Land Adjoining the Sewage Treatment Works at Nethercote, Great Wolford, Shipston on Stour CV36 5NE

* Land adjoining the sewage treatment works at Nethercote, Great Wolford, Shipston on Stour CV36 5NE

PLANNING, DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT

Extension of an existing sewage treatment works

Contents 01 Introduction ...... 1 Severn Trent Water ...... 1 Scope of Project/Background ...... 1 STWL/External Driver...... 2 02 Site and Surrounding Area ...... 3 03 Planning History ...... 4 04 The Development Proposal ...... 5 Layout ...... 6 Alternative Solutions...... 6 Landscape ...... 7 Access ...... 8 Flood Risk/Drainage ...... 9 Ecology ...... 9 Otter and water vole survey: ...... 12 Noise ...... 13 Odour ...... 13 Lighting ...... 13 Heritage ...... 13 05 Planning Policy ...... 15 Stratford on Avon District Core Strategy 2011-2031 (July 2016) ...... 15 Cotswold AONB Management Plan 2018-2023 ...... 22 Warwickshire County Council Waste Core Strategy (July 2013) ...... 24 National Planning Policy Framework (2018) ...... 24 National Planning Practice Guidance (NPPG) - Water supply, wastewater and water quality (22 July 2019) ...... 26 06 Planning Policy Assessment ...... 27 07 Conclusion ...... 30 Appendix A – Email from Warwickshire County Council (Archaeology) ...... 1

Document Author Version Date Approved By Comments

Antonia Wyatt LLB (Hons) MSc A 04/12/2019 Sarah DeRenzy- 05/12/2019 Tomson MRTPI

01 Introduction

Severn Trent Water

Severn Trent Water Limited (STWL) is a regulated business with statutory responsibilities for the provision of water and sewerage services to over eight million people in an area of 21,000 square kilometres stretching from the Bristol Channel to the Humber, and from mid-Wales to the East Midlands. STWL is currently implementing its Asset Management Plan for AMP6 (April 2015 to March 2020), which is the mechanism by which the regulator OFWAT defines in a five-year capital expenditure programme for all water companies. Investment during the AMP6 period is in response to a number of key drivers. These drivers include providing a continuous supply of quality water, dealing effectively with wastewater, and promoting an effective regulatory regime.

Scope of Project/Background

This document has been prepared on behalf of STWL to support the planning application seeking consent for the extension of the existing sewage treatment works at Nethercote, Great Wolford, Shipston on Stour CV36 5NE. This application should be read alongside the following plans and documents:

▪ B1958987-JAC-DR-PL-0001 P01 Site Location Plan

▪ B1987987-JAC-DR-PL-0002 P01 Existing Site Layout

▪ B195897-JAC-DR-PL-0003 P01 Proposed Site Layout and Entrance

▪ B1958987-JAC-DR—PL-0004 P01 Proposed Site Elevations

▪ B1958987-JAC-DR-0005 P01 Inlet Pumping Station (For Information)

▪ Preliminary Ecological Appraisal Middlemarch Environmental (June 2019)

▪ Otter and Water Vole Survey Middlemarch Environmental (Sept 2019)

• Archaeological Desk-Based Assesment Oxford Archaeology (April 2019)

• Written Scheme of Investigation Oxford Archaeology (October 2019)

• Archaeological Evaluation Report Oxford Archaeology (October 2019)

• Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (RSK, December 2019)

• 662614.04.03.01 01 Mitigation Planting Plan, Nethercote

• Construction Management Plan

• Nethercote STW Maintenance Plan

• High Level Construction Programme

STWL/External Driver

This application seeks to extend the existing sewage treatment works in this location to accommodate infrastructure which is necessary to meet the requirements of the Water Framework Directive. The Water Framework Directive seeks to improve the conditions at the Nethercote Brook through the imposition of a 1.5mg/l phosphorus permit on the final effluent entering the brook by the end of December 2021. The extended site will accommodate a new Inlet Pumping Station including handrailing and a lifting davit, a Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC), an RBC control and blower plinth kiosk, ferric dosing pump and control panel kiosk, ferric dosing system (tank), safety shower, potable water booster kiosk, Motor Control Centre (MCC) kiosk, two new reed beds and security fencing. The existing access road into the site will be improved and extended and a turning head will be provided.

