the highway and, where appropriate, rail facilities, without creating transport problems; G They do not conflict with any other Structure or District Plan policies.

Priority will be given to proposals for the reuse of previously developed land.

55 Further housing development outside of the urban area, as defined by town policy limits, will not be permitted during the Plan period.

3.2.7 The District Council, having regard to the housing allocations proposed in Policies H3 to H14, considers that there is no justification for further greenfield housing land releases. It is proposed that further housing developments located outside the urban edge of the towns, as defined by town policy limits, will not be permitted during the Plan period to the year 2011.

3.2.8 However, mindful that there is scope for further infill development and redevelopment within the urban areas and the necessity to guide such “windfall” site development to appropriate locations and protect important open spaces, visual gaps, areas of nature conservation and the built heritage, the District Council proposes to guide windfall site development within the towns through Policy H1.

Affordable Housing Within Towns and Villages

H2 Where there is a demonstrable lack of affordable housing to meet local needs, the intention will be to negotiate for the provision of an appropriate element of affordable housing on housing sites:

A of 1 hectare or more, or sites containing more than 25 dwellings, at Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge, Warminster and Westbury; B within defined Village Policy Limits.

The District Council will actively pursue a target of providing 1,420 affordable homes within the District during the period 2001-2011 and will seek to achieve up to 30% affordable housing provision on all allocated and windfall housing sites within towns which meet the above criteria and up to 50% affordable housing provision on sites within villages. However, the precise scale of provision will be negotiated on a site by site basis, after taking into account need, as identified in the District Housing Needs Survey, site conditions and the economics of provision.

Affordable housing is defined as housing comprising low cost market housing and subsidised housing, provided for people who are unable to resolve their housing needs in the local private sector market because of the relationship between housing costs and incomes. Affordability will be assessed at the time of negotiation, in relation to local market conditions and the financial indicators of those in housing need.

The housing provided under this policy shall remain affordable in perpetuity or whilst there is a need. The District Council will seek partnerships with Registered Social Landlords and/or, where appropriate, will use planning conditions or obligations to ensure that all initial and subsequent occupiers will benefit from the affordable status of the dwellings.

3.2.9 The District Council is concerned about the growing problems of homelessness, individuals and families in housing need and the demand for affordable housing throughout the District. The Council no longer directly provides new units of affordable housing for people in housing need, but it intends to use its strategic enabling role to promote new affordable housing. The Council prepares a statement of housing needs which is published annually in the housing strategy statement together with policies to co-ordinate and enable solutions to resolve the identified housing problems and issues of the District.

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3.2.10 The District Council has assessed the need for affordable housing in West Wiltshire, taking account of existing programmes and void rates within the existing affordable stock. A comprehensive Housing Needs Survey for West Wiltshire was published in January 2002. Future needs assessments and ongoing monitoring arrangements will be carried out in accordance with the Housing Strategy 2003-2008.

3.2.11 Having assessed the need for affordable housing within the District, the Council proposes to negotiate with developers for the provision of affordable housing on suitable allocated sites and windfall sites. Affordable housing provision will be sought on sites of 1 hectare or more, or sites containing more than 25 dwellings, within the built up areas of Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge, Warminster and Westbury and on all sites within Village Policy Limits. The suitability of sites will also depend upon the proximity of local services and facilities and access to public transport; whether there will be particular costs associated with development of the site; and whether the provision of affordable housing would prejudice the realisation of other planning objectives that need to be given priority in development of the site. Developers will be encouraged to submit a financial appraisal / residual valuation of the proposed scheme to assist with the negotiations.

3.2.12 Affordable housing is defined as housing comprising low cost market housing and subsidised housing, provided for people who are unable to resolve their housing needs in the local private sector market because of the relationship between housing costs and incomes. The types of housing which comply with this definition include housing for rent, shared ownership with grant or shared equity where land value is retained to provide housing for sale below market levels and where control of the equity discount can be retained in perpetuity. Low cost market housing can on occasion be provided with subsidy. Affordability will be assessed at the time of negotiation, in relation to local market conditions and the financial indicators of those in housing need, as identified by the Council.

3.2.13 The District Council‟s preferred approach for securing affordable housing is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land by the developer to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered. Where appropriate, planning obligations or conditions will be used to ensure that the benefits of the affordable housing secured will be enjoyed by successive, as well as initial occupiers of the housing and that they will be reserved for people in genuine housing need. In exceptional circumstances, the Council may accept a commuted sum in lieu of affordable housing provision, but only where such an arrangement is justified in planning terms.

3.2.13a Affordable housing provision should be on-site and of a type, mix and standard to meet the District Council‟s housing objectives. In exceptional circumstances, the Council may accept a commuted sum in lieu of affordable housing provision, but only where such an arrangement is justified in planning terms. The Council has adopted a commuted sums policy and supplementary planning guidance will be prepared to provide strict parameters for when cash in lieu may be acceptable.

3.2.13b The District Council will seek a site layout and design which provides for affordable housing as part of the overall development, indistinguishable from neighbouring open market housing. Moreover, in large schemes, the Council will encourage affordable housing to be provided in a number of small clusters, rather than in one large grouping. Where it is proposed to phase development or subdivide sites, the Council will take

57 account of the whole of the site for the purposes of determining whether the site falls above or below the thresholds set out in policy H2.

3.2.14 In identifying further land for housing, the District Council seeks to achieve more sustainable patterns of development by maximising the reuse of previously developed land whilst maintaining its established environmental policies such as protection of the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, AONBs, SLA, conservation of natural habitats, protection of the water environment, protection of the countryside and the best and most versatile agricultural land and the conservation and enhancement of the urban environment and built heritage. Sites proposed for new housing should be well related in scale and location to existing development, well integrated with the existing pattern of settlement and land uses and take account of infrastructure requirements. The District Council, having regard to CO2 emissions, will seek to guide new development to locations which reduce the need for car journeys and the distances driven and permit choice to use public transport. Housing, where possible, will be located in such a way to minimise car use for journeys to work, school and to other local facilities.

Urban Brownfield Allocations

H3 A number of brownfield sites have been identified for redevelopment to residential use. Suitable residential development proposals of the following areas, as defined on the Proposals Map, will be permitted subject to scale, siting, design, highways, heritage conservation, residential amenity and local environmental considerations. Developers will be expected to resolve any identified contamination problems and, where appropriate, negotiations will be entered into for the inclusion of an appropriate element of affordable housing.

Site No. of Dwellings

Trowbridge Frome Road 15 Silver St Lane 15 Holbrook Lane 20 Cedar Grove 15 County Way 76 Rear of Wesley Road 20 Bythesea Road 20 Hilperton Road 15 TA Centre, Bythesea Road 59

Westbury Uitenage Farm 63 Station Road 90 Land off Oldfield Road 30 Coalyard, Bratton Road 52 Becks Mill 50

Warminster R/O Vicarage St/West St 20 Land at West Street 12 Land off George Street 30 Land fronting Boot Hill 18 Rear of Westbury Road 10 Fairfield Road 98 Station Road 30 Imber Road 15 58 TOTAL 773

3.2.15 The District Council has identified previously developed land within the towns of Trowbridge, Warminster and Westbury which is now considered appropriate for new housing development. Land which has been previously developed for urban uses, such as residential, industrial, retail, community, transport and utility uses is defined as brownfield. Development of these sites will be permitted subject to the identified criteria in Policy H3.

Urban Mixed Use Brownfield Allocations

H4 Proposals for the redevelopment of the following areas, as defined on the Proposals Map, to a mix of uses specified below, will be permitted provided that listed buildings and protected trees are retained wherever possible and that scale, design, layout, heritage conservation, highway and local amenity considerations are satisfactorily resolved. Developers shall be expected to resolve any identified contaminated land, surface water and sewage treatment problems :-

A Kingston Mills, Bradford-On-Avon A site of about 2.18 hectares (5.38 acres) is identified for redevelopment for a mix of uses to include about 130 dwellings plus any of the following:- small scale retail, further education, financial services office and leisure/arts. Development of this site will require the creation of a riverside walk and flood alleviation measures together with a package of on and off site highway works.

Ba Stratton House, Melksham A site of about 0.9 hectares (2.2 acres) is identified for a mix of uses to include about 43 dwellings and any other of the following uses: office, retail, leisure or community.

D Land at Shails Lane/Broad Street, Trowbridge A site of about 1.46 hectares (3.6 acres) is identified for redevelopment for a mix of uses including about 50 dwellings and any other of the following uses:- office, business or leisure. Retail use is not considered appropriate on this site.

Da Former Brewery Site, Trowbridge A site of about 3.4 hectares (8.4 acres) is identified for redevelopment for a mix of uses including about 120 dwellings and any other of the following uses – retail, leisure/arts or office/business. The site includes a number of important listed buildings which should be retained and sympathetically converted to new uses. Development will require a package of on and off site highway works.

E Ashton Mill, West Ashton Road, Trowbridge A site of about 0.84 hectares (2 acres) is identified for conversion and redevelopment for a mix of uses including about 40 dwellings and any other of the following uses:- office, business, industrial, warehousing or leisure/arts.

Ea Court Street, Trowbridge A site of about 1.05 hectares (2.6 acres) is identified for conversion and redevelopment for a mix of uses including about 112 dwellings and any other of the following uses: retail, office and other mixed uses. The site includes a number of important listed buildings which should be retained and sympathetically converted to new uses.

59 F Yeoman Way, Trowbridge A site of about 1.45 hectares (3.6 acres) is identified for redevelopment for a mix of uses including about 30 dwellings plus any of the following uses:- education, leisure/arts and business.

H Land at Market Place / East Street, Warminster A site of about 3 hectares (7.4 acres) is identified for partial redevelopment for a mix of uses including about 30 dwellings and any other of the following uses – small scale retail, leisure/arts or office/business. Development must take into account and adequately provide for surface water attenuation and sewage disposal.

Ha Land off The Close, Warminster A site of about 0.65 hectares (1.6 acres) is identified for conversion and partial redevelopment for a mix of uses including about 15 dwellings and any other of the following uses – small scale retail, or office/business. Development must take into account and adequately provide for surface water attenuation and sewage disposal.

3.2.16 Mixed use development can help to promote vitality and diversity within urban areas whilst reducing the need to travel. The District Council has identified a number of previously developed sites within Bradford, Melksham, Trowbridge, and Warminster which are now considered appropriate locations for redevelopment for a mix of uses including housing. Development of these sites will be permitted subject to the identified criteria in Policy H4.

Urban Extension Allocations

Melksham

3.2.17 The identification of suitable land for housing development at Melksham is limited by various factors, which can be summarised as follows:

1 Western Way is considered to be a firm boundary to the south and west of Melksham. 2 The River Avon and its flood plain are not only unsuitable for development because of flooding but they also provide visual and amenity green wedges right into the centre of the town. Provision should not be made for inappropriate development in areas which are as risk from flooding or where it could affect such processes. 3 The Trowbridge-Chippenham railway line is considered to be a firm boundary to the west of Melksham. Land to the west of the railway line is poorly related to the rest of the town. 4 Development off Beanacre Road could lead to coalescence between Beanacre and Melksham. 5 Town policy limits have been identified around Melksham which seek to prevent coalescence with Bowerhill and to protect the open countryside; 6 Extensive Sewage Treatment Works Buffer Zones are defined around Melksham and Bowerhill Sewage Treatment Works that preclude residential development. 7 To the west of A350 and west of the railway line there is high grade agricultural land which has to be protected from development.

3.2.18 Taking the above factors into account limits future housing development at Melksham to the eastern side of the town and Bowerhill.

60 Land East of Melksham

H6 A site with a net developable area of about 22.5 hectares (55.6 acres) is allocated to the east of Melksham for 750 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of this site will require the following:-

1 The provision of a 1.84 ha (4.5 acres) site for a new primary school and appropriate infrastructure contributions in accordance with the requirements of the Local Education Authority (see Policy S2); 2 The provision of a new community building on a 0.5 ha (1.2 acres), site for additional community facilities and local shopping (see Policy CF5); 3 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10 square metres, suitably located on the land allocated for additional community facilities to make recycling convenient for the local community; 4 The provision of affordable housing to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 5 The provision of approximately 4.5 hectares (11 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children’s play areas and formal sports provision (see Policy R5); 6 The retention of important existing trees and hedgerows and the provision of additional tree planting and landscaping, involving the planting of native species; 6a The provision of adequate bunding and the planting of denser trees and shrubs to create a noise and visual barrier between the site and the distributor road; 7 The provision of an integrated footpath and cycleway network connecting to the existing network; 8 The provision of a distributor road and roundabouts linking Snowberry Lane to Sandridge Road to serve the new development, including an appropriate crossing at Clackers Brook and connection with both roads as required by the County Highway Authority (see Policy T4); 8a The provision of a road of sufficient standard between Sandridge Road and the roundabout junction south of Snarlton Farm, and the provision of adequate adjacent land to enable future upgrading to dual carriageway, as part of a possible future Melksham Eastern Bypass as required by the County Highway Authority (see Policy T4D); 9 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority; 10 The provision of bus stops and shelters at appropriate locations to serve the new development; 11 The provision of a surface water attenuation lake to be designed as an amenity feature to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency; 12 The provision of a landscaped floodplain corridor including a riverside walk along Clackers Brook to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency (see Policy R8 and R11A).

3.2.29 The District Council considers that further development to the east of Melksham is now appropriate. It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of about 37.9 hectares and a net developable area of 22.5 hectares, south of the A3102, east of the existing built up area at Foresters Park, and north of Snowberry Lane for about 750 dwellings. The development will require a new community building, a new primary school, a recycling mini-bank station, a fully equipped and fenced children‟s play area, provision of additional local shopping and other community facilities, plus a substantial area of public open space, and a landscaped floodplain for Clackers Brook.

61 3.2.30 The District Council recognises that such a substantial expansion to the town will increase pressure on the existing community facilities and it is essential that such a large development proposal has an adequate and appropriate range and quality of community facilities. A site of 1.84 ha (4.5 acres) is proposed within the development to provide a new primary school. This would include provision for the relocation of the existing primary school on the A3102 Calne Road, which experiences problems of isolation from the town and is situated along a busy main road. A contribution towards the provision of the school will be sought by the Local Education Authority proportionate to the pupils directly arising from the development. A new community building will be provided within the development to meet a variety of community needs. The building will be located centrally in the development on a site of about 0.5 ha (1.2 acres), together with other community facilities and shopping.

3.2.31 The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable housing to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered. The size and nature of the site is such that the provision of affordable housing could be easily integrated into the overall development.

3.2.32 Around 4.55ha (11.2 acres) of public open space will be required in accordance with the Council‟s adopted standards. This will include formal sports provision in the form of playing pitches, a fully equipped and fenced children's play area and other play facilities as required. Additional tree planting and structural landscaping will be required along all the boundaries, particularly along the distributor road and the A3102. The planting will be native species, characteristic of the local area, in order to enhance the biodiversity value of the development. This will strengthen existing hedgerows and establish a firm boundary to the town. The floodplain of Clackers Brook provides an excellent opportunity for extending the existing walkway along the river (Policies R8 and R11A). The floodplain of the brook should be landscaped in accordance with Environment Agency requirements as an amenity feature and in addition to the public open space required by Policy R5. Landscaping should include adequate safety provision to minimise the risk of accidents in the water environment without jeopardising the recreational value, nature conservation value and the visual appeal.

3.2.33 The site will be accessed via the provision of a distributor road and roundabout linking the A3102 Sandridge Road to Snowberry Lane. Clackers Brook will need to be crossed to a standard as required by the County Highway Authority and the Environment Agency. Snarlton Lane will be closed to traffic from the distributor road. A connection will also need to be made to link Snarlton Farm to the distributor road. The County Highway Authority is investigating the potential for that part of the distributor road between Sandridge Road and the roundabout junction south of Snarlton Farm to form part of a possible future Melksham Eastern Bypass. The development will therefore provide at this point a road of sufficient standard and adequate adjacent land to enable future upgrading to dual carriageway.

3.2.33a Within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority. It is intended that this area of new housing should be fully integrated with the adjacent community. To this end, footpath and cycleway links will be provided to integrate the new development with the existing settlement. In the same way, the provision of bus stops and shelters at appropriate locations within the development will link the new housing to the rest of the

62 town. These should be provided in accordance with the requirements of the County Highways Authority.

3.2.34 Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Surface water should be taken to an attenuation lake to be designed as an amenity feature in addition to the public open space required by Policy R5. Developers are advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

3.2.34a A development brief will be prepared for this area in conjunction with consultees including the Environment Agency and the developers. It will include detailed advice on the distribution, phasing and densities of the development, highways and transportation matters, provision of educational facilities, local shopping, recreation and public open space, affordable housing, amelioration of flood risk problems, surface water disposal and foul drainage, landscaping and design guidance.

Trowbridge

3.2.35 The identification of suitable land for housing development at Trowbridge is limited by various factors, which can be summarised as follows:

1 Land to the north and west forms part of the statutory Western Wiltshire Green Belt; 1a Town policy limits have been identified around Trowbridge which seek to prevent coalescence with the nearby villages of Hilperton, North Bradley, Southwick and Staverton and to protect the open countryside; 2 Land to the east contains the floodplain of the River Biss and tributaries which are unsuitable for development and are of visual, amenity and nature conservation importance to the town. Provision should not be made for inappropriate development in areas which are at risk from flooding or where it could affect such processes; 3 The railway line forms a firm boundary to development in the south; 4 Green Lane and Biss Woods constrain development to the east of the town. Green Lane Wood is also a nature reserve.

3.2.36 Taking the above factors into account limits further edge of town development to land at the Staverton Triangle and New Terrace and to areas east of the town.

Staverton Triangle

H7 A site with a net developable area of about 2.2 hectares (5.5 acres) at the “Staverton Triangle” is allocated for about 80 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10 square metres to make recycling convenient for the local community; 2 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 3 The provision of approximately 0.5 hectares (1.2 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children’s play area (see Policy R5); 4 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping, involving the planting of native tree species wherever appropriate; 5 The retention of the area of woodland within the site and incorporation of this area into the area of public open space;

63 6 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network; 7 The provision of traffic calming measures within the locality as approved by the County Highways Authority; 8 The provision of a landscaped river corridor covering the flood plain to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency (see Policy R8).

3.2.37 It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of 2.5 hectares (6.2 acres) and a net developable area of about 2.2 hectares (5.5 acres) on land within the “Staverton Triangle” for about 80 dwellings. This site, together with land at New Terrace (Policy H7a), will complete the development of the Staverton Marina area between the Kennet and Avon Canal, the railway line and the B3105.

3.2.38 The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.39 Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 0.5 ha (1.2 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children‟s play area. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring areas, there will a requirement for the retention and enhancement of the existing footpaths and the provision of cycleway connections to the existing network, the retention of the area of woodland within the site and the provision of a landscaped floodplain corridor to the north of the site. Additional tree planting will be required in particular to enhance the canalside.

3.2.40 The site will be accessed through the Staverton Marina residential area and within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority.

3.2.41 Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

New Terrace, Staverton

H7A A site with a net developable area of about 2.ha (4.9 acres) is allocated at New Terrace for about 60 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 2 The provision of public open space within the development (see Policy R5); 3 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping, involving the planting of native tree species wherever appropriate; 4 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network; 5 The provision of a link road to serve the new development and the adjacent Staverton Marina site as required by the County Highway Authority;

64 6 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development, as required by the County Highway Authority; 7 The provision of an appropriate infrastructure contribution for education in accordance with the requirements of the Local Education Authority.

3.2.41a It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of 2.5 hectares (6.2 acres) and a net developable area of about 2 hectares (4.9 acres) on land adjacent to New Terrace, Staverton for about 60 dwellings. This site, together with land to the south of the "Staverton Triangle" (Policy H7), will complete the development of the Staverton Marina area between the Kennet and Avon Canal, the railway line and the B3105.

3.2.41b The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.41c Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 0.4 ha (0.9 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children‟s play area. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring areas, there will a requirement for the provision of footpath and cycleway connections to the existing network.

3.2.41d The site will be accessed via a link road between the B3105 and the adjacent Staverton Marina residential area and within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority.

3.2.41e Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

Land north of Paxcroft Way, Trowbridge

H8 At Trowbridge a site with a net developable area of about 9.1 hectares (22.5 acres) north of Paxcroft Way is allocated for 230 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 To meet any need for additional educational provision arising from the proposed development, a contribution will be made towards the extension of The Mead Primary School or, in the event that The Mead Primary School cannot be expanded to meet this need, a contribution towards the provision of a new school to the south of Paxcroft Mead, in accordance with the requirements of the Local Education Authority and with Policy S1; 2 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10 square metres to make recycling convenient for the local community; 3 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 4 The provision of approximately 1.4 hectares (3.5 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children’s play area and formal sports provision (see Policy R5);

65 5 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping, involving the planting of native species wherever appropriate; 6 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network; 7 The provision of highway improvements as required by the County Highway Authority; 8 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority; 9 The provision of bus stops and shelters at appropriate locations to serve the new development; 10 An extension to the Paxcroft Brook Country Park to provide a landscaped floodplain corridor including a riverside walk (see Policy R9); 11 Watercourse improvements and a contribution to the Trowbridge flood protection scheme to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency.

3.2.42 It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of 10.5 hectares (26 acres) and a net developable area of about 9.1 hectares (22.5 acres) on land north of Paxcroft Way for about 230 dwellings. This infill site will complete development between the existing urban area and the Paxcroft Mead residential area to the east of the town.

3.2.43 The need for additional education facilities as a result of the proposed development is recognised and a contribution will be required towards the extension of The Mead Primary School or, in the event that The Mead Primary School cannot be expanded to meet this need, a contribution towards the provision of a new school to the south of Paxcroft Mead. A recycling mini-bank will also be required to be provided in an accessible location to make recycling facilities convenient for the local community.

3.2.44 The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.45 Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 1.4 ha (3.5 acres) of public open space within the development, including a fully equipped children‟s play area and formal sports provision in the form of a playing pitch and the provision of an extension to Paxcroft Brook Country Park to provide a landscaped floodplain corridor. A landscaped buffer strip of approximately 20 metres depth, including additional tree planting will be required along the northern boundary with properties located on the Hilperton Road (Kenton Drive, Halfway Cottage, the Beeches, Halfway Close) to enhance the strategic landscape setting of the Paxcroft Mead development.

3.2.46 The site will be accessed through the Paxcroft Mead residential area. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring areas, there will be a requirement for the retention and enhancement of the existing footpaths and the provision of additional footpaths and cycleway connections to the existing urban area and the Paxcroft Mead development. Within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority.

3.2.47 Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

66 Land South of The Grange, Trowbridge

H8a At Trowbridge a site with a net developable area of about 1.0 hectares (2.5 acres) south of The Grange, Hilperton is allocated for 35 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 2 The provision of approximately 0.8 hectares (2.0 acres) of public open space within the development (see Policy R5); 3 The retention of important existing trees/hedgerows and the provision of additional tree planting and landscaping, involving the planting of native species wherever appropriate; 4 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network; 5 The completion of link road T5A or its secured provision to the satisfaction of the County Highway Authority; 6 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority; 7 The acceptable disposal of surface water to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency.

3.2.47a It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of 1.8 hectares (4.4 acres) and a net developable area of about 1.0 hectare (2.5 acres) on land south of The Grange, Hilperton for about 35 dwellings. The development of this site will complete the Paxcroft Mead residential area at its northern boundary with the Hilperton Conservation Area.

3.2.47b The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.47c Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 0.8 ha (2.0 acres) of public open space within the development, including the provision of an informal grassland open space of approximately 40 metres width along the western and northern boundaries of the site to preserve the open southerly setting and views from and to the adjacent Conservation Area. The retention of important trees and hedgerows along the boundaries and within the site will be required together with additional tree planting and structural landscaping, particularly along the eastern boundary of the proposed open space to preserve open landscape views from the Conservation Area.

3.2.47d The site will be accessed through the Paxcroft Mead residential area. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring areas, there will be a requirement for the provision of additional footpaths and cycleway connections to the neighbouring areas of Paxcroft Mead. Within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority. The development, together with other allocations H8b, H8c and H11, will require the completion of link road T5A or its secured provision, which is required to relieve the village of Hilperton of through traffic associated with housing developments east of Trowbridge.

3.2.47e Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed

67 development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

3.2.47f The development will require the prior agreement of the District Council to a development brief which will provide guidance on open space and landscaping provision, the density, design and scale of development and the relationship with the Hilperton Conservation Area.

Blue Hills, Devizes Road

H8b A site of about 1.3ha south of Devizes Road is allocated for 35 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 2 The provision of approximately 0.2 hectares (0.5 acres) of public open space within the development (see Policy R5); 3 The retention of important hedgerows and trees within and around the site; 4 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping; 5 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network; 6 Access to the land via the Paxcroft Mead residential area and the provision of highway improvements as required by the County Highway Authority; 7 The completion of link road T5A or its secured provision to the satisfaction of the County Highway Authority; 8 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as required by the County Highway Authority.

3.2.47g It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of 1.3 hectares (3.2 acres) and a net developable area of about 1 hectare (2.5 acres) on land south of Devizes Road for about 35 dwellings. This site, together with allocations H8, H8b and H8c will complete the Paxcroft Mead development to the east of Trowbridge.

3.2.47h The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.47i Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 0.2 ha (0.5 acres) of public open space within the development. There are a number of important trees and hedgerows in and on the boundaries of this site which will need to be retained and enhanced with new planting. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring areas, there will a requirement for the provision of footpath and cycleway connections to the existing network.

3.2.47j The site will be accessed through the Paxcroft Mead development area and within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority. The development, together with other allocations H8a, H8c and H11, will require the completion of link road T5A or its secured

68 provision, which is required to relieve the village of Hilperton of through traffic associated with housing developments east of Trowbridge.

3.2.47k Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

Land North of Green Lane, Trowbridge

H8c A site of about 4.93ha north of Green Lane is allocated for 160 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 A contribution towards the provision of a new primary school to the south of Paxcroft Mead or to an extension to Longmeadow or Paxcroft Primary Schools, in accordance with the requirements of the Local Education Authority (see Policy S1); 2 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10m2 to make recycling convenient for the local community; 3 The provision of affordable housing to meet local needs; 4 The provision of a fully equipped children’s play area within the development; 5 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping; 6 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network; 7 Access to the land via the Paxcroft Mead residential area to the west; 8 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as required by the County Highway Authority; 9 The completion of link road T5A or its secured provision to the satisfaction of the County Highway Authority; 10 The provision of bus stops and shelters at appropriate locations to serve the new development and provision for a bus only connection across Green Lane to link with proposed housing H11; 11 An extension to the Paxcroft Brook Country Park to the north of the site to provide public open space and a landscaped floodplain corridor including a riverside walk (2.27ha) (see Policy R9B); 12 Watercourse improvements and a contribution to the Trowbridge flood protection scheme to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency; 13 The provision of a footpath link within the eastern boundary connecting the Paxcroft Brook Country Park to Green Lane and the River Biss Country Park.

3.2.47l It is proposed to allocate a site of about 4.9 hectares (12.2 acres) on land north of Green Lane for about 160 dwellings. This site, together with allocations H8, H8a and H8b will complete the Paxcroft Mead development to the east of Trowbridge.

3.2.47m The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

69 3.2.47n Development of this site will require the provision of public open space within the development, including an extension to the Paxcroft Brook Country Park to the north of the site to provide a landscaped floodplain corridor. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring areas, there will a requirement for the provision of footpath and cycleway connections to the existing network. including a northern riverside walk and an eastern footpath link connecting the Paxcroft Brook Country Park to Green Lane and the River Biss Country Park to the south.

3.2.47o The site will be accessed through the Paxcroft Mead development area and within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority. The development, together with other allocations H8a, H8b and H11, will require the completion of link road T5A or its secured provision, which is required to relieve the village of Hilperton of through traffic associated with housing developments east of Trowbridge.

3.2.47p Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

Land at Southview, Trowbridge

H9 At Trowbridge a site with a net developable area of about 10 hectares (24.7 acres) at Southview is allocated for 300 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10 square metres to make recycling convenient for the local community; 2 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 3 The provision of approximately 1.8 hectares (4.4 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children’s play area and formal sports provision (see Policy R5); 4 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping involving the planting of native species wherever appropriate; 5 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network; 6 The provision of highway improvements to West Ashton Road as required by the County Highway Authority. 7 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority. 8 The provision of bus stops and shelters at appropriate locations to serve the new development. 9 An extension to the Biss Meadows Country Park to provide a landscaped floodplain corridor including a riverside walk (see Policy R9). 10 Watercourse improvements and a contribution to the Trowbridge flood protection scheme to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency.

3.2.48 It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of 11.3 hectares (28 acres) and a net developable area of about 10 hectares (24.7 acres) on land south of the Longfield development for about 300 dwellings. This site will form a natural extension to the existing and emerging built up area of Trowbridge as far as the River Biss and will provide an

70 opportunity to secure an extension to the River Biss Country Park which will form a green edge to the urban area.

3.2.49 A recycling mini-bank will also be required to be provided in an accessible location to make recycling facilities convenient for the local community.

3.2.50 The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.51 Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 1.8 ha (4.4 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children‟s play area and formal sports provision in the form of a playing pitch. the provision of a landscaped extension to Biss Meadows Country Park including appropriate wet flood storage ponds and additional tree planting and structural landscaping particularly along the southern boundary with the Country Park.

3.2.52 The highway access to the site will be through the Longfield estate as shown on the proposals map. In order to secure transport links from Wiltshire Drive/Drynham Road area west of the railway to the West Ashton Road, there will be a requirement for the retention and enhancement of the existing footpaths and the provision of additional footpaths and cycleway connections to the existing urban area and the Country Park. Within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority.

3.2.53 Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

Land at West Ashton Road, Trowbridge

H10 At Trowbridge a site with a net developable area of about 2.77 hectares (6.8 acres) south of West Ashton Road is allocated for 100 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 The relocation of Larkrise Community Farm to a nearby and accessible location; 2 A contribution towards the provision of a new Primary School to the south of Paxcroft Mead in accordance with the requirements of the County Education Authority (see Policy S1); 3 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10 square metres to make recycling convenient for the local community; 4 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 5 The provision of approximately 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children’s play area (see Policy R5); 6 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping, involving the planting of native species wherever appropriate; 7 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network;

71 8 The provision of highway improvements to West Ashton Road as required by the County Highway Authority; 9 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority; 10 An extension to the Biss Meadows Country Park to provide a landscaped floodplain corridor including a riverside walk (see Policy R9); 11 Watercourse improvements and a contribution to the Trowbridge flood protection scheme to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency.

