Strategic Environmental Assessment / Sustainability Appraisal of Thurrock Council Local Development Framework Scoping Report: Technical Appendix A – Context Review (Adopted)
November 2005 Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) / Sustainability Appraisal (SA) of Thurrock Council Local Development Framework Scoping Report Technical Appendix A – Context Review (Adopted) November 2005
Collated and Alex White edited by: Environmental Specialist
Reviewed by: Steven Smith Senior Consultant
Approved by: Martin Herbert Technical Director Version: D109647-ThurrockLDFSASRCON.adopt.v1.211105
Scott Wilson Planning Environment and Design Greencoat House 15 Francis Street London SW1P 1DH
Tel: +44 (0)20 7798 5200 Fax: +44 (0)20 7798 5201 Email: [email protected] SEA / SA of Thurrock Council LDF Vol. III - Context Review (Adopted)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Introduction ...... 3 2 Task A1: Identifying other relevant plans, programmes and sustainability objectives (Context Review)...... 4 2.2 Methodology...... 5 2.3 Key messages from the context review ...... 11 3 PPPSI Tables ...... 17 Glossary ...... 123
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SEA / SA of Thurrock Council LDF Vol. III - Context Review (Adopted)
1 INTRODUCTION
1.1.1 This report is a technical appendix to the main scoping report. It covers the contents of Stage A Task 1 as outlined in the Guidance1. For a summary of the findings please refer to Section 2 of the Scoping Report.
1 ODPM (2005). Sustainability Appraisal of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Documents
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2 TASK A1: IDENTIFYING OTHER RELEVANT PLANS, PROGRAMMES AND SUSTAINABILITY OBJECTIVES (CONTEXT REVIEW).
Stage A Stage B Stage C Stage D Stage E
A1 – Context A2 – Baseline A3 – Sustainability issues A4 – SA Framework A5 – Consult on scope
2.1.1 The definition of the context in which the LDF is being prepared involves two steps. Firstly, identifying the relevant Policies / Plans / Programmes / Strategies / Initiatives (PPPSIs) considered relevant to the LDF and, secondly, reviewing these to establish their implications for the LDF (e.g. the opportunities they create or the constraints they present) as well as for the SEA / SA process.
2.1.2 The requirement to undertake a context review arises from the SEA Directive:
The ‘Environmental Report’ required under the SEA Directive should include:
“an outline of the contents, main objectives of the plan or programme and relationship with other relevant plans and programmes” (Annex 1(a))
2.1.3 Many policies, plans etc. also set out environmental and wider sustainability objectives. Under the SEA Directive, reference must be made to environmental objectives. The context review satisfies this requirement.
The ‘Environmental Report’ required under the SEA Directive should include:
“the environmental protection objectives, established at international, Community or Member State level, which are relevant to the plan or programme…” (Annex 1 (e))
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2.1.4 The ODPM Guidance states:
“The LPA must take account of relationships between the DPD and other relevant policies plans programmes and sustainability objectives. The SEA Directive specifically requires environmental protection objectives established at the international, EC or national level to be taken into account...Information on these relationships will enable potential synergies to be exploited and any inconsistencies and constraints to be addressed”.
2.2 Methodology
2.2.1 The policies, plans, programmes, strategies and initiatives (PPPSIs) have been presented under the thematic headings of environment, social and economic and overlaps between these categories. This should facilitate the use of the context review as a reference document throughout the SA of the LDF and associated LDDs and SPDs. Table 2 shows which topics fall into which overarching category. This list is not prescriptive, and has been developed in conjunction with Thurrock Council.
Table 2. LDD topic categorisation
ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT SOCIAL Biodiversity Waste Conservation Development land Rural matters Air Quality Greenbelt Noise Waste Open Space SOCIAL SOCIAL ECONOMY Housing Town centres Crime Urban Design Education Streetscape Culture Services and Facilities ECONOMY ECONOMY ENVIRONMENT Business & Industry Transport Economy Tourism Renewable energy & energy efficiency Minerals ENVIRONMENT SOCIAL ECONOMY General Sustainability Flood Risk
2.2.2 An initial list of those PPPSIs considered relevant has been prepared. This list was discussed at an workshop session on the 18th July 2005 (Workshop Report can be found in Appendix III of the Scoping Report). Table 3 sets out the list of Policies, Plans, Programmes, Strategies and Initiatives (PPPSIs) reviewed as part of the SEA / SA process. In table 3, the thematic colouring above has been placed sequentially, the boxes on the left of the table indicate, from left to right, Social, Economic, Environment sectors.
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Table 3. List of relevant policies / plans / programmes / strategies / initiatives
Theme PPPSI Section EU - European Spatial Development Perspective [1999] UN - The Johannesburg Declaration on Sustainable Development [2002] ODPM - Securing the Future: Delivering the UK Sustainable Development Strategy [2005] ODPM - Sustainable Communities: Building the Future [2003] OPDM - PPS1: Delivering Sustainable Development [2005] ODPM - PPS11: Regional Spatial Strategies ODPM - PPS12: Local Development Frameworks [2005] ODPM - PPG13: Transport ODPM - Draft Planning for Mixed Communities [2005] ODPM - RPG9: Regional Planning for the South East of England [2001] EERA - Integrated Regional Strategy for the East of England [2005] EERA – Draft East of England Regional Spatial Strategy [2004] EERA – Draft East of England Regional Spatial Strategy Sustainability Appraisal [2004] GLA - The London Plan – Spatial Development Strategy [2004] SERA - Draft South East Plan – A clear vision for the South East [2005] EA Catchment Abstraction Management Strategy for South Essex [2004] EA Water resources for the future – a strategy for the Anglian Region [2001] Essex and Southend on Sea Replacement Structure Plan [2001] Essex and Southend on Sea Waste Local Plan [2001] Essex Minerals Plan First Review [1996] Mouchel Associates Limited – Essex Shoreline Management Plan [1997] Thames Estuary 2100 Programme [2005] Thames Strategy East Thurrock - Accessibility Report [2005] Thurrock - Bus Strategy [2003] Thurrock - Energy Strategy [2004] Thurrock - Landscape Strategy [2005] Thurrock - Local Agenda 21 Strategy [2000] Thurrock - Local Transport Plan [2000] Thurrock – Draft Local Transport Plan 2 [2005] Thurrock - Municipal Waste Strategy [Pending] Thurrock - Open Space Strategy [Pending] Thurrock - Parking Plan [2001] Thurrock - Adopted Borough Local Plan [1997] Thurrock - Deposit Unitary Development Plan [2003] Thurrock – Community Strategy [ASPIRE] [2001] EC - Air Quality Framework Directive 96/62/EC and Daughter Directives EC - Directive 2002/49/EC relating to the assessment and management of environmental noise (the Environmental Noise Directive (END) EC - Framework Waste Directive (Directive 75/442/EEC, as amended) EC - Landfill of Waste Directive (99/31/EC) ODPM - PPS 10 : Planning for Sustainable Waste ODPM - PPG14: Development on Unstable land ODPM - PPG15: Planning and Historic Environment ODPM - PPG16: Archaeology and Planning ODPM - PPG17: Planning for Open Space, sport and recreations ODPM - PPS22: Renewable Energy ODPM - PPG24: Planning and noise
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Theme PPPSI Section ODPM - PPG25: Development and Flood risk ODPM - Living Places: Cleaner, Safer, Greener ODPM - RPG9a/3a: The Thames Gateway Planning Framework OPDM - RPG9/3B: Strategic Planning Guidance for the River Thames [under investigation] ODPM - Greening the Gateway [2005] ODPM – Sustainable Communities: Delivering Green Space in the Thames Gateway [2004] Thames Gateway South Essex Partnership - Green Grid Strategy [2005] Thurrock - Contaminated Land Strategy [2001] Thurrock - Countryside Access for All [Pending] ODPM - PPG21 Tourism DEFRA - England Rural Development Programme [2003] EOE Sustainable Development Round Table - Making Renewable Energy Reality: Setting Challenge Target For East of England [2003] Thames Gateway South Essex Partnership – London to Southend Movement Study [LOTS] [2004] DfT - National Cycle Strategy Thurrock - Cycling Strategy [1999] Thurrock - Road Safety Plan [2002] Thurrock - Walking Strategy [2000] ODPM - MPG1: Planning and minerals ODPM - MPS 2: Controlling and mitigating the Environmental effects of minerals extraction in the UK ODPM - Guidelines for Aggregate provision in England 2001-2016 ODPM - PPS6 Planning for Town Centres [2004] Thurrock - Gender and Employment in Local Labour Markets [2004] ODPM - Sustainable Communities: People, Places Prosperity [2005] ODPM - Sustainable Communities: Homes for all [2005] ODPM - PPG3: (and updates) – Housing [2000] ODPM - Planning for Gypsy and Traveller sites ODPM - Sustainable Communities Making it happen: Thames Gateway and growth areas [2003] East of England Public Health Group Annual Report 2004.2005 Thurrock - Arts Strategy (see Cultural Strategy) Thurrock - Performance Counts [2005 / 06] Thurrock - Race Equality Scheme [2003] Thurrock - Adult and Community Learning Strategy [see ASPIRE] Thurrock - Early Years Development and Child Care Partnership Strategic Plan [2001] Thurrock - Local Health Plan [see ASPIRE] Thurrock - Shaping Thurrock; Education and skills 2003 – 2013 [under investigation] Thurrock - Sports Strategy (see cultural strategy) Thurrock - Supporting People strategy [2005] Thurrock - Learning Partnership Strategic Plan [2004] Thurrock Children Services Plan [under investigation] Thurrock - Housing Strategy [2004] Thurrock - Tourism Strategy [see ASPIRE] Thurrock - Crime and Disorder Strategy [2005] Thurrock - Education Development Strategy Plan 2 [2002] Thurrock - Youth Service and Justice Plans [see Crime and Disorder Strategy] Dti - Competitiveness White Paper [1998]
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Theme PPPSI Section ODPM - PPG4 Industrial, Commercial Development & Small Firms [2001] ODPM - PPG8: Telecommunications [2001] ODPM - Delivering the Thames Gateway [2005] Thurrock - Creative Industries Strategy [under investigation] Thurrock - Economic Development Strategy [2001] Thurrock – Corporate Equality Strategy & Action Plan [2003] Thurrock - Private Sector Housing Strategy [2001] UNEP & Council of Europe - Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats (1979) EC - Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) UNEP - Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (1979) EC - Conservation of Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora Directive (92/43/EEC) EC - Convention on Biological Diversity EC - Effects of Certain Public and Private Projects on the Environment Directive (85/337/EEC & 97/11/EC) UN - Kyoto Protocol (1992) Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as Waterfowl Habitat (1971) EC - Water Framework Directive (2000/60/EC) DEFRA - Climate Change: The UK Programme DEFRA – Working with the Grain of the Future – A Biodiversity Strategy for England [2002] UK Biodiversity Steering Group - UK Biodiversity Action Plan ODPM - PPG2 Green belts ODPM - PPS9 Biodiversity & Geological Conservation ODPM - PPG9 Nature Conservation [superceded] ODPM - PPG20: Coastal Planning ODPM - PPS23: Planning and Pollution Control CABE Space – Green Space Strategies [2004] EERA and EEEF Our environment, Our Future – The Regional Environment Strategy for the East of England [2003] Regional Woodland Strategy for East of England [2004] Essex Biodiversity Action Plan [1999] Thurrock - Air Quality Action Plan [2004] Thurrock – [Draft] Biodiversity Action Plan [2005] Thurrock - Environmental Commitment
2.2.3 Each PPPSI - was reviewed using a standard pro-forma table. This records the following information:
x Thematic guide; x Policy / plan / programme / strategy / initiative; x Proponent body; x Status (e.g. statutory, non-statutory); x Source; x Opportunities / Constraints;
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x How could the LDF respond? x Implications for the SA; and x Useful cross-references.
2.2.4 The international / European PPPSIs set the policy context for other policy levels to implement and therefore are, generally speaking, relatively broad brush in terms of content and have few direct implications for the LDF. Instead, their ambitions are reflected in low-order PPPSIs.
2.2.5 The review of the various PPPSIs is set out in Technical Appendix A - available on the Council’s website2.
2.2.6 When considering the context, it is important to recognise three factors:
x No list or review of relevant PPPSIs can ever be exhaustive. The context review seeks to identify the key PPPSIs and distil the key messages from these.
x PPPSIs often exist in a hierarchy (see Figure 4 for an example). Generally speaking, as the hierarchy is descended from international and European PPPSIs to local PPPSIs, the implications for the LDF become more specific and precise.
x The context is dynamic and new or revised relevant PPPSIs emerge on a regular basis. Of particular relevance is the gradual replacement of Policy Planning Guidance Notes (PPGs) with Planning Policy Statements (PPSs). The Council and the Consultants will keep abreast of any significant changes and the context review will be checked and revised later in the SA process.
2 See: http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/planning/strategic/
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Figure 4. Example of hierarchical relationship between PPPSIs
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) International / European
European Biodiversity Strategy International / European
UK Biodiversity Action Plan National
Increasing relevance, detail and specificity
Biodiversity Strategy for England National
East England Biodiversity Strategy Regional
Thurrock Biodiversity Action Local
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2.3 Key messages from the context review
2.3.1 During the initial PPPSI review, Thurrock Council and the consultants identified a number of key messages that should be taken into account in developing the Thurrock LDF and in undertaking the SA process. These messages are intended as guidance for the LDF and the SA to inform the decision making process.
2.3.2 As part of the SA Baseline and Sustainability Issues Workshop (see Appendix III of the Scoping Report), participants were asked to comment on these emerging messages and suggest any further relevant messages they considered important. Following the workshop, the participants’ comments and additional messages will be examined and a final list drawn up and integrated into Table 4. This list of messages is not necessarily exhaustive and no priority should be inferred from the ordering.
Table 4. Key messages identified Thurrock from the context review Key messages – the LDF should seek to: Evidence Source The Regional Environmental Strategy for the East of England East of England RSS Use natural resources, particularly water, efficiently. Also previously developed land should be reused wherever PPS 1 possible, in order to protect key environmental resources PPG 3 (agricultural land, threatened habitats, mineral and PPS 6 historic resources etc) Thurrock Local Plan Deposit Unitary Development Plan
PPS 9 Green Grid Strategy Sustainable Communities: Delivering Green Space in Preserve and enhance the Green Grid of open space the Thames Gateway PPG2 Green Space Strategies ASPIRE - Community Strategy
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Key messages – the LDF should seek to: Evidence Source A Biodiversity Strategy for England The Regional Environmental Strategy for the East of England East of England RSS Protect & enhance valuable landscapes, trees including The Regional Woodland individual trees and biodiversity. Strategy Deposit Unitary Development Plan Essex BAP PPS 9
East of England RSS PPS22 Renewable energy Making Renewable Energy Reality SDRT Increase the proportion of energy generated from renewable sources The Regional Environmental Strategy for the East of England The Regional Woodland Strategy East of England RSS PPS 10 Essex and Southend on Sea Replacement Structure Reduce waste arisings and increase the reuse / recycling Plan / recovery of waste Thurrock Borough Local Plan (Adopted)1997 Thurrock Deposit Unitary Development Plan 2003
East of England RSS RPG9 Essex and Southend on Sea Replacement Structure Plan Use urban areas for housing development where possible Thurrock Borough Local – unless addressing particular rural needs Plan (Adopted)1997 Thurrock Deposit Unitary Development Plan 2003 Essex and Southend on Sea Replacement Structure Plan
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Key messages – the LDF should seek to: Evidence Source East of England RSS Essex and Southend on Sea Replacement Structure Plan Thurrock Borough Local Manage the location of development in order to reduce Plan (Adopted)1997 the risk of flooding; require sustainable urban drainage Thurrock Deposit Unitary systems and specify the design and location of the Development Plan 2003 development. PPS 23 Planning and pollution control PPG25 Development & flood risk Thames Strategy East
East of England RSS RPG9 Thurrock Borough Local Increase the supply of housing and provide for a better Plan (Adopted)1997 mix of dwelling sizes, tenure & types with a range of housing densities Thurrock Deposit Unitary Development Plan 2003 South Essex Housing Needs Study
Provide additional accommodation for Traveller / Gypsy Draft Planning for Gypsy populations as may be needed and Traveller sites East of England RSS Thurrock Borough Local Plan (Adopted)1997 Thurrock Deposit Unitary Assist in reducing crime, anti social behaviour and the Development Plan 2003 fear of crime Aspire – Community Strategy Crime and Disorder Strategy
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Key messages – the LDF should seek to: Evidence Source East of England RSS The Regional Environmental Strategy for the East of England The Regional Woodland Strategy Aspire – Community Strategy PPG2 PPS 23 Planning and pollution control Essex BAP Thurrock BAP PPG20 PPG17 Promote healthy living, sense of well-being and reduce PPG24 risk from environmental pollution PPG25 Green grid strategy PPG3 Cycling Strategy Local Transport plan Walking strategy Thurrock learning partnership Crime and disorder strategy Arts strategy Sustainable communities Thames Strategy East East of England Public Health Group Annual Report 2004-2005
East of England RSS Aspire – Community Strategy Address pockets of deprivation Race Equality Scheme Thurrock Learning Partnership Strategic Plan
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Key messages – the LDF should seek to: Evidence Source East of England RSS Aspire – Community Strategy Race Equality Scheme Ensure a higher quality public realm with every new project adding value to public places Thurrock Learning Partnership Strategic Plan Aspire – Community Strategy Thames Strategy East
East of England RSS ASPIRE - Community Strategy PPG13 Ensure adequate access to goods and services for all current and future residents Planning for mixed communities Sustainable communities people places and property
East of England RSS Aspire – Community Strategy PPG13 Planning for mixed communities Facilitate economic growth and development of new and existing businesses and actively encourage hi-tech Sustainable communities businesses people places and property Competitiveness White Paper (1998) PPG4 Industrial, Commercial Development & Small Firms Thurrock Economic Strategy RPG9 East of England RSS Thurrock Borough Local Maintain and enhance viability and vitality of shopping Plan centres Thurrock UDP (Deposit) PPS6 Planning for Town Centres East of England RSS PPG21 Tourism Encourage and promote sustainable tourism The Regional Woodland Strategy
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Key messages – the LDF should seek to: Evidence Source East of England RSS Improve transport choice and personal security when PPG21 Tourism travelling regardless of age, income and mobility PPG13: Transport Local Transport Plan East of England RSS LOTS study PPG13: Transport Reduce dependence on commuting to work and reliance on private car; support integration of modes of transport Local Transport Plan and integration of land uses with transport. Thurrock Borough Local Plan (Adopted)1997 Thurrock Deposit Unitary Development Plan 2003
East of England RSS PPG 13 Direct development to Brownfield land which has good Local Transport Plan public/mass transport access PPS6 Thurrock UDP (Deposit Draft)
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3 PPPSI TABLES
The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on European Spatial Development The aim of the spatial development This PPPSI identifies territory as a new Not applicable Perspective declaration is to work towards a balanced dimension of spatial planning. The and sustainable development of the Thurrock has no influence on EU territory European Union 1999 territory of the European Union. In the and as such there are no opportunities / Ministers' view, that is important is to synergies Not applicable http://europa.eu.int/comm/regio ensure that the three fundamental goals of nal_policy/sources/docoffic/offic European policy are achieved equally in all ial/reports/som_en.htm the regions of the EU: x Economic and social cohesion; x Conservation and management of natural resources and the cultural heritage; and x More balanced competitiveness of the European territory. However, due to cultural variety, spatial development policies must not standardize local and regional identities in the EU, which help enrich the quality of life of its citizens.
The World Summit on The WSSD represented a reaffirmation of The objectives highlighted above offer The synergies where Sustainable Development international commitment to sustainable synergies with other, high – level applicable should be (WSSD), Johannesburg development coming 30 years after the government policy on sustainable integrated in the SA Declaration on Sustainable Stockholm commitment to tackle development and community engagement. Framework. For example the Development – Plan of environmental degradation and ten years Particular emphasis should be made on SA will need to evaluate core Implementation after the Rio Summit and Declaration of strengthening the commitment to SD polices that promote or hinder 1992. The key outcomes of the summit (Securing our Future) and community all these areas and the UN 2002 were the Johannesburg Declaration on engagement. location of related activities. Sustainable Development – from our The LDF will address many of the priorities http://www.un.org/esa/sustdev/ origins to the future, and a Key Outcomes set out in WSSD such as either through
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on documents/WSSD_POI_PD/En statement mapping out commitments made prioritising core policies or influencing glish/POIToc.htm by all parties (and in particular national location of activities: governments). Sustainable production and consumption – waste and promotion and location of The Plan of Implementation highlights 8 industrial ecology principles objectives which should jointly lead to the Biodiversity protection and enhancement strengthening of institutional arrangements Health – access to health and minimising on sustainable development, these are: adverse consequences of development x Strengthening commitments to Energy – use of renewables, efficiency and sustainable development; climate change x Integration of the economic social and Water – protection and utilisation environmental dimensions of Agriculture – soils and geodiversity sustainable development in a balanced And poverty - Social inclusion manner; x Strengthening the implementation of Agenda 21, including through mobilisation of financial and technological resources, as well as capacity-building programmes, particularly for developing countries; x Strengthen coherence, coordination and monitoring; x Promoting the rule of law and strengthening of governmental institutions x t; x Increasing the effectiveness and efficiency through limiting overlap and duplication of activities of international organisations, within and outside the United Nations system, based on their mandates and comparative
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on advantages; x Enhancing participation and effective involvement of civil society and other relevant stakeholder in the implementation of Agenda 21, as well as promoting transparency and broad public participation; x Strengthening capacities for sustainable development at all levels, including the local level, in particular those of developing countries; and x Strengthening international cooperation aimed at reinforcing the implementation of Agenda 21 and the outcomes of the Summit.