02 Site and Surrounding Area

The site is located in Nethercote, between the villages of Great Wolford and Little Wolford which are located approximately 500m to the west and 800m to the north-east of the site respectively. The site is approximately 5.0km to the south of the town of Shipston on Stour, Warwickshire. The application site comprises an arable field and associated field margins, and is located adjacent to the south-western boundary of the existing STW, which is owned and operated by Severn Trent. The existing STW and proposed extension are located to the south of Nethercote Farm, at Grid Reference: SP 25607 34402 (Easting: 425607, Northing: 234402). Both the existing STW and the application site are situated within the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), and there is a Special Landscape Area (SLA) approximately 150m to the north-west which includes the village of Great Wolford. The site is outside the Great Wolford conservation area boundary. The site is in a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Impact Risk Zone and the Wolford Wood and Old Covert SSSI is approximately 1.5km to the south-west. The existing STW and proposed extension area is in Flood Zone 1 and is not at risk of flooding. In addition, neither the existing STW nor the proposed extension are subject to any public rights of way. There is a moated site, identified as a scheduled ancient monument approximately 390m to the north-west. There are a number of listed buildings in the nearby villages of Great Wolford and Little Wolford, although these are approximately 530m to the north-west and 1km to the north- east respectively. The site is not affected by any public rights of way. It is in an area of Flood Zone 1 which is considered to have a low probability of flooding from Rivers and seas, and the site extension area has a very low-low risk of surface water flooding. The nearest residential property to the site is located at Nethercote Fields Bed and Breakfast, approximately 100m to the north-east of the existing site. There are also a number of residential properties along Nethercote Road approximately 140m north-west of the proposed extension.

Figure 1: Existing site and proposed extension (Google Maps, July 2019) 03 Planning History

There does not appear to be any planning history relevant to the site. A request for pre-application advice in relation to this proposal was submitted to Warwickshire County Council on 12 July 2019. Mr Ian Grace advised by email on 17 July 2019, that in principle new water treatment facilities would be accepted provided they do not result in adverse environmental impacts. It was noted that both the existing and the proposed sites fall within the Cotswolds AONB, and therefore the development proposed should be well screened by good and substantial native planting. He advised that the application should be supported by a landscape appraisal and a landscape plan demonstrating that the development would have an acceptable landscape impact. Pursuant to this advice, a Landscape Visual Appraisal has been prepared by RSK (November 2019) along with a Landscape Mitigation Plan (662614.04.03.01 01).

04 The Development Proposal

The proposal includes the extension of the existing operational sewage treatment works, and the change of use of land from agricultural to operational. The site extension will measure approximately 90m in length along the southern boundary, 101m along the northern boundary and 48m in width. The extension will extend from the south- western boundary of the existing site. Within the extended site, the following elements will be provided:

▪ An Inlet Pumping Station (to combine three existing pumping stations that deliver flows to the works for treatment). This item will be predominantly buried, but in accordnace with STWL’s standard, the top 1.2m will protrude above ground level for health and safety purposes. Galvanised mild steel handrailing measuring 1.1m in height will be installed around this, again to ensure health and safety. The inlet pumping station will also have a galvanised mild steel lifting davit measuring 2.5m in height. The footprint of the pumping station will be approximately 21.2m2. For further details, see Drawing No. B1958987-JAC-DR-0005.

▪ Rotating Biological Contractor (RBC). This will measure 18m(L) x 5.0m(W) x 2.5(H). It will be enclosed in green Glass Reinforced Plastic (GRP) housing. The footprint of the RBC will be approximately 90m2.

▪ RBC Control and Blower Plinth (kiosk). This will measure 2.5m(L) x 1.2m(W) x 1.9m(H). It will have a capacity of 5.7m3 and a footprint of 3m2.

