CHARNWOOD 2021 Local Development Framework for Charnwood

SCIENCE PARK DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENT PREFERRED OPTION

SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL REPORT

February 2006

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Contents Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report February 2006

CONTENTS

1. Summary and outcomes 1 1.1 Non-technical summary 1 1.2 A Statement of the likely significant effects of the plan 3 1.3 Statement on the difference the process has made 6 1.4 How to comment on the report 9

2. Appraisal Methodology 10 2.1 Approach adopted to the SA 10 2.2 When was the Sustainability Appraisal carried out 11 2.3 Who carried out the Sustainability Appraisal 11 2.4 Who was consulted, when and how 11 2.5 Difficulties encountered in compiling information or carrying out the assessment 12

3. Background 12 3.1 Purpose of the SA and the SA Report 12 3.2 Plan objectives and outline of contents 12 3.3 Compliance with the SEA Directive/Regulations 12

4. Sustainability objectives, baseline and context 13 4.1 Links to other strategies, plans and programmes and sustainability objectives 13 4.2 Description of the social, environmental and economic baseline characteristics and the predicted future baseline 17 4.3 Main Social, environmental and economic issues and problems identified 19 4.4 Difficulties in collecting data and limitations of the data 19 4.5 The SA framework, including objectives, targets and indicators 20

5. Plan issues and options 28 5.1 Main strategic options considered and how they were identified 28 5.2 Comparison of the social, environmental and economic effects of the options 28 5.3 How social, environmental and economic issues were considered in choosing the preferred option 39 5.4 Other Options Considered, and why these were rejected 39 5.5 Any Proposed mitigation measures 40

6. Plan policies 40 6.1 Significant social, environmental and economic effects of the preferred policies 40 6.2 How social, environmental and economic problems were considered in developing policies and proposals 51 6.3 Proposed mitigation measures 51 6.4 Uncertainties and risks 51

7. Implementation 52 7.1 Links to other tiers of plans and programmes and the project level (environmental impact assessment, design guidance etc) 52 7.2 Proposals for monitoring 52

Contents Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report February 2006

SCIENCE PARK DEVELOPMENT PLAN DOCUMENT PREFERRED OPTION SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL REPORT

1 Summary and outcomes

1.1 Non-technical summary

Appraisal Methodology 1.1.1 A sustainability appraisal is a way of ensuring the potential economic, social and environmental effects of the proposed Science Park DPD are identified and measures are taken to remedy any detrimental effects.

1.1.2 This Sustainability Appraisal is undertaken in line with the guidelines set out in the Consultation Draft ‘Sustainability Appraisal of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Frameworks’ (ODPM, 2004). It also includes an environmental report as required by the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive (2001/42/EC) relating to the environmental assessment of plans. Using the method set out in the Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report the site options and policy of the Science Park DPD have been assessed against the 27 sustainability objectives which comprise of a range of environmental, material assets (natural resources), social and environmental topics. The sustainability objectives are set out in Table 1. This assessment took place between July and November 2005. This was at the same time as the Science Park DPD policy was being formed so that the assessment could influence the forming of the policy. The Planning Policy team carried out the assessment.

Background 1.1.3 The sustainability appraisal is one way of ensuring that the Science Park DPD contributes to the aim of sustainable development, which is central to the reformed planning system. Sustainable development is about the integration of economic, social and environmental considerations in planning new growth and protecting assets.

1.1.4 The Science Park DPD is one of the documents that will form part of Charnwood’s Local Development Framework. It will identify land for the provision of a second Science Park in Loughborough. Where appropriate it will also consider the needs of Loughborough University for additional educational and student accommodation space. The Science Park DPD has been guided by the Core Strategy DPD, which is being produced, to the same timescale.

Sustainability Objectives, Baseline and Context 1.1.5 The Sustainability Appraisal Framework is the matrix against which all options and policies will be assessed. It also includes targets and indicators for each objective so that progress can be measured to ensure that the DPD continues to positively influence the sustainability objectives. Further details are set out in Table 6 of the Main Report. The Framework was drawn up by taking account of:

ƒ Relevant policy documents and their key objectives, targets and indicators at the national, regional and local level on economic, social and environmental subjects ƒ Social, environmental and economic baseline characteristics of the Borough ƒ Main social, environmental and economic issues and problems identified

1 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Table 1: Sustainability Objectives

Environmental Objectives Social Objectives To maintain and enhance biodiversity, flora and fauna To increase the population’s access to a full range of To maintain and enhance landscape and townscape public, private, community and voluntary services character To increase access to the countryside, public open To protect and improve surface and groundwater spaces and semi urban environments (eg parks) quality To promote a strong community where people feel To minimise water consumption they have a say in the future To improve air quality To reduce crime, anti social behaviour and increase To conserve soil resources and quality community safety To reduce contributions to climate change To increase the population’s access and opportunity To reduce vulnerability to climate change to participate in culture, media and sport in To conserve and enhance the historic and cultural Charnwood environment To ensure that the housing stock meets the housing needs of all sections of the community To reduce poverty and social exclusion To increase learning, skills and employability for all sectors of the community To increase the vibrancy and viability of settlements To increase sustainable design and construction To increase healthy life styles Material Assets Objectives Economic Objectives To increase the re-use of previously developed land To encourage a sustainable economy and buildings To increase efficient patterns of movement to To minimise the extraction of new and increase the support a sustainable economy re-use of recycled minerals and aggregates resources To reduce disparities in economic performance To manage waste in accordance with the waste hierarchy in all sectors (i.e. household, commercial and industrial) To minimise the use of energy and optimise the use of renewable resources

Plan Issues and Options 1.1.6 The Council published an ‘Issues and Options’ Paper on the Core Strategy and Science Park in June 2005 for consultation with key stakeholders. This invited comments on 5 possible sites for the science park. The location and size of the science park is guided by the Structure Plan which indicates that a substantial science park of up to 50 hectares should be found in Loughborough close to the university. The result of the consultation was to add an extra site for the Council to consider on the southern edge of Loughborough.

1.1.7 Before carrying out the sustainability appraisal of the site options, 2 of the site options were considered unsuitable to take forward. Brownfield sites in Loughborough have not been taken forward as there is not a large enough site or group of sites likely to be available. Land at Sileby has not been taken forward as no detailed information was given for the site and it is likely to score poorly in terms of its location.

1.1.8 So, the Sustainability Appraisal of sites compares 4 options. The reasons for choosing the preferred site option are set out below. Further details are set out in Section 5 of the Main Report.

Option 1: Land West of Loughborough, South of the A512 Presents the best option for the development of a Science Park. The appraisal indicates that there are potential environmental effects but the site has advantages that will be attractive in terms of business investment:

ƒ 2 areas of ancient woodland fall within the site;

2 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 ƒ Part of the site falls within the northernmost edge of the sensitive landscape of the Charnwood Forest and the National Forest but the landscape in this area is already affected by existing urban influences; ƒ Falls within Green Wedge but there is scope to remodel this and retain an effective area of separation; ƒ The character of the area gives the opportunity to secure a high quality development, reflecting its location on the edge of Charnwood Forest and the National Forest; ƒ Close to the two largest urban settlements, Loughborough and Shepshed ƒ Located in close proximity to the University where there is scope for the involvement of the University in the development of the Science Park as it has a direct interest in it; ƒ Excellent access to the motorway via Junction 23 of the M1; ƒ High frequency bus service between Loughborough and Shepshed gives significant scope to reduce car use. There are also good cycle and walking links within the site which can reduce car use.

Option 2: Land West of Loughborough, North of the A512 was rejected ƒ A prestigious science park would be best located on the frontage of the A512 and development of this location will have harmful effects on the Historic Park and Garden at Garendon;

Option 4a: Outside Loughborough - Wymeswold Airfield was rejected ƒ Contrary to strategy of urban concentration set out in the Regional Plan and the Structure Plan, seeking to direct new development to the existing urban areas where there is good access to existing infrastructure and services and good public transport; ƒ Would have a significant urbanising impact on an area of open countryside; ƒ Bus services are less frequent than other site options and so likely to attract the use of the private car. ƒ Site is remote from the existing science park and Loughborough University; ƒ Poorly located in relation to the motorway network. The proposed bypasses could bring some traffic relief to some Wolds villages. However it would not offer a comprehensive, long term solution. Lorry movements would affect other villages, such as Wymeswold and add to pressures on the east to west road network in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.

Option 5: Land South of Loughborough was rejected ƒ Less close to the University campus as the west Loughborough options; ƒ Less well located in the relation to the motorway; ƒ Detrimental impact on the separate identities of Loughborough, Woodthorpe and Quorn is likely as it would be difficult to maintain the green wedge with a development of this size; ƒ Includes Grade 2 and Grade 3a best and most versatile agricultural land.

1.2 A Statement of the likely significant effects of the plan

Plan Policies 1.2.1 Table 2 summarises the likely significant effects of the policies proposed for the Core Strategy. This summary is based upon an analysis of the individual sustainability appraisal of the policy.

3 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Table 2: Summary of the Likely Significant Effects of the Core Strategy Policies

Sustainability Objective Effects Environment Objectives To maintain and enhance The policy has a negative effect. Policy 1 proposes a large scale biodiversity, flora and fauna development on Greenfield land where there are locally designated nature conservation sites. However, it does include a substantial landscape setting and conservation of woodlands and other natural features in recognition of the need to protect and enhance biodiversity, flora and fauna interests. To maintain and enhance the The policy has a negative effect. Policy 1 proposes a large scale landscape and townscape character development on Greenfield land close to the northern edge of the Charnwood Forest sensitive landscape area. However, it does include a substantial landscape setting in recognition of the need to protect and enhance the Charnwood Forest landscape. To protect and improve surface and The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 is unlikely to have a groundwater quality significant effect as the groundwater beneath the Borough does not supply drinking water and is not considered particularly susceptible to pollution from surface sources. To minimise water consumption The policy has a positive effect. It is recognised that new development is likely to increase water consumption. The effect depends upon the use of sustainable design and construction techniques to minimise water consumption. To increase air quality The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 moves towards this objective by directing a new science park to a location close to the main urban area and that is well served by public transport, cycling and walking. So, this policy will have positive effects on air quality by preventing pollution and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. To conserve soil resources and The policy has a negative effect. Policy 1 proposes a large scale quality development on Greenfield land. This is likely to have a negative effect as it involves the development some land identified as best and most versatile agricultural land. To reduce contributions to climate The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 moves towards this change objective by directing a new science park to a location close to the main urban area and that is well served by public transport, cycling and walking. It also requires energy efficient design. So, this policy will have positive effects on air quality by reducing greenhouse gas emissions. However, it is recognised that the close proximity to the motorway and the type is development is likely to attract long distance commuters. For this reason the policy includes measures to reduce this. To reduce vulnerability to climate The policy has a positive effect. The comments relating to ‘reducing change contributions to climate change’ are relevant.

The policy has a negative effect. Flood risk is relevant in areas close to the Burleigh Brook. To conserve and enhance the The policy has a positive effect. The effect depends upon the scale, historic and cultural environment location and design of new development as there are listed buildings and areas of archaeological interest on this site.

There are no significant negative effects. Material Assets Objectives To increase the re-use of previously The policy has a negative effect. Policy 1 moves away significantly developed land and buildings from this objective as this is a Greenfield location. To minimise the extraction of new The policy has a negative effect. Beyond the limits of the site there is & increase the re-use and recycling a mineral consultation area. of minerals & aggregates resources To manage waste in accordance There are no significant effects. with the waste hierarchy in all sectors

4 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Sustainability Objective Effects To minimise use of energy & The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 moves towards this optimise the use of renewable objective, as it requires the use of energy efficient design. resources Social Objectives To increase the population’s access There are no significant effects. to a full range of appropriate public, private, community and voluntary services To increase access to the There are no significant effects. countryside, open spaces and semi urban environments To promote a strong community The policy has a positive effect. The effect of this policy depends where people feel they have a say in upon the strategies put in place to integrate the development of this the future site with existing communities. New development, particularly on Greenfield land is likely to be of concern to local communities.

To reduce crime, anti social The policy has a positive effect. Depends upon whether design takes behaviour and increase community account the principles of designing out crime. safety To increase the population’s access The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 includes recreation uses as and opportunity to participate in one of the types of uses that will be allowed but it is uncertain culture, media and sport in whether this will benefit the general population. Charnwood To ensure that the housing stock The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 does not include housing as meets the housing needs of all one of the types of uses that will be allowed. sections of the community To reduce poverty and social The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 will move towards this exclusion objective through increasing local employment opportunities but it is uncertain whether the science park will provide jobs that will match the skills of those living in areas of deprivation who do not have a job. To increase learning, skills and The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 will move towards this employability for all sectors of the objective by providing for the expansion needs of the university and community through increasing local employment opportunities and possibly by creating demand for skills training. To increase the vibrancy and viability The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 will move towards this of settlements objective. It requires a high standard of design and extensive landscaping. It is recognised that new development on Greenfield sites may reduce the separation between settlements but this depends upon the scale, location and design of new development. It is considered that an effective Green Wedge can be retained in this general location. To increase sustainable design and The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 will move towards this construction objective. It requires a high standard of design using energy efficient measures and extensive landscaping. It also recognises the need to conserve and enhance wildlife habitats and measures to increase use of non car travel to the site. To increase healthy life styles The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1will move towards this objective through seeking cycling and pedestrian routes to the site. Economic Objectives To encourage sustainable economy The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 moves significantly towards this objective by proposing new land for a science park and growth of the University campus in a location well served by public transport, walking and cycling.

5 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Sustainability Objective Effects To increase efficient patterns of The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 moves towards this movement to support a sustainable objective by directing a new science park to a location close to the economy main urban area and that is well served by public transport, cycling and walking. So, this policy will have positive effects in terms of reducing congestion. However, it is recognised that the close proximity to the motorway and the type is development is likely to attract long distance commuters. For this reason the policy includes measures to reduce this. To reduce disparities in economic The policy has a positive effect. Policy 1 moves towards this performance objective through providing land for jobs. The strategy of urban concentration is recognised as being detrimental to rural diversification.