Key agenda set out in WSSD are x Poverty eradication x Sustainable production and consumption x Water x Energy x Health x Agriculture and x Biodiversity Securing the future: Delivering The strategy reiterates the purpose and As a result of the Sustainable Development New indicators for monitoring the UK Sustainability framework goal of the framework but Commission’s review of progress since sustainable development may Development Strategy further defines the strategy for 1999 entitled ‘Shows promise but must try place further strain on the sustainable development in the UK harder’, the strategy has created more information gathering ODPM 2005 including shared priorities for UK action focus on key areas which will help to process, and Stage E. including: achieve sustainable development. This However, they may also fill includes the new integrated framework goal information gaps where the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on : http://www.sustainable- x Sustainable consumption and and a renewed push on delivering rather existed previously. development.gov.uk/publication production; than talking about it Furthermore, SA Framework s/uk-strategy/uk-strategy- x Climate change and energy; will need to integrate the 2005.htm x Natural resource protection and A challenge for authorities will be to take on Framework Goal and address environmental enhancement; and board the framework goal, talking the four the 5 guiding principles in A4, x Sustainable communities. objectives of Sustainable Development Stage B and C. The SA will simultaneously. Additionally, ensuring that be a key mechanism for helping to deliver these The strategy further develops the indicators policies meet the 5 guiding principles: objectives particularly in discussed in ‘A better quality of life’ (1999), x living within environmental limits; helping to identify: adding new indicators and refining existing x ensuring a strong, healthy and just environmental limits, polices ones. Baseline information for these society; that help or hinder strong indicators is due to be released summer x achieving a sustainable economy; communities, and policies 2005 x promoting good governance; and that promote lasting x using sound science responsibly. economic growth. Furthermore SA will For a policy to be ‘sustainable’ it must encourage the use of sound respect all five of the principles set out science through the collection above. of an evidence base and is a key tool for helping to achieve better governance Sustainable Communities: This document outlines a programme of In light of the development outlined and SA framework should include Building for the Future action to tackle pressing problems in proposed for the Thames Gateway, the following issues communities in England. It is part of the Thurrock will look forward to increased x ·A safe and healthy local ODPM 2003 Government's wider drive to raise the investment and development. This plan environment with well- quality of life in communities through outlines key measures that will need to be designed public and http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent increasing prosperity, reducing inequalities, adhered to in order to create ‘sustainable green space; · /groups/odpm_communities/doc more employment, better public services, communities’. This offers an opportunity to x Good public transport and uments/page/odpm_comm_022 better health and education, tackling crime Thurrock to create new communities under other transport 184.hcsp and anti-social behaviour, and much more. this guidance. infrastructure. Good It reflects our key principles for public The key challenge will be to meet the quality buildings, Good service reform: raising standards, devolving requirements outlined in the Plan in regard quality local public and delegating decision-making, providing to sustainable communities. Many of the services including
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on greater flexibility over use of resources and to sustainable communities. Many of the services, including choice for customers. requirements are aspiration and as such education and training It builds on existing policies and actions can prove difficult to implement in the LDF. opportunities, health care notably; Urban and Rural White Papers, The LDF should aim to create policy that and community facilities, (Our Towns and Cities: the Future and Our will help facilitate the achievement of the especially for leisure; Countryside: the Future - November 2000), aspiration l requirements. x A diverse, vibrant and policies for devolving power to regions, and creative local culture, t; modernisation of local government PPS – 1: Delivering Sustainable Planning in Thurrock should facilitate and Planning undertaken in sustainable ways Under the PCPA, every local Development promote sustainable patterns of urban and can meet the needs of future generations. planning authority now has a rural development by: responsibility for reporting, on ODPM 2005 an annual basis, the extent to Objectives of sustainable development to which policies set out in Local Making suitable land available for be at the heart of planning policy. http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent Development Plans are being development in line with economic, social /groups/odpm_planning/docum achieved. The LDF and environmental objectives to improve ents/page/odpm_plan Encourage spatial planning to integrate monitoring Plans guidance people’s quality of life; _027494.pdf policies for the development and use of sets out the requirement for a Contributing to sustainable economic land with other policies and programmes maximum of 50 indicators growth; that influence the nature of places and how that can be used to monitor x Protecting and enhancing the natural they function. the effects of the LDF policy. and historic environment, the quality Therefore the SA will need to and character of the countryside, and Para 27 outlines the general approach to insure synergies and existing communities; delivering sustainable development. efficiencies between the SA x Ensuring high quality development Spatial Plans will need to adhere to the monitoring and the LDF through good and inclusive design, and areas prompted from (i – x). Monitoring requirements. the efficient use of resources; and Planning policies aimed at x Ensuring that development supports A spatial approach should be adopted sustainability should meet all existing communities and contributes to whereby land use is tied in to other policies of the SEA / SA objectives. the creation of safe, sustainable, and programmes that influence the nature The SA / SEA will need to be liveable and mixed communities with of places and how they function. integrated into the process of good access to jobs and key services community involvement as for all members of the community. described in para 40.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x Key principles i – vi should be used to inform the spatial planning process. PPS – 1 reinforces the requirement of an SA / SEA for spatial plans. PPS – 11: Regional Spatial This PPS provides guidance on the The RSS will be informed by extensive The SA will need to review Strategies creation and status of Regional Spatial studies to establish the baseline for the the SA of the RSS and Strategies (RSS). The plan outlines the East of England Region. Furthermore, the integrate the findings of the ODPM who, what and when of RSS and the indicators and objectives set as part of the assessment where possible. relationship between RSS and LDF. SA for the RSS will be able to inform the www eera.org.uk SA of the Thurrock LDF, enabling efficient The LDF should be derived from the RSS transferring of data. in terms of distilling the key policy messages for the region an implementing The RSS and associated SA will set out those at the LDF level throughout the frameworks of both policies and objectives planning authority. In this sense, the that as well as offering the efficiencies Thurrock LDF will need to ensure that the above, will also need to be considered in policies are informed by the RSS (in this formulating policy and objectives for the case, the East of England Plan (DRAFT)). LDF and as such may create obstacles in terms of creating alternate policies and objectives PPS 12 – Local Development PPS – 12 sets out the Government's policy LDFs “need not be restricted to matters that Sustainability appraisal is as Frameworks on the preparation of local development may be implemented through the planning a systematic and iterative documents which will comprise the local system. Spatial expression [could be given appraisal process, 1 ODPM 2005 development framework The local to] regeneration, economic development, incorporating the development framework is not a statutory education, housing, health, waste, energy, requirements of the Strategic http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent term, however it sets out, in the form of a biodiversity, recycling, protection of the Environmental Assessment /groups/odpm_planning/docum 'portfolio', the local development environment, transport, culture and social Directive. ents/divisionhomepage/039581. documents which collectively delivers the issues” hcsp spatial planning strategy for the local AAPs should, among other things, The purpose of sustainability planning authority's area. stimulate regeneration and protect areas appraisal is to appraise the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on sensitive to change social, environmental and economic effects of the Proposals maps should identify areas of strategies and policies in a protection and define sites for particular local development document land uses or to which particular policies from the outset of the apply preparation process. This will ensure that decisions are made that accord with Authorities are required to keep the sustainable development. following under review: x Principal physical, economic, social and environmental characteristics of the area x Principal land uses in the area x Size, composition and distribution of population x Communications, transport system and traffic Any other consideration that might affect these matter PPG – 13: Transport By shaping the pattern of development and The LDF provides an opportunity to Reducing the need to travel influencing the location, scale, density, integrate different types of transport to and especially the use of the ODPM design and mix of land uses, planning can benefit the environment, health and wealth private car, while promoting help to reduce the length of journeys and creation. social inclusion will help http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent make it safer and easier for people to achieve sustainable /groups/odpm_planning/docum access jobs, shopping, leisure facilities and Policies to manage the pattern of urban objectives. These objectives ents/pdf/odpm_plan_ services by public transport, walking and growth can make the fullest use of urban generally include:· pdf_606896.pdf cycling. transport and focus major generators of Reducing the need to travel demand in cities, towns and district travel by private car;· The aim is to reduce congestion on the centres. Improving roads and limit, or if possible decrease, accessibility of key goods and emissions of Greenhouse gases and other services to local
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on pollutants. Policies to locate day-to-day facilities in communities;· Reducing air local centres may encourage walking and pollution;· Improving cycling. health; and· Reducing emissions that cause climate Social inclusion can be managed by change. ensuring that jobs, shopping, leisure, facilities and services are accessible by public transport.
Private car use continues to rise. A comprehensive transport strategy with integrated land use planning needs to be implemented in order to encourage use of public transport, cycling and walking.
Good partnerships between local authorities transport providers and operators, developers, businesses and local residents are essential to reaching sustainable transport objectives.
However, some of the transport infrastructure in Thurrock is outside the local authority’s direct control such as the M25 [under the control of the Highways Agency]
Planning for Mixed The final update will be accompanied by The key steps of the process of preparing The integration of the Communities (DRAFT) practice guidance and will replace and implementing planning policies that sustainable communities paragraphs 9-17 of Planning Policy provide for a mix of housing to create process and the key ODPM 2005 Guidance Note 3: Housing (PPG3) and sustainable communities process in processes behind their
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Circular 6/98 (Planning and Affordable summary are: creation should be born in http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent Housing) will be cancelled mind and an objective x the preparation and interpretation of an /groups/odpm_planning/docum highlighting the need for SC evidence base on the nature and level ents/page/odpm_plan_034168. should be included in the SA of housing demand in local housing hcsp Framework. markets, which should be developed by local planning authorities in partnership with regional planning bodies and stakeholders (in particular private house builders); x policies in regional spatial strategies and local development documents should be developed in the same spirit of partnership working, be soundly based on the evidence, and be clear about their intent and the manner in which they will be implemented; and x in the consideration of planning applications local planning authorities should take all material considerations into account, including for example the site's context and current housing market conditions, and be prepared to discuss with applicants the most appropriate mix of housing on the site (having regard to other policies in this PPG). RPG – 9: Regional Planning for The primary purpose of this guidance is to Until adoption of the RSS for the East of The SA should be informed the South East of England provide a regional framework for the England (The East of England Plan) this by the objectives set out in preparation of local authority development document sets the framework for the RPG – 9. Additionally, any GOSE 2001 plans and, in London, for the Mayor’s development of the LDF. As such it is issues that are raised in the Spatial Development Strategy. Throughout important that the LDF, in addition to region should be considered this guidance ‘South East’ refers to the considering the RSS, also considered the where appropriate to
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on http://www.go- Greater London area and the areas issues, objectives and views highlighted in Thurrock. As the spatial se.gov.uk/gose/docs/171301/R covered by the shire county, unitary and RPG – 9. scope of this guidance is PG9March2001.pdf district councils for Bedfordshire, Berkshire, greater than that of the East Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Essex, of England Plan, there may Hampshire, Hertfordshire, the Isle of Wight, be areas of transboundary Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey and West interaction that should be Sussex. addressed.
The other purpose of this guidance is to provide the spatial framework for other strategies and programmes. These include the preparation of local transport plans by local authorities, the regional strategies of the South East of England Development Agency (SEEDA) and East of England Development Agency (EEDA), and the strategies prepared by the Mayor of London including those for economic development and transport. Integrated Regional Strategy for The integrated Regional Strategy (IRS) The IRS highlights priorities for the East of The SA must take into the East of England presents a Vision and a series of high level England which should be considered in the consideration the objectives, outcomes for the East of England. There LDF development. Furthermore, The IRS vision and purposes of the EERA 2005 are 5 main purposes: highlights Crucial Regional Issues which in IRS, furthermore, in stage A3, x To provide a joined – up statement of order to maintain integration and the issues highlighted in the http://www.eera.gov.uk/Docume regional priorities encourage synergies, should be addressed IRS should be integrated nts/About%20EERA/Scrutiny/2 x To flag any areas in which existing in the LDF. where appropriate for 005-02- regional strategies are actually or Thurrock 22%20SQW%20IRS%20stage potentially conflicting; These issues and priorities may act in a %202%20draft%2010.pdf x To suggest processes through which constraining fashion for the creation of LDF tensions between regional strategies policy as they will set the framework in might be mitigated and resolved; which policy at a local level is created. x To provide an overarching context for the development of regional strategies
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on the development of regional strategies in the future, building on the current Regional Development Framework x To provide a clear statement to central government of priorities for the East of England at a regional level. DRAFT EAST OF ENGLAND This document sets out the East of England The RSS sits above the LDF in the The objectives of the RSS, PLAN Plan, a draft spatial strategy to guide hierarchy of spatial planning. Therefore the being a material development in the East of England for at LDF must draw much of it’s policy direction consideration after adoption EERA 2004 least the next 20 years – housing, and strategic planning from policies will need to be integrated into economic development, the environment, outlined in the RSS. Where possible, the SA framework. http://www.eera.gov.uk/Docume transport, sport and recreation, waste Thurrock should look for synergies between nts/About%20EERA/Policy/Plan development, mineral extraction and much proposed policies and those that exist, ning%20and%20Transport more. The Plan is formally a draft revision albeit in a more strategic [and possibly /PlanHome/RPG/RPG14/View to the Regional Spatial Strategy for the vague] sense in the RSS. %20the%20Plan/RSS14Finalve East of England or RSS for short. It will rsion.pdf cover Bedfordshire, Luton, Cambridgeshire, Peterborough, Hertfordshire, Essex, Southend-on-Sea, Thurrock, Norfolk and Suffolk.
The East of England is a relatively new region. It was previously divided between two, East Anglia and the South East, both of which had their own regional planning strategies. The regional boundary has changed and the new strategy covers the whole of the new region (although parts of the previous strategies are still relevant and have been carried forward).
The purpose of the RRS is to provide a
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on framework for local authorities to produce more detailed development plans and local transport plans for their areas, and to provide an overview of many issues that have implications across the region (such as land use and transport infrastructure). It is also needed to inform other strategies and plans that have a bearing on land-use activities, including those for economic development, education, health, rural development, housing and culture. The draft RSS is concerned only with regional and sub-regional planning issues. East of England Plan – The aim of this report is to describe the The SA highlights the social, economic and The SA will need to be Sustainability Appraisal Report likely significant sustainability effects of environmental issues facing the East of informed by the Objectives implementation of RSS for the East of England as a whole. There should be a created in the Regional SA. EERA 2004 England, and to put forward cascading of information from this report Although not necessarily recommendations for reducing any into the SA for Thurrock. Furthermore, superseding the SDF significant adverse effects and enhancing there will be opportunities for the sharing of Objectives, they will have http://www.eera.gov.uk/categor any significant positive effects identified information between hierarchical tiers, as been derived from them so y.asp?cat=382 during the appraisal process. It provides an required through the SEA Directive and should be considered in account of how both the earlier ODPM Guidance. conjunction with them. sustainability appraisal and the subsequent SA/SEA have influenced the preparation of Additionally, information from RSS, including the consideration of the RSS SA should be alternative spatial strategies. It also puts cascaded in to the Thurrock forward recommendations for monitoring. SA.
The London Plan: Spatial The London Plan outlines the Mayor’s The London Plan outlines policies on The SA will need to take into development strategy responsibilities for strategic planning in Sustainable Development for the London account constraints placed on London. He has a wide range of duties and area, these tie in with the aims of Securing the LDF process through the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on GLA 2004 powers defined. The government has set our Future and other sustainable London Plan. out guidance and advice on the Mayor’s development strategies. http://www.london.gov.uk/mayo planning duties and powers His duties r/planning/strategy.jsp include producing a Spatial Development The London Plan imposes standards that Strategy for London called the “London London Boroughs should be in general Plan ˘ and keeping it under review. conformity with, such as housing density, open space and biodiversity. The London Plan deals only with matters that are of strategic importance to Greater London. The required content of the As a neighbouring borough and part of the London Plan is set out in a government Thames Gateway regeneration guidance note (reference needed here). programme, Thurrock will need to be The GLA Act also requires that the London mindful of the London Plan and 5 statutory Plan take account of three crosscutting environmental Strategies. themes: x The health of Londoners; Include here reference to the specific article in the GLA Act x Equality of opportunity (Article 33 in the GLA Act 1999); and x Its contribution to sustainable development in the UK (reference). South East Plan – A clear The South East Plan ultimately provides a Medway, Gravesham and Dartford The SA should acknowledge vision for the South East regional framework for development until authorities are all part of the Thames the plan in the context review, (DRAFT) 2026;it is intended to complement other Gateway and adjacent to Thurrock (to the however, the plan is not, and regional policies, e.g. for economic South, across the Thames). The South will not be a material planning SERA 2005 development and public housing East Plan does not apply to Thurrock per consideration for Thurrock investment, and to focus especially on se, however, as part of the Thames http://www.southeast- implementation and delivery. The Plan’s Gateway, there are opportunities for ra.gov.uk/southeastplan/ core strategy aims to balance substantial synergies between all the authorities economic and housing development with covered under the Thames Gateway rising standards of environmental ‘umbrella’. This will be covered in more
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on management and resource use and depth in the Sub – Regional Context reduced levels of social exclusion and Review. natural resource consumption. By 2026,the result is intended to be a healthier region, a more sustainable pattern of development and a dynamic and robust economy.
Environment Agency Catchment Abstraction Management The LDF, taking into Thurrock’s context as The SA should include water Catchment Abstraction Strategy Strategies (CAMS) are strategies for the a pivotal site for the Thames Gateway resource objectives into the for South Essex management of water resources at a local redevelopment should ensure that policies SA Framework. level. They will make more information on for this development and regeneration are Environment Agency 2004 water resources and licensing practice adequately robust of ensure protection of publicly available and allow the balance water based resources and that whether between the needs of abstractors, other possible these are enhanced. http://www.environment- water users and the aquatic environment to agency.gov.uk/subjects/waterre be considered in consultation with the local s/564321/309477/309483/3140 community and interested parties. 96/?version=1&lang=_e CAMS are also the mechanism for managing time-limited licences by determining whether they should be renewed and, if so, on what terms.
The main aims of CAMS are: x To make information on water resources and licensing practice available to the public x To provide a consistent approach to local water resource management, recognising the reasonable needs of water users and the environment x To provide the opportunity for greater
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on public involvement in managing the water resources of a catchment
Thurrock is the site of future intensive regeneration, as such, its water resources will be under severe stress, including water dependant conservation sites as such, the viability of these areas may act as a constraint on this regeneration.
Alternately, increased investment in infrastructure may result in more efficient abstraction and use of water resources. Environment Water Resources This document summaries the current state The strategy advises the use of water SA Framework should include for the Future – a strategy for of the environment in terms of water in the efficiency mechanisms and strategies in all assessments for water the Anglian Region Anglian Region areas, including agriculture and industry, efficiency. this should be implemented through the Environment Agency 2001 It acknowledges that water is a scarce LDF policies resource in general and in the Region in http://www.environment- particular and that adequate supply of agency.gov.uk/subjects/waterre water is essential. There is no reference to s/137651/138532/?version=1&l Thurrock in terms of provision of water ang=_e resources infrastructure.