▪ Control panel kiosk and ferric dosing pump. This will measure 3.0m(L) x 0.85m(W) x 3.0m(H). It will have a capacity of 7.65m3 and a footprint of 3.60m2. It will be constructed of grey GRP.

▪ Ferric dosing system (tank). This will be a black HDPE tank measuring 2m3 in capacity and 2.75m in height. It’s footprint will be approximately 9.75m2. It will be surrounded by a bund measuring approximartely 0.75m in height.

▪ Safety shower. This will measure 0.95m(L) x 0.8m(W) x 3.5m(H). It will have a capacity of 2.66m3 and a footprint of 0.76m2. This will have a green GRP enclosure.

▪ Potable water booster. This will comprise a green/ grey GRP kiosk measuring 2.0m(L) x 1.5m(W) x 1.5m(H). It will have a capacity of 4.5m3 and a footprint of 3m2.

▪ Motor Control Centre (MCC) enclosure. This kiosk will measure 5m(L) x 2.5m(W) x 2.5m(H) and will be constructed from green GRP. It will have a capacity of 31.25m3 and a footprint of 12.5m2.

▪ Two new reed beds will each measure approximately 37.0m in length by 17.0m in width.

▪ Extension and improvement of the existing access road and provision of a turning area. The acces road will be laid with concrete.

▪ Portacabins, a laydown area and parking for contractors will also be provided to facilitate the works. These elements will be temporary for the duration fo the works.

▪ The new site extension will be surrounded by security fencing measuring 1.8m in height. This will match the fencing around the existing operational site, and will comprise galvanised chainlink fencing. Cranked concrete posts measuring 1.8m high with 3no. strands of barbed wire. The cranks will face inwards.

Once the use of the land for the proposed extension is changed to operational, it is considered that the majority of the proposed infrastructure will comprise permitted development under Sch 2, Part 13, Class B of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. The MCC kiosk however, will exceed the 29m3 threshold set out in this Part, and will require planning permission. For further information, see:

▪ B195897-JAC-DR-PL-0003 P01 Proposed Site Layout and Entrance

▪ B1958987-JAC-DR—PL-0004 P01 Proposed Site Elevations

▪ B1958987-JAC-DR-0005 P01 Inlet Pumping Station (For Information)

Layout

The layout of the site has been determined by topography. Flows will be pumped from the new inlet pumping station to the beginning of the process which is located at the highest point, thus enabling gravity flow through the whole treatment process. This will eliminate reliance on inter- stage pumping and minimise the operational carbon footprint of the works. The layout of the proposed development is shown on Drawing No: B195897-JAC-DR-PL-0003, which has been submitted as part of this application.

Alternative Solutions.

Given the location to the site within the Cotswold AONB, care has been taken during the design of the scheme to minimise the scale of the proposal and its impact on the landscape. Prior to the development of this proposal, number of alternative solutions were considered. Firstly, a solution within the existing site was considered. This would have involved the provision of a new Inlet Pumping Station (to combine three existing pumping stations that deliver flows to the works for treatment), improvements to existing works processes (Biological Filet and recirculation), provision of new chemical dosing/ storage facility and provision of additional reed bed capacity to treat additional solids produced following chemical dosing. However, the

existing treatment works site is relatively small, and there is insufficient space within the existing boundary to accommodate the required assets. It would be necessary to extend the boundaries of the existing site to the south and east. The Archaeological Assessment identified that there was a higher probability to impact upon unidentified medieval remains by extending to the south and east, and therefore this solution was discounted. Secondly, it was considered whether it would be possible for the existing treatment works at Nethercote to be closed, and for waste to be pumped away to another local sewage treatment works, namely Long Compton STW, Whichford STW and Cherington STW. Unfortunately, this solution would also require each of these sites to be extended and major upgrade works to be undertaken to enable these sites to accommodate the flows from Nethercote. Additional works to the network may also be required to redirect flows from Nethercote. This solution therefore is also not suitable.