3.2.54 It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of 6.5 hectares (16 acres) and a net developable area of about 2.77 hectares (6.8 acres) on land south of West Ashton Road for about 100 dwellings. This site will form a natural extension to the Longfield estate and will provide an opportunity to secure an extension to the River Biss Country Park which will form a green edge to the urban area.

3.2.55 The need for additional education facilities as a result of the proposed development is recognised and a contribution towards the provision of a new Primary School to the south of Paxcroft Mead will be required. A recycling mini-bank will also be required to be provided in an accessible location to make recycling facilities convenient for the local community.

3.2.56 The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.57 Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 0.6 ha (1.5 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children‟s play area and the provision of a landscaped extension to Biss Meadows Country Park including additional tree planting and structural landscaping along all the boundaries.

3.2.58 The highway access to the site will be from West Ashton Road. In order to secure transport links from Wiltshire Drive/Drynham Road area west of the railway to the West Ashton Road, there will a requirement for the retention and enhancement of the existing footpath and the provision of additional footpaths and cycleway connections to the existing urban area and the Country Park. Within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority.

3.2.59 Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

72 Land south of Paxcroft Mead, Trowbridge

H11 At Trowbridge a site with a net developable area of about 17.3 hectares (42.9 acres) south of Paxcroft Mead is allocated for 550 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of the site will require the following:

1 The provision of a 1.84 hectare (4.5 acres) site for a new Primary School and appropriate infrastructure contributions in accordance with the requirements of the Local Education Authority (see Policy S2); 2 The provision of a 0.1 hectares (0.2 acres) site for local shopping (see Policy SP6C); 3 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10 square metres at the local shopping site to make recycling convenient for the local community; 4 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 5 The provision of approximately 3.3 hectares (8.2 acres) of public open space as part of the development including fully equipped children’s play areas and formal sports provision (see Policy R5); 6 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping involving the planting of native species wherever appropriate; 7 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath network within the development connecting to the existing footpath and cycleway system as shown on the Proposals Map; 8 The provision of a distributor road to serve the development linking the Paxcroft Mead distributor road T4A to the distributor road T4B provided in conjunction with the employment allocation E1A north of West Ashton Road, as required by the County Highway Authority (see Policy T4); 8a The completion of link road T5A or its secured provision to the satisfaction of the County Highways Authority; 9 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority; 10 The provision of bus stops and shelters at appropriate locations to serve the new development; 10a The provision of a car park adjacent to Green Lane to serve visitors to the Green Lane Wood Nature Reserve; 11 An extension to the Biss Meadows Country Park to provide a landscaped floodplain corridor at Blackball Brook including a riverside walk and formal sports provision and a landscaped nature conservation buffer to Green Lane Wood (see Policy R9); 12 Watercourse improvements and a contribution to the Trowbridge flood protection scheme to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency.

3.2.60 It is proposed to allocate a site with a net developable area of about 17.3 hectares (42.9 acres) on land south of Paxcroft Mead and east of Trowbridge Lodge Residential Park for about 550 dwellings. This will provide a distributor road linking the Paxcroft Mead distributor road T4A to the distributor road T4B provided in conjunction with the employment allocation E1A north of West Ashton Road. It is a logical extension to the town and provides an opportunity to secure an extension to the River Biss Country Park along the Blackball Brook and as a nature conservation buffer to Green Lane Wood which will form a green edge to the urban area.

3.2.61 A development of this scale will require an adequate and appropriate range and quality of community facilities. A site of 1.84 hectares (4.5 acres) is proposed within the development to provide a new primary school. A contribution towards the provision of the school will be sought by the Local Education Authority proportionate to the pupils directly arising from the development. A site of 0.1 hectares (0.2 acres) for local shopping

73 facilities will also be required as part of the development. This will include a recycling mini-bank to make recycling facilities convenient for the local community. A small car park to accommodate visitors to the Green Lane Wood Nature Reserve will also be provided adjacent to the wood.

3.2.62 The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs, in accordance with Policy H2. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.63 Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 3.3 hectares (8.2 acres) of public open space within the development including fully equipped children‟s play areas and formal sports provision in the form of playing pitches. Development will also secure an extension to the River Biss Country Park and a landscaped nature conservation buffer to Green Lane Wood (Policy R9). Additional tree planting and structural landscaping will be required as part of the development.

3.2.64 The site will be served by a new distributor road linking the Paxcroft Mead distributor road T4A to the distributor road T4B provided in conjunction with the employment allocation E1A north of West Ashton Road. Blackball Brook will need to be crossed to a standard as required by the County Highway Authority and the Environment Agency. The development will also require the completion of link road T5A or its secured provision, which is required to relieve the village of Hilperton of through traffic associated with housing developments east of Trowbridge. There will be no vehicular access to Green Lane west of Green Lane Wood other than for emergency vehicles. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring areas, there will be a requirement for the provision of access roads across Green Lane to link with the proposed housing development to the north of Green Lane (Policy H8B). There will also be a requirement for the retention and enhancement of existing rights of way and to provide an integrated footpaths and cycleway network connecting to the existing urban area, the Country Park and to the countryside. Within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highway Authority.

3.2.65 Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage in respect of flood risk and surface water disposal matters associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage in respect of foul drainage matters.

3.2.65a A development brief will be prepared for this area in conjunction with consultees including the Environment Agency and the developers. It will include detailed advice on the distribution, phasing and densities of the development, highways and transportation matters, provision of educational facilities, local shopping, recreation and public open space, affordable housing, amelioration of flood risk problems, surface water disposal and foul drainage, landscaping and design guidance.

Warminster

3.2.66 The identification of suitable land for housing development at Warminster is limited by various factors, which can be summarised as follows:

1 Land to the south, east and north east is designated as a Special Landscape Area. 2 Land between the bypass and the built up area to the south and west of the town is

74 designated Grade 1 and 2 agricultural land. 2a The River Wylye is designated an SSSI and together with the River Were are of visual, amenity and nature conservation importance to the town. 3 The floodplain of the rivers Wylye and Were are unsuitable for development. Provision should not be made for inappropriate development in areas which are at risk from flooding or where it could affect such processes. To avoid exacerbating existing flooding problems in the town, surface water disposal from new development will require attenuation. 4 Wessex Water object to development in close proximity to its sewage treatment works. Policy U5 defines a sewage treatment works buffer zone, in accordance with Planning Policy Guidance Note No. 23, Planning and Pollution Control. This precludes residential development between the existing sewage works and the town at Henfords Marsh. 5 Town policy limits have been identified around Warminster which seek to prevent coalescence with the nearby village of Bishopstrow and to protect the open countryside.

3.2.67 Taking the above factors into account limits further edge of town development to the rounding off of the town to the north of Victoria Road.

Land north of Victoria Road, Warminster

H12 At Warminster a site with a net developable area of about 6 hectares (15.2 acres) north of Victoria Road is allocated for 190 dwellings on the Proposals Map.

The development of this site will require the following:

1 An extension to the Princecroft Primary School in accordance with the requirements of the County Education Authority (see Policy S1); 2 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10 square metres to make recycling convenient for the local community; 3 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 4 The provision of approximately 1.2 ha (3 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children’s play area (see policy R5); 5 The retention of important existing trees/hedgerows, the provision of additional tree planting and landscaping involving the planting of native species wherever appropriate and habitat enhancement; 6 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network including a riverside walk; 8 A strategy for the acceptable disposal of surface water which may involve off-site works to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency, 9 The provision of a new roundabout access at the junction of Victoria Road and Masefield Road and a secondary access via Virginia Drive as required by the County Highway Authority; 10 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority. 11 The provision of bus stops and shelters at appropriate locations to serve the new development.

3.2.68 It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of 7.3 hectares (18.0 acres) and a net developable area of about 6 hectares (15.2 acres) to the north of Victoria Road and west of Virginia Drive and Pampas Court for about 190 dwellings. This site is considered

75 well related to the existing urban area and would round off the western edge of the town without having a detrimental effect upon the landscape setting of Warminster.

3.2.69 The need for additional education facilities as a result of the proposed development is recognised and an extension to Princecroft Primary School will be required. A recycling mini-bank will also be required to be provided in an accessible location to make recycling facilities convenient for the local community.

3.2.70 The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.71 Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 1.2 ha (3 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children‟s play area at a central location. The retention of existing trees and hedgerows will be required together with additional tree planting and structural landscaping along all the boundaries. The site may contain other features of nature conservation interest and developers will be required to submit an environmental survey of the site and proposals for habitat enhancement with any application for development.

3.2.72 The site will be accessed via a roundabout junction with Victoria Road and Masefield Road. A secondary access to link the development with Virginia Drive will also be required. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring residential areas, there will a requirement for the provision of cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network, including the provision of a landscaped riverside walk. The provision of a bus stop and shelter at an appropriate location to serve the new development will also be required in accordance with the requirements of the County Highway Authority.

3.2.73 Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. A strategy for the acceptable disposal of surface water may require off- site works. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

Westbury

3.2.74 The identification of suitable land for housing development at Westbury is limited by various factors, which can be summarised as follows:

1 Land to the south and east is either designated as a Special Landscape Area or is visually very prominent; 2 Town policy limits have been identified around Westbury which seek to prevent coalescence with the nearby village of Dilton Marsh and to protect the open countryside; 3 Land north west of Westbury Station is poorly related to the town and much is allocated for employment development, recreation or environmental improvement. 4 Land to the north of the railway line is constrained by a Sewage Treatment Works Buffer Zone around the Westbury Sewage Treatment Works.

76 3.2.75 After making reasonable allowance for further opportunity site development likely to occur during the remainder of the plan period and taking the above factors into account, future housing development in Westbury is limited to the western and northern fringes of the town.

Land adjacent to Westbury Hospital

H13a A site with a net development area of approximately 0.6ha is allocated for about 25 dwellings adjacent to Westbury Hospital, as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of this site will require the following:

1 The provision of an appropriate element of affordable housing (see Policy H2); 2 The provision of public open space within the new development in accordance with Policy R5; 3 The provision of an appropriate infrastructure contribution for education in accordance with the requirements of the education authority; 4 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping involving the planting of native species as appropriate; 5 The provision of an access to serve the new development off The Butts as required by the highway authority.

3.2.75a It is proposed to allocate a site with a gross area of about 0.74 ha (1.8 acres) and a net developable area of about 0.6 hectares (1.5 acres) on land at The Butts (adjacent Westbury Hospital) for about 25 dwellings.

3.2.75b The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.75c Development of this site will require the provision of approximately 0.15 ha ( 0.4 acres) of public open space within the development. There is an important hedgerow on the boundary of this site which will need to be retained and enhanced with new planting. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring areas, there will a requirement for the provision of footpath and cycleway connections to the existing network.

3.2.75d The site will be accessed from the Butts and within the development the provision of traffic calming will need to be provided to standards as required by the County Highways Authority.

3.2.75e Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements associated with the proposed development. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

77 Leigh Park, Westbury

H13 At Westbury a site with a net developable area of about 25 hectares (61.5 acres) north of Westbury Leigh, known as Leigh Park, is allocated for 1030 dwellings as defined on the Proposals Map.

The development of this site will require the following:

1 The completion of a distributor road (or its secured provision to the satisfaction of the County Highways Authority), from a new junction with the B3099/A3098 to the west of Bridge Farm, via a bridge over the railway line, to link to the distributor road through the adjacent housing and employment land to Station Road in conjunction with the development of the housing allocation H14 and the employment allocation E1C; also the completion of road links between the local distributor road and Leigh Road/Laverton Road and Oldfield Road as broadly shown on the Proposals Map (see Policy T4F); 1a The provision of highway improvements and traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority; 2 The provision of a 1.7 hectares (4.2 acres) site for a new primary school and appropriate infrastructure contributions in accordance with the requirements of the Local Education Authority (see Policy S2); 3 The provision of approximately 6.2 hectares (15.3 acres) of public open space including appropriate equipped children’s play areas (see Policy R5); 4 The provision of new community facilities, including local shopping facilities to meet the daily requirements of the Westbury Leigh development, halls for community use and worship and health care facilities (see Policies CF6 and SP6D); 5 The provision of an appropriate level of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 6 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station centrally located to make recycling convenient for the local community; 7 A strategy for acceptable disposal of surface water which may involve off-site works and planning the development proposals and works to ensure that properties will not be affected by the floodplain of the Biss Brook and its tributaries.

3.2.76 A site with a net developable area of about 25 hectares (61.5 acres) on the western edge of Westbury and north of Westbury Leigh was allocated for 800 dwellings in the District Plan adopted in March 1996. Outline planning permission was granted in March 1998 for the development of the site for housing including the provision of public open space, commercial and community facilities, highways and associated works. The development is being implemented on a phased basis and a Master Plan and Development Brief has been approved by the District Council to guide this development.

3.2.77 Seven sites with a gross area of 6.4 hectares were included within the adopted District Plan allocation but were not subject to the outline planning permission approved in March 1998. The District Council resolved to grant permission subject to a legal agreement for housing on one of these sites to the rear of 66-78 Leigh Road in October 1998. It is therefore considered that an increase in the total housing allocation for this development should be made to take into account the additional contribution that these seven sites can make. This enlarged development would be an efficient use of suitable housing land, well related to the urban area, preferable to the release of further greenfield sites elsewhere or the development of large open spaces within the town.

78 3.2.78 Development of this area will in effect form a southwestern extension of the existing built up area of Westbury. A western distributor road will be constructed to serve the development (Policy T4F) as defined on the Proposals Map. The residual land within the adopted District Plan safeguarded corridor, not required for the construction of the new distributor road, will remain protected as countryside, outside the town policy limits for Westbury. The westerly part of the local centre lies outside the town policy limits and, therefore, in this area, only greenspace uses will permitted. The distributor road, from a new junction with the B3099/A3098 to the west of Bridge Farm in the south, will connect to Station Road in the north via a bridge over the railway line through the proposed housing and employment allocations H14 and E1C. The distributor road will also act as a much needed bypass for Westbury Leigh. Link roads from the distributor road will need to be constructed to a new junction with Leigh Road/Laverton Road and connecting to Oldfield Road. These will improve cross town links and connection to Dilton Marsh. The distributor road will need to be constructed from its southwestern extremity up to and including a railway crossing in association with the proposed residential development and include a 20 metre landscaped noise attenuation bund.

3.2.79 The site will incorporate a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing needs, including affordable houses to meet local needs, in accordance with Policy H2. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered. The provision will be assessed against market conditions in association with the District Council‟s Housing Department. It is intended that this area of new housing should be fully integrated with the adjacent communities of Westbury and Westbury Leigh. To this end pedestrian and cycleway links between the existing and proposed residential areas will be maintained and enhanced.

3.2.80 Recreation and community facilities will be provided to serve the proposed development which will enhance the level of such facilities available to existing residents. A site of 1.2 hectares is required for new community facilities, including local shopping facilities to meet the daily requirements of the Leigh Park development, halls for community use and worship and health care facilities. 6.2 hectares (15.3 acres) of land will be required for recreational open space, together with appropriate equipped children‟s play areas, in conjunction with the development (see Policies R4 and R5). A site of 1.7 hectares is identified for a new primary school, as an exceptional development outside the town policy limits for Westbury.

3.2.81 A revised development brief will be prepared for this area in conjunction with the Environment Agency and the developers which will include detailed advice on the provision of roads, including matters of phasing, alignment and layout and the phasing and densities of development throughout the site, provision of community facilities and affordable housing, amelioration of flooding problems, landscaping and design guidance.

79 Land at Station Road, Westbury

H14 At Westbury a site with a net developable area for housing of about 6 hectares (14.8 acres) on land off Station Road is allocated for 180 dwellings on the Proposals Map.

The development of this site will require the following;

1 An extension to Bitham Brook Primary School in accordance with the requirements of the County Education Authority (see Policy S1); 2 The provision of a recycling mini-bank station of approximately 10 square metres to make recycling convenient for the local community; 3 The provision of affordable houses to meet local needs (see Policy H2); 4 The provision of approximately 1.1 ha (2.7 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children’s play area (see policy R5); 5 The provision of additional tree planting and landscaping involving the planting of native species; 6 The provision of an integrated cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network including links to the station; 7 The provision of a landscaped area covering the Biss Brook floodplain to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency (see Policy R8); 8 A strategy for the acceptable disposal of surface water which may involve off-site works to meet the requirements of the Environment Agency; 9 The provision of a new roundabout access and distributor road from Station Road through the development including the completion of a bridge over the railway line (or its secured provision to the satisfaction of the County Highways Authority), in conjunction with the proposed residential development north of Westbury Leigh as required by the County Highway Authority (see Policy T4F); 10 The provision of traffic calming measures within the development and locality as approved by the County Highways Authority; 11 The provision of bus stops and shelters at appropriate locations to serve the new development.

3.2.82 A site of 17 hectares (42 acres) off Station Road was allocated for employment purposes including non food retail floorspace, a mix of small scale light industry, business and wholesale uses, areas for community uses and recreation uses in the West Wiltshire District Plan, adopted in 1996. The site has been reassessed in accordance with the requirements to find additional housing sites well related to the existing urban area and with good public transport links. The site is close to Westbury Station, is well related to the proposed Westbury Leigh residential development area and is adjacent to Westbury sailing lake, which is of nature conservation interest and an important local recreational resource. It is therefore proposed to allocate a net developable area of about 6 hectares (14.8 acres) for about 180 dwellings. The remaining 4 hectares (9.9 acres) of net developable land on the site are proposed for employment uses as set out in Policy E1C.

3.2.83 The need for additional education facilities as a result of the proposed development is recognised and an extension to Bitham Brook Primary School will be required. A recycling mini-bank will also be required to be provided in an accessible location to make recycling facilities convenient for the local community.

3.2.84 The development will provide a reasonable mix and balance of house types and sizes to cater for a range of housing requirements, including affordable houses to meet local needs. To achieve this target, the Council‟s preferred approach is for the transfer at no cost of an appropriate quantity of serviced land to a Registered Social Landlord selected

80 by the Council and the transfer of a commuted sum covering the build costs of the units by the developer to the Council. However, other arrangements will be considered.

3.2.85 Development of this site will require 1.1 ha (2.7 acres) of public open space within the development including a fully equipped children‟s play area at a convenient location. In order to integrate the development with neighbouring residential areas, Westbury Station and the sailing lake, there will a requirement for cycleway and footpath provision connecting to the existing network including pedestrian access and landscaped area along the southern edge of the lake. A landscaped area will also be required at the western edge of the site to cover the Biss Brook floodplain. Along the boundaries of the residential area additional tree planting and structural landscaping will be required.

3.2.86 The site will be accessed via a roundabout junction with Station Road. The access road will form part of the link to residential development at Westbury Leigh via a bridge over the railway for which a contribution will be required from the developer of this site (see Policy H13). Appropriate landscaping will be required and careful consideration will be given to the location, scale and design of any development proposals near the lake. The development will be required to allow for continued adequate vehicular access to Westbury Station.

3.2.87 Frequent flooding occurs on the Biss Brook draining this area and careful consideration will need to be given to the flood alleviation requirements resulting from increased surface water run off. Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss and agree surface water disposal requirements and a strategy may require off-site works. Developers are also advised to contact Wessex Water at an early stage to resolve foul drainage problems.

Flat Conversions

H16 Proposals for the conversion of properties into flats will not be permitted if they are any of the following:

1 An unreasonable and over intensive sub-division of an inadequate sized property; 2 Detrimental to the outward appearance of the building of which they form a part or the character of the local area; 3 Have inadequate access or insufficient or inadequate car parking provision; 4 Have inadequate or insufficient amenity space around the building; 5 Detrimental to the amenity of neighbouring residents; 6 Subject to flood risk.

3.2.94 It is Government policy to encourage housing opportunities involving both house ownership and various types of rented accommodation. There is a variety of houses, often in inner urban areas and typically, but not always, large and old which lend themselves to conversions to flats. The Council recognises that the conversion of houses to flats can enhance the range and increase the housing stock. Conversion can provide a practical and economical use of the accommodation in houses no longer suited to modern day living.

In considering planning applications for residential flat conversions, the District Council will have regard to the following factors: 1 Reasonable Sub-Division 2 Outward Appearance and Local Character 3 Access and Car Parking

81 4 Amenity Space Around the Building 5 Amenity of Neighbours

Village Policy Limits

H17 Village Policy Limits have been defined for the following villages as indicated on the Proposals Map:

Atworth, Beanacre, Berryfield, Bowerhill, Bratton, Broughton Gifford, Bulkington, Chapmanslade, Chitterne, Codford, Corsley Heath, Crockerton, Dilton Marsh, Edington/Tinhead, Great Hinton, Heytesbury, Hilperton, Holt, Keevil, Lane End, Longbridge Deverill, North Bradley, Semington, Shaw/Whitley, Southwick, Steeple Ashton, Stockton, Sutton Veny, Upton Scudamore, West Ashton, Westwood and Winsley.

Limited development within the defined Village Policy Limits will be permitted provided that: A The development would be in keeping with the character, appearance and distinctive spatial form of the settlement; B The development is in accordance with the District Plan policies which seek to protect the natural environment, including water resources and flood risk and the built environment; C It would not create inappropriate backland or tandem development; D It would not result in the loss of an important open space or visual gap; E It can be satisfactorily serviced, there is adequate infrastructure, including water supplies and sewage treatment and it does not create highway problems.

3.2.95 There are many attractive villages in West Wiltshire. Some have a good range of local services, such as primary school, shop(s), post office and public transport links with major centres of employment, whilst others have few facilities and are dependent upon the main towns or nearby larger villages. In the past there has been considerable housing development in various villages without commensurate improvement to local services. Although it has often been argued that further housing development in the villages helps to sustain local services, there is little evidence to support this theory in West Wiltshire, where most villages are within easy reach of the main towns (see Table 6 in Community Facilities chapter). A number of smaller villages have also arguably received too much new development in recent years, and to allow more could alter the character of the settlements significantly. Others are so close together that further development could lead to coalescence and to loss of individual identity.

3.2.96 For the reasons outlined above, an examination of the villages in West Wiltshire has been undertaken as part of the preparation of this District Plan 1st Alteration. For villages which have access to services and facilities such as schools, shops, regular bus services and employment, limited development sites and infill development will be appropriate within the Village Policy Limits as identified and defined on the Proposals Map. It should be clearly understood that development on land within these limits will only be permitted if it is compatible with the criteria defined in Policy H17.

Areas of Minimum Change

H18 Areas of Minimum change within Village Policy Limits have been defined, as indicated on the Proposals Map. Within Areas of Minimum Change planning permission will not be granted for new housing development.

82 3.2.98 There are also important open spaces within villages which should be protected from any development which would be detrimental to the character of the settlement. These might be paddocks, glebeland, village greens, the grounds of large houses, tongues of adjacent fields and a variety of „soft‟ and vulnerable areas often related to historical development patterns. These need to be kept as unchanged as possible to maintain and enhance the character, and to preserve the essential form of a village as a composition of buildings and spaces. Where applicable, Areas of Minimum Change have been identified in the Policy H17 villages, and these areas are defined in Policy H18. In the villages covered by Policy H19 there will be similarly valuable open areas which should be protected.

Development in Open Countryside

H19 New Dwellings in the countryside and in settlements without Village Policy Limits will not be permitted unless justified in connection with the essential needs of agriculture or forestry.

3.2.99 Villages and hamlets with no identified Village Policy Limits are considered to have inadequate facilities to be able to sustain more residential development. Within these villages, and in the open countryside, new residential development is to be resisted and restricted to that required for the essential needs of agriculture or forestry. Requirements for new residential development will be directed to the towns and villages with Village Policy Limits which are better able to accommodate further growth.

Replacement Dwellings

H20 Replacement of existing dwellings in the countryside and in settlements without Village Policy Limits will be permitted provided the new dwelling is not materially larger than the dwellings to be replaced and such a replacement does not perpetuate a serious traffic hazard, form an isolated development away from public services or adversely affect the rural scene. Replacement proposals that involve substantial alteration or other types of change will be treated as new dwellings under Policy H19. This policy does not apply to the replacement of non-residential buildings in the countryside.

3.2.100 Policy H20 relates specifically to the replacement of existing dwellings in the countryside. Proposals which involve substantial alteration and/or other types of change will be treated as proposals for new dwellings and will be considered under Policy H19. Replacement of buildings in the countryside will be considered against the criteria expressed.

Conversions of Rural Buildings

H21 The conversion of rural buildings in the countryside and in settlements without Village Policy Limits to residential use will be permitted only where:

A The applicant has made every reasonable attempt to secure business, tourism or sport and recreation re-use, and the application is supported by a statement of the efforts which have been made;

83 B The building is of substantial, sound and permanent construction and capable of conversion without extensive alteration, rebuilding, and/or extension or otherwise significantly altering its original character; C The proposed conversion safeguards and/or enhances the essential form, structure, character, and important traditional features of the building and the countryside; D It can be satisfactorily serviced and does not create highway problems; E It is not subject to flood risk and does not harm the natural environment including the water environment.

In considering such proposals structural surveys of buildings proposed for conversion will be required. All proposals must be submitted as detailed applications.

Proposals within the Western Wiltshire Green Belt will also need to satisfy the requirements of Policy GB2.

3.2.101 There are a variety of farm and other buildings in villages and in the open countryside which have ceased to be used for agricultural, industrial or commercial uses. Conversion of such properties for new business uses and for the purposes of tourism and sport and recreation can have a positive impact on local employment and is therefore to be preferred over conversion for residential uses. Residential conversion can also be inappropriate where there would be a significant adverse impact on the landscape, the building is of poor quality or, conversely, where it could result in the loss of the rural building‟s character and/or damage to its historic structure. All proposals for the conversion of rural buildings for residential purposes will be considered against the criteria in Policy H21. Proposals within the Western Wiltshire Green Belt are required, in addition, to satisfy the requirements of Policy GB2.

Affordable Housing on Rural Exception Sites

H22 In the rural areas outside the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, and in exceptional circumstances, proposals for affordable housing may be permitted on sites physically well related to a village but outside Village Policy Limits provided that:

A It can be demonstrated that the proposal would meet a particular need that cannot be accommodated in any other way and that the need is local in that it is contained within a parish or adjoining parishes where social links are well established and there is an interdependence on service provision; B That the need is in line with the aim of maintaining a socially balanced community and can be categorised under one or more of the following headings: (i) existing residents needing separate or alternative accommodation in the area (eg newly formed households, people leaving tied accommodation or retirement); (ii) people whose work provides important services and need to live closer to the local community; (iii) people who are not necessarily resident locally but have long-standing links with the local community (eg elderly people who need to move back to a village to be near relatives); (iv) people with the offer of a job in the locality who cannot take up the offer because of the lack of affordable housing. C The development provides for permanent controls which ensure that the original benefits of the scheme are permanently secured for subsequent occupiers; D The scheme can be satisfactorily serviced and accessed, and the need for it outweighs any detrimental impact on the built and natural environment, including the water environment.

84

In exceptional circumstances, proposals for small scale affordable housing within the Western Wiltshire Green Belt may be permitted only on sites within existing settlements which would not normally be considered suitable for development, having regard to the above criteria, the objectives of the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, highway and other environmental considerations.

3.2.102 The District Council recognises that within rural areas there can be pressure upon the limited housing stock from incoming households to the extent that a shortage of affordable housing arises for those with modest incomes who already live and work in the area. Adequate provision of affordable housing in rural areas demands special provision because there are unlikely to be many sites of sufficient size to trigger the normal requirements for affordable housing within Village Policy Limits.

3.2.103 Government guidance recognises that so called rural exception sites can provide a small but important additional source of affordable housing to meet the needs of the local community. Policy H22 therefore allows sites which would not normally be permitted for housing within rural areas to be developed for affordable housing, as an exception to normal policy, provided that there is a demonstrable local need and that the accommodation is made available to people who genuinely cannot afford to meet their housing needs on the open market. Need will be considered “local” where it arises from settlements within a parish, or within adjoining parishes where the settlements involved have well established links between their communities, e.g. primary school catchment areas, community groups, etc.

3.2.104 The assessment of need will be judged on the categories identified in the Policy and in association with the District Council‟s Housing Department. Particular regard will be paid to the Housing Department‟s surveys of housing need in the rural areas and early consultation with the Housing Department is recommended. Affordability will be assessed in relation to local market conditions and wage rates and the advice of the District Council‟s Housing Department on what level of payment would be within the means of local people. It is important for affordable housing schemes to be managed properly and to ensure the benefits of affordable provision pass on to subsequent occupants.

3.2.105 Sites should be well located either within or adjacent to villages to ensure that services such as water, electricity and drainage can be provided at minimum cost. Schemes are therefore likely to be attracted to larger villages where infrastructure and services already exist. This will have the added benefit that schemes will be more easily absorbed into the existing fabric of the settlement and are less likely to have an adverse impact on the local environment.

New Housing Near Intensive Livestock Units

H23 In considering proposals for residential development within 400 metres of established livestock farm units the District Council will have regard to the compatibility of the proposed neighbouring land uses, whether the farm unit is employing the best practical means of operation and the degree of potential nuisance to future occupants of the proposed development arising from nearby established livestock units such as noise, smell and other emissions.

85 3.2.106 The District Council is concerned over the potential problems and nuisance that can arise from locating new residential development in close proximity to established livestock units. To minimise the potential for future conflict between neighbouring land uses, the District Council will exercise particular care when considering planning applications for housing within 400 metres of established livestock units having regard to factors such as noise, smell and other emissions and whether or not the farm unit is employing the best practical means of operation.

New Housing Design

H24 Proposals for new housing developments will be required to include:

A A mix of dwelling sizes and types combined to create visual interest and a varied street scene; B A layout with dwellings facing onto, and windows and doors overlooking, the street or other public areas. Corner plots should front the street on both sides, be visually dominant and should not be set back from the adjacent building line; C A scale, massing and height of dwellings which does not detract from the dominance of key landmark buildings, or important views; D Elevation design which avoids monotonous repetition, and incorporates details, materials and finishes which complement those characteristic of the locality; E Landscaping and open space which form an integral part of development, with opportunities taken to retain existing trees and shrubs, and for new planting using native species characteristic of the local area; F Road layouts which are primarily determined by the layout of buildings, which reinforce traditional local street patterns and which produce a hierarchy of road widths with priority given to the pedestrian and cyclists. Layouts should be designed to increase accessibility to public transport. Where possible, a choice of routes and connections through the development should be provided to reduce lengths and numbers of trips. The visual impact of vehicles and parking areas should be minimised.

3.2.107 Government guidance promotes the good design and layout of housing development as a way of achieving the best use of previously developed land and improving the quality and attractiveness of the local environment. These aims are best achieved by adopting design principles which allow the buildings themselves to reinforce and define streets and spaces, and which clearly distinguish between public and private spaces. Integrated landscaping and the quality of building design are also essential ingredients. This approach should better integrate new development into its local environment. Standard estate layouts of the type most commonly adopted in post-war decades are unlikely to achieve this design quality.