1.2.2 Overall, the policy and so the Science Park DPD, has positive effects. The significant negative effects relate to the fact that a Greenfield site is proposed where there are biodiversity, landscape and best and most versatile agricultural land interests. The scale of the development means that there are no suitable previously developed sites in Loughborough or in a sustainable location.

1.2.3 The Core Strategy DPD will also provide guidance on quality design and sustainable design and construction techniques and managing environmental resources.

1.3 Statement on the difference the process has made

1.3.1 Table 3 summarises the key recommendations of the sustainability appraisal for the Science Park DPD policy. It indicates how the sustainability appraisal has made a difference to the forming of the proposed policy.

Table 3: Accepted Recommendations of the Sustainability Appraisal

Sustainability Objective Sustainability Appraisal Recommendation Action Taken Policy 1 Loughborough Science Park and University 1 Maintain and enhance Recommend policy should make Policy 1 is amended to include areas biodiversity, flora and reference o the provision and creation of of extensive landscaping and to fauna open spaces that will be retained or conserve woodland, trees and other created and then landscaped to enable natural features to conserve and biodiversity and species interest within it. enhance their wildlife and amenity value. 2 – To maintain and Reference given to landscaping to help Policy 1 is amended to include areas enhance landscape and minimise some urban influences of the of extensive landscaping. It also townscape character development. This will also help enhance requires a high standard of design. biodiversity interest on the site. 9 – Conserve and Policy should have regard to mitigation Policy 1 is amended to extend the enhance the historic measures to conserve and enhance site area to enable the and cultural historic and cultural features accommodation of greater environment landscaping and the opportunity to take measures to reduce harmful effects on the historic and cultural environment.

1.3.2 In addition to the policy changes a number of areas have been identified where there is a need to find ways of reducing potential negative effects. These are known as mitigation measures.

6 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Implementation 1.3.3 A single monitoring system for the various components of the Local Development Framework has been developed. This will be reported through an Annual Monitoring Report. Table 6 of the main report shows the overarching sustainability appraisal framework gives details of targets and indicators against which to measure the sustainability effects of implementing the component documents of the Charnwood’s Local Development Framework. Such monitoring will enable any unforeseen undesirable effects and so enable corrective action to be taken.

Conclusions 1.3.4 In summary, the Science Park DPD performs well against the sustainability objectives and it provides a robust framework from which to progress sustainability through the development of a science park and growth of the university campus. Through the completion of this sustainability appraisal and the various iterations of the Science Park DPD the Council has ensured that its performance and contribution towards sustainable development is one that has been improved.

1.3.5 The role of the Local Development Framework and the documents within it, is not to achieve sustainability development on its own, but to make the spatial planning contribution to sustainable development and to be integrated with other policy documents. The sustainability appraisal process has provided the opportunity for the sustainability issues associated with spatial planning to be considered in a prescribed manner by the Council, consultees and the wider community. The frontloading of such involvement has enabled issues and mitigation to be identified and resolved at earlier stages of the policy making process.

Table 4: Environmental Report Components – How this sustainability appraisal complies with the SEA Directive (2001/42/EC)

SEA Directive How this Sustainability Appraisal complies with the SEA Directive. Article 4 – General Obligations A Sustainability Appraisal incorporating an environment Carry out an Environmental Assessment assessment for the Science Park DPD (Preferred Options) was during the preparation of a plan before its carried out prior to publication of this version of the DPD for adoption. public consultation. Article 5 – Environmental Report This sustainability report incorporating the environment report Prepare an Environmental Report is published alongside the Science Park DPD (Preferred including (information to be provided Options) for public consultation. under Article 5(1), subject to Article 5(2) and (3) of the SEA Directive): (a) an outline of the contents, main Refer to section 3. objectives of the plan and relationship with other relevant plans and programmes; (b) the relevant aspects of the current Refer to section 5. state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of the plan; (c) the environmental characteristics of Refer to section 6. areas likely to be significantly affected; (d) any existing environmental problems Refer to section 6. which are relevant to the plan including, in particular, those relating to any areas of a particular environmental importance, such as areas designated pursuant to Directives 79/409/EEC and 92/43/EEC; (e) the environmental protection Refer to section 6. objectives, established at international, Community or Member State level, which are relevant to the plan and the way those objectives and any environmental 7 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 considerations have been taken into account during its preparation; (f) the likely significant effects (1) on the Refer to section 6. environment, including on issues such as biodiversity, population, human health, fauna, flora, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material assets, cultural heritage including architectural and archaeological heritage, landscape and the interrelationship between the above factors; (g) the measures envisaged to prevent, Refer to section 6. reduce and as fully as possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment of implementing the plan; (h) an outline of the reasons for selecting Refer to section 5 and 6. the alternatives dealt with, and a description of how the assessment was undertaken including any difficulties (such as technical deficiencies or lack of know- how) encountered in compiling the required information; (i) a description of the measures Refer to section 7. envisaged concerning monitoring in accordance with Article 10; (j) a non-technical summary of the Refer to section 1. information provided under the above headings. Consult responsible environmental The Council consulted with the environmental bodies and authorities on the scope and level of other economic, social and environmental stakeholders on a detail of the information which must be draft Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report for the Science included in the environmental report. Park DPD setting out the approach to sustainability appraisal. Article 6 – Consultations This sustainability appraisal report incorporating the Consult with responsible environmental environment report is published alongside the Science Park bodies – the Countryside Agency, DPD (Preferred Options) for public consultation. Environment Agency, English Heritage, English Nature – and the public on the draft plan and the Environment Report before the plan is adopted. Article 7 – Transboundary Consultations A transboundary consultation with Member Stares is not Consult with other European Member considered appropriate in the case of the Science Park DPD. States where there will be significant effects on the environment in another Member State. Article 8 – Decision Making The responses received in relation to the Sustainability Take into account the Environment Appraisal Scoping Report have been taken into account in Report and consultation responses during finalising the sustainability appraisal approach. Consultation the preparation of the plan before it is responses in relation to the Science Park DPD or this adopted sustainability report will be taken into account before the DPD is adopted. Article 9 - Information on the Decision Responsible environmental bodies and the public and other When a plan is adopted responsible relevant bodies will be informed of the appropriate documents environmental bodies, the public and when the Science Park DPD is adopted. transboundary Member States will be informed of: (a) The plan as adopted; (b) A statement summarising how environmental considerations have been integrated into the plan, how any consultation responses have been taken into account and the reasons for choosing the plan as adopted; 8 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 The measures for monitoring. Article 10 – Monitoring The DPD and this Sustainability Appraisal Report sets out key Monitor the significant environmental monitoring indicators. A single monitoring system for the effects of the implementation of plans to various components of the Local Development Framework is identify at an early stage unforeseen being developed. adverse effects and so to take remedial action.

1.4 How to comment on the report

1.4.1 The Council has produced this Sustainability Appraisal and Strategic Environmental Assessment Report to accompany publication of the Preferred Options Loughborough Science Park DPD for consultation.

1.4.2 The findings of this sustainability appraisal along with any consultation responses will be taken into account prior to finalising the Submission Document version of the DPD. Any significant and valid responses requiring changes will have to be subject to sustainability appraisal to ensure that there will be no significant economic, social and environmental effects.

Comments regarding the Sustainability Appraisal Report should be sent to the Council by 31st March 2006 to:

Planning Policy Team, Directorate of Development, Charnwood Borough Council, Council Offices, Southfield Road, Loughborough, LE11 2TN

Email: [email protected]

Please feel to contact the Planning Policy Team if you have any queries concerning this document (telephone 01509 634769 or email: [email protected]).

9 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 2 Appraisal Methodology

2.1 Approach adopted to the SA

2.1.1 Delivering sustainable development is at the heart of the new planning system. Sustainability Appraisal is an integral part of the process for preparing Development Plan Documents (DPDs). In addition to this is the requirement to undertake an Environmental Assessment under the SEA directive. It is about making sure that, by carrying out the proposals set out in such planning documents, the aim of sustainable development is achieved.

2.1.2 The goal of sustainable development is to enable all people throughout the world to satisfy their basic needs and enjoy a better quality of life, without compromising the quality of life of future generations. To achieve sustainable development it should be pursued in an integrated way through;

ƒ A sustainable, innovative and productive economy that delivers high levels of employment; and ƒ A just society that promotes social inclusion, sustainable communities and personal well being; ƒ This will be done in ways that protect and enhance the physical and natural environment, and use resources and energy as efficiently as possible.

2.1.3 The contribution to sustainable development is a key aim of planning. Sustainable development is simply about ensuring a better quality of life for everyone now and for future generations. A widely used definition was drawn up the World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987:

‘development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’.

2.1.4 In applying the principles of sustainable development the Council must consider how its planning documents address the Government objectives. They should seek to achieve outcomes that enable social, environmental and economic objectives are reached together over time. Sustainability appraisal is a tool for achieving this aim.

2.1.5 The Council has developed with the help of Halcrow Group Ltd an approach to Sustainability Appraisal, incorporating the requirements of Strategic Environmental Assessment, which is at the heart of preparing the Local Development Framework from the outset of developing the constituent Development Plan Documents (DPD) and Supplementary Planning Documents (SPD).

2.1.6 The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 makes Sustainability Appraisal a requirement for Development Plan Documents and Supplementary Planning Documents. Alongside this is the requirement to undertake environmental assessment of plans and programmes through the European Directive 2001/42/EC. Regulations on Local Development (SI 2004/2204) and the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes (SI 2004/1633) as well as draft Government guidance on sustainability appraisal have also been taken into account in developing an approach. This includes the following stages:

ƒ Setting the context, objectives and baseline data ƒ Developing and refining options ƒ Appraising the effects of the draft DPD or SPD ƒ Consultation on the Sustainability Report and draft DPD or SPD ƒ Monitoring the implementation of the DPD or SPD

10 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 2.2 When was the Sustainability Appraisal carried out

2.2.1 The sustainability appraisal for the Science Park DPD was undertaken in October and November 2005.

2.3 Who carried out the Sustainability Appraisal

2.3.1 The Sustainability Appraisal for the Science park DPD was undertaken by the Planning Policy Team.

2.4 Who was consulted, when and how

2.4.1 The Council prepared a Scoping Report for the Sustainability Appraisal of the Core Strategy and Science Park DPDs to set out the scope and level of detail that will be included in the Sustainability Appraisal Reports for these documents. Consultation was undertaken with the following key stakeholders between (ADD DATES):

2.4.2 The four ‘environmental bodies’ identified in the SEA regulations:

ƒ Environment Agency; ƒ Countryside Agency – East Midlands Region; ƒ English Nature; and ƒ English Heritage – East Midlands Region.

2.4.3 Economic interests, social and community service provider interests, transport planners and providers and other environmental interests:

ƒ East Midlands Development Agency ƒ Loughborough Chamber of Commerce ƒ Leicestershire Learning and Skills Council ƒ Charnwood Strategic Partnership ƒ Leicestershire Strategic Partnership ƒ Charnwood and North West Leicestershire Primary Care Trust ƒ Melton, Rutland and Harborough Primary Care Trust ƒ Leicestershire Constabulary ƒ Highways Agency ƒ Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) ƒ Action for a Better Charnwood (ABC) ƒ Loughborough and District Civic Trust ƒ Charnwood Council for Voluntary Services ƒ Leicestershire County Council ƒ Borough Council Officers including those concerned with Economic Development, Disabilities, Social Inclusion, Housing, Environment and Biodiversity, Leisure and Parks, Environmental Health

2.4.4 Specific Consultation bodies were also notified of the publication of the document and how to view a copy. In addition, the draft Scoping Report was placed on the Council’s website and comments were invited.

2.4.5 The Scoping Report has been updated to take into account the comments received during the consultation period and also to make modifications that have arisen during the use of the sustainability appraisal framework for appraisal of Supplementary Planning Documents and initial work on the Core Strategy and Science Park DPDs. A copy of the final Scoping Report for the Sustainability Appraisal of the Core Strategy and Loughborough Science Park DPDs as well as the Consultation Responses are placed on the Council’s website http://www.charnwood.gov.uk/environment/corestrategyissuesandoptionspape1.html. 11 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 2.4.6 The sustainability appraisal is now published alongside the Preferred Option for Loughborough Science Park DPD for consultation purposes. The sustainability appraisal forms part of the justification for the Council’s decision in choosing a preferred site for the Loughborough Science Park.

2.5 Difficulties encountered in compiling information or carrying out the assessment

2.5.1 The main problems encountered in collecting the baseline information, developing the indicators and carrying out the assessment were focussed around the following:

ƒ Data not readily available at all at either local, regional or national level; ƒ Data not available at the local level. National and regional data does not give a clear indication of the main issues affecting the Borough; ƒ No trend data due to the data only being available over the past year, or data only being available from the 2001 census ƒ Lack of quantitative information for example in relation to highway capacity, utilities capacity, and healthcare and education capacity ƒ The need for technical inputs in relation to specific subjects e.g. biodiversity ƒ Uncertainties about the scale of development being planned for due to the review of the Regional Spatial Strategy.

3 Background

3.1 Purpose of the SA and the SA Report

3.1.1 The Sustainability Appraisal of the Science Park DPD measures the policies set out in the document against a number of sustainability objectives to establish whether there will be any significant economic, social or environmental effects. Where necessary, consideration has been given to revising policy or applying measures to tackle unwanted effects.

3.1.2 This Sustainability Appraisal Report sets out how the sustainability report was undertaken, the results of the appraisal and the recommendations for any amendments to the policies of the DPD.

3.2 Plan objectives and outline of contents

3.2.1 The Science Park DPD outlines the preferred location of the Science Park with key objectives and core policies to identify the Council’s objectives and aims to deliver the vision and provide quality development in a high quality parkland setting. The DPD also makes provision for expansion of Loughborough University Campus for additional educational and student accommodation space.

3.2.3 The Science Park DPD identifies Land West of Loughborough, south of the A512 as the preferred a site for the provision of a second Science Park in Loughborough. This is in accordance with the locational priorities of the Regional Spatial Strategy and the Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland Structure Plan.