Landscape

Following the advice of Warwickshire County Council, a Landscape and Visual appraisal has been undertaken by RSK (November 2019) and is submitted with this application. The site comprises part of a medium-sized, cultivated arable field which is representative of the surrounding rural setting. The existing STW is an incongruous land-use in the rural landscape and its rectilinear shape contrasts with the patchwork of field boundaries and is visible from higher ground. However, its low-level structures similar to agricultural buildings are not considered uncharacteristic in the rural landscape, and the site benefits from a level of screening when the adjoining field is in crop. The site is located in the AONB and the surrounding landscape is considered to be of high value. It is also within the Pastoral Lowland Vale “Vale of Moreton” for the purposes of the Cotswolds Landscape Character Assessment. However, the small scale of the existing STW, and the well vegetated and compartmentalised landscape ensure that the existing site’s influence on the AONB and nearby Special Landscape Area to the north-west is limited. The report also reviewed the areas from which the development may be visible, and identified groups of people and viewpoints which may be visually affected by the proposed development; the principle visual receptors being users of the Little Wolford Road and the public footpath to the east. The report identified that views of the site are limited by the undulating landform which is characteristic of the area, combined with raised settlements and mature vegetation. In particular, to the west the proposed site is limited by the existing vegetation and Great Wolford, and to the north, scattered individual trees on and adjoining the site boundary help to screen the site from the wider area. As a result of the local landform, woodland belts and existing built form, the site is considered to be visually well contained from the surrounding area. Nevertheless, the eastern and southern boundaries of the site are open, and exposed to the rising landform of the Cotswolds AONB. During the construction period, it is anticipated that the effects of the works will be visible within the landscape, however, all potential effects will be temporary and short term. The impact of

construction on the landscape character is anticipated to be localised and adverse, however, the perception of the construction activities would be limited to the local area. Once operational, it is acknowledged that the effects of the works will be long term. In order to mitigate the impact of the proposed works, RSK have prepared a landscape mitigation strategy which aims to ensure the works respect, and integrate with, the surrounding landscape, minimise any adverse landscape impacts arising from the works and provide ecological enhancements. The recommended mitigation measures include, retaining existing vegetation belts and individual trees along the western and northern boundaries of the site, and the provision of mitigation planting (native species-rich hedgerows and individual tree planting) to enclose the eastern and southern boundaries, and to screen the site from the Cotswold AONB. The report concludes that there will be no permanent moderate effects on visual amenity as a result of the proposed development. While the existing STW is an incongruous land-use in the rural landscape, and its rectilinear extension would contrast further with the patch-work of fields and reduce openness; the visual effects on the nearest receptors are likely to be moderate during construction, reducing to minor adverse at the completion of the development. With the provision of the mitigation planting, these minor effects are expected to reduce over time, and as the planting matures, the effects of these works would be negligible. It is therefore considered that the landscape impacts of the proposed works can be appropriately mitigated and are acceptable. For further information, see the Landscape and Visual Appraisal (RSK 2019) and the Mitigation Planting Plan (Nethercote), Drawing No. 662614.04.03.01 01.

Access

The existing sewage treatment works, and the proposed extension, is accessed via an existing track leading from Nethercote Road, which adjoins the Nethercote Fields Bed and Breakfast. This is a shared agricultural access, and is suitable to accommodate the traffic associated with the existing treatment works and proposed extension. No amendments are proposed to this access point leading from Nethercote Road. The southern extent of this track will be upgraded as part of the proposed works and will be laid with concrete, and the access road leading through the existing site will be extended into the new proposed site area. A turning head, will be provided in the new site area to enable all vehicles visiting the site to enter, turn and exit the site safely in a forward gear. Parking adequate to facilitate the construction and future operation of the site will be provided. The number and frequency of vehicles visiting the site will not increase as a result of the works, and it is anticipated that efficiencies to be achieved as a result of the works could reduce the frequency of maintenance visits to the site.