3.2.108 Good design can also help to improve public safety and prevent crime. The District Council will seek to ensure that the layout, design and use of buildings provide for public safety, deter crime and reduce the fear of crime. The District Council supports community safety and community fire safety initiatives and will, where appropriate, seek to implement Secured by Design and other safety initiatives through the planning system in accordance with best practice and current standards.

86 3.3 Employment

Employment Aims

To sustain a buoyant local economy and to create suitable conditions for the expansion of existing firms and the development of new businesses.

To ensure an adequate supply of suitable land is available in the District in accordance with Structure Plan policies and to provide for a range of business requirements.

To encourage the development of unused and derelict industrial land in accordance with the objectives of sustainable development.

Employment Land Provision

3.3.1 The strategic guidance provided in the Wiltshire County Structure Plan 2011 seeks to facilitate job creation in and economic regeneration of the towns of West Wiltshire. The Structure Plan strategy stresses the need to identify sufficient land within the District to enable out-commuting to be reduced by 20 per cent, reflecting targets published for 2020 by the Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution. The Strategy identifies the need to concentrate development in the existing towns as fundamental to the pursuit of a more sustainable pattern of development and transport use. The scale and nature of development should reflect the size, role and character of each town. In particular, the Strategy recognises the historic character of Bradford on Avon and the high landscape settings of Bradford on Avon and Warminster and states that new development should not adversely affect these features. The District Plan sets out the context within which new development will be considered. Clearly, the needs of economic development and of conservation interests will need to be in balance.

3.3.2 Provision is made in the Wiltshire County Structure Plan 2011 for the development of about 150 hectares (371 acres) of land for employment purposes in West Wiltshire District. It is considered that the allocation of this amount of land should meet the requirements of the expanding workforce in West Wiltshire, which is expected to increase by about 8,000 in the period 1991 – 2011.

3.3.3 The employment land position as at April 2001 is indicated in Table 5 and Appendix E.

87 Table 5 Employment Land Position April 2001

Structure Commitments District Plan Proposed Total Balance Plan at April 01* Allocations and 1st Alt. provision to other large Allocation 2011 Commitments**

Bradford-on- 0.28 Avon Trowbridge 36.72 Melksham 16.63 20.31 4.72 Westbury 45.39 6.08 5.64 Warminster 12.63 7.04 West Wilts About 150 111.65 33.43 10.36 155.44 -5.44 District All figures in hectares

Source: Wiltshire County Council, Environmental Services Department

Notes: * Commitments are planning permissions either under construction or not yet started and development completed between 04/1991 and 03/2001. ** Existing District Plan allocations and other large commitments are detailed in Appendix E.

3.3.4 The District Council through the policies expressed in the District Plan has endeavoured to provide for choice, flexibility and competition in the business community. It has sought to make sufficient land available and ensure that a variety of sites are identified to meet differing needs having regard to environmental and transport considerations. Existing sites allocated in the current adopted District Plan which do not have the benefit of planning permission need to be carried forward into the 1st Alteration. In addition, further employment development on large sites, either completed or under construction or reserved for the expansion needs of a specific company, need specific policy consideration.

New Employment Land Allocations

E1 Sites for employment purposes are allocated, as defined on the Proposals Map, at:-

A Trowbridge - 12.1 hectares (30 acres) north of West Ashton Road to include a 30 metre (98 feet) wide heavily landscaped buffer strip around the site. The landscaping proposals on the northern boundary of the site will complement and integrate with the adjoining Biss Meadows Country Park. Access to this site will be from a new distributor road to be provided by the developer, see Policy T4(B). The new distributor road will link West Ashton Road to the proposed residential distributor road T4(C). The developer will undertake any necessary improvements to the West Ashton Road, its junction with the A350 and the Yarnbrook roundabout associated with the employment development.

B Melksham - 34.5 hectares (85 acres) gross, south and west of the existing Bowerhill industrial estate to include a new link road to the A350, see Policy T4(E), and heavily planted buffer strip to the south and east of the site. The route of the Melksham- Semington Diversion will be safeguarded. Relocation of the existing Christie Miller Sports Field will be subject to a firm commitment which secures an alternative

88 location, timing of implementation, and an equivalent level of formal sports provision to meet the needs of the locality.

C Westbury - 4 hectares (9.9 acres) off Station Road, to include a mix of small scale light industry and business uses together with the provision of a new roundabout access and distributor road from Station Road to serve the development including the completion of a bridge over the railway (or its secured provision to the satisfaction of the County Highway Authority), in conjunction with the proposed residential development north of Westbury Leigh, as required by the County Highway Authority (see Policy T4F).

D Westbury - 13 hectares (32.1 acres) adjacent to Northacre/Brook Lane Trading Estate, to include a landscaped buffer strip to the north, south and west of the site. Access to this site will be via the proposed Northacre/Brook Lane Trading Estate access road which will join Storridge Road at its junction with Quartermaster Road.

Trowbridge

3.3.5 A site of 12.1 hectares (30 acres) to the north of West Ashton Road is allocated for employment purposes. The site was granted outline planning permission in 1998. The site is well related to the town, residential areas and the town centre, whilst not being so close as to cause environmental or amenity problems. The site has no adverse implications for the interests of nature conservation, in particular the ancient semi-natural woodland of Biss and Green Lane Woods. The site offers an excellent opportunity to provide an attractive landscaped site, integrated with the proposed country park and adjacent residential areas, which could cater for a wide range of employment uses.

3.3.6 There are opportunities for good access to the main county road network and additional new road links are safeguarded in the Plan to eventually provide in future years a northern link through Paxcroft Mead and the Hilperton Gap to the Staverton Diversion, Bath and the A46/M4. Emphasis will be placed on a good quality working environment and a site which can cater for a wide range of employment uses by division into zones of activity. Off site channel works on the River Biss, as determined by the Environment Agency, may be required to alleviate the increased risk of flooding in the centre of Trowbridge which would result from the development of the proposed employment allocation. A development brief will be prepared for this area and will include advice on the layout of roads, phasing of development, landscaping and design guidance.

Melksham

3.3.7 A site of about 34.5 hectares (85 acres) south and west of the existing Bowerhill industrial estate is allocated for employment purposes. The site is well located adjacent to the A350 county distributor road and existing Bowerhill estate and offers an excellent opportunity to provide an attractive landscaped site which could cater for a wide range of employment uses including classes B1, B2 and B8 of the Use Classes Order 1987.

3.3.8 The site will be accessed off the A350 and include a secondary access from the existing trading estate. A 40 metre strip will be safeguarded with the development to accommodate the Melksham-Semington Diversion (see Policy T1). A new link road from the A350 to the Bowerhill Trading Estate will be required as part of the development. Heavily planted buffer strips will be required to the south, west and east of the site. The existing 4.5 hectares open space provision comprising the Christie Miller Sports Field will need to be replaced as part of the development. This replacement provision will equate

89 to the same size and broad shape as that currently existing, will be laid out as formal sports pitches including a rugby field, if required and will be in a location which affords good access with no conflict from other uses. Implementation of the relocated sports field will be a pre-requisite to development. The above provision will be secured via a legal agreement. Surface water disposal and sewerage infrastructure problems need to be addressed and the developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency and Wessex Water at an early stage to agree the necessary works. A development brief will be prepared for this area, in conjunction with the developers and Parish Council, including advice on the layout of roads, landscaping, phasing and design of the development.

Westbury

3.3.9 A site of 4 hectares (9.9 acres) off Station Road is allocated for employment purposes, to include a mix of small scale light industry and business uses. The access road to this site and adjacent residential development (see Policy H14) will form part of the link to residential development south of the railway via a bridge over the railway (see Policy H13). The development will be required to allow for continued adequate vehicular access to Westbury Station. The site may contain features of nature conservation interest and developers will be required to submit an environmental survey of the site with any application for development. Appropriate landscaping will be required and careful consideration will be given to the location scale and design of buildings near the lake. Adequate access to the lakeside should be included in any development proposals. Frequent flooding occurs on the Biss Brook draining this area and careful consideration will need to be given to the flood alleviation requirements resulting from increased surface water run off. Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss the flood alleviation requirements.

3.3.10 A site of 13 hectares (32.1 acres) to the west of the Northacre/Brook Lane Trading Estate is allocated for business, light industry, industry and warehousing uses. The site is well related to existing employment sites to the north of Westbury and is seen as a natural extension to the Northacre/Brook Lane Trading Estate. The access road will be from the proposed access road to the Brook Lane Industrial Estate which will join Storridge Road at its junction with Quartermaster Road. Landscaped buffer strips will be required to the north, south and west of the site adjacent to the Biss Brook floodplain. The site contains archaeological features and developers will be required to submit an archaeological evaluation of the site with any application for development. Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss surface water disposal requirements.

Employment Policy Areas

E2 Proposals for employment development including extensions and changes of use on the sites shown on the Proposals Map, will be permitted provided that:

(i) They do not create significant adverse impact on the appearance and character of their surroundings; (ii) They provide adequate services for the disposal of surface water without increase of flood risk to downstream riparian owners; (iii) They provide adequate water supplies, sewerage and sewage treatment, without adversely affecting the environment;

90 (iv) They provide safe and convenient connection to existing and planned pedestrian, cycle and public transport networks, the highway and, where appropriate, rail facilities, without creating transport problems; (v) They do not conflict with any other Structure or District Plan policies.

A Trowbridge - Bradford Road B Trowbridge - Canal Road C Trowbridge - White Horse Business Park/Pound Farm (not B8 use) D Melksham - Bowerhill F Westbury - West Wilts Trading Estate G Westbury - Northacre/Brook Lane H Westbury - Fairwood Trading Estate J Warminster - Land off Bath Road K Warminster - Land at Gas House Farm L Staverton

3.3.11 There are a number of important employment sites within the District which either have the benefit of planning permission, but where development has not yet commenced, or which have potential for further development or redevelopment. Policy E2 will permit further appropriate employment development on these sites within the area defined on the Proposals Map. A development brief will be prepared for the Northacre/Brook Lane employment policy area in Westbury to emphasise the prime location of the site adjacent to a major rail intersection with potential for establishing a new railhead. Policy T8a identifies safeguarded land in this location for the development of a multi user rail freight facility which is considered to be a suitable employment use for the site. The development proposals are likely to generate surface water issues and in particular off site drainage works are likely to be required as part of the development of Sites A and C. Developers are advised to contact the Environment Agency at an early stage in respect of surface water disposal and flood risk matters.

Premises Outside Employment Policy Areas

E4 Proposals for new employment sites on previously developed land, and for the extension of existing employment premises, within urban areas but outside the defined employment policy areas will be permitted provided that:

A The proposed development does not harm the amenities enjoyed by occupiers of adjoining properties; B The proposed development does not harm the character, appearance or environment of the site and its surrounds; C The development is readily accessible by foot, bicycle and public transport; D The development makes adequate provision for car parking and access.

3.3.13 Many employment uses are located outside the defined employment policy areas but within the five towns and are well related to public transport routes and accessible by cycling and walking. In many cases these make an important contribution to the local economy and where they have no adverse affect on adjoining residential property can be supported. Proposals to extend existing buildings on such sites can help to meet job needs whilst reducing the need for greenfield development.

91 3.3.14 There may also be other opportunities for the re-use of previously developed land for new employment uses within the five towns and proposals will be considered with particular regard to the need to protect the residential environment.

Loss of Employment Floorspace

E5 Applications involving the loss of existing employment floorspace, including proposals for retail development, will only be permitted where the following criteria are satisfied:

(i) there is an adequate supply and mix of genuinely available land and premises elsewhere in the locality for employment uses; (ii) such proposals are compatible with neighbouring land uses and do not create bad neighbour uses; (iii) such proposals do not give rise to, or continue existing traffic or environmental problems.

3.3.15 Finding land for new employment development in appropriate locations is difficult and the loss of existing employment land to other uses can exacerbate the problem. Where there is an adequate supply of employment land and premises elsewhere in the locality the redevelopment of employment land will be carefully controlled to ensure that new uses are compatible with existing neighbouring land uses and do not continue existing traffic problems or create highway or environmental problems.

Rural Employment

E6 In rural areas, outside the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, proposals for the establishment or expansion of small scale employment enterprises in existing premises or on new sites will be permitted provided that:

A They do not create significant highway or flood risk problems; B The scale, design, siting, materials of any buildings, their use and type of operation maintain or enhance, and are compatible with, the rural character of the area and do not harm acknowledged nature conservation interests; C The proposals are compatible with neighbouring land uses, are not detrimental to residential amenities and do not give rise to pollution issues such as excessive noise, smoke, fumes, effluent or vibration.

3.3.16 Agriculture, the principal land use in the West Wiltshire countryside, is currently undergoing a significant period of change as a result of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) reforms, uncertainties over world market prices, surplus production and changing consumer demands. The manifestations of this change are the steady decline in the agricultural workforce, set aside land and limited „on the farm‟ employment opportunities.

3.3.17 The District Council recognises that the beauty and diversity of West Wiltshire‟s countryside depends on a prosperous rural economy. The maintenance of a healthy rural economy is the best way to protect, manage and improve the countryside because much depends upon the investment of people and other resources to maintain the countryside that is West Wiltshire. Additional income is required to supplement farm businesses so that they may continue to manage the countryside in the traditional way,

92 thus maintaining the pastoral landscape and rural scene to which local people have become accustomed.

Farm Diversification

E7 Outside the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, farm diversification proposals will be permitted provided that:

A The primary use of the holding remains agricultural and the new use does not detract from the agricultural operation; B They do not create significant highway, flood risk or environmental problems; C The scale, design, siting, materials of any buildings, their use and type of operation maintain or enhance, and are compatible with, the rural character of the area and do not harm acknowledged nature conservation interests; D The proposals are compatible with neighbouring land uses and are not detrimental to residential amenities.

3.3.18 The District Council recognises the urgent need to address the challenge of diversifying and sustaining the rural economy and the creation of new jobs in the District‟s rural areas without sacrificing its environmental quality. It is proposed to encourage farm diversification projects, where appropriate, particularly where this will help maintain the countryside as a traditional landscape. It is noted that a variety of uses including light industrial, food processing, „telecottages‟, leisure and tourism can be assimilated into the countryside, on and off the farm, to provide employment without causing environmental damage, by careful planning, siting materials and regard to operational use. The Rural Development Commission in partnership with the District Council, other local authorities and bodies, has identified a Rural Development Area which includes a large area of the southern part of the District. In this area development initiatives will be pursued, including the possible provision of workspace and support for small businesses. A Rural Development Strategy has been produced for the area.

3.3.19 The District Council accepts the guiding principle that development should benefit the rural economy and maintain or enhance the environment. Thus it will seek to encourage new opportunities for rural employment, in appropriate locations, having regard to the need to protect the special character and appearance of the District‟s villages, rural areas and wildlife interests. It will only permit development proposals which accord with Structure and District Plan policies and buildings in open countryside will be strictly controlled.

3.3.20 The District Council advises those considering farm diversification proposals or rural employment schemes to consult the Environment Agency at an early stage to discuss the foul water, waste disposal and flood risk matters.

3.3.21 Farm diversification and schemes in support of the rural economy within the Western Wiltshire Green Belt will only be acceptable where they involve the re-use or conversion of existing buildings, or where new building are essential facilities for outdoor sport and recreation or other uses of land which do not compromise the purposes of including land in the Green Belt.

93 Rural Conversions

E8 The conversion of rural buildings in villages or the open countryside to business, tourism or sport and recreational uses will be permitted where:

A The building is of substantial, sound and permanent construction and capable of conversion without extensive alteration, rebuilding, and/or extension or otherwise significantly altering its original character; B The proposed conversion safeguards and/or enhances the essential form, structure, character, and important traditional features of the building and the countryside; C It can be satisfactorily serviced and does not create highway problems; D It does not harm the natural environment including the water environment.

In considering such proposals the District Council will require structural surveys of buildings proposed for conversion. All proposals must be submitted as detailed applications.

Proposals within the Western Wiltshire Green Belt will also need to satisfy the requirements of Policy GB2.

3.3.22 The conversion of existing farm and other buildings in villages and in the open countryside for employment uses can play an important part in maintaining and enhancing the rural economy and is to be preferred over conversion for residential purposes. All proposals for the conversion of rural buildings for business, tourism and sport and recreational purposes will be considered against the criteria in Policy E8. Proposals within the Western Wiltshire Green Belt are required, in addition, to satisfy the requirements of Policy GB2.

Agricultural Land

E9 Development of the best and most versatile agricultural land (Grades 1, 2 and 3A) will not be permitted unless:

A The importance of the development overrides the need to protect the land as part of the national agricultural land resource; B There is a lack of suitable development opportunities on previously developed land; C There is a lack of available lower grade agricultural land not subject to other statutory environmental designations.

Development will be directed to land of the lowest possible classification suitable for the proposed development.

3.3.23 Agriculture is an important economic activity in West Wiltshire and will remain the major use of land in the countryside but perhaps a decreasing one. Most of the agricultural land is Grade 3 and is generally well farmed and highly productive. However, there are some areas of Grades 1 and 2 land through the District. The District Council recognises that protection of agricultural land is in the national interest and considers it essential that the best and most versatile agricultural land is preserved. The loss of Grades 1, 2 or 3A land will normally be resisted.

94 Horse Related Development

E10 Proposals for equestrian facilities and changes of use will be required to have regard to minimising their effects on the appearance of the countryside and to highway implications. All such building proposals should have special regard to siting, design materials and construction to ensure they blend in with their surroundings and do not have an adverse impact on the countryside and the natural environment including the water environment. Dwellings related to equestrian activities will be considered against Policies H19, H20 or H21 as appropriate.

3.3.24 There is a growing interest in horse keeping and riding; demand for stabling, equestrian centres and other facilities associated with the keeping of horses has increased with resulting development pressures in open countryside and especially close to urban areas and villages. Proposals for development involving horses should take particular care to consider and minimise the effect on the appearance of the countryside. Buildings should be well sited and designed to blend with their surroundings. High standards of design, materials and construction of buildings and care of land will be required to ensure that equestrian activities do not have an adverse effect on the countryside. Planning applications for dwellings in connection with horse related development will be considered against Policies H19, H20, or H21 as appropriate.

95 3.4 Transport

Transport Aims

To encourage the provision and maintenance of efficient, land-use integrated transport networks throughout West Wiltshire, which contribute towards continued economic vitality, social inclusion and allow for sustainable growth.

To require access by all transport modes to proposed developments, which where appropriate, incorporate benefits to the adjacent highway network.

To reduce the length of motorised journeys and the reliance on the private car in favour of public transport, walking and cycling and to encourage the carriage of freight by rail.

To encourage transport arrangements that minimise harm to the natural and built environment, ensure that air quality is maintained and help to improve safety for all travellers.

Roads

3.4.1 The District is crossed by several important highway routes, the A36 non-core trunk route linking Bristol and Bath with Southampton, the A350 linking Junction 17 on the M4 with Poole and A361 which runs from the A5 in the Midlands to Barnstaple in Devon. It also has a number of routes of local importance classed as minor distributor roads which link into the national and county network (see Map 3). The District Council supports the objectives of the Western Wiltshire Sustainable Transport Strategy. This seeks improvements to the road network, as part of an integrated transport package for the continued economic, environmental and social regeneration of the area.

3.4.1a The Structure Plan, which is prepared by the County Council, establishes the strategic policy framework for the whole county. The Structure Plan includes a number of transport schemes that relate to the district. The Wiltshire Local Transport Plan, which is prepared by the County Council acting as the local highway authority, provides further detail to strategic transport proposals set out in the Structure Plan. The local transport plan also serves as a bidding mechanism to central government for securing funding for the implementation of these proposals. The Local Plan reflects the transport proposals established through the Structure Plan and provides further detail relevant to these proposals. In particular, the Local Plan seeks to safeguard land required to implement these proposals.

A350 Improvements

T1 Land between the A365 to the south of Melksham and the A361 at Semington, as shown on the Proposals Map, is safeguarded for the construction of the A350 Semington- Melksham Diversion. Other development will not be permitted on this safeguarded land if it would be likely to prejudice the implementation of this scheme.

96 3.4.2 The A350 is one of the principle routes into and out of the District and forms the basis of an inter-regional multi-modal transport corridor. The improvement of the A350 transport corridor is identified by the Western Wiltshire Sustainable Transport Strategy and the County Local Transport Plan as being vital for the continued economic, environmental and social regeneration of the area. A number of consultants reports have been commissioned to identify problem areas and potential improvements to the transport network. In particular, Melksham and Westbury have been identified as requiring improvements. The County Structure Plan 2011 and County Local Transport Plan identify two A350 schemes in West Wiltshire, the Westbury Bypass and the Semington/ Melksham Diversion as priorities for highway improvements. A proposal for the A350 Semington/ Melksham Diversion was put out for consultation in February 1996 and a refined route alignment was approved by Wiltshire County Council in January 1998 and subsequently granted planning permission in July 2000. The route alignment is shown on the Proposals Map. The Semington/ Melksham Diversion will act as a bypass for Semington and the Berryfields area of Melksham, and will enable the Bowerhill employment and residential area to connect directly into the primary route system.

Westbury Bypass Package

T1a Land to the north and east of Westbury, from north of the existing Cement Works Roundabout and to the south of Madbrook Farm, as shown on the Proposals Map, is safeguarded as the County Council’s preferred route option for the A350 Westbury Eastern Bypass and the Glenmore Link.

Other development will not be permitted on this safeguarded land if it would be likely to prejudice the implementation of this scheme.

3.4.3 A Westbury Bypass Package is considered to be an important element of the required A350 improvements. The new road package offers the possibility of traffic relief and environmental improvement for Westbury and improved access to the West Wilts Trading Estate, via the Glenmore Link and a general opportunity for economic growth. After extensive public consultation, through the Structure and Local Transport Plan process, the County Council approved an Eastern Bypass as a preferred route option in July 2001. The County Council‟s preferred route was the subject of a funding bid to central Government in July 2003. The route will be safeguarded pending the results of the multi- modal study and determination of the funding application. The route will be safeguarded if the funding application is successful. The route and other alternatives will be subject to full examination through the development control and inquiry processes. The proposed alignment is shown on the Proposals Map.

A36 Trunk Road

T2 The routes of the following road improvements schemes will be safeguarded, as defined on the Proposals Map:

A A36 Heytesbury to Codford Improvements B Trowbridge Inner Relief Road C A303 Wylye to Stockton Wood

Applications for development on or adjacent to the line of the above roads which would prejudice their future completion will not be permitted.

97 3.4.5 The West Wilts Bypass was a major road scheme which was proposed to run east to west, linking the A350 with the A36(T) to the south of Trowbridge and north of the West Wilts Trading Estate. The proposed improvements to the A36(T); which would have had a major influence on the West Wilts Bypass have now been withdrawn. In addition the County Council is investigating possible routes for the Westbury Bypass, as a separate scheme. The proposed Westbury Bypass may achieve some of the traffic objectives of the previous West Wilts Bypass. The West Wilts Bypass is necessary to relieve a number of communities, in particular Southwick and North Bradley, of through traffic and improve the accessibility of existing and proposed employment development. The District Council will press Wiltshire County Council to give high priority to the early construction of such a Bypass.

3.4.6 In the south of the District, road improvements have been carried out including the A36 Warminster Bypass and the A350-A36 link as well as other improvements to the A36, including the Codford Bypass. Further improvements that were planned for the A36 include the Heytesbury to Codford scheme for which a preferred route was announced by the Department Of Transport. This scheme has been delayed as a result of the scaling down of the National Trunk Road Programme and the proposed de-Trunking of the A36. However, the Wiltshire County Structure and Local Transport Plans continue to provide a commitment to the scheme. The route was the subject of a funding bid to central Government in July 2003. The route will be safeguarded if the funding application is successful. The route and other alternatives will be subject to full examination through the development control and inquiry processes.

UPDATE (June 2005): The July 2003 funding bid for the Heytesbury to Codford improvements was unsuccessful. Therefore, in accordance with the provisions of paragraph 3.4.6, the proposed improvements are no longer safeguarded and have been removed from the Proposals Map.

Trowbridge Inner Relief Road

3.4.7 The Inner Relief Road is a County Council scheme, which was granted planning permission at the end of 1973. The first element of the total scheme, Trinity Church gyratory system, was opened to traffic in 1978, and other elements of the scheme have been constructed at Stallard Street, Conigre / Church Street and south of the town centre between Hilperton Road and Mortimer Street, now known as County Way. Stage 2 of the Inner Relief Road between Bradley Road and the Longfield roundabout was opened in November 1992. The majority of the land for the remainder of the scheme has been acquired and sections will be completed in accordance with the County Council highway programme.

A303 Trunk Road

3.4.8 Continuing improvements to the A303(T) the Department Of Transport issued a consultation route for the dualling of the stretch between Wylye and Stockton Wood based on the existing road line. A preferred route was issued in October 1992. Future improvements to the A303(T) were considered by the wider South West and Area Multi Modal Study, which reported in 2002. The Study recommends that the completion of the Wylye and Stockton Wood scheme be given high priority.

98 Bradford-On-Avon Bypass

3.4.9 A Bradford-On-Avon Bypass is viewed by the District Council as essential for the environmental improvement of Bradford-On-Avon and the preservation of its historic character.

Transport Provision for New Developments

T3 Permission will not be granted, unless an overriding need can be demonstrated, for new development outside the District’s towns and Village Policy Limits that would access directly onto the National Primary Road Network and have an adverse effect on traffic flows.

All significant development proposals must be supported by a full transport assessment. This assessment must be carried out to the satisfaction of the relevant highway authorities, and where any development is likely to impact upon the Trunk Road Network, this must include the Highways Agency.

3.4.10 The National Primary Route Network, as illustrated on Map 3, is of both local national and regional significance for through and long distance traffic, and is also important locally for the development of local businesses and tourism. In order to maintain the strategic and local role of such roads, it is important that the ability of the network to carry traffic flows is not impeded. Direct access by new development onto any of the District‟s primary routes outside towns and those villages with policy limits, will not be permitted if it has a detrimental impact on the network‟s ability to accommodate traffic flows.

3.4.10a Development proposals that have significant transport implications will require the submission of a full transport assessment as part of a planning application. The content of the transport assessment will reflect the scale of the proposed development and the extent of the transport implications. Where appropriate the assessment should provide details of measures that improve access to the proposal site by public transport, walking and cycling. The assessment should also identify measures that reduce the need for associated parking provision for the proposal and encourage modal shift.

New Distributor Roads

T4 Distributor roads will be constructed with new development as defined on the Proposals Map, and in accordance with the other policies in the Plan, at the following locations:

A Paxcroft Mead, Trowbridge B West Ashton Road, Trowbridge C Land to the east and south of Paxcroft Mead D Land to the east of Melksham E Land west of Bowerhill F Land south of Westbury and north of Westbury Leigh with connection to Oldfield Road and Leigh Road/Laverton Road

No frontage access development will be permitted along the lengths of the proposed distributor roads.

99 3.4.11 New distributor roads will be required to serve, and be funded by, new residential and employment developments at: Paxcroft Mead, land to the east and south of Paxcroft Mead and West Ashton Road, Trowbridge; Westbury Leigh, Westbury; land to the east of Melksham, and Bowerhill, Melksham.

3.4.12 The newly constructed and proposed roads at Paxcroft Mead will provide a southern bypass for Hilperton plus a safeguarded route for a western bypass of the village, which will eventually give considerable relief to the village from through traffic. The proposed distributor road associated with the residential allocation south of Paxcroft Mead will link the Paxcroft Mead distributor road T4A with the proposed distributor road T4B provided by the employment allocation E1A at West Ashton Road. When completed these roads will form a new north and eastern distributor road network for Trowbridge.

3.4.13 The proposed employment site at West Ashton Road, Trowbridge includes a new distributor road to give access off West Ashton Road to the site and to link with the proposed road through the residential development south of Paxcroft Mead connecting with the Paxcroft Mead development as part of the planned north and eastern distributor road network for Trowbridge.

3.4.14 The proposed residential site to the east of Melksham includes the provision of a new distributor road to service the development. The distributor road and associated roundabouts will provide a link between the A3102 Sandridge Road and Snowberry Lane. The County Highway Authority is investigating the potential for that part of the distributor road between Sandridge Road and the roundabout junction south of Snarlton Farm to form part of a possible future Melksham Eastern Bypass. The development will therefore provide at this point a road of sufficient standard, and adequate adjacent land to enable future upgrading to dual carriageway.

3.4.15 In Melksham the land committed for employment use at Bowerhill has associated with it a link road from the A350 into the industrial estate; this will provide a valuable secondary access into the industrial land at Bowerhill. Part of this link road bounds the Bowerhill Playing Fields and will effect the relocation of an existing pavilion and basketball court in accordance with policy R2 of the Plan. To achieve this will require a legal agreement which will make provision for the timing and implementation of these facilities whose replacement will be pre requisite to construction of the link road across the site.

3.4.16 At Westbury a new road is proposed to serve the committed employment land and residential developments on the land west of Westbury and north of Westbury Leigh as shown on the Proposals Map. The exact alignment of the road north of the railway line and west of Station Road has yet to be determined and therefore a safeguarded corridor is identified in this location on the Proposals Map. The distributor road will be funded by development and will form a bypass for Westbury Leigh and a western distributor road for Westbury. The distributor road and its associated local connections will improve cross town accessibility and provide access to the residential allocation north of Westbury Leigh. Local connections are proposed to Leigh Road/Laverton Road and Oldfield Road.

100 New Link Roads

T5 The following routes for essential new link roads will be safeguarded as defined on the Proposals Map between:-

A Paxcroft Mead and Hammond Way, Trowbridge

Applications for development on or adjacent to the line of safeguarded link roads which would prejudice the future completion of the proposed future road network will not be permitted.

3.4.17 A safeguarded road link from Trowbridge Road to Horse Road, across the land known locally as the "Hilperton Gap", will eventually complete the north eastern distributor road network for Trowbridge. The network will be provided in conjunction with the proposed employment and residential allocations on the east side of the town to improve traffic movement in Trowbridge. This link, will relieve the village of Hilperton of through traffic. It is to be funded by the development of Paxcroft Mead and other development south of Paxcroft Mead and provided through the development control process. The County Council has identified a corridor of interest within which the road will be constructed, as defined on the Proposals Map.

3.4.18 The Staverton Diversion is identified by the District Council as an important highway improvement for the village of Staverton. Although Wiltshire County Council is no longer pursuing the Staverton Diversion through the Structure Plan and Local Transport Plan, the District Council will continue to seek the development of the scheme as a long-term aspiration.