3.2.3 The Science Park DPD consists of one draft core policy:

ƒ Draft DPD Policy 1: Loughborough Science Park and University

3.3 Compliance with the SEA Directive/Regulations

3.3.1 Table 1 indicates how the components of Sustainability Report make up the Environmental Report for the purposes of complying with the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive.

12 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 4 Sustainability objectives, baseline and context

4.1 Links to other strategies, plans and programmes and sustainability objectives

4.1.1 The SEA Regulations 2004 requires an analysis of the Plan’s “relationship with other relevant plans and programmes” and of “the environmental protection objectives”, which are relevant to the plan or programme and the way those objectives and any environmental considerations have been taken into account during its preparation. Table 5 sets out the strategies, plans and programmes the Science Park DPD has been prepared with regard to.

Table 5: Strategies, Plans and Programmes

National UK Sustainable Purpose: Development The goal of sustainable development is to enable all people throughout Strategy (ODPM, the world to satisfy their basic needs and enjoy a better quality of life, 2005) without compromising the quality of life of future generations. This should be pursued in an integrated way through: ƒ a sustainable, innovative and productive economy that delivers high levels of employment; and ƒ a just society that promotes social inclusion, sustainable communities and personal wellbeing; ƒ this will be done in ways that protect and enhance the physical and natural environment, and use resources and energy as efficiently as possible. The Priorities for UK Action: ƒ sustainable consumption and production; ƒ climate change and energy: tackling the effects of a changing climate; ƒ natural resource protection and environmental enhancement: understanding environmental limits; ƒ sustainable communities- embodying the principles of sustainable development at the local level. National PPS1 Delivering To help deliver sustainable development planning authorities should Sustainable seek to: Development ƒ Provide a positive planning framework for sustainable economic (ODPM, 2005) growth ƒ Promote urban and rural regeneration; ƒ Promote communities which are inclusive, healthy, safe and crime free whilst respecting the diverse needs of communities; ƒ Bring forward sufficient land of a suitable quality in appropriate locations to meet the expected needs for housing, industrial development, retail and commercial development and for leisure and recreation taking into account accessibility and sustainable transport needs, provision of essential infrastructure and the need to avoid flood risk; ƒ Provide improved access for all to jobs, health, education, shops, leisure and community facilities, open space, sport and recreation, by ensuring that new development is located where everyone can access services or facilities on foot, bicycle or public transport rather than having to rely on access by car, while recognising that this may be more difficult in urban areas; ƒ Focus developments that attract a large number of people, especially retail, leisure and office development in existing centres to promote their vitality and viability, social inclusion and more sustainable patterns of development; ƒ Reduce the need to travel and encourage accessible public transport to secure more sustainable patterns of transport development; ƒ Promote the more efficient use of land through higher density, mixed use development and in the use of suitably located 13 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 previously developed land and buildings; ƒ Enhance as well as protect biodiversity, natural habitats, the historic environment and landscape and townscape character; ƒ Address the causes and impacts of climate change, the management of pollution and the safeguarding of natural resources. National PPG4 Industrial and To encourage continued economic development in a way which is Commercial compatible with its stated environmental objectives. Development and Small Firms (ODPM, 1992) National PPG13 Transport To integrate planning and transport at the national, regional, strategic (OPDM 2001) and local level to; ƒ Promote more sustainable transport choices for both people and for moving freight ƒ Promote accessibility to jobs, shopping leisure facilities and service by public transport, cycling and walking; and ƒ Reduce the need to travel, especially by car Regional Integrated Regional Economic objectives of the IRS: Strategy (EMRA, ƒ To create high quality employment opportunities and to develop a 2005) culture of ongoing engagement and excellence in learning and skills, giving the region a competitive edge in how we acquire and exploit knowledge ƒ To develop a strong culture of enterprise and innovation, creating a climate within which entrepreneurs and world-class business can flourish ƒ To provide the physical conditions for a modern economic structure, including infrastructure to support the use of new technologies ƒ Spatial objectives of the IRS: ƒ To ensure that the location of development makes efficient use of existing physical infrastructure and helps to reduce the need to travel ƒ To promote and ensure high standards of sustainable design and construction, optimising the use of previously developed land and buildings ƒ To minimise waste and to increase the re-use of and recycling of waste materials ƒ To improve accessibility to jobs and services by increasing the use of public transport, cycling and walking, and reducing traffic growth and congestion. Regional RSS8 Regional The main role of the RSS is to provide a strategy within which local Spatial Strategy for authorities’ planning documents and local transport plans can be the East Midlands prepared. (ODPM, 2005) In 1999 the Government set out four aims for sustainable development including the aim to maintain high and stable levels of economic growth and employment. Policy 22: Regional Priorities for Employment Land ƒ Provision of an adequate supply of employment land in sustainable locations ƒ Bring forward good quality allocated employment sites to meet the specific requirements of potential investors ƒ Review employment land allocations to ensure they are relevant to current and likely future requirements and that surplus employment land is considered for beneficial alternative use; and ƒ Monitor gains and losses in the overall supply of good quality office and industrial sites and assess the floorspace capacity of allocated sites. Regional Regional Economic The strategy aims to make economic, social and environmental Strategy – progress in an integrated way. One of the objectives is to develop a Destination 2020 strong culture of enterprise and innovation within the region by (emda, 2003) encouraging new business starts, developing new technologies and 14 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 stepping up the commercialisation of research by higher education. County Leicestershire, The vision of the Structure Plan is to create a vibrant and attractive Leicester and area with a rich cultural and natural environment, enabling residents to Rutland Structure enjoy environmental, social and economic well being. Plan (Leicestershire County Council The Plan aims to promote sustainable development and living by 2005) integrating social, environmental, economic and resource objectives by:

Social ƒ Ensuring the provisions of appropriate housing, jobs and services to meet the needs of the people in the Plan area; ƒ Supporting measures to regenerate urban and rural communities and improve access to facilities, services and opportunities

Environmental ƒ Protecting and enhancing irreplaceable assets of the natural and cultural environment and ensuing that replaceable assets are identified and replaced if lost or increased where there is a deficiency ƒ Enhancing the quality of the built environment by promoting good design in both urban and rural areas so as to make them safe and attractive places in which to live and work

Economic ƒ Providing in a sustainable way for the land use and transportation requirements of businesses already within or wishing to locate to the Plan area

Resources ƒ Securing patterns of development which integrate land uses and transportation provision, minimise the need to travel, minimise waste an pollution, promote the efficient use of energy and protect against the risk of flooding ƒ Ensuring that development makes the best use of existing infrastructure and that appropriate new infrastructure is provided in phase with new development.

It is one of the prime purposes of the Structure Plan to establish a planning framework that will help foster significant improvements to the health of the economy of the Plan area. This includes policies that will help provide a range of land and buildings to meet future employment needs; provide high technology facilities linked to the three universities, concentrate major office development in the centre of Leicester, protect key employment sites from competing development and assist in developing niche tourism and cultural related activities.

Employment Policy 1: Quantity of Employment Land for New Development – Provision will be made for the development of 206 ha of employment land within Charnwood between 1996-2016. This figure includes 50 ha to be allocated for a science and technology park in Loughborough.

Employment Policy 4: Science and Technology Parks – Provision will be made for a hierarchy of sites for high technology firms and technology transfer. Land for one substantial science park, up to a maximum of 50 ha, should be allocated in Loughborough close to the university. County Leicestershire A strong diverse economy where a wide variety of thriving small, Community Strategy medium and large businesses can flourish in both urban and rural areas. (Leicestershire It can create an environment which enterprises can start up grow and County Council: flourish and which encourages innovation in fields of design, research

15 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 2004) and knowledge transfer. Local Charnwood Development of business and competitiveness and growth by Community Strategy supporting business development and providing the right conditions for (Charwood growth so that businesses can successfully compete in their target Borough Council: markets and support the local economy. 2003) Local Corporate Plan The overarching priority for the Council in this Plan period is to ensure (Charnwood the Borough is recognised as Leading in Leicestershire for the quality of Borough Council: its living environment for all. Six aims have been identified which will 2005) support the achievement of the priority of the Council and which reflect the scope of the Council’s direct influence on the living environment. One of those six aims relates to an Economically Prosperous Environment and states ‘Regenerate areas in decline, develop industries and businesses and ensure a vibrant commercial and retail sector’. Local Economic Strategy Strategy defines the agenda for economic prosperity which includes; (Charnwood ƒ Invest in university – business links to secure development of the Borough Council: knowledge economy 2004) ƒ Target investment in indigenous businesses which are committed to modernisation and diversification to strengthen the local economic base ƒ Nurture the emerging entrepreneurial culture through selective investment in initiatives that remove the barriers to business creation ƒ Raise the overall skills profile of Leicester Shire – with a focus on improving performances and attainment in the City through major investment in management and workload development ƒ Develop a consistent strategy for logistic development within Leicester Shire ƒ Invest in supply side improvements to enhance the quality of life especially on the City ƒ Foster joint working and effective collaboration between key delivery partners

4.1.2 One of the main aims for the Borough is to continue the current growth of the economy, but without compromising environmental objectives. Economic growth and a high quality environment must go hand in hand. The growth of the economy is not an end in itself, but rather leads to a better quality of life. Therefore the challenge is to tackle economic growth and improvement of the environment together.

4.1.3 The East Midlands Regional Economic Strategy (RES) states three key objectives, these being developing a strong culture of enterprise and innovation, creating high quality employment opportunities and to bring about excellence in learning and skills and providing the physical structure to promote modern economic structure including infrastructure to support the use of new technologies.

4.1.4 The aim of the East Midlands Development Agency is to create high quality employment opportunities and to bring about excellence in learning and skills, giving the regional a competitive edge in how it acquires and exploits knowledge.

4.1.5 The Structure Plan indicates that within Charnwood, provision will be made for the development of about 206 hectares of land for employment in the industrial, office, warehousing and distribution sectors between 1996-2016. New employment opportunities will concentrate on the provision of knowledge based business and services. Rather than through low skill based investment. Those who are less well educated will be encouraged to bridge the gap in terms of basic qualifications in order to generate a wide skill base within the population. This will lead to an improvement in the overall skill level of employees and encourage inward investment from regional and national employers.

16 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 4.1.6 The Structure Plan states in Employment Policy 4: Science and Technology Parks that provision will be made for a hierarchy of sites for high technology firms and technology transfer. It states that land for one substantial science park, up to a maximum of 50 hectares should be allocated in Loughborough, close to the University.

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

4.2.1 In order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the baseline ‘Economics’ of Charnwood for the purposes of the SA, consideration has been made to the following:

ƒ Demographics ƒ Economic Activity ƒ Skills Levels of the Local Workforce ƒ Employment Structure ƒ Business Base ƒ Deprivation

Demographics 4.2.2 A little more than 153,000 people reside in Charnwood, of which 64% fall within the 20-69 age groups. In addition, Charnwood has a young population profile of the working age group with a higher percentage of resident population falling within the 20-29 category compared to Leicestershire, East Midlands and national averages.

4.2.3 Between 1991 and 2001 the population of Charnwood has grown at twice the rate of national growth, with most of this growth concentrated in the relatively older age groups, highlighting the aging structure of Charnwood’s population base.

4.2.4 With regards to ethnicity, 6% of Charnwood’s population is Asian compared to a national average of 4.6%. In addition, 4.7% of the local population is Indian with high concentrations in Hastings, Lemyngton, Bristall Wanlip and Thurmaston wards. Charnwood also has a strong presence of Bangladeshi community, particularly in Hastings and Lemyngton. Lastly, there are growing pockets of Chinese and Korean population in Ashby, Shelthorpe and Garendon.

Economic Activity 4.2.5 The efficiency of Charnwood’s labour market appears above average in relative terms. Economic activity rate for Charnwood’s (82.8%) working age population is considerably higher than the regional (79.0%) and national (78.5%) averages. However, economic activity rates in Charnwood are slightly lower than those for working age population in Leicestershire (84.9%).

4.2.6 Unemployment levels across the Borough are lower than the national average. However the Borough has some pockets of significantly high levels of unemployment concentrated around Loughborough, particularly in Lemyngton, Hastings and Shelthorpe.

Skills Levels of the Local Workforce 4.2.7 The skills base of Charnwood is relatively good. Although slightly higher than (national) average proportions of local working age population have no qualifications, a considerably high percentage of the population holds a degree or higher qualification when compared nationally. The presence of Loughborough University can be classified as one of the core reasons for high skills levels in the Borough. Such trends emphasise the higher than average proportions (38.4%) of knowledge workers (managerial, professional or technical occupations) in the local economy. However, Charnwood (22.3%) also has considerably high proportion of workers in unskilled / semi-skilled jobs, highlighting a level of polarisation of the Borough’s occupational structure.

17 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 4.2.8 Almost 10% of 16-74 year olds in Charnwood engage in full-time education compared to 5% nationally. Participation rates of 16-17 year olds at full-time education in Charnwood are slightly above the national average. Additionally, adult participation at higher and further education in Charnwood is considerably higher than the national average. Despite this, urban pockets with poor skill sets and high unemployment levels are acting as a key barrier for developing a sustainable economy across the Borough.

Employment Structure 4.2.9 Charnwood has a very high concentration in distribution industries, public administration education and health and the manufacturing sector. However, knowledge intensive industries such as banking, finance and insurance etc are underrepresented in the Borough. In addition total employment in the Borough’s financial services sector has declined considerably between 1998 and 2002. Distribution, hotels and restaurants, which constitute almost a quarter of the Borough’s employment, did however increase significantly during the same time period. Other key sectors which have declined over the same time scale include public administration, education and health and manufacturing.

