Contents Page Index of Policies i Index of Pictures ii Index of Figures ii Index of Tables ii Index of Maps iii

1 Introduction 1

2 Characteristics of the Area 9

3 Issues, Problems and Challenges 13

4 Spatial Vision and Strategic Objectives 27

5 A Spatial Strategy for Poole 35

6 The Detailed Strategy: 39 Core Policies for Issues and Places

Realising Poole’s Economic Potential 39 Meeting Poole’ Housing Needs 52 Revitalising the Town Centre 63 Accessibility and the Prime Transport Corridors 75 Priority Areas in Need of Investment and Improvement 86 Locally Distinctive and Self-Reliant Places 93 Areas where Change will be Carefully Managed 102 Preparing Poole for Climate Change 106 7 Monitoring and Implementation 117

8 Key Diagram 145

9 Appendix 1: Schedule of saved policies 147

Index of Policies

Realising Poole’s Economic Potential PCS 1 Principal Locations for Economic Investment 45 PCS 2 Existing Employment Areas 47 PCS 3 Poole Port 51 PCS 4 Isolated Employment Sites 52

Meeting Poole’s Housing Needs PCS 5 Broad Locations for Residential Development 55 PCS 6 Affordable Housing 57 PCS 7 Care Homes 60 PCS 8 Lifetime Homes 62 PCS 9 Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation 62

Revitalising the Town Centre PCS 10 Revitalising the Town Centre - General 64 PCS 11 The Regeneration Area 66 PCS 12 Town Centre North 71 PCS 13 Retail Growth outside the Town Centre 73 PCS 14 The Lower High Street 75

Accessibility and the Prime Transport Corridors PCS 15 Access and Movement 79 PCS 16 The East-West Bournemouth-Poole (A35) Corridor 81 PCS 17 The A3049 East-West Corridor 83 PCS 18 The A31-Poole Link 84 PCS 19 Other Prime Transport Corridors and Main Routes 85 PCS 20 Accessible and Inclusive Places 86

Priority Areas in Need of Investment and Improvement PCS 21 LAA Outcomes and Target Areas 89 PCS 22 Local Centres 92

Locally Distinctive and Self-Reliant Places PCS 23 Local Distinctiveness 95 PCS 24 Design and Access Statements 97 PCS 25 Self-Reliant Communities 100 PCS 26 Delivering Locally Distinctive, Self-Reliant Places 100 PCS 27 Safer Communities 102

i Areas Where Change will be Carefully Managed PCS 28 Doreset Heaths International Designations 103 PCS 29 Poole Harbour SPA and Ramsar Site 105 PCS 30 Poole’s Green Belt 106

Preparing Poole for Climate Change PCS 31 Sustainable Energy - General 109 PCS 32 Sustainable Homes 110 PCS 33 Environmental Performance of Commercial Buildings 112 PCS 34 Flood Risk 114 PCS 35 Energy and Resources Statements 115

Chapter 7 Monitoring and Implementation PCS 36 Joint Working 120 PCS 37 The Role of Developer Contributions in Shaping Places 122 Index of Pictures

Picture 1.1 Poole’s Town Centre 1 Picture 1.2 Relationship between the Sustainable Communities 4 Strategy & the LDF Picture 2.1 Sandbanks 9 Picture 2.2 Holes Bay 10 Picture 2.3 Old Town Conservation Area 10 Picture 2.4 Poole Port 11 Picture 2.5 Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra 12 Picture 6.1 RNLI Training College & Conference Centre 44 West Quay Road Picture 6.2 The Lighthouse (Poole’s Centre for the Arts) 68 Picture 6.3 Town Centre North (Key Areas of Change) 72 Picture 6.4 Location of local centres 90 Picture 6.5 Poole Quay - attractive to families 93 Index of Figures

Figure 6.1 Location of existing employment areas in Poole 46 Figure 6.2 Pooles Housing Trajectory 2006-2026 53

ii Index of Tables

Table 6.1 Projected Changes in Employment in Poole 39 Table 6.2 Job Growth associated with Poole Bridge Regeneration 40 Table 6.3 New Jobs in Poole 2006 - 2026 41 Table 6.4 Baseline Retail Growth Projections 69 Table 6.5 Arts Institute Travel Plan Results 77 Table 6.6 Key Areas of Change - Local Centres 91 Table 7.1a Delivery Framework for SO1 124 Table 7.1b Indicators, Targets & Milestones for SO1 126 Table 7.2a Delivery Framework for SO2 128 Table 7.2b Indicators, Targets & Milestones for SO2 129 Table 7.3a Delivery Framework for SO3 130 Table 7.3b Indicators, Targets & Milestones for SO3 131 Table 7.4a Delivery Framework for SO4 132 Table 7.4b Significant Transport Proposals for Poole 2006-2026 133 Table 7.4c Indicators, Targets & Milestones for SO4 135 Table 7.5a Delivery Framework for SO5 136 Table 7.5b Indicators, Targets & Milestones for SO5 138 Table 7.6a Delivery Framework for SO6 139 Table 7.6b Indicators, Targets & Milestones for SO6 140 Table 7.7a Delivery Framework for SO7 141 Table 7.7b Indicators, Targets & Milestones for SO7 142 Table 7.8a Delivery Framework for SO8 143 Table 7.8b Indicators, Targets & Milestones for SO8 144 Index of Maps

Map 1 Sopers Lane 47 Map 2 Fleets Corner 48 Map 3 The Town Centre 63 Map 4 The Regeneration Area 65 Map 5 Flood Study Boundary for Application 113 of Sequential Test

iii 1 Introduction

1.1 Poole is a town which is gaining a new sense of direction. It contains some of the South West region’s best urban regeneration opportunities, and a real asset for Poole is that these opportunities are at the heart of the town. This gives Poole a realistic prospect of stepping up to the challenge of meeting its housing needs while also transforming the economy and revitalising the Town Centre.

1.2 However, Poole will need other areas to offer the right mix of jobs, schools, local facilities and a suitable choice of housing. This will rely upon having Picture 1.1 Poole’s Town Centre a clear vision as to the kind of place Poole should be in the future. Such a vision needs to be shared by various strategies, organisations and individuals to work towards some common goals. This is the process of Spatial Planning.

What is Spatial Planning?

1.3 The importance of planning ‘spatially’ is recognised internationally. At he European level, this, has derived from a need to integrate a complex array of policy documents, territorial strategies, legislative systems and cultural approaches across the EU.

…Spatial development refers to the distribution of built and natural features and human activity across territory...[and]...is a product of many sectoral policies and actions in public and private sectors…. Spatial planning is concerned with ensuring that the spatial policy impacts are considered and coordinated – in the interests of sustainable spatial development…. The Role and Scope of Spatial Planning - Literature Review (DCLG, December 2006)

1.4 Although this interpretation is derived from a European imperative which spans many territories and nation states, the principles of spatial planning are consistent across all levels, whether we are concerned with local or international strategies. In Britain, the shift in emphasis of our own planning system to a more spatial approach is based upon three central themes: l to focus the planning system on delivering outcomes which might be shared across a variety of strategies, policies and public and private sector interests; l to consider the interrelationships between policies and actions, and to understand the territorial implications of these (in other words, how they combine to affect places, people and activities over time); and l to engage better with communities and stakeholders in a manner which communicates these close relationships between different policy strands and activities.

Return to Contents 1 1 Definition of Spatial Planning Planning which goes beyond traditional land uses to integrate policies for the development and use of land with other policies and programmes which influence the nature of places and how they function. That will include policies which can impact on land use (for example by influencing the demands on or needs for development) but which are not capable of being delivered solely or mainly through the grant or refusal of planning permission and which may be implemented by other means. (Planning Advisory Service)

Poole’s Local Development Framework and the Role of the Core Strategy

1.5 Local Development Frameworks (LDFs) are required to set out a spatial blueprint for how places are expected to change over a period of time. Being spatial, the LDF must reflect other strategies and policies in their area, including matters such as health care priorities, education, economic development and so on. The LDF is not a single plan but rather a suite of documents.

1.6 The Core Strategy sets out the vision, broad principles and spatial approach for the period 2006-2026. During this period the plan will be reviewed to reflect progress in its delivery, and it is anticipated that this would be carried out in time to have a revised Core Strategy adopted by not later than the mid-point of the plan period (i.e. 2016). Other development plan documents, which will include more detailed management policies, will take the lead from the Core Strategy to ensure that they are in conformity with its vision, spatial strategy and policies.

1.7 Other development plan documents concern more specific policy and implementation details. Over time, the LDF will replace Poole Local Plan First Alteration (adopted in March 2004). Appended to the Core Strategy is a schedule of local plan policies setting out which documents in the LDF are expected to review and replace these. The statutory documents set out in the Local Development Scheme as at April 2007 are:

Anticipated Document Status Spatial Purpose What it will contain Adoption Date Core Strategy DPD1 To provide the delivery A Vision for Poole February vehicle for other strategies Strategic Objectives 2009 or plans which have a spatial dimension A Spatial Strategy To provide a spatial Policy framework for expression of the Sustainable the overall scale and Communities Strategy direction of change To show where and how An expression of how places will change in the LDF intends to create delivering the strategy sustainable communities To set out the context for An implementation more detailed documents in framework the LDF

2 Return to Contents Anticipated Document Status Spatial Purpose What it will contain Adoption Date

Town Centre AAP2 To provide a delivery Priorities & aspirations for December North framework for the Town Town Centre North 2011 Centre North area Details of anticipated To advance the Core Strategy retail & leisure growth by focusing on this key area Changes needed to of significant change realise the AAP such as transport infrastructure How and when the AAP will be delivered Site-specific DPD1 To advance the Core Allocation of sites for October Allocations Strategy by setting out specific purposes 2010 detailed policies for sites, Detailed & criteria-based places & issues policies for places or areas Details of infrastructure prerequisites for development Dorset DPD1 To set out a consistent and Details to be determined. October Heathlands co-ordinated strategy for Likely to include 2010 heathland protection across heathland management, affected South East Dorset wardening, provision of authorities alternative green spaces To enable the delivery of the Contributions framework Core Strategy by overcoming for development to meet a potential constraint to the costs of necessary growth mitigation measures To provide a delivery mechanism & impact mitigation Delivering DPD1 To provide the basis for the Details of costs December Poole’s Community Infrastructure (where known) of key 2010 Infrastructure Levy infrastructure & other To set out how the LDF is needs to be delivered, including Responsibilities for responsibilities & anticipated delivery delivery dates Anticipated delivery To provide details of the dates mechanisms and costs for An obligations framework developer contributions which sets out the needed to deliver a range of purposes and costs of needs developer contributions (excluding any specific prerequisites which might arise in individual cases)

1. DPD - Development Plan Document 2. AAP - Area Action Plan

Return to Contents 3 The Context for the Core Strategy The Sustainable Community Strategy

1.8 So, how do we make sure that Poole’s future is a bright and prosperous one for all of its residents? This is a question which is, in essence, the challenge for Poole’s Sustainable Community Strategy 2006-2012, Shaping Poole’s Future. This has been prepared by Poole Partnership, which is the local strategic partnership. This is made up of representatives from a wide array of organisations and other stakeholders in the local community. Widespread consultation has also taken place with local communities and individual members of the public in shaping the Sustainable Community Strategy.

1.9 Borough of Poole Council is the responsible Authority for preparing the LDF (including the Core Strategy) and so the Council must ensure that the document is a fair reflection of its own strategies, the aspirations of local people and other stakeholders, and national and regional policy. However, it also has a responsibility to provide a spatial expression of the Sustainable Community Strategy and will be a key delivery vehicle for all strategies which have a spatial element.

1.10 The following diagram illustrates the relationship between the Sustainable Community Strategy and the Local Development Framework.

The Planning Process

INFLUENCES INTEGRATED STRATEGIES National Goals  Regional Strategies Local Sustainable Planning Development  Community Application Framework Evidence Strategy Decisions  Core Strategy 

Local Strategic  Partnership Priorities

Other Planning  Community Engagement Documents i.e. Site Specific Allocations, Area Action Plan

Picture 1.2 Relationship between the Sustainable Communities Strategy and the LDF

Closing the Gap - Poole’s Local Area Agreement

1.11 Poole’s Local Area Agreement (LAA), Closing the Gap, is a three-year action plan for the Sustainable Community Strategy. The LAA was adopted in April 2006 and sets out priorities for the period up to March 2009. It has four key priority areas:

l children and young people; l healthier communities and older people; l safer and stronger communities; and l enterprise and economic development.

4 Return to Contents 1.12 The LAA sets out more detailed actions, and these relate to a variety of issues, such as improving life chances for vulnerable and younger people, reducing health inequalities, reducing crime and anti-social behaviour, improving economic productivity, and increasing the stock of affordable housing. As well as these and a number of other priorities, the LAA also identifies target areas where the benefits of positive action to residents would be most greatly felt. These areas are:

l Alderney;

l Hamworthy East and West; and

l Old Town.

Main Areas of Support in Core LAA Theme LAA Outcome Strategy

Children & l Better life chances for vulnerable l Meeting Poole’s varied housing needs, Young People children and young people including provision of affordable l Parents feel supported housing, starter homes and family l Addressing health inequalities dwellings l l Poole has confident, employable Supporting provision of health, youth young people who have a and community facilities positive relationship with their l Promoting access to leisure and community recreation opportunities in schools and the community l Supporting Schools for the Future l Supporting partnerships between schools, colleges and employers

Target Areas: Alderney; l Focus on improving the quality and Hamworthy West and East; Old community function of Hamworthy Local Centre Town l Revitalising the Town Centre to provide an improved environment, more housing and better employment opportunities l Co-ordinating Council services and joint working with partners to prioritise social inclusion issues in all the target areas.

Healthier l Reduce health inequalities in l Increased participation in sport, Communities Poole particularly in deprived areas & Older l Improved heath through l Lifetime homes standards (promoting People changing lifestyles independence) l Independence & choice for older l Care homes people l Skills, training & employment l Improve health & well-being of opportunities older people l Promoting accessible & inclusive places l Health support facilities

Target Areas: Old Town; Parkstone l Improved public access, including those with restricted mobility, in the Town Centre, including new public water fronts adjacent to Old Town l Securing the provision of care homes in the Town Centre l Supporting an increased role for health centres will benefit the target areas as well as other parts of the Borough

Return to Contents 5 Main Areas of Support in Core LAA Theme LAA Outcome Strategy

Safer & l Reduce crime & fear of crime, l Health care treatment & support: local Stronger anti-social behaviour and drug/ facilities & surgeries Communities alcohol abuse l Safer places through design and mix of l High levels of safety at home & in uses the community l Arts events & other activities engaging l Promote a stronger, more active with cross-section of people in targeted & vibrant community areas l A clean, safer, greener & l Environmental enhancements – public sustainable environment spaces, pavements

Target areas: Alderney; Old Town; l Revitalising the Town Centre should Hamworthy East & West create more mixed, active & safer places l Better facilities for young people, including improved recreation areas in Hamworthy & Alderney

Enterprise l Improved competitiveness & l Providing sites for economic growth & & Economic maintaining the diversity of the key sectors Development economy l Revitalising the Town Centre l Improved workforce & business l Supporting provision for training & productivity skills development & role of University; l Increased employment & retention of graduates; incubator economic activity business space

l l Improve movement & Accessibility: reducing the need to travel, traffic management, improved accessibility of goods & people efficiency of public transport

l Increasing accessibility of deprived areas across the conurbation

l Twin Sails bridge & associated infrastructure

l Improved bus station, train station & pedestrian environment in town centre

Target Areas: Hamworthy West & l Employment provision in Lower Alderney Hamworthy, continued support for the role of the Port, & improved accessibility between Hamworthy & the rest of Poole

l Strategic employment provision at Mannings Heath, together with improved public transport along Prime Transport Corridors

Multi-Area Agreement for Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole

1.13 The Local Strategic Partnerships for Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole have bid successfully to work together in the production of a Multi-Area Agreement (MAA), which effectively is a joint Local Area Agreement. The MAA will set out the action plan for the constituent Sustainable Community Strategies, and will place a key focus upon economic development across the sub-region. The MAA is intended to be a delivery plan for the sub-regional economic development strategy, Raising the Game. Over time the MAA will assist in delivering some of the aspirations of the Core Strategy and vice versa.

6 Return to Contents Poole’s Corporate Strategy

1.14 Poole’s Corporate Strategy, Striving for Excellence (2007), shares the same headline Vision as Shaping Poole’s Future (the Sustainable Community Strategy). It identifies six priorities for the Council:

1. Revitalising our Town Centre; 2. Transforming our Schools for the Future; 3. Improving Housing for Local People; 4. Reducing Poole’s Carbon Footprint; 5. Meeting the Needs of our Ageing Population; 6. Improving Efficiency and Effectiveness.

National and Regional Policy Framework

1.15 At the national level, the Government sets out its policy framework for how it expects regions and local areas to address key strategic issues, such as mitigating the threat of climate change, meeting housing, education and health needs, supporting economic growth, and developing strong communities. The Core Strategy needs to conform to this higher order policy framework, but need not repeat it where there is no need for a specifically local interpretation.

1.16 The national framework also guides regional policy, which in our case is set out in the Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West. This has been prepared with the detailed involvement of the South East Dorset Sub-region and, as with national policy, the Core Strategy does not need to duplicate the RSS but rather should provide more detailed local interpretations of its strategic direction, where necessary.

1.17 Sustainable development is the core principle underpinning planning. A widely used definition was that drawn up by the World Commission on Environment and Development in 1987: “development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs”. The Government’s objectives for sustainable development are set out in the revised strategy document, Securing the Future - UK Government Sustainable Development Strategy (DEFRA, 2005).

The five guiding principles are:

l living within environmental limits;

l ensuring a strong, healthy and just society;

l achieving a sustainable economy;

l promoting good governance; and

l using sound science responsibly.

Return to Contents 7 1.18 In practise, this has led to a greater focus on the role of our towns and cities. Such places are able to offer a wide range of facilities relatively near to hand and so can reduce the need to travel further distances. They also offer good potential for economic growth. If our towns and cities are to meet the challenges of the 21st Century, they will have to be attractive places which allow people to gain easy access to well-paid jobs, good schools, healthcare, affordable and good quality housing, culture and leisure facilities and efficient public transport. The draft Regional Spatial Strategy identifies Poole as being amongst the South West’s Strategically Significant Cities or Towns. It is also part of the South East Dorset Conurbation.

1.19 Poole is one of a select group of growth points, a key purpose of which is to promote quicker delivery of new homes in sustainable locations. The town thus has an important part to play in meeting wider regional and national aspirations for economic growth and housing provision. It is also part of a larger conurbation and so its future is intertwined with that of the South East Dorset sub-region. In summary, the draft RSS (which will subject to proposed modifications by the Secretary of State, having regard to the EiP Panel Report) notes that:

l regeneration and continued investment in the main urban centres of Bournemouth and Poole is a priority;

l Poole has good potential for economic growth; authorities across the conurbation will need to work jointly on various matters of common interest;

l Poole will deliver new housing, commercial, leisure and retail development at the heart of the town, including one of the South West’s largest regeneration initiatives;

l Poole needs to manage growth in a sensitive way due to the presence of internationally significant habitats;

l Poole should provide 500 dwellings each year in order to address its housing needs and realise its economic potential.

8 Return to Contents 2 Characteristics of the Area

Picture 2.1 Sandbanks

2.1 Poole is an important town in its own right as well as being one of the two principal centres within the South East Dorset Conurbation, which has a population approaching 500,000. This allows residents to gain access to a much greater range of services and jobs than otherwise might be expected for a town of Poole’s size. Being at the south-eastern extreme of the region, the conurbation is well-placed on the central south coast to develop links with both the South West and South East.

2.2 Poole benefits greatly from its coastal location and setting on the shores of one of the world’s largest natural harbours. The surrounding environment too is a key asset, with the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, the New Forest, and the Purbeck Hills all within half an hour’s travel from Poole. These undoubtedly are great attractions, but the town offers much more besides. It is rich in history and is a working town and sea port, with a successful and diverse local economy.

2.3 In the post-war years Poole has experienced considerable change and was one of the fastest-growing urban areas in the country. By the mid-1980s, however, opportunities for continued outward expansion of the town started to come to an end. The designation of a Green Belt, a housing and economic recession, and the growing recognition of the environmental value of heathland, resulted in a slowing-down of house building rates to about half those experienced in the peak years. An upturn in the economy and housing market in the mid-1990s, combined with the restraints upon outward expansion of the town, have resulted in higher growth rates within the town.

2.4 Poole Borough covers an area of just over 6,400 hectares (about 25 square miles) and enjoys an environment of remarkable richness and diversity. The Harbour is of ecological, recreational and commercial importance, a balance which, in many ways, characterises the town. It also contains some of the country’s finest beaches. In the town itself, the Old Town and Quay Conservation Areas form the historic core of Poole and contain many listed buildings which are associated with its maritime history and trading links. There are also a number of other conservation areas which reflect the town’s varied character.

Return to Contents 9 A Precious Environment

2.5 Poole Harbour and areas of lowland heathland are internationally significant habitats, with Canford Heath providing the Borough’s largest single fragment of Dorset heathland. The heathland in particular is sensitive to human activity and new housing development can lead to cumulative impacts upon these valuable habitats. There is a legal duty to protect the harbour and heathlands, which are the subject of 11 European habitat designations, and so it will need to be demonstrated that future development in Poole can take place without causing harm.

Picture 2.2 Holes Bay

Picture 2.3 Old Town Conservation Area

A Distinctive Town

2.6 The relationship of the historic Quay and Old Town to the harbour, and assets such as a working port in close proximity to these areas retains a close association with the town’s heritage and function.Other parts of the town have entirely different characteristics. Poole’s development over time, together with its varied physical characteristics, have lead to a myriad of urban forms, including 18th Century mansions, traditional Victorian and Edwardian housing areas in dense urban settings, and state-of-the-art contemporary housing designs which enjoy property values among the highest in the world. Through its character assessment work, the Council has identified broad character areas within the Borough, and, within these, there will be a finer grain of specific characteristics. Hence, the town as a whole is distinctive but is also composed of smaller distinctive areas.

10 Return to Contents A Working Town

2.7 Poole is a working town. It has a major port, some internationally renowned businesses, and a diverse economic base made up of manufacturing, engineering and service industries. This has helped Poole to maintain a consistently low level of unemployment. However, there are some key challenges ahead. Poole has a higher proportion of jobs in manufacturing industries (currently at 16.5% of its workforce), compared with regional and national averages and, in line with national trends, manufacturing continues to decline. Despite this, demand for employment land remains strong. There are also concerns that Poole loses many young graduates to other places, overall skills levels are lower than the national average, and much of the workforce is nearing retirement age.

Picture 2.4 Poole Port

2.8 Engineering, bio-technologies, creative industries, environmental technologies, food and drink, information and communication technologies, marine-related manufacturing and leisure, and tourism are identified as priority sectors in the Regional Economic Strategy. A number of these are well-represented in Poole. It is also the case that much of the growth taking place in Poole emanates from existing companies exhibiting strong loyalty to the town. These factors are to Poole’s advantage but regional forecasting suggests there could be a mismatch between jobs and housing (a shortfall of the latter) in the wider sub-region. The draft Regional Spatial Strategy is anticipating a 30% growth in jobs in the Poole area over the next 20 years. It will be important, therefore, to pursue a strategy of ‘smart growth’, in which higher productivity and skills, combined with bringing existing people back into the workplace, can help to maximise growth within the context of a constrained housing market.

Demographic Profile

2.9 Poole has a population of nearly 140,000. Over 20% of this is aged over 65, compared with 18.6% in the South West as a whole and 15.9% in England (Office for National Statistics). This shows that Poole’s demographic profile is older than comparative averages, and the proportion of older residents is forecast to rise further. When looking at older age groups, this issue is even more pronounced. Indeed, the current percentage of residents over 85 years old in Poole is the same as that predicted for England and Wales by 2027 (A Time of Our Lives - Poole’s Older People’s Strategy 2008-2013).

Return to Contents 11 2.10 Not surprisingly, different parts of the Borough exhibit different age profiles. Those parts with the highest concentrations of elderly residents include Canford Cliffs, Poole Town and Parkstone. Those with much younger populations tend to be areas containing more recent development in the form of houses - often suburban in character - primarily Creekmoor, Bearwood and Canford Heath, as well as older Victorian, Edwardian and Inter-war houses in Upper Parkstone, Alderney, Bourne Valley and Branksome. This will have a bearing upon a variety of issues, such as the type of housing which needs to be provided, accessibility to services and facilities, and recreation provision.

Culture and the Role of the Town Centre

2.11 Poole’s arts centre, the Lighthouse, has extensive facilities and offers a wide ranging programme, including national theatre and dance events as well as more experimental fringe performances.Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra is based at the Lighthouse. The Study Gallery is a recent addition to Poole’s cultural landscape, containing exhibition space, educational facilities, and offering events to promote arts development in the town.

2.12 Poole’s historic quarter is home to Poole Museum, which houses a series of galleries based on themes such as the development of the port and town and beginnings of the Harbour. It contains the Iron Age Poole Longboat which was discovered off Brownsea Island in 1964. Adjacent to the museum is the medieval Scaplen’s Court town house.

2.13 The town’s Speedway team, Poole Pirates, has enjoyed great success and became World Champions in 2003. In the last few years a strong independent restaurant scene has developed along the Quay and at Ashley Cross and Canford Cliffs. This contribution to the town’s life is celebrated through food festivals and street markets which are growing in popularity.

Picture 2.5 Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra

2.14 Poole Town Centre has its own unique attributes and its proximity to the harbour and historic Old Town and Quay add to its attractiveness. The retail offer competes well within the region but the size of stores in the shopping centre does not meet modern requirements and the ranking of the centre is falling. Major roads and the railway line break up the spaces. The Town Centre has great potential to become a more attractive and dynamic cultural heart for the town.

12 Return to Contents 3 Issues, Problems & Challenges

A New Direction: Making Better Use of Urban Land 3.1 Poole’s opportunities for lateral expansion are tightly constrained by the sea and environmental designations. With the exception of the last phase of residential development at Talbot Village, all of Poole’s housing and employment opportunities will come forward on previously developed (brownfield) land. Poole is fortunate also to have significant regeneration potential in the Town Centre, which will deliver new homes, jobs and retail development, together with a second harbour crossing and other infrastructure. This will help to create a sustainable and prosperous future for Poole and a key challenge is to ensure that a successful mix of uses can be achieved which is fit for the future in terms of its quality and sustainable use of resources.

A Town Embracing Change 3.2 Poole’s Growth Point status has arisen principally as a consequence of the regeneration opportunities which exist in the centre of Poole and much of the land which had remained derelict and vacant for years is now starting to be developed and will provide much needed new homes, shops, jobs and public spaces. This has been helped by a Green Belt which prevents the town from expanding outwards onto greenfield sites.

3.3 It is vital that development in Poole delivers the right mix of jobs, homes and facilities. Housing without jobs could lead to an imbalance locally. Equally, job growth which is not matched by housing provision will fuel inward commuting and exacerbate the ratio of house prices to incomes. People will need the right facilities in the right places too, and it is important that residents are able to access their everyday needs conveniently.

3.4 Poole’s future success depends upon development which creates better places and is responsive to the needs of local people. All development changes Poole in some way. It is critical, therefore, that this change respects and contributes positively to the distinctive local aspects of the town’s character. Responsible development also needs to add positively to the community, for instance by improving parks or investing in schools where additional pressure is to be placed on these.

A Town within a Sub-region 3.5 The South East Dorset conurbation, with a population of about 450,000, is the second largest urban area in the South West Region. Whilst there are clear functional links across the conurbation, it is also the case that the component settlements of Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch have their own distinctive characteristics. Poole and Bournemouth are the two principal centres of the conurbation, offering a diverse range of functions, including department stores, cultural facilities and good public transport links.

3.6 Both of these centres have scope to bring forward new development and to increase the range, amount and quality of shopping and other activities on offer. Whilst there is a degree of competition between the centres in terms of retail trade, both have an opportunity to capture a greater share of ‘leaked’ trade. Bournemouth will serve the eastern end of the conurbation and so it is unlikely that Poole’s development will deflect this trade, due largely to the friction of travel through the conurbation and the fact that Bournemouth will retain its role as the primary centre in terms of floorspace and rentals. Bournemouth currently suffers a degree of competition from Southampton and the out-of-centre Castle Point retail development, both of which are to the east of the town centre, and new investment in Bournemouth’s centre will help to claw back some of

Return to Contents 13 this trade. Poole, on the other hand, is well-placed to serve the western and northern hinterlands and is also faced with competition from retail parks in the town. Work commissioned for the Town Centre North Area Action Plan indicates that the town centre has potential to provide an additional 35,000 square metres of retail and leisure floorspace, assuming restrained growth of the out-of-centre retail offer. The towns themselves are each able to offer different experiences for visitors, with Poole providing a gateway to the historic quarters of the Old Town, Poole Quay and the harbour, and the cultural offer of the Lighthouse (arts centre), while Bournemouth has more of a holiday resort feel due to its proximity to the town’s beaches.

3.7 Joint working across the conurbation and wider sub-region is important to ensure that shared priorities can be delivered. Bournemouth’s employment structure is heavily dominated by service industries, largely as a result of tourism, retail and office jobs. It has very little in the way of manufacturing industry or ‘traditional’ industrial estates. Poole, on the other hand, offers almost 300 hectares of land in employment areas, and this is a resource for the entire sub-region. Consequently, demand remains high. Bournemouth University and the Arts Institute, both actually located in Poole, are key assets for the sub-region and have a vital role in enabling a growth in skilled employment sectors. Bournemouth Airport (in Christchurch Borough) is the sub-regional airport and also provides employment development opportunities. Cross-conurbation working via the Local Transport Plan is needed to ensure that the transport infrastructure is in place to serve this site. Poole Harbour is an environmental attraction of international significance, and hotels in the conurbation have many knock-on tourism benefits for the whole of Dorset. These are a few examples of how each area benefits the wider sub-region. It is important that Poole focuses on its distinctiveness and commercial advantages, but there will also be a need to ensure development at the airport is controlled so that it does not decant or deflect investment away from the main towns. There are other challenges which must also be faced, such as the need to ensure adequate mitigation is provided to avoid new development causing harm to international habitat designations, most notably the Dorset Heathlands Special Protection Areas, including Canford Heath.

Housing Needs

3.8 Finding a place to live which is affordable is a key challenge for many residents in Poole. In terms of mortgage availability, the Borough is already among the top 10% of least affordable places to live and this difficulty is made more challenging by the fact that the entire Housing Market Area suffers similar problems. Our population is also older than average and projections show this situation becoming more pronounced over the Plan period. This raises issues about housing requirements, health needs and the loss of experienced people from the local economy as a result of retirement.

3.9 A further challenge is in securing the right mix of dwellings in terms of type and tenure. As part of the Housing Market Assessment, a Dorset-wide Housing Needs Survey has been undertaken, and this confirms that need remains strong for 1 and 2-bedroom units, and that there is also need for larger 3, 4 and 5-bedroom dwellings. Over 70% of the housing requirement for the South East Dorset SSCT will be built on brownfield sites within Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole. Accommodation provided by new development differs from Poole’s traditional housing stock in terms of form and use (with a predominance of flats) and there is concern about how this will meet the needs of young families, as well as its impact upon the town’s character. The Council carried out a survey of occupants in new-builds in Poole (New Builds Evaluation Project Report, Borough of Poole Corporate Research Team - February 2008). This has revealed that, for dwellings built between 1 April 2004 and 31 March 2007, only 36% of residents live in houses, with 64% of residents living in one or two bedroom properties. Meeting family housing needs will depend upon a combination of urban extensions within the wider Housing Market Area (none

14 Return to Contents of which are in Poole due to environmental constraints), building new family homes where sites are suitable, retention of existing family housing, and the targeting of new affordable housing provision, which tends to favour family occupancy due to needs prioritisation.

3.10 There is a perception that second homes are a key pressure on Poole’s housing market. Whilst this may be a localised issue in certain parts of the Borough, the evidence is that, overall, it is a relatively modest component of the housing market. Council Tax registrations indicate that 6.3% of the new build properties are second homes, with particular concentrations in Canford Cliffs, Poole Town and Parkstone Wards. The usual residences of over half of these second homeowners are London (15%), Surrey (12%) or Dorset (27% - over a third of whom have their primary residence within Poole). Poole New Builds Evaluation Project Report (February 2008) found that 77% of the new builds surveyed had moved to their property from within the BH postcode area, and 53% from within Poole. Household size tends to be small, with 71% of the properties having only one or two residents.

3.11 Making efficient use of urban land is crucial, particularly in the Town Centre and the most accessible parts of prime transport corridors (usually local centres with high frequency bus routes and train stations). It will also be important to increase the delivery of new affordable homes through a variety of innovative approaches.

MAP KEY: Count per 250m2 (stated figure corresponds to upper end of range)

Location of New Dwellings in Poole (1/4/04-21/2/07)1 1. Source: Poole New Builds Evaluation, 2007 (© Crown Copyright. All rights reserved 10024248. 2007)

Return to Contents 15 3.12 The draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West indicates that Poole will need to provide between 450 and 500 dwellings per annum between 2006 and 2026 to complement the Borough’s economic role locally, in the region and beyond, and to meet the needs of a growing population. Our own detailed technical work has shown that the number of dwellings on Poole’s large allocated sites in the Town Centre is likely to exceed earlier expectations by a significant margin. For this reason, the Council is confident that we will be able to achieve the upper end of this range.

3.13 The Housing Market Assessment (HMA) being undertaken for the Poole and Bournemouth housing market area illustrates that household composition of much of the dwelling stock within the inner or older areas of Poole is characterised by a higher proportion of smaller households housing single people, lone pensioners and lone parents, and more married, co-habiting and pensioner couple households at the periphery of the Borough. Poole needs to look to the future in terms of providing housing for its communities, and the Council’s preferred approach is to ensure that housing development responds to the needs of the Borough’s citizens, and provides a mix of well-designed flats and houses of one to four bedrooms.

Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation

3.14 Local authorities have a duty to consider the needs of Gypsies and Travellers. In Poole, the priorities will be to refurbish an existing ‘fixed’ site to meet the needs of Gypsies currently living in conventional housing, and to work with Bournemouth to ensure there are suitable transit facilities for Gypsies and travellers wishing to stop for a short period.

An Ageing Population

3.15 Poole’s population is expected to rise steadily over the next 25 years with the proportion of older people growing at a much faster rate than that of younger people, resulting in an aging population in the town. This is anticipated to have significant implications in terms of the number of people needing care. (i)At the same time, nursing homes have been under pressure from the need to meet much higher standards, with the consequence that older and smaller homes are unable to address the requirements. This, combined with high residential land values, has resulted in a net loss of bed spaces in Poole. A key challenge for Poole will thus be to maximise opportunities for independent living and appropriate care for elderly residents, in terms of housing needs, health care and access to facilities and services.

A Changing Economy

3.16 Total employment in Poole is expected to rise by 13,700 jobs over the next 20 years(ii).The Regional Economic Strategy (RES) also identifies the Bournemouth/Poole conurbation as having the potential for a far more significant role in the economic growth of the region.(iii) it should be noted, however, that this includes part-time jobs across a range of different sectors.

3.17 In common with the national trend, Poole has experienced a decline in manufacturing, in terms of the proportion of employment in the economy overall, reflecting a move towards more competitive, leaner production. However, despite this shift, Poole retains a significant and important concentration of high technology manufacturing. A recent study, produced on behalf of SWRDA, suggests that this sector will remain strong because of its close association with the regional and locally important marine and aviation sectors.(iv)

i Poole Older People’s Strategy (2008) ii Employment Land Provision & the RSS - SWRA/Roger Tym & Partners (2008). iii Regional Economic Strategy 2006-2015: p.9.

16 Return to Contents Employment Land

3.18 Currently there is about 18.74 hectares of available employment land in Poole. (v) The most recent assessment of need suggests that a total of 39.5 hectares of land will be required over the Plan period. (vi) Delivering the jobs will come from a variety of sources, including the revitalisation of the Town Centre and new investment opportunities within Poole’s 300 or so hectares of land within existing employment areas. This should provide a flexible mix of sites and locations to serve a wide range of business needs.

The Port

3.19 The Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Economic Strategy 2005-2016, comments on the importance of infrastructure improvements at the Port as part of a strategically important package of ‘corridor improvements’ linking the port, the conurbation, Bournemouth Airport and the A31. Work to widen the shipping channel in Poole Harbour, considered essential to secure the long- term sustainability of the port, was completed in April 2006. The provision of a second lifting bridge, construction of which is expected to start in 2010, will significantly improve access to the port area for cross-channel ferry traffic. In addition, the port is served by a rail link from the main Waterloo to Weymouth line.

3.20 Sites with water frontage are a finite resource. Safeguarding the provision of facilities for the handling and distribution of aggregates and improving the existing rail link to secure opportunities for the development of rail freight facilities, thereby providing a sustainable alternative for the movement of freight, will be important objectives.

Priority Sectors and ‘Smart’ Growth

3.21 A key challenge for Poole will be to manage its economy over the Plan period to support strong and emerging economic sectors which can add value to the local and regional economies. To remain competitive, Poole’s economy will also have to pursue smart growth, from increased productivity, higher skills and salaries, a focus on knowledge-based, less land-hungry business sectors and more efficient working practises. It is important to bear in mind that smart growth is an evolutionary process which forms a natural part of improved business competitiveness.