Flood Risk/Drainage

The proposed development is situated within Flood Zone 1, and has a low probability of flooding from rivers and seas. The site also has a very low-low risk of surface water flooding, although land along the north-western boundary of the site and proposed extension has a medium-high risk of surface water flooding. The site will measure less than 1,000sqm and therefore a flood risk assessment has not been prepared. Surface water drainage from the existing operational site either soaks away or enters an adjoining ditch by overland flow. Surface water from the proposed site extension will drain the same way and it is not anticipated that surface water drainage will be adversely affected by the proposed works. Although the run-off speed from the additional area of concrete road may increase, this will be compensated for, once the existing sewage works is decommissioned and restored to a vegetated area. Drainage from the chemical delivery and RBC desludging area will be contained and will flow by gravity to the new inlet pumping station, from where it will be pumped for treatment through the works. During chemical deliveries, flows from this contained area will be automatically diverted to a drainage interceptor, so that any chemical spillages can be separately contained and adressed accordingly. It is not possible to connect the chemical delivery hose without first turning the diversion valve. It is not considered that the proposed works will increase the risk of flooding elsewhere.

Ecology

A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) has been undertaken by Middlemarch Environmental Ltd (June 2019) and is provided in support of this application. The site itself comprises an arable field and associated field margins with stands of tall ruderal vegetation and scattered scrub. The north-eastern site boundary is defined by fencing separating the arable field and the existing sewage treatment works. The remaining site boundaries are not defined by landscape features and are a continuation of the arable field to the south-west. The report identified that there are no European statutory sites within 5km of the survey area. There is one UK statutory site within 2km and there are seven non-statutory sites within 1km. the site is also not located within 10km of a statutory site designated for bats.

Habitats The report indicated that the habitats within the site (including arable, boundaries, scattered scrub and trees and tall ruderal) are well represented locally, have low species diversity or can be easily recreated post development. It is considered that any loss of these habitats would have a minimal impact on the ecology of the local area, and therefore they are not considered to be a notable consideration.

There is an off-site ditch close to the boundary of the site, which could provide a valuable wildlife corridor for protected species. Given its proximity to the survey area, there is potential for it to be directly or indirectly impacted by the works. The report therefore makes recommendations regarding its protection. In relation to protected or notable species, the report concludes the following:

Bats While several species of bats have been recorded within 1km of the site, the trees on site are young and do not possess any features suitable for roosting bats. The site however, provides suitable foraging habitat and there is a brook to the north of the site boundary which provides a natural wildlife corridor for commuting bats and connectivity to pockets of woodland and ponds in the wider landscape. As the works have the potential to impact suitable foraging/ commuting habitat the report sets out a number of recommendations for the retention of this habitat and in relation to lighting.

Badger, Hedgehog and Brown Hare No records of badger, hedgehog or brown hare were identified within a 1km radius of the survey area; however, mammal trails and a badger sett have been identified in proximity to the site. Given the nature of the site and surrounding area, it is possible that these mammals may pass through the site or utilize it to forage. To prevent any mammals being adversely affected by the works, the report recommends that a walkover survey is undertaken prior to the works commencing, and that any excavations/ pipework are made safe for mammals during the works.

Otter While the site itself provides no evidence of otters, otters have been recorded in the areas surrounding the site and adjoining habitats have the potential to support this species. Following recommendations in the report, an additional otter survey has been undertaken, the results of which are discussed below.

Water vole No records of vole were identified within a 1km radius of the site; however, the vegetated banks of the off-site ditch and areas of tall ruderal vegetation offer refuge and foraging opportunities. Any works carried out within close proximity of the brook have the potential to adversely impact water vole. In accordance with the recommendations, a water vole survey has been undertaken, the results of which are discussed below.

Amphibians No amphibians were identified within 1km of the site, and there are no ponds (potential breeding sites) present on site. While there are ponds in proximity to the site, these are separated from the site by landscape features. The site itself comprises arable farmland, which is of low

suitability for terrestrial amphibians and, although there are pockets of ruderal vegetation on site, they are limited in extent. Amphibians are, therefore, not a notable consideration with regards to the proposed works.

Reptiles The desk study did not provide any records of reptiles within a 1 km radius of the survey area. The dominating arable habitat on site provides limited suitable habitat for reptiles, and there is more favourable habitat available within the wider landscape. Therefore, reptiles are not a notable consideration in relation to the proposed works.