Public Transport

Railway Services

T6 The continuation and further enhancement of rail services provided on the Severn-Solent and Westbury to London lines is supported, including the retention of all existing stations in West Wiltshire and consideration of the opening of new stations where appropriate. Development proposals will be permitted which sustain and enhance rail services and facilities subject to environmental and highway considerations. Planning obligations towards the introduction, improvement or enhancement of rail services will be sought, where necessary, in order to increase accessibility to traffic generating developments.

3.4.19 All five towns in the District have railway stations, with Bradford on Avon, Trowbridge, Westbury and Warminster being on the Severn-Solent line linking South Wales with the South Coast towns. Westbury is also on the main line route from Taunton to London (Paddington) while Melksham is on a recently re-opened rail link between Westbury and Swindon via Chippenham. The main line routes provide an important and valuable link to the towns of Bath and Bristol for travel to work, further education, shopping trips and for connections to London, the Midlands and other parts of the southwest. The Council recognises the value of a good public transport system to the environment, to the business community and the people who live and work in the District. It will encourage the continued role of the railway stations in all five towns, in particular Westbury Station, a major passenger railhead and interchange. Rural stations at Avoncliff and Dilton Marsh provide useful services and the Council favours the re-opening of other rural stations,

101 possibly at Staverton and Codford; consideration could also be given to providing a new facility at the White Horse Business Park, Trowbridge.

Westbury - Swindon Railway Services

T7 The retention and further enhancement of the rail link between Westbury and Swindon via Melksham is supported and development proposals will be permitted which enhance the rail services and facilities along the route subject to environmental and highway considerations.

Melksham Rail Station

T8 Land at Melksham Station, as shown on the Proposals Map, is safeguarded from inappropriate development. Planning permission will not be permitted on the safeguarded land if it would be likely to prejudice the future enhancement of rail services from the station.

Proposals for the redevelopment of the adjoining former GEC site will require the reservation of sufficient land and a general layout for a transport interchange to serve a relocated Melksham station. The interchange will include bus parking, turning and stopping areas, car parking facilities, a taxi rank, a passenger facility area and a footbridge location. Development proposals will also be required to provide highway and pedestrian access to the site boundary to facilitate future access to a relocated Melksham station.

Rail Freight Facility

T8a Land at Northacre / Brook Lane Trading Estate, Westbury, as shown on the Proposals Map, is safeguarded for the development of a multi-user rail freight facility. Planning permission will not be permitted on the safeguarded land if it would be likely to prejudice the future enhancement of rail freight services from the site.

3.4.20 The Westbury – Swindon line via Melksham provides a sustainable alternative to the A350 road. It provides an important link between the District‟s towns and Swindon, which is an important destination for commuters. Land at Melksham Station, as indicated on the Proposals Map, has been safeguarded from inappropriate development in order to allow the future enhancement of passenger rail services along this line.

3.4.21 The District Council supports the national transport objective of increasing rail based freight movements. A number of possible sites for an intermodal rail freight terminal have been identified at Westbury. The District Council will support proposals for an intermodal rail terminal recognising its role in helping to achieve a more sustainable transport network whilst also encouraging economic growth. Planning permission for a covered rail docking / container facility has been approved at Northacre / Brook Lane Trading Estate, Westbury The District Council supports the future development and enhancement of this rail freight facility.

102 Bus Services

T9 The importance of local and regional bus services in helping to achieve sustainable transport objectives is recognised. The retention, improvement and development of both urban and rural bus services is supported. Developing effective interchanges between rail and public transport is also supported.

Planning obligations towards the introduction, improvement and enhancement of bus services will be sought where appropriate in order to increase accessibility to traffic generating developments. Development proposals, which enhance bus services will be supported subject to environmental and highway considerations.

3.4.23 Bus services provide essential public transport both in the towns and the rural parts of the District. The villages on the main routes through the District are relatively well serviced by local and longer distance buses. However, the more remote villages have less regular services, particularly the smaller villages in the south of the District. The District Council recognises the importance of public transport to rural communities and will support the retention, improvement and development of services where possible.

3.4.24 Within the towns the „mini-link‟ services have proven to be well used and provide a good service. It is hoped these services will be maintained and extended to new residential areas as they are developed.

3.4.24a Developer contributions towards the provision of bus services will be sought where appropriate. The introduction of new, or enhancement of existing services can positively influence travel patterns to the site involved, and help achieve the objectives of the Road Traffic Reduction Act.

Car Parking

T10 The quantity of parking to be provided within new development will be limited to maximum standards. The level of maximum parking provision will reflect the sites relative accessibility by public, or alternative modes of transport and will be in accordance with an accessibility framework and criteria. Where parking cannot be provided on site planning obligations will be sought where appropriate towards improving public transport, walking or cycling provision.

3.4.25 The availability of car parking can have a major influence on the quality of the local environment, the mode of transport used for work and other journeys, road safety and the economic well being of town centres. Therefore, a certain level of off-street parking provision is necessary for development to proceed without causing road safety or traffic congestion problems.

3.4.26 The District Council will monitor off-street car parking provision particularly within town centres, and implement a sustainable car parking policy in support of the locational strategy and policies set out in the District Plan.

3.4.27 New maximum car parking standards have been adopted by Wiltshire County Council in accordance with advice contained in Central and Regional planning guidance. The base car parking standards are illustrated in Appendix G, the associated methodology, accessibility framework and criteria are contained within the Wiltshire Local Transport Plan 2001/2-2005/6.

103

3.4.28 Car parking in Bradford on Avon is a difficult issue to resolve because of the constraint on further provision resulting from the sensitive historic environment, particularly within the town centre, and the demand for spaces arising from the high level of tourists and visitors to the town. Parking in villages and rural areas can also create problems, particularly in those areas of interest to tourists or for informal recreation. The District Council will monitor car parking in such areas and address any parking problems identified, subject to resources.

Travel Plans

3.4.28a Travel plans are an important tool for improving accessibility to new developments and for achieving wider sustainable transport objectives, including road traffic reduction. A Travel Plans Working Party, consisting of representatives from the Wiltshire District and County Councils, has been established to bring forward a more structured and consistent approach for their implementation. The travel plan strategy, once available, will be incorporated into the District Plan as supplementary planning guidance.

Cycleways

T11 The District Council, in conjunction with Wiltshire County Council and SUSTRANS, will support the development of national, regional, strategic and leisure cycle routes through the District. The cycle network routes identified in the County Cycle Action Plan will be safeguarded.

Proposals which support and enhance facilities for cyclists will be permitted subject to highway and environmental considerations.

New development should make appropriate provision for cycle access, passage and parking and should respect the adopted cycleway network where appropriate.

3.4.30 Cycling continues to be popular both as a mode of transport and as a recreational pastime. In particular cycling has an important role to play as a healthy and environmentally friendly means of getting around. The Department of Transport‟s “National Cycle Strategy 1996” establishes targets for decreasing private car usage in favour of cycling. The targets are to double cycle use by 2002 and double use again by 2012.

3.4.31 However, in urban areas especially cyclists have to contend with heavy volumes of motorised traffic. To help encourage cycle use and increase safety, provision for cyclists is sought within new development. Development proposals should include features such as better access for cyclists, signing of safe routes and secure parking facilities.

3.4.32 Wiltshire County Council has been implementing strategic cycle networks for West Wiltshire‟s towns. The routes are identified within the County Cycle Action Plan. These will help secure safe passage between residential areas and popular destinations such as town centres, employment sites, schools and recreational facilities. Cycle networks for Trowbridge, Melksham, Warminster and Westbury have already been published and are being implemented. Additionally, the District Council proposes a series of inter-urban cycle routes, which link Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge, Warminster and Westbury. These routes are identified within the West Wiltshire Cycleway Report.

104 3.4.33 Recreational cycling is encouraged as a route towards increased cycle use and as providing an opportunity for people to gain access and enjoy the countryside. In this respect, SUSTRANS, with the help of Wiltshire County Council is promoting two Nation Cycle Network routes and a Regional Route through the District. These routes are identified within the County Cycle Action Plan and will help to meet the demand for cycling beyond the Districts urban cycle networks.

Footpaths and Bridleways

T12 The existing footpath system and bridleway network within the District will be retained and where possible improved and extended particularly where opportunities arise through new development proposals to improve the links between settlements and access to the countryside.

3.4.34 Pedestrian links in town centres and shopping areas between car parks and central facilities can help to minimise the conflict with traffic in the town centre areas and contribute to the enjoyment of the central area. Environmental improvement measures such as Fore Street, Trowbridge and High Street, Westbury serve to provide a safer and more attractive environment.

3.4.35 Links between residential areas and town centre facilities are also important and the use of riverside paths, parks and other paths away from the highway can help provide more pleasant and safer routes for pedestrians.

3.4.36 Footpaths are also essential in the rural areas, often providing links between settlements as well as recreational benefits by providing access into the open countryside.

3.4.37 New developments will be expected to provide a good network within the site connecting to the existing footpath network within the area and where appropriate providing links into the countryside. The Council supports in the longer term the creation of a green space network (See Policy R8). Wiltshire County Council is the authority with powers over rights of way and as such will be involved in issues such as the requirement of legal agreements and planning obligations under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, to secure such facilities within new developments.

3.4.38 Bridleways provide a safe and appropriate network for horse riders to gain access to and travel through open countryside. It is important to maintain existing bridleways and to seek to enhance the network, particularly by linking up previously isolated stretches of bridleways with the overall network and by increasing links between towns and the open countryside through appropriately signed routes at urban fringe locations. Where appropriate, improvements will be sought to the bridleways network to integrate new developments with the surrounding environment.

105 3.5 Town Centres and Shopping

Town Centre and Shopping Aims

To sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of the five town centres in the District. To encourage new retail, leisure and mixed use development within or if necessary adjacent to the five town centres. To improve the environment of the five town centres. To ensure that there is provision for local shopping wherever possible.

3.5.1 Town centres are important to the quality of urban life and play a key role in achieving sustainable development. Healthy and vibrant town centres encourage urban living, the efficient use of already developed areas and the concentration of facilities in locations most accessible to local people by a choice of means of transport. The Government‟s Planning Policy Guidance Note 1 recognises the key role town centres play in achieving sustainable patterns of development. Planning Policy Guidance Note 6: Town Centres and Retail Development establishes a sequential approach towards the location of future key town centre uses, such as retail, entertainment, leisure and commercial offices to ensure that wherever possible these uses are located within or on the edge of town centres. Environmental enhancement measures and traffic management arrangements including creating pedestrian priority areas can also help to reinforce the attractiveness of town centres.

3.5.2 The Wiltshire County Structure Plan 2011 identifies the need to maintain and enhance the role of the towns of West Wiltshire within the hierarchy of shopping centres in Wiltshire. In accordance with the aims of the West Wiltshire Development Strategy, this Plan seeks to sustain and enhance the roles of each of the five towns whilst ensuring, in particular, that the historic town centres of Bradford on Avon and Warminster are protected from inappropriate development.

3.5.3 For comparison shopping the major competing centres are Bath, Bristol, Salisbury and Swindon. The majority of convenience shopping is retained within the local area, each town having some existing or planned supermarket provision.

Trowbridge

3.5.4 Major new shopping development in Trowbridge has resulted in great improvements to the town as a retail centre in recent years. With the opening of The Shires Shopping Centre in 1990, Trowbridge has become a major town centre of some importance serving a large part of Wiltshire and north east Somerset. This indoor centre has helped to increase the range of goods available in the town and has helped to introduce additional national multiples not previously represented in Trowbridge, as well as boosting the town‟s supply of off-street car parking spaces. The Castle Place Shopping Centre has also undergone an extensive facelift and has helped to augment the supply of prime retail premises.

3.5.5 An environmental improvement scheme was carried out at Fore Street in 1987 which has transformed the main shopping street into an attractive pedestrian priority zone and has helped to reinforce it as a primary shopping area. Changes in the traffic flows in the central area have removed a significant proportion of through traffic from the centre of the town and will facilitate further enhancement measures to the shopping area. The completion of the second stage of the Inner Relief Road has helped further in this cause

106 and a new Tesco supermarket is sited alongside County Way, which has been widened to a dual carriageway.

Melksham

3.5.6 Melksham town centre, although primarily serving the town itself, is also an important shopping and service centre for the northern part of West Wiltshire. The development of a Leekes out-of-town department store on Beanacre Road has put the town firmly on the map, with the store drawing trade from across the region. The existing town centre, which will hope to benefit from trade spin-off, is essentially linear in form comprising Bath Road, Bank Street, High Street, Market Place and King Street. There are three arms off this main shopping area; Avon Place, Church Street and Lowbourne. There are sizeable food stores, Somerfield, Sainsburys and Kwik Save located at either end of the town centre. Further retail development will be encouraged to locate within the limits of the existing commercial area making better use of existing buildings, frontages and opportunity sites.

3.5.7 The growth of major shopping development at Trowbridge, only six miles to the south, together with the arrival of Leekes, will mean that further development on a large scale is not anticipated in Melksham town centre in the near future. The opportunity is presented for environmental improvement measures in the central shopping area to help maintain the vitality of the town centre as a commercial entity, to enhance the character of the historic environment, and to provide greater safety from traffic for shoppers.

Westbury

3.5.8 Westbury has a limited but important shopping and service function. The town serves a mainly local need and is attractive for its accessibility and convenience. The shopping area has a mix of modern purpose-built units and adapted premises, with most shops operated by independent traders. The town centre is linear in form, comprising three distinct shopping areas, these being Market Place/Maristow Street, High Street/Edward Street and Warminster Road. An environmental enhancement scheme has been implemented in High Street and in Edward Street to help consolidate the primary shopping area, while at the same time enhancing the character and safety of the shopping environment.

3.5.9 The conversion of Angel Mill in Edward Street to include a new shopping mall, offices and flats is an important development for the town centre, on a site which had lain derelict for many years. Further consolidation of retail uses can help to achieve environmental benefits for the central area. The major extension to Coopers supermarket at Edward Street and the new Pioneer supermarket on Trowbridge Road further augments the local convenience role of the town and helps to retain the vitality of the centre in the face of competition from the larger towns of Trowbridge and Warminster, only a few miles away. Further retail provision has been permitted at the Leigh Park housing development to meet local needs. Further environmental improvement measures at Market Place and Maristow Street could help to provide a network of pedestrian priority routes as well as enhancing the historic central area.

Bradford on Avon

3.5.10 Bradford on Avon is the smallest of the shopping centres in West Wiltshire, its historic character and topography restricting major retail development. The town centre serves the town and its rural catchment area with convenience goods, such as food, and

107 serves a wider visitor market with antiques, gifts and refreshment facilities. Demand for more town centre shopping facilities has been stifled by the lack of wholly suitable sites and the constraints of an historic built environment. A Budgens supermarket has been developed at Elms Cross outside the town centre, to provide the major food shopping facility for the town, while alternative stores can be found only 3 miles away at Trowbridge.

3.5.11 The shopping area currently suffers from traffic nuisance as the town bridge provides the only major crossing point across the River Avon for traffic in the vicinity, and is consequently the focus for much vehicular congestion. The pedestrian environment would benefit from traffic management and traffic reduction measures, including the promotion of walking, cycling and public transport. The District Council will continue to press the Highway Authority for a bypass for the town to facilitate the reduction of through traffic. The potential for environmental improvement measures is great and, together with the impending redevelopment proposals for the Kingston Mills site, could provide a new stimulus to the town as a shopping centre. The prime riverside site would lend itself well to a mixed use scheme which could include new retail, leisure and tourist facilities. A development brief has been prepared for this site.

Warminster

3.5.12 Warminster acts as a shopping and service centre for the town, a wide rural catchment area and for those en route to other holiday destinations. The completion of the bypass has eased the burden of traffic in the town centre and this has benefited the shopping environment. The main shopping frontages in the town centre are based on Market Place and High Street which are broad in character stemming from their earlier function as the town‟s market. East Street and the lower end of High Street are of secondary shopping importance, while George Street and Silver Street also serve specialist shopping needs. Off Market Place there are a number of shopping arcades, the most established being the Three Horseshoes Mall, which is served by the town‟s main car park. Safeway has now developed a large store at Weymouth Street, Lidl has a new store at Fairfield Road and Kwik Save has a smaller store within the main shopping area.

3.5.13 Several of the backland areas behind the shopping frontages are of concern because their buildings are in a poor state of repair and these are ripe for redevelopment. A development brief has been prepared for land to the rear of East Street and Market Place to consider the rejuvenation of these areas. Environmental improvement measures are under consideration for the prime shopping area in the town, to involve the calming of traffic and the establishment of pedestrian priority measures.

Town Centre Shopping

SP1 The District Council will permit further retail development within the town centre commercial areas of the West Wiltshire towns, as defined on the Proposals Map, providing the following criteria are met:

Aa The development forms part of the primary retail frontage; A The development sustains the range or quality of shopping provision and does not harm the vitality and viability of these centres; B The development is in keeping with the scale and character of the centre; C The development is easily accessible by foot, bicycle and public transport; D The development makes adequate provision for car parking and access.

108 3.5.14 Government retail policy contained within Planning Policy Guidance Note 6 encourages comparison and convenience shopping to locate within town centres. Town centres provide the best location to encourage commercial competition from which all consumers are able to benefit and to maximise the opportunities to use means of transport other than the car. The Wiltshire Structure Plan supports the concentration of shopping facilities at the larger towns and the enhancement of facilities in smaller town centres. Town centre commercial areas have been defined for the five West Wiltshire towns where there are a broad range of town centre facilities and services and which provide a focus for the community and for public transport. Within these areas, the primary shopping areas are defined by the Primary Retail Frontages. Policy SP1 therefore aims to concentrate new retail development within existing Primary Retail Frontages. On site car parking provision will be assessed with regard to the town centre location of the proposed development and the existing provision in the vicinity.

Land at Court Street / Castle Street, Trowbridge

SP2 Land at Court Street / Castle Street, Trowbridge, as identified on the Proposals Map, is allocated for further town centre retail provision. Proposals will be considered with regard to the criteria identified in Policy SP1.

3.5.15 Land at Court Street / Castle Street was identified in the adopted District Plan as an Area of Opportunity where the main use proposed was shopping, particularly those areas close to “the Shires” development. Other potential uses identified included refurbishment of existing buildings for workshops / small businesses, offices or dwellings. The District Council has now identified part of this site as suitable for brownfield housing development, and whilst retaining the overall mixed use strategy for the total area, it is now considered appropriate to specifically allocate part of this area for future retail development to ensure that, as part of the sequential approach, positive encouragement is given by the Council to locating new retail development in or on the edge of town centres. The site is particularly well located to provide a future extension to the range of shopping available in “the Shires”. Proposals will be required to meet the criteria identified in Policy SP1.

Out of Centre Shopping

SP3 New and extensions to existing edge of centre and out of centre shopping developments, including superstores, supermarkets and retail warehouses but excluding small neighbourhood shops, will only be permitted if all of the following criteria are met:

A There is a need for the development; B There are no suitable and viable sites available within firstly, the defined Primary Retail Frontages and secondly, (for out of centre proposals) edge of centre locations; C The development does not, either by itself or together with other retail developments, harm the vitality or viability of nearby centres; D The development is of acceptable scale, materials and design and does not harm the local environment or residential amenity; E The development is sited to reduce the number and length of car journeys and is accessible by a choice of means of transport, including by foot, bicycle and public transport; F The traffic generated by the proposal can be accommodated safely on the local highway network and sufficient car parking and servicing is provided;

109 Applications to vary the range of goods sold from out of centre stores, or to allow subdivision of units, will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the proposal would not harm the vitality and viability of the town centre’s shopping role.

3.5.16 Recent trends in retailing have resulted in pressures for large, out of town centre stores catering for car borne customers. Whilst the Government wishes to encourage an efficient, competitive and innovative retail sector, Planning Policy Guidance Note 6 states clearly that new forms of development must be provided in accordance with a sustainable development strategy which promotes town centres as the preferred location for new retail development. Once a need for a development has been established, a sequential approach must be followed in determining the most appropriate location for new retail facilities. The first preference should be for town centre sites, followed by edge of centre sites and only then out of centre sites which are accessible by a choice of means of transport. Policies SP1 and SP3 set out this approach for West Wiltshire. For the purposes of retail policy, the town centres are the defined Primary Retail Frontages. The definition of edge of centre varies depending upon local topography and the size of the town centre, but is unlikely to include sites more than 300 metres from the boundary of the Primary Retail Frontages as defined on the Proposals Map. Sites must be suitable and viable for the proposed use, but developers should be flexible about the format, design and scale of the development to ensure that it fits in with the local environment. Out of centre retail facilities should not harm the vitality and viability of town centres. Vitality refers to the liveliness of a town centre, reflected in how busy the centre is at different times and in different parts. Viability refers to the ability of a centre to attract continuing investment, both to maintain its fabric and to allow for improvement and adaptation to changing needs. Proposals will be assessed with regard to the likely cumulative effects of other recently completed developments and of outstanding planning permissions on nearby centres.

3.5.17 In West Wiltshire, a number of out of centre stores have already been developed. These include retail warehouse developments at Bradley Road, Trowbridge and within industrial estates, such as Treenwood Estate in Bradford on Avon and the Canal Road Trading Estate in Trowbridge. Leekes, a major out of centre department store, now occupies part of the former GEC site on the A350 in Melksham, while a rural shopping centre has been developed at Crockerton, south of Warminster. A number of applications have been received to expand the range of goods sold beyond that specified in planning conditions or legal agreements and to subdivide large stores to create new retail units. Expansion in these ways can lead to a further movement of comparison and convenience floorspace out of town centres, with implications for their vitality and viability. Such changes therefore need to be controlled.

Primary Retail Frontages

SP4 In the primary retail frontages detailed on the Proposals Map, shopping (as defined in use class A1) is the primary land use and will be protected. Changes of use from A1 to A2 and A3 uses at ground floor level will only be permitted having regard to the existing mix of uses, where they do not prejudice the shopping function of the primary retail frontages or individually or cumulatively harm the vitality of the town centre. All proposals will be expected to provide a window display and a public counter service.

3.5.18 PPG6 stresses that variety and activity are the essential elements of the vitality and viability of town centres. Plans may distinguish between primary frontages in town centres and consider their relative importance to the character of the centre. While

110 primary frontages may be restricted to a high proportion of retail uses - in particular A1 uses - there should be scope for more flexibility of use in secondary frontages; in those areas diversification has most to offer (annex B, para 6). The note also states that local branches of banks and other financial institutions should not be allowed to dominate primary shopping areas in a way that undermines the retail function. Accordingly Policy SP4 seeks to ensure that retailing remains the primary function in streets which form the core of the primary shopping areas of the West Wiltshire towns. Along these frontages it is important to retain a strong retail presence in the face of pressures for the expansion of financial and professional service uses, such as building societies and estate agents, as well as food takeaway outlets. There are already a number of A2 and A3 uses here which have become established within core areas. Such uses can be well located in town centres and their diversity can contribute to vitality, but without control of these uses the retail character of a street may be adversely affected and its attractiveness as a retail destination reduced. The primary retail frontages are drawn judiciously to identify only the core areas of retail activity; ample secondary areas are available in close proximity to these areas.

Secondary Retail Frontages

SP5 In other parts of the town centre commercial areas, but outside the primary retail frontages, changes of use from Class A1 to A2 or A3 uses will be permitted. Other changes of use will be permitted subject to the primary commercial function of the centres being maintained.

3.5.19 Outside the primary retail core areas Policy SP5 provides a more flexible approach to allow for a diversity of retail, non-food retail and service uses, activities important to town centre commercial areas but which do not necessarily require a prime site in the retail core of a town. PPG6 (1996) stresses that variety and activity are essential elements of the vitality and viability of town centres. Different but complementary uses, both during the day and in the evening, can reinforce each other, making town centres more attractive to local residents, shoppers and visitors. The location of small businesses, houses or offices in or near town centres and the occupation of flats above shops can increase activity, while ensuring that buildings are kept in good repair. Vacant office or retail premises may be particularly suitable for conversion to flats (para 2.15).

Local Shopping in Towns and Villages

SP6 Further local shopping facilities will be permitted within local or village centres provided criteria Aa-D in Policy SP1 can be met. Out of local centre proposals should be permitted only if provision cannot be made in a local or village centre or, failing that, on the edge of a centre and if criteria A,C-F in Policy SP3 can be met.

Land is identified for local centre shopping in new housing developments, as indicated on the Proposals Map, at:

A East of Melksham. 0.3 hectares (0.7 acres) B Paxcroft Mead, Trowbridge. A minimum of 0.5 hectares (1.2 acres) C South of Paxcroft Mead, Trowbridge. 0.1 hectares (0.2 acres) D North of Westbury Leigh (Leigh Park), Westbury. 2.5 hectares (6 acres).

111 3.5.20 Proposals for local shops to meet local community needs outside the West Wiltshire town centres, and particularly in the villages, will be supported. These should be located within local or village centres. These centres include local supermarkets and other small shops designed to meet only local convenience shopping needs and to serve the less mobile population and those without cars. Local centre shopping facilities, within the proposed major new housing development at Melksham, Trowbridge and Westbury, are proposed in Policy SP6.

Village Shops

SP7 The District Council acknowledges the important role of local convenience stores and services to the social and economic fabric of village communities. It will not permit changes from such uses in cases where the shop or facility is the last of its kind in a village and will seek a full analysis of the circumstantial background in considering such proposals.

3.5.21 Village shops provide for essential day-to-day needs, as well as representing an important element of village life and its social cohesion. The loss of village facilities, including public houses and post offices is a matter of serious concern to the District Council (see para 3.7.5-3.7.6). The District Council will seek to resist the loss of village shops through the development control process insofar as this is reasonable.

Leisure and Entertainment

LE1 To sustain the vitality and viability of town centres outside normal shopping hours, proposals for leisure and entertainment facilities, such as a multiplex cinema, bowling alley, nightclubs, will be directed to locations within the defined Primary Retail Frontages. Edge of centre and out of centre leisure development will only be permitted if all of the following criteria are met:

A There is a need for the development; B There are no suitable and viable sites available within firstly, the defined Primary Retail Frontages and secondly, (for out of centre proposals) edge of town centre locations; C The development does not, either by itself or together with other leisure developments, harm the vitality or viability of nearby centres; D The development is of acceptable scale, materials and design and does not harm the local environment or residential amenity; E The development is sited to reduce the number and length of car journeys and is accessible by a choice of means of transport, including by foot, bicycle and public transport; F The traffic generated by the proposal can be accommodated safely on the local highway network and sufficient car parking and servicing is provided;

3.5.22 To sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of town centres, particularly after normal shopping hours, key leisure and entertainment uses should be located within, or if necessary, on the edge of existing town centres. Potential exists within the five town centres for conversion of existing premises to small scale arts, civic and leisure provision. However, the West Wiltshire towns are currently lacking major commercial leisure facilities such as a multiplex cinema and associated uses which have in the past looked to out of centre sites. These facilities are best located in town centres, maximising accessibility by

112 public transport and on foot and making use of existing town centre parking facilities. Policy LE1 seeks to direct new commercial leisure facilities to town centre locations, in accordance with the government‟s sequential approach. The definition of edge of centre varies depending upon local topography and the size of the town centre, but is unlikely to include sites more than 300 metres from the boundary of the Primary Retail Frontages as defined on the Proposals Map.

St Stephens Place, Trowbridge

LE2 The former Tesco store, St Stephens Place, Trowbridge, as identified on the Proposals Map, is allocated for further town centre uses such as retail or leisure and civic provision. The proposed development should be of acceptable scale, materials and design to be appropriate to the local environment. On site car parking provision will be assessed with regard to the town centre location of the proposed development and the existing provision in the vicinity.

3.5.23 The Tesco foodstore at St Stephens Place closed in 1993 and is currently vacant. Re-use or redevelopment for retail uses would be appropriate given the site‟s edge of centre location, subject to the requirements of the sequential approach. Alternative uses for the site could include commercial leisure provision or major arts and civic uses, complementary with the neighbouring civic hall.

Upper Floor Uses in Town Centres

TC1 In seeking to maintain vibrant town centres the District Council will permit schemes which make greater use of the upper floors of premises within the town centre commercial areas, as defined on the Proposals Map, for office, small business or residential uses subject to environmental and highway considerations, such as access and car parking.

3.5.24 Although some upper floors of shop premises are currently in use for office, business or residential uses there remain many upper floors which are not used or are under-used at present. These premises can add to the variety and vitality of town centres, while providing for uses which do not necessarily need to have a ground floor frontage. The retention of residential uses in central areas can help to keep these places alive outside business hours.

Traffic Management and Pedestrian Priority

TC2 The District Council will co-operate with the County Council as highway authority in investigating ways in which traffic management, pedestrian priority and environmental enhancement measures could improve the shopping environment, air quality and promote pedestrian safety in the following areas, as defined on the Proposals Map.

A Trowbridge town centre including a pedestrian priority scheme for Market Street and Silver Street. B Melksham town centre including a pedestrian priority scheme from Church Street to the junction with Lowbourne. C Westbury town centre including a pedestrian priority scheme for Maristow Street. D Bradford on Avon town centre. E Warminster town centre.

113 3.5.25 The District Council is aware of the problems experienced in the District‟s town centres as a result of increased traffic movements, such as road traffic accidents, congestion, and a deteriorating environment. It recognises the need to maintain and enhance the environmental character of the District‟s town centres to sustain their primary retail function. The District Council will seek to reduce the level of traffic in its town centres and give priority to pedestrians in whole or in part of some town centre streets to make the town centres safer and more attractive places to shop. To achieve these aims, the District Council will examine new traffic management and environmental enhancement measures, in conjunction with the County Council, and in consultation with all interested parties. Within Trowbridge town centre in particular the long term aim is to extend the existing pedestrian priority areas and to further restrict motorists. In October 1992 the District Council completed a traffic management and environmental enhancement scheme for Westbury High Street in conjunction with Wiltshire County Council. Other schemes outside the town centres will also be considered, subject to the availability of resources, such schemes should respect the character of, and make a positive contribution to, the streetscape. The District Council has a responsibility towards local air quality, which is an important issue within those town centres effected by congestion. Where air quality falls below targets set by the National Air Quality Strategy, air quality management areas will be designated and action plans prepared, which will establish how air quality is to be improved.

114 3.6 Tourism

Tourism Aim

To encourage the development of tourism in the District in a manner compatible with the principles of sustainable development and the character of the area.

Tourist Attractions

TO1 New attractions or extensions to existing attractions will be permitted provided that:

A The development is well related to the natural or historic heritage of West Wiltshire; B The scale, design, siting and materials of any buildings are sympathetic to the character of traditional buildings in the area; C The development does not harm the amenities enjoyed by occupiers of adjoining properties; D The development does not harm the landscape character or nature conservation interest of the site and its surrounds; E The development of major visitor attractions is readily accessible by foot, bicycle and public transport; F The development makes adequate provision for car parking and access; G The development does not harm the natural environment including the water environment and that adequate infrastructure is provided.