3.22 Whilst there may be scope to improve skill levels, productivity and incomes, low levels of unemployment will serve to necessitate a growing workforce to meet regional job growth forecasts. The RES has identified an important role for Higher and Further Education Institutions in relation to encouraging innovation and technology transfer to develop knowledge based businesses. The ‘high value’ creative industries sector offers potential in Poole to add to the diversity of the economy, due to a combination of the strengths of the higher education sector in Poole, including Bournemouth University (whose specialisms include media studies) and the Arts Institute, and the development opportunities in the Town Centre (and subsequent potential to consider the role of the lower High Street).

iv DTZ Consulting & Research (2007). The Demand and Supply of Employment Land, Sites & Premises in South West England - Technical Appendix 2: SSCT Profiles – p.39. v Poole Employment Land Review (Borough of Poole, 2008) vi Employment Land Forecasting for Bournemouth, Dorset & Poole, Dorset Authorities/GVA Grimley (2008)

Return to Contents 17 3.23 Research referenced in the Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Economic Development Strategy 2005-2016, has identified a trend in the net outward migration of young people in the 15-24 age group, particularly those with graduate skills. (vii) This situation may be a particular cause for concern if the sub-regional objective of increasing the proportion of jobs in the knowledge-based economy is to be achieved. Bournemouth University can help by improving the range and quality of its courses, developing links with business, and meeting the accommodation needs of its students. Development in the Town Centre can also assist with some of these objectives.

Managing Traffic Growth and Reducing the Need to Travel

3.24 Congestion and unreliable journey times can prejudice economic success and development, as well as harm the environment and air quality. Congestion in South East Dorset is getting worse and recent opinion surveys in Poole reveal that local people indicate considerable levels of concern over the levels of local traffic and increasing levels of congestion. (viii) Poole’s challenge in the future is to manage economic and population growth in order to deliver economic and social wellbeing without congestion. (ix)

3.25 A key aim of the Spatial Strategy is to reduce the need to travel by locating homes, jobs, shops and services in the most accessible places. Schemes in Poole which generate a high number of trips, such as large offices or major shopping centres, therefore need to be located in places that are easy to get to for a large number of people by means other than the car. However, this will be insufficient to deliver the growth potential of Poole without significant improvements to the transport system. Forecasts show that the level of development proposed in the RSS for South East Dorset will increase traffic flows by 18% to 24%, even with the development being sustainably located. As a means of minimising congestion and its many harmful impacts the transport strategy for South East Dorset, Local Transport Plan 2006-2011 (LTP2), which provides the transport policy framework for the local authorities within the sub-region, expresses a firm commitment to managing the transport network.

3.26 Managing traffic growth will be a priority not only in Poole, but also the wider South East Dorset sub-region. Work undertaken for South East Dorset to inform the Regional Spatial Strategy indicates that rising levels of congestion will occur across South East Dorset as a result of growth and that significant investment in transport infrastructure is required just to maintain the status quo. For this reason, achieving the LTP target of a 1% decrease in road traffic mileage by 2010 (from 2004 base year) is the toughest challenge in the LTP.

Prime Transport Corridors

3.27 LTP2 identifies Prime Transport Corridors as the main arteries where accessibility is highest. They include major roads, high frequency bus routes, and rail connections. More specifically, delivering the Twin Sails lifting bridge will have a key part to play in bringing about social and economic regeneration in the Town Centre. In all Prime Transport Corridors it will be important to promote public transport, walking and cycling, reduce community severance at key locations such as local centres, minimise air pollution and its impact. A package of measures will be required to deliver this, including cross-conurbation parking strategies, demand management, the use of travel plans and improved alternatives to the car.

vii Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Economic Development Strategy 2005-2016: p.10. viii Dorset Citizens Panel survey, 2004. ix Opinion expressed in the consultation responses to the Core Strategy Issues & Options stage, 2004/5.

18 Return to Contents 3.28 Poole’s external road connections are also important in terms of the performance of the local economy. The Council is keen to see improved links to the A31 Trunk Road, as well as better connections north to Bristol.

Climate Change

Global Warming and Climate Change

3.29 Poole is a Growth Point and will play a critical part in meeting economic and housing needs for many people. This places a big responsibility on Poole to protect the town as much as possible from severe climate change events, and to make sure new development is doing its best to minimise its contribution to global warming. In Poole we have a particular concern about global warming because this is a coastal town and one of the predicted consequences of global warming is a rise in sea levels.

3.30 Poole is working with sub-regional partners to promote carbon reduction through the Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Energy Efficiency Strategy and Action Plan (publication anticipated in early 2009), which will seek to promote energy efficiency across the domestic, business, public and voluntary sectors, including measures to promote better energy efficiency in the existing housing stock. In parallel to this, Borough of Poole is committed to its own carbon management programme, prepared with assistance of the Carbon Trust. These initiatives will help Poole to realise lower carbon emissions, but it will be critical also for developers to take on board new challenges in construction and renewable energy provision.

Proposed national residential carbon reduction programme1

Date 2010 2013 2016 Carbon improvement as compared to Part L 25% 44% zero carbon (Building Regulations 2006) Equivalent energy/carbon standard in the Code Code level 3 Code level 4 Code level 6

1. Source: Building a Greener Future: Policy Statement (July 2007)

3.31 Poole is expected to deliver up to 70% of its new homes, as well as a significant increase in commercial development within the Town Centre, in the first half of the Plan period. The construction industry thus has an important part to play in dealing with climate change. Whilst recent changes to the Building Regulations have ensured sustainable construction techniques are more widely used in new development these offer only minimum standards of design. More examples of best practise in energy efficiency and building design are being produced nationally and environmental accreditation schemes such as BRE’s Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) and the Code for Sustainable Homes will play an increasing role in new development.

Return to Contents 19 3.32 Such approaches are useful because they promote a comprehensive approach in which a mix of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources can combine to reduce carbon emissions, depending upon the circumstances of the development. With regard to renewable energy, some technologies have greater potential in an urban area like Poole than others. A good example of such a technology is combined heat and power (CHP). This is a simple concept in which heat liberated from electricity generation is recycled rather than being lost to the atmosphere. It is important, however, to allow for emerging technologies and innovative solutions which, over time, are likely to become more widely available. The Local Authority could consider exploring the potential on its land holdings to deliver some form of renewable energy generation where opportunities arise. It can also help to provide greater certainty for innovative energy solutions in such circumstances, for instance through the use of Forward Procurement Commitment. (x)

Flood Risk

3.33 Flood risk in Poole has been predicted and mapped through Strategic Flood Risk Assessments, Levels 1 and 2 (February 2008). This contains information about the measures needed to protect Poole from flood events, ranging from 1 in 20 year events to 1 in 1,000 year events, and takes account of predicted rises in sea level in the years 2086 and 2126.

3.34 It is relevant to note that Poole is important in meeting national and regional policy objectives in terms of housing and economic growth, and is recognised as a Growth Point. Furthermore, development will have to take place within the urban area due to internationally significant environmental designations in and around Poole. This context has informed the sequential assessment which needed to consider if there were alternative locations for development to those proposed in areas at risk of coastal flooding (principally the Town Centre sites). The conclusion was that it would not be possible to find alternative sites of sufficient scale or suitability to accommodate the level of development needed. In accordance with Planning Policy Statement 25, an exceptions test was carried out which has demonstrated that the Town Centre offers the most sustainable location for housing growth in Poole, on condition that appropriate flood adaptation and mitigation measures are put in place in accordance with the SFRA. This conclusion is corroborated by the Sustainability Appraisal of Poole Core Strategy.

3.35 An additional factor of significance is that the large waterfront sites present a unique opportunity to provide comprehensively the necessary flood defences to serve the development, which in turn will protect existing properties at risk. Consequently, development in this area can be seen to offer a positive response to the flood risk beyond the individual sites in question.

x Forward Procurement Commitment involves setting out a particular outcome, such as certain renewable energy objectives, in a way which allows the market to find an innovative solution and, in the process reduces the risk to the service provider in that there is a known ‘market’ for the product.

20 Return to Contents 3.36 It is clear from this that additional flood defences will be needed to protect the most vulnerable parts of Poole, including the area of most planned change - the Regeneration Area. Specific modelling has been carried out (xi), the findings of which inform the town’s Strategic Flood Risk Assessment Level 2. It will therefore be a prerequisite that developers refer to this and the current Flood Zone Maps when preparing and considering proposals and that the necessary measures are incorporated in individual Flood Risk Assessments. Indirect impacts of climate change on land use and land management may increase future flood risk. Adaptation to, and mitigation against, climate change requires an integrated approach across different sectors including land use, water resources, transport, biodiversity and recreation. This integrated approach should be reflected in flood risk assessments to be assessed with any development proposals.

Internationally Protected Habitats

3.37 Under the EC Birds and Habitats Directive Poole Harbour and the Dorset Heaths are afforded protection, placing responsibility on the decision maker to ensure the integrity of the site is maintained. This responsibility extends to plan making as well as the determination of planning applications. The Regional Spatial Strategy aims to concentrate most development within significant urban areas like Poole and Bournemouth, and the opportunities for outward expansion are limited due to the sensitive habitats around us. Even so, there is still a risk that cumulative impacts of residential development within the urban area could lead to more pressures upon protected habitats, particularly so in respect of the Dorset Heaths. Much of the development in Poole is to take place in the Town Centre, which is near to Poole Harbour (which contains both Ramsar and SPA sites) and so it is imperative that this development does not adversely affect the integrity of these habitats.

3.38 The Core Strategy has been the subject of a Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA), which has identified those parts of the strategy which require Appropriate Assessment, tested these accordingly, and identified the measures needed to ensure the sites are not harmed. The HRA Final Check has identified a few additional amendments, which have subsequently been taken on board in the Core Strategy. The final check concludes with the advice that, if all its recommendations are undertaken and adequately implemented, ‘...it can be ascertained that the Poole Core Strategy submission draft will not have an adverse effect upon the integrity of any European site’. (xii)

3.39 Issues pertinent to the Habitats Regulations responsibilities can be found throughout the Core Strategy and, more specifically, Policies PCS 28 ‘DORSET HEATHS INTERNATIONAL DESIGNATIONS’ and PCS 29 ‘POOLE HARBOUR SPA AND RAMSAR SITE’ identify key requirements designed to avoid adverse impacts upon Poole Harbour and the Heathlands. It should be noted however, that this is not the end of the responsibility: l the Core Strategy provides the spatial context for other development plan documents, each of which will require its own Habitats Regulations Assessment where there is a risk of having an adverse impact upon the integrity of internationally protected sites - essentially a finer grain assessment;

xi Flood Modelling to Support SFRA Level 2 (HR Wallingford, January 2008) xii Core Strategy for the Borough of Poole - Habitats Regulation Assessment: Final Check of Submission Draft (21 April 2008).

Return to Contents 21 l joint working across the sub-region to produce a Heathlands Development Plan Document is underway, to replace the current Joint Interim Planning Framework (which covers a 3 year period from 1 January 2007). The DPD will tackle the cumulative impacts of residential development upon heathlands. The main mechanism, currently up and running in the sub- region via the IPF, is the collection of developer contributions from all affected local authorities for a package of measures, including warden services, heathland management, and provision of alternative open spaces;

l Poole Harbour Management Plan, in partnership with all relevant stakeholders, covers a variety of activities which have an impact upon Poole Harbour, and future reviews will need to have regard to this;

l planning applications which are likely to have an adverse effect in their own right (principally those sites within the Regeneration Area adjacent to Poole Harbour) will need to accord with the Core Strategy and be the subject of more detailed Habitat Regulations Assessments;

l the Poole Harbour SPA European Site Management Scheme, developed as part of the Core Strategy HRA, will need to be adhered to for all proposals near to the Harbour which are at risk of having an adverse impact upon the SPA. The site management scheme is set out in the HRA; and

l development for purposes likely to have an adverse impact upon the integrity of heathland sites will need to be strictly controlled in the immediate vicinity of heathlands and so the use of 400 metre ‘buffers’ around protected sites, applied to inappropriate uses, will remain an important impact prevention measure.

Townscape and Culture

Area Character

3.40 Poole Character Assessment (2007) has identified sub-areas within the Borough which have certain defining characteristics. Given the growth planned for Poole over the next 20 years, there is a real challenge (and opportunity) to deliver change in a manner which complements the highly distinctive and valued aspects of character of the town as a whole and within the sub-areas.

Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings

3.41 There are 21 Conservation Areas and over 200 listed buildings in Poole, and these are essential parts of Poole’s character. New development should preserve or enhance the character of Conservation Areas and the Local Planning Authority can assist land owners and developers in this through the preparation of further detailed policies and guidance. This will take the form of management plans, both for existing and potential future Conservation Areas, as well as detailed policies or guidance in other development plan documents or Supplementary Planning Documents, where appropriate.

Culture and Art

3.42 Poole’s arts centre, the Lighthouse, is a real cultural asset. The town is also host to a variety of events on the Quay, beaches and main parks, such as street performances, interactive arts festivals, firework displays, watersports and a French street market. Revitalisation of the Town Centre will provide a great opportunity to enhance Poole’s cultural focus through the provision of public spaces, performance areas, improved levels of vitality, an enhanced public realm, and works of art.

22 Return to Contents Meeting Community Needs

3.43 Reducing social exclusion is a key challenge for Poole in selected parts of the Borough as this will be a significant barrier to the development of healthy and prosperous communities. Poole’s Local Area Agreement, Shaping Poole’s Future, has identified particular areas in the Borough in need of a more targeted approach from public sector agencies in reducing multiple deprivation. These areas are Hamworthy East and West, Alderney, and Poole Old Town. The Core Strategy has a role to play in making sure that policies take account of these issues and try to make a positive difference to the life opportunities of residents in these areas.

Schools for the Future

3.44 There are approximately 32,000 children and young people in Poole and for most it is a great place to grow up. Test and examination results are above the national average and children’s health is good. However, the story is not wholly positive. A quarter of our young people have some form of additional needs and within that group 4% are particularly vulnerable to negative life experiences.

3.45 In Poole there are opportunities and challenges for addressing the future education needs of children: l the population is ageing, which has implications for future school roles; l the central area will see a significant concentration of new housing development over the next 10-20 years, which will place more demands upon local schools; l a range of specialist education facilities will be needed to cater for all needs of the community; and l Poole’s Schools for the Future is planning a review of the current school structure in order to move to a primary/secondary 2-tier system.

Health Care

3.46 The health and well-being of Poole’s residents will depend upon having modern, high quality healthcare facilities and so Bournemouth and Poole Primary Care Trust will need to be supported in its attempts to do this. However, better health also relies upon people living healthy lives and so the Council’s aspirations to improve recreation facilities will be important in giving everyone access to open space.

3.47 Bournemouth and Poole Primary Care Trust has identified a need for the expansion of existing community rehabilitation facilities to support people with complex health and social needs, linking existing care provided by hospitals and GP services. Some of these services will have a sub-regional catchment and will help to take pressure off existing hospitals. Development in the Town Centre offers an opportunity to incorporate some of these needs but in other parts of the Borough the diversification or expansion of existing facilities will have a key role to play.

Return to Contents 23 3.48 Community-based, at-home care and assistive technology, and improvements in medical care for age-related illnesses will increasingly enable older and more vulnerable people with moderate care needs to live independently in their own homes for longer. An area-based approach to healthcare and health support can also help reduce the demands placed upon hospitals and free up bed spaces for other patients(xiii).

Investing in Local Centres

3.49 Local centres provide shopping and community services at a neighbourhood level. There are 21 ‘district’ or local centres spread throughout the borough. These tend to be small, often consisting of not more than a parade of shops. However, Broadstone, Upper Parkstone (Ashley Road) and Ashley Cross serve broader catchments to the smaller centres. Local centres tend to be at the heart of the communities they serve and this ensures services are accessible. Very often their retail function is linked with other public and community services such as libraries, community halls and health centres as well as private services. This means that services and daily retail needs are kept local and people can link trips to these centres, using them for shopping and other services in the same trip. Local centres rely very much upon people living nearby using their facilities and often will contain a mix of independent and specialist retailers. It is important, therefore, to ensure such centres continue to succeed, in turn reducing our need to travel further for everyday needs.

3.50 All of Poole’s local centres have an important role to play in meeting the needs of residents and supporting sustainable communities. Local audit work(xiv) has identified four centres which are under-performing in terms of the range of facilities or the quality of the physical environment. Wallisdown, Creekmoor, Canford Heath, and Hamworthy will require environmental enhancements and new investment in the form of retail and, in some cases, residential development to improve their attractiveness and vitality to their respective local communities. In addition, Ashley Road, as a higher order centre, has certain issues which will need to be addressed.

Community Facilities

3.51 Community facilities can serve a range of functions from schools, doctors and dentists to places of worship and community halls. Most communities are served well, very often through the provision of basic local services within the Borough’s 21 local centres and, for more strategic services, Poole Town Centre. The availability of services and facilities locally can help build communities and increase social inclusion. As planning authority, the Council can protect existing and viable community facilities from redevelopment to alternative uses as well as require that new facilities are secured in new development, where there is a need.

3.52 In the Town Centre, significant new housing growth is planned. However, evidence from existing service providers in the central area of Poole (health, cultural services, schools etc.) is that this net increase in population will not necessarily be sufficient to merit wholesale redevelopment or expansion of existing facilities. For example in terms of education the new child population in the Town Centre will help to off-set a pattern of declining school rolls which is likely to happen if there was no regeneration activity. In the case of health care, Bournemouth and Poole PCT has advised the Council that future population growth can be accommodated within existing and pipeline facilities, but there will be a need to diversify the role of local health centres and provide for some specialist care needs in the Borough.

xiii See Building a Healthier Future for Bournemouth and Poole: A Five Year Strategic Plan 2008-2013, Bournemouth & Poole PCT xiv See Local Centres LDF Background Paper, 2007

24 Return to Contents Ensuring Everyone in the Community is able to Participate

3.53 Our buildings, streets, pavements and homes can be barriers to people for a number of reasons. For example, people with disabilities or impaired mobility will find it hard to use buildings with steps or an absence of lifts, while those with restricted sight could have difficulties crossing a road if suitable tactile paving or audible pedestrian signals are absent. However, barriers can take other forms. An absence of baby changing facilities could deter parents with young children from using a particular building, while streets which are poorly lit or perceived to be unsafe will put many people off from using them, particularly women or the elderly. It is important, therefore, to influence development in a way which minimises physical or perceived barriers to sections of our community.

Recreation and Leisure

3.54 Poole is a town which is physically contained by a combination of internationally important habitats, Green Belt and the sea. As a consequence, the focus for new development will be the existing built-up area. This offers great opportunities to regenerate under-used or derelict land at the heart of the town, but it also means that the scope to provide large new public open spaces is limited. It will be important, therefore, to make sure existing open spaces can cater for the future needs of Poole’s residents. Most sites are too small to accommodate on-site recreation provision and so developer contributions will continue to be an essential mechanism for meeting recreation needs.

3.55 Poole has in place a Local Plan policy (adopted in 2004) which sets out the recreational needs of the Borough, based upon the Council’s adopted Leisure Strategy. A review of the Leisure Strategy is due to be complete in the Summer of 2008. This will inform the Site Specific Allocations Development Plan Document (due to reach submission stage in February 2010 and adoption in October 2010) and the Infrastructure Development Plan Document (due for submission in March 2010 and adoption in December 2010). These documents will set out the detailed approach to recreation provision in Poole but, in the meantime, the current ‘saved’ local plan policies (covering a plan period up to 2011, in line with the current saved Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Structure Plan) will continue to determine how new development meets its recreational needs. Leisure and recreation provision has a key part to play in creating sustainable and self-reliant places, and this is recognised in PCS 26 ‘DELIVERING LOCALLY DISTINCTIVE, SELF-RELIANT PLACES’ .

Delivering the Strategy

3.56 The Government has introduced provisions in the Planning Bill for the new Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL). The overall purpose of the CIL is to ensure that development contributes fairly to the mitigation of the impact it creates and thus can be delivered in a sustainable way. Meeting infrastructure needs will also require other vehicles and joint working with a range of partners to ensure that common areas and priorities are coordinated.

3.57 At present Borough of Poole has identified a number of different needs for which financial contributions may be sought, and the details of most of these are set out in adopted Supplementary Planning Guidance documents (these relate to: recreation facilities; affordable housing; heathland mitigation measures; core transport and accessibility infrastructure for the Regeneration Area; community facilities, including education and health; and public realm, environmental enhancements and public art). There is a need to review these in the light of the proposed Community Infrastructure Levy and to provide a comprehensive, transparent and clear framework for developers.

Return to Contents 25 4 Spatial Vision and Strategic Objectives

4.1 The Core Strategy sets out a delivery framework for Poole for the next 20 years, and the principles which are set out here will guide all other documents in the Local Development Framework. It implements national and regional policy which is relevant to Poole and identifies shared priorities arising from local strategies, most notably the Sustainable Communities Strategy and associated Local Area Agreement, and Borough of Poole’s corporate strategy. Through this process, the Core Strategy is an important document in helping to resolve conflicting issues. In achieving this its key purpose is to explain how, where and when the Core Strategy will assist in delivering the issues and challenges which have emerged from these varied strands (i.e. spatial planning).

4.2 The starting point is to set out a Vision for Poole, and it is helpful that both the Sustainable Community Strategy and Poole’s Corporate Strategy share the same headline vision. If the Core Strategy is to assist in delivering these other strategies, it is sensible that it should share their headline vision.

4.3 Realising the Vision will rely upon many different stakeholders and service providers. It is important, therefore, to identify the particular role of the Local Development Framework in delivering the Vision. Eight Strategic Objectives have been identified for Poole, which provide a concise expression of the priorities for the LDF. These are set out immediately after the Vision.

4.4 The following Vision guides the rest of the Core Strategy. It sets out the seven themes which are part of the Sustainable Community Strategy Vision. It then gives a spatial interpretation of our Vision for Poole.

Vision for Poole Poole is a vibrant town, with strong communities, where people enjoy healthy lifestyles, care about their environment and support each other.

Promoting a Sustainable where the environment is clean and cared for and people’s 1 Environment lifestyles protect resources for future generations

Strengthening our where community spirit is high and diversity is respected 2 Communities

Investing in Poole’s Children where young people have the best start in life and are 3 and Young People involved in shaping the future

4 Valuing our Older People where older people enjoy healthy and independent lives

Promoting Health and Well- where people have choices, feel included and are offered 5 Being help to enjoy good health

Keeping Poole Safe and where those living, working and visiting feel safe and 6 Feeling Safe secure a place with a robust economy where businesses thrive Developing a Dynamic with homes to suit the means and hopes of all and effective 7 Economy transport

Return to Contents 27 OUR SPATIAL VISION FOR POOLE IS OF A TOWN WHERE:

1,6,7 1,2,3,4,6 3,7 1,2,3,4,5,6 1,2,3,4,5,6,7

The Central Area Poole’s economy Local identity and A network of lively, Environmental is transformed to attractive urban is restructured into strong community challenges are offer an urban ex- centres is devel- one which meets life are attributes perience which is oped as a means of the challenges of of all parts of the met effectively. st unique to Poole. addressing Poole’s the 21 Century. Borough. housing needs.

This will involve The Town Centre, Poole will gain Strong communities Reducing the creating a new local centres and 13,700 new jobs in are those which are need to travel by focus for the Town other accessible strong and emerging socially inclusive, car, sustainable Centre in the form places, linked via sectors and see tolerant and energy use, and of a public square Prime Transport incomes rise to respectful of all self-contained adjacent to the Corridors, will be above regional and needs. Poole will communities will be Dolphin Centre the key locations for national averages. comprise places with pursued to reduce and Lighthouse, high density housing. The strategy which local people Poole’s carbon an iconic second Development will will focus upon: identify and are footprint, tackle harbour crossing enhance the vitality business and retail able to engage in a fuel poverty, and and extensive and public realm of growth in the Central variety of community increase business public waterfronts these centres and Area; rejuvenation activities. There are which make use assist in promoting of existing sub-areas in Poole, of Poole’s position sustainable employment areas; each with its own on the shores of movement. New and a continued unique features Poole Harbour. New dwellings should commitment to and priorities. shops, leisure uses, offer a variety of Poole Port. Skills Within each area business floorspace unit sizes and development local centres will and housing will tenure, contribute will be critical be a focus for local create a dynamic to the supply of to ensure local shops, services, and revitalised affordable homes people can benefit and public transport. Town Centre with and meet Lifetime from improved job Development an enhanced sub- Homes Standards. opportunities. The should make a regional status. Existing houses combination of new positive difference will be crucial to homes, student to the quality of the meeting the needs accommodation urban environment. of families. Providing in the heart of the Residents in Poole’s homes for all will town, better-paid communities should require commitments jobs, training and a be able to live to specific needs, high quality urban healthy lives with including care environment will good, safe access to homes and Gypsy form the basis of a healthcare, schools, and Traveller sites. strategy for retaining local centres, graduates. open space and community facilities.

28 Return to Contents Strategic Objective 1

TO TRANSFORM AND REVITALISE THE TOWN CENTRE OF POOLE The Town Centre will be the main focus for change over the Plan period, and will be expected to make a significant contribution to meeting Poole’s housing needs and realising the town’s economic growth potential. Over 40% of the 10,000 new homes up to 2026 will be built in the Town Centre and many new jobs will be created through proposed business, retail and other commercial development. Poole will continue to be contained within the South East Dorset Green Belt to ensure development is directed to the most accessible parts of the town and continues to regenerate previously used land. Protecting open spaces and the internationally important habitat of Poole Harbour will be key priorities. Key Outcomes: l Creation of a distinctive, attractive and safe urban environment l Improved vitality in the Centre in terms of activity levels and the range of attractions/age groups l Better quality shops l Creation of public water fronts l Creation of a new public square between the Lighthouse and Dolphin Centre l Relocation of bus depot l Higher share of trips by public transport, cycling and walking l Protection of open spaces and Poole Harbour

Strategic Objective 2

TO MEET POOLE’S HOUSING NEEDS AND PROVIDE THE RIGHT HOMES IN THE RIGHT PLACES Across the Borough new residential development will be expected to support the provision of affordable homes. The importance of providing the right mix of homes to serve Poole’s needs will require the retention of existing family dwellings and a commitment that all new homes should be adaptable to changing life circumstances. Other housing needs specific to Poole include the retention and provision of good quality care homes and meeting the needs of Gypsies and Travellers. It is important that Poole meets its housing needs so that people can find a home and the economy is able to grow, and in a sustainable manner, with the highest densities in the most accessible places which are capable of accommodating them. In meeting Poole’s housing needs, it is essential that development does not adversely affect the integrity of the Dorset Heathlands or Poole Harbour SPA/Ramsar sites. Key Outcomes: l Provide affordable homes to meet needs l Provide the right mix in terms of tenure, size, type of dwellings l Homes in sustainable places l Delivering lifetime homes l Meeting the needs of Gypsies and travellers l Promoting local distinctiveness l Retention of family homes l Meeting the needs of an ageing population l Ensuring new development does not adversely affect the natural environment

Return to Contents 29 Strategic Objective 3

TO NURTURE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY Along with the Town Centre, Poole’s existing employment areas will continue to be important to the town’s economy through their rationalisation, modernisation and redevelopment over time. Two areas in particular - Fleets Corner and Sopers Lane - offer the potential for new employment development. The Port of Poole is a valuable asset to the town, and is a major gateway to and from the Continent for Poole and the rest of the country. Its role needs to be supported, subject to the proviso that it does not harm the integrity of the Poole harbour SPA and Ramsar sites. Key Outcomes:

l Provision of more jobs in strong and emerging sectors, including knowedge-based employment, in a sustainable way which protects the natural environment (particularly within the Regeneration Area)

l Nurture more business start-ups which are successful

l Retain and attract more graduates and other skilled employees

l Maintain Poole Port’s important role and support its ability to adapt to new challenges, such as the accommodation of cruise ships

l Improved road links to serve the Port

Strategic Objective 4

TO PROMOTE SAFE, SUSTAINABLE AND CONVENIENT ACCESS The Spatial Strategy places a significant emphasis upon the Town Centre and other accessible locations in accommodating new development over the next 20 years. This will help to reduce the need to travel by car but the strategy will also require careful management of traffic growth and investment in alternatives to the car. Key local centres and other suitable locations on main routes within the Bournemouth and Poole (A35) Corridor will accommodate higher density new development, and other prime transport corridors which have high frequency bus services will also be suitable.The roadspace along these corridors will be managed to improve the efficiency of public transport, promote walking and cycling and minimise the adverse impacts of traffic.

There will be continued commitment to developing an integrated approach to spatial planning and transport strategies across South East Dorset. Transport priorities will include managing the road space and traffic growth, supporting improvements to the frequency and reliability of bus services, improvements to “local” rail services, and complementary parking strategies, including the extension of controlled parking zones. There will also be a need to plan, prioritise and deliver infrastructure in accordance with the South East Dorset Multi-Modal Transport Study (SEDMMTS) and Local Transport Plan priorities in order to manage traffic growth and protect and maintain the function and capacity of the A31. Key Outcomes:

l Reduced proportion of single occupancy trips by car

l More homes and facilities in accessible places

l Communities which are self-sufficient in terms of functions and facilities

l Reduced community severance / overcoming physical barriers within communities

l Improved health and safer places

l Improving air quality

l More reliable bus journey times and improved public satisfaction

30 Return to Contents Strategic Objective 5

TO PROVIDE BETTER LIFE OPPORTUNITIES AND IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL The prospects of young people in Poole need to be improved through better life chances, including access to good schools, healthy lifestyles (including recreation opportunities and access to fresh food), children’s centres, health care, higher education facilities, skills development and job opportunities. This will be fostered by supporting the Council’s Schools for the Future initiative, helping the college and university to diversify, developing links with business and provide new student accommodation, and promoting high-value economic sectors. Reducing disadvantage arising from social exclusion and multiple deprivation will also need to be supported in parts of Alderney, Hamworthy and the Town Centre, and the improvement of recreation and youth facilities will assist in meeting this aim. Poole’s ageing population will benefit from better, more adaptable forms of housing provision and improved access to local services and health care. The town must also be inclusive of all groups and individuals in terms of employment, education, housing opportunities, and accessibility, taking account of age, gender, and cultural or religious beliefs. Key Outcomes: l Higher educational attainment l Improved access to good quality education for all ages l Improved skills in the workforce l More prosperous society in terms of income levels, access to good quality housing and strong community development l Reduced deprivation in the worst affected areas l Better local service provision l Improved public transport links

Return to Contents 31 Strategic Objective 6

TO DELIVER HIGH QUALITY, DISTINCTIVE AND SELF-RELIANT PLACES Promoting sustainable communities in Poole will rely upon all of the above, and also recognition that all parts of the Borough have distinctive characteristics which need to be respected. Each of these parts relies upon community focal points which serve the needs of their catchment populations. Each part will have specific attributes, including characteristic building types, local features such as parks or landmark buildings, and functional assets like schools or local centres. Important flora and fauna also is an intrinsic part of Poole’s character, with woodlands, protected habitats, Local Nature Reserves, shorelines and other assets being worthy of protection in their own right, but contributing so much more besides in terms of local distinctiveness. Each area will have its own priorities and development will be expected to contribute positively to these. Poole also contains Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, Scheduled Ancient Monuments and Registered Historic Parks and Gardens as well as areas of archaeological interest, locally listed buildings and other landscape and townscape features. All such assets can make an important contribution to creating a sense of place and local identity. All of Poole’s local centres will be expected to enhance their roles as focal points for community activity. These centres perform a different and complementary role to Poole Town Centre in that they meet local needs locally, can offer a range of specialist shops and are important centres for community activity. A successful and attractive local centre can uplift a wider area around it, increasing the desirability of urban living and reducing the need to travel further afield for everyday items. Key Outcomes:

l Improved quality and range of services - diverse and active local centres

l Higher footfall and patronage of local shops and services

l Improvements in accessibility and the public realm

l Improved quality and range of services - diverse and active local centres

32 Return to Contents Strategic Objective 7

TO PROTECT OUR NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

New development will be expected to avoid or mitigate any adverse effects upon internationally protected habitats. Poole Harbour and the heathland habitats are the most significant and are sensitive to the cumulative impact of new development, principally as a consequence of the additional recreational pressures it introduces. This requires providing ‘buffer zones’ around heathland but also a commitment to work jointly with neighbouring authorities to establish a long-term heathland mitigation strategy. Careful management of access and recreation will be critical to the protection of both the heathland and harbour habitats. Other less significant but nonetheless valuable flora and fauna in Poole will also need to be adequately protected, including sites of Special Scientific Interest, locally designated Sites of Nature Conservation Interest, protected species, visually important trees, and woodlands.

Key Outcomes: l No net adverse impact upon Natura 2000 habitats (harbour and heathland) l Production of a heathlands mitigation strategy in the form of a cross-authority development plan document l Improved and new green links l Protection of important flora and fauna, including national/local designations, protected species and trees/woodlands covered by Tree Preservation Orders

Strategic Objective 8

TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE

The overarching principle within which the Vision for Poole sits is that the Borough’s future will need to be sustainable. This will demand a reduced carbon footprint from existing and future residents, businesses, services and visitors, and key ways of addressing this in Poole will be through improved energy efficiency, reducing the need to travel, sustainable construction and promoting the use of innovative low carbon energy supplies. The need to protect Poole from the risk of coastal flooding associated with global warming will also be a priority in the Town Centre. Impacts upon the natural environment also need to be considered, for instance through facilitating species migration and habitat creep.

Key Outcomes: l Reduce Poole’s carbon footprint l Increase the supply of energy from renewable sources l Ensure Poole is adequately protected against coastal flood risk l Ensure Poole adapts to the unavoidable impact of climate change l Assisting the ability of the natural environment to adjust to climate change

Return to Contents 33 5 A Spatial Strategy for Poole

Spatial Strategy

Poole will see much change over the Plan period due mainly to the opportunities which exist for Revitalising the Town Centre. Delivering this potential will secure an increased rate of new home-building, a much improved shopping centre, new public quaysides, and substantial growth in jobs and, in turn, will help to make Poole a more sustainable, attractive town which offers a better quality of life for its residents. Due to these opportunities, the town has been identified by the Government as a Growth Point and this emphasises the importance of the role that Poole plays both in South East Dorset and the wider region.

Housing

Poole will deliver about 10,000 new homes between 2006 and 2026. Due to the presence of major opportunities in the Town Centre, the rate of delivery will be faster in the first 10 years (up to 2016), averaging at about 700 dwellings per annum during this earlier period. Flats and other higher-density residential development will take place in locations which are best served by local facilities and public transport, and where the characteristics of the site and surrounding area are suited to such development, with a minimum of 4,000 new dwellings being built in the Town Centre. The hierarchy of densities (highest first) will be:

l the Town Centre;

l major local centres and key hubs of transport and community activity on Prime Transport Corridors;

l locations on the frontages of Prime Transport Corridors and other busy arteries which are within about 400 metres / 10 minutes walking distance of both a local centre and a high frequency public transport stop;

l streets or parts of streets where flats predominate.

The range of housing needs in Poole will require both new dwellings and the existing stock to play key roles. Meeting the identified need for smaller households (1 and 2 bedroom units) will be assisted by the fact that the majority of new dwellings will take the form of flats, although a proportion of new builds will also provide suitable accommodation for families, in the form of larger flats and houses in appropriate cases. A benchmark of 40% affordable housing will be sought as a starting point. In established residential areas where the prevailing character is comprised of houses, the existing dwelling stock will be expected to continue meeting the identified need for larger (3+ bedroom) family homes.

Employment

The Draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West expects provision to be made to accommodate about 19,000 jobs in the Poole travel-to-work-area between 2006 and 2026 based upon a growth in gva of about 3.2% per annum. This would equate to about 13,700 total jobs in Poole (about 9,200 full-time equivalent (FTE) posts). To deliver this, Poole will work with neighbouring authorities to manage the supply of employment land across the conurbation. Poole’s share of jobs will include:

Return to Contents 35 l The Regeneration Area: a minimum net addition of 4,600 jobs (approximately 33%) mainly through the provision of up to 36,000 sq m of employment floorspace and a mix of leisure-related commercial activities

l Town Centre North and other Town Centre sites: a minimum net addition of 2,400 jobs (approximately 17%) through the provision of around 35,000 square metres of new retail and leisure floorspace

l Existing employment areas, including the Port of Poole: a minimum net addition of 2,100 jobs (approximately 15%) through the anticipated development of currently available sites together with other land which will come forward as a result of the rejuvenation, rationalisation and efficient re-use of older employment sites

l Land at Fleets Corner: a minimum net addition of 1,300 jobs (approximately 9%) through the comprehensive rationalisation of the site to deliver employment opportunities in relation to the priority sectors identified in the Regional Economic Strategy for South West England 2006-2015, and other employment generating sectors

l Sopers Lane: a minimum net addition of 1,000 jobs (approximately 7%) through the comprehensive rationalisation of the site to deliver employment opportunities in relation to the priority sectors identified in the Regional Economic Strategy for South West England 2006-2015, and other employment generating sectors

l Health, care and education: a minimum net addition of 2,500 jobs (approximately 18%) in hospitals, further education establishments, skills development and training facilities, care homes and health centres.