4.2.10 Such trends in Charnwood employment base are partly responsible for the Borough’s overall performance. Total employment in Charnwood has declined by 9% whilst national employment has grown by 5% between 1998 and 2002. To successfully reverse these trends and diversify the local economy from declining sectors into more knowledge intensive and value adding industries, partners in Charnwood will need to support the sectors for quality growth as identified in the Charnwood Economic Development Strategy. These include Research, science and new technologies (commercialisation of research), High-tech manufacturing, Finance and business services, Creative and cultural industries (Sports development & Creative industries) and Retail (focussed around Loughborough Town Centre). In addition, stakeholders should seek to restructure the traditional manufacturing by encouraging firm to adjust through modernisation, process and product improvements rather than expansion.

4.2.11 The percentage of Charnwood’s working age population that travels more than 20 km to work is less than the sub-regional average. As the majority of Charnwood’s employment base travels less than 20 km to work, it is appropriate to infer that a significant proportion of employment opportunities for the Borough’s workforce are provided locally. However, as highlighted in the Charnwood Economic Development Strategy, continuation of recent trends in terms of reduction in job opportunities locally, could lead to increased levels of out commuting in the future.

Business Base 4.2.12 More than half of the business base of Charnwood is concentrated towards distribution, hotels and restaurants and banking, finance and insurance. Considering the employment levels in the Borough’s financial services sector, it is appropriate to infer a high precedence of small firms in Charnwood’s banking, finance and insurance sector. Construction, another sector with low employment concentration, has a significant business base within Charnwood. Other sectors with significant number of firms locally include manufacturing and public administration, education and health.

4.2.13 Between 1998 and 2002, the growth of Charnwood’s business base is comparable to that of England. There was an increase in the number of micro and small businesses locally, although during the same period there was a considerable decline in relatively larger Small and Medium sized Enterprises.

4.2.14 However, business start-up rates within Charnwood are considerably lower than the national, regional and sub-regional averages. In addition, closure rates within the Borough have been on an increasing trend in recent years. The two factors imply poor levels of business formation within Charnwood. Additionally, self-employment rates in the Borough are slightly lower than the national average. Such trends suggest a relatively poor entrepreneurial culture within

18 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Charnwood. Furthermore, data on gains in rateable values for business space also indicates a low level of performance in Charnwood compared to elsewhere.

Deprivation 4.2.15 In aggregate terms, Charnwood ranks as one of the least deprived local authority areas within England. However, as suggested in the Charnwood Economic Development Strategy and highlighted through the Indices of Multiple Deprivation, the Borough has some considerable pockets of deprivation and unemployment. These include Loughborough Hastings, Loughborough Lemyngton and Loughborough Shelthorpe. Other noticeable pockets of deprivation in Charnwood fall within Loughborough Southfields and Loughborough Storer.

4.3 Main Social, environmental and economic issues and problems identified

4.3.1 Work by the East Midlands Development Agency (EMDA) has highlighted a number of structural weaknesses in the region’s economy including a lack of knowledge intensive industries and the potential of local universities and colleges not being fully exploited.

4.3.2 Two studies commissioned by EMDA, the Quality of Employment Land Supply Study (QUELS) and the Regional Employment Land Priority Study (RELPS) identified a particular shortage of sites suitable for science and technology users in the Three Cities sub area. RELPS sought to identify key activities that need to be pursued at the sub-regional level to achieve the objectives of the Regional Economic Strategy. For Leicestershire one of the identified priorities is to assess the need for a science and technology park(s) and provide support as necessary. The study identified one of the possible sites adjacent to the former British Gas Research Centre in Loughborough close to Junction 23 of the M1.

4.3.3 Employment Policy 4 of the Leicestershire Structure Plan requires that land for one substantial science park, up to a maximum of 50 hectares, should be allocated in Loughborough close to the University. This strategic policy reflects research commissioned by Leicestershire County Council into the demand and feasibility for establishing high quality Science Parks within Leicestershire.

4.3.4 The baseline data identified the need to broaden the range of employment opportunities within the Borough. The data recognised that there was a dual economy within the Borough where there is a two tier labour force characterised by highly skilled people on the one hand and relatively lower skilled people on the other hand. There are high levels of unemployment in deprived wards where people withdrew from the labour market.

4.4 Difficulties in collecting data and limitations of the data

4.4.1 In some instances it proved difficult to find data for Charnwood Borough. In particular, further information is required on:

Biodiversity Flora and Fauna ƒ Accurate Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) habitat mapping including hedgerow lengths and condition ƒ Accurate BAP/protected species mapping ƒ Mapping of ecosystem indicator species populations

Climatic Factors ƒ Financial and physical costs of climate change in Charnwood

19 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Landscape ƒ Mapping or recognition of the sensitivity of landscapes and capacity to accommodate change ƒ Detailed district level landscape character assessments which incorporate community consultation and sensitivity ƒ Design principles aligned to the BAP habitat mapping that can be incorporated into mitigation and restorations of mineral restorations and transport scheme design principles ƒ Tranquillity/Strategic Noise mapping which recognise all major sources of noise, not limited to road traffic noise ƒ Light pollution mapping

Soil ƒ Soil health including the biological health of soils/ nutrient level data ƒ Nutrient addition levels ƒ Soil loss rates in Charnwood ƒ Contaminated land audit ƒ Grade 3a, best and most versatile agricultural land

Air ƒ Other pollutant levels that contribute to poor air quality not currently monitored at the AQMAs and Automated Monitoring Stations. ƒ Estimates of death rates linked to air pollution for Charnwood.

Material Assets ƒ Waste generated in the Borough ƒ Mineral consultation areas

Social Consideration ƒ Satisfaction of Charnwood residents relating to their quality of life and the vitality and viability of settlements

4.5 The SA framework, including objectives, targets and indicators

4.5.1 Development of the sustainability appraisal framework takes into account: ƒ Annex I of Directive 2001/42/EC of the European Parliament on ‘the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes’ (the SEA Directive) ƒ Sustainability Appraisal of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Frameworks, Consultation Paper (ODPM, 2004).

4.5.2 The sustainability objectives that form the sustainability appraisal framework were developed by taking into account:

ƒ The four broad objectives of the Strategy for Sustainable Development in the UK ‘A Better Quality of Life’. It is recognised that this strategy is now superseded by the ‘UK Sustainable Development Strategy – Securing the Future’ (ODPM, 2005). This document will be taken into account when preparing future LDF documents. ƒ Baseline information topics: landscape, biodiversity flora and fauna, climatic factors, human health, social considerations (incorporating population), air, water, soils, cultural heritage (including architectural and archaeological features), and economic considerations. ƒ The fact that the sustainability objectives will be used to appraise the various component documents of the Charnwood LDF. The objectives are therefore focussed around matters that the LDF could influence (either directly or indirectly). ƒ A range of objectives derived from plans and strategies at the national, regional, strategic and local level. Full details are available in Appendix 4 of the Final Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report for the Core Strategy DPD.

20 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 4.5.3 The targets derive from a range of targets derived from plans and strategies at the national, regional, strategic and local level.

4.5.4 The indicators have been formulated as an invaluable tool for feeding into the monitoring and review of the LDF, to assess whether progress is being made towards greater sustainability, and to provide baseline data for future sustainability appraisals. The indicators have regard to the Core Indicators set out in ‘A Local Development Framework Monitoring: A Good Practice Guide’ (ODPM, 2005). Table 6 sets out the sustainability appraisal framework including objectives, targets and indicators.

21 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Table 6: The Sustainability Appraisal Framework

Objective Sub Objectives Targets Indicators To maintain and To conserve & enhance existing habitats Change in areas and populations of biodiversity importance including: enhance biodiversity, To create new habitats identified in UK, flora and fauna Leicestershire & Charnwood Biodiversity i. Change in priority habitats and species (by type); and Action Plans ii. Change in areas designated for their intrinsic environmental value including sites To conserve & enhance species protected of international, national regional or sub regional significance. by UK, Leicestershire and Charnwood Biodiversity Action Plans The area of land designated as an SSSI, which is in unfavourable condition. To maintain & enhance designated sites of nature conservation interest To increase connectivity of habitats To maintain and To minimise detrimental visual intrusion of Percentage of landscape character areas where there are marked changed or enhance landscape and development significant changes that are inconsistent with that character townscape character To minimise light pollution To maintain & enhance landscape character & distinctiveness identified in the Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Landscape & Woodland Strategy To protect & enhance areas of relative tranquillity To promote landscape schemes designed to respect the diversity of landscape and built character into new development To protect and improve To improve surface water quality as Number of planning permissions granted contrary to the advice of the Environment surface and identified by the Environment Agency’s Agency on grounds of water flood defence or water quality. groundwater quality General Quality Assessment Percentage of main rivers and canals rated as good or fair quality To protect quality of vulnerable groundwater resources To minimise water To minimise the use and increase re-use & Number of new developments given planning permission that incorporate water consumption recycling of water in existing and planned reduction measures eg rainwater and grey water recycling development To improve air quality To reduce inappropriate development in Air Number of days of air pollution Quality Management Areas Population living in Air Quality management Areas To mitigate and appropriately locate Number of businesses with a Company Travel Plan and percentage of workforce potentially air polluting processes employed by companies with a travel plan To reduce travel distances Number of schools with a School Travel Plan and percentage of pupils attending To reduce the need to travel by car schools with a Travel Plan To reduce automotive movements related Number of new cycle routes developed during the year to logistical supply and distribution 22 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Objective Sub Objectives Targets Indicators To conserve soil To reduce loss of best and most versatile Number of developments incorporating soil loss minimisation measures Areas of resources and quality agricultural land Agricultural Land Classification grading 1, 1 and 3a lost to development To reduce contamination of land and soils due to development, industrial processes or agriculture To reduce loss of soils and increase local re- use of soils through development To protect geological SSSIs To reduce contributions To reduce greenhouse gas emissions Carbon dioxide emissions to climate change Number of new developments given planning permission that incorporate sustainable drainage systems Number of new developments given planning permission that mitigate against flood risk

To reduce vulnerability To reduce energy consumption Percentage of new residential, commercial, retail and office developments built to a to climate change To increase building designed to be good, very good, or excellent BREEAM or Echohomes rating 5, 6. adaptable to climate change (temperature extremes, storm events and flooding) To minimise the risk of flooding to people and properties from rivers and watercourses To conserve and To increase re-use of built heritage including Loss of Scheduled Ancient Monuments enhance the historic and ‘buildings at risk’ Loss or damage to listed building and their settings cultural environment To protect & enhance sites, features, areas & Number of listed building on the at risk register settings of historical, archaeological and cultural value To increase use of locally distinctive and diverse materials & style To increase the re-use To increase the redevelopment of previously Percentage of new dwellings and conversions of existing buildings on previously of previously developed developed land and buildings in sustainable developed land. land and buildings locations Percentage of land developed for employment on previously developed land, by To increase the remediation and type. regeneration of contaminated land and buildings To reduce the To increase restoration of mineral workings For minerals planning authority only; extraction of new & for biodiversity, landscape and the general Production of primary land won aggregates increase the re-use of public. Production of secondary/recycled aggregates recycled minerals and To reduce use of minerals and increase the aggregates resources re-use of materials on and off site. To increase the use of locally extracted minerals To safeguard mineral reserves and sites

23 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Objective Sub Objectives Targets Indicators enabling their bulk transport To safeguard existing development from the environmental effects of mineral workings To manage waste in To reduce waste & increase the re-use, For waste planning authority only accordance with the recycling and energy produced of waste Capacity of new waste management facilities by type waste hierarchy in all To increase the provision of waste Amount of municipal waste arising and managed by management type, and the sectors (i.e. household, infrastructure percentage each management type represents of the waste managed commercial and To increase use of long lasting and recycled industrial) materials in building design To reduce hazardous waste To minimise the use of To increase measures to ensure energy Renewable energy capacity (MW) installed by type energy and optimise the efficiency use of renewable To increase use of renewable energy resources supplies To increase supply of locally produced clean energy eg. Combined heat and power To increase the To increase access to retail centres, post PPS6 seeks to ensure all Percentage of new residential development within 30 minutes public transport time population’s access to a offices, local food markets, commercial developments are accessible of a GP, hospital, primary and secondary school, employment and a major health full range of public, centres & employment for all through various transport centre private, community and To increase access to community facilities – options. Percentage of residents defined as within a distance of 500m (15 minutes walk) of voluntary services libraries, community centres, education, key local service places of worship, healthcare – for all PPS6 seeks to focus new Amount of completed retail, office and leisure development To increase access to services by more development in town centres in Percentage of completed retail, office and leisure development in town centres. sustainable forms of transport – walking, an attempt to promote their cycling, bus and train. vitality and viability. To reduce food miles To increase access to To increase access to features of landscape, Amount of eligible open spaces managed to green flag award standard the countryside, public ecological and cultural heritage in a way that Percentage of residents that are satisfied with the quality and quality of open space open spaces and semi minimises damage to such features in their area. urban environments (eg To increase interpretation facilities for Access to green spaces in line with the standards set out in the Green Space parks) features of landscape, ecological and cultural Strategy heritage To increase linkages between open spaces and increase permeability of the countryside and semi-urban environments To promote a strong To increase community engagement and the Level of satisfaction within the community people live in community where capacity of the local community to influence people feel they have a decisions say in the future To increase the voluntary and community infrastructure To increase racial equality and community