The plan sets out a broad framework fro This document provides background and Source of useful background Essex and Southend on Sea development taking into account national context for the Thurrock LDF. However the information and context. Replacement Structure Plan and regional policy and planning guidance. plan is now out of date and it represents an Background information Although the structure plan can't decide area adjacent to Thurrock should allow SA should take Essex County Council and how much growth there is going to be in account of possible South End on Sea Borough total, it can decide, in general terms, how transboundary impacts and Council 2001 many homes and how much employment synergies between Thurrock must be provided in each part of the plan and Essex and Southend. For
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on area. District and borough councils must example development on the then decide exactly where to locate the boundary between the two, homes and employment. The plan covers plans for strategic routes the period up to 2001. The vision is to which link the two areas, make Essex and Southend a better place employment opportunities to live work as well as to visit. and other goods and services They aim to enhance that the they share, and x Prosperity, everywhere sensitive environments which x Thriving towns the two share Homes for all Accessibility Culture and x NatureCoast and countryside
Essex and Southend on Sea The Essex and South End on Sea Waste The plans objective aim to be consistent Thurrock LDF must include Waste Local plan plan was adopted in 2001 and covers the with the aims of sustainable development policies to help minimise period of 1997-2010. The Plan seeks to to achieve a balance between: waste generation - e.g. Thurrock Borough Council 2001 ensure that the combined Southend and x • Minimising waste by through promoting Essex area is self-sufficient in the disposal recycling/composting and other means; sustainable design principles. www.essexcc.gov.uk/vip8/ecc/E of waste and seeks to reduce the x • Making adequate provision of The proximity principle must CCWebsite/ proportion of London's waste to be necessary waste management facilities; be recognised when display/guideContents/index.jsp accommodated from the traditional 50% to x • Safeguarding the environment of considering sites for the ?oid=16011 some 12% over the plan period. Beyond Essex, and the quality of life of its disposal of waste. In the SA, 2010 only the landfilling of some residues residents. the objectives should relate to may continue, although this will be waste minimisation and reconsidered in the emerging RSS for the It sets a target of for a minimum of 40% appropriate management. East of England (RSS14) and subsequent recycling/composting of household waste The baseline survey should Waste Local Development Documents for by the end of 2004, and seeking to achieve include reference to waste Essex and Southend on Sea. a minimum 60% by 2007. indicators where these are available Waste disposal is increasingly becoming a problem in Thurrock as landfill facilities and
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on capacity are declining. Current landfill site are near capacity and traditionally quarries formed by mineral working, which required restoration have been a traditional receptacle for waste. However there is an appreciable reduction in the creation of these sites, due to changing policies for mineral supply, environmental constraints and economic circumstances. It is also predicted that Essex is will receive some 12% of London’s exported waste in the period up to 2010. Essex Shoreline Management Under Investigation Plan Thames Estuary 2100 Plan The purpose of the Thames Estuary 2100 Programme is to produce a flood risk management plan for the tidal part of the Thames Estuary for the next 100 years. However, this is still under investigation. Thames Strategy East (2005) The need for the Strategy is identified in the The guidance set out in the Strategy could The objectives of the Strategy RPG9A: Thames Gateway Planning be integrated into the LDF. could be included in the http://www.thamesweb.com/pag Framework for the South East, and the objectives of the SA. e.php?page_id=64&topic_id=11 London Plan. The Thames Strategy East envisages the Thames as a ‘world class river where the diverse social, economic, cultural and environmental legacy is recognised, conserved and enhanced’. Through this vision, the Strategy seeks to create: vibrant, sustainable communities along the river which include and benefit existing residents; accessible, multifunctional and well maintained spaces
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on and places for people and wildlife and to promote the use of the Thames as an artery for public, commercial, industrial, leisure and recreational use. The strategy provides strategic guidance for development of the Eastern Thames area. Thurrock UDC is part of the target audience for the Strategy. It is intended that the Strategy will be ‘enshrined’ in the Sub-Regional and Local Development Frameworks of the London Boroughs and Kent and Essex County councils and Thurrock, Dartford and Gravesham. The strategy also includes assessments for the 9 Reaches which will form the foundation for designing further policies and plans for each reach. The Strategy details strategic guidance for: Archaeology; Historical and Cultural Resources; Views, Landmarks and Major Landmarks; Urban form; Infrastructure; Flood risk management and climate change Design objectives
There are many competing demands placed on the river. One of the key areas of concern is the lack of connectivity to the river of its ‘hinterland’,
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on east-west along the banks and cross-river this represents challenges to be overcome. Thurrock Accessibility Report The study was carried out to identify ways The LDF should consider access to all The SA should include a [sub] of promoting social inclusion to assist group[s in relation to policy creation, and objective addressing WSP 2005 access for everyone, including those from for new developments. accessibility to services and disadvantaged groups, to key facilities. facilities by current and future Hard copy only residents. The study found the following opportunities / constraints
x Timing of bus services (evening and weekends) x Where certain facilities such as hospitals are full, it creates a need for additional trips as residents are travelling further to access the next available facility x People are encouraged to have more choice (schools, health facilities etc.) x Cost of transport is an issue for older and younger people x “Managing” new development x How tackling congestion issues can affect accessibility x Better Health Service co-ordination, for example through rationalising doctor’s surgeries possible using community centres if that improves ease of access for certain groups
Bus Strategy The strategy sets out a medium to long- This strategy is focussed on the provision This Strategy will help to set term vision for the development of bus of local bus services and community the background for the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Thurrock Borough council 2003 services in Thurrock. transport services. Sets a policy and project objectives and indicators framework that promotes modal shift from selected for the SEA/SA of http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/trav The background for the strategy is the car to the bus, and reduction of the LDF. An objective will be el/pdf/bus_strategy_200307.pdf Thurrock Council’s Local Transport Plan transport-related social exclusion. Thurrock required to address the bus (LTP), which covers the period 2001 to includes several deprived areas, including as a sustainable mode of 2006, and emphasises the significance of Tilbury, parts of Grays, West Thurrock, transport bus services in the development of the Aveley and South Ockendon. People in Borough’s transport system. This strategy these households depend on good public outlines in detail the challenges and transport to reach local services. One of the opportunities facing the bus sector. The aims of this strategy is to improve strategy focuses on the years 2003 to 2006 accessibility by bus to these services, such of the LTP, but additionally refers to longer- as to shops, health centres and hospitals. term policy considerations. A new LTP and Encourages the reduction of road Bus Strategy will be publish in 2006. congestion, casualties from road traffic accidents, and pollution from road traffic. Therefore, it relates to a number of key aims of Council transport policy, including reducing the number of people killed or seriously injured in road traffic accidents. The Council has an important role in providing bus priority measures on the road network, managing bus stations, stops and shelters, administering the concessionary fare scheme and co-ordinating passenger information provision.
Implementation is predominantly constrained by the availability of resources. While the policy approach is constrained by the need to conform to Regional and National Planning Policies, e.g. Mayor for London’s Transport Strategy and relevant
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on guidance from DfT and ODPM. This strategy recognises that most bus services in the Borough are commercial services, which are controlled and operated by private sector companies; the Council has very limited influence over these services. A minority of bus services are subsidised and controlled by the Council, while still being operated by private companies. General challenge is to improve the movement of people and goods around the borough, increase utilisation of non-car travel, and improve the environment associated with the highways in the borough Thurrock Energy Strategy The purpose of the strategy is to deliver The LDF should be mindful of not only The SA framework should Energy policy in for Thurrock. The Strategy Thurrock’s energy strategy but also policy include objectives to reduce Thurrock borough Council 2004 forms a basis on which policy should be guidance from the ODPM. Additionally, the energy consumption and developed and sets out the Council’s LDF should be informed by the Draft East greenhouse gas emissions; Hard copy only Statement on sustainable energy use (and of England Plan in that a target of 10% on encourage the use of energy demand), sustainable energy production site renewable energy production should by efficient and water saving (supply) and sustainable construction. The aimed at for new development technology; to increase the document is also concerned with policy on amount of energy generated water consumption. from renewable sources; and to encourage the use of The Thurrock Council Statement on Energy sustainable transport options. and Water states that it will: An objective to ensure access x Cut energy and water usage and to a decent home should also noxious emissions be included in order to cover x Use planning & building regulations to the issue of fuel poverty. promote improvements in buildings Possible indicators arising out x Reduce energy consumption and CO2 of the Strategy might include
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on emissions SAP Ratings, energy x Develop energy conservation and best consumption, CO2 emissions, practice projects % of street lighting purchased x Promote the use of renewable and from green tariffs, length and alternative energy technology and use of cycle lanes, number of opportunities people living in fuel poverty x Reduce the number of people suffering and number of excess winter from fuel poverty deaths. The Strategy contains data and targets for some of As part of Thurrock’s ‘Environmental the above-mentioned commitment’, the Council has also agreed indicators. to: x Encourage affordable and integrated public transport to ease traffic congestion. x Seek to improve pedestrian safety and provide more cycle paths and routes. x Promote or provide new highways where they will provide an environmental advantage. x Promote alternative methods of transport where possible and initiate green commuter plans for Council staff. Thurrock Landscape Strategy The Landscape Strategy for Thurrock is a The LDF will need to integrate the Landscape character is a key long term plan for the conservation, protection and enhancement into policy, SEA Directive topic and as Thurrock Borough Council enhancement and improvement of furthermore, the LDF should seek to such this should be integrated Thurrock’s urban and rural landscapes. It maximise the benefit gained by the into the SA framework. Hard copy only seeks to adopt as far as possible a landscape as an asset and also to ensure comprehensive and integrated approach to that all in the borough can benefit from the management of landscape change, access to this asset. providing general design guidance to developers and landowners, coordinating
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on work on the ground by the council and to raise public awareness and understanding of the landscape.
Thurrock contains over 605 Greenbelt, located to the north of the borough. Much of this area will be of landscape value. It will be important to retain the areas that add character to Thurrock in light of the proposed development that is outlined for the borough in regard to the Thames gateway development. Local Agenda 21 Strategy The Strategy outlines the sustainable The LDF should look to the strategy for The SA should use the development ‘Vision’ for Thurrock: objectives and key actions that are needed established sustainable Thurrock Borough Council to implement the strategy in Thurrock. development indicators and “A sustainable place where everyone will Where possible, policy should attempt to objectives in creating the SA http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/envi have the opportunity to reach their full compliment the objectives and action plans Framework. ronment/la21/ potential and lead a full, healthy and of the key issues. satisfying life”
The Quality of Life Strategy splits the key issues into categories, in which the key issues , objectives, action plan, related strategies, potential partners and key achievements are outlined. The Key Issues discussed are:
x Ownership of the borough; x Education; x Facilities; x Economy; x Involved and informed community;
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x Inclusion; x Diverse natural environment; x Diverse built environment; x Infrastructure; x Resource use; x Health; and x Safety.
Local Transport Plan The Local Transport Plan (LTP) will play an There are opportunities present to tie the The SA, in addition to important role in working towards the development of Thurrock into the integrating alternative Thurrock Borough Council 2000 Council’s Vision and in achieving the development of the transport system. transport into the SA Council’s priorities .The following key Obviously the increase in development and Framework, should look to http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/trav transport objectives were set: the corresponding increase in the pressure recommend sustainable el/transport/pdf/ltp_chapter_one in the transport system will lead to options in terms of integrating .pdf Investing in the public highway network to difficulties in managing traffic. Thurrock will transport and spatial policy to ensure it is safe, effective, accessible and need to ensure a seamless, integrated enable the seamless efficient for all road users. approach to development and transport. integrated approach Securing external funding from the discussed above. Government, competitive bids, Section 106 and similar agreements and by working in partnership with other transport providers, agencies and private companies to improve the overall transport infrastructure and opportunities offered to freight and the travelling public. Investing to improve the environment, quality of life and opportunities for all by improving accessibility and mobility without dependence on the private motor car. Investing to improve road safetyparticularly
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on for the vulnerable road user. Encouraging development opportunities to bring improved employment and living standards to the Borough.
The Council has adopted a Balanced Transport Strategy policy to seek to secure an adequate system of transportation for the satisfactory economic development of Thurrock and its expected population growth, including essential improvements to the road network and parking provision. As part of this strategy the Council will seek to counter the potential effects of increased traffic by pursuing policies aimed at reducing the reliance on the unnecessary use of the motor vehicle and promoting the greater use of alternative modes of transport and communication, in particularly by:
x Improving the accessibility and convenience of public transport and promoting new and improved passenger services and systems x Promoting the provision of new and improved facilities and services for the movement of freight x Improving and extending the network of footpaths, cycleways and bridleways and promoting their wider and more
©Scott Wilson Planning Environment & Design November 2005 41 SEA / SA of Thurrock Council LDF Vol. III - Context Review (Adopted)
The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on intensive use x Limiting the availability or attractiveness of car parking for non- essential journeys in areas susceptible to traffic congestion.
Local Transport Plan 2 The Local Transport Plan (LTP) is the Thurrock’s position in the Thames Gateway The SA, in addition to (DRAFT) means by which Thurrock Council sets out will enable partnership working with London integrating alternative its transport strategy for a five-year period, and Kent. transport into the SA Thurrock Borough Council 2005 and illustrates how it will deliver Framework, should look to improvements to the local transport There are opportunities present to tie the recommend sustainable http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/trav network during that period. development of Thurrock into the options in terms of integrating el/transport/pdf/ltp_consult_ltp0 development of the transport system. transport and spatial policy to 2.pdf The transport strategy must reflect the Obviously the increase in development and enable the seamless characteristics of the area and fulfill the the corresponding increase in the pressure integrated approach needs of local and regional policies for in the transport system will lead to discussed above. health, education, employment and other difficulties in managing traffic. Thurrock will aspects of life in the Borough. need to ensure a seamless, integrated approach to development and transport. It must also ensure that cross boundary issues are developed in agreement with neighbouring authorities. Particular emphasis will be placed on ensuring consistency with the Local Transport Plans for Essex and Southend Councils.
Thurrock Parking Plan The plan presents the financial situation in The LDF should consider access to parking Access should form part of running the parking operations for for the able and non-abled bodied in the SA framework against Thurrock Borough Council 2001 Thurrock, and sets out the Council’s addition to considering parking provision for which the plan is appraised. parking policies, strategies and priorities for new developments in terms of allowing Parking provision is inherently Hard copy only parking. Although published in 2001, there more than one car households. interlinked with transport
©Scott Wilson Planning Environment & Design November 2005 42 SEA / SA of Thurrock Council LDF Vol. III - Context Review (Adopted)
The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on is no clear indication of the duration of the issues such as reducing the plan. The plan refers largely to parking use of the private car and charges and off-street parking, with some encouraging the use of reference to charges for on-street parking. alternative modes of The plan does not deal with specific car transport. Parking provision parking provision standards. could be used as an indicator under a sustainable transport Providing the necessary amount and objective. appropriate type of parking provision whilst: x Limiting the availability or attractiveness of car parking for non essential journeys x Reducing reliance on and the unnecessary use of the motor vehicle x Promoting the greater use of alternative modes of transport x Limiting the availability or attractiveness of car parking for non- essential use
The provision of disabled parking and cycle parking facilities in order to provide an accessible environment. Thurrock Local Plan (Adopted) The Local Plan is the last adopted version The documents that will make up the Local The adopted Local Plan has of the Borough’s development plan. This Development Framework will have a been subject to Sustainability Thurrock Borough sets out the strategic and development broader spatial approach but will continue Appraisal based on Council 1997 control policies for guiding development to address the land-use based issues that appropriate objectives and proposals and determining planning affect the Borough. Therefore, while the indicators. These will help to http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/plan applications. This document will provide an Local Plan presents the opportunity for a set the background for the ning/strategic/content.php?pag initial background for the development of comprehensive review of the approach to objectives and indicators e=borough_plan the component documents that will form the land-use planning within Thurrock Borough selected for the SEA/SA of LDF. the range of policy issues over all topic the LDF.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on LDF. areas and general approach to the LDF. regeneration will continue to be relevant for the LDF.
The Local Plan is constrained by presenting a land-use picture of the borough that is gradually becoming out of date. The national and regional policy background that it presents is also becoming out of date (e.g. advent of the London Plan, new PPG’s/PPS’s).
The challenge is to produce a broader spatial planning framework for Thurrock that reflects current circumstances and looks forward to the most desirable and achievable scenarios for the future of the Borough.
Deposit Unitary Development This new Unitary Development Plan will The documents that will make up the Local The LDF process will need to Plan continue the progress made under the Development Framework will have a be partly based on a review Adopted Local Plan, providing new broader spatial approach but will continue of the Deposit UDP and its Thurrock Borough Council 2003 strategic guidance for developers and to address the land-use based issues that context. The adopted UDP incorporating new policies to deal with affect the Borough. Therefore, while the has been subject to current issues and deciding planning LDF presents the opportunity for a Sustainability Appraisal applications. comprehensive review of the approach to based on appropriate http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/plan land-use planning within the Borough, the objectives and indicators. ning/strategic/content.php?pag range of policy issues and general These will help to set the e=udp approaches will continue to be relevant for background for the objectives the LDF. and indicators selected for the SEA/SA of the LDF.
©Scott Wilson Planning Environment & Design November 2005 44 SEA / SA of Thurrock Council LDF Vol. III - Context Review (Adopted)
The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on The Deposit UDP is constrained by presenting a land-use picture of the borough that is gradually becoming out of date. The national and regional policy background that it presents is also becoming out of date (e.g. advent of the London Plan, new PPG’s/PPS’s). The challenge is to produce a broader spatial planning framework for Thurrock that reflects current circumstances and looks forward to the most desirable and achievable scenarios for the future of the Borough. ASPIRE – Community Strategy The purpose of this strategy is to secure There are acknowledge issues in Thurrock The SA should address the the long-term welfare of Thurrock while, at over health inequalities, due in part to the health and social inequalities Thurrock Borough Council 2001 the same time: numbers of GPs and additionally due to the in the SA Framework. In absence of a Hospital and A & E unit in the terms of assessment health http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/i- x enabling our communities to express borough. This offers development can include both know/aspire/ their aspirations, needs and priorities opportunities in this sector. In light of the x Physical health and build on their strong sense of industrial nature of some of the businesses x Psycho-social community identity and spirit; (Tilbury PowerStation, Shell Haven) it x coordinating our activities to meet would be appropriate to propose the these needs focusing on the creation of additional medical facilities, It also includes. regeneration of Thurrock while which would be in additional demand in x Reducing exposure to balancing renewal with protecting our light of proposed increases in housing and communicable disease environment; employment. x Reducing exposure/risk x improving the economic, social and to environmental pollution environmental well being of Thurrock These additional facilities could work to x Promoting healthy and its people; address not only health inequalities but lifestyles x reducing health inequalities; also social inclusion through the provision x ensuring that no members of our of community spaces and recreation communities suffer exclusion due to facilities etc. th i d li i th i i i
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on their gender, age, religion, ethnic origin, sexuality, health or because they have a disability; x providing ethnically and culturally sensitive services and information to all service users; and x involving users in the planning and delivery of services.