Poole will see most change taking place in the following locations: (principal uses indicated)

1. the Town Centre:

l the Regeneration Area (housing, major offices and other employment, commercial uses on waterfronts)

l Town Centre North (retail, leisure, cultural uses, student accommodation and residential)

l other parts of the Town Centre (residential, major offices) 2. key locations on the east-west Prime Transport Corridor (residential and appropriate commercial uses):

l Ashley Road and Ashley Cross

l Parkstone Road/Civic Centre

l Sites in the vicinity of the Poole Road/Bournemouth Road junction at Poole Commerce Centre, Branksome local centre and along Poole Road 3. other locations on main routes which are well-served by public transport and local facilities (residential)

4. employment areas (key employment sectors, including knowledge-based industries, advanced engineering, limited office development, but excluding retail or leisure), in particular:

l Fleets Corner

l Sopers Lane

36 Return to Contents 5. Priority Areas in need of investment and improvement, in particular:

l areas suffering from problems of multiple deprivation, including parts of Alderney, East and West Hamworthy, and Poole Old Town (housing, environmental enhancements, leisure and community and youth-related facilities); and

l the local centres of Canford Heath, Creekmoor, Wallisdown & Hamworthy (appropriate retail possibly as part of mixed use developments incorporating residential, community and youth-related facilities, environmental enhancements)

Areas where change will be carefully managed will be: l land within 400 metres of heathland habitats which are designated Special Protection Areas (residential and other development which would lead to additional pressures on heathland will not be suitable unless sites are capable of providing satisfactory on-site mitigation) l Poole’s Green Belt

Return to Contents 37 6 The Detailed Strategy: Core Policies for Issues and Places

Realising Poole’s Economic Potential

Poole as a Growth Point

6.1 The provision of jobs, and not just housing, is vital because Poole and the South East Dorset conurbation face competition from Southampton and other parts of South Hampshire, where ambitious growth plans could see a concentration of economic investment, with resultant net increases in out-commuting to South Hampshire, or increased polarisation of society between those who have access to jobs, housing and resources, and those who do not. Detailed employment forecasting has been carried out by Roger Tym and Associates, on behalf of the South West Regional Assembly, which shows a total projection of 13,700 additional jobs (9,200 full-time equivalent) in Poole between 2006 and 2026 (see the table below), based upon a growth rate in gva of 3.2% per annum which is sought in Draft RSS. Some sectors, notably manufacturing, will see some decline over this period in actual job numbers. Business, leisure and tourism-related services and health and education, on the other hand, will see significant increases.

Table 6.1 Projected Changes in Employment in Poole: 2006-20261 Change in jobs 2006-2026 Employment Category Total jobs FTEs Services (including banking, business services, education & health) 11,200 9,300 Other business employment (including manufacturing) -2,500 -3,100 Distribution, hotels and catering 5,300 3,300 Other -300 -100 Totals 13,700 9,200

1. Source: Roger Tym & Partners/SWRA - Employment Projections (2008) 2. Jobs rounded to nearest 100

Forecasting land requirements

6.2 A methodology for calculating employment land requirements has been developed for the Dorset sub-region, based upon the Cambridge Econometrics model (xv), which has been informed by the revised employment projections which the RDA has commissioned. This indicates that 39.5 hectares of employment land would need to be provided over the Plan period for ‘B’ Use Classes, which includes 14 hectares to take account of forecast losses between 2008 and 2026 (0.78 ha per annum on average). At April 2007, Poole had 18.74 hectares of available employment land (allocated or with planning permission), mainly within Poole’s existing employment areas (xvi). Sopers Lane and Fleets Corner will provide another 11 hectares of land between them.(xvii) In addition, the Regeneration Area is expected to deliver 36,000 square metres of B1 business floorspace (including offices and a business park). As the employment land requirements have been calculated xv Employment Land Forecasting Model - GVA Grimley/Dorset Strategic Authorities,2008) xvi Poole Employment Land Monitoring Report, Borough of Poole (April 2007) xvii This could rise to 15.5 hectares if Sopers Lane delivers its full potential of 11 hectares of development land.

Return to Contents 39 on the basis of the employment projections and using an assumed plot ratio of about 0.4 (4,000 square metres per hectare), this would result in the Regeneration Area providing an equivalent of 9 hectares of employment land. Hence, Poole is in a position to identify the equivalent of 38.74 hectares of employment land, only 0.76 hectares below the forecast need up to 2026. This appears to be a very good match. It should also be noted that with almost 300 hectares of employment land in existing employment areas, there will undoubtedly be new opportunities arising over the next 20 years. Furthermore, retail and leisure-related growth in the Town Centre North area and along the waterfronts in the Regeneration Area will provide substantial job growth in the service sectors. To add further flexibility and choice in the sub-region, Bournemouth International Airport is a strategic employment site which has the potential to provide significant job growth.

6.3 There will be a need to ensure that future developments of housing and employment land are balanced so that undue pressure is not placed on areas surrounding Poole to deliver additional housing, or results in an increase in net commuting into the Borough. A system of monitoring will be jointly developed with sub-regional partners, to monitor the delivery of housing and employment across the wider sub-region and Housing Market Area. The information derived from this monitoring system will be used to inform infrastructure delivery planning across the sub-region to enable any emerging imbalances to be addressed.

Where will the jobs go?

6.4 So, how can we estimate where the jobs are going to go? This is relatively straightforward in the case of the Regeneration Area as a detailed economic assessment of the scheme was carried out (Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative Economic Impact Assessment - Report of Findings: Updated Assessment (July 2005)). This looked at the potential value to the economy of the scheme and calculated the likely jobs which might arise. The assessment predicts that a total of over 4,600 jobs could be created. This includes those directly associated with the development, as well as construction employment, indirect and induced jobs. If this is narrowed down to consider the direct jobs, it is estimated that some 3,787 jobs would be created. If construction jobs are deducted from this total, the Regeneration Area is expected to deliver 2,878 jobs which would populate the scheme.

Table 6.2 Job Growth Associated with Poole Bridge Regeneration Area1

Employment (Full-Time Equivalent jobs) Direct Effect Indirect Induced Total Construction investment 348 32 47 426 Development of land 561 52 76 688 Population of new development 2,878 145 494 3,517 Total Impact on Jobs 3,787 229 617 4,631

1. Source: Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative Economic Impact Assessment - Report of Findings: Updated Assessment (July 2005)

6.5 When considering other sources of employment in Poole, there is less certainty about the eventual mix of uses or the final quantity of floorspace. Nevertheless, we do have some evidence which can help in estimating potential job growth. There are two main sources of information: the Dorset Workspace Strategy Review(xviii), commissioned by the RDA, the final report of which is due to be published in May 2008; and Employment Land Review work. These set out evidence of factors such as employment land needs in Poole, average employee densities, plot ratios and

xviii Dorset Workspace Strategy Review, GVA Grimley (2008)

40 Return to Contents the proportion of jobs anticipated to come forward on employment land. We also have detailed figures of expected floorspace for different uses in the Town Centre, which can be used to quantify potential jobs.

6.6 The following table shows the possible breakdown of jobs in Poole, based upon this evidence.

Table 6.3 New Jobs in Poole: 2006-2026

Location Use type Area (sq m Employment Estimated Full-time (based upon unless stated density (m2/ total jobs2 Equivalent Spatial otherwise) workspace)1 jobs2 Strategy) A Poole Bridge B1 offices 10,500 Calculation 4,63011 2,90011 Regeneration B1 General 7,500 based upon Area economic B1 business park 18,500 impact Retail - A1, A3, 9,500 assessment3 A4 Budget Hotel 300 bed Luxury hotel 50 bed B Town Centre Retail - 174 2,060 1,570 35,000 North A1,A2,A3,A4 C Other Town Offices 4,200 19 220 180 Centre Hotel - general 1 per 2 50 30 103 beds bedrooms Retail/train station 900 155 60 50 D Fleets Corner B1/B2 - high- 29 1,350 900 39,0006 (6.5 ha6) tech/ R&D E Sopers Lane B1/B2 - high- 29 950 640 27,0006 (4.5 ha6 ) tech/ R&D F Existing General - B1, B2, 75,0008 369 2,100 1,400 Employment B8 Areas (18.74 ha7 )

Regeneration Care homes 0.7 800 500 Up to 700 bed Area / general employees/ spaces bedspace GEducation Education, health PCT workforce n/a 1,700 1,000 & health & care-related10 strategy establishments redevelopment of Poole College; training & skills TOTALS 13,920 9,170

Return to Contents 41 1. Unless stated otherwise, employment densities based upon Employment Densities: A Full Guide - Final Report (English Partnerships) Ove Arup & Partners International Ltd (July 2001)

2. Other than for the Regeneration Area, the ratio of Total (including full and part-time) and FTE jobs has been calculated based upon the sectoral forecast of jobs carried out by Roger Tym & Partners on behalf of the RDA (2008).

3. Source: Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative Economic Impact Assessment - Report of Findings: Updated Assessment (July 2005)

4. Allowance made for mix of larger and smaller retail units, giving an average retail density lower than that in the regeneration area, but higher than the norm of 20 m2 per employee.

5. Allowance made for fact that a high proportion of retail will be in smaller units at higher workspace densities approaching 10 m2 per employee, thus increasing average densities above the standard of 20 m2 per employee.

6. Based upon a plot ratio of 0.6:1 (6,000 m2 per hectare) due to expectation that higher-than average density employment uses will occur, with no B8 warehousing. Note: Sopers Lane has potential to provide up to 11 hectares of land.

7. Employment Land Availability Monitoring Report, Borough of Poole (April 2007).

8. Based upon the average plot ratio in Poole for employment development (B1, B2 and B8), which stands at about 0.4:1 (4,000 m2 per hectare (Poole Employment Land Review - 2007).

9. Based upon average employment densities in Poole for B1, B2 and B8 employment development (Poole Employment Land Review -2007).

10. Employment projections identify potential for up to 3,200 additional jobs (FTE) in Poole in education & health. Allowing a share of these in other ‘areas’ (e.g. the Regeneration Area, care homes, etc.), a minimum of 1,000 (FTE is expected to come forward within existing education and health establishments (allowing for rationalisation, redevelopment and expansion).

11. Total jobs in the Regeneration Area are FTE jobs but include direct, indirect, induced jobs as well as jobs associated with construction and development. The jobs shon in the FTE column are ‘direct’ jobs which are expected to populate the development.

6.7 The above analysis would indicate that the jobs forecast for Poole is achievable. However, this will require careful monitoring as there may be changes over time which could influence the final figure. It should also be noted that employment development at Bournemouth International Airport could contribute in the region of 1,000 jobs to Poole’s requirement. This provides a degree of flexibility and choice in meeting economic growth potential. Nevertheless, to realise Poole’s - and the wider sub-region’s - growth potential, there will be a need to maintain an adequate supply of employment land across the conurbation. This will require joint working with neighbouring authorities to find sufficient sites. Poole’s Local Development Framework can also ensure this supply is secured through the allocation of sites in the Site-specific Allocations Development Plan Document. In order to provide a further degree of flexibility in the supply of employment land, land at North Poole, which is the last significant area of undeveloped land outside the protected areas of heath and the Green Belt, should remain as safeguarded land and not be included within the Green Belt.

42 Return to Contents A Changing Economy

6.8 A subtle change in emphasis, however, is likely in terms of the type of employment uses considered appropriate on some employment sites. Historically these have been reserved for Use Classes B1 (offices, high tech, light industry, research and development), B2 (general industry) and B8 (storage and distribution). Poole’s manufacturing sector performs strongly largely due to specialist skilled companies in sectors like marine engineering, and the evidence suggests that this sector will continue to be important locally, although increased productivity will continue to see a relative and actual reduction in the number of employees. To counter this, services, health and education sectors are forecast to grow. Enterprise parks, incubator units, and learning and skills centres are likely to be increasingly important to the long-term success of Poole’s economy and so employment areas will need to support the growth of such facilities.

6.9 Growth in education employment will take place within existing institutes like Bournemouth University (in Poole), the College and schools throughout the Borough. The Council’s Schools for the Future programme will result in new investment and a restructuring of schools in the Borough. Other opportunities exist, however, for instance by assisting the University to provide new student accommodation in the Town Centre, or opportunities for specialist education facilities. An example of this might be media-related businesses or creative industries which can develop links with the specialisms offered by Bournemouth University, Bournemouth and Poole College or the Arts Institute. Parts of the Regeneration Area and the lower part of the High Street would be well-suited to this.

Tourism

6.10 Poole’s position on Poole Harbour, the quality of its beaches, the historic interest provided by the Old Town and Quay, the fact that Poole is a continental ferry port, and cultural attractions such as the Lighthouse and museums all point to the town’s considerable potential as a tourist destination. Poole is also establishing a growing reputation for the quality and variety of its restaurants, particularly for fish and seafood. The Quay, Old Town, the lower part of the High Street and Ashley Cross have all seen significant growth in the high-quality catering sector in recent years, as have some other local centres the town. Key locations such as the beaches, harbour and quay will continue to be valuable assets to Poole and it is important that the town is able to offer high quality attractions and accommodation.

Return to Contents 43 6.11 Development in the Town Centre will further benefit tourism, offering a real chance to provide direct and indirect tourism attractions through the creation of a more attractive town, landmarks such as the new bridge, supporting the role of cultural attractions and the introduction of performance spaces. They would also be suitable locations for new, high quality hotels, which would complement the RNLI training college and conference centre in terms of providing better opportunities for business visits.

Picture 6.1 RNLI Training College and Conference Centre, West Quay Road

44 Return to Contents PCS 1 - PRINCIPAL LOCATIONS FOR ECONOMIC INVESTMENT

New economic investment and job growth will take place in the following key locations:

Location Suitable employment uses Minimum net additional jobs to nearest 100 i. the Regeneration Area B1 and B2 business floorspace as 4,600 well as leisure-based commercial activities, tourism and cultural- related employment, starter business premises and creative industries ii. Town Centre North mainly additional retail floorspace but 2,400 and other Town Centre also leisure and offices, tourism- and sites cultural-related employment, with creative industries and independent retailers on the lower part of the High Street iii existing employment a range of employment activities 2,100 areas which require such locations, principally Use Classes B1, B2 and B8 iv Port of Poole reserved for port-related uses, including associated rail freight, and activities which require access to deep water frontage along all working quays v land at Fleets Corner1 Comprehensive rationalisation/ 1,3003 & 2 redevelopment to deliver employment vi land at Sopers Lane1 & 2 opportunities in relation to the priority 1,0003 sectors identified in the Regional Economic Strategy for South West England 2006-2015, and other employment generating sectors.

vii health, care and varied employment opportunities 2,500 education institutions, including health, care homes and facilities and services education

A system of monitoring, jointly agreed with sub-regional partners, will be implemented to monitor the development of employment land that will assist in managing the balance in labour supply across the sub-region. In Poole, this would mean ensuring a supply of land is readily available through the accelerated programme of housing delivery as evidenced by the Borough’s Housing Trajectory.

1. Regional Economic Strategy priority sectors are advanced engineering; ICT; marine; food and drink; tourism; creative industries; environmental technologies and bio-medical.

2. Other employment generating sectors will be those which are suited to existing employment areas in accordance with PCS2.

3. The minimum net additional job given for Fleets Corner and Sopers Lane should be treated as aspirational. While the aim is to maximise the number of additional jobs the final numbers achieved may be below that level.

Return to Contents 45 Existing Employment Areas

6.12 Existing employment areas in Poole will continue to play a crucial role in the town’s economy. Poole’s main employment areas cover about 293 hectares of land and the most successful of these have consistently been the subject of continued new investment and rejuvenation. Poole’s three largest employment areas are Mannings Heath, Nuffield and Fleets Lane. These are strategically important employment areas for the entire South East Dorset sub-region. In addition to these are a number of other important employment areas. The Core Strategy relies upon the efficient use and reuse of employment land in the Borough to meet regional job growth forecasts and so the retention of employment areas will continue to be a priority. Historically this has proved to be a reliable source of employment land for Poole, and its industrial estates generally maintain consistently high occupancy rates, with varying degrees of reinvestment.

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46 Return to Contents PCS 2 - EXISTING EMPLOYMENT AREAS

Land and premises within Poole’s existing employment areas will be reserved for uses which generate employment, and which are appropriate to the location as a consequence of: i. the principal activity falling within Use Classes B1, B2 or B8; ii. their need to be in the employment area in question, due to close associations with neighbouring businesses; iii. their potential to have an adverse impact in more sensitive locations such as residential areas; or iv. a lack of suitable alternative sites, other than in existing employment areas, for the type of employment activity proposed. In all cases proposals will only be permitted where they do not compromise the activities of the employment area or conflict with other policy objectives in the Local Development Framework.

SOPERS LANE

6.13 This site was previously in sole occupation by Siemens Plessey. The company went through a rationalisation process during the 1990s and, as a consequence, much of the site was considered surplus to its needs. There followed some new investment, with the relocation of Poole Pottery (manufacturing) to the site, the development of a new business park containing small units, and a budget hotel. These new introductions affect only part of the site and there remains considerable scope for additional employment development, with approximately 4.5 hectares of land potentially available, although this could increase depending upon the extent of the rationalisation and availability of adjoining employment land to the east.

Map 1 - Sopers Lane

Return to Contents 47 6.14 This site is well-placed to make good use of existing road links into Poole and the Port, and is close to the main north-south link between Poole and the A31. It also sits adjacent to neighbouring employment areas which, over time, could offer opportunities to support concentrations of particular business specialisms. Furthermore, its proximity to established residential areas within popular school catchments gives this location an opportunity to provide jobs for people living locally.

6.15 Sopers Lane could offer great potential for development that will deliver employment opportunities in relation to the priority sectors identified in the Regional Economic Strategy for South West England 2006-2015. The site could also offer opportunities for job creation in other employment generating sectors such as health and education.

FLEETS CORNER

6.16 This site measures approximately 11 hectares in area and is strategically located at a major junction between the main north-south (A31-Poole) and east-west (A35) links. This provides it with excellent connections to Poole and Bournemouth Town Centres, the Port, the trunk road network and existing and proposed park and ride sites. It is also effectively part of the larger successful Nuffield estate, one of Poole’s (and the sub-region’s) largest employment areas.

Map 2 - Fleets Corner

6.17 The site was formerly used exclusively by Hamworthy Engineering, a major local specialist engineering company. This business has undergone a rationalisation process, which has provided the potential for significant new investment. A great asset to Poole’s marine engineering specialisms has been the recent setting up of the marine skills centre on the site, which trains companies and individuals in all aspects of this sector, including craftsmanship and business skills. The site would lend itself well to development that will deliver employment opportunities in relation to the priority sectors identified in the Regional Economic Strategy for South West England 2006-2015. The site could also offer opportunities for job creation in other employment generating sectors such as health and education.

48 Return to Contents The Approach to Delivering Change

6.18 The Sopers Lane and Fleets Corner sites will benefit from an approach that will deliver a vision for their respective areas. This will be achieved through the use of planning tools to guide their development and involve relevant stakeholders such as the Council, landowners and the Regional Development Agency. The Site-specific Allocations Development Plan Document provides the vehicle for bringing forward these sites, providing a greater degree of certainty for investment.

6.19 The Site Specific Allocations DPD will set out a vision for the respective sites in terms of a strategic role within the conurbation and elaborate upon this by establishing the range and scale of employment sectors they would be suited to. Both sites are in prominent gateway locations and so the quality of development should be high. A delivery framework should also be included which identifies key prerequisites and other infrastructure, any phasing requirements and the role of different partners in helping to bring forward development on the site.

6.20 The sites offer a great opportunity to bring forward development which helps to reduce Poole’s carbon footprint. To do this, development will need to take steps to reduce the need to travel by car, minimise energy demand from fossil fuels and incorporate sustainable construction practices. Development will need to include: l a travel plan framework which will determine the content of more detailed company travel plans for individual development schemes within each site. This should explore the feasibility of establishing a dedicated peak-time bus service (jointly serving both sites, and possibly neighbouring employment areas, and connecting with the Town Centre transport interchanges and park and ride sites) and managed parking commensurate with the emerging conurbation- wide parking strategy; l an energy and resources framework which:

l sets out a commitment to achieving BREEAM ‘excellent’ standards in terms of energy efficiency and sustainable construction;

l incorporates renewable energy generation on-site sufficient to meet at least 20% of predicted energy needs;

l builds in sustainable drainage principles into the entire site design;

l commits to recycling those materials which can be reused on-site.

The Port

6.21 Poole Port is a vital asset to Poole and the wider sub-region. It offers conventional cargo handling on the north-facing wharves, and containerised (roll-on-roll-off) cargo handling and cross-channel ferry services from its southern quays. With a dedicated rail link, the port also has potential to increase rail freight handling.

6.22 With the introduction of containerised cargo handling in the early 1970s, Poole had seen an actual and relative decline of its conventional cargo handling up to the mid-1990s. From this point on, however, there was a revival in the amount of goods handled via conventional means and both forms of cargo handling continue to play an important role in Poole. There has also been expansion of yacht manufacturing, with the consolidation of Sunseeker, one of Poole’s largest employers, adjacent to the lifting bridge. Hence, the port area makes a significant contribution to Poole’s economy and, due to the finite nature of deep water frontage, it is vital that this is not prejudiced by inappropriate development in or adjacent to the port.

Return to Contents 49 6.23 Poole Harbour Commissioners see improved access to the port for cargo and cross- channel ferry traffic to be a priority. The Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Economic Strategy 2005-2016 comments on the importance of infrastructure improvements at the port as part of a strategically important package of corridor improvements linking the A31, the wider conurbation and Bournemouth Airport. Work to widen the shipping channel in Poole Harbour, considered essential to secure the long-term viability of the port, was completed in April 2006. The port is ideally placed to become a regionally significant feeder port, which will see more goods imported and exported via Poole. It is also the subject of interest from a number of cruise ship operators as Poole Harbour offers a particularly attractive point of entry which is also convenient for some of the UK’s most visited attractions, including London, Bath and Stonehenge. To facilitate this, Poole Harbour commissioners are considering options for improved quayside handling facilities which will improve the capacity of the port. The Commissioners are also preparing a master plan for the port which will set out its aspirations for the port over the next 30 years to maximise its potential in developing its niche role.

6.24 The port is served by a dedicated rail link, which offers the potential to increase the transportation of goods to and from the port via rail. South of the rail link, the port estate is used principally for containerised cargo and passenger ferry services. North of the rail line there is a mix of conventional cargo handling quays, Poole Harbour Commissioners’ harbour offices, and Sunseeker (luxury boat manufacturing). It is important that deep water frontages are retained for uses which require such access to the harbour. Other parts of the port estate should be retained for port-related activities, including freight transfer and handling to and from quaysides and the railway.

6.25 Poole Harbour is the subject of international habitat designations and although the Port is in a relatively less sensitive part of the harbour in ecological terms, it nevertheless is vital that development proposals do not have an adverse impact upon harbour habitats. Care will be needed to prevent risks such as pollution incidents, impacts from dredging, disturbance to nesting birds from noise or lighting, and impacts from vessels using the port. Another risk which requires careful attention is the prospect of rising sea levels. Development needs to take the necessary measures in a manner which ties in with a comprehensive flood defence package for Poole. The Council will work with Poole Harbour Commissioners to ensure that the integrity of Poole Harbour SPA and Ramsar site is not adversely affected by development within the port.

6.26 Activities which constitute a port-related use include industries such as boat repairs, dredging, aggregates-handling, manufacture of building materials following the import of aggregates, storage of cargo, manufacture of products reliant upon imports from the harbour, boat storage for larger vessels, and rail freight uses associated with the port rail link. There will also be scope to provide for the flexible use of quays and loading facilities to serve other port-related uses such as boat- building, on condition that such activities require access to deep water frontage. Other parts of the port could serve to support general port activities. For example, the provision of lorry parking facilities would be compatible with the freight handling role of the port.

50 Return to Contents PCS 3 - POOLE PORT

Development in Poole Port will support its growth as a regionally significant feeder port with capacity to accommodate cruise ships, as well as its continued sea-based handling of freight and passengers, in accordance with the following criteria:

i. proposals for sites within the port will be permitted where they are for port-related activities; ii. sites with deep water frontage will be reserved for uses which require access to such frontage; iii. development will not be permitted where it would prejudice the continued or increased use of the rail link for freight handling; iv. development does not adversely affect the integrity of Poole Harbour SPA and the Ramsar site; v. the use of the harbour for recreation should not be harmed; and vi. development makes provision for any necessary flood defence measures needed to protect the site in question as part of a comprehensive flood defence package for Poole.

Isolated Employment Sites

6.27 Over the life of this strategy, some of the Borough’s more marginal isolated employment sites (i.e. those which are outside of existing employment areas) may not be particularly well-suited to continued employment use. This might be for a number of reasons: l they might occupy older, obsolete premises which are suited to a specific (the current/former) occupier and which cannot viably be adapted to new demands should they become vacant; l in some cases the permitted use may cause conflicts with surrounding uses, particularly if close to residential areas; or l the site might not be viable for continued or new employment use due to particular physical or other constraints, such as prohibitively expensive site remediation works or a location which does not accord with current planning policies.

6.28 Where any of these conditions apply, redeveloping the site for other uses could offer an opportunity to address other pressing needs. We know, for example, that Poole’s demographic profile will continue to see a growing proportion of elderly residents and there will be a need for more care homes over the Plan period. There is also a need to provide specialist care facilities outside of the main hospitals. Obsolete employment sites outside of Poole’s main employment areas could provide a good opportunity to meet some of these needs. The site will need to be suitably located for the use proposed in terms of its accessibility. For instance, a specialist health facility which serves a regional or sub-regional need should be close to public transport links and suitable road access, while a local medical centre should be well-placed to serve the local community.

Return to Contents 51 6.29 When considering proposals for marginal isolated employment sites, the Local Planning Authority will have regard to the suitability and viability of the site for continued or new employment uses in the first instance, and then as part of a mixed use scheme. If it is clear that the site is no longer appropriate for employment uses on grounds of viability, local character or location, then alternative uses will be considered, with priority given to health and care-related uses.

PCS 4 - ISOLATED EMPLOYMENT SITES

For sites currently or previously used for activities falling within Use Classes B1, B2 or B8 of the Use Classes Order 1987 (as amended) which are located outside of existing employment areas, alternative uses to B1, B2 or B8 will only be considered if the site is no longer suitable or viable for continued employment use and the cost of refurbishment or redevelopment for a more appropriate form of employment use would be prohibitive. Where these exceptional circumstances apply, the Local Planning Authority will first seek to secure the provision of small starter business units as part of a comprehensive mixed use scheme before it considers single-use developments. Priority will then be given to alternative uses in the following sequence:

i. health or care-related uses, including care homes and specialist health facilities, where the site is suitably accessible for the use proposed; ii. other uses which generate employment; and iii. residential development, where the site offers an acceptable environment.

Meeting Poole’s Housing Needs

Housing: the spatial approach

6.30 A growing population and smaller household sizes are fuelling significant demand for new homes. Poole has the added challenge of higher than average housing costs but lower than average incomes. Access to good quality housing is an essential human need and it is vital to the creation of sustainable, mixed communities. It is also a key to the economic prospects of Poole, as the town’s ability to retain and attract school leavers, graduates, and key workers will be determined in no small part by the quality and affordability of its housing stock.

6.31 The Panel Report into the draft Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West has recommended that Poole will need to provide 500 dwellings per annum between 2006 and 2026, the upper end of the range set out in the draft RSS. Poole’s Housing Trajectory shows a ‘front-loading’ of housing provision in the first half of the plan period, principally due to the availability of large allocated sites in the Town Centre. As a consequence, Poole is expected to see a build rate of about 700 dwellings per annum up to 2016.

6.32 Government and regional policy, as informed by pieces of work such as the Urban Task Force’s urban renaissance White Paper and the sustainable communities agenda makes it clear that our urban areas are central to the principle of sustainable living. They offer the chance to regenerate derelict and under-used brownfield land, to rejuvenate the cities as focal points of community and cultural life, to reduce the need to travel, and to improve economic prospects. Poole lends itself particularly well to this agenda in that we have great regeneration opportunities at the heart of the town and a network of local centres and prime transport corridors which

52 Return to Contents are capable of accommodating change in a sustainable way. Poole’s Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) demonstrates that a combination of these opportunities is capable of meeting our strategic housing requirement. Existing dwellings will also have a crucial part to play in delivering a balanced housing market and this has informed the spatial strategy.

2007 2011 1200 Total Actual Completions (Net)

1000

Total Projected Completions (Net) 800

Annual Housing 600 Requirement (Structure Plan figure for 7800 dwelling between 1994- 2011) 400 Managed Annual Housing Requirement to 2011

200 Projected Annualised Completions 2007-2026

0

/5 /7 /9 /1 /3 /5 /7 /9 1 3 5 7 9 1 3 5 /1 /1 /1 /1 /1 /2 /2 /2 94 96 98 00 02 04 06 08 9 9 9 0 0 0 0 0 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 1 1 1 2 2 2 2 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 2

Figure 6.2 Poole’s Housing Trajectory 2006-2026

Getting the right mix of homesPicture 6.2 Poole’s Housing Trajectory 2006-2026

6.33 A Balanced Housing Market (BHM) model, which considers the overlap between market (including rented) and social housing in the Borough and the extent to which supply and demand are ‘balanced’ across tenure and property size, was developed as part of the Strategic Housing Market Assessment to aid in the development and support of the Council’s housing policies. The BHM is based on the stated responses of a comprehensive Borough-wide questionnaire undertaken in 2007, which identifies the proportion of housing type and tenure required to balance the total housing stock within Poole (xix). The BHM reports that 38% of the housing stock should be market housing and 62% should be affordable, in order to match the stated demand for housing, by tenure, with supply. However, evidence concerning site viability has been considered in the Council’s approach to affordable housing (see Affordable Housing section and PCS 6 ‘AFFORDABLE HOUSING’).

6.34 In delivering sustainable communities the Council will seek to balance the size of both market and affordable housing for the identified needs. The model identifies that in creating a balanced market within the Borough, the size of new market and affordable dwellings should be as set out in the following Table:

xix Dorset Survey of Housing Need and demand: Poole (March 2008)

Return to Contents 53 Balancing Housing Market results for Poole (per annum) (xx)

Size requirement Tenure 1 bedroom 2 bedroom 3 bedroom 4+ bedroom TOTAL Owner 40 126 131 63 360 occupied Private rented 87 149 -81 -9 145 Intermediate 104 193 38 30 364 Social rented 11 261 99 81 451 TOTAL 242 728 187 164 1,321

6.35 This can be directly related to the likely needs of single persons, couples, and multi-person/ family households within the Borough and the housing stock required to meet these needs. As a guide, single persons and couples are likely to require 1 and 2 bedroom properties, while multi- person/family households are likely to require 3 and 4+ bedroom properties.

6.36 In terms of the tenure of affordable housing, the BHM indicates that provision should be split roughly 45% intermediate housing and 55% social rented housing. However, in terms of the ‘ability to afford’ affordable housing, the SHMA research found that only 13% of people in housing need could afford intermediate housing. Therefore in terms of the type of affordable housing required, a level of 13% intermediate and 87% social rented can be justified. However, final tenure split will need to be negotiated as part of any qualifying proposal. It is likely that negotiations will seek to secure 30% intermediate housing and 70% social rented housing, based upon the latest viability modelling which has been developed on behalf of the Borough of Poole.

6.37 The need for larger (3+ bedroom) units will be met through a variety of sources. New housing will provide an element of larger units, both flats and houses, and a proportion of these will be secured through the provision of affordable housing. However, given that around 75% of future supply could take the form of 1 and 2 bedroom flats, established residential areas will provide a valuable stock of houses for those residents seeking such accommodation. The BHM evidence indicates that 14% of demand for new builds emanates from people wishing to ‘down-size’, two thirds of whom are over 60 years of age. Hence, the building of flats in suitable locations will help to free up family homes in established residential areas. It will thus be important to retain this stock where it is not situated in places which have been identified for intensification. This is important not only in meeting the balanced housing needs of Poole but also ins promoting strong community development by recognising that character is influenced by how places function as well as their design.

xx Source: Poole HNDS Fordham Research 2007

54 Return to Contents PCS 5 - BROAD LOCATIONS FOR RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT In order to meet Poole’s housing needs, provision will be made for a minimum of 10,000 dwellings in Poole between 2006 and 2026. Proposals for residential development will be expected to contribute positively to the character and function of Poole and its communities in accordance with the following criteria:

INDICATIVE ANTICIPATED DENSITIES CRITERIA NUMBER OF PER DWELLINGS2 HECTARE1 i. Flats and other higher-density residential / mixed use development will take place in central locations which are well-served by public transport and a range of facilities, in accordance with the following density hierarchy (highest first): a. the Town Centre - Regeneration Area; 100-150 2,500 b. other parts of the Town Centre; 70-120 1,500 c. major local centres and key hubs of transport 70-100 3,500 and community activity on Prime Transport Corridors well-served by a high frequency public transport service3; and d. the frontages of Prime Transport Corridors 50-70 and other busy arteries in locations outside of a-c above where such locations are within convenient walking distance (400 metres) of both a local centre and a high-frequency public transport service3 stop. ELSEWHERE TO LOCATIONS IDENTIFIED IN (i) a-d: ii on streets or parts of streets where flats 30-50 2,500 predominate, proposals for new flats will be permitted on condition that: a. the design contributes positively to the overall character; b. existing houses on the street do not become isolated from other houses; c. plot coverage, including buildings, car parking, access roads, cycle and bin storage and other hard surfacing does not exceed 50% of the site; d. car parking and vehicular access points avoid backing on to neighbouring gardens to the rear of the site; e. features such as front gardens and mature trees are retained or provided; iii. residential proposals involving plot severance will location- only be permitted where sufficient land can be specific assembled to accommodate a type, scale, density and layout of development which preserves or enhances the area’s residential character and does not harm the amenities of local residents;

Return to Contents 55 INDICATIVE ANTICIPATED DENSITIES CRITERIA NUMBER OF PER DWELLINGS2 HECTARE1 iv on streets or parts of streets comprised mainly of N/A houses proposals involving the redevelopment or sub-division of existing house plots for flats will be resisted. IN ALL CASES: v The design of buildings should contribute N/A positively to those attributes of a particular street which distinguish it, including building materials, height, roof form, fenestration, site coverage, car parking arrangements, spacing of buildings, retention of front and rear gardens, tree cover and other vegetation.

The indicative densities are considered the most appropriate for the broad areas identified. Some change, increase or decrease, may be permissible where scheme design can demonstrate that this will not be detrimental to the vision for the Borough and the area concerned, the specific character of the area, its function or amenity; or where there are site-specific circumstances affecting viability and consequently delivery; provided that density levels do not fall below those of the guidance in PPS3 and provided that the ability of Poole to deliver its strategic housing need of 10,000 dwellings is not jeopardised.

1 Indicative densities relate only to the residential component of proposals and exclude public open spaces/areas or other activities where a mixed use development is proposed.

2 Based upon current commitments and Poole’s Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment (May 2008)

3A The benchmark definition of ‘high frequency’ for the purposes of (i) c and (i) d: a train station; and/or a bus stop on a route which offers a minimum of 6 services per hour, with a maximum gap of 15 minutes between buses (each way)

Affordable Housing

6.38 In 2004, the Borough of Poole undertook a desktop update of the 2001 Housing Needs Survey. As part of the Strategic Housing Market Assessment, a Dorset-wide Housing Needs and Demand Survey was produced in 2008. This latest Survey has identified that there is a total net annual housing need in Poole of 1,199 dwellings, made up from both backlog need and future need.

6.39 The Borough’s affordable housing policy, as set out in Poole Local Plan First Alteration (adopted 2004), seeks 40% affordable units on sites of 15 or more dwellings (or over 0.5 hectares). However, large sites capable of delivering volume residential development are diminishing, and post-2016 the Borough will have to rely on smaller sites for housing development. ‘The Bournemouth and Poole Affordable Housing and S106 Viability Analysis’ undertaken for the Council supports the adoption of a 40% benchmark affordable housing policy given that there

56 Return to Contents are areas of the Borough that may be able to support a higher level of contribution. The Report also identifies that reducing the threshold at which affordable housing delivery is sought would facilitate increased affordable housing subject to individual site viability analysis. This could be on site provision, off site or a financial contribution based on an ‘equivalence’ payment. That is, the financial contribution is equivalent to the cost of providing affordable housing on site. A ‘viability Toolkit’ will be made available by the Council to assess the financial viability of a proposed development.

6.40 The independent borough-wide viability analysis has indicated that there is the ability to secure at least 40% affordable housing from the majority of housing schemes within the Borough. The Council, however, has less control over actual delivery once permission has been granted and therefore has set a target to deliver 3,500 affordable homes by 2026. This target has been based on the likely economic viability of land for housing, taking account of risks to delivery and drawing on an assessment of likely levels of finance, both from public bodies and developer contributions. This target should not be considered as a ceiling and any delivery above this target will help to achieve additional affordable housing to meet current and future needs within Poole and the wider sub-region.

PCS 6 - AFFORDABLE HOUSING

Affordable housing will be sought to meet local needs on all developments of 6+ dwellings subject to:

a. its suitability for on-site provision; b. the economics of providing affordable housing; c. the extent to which the provision of affordable housing would prejudice other planning objectives to be met from the development of the site; and d. the mix of units necessary to meet local needs & achieve a successful development

The capacity of a site to deliver a level of affordable housing that can be supported financially will be determined by individual site viability analysis. This analysis will take into consideration existing use values, recognising, in particular, the inherently more financially demanding position where existing residential use sites are being developed, as well as other site-specific factors. There is no upper limit to the potential affordable housing provision or contribution but a benchmark level of 40% will be sought as a starting point.

The housing provided under this policy should always be available to meet local needs. To ensure that this is so, where a registered social landlord is not involved the Council will either impose appropriate planning conditions or seek to negotiate a planning obligation.

Return to Contents 57 Providing Care homes for the elderly

6.41 There are currently 36 care homes in the Borough of Poole, which supply in total around 1,150 bed spaces. The vast majority of homes in Poole are privately run, although there is a handful operated by specialist voluntary organisations. There are no local authority-run care homes in the Borough. Both private and voluntary-run homes are able to accept self-funded and financially assisted residents. The proportion of places offering nursing care (42%) and personal residential care (58%) in Poole is very much in line with the current national trend. However, 34% of all personal care beds are available to older people with specific care needs, which can include dementia or mental disorder. In total, 62% of all capacity in Poole is available to older people requiring more specialised care services.

6.42 Planning records show that 307 (gross) care home bed spaces have been lost since 1999, although this has been compensated for in part through the creation of 241 bed spaces, resulting in a net loss of 66 bed spaces between 1999-2006. Losses have occurred through the conversion or demolition of nursing home buildings to flats or houses. Analysis shows that the majority of care homes lost through the planning system have been older facilities within converted buildings, usually large residential properties. There are interrelated economic and social ‘push’ and ‘pull’ factors prevalent in recent years that have contributed to the loss of nursing homes. Many care homes lost in Poole have been located in buildings which have become outmoded, less attractive to the client base, and less able to meet statutory accommodation standards. Together these factors have placed into question the economic viability of such homes. As a result such facilities have come under pressure for further conversion or demolition for the development of market flats and houses in an economic climate where land values have significantly increased.