3.6.1 Tourism is an important and growing industry which contributes significantly to the local economy. Within West Wiltshire there are over 30 attractions including the Kennet and Avon Canal, Longleat House and Safari Park, the Westbury White Horse and the Woodland Park and Heritage Museum. The District Council is aware of the benefits to the local economy that more sustainable forms of tourism can bring without conflicting with the conservation of the natural or built environment and has identified the potential for further acceptable and sustainable forms of tourism. The Council‟s West Wiltshire Tourism Strategy sets out an Action Programme for developing tourism within the District. The District Council recognises the importance of Longleat House and Park as a tourist attraction and notes that Longleat Estate has produced an “Estate Plan” which includes a number of tourism proposals likely to come forward during the plan period. All development proposals which seek to extend existing tourist attractions or provide new attractions will be considered against the criteria contained in Policy TO1.

Minor Tourist Facilities

TO2 Proposals for the provision of minor roadside tourist facilities, such as lay-bys, parking areas and information points at suitable locations and authorised signposting to tourist attractions will be permitted provided these features do not create significant highway problems and are not detrimental to the local environment.

3.6.2 The District Council recognises that tourism can generate problems particularly if attractions and facilities are not well planned or adequately managed. The provision of suitably designed and located roadside facilities for tourists is essential. Information boards and appropriate signposting to local tourist attractions will not only help to

115 highlight the many facilities available in the district but will also help to manage traffic movement, particularly around historic town and villages.

Hotels, Guest Houses and Self Catering Accommodation

TO3 Proposals for new hotel, guest house or other serviced and self catering accommodation for visitors within the built up areas of Bradford on Avon, Melksham, Trowbridge, Westbury and Warminster and within Village Policy Limits will be permitted provided that:

A The scale, design, siting and materials of any buildings are sympathetic to the character of traditional buildings in the area and any extension is well designed so as not to harm the character of the building; B The development does not harm the amenities enjoyed by occupiers of adjoining properties; C The development is readily accessible by foot, bicycle and public transport; D The development makes adequate provision for car parking and access; E The development does not harm the natural environment including the water environment and that adequate infrastructure is provided.

In other locations, new visitor accommodation will be limited to the conversion of existing buildings in accordance with the requirements of Policy E8 and the limited extension of existing visitor accommodation. Such extension must not result in disproportionate additions over and above the size of the existing building or harm the character of the existing building.

Camping, Caravans, Holiday Homes

TO4 Proposals for new or extensions to existing camping, static and touring caravan, and holiday chalet sites will be permitted provided that:

A The site is well screened by landform or landscaping from roads, viewpoints and other public places and the development has no adverse visual impact on the countryside, especially within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Special Landscape Areas; B The development does not harm the amenities enjoyed by occupiers of adjoining properties; C The development does not cause the loss of the best and most versatile agricultural land; D The development does not harm sites of natural, ecological, historic and archaeological interest, in particular Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Sites of Nature Conservation Importance and Scheduled Ancient Monuments; E Traffic generated can be safely accommodated on the local highway network and access arrangements are satisfactory; F There are adequate water resources available, proposals include water efficiency measures and drainage and sewage disposal facilities are satisfactory; G The development is not subject to flood risk.

Permission will be subject to conditions or legal agreements to prevent permanent residential use.

116 3.6.3 The expansion of tourism opportunities within the District requires the provision of a range of quality tourist accommodation ranging from hotel to camping facilities. Local surveys have identified a need for more accommodation within the District, in particular medium to large sized hotels with conference facilities, hostel accommodation and caravan and camping sites with quality facilities. In accordance with the District Plan‟s development strategy to prevent sporadic and unsustainable development in the countryside, new or extensions to existing built tourist accommodation will be supported within the five towns and within Village Policy Limits, but limited to the conversion of existing buildings in other areas. Sites for additional camping, static and mobile caravans, and chalet style accommodation as part of self contained holiday parks will also be supported subject to the sites not adversely affecting the landscape character and amenities of the local area. Due to the importance of conserving the special landscape character of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Special Landscape Areas, small and well screened sites only will be appropriate in these areas.

117 3.7 Community Facilities and Services

Community Facilities and Services Aim

To meet and enhance the educational, social and other needs of existing and new communities.

General

CF1 Proposals for the development of land for schools and higher education, health care facilities, places of worship, community halls and other community facilities will be permitted provided the proposals are acceptable and having regard to scale, siting design, access, highways, parking provision, residential amenities and other local environmental considerations.

3.7.1 The provision and improvement of community facilities is important throughout the District. The five towns are well served educationally, each having its own secondary and primary schools. These facilities are also often available for use by other members of the community outside school hours. There are many civic and church halls available for community and health care use throughout the towns. The District Council is endeavouring to ensure the provision of community halls in the allocated residential developments. In the rural areas there is reasonable primary school provision and most villages, even many of the smaller more remote settlements, have either a village or church hall which can be used by all sections of the community for various activities.

3.7.2 Community and educational facilities to serve all sections of the community, particularly the young and the elderly, are very important to the social well-being of the community. Changes in provision can make new demands on, or release, land for new uses. Consideration for these facilities is therefore an essential element of the Plan.

3.7.3 Policy CF1 relates to the development of new community facilities. The development of such facilities is essential to the District and is to be encouraged in both urban and rural areas.

Re-use of Community Facilities

CF2 Where land and buildings in community use become surplus to requirements proposals will be permitted for either:

A The re-use of the site or premises for alternative and acceptable community uses such as non-residential health services, educational facilities, a multi-purpose hall, public worship or a local village shop;

B The development or redevelopment of land and/or the conversion of buildings where this will free resources to be used to the benefit of the local community provided that the proposals are acceptable having regard to scale, siting, design, access, highway, parking provision, residential amenities and other local environmental considerations.

118 3.7.4 From time to time land and buildings in community uses become surplus. Rather than allowing their condition to deteriorate, the District Council will encourage effective re- use or redevelopment of these sites in the interests of the community.

Villages and Rural Areas

CF3 To retain and enhance the provision of rural and village facilities in West Wiltshire, proposals for development which would result in the loss of important rural social and economic facilities, such as village shops, schools, public houses, post offices will not be permitted unless satisfactory alternative provision is made in the locality. Proposals for the replacement or enhancement of community facilities will be permitted having regard to scale, siting, design, highway, parking and other environmental considerations.

3.7.5 The District Council is concerned over the effects of the decline in a number of rural services and facilities important to village and rural life. These changes are illustrated in Table 6. The decline in village services brings increased difficulty in terms of access to shops, schools and health care, causing particular problems where public transport is limited and expensive. There has been a decline in the provision of food shops, health clinics, mobile shops and doctors‟ surgeries. The Council recognises the importance of other social facilities such as public houses, village schools and multi-purpose halls to rural communities across the District.

3.7.6 These types of major changes to villages and rural life have occurred across the County of Wiltshire and in many places these have taken place despite some population growth. In order to maintain a broad base of community facilities in villages and rural areas, the Council will seek to safeguard essential services and facilities such as village shops, public houses and post offices. If, however, they are to be affected by development proposals then a satisfactory replacement or alternative should be provided. This might be achieved by the provision of a new community facility or extending/improving existing facilities. In general the Council wishes to maintain and improve the existing range of rural community facilities.

Table 6 Changes in Facilities in Villages in West Wiltshire 1976-2001

Primary Post Office Food Shop Journey to Total Basic Other School Work Facilities Facilities Service Villages in -1 -12 -32 +8 -37 +77 West Wiltshire

Source: Wiltshire County Council, Environmental Services Department

Education

S1 Where a proposal for residential development gives rise to the need for additional education provision, a planning obligation will be sought to meet that need. The scale of the obligation to be sought will relate to the scale of need arising from the proposed development.

119 3.7.7 With the growth of the District‟s population comes the need to provide additional and improved education facilities. New primary schools have been completed at Lower Studley, Trowbridge and Staverton. Several new and extended primary schools are proposed to meet the education requirements arising from new residential development. Land and infrastructure contributions to meet these education needs will be sought from developers by the District Council in accordance with the requirements of the Local Education Authority.

Primary Schools

S2 Land is allocated in the following areas, as broadly identified on the Proposals Map, for new or extensions to existing primary schools:

1 Bowerhill, Melksham 2 East of Melksham - 1.84 hectares (4.5 acres) 3 South of Paxcroft Mead, Trowbridge - 1.84 hectares (4.5 acres)

3.7.8 Current and future housing development in the District makes it necessary to safeguard land for new primary schools at land east of Melksham and land south of Paxcroft Mead, Trowbridge. The precise locations of these schools will be identified in development briefs for the areas.

3.7.10 The Chief Education Officer has identified the need for a two form entry primary school with a land requirement of about 1.8 hectares in the south or north of Warminster. As yet a suitable site has not been identified.

3.7.11 Education provision in rural areas is important and where possible the retention of village schools will be encouraged. The District Council will normally resist the loss of village schools and will apply Policies CF2 and CF3 to proposals including the loss or re-use of education facilities for uses other than education. Development in rural areas will be directed towards those villages already having educational facilities.

Community Halls

Paxcroft Mead

CF4 A 0.5 hectare (1.2 acre) site at Paxcroft Mead, Trowbridge, is allocated for a major community facility to include a multi-purpose hall, changing rooms, meeting rooms and ancillary facilities, as indicated on the Proposals Map.

East of Melksham

CF5 A site for a new community building is allocated to the east of Melksham, as defined on the Proposals Map.

120 Leigh Park

CF6 4 hectares (10 acres) are allocated for community facilities including halls for community use and worship, local shops (see Policy SP6D) and health care facilities within the area committed for development at Leigh Park, as indicated on the Proposals Map.

Bowerhill

CF7 A site for a community hall and educational use is allocated to the east of Halifax Road, Bowerhill, as defined on the Proposals Map.

3.7.12 Community and village halls are important local facilities and provide a focus for community activity. The District Council supports the provision of such facilities and will encourage local initiatives wherever possible in association with new developments. The precise locations will be determined in the respective development briefs. However, at Paxcroft Mead the site will be closely related to the village centre and green, on land east of Melksham the site will be centrally located with the local shopping centre and at Westbury Leigh the site will be provided in the area north of Westbury Leigh.

3.7.13 The proposed expansion of Bowerhill will necessitate the provision of further community facilities to meet the demands of the increased population. A site will be required to accommodate additional community facilities including local shops and also possibly the new community hall. The new site shall be in a central location, east of Falcon Way, near the main public open space. The additional community facilities envisaged for the site and its extent shall be defined in the development brief to be prepared for the housing development.

3.7.14 There is a temporary community hall at Bowerhill, east of Halifax Road, which is the preferred site for a permanent community hall. Should it be conclusively proved that the present site adjacent to the primary school is required for educational use to the educational needs arising from the new housing development, there would be the opportunity to build a permanent community hall as part of the proposed housing development east of the settlement.

Community Health

CF8 Land adjacent to and including the Melksham and Trowbridge Hospitals, as defined on the Proposals Map, is allocated for the development of community health care facilities.

3.7.15 Community health services appear to be adequately provided for in the District at present. However, current and future development make it necessary to safeguard areas for further provision at Paxcroft Mead and Westbury Leigh. It is understood that the Health Authority envisages further expansion of patient services at Melksham and Trowbridge Hospitals and areas adjacent to the hospitals are included for this provision. Land adjacent to Trowbridge Hospital is safeguarded for use as a cricket pitch in Policy R7 until such time it is needed for the provision of health care facilities. Land is also allocated at Bowerhill for community facilities which could include enhanced health facilities.

3.7.16 The provision and improvement of community health services in rural areas will be encouraged.

121 Bradford on Avon Police Station

CF9 A site to the west of the fire station in Bradford on Avon is safeguarded for a police station, as defined on the Proposals Map.

3.7.17 It has been suggested that the police station in Bradford on Avon should be relocated in a central location should a need be established. A site to the west of the fire station is safeguarded for the police station relocation as identified on the Proposals Map.

Cemeteries

CF10 A need has been identified for new cemeteries in Bradford on Avon and Melksham and proposals to meet this need will be permitted subject to highway, amenity and environmental considerations.

3.7.18 The Council is actively seeking additional land for cemeteries in Bradford on Avon and Melksham. Both existing sites are nearing full capacity and adjoining land at Melksham is subject to waterlogging. Any new cemetery needs to be conveniently accessible to local residents and in close proximity to the existing site.

Travelling Show People

CF11 Proposals for quarters for travelling show people will be permitted in appropriate locations having regard to site conditions, access, proximity of schools and other community facilities, environmental considerations and potential nuisance to neighbouring residential areas from vehicular movements and maintenance of equipment. All schemes should be well screened by landscaping.

3.7.19 The District Council is aware of the difficulties experienced by travelling show people, who travel the country holding fairs and circuses, in finding suitable sites for use as quarters and of the requirement to consider the needs of travelling show people in the District Plan expressed in Circular 22/91. There are no sites with planning permission for travelling show people in the District. Policy CF11 seeks to guide travelling show people to appropriate sites having regard to their needs, environmental and highway considerations. It is noted that show people require secure, permanent bases for storage of equipment and for residential purposes, generally occupied in the winter months.

Gypsy Caravan Sites

CF12 Proposals to provide caravan sites for gypsies will be permitted in appropriate locations having regard to:

A Potential nuisance to adjoining land uses, in particular, residential areas; B Encroachment into open countryside; C The needs and safety of future occupants & their children; D Highway safety, access, pedestrian safety, the impact of traffic on local roads & access to public transport; E Availability and adequacy of infrastructure e.g. electricity, drinking water, sewerage or on-site treatment or storage of effluent;

122 F The proximity of local services and facilities e.g. shops, refuse collection, hospitals, medical services & schools; G The need to protect the best and most versatile agricultural land; H Potential flood risk and any unacceptable increased flood risk to other riparian owners arising from the development.

Proposals will not be permitted in the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Sites of Special Scientific Interest, Sites of Nature Conservation Importance, Areas of High Ecological Value, Scheduled Ancient Monuments or where inappropriate to the character or appearance of a Conservation Area or the setting of a Listed Building.

All schemes should be well screened by landscaping and/or fencing.

3.7.22 The District Council recognises proposals for caravan sites for gypsies need special consideration by virtue of the particular needs of gypsies consistent with their nomadic lifestyle. The Council notes the advice expressed in Circular 1/94 Gypsy Sites and Planning and defines gypsies as „persons of a nomadic habit of life, whatever their race or origin‟. The gypsy community for the purposes of Policy CF12 includes long distance travellers. There are two permanent gypsy caravan sites in West Wiltshire at Bratton (10 pitches) and Fairhaven, Dilton Marsh (7 pitches). The Council will monitor the need for further pitches and seek to ensure adequate provision is made for gypsies residing in, or resorting to, West Wiltshire and permit appropriate schemes for additional caravan sites for gypsies in accordance with Policy CF12.

123 3.8 Utilities and Consumer Services

Infrastructure

U1 Proposals for development will not be permitted where the infrastructure is inadequate to cater for the proposal unless the developer makes a contribution necessary to secure the provision of infrastructure related to the needs of the development which is required to secure its implementation.

3.8.1 The provision of infrastructure is important in all major new developments. Infrastructure includes services like education and health facilities as well as road, water supply and sewers. Although no major problems are envisaged in provision of services in the District to meet the needs of proposed development, there are inadequacies in the water services infrastructure particularly in the rural areas. Improvements and extensions to the services may therefore be necessary, particularly in respect of water services and contributions from developers to the appropriate organisations such as Wessex Water for such works as may be required. In addition, services have been upgraded throughout the District in the past few years. British Gas has made a substantial investment in improving the supply network that supports West Wiltshire. Further extension of the system is planned to Warminster and works have already been carried out in Trowbridge, Melksham, and Westbury.

Foul Water Disposal

U1a Development will only be permitted where adequate foul drainage, sewerage and sewage treatment facilities are available or where suitable arrangements are made for their provision. In sewered areas new development will be expected to connect to mains drainage. New sewers will be expected to be constructed to a standard adoptable by Wessex Water.

3.8.1a In West Wiltshire there are public foul sewers which are at or near capacity and where additional development would result in overloading of the local sewerage network. There also remain many areas without a public sewerage network. Development should not proceed without adequate foul water disposal arrangements. Where it is intended that a development will be drained through a public sewer, developers should seek prior agreement with the appropriate drainage authority on the point of connection to the sewerage system. In areas where there are existing public sewers, all development should connect to the main sewer network and sewers should be constructed to a standard adoptable by the drainage authority. Where connection to main foul drainage is not feasible or practical then alternative means of sewage disposal will be required, which may involve a package treatment plant or a septic tank. Consideration of the choice, suitability and future monitoring and record keeping of such methods must be on a site specific basis in accordance with DETR Circular 03/99.

3.8.1b In 1988 the Council was invited by Wessex Water to investigate the provision of first time rural and urban sewerage. This has resulted in the Council producing a management plan for providing mains sewerage to existing village and rural communities in the District. The Council has subsequently undertaken the provision of mains sewage to existing properties in the Chapmanslade, West Ashton, Heywood and Hawkeridge areas of the District. Areas have been identified in the District as requiring mains sewerage schemes

124 at Beanacre, Chitterne, Codford, Heytesbury, Knook, Upton Lovell, South Wraxall and Sutton Veny.

Surface Water Disposal

U2 Development will only be permitted where adequate surface water disposal systems are available or where suitable arrangements are made for their provision. Proposals must demonstrate that the use Sustainable Drainage Systems have been incorporated where appropriate. Where inappropriate, surface water drainage systems, separate from all foul drainage systems, will be required.

3.8.2 There are known problems with the disposal of surface water in the District. The District Council will ensure that new development does not overload the existing infrastructure or cause flooding problems. Sustainable Drainage Systems for surface water disposal incorporate such methods as swales, soakage lagoons, reed beds, retention basins and permeable paving. These methods can have considerable environmental benefits, including reducing the risk of flooding, cleaning contaminants, retaining rainfall close to source, providing wildlife and ecological amenity and improving the aesthetic quality of development. The District Council will therefore expect proposals for development to include an assessment of the suitability of Sustainable Drainage Systems.

3.8.2a It is recognised that traditional “hard” sewerage systems continue to play a part in the provision of surface water infrastructure, however, this method should only be utilised once it has been demonstrated to the satisfaction of the drainage authority that other methods would not be successful. In these circumstances, it is important to ensure that surface water will not be discharged into public foul sewers, since these would cause overloading and premature operation of storm overflows to the detriment of river water quality. New development will therefore be required to drain to separate surface water drainage systems.

3.8.2b To avoid exacerbating existing flooding problems in Warminster, surface water disposal from new development will require attenuation. In the Fore Street/Wylye Road area of Warminster, the District Council and the Environment Agency have jointly agreed a strategy document for surface water disposal within the catchment of Cannimore Stream. Developers will be required to adhere to the strategy when considering drainage options for their sites and to make contributions where necessary related to the needs of the development.

Flooding

U3 Development proposals will not be permitted:

A Within the floodplain of any river or watercourse where flood flows or floodplain storage are adversely affected; B Where the run-off from the development would result in, or increase the risk of unacceptable flooding of watercourses, ditches, land or property; C Where the development would prevent the Environment Agency, Local Authority or riparian owners from effectively maintaining the channels of watercourses; D Where the existing land drainage systems on the site are adversely affected or if the land drainage of the site, when developed, is considered to be inadequate; E Where the development has a detrimental impact on the ecology of the river corridor;

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Unless adequate mitigation measures provided to the satisfaction of the Environment Agency, and British Waterways as appropriate, at the developer’s expense are included.

3.8.3 The Environment Agency supports the principle of river corridor enhancement in conjunction with promoting adequate flood protection measures. The Environment Agency will be concerned to ensure that flood flows and floodplain storage are not adversely affected by development proposals. Development will not be permitted in floodplains, and the Environment Agency will be concerned to ensure that development in flood risk areas is promoted in such a way as to minimise the increase of flood risk to third parties and to be protected to the standard of 1 in 100 year flood. Development proposals will be assessed having regard to the risk based approach and sequential test set out in Planning Policy Guidance Note 25:Development and Flood Risk. The Environment Agency has undertaken a survey in West Wiltshire to define indicative areas of flood risk under Section 105 of the Water Resources Act 1991. These areas are shown on the Proposals Map. The Environment Agency considers that many development proposals may be affected by its statutory powers, and potential developers are advised to consult closely with the Environment Agency prior to planning permission being sought.

Groundwater Source Protection Areas

U4 Development proposals will not be permitted which would adversely affect water resources, in particular the groundwater source protection areas as defined by the Environment Agency and shown on the Proposals Map.

3.8.4 It is vital that development does not cause harm to the quality or quantity of water resources. Development must be accompanied by adequate sewage infrastructure, in order to avoid pollution by sewage, sewage effluent, industrial wastes or surface water. There are a number of areas where potable water is abstracted within West Wiltshire and groundwater source protection zones are shown on the Proposals Map. The recharge, flow and storage of ground water must be protected from any form of development that would cause interruption to natural processes, or interfere with any water abstraction. The Local Planning Authority is concerned that all ground and surface waters must be protected from risk of pollution and physical interference. Developers are recommended to contact the Environment Agency at the earliest stage to discuss any potential impact of their development proposals on groundwater source catchment areas.

Sewage Treatment Works

U4a Land adjacent to Bowerhill Sewage Treatment Works, as shown on the Proposals Map, is safeguarded from development. Planning permission will not be permitted on the safeguarded land if it is likely to prejudice the future extension of the Sewage Treatment Works.

U5 Proposals for housing or other development which is sensitive to odour pollution will not be permitted within the sewage treatment works buffer zones, as defined on the Proposals Map, where the proposed development cannot reasonably co-exist in proximity to a sewage treatment works.

126 3.8.5 Since water privatisation, Wessex Water is responsible for sewage treatment and disposal. Sewage treatment works are an essential requirement for servicing the community. The requirements for sewage treatment works need to be identified and planned for to enable them to meet demand, and minimise the environmental effects of such uses. In order to service the housing and employment allocations in the Melksham and Semington area, Wessex Water have identified a need to extend the Bowerhill Sewage Treatment Works. A site adjacent to the northern side of the current works has been identified for the extension, as shown on the Proposals Map.

3.8.5a Wessex Water endeavours to operate its sewage treatment works efficiently and in accordance with best practice to prevent pollution. However, development sensitive to odour pollution, in close proximity to sewage treatment works potentially can suffer smell nuisance. Government advice in Planning Policy Guidance Note 23, Planning and Pollution Control, stresses the need to control development in proximity to potential sources of pollution to ensure the prevention of smell nuisance and the need to separate potentially polluting and other land uses to reduce conflicts, for example by identifying areas around polluting land uses, such as sewage treatment works, in which other development should be subject to special consideration.

Telecommunications

U6 Proposals for new telecommunications developments will be permitted provided that:

A The siting and external appearance of apparatus, including any location and landscaping requirements, have been designed to minimise the impact of such apparatus on amenity and the environment, having full regard to any statutory and local designations, while respecting operational efficiency; B Applications for large masts include evidence that the possibility of erecting antennae on an existing building, mast or other structure has been explored; C The materials, colour and design minimise obtrusiveness; D In the case of installation of satellite dishes on blocks of flats, that consideration has been given to the provision of a shared system.

3.8.7 Telecommunications are an essential and beneficial element of modern day life and the national economy. Much of the telephone network within the District is long established. New communications technology is now spreading rapidly, required to meet the growing demand in the area for better communications at work and at home, in business and in public services. The District Council recognises this growing demand for new telecommunications apparatus, in particular satellite dishes, and operates a scheme on Council owned blocks of flats assisting the installation of shared systems.

3.8.8 In considering proposals for new telecommunications development the Council will take into account the impact of the proposal on the environment and residential amenity protecting, as far as possible, the appearance of buildings, town and the countryside from unsightly telecommunications equipment. In addition it will consider the obligations to provide a telecommunications service, and the constraints on siting and appearance imposed by the nature of the technology and the telecommunications network and continuing developments in mast and tower design. In most cases early consultation with the District Council is encouraged to identify potential problems in respect of new telecommunications development.

127 128

4.0 Resources and Implementation

Resources

4.1 Some of the policies contained in the District Plan seek change in the form of new development proposals, and therefore have a resource implication with associated costs. The majority of policies, however, are for development control and guidance and do not have direct resource implications.

Implementation

I1 In housing, commercial and industrial developments the District Council will, where appropriate, enter into legal agreements with developers under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to provide for new infrastructure, social, recreational and community facilities, where the need for these arises directly from the development concerned. Provision should be commensurate with the scale and nature of the individual development. Provision may be on-site or contributions may be made to the provision of facilities elsewhere in the locality provided their location adequately relates to the development site.

4.2 The two principal resources required to implement development related policies are land and finance. Those sites identified in the District Plan are likely to come forward through planning applications for new development. It is unlikely with a few possible exceptions, that land assembly will be a major problem. All the proposals contained in the Plan are considered capable of implementation within the Plan period which runs to March 2011.

4.3 The District Council will continue to play an important role in the development of West Wiltshire by guiding and controlling change in a positive way, by investing in recreation and community services and in environmental enhancement schemes. The Council will also seek to secure the co-operation of local and other interests and private developers. In appropriate circumstances, and in line with advice in Circular 1/97, the developers of new housing, commercial and industrial development will be expected to provide new social, recreational and community facilities where a need arises directly from the development concerned and the scale of provision sought is reasonably related to the development proposed. Developers will be encouraged to submit a financial appraisal / residual valuation of the proposed development to assist with the negotiations.

4.4 The District Council recognises that, within financial constraints, major expenditure will be required to achieve many long term improvements such as major road schemes and improvements in physical and social infrastructure. The District Council has through the Plan given a clear indication of areas where new infrastructure will be required in order to enable the utilities and other bodies to plan for further provision and to provide a basis for co-operation and co-ordination between public sector authorities and private

129 organisations in allocating appropriate resources in order to achieve the aims and objectives of the Plan.

The Arts

I2 Where appropriate, a percentage of the overall cost of development will be sought through negotiation to further an artistic objective in a practical manner. The determination of an application will have regard to the contribution made by the proposals to the appearance of the scheme and to the amenities of the area.

4.5 The District Council has developed, with the assistance of Southern Arts, and adopted an Arts Strategy through which it will actively pursue a greater commitment to the arts in general and in particular aims to improve opportunities for participation and provision of facilities. As part of the Arts Strategy the Council has resolved to adopt a Public Art Policy to further the aims of providing public art.

4.6 The „percentage for arts‟ policy results from a campaign launched by the Arts Council in 1989 which sought to improve the built environment by employing the talent of Britain‟s artists and craft people in building projects. The objective of the policy is to ensure that between 0.5 and 5% of project costs are spent in a way which will result in the visual arts being integrated into the design of the building or landscape.

4.7 No percentage is specified in the policy so as to allow maximum flexibility when considering schemes. The concept of incorporating public art can apply to many situations, eg architecture of a new building, landscaping of a new industrial area, provision of arts through craft workshops in redevelopments, landscaping of open spaces and recreational areas or the more conventional use of sculptures and paintings. The contribution made to the arts will be taken into consideration in the determination of applications and developers are advised to discuss possible contributions with the District Council at an early stage.

Access for Everyone

I3 The needs of the disabled should be adequately catered for in new development proposals for buildings open to the public and buildings used for employment or education purposes. Proposals should provide adequate access around buildings and external facilities for disabled people in the layout of development. Proposals should have regard to the relationship between buildings and the location and amount of disabled parking, other public access points and the design of the access facilities to be provided.

4.8 The District Council will seek to ensure that new development, which is used by the public, is designed to enable access by people with disabilities. Consideration should be given to the provision of adequate access around buildings for disabled people in the layout of development and to the relationship between buildings and car parking areas and other public access points. Simple features such as textured pavement surfaces, dropped kerbs and ramps should be provided along with appropriate and conveniently located car parking for the disabled. The District Council has produced supplementary planning guidance on this matter entitled „Access for Everyone‟ in conjunction with West Wilts Access Group.

130 Monitoring

4.8a In order to ensure that the aims and policies contained within this Plan are being implemented the District Council intends to monitor the progress of the Plan and to issue an Annual Monitoring Report. The Report will measure progress against the targets contained within the Plan, utilising output and outcome indicators compatible with national, regional and strategic indicators. Table 7 sets out indicative targets and indicators which will help to inform the design of future monitoring activity. In the case of housing issues, if there is a persistent and significant gap between what has been planned for and what is occurring in reality, the District Council will consider re- assignment of allocated housing sites between phases. This remedial action will be published with the Annual Monitoring Report and the District Council will adopt it as Supplementary Planning Guidance, following a period of public consultation.

131 Table 7: Monitoring: Targets and Indicators

Environmental Aims

To protect, conserve and enhance both the natural and manmade environment

To protect and conserve the Western Wiltshire Green Belt, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, areas of nature conservation and/or scientific importance, conservation areas, listed buildings, scheduled ancient monuments and areas designated as open space in and around the towns as appropriate.

Policy Target Output/Outcome Indicator Action Countryside Targets set out Progress against targets Collect data Policies C1-C11 in Biodiversity annually and Built Action Plan Environment Policy C40 Targets set out Progress against targets Collect data in AONB annually Management Plans

N/A Condition of wildlife sites in District Collect data annually

N/A Number of Tree Preservation Orders Collect data annually Countryside N/A Changes in the state of Establish baseline Policies C13- archaeological resources data C16 Collect data biannually Built N/A Number of conservation area Collect data Environment statements / character appraisals quarterly / annually Policy C17 and other documents published as SPG

N/A Number of conservation areas Collect data reviewed and designated quarterly / annually Built N/A Number of listed buildings at risk Establish baseline Environment restored data Policies C26- Collect data C29 quarterly / annually Built N/A % of electricity from renewable Establish baseline Environment resources data Policy C34 Collect data annually

132

Recreation Aim

To conserve existing resources and to allocate land for additional facilities to meet the increasing recreational needs of the District.

Open Space N/A Area of public open space in the Establish baseline and Recreation District data (2004/5) Policies R1-R16 N/A Provision of new public open space Collect data annually

N/A Extensions and improvements to Collect data greenspace networks and footpaths annually

Housing Aims

To ensure that there is an adequate supply of land and an appropriate mix of house types and sizes to meet the housing requirements of the whole community including the provision of affordable social housing to meet local needs.