24 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Objective Sub Objectives Targets Indicators cohesion To reduce crime, anti To reduce anti-social behaviour Vehicle crimes per 1000 population social behaviour and To reduce nuisance noise Domestic burglaries per 1000 households increase community To reduce fear of crime and actual crime Number of noise complaints annually by type safety To increase the use of design techniques to reduce crime To increase the To increase access to sports, arts, culture PPS6 aims to focus development Amount of completed retail, office and leisure development population’s access and and leisure facilities in town centres in an attempt to Percentage of completed retail, office and leisure development in town centres opportunity to To enhance local cultural diversity promote their vitality and participate in culture, viability. It also aims to promote media and sport in consumer choice by providing a Charnwood wide range of leisure, shopping and local services for the whole community. To ensure that the To increase the quality or upkeep of the Housing trajectory showing; housing stock meets the existing housing stock Net additional dwellings over the previous five year period or since the start of the housing needs of all To ensure an adequate supply of a diverse relevant development plan document period, whichever is the longer sections of the range of housing types appropriate to the Net additional dwellings for the current year community needs of the community Projected net additional dwellings up to the end of the relevant development plan To increase the amount of housing that is document period or over a ten year period from its adoption, whichever is the affordable to all sections of the community longer; To reduce homelessness The annual net additional dwelling requirement; and Annual average number of net additional dwellings needed to meet overall housing requirements, having regard to previous years’ performances Percentage of new and converted dwellings on previously developed land Percentage of new dwellings completed at; Less than 30 dwellings per hectare Between 20 and 50 dwellings per hectare Above 50 dwellings per hectare Affordable housing completions. Number of unfit homes per 1000 dwellings. To reduce poverty and To reduce poverty and social exclusion Percentage of the working age population who are claiming key benefits social exclusion across Charnwood but particularly on those Proportion of the population who live in wards that rank within the most deprived areas most affected – 10% and 25% Unemployment rates To increase learning, To improve access to opportunities for Proportion of young people (18-24 year olds) in full time education or in skills and employability education, learning and skills training for all employment for all sectors of the sections of the community community

25 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Objective Sub Objectives Targets Indicators To increase the vibrancy To increase the attractiveness of town, Percentage of vacant dwellings and viability of district and local centres Percentage of new residential development within 30 minutes public transport time settlements To increase the sense of place of a GP, hospital, primary and secondary school, employment and a major health To maintain settlement identity and prevent centre coalescence Amount of completed retail, office and leisure development To increase neighbourhood satisfaction Percentage of competed retail, office and leisure development in town centres. levels To increase patterns of development and movement that helps to tackle congestion. To increase sustainable To increase the use of sustainable design and Percentage of new residential, commercial, retail and office development built to a design and construction construction techniques in all forms of good, very good or excellent BREEAM or EchoHomes rating development To increase number of developments that accord with good, very good and excellent level of BREAAM assessment To increase the use of innovative and adaptive design To increase the use of exemplar projects to demonstrate good practice in sustainable deign and construction To increase healthy life To increase access to high quality healthcare Percentage of new residential development within 30 minutes public transport time styles facilities of a GP, hospital, primary and secondary school, employment and a major health To reduce health inequalities centre. To increase healthy lifestyles through Death rate (Number of deaths per 10001 people) for cancer, circulatory disease, increased physical activity, improved diet and accidents and suicides less smoking To reduce death rates To encourage a To increase competitiveness, productivity, Amount of land developed for employment by types sustainable economy progress and investment of local firms Amount of land developed for employment by type, which is in development To increase inward investment and/or regeneration areas defined in the local development framework To ensure an adequate supply of a range of Percentage of land developed for employment by type which s on previously sites in terms of type and quality for developed land employment uses Employment land supply by type To increase the working environment Losses of employment land in (i) development/regeneration areas and (ii) local through access to non work related facilities authority area. To increase the culture of enterprise and Amount of employment land lost to residential development. innovation Percentage pf working age people in employment To increase infrastructure for information Percentage change in VAT registered business and communications technology Average earnings Average house prices year by type

26 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Objective Sub Objectives Targets Indicators To increase efficient To reduce commuting and traffic congestion PPG13 sets out maximum car Percentage of completed residential development complying with car parking patterns of movement To increase access to work by public parking standards to try and standards set out in the local development framework to support a sustainable transport, walking and cycling reduce the reliance on the car. Annual average flow 1000km of principal roads economy To reduce journey time between key Travel to work journeys by mode employment areas and key transport interchanges To increase efficiency in freight distribution To increase working from home To reduce disparities in To increase diversification of the rural Variation in key economic and social indicators a ward level in the Borough. economic performance economy To increase the diverse range of job opportunities in urban and rural areas

27 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 5 Plan issues and options

5.1 Main strategic options considered and how they were identified

5.1.1 Five main sites were considered for the location of a Science Park, which were published in the Core Strategy Issues and Options Paper in May 2005. This was the subject of a public consultation for a period of 6 weeks where comments were invited about the proposed sites. The following options for a substantial science park were identified:

ƒ Option 1: Land West of Loughborough, South of A512 ƒ Option 2: Land West of Loughborough, North of A512 ƒ Option 3: Brownfield Sites in Loughborough. This option has not been taken forward due to the lack of a suitable site of the scale indicated in the Structure Plan. ƒ Option 4a: Locations outside Loughborough – Wymeswold Airfield ƒ Option 4b: Locations outside Loughborough - South of Sileby. This option has not been taken forward due to a lack of details on the suggested site and the fact this location would score poorly in terms of the locational strategy set at County and Regional level.

5.1.2 The following option was identified through the Core Strategy Issues and Options consultation undertaken in June/July 2005:

ƒ Option 5: Land South of Loughborough

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

5.2.1 A sustainability appraisal has been undertaken to assess the social, environmental and economic effects of Options 1, 2, 4a and 5 listed above. Table 7 compares the options.

28 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Table 7: Summary Appraisal of Site Options for a Substantial Science Park of to 50 Hectares

1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective To maintain Development N N N N West Loughborough, both north and south, and enhance Site Greenfield. Greenfield. Partly brownfield but Greenfield. have nature conservation interests which will biodiversity, 2 SINCs on and 1 2 SINCs adjacent to includes significant No nature have to be protected and/or mitigated to flora and adjacent to site. Of site. Greenfield land. conservation prevent loss of these interests. The scale of fauna these 2 are ancient Adjacent to small No nature designations or priority these interests is not considered to merit a woodlands. area Lowland conservation habitat. significant harmful effect. South Loughborough Adjacent to Lowland meadows. designations or priority and Wymeswold Airfield have no designations heathland. habitat on Wymeswold but involve Greenfield land which will airfield (but there are contribute to connectivity of biodiversity interests where the interests. wider proposals are taken into account). To maintain Development NN NN NN N West Loughborough, both north and south, and enhance Site and Affect edge of Affect edge of Not affect Charnwood May affect edge of and to a lesser extent South Loughborough the landscape Surrounding Charnwood Forest. Charnwood Forest. Forest but falls within Charnwood Forest. are likely to have an impact on the edge of the and settlements Significant area of open Significant area of the undulating Wolds Open land and river Charnwood Forest landscape but these townscape rural land but located open rural land countryside with its landscape severed by locations are already significantly urbanised. character within including Garendon open character and GCR rail and main Wymeswold Airfield is located in an area of (whilst Loughborough/Shepsh Park but located rural appearance. Site is road corridors and has predominantly rural character. minimising ed urban system and within prominent and urban influences. visual impacts subject to urban Loughborough/Sheps elevated. Development of proposed influences-University, hed urban system would have an intrusive developments Science Park, housing, and subject to urban urbanising effect on the ) M1 junction. influences- housing, essentially rural Development of this M1 junction. landscape between a site provides the number of small Wolds opportunity to villages. incorporate planting to enhance the National Forest To protect Development O O O O and improve Site and Groundwater beneath Groundwater Groundwater beneath Groundwater beneath Neutral factor across all options. surface and Surrounding the Borough does not beneath the Borough the Borough does not the Borough does not groundwater settlements supply drinking water does not supply supply drinking water supply drinking water quality and not considered to drinking water and and not considered to and not considered to 29 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective be particularly not considered to be be particularly be particularly susceptible to pollution particularly susceptible to pollution susceptible to pollution from surface sources - susceptible to from surface sources - from surface sources - neutral factor. pollution from neutral factor. neutral factor. surface sources - neutral factor. To minimise Borough O O O O water New development is New development is New development is New development is Neutral factor across all options. consumption likely to result in an likely to result in an likely to result in an likely to result in an increase in water increase in water increase in water increase in water consumption but consumption but consumption but consumption but opportunity to opportunity to opportunity to opportunity to minimise through minimise through minimise through minimise through sustainable design sustainable design sustainable design sustainable design techniques - neutral techniques - neutral techniques - neutral techniques - neutral factor. factor. factor. factor. To protect Development Y Y N Y A science park is unlikely to cause harmful and improve Site and Significant scope to Significant scope to Not significant scope Significant scope to effects in terms of air quality. The journeys to air quality Surrounding reduce car use. reduce car use. to reduce car use. reduce car use. that facility will be a major factor. settlements High frequency bus Good cycleways. The site is 6km from Best served bus The Loughborough options are likely to have services between High frequency bus Loughborough town corridor along A6 significant scope for reducing car use due to Loughborough and services between centre. Principal road including bus lane but high frequency bus services, although it Shepshed. Loughborough and routes are A60 and no services along recognised that these locations are close to or Scope to provide park Shepshed. Scope for east to west routes A6004. have good access to the M1. There is a direct and ride. segregated bus route linking to A46. Rail station 3km and no bus link to the rail station from West Bus link to rail station across Garendon. Some bus links via rail direct bus link. Loughborough–South. Proximity to the M1 Scope to provide station but not well A6/A46 and There may be scope for park and ride for all could encourage car park and ride. served by public A6004/A512 are sites but improvements to bus access to use. A new link road Bus link to rail station transport and attractive traffic routes Wymeswold Airfield is considered to be between A512 and A6 Proximity to the M1 improvement of bus to M1. Potential to unviable due to the low levels of population in to north of town may could encourage car services is unlikely to impact on AQMAs. this area. help prevent impact on use. Link road be viable due to low AQMA. between A512 and levels of population. A6 to north of town (Wider proposals may help prevent include a park and ride) impact on AQMA. Limited potential for cycle links to Loughborough. 30 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective To conserve Development N? NN N? NN West Loughborough-North and South soil resources Site Grade 3 agricultural Grade 2 best and Grade 3 agricultural Grade 2 best and most Loughborough would involve the development and quality land – 3a unknown. most versatile land – 3a unknown. versatile agricultural of Grade 2 best and most versatile agricultural Longcliffe Quarry - agricultural land. (Wider proposals may land. land. There is the possibility that West regionally important Grade 3 agricultural include Grade 2 best Loughborough-South and Wymeswold Airfield geological site. land – 3a unknown. and most versatile are Grade 3a and so best and most versatile agricultural land) agricultural land To reduce Borough Y Y N Y The comments relating to air quality indicate contributions See air quality See air quality See air quality See air quality those locations best suited for reducing travel to climate comments. comments. comments. comments. distances and car use. This indicates that change Effective travel demand Effective travel Effective travel demand Effective travel demand Wymeswold Airfield is unlikely to have scope management measures demand management management measures management measures to reduce car use to the same extent due to are needed to reduce measures are needed are needed to reduce are needed to reduce its location away from a main town. the potential for high to reduce the the potential for high the potential for high car use arising from potential for high car car use arising from the car use arising from good access to main use arising from good site’s location and so good access to main road network. access to main road the difficulty of road network. Opportunity to reduce network. implementing such Opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas Opportunity to effective measures. greenhouse gas emissions through reduce greenhouse Opportunity to reduce emissions through sustainable design and gas emissions through greenhouse gas sustainable design and construction sustainable design emissions through construction techniques -Neutral and construction sustainable design and techniques -Neutral factor. techniques -Neutral construction factor. factor. techniques -Neutral factor. To reduce Development D D D N? South Loughborough falls within a flood zone vulnerability Site and Opportunity to reduce Opportunity to Opportunity to reduce East of A6 within areas area indicating it is at risk from flooding. to climate Surrounding greenhouse gas reduce greenhouse greenhouse gas of significant flood risk. change settlements emissions, reduce gas emissions, reduce emissions, reduce Opportunity to reduce energy and water energy and water energy and water greenhouse gas consumption and consumption and consumption and emissions, reduce construct buildings that construct buildings construct buildings that energy and water are able to adapt to that are able to adapt are able to adapt to consumption and climate variations and to climate variations climate variations and construct buildings that flooding through and flooding through flooding through are able to adapt to sustainable design and sustainable design sustainable design and climate variations and construction and construction construction flooding through 31 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective techniques - neutral techniques - neutral techniques - neutral sustainable design and factor. factor. factor. construction techniques - neutral factor. To conserve Development D NN D O West Loughborough-North will have and where Site 2 listed buildings. Garendon historic No historic interests 1 listed building in significant harmful effects on Garendon historic appropriate 1 site of archaeological park and garden on Wymeswold Woodthorpe park and garden and Wymeswold Airfield enhance the interest 13 listed buildings – airfield. It adjoins the Woodthorpe is an adjoins the historic park and garden at historic and some at risk historic park and archaeological alert Prestwold Hall. cultural 1 Scheduled Ancient garden at Prestwold area. There are historic and cultural interests on the environment Monument Hall. Loughborough sites but not on Wymewold 8 sites of (Wider proposals may Airfield (although the wider proposals affect archaeological impact upon a such interests in the surroundings areas and interest significant number of villages). The effect depends upon how these interests within and interests are protected or mitigated. close to the surrounding villages) To increase Development NN NN N NN The Loughborough sites are Greenfield and the Site Greenfield Greenfield Partly brownfield. Greenfield. Wymeswold Airfield has significant areas of (appropriate) Evidence of Greenfield land. The Airfield will also need re-use of contamination investigation for possible contamination. previously unknown but needs developed investigation due to land and former military use. buildings (Wider proposals would involve take up of Greenfield land). To support Borough/ O O O? O Wymeswold Airfield and South Loughborough the County Adjacent to mineral Adjacent to mineral Within mineral Within mineral fall within and West Loughborough-North and sustainable consultation area. consultation area. consultation area (as consultation area - South lie adjacent to a mineral consultation extraction, re Opportunity to Opportunity to are several adjacent more information area. Further information is required. use and encourage sustainable encourage sustainable villages) – more needed. recycling of extraction, re-use and extraction, re-use and information needed. Opportunity to minerals and recycling of minerals recycling of minerals Opportunity to encourage sustainable aggregates and aggregates and aggregates encourage sustainable extraction, re-use and resources resources through resources through extraction, re-use and recycling of minerals sustainable design and sustainable design recycling of minerals and aggregates construction and construction and aggregates resources through 32 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective techniques - neutral techniques - neutral resources through sustainable design and factor. factor. sustainable design and construction construction techniques - neutral techniques - neutral factor. factor. To manage Borough/ O O O O Neutral factor across all options. waste in County Opportunity to reduce, Civic amenity site in Opportunity to reduce, Opportunity to reduce, accordance re-use and recycle north Shepshed. re-use and recycle re-use and recycle with the waste through Opportunity to waste through waste through waste sustainable design and reduce, re-use and sustainable design and sustainable design and hierarchy in construction recycle waste construction construction all sectors (i.e. techniques - neutral through sustainable techniques - neutral techniques - neutral household, factor. design and factor. factor. commercial construction and industrial) techniques - neutral factor. To minimise Borough O O O O Neutral factor across all options. the use of Opportunity to Opportunity to Opportunity to Opportunity to May be benefits from developing a large scale energy and encourage energy encourage energy encourage energy encourage energy growth option in terms of using renewable optimise the efficiency and the use efficiency and the use efficiency and the use efficiency and the use energy production. use of of renewable energy of renewable energy of renewable energy of renewable energy renewable sources through sources through sources through sources through resources sustainable design and sustainable design sustainable design and sustainable design and construction and construction construction construction techniques - neutral techniques – neutral techniques – neutral techniques – neutral factor. factor. factor. factor. Ensure the Development O O O O No significant relationship. population of Site and No significant No significant No significant No significant Charnwood Surrounding relationship. relationship. relationship. relationship. can have settlements A large scale A large scale (wider proposals to A large scale access to a development has the development has the include housing and are development has the full range of potential to make potential to make likely to increase car potential to make appropriate contributions to contributions to use due to low levels contributions to public, private, community facilities community facilities of public transport and community facilities community etc. – neutral factor. etc. – neutral factor. distance from town etc. – neutral factor. and voluntary centre) services A large scale development has the 33 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective potential to make contributions to community facilities etc. – neutral factor. To encourage Development O O O O No significant relationship. appropriate Site and No significant No significant No significant No significant There may be the opportunity to contribute access to the Surrounding relationship. relationship. relationship. relationship. to deficiencies of public open space. countryside, settlements open spaces and semi urban environments (eg parks) Promote a Development D D D D Neutral factor across all options. strong Site and Depends on strategies Depends on Depends on strategies Depends on strategies community Surrounding used to integrate strategies used to used to integrate used to integrate where people settlements development with integrate development with development with feel they have existing communities – development with existing communities – existing communities – a say in the neutral factor existing communities neutral factor. neutral factor. future – neutral factor. To reduce Development D D D D Neutral factor across all options. crime, anti Site and Opportunity to reduce Opportunity to Opportunity to reduce Opportunity to reduce social Surrounding crime and the fear of reduce crime and the crime and the fear of crime and the fear of behaviour and settlements crime through fear of crime through crime through crime through promote sustainable design and sustainable design sustainable design and sustainable design and community construction and construction construction construction safety techniques - neutral techniques - neutral techniques - neutral techniques - neutral factor. factor. factor. factor. To ensure Development O O O O that the Site and No significant No significant No significant No significant people of Surrounding relationship. relationship. relationship. relationship. Charnwood settlements have an opportunity to participate in culture, media and sport in 34 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective Charnwood Borough To ensure Borough O O O O that the A science park will not A science park will A science park will not A science park will not housing stock improve access to not improve access improve access to improve access to meets the housing and may to housing and may housing and may housing and may housing needs increase demand for increase demand for increase demand for increase demand for of all parts of new housing. new housing. new housing in new housing. the (scope to develop a sustainable locations. community mix of uses on a (Wider proposals offer wider site) a mix of uses including housing) To reduce Borough Y Y N Y The sites on the edge of Loughborough are poverty and Close to parts of Close to parts of Wymeswold airfield is Part of site adjacent to closest to areas of relatively high deprivation social eastern, central and eastern, central and 5-7km from areas of areas of relatively high and accessible by public transport, cycling and exclusion southern southern relatively high deprivation. New job walking. Wymeswold Airfield is further away Loughborough and Loughborough and deprivation and is not opportunities may not and bus services are relatively infrequent. Shepshed which Shepshed which well served by public match skills of looking experience relatively experience relatively transport. New job jobs. high deprivation and high deprivation and opportunities may not linked by good bus linked by good bus match skills of looking routes. New job routes. New job jobs. opportunities may not opportunities may match skills of looking not match skills of jobs. looking jobs. To improve Borough O O O O Neutral factor across all options. learning, skills A science park may A science park may A science park may A science park may A location close to the university gives the and increase demand increase demand increase demand increase demand opportunity for linkages. West Loughborough- employability for/provision of for/provision of for/provision of for/provision of North and South offer this. for all sectors relevant skills training relevant skills training relevant skills training relevant skills training of the and so have a and so have a and so have a and so have a community beneficial effect in the beneficial effect in the beneficial effect in the beneficial effect in the longer term. – neutral longer term. – neutral longer term. – neutral longer term. – neutral factor. factor. factor. factor. A location close to the A location close to university gives the the university gives opportunity for the opportunity for linkages. linkages. 35 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective To promote Development D D N N The West Loughborogh sites are likely to be vibrant and Site and Depend on design and Depend on (mix) Reduces the extent of Depend on design and able to be configured to maintain the separate viable Surrounding layout. design and layout. separation between layout. identities of Loughborough and Shepshed. It is settlements settlements Green Wedge is Green Wedge is the small Wolds Green Wedge is likely to be more difficult to achieve the reviewable. reviewable. The gap villages (but wider reviewable. The gap is separate identities of Loughborough, Quorn Scope to maintain is currently between proposals will currently between 1.5 and Woodthorpe in South Loughborough. separate identities of 1.75 and 2.25km. exacerbate any impact and 1.75km The Wymewold Airfield site is likely to reduce the towns of Scope to maintain on the identity of the Narrow area, about the separation between adjoining villages. In Loughborough and separate identities of villages surrounding the 300m, of Local particular, the development of a substantial Shepshed. the towns of airfield). Separation safeguards science park away from the main built up area Loughborough and Development of a the identity of of Loughborough will have an effect in terms Shepshed. science park at Woodthorpe. of travel by car due to the lack of a good Wymeswold airfield is Difficult to develop this alternative. likely to result in higher area without affecting levels of car use than a the separate identities site adjoining of Woodthorpe and Loughborough. Quorn from Loughborough. To promote Development D D D D Neutral factor across all options. sustainable Site Opportunity to use Opportunity to use Opportunity to use Opportunity to use design and sustainable design and sustainable design sustainable design and sustainable design and construction construction and construction construction construction techniques – neutral techniques – neutral techniques – neutral techniques – neutral factor. factor. factor. factor. To promote Development Y Y D Y There is access, and potential to improve healthy Site and Public footpaths. Reasonable access to Public footpath and Public footpath access, to the Loughborough sites by walking lifestyles Surrounding Cycle links. public footpaths. bridleway network. network and close to and cycling. There is potential for access to the settlements Opportunity to Good cycle links. Opportunity to Charnwood Water site at Wymewold Airfield but the location is incorporate open contribute public open and Shelthorpe golf relatively remote from many potential users space and to extend space and to extend course. and the roads more rural and so less likely to access by walking and access by walking and Opportunity to attract travellers to the site in this way. cycling routes to a site cycling, although the contribute public open readily accessible to location is relatively space and to extend many people of remote from many access by walking and Shepshed and west potential users. cycling. Loughborough. To encourage Regional YY YY Y Y The allocation of land for a science park will sustainable Land for a science park Land for a science Land for a science park Land for a science park contribute to the economy of Charnwood. 36 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 1 2 Geographic 4a 5 West Loughborough/ West Loughborough/ Overall Comment Scale Wymeswold Airfield South Loughborough South A512 North A512 Sustainability