Demand for long-term care

6.43 In Poole, it is anticipated that the number of people aged 60+ in Poole will increase some 37% from 36,500 to 50,100 by 2025. The most significant increase within an age band is the over- 85s – this sector will grow by some 73%, from 4,000 (2004) to 6,900. The 2001 Census reported that 1,137 people were living in nursing homes or residential care homes in Poole. As a proportion of the population of Poole living in all ‘communal establishments’, this represents almost 50% - higher than the South West average of 40%, and the England average of 35%.

6.44 Social policies at national and local level which seek to increase the provision and effectiveness of at-home care or assistive technology may, over time, enable older people with intensive care needs to live independently for longer. Improvements in medical care for age- related illnesses may have a similar impact. Notwithstanding the potential impact of social policy and medical treatment on the way in which older people live and are cared for, the considerable growth in the number of older people in society will undoubtedly have an influence on the need for and provision of health care services and facilities aimed at older people.

6.45 For many vulnerable older people, having the chance to avoid residential care, and live in specially designed housing as tenants or owner-occupiers, is the single most important element in retaining independence and dignity in older age. Increasingly, the Extra Care housing model is gaining credence and support as a realistic and viable alternative to ‘institutional’ care models. Extra Care housing is a flexible concept, but fundamentally refers to “purpose built accommodation in which varying amounts of care and support can be offered and where some services are shared.”(xxi)

xxi Housing Learning and Improvement Partnership (2006), Extra Care Housing Toolkit, p.16.

58 Return to Contents Forecasting Demand and Capacity

6.46 Using 2001 Census data, it is possible to assess current demand and forecast future demand for care home capacity. 2001 Census analysis indicates that for older people between the ages of 60 and 64 years about 3 in every 1,000 are living in nursing and residential care. This increases to about 7 in every 1,000 for those aged between 65-74. The number of older people aged 85+ living in care homes rises rapidly to approximately 250 in every 1,000. By applying the trends per 1,000 population outlined above to the current and predicted demographic situation in Poole, it is possible to forecast demand for care home places in 2025. From the work carried out, it is estimated that between 533 and 720 care home bed spaces will be required by 2025 based upon the supply in 2004(xxii).

6.47 With regard to housing for older people, the new planning system enables the Borough to address the issue of what type of housing and facilities older people want and need to help ensure our communities are sustainable, inclusive and mixed. There are three main ways in which the Core Strategy seeks to address this need: l through the retention of existing viable care homes; l by seeking to bring forward new care homes; and l increasing the stock of suitable new housing which can help elderly people to live active and independent lives for longer (lifetime homes).

xxii Poole Older People’s Strategy (2008)

Return to Contents 59 PCS 7 - CARE HOMES

In order to meet anticipated demand for care homes for the elderly in Poole over the Plan period, there will be a need to provide between 500 and 700 net additional bed spaces by 2025 over and above existing provision as at 2004. This may include innovative models of care which maximise independent living for elderly people in need of assistance. The Local Planning Authority will enable this by:

i. seeking to secure the provision of new care home bed spaces. Opportunities for this exist in the Regeneration Area and through the redevelopment of isolated employment sites which are no longer suited to continued employment use; ii. allowing for the conversion of existing buildings and the development of, or extension to, nursing homes, provided that: a. the existing building can be converted without the need for disproportionate extension; b. the development is compatible with the character of the surrounding area; c. the development will not adversely affect the amenity of adjoining properties by way of loss of privacy, overlooking, overbearing impact or loss of light; d. the car parking is located in such a way that it does not cause unacceptable noise and disturbance to adjoining properties through proximity to boundaries or loss of amenity to residents through proximity to ground floor living room or bedroom windows;

iii. resisting development which would lead to the loss of premises used, or last used, as a care home unless: a. replacement nursing home bed spaces are proposed; or b. the site or premises are not capable of accommodating a commercially viable nursing home which complies with criteria ii) a-d above.

Lifetime Homes

6.48 The Lifetime Home Standards (LFTH) were first developed in 1991 by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation. The principle is that new homes should be designed in a way which allows them to meet the varied and often changing needs of occupiers over time. The standards comprise 16 design features, which are the result of careful study and research. The features apply to both the interior and exterior of the home. Each of the design features is valuable in itself, but a Lifetime Home is incomplete without all of the standards. A wheelchair turning circle was chosen as the benchmark for a good space requirement. This is true for parents with small children, people with bikes or bags of shopping. Accessibility is for everyone, not just people who use wheelchairs.

6.49 Research suggests that the additional costs of building to Lifetime Homes standards are relatively marginal, ranging from £165 to £545 per dwelling (xxiii). In addition, because of the benefits of internal space, thoughtful design and flexibility, dwellings built to these standards are likely the attract a higher market value and so any additional cost ought to be recouped. Due to Poole’s demographic profile and forecasts of a growing elderly population, it would seem that lifetime homes have an important part to play in meeting the town’s housing needs, but that this need not be too onerous a commitment for developers. For these reasons, the Local Planning Authority will seek to encourage the adoption of Lifetime Homes Standards in new housing.i

xxiii Joseph Rowntree Foundation; Habinteg Housing Association - Lifetime Homes: 21st Century Living

60 Return to Contents Lifetime Homes Standards: Where car parking is adjacent to the home, it should be capable of 1 Car Parking enlargement to attain 3.3 m width Access from The distance from the car parking space to the home should be kept to 2 Car Parking a minimum and should be level or gently sloping 3 Approach The approach to all entrances should be level or gently sloping External All entrances should be illuminated, have level access over the 4 entrances threshold and have a covered main entrance Communal Communal stairs should provide easy access and, where homes are 5 Stairs reached by a lift, it should be fully accessible The width of internal doorways and hallways should conform to Part M of the Building Regulations, except that when the approach is not head- Doorways & 6 on and the hallway width is 900mm, the clear opening width should be Hallways 900mm rather than 800mm. There should be 300mm nib or wall space to the side of the leading edge of the doors on entrance level Wheelchair There should be space for turning a wheelchair in dining areas and 7 Accessibility living rooms and adequate circulation space for wheelchairs elsewhere 8 Living Room The living room should be at entrance level 2+ storey In houses of two or more storeys, there should be space on the 9 requirements entrance level that could be used as a convenient bed space In houses with three bedrooms or more there should be a wheelchair- accessible toilet at entrance level with drainage provision enabling 10 WC a shower to be fitted in future. In houses with two bedrooms the downstairs toilet should conform at least to part M Bathroom & Walls in the bathroom and WC should be capable of taking adaptations 11 WC such as handrails The design should incorporate provision for a future stair lift and a 12 Lift Capability suitably identified space for a through-the-floor lift from the ground floor to the first floor, for example to a bedroom next to the bathroom The design and specification should provide a reasonable route for a 13 Main Bedroom potential hoist from a main bedroom to the bathroom. Bathroom The bathroom should be designed for ease of access to the bath, WC 14 layout and wash basin. Window Living room window glazing should begin no higher than 800 mm from 15 Specification the floor level and windows should be easy to open/operate Fixtures & Switches, sockets, ventilation and service controls should be at a height 16 Fittings usable by all (i.e. between 450 and 1200mm from the floor)

Return to Contents 61 PCS 8 - LIFETIME HOMES

The adoption of Lifetime Homes Standards, or their equivalent, will be encouraged in all new housing developments.

Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation 6.50 The Borough and the wider conurbation is home to a significant number of Gypsies living in conventional ‘bricks and mortar’ accommodation and who have expressed a desire for permanent Gypsy accommodation. Consequently, the Council has recently granted planning permission and been allocated funding from CLG for the refurbishment of a permanent site for 15 pitches.

6.51 Some travelling Gypsies and Travellers also pass through the conurbation, choosing to stop for a short period before continuing their journey to other parts of the south west. Due to the lack of transit facilities in Poole and the conurbation, these Gypsies and Travellers resort to camping on public facilities, such as car parks, open spaces and lay-bys, or on private land, typically industrial and employment sites. Illegal camping can lead to conflict between Gypsies and Travellers and the settled community, and significant distress and upheaval on both sides.

6.52 Gypsy and Traveller accommodation needs have been assessed as part of the Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (GTAA) process and this identified the need to include a criteria based policy in the Core Strategy to be used for the selection of Gypsy and Traveller Sites. One of the key aims of the new policy framework is to increase the levels of authorised site provision for Gypsies and Travellers, in order to significantly reduce the current levels of unauthorised camping and avoid the problems that some unauthorised sites can cause. The exact number of pitches required is difficult to assess accurately and final numbers will be determined through the RSS.

PCS 9 - GYPSY AND TRAVELLER ACCOMMODATION

The Dorset-wide Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment indicates that the Borough needs to provide both transit Gypsy and Traveller pitches and residential pitches. The existing Mannings Heath site in the Borough will be redeveloped to accommodate 15 pitches in total. The remaining required provision of allocated permanent and transit pitches will be addressed in the Borough’s Site Specific Allocations DPD and through joint working with Bournemouth and the other Dorset local authorities to provide a coordinated approach to provision. The following considerations will be taken into account in the determination of locations for gypsy and traveller sites: i. sites should be well located to the highway network, & enable access to schools, shops & healthcare; ii. sites should provide for adequate on site facilities for parking, storage, play and residential amenity; iii. sites should allow for adequate levels of privacy and residential amenity for the occupiers; iv. sites should not have a detrimental impact on the amenities of adjacent occupiers; and v. sites should not result in a detrimental impact upon the natural environment. The Council is committed to working in partnership with Gypsies and Travellers and with their representative groups, and with local residents to seek solutions to issues regarding Gypsy and Traveller accommodation.

62 Return to Contents Revitalising the Town Centre

6.53 Revitalising the Town Centre is a key priority for the Council. It is important, therefore, to understand what actually constitutes the Town Centre in this context. There is a myriad of components which make up the Town Centre but, for simplicity, it is helpful to identify three broad geographical elements which make up this area: l the Regeneration Area, which is focused on the sites fronting Back Water Channel between the existing lifting bridge and the proposed Twin Sails bridge; l Town Centre North, the core of which is the Dolphin shopping centre, bus station, bus depot and arts centre (Lighthouse) and extending to the northern part of the High Street, Sainsbury’s site and, potentially, land between and including the goods yard/train station and the George Roundabout; l the rest of the Town Centre, including West Quay Road, Hunger Hill, Poole Quarter, the Quay, Old Town, High Street (lower) and Seldown area.

Flood Study Boundary for Application of Sequential Test Regeneration Area (PCS11) Town Centre North Area (PCS12)

Town Centre Retail Boundary: This map is reproduced from the Ordnance Survey with the permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf Primary & Secondary Shopping Area of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office © Crown Copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright & may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. 10024248.2009 Lower High Street (PCS14)

Map 3 - The Town Centre

6.54 The Town Centre is the principal focus of change in Poole. This area will see the highest densities, the most intensive uses (such as major retail and office development) and the greatest mix of uses. This will include at least 4,000 new homes, about 36,000 square metres of business floor space, 35,000 square metres (net) of new retail floor space (excluding the Regeneration Area, which will provide around 9,000 square metres of food, drink and niche retail uses principally along new public quay sides), new leisure uses, around 6,800 new jobs and a second lifting bridge between Hamworthy and the town centre. Priorities are: l The Regeneration Area: second lifting bridge, public waterfront and spaces, housing and employment uses, and commercial activities on the waterfronts l Town Centre North: a 40-60% increase in the amount of retail and leisure floor space, provision of a public space between the Dolphin Shopping Centre and the Lighthouse centre for the arts, potential relocation of the bus depot, and an improved bus station

Back to Contents 63 l A rejuvenated role for Poole High Street south of Lagland Street, with opportunities for independent retailers and creative industries

l The Goods Yard site: a new train station, hotel, offices and residential development opportunities

l Other key sites which are either in the pipeline or offer potential for development

l The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment Level 2 identified a need for the Borough of Poole to bring forward a flood risk management strategy for the town centre through an Infrastructure Development Plan Document, as identified within the Local Development Scheme.

PCS 10 - REVITALISING THE TOWN CENTRE - GENERAL

The Town Centre will be the most suitable location in Poole for major developments which generate large numbers of trips and high levels of street-based activity. This will include:

i. office developments, including major schemes in excess of 2,000 square metres gross floorspace (all parts of the Town Centre); ii. the main train and bus stations (Town Centre North); iii. significant new retail and leisure development (Town Centre North); iv. the highest densities of residential and mixed use development to provide around 4,000 new homes (all parts of the Town Centre); and v. significant cultural or tourist attractions (mainly the Town Centre North and Regeneration Area, but other parts of the Town Centre might also be suitable).

Where development plan documents or planning applications concern sites whose development is likely to have a significant adverse impact upon Poole Harbour SPA/ Ramsar site, the Local Planning Authority will require that these be accompanied by a detailed assessment, in the form of an Appropriate Assessment and/or Environmental Impact Assessment, whichever is applicable, which identifies the likely impacts and demonstrates how the proposal will avoid, overcome or mitigate for such impacts.

The Regeneration Area

6.55 The Regeneration Area has been the subject of a masterplan. The details of this are set out in Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative - Supplementary Planning Guidance (adopted December 2004), which informs statutory Local Plan policies. From this the Council’s aspirations for the Regeneration Area are clear. Furthermore, the Regional Development Agency supports the commitment to bringing forward a mixed development including new employment floorspace in line with the Masterplan.

6.56 The Regeneration Area and nearby town centre sites should deliver approximately 4,000 dwellings - 40% of Poole’s requirement to 2026 - in the first half of the plan period (i.e. by 2016). The transformation of underused and largely commercial sites into mixed communities with public spaces, waterfronts, cafe and restaurant uses will also serve to inject fresh impetus into the quality, function and vitality of Poole. When combined with around 36,000 square metres of business floorspace, this area promises to contribute greatly to the town’s status and prosperity.

64 Return to Contents A key objective will be to ensure that this strengthens the town as a whole by: a. revitalising the centre to provide much-needed homes and employment opportunities; b. transforming the quality and vitality of Poole’s waterfront environment; c. delivering the Twin Sails Bridge and associated infrastructure to enable development, improve access to the Port, and reduce severance between Hamworthy and the Town Centre; d. ensuring social regeneration is an intrinsic component of the development, delivering housing needs, community facilities and other social infrastructure, public spaces, a high quality and accessible environment, and job opportunities for local people; and e. linking well with the existing parts of the town - Poole Quay, High Street and Town Centre - as well as planned development at Town Centre North and other sites. 6.57 Within the Regeneration Area there are four distinct areas, each of which is the subject of a specific policy in Poole Local Plan First Alteration (adopted in March 2004). These policies will provide the statutory detailed policy framework for these sites until such times as the Site-specific

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Map 4 - The Regeneration Area

6.58 The Regeneration Area policies, masterplan and SPG set out priorities for each of the areas. These are reflected in PCS 11 ‘THE REGENERATION AREA’. Delivery and Infrastructure 6.59 The Regeneration Area has been the subject of a detailed assessment of prerequisites, infrastructure needs and other obligations. Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative: Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Guidance (adopted December 2004) sets this out in greater detail. The Delivery Framework in Chapter 7 summarises the main requirements. The Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative volumes 2 and 3, which are current saved supplementary guidance, provide a long term vision for the Regeneration Area. At the appropriate time they will be reviewed and updated accordingly to ensure that the long term change for the town centre remains both realistic and yet aspirational.

Return to Contents 65 PCS 11 - THE REGENERATION AREA

Development in the Regeneration Area will be permitted on condition that it delivers the following priorities: i. a second lifting bridge and supporting road infrastructure which will link Hamworthy and the Port to the central part of Poole and the Trunk Road network; ii. public quaysides between and adjacent to the two bridges, to be provided as and when sites come forward for development; iii. on-site amenity space and children’s play areas sufficient to meet the Council’s open space standards; iv. a positive contribution towards the cultural development of Poole, through the provision of performance spaces and public art as an integral part of the design & layout of development; v. improved pedestrian and cyclist links throughout the Regeneration Area and connecting with the rest of the Town Centre; vi. provision for physical and social infrastructure in accordance with the adopted Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative: Planning Obligations Supplementary Planning Guidance until such times as this is superceded; vii. protection of the natural environment and ensuring that any adverse effects upon the integrity of European and international widlife sites will be prevented; viii. the requirements set out in the following schedule:

Site Key Requirements Housing Use Retail Leisure (units) Class B1 A1 & A3 hotel (m2) (m2) (m2) a Land between i the creation of a new public 250+ 6,000 500 300 Wilkins Way square & RNLI ii provision of a new public slipway at Whittles Way iii a new facility for Poole Sea Scouts b Land between i. the public quayside will form an 250+ 4,000 5,000 2,360 Poole Bridge extension to Poole Quay in terms of & Wilkins its function and character Way ii. restaurants and cafes (Use Class A3) and a mix of smaller specialist shops (Use Class A1) iii. residential uses iv. a 50-bed hotel v. offices and live/work space c Pilkington i. New quayside 250+ 26,000 2,250 9,948 Tiles & ii. a business centre for small and Sydenham medium enterprises (principally Timber Yard Use Class B1 activities) iii. Other B1 business space iv. a 200-bed budget hotel v. provision of a link road to the Port vi. public space in addition to the quaysides vii. a new facility for Poole Rowing Club

66 Return to Contents Site Key Requirements Housing Use Retail Leisure (units) Class B1 A1 & A3 hotel (m2) (m2) (m2) d Former Power i. residential development which 1,100+ 0 1,400 0 Station, sub- provides a mix of unit types & sizes station, oil depot, & land ii. between 100 and 300 care home east of Rigler bed spaces for elderly residents Road iii. public open space at the centre of the development iv. a community learning centre v. restaurants and cafes (Use Class A3) vi. Port and bridge road links vii. sensitive design and siting of development on the north shore to avoid significant harm to Poole Harbour SPA TOTALS 1,850+ 36,000 9,150 12,608

More detailed policies for sites within the Regeneration Area will be set out in the Site- specific Allocations Development Plan Document.

The requirements and uses set out in this policy are based upon the Masterplan and reflect the aspirations for each site. Individual site provision must reflect the overall vision and strategy for the area, though it is recognised that a degree of flexibility within and between sites may be necessary to ensure that the Regeneration area delivers the required development within the timescale envisaged.

The Town Centre

6.60 Poole town centre plays an important role as a sub-regional shopping centre. It is served by both the main train and bus stations and the Dolphin Shopping Centre is an asset in terms of offering ‘all-weather’ shopping facilities and good accessibility for people with restricted mobility. Other positive advantages for the Town Centre are the presence of the Lighthouse, Poole’s arts centre, and the attractions of the Quay at the southern end of the High Street. Despite these advantages, the Town Centre is weak relative to its role and catchment population in terms of the range and quality of shops it currently provides. As with Bournemouth Town Centre, Poole faces competition from out-of-centre shopping from retail parks and Castle Point. Bournemouth and Poole also compete with each other but, given their abilities to serve different ends of the conurbation and hinterlands, there is scope for both centres to reclaim leakage of custom from out-of-centre competitors.

6.61 Re-positioning the town’s retail offer could also provide an opportunity to fix some of its ageing infrastructure and provide improvements to public spaces and pedestrian and cycle links in the town. The town centre north area demonstrates very obvious problems in terms of the quality of its outdoor spaces and quality of facilities such as the bus station. Current links are particularly poor as a result of the size and scale of the existing Dolphin Centre and the position of the railway line which cuts through the heart of the town and separates the bus station and Lighthouse from

Return to Contents 67 the High Street, Quay and new regeneration area parallel to West Quay Road. Despite these concerns, the Town Centre North area offers significant potential for new investment which could transform the role and quality of the centre as a whole. As well as delivering improved pedestrian links, a retail-led regeneration scheme has the potential to provide a new bus station for the town and better link the Lighthouse Arts centre and Library into a new cultural and leisure quarter. At the wider level, if planned for correctly, the town centre north area could improve how the main shopping area for Poole relates to the Quay, Lower High Street and regeneration area.

The Role of the Area Action Plan

6.62 Poole’s Local Development Framework includes an Area Action Plan for the northern part of the Town Centre. This is intended to provide a framework for regenerating Poole’s core shopping and leisure area. Through this plan the Borough of Poole and its partners in the town centre wish to deliver a step-change in the shopping and leisure offer of the town centre. This Area Action Plan also sets a framework for much-needed improvements to transport infrastructure and public spaces. The plan seeks to regenerate the northern part of the town centre to provide a place where people should live, work and spend leisure time.

Picture 6.2 The Lighthouse (Poole’s Centre for the Arts)

Why retail-led regeneration?

6.63 In working with those who have an interest in the town centre the move towards a retail-led regeneration scheme was initiated early on in the process. Critical evidence in the form of a Retail and Leisure Capacity Study has shown relatively modest potential for new commercial leisure facilities in the town, yet high baseline projections for retail growth. The largest increase will be in spending on non-food goods. This translates into the need to provide for more retail floorspace in the borough. The following table sets out how much new retail floorspace growth is expected in the main shopping centres in the borough:

68 Return to Contents 2005-2008 2005-2011 2005-2016 Convenience (Food) 1,478m² 3,221m² 5,108m² Comparison 4,435m² 11,653m² 24,829m² (Non-Food)

Table 6.4 Baseline Retail Growth Projections

6.64 This growth assumes Poole’s catchment (ie where people travel from to shop in Poole Town Centre) does not change. It is therefore a baseline assessment. It also does not take account of forecast growth in out of town retail parks such as Fleetsbridge, which will account for a further 10,118m² of growth by 2016 if past trends are repeated.

6.65 The need to inject a new vibrancy to the centre, particularly at night, will be key to the Area Action Plan’s success. Poole Partnership (the Local Strategic Partnership for Poole) is made up of many organisations aiming to achieve long-term improvements to the quality of life for Poole people. It involves community, voluntary and faith groups, working together with businesses and the public sector. Poole Partnership has been particularly keen to stress that regeneration should raise the role of the Lighthouse by ensuring better physical linkages with the rest of the town and to help deliver on its own priorities which include Pride in Poole and Making Poole a Better Place to do Business. If the Area Action Plan is to help deliver the sub-region’s economic development strategy (‘Raising the Game’), regeneration will also have to ensure the town has facilities which are attractive to businesses making them choose Poole over other destinations and, in doing so, helping to maintain a skilled workforce.

Access and Movement

6.66 The AAP will need to strike an appropriate balance between private car use and alternative modes. A priority will be to significantly enhance public transport, pedestrian and cycle infrastructure, assisted through the development of a complementary parking strategy. Fundamental to the success of the regeneration will be its ability to overcome existing barriers to movement for cyclists and pedestrians such as Kingland Road and the railway; to secure a substantially improved bus station; and to ensure levels of traffic congestion remain acceptable.

6.67 Relocating the bus depot out of the town centre, and repositioning the bus station (with associated environmental enhancements) would provide the scope to extend the Dolphin Centre and create a more pedestrian-focused space between it and the Lighthouse. The Council has identified a potential site at Mannings Heath suitable for a relocated bus depot and this is being taken forward through the Site Specific Allocations DPD. Partial or complete closure of Kingland Road would be desirable, subject to this being achievable, and traffic modelling is currently assessing the implications of this. Beyond this, creating better access through the Dolphin Centre and across the railway will also be priorities.

Public Spaces

6.68 There are few public spaces, such as squares or greens in the town centre of significant scale. Involvement of Poole’s Youth Forum, has shown that young people feel there is nowhere for them to congregate without feeling they are perceived as a nuisance or intimidating by others. The Youth Forum is particularly keen to see a redevelopment of the bus station with a more open and spacious design, a view supported by Dorset Police. The Youth Forum and others want a public square that can be used by all ages for various events both formal and informal. They cite the lack of opportunities for ice skating in particular. It will also be important to ensure that public art is considered as an intrinsic part of the AAP.

Return to Contents 69 Improving the Retail Offer

6.69 The current range and quality of shopping in Poole Town Centre could be improved. In particular, the quality and provision of department stores needs to improve in order to keep trade in the centre and stop further trade from being ‘leaked’ to nearby major centres. Major department stores will look for schemes which are large enough and laid out in a way that suits their needs. With this in mind, the Area Action Plan seeks to accommodate up to 35,000 m² of new retail floor space in the town centre. By way of comparison, this is about half of the current floorspace in the existing Town Centre. This level of growth is ambitious and relies on a wider strategy which restricts significant retail growth in out of town locations.

Community Well-Being

6.70 Whilst improved shopping facilities are welcome, regeneration must ensure wider community and economic benefits. A retail-only ‘box-like’ extension to the existing Dolphin centre could monopolise the area north of the High Street as the only location to shop. The wider benefits of more visitors to the town centre needs to be felt if better links through to the High Street are established. This is most likely to be achieved by new permanently open pedestrian and cycle links over the rail line, but will also require more direct routes through the existing Dolphin centre, out of shopping hours.

6.71 A key message that has come from Poole Partnership is that the town centre needs to improve its cultural base. The Lighthouse, which accommodates the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra, is a great asset to the town, and regeneration will enable better access to this resource. Similarly, the Partnership have been very supportive of options which link the Lighthouse to the rest of the town centre. The Partnership also endorsed the approach suggested by the Youth Forum which is to give a better presence for the library in the town(xxiv). The Partnership have also called for a lively mix of uses. In particular the area should develop in a way which supports Poole as a wider community. If the area is to provide true regeneration benefits, it should provide opportunities for people to live and work in the town centre. The area should provide a mix of residential and supporting leisure uses. The University has expressed a desire to roll out more student accommodation in the town centre which is supported by the Partnership.

Meeting Housing Needs

6.72 The town centre north area could accommodate around 700 new dwellings. In addition, there is scope to provide student accommodation, with 300 bed spaces (in 66 student apartments) having already been provided adjacent to Seldown Bridge. Further details on the range of housing needs which need to be addressed are considered in ‘Meeting Poole’s Housing Needs’.

Feeling Safe and Secure

6.73 Much of the Town Centre North area is characterised by spaces that feel hostile and unsafe, particularly at night(xxv). A common thread in Poole’s Local Area Agreement and Poole Partnership’s Strategic Vision is to foster a safer community in Poole. Whilst crime rates within the town centre may be relatively low, perception or fear of crime is not. Areas that feel particularly unsafe at night include underpasses, the bus station, the rear servicing areas of the Dolphin Centre and

xxiv See Summary of Youth Forum Workshop, January 2006 xxv See Town Centre North Urban Design Audit, January 2006

70 Return to Contents parts of Newfoundland Road which is quiet and not overlooked by people in buildings at night. Problems around Newfoundland Road are largely a result of the large and open nature of the Sainsbury’s car park. To the north of the rail line, the sense of hostility is largely a consequence of the megalithic size and scale of the existing shopping centre. With many of the shops in the Dolphin Centre being ‘internalised’ around enclosed malls rear serving areas tend to face public streets. Because the existing centre was designed with no other land uses, such as homes or evening cafes, restaurants or other leisure uses, these areas are particularly empty and hostile at night. The edges of the existing centre are characterised by underpasses and alleyways which can lead pedestrians and cyclists to feel isolated and vulnerable.

6.74 An important objective thus is to secure safe and convenient routes through the area. Without this the Quay, High Street and waterfront regeneration area will not successfully integrate with the town. Mixing activities can help to ensure areas are safe throughout the day and into the evening. Generally this can be achieved by vertically mixing uses. Ideally this would mean the scheme that is characterised by retail and leisure uses, predominantly at ground and / or first floor level with residential uses above.PCS 12

PCS 12 - TOWN CENTRE NORTH

Town Centre North will be the subject of an Area Action Plan(xxvi). This will seek to secure the following priorities:

i. 35,000 square metres (net) of additional retail floor space within the Town Centre, focused mainly upon an extension to the Dolphin Shopping Centre but also involving redevelopment of existing retail units on the site currently occupied by Sainsbury’s; ii. supporting commercial, sports and leisure uses including a cinema and a range of cafes, bars and restuarants (Use Classes A3-A5); iii. relocation of the bus depot to a suitable site to maximise the development potential of the Town Centre North area; iv. remodelling of the Kingland Road and bus station layouts between the Dolphin Shopping Centre and Poole Lighthouse to create a public space, much improved pedestrian links and a more attractive and safe environment for bus users; v. improved pedestrian links across the railway line between the Dolphin Centre and Sainsbury’s site; vi. new homes (350-700 dwellings); vii. student accommodation to improve links between the town centre and Poole’s university, promote vitality in the centre and support the creation of opportunities for graduates in the local economy; and viii. accommodation of office developments, including larger schemes in excess of 2,000 square metres, where suitable sites come forward.

xxvi Town Centre North AAP is currently in preparation.

Return to Contents 71 6.75 Picture 6.3 ‘Town Centre North - Key Areas of Change’ shows the key areas of change associated with the Town Centre North area and is intended to be illustrative only. As the AAP evolves, other sites may need to be considered for inclusion within the AAP boundary and so the principles set out in PCS 12 ‘TOWN CENTRE NORTH’ will need to be taken into account in preparing the AAP.

Picture 6.3 Town Centre North - Key Areas of Change

The Strategy for Retail Development in Poole

6.76 Much of Poole’s growth is predicated upon the ambitious transformation of Poole’s Town Centre, including the highest concentrations of new housing, jobs and retail floor space. It follows that development elsewhere in the Borough should not undermine these plans otherwise there would be conflict within the Core Strategy and this could threaten its delivery. Significant retail growth elsewhere will need to be limited to levels which are appropriate to the location. As regards local centres, this allows a reasonable degree of flexibility as these have an important local community role and, generally, will serve a different purpose to the Town Centre, with little or no conflict. Even so, care will be needed to avoid, for example, a single excessively large retail outlet which risks competing with the Town Centre or undermining the healthy mix of functions within the local centre.

6.77 Retail parks raise a different issue as their scale, availablity of free parking and relatively cheap rentals allow more direct competition with the Town Centre. Poole happens to be very well served by retail parks, with Wessex Gate, Poole Commerce Centre and Tower Park all being capable of serving a wide catchment. It is also the case that the type of goods sold in these parks has become more blurred over time, and it is no longer the case that they only sell bulky or DIY goods which are not suited to town centre locations, despite restrictive policies and conditions on planning consents.

72 Return to Contents 6.78 At the preferred options stage two broad options were considered: to concentrate retail growth in the centre, with significant levels of new floorspace here, but restrictions upon growth of the retail parks; or to provide more modest growth in the centre and allow for some growth of the retail parks. The former of these was favoured and is part of the current spatial strategy. Consequently, if Poole is to achieve the desired ransformation of the Town Centre, with commensurate improvements in the range and quality of the retail offer, it will be necessary to restrict the growth of out-of-centre retail parks. This would not preclude replacement of older units by new floor space in the retail parks nor would it stop qualitative improvements which do not result in a materially significant net increase in floor space.

PCS 13 - RETAIL GROWTH OUTSIDE THE TOWN CENTRE

Outside the Town Centre new retail development will be permitted only where:

i. it is appropriate in scale, role, function & nature to its location & does not prejudice delivery of the Town Centre North proposals or otherwise undermine the strategy for retailing in the Borough; ii. in the case of Poole’s retail parks, it is for bulky goods or DIY retail floorspace which is not suited to a town centre location and it does not result in a net increase in floorspace; iii. the site is capable of being accessed by good quality public transport, on foot or by cycle; and iv. it would not lead to levels of traffic which are beyond the capacity of the local or strategic highway networks.

Climate Change and Flood Risk

6.79 The central area of Poole, including Town Centre North and the Regeneration Area, offers considerable potential to incorporate renewable energy generation. The Core Strategy expects at least 20% of energy use to come from renewable sources in larger developments (refer to PCS 32 ‘SUSTAINABLE HOMES’ and PCS 33 ‘ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE OF COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS’). Given the scale of change planned in Poole’s centre, there is an opportunity to consider the potential for renewable energy generation comprehensively, for instance through the development of a single combined heat and power (CHP) plant, which could offer a more cost-effective method of attaining ambitious carbon reductions (refer to PCS 35 ‘ENERGY AND RESOURCES STATEMENTS’). It will be important to investigate the most suitable method of delivering renewable energy in the Town Centre in terms of the practicalities of delivering a single installation or whether or not a series of individual renewable installations for each site may be more fit for purpose. The Council will encourage innovative solutions rather than prejudging the technological response to energy generation.

6.80 Much of the centre falls within a ‘Coastal Flood Risk’ area where there is a 1 in 200 year possibility of a major flooding event. A sequential assessment of development in Poole has revealed that there are no alternative sites which would be capable of meeting the Town’s housing and economic growth needs and a strategic flood risk assessment has been undertaken by the Borough of Poole to review flood risk boundaries and risks. Details of this are set out in ‘Preparing Poole for Climate Change’. It is important that development in areas at risk from flooding is designed in a manner which is sufficiently resilient to flood risk, and provides the necessary flood defence measures to protect the development from flooding. This will have a particular bearing upon

Return to Contents 73 waterfront sites within the Regeneration Area. This is actually an advantage to Poole in the long term because these sites present an opportunity to secure the necessary defences to protect the most vulnerable parts of the centre. Where smaller sites come forward for development within areas of flood risk, it will be essential that they make sufficient provision for off-site flood defences which are capable of protecting them from flooding.

The Lower High Street

6.81 The future vitality and viability of the town centre depends as much upon the success the existing businesses located along Poole High Street as it does on the planned new retail premises in the Town Centre North area. With better linkages between the north of the town centre, the Quay and new urban waterfront at Lower Hamworthy there is scope to regenerate the High Street. Through its involvement in the Town Centre Management Board, the Council will encourage early development of a Town Centre strategy to consider how the High Street can re-invigorate itself and achieve maximum benefit from development in the Town Centre North area.

6.82 Due to the growth and investment planned for Town Centre North, it is an inevitable consequence that the centre of gravity of the town centre will be firmly consolidated in the area around the Dolphin Centre/Lighthouse, Falklands Square, Kingland Crescent and Sainsbury’s site. This will have implications for that part of the High Street south of the railway line and, in particular, the lower part between Lagland Street and Old Orchard. To some extent this is already the case, as the Dolphin Centre and adjacent Falklands Square is currently the core retail facility and this contains the town’s concentration of retail multiples and department stores. At the other end Poole Quay and the southern end of the High Street offer different attractions, including bars, restaurants, cafes and specialist shops. There is scope to increase the movement of people between the two ‘anchors’ either end of the High Street and to get a more balanced crossover and mix of daytime and evening activities which appeal to all age groups. In fulfilling this role, the lower part of the High Street can build on its strengths as an ideal location for independent retailers. In addition, it could offer more in the way of daytime and early evening vitality, through the introduction of cafes with sitting-out areas. There would also be the potential for the introduction of creative industries, many of which need small or informal premises, such as floors above shops, or ground floor studios. Media-related industries would be a particular local strength associated with the University.

6.83 Environmental enhancements can increase confidence in, and patronage of, this area. This may include comprehensive signage and public art to radically alter the character and appeal of the High Street.

74 Return to Contents PCS 14 - THE LOWER HIGH STREET

The lower part of Poole High Street, between Lagland Street and the Quay, will be suited to uses and development which:

l promote evening and daytime vitality;

l develop its role as a focus for creative industries and independent retailers in a manner which complements the cultural vitality of the Town Centre; and

l deliver environmental enhancements and public art to create confidence and activity in this area.

To achieve these objectives: i. development & changes of use will be permitted where they introduce Use Classes A1 (shops), A2 (financial and professional services, A3 (restaurants and cafes), and studio space for creative industries or artists’ studios; ii. at first floor level, offices and residential uses will be permitted; and iii. financial contributions from development in the Town Centre will be used to carry out environmental enhancements in the form of paving, street furniture, landscaping & lighting, incorporating public art as an intrinsic part of such improvements.

Accessibility and the Prime Transport Corridors

Prioritising People and Places

6.84 The Core Strategy aspires to create better places which allow all people in society to gain easy and safe access to everyday needs. When considered in this context, accessibility is about how places and communities function effectively. To achieve success, we need to reduce the need to travel in the first place and, where travel is needed, this should prioritise the most sustainable means.

6.85 Government policy has moved considerably in recognising that street design needs to: l apply a user hierarchy to the design process with pedestrians at the top; l identify the importance of the community function of streets as spaces for social interaction; l promote an inclusive environment for people of all ages and abiities; l develop street character types on a location-specific basis (xxvii).

xxvii Manual for Streets - Department for Transport/Communities and Local Government (2007).

Return to Contents 75 Sub-regional Context

6.86 The South East Dorset Local Transport Plan (2006-2011), prepared jointly by Bournemouth Borough Council, Dorset County Council and Borough of Poole, reflects the need to view Poole as part of a wider sub-region. This sets out four shared priorities:

l Congestion: reducing journey times; assisting economic prosperity; reducing pollution; providing reliable journeys.

l Accessibility: providing access to services for all; opening up previously excluded areas; assisting mobility; enriching people’s lives.

l Road Safety: saving lives; reducing injuries; providing reassurance to all users of the highway.

l Air Quality: providing a healthier environment; improving health; promoting cleaner transport methods.

6.87 A key challenge facing South East Dorset is how to manage traffic growth. Development planned in the RSS for the Bournemouth-Poole Housing Market Area will add to existing pressures upon the existing highway network, including the A31, which is currently operating at or above capacity between Merley (A349 junction) and Ashley Heath (A338 junction). Responding to this will require a package of measures, including reducing the need to travel by providing homes nearer to facilities and public transport, and “smarter choices” about travel, with greater use of alternatives to the car and more car-sharing. There will also need to be investment in transport infrastructure to mange growth in accordance with the LTP priorities.