Housing Policies Provision of Number of people living in the District Collect data H1a, H1b, H1, about 14,000 annually H3-H14, H17 dwellings in the period Number of dwelling permissions Collect data 1991 – 2011 granted quarterly / annually

Number of dwellings under Collect data construction annually

Number of dwellings completed Collect data annually

Number of dwellings needed to be Collect data provided each year until 2011 annually

Take up of allocated sites Collect data annually

Windfall site development trends Collect data annually

Number of vacant dwellings Collect data annually Housing Policies Provision of Stock of affordable homes Collect data H2, H22 1420 new annually affordable homes 2001 - Number of new affordable homes Collect data 2011 provided annually

Housing Needs Update Collect data biannually

Housing Needs Assessment Collect data every 3/5 years 133

To create more sustainable patterns of development in order to improve the quality of housing environments and meet wider social and economic needs, whilst conserving the natural environment and non-renewable resources.

To maximise the proportion of housing development taking place on previously developed sites to meet the regional target of 50% of all housing development within the Plan period.

Housing Provision of Numbers and % of new homes Collect data Policies 50% of new committed on brownfield sites, annually H1b, H1, H3, dwellings on greenfield sites or through conversions H4, H17 and previously Built developed Environment land Policy C41 (including conversions

Employment Aims

To sustain a buoyant local economy and to create suitable conditions for the expansion of existing firms and the development of new businesses.

To ensure an adequate supply of suitable land is available in the District in accordance with Structure Plan policies and to provide for a range of business requirements.

Employment Provision of Amount of new employment land Collect data Policies E1 – E8 about 150 permitted quarterly / hectares of annually additional employment Amount of new employment land Collect data land 1991 - under construction annually 2011 Amount of new employment land Collect data completed annually

Amount of new employment land Collect data needed to be provided each year annually until 2011

Take up of allocated sites Collect data annually

Economic profile data Collect data annually Employment N/A Area of derelict and vacant industrial Collect data Policies E2, E4, land and units annually E6, E8

134 Transport Aims

To encourage the provision and maintenance of efficient, land-use integrated transport networks throughout West Wiltshire which contribute towards continued economic vitality, social inclusion and allow for sustainable growth.

Transport N/A Level of public parking spaces and Collect data Policies the proportion allocated for disabled biannually T1-T12 users. N/A Progress on programmed transport Collect data improvements annually

To require access by all transport modes to proposed developments which, where appropriate, incorporate benefits to the adjacent highway network.

To reduce the length of motorised journeys and the reliance on the private car in favour of public transport, walking and cycling and to encourage the carriage of freight by rail.

Transport N/A Number of passenger journeys on Collect data Policies local bus services annually T4-T12 N/A Number of bus stops equipped with Collect data raised kerbs and covered waiting annually areas.

N/A Level of public cycle parking grant Collect data funded annually

N/A Rate of growth in car traffic Collect data every 5 years

N/A Number of Travel Plans agreed with Collect data District Council / County Council annually

N/A Proportion of public parking spaces Collect data allocated for short stay use. annually

To encourage transport arrangements that minimise harm to the natural and built environment, ensure that air quality is maintained and help to improve safety for all travellers.

Town Centres N/A Air quality monitoring: levels of NO Collect data and Shopping and particulate pollution annually Policy TC2

Transport N/A Number of accidents involving users Collect data Policies of all forms of transport annually T3, T6, T7, T8, T8a, T9, T10, T11, T12

135 Town Centre and Shopping Aims

To sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of the five town centres in the District. To encourage new retail, leisure and mixed use development within or if necessary adjacent to the five town centres. To improve the environment of the five town centres. To ensure that there is provision for local shopping wherever possible.

Town Centre N/A Gross retail floorspace developed Collect data and Shopping annually Policies SP1, SP2, SP3, N/A % of additional retail floorspace Collect data SP6, TC1, TC2 provided outside defined town annually centres or edge of centre locations

N/A Non A1 uses within Primary Retail Collect data Frontages annually

N/A Vacancy rates in Primary Retail Collect data Frontages annually

Tourism Aim

To encourage the development of tourism in the District in a manner compatible with the principles of sustainable development and the character of the area.

Tourism N/A Visitor numbers and tourism related Collect data every 5 Policies expenditure years TO1, TO2 N/A Direct employment in tourism Collect data every 5 years Tourism N/A Quantity and type of overnight Collect data every 5 Policies accommodation years TO3, TO4

Community Facilities and Services Aim

To meet and enhance the educational, social and other needs of existing and new communities.

Community N/A Changes in the numbers and types of Collect data every 5 Facilities and rural facilities and services years Services Policies CF1, CF2, CF3 and Town Centres and Shopping Policy SP7

136 Glossary of terms

Word or Phrase Definition

Affordable Comprises low cost market housing and subsidised housing, housing provided for people who are unable to resolve their housing needs in the local private sector market because of the relationship between housing costs and incomes. Area of A locally defined area within an urban centre which may have archaeological archaeological resources worthy of protection. interest Area of high An area of the countryside, locally designated, which is of ecological value recognised importance for wildlife or geology. Area of higher Locally defined broad areas within the rural landscape which may archaeological contain archaeological resources worthy of protection. potential Area of minimum Important open areas within villages which are often related to change historical development patterns and which contribute significantly to the character of that settlement. Area of Areas within settlements which are ripe for rehabilitation or opportunity redevelopment, to improve the local environment. Area of An area of countryside that has a landscape value of national outstanding importance and is afforded the highest levels of protection as far as natural beauty landscape and scenic quality are concerned. Backland Land proposed for development to the rear of properties that front development onto access roads. Often used in the context of housing developments where the existing settlement is characterised by linear development along access roads with open countryside to the rear. Biodiversity A comprehensive term to describe the variety of life around us, including all species of plants and animals, the genetic variation among them and the complex ecosystems of which they are part. Brownfield land See Previously developed land. Community A process through which local people identify their visions, needs, planning aspirations and possible solutions. It offers a structured way forward for people to analyse the social, cultural, environmental and economic environment they live in. It is a process owned by local people to enable them to develop their community. Carefully undertaken, community planning can be used to initiate local action, work in partnership with service providers and to apply for funding to improve their quality of life. Community A practical tool for councils and their partners to pursue the strategy economic, social and environmental well-being of their area. It is a long term vision, focussing on achievable outcomes, specific goals and priorities that will contribute to those outcomes and an agreed action plan for meeting these goals and priorities. The development plan provides the means of implementing those elements of the strategy's vision and priorities that concern the physical development and use of land in an authority's area. Conservation area An area of special architectural or historic interest defined by the local planning authority. Country park An area of public open space, normally located on the urban fringe, which provides a wide range of predominantly informal recreation activities, within a semi rural environment.

137 Development brief A document which provides detailed guidance on the planning and development of a particular site. Edge of centre In retail policy terms, a location within easy walking distance from location the Primary Retail Frontages, where retail developments will be encouraged after sites within the Primary Retail Frontages have been assessed. The definition varies depending upon local topography and the size of the town centre, but is unlikely to include sites more than 300 metres from the boundary of the Primary Retail Frontages. In terms of office or leisure uses, edge of centre may be more extensive, based on how far people are prepared to walk. For office use, this is likely to be up to 500 metres from a public transport facility. Environmental An assessment required to accompany planning applications for impact development which are likely to have significant effects on the assessment environment by virtue of their nature, size or location. Floodplain An area adjacent to a watercourse where water flows in times of flood or would flow but for the presence of flood defences. Green belt An area which has been identified for protection from development to prevent the coalescence of settlements, to maintain the open character of undeveloped land around settlements and to protect their historic settings. Greenfield infill See Greenfield site and Infill. Greenfield site Land which has not been developed previously for urban land uses, usually land last used for agriculture, located outside existing built up areas. Habitat The natural home of a wild animal or plant. Historic park and Parks and gardens included in a register of parks and gardens of garden special historic interest prepared by English Heritage. House in multiple One dwelling unit (a house or flat) occupied by people who do not occupancy form a single household. Infill The development of land which is surrounded by other land uses of a similar nature. Usually defined in terms of additional housing development within an existing residential area. Integrated A concept by which alternative travel arrangements to and from transport land uses are planned for in a seamless way, to encourage sustainable journeys. Landscape setting Areas of countryside containing distinctive landscape features which frame and complement the historic towns of the district. Landscape A study of the landscape which identifies its distinctive physical, character ecological, historical and agricultural characteristics and identifies assessment the human and social and economic influences which have shaped it. Large sites Housing sites of 10 or more dwellings or with an area of 0.4 hectares or over where the number of dwellings to be built is unknown. A term used in housing land supply monitoring. Listed buildings Buildings of special architectural or historic interest designated by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport under the Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990. Local centre Small grouping of shops usually comprising a newsagent, a general grocery store, a sub-post office and occasionally a pharmacy, a hairdresser and other small shops of a local nature. Local nature A site of local importance for nature conservation designated by reserve (LNR) local authorities

138 Local plan Sets out the local planning authority's detailed policies and specific proposals for the development and use of land in an administrative area which will guide its day-to-day planning decisions. Part of the statutory development plan. Also referred to as the District Plan in West Wiltshire. Local transport Sets out how the local highway authority intends to deliver an plan integrated and sustainable transport system within a five year period. It also forms a bid to central government for funding to implement its proposals. Material A factor which may be taken into account in decision making on consideration planning applications and which must be relevant to the development and use of land. Minerals local A local plan containing polices and proposals for mineral working plan (including disposal of mineral waste) and for the protection of mineral resources. Part of the statutory development plan. Mixed use site A site containing a number of land uses, often in town centre locations. Used particularly where housing is proposed along with other land uses to create vitality and diversity and to reduce the need to travel. Open space Land used for public or private recreational purposes. Other greenfield A housing allocation proposed on greenfield land which is not an infill development within an urban area, nor identified as a strategic site. Out of centre A location that is clearly separate from a town centre, but not necessarily outside the urban area. Previously Land which is or was occupied by a permanent structure (excluding developed land agricultural or forestry buildings), and associated fixed surface infrastructure. The definition covers the curtilage of the development. Previously developed land may occur in both built up and rural settings. The definition includes defence buildings and land used for mineral extraction and waste disposal where provision for restoration has not been made through development control procedures. The definition excludes land and buildings that are currently in use for agricultural or forestry purposes, and land in built up areas which has not been developed previously (e.g. parks, recreation grounds, and allotments- even though these areas may contain certain urban features such as paths, pavilions and other buildings). Also excluded is land that was previously developed but where the remains of any structure or activity have blended into the landscape in the process of time (to the extent that it can reasonably be considered as part of the natural surroundings), and where there is a clear reason that could outweigh the re-use of the site - such as its contribution to nature conservation - or it has subsequently been put to an amenity use and cannot be regarded as requiring redevelopment. Primary retail An area which attracts the highest rental values relative to the frontage locality, where those uses in class A1 of the use classes order form the greatest proportion. The primary shopping areas within the 5 towns and the town centre in terms of the retail sequential approach. Primary shopping See Primary retail frontage. area Protected species Wild animals or plants which are protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and the Habitats Regulations 1994. Some animals , notably badgers and bats, are protected under their own 139 legislation. Ramsar site A wetland area of special nature conservation value, especially for wildfowl. Regionally Locally designated sites which are important for their geological or important geomorphological interest and are of value for at least two of the geological / following: educational fieldwork, scientific study, historical value, geomorphological aesthetic value. site (RIGS) Regional planning Sets out land use policies and proposals for a region, which must be guidance taken into account by development plans. Renewable Those energy flows that occur naturally and repeatedly in the energy environment - energy from the sun, the wind and the oceans, and the fall of water. The heat from within the earth itself, geothermal energy, is usually regarded as renewable, although locally it cannot always sustain continuous extraction. Plant material is an important source of renewable energy. Combustible or digestible industrial, agricultural and domestic waste materials are also regarded as renewable sources of energy. Scheduled ancient Archaeological remains of national significance. monument (SAM) Secondary retail An area within the town centre commercial area boundary but frontage outside the Primary Retail Frontages which attracts lower rental values relative to the locality, where there are a number of A2 and A3 uses, together with other mixed commercial and other uses. Sequential A process by which the suitability of sites for development are approach assessed in a particular order according to their location and other factors. Central to the allocation and assessment of proposed housing and retail sites. Sites of nature Locally important wildlife or geological sites. conservation importance Site of special Site of national importance defined under s28 of the Wildlife and scientific interest Countryside Act 1981by English Nature which contain features of (SSSI) special ecological, geophysical, physiographical value. Small sites Housing sites of less than 10 dwellings or with an area of less than 0.4 hectares where the number of dwellings to be built is unknown. A term used in housing land supply monitoring. Special area of A site designated under the EU Directive on the Conservation of conservation Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora as of international (SAC) importance. Candidate sites are those being considered for designation (cSAC) Special protection A site designated under Article 4 of EC Directive19/409 as being of area (SPA) international importance for the conservation of rare and/ or migratory wild birds. Special landscape An area of high landscape quality, locally designated. area Strategic A large housing allocation proposed on greenfield land which has greenfield been identified as important in terms of its contribution to delivering the overall housing supply and in terms of delivering major public infrastructure. Structure plan Sets out in broad terms the general policies and proposals of strategic importance for the development and use of land in an administrative area, taking account of national and regional policies. Part of the statutory development plan.

140 Sustainability A process of identifying, quantifying, weighing up and reporting on appraisal the social, economic and environmental effects of policies and proposals in the development plan. Sustainable Development which meets the needs of the present without development compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. Town centre In retail and leisure terms, the Primary Retail Frontages, and the preferred location for new retail, leisure and other key town centre uses, in terms of the sequential approach. Town centre The location for a broad range of central facilities and services commercial area (including office, retail, civic uses) which provide a focus for the community and for public transport within the 5 towns. Town policy limits The defined built up areas of the towns where further infill housing development will be permitted, subject to the criteria contained within Policy H1. Tree preservation Made by a local authority to secure the protection of woodlands, order groups of trees, or individual trees. Urban capacity A term used in housing policy to quantify the amount of new housing that an urban area can sensibly accommodate, having regard to a number of environmental and other factors. Local planning authorities are required to undertake studies to identify urban capacity, having regard to the provisions of Planning Policy Guidance Note 3. Urban extensions Sites outside but closely associated with urban areas which provide the opportunity to meet housing needs in a comprehensive manner by co-ordinating the provision of housing with existing and planned new infrastructure. Urban sites Sites located within defined town policy limits. Village design A design guide which sets out the character of a village in a way statement that will encourage locally distinctive design. It is prepared by the local community but should be approved as supplementary planning guidance by the local planning authority. Village policy The defined areas within villages where limited housing limits development will be appropriate, subject to the criteria contained within Policy H17 and other relevant policies in the Plan. Waste local plan A local plan containing polices and proposals for the minimisation and management of waste. Part of the statutory development plan. Windfall An estimation of the number of houses which are likely to be allowances developed during the Plan period on previously developed land which has not been specifically allocated for housing in the local plan. No allowance is made for greenfield windfalls.

141 Appendix Aa

Sites of Nature Conservation Importance in West Wiltshire – as of March 2003

SITE GRID REF SITE GRID REF Longleat Woods SSSI ST795435 Lynwood Drive Pond ST843581 Fairbroad Coppice ST797420 Vagg‟s Hill Bushes ST812555 Avoncliff Wood ST796597 Beggars Knoll Quarry, Westbury ST890505 (RIG) Staples Wood, Westwood ST792595 Blue Circle Cement Works ST882527 (RIG) Claypit (RIG) Bathford Hill Copse ST798649 Hawkeridge Lane, Westbury (2 ST866525 parcels) (RIG) Conkwell Wood ST787619 Avoncliff (RIG) ST807599 Midford Valley Woods ST767611 Hazelton Wood ST817664 SSSI (3 parcels) Short Wood ST773614 Chesland Wood ST819664 Midford Valley Woods ST767611 Cottles Wood ST852667 Verge Winsley Hill Verge ST785611 Daniel‟s Wood ST897669 Winsley Mines SSSI ST795607 Park Wood ST818657 Montana Mine ST779608 Norrington Common ST883648 Stout Hill ST775616 Hay‟s Wood ST817637 Browns Folly Nature ST795660 Broughton Gifford Meadow ST869637 Reserve Murhill Bank ST791609 Inwood, Warleigh SSSI ST800633 Chatleigh House Woods ST779616 Cumberwell Wood ST817636 Crowe Hill Meadow ST785605 Roses Wood ST805628 Murhill, Winsley (3 ST795607 Lady‟s Coppice ST862629 parcels) (RIG) Stokeford Weir, bed and ST783609 Still Meadow ST804609 banks of River Avon (RIG) Brimshill Down SSSI (part) ST831385 Belcombe Court Wood ST816608 Marcombe Wood (part) ST825388 Great Bradford Wood ST846605 Woodcombe Wood ST835389 Becky Addy Wood ST809600 Bushcombe Bottom (2 ST842388 Gripwood Quarry SSSI ST822603 parcels) Boars Bottom ST850383 Winsley Reservoir ST810612 Brims Down ST855395 Combe Mine ST832608 Westcombe and Little ST878390 Belcombe Meadow ST817609 Down Truncombe Wood ST823369 Cottles Lane Meadow ST807609 Park Hanging ST833370 Electricity Station Meadow ST813606 Pertwood Down ST878372 Avoncliff Aqueduct ST804601 Pertwood Wood ST895373 Littlecombe Bottom ST905397 Cow Down, Kingston ST830362 The Leg ST929397 Deverill Cleeve Hanging ST834359 Ruggs Cleeve ST940399 Middle Hill ST841360 Mill Meadow, Boyton ST953396 Monkton Lynchets ST858365 Codford St Mary Verge ST974396 Dunera East and ST853354 Lamb Down ST983399 Larksdown Dunera West ST848354 Starveall and Stony Down SSSI ST992397 Parsonage Combe ST895396 Tytherington Down SSSI ST912385 142 Pinkflower Gorse/South ST848350 Corton Down West ST922390 Down (part) Black Dog Woods South ST824489 Corton Down ST928387 Black Dog Woods North ST823493 Boyton Long Bottom ST921383 Chalcot Wood ST843493 Fonthill Longbottom ST915381 Upton Cow Down SSSI ST875491 Redding Hanging ST907378 Ranscombe Bottom ST887493 Well Bottom (2 parcels) ST922377 Wood (Salisbury Plain SSSI) Dirtley Wood (Salisbury ST892484 Picket Down 1 ST932377 Plain SSSI) Thoulstone Farm ST839478 Golden Valley ST948390 Meadow and Marsh Clear Wood ST844471 The Lynchets ST953386 Trussenhayes Wood ST833463 Wylye Meadows 1 and 2 ST982385 Norridge Wood ST852460 Stonehill Down (Starveall) ST909368 Arn Hill (4 parcels) ST874465 Picket Down 2 ST921372 Cley Hill SSSI ST838449 Great Ridge Wood (part) ST930365 Canninmore Farm ST858441 Snail Creep (3 parcels) ST941363 Meadow Eastleigh Farm Meadow ST880439 Sherrington Down (3 parcels) ST951372 High Wood ST808425 Longdean Copse ST946366 Dairy Coppice ST803418 Park Bottom ST953376 Swancombe Meadow ST846419 Stockton Wood and Down SSSI ST958366 (3 parcels) Broadmead Lane ST858422 Stockton Down 2 ST962376 Meadow Southleigh Wood ST877425 Stockton Earthwork Down ST971366 Woodcroft Wood ST881433 Stockton Wood 2 (2 parcels) ST967357 Eastleigh Wood (2 ST885431 Thatch Hill ST991358 parcels) Crabbe Farm Meadow ST868413 Sailsbury Plain SSSI (part) ST950480 Longbridge Deverill ST867414 Wadham‟s Coppice (Sailsbury ST948495 Meadow Plain SSSI ) Everett‟s Wood ST818403 Scratchbury and Cotley Hills ST915437 SSSI Warminster Verge ST871460 Norton Bavant Meadow ST909429 Cow Down (2 parcels) ST880406 Dunscombe Bottom ST941431 Smallbrook Meadows ST878443 Knook Down (2 parcels) ST948422 LNR (2 parcels) Whiten Hill Down (2 ST892407 Codford Down ST968427 parcels) Haycombe Bottom ST898402 Well Bottom Down North ST958418 Farmer‟s Hill, Dilton Marsh ST845495 East Codford Coombside (3 ST983423 parcels) Fernicombe (2 parcels) ST877471 East Codford Down (2 parcels) ST980415 Shearwater ST850422 Haycombe Down ST902407 Pool Cottage Meadows ST820469 Chitterne Road Verge ST983425 Coldharbour Meadows ST865453 Knook Hill West ST941418 (3 parcels) Longbridge Hill ST885412 Knook Down Chalk (2 parcels) ST944439 Cley Hill, Corsley (old ST839448 Knook Down Combe ST955428 quarry) Arn Hill Warminster (old ST887461 Well Bottom Down Middle ST956411 143 quarry) Iford Meadow ST802568 Well Bottom Down South ST958408 Pomeroy Wood ST807566 Claypit Hill (RIG) ST994425 Tipney Wood ST809560 Bratton Downs SSSI ST925515 Sleight Wood ST816559 Sweetnut Wood ST954538 High Wood ST808554 Bratton Chalk ST901516 Birch Wood ST818564 Edington Verge ST936535 Green Lane ST882577 Bratton Verge ST911525 Wood/Meadow and Smith‟s Well Wood (2 parcels) Biss Wood ST887567 Steeple Ashton SSSI ST914558 (geological) Woodside Wood ST875554 Bratton Down Quarry ST904513 Flowers Wood ST874550 Woodhouse Fen ST920598 Kettle Lane Wood ST876547 Salisbury Hollow, Tinhead (RIG) ST934533 Picket Wood and ST875543 Steeple Ashton (old quarry) ST907559 Clanger Wood SSSI (RIG) Brokerswood and Hazel ST839527 Spye Park SSSI (part) ST950676 Wood Round Wood (near ST841522 Hack Farm Meadow ST938658 Brokerswood) Tennis Corner Wood ST832509 Hanging Wood ST937653 Round Wood, Dilton ST831507 Basin Covert ST942654 Marsh Round Wood, Yarnbrook ST870540 Conigre Mead WWT Reserve, ST901638 Melksham Iford Wood ST802590 Morass Wood ST940645 Fairwood Road Railway ST853512 Bristol Avon River (part) ST905643 Line Westbury Lakes (2 ST864518 Eighteen Acre Plantation ST936641 parcels) Westbury Ironstone ST853508 Hill Planting ST937662 Quarry SSSI The Mead, Brokerswood ST833518 Sahara Sand, Melksham ST938648 Without (RIG) Fairwood House Marsh ST843515 River Wylye (part) SU096320 Rough Field, Wingfield ST811570 Kennet & Avon Canal (part) SU025625

144

Appendix Ab

Non-scheduled Monuments and Areas of Higher Archaeological Potential

Area number Description Category ST83NECON003 Ploughed field system surrounding a number of rare B features, such as Bronze Age enclosures and Roman temples ST83NECON004 Remnants of banks surviving on downland, the more A substantial strip lynchets being scheduled to the north ST83NECON005 Ploughed strip lynchets B ST83NECON006 Traces of a field system which have been ploughed B ST83NECON007 Area of medieval settlement, ditches found during B excavation, undated enclosures and the site of an excavated Saxon cemetery. ST83NECON008 Area of metal finds from the Saxon and medieval periods B suggesting settlement from this period. Also a possible enclosure which is ploughed. ST83NECON009 A ditch, lynchets and a trackway surviving on small area of A downland ST83NECON010 Area of medieval settlement with a field system extending B westwards from these ST83NECON011 Part of field system which survives in downland A ST83NECON012 Area of medieval settlement around Manor Farm, Brixton B Deverill ST83NECON013 Area of medieval settlement at Brixton Deverill B ST83NECON014 Undated cross ridge dyke which observations suggest is B damage, despite being on downland ST83NECON015 Undated ditch which is partially ploughed B ST83NECON016 A group ten ring ditches forming a Bronze Age barrow A cemetery ST83NECON017 Extensive ploughed field systems spanning across A360. To B the west there ring ditches and enclosures within the field system. To the east is a group of scattered barrows along a possible ridge top. ST83NECON018 A possible enclosure or round barrow B ST83NECON019 An isolated ring ditch B ST83NECON020 Site of a barrow identified in 19th century, which lies north B of six Neolithic pits and Bronze Age flint excavated in 1990 ST83NECON021 Area of extensive field system which is ploughed B ST83NECON022 Small part of more extensive system which survives as banks A on downland ST83NECON023 Isolated ring ditch adjacent to an area where two Bronze B Age pits were excavated ST83NECON024 Two ring ditches, which are probably barrows, which B appear to be part of a very scattered linear barrow cemetery ST83NECON025 Possible remains of an undated field system B ST83NECON026 Part of a field system which is very well preserved on A downland ST83NECON027 Part of a field system which is ploughed B ST83NECON028 Small length of Roman road surviving as a bank on A downland