Objective economic adjacent (about 1km) park close to (1.5km) but on opposite side of 3.5km from University The west Loughborough-North and South growth to University accessible University accessible town and 9km from accessible by public sites are close and adjacent to the university to by public transport and by public transport the University and not transport and cycle allow linkages. The South Loughborough site is cycle to people of and cycle to people easily accessible by from Loughborough. less so. Wymeswold Airfield is a significant Loughborough and of Loughborough and public transport from distance away in a location that is not currently Shepshed. Shepshed. Loughborough. easily accessible by public transport. To encourage Regional YY YY N YY The Loughborough options are likely to have efficient Very good road access Very good road Not significant scope Significant scope to significant scope for reducing car use due to patterns of being next to M1 J23. access being next to to reduce car use. reduce car use. high frequency bus services, although it movement to Well served by high M1 J23. (Wider Not well served by Good road access to recognised that these locations are close to or support frequency bus services proposals show buses. Three services main routes to M1. have good access to the M1. There is a direct sustainable between potential to link A512 that run hourly from Well served by high bus link to the rail station from West economic Loughborough and to A6 to the north.) the vicinity of the frequency bus services Loughborough–South. growth Shepshed. Well served by high airfireld pass through between Leicester, There may be scope for park and ride for all Direct bus services to frequency bus the rail station, 5km Loughborough and sites but improvements to bus access to the rail station. services between away, to Shepshed. Wymeswold Airfield is considered to be Scope for park and Loughborough and Loughborough. 3km from rail station unviable due to the low levels of population in ride. Shepshed. (Wider proposals and no direct bus link. this area. Direct bus services to include by passes for the rail station. villages but this will (Scope for park and increase car use. Also ride and bus route for a park and ride but across Garendon). this appears unviable). To reduce Borough Y Y Y Y Land for a science park will contribute to disparities in Unlikely to contribute Unlikely to contribute May contribute to the Unlikely to contribute providing a diverse range of jobs in all the economic to rural diversification to rural diversification rural economy but the to rural diversification potential locations. There may be the potential performance but location is but location is scale of development but location is to contribute to the rural economy at consistent with consistent with in this location is at consistent with national Wymeswold Airfield due to its rural location national and regional national and regional odds with national and and regional locational but it is questionable whether this constitutes locational strategy locational strategy regional locational strategy policy. diversification of the rural economy. The policy. policy. strategy policy. Loughborough locations are consistent with national and regional locational strategy policy.

37 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Key to Matrix

Significant negative effect Significant positive effect (i.e. Effect depends on how the There is no relationship or no NN (i.e. a move away from the YY a move towards the D policy is implemented (one O significant relationship between the

objective) objective) form of uncertainty) objective and the policy Marginal negative effect (i.e. Marginal positive effect (i.e. a It is not known whether the Denotes a temporary effect a move away the objective) move towards the objective) policy will move towards or Effects are permanent if this symbol N Y ? T away from objective-another is not used. form of uncertainty)

38 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 5.3 How social, environmental and economic issues were considered in choosing the preferred option

5.3.1 From the sustainability appraisal that was undertaken to compare the four sites, in light of the relevant national, regional and county guidance and taking account of the particular locational requirements for a successful Science Park development, it is considered that Option 1, land west of Holywell Park, south of the A512 presents the best option for the development of a Science Park.

5.3.2 The Structure Plan policy is quite specific, indicating that a site for a Science Park should be located in Loughborough and in close proximity to the University. Development of a substantial Science Park in this location would be adjacent to the first Science Park, where development began in 1995, and Loughborough University. This site provides the potential to create a development of national significance with significant benefits for the regional economy. This site is the only site to offer these advantages.

5.3.3 The site has excellent transport communication with excellent access to the motorway with Junction 23 of the M1 being in close proximity. It is in close proximity to the two largest urban settlements within the Borough, Loughborough and Shepshed. There is a frequent bus service between Loughborough and Shepshed, which would enable potential employees to have the option of travelling to work by public transport, which provides significant scope to reduce car use. The site also has excellent walking and cycling links which will help reduce the use of the car.

5.3.4 The Borough of Charnwood Local Plan identifies the land as part of the northernmost edge of the Charnwood Forest. Land west of Snells Nook Lane falls within the National Forest boundary and forms part of the Loughborough/Shepshed Green Wedge. Two significant areas of woodland fall within the site. Whilst development of the Science Park in this location would be entirely on greenfield land on the edge of the Charnwood Forest where development would have an impact on landscape character, the site is in a location, which is already subject to a number of urban influences. The particular character of the area also provides the opportunity to secure a high quality development, which can reflect its location on the edge of Charnwood Forest and the National Forest. Table 8 sets out the detailed appraisal of this option for the Science Park.

5.4 Other Options Considered, and why these were rejected

5.4.1 The sustainability appraisal identifies why the alternative options were rejected.

Option 2: Loughborough – North of the A512 The site has excellent access to the motorway network and is in close proximity to the existing Science Park and Loughborough University. However, it does not adjoin the university. Development in this location will have harmful effects on Garendon Historic Park and Gardens, as this specific site will fall directly onto this historic and cultural asset. In addition, there is Grade 2 best and most versatile agricultural land in this location which would be lost if developed.

Option 4a: Wymeswold Airfield The proposal incorporates some brownfield development, however a large proportion would be greenfield. Its location, is not sustainable as it is away from a large urban settlement where bus services are infrequent which would attract the use of the private car. The proposal would be contrary to the strategy of urban concentration set out in the Regional Spatial Strategy and the Structure Plan. These documents seek to direct new development to the existing urban areas where there is good access to existing infrastructure and services and good public transport.

The wider proposals would reduce the separation between adjoining villages and have a significant urbanising impact on an area of open countryside.

39 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 The site is remote from the existing science park and Loughborough University and it is in a poor location in relation to the motorway network. In the absence of significant travel by public transport there would be high traffic generation likely to result in a potentially significant impact on the local highway network both within Leicestershire and south Nottinghamshire. This impact needs to be balanced against any benefits associated with the proposed bypasses. The proposed bypasses could bring some traffic relief to some Wolds villages. However it would not offer a comprehensive, long term solution. Lorry movements would affect other villages, such as Wymeswold and add to pressures on the east to west road network in Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire.