Air Quality Framework Directive EU Directives legally bind all member Thurrock has 20 Air Quality Management The appraisal framework 96/62/EC and Daughter states to an overall objective to be Areas as required under the Environment requires an objective relating Directives achieved. They are defined following Act 1995. There is also a site in Grays that to air quality, attainable proposals by the European Commission monitors for ozone, carbon monoxide, targets, and recognised European Commission and a process of consultation and sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxides and indicators that will allow for agreement between members of the particulate matter, according to the progress to be effectively European parliament and EU Council of requirements for the monitoring of these monitored. elected ministers. substances under the daughter Directives http://europa.eu.int/comm/regio The use of LEZ and other nal_policy/sources/docoffic/offic Air pollution has been one of Europe’s main Thurrock has the potential for a large measures could be ial/reports/som_en.htm political concerns since the late 1970s. amount of development, being a part of the considered for both objectives EU air quality policy takes the form of an Thames Gateway. This has the potential to and mitigation Air Quality Framework Directive (96/62/EC) impact on air quality given that current and a number of ‘daughter’ directives which levels are caused in the majority by address individual or groups of specific vehicular traffic, in particular, HGVs. Any pollutants. significant amount of development will create additional emissions. However, x The first Daughter Directive (1999/30/EC) relating to limit values for there are opportunities to create new developments that are carbon neutral and NOx, SO2, Pb and PM10 in ambient air came into force in July 1999 with to create the associated infrastructure for member states having two years to transport, which could include encouraging translate targets into national law. alternatives to the motor vehicle. x The second Daughter Directive
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on (2000/69/EC) relating to limit values for benzene and carbon monoxide in ambient air came into force on the 13th of December 2000. x The third Daughter Directive relating to ozone 2002/3/EC was adopted on 12 February 2002. There is a proposal for a fourth Daughter Directive to cover the remaining pollutants, but this has yet to be agreed or adopted. Directive 2002/49/EC relating to The aim of the END is to define a common Total numbers of complaints regarding The SEA Directive does not the assessment and approach across the European Union with noise have increased in Thurrock for the require the assessment of management of environmental the intention of avoiding, preventing or past 3 years. Due to the unique makeup of noise explicitly in Annex II. noise (the Environmental Noise reducing on a prioritised basis the harmful Thurrock, this noise comes from a variety However, given the impact of Directive (END) effects, including annoyance, due to of sources, mainly however from Domestic noise on Human Health, it exposure to environmental noise. This will noise. In light of future development this should be included either as EC involve: has the potential to become more of a an indicator under the x Informing the public about problem. objective addressing human http://europa.eu.int/eur- environmental noise and its effects health, or, under an objective lex/pri/en/oj/dat/2002/l_189/l_18 x The preparation of strategic noise Thurrock should begin preparation of a covering emissions of 920020718en00120025.pdf maps for: large urban areas (referred to strategic noise map in order to highlight the pollutants as 'agglomerations' in the END), major most suitable locations for development roads, major railways and major uses. airports as defined in the END Preparing action plans based on the results of the noise mapping exercise. Such plans will aim to manage and reduce environmental noise where necessary, and preserve environmental noise quality where it is good Framework Waste Directive EU Directives legally bind all Member Thurrock will be producing a Waste The SA will need to identify (Directive 75/442/EEC, as States to an overall objective to be Development DPD as a UDP. As such opportunities available for the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on amended) achieved. They are defined following there is an opportunity to implement disposal and treatment of proposals by the European Commission change in terms of waste on their own waste. Additionally, the European Commission and a process of consultation and terms. minimisation of waste agreement between members of the produced can be tackled ): European Parliament and EU Council of However, Thurrock will need to be mindful through mitigation of policy. http://europa.eu.int/comm/envir elected ministers. of the constraints and framework laid on in onment/waste/index.htm RPG – 9 and the East of England Plan An objective in the SA The EU is aiming for a significant cut in the framework will need to be amount of rubbish generated, through new developed to address the waste prevention initiatives, better use of issue of location of resources, and encouraging a shift to more sustainable; waste sustainable consumption patterns. It wants minimisation, recycling and to reduce the quantity of waste going to disposal in the borough. As ‘final disposal’ by 20% from 2000 to 2010, ell as indirect impacts of and by 50% by 2050, with special development on waste emphasis on cutting hazardous waste. prevention and generation
Landfill Directive (1999/31/EC) The objective of the Directive is to Thurrock is a major landfill destination The SA Framework should prevent or reduce as far as possible using former quarries as landfill sites. include an objective on European Commission negative effects on the environment from The most well-known of the 4 landfill sites waste, and interrelate this to the landfilling of waste, by introducing is Mucking which takes nearly 20% of waste, disposal, generation http://europa.eu.int/comm/envir stringent technical requirements for London’s waste, some 600,000 tonnes per waste types and relate this to onment/waste/landfill_index.ht waste and landfills. year. Buried pipes pump out about 23MW an Objective on Soil. m The Directive is intended to prevent or of methane which is used to generate Additionally, the SA should reduce the adverse effects of the landfill electricity on site. look, where possible to of waste on the environment, in particular This site and most of the other landfill sites encourage synergies on surface water, groundwater, soil, air in Thurrock are due to close in the next few between waste disposal and and human health. years so more sustainable waste energy production. It defines the different categories of management initiatives will be needed. waste (municipal waste, hazardous Many landfill sites are adjacent to areas of waste, non-hazardous waste and inert considerable nature value and are to be waste) and applies to all landfills, defined developed for new natural habitats after as waste disposal sites for the deposit of their closure.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on waste onto or into land. Landfills are divided into three classes: x landfills for hazardous waste; x landfills for non-hazardous waste; x landfills for inert waste. PPG – 10: Planning and waste The policies in this PPS should be taken into new development proposals. The SEA / SA objectives management into account by waste planning authorities Encourage further re-use / recycling and could include an objective in discharging their responsibilities; by recovery of waste. devoted to waste ODPM regional planning bodies in the preparation minimisation and appropriate of Regional Spatial Strategies; by the Policy will rely on information on projected waste management. In the http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent Mayor of London in relation to the Spatial waste arisings, recycling and recovery case of contaminated land /groups/odpm_planning/docum Development Strategy in London, and, in levels and extent of existing facilities. and its disposal, and landfill, ents/pdf/odpm_plan_pdf_ general, by local planning authorities in the Sources of this can be conflicting and this could have applicability to 606925.pdf preparation of local development information on waste arisings and ‘soil’ in the SEA Directive. documents. They may also be material to quantitative data on disposal or treatment Other objectives on pollution decisions on individual planning routes is often poor (annex D), Many waste biodiversity and transport will applications. These policies complement disposal methods can cause pollution, pick up other waste and other national planning policies and should effective liaison between the WPA and the planning issues be read in conjunction with Government appropriate pollution control regulator is policies for sustainable waste needed. management, in particular those set out in the national waste strategy. The LDF will need to consider location in terms of sensitivity of the environment and the transport implications
PPS – 10: Planning for Planning Policy Statements (PPS) set out Thurrock, a Unitary Authority, will be The SA should include Sustainable waste (DRAFT) the Government's national policies on producing Waste and Minerals DPDs as Objectives appropriate for different aspects of land-use planning in part of the LDF, it is therefore within the assessing the policies in the ODPM England. This PPS replaces Planning power of the authority to implement policies core strategy which Policy Guidance Note 10, Planning and controlling these functions in Thurrock. encompass minerals and http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent Waste Management, published in 1999. waste issues (see above on /groups/odpm_planning/docum response to PPG10) t / / d l 033314
©Scott Wilson Planning Environment & Design November 2005 49 SEA / SA of Thurrock Council LDF Vol. III - Context Review (Adopted)
The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on ents/page/odpm_plan_033314- 04.hcsp#P63_9441 Regional planning bodies and planning authorities should prepare and deliver planning strategies that: x help deliver sustainable development through driving waste management up the waste hierarchy, addressing waste as a resource and looking to disposal as the last option but one which must be adequately catered for; x enable sufficient and timely provision of waste management facilities to meet the needs of their communities; x help implement the national waste strategy, and supporting targets, and are consistent with obligations required under European legislation; x help secure the recovery or disposal of waste without endangering human health and without harming the environment and ensure waste is disposed of as near as possible to its place of production; x reflect the concerns and interests of local communities, the needs of waste collection authorities, waste disposal authorities and business and encourage competitiveness; x protect green belts but recognise the particular locational needs of some types of waste management and that the wider environmental and economic
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on benefits of sustainable waste management are material considerations that should be given significant weight in determining whether proposals should be given planning permission; x ensure the layout and design of new development supports sustainable waste management. PPG – 14: Development on The purpose of these guidelines is Identification of areas of unstable ground The requirement for Soils to unstable land principally to advise local authorities, will allow the LPA to consider land uses be included as an SEA landowners and developers on the exercise that will not be adversely affected by any Directive topic means that ODPM of planning controls over development on sinking (such as housing and business). there will necessarily need to land which is unstable or is potentially Also this will help to ensure that various be an objective in the SA http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent unstable. The aim is not to prevent the types of development should not be placed framework that will cover the /groups/odpm_planning/docum development of such land, though in some in unstable locations without appropriate use of unstable land, soil and ents/page/odpm_plan cases that may be the appropriate precautions to reduce the risk to property geodiversity. Furthermore, in _606899.pdf response. Rather it is to ensure that and the public. light of the forthcoming SEA development is suitable and that the Toolkit, it may be appropriate physical constraints on the land are taken This provides the opportunity to bring back to keep this objective general, into account at all stages of planning. Any unstable land into productive use where in order to facilitate easier scope for remedial, preventive or possible. creation of specific SA precautionary measures must also be fully Objectives for minerals plans explored so that land is not sterilised for separate plans. unnecessarily. It is equally important that Unstable land can cause ground where instability problems do arise, they movements, may cause damage to should be adequately recorded so that the buildings and structures. experience gained can be of benefit to the wider community It is the developer’s responsibility and liability to determine if land is potentially unstable. Therefore the developer should
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on ensure that he has available the appropriate expertise to design and interpret the necessary site investigations and to design and execute any necessary remedial, preventive or precautionary measures.
Development near sites CLc [Avery] and CLd [South Ockendon] will need to be considered constraining on development that can occur nearby.
PPG – 15: Planning and This PPG provides a full statement of Enables the protection of the historic Cultural Heritage is an Historic Environment Government policies for the identification environment, whether individual listed intrinsic part of the SEA and protection of historic buildings, buildings, conservation areas, parks and Directive topics and as such ODPM conservation areas, and other elements of gardens, battlefields to be taken fully into the integration of objectives the historic environment. It explains the role account both in the formulation of that cover these areas will be http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent played by the planning system in their authorities planning policies and in required. /groups/odpm_planning/docum protection. It complements the guidance on development control. ents/page/odpm_plan_ archaeology and planning given in PPG 16. 606900.hcsp Conservation and sustainable economic growth are complementary objectives. For example most historic buildings can still be put to good economic use in commercial or residential occupation. Economic prosperity can secure the use and maintenance of historic buildings. This is especially pertinent considering the historic nature of Thurrock, including Tilbury Fort, 7 Conservation Areas and
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on listed buildings.
PPG – 16: Archaeology and This PPG provides a full statement of Archaeology forms part of our sense of In general one of the SEA/ Planning Government policies for the identification SA objectives should aim to and protection of historic buildings, national identity and remains are valuable protect or enhance the ODPM conservation areas, and other elements of both for their own sake and for their role in historic environment. This the historic environment. It explains the role education, leisure and tourism. should include aspects of http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent played by the planning system in their cultural heritage, landscape The presence of the Archaeological Priority /groups/odpm_planning/docum protection. It complements the guidance on and material assets as Area (Thames) and Sites of Archaeological ents/page/odpm_plan_ archaeology and planning given in PPG 16. defined by the SEA Directive Importance in Kensington and Chelsea 606900.hcsp (Annex I (f)). highlights the need to ensure protection and enhancement of the archaeology and cultural heritage of the borough
Archaeological remains should be seen as a finite and non-renewable resource, in many cases highly fragile and vulnerable to damage and destruction, appropriate management is therefore essential.
Planning authorities will need to weigh the relative importance of archaeology against other factors including the need for the proposed development, for remains not of national importance.
PPG – 17: Planning for open The policies set out in this guidance will Opportunity to provide new facilities and SEA / SA objectives could space, sport and recreations need to be taken into account by regional open space. incorporate the following: planning bodies in the preparation of ODPM Regional Planning Guidance (or any Where recreational land and facilities are of successor) and by local planning x encourage health and
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on successor) and by local planning poor quality or under-used, Thurrock well being; http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent authorities in the preparation of should seek opportunities to improve the x support urban renewal; /groups/odpm_planning/docum development plans (or their successors); value of existing facilities. Also an x support rural renewal; ents/page/odpm_plan_606902. they may also be material to decisions on opportunity to promote accessibility to x community cohesion and hcsp individual planning applications. these facilities for sustainable transport social inclusion; modes. x promote more Open spaces, sport and recreation all sustainable development; underpin people's quality of life. Well Existing open space, sports and and designed and implemented planning recreational buildings and land should not x encourage biodiversity (in policies for open space, sport and be built on unless an assessment has been open spaces). recreation are therefore fundamental to undertaken which has clearly shown the Indicators could include delivering broader Government objectives. open space or the buildings and land to be access to open space surplus to requirements. For open space, 'surplus to requirements' should include consideration of all the functions that open space can perform.
PPS – 22: Renewable Energy Planning Policy Statements (PPSs) set out Planning policies that rule out or place The SA objectives should the Government’s national policies on constraints on the development of all, or reflect the need to increase ODPM different aspects of planning. PPS22 specific types of, renewable energy energy efficiency and the provides a statement of government policy technologies should not be included in proportion of energy derived http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent concerning planning and development plans. from renewable resources. It /groups/odpm_planning/docum control of renewable energy developments. could also consider the ents/page/odpm_plan_030334. Increased development of renewable Small-scale projects can provide a limited spatial implications on energy hcsp energy sources is vital to facilitating the but valuable contribution to overall outputs demand/efficiency and use of delivery of the Government’s commitments of renewable energy and to meeting energy renewables and the need for to both climate change and renewable needs both locally and nationally. new infrastructure and energy. Policies in PPS22 cover generation capacity. technologies such as onshore wind generation, hydro, photovoltaics, passive Local planning authorities may include solar, biomass and energy crops, energy policies requiring a percentage of the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on from waste (but not energy from mass energy to be used in new developments to incineration of domestic waste), and landfill come from on-site renewable energy and sewage gas. PPS22 does not cover developments. Such policies: combined heat and power (CHP) although since some CHP projects are fuelled by a x should only be applied to developments renewable resource, some policies may be where the installation of renewable relevant. The Government is producing a energy generation equipment is viable; companion guide for PPS22 which will and include a technical annex providing more x should not be framed in such a way as details on particular technologies as well as to place an undue burden on good practice guidance on planning and developers. renewable energy. Local planning authorities and developers should consider the opportunity for incorporating renewable energy projects in all new developments.
Local planning authorities should only allocate specific sites for renewable energy in plans where a developer has already indicated an interest in the site, has confirmed that the site is viable, and that it will be brought forward during the plan period. PPG – 24: Planning and noise Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPGs) Opportunity to separate noise generating SA objectives generally set out the Government’s policies on and noise sensitive land-uses. include an objective to ODPM different aspects of planning. Local promote high quality design / Planning Authorities must take their content Ability to grant planning permission to noise sustainable development. http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent in account in preparing their development generating developments if situated in /groups/odpm_planning/docum plans. The guidance may also be material appropriate location. Depending on successful ents/page/odpm_plan_606912. to decisions on individual planning implementation objectives to hcsp li ti d l
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on hcsp applications and appeals. improve the well being of the This gives guidance on the use of their Opportunity to promote high quality design population and to maintain planning powers to minimise the adverse that will mitigate against noisy land uses. biodiversity can be met. impact of noise. It: Much development in Thurrock will Within the health objective x outlines the considerations to be taken generate noise. However they must ensure minimising exposure of the into account in determining planning that development does not cause an population to noise could be applications both for noise-sensitive unacceptable degree of disturbance. an indicator developments and for those activities which will generate noise; Special consideration is required where x introduces the concept of noise noisy development is proposed in or near exposure categories for residential SSSIs in Thurrock. development, encourages their use and recommends appropriate levels for exposure to different sources of noise; Flight paths of aircraft destined for London and airports. x advises on the use of conditions to minimise the impact of noise. PPG – 25: Development and Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPGs) Reducing the vulnerability of Thurrock to SA objectives may include flood risk set out the Government’s policies on the dangers and damage caused by reducing flood risk and different aspects of planning. Local unmanaged floods contributes to the increasing biodiversity (if ODPM Planning Authorities must take their content achievement of a better quality of life and natural flood management in account in preparing their development the objectives of sustainable development. practices are used) which can http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent plans. The guidance may also be material be met by implementing the /groups/odpm_planning/docum to decisions on individual planning Soft engineering techniques such as guidance in the LDF. ents/page/odpm_plan_606931. applications and appeals. creating, preserving and enhancing natural hcsp flood meadows and washlands can be of The guidance explains how flood risk great value in attenuating flooding as well should be considered at all stages of the as contributing to biodiversity. planning and development process in order Opportunity to create sustainable defence to reduce future damage to property and measures that are environmentally and
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on loss of life. economically sound. Also may encourage the provision of adequate and cost-effective flood warning systems.
Climate change is expected to increase the risk of flooding. Hence some existing development in more exposed locations may not be sustainable in the longer term and may need to be replaced in safer locations.
Continued construction of hard-engineered flood defences may not be sustainable in the long term. The importance of a precautionary basis to development has increased by the growth in knowledge of the likely impacts of climate change and their effect on flood risk over time.
The re-use of previous developed land although encouraged should be appropriate to flood risk. Living Places: Cleaner, Safer, The quality of public spaces is a barometer Thurrock has a relatively low crime rate but The integration of an Greener of a community. The quality of public it is fear of crime that has a real effect on objective providing cleaner, spaces affects all of work and us wherever people's quality of life. Safer Thurrock safer, and greener ODPM we live. Safe, well-maintained and (previously called the Crime and Disorder communities should be attractive public spaces have a critical role Reduction Partnership) has produced a included within the SA www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent/grou in creating pride in the places where we live crime and disorder reduction strategy that Framework. ps/odpm_urbanpolicy/ which, in turn, is essential to building reflects statistical data and both local and documents/downloadable/odpm community cohesion and successful regional issues and concerns. b l 607950 df iti Th G t i
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on _urbpol_607950.pdf communities. The Government is committed to action to make public spaces cleaner, safer, greener places that enhance the quality of life in our neighbourhoods, towns and cities.
The Strategy includes:
x Broadening and strengthening local authority powers to tackle symptoms of environmental degradation, such as graffiti, fly-posting and vandalised or neglected buildings, including greater use of fixed-penalties and abatement orders. x Giving local authorities powers to bill the owners or occupiers where they need to intervene to clean up neglected private land or buildings, which are subject to fly-tipping, fly-posting or other problems, which affect people living and working nearby. x Giving local authorities and police freedom to set the level and payment options of existing fixed penalty notices to tackle specific local problems. x Introducing a new duty for owners of bus shelters, phone boxes and other street furniture to keep their property in a reasonable condition and clear of graffiti and fly-posters. x Giving local authorities powers to deal
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on with nuisance lighting on private property, silence nuisance alarms, control the distribution of free literature in the street, reduce the continual use of fireworks, and control the sale of spray paints and markers. x Modernising police and local authority powers concerning beggars, peddlers, buskers, clip-boarders and others who may exhibit anti-social behaviour in public areas. x Empowering citizens with legitimate grievances to demand action from local authorities, other public services and landowners to keep their local environment clean.
RPG – 9a / 3a: The Thames Regional Planning Guidance for the The Thames Gateway has demonstrated a The key objectives of RPG9a Gateway Planning Framework Thames Gateway (RPG9A) was first continuity of successful achievements and should be reflected in the SA (Thames gateway Review) published in 1995 as a supplement to the where the momentum needs to be objectives. South East Regional Planning Guidance, maintained and promoted through the ODPM identified the area as one of substantial regional development and planning These should include growth potential with a number of large systems. objectives relating to http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent development sites. In establishing the sustainable economic /groups/odpm_planning/docum boundaries of Thames Gateway, RPG9A However, there are no targets set for the development and, ents/page/odpm_plan_606415. seeks to include similar areas in need of Gateway and hence nothing against which regeneration of vibrant hcsp regeneration along the River Thames and to monitor progress. Targets for the area communities along the its estuary. The Thames Gateway has been would assist in future reviews of RPG9A Thames. defined by RPG9a into fourteen ‘zones of and in evaluating the effectiveness of change’, one of which is Thurrock. different streams of (public) investment. This can be achieved by x In March 2000,prior to the completion promoting high quality design
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on of the Draft RPG9, a review of RG9a standards, which take full was carried out to advice the consideration of Government on taking the Thames environmental and Gateway planning framework forward. infrastructural needs, and location of development to Four of the underpinning objectives for the maximise Brownfield East Thames Corridor will reflect on the development that minimises Thurrock LDF: the need for road transport.
x Concentration of new development on previously used sites; x Optimising the use of existing and proposed infrastructure provision; x Working with the market and building on existing strengths; and x Safeguarding and enhancing environmental assets and, where necessary, raising the quality of the local environment.
RPG – 9 / 3B: Strategic This RPG sets out the Government's Planning guidance for the river planning policies for the River Thames from Thames Windsor to the sea. It is intended to guide local authorities in their preparation of development plans. The aim is to plan changes to the river and riverside land to enhance their status and vitality, since they are in places underused and neglected.
The guidance presents a coherent approach with common objectives for the whole of the sub-region. It supersedes
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on policy for the river set out in Chapter Two of RPG3 and in RPG9. It also develops further the Thames Gateway planning framework (RPG9a).
It begins with a discussion of overall principles and objectives and then gives guidance on particular stretches of river, focusing on design, heritage, bridges and other structures. It also highlights river- based activities, including passenger and freight transport as well as leisure and recreational uses. Greening the Gateway Greening the Gateway sets out the Thurrock contains approximately 60% The SA should contain Government’s sustainable development greenbelt, as such it is important that this is references to greenspace and ODPM, 2005 vision for the Thames Gateway. retained and where possible enhanced. greenbelt in the SA Framework as well as http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent Greening the Gateway contains two key The development pressures placed on maintaining green corridors /groups/odpm_communities/doc objectives:Ɣ Thurrock being a part of the Thames for recreational and uments/page/odpm_comm_035 that a network of varied and well- x Gateway will lead to pressure on the areas biodiversity benefits 445.pdf managed greenspace should be the of greenbelt and it is vital that these areas setting for new and existing residential are afforded protection from large and commercial areas; Ɣ development plans. x that the landscape should be regarded as functional green infrastructure, recognising a wide range of potential benefits from healthy recreation, to wildlife protection and enhancement, to flood risk management.
The purpose of the Implementation Plan is to set out the delivery framework for
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Greening the Gateway. It clarifies how Government, its Agencies and its funding will support the delivery of greenspace. It also broadly outlines the strategic roles that we envisage for other delivery agents in the Thames Gateway and how these contribute to the overall framework. Sustainable Communities: This document highlights the commitment £2m from the Thames Gateway The SA should tie up any Delivering Green Space in the form the Government to invest in the programme fund has been allocated for a greenspace mitigation with Thames Gateway ‘greening of the gateway’ by providing 74 hectare conservation site at Nevendon current proposals, including green space. The Government set out a Nature reserve in Basildon. In another part the South Essex Green Grid ODPM 2004 figure of ‘nearly’ £20million. of the Marshes at Rainham, ODPM has and enhancement of the funded the RSPB reserve to the tune of Rainham and Inner Thames http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent ‘just under’ £1m. The aim is to increase Marshes /groups/odpm_communities/doc public access and to provide a high quality uments/page/odpm_comm_036 environmental and educational facility. 989.pdf ODPM is contributing £5m to the development of a Green Grid strategy to improve the quality of the urban and rural environment of South Essex.