145 ST83NECON029 Length of Roman Road which is ploughed, but survives to B the east and is scheduled ST83NECON030 Extensive field system surrounding Lower Pertwood Farm, B which includes the occasional ring ditch. ST83NECON031 Field system with possible medieval earthworks associated A within it surviving on downland ST83NECON032 An oval enclosure surviving as a bank and ditch within an A area of pasture ST83NECON033 An Iron settlement identified within the plough soil. A ST83NECON038 Remnants of a field system which are ploughed B ST83SECON005 Extensive field system across Keysley Down including B scattered round barrows, mostly scheduled and the odd enclosure. ST93NWCON014 Extensive field system, including an enclosure, finds of B Romano-British pottery, which have been ploughed and the course of the Roman Road mostly through woodland ST93NWCON015 Single ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST93NWCON016 Group of undated mounds which have been ploughed B ST93NWCON017 Part of an extensive field system which survives on A downland ST93NWCON018 Part of an extensive field system which survives on A downland and in woodland ST93NWCON019 Part of an extensive field system and a linear ditch which A survive on downland ST93NWCON020 A D-shaped enclosure and part of an extensive ditch which B have been ploughed ST93NWCON021 An extensive field system including several enclosures, two B barrows and lengths of linear ditches all of which have been ploughed ST93NWCON022 Single ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST93NWCON023 Part of a field system which lies in woodland and whose B condition is unknown ST93NWCON024 Part of a field system which lies in woodland and whose B condition is unknown ST93NWCON025 Part of the Roman Road from the Mendips to Salisbury and A an undated mound which lies adjacent to the road which survive in woodland ST93NWCON028 Series of strip lynchets surviving on downland A ST93NWCON029 A pair of undated enclosures which have been ploughed B ST93NWCON030 The remains of a field system which has been ploughed B ST93NWCON031 An enclosure with internal settlement features which has A been ploughed ST93NWCON032 Medieval strip lynchets on a downland slope A ST93NWCON033 Medieval strip lynchets on a downland slope A ST93NWCON034 An undated enclosure which has been ploughed B ST93NWCON035 Part of a field system which has been ploughed B ST93NWCON036 Extensive field system, including three barrows and Roman B finds, to the east and west of a scheduled Roman settlement which have been ploughed ST93NWCON037 Undated strip lynchets on downland slopes A ST93NWCON038 Remnants of field system and an enclosure which have all B been ploughed ST93NECON002 Part of the course of the Roman road from the Mendips to B Salisbury which is ploughed 146 ST93NECON003 Linear Earthwork of pre-Roman date following parish A boundary, an undated circular earthwork and Iron Age and Romano-British settlement all in woodland with field systems preserved in pasture to east ST93NECON005 Two D-shaped enclosures which have been ploughed B ST93NECON006 Part of the course of the Roman road from the Mendips to B Salisbury which is ploughed ST93NECON010 Area of ploughed field system in which lie three ring ditches B ST93NECON011 Small area of downland pasture in which are preserved A part of an extensive field system ST93NECON012 Small are of a more extensive field system which has been B ploughed ST93NECON013 Extensive field system which has been ploughed. To the B south is an undated enclosure which has also been ploughed ST93NECON014 Series of strip lynchets preserved in downland pasture A ST93NECON015 Part of a series of undated strip lynchets which survive in A downland pasture ST93NECON016 Remains of a field system which is ploughed B ST93NECON017 Part of a series of undated strip lynchets which have been B ploughed ST93NECON018 Part of a series of undated strip lynchets which have been B ploughed ST93NECON019 Possibly the site of a Roman villa which has been ploughed B ST93NECON020 Parts of a field system which is preserved in downland A pasture and woodland ST93NECON021 Parts of several field systems and an undated enclosure B which have been ploughed ST93NECON022 Earthworks to the north of Stockton earthworks which have A been preserved in downland pasture ST93NECON023 Earthworks to the north of Stockton earthworks which have A been preserved in downland pasture ST93NECON024 Remnants of several field systems which has been B ploughed and a possible barrow in the south ST93NECON025 Series of strip lynchets which are preserved in downland A pasture ST93NECON026 Remains of a field system which have been ploughed B ST93NECON027 Part of a field system which has survived in downland A pasture ST93NECON028 Part of a series of strip lynchets which have been preserved A in downland pasture ST93NECON029 Part of a series of strip lynchets which have been ploughed B ST93NECON030 Remains of a field system which have been ploughed B ST93NECON031 Isolated ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST93NECON032 Well preserved strip lynchets on a downland slope A ST93NECON033 Medieval settlement of Sherringtron which surrounds the B scheduled Norman motte and bailey ST93NECON034 Part of a series of strip lynchets which are preserved in A downland pasture ST93NECON035 Part of a series of strip lynchets which are ploughed B ST93NECON036 Village of Boyton which has medieval origins B ST93NECON037 Site of a medieval mill B ST93NECON038 Settlement of medieval origin B ST93NECON039 Village of Codford St Peter which has Saxon origins B 147 ST93NECON040 Village of Codford St Mary which has Saxon origins B ST93NECON041 Remnants of a field system, a linear ditch and a ring ditch, B all of which have been ploughed ST93NECON042 A possible Romano-British settlement site in woodland B ST93NECON043 A possible Romano-British settlement site in a ploughed B field ST93NECON044 Possible medieval remains of the village of Stockton B ST93NECON045 Village of Stockton which has medieval origins B ST93NECON046 Preserved watermeadows A ST93NECON047 Barrow excavated in 1963 B ST93NECON048 Two barrows excavated in 1958 B ST93NECON049 Part of field system and two doubtful barrows excavated in B 1958 which have been ploughed ST93NECON050 Earthworks preserved in pasture of the medieval settlement A of Fisherton de la Mere ST93NECON051 Earthworks preserved in pasture of the medieval settlement A of Bapton ST93NECON052 Village of Bapton which has medieval origins B ST84SWCON001 Site of Augustinian Priory built in 1272. Excavations in 1993 B found evidence of walls and pottery ST84SWCON002 Series of features which may be settlement B ST84SWCON003 Village of Horningsham which has medieval origins B ST84SWCON004 Earthworks of the village of Horningsham which has A medieval origins and an oval enclosure ST84SWCON005 Remains of the medieval village of Horningsham which B have been ploughed ST84SWCON006 Earthworks of the village of Horningsham which has A medieval origins ST84SWCON007 Circular earthwork lying in pasture A ST84SWCON008 Series of features which may be settlement B ST84SWCON009 Series of features which may be settlement B ST84SWCON010 Ploughed features seen on aerial photographs B ST84SWCON011 Remains of a ploughed field system B ST84SWCON012 Bowl barrow which has been ploughed and excavated B ST84SWCON013 Farmstead with medieval origins B ST84SWCON014 Farmstead with medieval origins B ST84SWCON015 Large quantity of Roman finds indicating at least one A building ST84SWCON016 Possible enclosures which have been ploughed B ST84SWCON017 Single ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST84SWCON018 Linear features at the base of Cley Hill which have been B ploughed ST84NWCON001 Two undated enclosures which have been ploughed B ST84NWCON002 Series of features identified across several ploughed fields B which in possible enclosures and two ring ditches ST84NWCON003 Three ring ditches and other features which have been B ploughed ST84NWCON004 Possible Romano-British kiln site B ST84NWCON005 Two undated linear features which have been ploughed B ST84NWCON006 Ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST84NWCON007 Ploughed linear feature B ST84NWCON008 Settlement with medieval origins B ST84NWCON009 Undated ring ditch with associated ditches B ST84NWCON010 Remains of a field system with a settlement of medieval B 148 origin to the south and a possible Romano-British kiln site to the north all lying in arable areas ST84NWCON011 Remains of a ploughed field system B ST84NWCON012 A settlement with medieval origins B ST84NWCON013 Series of earthworks in parkland which probably relate to A the medieval settlement of Chalcot ST84NWCON014 Medieval settlement of Chalcot and the site of a Bronze B Age burial ST84NWCON015 A field system which appears to survive in parkland A ST84NWCON016 Part of a field system which has been ploughed B ST84NWCON017 Part of a field system which has been ploughed B ST84NWCON018 Remains of a possible field system in arable B ST84NWCON019 Farmstead with medieval origins and ploughed features to B the east ST84NWCON020 Village of Chapmanslade which has medieval origins B ST84NWCON021 Farmstead with medieval origins B ST84NWCON022 Settlement with medieval origins B ST84NWCON023 Series of rectangular of unknown origin B ST84SECON002 Earthwork remains which form part of the medieval A settlement of Hill Deverill ST84SECON003 Medieval settlement of Hill Deverill B ST84SECON004 Earthwork remains which form part of the medieval A settlement of Hill Deverill ST84SECON005 Medieval settlement of Hill Deverill B ST84SECON006 Undated enclosure which has been ploughed B ST84SECON007 A Farmstead with medieval origins B ST84SECON008 Possible medieval settlement B ST84SECON009 Three ring ditches which have been ploughed B ST84SECON010 Possible medieval settlement B ST84SECON011 Possible medieval settlement B ST84SECON012 Well preserved watermeadows A ST84SECON013 Part of a series of strip lynchets which were reported in 1994 A as preserved in pasture ST84SECON014 Part of series of strip lynchets, two ring ditches and a square B enclosure which appear to have been ploughed, ST84SECON015 Village of Sutton Veny which has medieval origins B ST84SECON016 Village of Crockerton which has medieval origins B ST84SECON017 Remains of a field system which has been ploughed and a B post medieval farmstead ST83NECON039 Area of well preserved watermeadows A ST84SECON001 Ridge and furrow identified during fieldwork which are A preserved in pasture ST84SECON020 Series of banks, which are probably part of a field system, A preserved in downland pasture ST84SECON021 Part of an extensive field system surrounding a scheduled D B shaped enclosure, including ring ditches, other enclosures and a burial in the west, all of which have been ploughed ST84SECON022 Series of banks which appear to survive in pasture A ST84SECON023 Part of a field system which is preserved in downland A pasture ST84SECON024 Features which may relate to medieval settlement B ST84SECON025 Series of features identified from aerial photographs, B including a ring ditch, a square enclosure and an excavated barrow, which have been ploughed 149 ST84SECON026 Possible medieval settlement B ST84SECON027 Enclosure about which there conflicting reports of its state B of survival ST84SECON028 Area of well preserved watermeadows A ST84SECON029 Area including medieval settlement of Bishopstrow, two B Romano-British enclosures and other possible archaeological features, most of which have been ploughed ST84SECON030 Area of well preserved watermeadows A ST84SECON031 Area of well preserved watermeadows A ST84SECON032 Possible archaeological features B ST84SECON033 Area of medieval, possibly Saxon, settlement B ST84SECON034 Undated bowl barrow preserved in pasture A ST84SECON035 Undated bowl barrow preserved in pasture A ST84SECON036 Possible archaeological feature in arable B ST84SECON037 Linear features which have been ploughed B ST84SECON038 A pit alignment which has been ploughed A ST84NECON001 Remains of a probable field system which has been B ploughed ST84NECON002 Settlement with medieval origins with possible features B relating to the settlement to the north and south. There are also the remains of a field system to the south ST84NECON003 Two ring ditches which are ploughed B ST84NECON004 Remains of a field system which has been ploughed B ST84NECON005 Possible earthworks of unknown date B ST84NECON006 Village of Dilton which has medieval origins. To the north B are the remains of a field system ST84NECON007 Series of strip lynchets which have been ploughed B ST84NECON008 A Romano-British settlement with earlier Bronze Age A features also identified which has been ploughed ST84NECON009 Remains of probable field systems which is ploughed B ST84NECON010 Series of banks preserved on a downland slope A ST84NECON011 Parts of two ditches which are ploughed B ST84NECON012 Part of series of strip lynchets which have been ploughed B ST84NECON013 Part of series of strip lynchets preserved in pasture A ST84NECON014 Part of series of strip lynchets which have been ploughed B ST84NECON015 Oval ring ditch in arable B ST84NECON016 Remains of a field system which has been ploughed B ST84NECON017 Possible settlement remains B ST84NECON018 Village of Upton Scudamore which has medieval origins B ST84NECON019 Earthwork preserved in pasture of the medieval settlement A of Upton Scudamore ST84NECON020 Barrow adjacent to a scheduled barrow which has been B ploughed ST84NECON021 Three ring ditches and a possible enclosure which have B been ploughed ST84NECON022 Remnants of a field system which has been ploughed B ST84NECON023 Undated trackways and a barrow preserved in woodland A ST84NECON024 Probable part of a field system B ST84NECON025 Two barrows damaged by the construction of a golf course B ST84NECON026 Series of features which lie within a golf course B ST84NECON027 Series of features which lie within a golf course B ST84NECON028 Possible remains of a field system which have been B ploughed 150 ST84NECON029 Possible remains of a field system B ST84NECON030 Undated enclosure which is in arable B ST84NECON031 A number of banks which have preserved in pasture A adjacent to the church ST94SWCON001 A number of possible settlement features which lie to the B north east of a scheduled motte ST94SWCON002 Complex of Iron Age pits lying immediately south of A scheduled motte ST94SWCON003 Two Romano-British villas identified in the 19th century. Their A full extent is not known ST94SWCON004 Settlement of North Bavant which has medieval origins B ST94SWCON005 Possible medieval fields in which lie two barrows, both B excavated, but only part of one apparently surviving ST94SWCON006 An undated ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST94SWCON007 Sites of two barrows and a ditch all of which have been B ploughed ST94SWCON008 Two undated ring ditches and other features all of which B have been ploughed ST94SWCON009 Settlement of Newnham which has medieval origins B ST94SWCON010 Village of Sutton Veny which has medieval origins. An B undated rectangular enclosure and some strip lynchets all of which have been ploughed lie to the south west. ST94SWCON011 Medieval strip lynchets which survive in pasture A ST94SWCON012 Medieval strip lynchets which have been mostly ploughed B ST94SWCON013 Well preserved watermeadows A ST94SWCON014 Well preserved watermeadows A ST94SWCON015 Site of possible round barrow B ST94SWCON016 An undated ring ditch and a number of pits which have B been ploughed ST94SWCON017 Seven barrows, which from part of a barrow cemetery, A only, two of which are scheduled; they are all ploughed. ST94SWCON018 An undated ring ditch which could be part of a scattered B barrow cemetery ST94SWCON019 Settlement of Sutton Parva which has medieval origins B ST94SWCON020 Settlement of Tytherington which has medieval origins B ST94SWCON021 Earthworks surviving in pasture which are the remains of the A medieval settlement of Tytherington ST94SWCON022 Well preserved strip lynchets lying in downland pasture A ST94SWCON023 The remains of filed system which have been ploughed B ST94SWCON024 An undated ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST94SWCON025 Possible scattered barrow cemetery, comprising six possibly B seven barrows. A rectangular enclosure also identified in this area. All the features have been ploughed ST94SWCON026 A number of skulls and a skeleton of Saxon date B ST94SWCON029 Five undated ring ditches and other features which have A been ploughed which form a barrow cemetery ST94SWCON030 An undated ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST94SWCON031 Strip lynchets which have been ploughed B ST94SWCON032 Village of Corton which has medieval origins with a number B of probable medieval strip lynchets, which have been ploughed, to the west ST94SWCON033 Undated rectangular enclosure which has been ploughed B ST94SWCON034 Round barrow which was partially excavated in the 19th B century and is now ploughed 151 ST94SWCON035 Round barrow which was partially excavated in the 19th B century and is now ploughed ST94SWCON036 Site of medieval chapel which was in decay by c.1400 B ST94SWCON037 An undated ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST94SWCON038 An undated ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST94SWCON039 Village of Upton Lovell which has Saxon origins. To the east B are other features seen from aerial photographs which have been ploughed ST94SWCON040 Series of undated strip lynchets which have been ploughed B ST94SWCON041 An undated ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST94SWCON042 Undated strip lynchets which survive in downland pasture A ST94SWCON043 Undated square enclosure which has been ploughed B ST94SWCON044 Village of Knook which has medieval origins. Some Bronze B Age finds made to the south ST94SWCON045 Settlement earthworks for the village of Knook which are A preserved in pasture. Some Bronze Age features have also been found to the south ST94SWCON046 Series of strip lynchets which have mostly been ploughed B ST94SWCON047 Remnants of a filed system which have been ploughed B ST94SECON001 Remnants of an undated field system which is mostly B ploughed ST94SECON002 A bank which survived in downland pasture A ST94SECON003 Extensive area of field system, which is very intensive where B it extends northwards towards Knook Camp. The field system contains scheduled parts and an undated enclosure and a barrow cemetery ST94SECON004 Area of field system preserved in downland pasture which A lies adjacent to an area which is scheduled ST94SECON005 Three barrows excavated by Hoare in the 19th century A which are now ploughed which form part of a group of ten barrows the rest of which are scheduled ST94SECON006 The remains of some probable strip lynchets and a possible B enclosure all of which have been ploughed ST94SECON007 Traces of a possible undated field system which has been B ploughed ST94SECON008 Extensive field system including an undated enclosure, a B possible Romano-British enclosure and probable corn- drying oven, as well as a number of ring ditches all of which have been ploughed ST94SECON009 A fragment of a field system and a ring ditch which have B been ploughed ST94SECON010 A fragment of undated field system B ST94SECON011 The village of Chitterne which was recorded in the B medieval period ST94SECON012 Fragments of a field system which have been ploughed B and the location of a coin hoard ST94SECON013 Area of medieval remains which have now been ploughed B ST74SECON003 Undated earthworks of unknown origin which survive in B pasture ST85SWCON001 Ring ditch appearing on aerial photographs in an which B appears to have been ploughed ST85SWCON002 Series of undated features which have been partly B ploughed

152 ST85SWCON003 A farmstead of Post-Medieval origins B ST85SWCON004 A square enclosure of unknown date or function which is A preserved in pasture ST85SWCON005 Ring ditch appearing on aerial photographs in an which B appears to have been ploughed ST85SWCON006 Possible earthworks in pasture B ST85SWCON007 Series of undated linear features mostly in arable B cultivation, with a Post-Medieval farmsteads to the north. In the centre of the area a Roman burial in a lead coffin was found in 1951 ST85SWCON008 A group of undated linear earthworks A ST85SWCON009 A Romano-British settlement site which is well preserved A beneath the plough soil ST85SWCON010 Series of earthworks surviving in pasture which appear to A be fields with possible settlement ST85SWCON011 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85SWCON012 Settlement of Brokerswood which has medieval origins B ST85SWCON013 Farmstead with Post-Medieval origins B ST85SWCON014 Site of Post-Medieval lime kiln B ST85NWCON001 Farmstead with medieval origins B ST85NWCON002 Farmstead with medieval origins B ST85NWCON003 Settlement with late Saxon origins with a medieval holloway B extending to the north west to the former village of Rowley in Somerset ST85NWCON004 Village of Westwood, which has medieval origins, and a B series of features, including a ring ditch in arable cultivation to the south ST85NWCON005 Strip lynchets which survive in pasture A ST85NWCON006 Settlement of Iford which has late Saxon origins B ST85NWCON007 Evidence of two Romano-British buildings were discovered B in 1906, including a stone coffin with a child burial, the extent of which is not known ST85NWCON008 Village of Upper Westwood which has medieval origins B ST85NWCON009 Village of Avoncliff which has medieval origins B ST85NWCON010 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85NWCON011 Undated features which appear to have been ploughed B ST85NWCON012 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85NWCON013 Undated square enclosure with possible internal features B which has been ploughed ST85NWCON014 Series of features which probably represent field B boundaries ST85NWCON015 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85NWCON016 Settlement with late Saxon origins B ST85NWCON017 Village of Wingfield which has medieval origins B ST85NWCON018 Series of features including a ring ditch which have B ploughed ST85NWCON019 Village of Southwick which has medieval origins B ST85NWCON020 A medieval feature of unknown function which has been B ploughed ST85NWCON021 Medieval moated site A ST85NWCON022 Medieval pits, ditches and stakeholes revealed during a B sample excavation suggest that this a medieval building ST85NWCON023 An undated ditch probably prehistoric found during B archaeological investigation 153 ST85NWCON024 Linear features surviving in pasture which probably B represents a Post-Medieval field system ST85NWCON025 Earthwork remains of a medieval settlement A ST85NWCON026 A series of earthworks probably representing field B boundaries of Post-Medieval date ST85NWCON027 Undated enclosure which has been ploughed B ST85NWCON028 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85SECON001 The village of North Bradley which has medieval origins B ST85SECON002 Earthworks which are the probable remains of medieval A houses surviving in pasture to the east of the medieval manor site of Brooke Hall ST85SECON003 Series of features which have bee ploughed which B probable relate to Brook Hall which is included to south ST85SECON004 Village of Hawkeridge which has medieval origins. To the B south are the remnants field systems ST85SECON005 An undated enclosure which has been ploughed B ST85SECON006 Possible foundations for Second World War building which B has been identified from aerial photographs ST85SECON007 Possible foundations for Second World War building which B has been identified from aerial photographs ST85SECON008 Romano-British settlement discovered during the extraction B of iron ore. The site was poorly recorded and there may further remains in this area ST85SECON009 Two fields of ridge and furrow cultivation of probable A medieval date which survive well in pasture ST85SECON010 The earthwork remains of the medieval village of 'Broke' A which survive in pasture ST85SECON011 Brook Hall Farm which is all that remains of the medieval B settlement in this area ST85SECON012 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85SECON013 Earthworks surviving in pasture which are the probable A remains of ponds for the medieval flax industry ST85SECON014 Village of Westbury Leigh which has medieval origins B ST85SECON015 Extensive Roman settlement which has been partially B excavated and partly damaged by development ST85SECON017 Ring ditch and a linear feature which appear to have been B ploughed ST85SECON018 Series of earthworks whose origin is unknown. To the north B maybe a possible moated site ST85SECON019 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85SECON020 Evidence of Iron Age settlement found during laying of B water pipeline the full extent of which is not known ST85SECON021 Circular cropmarks which appear to be ploughed B ST85SECON022 Linear features which have been ploughed probably B representing medieval house sites and fields ST85SECON023 Settlement with post-medieval origins B ST85SECON024 A farmstead with medieval origins B ST85SECON025 Undated ring ditch which has been ploughed B ST85SECON026 Series of features which have been ploughed B ST85SECON027 A possible enclosure which has been ploughed B ST85SECON028 A scatter of Romano-British finds including two burials, B pottery and metal finds, and some Bronze Age pottery, which may represent a settlement ST85SECON029 Series of Strip lynchets of probable medieval date A 154 preserved in downland pasture ST85SECON030 A barrow which has bee ploughed B ST85SECON031 Series of linear features which have been ploughed and B may be the remains of a field system ST85SECON032 Series of Strip lynchets of probable medieval date A preserved in downland pasture ST85SECON033 Remains of a field system which have been ploughed B ST85SECON034 Small undated enclosure which has been ploughed B ST85NECON001 Village of Hilperton Marsh which has medieval origins B ST85NECON002 Village of North Bradley which has medieval origins B ST85NECON003 Village of Yarnbrook which has medieval origins B ST85NECON004 Two fields of ridge and furrow cultivation of probable A medieval date which survive well in pasture ST85NECON005 A farmstead with medieval origins B ST85NECON006 Series of undated features seen on aerial photographs B which have been ploughed ST85NECON007 Series of undated features seen on aerial photographs B which have been ploughed ST85NECON008 Village of Hilperton which has medieval origins, with a ring B ditch to the west ST85NECON009 Undated enclosure which has been ploughed B ST85NECON010 Village of West Ashton which has medieval origins B ST85NECON011 Village of West Ashton which has medieval origins B ST85NECON012 Possible field boundaries B ST85NECON013 Farmstead with medieval origins B ST85NECON014 Undated enclosure which has been ploughed B ST85NECON015 Iron Age enclosure which has been ploughed A ST85NECON016 A Bronze Age pit and a series of Romano-British ditches B found in the west. To the east area various features seen on aerial photographs which have been ploughed ST85NECON017 Group of undated earthworks of unknown function to the B west a farmstead of medieval origin ST85NECON018 An undated ring ditch which lies in arable B ST85NECON019 Two undated enclosures seen on aerial photographs in B arable cultivation ST85NECON020 Series of undated features seen on aerial photographs B which have been ploughed ST85NECON021 The remains of three, possibly four enclosures which have B been ploughed ST85NECON022 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85NECON023 Settlement with medieval origins B ST85NECON024 Series of undated features seen on aerial photographs B which have been ploughed ST85NECON025 Series of undated features seen on aerial photographs B which have been ploughed ST95SWCON001 Series of trackways which survive on downland pasture A slopes ST95SWCON002 Linear features which have been ploughed and area of B possible medieval settlement in the east ST95SWCON003 Village of Bratton which has medieval origins, but also B includes a number of Romano-British finds of burials, pottery, ditches and pits ST95SWCON004 Sunken trackways which are probably medieval in date A preserved on downland pasture slopes 155 ST95SWCON005 Series of strip lynchets and a ring ditch which have been B ploughed and various finds of particularly Romano-British date ST95SWCON006 Series of undated features seen on aerial photographs B which have been ploughed ST95SWCON007 Series of probable medieval features and two ring ditches B seen on aerial photographs. To the north the farmstead has medieval origins ST95SWCON008 Village of Edington which is first mentioned in AD880-5 and B is certainly medieval with a priory of this date. To the SW is evidence for a Romano-British settlement and to the north undated features ST95SWCON009 Area of downland pasture on which survive various banks A and ditches and a number of scheduled pillow mounds and barrows ST95SWCON010 Remains of a field system which has been ploughed B ST95SWCON011 Three undated burials which may be part of a more B extensive cemetery ST95SWCON012 Village of Tinhead which has medieval origins. There are B the remains of possible field systems to the north ST95SWCON013 Strip lynchets of probable medieval date surviving in A downland pasture ST95SWCON014 A possible enclosure surrounded by a number of medieval B metal finds which has been identified from aerial photographs ST95SWCON015 Deserted Medieval village including moat surrounded by A possible house sites and to the north fields of ridge and furrow cultivation ST95SWCON016 Two Romano-British buildings found by geophysical survey B and now ploughed ST85SWCON015 Area to the west and north of Romano-British settlement B where remains of this settlement may also exist ST95SWCON017 Four ring ditches which have been ploughed B ST95SWCON018 Possible medieval settlement B ST95SWCON019 Remains of a probable field system which has been B ploughed ST95NWCON001 Evidence for two Romano-British buildings lie in this area, B the full extent of which is not known ST95NWCON002 Five fields of ridge and furrow cultivation of probable A medieval date which survive well in pasture ST95NWCON003 Village of Bulkington which has medieval origins with the B possible remains of ridge and furrow cultivation to the north and south-east ST95NWCON004 Square enclosure surviving as banks in a field of ridge and A furrow cultivation which may be a moated site ST95NWCON006 The site of a mill with medieval origins B ST95NWCON007 Fields containing possibly well preserved medieval ridge B and furrow cultivation ST95NWCON008 Fields containing possibly well preserved medieval ridge B and furrow cultivation ST95NWCON009 Fields containing possibly well preserved medieval ridge B and furrow cultivation ST95NWCON010 Fields containing possibly well preserved medieval ridge B and furrow cultivation

156 ST95NWCON011 A number of undated features seen on serial photographs B in arable cultivation ST95NWCON012 Settlement with post-medieval origins B ST95NWCON013 Village of Keevil which has Saxon origins B ST95NWCON014 A farmstead with medieval origins B ST95NWCON015 Several Bronze Age burials found during quarrying. There B may be additional burials in this same area ST95NWCON016 Village of Steeple Ashton which has Saxon origins. To south B are features identified from aerial photographs ST95NWCON017 Site of Coople medieval church excavated in 1913 B ST95NWCON018 A farmstead with medieval origins B ST95NWCON019 Two enclosures seen on aerial photographs which are B ploughed ST95NWCON020 A settlement with medieval origins B ST95NWCON021 Two fields of ridge and furrow cultivation of probable A medieval date which survive well in pasture ST95NWCON022 Village of Great Hinton which has medieval origins and is B surrounded by fields containing medieval ridge and furrow cultivation the condition of which is unknown ST95NWCON023 Remains of an enclosure which has been ploughed B ST95NWCON024 Site of a mill with medieval origins B ST95NWCON025 Farmstead with medieval origins B ST95SECON001 Series of strip lynchets of probable medieval date which A have been preserved in pasture. To the south is a ring ditch which appears on aerial photographs ST95SECON003 Village of Coulston which has medieval origins B ST95NECON003 Fields containing possibly well preserved medieval ridge B and furrow cultivation ST85SECON035 Series of features which have been ploughed B ST85SECON036 Remnants of a field system which survive in pasture or have B been ploughed ST85SECON037 Features identified on aerial photographs adjacent to B Dunge Moat ST85SECON038 A possible enclosure which has been ploughed B ST85SECON039 Possible medieval settlement B ST85SECON040 features seen on aerial photographs within a ploughed B field ST85SECON041 Remnants of a field system B ST84NECON032 Features which may be related to ridge and furrow B cultivation ST84SECON040 A settlement with Medieval origins. B ST84SECON041 A settlement with Medieval origins. B ST84SECON039 Undated holloway, possibly medieval in date B ST86SECON001 Farm of Medieval origin - Gangbroke in AD1451. B ST86SECON002 Features visible on aerial photographs, possible settlement B of unknown date ST86SECON003 Farmstead of Medieval origin - Lynton or Lyntonesford in B AD1338. ST86SECON004 Farmstead of Medieval origin - West Chawfield, Little B Chavill in AD1659. ST86SECON005 Settlement of Saxon origin - Chaldfeld AD1001. B ST86SECON006 Two ring ditches visible on aerial photographs, indicating B location of Bronze Age burial sites. ST86SECON007 Features visible on aerial photographs, possible settlement B 157 of unknown date ST86SECON008 Holt - settlement of Medieval origin, Holt(e) AD1242. B Earthworks visible along line of trackway leading from the church to Bradleys Farm. ST86SECON009 Enclosure of unknown date visible on aerial photographs. B ST86SECON010 Features of unknown date visible on aerial photographs. B ST86SECON011 Farmstead of Medieval origin - Home of Thomas Hall in B AD1642. ST86SECON012 Staverton - settlement of Medieval origin, Stavretone in B AD1086. ST86SECON013 Settlement of Medieval origin - Smalebroc AD1086. B ST86SECON014 Enclosure of unknown date visible on aerial photographs. B ST86SECON015 Features visible on aerial photographs, possible settlement B of unknown date ST86SECON016 Features visible on aerial photographs, possible settlement B of unknown date ST86SECON017 Features of unknown date visible on aerial photographs. B ST86SECON018 Features visible on aerial photographs may indicate B holloway and possible area of settlement. ST86SECON019 Features of unknown date visible on aerial photographs. B ST86SECON020 Indication of rectangular features on aerial photographs, B possible house platforms of Medieval origin. ST86SECON021 Rectilinear features visible on aerial photographs, possibly B indicating area of Medieval settlement. ST86SECON022 Broughton Gifford - settlement of Saxon origin, Broctun B AD1001. Features visible in field east of the church. ST86SECON023 Building foundations and pottery indicate structure of B Romano-British date, possible Roman villa site. ST86SECON024 Features adjacent to R. Avon, possibly drainage. B ST86SECON025 Cluster of features visible on aerial photographs, including B a ring ditch indicating location of Bronze Age burial site, also signs on settlement, ST86SECON026 Farmstead of Medieval origin - Home of William De B Bradelegh in AD1332. ST86SECON027 Whaddon - settlement of Medieval origin, earthworks of A village visible east of church. ST86SECON028 Rectilinear features visible on aerial photographs, possibly B indicating area of Iron Age/Romano-British settlement. ST86SECON029 Ring ditch visible on aerial photographs, indicating location B of Bronze Age burial site. ST86SECON030 Two ring ditches visible on aerial photographs, indicating B location of Bronze Age burial sites. ST86SECON031 Circular features visible on aerial photographs, probably B house sites forming part of a prehistoric settlement. ST86SECON032 Large complex of features visible on aerial photographs, B including five ring ditches indication a Bronze Age round barrow cemetery, also settlement features. ST86SECON033 Berryfields - farmstead of Medieval origin - Bereghfeld B AD1286. Name interpreted as Hill or Barrow (Beorg). Site doesn't appear to be on a hill. ST86SECON034 Features visible on aerial photographs, date and purpose B unknown ST86SECON035 Ring ditch visible on aerial photographs, indicating location B of Bronze Age burial site. 158 ST86SECON036 Semington - settlement of Medieval origin, Semel (e) ton in B AD1249. ST96SWCON001 Small enclosure on unknown date visible on aerial B photograph. ST96SWCON002 Newtown Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, Neuton B AD1289. Features visible to west. ST96SWCON003 Littleton Green Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, B earthworks representing area of settlement visible to NW and SE of farm buildings. ST96SWCON004 An area of earthworks with ridge and furrow. Possibly B Medieval settlement. ST96SWCON005 Woolmore Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, Wolvemere B in AD1249. ST96SWCON006 Blackmore Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, Blakemor in B AD1230. ST96SWCON007 Concentration of Roman pottery and other finds indicating B settlement. ST96SWCON008 Snarlton Farm - extensive area of Medieval settlement B visible on aerial photographs. ST96SWCON009 Redstocks - extensive area of Medieval settlement visible A on aerial photographs. ST96SWCON010 Loves Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, Home of William B Love or Loove AD1597. ST96SWCON011 Little bowerhill Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, B Bowrehill, Bowermede AD1540. ST96SWCON012 Area of Medieval settlement visible on aerial photographs. B ST96SWCON013 Rectangular enclosure of unknown date visible on aerial B photograph. ST96SWCON014 Seend Row Farm - settlement of Medieval origin, B Sendenerewe, Senderowe in AD1268. ST96SWCON015 Features visible on aerial photograph, possibly part of B Medieval settlement of Redstocks. ST96SWCON016 Mitchell's Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, associated B with Edward Mitchell AD 1642. ST96SWCON017 Medieval settlement features showing on aerial B photographs. Associated with William De La Pyle in AD1257. ST96SWCON018 Features visible on aerial photograph, purpose unknown. B ST96SWCON019 Sandridge Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, Sandrug B AD1268. There are rectilinear scarps on a south facing slope. ST96SWCON020 Maples Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, home of B Walter atte Mapele AD1332. ST96SWCON021 Seend - settlement of Medieval origin, Sinda in AD1190. B ST96SWCON022 Inmarsh Farm - settlement of Medieval origin, B Hennemershe AD1225. Area of c.1.5ha of well preserved settlement earthworks survive to east. ST86SWCON001 Farleigh Wick - settlement of Medieval origin, Farlegh Wyke B in AD1257 ST86SWCON002 Roman settlement and extensive banks interpreted as field A system, well-preserved in woodland. ST86SWCON003 Haugh Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, Home of John B De La Haghe in AD1281. ST86SWCON004 Features visible on aerial photographs interpreted as B

159 ancient field-system, possibly Roman. ST86SWCON005 Hartley - farmstead or settlement of Medieval origin, B Hortleye in AD1289. ST86SWCON006 Ring ditch indicating location of former Bronze Age burial B mound ST86SWCON007 Features visible on aerial photographs interpreted as B ancient field-system and possible area of settlement. Date uncertain, perhaps Romano-British. ST86SWCON008 Small group of features visible on aerial photographs, B possibly field-system of unknown date. ST86SWCON009 Turleigh - settlement of Medieval origin, Turlinge in AD1341. B ST86SWCON010 Banks visible in grassland overlooking R.Avon, probably B remains of Medieval strip lynchet field-system. ST86SWCON011 Features visible on aerial photographs interpreted as B ancient field-system, possibly Roman. ST86SWCON012 Great Ashley - settlement of Medieval origin, Ashelegh in B AD1279. ST86SWCON013 Features visible on aerial photographs interpreted as B ancient field-system, possibly Roman and contemporary with villa site to south. ST86SWCON014 Features visible on aerial photographs interpreted as B ancient field-system. ST86SWCON015 Ring ditch indicating location of former Bronze Age burial B mound, linear feature nearby. ST86SWCON016 Great Cumberwell - farmstead or settlement of Medieval B origin, Cubrewelle in AD1086. ST86SWCON017 South Wraxall - settlement of Medieval origin, Wroxhal in B AD1227. Features in field east of village may indicate shift in location of settlement. ST86SWCON018 Ford Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, the home of B Thomas atte Fforde in AD1352. Aerial photographs show a large area of cropmarks west of farm - possible settlement. ST86SWCON019 Features visible on aerial photographs interpreted as B ancient field-system. ST86SWCON020 Features visible on aerial photographs interpreted as B ancient field-system. ST86SWCON021 Woolley - settlement of Medieval origin, Wlfleg in AD1242 B ST86SWCON022 Features visible on aerial photographs interpreted as B ancient field-system. ST86SWCON023 Linear ditch system of substantial length and small D- B shaped enclosure, visible on aerial photographs. Possible prehistoric settlement and land boundary. ST86SWCON024 Cluster of enclosures and ditches visible on aerial B photographs, probably representing settlement and field- system. Date uncertain, possibly Romano-British. ST86SWCON025 Ring ditch indicating location of former Bronze Age burial B mound, visible on aerial photograph. ST86SWCON026 Rectangular enclosure visible on aerial photographs, B probably small farmstead of Romano-British date. ST86SWCON027 Ditched feature, possibly section of ancient trackway. B ST86SWCON028 Blackacre Farm - farmstead of Medieval origin, Blackacre B in AD1583. Numerous features visible on aerial photographs around farm indicate settlement, perhaps Romano-British. ST86SWCON029 Two ring ditches indicating location of former Bronze Age B

160 burial mounds. ST86SWCON030 Potticks House - home of Ralph Poteck in AD1523. B ST96NWCON003 Beanacre - settlement of Medieval origin, Benacre in B AD1276. A survey in 1995 revealed Medieval landscape features, including some vague house platforms and a pond. ST96NWCON009 Cropmarks visible aerial photographs, probably B representing settlement. ST96NWCON010 Earthworks visible on aerial photographs, indicating B possible area of Medieval settlement. ST96NWCON011 Small enclosure visible on aerial photographs. B ST96NWCON012 Considerable quantities of Roman pottery sherds B recovered, indicating settlement. ST96NWCON018 Selves Farm - home of William Self in reign of Edward 3rd. B Boundary bank, pond and settlement earthworks. ST96NWCON019 Rhotteridge Farm - Raderygge AD1331. B ST96NWCON020 Small mound visible on aerial photographs, possibly a B barrow. ST96NWCON021 Extensive Roman pottery spread over large area of B meadow noted in 1796. Coarse red unglazed ware. ST96NWCON023 Enclosure visible on aerial photographs. B ST96NWCON024 Pottery sherds, possibly indicating Medieval kiln site. B ST96NWCON025 Discovery of Neolithic and Bronze Age flint tools, possible B area of settlement. ST84NECON033 Urban Survey of Warminster - see project report ST84SECON043 Ludlows Farm which has post-medieval farmstead B ST83NECON001 Romano-British temple only part of which is scheduled. A These are rare sites ST96SWCON023 Urban Survey of Melksham - contact County Archaeologist. ST86SECON038 Urban Survey of Melksham - contact County Archaeologist. ST85NECON026 Urban Survey of Trowbridge - contact County Archaeologist. ST85NWCON029 Urban Survey of Trowbridge - contact County Archaeologist. ST85NECON042 Urban Survey of Westbury - contact County Archaeologist. ST85SECON042 Urban Survey of Westbury - contact County Archaeologist. ST86SWCON031 Urban Survey of Bradford on Avon - contact County Archaeologist. ST84SECON044 Urban Survey of Warminster - contact County Archaeologist. ST94SWCON048 Urban Survey of Heytesbury – contact County Archaeologist. ST83NECON002 Enclosure of possible Bronze Age date, making it rare, A which is ploughed ST84SECON018 Field system visible on aerial photographs. B ST84SECON019 Ditches visible in pasture. B ST76SECON001 Roman settlement site excavated in 1922-3. Foundations, B many small finds, much pottery. ST76SECON002 Limpley Stoke - Village with Medieval origins, known as B Hangyndesrok in AD 1263. The Church is of pre-Conquest date. ST76SECON003 Field system seen on aerial photographs. B ST76SECON004 Field system seen on aerial photographs. B ST76SECON005 Extensive field-system of probable Romano-British date well- A 161 preserved in woodland. ST76SECON006 Field-system visible on aerial photographs. B ST76SECON007 Settlement site. Linear and irregular features showing as A cropmarks. Possibly Romano-British. ST76SECON008 Field-system visible on aerial photographs. B ST76SECON009 Field-system visible on aerial photographs. B ST76SECON010 Winsley - village of Medieval origin, Winsleg in 1242. B ST73SE023 An early Iron Age settlement partially excavated in B advance of a water pipeline in 1988.