Option 5: Land South of Loughborough Land either side of the Epinal Way extension and at Bull in the Hollow Farm has been presented as an option for the Science Park development. These sites are separated and are not as close to the existing campus as the west Loughborough options and the site is less well located in the relation to the motorway connections. This land is currently allocated in the Local Plan as green wedge. Development of this option would cause a detrimental impact on the separate identities of Loughborough and Quorn, as it would be difficult to maintain the green wedge with a development of this size. The development of this site would also be on Grade 2 best and most versatile agricultural land which would be lost.

5.5 Any Proposed mitigation measures

5.5.1 The sustainability appraisal of the preferred site for the Science Park identified the following mitigation measures that will need to be put in place:

ƒ To protect designated and non designated sites of biodiversity interest and to create new habitats as part of new development. ƒ To protect landscape and townscape through design. ƒ To introduce effective travel demand measures to reduce car use. ƒ To safeguard and where appropriate enhance historic and cultural features on the site or where development would threaten them. ƒ To involve local communities in integrating new development with existing communities. ƒ Retention of features and significant landscaping to help the site remain settlement identity. ƒ To ensure remodelling of green wedges to maintain an effective green wedge ƒ Protection of the Charnwood Forest and the National Forest ƒ Good design to help reduce crime.

6 Plan policies

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

6.1.1 A sustainability appraisal has been undertaken to assess the social, environmental and economic effects of the Science Park DPD policy. There is one policy is in the document, which is entitled Loughborough Science Park and University. The individual appraisal can be found in Table 8 below. A summary for the policy is set out below:

Draft DPD Policy 1: Loughborough Science Park Environmental - The location of the site comprises a large tract of greenfield land within the Loughborough/Shepshed urban system, which forms part of the Charnwood Forest and National Forest. As such the site has biodiversity species and interests, which will have a negative impact towards the objectives of maintaining and enhancing biodiversity, flora and fauna and conserving social resources and quality. Despite urban influences at the edge of Loughborough, the M1 corridor, a large roadside services site on the A512 and the close proximity of Shepshed, the area remains rural in character. Therefore, the proposed development will have an urbanising impact in this area, which will have a negative impact towards the objectives of maintaining and enhancing 40 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 landscape and townscape character. The policy will help towards the environmental objectives of improving air quality as the site can help reduce distances traveled by the car. In addition, the policy can help reduce contributions towards climate change and reducing vulnerability to climate change through sustainable design and construction techniques.

Material Assets - The policy contributes positively towards the objectives of minimising the use of energy and optimising the use of renewable energy, as new development will encourage energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources through sustainable design and construction techniques. The policy does not contribute towards the objective of using previously developed land as the site comprises of a greenfield site

Social - The policy contributes positively towards the objective of reducing poverty and social exclusion as new employment development will increase local employment opportunities and expansion of the University campus for student accommodation will bring back properties once used by students into the open housing market. The policy will also help towards the objectives of increasing learning skills and employability for all sectors of the community as the provision of high tech firms will provide employment opportunities for some sectors of the community and the University will give opportunities to local residents to increase education and learning, increasing the vibrancy and viability of settlements and increasing sustainable design and construction as the buildings will be constructed to a high standard external appearance, increasing healthy life styles as measures will be taken to maximise the potential for access to the site by walking and cycling, ensuring that the housing stock meets the needs of all the community through the creation of student accommodation which brings properties back into the general housing market and increasing access to the countryside, public open spaces and semi urban environments by providing segregated facilities for cyclists and pedestrians which will link into the cycleway and footpath.

Economic - The policy contributes positively towards the objectives of encouraging a sustainable economy, increasing efficient patterns of movement to support a sustainable economy and reducing disparities in economic performance as the science park will help make a significant contribution to improving the economy of the Borough. The location of the Science Park would be accessible to many people living in Loughborough and Shepshed, which can be accessed by means of travel other than the car. Encouraging growth of the University will contribute to the Borough’s economic well being and will increase efficient patterns of movement to support a sustainable economy.

Cumulative, Secondary and Synergistic Effects Secondary or indirect effects are effects that are not a direct result of a DPD, but occur away from the original effect or as a result of a complex pathway. Cumulative effects arise, for instance, where several developments each have an insignificant effect but together have a significant effect. Alternatively, cumulative effects are where several individual effects of the DPD have a combined effect. Synergistic effects interact to produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual effects.

Overall, the policy and so the Science Park DPD, has positive effects. The significant negative effects relate to the fact that a Greenfield site is proposed where there are biodiversity, landscape and best and most versatile agricultural land interests. The scale of the development means that there are no suitable previously developed sites in Loughborough or in a sustainable location.

The Core Strategy DPD will also provide guidance on quality design and sustainable design and construction techniques and managing environmental resources.

41 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Table 8: Draft Core Policy 1- Loughborough Science Park

Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period To maintain and enhance To conserve & enhance existing South of A512, N N There are 3 SINCs on or close to this site. Of these two are ancient biodiversity, flora and fauna habitats West woodlands: Holywell Wood (SK 507182) and Burleigh Wood (SK To create new habitats identified in Loughborough 508178) are located within the development site, south of the A512 UK, Leicestershire & Charnwood and east of Snells Nook Lane. The third SINC, Longliffe Golf Course Biodiversity Action Plans (SK49173) lies adjacent to the proposed development site and is a To conserve & enhance species priority habitat of lowland heathland. protected by UK, Leicestershire and Development of this Greenfield site will affect biodiversity, flora and Charnwood Biodiversity Action Plans fauna. These would need to be avoided or mitigated against, To maintain & enhance designated however the effect would depend on how the proposal is sites of nature conservation interest implemented. However, at least 30% of the site will be retained and To increase connectivity of habitats landscaped to create a parkland setting, which will have the potential to enhance species and biodiversity interest within that area. In addition, existing woodland, trees and other natural features within and adjacent to the site shall be conserved and enhanced to sustain their wildlife habitat and amenity value. Recommend policy should make reference to the provision and creation of open spaces that will be retained or created and then landscaped to enable biodiversity and species interest within it. To maintain and enhance landscape To minimise detrimental visual South of A512, NN NN The land currently forms part of the Charnwood Forest Area of and townscape character intrusion of development West Particularly Attractive Countryside and the land east of Snells Nook To minimise light pollution Loughborough Lane falls within the National Forest. Land to the north forms part of To maintain & enhance landscape Garendon Historic Park and Garden. character & distinctiveness identified The area of countryside west of Loughborough is already subject to in the Leicester, Leicestershire and urban influences resulting from large scale developments (University Rutland Landscape & Woodland and Science Park) and housing, the M1 corridor and J21 interchange, Strategy a petrol filling station on the A512 and the close proximity of To protect & enhance areas of Shepshed and Loughborough either side of the motorway. relative tranquillity However there remains a significant area of open land, rural in To promote landscape schemes character. South of the A512 the attractiveness of the landscape designed to respect the diversity of increases as the landform rises away to the south and west into landscape and built character into Charnwood Forest. new development Significant development in this general location however well screened is likely to have an urbanising impact on the landscape to the west of Loughborough. To ensure the delivery of a high quality development in a strong landscaped setting reflecting the location on the edge of Charnwood Forest and partly within the National Forest, approximately 50% of 42 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period the site allocation should be retained as part of the landscape setting for the site. Recommend policy makes references to landscaping to help minimise some urban influences of the development. This will also help enhance biodiversity interest on the site. To protect and improve surface and To improve surface water quality as South of A512, O O The groundwater beneath the Borough does not supply drinking groundwater quality identified by the Environment West water and it is not considered to be particularly susceptible to Agency’s General Quality Assessment Loughborough pollution from surface sources. This is likely to be a neutral factor To protect quality of vulnerable across all sites. groundwater resources To minimise water consumption To minimise the use and increase re- South of A512, O O New development is likely to result in an increase in water use & recycling of water in existing West consumption. There are opportunities to minimise water and planned development Loughborough consumption through sustainable design techniques. This is likely to be a neutral factor across all options. To improve air quality To reduce inappropriate Loughborough/ Y Y There is significant scope to reduce car use. The policy seeks to development in Air Quality Shepshed improve bus stops and information, bus priority measures and Management Areas contributions to services. To mitigate and appropriately locate The A512 carries a number of bus routes notably 4, 99 and 125/ 127 potentially air polluting processes ensuring high frequency services between Loughborough and To reduce travel distances Shepshed. There could be scope to provide park and ride due to To reduce the need to travel by car high traffic flows on the A512 west of the town. To reduce automotive movements The site is over 4.5km from the rail station but bus services on route related to logistical supply and 4 and the high frequency University Shuttle 7 provide direct links distribution across town via the town centre. Proximity to the M1 could encourage car use, which could impact on air quality. If a link road is not provided traffic movements associated with the development could impact on Ashby Road/Epinal Way Air Quality Management Area (AQMA). Expansion of the University will help provide academic and ancillary uses and student accommodation can reduce the use of the car as they are all in close proximity to each other. However, expansion of the University campus will mean students are further away from the town centre, which may result in additional journeys to the town centre through the AQMA to gain access to the services and amenities offered. To conserve soil resources and To reduce loss of best and most South of A512, N N The land west of Loughborough, south of the A512, includes an area quality versatile agricultural land West of Grade 3 agricultural land. There is no information on how much of To reduce contamination of land and Loughborough this is grade 3a and so best and most versatile agricultural land. soils due to development, industrial Longcliffe Quarry (SK490173) is a regionally important geological site. processes or agriculture 43 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period To reduce loss of soils and increase local re-use of soils through development To protect geological SSSIs To reduce contributions to climate To reduce greenhouse gas emissions Borough Y Y Reduced travel by car will help reduce green house gas emissions. change The policy makes provision for segregated facilities to be provided for cyclists and pedestrians affording attractive and direct linkages into the cycleway and footpath network. New development will give the opportunity to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through sustainable design and construction techniques (see Leading in Design SPD). To reduce vulnerability to climate To reduce energy consumption Loughborough/ Y Y New development will give the opportunity to reduce greenhouse change To increase building designed to be Shepshed gas emissions, reduce energy and water consumption and construct adaptable to climate change buildings that are able to adapt to climate variations and flooding (temperature extremes, storm events through sustainable design and construction techniques (see Leading and flooding) in Design SPD). To minimise the risk of flooding to There is the opportunity to take advantage of the local expertise in people and properties from rivers this field through the Centre for Renewable Energy Systems and watercourses Technology based at Loughborough University. To conserve and enhance the To increase re-use of built heritage South of A512, D D There are two listed buildings at Holywell Farm and a site of historic and cultural environment including ‘buildings at risk’ West archaeological interest close to Snells Nook Lane. To protect & enhance sites, features, Loughborough Development of this site could threaten these historic and cultural areas & settings of historical, interests but mitigation measures should be taken to conserve and archaeological and cultural value enhance such features. To increase use of locally distinctive Policy should have regard to mitigation measures to conserve and and diverse materials & style enhance historic and cultural interests. To increase the re-use of previously To increase the redevelopment of South of A512, NN NN This is a greenfield location. Although, there may be limited scope developed land and buildings previously developed land and West for re-use of farm buildings. buildings in sustainable locations Loughborough To increase the remediation and regeneration of contaminated land and buildings To reduce the extraction of new & To increase restoration of mineral Borough/County O O Beyond the limits of the site, the area west of Snells Nook Lane close increase the re-use of recycled workings for biodiversity, landscape to the motorway is a mineral consultation area. More information minerals and aggregates resources and the general public. on the status of these areas is required. To reduce use of minerals and New development will give the opportunity to encourage sustainable increase the re-use of materials on extraction, re-use and recycling of minerals and aggregates resources and off site. through sustainable design and construction techniques (see Leading To increase the use of locally in Design SPD). This is likely to be a neutral factor across all options. extracted minerals 44 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period To safeguard mineral reserves and sites enabling their bulk transport To safeguard existing development from the environmental effects of mineral workings To manage waste in accordance To reduce waste & increase the re- Borough/County O O New development will give the opportunity to reduce, re-use and with the waste hierarchy in all use, recycling and energy produced of recycle waste through sustainable design and construction techniques sectors (i.e. household, commercial waste (see Leading in Design SPD). This is likely to be a neutral factor and industrial) To increase the provision of waste across all options infrastructure To increase use of long lasting and recycled materials in building design To reduce hazardous waste To minimise the use of energy and To increase measures to ensure Borough Y Y New development will give the opportunity to encourage energy optimise the use of renewable energy efficiency efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources through resources To increase use of renewable energy sustainable design and construction techniques (see Leading in supplies Design SPD). To increase supply of locally Policy states that the buildings will be constructed to a high standard produced clean energy eg. Combined of external appearance, incorporating energy efficient design heat and power solutions. To increase the population’s access To increase access to retail centres, Loughborough/ O O No significant relationship. to a full range of public, private, post offices, local food markets, Shepshed community and voluntary services commercial centres & employment for all To increase access to community facilities – libraries, community centres, education, places of worship, healthcare – for all To increase access to services by more sustainable forms of transport – walking, cycling, bus and train. To reduce food miles To increase access to the To increase access to features of Loughborough/ O O Public access in the area south of the A512 is via public footpaths countryside, public open spaces and landscape, ecological and cultural Shepshed through Holywell Farm to Snells Nook Lane and from the southern semi urban environments (eg parks) heritage in a way that minimises end of Snells Nook Lane north westward across Longcliffe (private) damage to such features golf course to the A512. The first may be affected by the proposed To increase interpretation facilities for development but mitigation measures could be put in place to retain features of landscape, ecological and the route. cultural heritage The Green Space Strategy identifies a deficiency in district park To increase linkages between open provision of 10 to 20 ha in the north and south of Loughborough 45 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period spaces and increase permeability of and Shepshed. There are also deficiencies in local parks/ distinct open the countryside and semi-urban spaces in northwest Loughborough between the town centre and environments later developments, east and south of Shepshed and north west of Nanpantan Road/ Forest Road. Development in this site could contribute to new provision to help meet the deficiencies of green space identified in the Green Space Strategy as at least 30% of the site will be landscaped and retained to create a parkland setting. Continuous and direct cycle and pedestrian links to site from housing areas will be provided which can help increase linkages between open spaces and urban environments. To promote a strong community To increase community engagement Loughborough/ D D Depends on strategies adopted to integrate the development of the where people feel they have a say in and the capacity of the local Shepshed site with existing communities. the future community to influence decisions To increase the voluntary and community infrastructure To increase racial equality and community cohesion To reduce crime, anti social To reduce anti-social behaviour Loughborough/ D D New development will give the opportunity to reduce crime and the behaviour and increase community To reduce nuisance noise Shepshed fear of crime through sustainable design and construction techniques safety To reduce fear of crime and actual (see Leading in Design SPD). This is likely to be a neutral factor crime across all options. To increase the use of design techniques to reduce crime To increase the population’s access To increase access to sports, arts, Loughborough/ O O No significant relationship. and opportunity to participate in culture and leisure facilities Shepshed culture, media and sport in To enhance local cultural diversity Charnwood To ensure that the housing stock To increase the quality or upkeep of Borough Y Y The development of a science park only on this site will not improve meets the housing needs of all the existing housing stock access to housing. There is the possibility that it will attract new jobs sections of the community To ensure an adequate supply of a to the area without the commensurate rate of new housing diverse range of housing types provision. However the expansion of Loughborough University appropriate to the needs of the campus will be able to provide additional purpose built student community accommodation which will help provide an adequate supply of To increase the amount of housing housing for students, that is affordable to all sections of the community To reduce homelessness To reduce poverty and social To reduce poverty and social Borough Y Y This site is not immediately adjacent to areas known to have a exclusion exclusion across Charnwood but relatively high level of deprivation. New development for 46 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period particularly on those areas most employment will increase local employment opportunities but it is affected less certain whether such jobs will match the skills of those in areas of deprivation who are looking for a job. Providing student accommodation will free up family housing in Loughborough which will help meet the housing needs of a range of potential occupants. To increase learning, skills and To improve access to opportunities Borough Y Y The provision of a site for high technology firms and technology employability for all sectors of the for education, learning and skills transfer will provide employment opportunities for some sectors of community training for all sections of the the community. Can help provide skills and training for people at the community university. Further development of Loughborough’s University facilities may give the opportunity for local residents to increase education and learning. Freeing up family households outside the campus which helps to meet the housing needs of a range of potential occupants may enable people to take up job opportunities as extra housing is available at the more affordable end of the market. To increase the vibrancy and To increase the attractiveness of Loughborough/ Y Y The buildings and other structure will be constructed to a high viability of settlements town, district and local centres Shepshed standard of external appearance. The particular characteristics of the To increase the sense of place site provide a unique opportunity to secure a prestigious high quality, To maintain settlement identity and low density development within a parkland setting, which will prevent coalescence increase the sense of place. To increase neighbourhood The land between Loughborough and Shepshed is designated as satisfaction levels Green Wedge but strategic planning policy allows for the review of To increase patterns of development green wedge boundaries. Separation between Loughborough and and movement that helps to tackle Shepshed is currently in the range 1.5 to 2.25km. The presence of congestion. the motorway corridor between the towns provides views across open land fringing both towns but is also a physical feature increasing the feeling of separation by restricting intervisibility between them. There is scope to incorporate new development on this site and maintain the separate identities of Loughborough and Shepshed and ensure the continued safeguarding of an effective area of green wedge if this is considered appropriate on the south side of the A512. To increase sustainable design and To increase the use of sustainable South of A512, Y Y The proposed development will provide a real opportunity to construction design and construction techniques in West provide innovative, high quality design buildings, which will all forms of development Loughborough incorporate energy efficient design solutions. To increase number of developments New development will give the opportunity to use sustainable design that accord with good, very good and and construction techniques (see Leading in Design SPD). excellent level of BREAAM assessment 47 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period To increase the use of innovative and adaptive design To increase the use of exemplar projects to demonstrate good practice in sustainable deign and construction To increase healthy life styles To increase access to high quality Loughborough/ Y Y There is some access by public footpaths to the site and cycleway healthcare facilities Shepshed links between Loughborough and Shepshed. To reduce health inequalities Measures will be taken to maximise the potential for access to the To increase healthy lifestyles through site by walking and cycling which will give the opportunity to increased physical activity, improved incorporate space and to extend access by walking and cycling routes diet and less smoking to a site readily accessible to many people living in Shepshed and To reduce death rates western Loughborough. To encourage a sustainable To increase competitiveness, Regional YY YY A new Science Park located adjacent to the existing Science Park and economy productivity, progress and investment Loughborough University is likely to make a significant contribution of local firms to improving the economy of the Borough. Making provision for To increase inward investment employment land on this site would be accessible to many people To ensure an adequate supply of a living in Loughborough and Shepshed including by good bus and range of sites in terms of type and cycle provision. quality for employment uses An urban concentration strategy would do little to support rural To increase the working environment enterprise. through access to non work related Loughborough University and its students have a positive effect on facilities the Borough’s economy. However, providing additional purpose To increase the culture of enterprise built student accommodation on an extended campus may have a and innovation harmful impact on the use and spending within the town centre if To increase infrastructure for students have relevant facilities provided on campus. information and communications The expansion of the University Campus may help encourage new technology firms to locate in Loughborough, especially as the research activity at the University will be closely related to uses on the Science Park. The University is important for the local and regional economy and provides the potential for real benefits for the Borough, especially in the lead up to the London Olympics in 2012. To increase efficient patterns of To reduce commuting and traffic Regional YY YY Although development on this site would have very good road movement to support a sustainable congestion access being next to M1 J23 it is also well served by high frequency economy To increase access to work by public bus services along the A512 between Loughborough and Shepshed transport, walking and cycling and there are direct bus services to the rail station. There could be To reduce journey time between key potential for park and ride in the future. employment areas and key transport A Science Park on this site is close to housing areas in Loughborough interchanges and Shepshed. To increase efficiency in freight Policy aims to take measures to maximise the potential for access to 48 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period distribution the site by walking, cycling and public transport, helping reduce travel To increase working from home by car. In terms of an extended campus, students will be close to the University but they will be further away from the town centres, which may result in additional journeys and traffic congestion to the town centre through the AQMA to gain access to service and facilities. Any new jobs provided at the University due to its expansion may help reduce commuting due to its location within an urban settlement. However, it is some distance from the railway station. To reduce disparities in economic To increase diversification of the rural Borough Y Y Given this site is within the Loughborough/ Shepshed urban system performance economy development is unlikely to encourage rural diversification. To increase the diverse range of job The proposal will increase the diverse range of job opportunities opportunities in urban and rural areas within Loughborough for residents who live in nearby settlements such as Loughborough and Shepshed. Overall Commentary [including suggestions for mitigation and enhancement]: Environmental: The location of the site comprises a large tract of greenfield land within the Loughborough/Shepshed urban system, which forms part of the Charnwood Forest and National Forest. As such the site has biodiversity species and interests, which will have a negative impact towards the objectives of maintaining and enhancing biodiversity, flora and fauna and conserving social resources and quality. Despite urban influences at the edge of Loughborough, the M1 corridor, a large roadside services site on the A512 and the close proximity of Shepshed, the area remains rural in character. The proposed development will have an urbanising impact in this area, which will have a negative impact towards the objectives of maintaining and enhancing landscape and townscape character. The appraisal illustrates that the policy scored fairly highly. The policy will help towards the environmental objectives of improving air quality as the site can help reduce distances traveled by the car. In addition, the policy can help reduce contributions towards climate change and reducing vulnerability to climate change through sustainable design and construction techniques.