Birds Several protected species of bird have been identified in areas surrounding the site, and habitats within the site provide suitable nesting opportunities for a range of bird species. Where possible, vegetation clearance works will be undertaken outside bird nesting season. Where this is not possible, vegetation will be checked by a suitably qualified ecologist prior to removal. Where nesting birds are identified, they will be protected as appropriate until the nest is abandoned naturally.

Terrestrial invertebrates The report identified records of two species of butterfly listed as Species of Principal Importance within a 1 km radius of the site. The scattered scrub, trees and tall ruderal vegetation onsite support the food plants for species such as the wall butterfly and white-letter hairstreak. Although any invertebrates present within the site may be temporarily displaced during construction, no long-term impacts would be anticipated if new habitats were created as part of the works. The report recommends habitat enhancement, which would increase the value of the site for invertebrates.

Aquatic invertebrates The desk study did not provide any records of notable aquatic invertebrates, such as white- clawed crayfish, within 1km of the site. The off-site ditch was not considered suitable for white clawed crayfish due to the nature of the substrate and lack of potential refugia. As such, aquatic invertebrates are not a notable consideration with regards to the proposed development.

Plants The field survey did not identify any notable plant species on site, and no invasive plant species were observed during the survey. Plants are, therefore, not a notable consideration with regards to the proposed development.

Other species The following protected species are not considered to be material considerations due to the lack of desk study records and absence of suitable habitats within the development site and its surroundings: dormouse, harvest mouse, polecat, pine marten and stag beetle.

Recommendations The report sets out a number of recommendations regarding the habitats present on site and protected/ notable species. These recommendations will be followed to ensure that the proposed works do not adversely affect local ecology or any protected species.

Otter and water vole survey:

As recommended in the PEA, an otter and water vole survey has been undertaken by Middlemarch Environmental Ltd (September 2019). Two visits were undertaken to the site, the first on 20th June 2019 and the second on 5th September 2019.

Water vole The survey identified some suitable opportunities for water vole burrow creation, but this was limited to sections of steep bank. The stream was however, not considered favourable due to the low diversity of foodplants, very shallow water, and the presence of vegetation causing shading in parts. No water voles or evidence of them (such as burrows, latrines, or feeding remains) was recorded during either of the survey visits; and while there is a historical record of water vole (dated 1985) along Nethercote Brook 420m to the south of the site, it is acknowledged that numbers have declined in recent years and the population may no longer be present in the area. It is therefore considered likely that water vole are not present in this area.

Otter The report states that the stream was not considered to offer high quality habitat for otters as it is very shallow and unlikely to support fish and other potential prey species. The banks offer cover but do not provide good holt locations. No evidence of otters was identified, and it is considered unlikely that the works at Nethercote STW will impact upon Otters. However, as they are mobile animals and known records are associated with Nethercote Brook, there is potential for otter to use the stream to commute between habitats and therefore enter the vicinity of the works.

Conclusions & recommendations No evidence of water vole or otter were detected along the surveyed section of stream and the stream is not considered to be favourable for either of these species.

The presence of water vole is considered unlikely and no adverse impacts on water vole are predicted. There are records of otter associated with Nethercote Brook and therefore the report considers that there is the possibility that otter may occasionally use the stream for commuting. As such, the report includes a recommendation for precautionary working methods.

Noise

There may be temporary short-term impacts associated within the construction of the proposed extension. However, once the construction works are complete, it is not anticipated that the site will have any notable noise impacts on the surrounding area.

Odour

It is not anticipated that the site will have an adverse impact on the surrounding area in terms of odour.

Lighting

Only minimal external task lighting (manually operated) will be provided at a few key locations on the site (ie Inlet Pumping station, near RBC etc.). These lights will be general bulkhead type located at a low physical height. No roadway lighting will be installed as part of the proposals.