Notes: Two classes of record were used: Category A to indicate areas of high archaeological value where development proposals may be resisted and Category B to indicate areas where archaeology is an issue but may be resolved by excavation or survey prior to development.

Source: Wiltshire County Council

162 Appendix A

Conservation Areas in West Wiltshire

Atworth Avoncliff Bishopstrow Boyton Bradford-on-Avon No 1 Bradford-on-Avon No 2 Bratton Brixton Deverill Broughton Gifford Chitterne Corton Edington Edington (Tinhead) Fisherton de la Mere (partial) Heytesbury Hilperton No 1 Hilperton No 2 Holt Horningsham Keevil Melksham Monkton Farleigh Sherrington South and Lower Wraxall Steeple Ashton Stockton Sutton Veny Tellisford Trowbridge No 1 Trowbridge No 2/Newtown Trowbridge No 3/Hilperton Road Turleigh Tytherington Warminster No 1 Warminster No 2/Boreham Road Westbury Westwood Winsley

163 Appendix B

Recreation Spaces in West Wiltshire

The following is a list of sites to be included within the provisions of Policy R2. This is not necessarily an exhaustive register; other sites that come forward for consideration may also fall into the recreation space category and will be considered accordingly.

Trowbridge

Ashton Street Centre Trowbridge FC Brook Road Trowbridge RFC County Cricket Ground Westbourne Bowls Club Delamere Road Westfield Close Downside Park Wiltshire Drive Drynham Park Clarendon School Holbrook Park Grove Primary School Laburnum Grove Holbrook Primary School Lambrok Road John of Gaunt School Lowmead Newtown Junior School Lydiard Way Parochial Junior School Old Tennis Court, Clarendon Road Paxcroft Primary School Rutland House St Augustine‟s RC School St John‟s Crescent St John‟s RC Junior School Seymour Road Field Studley Green Primary School Stallards Field Walwayne Court School The Grove The Park

Melksham

Avon Sports Club, Market Place King George V Playing Field Awdry Avenue Melksham Forest Estate Blackmore Road Estate Riverside Drive Clackers Brook Roundponds Conigre Meadows Aloeric Junior Infant School Dorset Crescent Forest and Sandridge School Dunch Lane George Ward School Foresters Park Road Lowbourne Junior School GEC Club, Beanacre Road St Michael‟s Primary School Hazelwood Road Kestrel Court

Bradford on Avon

Avon Sports Club, Trowbridge Rd St Aldhelm Barton Farm Country Park Sladesbrook Bearfield Recreation Ground Victory Field Culver Close Christchurch Primary School Greenland View Fitzmaurice Primary School Poulton Field St Laurence School Riverside Walk

164

Warminster

Arn Hill Warminster Common Ash Walk Warminster FC Copheap Warminster CC Fore Street Warminster RFC Grovelands Way Warminster School Lake Pleasure Grounds Woodcock Road MOD Battlesbury Barracks Boreham Road Field MOD School of Infantry Boreham Meadow Kingdown School Minster Primary School Pepper Place New Close Primary School Portway Princecroft Primary School Pound Street Sambourne Primary School Queensway St George‟s Primary School St Andrew‟s Road St John‟s Primary School Sambourne Gardens The Avenue Primary School Smallbrook Meadows The Dene

Westbury

Bitham Park Prospect Square Blue Circle Sports Field Soisy Gardens Chichester Park Studland Park Grassacres Westbury Leigh Hawkeridge Park Westbury FC, Meadow Lane Laverton Green Matravers School Leighton Sports Ground Oldfield Park Junior School Oldfield Park Redland Field Penleigh Park Westbury Leigh Primary School

Villages

Atworth, Recreation Ground Kingston Deverill, Village Hall Atworth, Primary School Limpley Stoke, King George V Playing Field Atworth, Stonar School Monkton Farleigh, Primary School Berryfields Monkton Farleigh, Broadstones Bowerhill Estate Monkton Farleigh, Farleigh Rise Bowerhill Playing Fields North Bradley, Peace Memorial Field Bishopstrow, Glebe Field North Bradley, Bradley Road Sports Field Bratton, Village Green North Bradley, School Bratton, School Semington, Wessex Close Broughton Gifford, The Common Semington, St George‟s Primary School Broughton Gifford, Newleaze Park Shaw, Primary School Broughton Gifford, Curtis Orchard Shaw, Recreation Ground Broughton Gifford, Primary School Shaw, Golden Fleece PH Chapmanslade, Recreation Ground Southwick, Primary School Chapmanslade, School Southwick, Playing Field Corton, Playing Field Staverton, School Lane Field Chitterne, Recreation Ground Steeple Ashton, Newleaze

165 Codford, Recreation Ground Steeple Ashton, Sandpits Lane Codford, St Mary‟s School Steeple Ashton, St Mary‟s School Corsley Heath, War Memorial Field Stockton, Recreation Area Dilton Marsh, School Stockton, Cricket Ground Dilton Marsh, Alan Powell Lane Sutton Veny, School Edington, Playing Field Sutton Veny, Alexander Memorial Field Heytesbury, School Playing Field Upton Lovell Heytesbury, Sports Ground West Ashton, School Hilperton, Playing Field Westwood, Primary School Hilperton, Primary School Westwood, Park Holt, Little Parks Westwood, Playing Field Holt, Recreation Ground Wingfield, The Poplars PH Holt, Primary School Wingfield, Primary School Horningsham, Playing Field Winsley, Recreation Ground Keevil, Manor House Winsley, Cricket Club Keevil, School Winsley, Bowling Club Keevil, Pyatts Corner Winsley, Limpley Stoke Road Winsley, Winsley Hill Winsley, Primary School

166 Appendix C

Guidelines for the Provision of Recreational Space in New Residential Development

1 Policy R4 requires the provision of recreational open space in new development at a standard of 2.43 hectares (6 acres) per 1,000 population as adopted by the NPFA. The standard is made up of:

Youth and Adult Use - 1.6-1.8 hectares (4.0-4.5 acres) per 1,000 population

Children‟s Use - 0.2-0.3 hectares (0.5-0.75 acres) per 1,000 population for equipped children‟s playgrounds and 0.4-0.5 hectares (1.0-1.25 acres) per 1,000 population for casual or informal play space within housing areas.

2 Youth and adult facilities include pitches, greens, courts and other miscellaneous items in public and private sectors, which as a matter of policy and practice are available for public use.

3 The minimum standard for children‟s use should be met at all times and in all circumstances. This provision should be within easy walking distance of new homes, well integrated within the development.

4 The precise provision of outdoor playing space within the stated categories and ranges will be dependent upon the nature of the development and the demographic profile of the resident population. In circumstances where provision cannot be made to the required standard, contributions towards the provision or improvement of facilities nearby will normally be secured (see Note 6).

5 Provision within sheltered housing development will not be required to provide formal facilities for youth and adult uses, but should provide appropriate amenity space consistent with the character of the area.

6 It may be appropriate for developers to enter into planning obligations under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 to secure the provision of public open space and sporting, recreation, social, educational or other community facilities as part of larger mixed developments.

Such agreements might cover:

- the provision of on-site and off-site recreational facilities related to the development;

- in the case of small developments, a contribution to nearby sport and recreational or open space provision;

- alternative provision when recreational land or open space is lost.

167 Appendix D

Housing: Existing District Plan Allocations and Other Large Commitments

Site No. of Comments Dwellings

Trowbridge St. Johns Hospital 50 Permission subject to legal agreement The Down 12 Permission subject to legal agreement Wingfield Road 16 Permission subject to legal agreement

Bradford on Avon Bradford on Avon 35 District Plan 1st Alteration Deposit Allocation and Hospital permission subject to legal agreement

Melksham Awdry Avenue 56 District Plan 1st Alteration Deposit Allocation and permission subject to legal agreement

Westbury Bitham Mill 54 Permission subject to legal agreement Leigh Park 99 Residual of District Plan Allocation

Warminster Bradley Road 12 Permission subject to legal agreement

Trowbridge Rural High Street, Dilton 22 Permission subject to legal agreement Marsh

Warminster Rural Green Lane, 13 Permission subject to legal agreement Codford

TOTAL 369

Source: Wiltshire County Council, Environmental Services Department

168 Appendix Da

Housing Allocations Phasing Table

B Brownfield GI Greenfield Infill SG Strategic Greenfield OG Other Greenfield

Site B GI SG OG Phase 1 Phase 2 (04/2001 – (04/2006 – 03/2006) 03/2011)

Bradford on Avon BA09 Kingston Mills X 130

Melksham ME02 Stratton House X 43 H6 Land east of Melksham X 750

Trowbridge TR02 Frome Road X 15 TR03 Silver St Lane X 15 TR04 Holbrook Lane X 20 TR05 Cedar Grove X 15 TR08 Yeoman Way Estate X 30 TR09 County Way X 76 TR10 Rear of Wesley Road X 20 TR12 Broad Street X 50 TR13 Ushers Brewery X 120 TR14 Bythesea Road X 20 TR15 Court Street X 112 TR20 Hilperton Road X 15 TR21 Ashton Mills X 40 TR23 TA Centre, Bythesea X 59 Road H7 Staverton Triangle X 80 H7a New Terrace, X 60 Staverton H8 North of Paxcroft Way X 230 H8a South of The Grange X 35 H8b Blue Hills, Devizes X 35 Road H8c North of Green Lane X 160 H9 Land at Southview X 300 H10 South of West Ashton X 100 Road H11 South of Paxcroft X 550 Mead Westbury WE01 Uitenage Farm X 63 WE02 Station Road X 90 WE04 Land off Oldfield X 30 Road WE06 Coalyard, Bratton X 52 Road WE10 Becks Mill X 50 169 H13a Land adj Westbury X 25 Hospital H13 Leigh Park X 230 (remainder) H14 Station Road X 180

Warminster WA01 R/O of Vicarage X 20 St/West St WA03 Land at West Street X 12 WA08 Land off George X 30 Street WA09 Land fronting Boot X 18 Hill WA12 Rear of Westbury X 10 Road WA13 The Close X 15 WA14 Land rear of Market X 30 Place WA18 Fairfield Road X 98 WA19 Station Road X 30 WA20 Imber Road X 15 H12 North of Victoria Road X 190

TOTAL 1771 2497

170 Appendix E

Employment Land Commitments April 2001

Completions Outstanding at General Total

4/91 - 31/03/01 04/01 Area Commitments Bradford on 0.28 0.00 0.00 0.28 Avon Melksham 6.75 9.88 0.00 16.63 Trowbridge 12.04 21.76 2.92 36.72 Westbury 4.41 39.36 1.62 45.39 Warminster 2.93 9.67 0.03 12.63

West Wilts 26.41 80.67 4.57 111.65 District

All figures in hectares

Source: Wiltshire County Council, Environmental Services Department

Employment: District Plan (1996) Allocations and Other Large Commitments

Site Area (ha) Comments

Melksham Bowerhill 18.10 District Plan (1996) allocation + Revised Deposit Murray Walk 2.21 District Plan (1996) allocation Westbury Brook Lane 2.08 District Plan (1996) allocation + Revised Deposit Stationremainder Road 4.00 District Plan (1996) allocation + Revised Deposit Warminster Gas House Farm 7.04 District Plan (1996) allocation

TOTAL 33.43

Source: Wiltshire County Council, Environmental Services Department

171 Appendix F

Canals in West Wiltshire Policy Statement (Revised 2004)

1.0 Introduction

1.1 West Wiltshire is served by two inland waterways, the Kennet and Avon Canal, a recently restored waterway under the management of British Waterways, and the Wilts and Berks Canal, which was abandoned in 1914 and has recently begun to be restored by the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust. The canals give a fascinating insight into the social and economic history of the area, and have produced some fine architectural and engineering features, the most notable in West Wiltshire being the aqueducts at Dundas and Avoncliff.

1.2 Today the canals have great potential as a recreational resource; new marinas at Bradford on Avon and Hilperton have already shown the benefits of major new amenities for both local people and tourists; there are still opportunities for smaller scale initiatives such as picnic sites, car parks and interpretative facilities to be provided. However, there is also a need to protect the canal environment. Much of the waterway‟s charm is in the countryside and townscape which they run through and the diversity of flora and fauna they support. This protection can be achieved by careful control of further development, effective management of visitor pressure and positive promotion of schemes to enhance the environment and nature conservation opportunities.

1.3 Planning policies providing the basis for deciding planning applications relating to development on or affecting the Kennet and Avon or Wilts and Berks Canal are given in the West Wiltshire District Plan 1st Alteration. This Policy Statement is intended as supplementary guidance to the policies and proposals of the Plan and provides helpful guidance for those preparing planning applications. The Policy Statement does not have any special status in deciding applications but may be taken into account as a material consideration.

1.4 The overall strategies for the canals and their continuing restoration have, where possible, been included in the following policies because the West Wiltshire stretches cannot be seen in isolation from the wider canal network within the region.

1.5 The report that follows has been split into 2 main sections, one dealing with the Kennet and Avon Canal, the other with the Wilts and Berks Canal. This allows the policies to be tailored to the particular needs of the waterways which are at quite different stages of restoration.

2.0 Kennet and Avon Canal

2.1 Environment

Restoration

KA1 The District Council supports in principle the continued restoration of the Kennet and Avon Canal, individually and as part of the wider waterways network, as a recreational and nature conservation amenity and will, if resources permit, support the aim of achieving cruise-way status.

172 2.1.1 Although the Kennet and Avon Canal was officially re-opened by Her Majesty the Queen in 1990, restoration work is still ongoing. Major relining works have taken place on parts of the “dry section” through the Limpley Stoke valley and a major back pumping scheme to ensure sufficient water supply for the whole length is currently under construction, plus a host of smaller maintenance projects required to allow the full use of the canal. The canal is owned by British Waterways; however, they are limited by law as to the amount they can spend on the canal given its current „remainder waterway‟ status. Should the canal be upgraded to „cruise-way‟ status, either by way of 21 year agreements with local authorities or by becoming self financing through development, British Waterways would then be able to carry out all necessary maintenance works required to keep the canal open and safe for boaters and all other users. The marginal costs of upgrading the waterway to „cruise-way‟ and maintaining at such cannot be funded by British Waterways, and must be the responsibility of the local community until such time that the marginal income matches marginal costs. A long term agreement to meet this objective would enable reclassification to „cruise- way‟.

Corridor Studies

KA2 The District Council will, as resources permit, work with British Waterways and in consultation with Wiltshire County Council, the Environment Agency and other interested bodies, to produce a corridor study for the Kennet and Avon Canal within West Wiltshire.

2.1.2 The environment of the canal is very important, passing as it does through part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the historic town of Bradford on Avon plus parts of Wiltshire‟s unspoilt open countryside. Corridor studies are a tried and tested means used on many of Britain‟s canals to identify different areas along a canal‟s route, including those to be protected or enhanced and those with potential for development or interpretation.

Walking and Cycling

KA3 The District Council supports the use of the Kennet and Avon Canal towpath for walking and cycling, both as part of the local network and as part of longer distance routes and, where resources allow, will work in co-operation with British Waterways to improve facilities and upgrade towpaths where required, to a standard appropriate to the location and with due regard to nature conservation interests.

2.1.3 The towpath provides excellent long and short distance walks and cyclepaths, away from traffic, through towns and the surrounding countryside. British Waterways is currently investigating which parts of the towpath are suitable for cycling, and may identify areas where paths require improvements or access arrangements need to be altered.

Where possible, when access arrangements are improved, special attention will be paid to the needs of the disabled. The standard to which the towpath may be upgraded will have to be considered with regard to location and the interests of nature conservation, as well as the requirements of the user. For example it is unlikely to be appropriate, in sensitive rural areas, to provide tarmac paths.

173 The Built Environment

KA4 The District Council supports in principle the continued restoration of the Kennet and Avon Canal and related structures for their architectural and historic merit.

2.1.4 The canal is an important part of our industrial heritage and has many fine structures associated with it. These range from the impressive aqueducts, such as John Rennie‟s at Avoncliff, to the smaller lock keepers‟ cottages and wharf related buildings. They are all important parts of the built history of the area which should be protected.

2.2 Development

Discharge

KA5 Circular 30/92 Development and Flood Risk requires consent to be gained from British Waterways for any surface water discharge into the canal; prospective developers are advised to contact British Waterways at an early stage.

2.2.1 The Government Circular requires developers to gain consent from British Waterways prior to arranging for surface water to be discharged in to the canal, as it is not always appropriate or possible.

Redundant Land and Buildings

KA6 The District Council will encourage the re-use of redundant land and waterside buildings for visitor facilities, overnight accommodation and refreshments, provided that they do not detract from the character of the canal or particular location, are in line with policies in the West Wiltshire District Plan and that parking and highway issues can be satisfactorily resolved.

2.2.2 Policies in the West Wiltshire District Plan encourage the re-use of buildings which have the benefit of conserving the built environment and accommodating uses beneficial to the local rural economy without requiring new building on greenfield sites.

Design Standards

KA7 In order to enhance and maintain the character and environment of the canal, all developments adjacent to or having an impact on the canal should be of an appropriate character and high quality of design and materials.

2.2.3 Developments that occur on private and public owned land along the canal, or are clearly visible from it, will have a direct impact on the canal. They present good opportunities to make the most of the waterside aspects through design and use of appropriate materials.

Redevelopment of sites may also provide the opportunity to enhance the canal environment.

Residential Moorings

KA8 Should a need be identified for residential moorings within West Wiltshire, the District Council will in the first instance expect berths to be accommodated in existing marinas; however, should a new site be required it should be well related to the existing built

174 environment, able to be satisfactorily serviced, protect and conserve important nature conservation interests and have satisfactory access and parking provision.

2.2.4 As yet, no requirement for residential moorings has been identified for West Wiltshire. Where possible, emerging requirements should be met by provision at existing marinas. Should a need for a new site arise, options will be evaluated in line with policies of the West Wiltshire District Plan and, in particular, sites will be expected to be within or well related to existing settlements.

New Road Schemes

KA9 Any new road proposals requiring to cross the Kennet and Avon Canal will be expected to minimise the visual and physical impact on the canal’s line and setting and provide an attractive bridge over the waterway, preserving adequate headroom and a full width towpath.

2.2.35 The Kennet and Avon Canal is already crossed by two major „A‟ roads, A363 and A350, in West Wiltshire. In the course of route improvements it is likely that new crossings will be required particularly south of Melksham and Bradford on Avon. Any new bridge over the canal would have a major impact on the canal environment and it is essential that any proposals respect the canal‟s historic and environmental value in terms of scale, design and materials and do not detract from its recreational value.

2.3 Management

Management Plan

KA10 The District Council will, in co-operation with British Waterways, and in consultation with Wiltshire County Council and other interested parties, seek to formulate a management plan for the Kennet and Avon Canal to regulate visitor use, protect the environment including the aquatic flora and fauna, and identify areas where facilities are required.

2.3.1 The District Council‟s Tourism Strategy recognises the Kennet and Avon Canal as an important tourism and recreational resource and as part of the action plan identifies a need for a management plan to reduce visitor pressure/conflict and to ensure that the full potential of the canal is fulfilled.

Sustainability

KA11 The District Council will, in promoting the Kennet and Avon Canal, promote the use of public transport by those visiting the canal and its attractions and, in particular, sustainable forms of tourism such as walking and cycling.

2.3.2 The Council is keen to obtain sustainable tourism and, while the economic benefits of attracting visitors are clear, so are the environmental disbenefits of greater CO2 emissions, traffic congestion and overloaded car parks. Therefore, the Council will promote the use of its very good rail and bus networks, through promotional leaflets and provision of information on timetables etc at Tourist Information Centres.

175 Signage

KA12 Signage of the canal itself and its attractions will be guided by the District Council’s Signage Strategy and carried out in conjunction with British Waterways and Wiltshire County Council.

2.3.3 Signage is important both to guide visitors, provide information and for safety, particularly at locks. However, a plethora of signs can detract from an otherwise attractive area and can prove confusing to those visiting. The signage report provides guidelines for ensuring that signage is co-ordinated and provides a good basis for joint working among various interested parties.

Specialist Holidays

KA13 The District Council will, as part of the marketing working group for the Kennet and Avon Canal, assist in its promotion, through literature and exhibitions, and will investigate the possibility of promoting specialist holidays that involve use of the canal.

2.3.4 The District Council‟s Tourism Strategy identifies the opportunities for short break and specialist holidays in West Wiltshire. The canal would make an ideal basis for specialist holidays and could offer a range of different activities, not just the obvious boating holidays.

3.0 Wilts and Berks Canal

3.1 The Wilts and Berks Canal was abandoned by Act of Parliament in 1914, leaving the canal‟s length in a number of private ownerships. Much of the canal is still in existence, but some has been lost under development, particularly the section through Melksham which is now a major barrier to re-opening the canal. The Wilts and Berks Canal Amenity Group, formed in 1977 [now the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust], aims to restore the canal to full navigation. It has already made significant progress in restoring the canal at various locations along its length and also preparing plans for various lengths of new canal that will be required. As re-using the old alignment of the canal through Melksham is no longer practical, the Group has looked at various alternatives.

Restoration

WB1 The District Council supports in principle the restoration of the Wilts and Berks Canal, both as a navigable waterway and as a recreational and nature conservation amenity.

3.2 The District Council has for some years supported the aims of the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust in restoring the canal to a navigable waterway. There are also benefits to be had from the potential of the canal in terms of recreation and nature conservation. The Trust has already identified possibilities for the canal towpath to act as a long distance bridlepath and/or cycleway and is promoting it as a linear park as well as a canal.

WB2 The District Council will seek to assist the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust in the search for a line for a new length of canal to be cut at Melksham between the Kennet and Avon Canal and the old line of the canal at the North Wiltshire/West Wiltshire border. As part of the process the Council will, as resources permit, assist in raising public awareness of the existence of the canal and of the aim of the Trust to achieve total restoration.

3.3 The Council supports in principle the aim of the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust to restore navigation to the canal, which will require a new cut at Melksham. The Council

176 considers that its role at this stage should be confined to promotion of the aims of the Trust and raising of public awareness, until such time as a technically sound and agreed route is designed in detail which could then properly be considered for safeguarding. The Council will review that part of the District Plan 1st Alteration which is concerned with the canal at the earliest opportunity subject to the necessary work having been completed to demonstrate that an agreed route is technically feasible and that there is a reasonable prospect of it being delivered within the Plan period.

The Old Alignment

WB3 The District Council will seek to safeguard the remaining alignment of the old Wilts and Berks Canal from Semington to Melksham for future recreational use and nature conservation value.

3.4 Although the old alignment of the canal cannot be used to restore full navigation in this part of the District, this does not imply the old alignment has no value. There may be opportunities, whether through development or not, to provide recreational uses such as nature conservation and angling along this alignment plus interpretation of the canal as an important part of the area‟s history.

WB4 The District Council will support the production of interpretative material for the canal and its restoration including interpretative panels and leaflets.

3.5 The task of the Wilts and Berks Canal Trust in raising funds for the restoration of the canal is immense and publicity of current works and the aims of the trust will do much to raise public awareness. The District Council has already assisted in the production of a leaflet tracing the old line of the canal through Melksham and will continue to support production of similar material as and when resources are available.

177 Appendix G Base Maximum Car Parking Standards

Land Use/ Use Class Maximum Parking Standard A1 Retail Non Food Retail < 1000 sq. m gross 1 space per 35 sq. m floor area (GFA) Non Food Retail > 1000 sq. m GFA 1 space per 20 sq. m Food Retail > 1 space per 14 sq. m 1000 sq. m GFA A2 Financial and Professional 1 space per 30 sq. m Services A3 Food and Drink Restaurants, cafes, public houses 1 space per 25 sq. m and bars Takeaways 1 space per 10 sq. m B1 Business including offices <2500sq. m GFA 1 space per 30 sq. m >2500sq. m GFA 1 space per 30 sq. m B2 General Business <235 sq. m GFA 1 space per 30 sq. m >235 sq. m GFA 1 space per 50 sq. m B8 Warehousing <235 sq. m GFA 1 space per 30 sq. m >235 sq. m GFA 1 space per 200 sq. m C1 Hotels 1 per bedroom (plus requirement for public facilities) C2 Residential Institutions Hospitals 1 space per 4 members of staff + 1 space per 3 visitors Nursing Homes 1 space per 4 beds + 1 space per 2 members of staff C3 Dwelling Houses 5+ beds 3 spaces per unit + 1 additional space for every 5 units Up to 4 beds (including flats) 2 spaces per unit + 1 additional space for every 5 units Sheltered accommodation ½ space per unit + 1 additional space for every 5 units Other retirement homes 1 space per unit + 1 additional space for every 5 units D1 Non Residential Institutions Place of worship, church halls and 1 space per 5 sq. m public halls Clinic, health centres and surgeries 5 spaces per consulting room Libraries 1 space per 25 sq. m Art Galleries and museums 1 space per 40 sq. m Education centres Staff: 2 spaces per 3 members of staff Visitors: 1 space per 7 members of staff Pupils: 1 space per 10 pupils of 2nd year 6th Form Parents Parking Infants: 1 space per 12 pupils Parents Parking Junior: 1 space per 20 pupils Parents Parking Secondary: 1 space per 30 pupils 178 Higher and Further Education 1 space per 2 members of staff + 1 space per 15 students* D2 Assembly and Leisure Cinemas, Music and Concert Halls 1 space per 5 seats Sports Facilities, Field Sports, 1space per 22 seats Dance Halls, Bingo Halls and Casinos

Notes:

* The standard for students relates to the total number of students attending an educational establishment, rather than full-time equivalent figures. For mixed-use development, the gross floorspace given over to each use should be used to calculate the overall total maximum parking figure.

Minimum Disabled Car Parking Standards

Disabled parking will be provided at all developments to an appropriate minimum standard that will be determined from the relevant maximum standard prior to any discounting, and will be additional to the final discounted level of parking. The appropriate standards are shown in the following table;

Scale of Development Land Use/Class Up to 200 spaces Over 200 spaces

Employment* 5% of capacity or 2 2% of capacity + 6 spaces spaces, whichever is greater

Shopping, 6% of capacity or 3 4% of capacity + 4 spaces leisure and spaces, whichever is recreational greater facilities * Spaces for disabled employees will be additional to these requirements

Minimum Cycle Parking Standards

Land Use/Class Minimum Parking Standard Employment 4 spaces + 2 spaces per each 500m2 above 1000m2 GFA

Retail and leisure 4 spaces + 2 spaces per each 500m2 above 1000m2 GFA development

179

180