6.88 Evidence prepared for South East Dorset (South East Dorset Strategy – Commuting (SED09), November 2005) showed that the number of commuters to South East Dorset from all locations is 21,149 and the equivalent from South East Dorset is 25,231. The numbers travelling to South Hampshire from South East Dorset represents 44.6% of the total number of all commuters, while the equivalent figure for those travelling from South Hampshire is 41%. The paper noted that “in terms of self-containment, South East Dorset scores very highly. 87% (173,601 people) of the working age population live and work in the area while 47,305 people commute to or from the area.” (SED09, para 6.42). However, over 50% of commuters in South East Dorset travel less than 5km and 56% of commuting journeys of less than 2km in Poole are made by private motorised transport (LTP para 3.27). This illustrates that there is real potential to reduce car-based travel through smarter choices of travel modes (bearing in mind that about 85% of commuter trips are via single occupancy cars). This, combined with the relatively healthy degree of self-containment, provides a good basis for managing the transport network.

6.89 In recognition of this challenge, the three Local Highways Authorities of Poole, Bournemouth and Dorset County, together with national and regional partners (including the Highways Agency, Regional Assembly, Government Office for the South West and Regional Development Agency) have commissioned the South East Dorset Multi Modal Transport Study (SEDMMTS). This will provide a transport model to plan, prioritise and deliver necessary major infrastructure schemes, to ensure that such schemes are appropriately sequenced in line with future development, and that the necessary certainty over their timely delivery is provided. The Multi Area Agreement for Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole recognises that, during the 3 year MAA period, the Partnership will need to achieve certain milestones, including a sound delivery programme for major transport requirements, and notes that a priority will be to work with the Highways agency on the SEDMMTS and in considering planning applications for key employment sites (MAA, para 4.3).

76 Return to Contents 6.90 The South East Dorset LTP sets out a delivery mechanism for the South East Dorset transport strategy, including appropriate monitoring mechanisms and targets. The LTP is updated at regular intervals to provide an opportunity to review progress and amend targets if required.

6.91 Poole, along with Bournemouth Borough Council and Dorset County Council, is embarking upon a Multi-Area Agreement (MAA) which will set out shared priorities for a range of partners across the wider sub-region and this should assist in delivering objectives which would not be appropriate or feasible to deliver within a single authority. Joint working is necessary to ensure consistent policies and implementation of initiatives such as bus corridors, parking strategies, and road improvements such as major junctions. Wallisdown Road is a good example of this, where junction improvements rely upon co-operation between both Bournemouth and Poole Councils.

Reducing the Need to Travel

6.92 This can be promoted in a number of ways. The use of travel plans on significant and large residential, commercial and education developments, park and ride, car parking strategies and enhancing public transport, walking and cycling opportunities are all examples. Park and Ride facilities and the consistent and coordinated use of Travel Plans for education facilities, large office developments and new residential developments are recognised in LTP2 as key to encouraging smarter travel choices.(xxviii)

6.93 The strategic approach to Park and Ride in South East Dorset is to create a network of sites across the sub-region to play a key role in mitigating commuter trips from outlying satellite communities which are not on the railway and cannot be served cost-effectively by enhanced bus services. Poole currently has one Park and Ride facility in partial operation at Creekmoor. Mannings Heath has also been identified in feasibility and land use studies as a suitable site for an additional Park and Ride facility in the long term.

6.94 Travel plans can deliver real benefits, helping to promote flexible working to reduce peak- time demand, promote car-sharing, and can secure dedicated bus services, cycle parking and shower/changing facilities for cyclists. The Council has been very encouraged by the success of exemplar residential and commercial Travel Plans such as those in place at the Poole Quarter development and the Arts Institute in Bournemouth (which is within the Borough boundary). This latter example is particularly persuasive in demonstrating the influence of travel plans on travel behaviour.(xxix)

2002 2004 2006 Staff Cycling 8% 6% 14% Staff using Public 5% 9% 15% Transport Staff car drivers 64% 57% 7%

Table 6.5 Arts Institute Travel Plan Results

xxviii South East Dorset Local Transport Plan 2006-2011, p.53. xxix Source: Borough of Poole, Transportation Services, 2006.

Return to Contents 77 Traffic and Quality of Life

6.95 The locations which are held to be the most sustainable tend to be those which have the highest densities, the greatest mix of uses and functions, and the best accessibility levels. A down side of this is the fact that they are also busy places which can suffer from high volumes of road traffic. Noise, pollution, severance resulting from having to cross busy roads and safety concerns are all serious impacts upon the well-being of communities and can be real disincentives when people consider where they want to live. The level of traffic on a road also has a direct bearing upon the levels of interaction between residents on the street. For these reasons suburban locations are still popular places to live despite the relative lack of accessibility, because they are seen as quiet and relatively traffic-free. This highlights the importance of planning our urban areas and managing our road space in ways which try to redress the balance between freedom of travel (by car) and quality of life.

The Role of Prime Transport Corridors

6.96 Both the Regional Spatial Strategy and the South East Dorset Local Transport Plan identify Prime Transport Corridors as having an important part to play in Poole and the wider conurbation. There will be differences in policy emphasis from one Prime Transport Corridor to another, depending on their function and characteristics. The presence of large local centres, high frequency bus routes, proximity to heathland and opportunities for new development will all have a bearing on their ability to accommodate growth. Overall, however, the broad priorities are:

l to accommodate new development in suitable locations which are well-served by local facilities and where there is good access via high-frequency public transport services;

l to facilitate economic and social regeneration initiatives;

l to prioritise alternatives to the car where appropriate;

l to support social inclusion priorities in more deprived areas by improving public transport access to job opportunities, services and facilities; and

l to manage road space more effectively to minimise congestion and associated adverse impacts and provide more efficient and reliable travel times.

Implications for Dorset Heathlands and Poole Harbour

6.97 The sensitivities of Poole’s natural environment, principally in relation to the Dorset Heathlands and Poole Harbour SPA/Ramsar sites, are such that special care is needed when planning for access and movement in certain locations. For example, the proposed Twin Sails lifting bridge and associated road infrastructure, could have implications in terms of disturbance or potential contamination/pollution risks. These will need to be taken fully into account. Equally, other schemes, such as improvements along the A31-Poole corridor or those affecting the B3368 Blandford Road, could result in an increase in access levels to certain protected sites. Where this is likely, it may be necessary to secure appropriate measures to avoid or mitigate against impacts. This may require appropriate heathland contributions via the Interim Heathlands Planning Framework and emerging Joint Heathland Mitigation Development Plan Document.

78 Return to Contents PCS 15 - ACCESS AND MOVEMENT

Access and movement will be planned for and managed positively to support the creation of sustainable communities. The strategy for achieving this is to:

i. direct new development to highly accessible locations which are capable of meeting a range of local needs and will help to reduce the need to travel, principally the Town Centre and key locations on suitable Prime Transport Corridors;

ii. support continued improvements in public transport services, principally buses but also cross-conurbation rail, services, as a means of reducing the proportion of journeys made by single-occupancy cars;

iii. manage the road space along Prime Transport Corridors in order to improve the quality, reliability, safety and attractiveness of alternatives to the private car, in particular walking, cycling and public transport;

iv. secure delivery of the second lifting bridge and associated infrastructure in the Regeneration Area;

v. address the adverse impact of traffic upon communities through environmental enhancements (including tree planting) and improved provision for pedestrians and cyclists;

vi. work jointly with neighbouring authorities and transport operators, other partners and, where required, with regional and national partners, to continue the development of a consistent and integrated approach to spatial planning and transport strategies across South East Dorset;

vii. ensure new development supports the principles of sustainable access and movement, including the needs of people with restricted mobility; and

viii.ensure new development or transport initiatives do not have a significant adverse effect upon the integrity of the Dorset Heathlands SPA and Ramsar sites, Dorset Heaths SCA or Poole Harbour SPA/Ramsar sites.

The Council, in partnership with neighbouring authorities, the Regional Development Agency, the Regional Assembly, Government Office for the South West and Highways Agency, will develop a transport strategy (via the South East Dorset Multi Modal Transport Study) to plan and prioritise the delivery of transport infrastructure schemes across the sub-region in a manner which is appropriately sequenced with development, and which ensures that the necessary certainty over their timely delivery is provided. Where the transport strategy identifies schemes on the local or Strategic Highway Networks (including the A31) which are needed to enable future development to take place, proposals will be permitted only where they enable the implementation of such schemes in accordance with the model’s delivery programme.

Return to Contents 79 The Bournemouth-Poole (A35) Corridor

6.98 The A35 corridor between Bournemouth and Poole Town Centres serves the most densely populated parts of the conurbation and it offers the highest levels of accessibility by public transport outside of the town centre as it is served by the Waterloo-Weymouth rail link and high-frequency bus services. The South East Dorset Local Transport Plan identifies this as a Priority Prime Transport Corridor. It contains two of the Borough’s three largest local centres (Ashley Road and Ashley Cross) as well as other well-connected centres on Parkstone Road / Civic Centre, Bournemouth Road and Poole Road. Each of these centres/junctions would be well-suited to high densities of residential and mixed use development where opportunities arise. This would help to maintain the important role of the local centres and provides homes where people can gain easy access to a range of facilities.

6.99 A key priority for the Local Transport Plan is to manage traffic and parking along this corridor to support better, more reliable bus services. This will enable more road space to be dedicated to bus prioritisation and other initiatives such as real-time information continue to assist in making bus travel more attractive and reliable. There will also be a need to improve pedestrian and cyclist facilities. The LTP also sets out a commitment to work with rail service operators to maintain and improve local cross-conurbation rail services. Care will be needed to ensure that traffic management measures which are designed to improve the efficiency of movement are not at the expense of the quality of life of existing and future residents living in already well-established communities within and adjacent to the main route as a result of congestion, air quality degradation, community severance or the use of parallel residential streets as ‘rat runs’.

6.100 Within the Bournemouth-Poole corridor, Penn Hill Avenue and Lindsay Road are important arteries serving east-west movements parallel to the main A35 and they have been the subject of significant levels of flat development over the years. Stretches of these routes are, to varying degrees, easily accessible to the local centres of Penn Hill, Poole Road, Bournemouth Road or Westbourne, as well as Branksome rail station and high-frequency bus services between Bournemouth and Poole. With the exception of the southern end of Lindsay Road (adjoining Leicester Road), which falls within the Branksome Park Conservation Area, these routes are generally well-suited to higher density flat development.

80 Return to Contents PCS 16 - THE EAST-WEST BOURNEMOUTH-POOLE (A35) CORRIDOR

The East-West A35 Corridor will be a focus for new development, transport infrastructure investment and environmental enhancements. Key priorities are to: i. direct the highest densities of development to the following most accessible locations:

a. the Town Centre of Poole; b. Ashley Cross; c. Ashley Road; d. Poole Road and Bournemouth Road; e. the Civic Centre Gyratory and local centre, Parkstone Road; f. those parts of Penn Hill Avenue and Lindsay Road which are within easy walking distance of local centres and high frequency public transport;

ii. improve public transport service efficiency through:

a. on-street parking restraint at critical locations; b. the re-designation of some sections of highway as bus priority lanes; c. enhancements to the Urban Traffic Control network to give specific priority to buses; d. supporting the continued provision of better bus stops with real-time information and improved accessibility for passengers with disabilities; e. local junction improvements to address road safety issues and to provide improved facilities for pedestrians and cyclists; f. joint working with the train operators to maintain cross-conurbation local train services and to improve integrated transport facilities;

iii. improve pedestrian and cyclist facilities to create safer and more attractive routes;

iv. minimise and, where possible, reverse, the adverse impact of traffic upon people as a consequence of noise, air pollution, safety or community severance. Measures will include:

a. the introduction of improved footpaths/cycle lanes which can act as a buffer between traffic and pedestrians/residents; b. the introduction of planting, including mature trees, designed to soften the environment around major routes and reduce the impact of vehicles in terms of noise and pollution; c. addressing the safety and responsiveness of crossing points, particularly at local centres or near community facilities; d. ensuring that traffic management measures along the main routes do not divert traffic onto, or lead to adverse impacts upon, nearby or adjoining residential streets;

v. environmental enhancements at key locations such as local centres, major junctions and public spaces, including:

a. the use of good quality street lighting and furniture which enhance the local environment; b. new and improved paving; c. exploring opportunities for rear servicing areas, particularly on Ashley Road, which can assist in improving safety, public transport efficiency and environmental quality.

Return to Contents 81 The A3049 East-West Corridor (Wallisdown Road)

6.101 This is an important County Distributor route through the centre of the conurbation, running largely along the Bournemouth/Poole boundary and it is a vital link in terms of the economy. The South East Dorset Local Transport Plan (2006-2011) identifies this route as one of two priority prime transport corridors in Poole (the other being the A35 east-west corridor). It serves Bournemouth University in the north-eastern corner of Poole and facilitates links with potential future park and ride sites as well as some strategically important employment sites. It also offers potential to provide better links between Bournemouth, the university, and communities in Broadstone, Canford Heath and Wallisdown.

6.102 Much of this route is along Wallisdown Road, which suffers from problems arising from congestion and associated poor air quality. This corridor also serves an area of north-west Bournemouth which has high multiple deprivation and low car ownership, but which is poorly served by public transport services.

6.103 Along this corridor, there is the prospect of providing a future park and ride site at Mannings Heath. This site is allocated in Poole Local Plan First Alteration (Adopted in March 2004) and could play an important role in serving Bournemouth Town Centre. Whilst it is unlikely that this will come forward before 2011, it is crucial that the A3049 Corridor is capable of offering an efficient link for bus services between Bournemouth and the park and ride site if this is to be a viable traffic management option.

6.104 It should be noted that this corridor is close to internationally protected heathland habitats. As a consequence, residential development will need to be managed to ensure that additional recreational pressures are not placed upon the heathland. Road improvement schemes within 200 metres of any part of the Dorset Heathlands will need to demonstrate that they would not have a significant adverse impact upon the heaths.

82 Return to Contents PCS 17 - THE A3049 EAST-WEST CORRIDOR

The A3049 East-West Corridor will be the subject of improvements designed to increase the attractiveness of alternative travel modes to the car. This will be used to address multiple deprivation, improve bus, cycle and pedestrian routes to and from Bournemouth University and assist in conurbation-wide traffic management. Measures to deliver these priorities include:

i. selective widening, to facilitate bus and multiple-occupancy lanes; ii. the improvement of critical junctions where existing traffic hold-ups clearly result in significant delays to public transport; iii. priority for buses, cyclists and pedestrians; iv. improved bus services with real-time information, to link Broadstone, Canford Heath, Wallisdown, the University and Bournemouth Town Centre; v. the provision of a park and ride site at Mannings Heath (post-2011) in support of the conurbation-wide Local Transport Plan Strategy; and vi. improvements to Wallisdown Local Centre to offer better facilities and a more attractive environment for local residents.

Residential development which would be likely to lead to additional recreational pressures upon nearby heathland, together with road schemes, will be carefully controlled to ensure there is no adverse impact upon these internationally protected habitats. Any road improvement within 200 metres of the Heathlands will require prior assessment under the provisions of the Habitats Regulations, and, where the scheme would be likely to adversely affect the integrity of the protected site, alternative solutions may need to be sought.

The A31-Poole Link

6.105 A key local priority to which the Borough of Poole is committed is to work with local, regional and national partners in an attempt to secure strategic improvements to transport links with other regions. Within Poole, a long-standing priority is to provide better links from Poole Port and the Town Centre northwards to the A31 Trunk Road. The port is part of the Trans-European Network System and so good connections need to be recognised as more than a local issue. The main routes between Poole and the A31 are the A348 (Ringwood Road) and the A349 (Wimborne Road/Gravel Hill). The A348 carries a particularly large proportion of HGVs and the volume of traffic along both routes can cause problems of congestion and pollution. At present, there are no proposals within the five-year implementation plan of the Local Transport Plan to deal with this issue. However, in recognition of its importance to Poole, the Core Strategy identifies improved links to the A31 as a continued priority, and the Council will work with partner authorities, the Regional Assembly and Government to improve connections. As a result of Poole’s status as a growth Point, future modelling of traffic implications will be necessary as part of a wider South East Dorset Traffic Model, including some issues related to the A31 link.

Return to Contents 83 PCS 18 - THE A31-POOLE LINK

The Council will continue to work with local, regional and national partners to promote improved links between Poole Town Centre/the Port and the A31 Trunk Road. This will require a combination of measures in the South East Dorset area and the Authorities of Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole will continue to seek greater recognition of the importance of this route in future regional funding programmes.

Other Main Routes

6.106 The B3368 Blandford Road in Hamworthy is an important Prime Transport Corridor which provides an alternative access to Poole Port and the town centre from the west and north (i.e. alternative to the main A35/A350 Upton by-pass and Holes Bay road links). This route will benefit from the Regeneration Initiative, which is set to provide better connections links with the rest of Poole via a second harbour crossing and associated road links. It will be important to have regard to potential implications for increasing access to protected habitats such as Upton Heath.

6.107 Other opportunities along this route include new investment potential in the Hamworthy local centre (see PCS 22 ‘LOCAL CENTRES’) and the combined effect of these initiatives will hopefully be to the benefit of all Hamworthy residents. This should help to secure new economic investment (and new jobs) within the Regeneration Area, improved links to Poole Port, and significant new areas of public waterfront between the existing and proposed bridges. Parts of Hamworthy have been identified in Closing the Gap, Poole’s Local Area Agreement, as suffering from problems of multiple deprivation and so these investment opportunities will help to improve the prospects of many residents. It will be important, therefore, to ensure that future investment along this corridor assists in improving public transport, pedestrian and cycling links and environmental quality.

6.108 There are a number of other Prime Transport Corridors identified in the Local Transport Plan, as well as one or two other significant arteries. Main routes which are well-served by public transport and local facilities will be good locations for medium- to high-density residential and other development. This will help to maintain the role of local centres and gives people convenient access to facilities. Of particular suitability will be local centres on these main arteries, but also sites fronting these routes may provide good opportunities where such sites are within convenient walking distance (400 metres) of a train station/high-frequency bus service and a local centre. Such development is directed to the frontages of these main routes as these are well-suited to flat development; nearby and adjoining residential streets within established residential areas will continue to meet an important role in providing family housing for existing and future residents.

84 Return to Contents PCS 19 - OTHER PRIME TRANSPORT CORRIDORS & MAIN ROUTES

Other Prime Transport Corridors and main routes will be expected to support the delivery of sustainable communities and will include meeting Local Area Agreement priorities of reducing deprivation in parts of Hamworthy, Alderney and Canford Heath. This will be achieved through:

i. improvements to public transport, cyclist and pedestrian provision, combined with a range of demand management measures; ii. directing higher densities to local centres and other places on the main routes which are accessible to high-frequency public transport; iii. managing development on residential streets adjoining or near to main routes to ensure Poole’s existing communities and family housing stock are not diminished; and iv. ensuring measures within existing highway land do not prejudice potential future development opportunities at Hamworthy and Canford Heath (Canford Heath Road) local centres.

Sustainable and Inclusive Communities

Tackling Social Exclusion

6.109 In areas where residents are more likely to encounter problems associated with multiple deprivation, it is often the case that access to good quality jobs, services and local facilities is limited. Public transport can assist in helping communities by providing cheap and convenient access to such needs. Hence, our approach to Prime Transport Corridors needs to take account of where better accessibility can assist in meeting social objectives, including priorities flagged up in the Local Area Agreement. It is also the case that some measures in Poole will assist residents in Bournemouth and vice versa. This needs to be reflected in the approach taken.

Ensuring Everyone in the Community is able to Participate

6.110 Accessibility is not just about transport. Our buildings, streets, and homes can all be designed and managed in ways which either restrict or enable access to certain groups or individuals. Also, the use of buildings and places can improve accessibility by being sensitive to particular needs.

6.111 Pavements, pedestrian crossings and buses increasingly cater for people with some form of restricted mobility. This should continue so that all places offer good access for all. This needs to be supported by facilities like shops, banks, public buildings, open spaces and restaurants also taking the necessary measures to be welcoming places for all residents and visitors. In addition, operators of facilities like swimming pools should consider the needs of particular groups which may require support or positive encouragement in being able to use the facilities. By doing this, it will be possible to not only improve the mobility of people, but also to actively encourage full participation of all groups and individuals in community activities.

Return to Contents 85 6.112 Building regulations require that public buildings are accessible to wheelchair users, including ramps to doorways, minimum-width corridors and doors, lifts (where more than one floor) and WC facilities. In terms of housing, the Core Strategy encourages all new development to meet Lifetime Homes standards, which will help to reduce the amount of dwellings which currently limit access only to the able-bodied (refer to PCS 8 ‘LIFETIME HOMES’). However, more will need to be done to make places as inclusive as possible of all groups. This will require a concerted effort on the part of all agencies involved in shaping places to ensure their strategies, programmes and developments are brought forward with an understanding of the communities that they should be serving.

PCS 20 - ACCESSIBLE AND INCLUSIVE PLACES

The Council will work with community groups, developers, Poole Partnership and relevant public sector bodies to deliver accessible places which are inclusive of all individuals or groups regardless of their age, gender, race, religious or cultural belief or sexual orientation. This will require all relevant agencies and stakeholders to have regard to the needs of all people in the community when planning or implementing strategies, programmes or development.

Priority Areas in Need of Investment and Improvement

6.113 Poole offers residents the potential to enjoy a good quality of life. However, there are significant disparities within the Borough in terms of wealth, quality of the living environment, access to resources and levels of deprivation.

Multiple Deprivation and the Local Area Agreement

6.114 This is commonly regarded as the most important indicator of deprivation. The scores in each of seven domains are combined to give a composite score of Multiple Deprivation. The domains are:

l Income

l Employment

l Health and Disability

l Education, Skills and Training

l Barriers to Housing and Services

l Crime

l The Environment.

6.115 The most recent assessment of multiple Deprivation (The 2007 Indices of Multiple Deprivation –Results for Poole, February 2008) shows a slight relative worsening in terms of multiple deprivation in Poole overall since 2004. Some areas have seen improvements but those which are showing a relative decline tend to be in areas already in the lowest quartile nationally. None of these are within the worst 10% nationally, although Poole Town just escapes this (with a percentile of 10.65).The LSOAs in the worst quartile are in Poole Town Centre, Alderney, Hamworthy West, and Newtown.

86 Return to Contents 6.116 This raises concerns not only for the people living in these areas, but also that there is a growing risk of Poole becoming a more polarised society, with the gap between prosperous and deprived areas continuing to grow. This will require a concerted effort by a range of organisations and service providers to ensure the causes of deprivation are tackled effectively. This is a key priority for the Sustainable Communities Strategy and the Local Area Agreement for Poole, Closing the Gap, sets out a series of outcomes which are intended to address this.

6.117 The Introduction (refer to 1 ‘Introduction’) contains a table which summarises how the Core Strategy seeks to address the desired outcomes in the LAA. The following section deals with those which are specific to target areas in the LAA - namely: l Alderney l Hamworthy West and East; and l Poole Town.

6.118 It will also be seen in this section that local centres in Creekmoor, Hamworthy, Canford Heath and Wallisdown are all identified as being in need of further investment and improvement. These centres are within areas which have tended not to fare well in terms of the indices of multiple deprivation and so there is a certain degree of symmetry between the LAA priorities and the local centre priorities, even though the latter are not necessarily within the LAA target areas.

6.119 Improvements to local centres can bring about other social, environmental and economic benefits which can help to engender healthier and more prosperous communities. For this reason, the aspiration to improve these centres is more than a purely aesthetic exercise.

LAA Target Areas: the Role of the Core Strategy

6.120 The Core Strategy sets out aspirations throughout the document which can assist in delivering the LAA. These include policies which deal with affordable housing requirements, meeting the needs of Gypsy and Traveller communities, supporting economic growth, prosperous local centres, reducing the need to travel, improving accessibility, retaining community facilities and so on. This section, however, is more specifically concerned with area-specific targets as these are aimed at tackling the greatest concentrations of multiple deprivation and/or community need.

6.121 The target areas of Alderney, Poole Town, Hamworthy West and East all display a variety of challenges for their respective local communities. The LAA also refers to Parkstone in the context of enabling older patients to better manage their medicine (this also applies to Old Town).

Return to Contents 87 Identifying Possible Priorities for the Core Strategy in relation to LAA Target Areas

LAA Theme Target Areas Core Strategy Role in Target Areas

Children l Alderney l Key role for children’s centres, extended schools, youth

& Young l Hamworthy centres in providing for variety of social and educational People East & needs West l Health and community facilities can assist in targeting

l Old Town specific needs, including training, youth services, community-based initiatives

l Leisure, recreation and youth facilities can increase community participation and health

l Supporting Schools for the Future

Healthier l Old Town l Recreation facilities can help to increase participation in

Communities l Parkstone sport & Older l Important role for community halls People l Local surgeries will need to expand role in order to assist greater independence & self-management of medicine

l Local centres are key to serving local needs

Safer & l Alderney l Health care treatment & support: local facilities and surgeries

Stronger l Old Town l Safer homes Communities l Hamworthy l Arts events and other activities engaging with cross-section East & West of people in targeted areas

l Environmental enhancements – public spaces, pavements

l Local centres provide key opportunity for providing a range of needs

Enterprise l Hamworthy l Role for local schools in training and skills development - & Economic West including lifelong learning

Development l Alderney l Links between employment opportunities in Regeneration Area and northern Poole (Mannings Heath) Alderney

l Retention of community facilities which have potential to provide support services

l Accessibility: better links between deprived areas and job/ training opportunities

88 Return to Contents PCS 21 - LAA OUTCOMES AND TARGET AREAS

The Council will work jointly with developers, businesses, residents, other public sector organisations and National and Regional agencies to assist in the delivery of LAA Outcomes, including those affecting the LAA Target Areas of Alderney, Hamworthy West and East, and Poole Old Town. This will require the delivery of a range of measures aimed at tackling social exclusion and multiple deprivation and to bring about environmental enhancements. To assist this the Local Planning Authority will:

i. give favourable consideration to proposals involving schools, community centres and medical facilities which enable such facilities to diversify their roles in order to target specific needs of the local community;

ii. set out proposals for sites in the Site-specific Allocations DPD where opportunities for new, expanded or replacement community infrastructure have been identified by service providers;

iii. use the Local Development Framework as a means of securing employment opportunities which are capable of benefiting the target areas through the retention of Existing Employment Areas and providing new opportunities in the Regeneration Area and Town Centre North; and

iv. require that new development contributes directly and/or through the use of financial contributions, to the creation of safe, healthy, accessible, inclusive and attractive places in the LAA target areas. Priorities will include environmental enhancements in public places, improved community and cultural facilities, the provision of meeting places for young people, improved pedestrian links and public transport services, and new or enhanced recreation facilities.

Investing in Local Centres

6.122 Poole’s local centres generally perform successfully and, unsurprisingly, are valued highly by local residents. A local centre can have a marked effect upon the quality of life of the residents it serves: shopping for everyday goods is both convenient and a sociable event where the personal nature of service often distinguishes the shopping experience from that of the supermarket or larger malls. Local centres can also offer other services, such as a bank, a post office or doctor’s surgery.

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Borough of Poole Licence No. 100024248 Town Centre AD Boundary O B ANKS R S A N D B A N K S 400m Radii/ 5 Minute Walk

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Picture 6.4 Location of Local Centres

6.123 An audit of the relative strengths and weaknesses of the Borough’s 16 local centres was undertaken in October 2000 and has recently been updated (xxx). This shows that whilst most continue to function well, some have a better range of community facilities than others. Similarly some perform better in terms of the quality of their public realm and transport infrastructure when compared to others. The audit identified four centres in particular which could benefit from a variety of improvements. These findings are summarised in the following table.

xxx Local Centres - LDF Background Paper (January 2007)

90 Return to Contents Local Centre Opportunities Canford Heath and These local centres present opportunities for qualitative improvement to Creekmoor public spaces, presenting opportunities to better integrate the centres with their surrounding areas, particularly in terms of pedestrian and cycle movements. This could be achieved through retail-led mixed use development provided:

l Significant regeneration benefits result which better link existing facilities and surrounding residential areas;

l Development is not of a scale that significantly alters the function of the centre in the hierarchy - ie to serve mainly local needs;

l Development would not jeopardise the regeneration of Poole Town Centre; and

l Development provides better links and improves the public realm Wallisdown This local centre straddles two local authority boundaries and suffers from poor public realm and traffic severance. An opportunity exists to work with Bournemouth Borough Council and other partners to improve the quality of the public realm and reduce the impact of Wallisdown Road on the local centre. Hamworthy This centre provides a limited range of retail and community facilities and has poor public realm. Opportunities exist for redevelopment of under-utilised sites at 243 to 249 Blandford Road to improve the quality and range of facilities for Hamworthy’s growing population.

Table 6.6 Key Areas of Change - Local Centres

6.124 Three of Poole’s local centres - Ashley Road, Ashley Cross and Broadstone - perform a significant role due to the comprehensive range of facilities and services on offer. It is important that all three centres maintain their important roles and so development and investment will be expected to support this objective. Other local centres have a more selective, but nonetheless vital, role in meeting local needs.

Ashley Road

6.125 The audit did not include the main town centres, namely Poole Town Centre, Ashley Road, Ashley Cross and Broadstone. However, it is the case that Ashley Road, despite being the second largest centre in the Borough in terms of retail floorspace, suffers from certain environmental problems. As a main bus route it is liable to congestion which in turn leads to air quality problems. It is one of the few locations in the Borough which exceeds air quality standards and may in future be designated as an Air Quality Management Area. On-street parking and servicing can exacerbate this situation and so measures such as the creation of suitable rear servicing, where opportunities arise, and carefully managed on-street parking, could alleviate some of these difficulties.

6.126 The quality of the public realm in places is also an issue and enhancements to shop fronts, paving, street lighting and furniture and the softening of the environment through landscaping could make a significant difference to this local centre. This has important implications for the overall objective of creating attractive places and sustainable communities.

6.127 The potential benefits of tackling the above issues would be an uplift in rents and economic performance, a respective increase in the quality and range of retail outlets, and an associated improvement in the desirability of the surrounding living environment. It could also reduce potential health impacts of poor air quality upon local residents and shoppers.

Return to Contents 91 6.128 In addition to PCS 22 ‘LOCAL CENTRES’, PCS 16 ‘THE EAST-WEST BOURNEMOUTH- POOLE (A35) CORRIDOR’ also contains criteria of relevance to Ashley Road.

PCS 22 - LOCAL CENTRES

New development will support an uplift in the quality, vitality, diversity and success of local centres.

The priorities for those local centres most in need of new investment and improvement are as follows:

A) in Canford Heath and Creekmoor: i. new retail investment at a scale appropriate to the role of the local centre will be permitted provided that it contributes to the provision of an enhanced public space as a focal point for the local centre; ii. highway schemes will support the provision of better pedestrian and cyclist links with the surrounding residential areas;

B) in Wallisdown the Council will work in partnership with Bournemouth Borough Council to: i. improve the quality of the public realm including paving materials, shopfronts and signs, street lighting and planting; and ii. take steps to minimise the community severance caused by traffic, particularly on Wallisdown Road, through attention to the pedestrian environment, improved crossing points and sensitive landscaping;

C) in Hamworthy redevelopment opportunities within the Local Centre will be permitted for a mix of uses which deliver: i. improved local shopping facilities; ii. residential use; iii. community facilities; and iv. environmental enhancements to the local centre;

D) in Ashley Road: i. environmental enhancements will be a priority to provide an overall uplift in the quality and economic performance of the local centre. Such improvements will focus upon the quality of paving, street furniture, lighting shop fronts and signage; ii. development will support the introduction of traffic management measures aimed at improving the reliability and efficiency of bus journeys, the movement of people and vehicles, air quality and the servicing of premises in a manner which is sensitive to the needs of traders in the local centre and residents on and adjacent to Ashley Road itself.

In all cases developer contributions will be sought from development proposals in the surrounding areas which are served by these local centres to assist in the delivery of improvements.

92 Return to Contents Locally Distinctive and Self-Reliant Places

6.129 Successful places depend upon good design. Cultural opportunities are also vital attractions in successful towns and cities. Public art is an intrinsic element of good design, while performing arts can influence greatly the cultural vitality of places. The involvement of urban designers, landscape architects and artists and crafts people early in the design process will help greatly in creating an urban form which is culturally stimulating and unique to Poole, while the creation of spaces which promote performing arts, or support the role of existing cultural facilities, can make a significant difference to the quality of the urban environment.

6.130 The most successful urban places are unique and memorable because they combine an attractive built environment with a lively mix of functions. As a consequence they tend to be reasonably self-contained, being capable of meeting the local needs of their communities. Self- reliance is an important component in any sustainable community and the combination of this and a high quality environment should be cornerstones of all strategies affecting Poole. Getting these right will deliver more prosperous communities and truly distinctive places.

6.131 The Building for Life standard is the national benchmark for well-designed housing and neighbourhoods in England and was launched by the Deputy Prime Minister in 2003. It can prove a helpful tool in recognising and influencing good design in terms of how it contributes positively to place-making. There are 20 criteria, divided into the main categories of: character; roads, parking and pedestrianisaton; design and construction; and environment and community.

Poole’s Distinctive Sub-areas

6.132 There are many parts of the town which, although not of sufficient architectural or historic merit to warrant Conservation Area status, nevertheless have a strong local identity which is valued by residents and contributes positively to Poole’s character. Areas will develop strong links around a variety of shared interests or common values, and community interaction can be influenced by the type and location of housing and other facilities. In areas attractive to families with children, for instance, the local school or play park will be important focal points, and community networks can build from these links.

Picture 6.5 Poole Quay - attractive to families

Return to Contents 93 6.133 The policies in Poole Local Plan First Alteration (2004) were informed by a townscape character assessment which identified 15 character areas in Poole. Work has begun on a review of townscape character which will provide an up-to-date appraisal of the functional, physical and environmental characteristics of all parts of the borough. It is anticipated that this work will be carried out during 2009 and it is intended that this will be adopted as a supplementary planning document, which will inform the emerging Site-Specific Allocations Development Plan Document. PCS23, local distinctiveness, provides an overview of some of the key characteristics and principles which will be applied to development.

6.134 It is important to develop a more holistic understanding of what makes a particular area unique and, therefore, what form development takes within it. Developers will need to demonstrate how their proposals relate to the surrounding character through the preparation of design and access statements. Local communities may have an opportunity to identify those features or characteristics they value in their street or neighbourhood. One way of doing this is through the use of Place Checks, where local residents can systematically identify the features that make up the character of their street or neighbourhood.

94 Return to Contents PCS 23 - LOCAL DISTINCTIVENESS

Proposals for development will exhibit a high standard of design and will complement orenhance Poole’s character, local identity and cultural vitality. To meet these requirements,development will be permitted provided that:

A it adheres to the following character and design principles: i. it respects the setting and character of the site, surrounding area and adjoining buildings by virtue of its function, siting, landscaping and amenity space, scale, density, massing, height, design details, materials and appearance; ii. public spaces and routes through sites are planned as an integral part of the overall development; iii. doors and windows face onto public space, contributing to the appearance of the area and the safety of public spaces; iv. in areas of commercial use, the arrangement of accesses and uses contribute to the vitality of the space onto which they face; v. any external lighting does not harm the character or appearance of the area;

B in the Town Centre and Associated Waterfronts: i. building designs, quay walls, streetscapes and flood defences contribute positively to the urban waterfront character of Poole, having regard to the wider landscapes of Poole Harbour, the Dorset AONB and Holes Bay; ii. new development on Poole Quay respects the historic environment, reflects traditional plot divisions, retains and enhances historic alleyways and street patterns and, where opportunities exist, provides new alleyways; iii. proposals demonstrate how they enhance townscape quality, character and vitality of the area; iv. it assists in reducing the dominance and severance of roads at key locations; v. it preserves or enhances Listed Buildings and their settings, Conservation Areas, and features of historical or architectural interest, including views and settings of landmark buildings;

C in Other Waterfront Areas: i. it respects the shoreline character of the area, including the wider landscape of Poole Harbour, Poole Bay and the Dorset AONB; ii. in the vicinities of Holes Bay, Upton Marsh/Lytchett Bay and Upton Country Park, it does not have a detrimental impact upon the wider landscape character of these areas or the Town Centre; iii. at Sandbanks, the uniform spacing and height of buildings on the Causeway is not disrupted, and harbour views through building gaps, and the mature wooded character and established beachline on the peninsula are retained; iv. the setting of the sandspit is not harmed by overly dominant buildings or insensitive designs; v. the peninsula’s interior and Conservation Area retains its character of predominantly detached houses;

Return to Contents 95 D in Town and Local Centres: i. it does not undermine the principal retail and community functions or vitality of the centre; ii. shop fronts, signs and building frontages are high in quality and enhance the character of the centre; iii. it supports the improvement and enhancement of the local centre by contributing to the delivery of: a. new, high-quality paving, street furniture and lighting along pedestrian routes and in public squares / spaces; b. hard and soft landscaping, including tree planting; c. a reduction in the severance caused by roads in the local centre through the sensitive design of pedestrian crossings, parking areas, railings and other barriers, and traffic management measures; d. better facilities and/or meeting places for young people; e. the incorporation of public art as an intrinsic component of environmental enhancements;

E within or visible from County Landscape Areas: i. hedgerows and mature trees along roads are retained; ii. it does not have a detrimental impact upon the County Landscape Areas, having regard to: a. the coastal setting of Poole Bay Cliffs, Poole Harbour/ Holes Bay and Upton/Lytchett Bay Marsh, and associated distant views; b. the setting of settlements, Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings within the wider landscape context of North Poole Heath/Farm Fringe, Merley/Canford River Terrace and Lower Stour Valley; c. the open heathland character of Corfe Hills Heath and Canford Heath; d. the countryside character of Upton Park and Farmland;

F for sites containing or adjacent to Trees, Open Spaces and Woodlands: i. it retains woodlands and mature trees and tree belts, particularly where such trees form a distinctive edge, ridge or canopy or provide an important enclosure for public spaces; ii. it respects the setting and character of natural areas and viewpoints, including Compton Acres, Luscombe Valley, the Harbour, Poole Bay and Evening Hill; iii. it does not have a detrimental impact upon the character of parks or other open spaces; and

G within or adjacent to Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings: i. it preserves or enhances the character of Conservation Areas and retains important historical or architectural features; ii. it does not have a detrimental impact upon Listed Buildings, their curtilage or setting within a wider landscape context; iii. it does not detract from landmark buildings or important views of these.