Material Assets: The policy contributes positively towards the objectives of minimising the use of energy and optimising the use of renewable energy, as new development will encourage energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy sources through sustainable design and construction techniques. The policy does not contribute towards the objective of using previously developed land as the site comprises of a greenfield site

Social: The policy contributes positively towards the objectives of reducing poverty and social exclusion as new employment development will increase local employment opportunities and expansion of the University campus for student accommodation will bring back properties once used by students into the open housing market, increasing learning skills and employability for all sectors of the community as the provision of high tech firms will provide employment opportunities for some sectors of the community and the University will give opportunities to local residents to increase education and learning,, increasing the vibrancy and viability of settlements and increasing sustainable design and construction as the buildings will be constructed to a high standard external appearance, increasing healthy life styles as measures will be taken to maximise the potential for access to the site by walking and cycling, ensuring that the housing stock meets the needs of all the community through the creation of student accommodation which brings properties back into the general housing market and increasing access to the countryside, public open spaces and semi urban environments by providing segregated facilities for cyclists and pedestrians which will link into the cycleway and footpath.

Economic: The policy contributes positively towards the objectives of encouraging a sustainable economy, increasing efficient patterns of movement to support a sustainable economy and reducing disparities in economic performance as the science park will help make a significant contribution to improving the economy of the Borough. The location of the Science Park would be accessible to many people living in Loughborough and Shepshed, which can be accessed by means of travel other than the car. Encouraging growth of the University will contribute to the Borough’s economic well-being and will increase efficient patterns of movement to support a sustainable economy. 49 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 Within Beyond Objective Sub Objectives Geographic Scale Plan Plan Period Period

Recommendations for mitigation or changes to policy wording Recommend policy makes reference to landscaping to help minimise some urban influences of the development. This will also help enhance biodiversity interests in the site.

Recommend policy should make reference to the provision and creating of open areas that will be retained or created and then landscaped to enable biodiversity and species interest within it.

Policy should have regard to mitigation measures to conserve and enhance the historic and cultural interests.

Key to Matrix

Significant negative effect Significant positive effect (i.e. Effect depends on how the There is no relationship or no NN (i.e. a move away from the YY a move towards the D policy is implemented (one O significant relationship between the

objective) objective) form of uncertainty) objective and the policy Marginal negative effect (i.e. Marginal positive effect (i.e. a It is not known whether the Denotes a temporary effect a move away from the move towards the objective) policy will move towards or Effects are permanent if this symbol N Y ? T objective) away from the objective is not used. (another form of uncertainty)

50 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 6.2 How social, environmental and economic problems were considered in developing policies and proposals

6.2.1 The sustainability appraisal of the Science Park DPD policy identified the recommended policy changes illustrated in table 9. Table 9 indicates whether the proposed change which is recommended by the sustainability appraisal has been taken on board.

Table 9: Accepted Recommendations of the Sustainability Appraisal

Sustainability Sustainability Appraisal Recommendation Action Taken Objective Policy 1: Loughborough Science Park and University 1 – Maintain and Recommend policy should make Policy 1 is amended to include areas of enhance reference to the provision and creation of extensive landscaping and to conserve biodiversity, flora open spaces that will be retained or woodland, trees and other natural and fauna created and then landscaped to enable features to conserve and enhance their biodiversity and species interest within it. wildlife and amenity value.

2 – To maintain and Reference given to landscaping to help Policy 1 is amended to include areas of enhance landscape minimise some urban influences of the extensive landscaping. It also requires a and townscape development. This will also help enhance high standard of design. character biodiversity interest on the site.

9 – Conserve and Policy should have regard to mitigation Policy 1 is amended to extend the site enhance the historic measures to conserve and enhance area to enable the accommodation of and cultural historic and cultural features greater landscaping and the opportunity environment to take measures to reduce harmful effects on the historic and cultural environment.

6.3 Proposed mitigation measures

6.3.1 The appraisal of the site options indicated a number of mitigation measures. The sustainability appraisal of the Science Park DPD policies did not identify any extra mitigation measures that will need to be put in place.

6.4 Uncertainties and risks

6.4.1 In plan making there are uncertainties and risks. The key uncertainties and risks relate to:

ƒ The Local Development Framework is not able to directly influence some of the objectives. In some cases it will contribute towards an objective but other factors may restrict the level of change that can be made. ƒ Changes to environmental, economic and social baseline e.g. Climate change factors, downturns or upswings in the wider economy. Monitoring is an important part of plan making to ensure that such changes are accommodated. ƒ Changes to national policy ƒ The current Regional Spatial Strategy for the East Midland does not give housing or employment figures for the district level. This is being rectified through the review but this review will not be complete until early 2008. ƒ Implementation of policies in accordance with their original intention. ƒ Design of new development is an uncertainty. The Council has recently prepared the Leading in Design Supplementary Planning Document to encourage, promote and inspire higher design standards on new development across Charnwood.

51 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006 7 Implementation

7.1 Links to other tiers of plans and programmes and the project level (environmental impact assessment, design guidance etc)

7.1.1 The Sustainability appraisal is linked to other tiers of plans and programmes. It will sit within the local planning framework and be part of the Local Development Framework. The following plans and strategies will be particularly relevant in terms of future guidance for the implementation of the Science Park DPD:

ƒ Regional Spatial Strategy for the East Midlands (Currently under review. A Regional Plan is expected to replace the Regional Spatial Strategy by early 2008.) ƒ Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland Structure Plan. (This will be replaced by the review of the Regional Spatial Strategy, which will include a sub regional strategy for the Three Cities Sub Area.) ƒ Allocations DPD ƒ General Development Control Policies DPD ƒ Proposals Map DPD ƒ Leading in Design SPD ƒ Charnwood Community Strategy ƒ Corporate Plan to 2011/2012 ‘Leading in Leicestershire’ ƒ Environmental Impact Assessments and Transport Impact Assessments

7.2 Proposals for monitoring

7.2.1 All Local Planning Authorities are required to produce an Annual Monitoring Report (AMR) as part of the requirements in the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004. Local Development Plans will be kept under review via the AMR, which will identify where a Local Development Document is no longer required or where it needs altering and replacing. Table 4.1 shows the overarching sustainability appraisal framework, which gives details of targets and indicators against which to measure the sustainability effects of implementing the component documents of the Charnwood’s Local Development Framework. Such monitoring will enable any unforeseen undesirable effects and so enable corrective action to be taken. It is proposed to develop a single monitoring system for the various components of the Local Development Framework. This will be reported through an Annual Monitoring Report.

52 Science Park Development Plan Document Preferred Option Sustainability Appraisal Report - February 2006