Heritage

There is a moated site, identified as a scheduled ancient monument approximately 390m to the north-west of the site and there are a number of listed buildings in the nearby villages of Great Wolford and Little Wolford, although these are approximately 530m to the north-west and 1km to the north-east respectively. The proposed site extension will be relatively small in scale and will adjoin the existing STW, as such it is considered that the proposed works will not adversely affect these heritage assets, and any impacts resulting from construction activities would likely be temporary. Oxford Archaeology was commissioned by STWL to prepare an archaeological desk-based assessment for the proposed works at Nethercote STW. The report considered the likely impacts of two potential options being considered at the time: Proposal A, a solution where additional structures/ equipment would be provided within the existing site; and Proposal B, where the existing site would be extended into adjoining land. With regard to Option B, the report identified that the site was likely to have low potential for prehistoric to Romano-British archaeological remains and a low to moderate potential for early- medieval evidence. The site lies within the open agricultural fields to the west of the shrunken medieval settlement at Nethercote and while this did not entirely remove the possibility that the site contained remains relating to medieval settlement activity, suggested that it had a lower potential to contain such deposits.

As the site had not been subject to previous development, it was considered that any unidentified remains would be likely to still be intact. The report considered that the area was unlikely to contain any archaeological remains of such significance to pose a constraint to development; however, it recommended that this should be confirmed/ clarified through the implementation of a programme of archaeological evaluation intended to more clearly define the nature and significance of any deposits present on site and to facilitate a mitigation strategy intended to remove or reduce any archaeological impacts identified. Following these recommendations, a Written Scheme of Investigation (WSI) was prepared with input from Planning Archaeologist Anna Stocks, at Warwickshire County Council. A four-trench evaluation of the proposed site was undertaken and revealed no archaeological deposits other than ploughed out ridge and furrow cultivation of probable late medieval date on land belonging to the deserted village of Nethercote. No other finds were discovered. For further information, see:

▪ Archaeological Desk-Based Assesment Oxford Archaeology (April 2019)

▪ Written Scheme of Investigation Oxford Archaeology (October 2019)

▪ Archaeological Evaluation Report Oxford Archaeology (October 2019)

Anna Stocks (Warwickshire County Council) has subsequently confirmed that given the results of the evaluation, she does not consider that it would be necessary for any further archaeological work to be undertaken prior to, or during, the proposed development. she has also advised that it would not be necessary for any planning permission for these works to be subject to an archaeological condition. See email in Appendix A.

05 Planning Policy

Planning policy relating to the application site is formed through:

▪ Local Planning Policy

▪ National Planning Policy

Section 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 requires applications for planning permission to be determined in accordance with the Development Plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The development Plan material to the proposal consists of:

▪ Stratford on Avon District Core Strategy 2011-2031 (July 2016)

▪ Cotswold AONB Management Plan 2018-2023 (December 2018)

▪ Warwickshire County Council Waste Core Strategy (July 2013)

In addition to the Development Plan, applications should also have regard to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and National Planning Practice Guidance, which are material considerations in any determination.

Stratford on Avon District Core Strategy 2011-2031 (July 2016)

Policy CS.1 – Sustainable Development The Council supports and will apply the principle that planning to secure a high-quality environment, managed economic growth and social equity are of equal importance. All development proposals should contribute towards the character and quality of the District and to the well-being of those who live and work in and visit the District. Development should be located and designed so that it contributes towards the maintenance of sustainable communities within the District. When considering development proposals, the Council will take a positive approach that reflects the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). It will work proactively with applicants to find solutions which mean that proposals can be approved wherever possible, and to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area. Planning applications that accord with the policies in the Core Strategy (and, where relevant, with policies in neighbourhood plans) will be approved without delay, unless material considerations indicate otherwise.

Where there are no polices in the Core Strategy that are relevant to the application, the Council will grant permission unless material considerations indicate otherwise, taking into account whether:

▪ Any adverse impacts of granting permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the NPPF when taken as a whole; or

▪ Specific policies in the NPPF indicate that development should be restricted.

Policy CS.4 – Water Environment and Flood Risk All development proposals will take into account, dependant on their scale, use and location, the predicted impact of climate change on the District’s water environment. Measures will include sustainable use of water resources, minimising water consumption, protecting and improving water quality, and minimising flood risk from all sources, as set out in the most up- to-date Strategic Flood Risk Assessment.