In those areas subject to significant change, where proposals are likely to change the “sense of place”, regard should be had to their setting and character, and in particular developments should positively reflect the overarching vision for the area. Innovative and high quality design should contribute to a significant enhancement of these areas.

96 Return to Contents PCS 24 - DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENTS

The Council will prepare and adopt Poole Character Assessment as a Supplementary Planning Document to inform both local place checks and Design and Access Statements. Through the use of Design and Access Statements, developers will demonstrate how development proposals conform, and make a positive contribution, to local character. Where local place checks have been carried out, Design and Access Statements will be expected to set out how proposals have regard to the key features or characteristics identified in these.

Recreation, Leisure and the District Park Catchments 6.135 Borough of Poole is in the process of reviewing its Leisure Strategy, and detailed auditing and needs assessment work is currently being undertaken jointly with Bournemouth Borough Council. Doing this jointly will help to ensure that cross-boundary issues are taken into account. The findings of these studies will shape how Poole caters for its population in terms of its recreational and leisure needs, having regard to demographic changes over the Plan period. The aim is to make more strategic and sustainable use of Poole’s principal recreational sites and facilities, whilst also making some provision at a more local level where there is identified need and a supportive catchment. Key priorities will thus include: l the improvement and enhancement of existing open spaces, with particular emphasis on key strategic sites which serve a large catchment, like Poole Park, as well as smaller district parks and open spaces which offer a good range of facilities; l major built recreation facilities such as sports halls and swimming pools, as these are in need of improvement and will serve the entire Borough; l securing on-site provision of smaller play areas and spaces where opportunities arise; l minimising recreational pressure on Heathland areas, and a Joint Heathland Mitigation Development Plan Document will address matters such as strategic green infrastructure to support this; and l ensuring public access to the harbour, via footpaths, slipways and boatyards, is promoted, but in a manner which does not have an adverse effect upon the integrity of Poole Harbour SPA.

Self-reliant and Safe Communities 6.136 The availability of services and facilities locally can help build communities and increase social inclusion. As planning authority, the Council can protect existing viable community facilities from redevelopment to alternative uses as well as require that new facilities are secured in new development, where there is a need.

Health Care

6.137 The Bournemouth and Poole Primary Care Trust has advised the Council that future population growth can be accommodated within existing and pipeline facilities, but there will be a need to diversify the role of local health centres and provide for some specialist care needs in the Borough. This will place more onus upon existing surgeries and health practices in that they could see the range of services, and the times of opening, increase over time. This would take some of the pressure off existing hospitals in that local surgeries could take on more of the minor hospital referrals. Local surgeries thus might need to expand or diversify over the Plan period.

Return to Contents 97 6.138 Hospitals and health care facilities in the conurbation serve a large population not only within the urban area but also across the region. With such a large catchment population, hospitals are able to offer a wide range of general and specialist care facilities. Over time other specialisms which have a regional (or even national) role will need to develop and the PCT has acknowledged that these will not necessarily be capable of being accommodated within existing hospitals. Finding suitable alternative sites will be key to this. Ideally, sites should be located in accessible places, such as the Town Centre or local centres. Other than these locations, isolated employment sites which are no longer suited to continued employment uses could offer an opportunity for health and care-related development (refer to PCS 4 ‘ISOLATED EMPLOYMENT SITES’).

6.139 Poole’s ageing population has implications for health care. Elderly people, particularly those living alone, who are admitted to hospital, may not be well enough to return home unassisted or where their homes are not sufficiently adapted to their living requirements. This means older vulnerable patients may have to remain in hospital for a considerable length of time, even after the primary treatment has finished. Poole Older People’s Strategy seeks to reduce these pressures and offer a better quality of life to older residents by promoting independent living for much longer, for instance through home support services, so that vulnerable older people in need of assisted care are able to stay in their own homes for longer, and can return home sooner from hospital. The Core Strategy supports this objective through its policies on care homes and lifetime homes standards (refer to PCS 7 ‘CARE HOMES’ and PCS 8 ‘LIFETIME HOMES’).

Schools for the Future

6.140 Schools are important focal points for communities and meet an essential local need. Poole has a complex school organisation structure which operates on the basis of first, middle and secondary schools. The Borough is intending to simplify this, and its Schools for the Future programme proposes to change to a primary/secondary two tier system over a phased period. The intention is that this will enable much better use of resources. This will have implications for existing schools in the Borough, both organisationally and in terms of physical needs. Some may need more space and others less. At this stage plans are insufficiently advanced to set out specific requirements. However, the emerging Site-specific Allocations Development Plan Document will be in a position to set out more detailed policies for those schools where some change in space requirements is envisaged.

The Regeneration Area and School Impacts

6.141 School rolls in the Town Centre and Hamworthy areas are likely to rise as a result of new housing growth in the Regeneration Area and wider Town Centre in the period to 2016 (xxxi). To date the Council has secured significant developer funding to help off-set the education needs generated by new development. This funding has contributed to the enlargement of Old Town First School and Nursery by one form of entry. The Council will continue to monitor likely impacts of the regeneration of the central area and continue to seek appropriate education funding from future central area development.

xxxi As predicted through the Borough of Poole Housing & Model for the Central Area & New Builds Survey, October 2007. Also see Annual Monitoring Report

98 Return to Contents Special Educational Needs

6.142 The Borough has undertaken a review of special educational needs provision which identified core principles to guide our local provision. The range of need will be met by a range of provision within mainstream schools, alongside mainstream schools through units on site and through special schools or through partnership between mainstream and special schools. The three special schools in the Borough are all in need of redevelopment and Longspee school needs to expand to accommodate more students with emotional, behavioural, and social difficulties. This school needs a new site to achieve this aim. Each special school will be an extended school providing a full range of services on site.

6.143 The spatial implications of this strategy are that we need to rebuild or refurbish all of our special schools as extended schools. In the case of Montecute school we will need to secure the co-location of Langside school (a non maintained school) as part of a partnership with Dorset Scope to improve the facilities for children with complex physical and mental needs. A key part of the range of support for special needs is the pupil referral unit (PRU) catering for children unable to attend their schools for behavioural reasons or illness. Currently the PRU has no permanent buildings. A site is required and this will need to be addressed through the Site-specific Allocations Development Plan Document.

Retention of Community Uses

6.144 The meeting of community needs locally can make an important contribution to our quality of life and, by improving levels of self sufficiency, can assist in reducing the need to travel. There are a number of uses which can perform a community function and the importance of a given facility will be determined in part by the availability of alternative choices for a particular community. In most cases, those residents who depend upon isolated or scarce facilities are likely to be acutely affected by their loss.

6.145 The Local Planning Authority will seek to retain sites currently or last used for community facilities, either through change of use or redevelopment, unless: the site is clearly unsuitable for the use in question; there is an alternative facility in the locality which could serve the needs of the community if the site is lost; replacement facilities are proposed; or there is no need for the use. For the purposes of PCS 25 ‘SELF-RELIANT COMMUNITIES’ the most common examples of community use include: l Corner / local shops; l Public houses; l Care homes; l Child nurseries; l Dental practices / doctor’s surgeries; l Health centres; l Community halls; l Places of worship; l Hospices; and l Nursery schools.

Return to Contents 99 PCS 25 - SELF-RELIANT COMMUNITIES

Development will not be permitted which would lead to the loss of premises used, or last used, for community purposes unless: i. the premises or their location are unsuitable for such uses; ii. adequate alternative accommodation is available locally; iii. replacement facilities are proposed; iv. there is no need for the use; or v. in the case of schools, the development would be necessary to enable the implementation of Poole Schools for the Future Review.

PCS 26 - DELIVERING LOCALLY DISTINCTIVE, SELF-RELIANT PLACES

The Council will work jointly with developers, businesses, residents, other public sector organisations and National and Regional agencies, to deliver places which offer high quality, locally distinctive environments that meet the varied needs of local communities. This will require all partners to ensure that their strategies, proposals and funding programmes contribute positively to the retention and creation of:

i. attractive, safe and accessible places; ii. prosperous and attractive local centres as hubs of community activity; iii. the provision of safe, convenient pedestrian and cyclist routes; iv. good quality, reliable public transport services; v. high-quality public open spaces and other recreation facilities which enable residents within the Borough and district park catchments to gain easy access to such facilities; vi. community facilities; and vii. high-quality, successful schools for all residents.

Safety and Resilience

6.146 The Local Development Framework can help to create safer and more resilient places. This includes issues such as helping to create places where crime, anti-social behaviour and and fear of crime are reduced, or by influencing the design of public spaces or road junctions. We can also help by seeking better safety measures in new buildings, such as fire prevention systems.

100 Return to Contents 6.147 The Council is involved with, and committed to, the Sustainable Communities Strategy. As part of this process, Borough of Poole is signed up to the Local Area Agreement for Poole, Closing the Gap. This includes an outcome which seeks to achieve ‘high levels of safety at home and in the community’. A sub-outcome of this is to ‘reduce accidental dwelling fires and resultant fire deaths and injuries’.

6.148 Dorset Fire and Rescue Service is looking to create ‘safe zones’ as a concept in which partnership working helps to create safer communities. The methodology upon which the Fire and Rescue Service bases its strategic assessment and corresponding Community safety plans is founded in the principles of an Integrated Risk Management Plan (IRMP). The three elements that support this approach is a combination of: l prevention, l protection and; l intervention.

6.149 The service has stated that: ‘We wish to see a ‘safe zone’ concept turn from ambition to reality. We see that a vision based over the next ten to twenty years will have the greatest long-term impact on making the places where we live and work, be safe and feel safe’ (Safe Communities: A Partnership in Planning for Safer Communities - Dorset Fire & Rescue Service, 2007).

6.150 Dorset Fire and Rescue Service sees sprinkler systems in new buildings as being crucial to community safety and notes that loss of life in residential properties is typically 85% less in homes with such systems installed. It is also noted that, in 1999, 97% of the serious fires in school premises were started deliberately, and losses in 2000 reached an all time high of £85 million (Safe Communities, 2007).

6.151 Dorset Fire and Rescue Service is seeking to be a key partner in managing local and potential risks through proportionate, targeted and evidence-based solutions for safe and sustainable community growth and sees its role as supporting the necessary negotiations with planners and prospective developers to highlight and include the gains that can be achieved in safety by design and to help influence innovative measures in design and build for safer communities. The installation of sprinklers in particular, used in targeted ways, can provide a positive outcome for communities.

Return to Contents 101 PCS 27 - SAFER COMMUNITIES

When considering development proposals, the Local Planning Authority will seek to secure positive measures designed to improve community safety. To achieve this:

i. development layouts, pedestrian environments and public spaces should be designed in a manner which maximises actual and perceived safety without resorting to ‘gated’ private residential developments. This will be achieved by: carefully arranging buildings, spaces and access points to maximise natural surveillance; making good use of natural and artificial light; and ensuring that the mix of uses and dwelling types contributes positively to the area;

ii. town and local centres should have a mix of uses which encourage participation from all sectors of our community and minimise anti-social behaviour or a fear of crime; and

iii. for larger development proposals, including those for schools and flat developments of 25 or more dwellings, sprinkler systems will be required to be fitted unless there are technical or viability reasons why it would not be practical to do so.

In preparing the Local Development Framework, the Council will liaise with the emergency services and Bournemouth and Poole Primary Care Trust to identify specific community safety issues which need to be addressed.

Areas where Change will be Carefully Managed

6.152 In Poole there are areas where change will be carefully managed. Poole has specific characteristics which to a large extent determine the extent and location of development in the borough. Of particular significance to the spatial strategy are internationally protected habitats and the South East Dorset Green Belt.

6.153 Wetland and heathland areas in and adjacent to south East Dorset contain internationally important habitats which are the subject of protection under European and national legislation. These are the Dorset Heathlands Special Protection Area, Dorset Heaths Special Area of Conservation, Dorset Heathlands Ramsar site, Poole Harbour SPA and Poole Harbour Ramsar site. In addition, the New Forest SPA, SAC and Ramsar designations are adjacent to South east Dorset. Unless specified otherwise, reference to the Dorset Heaths, Poole Harbour and New Forest will include the relevant international designations.

Heathland Habitats

6.154 Impacts upon heathlands can arise from cumulative pressures, principally from residential development, across the wider sub-region. More direct impacts to heathland increase substantially where residential development occurs within about 400 metres of designated sites. For this reason it will be important to resist residential intensification within 400 metres of heathland (where the residential development is likely to lead to greater pressures) and to put in place appropriate mitigation measures.

102 Return to Contents 6.155 The Interim Planning Framework (IPF), which will be subsequently replaced by a joint Heathlands DPD, makes strategic access management and green space provision across south- east Dorset to avoid adverse effects arising from additional residential development around the Dorset heaths. This will need to include the large-scale additional green space, in the area to the north-west of Poole conurbation, which will have good parking and a range of routes, in order to replicate, and therefore compete with, the attractiveness of the heaths for recreation. This site should be of a suitable size and design to attract people from the development location. At least 30ha will be necessary to provide a range of routes and accommodate a typical dogwalk of about 2.5km, and will be identified as a site allocation for additional green space. Provision will be made for improved warden cover of the designated heathlands and access management measures will be implemented through developer contributions. The Council will reassess all existing green spaces within the Borough in order to realise their full potential as alternative natural green spaces. This will inform the use of developer contributions to the IPF, and subsequent DPD.

PCS 28 - DORSET HEATHS INTERNATIONAL DESIGNATIONS

Development in Poole will not be permitted where it would be likely to lead to an adverse effect upon the integrity, directly or indirectly, of the Dorset Heaths International designations. To ensure these sites are not harmed: i. no development involving a net increase in dwellings will be permitted within a suitable buffer area around heathlands (normally 400 metres) unless, as an exception, the form of residential development would not have an adverse effect upon the sites’ integrity; ii. between 400 metres and 5 km, development will be expected to take all necessary steps on-site to avoid or mitigate any adverse effects upon the site’s integrity, or, where this cannot be achieved within the development, make provision for mitigation measures designed to avoid such adverse effects taking place. Measures will include: a. provision of open space and appropriate facilities to meet recreation needs and deflect pressure from heathland habitats; b. heathland support areas; c. wardening services and other heathland/harbour management; d. access and parking management measures; and e. green infrastructure. Borough of Poole will jointly prepare a heathland Mitigation Development Plan Document with affected neighbouring authorities to set out a long-term mitigation strategy to ensure that the growth planned for South East Dorset can be accommodated without having an adverse effect upon the integrity of the Dorset Heaths.

Poole Harbour Special Protection Area and Ramsar Site

6.156 The Regeneration Area, and wider developments in the vicinity of Holes Bay and the Harbour have the potential to adversely affect Poole Harbour Special Protection Area (SPA) and Ramsar site, which is specifically designated for its important bird assemblages and associated habitats. The Council recognises the importance of protecting and enhancing these important wildlife features, whilst ensuring the sustainable regeneration of the area around Holes Bay, for the benefit of local communities, visitors, and the local and regional economy.

Return to Contents 103 6.157 Development in the Regeneration Area has been the subject of a Habitat Regulations Assessment. It will be important to ensure that proposals have regard to this to ensure that access to the harbour, and impacts arising from new buildings, including their height, is carefully managed to avoid adverse impacts.

6.158 The Habitats Regulation Assessment of the Core Strategy has identified a need for a Poole Harbour SPA European Site Management Scheme (xxxii) which will cut across various bodies with responsibility for the Harbour. Due to the sensitivities of the harbour, it will be essential to advance this scheme on the basis of the recommendations contained in the HRA. This will include management issues, a construction protocol, conditions to be attached to planning consents and potential developer contributions. Such matters will be advanced through a combination of the Management Scheme, the Site-specific Allocations DPD and the Infrastructure DPD. The Poole Harbour Steering Group, which includes the Borough of Poole as a member, has produced the Poole Harbour Aquatic Management Plan, which incorporates the European Site Management Scheme(xxxiii).

6.159 Since the HRA of Poole Core Strategy was completed, subsequent work in neighbouring authorities, and in relation to the South West RSS, has highlighted particular concerns regarding the nutrient enrichment of Poole SPA/Ramsar site, leading to adverse effects upon site interest features. It is therefore anticipated that further increases in waste water discharges could further exacerbate this effect.

6.160 New development will need to ensure that it takes the necessary steps to avoid such impacts. This is likely to involve sustainable use and disposal of water and the use of sustainable drainage systems, in accordance with PCS32 and PCS35. Where it depends upon other measures such as improvements to existing water treatment and discharge facilities, development will be expected to demonstrate that such measures will be taken, as required by PCS34.

6.161 The Environment Agency is currently reviewing discharge consents with a view to understanding more fully the impacts of this upon the Harbour. In the meantime, the sewerage works is being fitted with a nitrogen stripping facility in response to the Waste Water Treatment Directive, which should assist in improving water quality. The Council will engage in discussions with the Environment Agency and water utility companies to consider what measures would enable further development to discharge to waste water treatment works in the area without exacerbating the problems in the Harbour. The Infrastructure Development Plan Document will set out how such measures are to be implemented in a timely fashion necessary to accommodate the levels of growth planned in the Core Strategy, including anticipated costs, key milestones, and responsibilities for action.

xxxii Core Strategy Habitats Regulations Assessment - Final Check of Submission Draft pp.10-13 (21 April 2008) xxxiii Poole Harbour Aquatic Management Plan (2006)

104 Return to Contents PCS 29 - POOLE HARBOUR SPA AND RAMSAR SITE

Development in Poole will not be permitted where it would be likely to lead to a direct or indirect adverse effect upon the integrity of Poole Harbour Special Protection Area and Ramsar sites. To ensure these sites are not harmed: i. the Council will determine applications for development within the Regeneration Area zones and wider Holes Bay area in accordance with the recommendations of the Habitats Regulations Assessment of the Regeneration Area Masterplan and Supplementary Planning Guidance, including the imposition of conditions on planning permissions controlling construction works where appropriate and the provision of other mitigation measures through section 106 planning obligations;

ii. development proposals will be required to contribute to the strategic provision of mitigation measures to reduce effects on the habitats and species by controlling and managing development and access including contributions to the implementation of the Poole Harbour SPA European Marine Site Management Scheme; and

iii. development will not be permitted for additional slipways and other infrastructure works that could result in a net increase in recreational activity to a level which would be likely to have a significant adverse effect on the Poole Harbour SPA / Ramsar site.

The Council will continue to work jointly with relevant partners to prepare and implement a management framework for Poole Harbour, which will include a Site Management Scheme.

Implementing the Mitigation Measures

6.162 A series of measures is needed to avoid adverse effects upon the integrity of internationally protected sites in Poole and beyond. The Council’s implementation plan will detail the responsibilities for, and delivery of, this mitigation within a timeframe that avoids adverse effects. The Council will monitor the implementation plan and review it annually.

The Green Belt

6.163 The South East Dorset Green belt plays a vital strategic role in containing the unplanned outward expansion of the conurbation and focusing attention upon the regeneration of previously developed land in the urban area. This has a particular significance to Poole because of the ambitious regeneration plans for the centre. The Examination in Public Panel Report for the Regional Spatial Strategy endorses the strategic role of the Green Belt and also acknowledges the importance of Poole’s centre in delivering sustainable new growth.

6.164 There are, however, areas of search identified in RSS for planned urban extensions. The Panel Report has endorsed these, and has added two additional areas (which had initially been considered as part of the sub-regional work but were not carried forward into the draft version of RSS) to the west of Poole and to the north of Bournemouth. These respectively are expected to accommodate 2,750 dwellings (the ‘Western Sector’) and 1,500 dwellings. Neither of these sites fall within Poole Borough. As a consequence, the Green Belt is a key part of the spatial strategy for Poole and the wider conurbation and, with the exception of the areas of search identified in RSS (as amended by the Panel Report), will continue to be retained.

Return to Contents 105 6.165 Poole Local Plan First Alteration (adopted in March 2004) identified two safeguarded areas of land which historically had been earmarked for a mix of housing and employment development (North Poole). These were dependent upon a then proposed trunk road scheme (the A31-Poole link) which would have defined the outer edge of the development sites. This scheme has since been dropped from the national Trunk Roads programme but the land had remained safeguarded in the Local Plan pending confirmation in the Structure Pan Review (or its replacement).

6.166 The Structure Plan Review never reached adoption, it being superseded by the Regional Spatial Strategy. The RSS has not identified the North Poole sites as an area of search for new development. However, this land offers the only significant contingency for employment development should the need for further employment land be identified. This land will remain as safeguarded land until such time as it can be clearly demonstrated that the employment requirements for the conurbation to 2026, as identified by the RSS, can be met without this land needing to be considered.

PCS 30 - POOLE’S GREEN BELT

Within Poole the South East Dorset Green Belt will continue to follow the existing built- up edge. No changes are proposed to the boundary from that shown in the Local Plan First Alteration, 2004. Land at North Poole will continue to be treated as safeguarded land until such time as it is determined that it would not be needed to help meet the employment land requirements of the RSS.

Preparing Poole for Climate Change

6.167 Climate change is a global challenge and it is the predicted speed of change which poses a degree of threat which requires all nations to act in a concerted way. Thinking globally, but acting locally, is a crucial part of confronting this challenge, although it is clear that this needs to be backed up by major national and international decisions.

6.168 In Poole’s case, the Core Strategy has a responsibility to set out a local framework for addressing climate change. This is a priority both for the Sustainable Community Strategy(xxxiv) and the Council’s corporate strategy (xxxv). It is important, however, to ensure that the approach we take is relevant to Poole’s circumstances so that the policies within the Core Strategy and wider Local Development Framework are given the chance to contribute in a meaningful way. There are two main strands of action which need to be taken:

l reducing carbon emissions so that our contribution to global warming is slowed down and, eventually, limited to levels which the planet can handle; and

l taking steps to adapt to, and mitigate for, the potential impact of climate change upon Poole, its residents, and the natural environment.

xxxiv Shaping Poole’s Future - the Sustainable Community Strategy for Poole 2006-2012 xxxv Striving for Excellence: Poole’s Corporate Strategy 2007

106 Return to Contents Implications of Climate Change for the Natural Environment

6.169 The Council will work with a range of partners to support adaptation of the natural environment to climate change, in order to minimise adverse effects on biodiversity in the Borough and wider region. The Council will be mindful of this in the consideration of development proposals, and will work with Natural England to develop and implement a climate change monitoring strategy to assess the impacts of recreational pressure on designated wildlife sites in light of changes to those sites and recreational behaviour as a result of climate change. As a consequence, our strategy for avoiding the impact of development upon habitats, principally through our approach to recreation, may need to be revisited over time. Where monitoring highlights changes that may result in adverse effects on the designated sites, the Council and partners will thus need to consider their recreational management strategies to prevent adverse effects on the integrity of designated sites. The emerging Heathlands Mitigation Joint Development Plan Document will deal with this issue in greater detail, while policies in the Core Strategy are designed to ensure that development and other strategies (including mitigation) take the necessary steps to identify risks and, subsequently, avoid or mitigate these.

Sustainable Homes

6.170 Domestic energy use is a significant contributor to greenhouse gases. In Poole an additional 10,000 new homes will be built over a period of 20 years. In addition, many existing homes will be the subject of modernisation works or extensions which may be the subject of building regulations or planning controls. Again, higher standards of energy efficiency can make a positive contribution to overall carbon reduction aspirations.

6.171 Building sustainably goes beyond the more obvious energy efficiency measures like better insulation. The use of sustainable construction practises and materials can make a significant difference, both by replacing energy-hungry materials with sustainable ones, and by reducing transportation distances where local sources are found. It is also important to achieve a high build and design quality as this increases the life of a dwelling (thereby reducing the need to replace it in future) and can assist in making it more adaptable to changing life circumstances.

6.172 The Code for Sustainable Homes is a set of sustainable design principles covering performance in nine key areas listed below: l Energy and CO2 Emissions l Water l Materials l Surface Water Run-off l Waste l Pollution l Heath and Wellbeing l Management l Ecology

Return to Contents 107 6.173 The Code has six levels, each with more stringent mandatory minimum requirements, up to Code Level 6 which is, in effect, a zero-carbon home. Building a Greener Future: Policy Statement (DCLG, July 2007) sets out proposed carbon improvements over time, to be achieved by increasing the Code for Sustainable Homes level to be required at various trigger dates.

The Code for Sustainable Homes1

Code Summary Minimum % Minimum Levels reduction in potable water dwelling emission consumption - rate (CO2 ) over litres/person/day target emission rate Level 1 above regulatory standards and a similar 10% 120 standard to BRE’s Ecohomes PASS level and the EST’s Good Practise Standard for energy efficiency Level 2 a similar standard to BRE’s EcoHomes 18% 120 GOOD level Level 3 a broadly similar standard to BRE’s 25% 105 EcoHomes VERY GOOD level and the EST’s Best Practice Standard for energy efficiency Level 4 Broadly set at current exemplary 44% 105 performance Level 5 Based on exemplary performance with high 100% 80 standards of energy and water efficiency Level 6 aspirational standard based on zero ‘Zero carbon 80 carbon emissions for the dwelling and home’ high performance across all environmental categories

1. Source: Code for Sustainable Homes - Technical Guide (Communities and Local Government, October 2007)

Renewable Energy Potential

6.174 Renewable energy technologies are constantly evolving and, over time, the relative costs will also start to reduce as advances are made. It is important, therefore, not to restrict future options for how renewable energy might be delivered. Nevertheless, current circumstances suggest that, in the short to medium-term, an urban authority such as Poole is better suited to certain technologies than others. In particular:

1. Combined heat and power (CHP) and combined cooling heat and power (CCHP) is an attractive option because a modest plant is able to serve a large number of dwellings and commercial uses in a relatively small geographical area. 2. Micro-renewable technologies, in particular solar water heating, ground and air-source heat pumps, photovoltaic cells, biomass boilers and small-scale (domestic) wind turbines. 3. Larger wind turbines in suitable locations, although in an urban area the potential from this source is limited.

108 Return to Contents 6.175 It will be important to support suitable proposals for renewable energy generation. This will favour certain technologies in an urban area over others. It will also be important to bear in mind potential implications upon natural habitats.

PCS 31 - SUSTAINABLE ENERGY - GENERAL

The Council will seek to promote the sustainable use and generation of energy through its procurement procedures, its role as land owner and Local Planning Authority, through policies and strategies it is responsible for, and through partnership work with other organisations. To support this objective: i. proposals for development will be permitted provided that: a. the orientation and design of the development minimises the need for artificial light, heating and cooling and maximises solar gain; b. the layout of the development maximises opportunities for use of common walls to limit winter heat loss; c. the best practicable option is taken for securing renewable energy generation, either through on-site provision or by linking with/contributing to available local off-site renewable energy sources;

ii. Proposals for renewable energy will be considered favourably on condition that: a. the technology is suitable for the location; b. they would not have an adverse impact upon the integrity of internationally protected habitats; and c. they would not cause harm to residential amenity by virtue of noise, vibration, overshadowing, flicker (associated with turbines), or other harmful emissions.

Micro-renewable technologies

6.176 Based upon current costs and practices, solar water heating is generally regarded to offer the most cost-effective and reliable source of renewable energy at a domestic level, and is relatively maintenance-free. Typically, about 25% of domestic energy consumption is used for heating water and can also be used with combination boilers for both space heating (about 45-60% of domestic energy consumption) and water. A 4m2 solar panel is capable of providing between 50% and 70% of domestic hot water needs year-round (excluding space heating). This would equate to about 12.5-17.5% of energy use in an average dwelling, with an installation cost of about £4,000 (xxxvi).

Deciding on a Feasible Target for Renewable Energy

Small sites

6.177 The above analysis would suggest that, even for individual dwellings, it would be feasible to achieve up to 17.5% of energy from renewable sources in a relatively straightforward manner. Bearing in mind that modern houses will also be built with higher energy efficiency which will reduce the total energy requirement, it is feasible that 20% could be achieved if solar water is also xxxvi Solar Water Heating Factsheet - 2007 (Dorset Energy Group).

Return to Contents 109 used to top up space heating (by pre-heating water used in the boiler), albeit at a cost of around £4,000. In itself, this is not likely to affect the viability of new homes or to deter developers from bringing sites forward. However, it could have cumulative implications when other costs (such as infrastructure and affordable housing) are taken into account.

6.178 Given the fact that new residential development will be required to meet a variety of community infrastructure needs, it would be reasonable to set different targets for different scales of development. Assuming that the emerging RSS requirement of 20% for developments of 10 or more dwellings is applied, a lower target of 10% for proposals involving 1-9 dwellings would go some way to promoting localised generation of renewable energy but at a cost which is unlikely to be prohibitive.

Larger sites

6.179 Larger housing schemes may be able to make cost-effective use of a wider array of technologies, such as small-scale biomass boilers, photovoltaics, turbines and ground-source heat pumps. The largest sites could also provide opportunities for combined heat and power. Access to CHP/CCHP, on the basis of current available technologies, is most likely to be able to make a significant difference to C02 emissions. Hence, where sites have access to this or other non-domestic renewable technologies (such as larger turbines), it will be feasible to attain a higher target.

PCS 32 - SUSTAINABLE HOMES

All new residential development (including conversions) will contribute to making Poole a more sustainable place to live in which carbon emissions are reduced and the adverse impacts of development on the planet’s resources are minimised. When considering proposals for residential development, the Local Planning Authority will require:

i. the use of on-site renewable sources or by linking with/contributing to available local off-site renewable energy sources to meet a minimum of 10% of predicted energy use for residential development proposals involving 1-9 dwellings, and 20% for 10 or more dwellings;

ii. sustainable drainage systems appropriate to the development to be incorporated into the proposal to conserve water, reduce the risk of pollutants entering ground water sources and minimise run-off through the use of permeable surfaces;

iii. every effort to be made to achieve a significant carbon reduction in all new development, at least matching the national targets set out in the Code for Sustainable Homes.

Reducing Emissions from Commercial Development

6.180 Offices, shops, leisure centres and business premises make up around 40% of UK carbon emissions. It is important, therefore, to address emission rates emanating from commercial development. In the longer term this is likely to confer financial advantages upon businesses as energy costs and tax regimes increasingly penalise the biggest emitters. The planning system can assist in helping to reduce carbon emissions and raise awareness by seeking better standards from new development.

110 Return to Contents 6.181 The Building Research Establishment has developed a rating system (BREEAM) for commercial buildings which considers a wide range of sustainability considerations. BREEAM assesses the performance of buildings in relation to: l management; l energy use; l health and well-being; l pollution; l transport; l land use; l ecology; l materials; and l water.

6.182 Credits are awarded in each area and a set of environmental weightings then enables the credits to be added together to produce a single overall score. The building is then rated on a scale of: l PASS * l GOOD ** l VERY GOOD *** l EXCELLENT ****

6.183 The BREEAM standards are not compulsory for private commercial development, although English Partnerships, for example, require a ‘Very Good’ or ‘Excellent’ rating for any project it is involved in. In considering planning applications for commercial schemes, the Local Planning Authority will expect smaller non-residential developments to achieve at least a BREEAM ‘very good’ rating. For larger schemes (in excess of 1,000 square metres net floorspace), there is potential to achieve the higher BREEAM ‘excellent’ rating. As with residential development, some sites might have potential to secure a greater supply of energy from on-site renewable sources. This would allow for a much better reduction in carbon dioxide emissions. In such cases, achieving a BREEAM ‘excellent’ rating would also be made easier as this would contribute to overall carbon reductions.

Return to Contents 111 PCS 33 - ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE OF COMMERCIAL BUILDINGS

When considering proposals for new commercial development, the Local Planning Authority will require improved levels of energy efficiency and other environmental performance improvements sufficient to achieve the following standards:

i. sustainable drainage systems appropriate to the development to be incorporated into the proposal to conserve water and reduce the risk of pollutants entering ground water sources;

ii. for developments up to 1,000 square metres (net) floorspace, at least a BREEAM ‘Very Good’ rating or equivalent standard and the use of on-site renewable sources or by linking with/contributing to available local off-site renewable energy sources to meet a minimum of 10% of predicted energy use;

iii. for developments in excess of 1,000 square metres (net) floorspace: a. a BREEAM ‘Excellent’ rating or equivalent standard; b. the use of on-site renewable energy sources or by linking with/contributing to available local off-site renewable energy sources to meet a minimum of 20% of predicted energy use.

Every effort should be made to achieve a significant carbon reduction in all new development, at least matching the national targets set out in the Building Regulations.

112 Return to Contents Flood Risk and Water Management

6.184 Poole’s Strategic Flood Risk Assessment Level 2 (February 2008) identifies the potential flood risk to the town, particularly to its most vulnerable areas near the Harbour that are also likely to be those subject to most change, like the Regeneration Area. Future flood defences will be required, some of which can be brought forward by new development, but also the SFRA helps to identify mitigation measures that can be employed in future building to enhance protection from flood events. Modelling work predicts sea level rise due to climate change to the years of 2086 and 2126, so that in planning for Poole, appropriately robust defences can be put in place. The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment Level 2 identified a need for the Borough of Poole to bring forward a flood risk management strategy for the town centre through an Infrastructure Development Plan Document, as identified within the Local Development Plan Scheme.

Stadium Poole Town Centre Area of Sequntial Test Application

B Boating Lake

Railway Line

Twin Sails Bridge Old Town

A Poole Bridge

Lower Hamworthy

This map is reproduced from the Ordnance Survey with the permission of Regeneration area Flood zone 3a Ordnance Survey on behalf of the Controller of Her Majesty’s Stationery Office Boundary for Application Flood zone 3b © Crown Copyright. Unauthorised reproduction infringes Crown Copyright & of Sequential Test may lead to prosecution or civil proceedings. 10024248.2009 Flood zone 2

Map 5 - Flood Study Boundary for Application of Sequential Test

6.185 Future development must have regard to flood risk, by way of locationally appropriate measures, like additional flood alleviation measures, including the use of natural flood sinks, which will protect people, properties and vulnerable habitats from flooding. It may also include engineered flood defences (like the raised quay at Poole Quay) in appropriate cases, mitigation measures secured through Flood Risk Assessments and planning permissions, and adaptations to the risk of flooding. Additional flood alleviation measures will be required north of Regeneration Area A (close to the railway station), South of Regeneration Area B (east of Poole Bridge) and East of Regeneration Area A (east of Poole Bridge) as referred to in the SFRA. New buildings should be flood resilient (for example non-habitable basements), and Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems shall be used to ensure appropriate and safe run-off of water occurs from new development.

Return to Contents 113 6.186 Sustainable acquisition, use and treatment of water are a fundamental part of sustainable development. Over-abstraction of water and inadequate water treatment can have serious consequences for the natural environment. Adequate water resources, water infrastructure and sewage treatment facilities will be a prerequisite of new development. This is particularly important in order to meet our duties to protect designated wildlife sites such as Poole Harbour SPA and Ramsar site, where water discharges should only occur where they will not adversely affect the pollution-sensitive features. Water infrastructure and the need to protect the natural environment will be considered further in the Infrastructure Development Plan Document.

PCS 34 - FLOOD RISK

Development in areas at risk from flooding will be required to carry out a detailed Flood Risk Assessment which identifies necessary adaptation and mitigation measures designed to avoid the risk of harm from flooding. Such measures will:

i. be designed in a manner which facilitates the movement of species within Poole Harbour SPA and Ramsar sites; and

ii. where necessary, incorporate suitable habitat recreation as part of the measures.

In locations where strategic flood defence or adaptation measures are necessary within the site itself, proposals will be required to demonstrate how such measures have been incorporated as an intrinsic part of the scheme in a manner which meets the requirements set out in PPS25 and is compatible with the comprehensive strategy for addressing flood risk as set out in the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment for Poole and in the emerging Infrastructure Development Plan Document. Developments adding additional pressure to existing water supply and treatment facilities to a level which exceeds capacity will be required to demonstrate that such facilities will be adequately upgraded prior to the completion and occupation of development, in order to prevent environmental harm and particularly to prevent adverse effects upon Poole Harbour SPA and Ramsar site arising from treated water discharges.

Energy and Resources Statements

6.187 The Core Strategy sets out targets in relation to energy, sustainable homes and flood risk. The expectation is that development will comply to the standards set out unless there are good reasons as to why this is not feasible. To set out how these standards are to be met, proposals for new residential or commercial development should be accompanied by an Energy and Resources Statement. This will set out an assessment of performance against the Code for Sustainable Homes (using the Government’s Standard Assessment Procedure for Energy Rating of Dwellings) or BREEAM Assessment procedure in the case of commercial development. Such statements may also be used to provide a justification as to why the standards sought are not achievable (for example in the case of conversion of a listed building into dwellings where the necessary measures would adversely affect the architectural or historic merit of the building).

114 Return to Contents 6.188 Energy and Resources Statements should deal with other sustainable construction matters, such as the materials used, how the development incorporates sustainable drainage systems (SUDS), and measures needed to mitigate against the risk of flooding where the proposal is in a flood risk area. The statement also needs to provide a schedule of how the development addresses the 16 Lifetime Homes standards.

PCS 35 - ENERGY AND RESOURCES STATEMENTS

Proposals for new development will be expected to be accompanied by an Energy and Resources Statement. This shall set out:

i. how the development meets the relevant code level in the Code for Sustainable Homes or, in the case of commercial development, the BREEAM standards;

ii. how the principles of sustainable drainage (SUDS) have been incorporated into the design;

iii. measures taken to mitigate against the risk of flooding in affected areas which do not adversely affect internationally protected habitats;

iv. an inventory of the 16 Lifetime Homes Standards and how these are incorporated into the development; and

v. within the Town Centre or other suitable locations, how such proposals intend to share the provision and use of renewable energy where the opportunity for doing so exists.