Green Grid Strategy Thames Gateway South East green grid is Thurrock is located on the outer edge of The SA should include the (Consultation Draft) a long-term project to develop a network of London on the banks of the Thames objectives similar to that of open spaces and green links throughout Estuary where the foreshore is dominated the Green Grid Strategy Thames Gateway South Essex Thames Gateway South Essex. by industry including oil storage and Partnership, 2004 The main objectives are refinery works, docks, passenger boat terminal and power station. http://www.tgessex.co.uk/files/A x Conserve and enhance existing green 4report.pdf space and links The Mar Dyke Valley south of the A13 is an x Create high quality new green space area of marsh, estuarine character that is and links in areas of opportunity and partly wooded on the steep slopes. need Proposed London Riverside Conservation
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x Create a sense of place through Park is Wennington, Aveley and Rainham enhancement of landscape character Marshes. Mucking Marshes are and heritage international wildlife habitats. To the north x Embrace diversity of wildlife habitats is the Thames Chase Community Forest. and landscapes in town and The challenges of housing need are likely countryside to put pressure on these areas.
Queen Elizabeth II Bridge provides landmark; connects northern and southern banks of estuary by car only - no footpath or cyclepath (cyclists will be transported over/through the crossing) opportunity for excellent views missed; creates a significant barrier for pedestrians and cyclists. A13 inter-urban road creates physical barriers to north-south movement.
Contaminated Land Strategy The document outlines the Council’s The strategy puts contaminated land issues The LDF will need to provide approach to contaminated land in the into the context of historical land-uses, an appropriate policy Thurrock Borough Council 2001 context of Part IIA of the Environmental highlighting areas where potentially framework that will achieve Protection Act 1990 and details how the contaminative uses have occurred and the suitable remediation of http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/faq/ Thurrock Council will approach the location of current contaminative uses, contamination on content.php?page=faq&ID=12 assessment and identification of including areas of open space, ecological development sites. It will also contaminated land, and procedures for interest, surface waters etc. This provides need to take available liaison and communication with appropriate important contextual information for the information into account in parties and persons and for dealing with designation of sites within the LDF and the arriving at the designation of relevant enquiries. The strategy focuses on formulation of appropriate planning policy, future uses for particular environmental stewardship and for example to maximise development on sites. environmental performance targets. existing brownfield sites. The SEA/SA could include This is relevant to the LDF in that core The wider opportunity represented by the objectives and indicators that
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on policy and development control policy will strategy and which should be reflected in address the contaminated need address the issue of contaminated the LDF is that of achieving a clean up of land brought back into use land in the context of development contaminated land through the and/or the contaminated land proposals development process. remediated. The planning process can aid the The process of dealing with contaminated achievement of these wider land is constrained by the availability of objectives. information on past and present uses and by that on potential types of contamination. The challenge is to obtain that information through appropriate investigation and achieve appropriate clean up of that land through the planning process or alternative powers such as those given in Part II A of the Environment Protection Act 1990.
PPG – 21: Tourism Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPGs) Tourism makes a major contribution to the Encouraging growth in set out the Government’s policies on national economy and to the prosperity of tourism could meet the ODPM different aspects of planning. Local many cities, towns and rural areas. Its following areas SA http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent Planning Authorities must take their content continuing growth generates a range of objectives . /groups/odpm_control/documen in account in preparing their development economic activity and new job ts/contentservertemplate/odpm plans. The guidance may also be material opportunities. _index.hcst?n=3437&l=3 x Increasing employment to decisions on individual planning diversification applications and appeals. Tourism associated with designated areas x Encouraging a good and areas of cultural heritage can act as a quality environment This PPG outlines the economic positive for environmental protection and x Enhancing and protecting significance of tourism and its enhancement. biodiversity open space environmental impact, and therefore its and historic buildings importance in land-use planning. Policy Increased tourism could put parts of x The SA will need to test objectives include: Thurrock under unreasonable pressure tourism (such as historic towns and conservation policies/development and
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x maximising the economic and areas) so alternative areas need to be their benefits against employment benefits that tourism can promoted to protect key asset sustainable transport, bring; land use, local community x promoting geographical and seasonal The proposed SPA could be a major benefits and preservation spread of tourism; tourism attractor but will also be sensitive to and enhancement of x encouraging the development of non- inappropriate development historic assets, traditional destinations as well as the biodiversity and open more popular visitor space x locations; x respecting the needs of the tourist industry and its customers; x safeguarding of the environment; and x protecting the interests of the communities that cater for its needs, but feel its effects.
England Rural Development The England Rural Development Thurrock as both large urban and rural The SA should take on board Programme Programme (ERDP) contributes to the capital. There are opportunities for some of the requirements of the delivery of the Government's Strategy for the schemes to be implemented across the scheme and be flexible in DEF: Sustainable Farming and Food by helping borough, in particular, in light of predicted making any http://www.defra.gov.uk/erdp/sc farmers and foresters to respond better to development, Rural Tourism, Energy recommendations on rural hemes/default.htm RA 2005 consumer requirements and become more Production, Rural Crafts, Farmers Markets sustainability, and should , in competitive, diverse, flexible and and Organic Farming systems. part, be informed by the environmentally responsible. It also schemes and look for provides help to rural businesses and However, the proposed development may synergies where possible. communities which need to adapt and inhibit the ability to take advantage of these develop. opportunities, whether this be through land – take or other impacts The ERDP provides a framework for the operation of 10 separate but integrated schemes which provide new opportunities to protect and improve the countryside, to
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on develop sustainable enterprises and to help rural communities to thrive. The 10 schemes are:
x Rural Tourism x Woodland x Attractive Landscape and Wildlife Habitats x Hill land and Extensive Farming Systems x Quality Foods Including Local / Specialty / Organic Foods x Organic Farming Systems x Rural Heritage x Villages x Rural Crafts x Energy Production Making renewable energy a This report discusses the background to Thurrock should look at the 22 The SA should include reality: setting challenge target Renewable Energy in the East of England recommendations in the report for objective[s] for the use of for East of England Region, additionally it sets out consensus particular recommendations that are renewables, not only on renewable energy targets and offers appropriate for the Local Authority. The generally but possibly being EESDRT series of recommendations as to how East of England has great potential for the more specific in terms of authorities can utilise renewable energy. production of renewable energy, and this housing and other should be utilised. development types. http://www.renewableseast.org. Objectives in the SA will help uk/images/pdfs/Renewables_R appraise locations for The greatest potential for new sources of eport.pdf renewable energy and renewable energy in the region are: furthermore, with such potential for renewable x offshore wind 53,000GWh1 power, it may be appropriate x onshore wind 5,000GWh to utilise a sequential x biomass 5000GWh approach to planning
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x biofuels 2000GWh applications in the power x solar 2000 GWh sector. x other 1000 GWh.
If this potential were realised it would be equivalent to a regional target of 40% of energy from renewable sources . LOTS Study London to South-end Movement Study was The road infrastructure in Thurrock is Road infrastructure is at commissioned by TGSE Partnership to suffering increased volumes of traffic with capacity and if current travel Thames Gateway South Essex build on the existing road and rail limited capacity at key junctions, including patterns continue, South Partnership 2004 infrastructure to develop a complementary M25 Junction 30. There is a high car Essex new infrastructure or integrated transport system dependency and as a result low levels of transport provisions will have http://www.southend.gov.uk/con that provides a sustainable mix of private bus patronage. The heavy goods vehicles to be developed. The SA tent.asp?content=3247 car, bus and rail public transport, and road using unsuitable roads are resulting in poor framework should aim to and rail freight. air quality resulting from transport consider this by sustainable pollutants. transport alternatives. The main objectives of LOTS were to: However, Thurrock is a Borough with good Understand existing and future x access to London and other parts of Essex transport movements within Thames and Kent and is the centre regeneration in Gateway South Essex (TGSE); the Thames Gateway. Other forms of x Provide an insight into the transport transport are being promoted through the related issues relating to regeneration development of walking and cycling and other aspects of integrated networks. transport; x Provide an insight to future strategic transport movements in the study area arising from current and future land uses; x Provide strategic guidance on the key components of the future transport infrastructure
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on National Cycle Strategy The National Cycling Strategy (NCS) aims In light of the amount of regeneration and The SA Framework should to increase the use of bicycles for all types development that may occur in Thurrock, provide for assessment not Department for Transport (DfT) of journey. It has a target to quadruple the there is a significant opportunity to ‘design only of alternative transport number of trips made by bicycle by 2012 on – in’ alternative transport into the means (i.e. alternative to the http://www.dft.gov.uk/stellent/gr 1996 levels. Masterplanning of new developments and private motorcar) but also for oups/dft_susttravel/documents/ into policy generally. Specifically this can site location in the site page/dft_susttravel_503877.hcs This NCS will promote cycling priority on be applied to the provision of cycling specific allocations. p infrastructure. the highway in the centre of towns, at the workplace and in new developments. By so The development will be constrained by doing, the Strategy will generate a culture existing transport infrastructure, namely change for cycling. Transport interchanges and public Safer conditions on the road a "critical transport. It will be important to design / mass" of cyclists will be encouraged. Then require development to be orientated cycling will feed on its success and make around transport nodes in order to minimise our streets safer and cleaner for everyone. the distance cycled to stations and By 2002 the National Cycling Strategy aims therefore maximise the numbers of resident to have tapped this potential and delivered s who would walk / cycle. a doubling of cycle use in the UK. Cycling Strategy The Cycling strategy sets targets for The integration of Thurrock’s transport The SA should include a increased cycle use generally and suggests aspirations with those of the Thames provision for including Thurrock Borough council 1999 more detailed targets to the implementation Gateway as a whole offers opportunities to alternative transport but of a cycle friendly infrastructure in create a multi – disciplinary, and indeed should also consider the HGV Thurrock. The strategy considered cycling multi – modal transport structure where % on the roads and propose for a range of activities, including: cycling can fit into a successful alternative alternative to deal with this x Commuting; transport strategy. congestion where possible x School and leisure trips; and in the bounds of the LDF. x Trips combined with public transport; The public transport in the Borough is Recommendations where and acknowledged to be poor, additionally, the beyond the jurisdiction of the x Cycle security. amount of out commuting to London by car LDF should be integrated into may inhibit the creation of a viable cycle the LTP 2.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Multi – disciplinary cycling strategies are commuting strategy. Furthermore, the high proposed [as being acknowledged as the percentage of HGV traffic on the roads most successful] particularly where the presents a significant danger to cyclists objectives, targets and methods are using those roads. supported across local government departments.
Road Safety Plan The road safety plan shows how the With the allocated development to Thurrock The SA for the LDF does not borough’s road safety initiatives can be and the Thames gateway, there will be a cover Road Safety Thurrock Borough council 2002 continued and expanded towards meeting corresponding increase in traffic and specifically, that is a subject the target set by the Government to reduce therefore ion potential for road traffic for the LTP2 to address. road accident casualties by 2010. accidents. This does offer however, an Although the LDF is a spatial opportunity for investment in new roads plan and as such can look to The Council has a statutory duty to carry and other measures that may increase allocate land uses that may out a programme of measures designed to existing road safety. be specifically sensitive to promote road safety under the Road Traffic road safety issues such as Act 1988 (as amended 1991). These residential or schools to areas measures include: that have greater potential for x Education and training; better road safety. x Safety audits; and x Safety engineering.
Walking Strategy The Walking Strategy for Thurrock sets Thurrock as over 60% Greenbelt and has The SA, as a spatial plan targets for increased walking generally and an array of designated conservation sites in should look at possible areas Thurrock Borough council 2000 suggests more detailed targets for the borough. As such there is ample for development that have increased walking generally and suggests potential to encourage walking for leisure in good walking access to more detailed targets for the the borough. However, it is acknowledged services and facilities. implementation of a pedestrian friendly that access to these areas currently is not infrastructure. Te strategy considers: adequate and that provision will need to be x Walking for commuting; made in the future to enable current and x School and leisure trips; future residents to access these areas. x Trips combined with public transport; d
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on and The Accessibility Study due for completion x Personal security. outlines areas of deficiency in terms of walking access and should be consulted in regard to this topic
MPG – 1: Planning and Provides government policy for provision of Sets out principles and key policy Prime directive for minerals. minerals minerals. Must be taken into account in objectives against which mineral plans and MWDF must reflect the policy preparing development plans. Will be applications are to be considered. objectives. ODPM superseded by MPS1*. Overlaps with waste plan on recycling and Waste plan - need to http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent mine waste and restoration through quarry accommodate recycling, mine /groups/odpm_planning/docum infilling. waste and restoration ents/page/odpm_plan_606843. materials. hcsp Overlaps with transport in need to import / export minerals, provision of import Transport – need to facilities and mode of transport. accommodate means to reduce travel, promote non- Potential constraints on delivering minerals road use. Road construction policy / objectives are considered in MPG1. needs minerals.
Policy objectives are a key input to the process.
MPS – 2: Controlling and Sets policy and considerations in relation to Limited overlap other than noise and dust Good practice advice could mitigating the environmental environmental effects of mineral extraction effects arising from the transport of be used as part of a effects of minerals extraction in to be followed in preparing development minerals. monitoring regime. the UK. plans and considering applications. Advice will inform site ODPM High relevance to minerals in principle and selection. in detail regarding noise and dust effects. http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on /groups/odpm_control/documen ts/contentservertemplate/odpm _index.hcst?n=2546&l=2
Guidelines for aggregate This note sets out draft revised national Thurrock should use the finalised The SA should account for provision in England 2001 – and regional guidelines for aggregates guidelines as soon as practicable in the the revised guidelines in the 2016 provision in England for the period 2001 to preparation of minerals development assessment process (Stage 2016 inclusive. frameworks and for the control of B). additional development development. and its location will need to When finalised the new guidelines will be assessed and the SA replace those that were set out in Annex A MPAs should have regard to the need to framework will need to of Minerals Planning Guidance Note 6 make an adequate supply of aggregates consider the implications in (MPG6) "Guidelines for aggregates available in a manner compatible with terms of aggregates provision in England", published in May environmental objectives. Minerals 1994. All other parts of MPG6 will remain in development plans (and new Minerals and force until revised. Local Development Frameworks -MDFs and LDFs- as these are phased in) should continue to provide guidance on environmental objectives and the development control criteria that will be applied.
It is Government policy that the use of suitable recycled and secondary materials should be encouraged. However the amounts of these materials likely to be available for use will probably vary significantly from place to place. Consideration should be given, therefore, to realistic levels of supply from such sources over the period to 2016. PPS – 6: Planning for town The Government's key objective for town Enhance consumer choice by making In particular, the SEA / SA
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on centres centres is to promote vital and viable city, provision for a range of shopping, leisure should take account the town and other centers by planning for the and local services, which allow genuine sequential approach when ODPM 2004 growth and development of existing choice to meet the needs of the entire assessing site-specific centres, and promoting and enhancing community, and particularly socially allocations. http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent existing centers, by focusing development excluded groups. /groups/odpm_planning/docum in such centres and encouraging a wide Support an efficient, competitive and ents/pdf/odpm_plan_ range of services in a good environment, innovative retail and leisure sector, with pdf_026232.pdf accessible to all. improving productivity. Improve accessibility, ensuring that existing or new development is, or will be, highly accessible and well served by a choice of means of transport. Promote social inclusion, ensuring that local communities have access to a range of shopping, leisure and local services, and that gaps in provision in areas with poor access to facilities are remedied. Regenerate deprived areas, creating new and additional employment opportunities and an improved physical environment. Deliver more sustainable patterns of development, ensuring that locations are fully exploited through high-density, mixed- use development and promoting sustainable transport choices, including reducing the need to travel and providing alternatives to car use. Promote good design, improving the quality of public open spaces, protecting and enhancing the architectural and historic heritage of centres, and ensuring that town centres provide an attractive and safe
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on environment for businesses, shoppers and residents. It is not the role of the planning system to restrict competition, preserve existing commercial interests or to prevent innovation. Aim to increase the density of development with the highest density development, such as offices, being in the most accessible locations.
Work in conjunction with business and other interested parties to: x Assess the need for new floor space; Identify deficiencies or gaps in provision; x Identify the city, town, district and local centres within their area where development will be focused; x Identify and allocate sites; x review all existing allocations; x Develop local strategies for ensuring equality of access to local facilities; and x Set out criteria for assessing and locating other new development proposals for sites not allocated in the plan. Markets should be retained and enhanced. The scale of new facilities should be directly related to the role and function of the centre and the catchment that they seek to serve. Sequential approach
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on requires that locations are considered in the following order: x Locations in existing centres; and then x Edge-of-centre locations; and then x Out-of-centre sites.
Gender and Employment in The Gender Profile of Thurrock's labour Whilst this plan is a profile rather than a Local Labour Markets market explores the relative situation and PPPSI, it discusses important resources of women and men in Thurrock demographics in terms of gender and and generates a comprehensive picture of employment inequalities and should be Thurrock Borough council 2004 the whole workforce. used as a guide for assessing this in terms of the SA Framework. http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/i- The key issue identified in this study is the know/diversity/content.php?pag low educational attainment and lower grade e=gender_profile#c01 occupations. Thurrock’s men and women are less well qualified than men and women nationally Sustainable Communities: The aims of the sustainable communities - In light of the development outlined and The SA should include People, Places Prosperity places that offer people strategy are proposed for the Thames Gateway, objectives that integrate the provision of: Thurrock will look forward to increased main themes of the ODPM 2005 x a decent, affordable home; investment and development. This plan requirements of the plan. x a community in which to live and work outlines key measures that will need to be Furthermore public x the chance to develop skills and adhered to in order to create ‘sustainable consultation within the SA http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent interests communities’. This offers an opportunity to should help further the /groups/odpm_about/document x access to jobs and excellent services; Thurrock to create new communities under principle of giving s/page/odpm_about_035312.hc and this guidance. communities more say in sp x the chance to get engaged in the The key challenge will be to meet the decisions that affect them. community and to make a difference requirements outlined in the Plan in regard Sustainable Communities: People, Places to sustainable communities.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on and Prosperity, is the partner of the strategy for housing. The strategy is built on two main principles - the need to give communities more power and say in the decisions that affect them; and the importance of working at the right level to get things done. East of England Public Health The ODPM provided funding for the East of Public health issues in the planning The report states that Group Annual Report England Public Health Group and GO-East process could be incorporated into the LDF ‘Sustainability Appraisal 2004.2005 (The Government Office for the East of as suggested by the report. of…Local Development England) to investigate the ‘specific Documents must consider challenges and training needs faced by health and well being as key halth professionals and planning objectives’. professionals in delivering the growth agenda in the East of England Region’. A report was produced which consisted of a regional survey of the views of planning and health care professionals (the training needs assessment) and four case studies, which sought to examine how health is linked to the planning process. In addition, a series of master classes were carried out to address the issues which arose from the assessment. The Report also details the key areas of work of the East of England Public Health Group which includes food and health initiatives; school meals; health inequalities action plan; physical activity; obesity; teenage pregnancy and tobacco control. Planned development in the Region has important implications for public health. The
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Report evaluates the current situation with regard to the existing integration between these two areas, providing recommendations for how to better link them. The Report identifies opportunities in relation to health and planning, two aspects include: The potential of Local Strategic Partnerships to promote consideration of health within planning; and The potential role of Health Impact Assessment. The conclusions of the report found that there is room for improvement for how planners and health professionals work together. In particular, there is the potential for better ‘health proofing’ of local plans and developments. Sustainable Communities: This strategy builds on the Government's In light of the development outlined and The SA should include Homes for all Sustainable Communities Plan. The Plan proposed for the Thames Gateway, objectives that integrate the set out a vision of sustainable communities Thurrock will look forward to increased main themes of the ODPM, 2005 for the next fifteen to twenty years and a investment and development. This plan requirements of the plan programme for immediate action. outlines key measures that will need to be adhered to in order to create ‘sustainable http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent The aims are to: communities’. This offers an opportunity to /groups/odpm_about/document Thurrock to create new communities under s/page/odpm_about_034295.hc x Make sure that there are enough high this guidance. sp quality homes across the whole The key challenge will be to meet the spectrum of housing - owner occupied, requirements outlined in the Plan in regard social rented and private rented to sustainable communities. x Help more people to own their home
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x Make sure that all social tenants, and seven out of ten vulnerable people in the private sector, have a decent home x Create sustainable, mixed communities in both rural and urban areas, with the jobs, services and infrastructure they need to thrive x Provide for those who need more support to meet their housing needs and aspirations, including halving numbers in temporary accommodation x Provide for those who choose alternative types of accommodation, such as Gypsies and Travellers, but crack down on unauthorised development x Protect and enhance the environment, our historic towns and cities and the countryside. PPG – 3: Housing (and Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPGs) PPG3 is fundamental to developing the The fundamental objective to updates) set out the Government’s policies on THURROCK LDF. Among other things, provide everyone with the different aspects of planning. Local local authorities should: opportunity of a decent home ODPM 2000 Planning Authorities must take their content x Seek to create mixed communities; could be reflected in the SEA into account in preparing their development x Give priority to re-using previously / SA objectives. Housing http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent plans. The guidance may also be material developed land within urban areas, policies and land allocations /groups/odpm_planning/docum to decisions on individual planning bringing empty homes back into use for housing will be a key ents/page/odpm_plan_606933. applications and appeals. and converting existing buildings; focus of the SEA / SA. hcsp x Seek to reduce car dependence by Indicators on house hold PPG3 sets out the Government’s objectives facilitating more walking and cycling, by stock and type could be for housing which include: improving public transport linkages and added. The requirement to planning for mixed use; achieve the headline indicator x Everyone should have the opportunity x Promotinggood design in new housing of 60% of new development of a decent home;
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on of a decent home; developments; to be built on previously x There should be greater choice of x Where appropriate, include a policy for developed land should be housing and housing should not seeking affordable housing in suitable included reinforce social distinctions; housing developments; x The housing needs of all in the By 2008, 60% of additional housing should community should be recognised, be provided on previously-developed land including those in need of affordable or and through conversions of existing special housing in both urban and rural buildings. areas; x Additional housing should be focused The majority of projected growth will be in in towns and cities; and one-person households (NB and therefore x New housing and residential higher per capita resource use). environments should be well designed. LDF policies for affordable housing should define what the authority considers to be affordable in the Borough. Urban land and buildings can often be significantly underused. Local authorities should follow a sequential approach to identifying housing sites for allocation (starting with the use of previously developed land and buildings within urban areas, then urban extensions, and finally around nodes in good public transport corridors). New housing development of whatever scale should not be viewed in isolation. Policies which place unduly restrictive ceilings on the amount of housing that can be accommodated on a site should be avoided. Policies which place unduly restrictive
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on ceilings on the amount of housing that can be accommodated on a site should be avoided. Local authorities should avoid developments with less than 30 dwellings per hectare net. Planning for Gypsy and The Government is committed to ensuring There are 170 Gypsy sites in Thurrock Clearly, the integration of an Traveller sites that members of the Gypsy and Traveller (inclusive). This plan clearly places objective requiring the communities should have the same access obligation on Thurrock to ensure that provision / availability of a ODPM 2004 to decent and appropriate accommodation members of Gypsy and Traveller decent home for all should be as every other citizen and that there are communities have the same access to included within the SA http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent sufficient sites available to meet their decent and appropriate accommodation as Framework. /groups/odpm_planning/docum needs. This Circular replaces Circular 1/94 every other resident. ents/page/odpm_plan_033598. “Gypsy Sites and Planning” and provides pdf updated guidance on the planning aspects These obligations may lead to increase of finding sites for Gypsies and Travellers benefits from the health point of view and and how local authorities and Gypsies and reduced crime. Travellers can work together to achieve that aim.
This Circular applies equally to the development of public sites by local authorities or registered social landlords (RSLs) and to applications for planning permission from Gypsies and Travellers themselves or from others wishing to develop land for use as a Gypsy and Traveller caravan site, whether for residential or transit use, and for whatever the expected life of the site itself. Sustainable Communities This report deals with proposals for This plan discuses the housing The SA should identify clearly Making it happen: Thames sustainable growth and housing supply in requirements for Thames Gateway and the the consequences for Gateway and growth areas the wider South East over the next 15 Milton Keynes & South Midlands and sustainable develop for
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on years and provides an overview of London, Stansted and Cambridge Growth delivering the targets as well ODPM 2003 Government action with partners to help areas. As such it sets a framework in as mitigation measures. deliver growth. It is being published now particular for housing in the South East. However, it will need to http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent because we need to make announcements Thurrock’s housing needs should be tied in acknowledge that housing /groups/odpm_communities/doc on funding and delivery to help partners with those from the other growth areas to figures may not necessarily uments/downloadable/odpm_co finalise their own programmes. Future create synergies in demand where possible be under the control of the mm_023307.pdf progress reports will address other key through transboundary consolations and Council and thus option / issues addressed by the Sustainable co-operation policy mitigation needs to Communities: building for the future. work around this.. The housing numbers are dictated from This report sets out the action for: Government and as such, it may be a case x Developing the sustainable that Thurrock needs to decide where the communities approach; housing goes rather than the numbers x Achieving momentum in developing (they could also address densities, Thames Gateway; affordable housing provision, etc). x Realising potential in the other three Therefore the housing numbers act as a growth areas; and significant constraint not only on other x Improving housing delivery across the development s but also on different types of South East. use that could be placed where housing provision will be required to go.
Arts Strategy The Thurrock Arts Strategy aims to Thurrock Council recognised that arts could The consideration of cultural be used as a powerful stimulant of change heritage and by implication Thurrock Borough council x place Arts and Culture at the heart of and regeneration. Thurrock Council is the ‘Arts’ is a core topic of the the boroughs identity committed to using culture and cultural SEA Directive and as such x raise the profile, status and (especially arts) activity as a catalyst for should be included in the SA participation in the arts leading to a change. Framework. Provision of greater appreciation, expectation and facilities and access may be demand for high quality innovative and In March 2001 the Thurrock Arts and important indicators to inspirational work by residents of the Heritage Advisory Group also identified augment relevant objectives borough. deficiencies in the boroughs: x create an environment where the arts
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on will thrive, undertaking the development x The Thurrock Arts Team have also of new communities and the identified deficiencies in arts provision regeneration of established ones using at a more local level: art as a catalyst for change, and creating a cultural environment that The Arts Team have recognised that it attracts new residents and businesses needs to address: to the borough, and engendering a civic pride and a thriving economy. x Local identity x New licensing regime x Funding and resources x Risk management x Management of expectations Performance Counts Performance Counts summarises There are clear opportunities and synergies The SA should be mindful of Thurrock’s key priorities for 2004-05. these with the aspirations of this plan and those the issues raised in the plan Thurrock Borough council 2004 have come from ASPIRE – the community of the wider Thames Gateway. such as education and strategy for Thurrock. should, where possible, http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/i- Increase regeneration as part of the include education as a know/pdf/bvpp_summary_2004. The aim is to raise people’s ambitions and Sustainable Communities Strategy will objective in the SA pdf aspirations by providing education and contribute to increased education provision Framework. At least training opportunities for all ages. Their and should also include contributions education should be included focus will be to: towards trading, both vocational and higher in access to goods and education. This may help alleviate the services further improve educational x skills gap currently an issue in the Borough achievement x encourage lifelong learning x increase the self belief, confidence and abilities of people of all ages
Race Equality Scheme The Race Equality Scheme 2003 sets out In conjunction with APSIRE, the Race The SA should include in the how race equality will be integrated into the equality strategy can go to some lengths to framework an objective to Thurrock Borough council 2003 activities of each of services and functions alleviate disparities between race. alleviate inequality in the how Thurrock intend to tackle racial Borough. It may include an
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/i- inequality, ensure equality and promote indicator that compares know/pdf/race_equality_2003.p good race relations. access to goods and services df by areas known to be The Vision is to develop and sustain predominantly of a certain inclusive cohesive communities that value race. diversity and contribute to developing an economically and socially vibrant and thriving Thurrock. To ensure that every resident, employee and partners have equality of opportunity in relation to employment, service delivery and the procurement of services.
Early Years Development and The Early Years Development and Child The LDF should aim to create policies in The SA should include Childcare Partnership Strategic Care Partnership seeks to extend the which developers are encouraged to elements of child care Plan quantity and quality of childcare in children provide early years care. provision in accessibility from 0-14 (16 for those with SEN) so that areas of the SA framework. Thurrock Borough Council 2001 parents can be confident of finding appropriate childcare. http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/edu cation/pdf/eydcp.pdf In particular the Partnership intends to develop childcare in areas of disadvantage so that lone parents, in particular, do not find the lack of childcare a barrier to entering employment. The Partnership values and will support a diversity of childcare providers.
This offers a incentive for workers looking for employment in the borough eho have young familles. However, the quality issue that occurs whitin schooling in Thurrock will need to be addressed here.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Supporting People Strategy This strategy sets out to deliver housing There are clear opportunities for the Access issues should be related support to all vulnerable groups and provision of more housing that caters for considered with affordability individuals based upon their involvement these groups as a percentage of new issues in regard to Thurrock Borough council 2005 and choice. It aims to allow people to live dwellings that will be proposed in the assessment. independent lives. Thames Gateway and in Thurrock The SA should include There are two major functions: accessibility and the The financial , service quality, and x demographics mentioned performance management of the local above in the SA Framework. schemes that provide housing related support, including sheltered housing for older people, supported d accommodation for older people, supported accommodation for homeless families and independent living schemes for people with a learning disability. x The planning and development of local supported housing to achieve a better fit between what is required and what is provided.
Thurrock Learning Partnership The overarching aim of the strategic plan is There is no issue regarding capacity but Access to goods and services Strategic Plan to create an ‘plan of plans’ which serves to there is an issue with low attainment. indicators should include bring together the appropriate plans, or There is therefore the opportunity to now Education and health Thurrock Borough council 2004 parts of plans, of partner organizations. invest in quality. The intention is to define a holistic framework within which all partners can However, with the possibility of many new work in partnership. resident, this capacity may be exceeded and may result in the education The strategy sets out 9 Aims and infrastructure being over loaded and a objectives:
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on objectives: corresponding increase in problems due to x 1] To widen participation in learning overcrowding. among young people and increase the numbers of young people in structured Thurrock will need to balance to proposed learning [16 – 19 year olds] and among development numbers carefully with the Thurrock’s adult population [19+] current provision to ensure that both quality x 2] To raise levels of achievement of all and quantity of education are sufficient for young people [16 – 19 year olds] who current and future residents and to close learn in Thurrock and all adults [19+] the skills; gap that currently exists. who live in Thurrock; x 3] To increase participation in higher education; x 4] to ensure the provision of high quality advice to adults living in Thurrock; x 5] to meet the skills challenge for the local economy; x 6] to be completely inclusive ensuring equality of learning opportunity for everyone and to be pro – active in areas of identified need; x 7] to continue to support neighbourhood renewal AND regeneration and social inclusion and community cohesion through learning and skills; x 8] to continue to develop and improve communication between partners for effective collaboration the sprit of genuine Partnership; and x 9] Continue to fulfill Thurrock’s role as the learning arm of the Thurrock Local
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Strategic partnership. Housing Strategy The Housing Strategy is an overarching As a centre point of the Thames Gateway, The SA will need to ensure housing plan for Thurrock. It assesses one of four national priority for regeneration that in assessing sites, all Thurrock Borough council 2004 current and future housing needs and the areas in the UK, Thurrock is in a prime aspects of sustainable Council's approach to meeting those position to implement the Government’s development [i.e. Economic, needs. It takes account of national, regional Sustainable Communities strategy. The Environment and Social] are http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/hou and sub-regional priorities and links other considerable amount of regeneration that considered in the sing/pdf/housing_strategy_2004 Council and non-Council strategies. will be targeted in the Borough will enable assessment. The balance of .pdf Thurrock to provide housing to meet it’s these will be crucial in The Strategy considers key housing need. determining the long – term themes and issues, sets objectives targets viability of these communities and action plans, and examines past However, care needs to be taken in regard performance and resources. It sets out the to the use of available land in Thurrock. Borough’s housing plans, including Economic and Social uses need to be affordable housing, for the medium term, 3 considered with equal weighting to housing to 5 years, though with longer term housing in order to create truly sustainable objectives in mind. communities.
Education Development The plan’s aim is to improve school Whilst there are no issues in terms of The SA should address in the Strategy Plan 2 performance, raise standards and school capacity for current residents, the SA Framework the education expectations for all pupils and for all who quality of the schools and associated deficiencies and the Thurrock Borough council 2002 work in and with schools in Thurrock. academic achievement is an issue. aspiration to increase the Therefore there is an opportunity to skills and education levels Three themes emerged as being crucial develop the schooling standard without the within the Borough and http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/edu issues which Thurrock education provision of new school buildings, rather it establish a more balanced cation/pdf/edp.pdf department must address if significant is a case of raising the standard within the economic structure. improvement is to be made and sustained appropriate schools. over time. These are: However, any proposed development will Leadership and management x need to consider it’s impact on the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x Social and Educational Inclusion education requirements on current and x Variable Performance future residents in order to ensure that there is the quality and the quantity of education in the borough. CRIME AND DISORDER The strategies sets out four key themes. Violent and vehicle crime are high and on The SA should include an STRATEGY The themes reflect the current National the increase in Thurrock, in addition, the objective covering crime and agenda that also reflects the local concerns perception of crime and the fear of crime the fear of crime. This could Thurrock Borough council 2005 from the Communities in Thurrock. The four are an obstacle in Thurrock. come under the SEA themes are: - Directive topic for Human http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/i- • Reducing Crime x However, there are areas which can be Health or Population. know/content.php?page=crime x • Anti-Social Behaviour taken advantage of, the development to be x • Drug and Alcohol Abuse carried out in Thurrock can help to create x • Public Reassurance by reducing the safer communities and reduce the fear of Fear of Crime crime. In addition to these key strategic aims the Partnership will be working to become more effective and accountable to each other and the wider community.
Competitiveness White Paper The Government’s White Paper set out the As part of the Thames Gateway and the The SA will need to consider role it and business needs to play in associated development, Thurrock as an economic drivers as a core Department of Trade and improving the UK’s competitiveness. The opportunity to benefit economically through factor in developing the SA Industry (Dti) 1998 aim is to close the performance gap prudent choices regarding land – use and Framework. As such the SA between the UK and other major trading development types. However, as part of Framework for Thurrock http://www.dti.gov.uk/comp/com nations. This is a job for business but the drive for economic benefits, it is should include an objective(s) petitive/main.htm Government must create the right important that the Council are mindful to covering the aims above. environment for business success by the aims above in addition to those outlined Moreover indicators on R&D providing an economic framework, which is in the ERDP and try look for synergies and academic business links, stable and enterprising. between economic growth and sustainable land costs, and business business in terms of the environment and support, may be considered The role of the Government is to: social issues.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x invest in capabilities to promote enterprise and stimulate innovation x catalyse collaboration to help business win competitive advantage x promote competition by opening and modernising markets. PPG – 4: Industrial, commercial The aim of this PPG is to encourage New development can be encouraged in SEA/ SA objectives generally development and small firms continued economic development in a way locations that: include measures to Which is compatible with its stated x Minimise the length and number of trips encourage a diverse ODPM 2001 environmental objectives. Economic growth by motor vehicle; economy, to promote the and a high quality environment have to be x Can be served by energy efficient vitality of urban centres, to http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent pursued together. The Environment White modes of transport; reduce health inequalities and /groups/odpm_planning/docum Paper "This Common Inheritance" (Cm x Will not add unacceptably to reduce the need to travel by ents/page/odpm_plan_606913. 1200) emphasised this relationship. The congestion; and access appropriate motor vehicle. hcsp plan should take into consideration; roads so as to not add to congestion on By sensitive planning of new roads designed for longer distance industrial and commercial x Locational factors; travel. premises these objectives x Development control; Preference for users that will benefit from can be reached. x Mixed use; increased rail freight in localities close to x Conservation and Heritage; rail nodes. x Re-use of Urban Land. Opportunity to locate business’s requiring lorry access away from residential areas. Establish simplified Planning Zones (SPZs) to promote regeneration and economic activity.
Up-to-date and relevant plans are essential if the development needs of commerce and industry are to be met, and reconciled with demands for other forms of development and for the protection of the environment.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Thurrock should be realistic to the needs of business in allocating land. Developments that are detrimental to amenity or a potential source of pollution should be separated from sensitive land uses. PPG – 8: Telecommunications The aim of the policy is to give guidance on To facilitate the growth of new and existing SEA / SA objectives generally planning for telecommunications telecommunications systems whilst keeping include measures to ODPM 2001 development - including radio masts and the environmental impact to a minimum. encourage a diverse towers, antennas of all kinds, radio economy and improve access http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent equipment housing, public call boxes, To ensure that people have a choice as to to services. Encouraging /groups/odpm_planning/docum cabinets, poles and overhead wires. It who provides their telecommunications telecommunications can meet ents/pdf/odpm_plan_ gives guidance on planning for service, a wider range of services from these objectives. pdf_606918.pdf telecommunications development - which to choose and equitable access to However, health related including radio masts and towers, antennas the latest technologies as they become objectives and maintaining of all kinds, radio equipment housing, available. biodiversity and open public call boxes, cabinets, poles and countryside may be in conflict overhead wires Continuing protection of the countryside with one another unless clear and urban areas (particularly designated restrictions are included. sites) whilst promoting telecommunication developments.
Telecommunication systems have technical constraints that need to be considered when locating while limiting visual intrusion whilst allowing networks to expand.
Siting masts in Green Belt is generally not appropriate and needs to be done with “sensitivity” in AONBs.
The ability of local-authorities and operators to work together to find optimum
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on solutions.
Limiting visual intrusion whilst allowing networks to expand.
How much weighting should be applied to public health concerns during the application process? Delivering the Thames The Gateway will be delivered through This plan describes the delivery vehicle for Possible mitigation may need Gateway partnership between the public sector and the Thames Gateway. As such it places to consider the practicalities the private sector. into context the framework in which the of is delivery mindful of the ODPM 2005 LDF will need to deliver policy. Therefore , partnership ODPM's Thames Gateway Team is synergies between LDF policies and the http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent responsible for communicating the delivery of these policies should be /groups/odpm_communities/doc overarching vision for the development of understood and integrated into the delivery uments/page/odpm_comm_034 the Gateway, and drawing together of the LDF 672.hcsp strategic agencies involved in delivering the sustainable communities agenda. These include the Housing Corporation, English Partnerships, Regional Development Agencies, and the Environment Agency. Key strategic issues include transport investment, improvement to the image and environment of the Gateway, delivery of social and community facilities to meet the demands of the growing population, and management of flood risk.
Economic Development The Thurrock Economic Development The Strategy carried out a Strengths, The SA will need to integrate Strategy Strategy provides the mechanism, at the Weaknesses, Opportunities and threats the Economic SWOT analysis local level, to develop and implement the assessment (SWOT) and the results are to ensure that policies where
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Thurrock Borough council 2001 Regional Economic Strategy, Moving outlined below: possible mitigate the negative Foreword, prepared by the East of England Strengths and enhance the positive Development Agency aspects. Furthermore, in Location near London, on x recommendation in Stage B the Thames decisions will need to be x Excellent ship, rail and road mindful of the attainability of transport links mitigation in light of inherent x Robust competitive sectors problems in the borough. [e.g. retail, manufacturing 7 distribution]; and The SA Framework should x Healthy partnership include economic criteria in structure with Council, the objectives. business and community Weaknesses x Narrow Skills base x Poor aspirations and marketing image x Infrastructure [derelict land and traffic congestion] x Sustainable living [average crime / below average health] x No co- coordinated business voice Opportunities x Major redevelopment sites [Shell Haven and West Thurrock power Station]; x Gateway to London and East England Region; x New delivery structures, i.e. Unitary Status, EEDA, UDC; x Education infrastructure; and x Major investments in West Thurrock by
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on both the port of Tilbury and the Port Partnership in Tilbury; and x The Thames Gateway Sustainable Communities Programme Threats x Continued poor image and lack of self esteem; x Interest rate rises; and x Competition locally, regionally as well ads national and international. Corporate Equality Strategy & The Corporate Equality Strategy & action Increased development in the form of s106 The SA will need to include in Action Plan Plan aims to: agreements that can provide increased the SA Framework, an Ensure that services are designed, co- services and facilities to current and future objective to encourage and Thurrock Borough council 2003 ordinated and delivered to manage residents will maximise promote equality and social diversity effectively by tackling inequality inclusion http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/i- and social exclusion. know/pdf/equality_strategy_200 Engage in equality impact assessing 3.pdf strategies, policies and procedures and setting equality objectives. Ensure that services are accessible, welcoming, culturally sensitive and responsive to the needs of our diverse city and communities. Ensure that we enable people and communities to fully participate in consultation over the planning and delivery of council services that affect them. Ensure that we work with our partners to pursue equality and diversity objectives across the public, voluntary and business
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on sectors of Thurrock. Ensure that we respond quickly and effectively to legislation and national policy initiatives on anti-discrimination measures and practices. Ensure that we effectively monitor how well we are achieving our goals to eradicate discrimination, hate crimes and anti-social behaviour from Thurrock. Private Sector Housing The Private Housing Strategy covers a 3.9% of Thurrock's housing is in the private “Good quality housing and a Strategy period from 2001 to 2005. The Council's sector. 1,679 of these dwellings deemed better life for all” could be Neighborhood and Housing Directorate's unfit equating to a cost of £8 million to reflected in the SA objectives. Thurrock Borough council 2001 prime aim is to improve and safeguard the remedy. The Thurrock Care and Repair The strategy suggests a environment, health and safety of the Policy assists owner-occupiers and private number of key housing communities homes by providing high tenants over the age of 60, including indicators, which can inform quality services, contributing to a better life disabled clients, with repairs and the baseline and any further http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/hou for all. The objective set out to achieve this adaptations. monitoring scheme. The sing/private/content.php?page= are: number of unfit housing will strategy The average SAP rating for private be of particular interest. dwellings in the borough was 48.89, which To ensure that the condition of private x compares favourably with the national housing meets local housing needs. average of 40; 80% of the Borough's private dwellings are above this level. x To ensure the provision of good quality private rented accommodation.
x To guarantee a quality service for the elderly and people with disabilities regardless of tenure.
x To pursue and link cross-tenure
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on strategies e.g. energy efficiency and empty property strategy.