Return to Contents 115 7 Monitoring and Implementation

7.1 Delivery and monitoring of progress will be crucial to the success of the Core Strategy policies. For this reason a delivery framework, together with indicators and targets, are given for each of the eight strategic objectives. The purpose of this chapter is to provide some added explanation which pulls together the various policy strands and to set out comprehensive policies regarding joint working and the role of developer contributions in delivering community infrastructure. All of these components combined make up the Delivery, Implementation and Monitoring Plan for the Core Strategy.

Joint Working

7.2 The Core Strategy sets out a vision of how Poole is expected to change over the next 20 years. When considering delivery and implementation, it is important to recognise that the Core Strategy is a spatial document and not solely a land use plan. As such it seeks to express the aspirations of Poole’s Sustainable Communities Strategy, Shaping Poole’s Future, along with the Council’s own priorities and national/regional policies. Influencing and managing the development and use of land is a key delivery mechanism, but the Core Strategy will rely also upon a concerted effort on the part of various organisations, businesses, public sector bodies, developers and individuals in achieving the implementation of its policies.

Borough of Poole’s Role

7.3 The Core Strategy has a corporate role in achieving the Council’s land use aims. It is a tool by which the strategies of the Council may be implemented. The statutory functions and discretionary duties which have planning and land use implications will be carried out within the framework of the Plan and the budgets of Service Units will contribute to the funding of some proposals.

7.4 The Council as a Unitary Authority has a wide-ranging role in the Plan’s implementation, including its duties as a landowner, Strategic Planning Authority, Highway Authority, Education Authority, and provider of Social Services. It also has an important role to play as a key member of Poole Partnership, the local strategic partnership, which is responsible for preparing the Sustainable Communities Strategy. The Council also has a range of discretionary functions in relation to Economic Development, Local Agenda 21, Leisure and Recreation, Tourism, Parks and Open Spaces, Property and Museum Services which can each contribute to the implementation of the Core Strategy.

7.5 Development of land owned by the Council such as open space, school sites, community facilities and as housing and employment land, will be controlled by the Local Planning Authority in the same manner as land in private ownership. Hence, the Council has an opportunity to consider how its decisions on the future use of its sites can support the policies in the Local Development Framework. A number of proposals in the Core Strategy may also require the Council to act as a catalyst to bring about development and if necessary to assemble sites by compulsory purchase powers.

7.6 Funding through the Local Transport Plan will support the implementation of some of the proposals in the Core Strategy, including a second harbour crossing and traffic management along prime transport corridors. The priorities for funding are set out in the Local Transport Plan. Highway improvements such as junction improvements and urban traffic control are the Borough’s responsibility.

Return to Contents 117 7.7 Many of the aspirations set out in the Core Strategy will depend upon developers and private landowners to deliver. However, the Council, in its remit as the Local Planning Authority, has the ability to influence the type, amount and location of development which takes place. The planning policies in the Local Development Framework, including the Core Strategy, will be the principal considerations and so development will be expected to support the implementation of these policies.

7.8 Ensuring that development complies with the terms and conditions of planning consents is an important role of the Local Planning Authority. In some cases, this might require enforcement action to prevent an infringement or rectify a situation. There will also be a need to work closely with the Council’s Building Consultancy Services to check that the energy efficiency standards set out in planning permissions are being adhered to.

The Regional Spatial Strategy

7.9 The Core Strategy has to be in broad conformity with the regional planning policy framework. This is currently set out in the adopted Regional Spatial Strategy for the South West (RPG10), which covers a period up to 2016. It also needs to have regard to the emerging RSS which will replace RPG10 once adopted. It sets out proposed annual housing figures for Poole which will be needed to deliver the regional spatial strategy, as well as policies regarding economic growth and the broad location of development. It contains a section on the South East Dorset Sub-region. The emerging RSS covers the period 2006-2026.

Poole’s Role within the Sub-region

7.10 The South East of the region is focused upon the Bournemouth-Christchurch-Poole conurbation (the South East Dorset Conurbation). It is important, therefore, for each authority within the wider sub region to ensure its Local Development Framework is not treated in isolation. Cross-boundary issues, such as integrating the approach to traffic management, providing strategic recreation facilities, and bringing forward sufficient employment land to meet the needs of the sub-regional economy will need a certain degree of joint working and compatibility of strategies. Hence, our aspirations for Poole should also support a wider objective of creating a prosperous, attractive and sustainable sub-region.

7.11 The basis of a consistent approach across the sub-region is already enshrined in the sub- regional work which has informed the emerging Regional Spatial Strategy. This includes:

l the Local Transport Plan, which sets out a strategy for the entire sub-region;

l an interim heathland mitigation strategy, agreed jointly in January 2007 by the affected authorities, and to be replaced by a joint-heathlands development plan document;

l joint evidence gathering for cross-boundary matters such as housing market area and appropriate assessment work; and

l a commitment to other joint working initiatives, including the needs of Gypsies and travellers, a cross-conurbation parking strategy and a joint workspace strategy.

7.12 Poole is a growth Point and so it has a key part to play in the wider sub-region. The regeneration area in particular is one of the most significant regeneration schemes in the South West and will deliver many new homes as well as public quay frontages and a second lifting bridge. In addition, the potential for retail growth in Poole’s town centre will serve to increase the significance of the sub-region at the regional and national levels. Poole also has a major resource of employment areas which maintain a diverse mix of economic activity and serve the wider sub-

118 Return to Contents region. In terms of the environment, Poole Harbour, the Dorset Heathlands, beaches fronting Poole Bay, and the strategic open spaces of Poole Park, Whitecliff/Baiter and Upton Park give Poole a unique stature in the region and beyond.

South East Dorset Multi Modal Transport Study

7.13 The South East Dorset Multi Modal transport Study, commissioned by the Council and other partners, will be used to develop a transport model and updated transport strategy for the sub- region. During the life of the Core Strategy this will identify priority schemes which are required to deal with existing pressures upon the local and Strategic Highway Networks as well as new growth pressures. This will include a range of demand management measures, major infrastructure schemes and proposals aimed at securing a modal shift away from single occupancy car use to other more sustainable forms of transport. The SEDMMTS will inform the next Local Transport Plan and priorities identified in Poole’s emerging Infrastructure Development Plan Document.

7.14 It will be essential to monitor a range of indicators to ensure the effective delivery and prioritisation of the transport model’s schemes. Such matters will include commuting patterns, modal split of travel choices, overall levels of traffic, bus use levels and so on. Alongside this, the delivery of specific schemes identified in the model will also need to be monitored. The Council, in partnership with other Dorset authorities and the Highways Agency, will develop a series of suitable indicators and targets which will be used to monitor and inform delivery of the Local Transport Plan and Poole’s Infrastructure Development Plan Document.

The Core Strategy and Other Development Plan Documents

7.15 The Core Strategy sets out the framework for other development plan documents(DPDs) in the Local Development Framework. Consequently, its implementation will be assisted through more detailed documents. Chapter 1 (Introduction) sets out the DPDs which currently are in the Local Development Scheme (as at February 2009), together with a summary of their purpose. Appendix 1 identifies which policies of Poole Local Plan First Alteration (adopted in March 2004) are proposed for replacement in each of the DPDs, including the Core Strategy.

Shaping Poole’s Future: The Sustainable Communities Strategy

7.16 It is important to bear in mind that the Sustainable Communities Strategy is the responsibility of Poole Partnership (of which the Council is a member) and that it will contain aspirations which rely upon a wide array of public and private sector bodies. The Core Strategy is intended to be a spatial expression of the Sustainable Communities Strategy and for this reason, both have a shared vision, from which the Strategic Objectives and Spatial Strategy have evolved.

Closing the Gap - The Local Area Agreement for Poole

7.17 The Council, Poole Partnership and the Government have signed up to a Local Area Agreement (LAA) for Poole, Closing the Gap (April 2006), with the intention of further improving the services to local people in Poole. The LAA is effectively the action plan for the Sustainable Community Strategy (Shaping Poole’s Future). The period of the LAA runs from 1 April 2006 to 31 March 2009. The LAA has four main themes: l Healthier communities and older people; l Safer and stronger communities; l Children and young people; l Enterprise and economic development.

Return to Contents 119 7.18 The LAA sets out certain priorities, with indicators and targets for measuring outcomes. These include targeted Wards (Alderney, Hamworthy West and East and Old Town) within which a number of social inclusion objectives are identified, such as improving the outcomes for children and young people. The Core Strategy can assist in delivering the LAA, for instance by seeking to secure affordable housing, community facilities and economic growth, and through the effective use of developer contributions.

Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Multi-Area Agreement

7.19 The sub-regional partners and the Government are committed to jointly preparing a Multi Area Agreement (MAA) for Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole with the intention of ‘building a more competitive and sustainable economy in Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole’. Key partners include the Regional Development Agency, sub-regional business representatives and the University. The MAA is intended to be a delivery vehicle for Raising the Game, the economic development strategy for the sub-region and is due to be finalised in 2008. It will set out short, medium and longer-term objectives which tie in with and reflect Local Area Agreements, the Regional Economic Strategy and Regional Spatial Strategy. It will also contain a delivery plan which sets out the aims, activities, milestones, partners and actions for the following five strategic themes:

l Business Growth

l Skills

l Transport and Connectivity

l Housing

l Environment.

7.20 The MAA will be an important delivery vehicle for the economic policies set out in the Core Strategy and, equally, these policies will support the MAA objectives. This highlights the importance of joint working across sectors and organisations to increase the competitiveness and prosperity of the sub-region.

PCS 36 - JOINT WORKING

The Council will work with a variety of partners, including neighbouring local authorities, the Regional Planning Body, the Regional Development Agency, Poole Partnership, and the Government to assist in delivering a range of sub-regional priorities. Such priorities include:

i. delivering the sub-regional aspects of the Regional Spatial Strategy, including housing, employment and other priorities;

ii. an integrated approach to transport, traffic and parking management across the South East Dorset sub-region;

iii. managing direct and cumulative impacts upon Dorset Heathlands and Poole Harbour SPA/Ramsar sites through the preparation of a joint Heathland Mitigation Development Plan Document and other initiatives, having regard to those relating to the protection of European sites in the wider region such as the New Forest;

iv. raising the profile of Bournemouth and Poole town centres within the region;

v. securing access to funding for infrastructure and other priorities; and vi. addressing the needs of Gypsies and Travellers.

120 Return to Contents The Developer’s Role

7.21 Most of the proposals within the Core Strategy will be implemented by private investment through development. More detailed policies will be provided in other emerging development plan documents, principally Town Centre North Area Action Plan, and site-specific policies.

7.22 Some of the policies will require developers to incorporate new practices from the outset. Key examples of this are energy efficiency and renewable energy aspirations. The Core Strategy is seeking to secure much higher standards of energy efficiency and the incorporation of on-site renewable energy generation in new development. This will have implications for development costs and so it will be important for developers to take account of this at the earliest possible stage (i.e. before site purchase where the site is not in the developer’s ownership).

The Role of Financial Contributions in Delivering Community Infrastructure

7.23 New development can make a positive difference to the creation of sustainable and attractive places through the quality of the design and the nature of uses provided. It is also the case, however, that the addition of more homes, jobs and activities places added pressure upon the urban area. In consequence, there is a need to invest in existing infrastructure to cope with the additional demand. Schools, open spaces, and pedestrian/cycle links are examples of where the pressure of new demand can be felt. In a broader sense, new development has a responsibility to create better, more sustainable places. This will be achieved in part by locating development in the most sustainable places - with the highest densities close to public transport and local facilities - but the responsibility goes further than this. For instance, existing local centres need to be capable of attracting and serving new residents otherwise those residents will choose to travel further (often by car) to find suitable facilities. Investing in local centres thus has a relationship with new development and can assist in creating better, more sustainable, places. Equally, as we move towards a future where travel by car will need to be reduced, contributions from new development will have an important role to play in enhancing walking, cycling and public transport links.

7.24 The Council therefore will seek planning obligations from developers where they are required to enable development to take place in a proper manner. This will be required to ensure development contributes positively to Poole’s needs and results in a better urban environment. Contributions will be administered in a coordinated manner in order to deliver the guiding principles and priorities which are set out in PCS 37 ‘THE ROLE OF DEVELOPER CONTRIBUTIONS IN SHAPING PLACES’. Obligations will be sought from developers through Section 106 Legal Agreements.

Return to Contents 121 PCS 37 - THE ROLE OF DEVELOPER CONTRIBUTIONS IN SHAPING PLACES

New development should assist in creating sustainable communities. A framework for financial contributions from development will be set out in Delivering Poole’s Infrastructure Development Plan Document which will provide certainty to developers about what is expected from them in meeting the needs of their developments and, in turn, helping to shape a better future for Poole residents. Such obligations will adhere to the following principles:

i. making better places: delivering high quality buildings, places and spaces will require investment in a variety of physical enhancements including paving, street furniture, lighting, public spaces and public art, mainly in local centres and other focal points of community life which are capable of serving the development;

ii. promoting active communities: this will involve the provision of necessary community facilities and infrastructure, including affordable housing, recreation facilities, schools, health care and community centres;

iii. providing safe, convenient access for all: priorities will be sustainable travel measures such as bus priority, cycle lanes, better pedestrian facilities which improve safety or access to local facilities, steps to reduce community severance and improve the opportunity of people with disabilities or impaired mobility to play a full and active part in the community;

iv. impact minimisation: measures needed to avoid or mitigate a potentially adverse impact. Measures will include flood risk alleviation, heathland and other habitat impact mitigation, provision of essential transport infrastructure, and traffic impact mitigation on prime transport corridors (including managing traffic growth impacts in accordance with priorities arising from the South East Dorset Multi Modal Transport Study, and measures to minimise noise, air pollution and traffic hazards).

Priority locations for the use of developer contributions in delivering principles i-iv will be: a. Town Centre North

b. The Regeneration Area

c. The east-west corridor and other prime transport corridors

d. Areas of highest flood risk, principally in the Regeneration Area

e. All local centres, but in particular:

l those along the A35 east-west corridor - Ashley Cross, Ashley Road, Bournemouth Road, Poole Road and Parkstone Road/Civic Centre;

l local centres identified in most need of investment and improvement – Hamworthy, Creekmoor, Canford Heath and Wallisdown

f. the Natura 2000 habitats of Dorset Heathlands and Poole Harbour SPA and Ramsar sites; g. Poole’s District Parks and strategic recreation facilities

h. Local Area Agreement Priority Areas of Hamworthy, parts of the Town Centre, and Alderney.

122 Return to Contents Implementing and Monitoring the Core Strategy

7.25 The following section sets out the delivery framework for each of the eight strategic objectives. This includes: l a Delivery Framework table, setting out the key outcomes sought in those Core Policies (in Chapter 6) which are most relevant to the particular strategic objective, and identifying how these will be delivered and by whom; l a Monitoring table, setting out indicators of achievement and targets, with appropriate milestones during the Core Strategy period.

Return to Contents 123 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 1: TO TRANSFORM AND REVITALISE THE TOWN CENTRE OF POOLE Table 7.1a: Delivery Framework for SO1

Key Outcomes sought in Core Who is Policies (refer to Revitalising How will these be delivered? responsible for theTown Centre) delivery? Regeneration Area Access and Public Realm LTP/DfT part funding for bridge Borough of (£14.1M) Poole; SWRDA; l Core highway scheme and other links Potential Regional Funding Allocation LTP funding/Dft; Landowners & l Gyratory and traffic Gap funding: Regional Infrastructure private sector management measures Fund (£9M) investment; Wilts l Parking Public / Private sector partnership & Dorset Bus l Landscaping & streetscape Developer funding Company works Investment opportunities on primarily l Slipway provision for small privately owned land/buildings boats Developer contributions (via Poole l 10 year subsidy for enhanced Bridge Regeneration Initiative: Planning town centre bus service Obligations SPG - adopted Dec 2004) Affordable housing Public / Private sector partnership Private sector; Borough of Poole l At least 1,400 affordable units Developer funding (via planning l Specified mix of tenure and Investment opportunities on primarily & housing dwelling size privately owned land/buildings responsibilities); l On-site provision preferred Housing Corporation; Housing Associations Education Developer contributions (via Poole Primarily the

l Additional accommodation Bridge Regeneration Initiative: private sector; at Old Town First School, Planning Obligations SPG - adopted Borough of Poole Oakdale Middle School and Dec 2004); Carter Community School Council’s Schools for the Future

l New First and Middle School programme capacity in the Hamworthy Peninsula Leisure/recreation On-site provision of some facilities Primarily the Developer contributions for off-site private sector; l Requirements based upon provision and enhancement Borough of Poole the established Local Plan obligations policy framework

124 Return to Contents Community facilities Public / Private sector partnership Private Sector; Borough l Community learning centre, Developer funding of Poole; with library, ICT and meeting Investment opportunities on primarily Bournemouth & area privately owned land/buildings Poole PCT; Poole l Health provision Developer contributions (via Poole Rowing Club; l Relocation of the Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative: Planning Poole Sea Scouts Rowing Club and Poole Sea Obligations SPG - adopted Dec 2004) Scouts l Wider access to the water Town Centre North Improved bus terminus Public / Private sector partnership. Borough of Developer & public funding. Poole, Wilts & Dorset Bus Company, private developers, land owners and lease holders, SW RDA Better pedestrian links and Public / Private sector partnership. Borough of public realm Developer & public funding. Poole, private developers, land owners and lease holders, SW RDA High Street (south of North Street) On-going improvements to the Introduction of creative industries, Primarily the vitality of the High Street which independent retailers, Cafe uses Private Sector; links the Quay and the Town and improvements to public realm Borough of Poole Centre North Area – to be secured through: investment opportunities on primarily privately owned land/buildings; and developer contributions

Return to Contents 125 Table 7.1b: Indicators, Targets and Milestones for SO1

Indicators of Targets Achievement

Number of new homes Major Sites built in Town Centre 279 net completions on major sites at April 2007 537 net completions on major sites at April 2008 At least 850 net dwellings completed on major sites by April 2011 (of which at least 297 to be affordable) At least 1,650 net dwellings completed on major sites by April 2012 (of which at least 577 to be affordable) At least 3,000 net dwellings completed on major sites by April 2014 (of which at least 1,050 to be affordable) At least 3,700 net dwellings completed on major sites by April 2016 (of which at least 1,295 to be affordable) Other Sites Ongoing redevelopment of existing sites within the Town Centre up to 2026. At least 4,000 net dwellings completed by 2026 (of which at least 1,400 to be affordable) New business Major Sites floorspace built in About 19,000 sq m granted permission (Former Dalgety and Goods Town Centre Yard sites) at April 2008 At least 21,000 sq m completed by April 2011 At least 28,200 sq m completed by April 2012 At least 42,600 sq m completed by April 2014 At least 55,000 sq m completed by April 2016 Other Sites Ongoing redevelopment and intensification within the Town Centre up to 2026 New retail floorspace At least 7,000 sq m completed by April 2012 built in Town At least 21,000 sq m completed by April 2014 Centre (excluding Regeneration Area) At least 35,000 sq m completed by April 2016 Continued monitoring and review of retail needs pre and post 2016 up to 2026 New retail floor space At least 1,300 sq m completed by April 2011 built in town centre At least 3,100 sq m completed by April 2012 (Regeneration Area only) At least 7,000 sq m completed by April 2014 At least 9,150 sq m completed by April 2016 Continued monitoring and review of retail needs pre and post 2016 up to 2026. Appropriate development with regard to Poole’s retail hierarchy.

126 Return to Contents Net additional jobs Jobs growth on major sites: created in the Town About 850 by April 2011 Centre About 2,150 by April 2012 About 4,500 by April 2014 About 7,000 by April 2016 Jobs growth on other sites: Ongoing jobs growth within the Town Centre pre and post 2016 up to 2026 New school places in First School places: up to 115 additional places per year up to Town Centre 2013/14 Middle School places: up to 138 additional places per year up to 2017/2018 Secondary School places: up to 143 additional places up to 2021/2022 Provision of other Secured through delivery of Regeneration Area sites community facilities New library in Hamworthy: commencement in 2009; completion in 2010 New accommodation for rowing club and sea scouts – by 2016 Modal share of trips Year-on-year increase in bus passengers visiting the town centre to/from town centre Regeneration Area: Construction of bridge to start in 2010; completion in 2011 delivery of new bridge Gyratory system and traffic management scheme to be completed and core highway by 2016 scheme, public realm/ access and improved Public realm improvements – completed 2016 Town Centre bus 10-year developer-funded bus subsidy to start in 2010 – annual service commitment until 2020 Provision of One completed; 2nd slipway in place by 2012 replacement slipways Resident satisfaction Progressive improvements on following baseline figures (Feb 2008): with Poole’s centre New home satisfaction level: 53% very satisfied; 37% fairly satisfied (based on New Builds Survey - to be carried Local area satisfaction level: 43% very satisfied; 43% fairly satisfied out every 3 years) Engagement in arts Year on year increases in total ticket issues as measured by the - patronage levels and Lighthouse. age profile Town Centre health Vacancy levels not to exceed 5% of all stock in Poole town centre checks - % of vacant year on year. units, number of Proportion of independent to franchised stores to remain constant independent outlets or increase on year on year basis. Source for both: Annual town centre health check. Retail yield 5.5% by 2016 (currently 7.00%) Design quality and Progressive improvement in design quality and levels of accessibility for all accessibility for all (biennial audit in consultation/ partnership with LSP)

Return to Contents 127 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 2: TO MEET POOLE’S HOUSING NEEDS AND PROVIDE THE RIGHT HOMES IN THE RIGHT PLACES

Table 7.2a: Delivery Framework for SO2

Key Outcomes sought in Core Who is Policies (refer to Meeting How will these be delivered? responsible for Poole’s Housing Needs) delivery? Direct highest densities to most Investment opportunities on primarily Primarily the accessible locations privately owned land/buildings, principally private sector in Town Centre and at key locations along A35 east-west corridor Secure appropriate mix of Investment opportunities primarily Private Sector; housing types, sizes and on privately owned land to provide Housing tenures bulk of need for 1- and 2-bed market Associations; housing as well as larger units; Borough of Poole Housing Association developments to provide mix of housing type and sizes; retention of existing family housing in appropriate cases Secure 3,500 new affordable New housing development to provide Private sector, homes a proportion of affordable units or Housing contribute towards off-site provision Corporation and Borough of Poole Provide between 500 and 700 Investment opportunities on primarily Primarily the additional care home bed privately owned land/buildings. private sector spaces Between 100-300 on former Power Station site An annual increase in the Investment opportunities on primarily Primarily the proportion of all dwellings privately owned land/buildings. private sector, but achieving Lifetime Homes also the Housing standards Corporation and Housing Associations Meeting the needs of Gypsies Refurbishment of existing Gypsy site in Borough and Travellers Mannings Heath of Poole, Bournemouth Borough Council

128 Return to Contents Table 7.2b: Indicators, Targets and Milestones for SO2

Indicators of Targets Achievement Total number of all 666 net housing completions at April 2007 homes (net) 619 net housing completions at April 2008 Town Centre (for details see Strategic Objective 1) At least 3,700 homes by 2016 (of which at least 1,295 should be affordable); At least 4,000 by 2026 (of which at least 1,400 should be affordable) Rest of the Borough - cumulative completions – At least 2,100 completions by April 2011 (minimum 735 affordable) At least 2,700 completions by April 2012 (minimum 945 affordable) At least 3,500 completions by April 2014 (minimum 1,225 affordable) At least 3,900 completions by April 2016 (minimum 1,365 affordable) At least 4,300 completions by April 2021 (minimum 1,505 affordable) At least 4,700 completions by April 2026 (minimum 1,645 affordable) Note: figures are minima based upon housing trajectory Total number of 3,500 dwellings (2,450 by 2016; additional 1,050 dwellings by 2026) affordable homes (net) % of new dwellings Year-on-year increase in the proportion of all new dwellings, to be achieving Lifetime monitored annually Homes standards Number of fixed and 15 fixed pitches at Mannings Heath by 2010 transit Gypsy and Transit pitches – implementation to be determined pending adoption Traveller pitches of RSS. Net change in care Average net gain in bed spaces of 25 per annum to 2025 home bed spaces (Target of 300 minimum net additional bed spaces by 2016) No net loss of care home bed spaces (annual measure) Number of elderly 75 per annum reduction in bed blocking in hospitals patients staying in hospital due to unsuitable alternative housing Mix of new dwellings Annual monitoring of residential completions. Review of delivery of mixed communities both in terms of household size delivered and location of delivery. Indicative mix: Market housing: 1 bedroom: 25%; 2 bedroom - 54%; 3 bedroom - 10%; 4 bedroom - 11% Affordable housing: 1 bedroom: 14%; 2 bedroom - 56%; 3 bedroom - 17%; 4 bedroom - 13% Affordable housing by 70% social rented; 30% intermediate (monitored annually) tenure

Return to Contents 129 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 3: TO NURTURE ECONOMIC PROSPERITY

Table 7.3a: Delivery Framework for SO3

Key Outcomes sought in Core Who is Policies (refer to Realising How will these be delivered? responsible for Poole’s Economic Potential) delivery? Minimum 13,700 additional Regeneration of Town Centre for a Borough of Poole; jobs in Poole mix of employment sectors; new landowners/ investment in existing employment developers; areas SWRA, GOSW & DCLG (regional infrastructure funding) Regeneration Area: 36,000 sq Investment opportunities on primarily Landowners/ m of business floorspace privately owned land/buildings developers, Development-enabling public Borough of Poole, investment in bridge infrastructure (part SWRDA, GOSW/ only) DCLG Town Centre North: 35,000 sq Public / Private sector partnership. Borough of Poole, m of retail & leisure space in Developer & public funding. Wilts & Dorset Bus Town Centre North Company, private developers, landowners & leaseholders, SW RDA Town Centre general: Investment opportunities on primarily Primarily the retention/ provision of major privately owned land/buildings private sector office developments Existing Employment Areas Investment opportunities on primarily Primarily the and Poole Port: secure new privately owned land/buildings private sector; investment and efficient use Poole Harbour of sites for uses which require Commissioners such locations (for the port) Sopers Lane: health sector Investment opportunities on primarily Primarily the employment specialisms privately owned land/buildings private sector in partnership with Borough of Poole, Bournemouth & Poole PCT, Wilts & Dorset Bus Company, SWRDA Fleets Corner: marine/ Investment opportunities on primarily Primarily the advanced engineering privately owned land/buildings private sector specialisms inpartnership with Borough of Poole, the marine sector, Wilts & Dorset Bus Company, SWRDA

130 Return to Contents Table 7.3b: Indicators, Targets and Milestones for SO3

Indicators of Targets Achievement Population aged 19-64 35.1% of population of Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole by Q4 of qualified to at least 2011 delivery mechanisms to be set out in delivery framework) level 4 or higher (Base date: 2006 - 29.6%) Retention of deep 100% retention water frontages within Port area for uses which require it Provision of a second Construction to start by 2010; completion by end of 2011 harbour crossing Amount of employment Refer to SO1 for jobs / floorspace targets for the Town Centre development delivered Annual average of 1.5 ha of employment land to be developed (29.74 ha over the plan period) Minimum number of Services (excluding public administration, education and health) net additional jobs and tourism-related jobs: delivered l 7,000 additional jobs by 2016 (average 700 per annum 2006- 2016)

Services (public administration, education and health only):

l 160 jobs per annum average 2006-2016

l 85 jobs per annum average 2017-2026

Manufacturing/ other services (including distribution, hotels, finance, IT, other businesses):

l 220 jobs per annum average over the plan period Monitoring of delivery will be based upon Nomis official labour market statistics - annual breakdown by employment sector

Return to Contents 131 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 4: TO PROMOTE SAFE, SUSTAINABLE AND CONVENIENT ACCESS

Table 7.4a: Delivery Framework for SO4

Key Outcomes sought in Core Who is Policies (refer to Accessibility & How will these be delivered? responsible for the Prime Transport Corridor) delivery? Highest densities in most Development opportunities in Town Private accessible locations Centre and other local centres; LTP/DfT developers; funding to support provision of Twin Borough of Poole; Sails Bridge and enable development DfT/LTP in Lower Hamworthy; private sector investment opportunities Improved public transport Prioritisation of LTP funding within Borough of Poole; efficiency and reliability highway land; developer contributions LTP; private developers Supporting modal shift to Prioritisation of LTP funding within Borough of public transport, walking and highway land; developer contributions; Poole; private cycling travel plans; cross- conurbation parking developers; LTP strategy; developer contributions partners Environmental enhancements Prioritisation of LTP funding towards LTP partners; at key locations such as local sustainable communities agenda; Borough of Poole; centres, main junctions and development opportunities; developer private developers public spaces contributions Promoting improved links Trunk Roads funding; Regional Borough of Poole; between Poole and the A31 Funding Allocation; joint working with private developers; regional partners; Twin Sails lifting LTP funding; bridge and associated infrastructure DfT/Highways Agency (Trunk Road funding; GOSW, SWRDA and Regional Assembly (Regional Funding Allocation)

132 Return to Contents Table 7.4b: Significant Transport Proposals for Poole 2006-2026

Scheme name Start- Main outcomes/ Economic benefits Total cost/funding end journeys per day /development Description years benefit released RFA/STATUS Poole regeneration- 2009-11 Major reduction in 2000+ dwellings, £36m (£14m Dft, Core Scheme. New congestion, reliable 35,000sqm £7m Poole, £6m harbour crossing Port access and commercial at from developer incorporating Twin reliable bus services. Lower Hamworthy contributions, £9m Sails lifting bridge & 40,000 and West Quay. RIF loan) Intelligent Transport RFA1 APPROVED Systems Port of Poole, 2005-6 Allows port to Loss of ferry £3m Poole dredging main continue operation of business would Commissioners channel to 7m cross-channel ferries. cause significant draught. job losses. New rail service 2007 Poole-Weymouth Supports Funded through pattern with SW Trains service doubled to 2 more intense rail franchising new franchise trains/hour. Improved development process cross-conurbation around rail stations. service. 10,000 Poole Regeneration 2009-17 Additional benefits as As Core Scheme £38m (13m Area –remainder of Core Scheme above Dft, £22m site network, including 40,000 developers, £3m new pedestrian SEDCIL) quaysides and traffic calming Bus Showcase 2010-15 Major improvement Approx 500 £40m (£22m Dft, Corridors. Bus and in bus services, dwellings Talbot £15m SEDCIL, traffic management reduced congestion, Village £3m) Improvements two P&R sites. RFA1 in Winton and 35,000 Winton/ Wallisdown Prime Kinson Transport Corridors 35,000 Wallisdown Port of Poole, South 2012/13 Deeper berths, more Allows expansion £7m, Poole Quay back-up land. of conventional Harbour cargo business, Commissioners and development cruise market. SE Dorset Bus 2002-10 Quality partnership Parley Approx 900 passenger initiative with bus dwellings. improvement package operators 20ha of -raised kerbs, real employment land at time information at Airport bus stops -bus priority at signal junctions -new low floor buses 65,000

Return to Contents 133 Scheme name Start- Main outcomes/ Economic benefits Total cost/funding Description end journeys per day /development years benefit released RFA/STATUS Poole-Bournemouth 2003- Major improvement Supports £5m Poole, Prime Transport 2011 in bus services, more intensive LTP funds plus Corridor Bus and reduced congestion. development developer traffic management More space/time around key centres contributions improvements. at junctions for corridor. pedestrians and cyclists. 45,000 A31 Merley-Ameysford After Reduced congestion, 3,000 dwellings in HA cost update dualling incl. Canford 2016 reliable journey times urban extensions. awaited Bottom grade for freight journeys. Approx 40ha £103m (£82m Dft, separation. Possible 45,000 employment sites £21m SEDCIL) A349 Merley by pass may be included. Interim improvement 2011 Reduced congestion, Interim scheme HA are costing at Canford Bottom reliable journey times may enable the options junction for freight journeys. release of some employment sites Poole-Wool rail 2011-12 Replaces life-expired Assists £34m, Network resignalling signalling equipment. redevelopment of Rail Additional line Poole Goods yard capacity at Poole. site (Also allows reconnection of Swanage to the national rail network)

Notes:

SEDCIL is the SE Dorset Community Infrastructure Levy (Transport) which will evolve from existing contributions schemes, and should be introduced by April 2008.

DfT: Department for Transport

RSS: Regional Spatial Strategy

HA: Highways Agency

PTC: Prime Transport Corridor

134 Return to Contents Table 7.4c: Indicators, Targets and Milestones for SO4

Indicators of Targets Achievement Modal split - walking Year-on-year increase in non-car modes / cycling / public transport / car Total local bus Year-on-year increase: 2% pa (to be reviewed in LTP) passenger journeys Provision of bus 5 new bus shelters per annum (2008-2013) passenger waiting facilities Number of travel 100% plans as a proportion of major planning applications Hospital referrals for Year-on-year reductions asthma Air quality Vehicle emissions not to exceed 40 ug/m3 of nitrogen dioxide

(NO2) - monitored annually. More specific local targets for air quality will be considered in the review of the LTP. Location of new Accessibility hierarchy (highest first): dwellings in places l Town Centre (PCS 6, criteria ia & ib): 40%: with good access to l at least 400 pa average 2006-2016; public transport and local facilities (criterion l High accessibility locations outside of Town Centre (PCS 5 i (b- i (a-d) locations in PCS d)): 35: 5) l at least 175 pa average 2006-2026; l Other urban locations that offer appropriate levels of modal choice (PCS 5, ii & iii): 25%: l at least 125 pa average 2006-2026

Return to Contents 135 STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 5: TO PROVIDE BETTER LIFE OPPORTUNITIES AND IMPROVED QUALITY OF LIFE FOR ALL

Table 7.5a: Delivery Framework for SO5

Key Outcomes sought in Core Policies (refer to Priority Who is responsible for How will these be delivered? Areas in Need of Investment delivery? & Improvement) Supporting LAA outcomes (including those for the target areas of Hamworthy East & West, Poole Old Town & Alderney) Schools, community centres, Schools for the Future review; Borough of Poole medical facilities, provision of Health sector restructuring; (principally through new community infrastructure private investment opportunities; education, highways partnership working with public, and planning); private private and community sectors developers/landowners; Bournemouth & Poole PCT; community & voluntary sectors Employment opportunities Investment opportunities Borough of Poole (through which benefit LAA target in Town Centre, including its role as Planning authority areas new retail/ leisure jobs and enabling via partnership new business floorspace in work); LTP funding including Lower Hamworthy; promoting £14m towards bridge new investment in existing infrastructure; Regional employment areas Infrastructure Fund towards bridge (£9m); private investment opportunities; links with university and schools to improve training & skills development New development to support Through private investment Borough of Poole (including the creation of safe, healthy, opportunities; partnership partnership working with inclusive, accessible and working; developer Bournemouth Borough attractive places contributions Council on cross-boundary issues); private developers; community & voluntary sector

136 Return to Contents Key Outcomes sought in How will these be delivered? Who is responsible for Core Policies (refer to Priority delivery? Areas in Need of Investment & Improvement) ‘Priority’ Local Centres Highway schemes which Transportation schemes; LTP Borough of Poole; LTP support better pedestrian & funding partners cyclist links Public realm improvements Transportation schemes; LTP Borough of Poole; LTP and reduced community funding; consultation with partners; local traders; severance traders’ associations in local private developers centres; private developers & investment opportunities; developer contributions Mixed development - shops, Private investment opportunities Private developers residential, community use Bus prioritisation, servicing Transportation schemes; LTP Borough of Poole; LTP and general accessibility funding partners; Wilts & Dorset Bus company

Return to Contents 137 Table 7.5b: Indicators, Targets and Milestones for SO5

Indicators of Targets Achievement Number of Reduce number of 16-18 year olds not in education, employment people aged 16- or training to 4.3% by 2010 and 4% by 2011 (100% of 16-18 year 18 in education, olds to be in education or training by 2013 in line with national employment or training requirements) Reduce rate of fixed term school exclusions in LAA target wards (monitor annually) Improve health Halt the year-on-year increase in obesity in children aged 11 by outcomes in 2010 neighbourhoods 100% of secondary schools accredited as Healthy Schools by 2010 where there are more disadvantages Population aged 19-64 35.1% of population of Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole by Q4 of 2011 qualified to at least level (delivery mechanisms to be set out in delivery framework) 4 or higher (Base date: 2006 - 29.6%) Residents’ satisfaction Increase in proportion for each survey with Poole & quality of local services (Poole Opinion Panel and MORI surveys Recreation participation To be determined in Community Infrastructure and Site Specific levels by age groups Allocations DPDs Improved provision Target for expenditure on providing new and enhanced open space of open space & and recreation facilities (including improved access to facilities): at recreation facilities in least £500,000 per annum average Poole Income levels relative Average incomes to exceed SW average and match GB average to GB and SW - trends to be monitored annually averages Location of new Accessibility hierarchy (highest first): dwellings in places l Town Centre (PCS 5, criteria ia & ib): 40%: with good access to l at least 400 pa average 2006-2016; public transport and local facilities (criterion l High accessibility locations outside of Town Centre (PCS 5 i (b- i (a-d) locations in d)): 35%: PCS5) l at least 175 pa average 2006-2026; l Other urban locations that offer appropriate levels of modal choice (PCS 5, ii & iii): 25%: l at least 125 pa average 2006-2026 Net additional care Average net gain in bed spaces of 25 per annum (Target of 300 home bed spaces minimum net additional bed spaces by 2016) No net loss of care provided home bed spaces (annual measure) Infrastructure Infrastructure DPD – submission end 2009; adoption 2010 Qualitative funding to support assessment will be carried out via Poole Opinion Panel, with review enhancement of every 2 years Health check of local centres to show on-going quality, vitality and improvements (annual survey) function of local centres

138 Return to Contents STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 6: TO DELIVER HIGH QUALITY, DISTINCTIVE AND SELF-RELIANT PLACES

Table 7.6a: Delivery Framework for SO6

Key Outcomes sought in Who is Core Policies (refer to Locally How will these be delivered? responsible for Distinctive and Self-reliant delivery? Places) All new development Preparation of a Townscape Borough of contributes positively to local Supplementary Planning Document; Poole (through distinctiveness Site-specific Allocations DPD policies; its varied role as design panel to be set up to review Local Authority progress (with Poole Partnership); and land owner); Town Centre investment; private private landowners investment opportunities; developer and developers; contributions; Poole Partnership (Building Sustainable Communities Sub- group) People have access to local Preventing loss / securing replacement Borough of Poole; services and facilities of community facilities, and directing private landowners new development to most accessible and developers; locations (through planning powers); partnership private investment. To be measured working through annual accessibility mapping Development and Partnership working to ensure Poole Partnership infrastructure provision helps objectives are shared by all sectors members; to make communities safer (through use of Poole Partnership Borough of Poole; and Community Infrastructure DPD); SWRDA; Regional developer contributions; LTP & Assembly; private Regional Funding Allocation developers; LTP partners

Return to Contents 139 Table 7.6b: Indicators, Targets and Milestones for SO6

Indicators of Achievement Targets

Local centre health check Rankings for all local centres not to decrease on year on year scoring (index and ranking basis. Targets for 2016 as follows: of quality and range of Hamworthy (To score overall ranking of 5 or more) uses) - including proportion Canford Heath, Creekmoor and Wallisdown to improve ‘Public of vacant units (as 6). Realm’ ranking to A or B Methodology for health check of 17 local centres is set out in Local Centres Background Paper, 2007. Residents’ satisfaction Year on year improvements in satisfaction levels surveys (MORI & Poole Opinion Panel) Environmental enhancement Public water front (regeneration area): complete by 2016; schemes New public space between Dolphin Centre & Lighthouse: complete by 2016; Priority Local Centres: schemes drawn up by 2010 Developer contributions To be determined in Infrastructure DPD - expenditure on improvements to public realm, accessibility and tackling community severance That new development Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans: preserves or enhances to adopt not less than 2 per annum with a 5-year rolling assets of historic or programme of review archaeological importance

140 Return to Contents STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 7: TO PROTECT OUR NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Table 7.7a: Delivery Framework for SO7

Key Outcomes sought in Core Policies (refer to Who is responsible for How will these be delivered? Areas where Change will be delivery? Carefully Managed) No harm to integrity of Preparation of HRA/ESMS Borough of Poole; sub- Heathland SPA/Ramsar sites Implementation Plan, setting out regional Heathlands actions, responsibilities, funding Partnership (including and delivery milestones; affected local authorities Through the adoption of a and Natural England); sub-regional Heathlands DPD; private developers (via use of developer contributions contributions) to fund mitigation measures; The Implementation Plan will no inappropriate development be prepared by the Council, within 400 m of heathlands in partnership with Natural England, RSPB, Poole Harbour Commissioners and neighbouring local authorities. Subsequent delivery to be carried out in accordance with the Implementation Plan milestones. No harm to integrity of Poole Preparation of HRA/ESMS Borough of Poole; Harbour SPA/Ramsar sites Implementation Plan, setting out landowners; private actions, responsibilities, funding developers; Natural England and delivery milestones; The Implementation Plan will Development in Town Centre be prepared by the Council, to make necessary provision to in partnership with Natural avoid harm to Poole Harbour England, RSPB, Poole Harbour Commissioners and neighbouring local authorities. Subsequent delivery to be carried out in accordance with the Implementation Plan milestones. Retention of Green Belt Designation through Site- Borough of Poole specific Allocations DPD No net loss of Green Belt to Through application of national Local Planning Authority inappropriate development Green Belt Policy

Return to Contents 141 Table 7.7b: Indicators, Targets and Milestones for SO7

Indicators of Achievement Targets

Protection of European No net loss in area of European designations; designations No net gain in area classified as in unfavourable condition (Heathland mitigation DPD targets to be determined through Joint Heathlands DPD) Retention of Green Belt No planning permissions granted for inappropriate development in the Green Belt Quantity of green links No net loss (area/length) Improved Biodiversity in the Monitoring to show no net downward trend in the number or Borough diversity of species Preparation of Implementation plan key measures and milestones prepared Implementation Plan for the by Spring 2009 – delivery of measures in accordance with recommendations contained milestones. Implementation plan to be reviewed and updated in the Core Strategy Habitat annually Regulations Assessment and Poole Harbour European Site Management Scheme, setting out actions, responsibilities, funding and delivery milestones.