Bern Convention on the The Bern Convention came into force in Thurrock as a resource of biodiversity The SA Framework should Conservation of European 1982. Initiated and developed by the areas, from local importance to proposed ensure that biodiversity, in Wildlife and Natural Habitats Council of Europe the principal aim of the European important sites. These habitats terms of both habitats and Convention is to protect flora and fauna and associated species will be afforded species, (flora and fauna) are Council of Europe and UNEP and their habitats, and to promote protection under European Directives in covered. international co-operation amongst the addition to the aims of the convention. http://www.ecnc.nl/doc/europe/l contracting parties in their conservation egislat/convpane.html efforts, with particular emphasis on the There is a potential conflict between the protection of endangered and vulnerable amount of development that Thurrock may species and their habitats, particularly be exposed to, and its ability retain migratory species. The Convention biodiversity within the Borough. Areas of includes four annexes, listing threatened biodiversity value are relatively scarce, in species the borough thus new designing and approving new development should prioritise biodiversity conservation and enhancement. Where possible, net biodiversity increases should be aimed for through the utilization of innovative design such as brown / green roofs etc. Birds Directive (79/409/EEC) The Birds Directive has created a far- The Draft Thurrock Biodiversity Action Plan An objective in the SA reaching protection scheme for all of (TBAP) outlines a Special Protection Area framework will need to be European Commission Europe's wild birds, identifying 194 species (SPA) in the Borough (Thames Estuary and developed to address the and sub-species (listed in Annex I) among Marshes, including Mucking Flats and issue of biodiversity in them as particularly threatened and in need Marshes). Thurrock is therefore committed relation to the SPA. It should http://europa.eu.int/comm/envir of special conservation measures. There to taking "the requisite measures to include phrasing, highlighting onment/nature/nature_conserva are a number of components to this preserve, maintain and re-establish a the protection and tion/eu_nature_legislation/habit scheme: sufficient diversity and areas of habitat" for enhancement of ats_directive/index_en.htm x Member States are required to "all species of naturally occurring birds in internationally designated designate Special Protection Areas the wild state". This includes the sites. Possibly could be a
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on (SPAs) for the 194 threatened species designation of SPAs. sub – objective, or used in the and all migratory bird species. SPAs SEA Toolkit. are scientifically identified areas critical for the survival of the targeted species, such as wetlands. The SPAs form part of Natura 2000, the EU's network of protected nature sites, which was established in 1992. The designation of an area as a SPA gives it a high level of protection from potentially damaging developments. x A second component bans activities that directly threaten birds, such as the deliberate killing or capture of birds, the destruction of their nests and taking of their eggs, and associated activities such as trading in live or dead birds (with a few exceptions). x A third component establishes rules that limit the number of bird species that can be hunted (to 82 species and sub-species listed in Annex II) and the periods during which they can be hunted in order to protect them during periods of their greatest vulnerability, such as the return migration to the nesting areas, reproduction and the raising of chicks. There are also rules defining which hunting methods are permitted (e.g. non-selective hunting is banned). In addition, since 1993 the Birds Directive
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on has provided the basis for the establishment of EU Species Action Plans aimed at helping the most threatened species recover. Bonn Convention on the The Convention on the Conservation of The main implication of this will be in As the Birds Directive above Conservation of Migratory Migratory Species of Wild Animals (also regard to the SPA. SPAs are designated Species of Wild Animals known as CMS or Bonn Convention) aims for Bird Conservation under the Birds to conserve terrestrial, marine and avian Directive, as birds can migrate large UNEP migratory species throughout their range. It distances, it is important that migratory is an intergovernmental treaty, concluded species identified within the SPA are http://www.cms.int/ under the aegis of the United Nations afforded the protection required. Environment Programme, concerned with the conservation of wildlife and habitats on a global scale. Since the Convention's entry into force, its membership has grown steadily to include 89 (as of 1 February 2005) Parties from Africa, Central and South America, Asia, Europe and Oceania Conservation of Natural The Habitats Directive sets out the The Habitats Directive Article 6 outlines The Habitats Directive Article Habitats and of Wild Fauna and requirement to submit and subsequently measures needed to be undertaken by 6 outlines measures needed Flora Directive (Habitats adopt Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) Member States for the protection of to be undertaken by Member Directive) (92/43/EEC) under the Natura 2000 network. Article 6 of European designated sites (Natura 2000). States for the protection of the Directive sets out the requirements for Thurrock does not contain any SACs within European designated sites European Community protection, and compensation for loss of its borders (Natura 2000). Thurrock these sites. does not contain within its European Union Habitats borders, nor is it adjacent to Directive Site Annex I of the Directive sets out a list of any cSACs. Thus there are habitat types, Annex II sets out species no obligations on Thurrock or types, Annex IV sets out those animal and the LDF under the Habitats plant species in need of strict protection Directive. Convention on Biodiversity In June 1992, the Convention on Biological The convention’s objectives highlight not The SA should attempt to Diversity was signed by 159 governments only the need to conserve biological identify areas for biodiversity
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on European Community at the Earth Summit, which took place in diversity (biodiversity) but also the enhancement. This could be Rio de Janeiro. It became operational on sustainable and other uses of biodiversity. through development of http://www.biodiv.org/conventio 29 December 1993 and was the first treaty habitat links, green / brown n/articles.asp to provide a legal framework for biodiversity Thurrock, whilst having areas of roofs and Green Grid. conservation through the development of biodiversity importance, may also have Furthermore, the LDF should national action plans to halt the worldwide opportunities for eco-tourism, or bio- seek where possible to loss of animal and plant species. business. Consideration should be given to encourage businesses and sustainable agriculture or other bio- industry that will contribute to The objectives of the Convention are the: business where possible. the biodiversity of Thurrock. x Conservation of Biological Diversity; x Sustainable use of its components; and x Fair and equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of its utilisation of genetic resources, including by appropriate access to genetic resources and by approporatie transfer of relevant technilogies, taking into account all rights over those resources and to technologies, and by appropraite funding. Effects of Certain Public and The EIA Directive (EU legislation) on Any new development that exceeds the The SA may use the Private Projects on the Environmental Impact Assessment of the thresholds outlined in the Directive, in requirement for EIA on Environment Directive (EIA effects of projects on the environment was addition to those set out in the Town & certain sites that exceed the Directive) (85/337/EEC and introduced in 1985 and was amended in County Planning Act (Environmental Impact thresholds set out in 97/11/EC as amended) 1997. Assessment) Regulations 1999 will require Schedule II of the Town and an EIA. Country Planning Act 1999 EU The EIA procedure ensures that (EIA) Regulations to complete environmental consequences of projects Where there may not be adequate data gaps in the SA at site http://europa.eu.int/comm/envir are identified and assessed before information in regard to desk based level. onment/eia/eia-legalcontext.htm authorisation is given. The public can give assessments of sites for instance, an EIA its opinion and all results are taken into account in the authorisation procedure of may be appropriate to fill in data gaps.
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on the project. The onus of completing data gaps for sites The EIA Directive outlines which project is placed on the developer applying for categories shall be made subject to an EIA, planning application. which procedure shall be followed and the content of the assessment. Kyoto Protocol to the United The Kyoto Protocol is an amendment to the With the amount of development proposed The SA will need to include Nations Framework Convention United Nations Framework Convention on for Thames Gateway, and Thurrock, there an Objective on Climate on Climate Change Climate Change (UNFCCC), an are opportunities for the Council to change, this comes under international treaty on global warming. It embrace carbon neutral developments and one of the SEA Directive http://unfccc.int/resource/docs/c also reaffirms sections of the UNFCCC. alternative transport to the motor vehicle. topics: Climatic factors. onvkp/kpeng.html Countries which ratify this protocol commit The size of the developments will enable to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide significant inroads to be made in regard to and five other greenhouse gases, or the emissions of greenhouse gases of the engage in emissions trading if they borough maintain or increase emissions of these gases. A total of 141 countries have ratified However, existing infrastructure will need to the agreement. be at a capacity to cope with the upgrades In December, 2002, the EU created a system of emissions trading in an effort to meet these tough targets. Quotas were introduced in six key industries: energy, steel, cement, glass, brick making, and paper/cardboard. There are also fines for member nations that fail to meet their obligations, starting at €40/ton of carbon dioxide in 2005, and rising to €100/ton in 2008. Current EU projections suggest that by 2008 the EU will be at 4.7% below 1990 levels. Ramsar Convention on Ramsar is the first of the modern global There is one Ramsar site just south of the The Ramsar site should be
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Wetlands of International intergovernmental treaties on conservation proposed Shellhaven site in Thurrock. duly recognised in the SA Importance especially as and wise use of natural resources, its Ramsar sites are also classified under the Framework through Waterfowl Habitat (1971) provisions are relatively straightforward and Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 as SSSI objectives highlighting the general. Its original emphasis is on the and are accorded the appropriate protection and enhancement http://www.ramsar.org/ conservation and wise use of wetlands protection. of protected / designated primarily to provide habitat for water birds. sites for biodiversity. It should Over time it has broadened its scope to Wildlife sites offer the possibilities to also be included in the cover all aspects of wetland conservation integrate biodiversity conservation and baseline information and wise use, recognizing wetlands as tourism in the form of ‘eco – tourism’. ecosystems that are extremely important Whilst this may place added pressure on for biodiversity conservation in general and the sites themselves, it is possible to for the well-being of human communities. mitigate this through sensitive design and timings for visits.
This however may place greater constraints visa vie development in Thurrock and the Thames Gateway. Water Framework Directive The EU Water Framework Directive As part of the Thames Gateway South SEA includes an objective fro (2000/60/EC) (Directive 2000/60/EC) establishes a Essex partnership, Thurrock will need to minimising pollutions to framework for the protection of inland ensure that it works in partnership with the water. SEA framework should European Community surface waters (rivers and lakes), neighbouring bodies to ensure compliance include indicators of surface, transitional waters (mostly estuaries), with the Directive. The design and location ground and transitional water coastal waters and groundwater to prevent of development and investment activities quality further deterioration and protect and will need to take into account the objectives enhance the status of aquatic ecosystems. of the Directive Specifically for preventing and eliminating pollution to the marine environment, this Directive aims to enhance protection and improvement, by putting into place specific measures to cease or phase out discharges, emissions and losses of priority hazardous substances, with the ultimate
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on aim of achieving concentrations in the marine environment near background values for naturally occurring substances and close to zero for man-made synthetic substances. The WFD asks for classification of water types including estuaries and coastal waters, comprising the following five classes: High, Good, Moderate, Poor, Bad.
Climate Change: The UK The UK’s climate change programme sets There will be a key challenge for the LDF in Climatic Factors is an explicit Programme out the Government’s and the devolved trying to lower emissions of substances topic in the SEA Directive and administrations’ approach to the challenge through locational and, investment therefore it is a statutory DEFRA (DETR) of climate change. decisions that cause climate change. For requirement for it to be example dispersed patterns of integrated into the SA. A http://www.defra.gov.uk/environ This climate change programme has been development with little modal choice for specific objective of Climate ment/climatechange/cm4913/ developed in close consultation with key access change may be required to stakeholders. It is designed to ensure that allow tradeoffs between for the UK’s emissions remain on a downward example emission reductions path and to prepare the UK for making and locating new bigger cuts in the future. It aims to: development, to be identified. The UK programme may x reflect the importance of tackling assist with this through the climate change; provision of possible baseline x take a balanced approach, with all information and indicators. sectors and all parts of the UK playing their part; x safeguard, and where possible enhance, the UK’s competitiveness, tackle social exclusion and reduce harm to health; x focus on cost effective and flexible
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on policy options x which will work together to form an integrated package x x take a long term view, looking to targets beyond the Kyoto commitment period. Working with the Grain of the Future: A Biodiversity Strategy for England
DEFRA 2002 UK Biodiversity Action Plan In June 1992, 159 governments signed the Chapter 7 on Towns, cities and The SA objectives should Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) at development is of greatest relevance and include an objective to UK Biodiversity Steering Group the Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro. The recognise the need for biodiversity to conserve and enhance CBD called for the preparation and become a part of the development policy biodiversity and the baseline http://www.ukbap.org.uk/EBG/e enforcement of national strategies and on sustainable communities, urban green review should include ngland_biodiversity_strategy.as action plans to conserve, protect and space and the built environment. indicators for biodiversity p enhance biodiversity. The UK Biodiversity The aims of the strategy include: where these are available. Action Plan (UKBAP): x To ensure that construction, planning, x is the Government’s response to the development and regeneration have CBD; minimal adverse impacts on biodiversity x describes the UK’s biological and enhance it where possible. resources; x To ensure that biodiversity x commits a detailed plan for the conservation is integral to sustainable protection of these resources; and urban communities, both on the built x has 391 Species Action Plans, 45 environment, and in parks and green Habitat Action Plans and 162 Local spaces. Biodiversity Action Plans with targeted x To ensure that biodiversity actions. conservation is integral to measures to
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on The England Biodiversity Group, which improve the quality of people’s lives. involves stakeholders from public private The main concerns for biodiversity and the voluntary sector, advises the associated with urbanisation and Government of the implementation of the development include: UKBAP in England. In particular, it x Pressure on high-value land for oversees the delivery of Working with the development and other uses leads to grain of nature: a biodiversity strategy for the potential for conflict with biodiversity England, which was launched on 24 objectives. October 2002. The Strategy sets out a x Urban green spaces often consist of series of actions that will be taken by the highly-managed, largely artificial Government and its partners to make landscapes used for competing biodiversity a fundamental consideration interests and maintained using across all main sectors of public policy. methods not always sympathetic to biodiversity. x The population density of urban areas leaves little space for natural processes to operate effectively. x A common perception that nature is not of or for towns and cities, and thus an unwanted intrusion. x Gardening practices can be the source of introduced species. PPG – 2: Green Belts The fundamental aim of Green Belt policy Green Belt helps prevent urban sprawl by SEA / SA objectives generally is to prevent urban sprawl by keeping land keeping land permanently open. include measures to protect ODPM permanently open – the most important and enhance biodiversity, promote healthy lifestyles, attribute of Green Belts is their openness. Green Belt can shape patterns of urban Internet link: and to preserve local Thurrock contains a considerable amount development at sub-regional and regional http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent countryside. Green Belt of Green Belt. Once established, Green scale, and help to ensure that development /groups/odpm_planning/docum policies may help in achieving Belts can play a positive role in fulfilling the occurs in locations allocated in ents/page/odpm_plan_606905. these objectives but will also following objectives: development plans. hcsp mitigate against economic development, limit the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x to provide opportunities for access to Green Belt can help to protect the availability of sites for the open countryside for the urban countryside, be it in agricultural, forestry or housing. SA also needs to population; other use. They can assist in moving identify the sustainability x to provide opportunities for outdoor towards more sustainable patterns of urban benefits of building on brown sport and outdoor recreation near development. filed land and the urban areas; preservation of non urban x to retain attractive landscapes, and Local Plans must take into account the landscape. enhance townscapes, near to where permanence of Green Belts. people live; to improve damaged and derelict land x Where development pressures are great around towns; the constraining permanence of the Green x to secure nature conservation interest; Belt may create difficulties for planners. and Very significant in Thurrock where x to retain land in agricultural, forestry approximately 60% of the Borough is and related uses. Green Belt.
Will focus development in urban areas and the north of the Borough. PPS – 7: Sustainable The policies in this statement apply to rural Thurrock is made up of a variety of areas The SA will need to take on development in rural areas areas, including country towns and villages types, industrial, urban and rural. There is board the sustainable and the wider, largely undeveloped the opportunity to develop a ‘joined – up’ development angle form PPS ODPM countryside up to the fringes of larger urban approach to sustainable development – 7 and PPS – 1, additionally, areas. This PPS replaces Planning Policy within all these sectors. However, each this message will need to be http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent Guidance (PPG) Note 7, The Countryside - sector will have its own set of constraints in cascaded into the policies for /groups/odpm_planning/docum Environmental Quality and Economic and terms of creating the most viable use of the all land uses. Suggestion ents/page/odpm_plan_030148- Social Development, published in February land, all of which will need to be considered would be to possibly create 03.hcsp#TopOfPage 1997 sub – objectives to ensure The policies set out in this PPS will need to compliance for all sectors. be taken into account by regional planning bodies in the preparation of Regional Spatial Strategies, by the Mayor of London
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on in relation to the Spatial Development Strategy in London and by local planning authorities in the preparation of local development documents. They may also be material to decisions on individual planning applications. PPS – 9: Biodiversity and Planning Policy Statements (PPSs) set out According to PPS9, LPAs should adhere to The SEA / SA objectives geological conservation the Government’s national policies on seven principles including: should include an objective to (DRAFT) different aspects of planning. PPS9, Plan policies and planning decisions should conserve and enhance together with a new Government Circular seek to maintain, or enhance or add to biodiversity and the baseline ODPM (which will cover relevant legislative biodiversity and geological conservation review should include provisions) and good practice guidance, is interests; indicators for biodiversity http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent due to replace PPG9 Nature Conservation. Subject to other planning considerations, where these are available. /groups/odpm_planning/docum PPS9 sets out the Government’s broad developments seeking to conserve or ents/pdf/odpm_plan_pdf_ policy objectives in relation to biodiversity enhance the biodiversity and geological 030964.pdf and geological conservation in England and conservation interests of the area and / or its proposed planning policies for helping to the immediate locality should be permitted; deliver those objectives. These policies are Where a proposed development may give based on the principles set out in Working rise to significant harmful effects, LPAs will with the grain of nature – a biodiversity need to be satisfied that any reasonable strategy for England. PPS9 emphasises alternative sites would that would result in that the planning system has a significant less or no harm have been fully considered; part to play in meeting the Government’s Where development will result in international commitments and domestic unavoidable and significant adverse policies for biodiversity. impacts on biodiversity and geological conservation, planning permission for it should only be granted where adequate mitigation measures are put in place; Development policies should promote opportunities for the incorporation of beneficial biodiversity and geological features within the design of development. Local planning authorities should consider
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on whether proposed developments could be accommodated without causing harm to biodiversity and geological conservation interests. Where there may be significant harmful effects, local planning authorities will need to be satisfied that any reasonable alternative sites that would result in less or no harm have been fully considered. Where development will result in unavoidable and significant adverse impacts on biodiversity and geological conservation, planning permission for it should only be granted where adequate mitigation measures are acceptable. Local planning authorities should normally seek appropriate measures to compensate for any harm, which cannot be prevented or mitigated. Development policies should promote opportunities for the incorporation of beneficial biodiversity and geological features within the design of development. Biodiversity objectives that reflect both national and local priorities, including those which have been agreed by local biodiversity partnerships, should be reflected in policies in LDDs and proposals. LPAs should ensure that all policies in LDDs and proposals are consistent with those biodiversity objectives.
Ancient woodland is a valuable biodiversity
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on resource. Once lost it cannot be recreated. Tree Protection Orders (TPO) offer protection to trees over a designated girth.
LPAs should avoid increasing, and where possible seek to reduce, the fragmentation and isolation of natural habitats. They can do this be identifying networks of natural habitats. Policies should be included in LDDs to protect such networks from development, or integrate them within it.
Where previously developed sites have substantial biodiversity or geological interest of recognised local importance, LPAs should take this into account and look for ways to retain this interest or incorporate it into any development of the site. PPG – 9: Nature Conservation PPG9 emphasises that Local Plans should Local Plans should be concerned not only SA objectives to include an ensure that the protection and with designated areas but also with other objective to maintain and ODPM enhancement of conservation interests is land of conservation value and the possible enhance biodiversity. properly provided for in development and provision of new habitats. http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent land use policies, and that they place /groups/odpm_planning/docum particular emphasis on the strength of Local plans should take account of locally ents/page/odpm_plan_606919. protection afforded to international prepared nature conservation strategies. hcsp designations (para. 24).
LNRs may be established by LPAs and these can make a useful contribution to both nature conservation and to the opportunities for the public to see, learn
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on about and enjoy wildlife (Appendix A).
Nature conservation can be a significant material consideration in determining many planning applications and this may be particularly true in Thurrock where much of the District is no only countryside but also designated through various biodiversity designations but also for landscape and greenbelt. . Development in rural parts of the Borough is anyway severely constrained by the existence of Green Belt. PPG – 20: Coastal Planning Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPGs) The planning system can help tackle Due to Thurrock’s coastal set out the Government’s policies on concerns about development requirements borders the objectives of PPG ODPM different aspects of planning. Local while protecting and improving the 20 should be considered in Planning Authorities must take their content landscape, environmental quality, wildlife the SA objectives. http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent in account in preparing their development habitats and recreational opportunities of There are three ports in /groups/odpm_control/documen plans. The guidance may also be material the coast. Thurrock, it is important that ts/contentservertemplate/odpm to decisions on individual planning any proposed redevelopment _index.hcst?n=3434&l=3 applications and appeals. PPG 20 covers Areas in the borough where coastal is appropriate considering the planning policy for the coastal areas of development sites are unstable will need to SA objectives. England and Wales. be identified, development may have to be minimised as a result of this. SA objectives on biodiversity and the historic environment The District includes a stretch of heritage will be applicable to the coast. This designation provides heritage coasts. opportunities to conserve the natural beauty, facilitate and enhance enjoyment by the public as well as protecting social
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on and economic needs of the small communities, which enhance natural beauty and heritage features.
The local planning authority should recognise that onshore development can often have an impact offshore. They should take this into account when making planning decisions.
Decisions on development proposals below low water mark are generally outside the scope of the planning system.
Much of the Thurrock boundary of coastal, development will be constrained by this PPG. PPS – 23: Planning and Planning Policy Statements (PPSs) set out Any consideration of the quality of land, air The SA objectives should Pollution Control. the Government’s national policies on or water and potential impacts arising from reflect the need to reduce different aspects of planning. PPS23 development, possibly leading to impacts pollutant emissions and ODPM includes two separate annexes (Annex 1: on health, is capable of being a material enhance land, air and water Pollution Control, Air and Water Quality and planning consideration. quality. http://www.odpm.gov.uk/stellent Annex 2: Development on Land Affected by /groups/odpm_control/documen Contamination). A third Annex on Planning Where pollution issues are likely to arise, ts/contentservertemplate/odpm and Light Pollution will be published for intending developers should hold informal _index.hcst?n=5453&l=3 consultation in due course. The planning pre-application discussions with the LPA. system plays an important role in determining the location of development which may give rise to pollution, either The ‘precautionary principle’ should be directly or from traffic generated, and in invoked when there is good reason to ensuring that other developments are, as believe that harmful effects may occur to far as possible, not affected by major human, animal or plant health or the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on far as possible, not affected by major environment and the level of scientific existing, or potential sources of pollution. uncertainty is such that risk cannot be Appendix A of PPS23 lists a series of assessed with sufficient confidence. issues for consideration in preparing LDDs and taking decisions on individual planning The generation of additional pollution from applications. road traffic, the demand on natural resources and the discharges to the environment associated with any proposed development should be considered.
LDDs should set out the criteria against which applications for potentially polluting developments will be considered.
The presence of contamination in land can present risk to human health and the environment; development presents an opportunity to deal with these risks successfully.
The planning system should focus on whether the development itself is an acceptable use of the land, and the impacts of those uses, rather than the control of processes or emissions themselves. Planning authorities should work on the assumption that the relevant pollution control regime will be properly applied and enforced.
The availability of sewerage and drainage
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on infrastructure will influence whether or not development should proceed.
Where there are substantial concentrations of land affected by contamination, more detailed attention should be given to this in LDDs, possibly through area action plans.
The need to separate necessary but potentially polluting land uses from other land uses may conflict with the need to promote mix used developments. Green Space Strategies Green Space Strategies are designed to The LDF could include provisions for green The aims of the green space help everyone ‘responsible for green space spaces strategies could be CABE Space to provide well designed and well managed incorporated into the SA 2004 parks and open spaces’. A Strategy objectives. provides the vision for improved green spaces which meets community needs. It also provides a ‘reference point for allocating resources and provides a detailed plan of action’. Green Space Strategies provide a framework for Councils to use to provide safe and popular green spaces. This is sought to be achieved through: Involving communities to create a shared vision; Safeguarding the future of green spaces; Improving the quality of neighbourhoods;
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Enhancing the well-being of local people;and Attracting resources for management. These strategies aim to contribute to the urban renaissance through an integrated and coordinated approach. The strategy should include: creating a vision for the future of parks and green spaces understanding the current state of existing green spaces defining current and future community needs and aspirations promoting local standards for quality and quantity setting actions and a timescale for achieving these standards providing systems for monitoring and updating the action plan Working with the Grain of the The Biodiversity Strategy for England sets The LDF could take the aims of the The SA objectives could be Future – A Biodiversity Strategy out a programme, for the next five years, Strategy into consideration. designed to incorporate the for England for all main policy sectors to ‘make the challenges and the aims set changes necessary to conserve, enhance out in the Strategy. DEFRA (2002) and work with the grain of nature and ecosystems rather than to work against http://www.defra.gov.uk/wildlife- them’. The strategy has been designed countryside/biodiversity/biostrat through partnership and consultation with /biostrategy1to4.pdf numerous stakeholders and continued engagement is seen as crucial to its success. The main aims of the strategy are to integrate environmental concerns into all
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on the main policy sectors, setting out a plan of actions which will make biodiversity a ‘fundamental consideration’ in agriculture, water catchment areas, woodland, marine, coastal and urban areas. The Strategy also promotes a change in attitude towards biodiversity by all members of society.
The Strategy provides a programme of actions which are designed to achieve the following: Agriculture: encouraging the management of farming and agricultural land so as to conserve and enhance biodiversity as part of the Government’s Sustainable Food and Farming Strategy; Water: aiming for a whole catchment approach to the wise, sustainable use of water and wetlands; Woodland: with the management and extension of woodland so as to promote enhanced biodiversity and quality of life; Marine and coastal management: so as to achieve the sustainable use and management of our coasts and seas using natural processes and the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on ecosystem-based approach; and Urban areas: where biodiversity needs to become a part of the development of policy on sustainable communities, urban green space and the built environment.
The Strategy also outlines some broader goals which aim to engage society as a whole and help to encourage society to conserve and enhance biodiversity. The Strategy sets out programmes for measures to: Better information about biodiversity; Develop objectives and indicators; Achieve partnership; Involve everybody; Our Environment, Our Future: A The key aims set out in the Strategy seek The aims and challenges identified in the The Strategy report provides Regional Environmental to: Strategy could be integrated into the LDF. valuable information for the Strategy for the East of England Accommodate population and baseline review. The aims economic growth whilst protecting and and objectives outlined can enhancing the environment also be used to inform the EERA and EEEF Reduce the need to travel and objectives of the SA. 2003 achieve a switch to more sustainable modes of transport http://www.eera.gov.uk/Docume Deliver sustainable design nts/About%20EERA/Policy/Envi Reduce the vulnerability of the ronment/RENS.pdf region to climate change
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Promote energy conservation and a switch to renewable energy sources Harness environmental benefits arising from climate change Improve the environment awareness, skills and housekeeping of business and the workforce Promote the environmental economy Deliver more sustainable agriculture Maintain and strengthen landscape and townscape character Enhance biodiversity Conserve and enhance the historic environment Reduce the regions global environmental impact Increase understanding and ownership of environmental issues The challenges identified by the strategy which face the East of England include: Delivering sustainable patterns and forms of development Meeting the challenges and opportunities of climate change Ensuring environmental sustainability in the economy Enhancing environmental capital Achieving sustainable lifestyle The strategy also describes a number of environmental problems which face the
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on region: Reduction in the scenic beauty, the distinctiveness of different landscapes, the quality, the tranquillity and the loss of landscapes which are genuinely ‘wild and remote’. There has been habitat loss and fragmentation over the past few years and a resultant decline in many species. Habitats have also been degraded due to pollution, disturbance and neglect. Farmland wildlife has suffered as a result of increased agricultural production. The East of England has more buildings of historical interest that require special care in their planning. There are a number of ancient monuments that have been degrade d in the region which has been due to agricultural practices, mineral extraction and developments. In additon 2% of the regions listed buildings have been classed by English Nature as at risk of decay. Changes in technology have also left many buildings obsolete such as mills, pumping stations, industrial buildings and bridges. There has been a loss of local skills and locally distinctive materials. Urban areas are experiencing problems which include inappropriate developments,poor quality and
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on characterless buildings, degraded and unmanaged parks and poor pedestrian and highway works. There is pressure to build on Green belt land due to insufficient brownfield sites Parts of the region have light soils which are threatened by erosion, others have too much or too little organic matter which reduces soil quality. Over 25,000 properties are at risk from flooding in the region, projected growth could exacerbate the numbers at risk from flooding Regional Woodland Strategy for The Regional Woodland Strategy provides The positive benefits that can accrue to The conflicts between the East of England a set of strategies for the next 20 years society, the economy and the environment, preserving and enhancing designed to enhance the benefits that from woodland could be incorporated into woodland and development 2004 woodlands bring to those who live and work the LDF. could also be recognised in in the region. the SA. The objectives and http://www.eastspace.net/wfl/do The Regional Woodland Strategy is built on challenges of the Strategy cuments/Woodland_for_Life.pdf the vision that ‘trees and woodland are could be used to inform the widely recognised as bringing high quality SA objectives. sustainable benefits to all who live and work in the East of England’. The Strategy is designed to achieve this vision by pursuing three key avenues: ‘enhanced awareness raising and education; management of the existing trees and woodlands of the region focused on the benefits they provide; and continuing tree planting and
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on woodland expansion.’
The Regional Woodland Strategy is one of a suite of strategies which make up the East of England Regional Assembly’s Integrated Regional Strategy. The Strategy summarises the benefits that woodlands can provide into six categories. These are: 1. Quality of life 2. Spatial planning 3. Economic development 4. Renewable energy 5. Education and learning 6. Natural environment Key initiatives for each of these themes have been devised to improve the status of each one. There are many opportunities outlined in the strategy for which woodland can provide benefits for the categories listed above. A few relevant examples include: Improved health and well-being through the provision of woodland; Enhancement of the landscape through community involvement; Incorporation of woodland and trees in design of new urban developments; Plantation of trees adjacent to busy road to act as pollution particulate
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on filters; Promotion of tourism to woodland areas; Development of local skills and products arising from woodlands which are sustainably managed; Promotion of the use of wood for heat and power generation; Improved education and information as a result of better access to woodland; Increase the importance of biodiversity of the woodlands; and Improved recreational opportunities. Essex Biodiversity Action Plan The Essex Biodiversity Action Plan (EBAP) The EBAP highlights the biological The SA should promote is a result of co-operation and importance of the coastline to the winter nature conservation and Essex Biodiversity Action Plan communication between nature waders, the high quality woodland and protect important natural Steering Group 1999 conservation organisations, local farmland, freshwater habitats and the urban ‘assets’. The EBAP can be authorities, statutory agencies, voluntary habitats. It recognises the need for a co- used to produce indicators in : interest groups, the private sector and ordinated approach to nature conservation relation to the condition of the http://www.essexbiodiversity.or individuals. A number of species and within the County. habitats and whether the g.uk/ebap/intro.pdf habitats were chosen to focus action. number species are being Species and habitats that occur in Essex The LDF can play an important role in the sustained. The site allocation were selected from a national list of plans, preservation and enhancement of species may need to identify habitat together with some extra ones that are and habitats identified in the EBAP. The types and species locations characteristic or indicative of the Essex LDF provides an opportunity to nature prioritised by the EBAP countryside. conservation designations, and further promote policies, which encourage Local Nature Conservation Strategies. This is becoming increasingly more important as development pressure threatens the local biodiversity
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on Air Quality Action Plan Local authorities have a statutory duty to Whilst Thurrock can control some of the The SEA Directive requires assess the levels of pollutants [sulphur pollution that is emitted in the borough, that Air be considered as part Thurrock Borough Council 2004 dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, fine particles much of the changes that would need to be of the SEA, as such Air will (PM10), benzene, 1,3-butadiene, carbon made are not in the Councils control, i.e. be included in the SA http://www.thurrock.gov.uk/envi monoxide and lead] against air quality six of the AQMAs are caused by strategic Framework. It should also be ronment/pdf/air_quality_plan.pd standards and objectives laid out in the Air roads and therefore are regulated by the noted that some of the f Quality Regulations (2000). These Highways Agency In addition, background causes of pollution are objectives are based on the pollutants’ roads, including roads outside the Council beyond the control of the effect on health. Where these objectives boundary, contribute to poor air quality in Council and as such, are unlikely to be met, the Local Authority is all AQMAs. The remaining nine AQMAs mitigation and policy should obliged to declare an Air Quality are caused by traffic on roads managed by aim to focus on what the LDF Management Area (AQMA), and prepare Thurrock Council. can do. an Action Plan detailing how it intends to improve air quality for the health of residents in these areas.
In April 2001 Thurrock Council declared twenty AQMAs, for nitrogen dioxide and particulates (PM10). All pollution problems are related to emissions from traffic, with Heavy Goods Vehicles being the major contributors in most areas. Subsequently, a Draft Air Quality Action Plan was published in summer 2002.
Measures included to achieve the national targets are divided into five categories:
x Traffic engineering and management schemes; x Actions to reduce vehicle emissions; x Actions to reduce traffic volumes;
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on x Actions to reduce emissions from non- road sources; and x Public awareness raising and education.
Thurrock Biodiversity Action The Thurrock Biodiversity Action Plan Thurrock has a wealth of acknowledged Biodiversity, Flora and Fauna Plan (DRAFT) [TBAP] implements, at a local level, conservation sites, including a SPA, SSSIs are all topics in the SEA ‘Biodiversity: The UK Action Plan’ [1994]. It and SINCs, however, it is apparent that this Directive and so are required Thurrock Biodiversity Steering also transfers the Essex BAP into the biodiversity occurs in other, less likely and to be present in the SA Group 2005 Thurrock, local level. less well known sites along the riverside. framework. However, due to Brownfield biodiversity in Thurrock is an the nature of the designation The plan aims to define biodiversity asset and should be protected and in Thurrock [i.e. up to priorities for Thurrock and detail practical enhanced where possible. European level] there should local action to maintain or improve local be particular mention to the biodiversity and in doing so, contribute Developments should look for opportunities protection and enhancement towards county and national biodiversity to enhance and protect these areas in of designated sites in the objectives. proposals, ensuring that not only are the borough. sites protected but also that the mosaics in which they site are retained where possible. Brown / green roofs and other innovative biodiversity positive measure should be used where possible.
Thurrock Environmental Thurrock Council has demonstrated an x Prudent Resource Management The SA objectives must Commitment Environmental Commitment through a The council will promote the conservation reflect the objectives of the guide to give businesses and other and create awareness for energy efficiency Thurrock Council Thurrock Council organisations a better understanding of in housing stock and within the council. Environmental Commitment how Thurrock Council lets contracts for and ensure the are a constant works, goods and services, “How To Do theme within LDF. Business With Thurrock Council” Within the council they operate an ethical and environmentally sensitive purchasing policy and will aim to increase the use of
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on It provides an explanation of the Council's recycled and sustainable products. The policies regarding the seeking and Council aim to purchase 5% of our energy acceptance of tenders and quotations, requirements from renewable (green) along with the relevant National and energy sources by 2003 and increase this European legislation governing these rules. to 10% by 2010. Chapter 13 outlines its Environmental Policy which commits to x Protecting Our Environment The council seeks to protect and enhance x Working towards sustainable Thurrock's listed buildings, conservation development through the work of all areas, riverside, ancient monuments and council services. archaeological areas and use sustainable x Complying with all relevant development indicators as part of our environmental legislation and Unitary Development Plan. preventing pollution. x Improving the environmental They aim to maximise development on performance of all Council buildings existing brown field sites, while considering and services, including the trialling of the conservation value of such sites prior to environmental management and audit development. While doing this the natural systems. environments will be protected and x Training and encouraging its staff in enhanced and the green belt will be environmental best practice. defended along the biodiversity of these x Regularly reporting on the state of the spaces. environment in Thurrock. x Raising awareness of Agenda 21, sustainable development and The council will review air quality to environmental issues to the statutory air quality objectives and will communities of Thurrock. designate air quality management areas where necessary. x Influencing partners, businesses and other organisations to work together towards improving the sustainability Recycling and minimising waste is and environment of Thurrock. recognised and a target 25% recycling is set for Thurrock. The council provides
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The Relevant PPP - Proponent Opportunities & Constraints How could the LDF respond Implications for the SA matic Body, Date, Status & Source Secti on recycling facilities on site to help achieve and demonstrate commitment to this target.
The council encourages alternative affordable and integrated public transport to ease traffic congestion.
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GLOSSARY
Area Action Plan (AAP) A type of Development Plan Document focusing on implementation, providing an important mechanism for ensuring development of an appropriate scale, mix and quality for key areas of opportunity, change or conservation.
Adoption statement A statement prepared by the Local Planning Authority notifying the public that the Development Plan Document or Supplementary Planning Document has been adopted. This is required by Regulation 36 for Development Plan Documents and Regulation 19 for Supplementary Planning Document in the Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004.
A statement on the main issues raised during the consultation on the sustainability appraisal and how these were taken into account in the development of the Development Plan Documents or Supplementary Planning Documents as required by the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive, is recommended to be included in the Adoption Statement.
Annual Monitoring Report (AMR) Assesses the implementation of the Local Development Scheme and the extent to which policies in Local Development Documents are being achieved.
Consultation Body An authority which because of its environmental responsibilities is likely to be concerned by the effects of implementing plans and programmes and must be consulted under the SEA Directive. The Consultation Bodies in England are the Countryside Agency, English Heritage, English Nature and the Environment Agency.
Consultation Statement A statement prepared by a Local Planning Authority for a Supplementary Planning Document under regulation 17 (1) of the Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004.
Core Strategy Should set out the key elements of the planning framework for the area. It should comprise: a spatial vision and strategic objectives for the area; a spatial strategy; core policies; and a monitoring and implementation framework with clear objectives for achieving delivery.
Development Plan Documents (DPD) A type of Local Development Document. DPDs include the Core Strategy, site specific allocations of land and Area Action Plans (where needed).
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Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) A generic term used to describe environmental assessment as applied to projects. In this guide ‘EIA’ is used to refer to the type of assessment required under the European Directive 337/85/EEC.
Indicator A measure of variables over time, often used to measure achievement of objectives.
Output indicator An indicator that measures the direct output of the plan or programme. These indicators measure progress in achieving a plan objective, targets and policies.
Significant effects indicator An indicator that measures the significant effects of the plan.
Contextual indicator An indicator used in monitoring that measures changes in the context within which a plan is being implemented.
Local Development Document (LDD) There are two types of Local Development Document: Development Plan Documents and Supplementary Planning Documents.
Local Development Framework (LDF) Sets out, in the form of a ‘portfolio’, the Local Development Documents which collectively deliver the spatial planning strategy for the area in question. The LDF also includes the Statement of Community Involvement, the Local Development Scheme and the Annual Monitoring Report.
Local Development Scheme (LDS) Sets out the local authority’s programme for preparing the Local Development Documents.
Local Development Regulations Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004.
Town and Country Planning (Transitional Arrangements) (England) Regulations 2004.
Mitigation Used in this guidance to refer to measures to avoid, reduce or offset significant adverse effects on the environment.
Objective A statement of what is intended, specifying the desired direction of change in trends.
Option For the purposes of this guidance option is synonymous with ‘alternative’ in the SEA Directive.
Plan For the purposes of the SEA Directive this is used to refer to all of the documents to which this guidance applies, including Regional Spatial Strategy revisions and Development Plan Documents. Supplementary Planning Documents are not part of the statutory Development Plan but are required to have a sustainability appraisal.
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PPS11 Planning Policy Statement 11: Regional Spatial Strategies
PPS12 Planning Policy Statement 12: Local Development Frameworks
Pre-submission consultation statement A statement prepared by a Local Planning Authority for a Development Plan Document pursuant to regulation 28(1)(c) of the Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004.
Scoping The process of deciding the scope and level of detail of a Sustainability Appraisal.
Screening The process of deciding whether a document requires a SA.
SEA Directive European Directive 2001/42/EC on the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment
SEA Regulations The Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (which transposed the SEA Directive into law).
Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) A statement setting out the consultation procedures for a Local Planning Authority. Explains to stakeholders and the community how and when they will be involved in the preparation of the Local Development Framework, and the steps that will be taken to facilitate this involvement.
Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Generic term used internationally to describe environmental assessment as applied to policies, plans and programmes. In the UK, SEA is increasingly used to refer to an environmental assessment in compliance with the ‘SEA Directive’.
Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) A type of Local Development Document. Supplementary Planning Documents are intended to elaborate on DPD policies and proposals but do not have their statutory status.
Sustainability Appraisal (SA) Generic term used to describe a form of assessment which considers the economic, social and environmental effects of an initiative. SA, as applied to Local Development Documents, incorporates the requirements of the SEA Directive.
Sustainability issues The full cross-section of sustainability issues, including social, environmental and economic factors.
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