142 Return to Contents STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE 8: TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE

Table 7.8a: Delivery Framework for SO8

Key Outcomes sought in Core Policies (refer to Who is responsible for How will these be delivered? Preparing Poole for Climate delivery? Change) Reductions in carbon Private developers; reduction Private developers; emissions from dwellings, to in residential land values to land owners; Housing be phased over plan period take account of any additional Associations; renewable costs; greater supply of energy providers; Borough renewable energy through of Poole on-site provision; Borough of Poole to explore possibility of renewables on Council-owned sites; higher energy efficiency in new buildings Reductions in carbon Private developers; higher Private developers; land emissions from commercial rentals and lower energy costs owners; renewable energy development, to be phased to compensate for up-front providers; Borough of Poole over plan period investment; greater supply of renewable energy through on-site provision; Borough of Poole to consider possibility of renewable energy on Council- owned sites; higher energy efficiency in new buildings Alleviating, and adapting to, Flood alleviation and defence Private developers; flood risk measures to be provided by Environment Agency; new development in flood DEFRA risk areas - on-site where feasible; development required to demonstrate adaptation/ mitigation measures

Return to Contents 143 Table 7.8b: Indicators, Targets and Milestones for SO8

Indicators of Achievement Targets

The number of new 100% of new homes to meet the Code for Sustainable Homes dwellings attaining 2006 Building Regulations standards for reductions in

CO2 emissions Improved energy efficiency To achieve an average SAP of 65-70 in the housing stock for all of Poole’s stock by 2016 (target aimed also at tackling fuel poverty - to be (existing and new) confirmed in emerging Bournemouth Dorset and Poole Energy Efficiency Strategy in early 2009) Attainment of complete 100% of Town Centre waterfront sites capable of accommodating coastal defences flood defences to incorporate these within development Delivery of, and targets for, other flood defences to be set out in Infrastructure DPD Flood defence management strategy to be commenced in early 2009 and completed in time for inclusion in Infrastructure DPD (submission - December 2009 March 2010; adoption mid end- 2010)

Poole’s CO2 emissions Reduce CO2 emissions (from 2005 base data levels) by at least:

l 12% (112,000 tons) by 2011;

l 14% by 2015*; and

l 25% by 2020* (*Figures taken from the emerging Bournemouth, Dorset and Poole Energy Efficiency Strategy, to be reviewed in light of a revised national target) Area of habitat creation (Ha) 100% of all flood alleviation measures and sustainable drainage systems which offer suitable potential for habitat creation (to be monitored through HRA/ESMS Implementation Plan)

144 Return to Contents 8 Key Diagram

A B C

Legend

Green Belt Proposed Twin Sails Bridge Scale 1:40000 Priority Prime Transport Corridors Gypsy Site Other Prime Transport Corridors Town Centre North Area & Main Routes A Action Plan Internationally Important Habitats B Regeneration Area Flood Risk Areas C Poole Town Centre Poole Port: Reserved for Port Related Uses Existing Employment Areas Indicative Residential Densities Local Centres with Opportunities for Improvement: Retail Parks: No Significant Growth 50 - 70 Properties per Ha Mixed Use with Residential Railway Station 70 -100 Properties per Ha Employment Sites with Potential For Mixed Commercial Use Significant Investment 70 -120 Properties per Ha Environmental Enhancement Higher Education Facilities & Traffic Management 100 - 150 Properties per Ha North Poole Safeguarded Land Dependent on Location

Back to Contents 9 Appendix 1: Schedule of Saved Policies

Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Widely used policy that provides general principles to be considered in relation to impact of development on BE1 Design Code surroundings. Supported by SPG entitled “A Design Code”. PCS 23 Builds on design advice provided in PPS3 – Housing (Para 35). Policy that promotes landscaping as an integral part of the development process. Supported by Supplementary Planning Site-specific BE2 Landscaping Guidance entitled “The Landscape and Natural Environment Allocations Design Code”. Policy that seeks to control development that could adversely impact on hills and the skyline. Supporting advice contained Site-specific BE3 Topography in Supplementary Planning Guidance entitled “A Design Allocations Code”. Policy used to control design of new shopfronts. Detailed design guidance provided by Supplementary Planning Site-specific BE4 Shopfronts Guidance entitled “Guidelines for Shopfronts and Shop Allocations Signs”. General policy which seeks to control the use and appearance of security shutters, particularly where they would prejudice Site-specific BE5 Security Shutters the character of an area. Additional guidance provided in SPG Allocations “Guidelines for Shopfronts and Shop Signs”. Advertisements General policy controlling advertisement consents in Site-specific BE6 - Residential Areas residential areas. Allocations Advertisements General policy controlling free standing advertisements to Site-specific BE7 - Free Standing ensure no adverse effect upon public safety/amenity. Allocations General policy controlling hoardings to ensure no adverse Site-specific BE8 Hoardings effect on visual amenity/public safety. Allocations General policy promoting negotiation with developers for provision of art works at gateway locations/prominent sites. Site-specific BE9 Public Art Supported by Supplementary Planning Guidance entitled Allocations “Percent for Art”. General policy controlling the impact of telecommunications Site-specific BE10 Telecommunications installations. Allocations General policy used to deliver energy efficiency principles through the design, layout and orientation of development. BE11 Energy Efficiency PCS 31 Supporting advice contained in Supplementary Planning Guidance entitled “A Design Code”.

Return to Contents 147 Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Listed Buildings A Policy used to protect listed buildings where alterations/ Site-specific BE12 - Alterations extensions are proposed. Allocations Listed Buildings Policy used to protect listed buildings where a change of use Site-specific BE13 - Change of Use is proposed. Allocations Listed Buildings Policy used to protect the setting of a listed building. BE14 PCS 23 - Settings Buildings of Local Policy which affords a protection to buildings of local Site-specific BE15 Importance importance. Allocations Important policy used to control development to ensure Site-specific BE16 Conservation Areas that the character/appearance of a conservation area is Allocations preserved/enhanced. Conservation Areas Policy seeking to prevent demolition, in whole or in part, of Site-specific BE17 – Buildings of Local buildings of local importance within a conservation area. Allocations Importance Conservation Areas Policy used to control proposals for new shopfronts in specific Site-specific BE18 - Shopfronts conservation areas. Allocations Conservation Areas Policy used to control the use of upper floors in specified Site-specific BE19 – Upper Floors conservation areas. Allocations Policy used to control permitted uses of upper floors in local Site-specific BE20 Upper Floors centres. Allocations Quay Conservation Policy which seeks to protect the character of The Quay Site-specific BE21 Area - Character conservation area. Allocations Quay Conservation Policy which seeks to promote vitality The Quay conservation Site-specific BE22 Area - Vitality area. Allocations Conservation Areas Policy restricting the density of development within specific Site-specific BE23 – Low Density conservation areas. Allocations Development Conservation Areas Policy used to control development within specific conservation Site-specific BE24 - Character areas to ensure character will not be adversely affected. Allocations Policy which seeks to protect the character, appearance and Historic Parks and Site-specific BE25 setting of Historic Parks and Gardens and areas of historic Gardens Allocations landscape interest. Archaeology – Policy which seeks to protect the site or setting of Scheduled Site-specific BE26 Nationally Important Ancient Monuments or nationally important remains. Allocations Sites Archaeology Policy affording protection to the site or setting of unscheduled Site-specific BE27 – Locally Important archaeological remains of local importance. Allocations Sites Policy that provides protection against development that would Site-specific NE1 Pollution and Noise be detrimental to the natural/built environment by virtue of Allocations pollution or noise. New Buildings in the Area specific policy restricting construction of new buildings Site-specific NE2 Green Belt in the Green Belt to those uses specified as exceptions. Allocations

148 Return to Contents Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Area specific policy seeking to prevent proposals in the Green Open Character of the Site-specific NE3 Belt that would prejudice the openness of, or fails to respect Green Belt Allocations the character/appearance of the countryside. Area specific policy that allows conversion/alteration/change Existing Buildings in Site-specific NE4 of use of existing buildings in the Green Belt providing the Green Belt Allocations proposals are in compliance with specified criteria. Major Developed Policy providing for limited infilling on identified major Site-specific NE5 Sites in the Green developed sites in the Green Belt, subject to compliance with Allocations Belt specified conditions. Area specific policy limiting development to that appropriate Site-specific NE6 North Poole in the Green Belt. Allocations Area specific policy that seeks to control development in an Site-specific NE7 Arrowsmith Road area with distinctive characteristics. Allocations Land North of Area specific policy that seeks to control formal recreation Site-specific NE8 Broadstone Golf activity which would require significant ancillary buildings or Allocations Course car parking. Policy providing for equestrian activities/keeping of horses in the Green Belt on condition that the open character of the Site-specific NE11 Equestrian Activities Green Belt is maintained/improved and does not result in the Allocations loss of the best and most versatile agricultural land. Housing for Policy providing for new housing in the Green Belt for specified Site-specific NE12 Agricultural Workers occupations where operational need is demonstrated. Expands Allocations in the Green Belt on provisions of PPG 2: Green Belts – Paragraph 3.4. General Green Belt policy allowing for the subdivision/ Subdivision of replacement of dwellings subject to set criteria. Provides Site-specific NE13 Dwellings in the additional detail to Planning Policy Guidance 2: Green Belts Allocations Green Belt – Paragraph 3.6. Area specific policy that provides for development provided Upton Country Park Site-specific NE14 that the purpose for including the land within the Green Belt and Farm Allocations is protected. Policy that seeks to protect internationally important nature Sites of International PCS 28, NE15 conservation sites from development that would adversely Importance PCS 29 affect the integrity of the site. Sites of Special Policy that seeks to protect SSSI’s from development likely Site-specific NE16 Scientific Interest to result in a significant adverse affect. Allocations

Policy that seeks to allow for development adjacent to PCS 28, heathlands subject to specified conditions. Now supplemented Development PCS 29; by document entitled Dorset J oint Heathlands Heathlands NE17 Adjacent to Interim Planning Framework that seeks to ensure that Joint Heathland development doe not lead to net increase in urban pressures Heathlands on internationally important heathland. DPD

Return to Contents 149 Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Policy that provides for a heathland reserve centre subject to Joint Heathland Reserve NE18 specified conditions. Heathlands Centre DPD Sites of Nature Policy that provides for development on SNCI’s subject to Site-specific NE19 Conservation Interest specified conditions. Allocations General policy that provides for development on Other Features of undesignated sites with nature conservation value, on Site-specific NE20 Nature Conservation condition that proposals retain, where possible, the special Allocations Interest features of the site. General policy, relating to development sites that contain Legally Protected Site-specific NE21 statutorily protected flora and fauna, which seeks to ensure Species Allocations their retention/relocation. Site specific policy that protects a regionally important Regionally Important Site-specific NE22 geological site from development that would result in an Geological Sites Allocations adverse impact. Policy that provides for development in the coastal zone Coastal Zone and subject to criteria based assessment. Supported by Site-specific NE23 Shoreline Character Supplementary Planning Guidance entitled “Shoreline Allocations Character Areas”. Location specific policy that permits proposals for beach Beach Huts & Site-specific NE24 huts and chalets subject to criteria based assessment. Chalets Allocations

Beach Huts on Location specific policy that seeks to limit the height of Site-specific NE25 Raised Sites beach hut developments or redevelopment on raised sites. Allocations General policy that requires development on or near unstable ground to incorporate measures to eliminate the Site-specific NE26 Unstable Ground instability in a manner compatible with the character of the Allocations area. General policy that seeks to allow development on sites Individual or containing individual or grouped trees not covered by a Site-specific NE27 Grouped Trees tree preservation order subject to adherence to specified Allocations provisions. General policy that seeks to protect or mitigate the loss of Tree Preservation Site-specific NE28 a tree affected by development which is covered by a tree Orders Allocations preservation order. Development General policy that provides for development adjacent to Site-specific NE29 Adjacent to Open open space subject to specified conditions. Allocations Space Site-specific General policy that requires development respect the Network of Urban Allocations; urban greenspace/open space network and provide for NE30 Greenspace and Joint its protection and where appropriate contribute to its Open Spaces Heathlands expansion. DPD

150 Return to Contents Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: General policy that seeks to ensure that proposed Safeguarding Cycle Site-specific T1 development does not prejudice the implementation of links Routes Allocations to the cycleway network. Policy that provides for development likely to generate Cycling Provision in Site-specific T2 significant cycle use subject to compliance with specified New Development Allocations conditions Provision for General policy providing for safe, convenient and direct Site-specific T3 Pedestrians in New pedestrian routes and facilities in proposed developments. Allocations Development Policy that seeks to protect key public transport routes Key Public Transport Site-specific T4 from development that would be detrimental to the Routes Allocations operation of such services. Policy that affords protection to four identified locations Bus Priority Site-specific T5 from development that would adversely affect bus priority Measures Allocations measures. Policy that seeks to control development adjacent to Development of Rail Site-specific T6 railway lines/stations, which would adversely impact on the Services Allocations operation of rail services. Enhancement of Rail Site specific policy seeking to secure improvements to rail Site-specific T7 Freight frieght facilities in two locations Allocations Park and Ride Site specific allocation (partially implemented) supported Site-specific T8 –Marshes End by Local Transport Plan. Allocations Park and Ride –Mannings Heath Site specific policy seeking to secure park and ride facility Site-specific T9 Canford Way/ or alternatively employment related use. Allocations Mannings Heath Road) Park and Ride Site specific policy seeking to secure increased park and ride Site-specific T10 – Poole Station capacity for rail users. Allocations General policy which sets maximum levels of parking provision for development proposals. Supported by Site-specific T11 Car Parking Maxima Supplementary Planning Guidance: Parking Guidelines and Allocations the Local Transport Plan. Coach and Lorry Site specific policy that provides for coach and lorry parking Site-specific T12 Park including associated facilities. Allocations General policy that seeks to restrict the affects of new Traffic Generated by Site-specific T13 development. supported by Supplementary Planning Development Allocations Guidance: Travel Plans. General policy that seeks to prevent additional access, Access to the Site-specific T14 parking, crossing and turning movements on primary and Highway Allocations distributor roads. Rear Access and General policy that provides for improvements in rear Site-specific T15 Servicing servicing for commercial properties. Allocations

Return to Contents 151 Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Junction Policy relating to the improvement of two specific road Site-specific T16 Improvements junctions (partially implemented). Allocations West Quay Transport Area specific policy seeking to provide improvements to the Site-specific T17 Network transport network. See also Policy T19. Allocations Lower Hamworthy Area specific policy seeking to provide improvements to the Site-specific T18 Transport Network transport network. See also Policy T19. Allocations Site specific policy that combined with policies T17 and New Harbour T18 provides comprehensive proposals to deliver area Site-specific T19 Crossing wide improvements to the transport network centred on a Allocations regeneration initiative. Policy that seeks to protect five specific highway Highway Site-specific T20 improvement schemes from development that would Improvements Allocations prejudice their implementation. New Highways General policy that seeks to ensure that new highways and Highway Site-specific T21 and highway improvement schemes provide a range of Improvement Allocations environmental improvements. Schemes Policy that provides details of allocated residential Site-specific H1 Housing Allocations development sites. Allocations Former Southern Print Site specific policy relating to detailed design requirements Site-specific H2 Works for residential development. Allocations Site specific policy detailing levels of residential, development, student accommodation and academic Site-specific H3 Talbot Village floorspace for Bournemouth University and Arts Institute Allocations subject to identified criteria. PCS 5; PCS 6; Housing General policy that provides criteria against which proposals H4 PCS 15; Development for residential development will be assessed. PCS 23 Policy that specifies threshold for the provision of affordable housing on residential development sites. Provides additional H5 Affordable Housing detail supplementing provisions of PPS3: Housing – Paragraph PCS 6 29. Supported by SPG entitled “Affordable Housing”. Affordable Housing Policy that provides for affordable housing in the Green Belt Site-specific H7 – Green Belt limited to specific circumstances. Allocations Site specific policy relating to the retention of an existing Site-specific H8 Gypsy Site gypsy site. Allocations General policy that provides for higher density housing High Density H9 development outside of low density and flat character PCS 5 Housing development areas. Low Density Policy which seeks to maintain low density housing character Site-specific H10 Housing of specific areas. Allocations

152 Return to Contents Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Policy that seeks to aid crime prevention through the Security Through development design process. Provides detail additional to H11 PCS 27 Design the provisions of PPS1: Delivering Sustainable Development and PPS3: Housing. General policy that requires the visual integration of alterations House Alterations Site-specific H12 and extensions to existing buildings to ensure that the privacy and Extensions Allocations and amenity of adjoining properties is not compromised. Purpose Built Flats, General policy that provides criteria against which proposals PCS 5; H13 Bedsits, Hostels & for purpose built flats, bedsits, hostels and sheltered housing PCS 23 Sheltered Housing will be assessed. Flats – Sandbanks Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H14 PCS 5 Peninsula of new flat developments. Sandbanks Development control policy that limits the proximity of new Site-specific H15 Beachline development to the landward edge of the beachline. Allocations Flats – Sandbanks Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H16 PCS 5 Causeway of new flat developments. Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H17 Flats – Lilliput PCS 5 of new flat developments. Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H18 Flats – Cliff Drive PCS 5 of new flat developments Flats – Martello Park Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H19 and Westminster PCS 5 of new flat developments. Road Flats – The Avenue Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H20 Area East PCS 5 of new flat developments.

Flats – The Avenue Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H21 PCS 5 Area North of new flat developments. Flats – The Avenue Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H22 PCS 5 Area West of new flat developments. Flats – The Avenue Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H23 PCS 5 Area South-East of new flat developments. Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H24 Flats – Surrey Road PCS 5 of new flat developments. Flats – Lower Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H25 PCS 5 Parkstone of new flat developments. Flats – Bournemouth Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H26 PCS 5 Road of new flat developments. Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H27 Flats – Mount Road PCS 5 of new flat developments. Flats – Parkstone Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H28 PCS 5 Road West of new flat developments.

Return to Contents 153 Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Flats – Parkstone Area specific policy that seeks to control infilling of balconies H29 PCS 5 Road West Detail and conversion of flat roofs to pitched form. Flats – Parkstone Area specific policy that seeks to control the density and scale H30 PCS 5 Road East of new flat developments. Conversion to Flats, General policy that provides criteria against which proposals H31 Bedsits, Hostels and for the conversion of existing buildings into purpose built flats, PCS 5 Sheltered Housing bedsits, hostels and sheltered housing will be assessed. General policy that provides criteria against which proposals Rest Homes and H32 for the conversion of existing buildings into rest/nursing PCS 7 Nursing Homes homes will be assessed. Policy that seeks to retain identified allocated employment Site-specific E1 Employment Land land for employment uses. Allocations PCS 2; Existing Employment Policy that seeks to retain employment land within existing E2 Site-specific Areas employment areas for employment uses. Allocations Existing Employment Sites and Premises Policy providing for development proposals for alternative E3 Outside Identified uses on sites/premises outside of identified employment PCS 4 Employment Areas areas, subject to specified conditions. and Allocated Sites New Employment General policy that provides for new employment Development Outside development outside allocated sites and employment areas Site-specific E4 Allocated Sites and on condition that the development can be served by energy Allocations Employment Areas efficient forms of transport. Policy requiring provision of small units on sites greater Site-specific E5 Small Firms than 0.5 ha Allocations Policy that seeks to direct major office development in Major B1 Office Site-specific E6 excess of 2,000 square metres to Poole Town Centre Development Allocations unless specified exceptions apply. Temporary Use of Policy permitting proposals for the temporary use of vacant Site-specific E7 Vacant Employment employment sites on condition that the proposal does not Allocations Sites prejudice the availability of The land for B1-B8 uses. PCS 3; Port-Related Area specific policy that provides for development proposals E8 Site-specific Development in the port area, subject to meeting specified criteria. Allocations Site specific policy which seeks to protect the railway and PCS 3; E9 Port Rail Link associated area for rail freight use from development that Site-specific would prevent/hinder those facilities. Allocations PCS 3; Location specific policy reserving identified deep-water E10 Deep Water Frontage Site-specific frontage for port/harbour related uses. Allocations Site specific policy that reserves land at The Fulcrum for Site-specific E11 The Fulcrum B1-B8 class uses, subject to meeting specified criteria. Allocations

154 Return to Contents Mannings Heath Policy relating to identified sites that provides for the loss of Site-specific E12 – Residential residentialproperties to B1-B8 uses subject to compliance Allocations Properties with specified conditions. Area specific policy that provides for the extension of Nuffield Estate Site-specific E13 the Nuffield Industrial Estate subject to compliance with Extension Allocations specified conditions. Area specific policy that provides for employment Site-specific E14 Cabot Lane development at Cabot Lane subject to compliance with Allocations specified conditions. Site specific policy that provides for employment Site-specific E15 Sterte Avenue West development at Sterte Avenue West subject to compliance Allocations with specified conditions. General policy permitting proposals having the potential to Location and cause pollution and/or involve storage/use of hazardous Site-specific E16 Layout of Potentially substances, subject to compliance with specified Allocations Polluting Uses conditions. Sites Near to General policy preventing proposals in areas that have the Site-specific E17 Potentially Polluting potential to cause pollution or which deal with hazardous Allocations Uses substances, if complying with specified criteria. General policy that provides for the extension/consolidation of uses that have the potential to cause pollution or which Existing Potentially Site-specific E18 deal with hazardous substances, providing measures are Polluting Uses Allocations included to protect amenities of other land users/environment from potential impact of pollution. General policy that requires sites suspected of Site-specific E19 Contaminated Sites contamination to have an approved scheme for remediation Allocations to be implemented as part of the development. Policy that seeks to protect Poole’s tourism assets from Site-specific TO1 Tourism Assets development likely to cause harm to those features which Allocations contribute to the character of those assets. Policy which allows for development including Existing Tourist redevelopment/change of use of existing tourist attractions Site-specific TO2 Attractions where it result in the provision of new/improved tourist Allocations facilities. Site specific policy requiring new development at Rockley Site-specific T03 Rockley Park Park to respect the sensitive nature of the site. Allocations Site specific policy requiring identified land at Tower Park to Site-specific TO4 Tower Park be retained For leisure/tourism use. Allocations Policy permitting development at The Quay provided it Site-specific TO5 The Quay protects/improves features that attract tourists and makes a Allocations positive contribution to the tourist environment. Policy that seeks to control development within identified Site-specific T06 Tourism Zones tourism zones. Allocations Retention of Hotels & Policy that seeks prevent development affecting hotels/guest Site-specific T07 Guest Houses houses where it would result in a loss of accommodation. Allocations Policy that permits hotel development on employment land Hotels on Employment Site-specific TO8 providing it satisfies the requirements of other specified local Land Allocations plan policies.

Return to Contents 155 Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: General policy permitting proposals for the development/ Hotels and Guest Site-specific TO9 extension to hotels/guest houses providing the development Houses Allocations satisfies specified criteria. Policy permitting proposals for development that improves the Improving Hotels Site-specific TO10 quality of existing hotels/guest houses providing they meet and Guest Houses Allocations the criteria of Policy TO9. Policy that seeks to permit proposals for development to Hotels and Guest Site-specific TO11 improve facilities on existing hotel sites ancillary to the hotel House Facilities Allocations use, subject to meeting the criteria of Policy TO9. General policy permitting change of use of dwellings to bed Site-specific TO12 Bed and Breakfast and breakfast subject to compliance with specified criteria. Allocations Policy seeking to prohibit the development of new or the Chalets and Site-specific TO13 extension/intensification of use of existing sites for holiday Caravans Allocations chalets/static holiday caravans. Policy that permits the change of use of rural buildings to Site-specific TO14 Rural Buildings tourist accommodation subject to compliance with specified Allocations criteria Policy permitting development, subject to other policies, which Site-specific TO15 Visitor Management enables improved visitor management. Allocations Policy defining requirements for tourist information signs and Site-specific TO16 Tourist Information interpretation boards. Allocations Policy that seeks to prevent the loss of significant areas of Site-specific L1 Public Open Space public open space through development except in specific Allocations identified circumstances. Policy that seeks to prevent the loss of urban greenspace through Site-specific L2 Urban Greenspace development except in specific identified circumstances. Allocations Public Open Space Site specific policy for the provision of public open space Site-specific L3 –former Oakdale (Partly implemented). Allocations Middle School Policy that provides for leisure based development within Site-specific L4 Leisure Development parks and open spaces subject to specified conditions. Allocations Policy that seeks to prevent the loss of playing fields through Site-specific L5 Playing Fields development. Allocations All Weather Floodlit Policy providing for all weather floodlit sports facilities Site-specific L6 Sports Facilities provided specified conditions are met. Allocations Policy that permits the provision of ancillary facilities at Ancillary Facilities on Site-specific L7 public/private outdoor recreation sites subject to specified Recreation Sites Allocations conditions Policy providing for new golf course facilities subject to Site-specific L8 Golf Courses specified conditions. Allocations Recreation & Leisure Policy providing for new public/private recreation facilities Site-specific L9 Facilities subject to specified conditions. Allocations

156 Return to Contents Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Public Access to Policy that requires new development to provide for public Site-specific L10 Shore access to the Shore. Allocations Marina, Jetty, Policy that provides for development involving new/ Slipway or Other Site-specific L11 extended marina, jetty, slipway or other boating or mooring Boating or Mooring Allocations facilities subject to specified conditions. Facilities Boatyards & Boat Policy seeking to prevent the loss through development of Site-specific L12 Storage boatyards/boat storage areas. Allocations Site specific policy providing for suitable outdoor sport/ Outdoor Recreation recreation of a non-intensive character and compatible Site-specific L13 – Canford Heath with green belt status, subject to compliance with specified Allocations criteria (Partially implemented). Site-specific General policy that requires new development to include Allocations; Access and Links to public footpath/cycleway/bridleway links where they would L14 Joint Open Space facilitate improved access to open space etc, particularly in Heathlands relation to specified countryside routes. DPD Commercial Policy permitting development for commercial Site-specific L15 Entertainment & entertainment and leisure facilities providing it complies Allocations Leisure with specified conditions. General policy seeking to prevent the loss of art/cultural facilities and providing for new art/cultural facilities in the Art and Cultural Site-specific L16 town/local centres providing they meet criteria established Facilities Allocations in Policy L9.

General policy seeking to deliver appropriate provision for Site-specific recreation facilities in new development, to specified open Provision for Allocations; L17 space standards. Supported by Supplementary Planning Recreation Facilities Infrastructure Guidance entitled “Planning Obligations: DPD Recreation Facilities”. Site-specific Town Centre Area specific policy that seeks to restrict uses within the Allocations/ S2 – Primary Retail primary retail frontage of the town centre. Town Centre Frontage North AAP Town Centre Area specific policy that seeks to restrict uses within the Site-specific S3 – Secondary Retail secondary retail frontage of the town centre. Allocations Frontage Location specific policy providing for retail development Retail Development Site-specific S4 in local centres subject to compliance with specified in Local Centres Allocations conditions. Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Small Scale Retail Site-specific S5 Plan PoliciesGeneral policy permitting small scale retail Proposals Allocations developments under a specified size, serving a local need.

Return to Contents 157 Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Policy that seeks to reserve three identified retail parks for Site-specific S6 Retail Parks non-food retail warehousing for the sale of bulky durable, Allocations garden or DIY goods. Policy permitting retail warehousing for the sale of bulky Site-specific S7 Retail Warehousing durable, garden or DIY goods subject to compliance with Allocations specified locational hierarchy. Policy permitting the provision of amusement centres Site-specific S8 Amusement Centres subject to compliance with specified criteria. Allocations General policy providing for the use of vacant land for Temporary Retail Site-specific S9 temporary retail uses providing there is no loss of amenity Uses Allocations to the surrounding area. Policy which identifies two specific sites to be reserved for Site-specific CF1 School Sites educational use. Allocations Policy that provides for extensions to the University and University & Arts Site-specific CF2 Arts Institute dependent on inclusion of measures to limit Institute Allocations private vehicle trips. Policy that reserves land to the west of the main hospital Site-specific CF3 Poole Hospital building for an extension to the hospital. Allocations Policy which provides criteria for use of premises as day Site-specific CF4 Child Care Facilities nurseries. Allocations Retention of Policy that seeks to prevent loss of premises used, or last CF5 PCS 25 Community Facilities used, for community purposes. Planning Obligations Policy that requires development proposals to contribute PCS 26; CF6 – Community towards the provision of community facilities to enable its PCS37 Facilities implementation. Area specific policy that provides urban design criteria for the delivery of development. Supported by Supplementary Holes Bay Basin Planning Guidance entitled “Poole Bridge Regeneration Site-specific CA1 –Urban Design Initiative - Planning and Urban Design Guidance for the Allocations Central Area of Poole”.

Area specific policy that allows for development providing Site-specific it does not undermine comprehensive regeneration of the Holes Bay Basin – Allocations; CA2 area. Supported by Supplementary Planning Guidance Delivery Mechanism Infrastructure entitled Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative – Planning DPD Obligations”. Area specific policy detailing the mix of uses to be included in development proposals, together with criteria that need Land to the East of to be satisfied to obtain planning permission. Supported Site-specific CA3 RNLI, West Quay by Supplementary Planning Guidance entitled “Poole Allocations Road Bridge Regeneration Initiative – Planning and Urban Design Guidance for the Central Area of Poole”.

158 Return to Contents Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1 Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Area specific policy reserving land occupied by the RNLI RNLI, West of West for operational purposes. Supported by SPG entitled “Poole Site-specific CA4 Quay Road Bridge Regeneration Initiative – Planning and Urban Design Allocations Guidance for the Central Area of Poole”. Area specific policy detailing the mix of uses to be included in development proposals and conditions relating to core Land Between design principles. Supported by SPG entitled “Poole Bridge Site-specific CA5 Wilkins Way & RNLI Regeneration Initiative - Planning and Urban SPG entitled Allocations “Poole Bridge Regeneration Initiative - Planning and Urban Design Guidance for the Central Area of Poole”. Area specific policy detailing the mix of uses to be included Land Between Poole in development proposals and conditions relating to core Site-specific CA6 Bridge & Wilkins design principles. Supported by SPG entitled “Poole Allocations Way Bridge Regeneration Initiative - Planning and Urban Design Guidance for the Central Area of Poole”. Area specific policy detailing the mix of uses to be included Land Occupied by in development proposals and conditions relating to core Pilkington Tiles & Site-specific CA7 design principles. Supported by SPG entitled “Poole Sydenham Timber Allocations Bridge Regeneration Initiative - Planning and Urban Design Yard Guidance for the Central Area of Poole”. Area specific policy detailing the mix of uses to be included Former Power in development proposals and conditions relating to core Station, Oil Depot & Site-specific CA8 design principles. Supported by SPG entitled “Poole Land East of Allocations Bridge Regeneration Initiative - Planning and Urban Design Rigler Road Guidance for the Central Area of Poole”. Former Pilkington Area specific policy detailing the mix of uses to be included Site-specific CA9 Tile Site & Adjoining in development proposals and conditions to be applied. Allocations Land Site-specific Area specific policy that provides for small scale infill Allocations/ CA10 Lagland Street development. Town Centre North AAP Site-specific Site Specific policy defining mix of uses to be included in Allocations/ CA11 Goods Yard development proposals Town Centre North AAP Site specific policy defining uses to be included in Town Centre CA12 Kingland Road development proposals (Partly implemented). North AAP Site-specific Land Adjacent Site specific policy defining uses to be included in Allocations/ CA13 Dolphin Swimming development proposals (Partly implemented). Town Centre Pool, Kingland Road North AAP Site specific policy defining uses to be included in Site-specific CA15 Pitwines West development proposals (Partly implemented). Allocations

Return to Contents 159 Proposed Progamme of Replacement of ‘Saved’ Local Plan Policies1

Policy to be Policy Subject Comments on Purpose of Policy ‘saved’ until replaced by: Former East Quay Site specific policy defining mix of uses to be included in Site-specific CA16 Depot & the Quay development proposals. Allocations Thistle Hotel Policy applying to identified areas of commercial and retail Commercial & Retail Site-specific LC1 frontage that seeks to protect the vitality/viability of a local Frontage Allocations centre. Policy applying to identified areas of commercial and Commercial & retail retail frontage that permits proposals for specified non- Site-specific LC2 Frontage – Other commercial/retail uses provided it does not harm the Allocations uses vitality/viability of a local centre. Upper Parkstone Area specific policy which seeks to protect primary retail Site-specific LC3 –Primary Retail frontage from uses that would harm the vitality/viability of Allocations Frontage the local centre. Upper Parkstone Area specific policy that permits specified uses within the Site-specific LC4 –Secondary Retail secondary retail frontage. Allocations Frontage Broadstone Site specific policy providing for mixed-use redevelopment Site-specific LC5 –Redevelopment Site to incorporate rear servicing and parking. Allocations Broadstone – Rear Access Site specific policy providing for rear access/servicing as Site-specific LC6 to Commercial part of any redevelopment proposals. Allocations Properties Oakdale – Site specific policy providing for mixed-use redevelopment Site-specific LC7 Redevelopment Site to incorporate sheltered housing and retail provision. Allocations Site specific policy providing for mixed use redevelopment: Hamworthy Site-specific LC8 local shopping, residential and community facilities. –Redevelopment Site Allocations

1Poole Local Plan First Alteration (Adopted in March 2004) as amended by Secretary of State’s Direction, September 2007

Definitions:

l PCS 1 - PCS 37: Core Strategy policy number

l Site-specific Allocations: Site-specific Allocations Development Plan Document

l Joint Heathlands DPD: Dorset Heathlands (joint) Development Plan Document

l Infrastructure DPD: Poole Infrastructure Development Plan Document

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