A. Flood Risk Areas

The policy sets out that where possible, development should be located in Flood Risk Zone 1 (Low Probability Flood Risk).

B. Surface Water Runoff and Sutainable Urban Drainage Systems

It states that development will not be permitted where it would result in an increase in the risk of flooding elsewhere, and required surface water to be appropriately managed.

C. Enhancing and protecting the Water Environment.

It states that development proposals that lie adjacent to a canal, river, or tributary should ensure that the natural features and functions of the water course and its wider corridor are retained, or where possible reinstated and that appropriate habitat buffers are established. It states that development proposals will take full account of the biodiversity value of water courses and river corridors and their role in supporting local ecological networks. Impacts from lighting, noise, and visual disturbances should be avoided and mitigated and opportunities to create, enhance and restore adjacent habitats for biodiversity will be encouraged.

D. Water Quality

In accordance with the Water Framework Directive’s Objectives, development must not affect the water bodies’ ability to reach good status or potential as set out in the Rivers Severn, Humber and Thames River Basin Management Plans (RBMP). Development will not be permitted where proposals have a negative impact on water quality, either directly through pollution of surface or ground water, or indirectly through the

overloading of Wastewater Treatment Works. Prior to any potential development, consultation must be help with Severn Trent Water or Thames Water as appropriate to ensure that the required wastewater infrastructure is in place in sufficient time.

Policy CS.5 – Landscape The landscape character and quality of the District will be maintained by ensuring that development takes place in a manner that minimises and mitigates its impact and, where possible, incorporates measures to enhance the landscape. The cumulative impact of development proposals on the quality of the landscape will be taken into account. Development will thus be permitted where: A. Landscape Character and Enhancement

1. Proposals have regard to the local distinctiveness and historic character of the District's diverse landscapes.

2. Proposals protect landscape character and avoid detrimental effects on features which make a significant contribution to the character, history and setting of a settlement or area.

3. Measures are incorporated into development schemes to enhance and restore the landscape character of the locality.

B. Visual Impacts

1. Proposals include, dependent on their scale, use and location, an assessment of the likely visual impacts on the local landscape or townscape, and the site’s immediate and wider setting. Applications for major developments may require a full Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment.

2. New landscaping proposals are incorporated to reduce predicted harmful visual impacts and enhance the existing landscape. Provision must be made for its long term management and maintenance.

C. Trees, Woodland and Hedges

1. Proposals do not lead to any loss or damage but rather protect the quality of ancient semi-natural woodland and aged/veteran trees, particularly in the Forest of Arden, but also (due to their relative scarcity) elsewhere in the District.

2. Proposals that will have an impact on woodlands, hedges and trees incorporate measures to protect their contribution to landscape character, public amenity and biodiversity. The loss of those trees which are of high public amenity value will be resisted and such trees will be protected by the use of Tree Preservation Orders.

3. The design and layout of development schemes and other projects in rural and urban areas incorporate trees in a manner that is appropriate to the nature of the site, including the use of native species. However, given the continued threat to native trees and plant species from pests and diseases, the incorporation of non-native species into schemes will be considered and accepted where appropriate.

4. Development schemes and other opportunities are used to:

▪ enable the expansion of native woodlands,

▪ buffer, extend and connect fragmented ancient woodlands,

▪ develop flood risk reduction measures through the planting of woodlands, trees and undergrowth for their intrinsic value and to help climate change adaptation.

Policy CS.12 sets out additional factors to be taken into account when considering development proposals in those parts of the District designated as Special Landscape Areas.

Policy CS.6 – Natural Environment Development will be expected to contribute towards a resilient ecological network throughout the District that supports ecosystems and provides ecological security for wildlife, people, the economy and tourism. Developments that are likely to have an adverse effect either directly, indirectly or cumulatively upon a site designated through the EC Habitats Directive or Birds Directive will not be permitted. A. Proposals will be expected to minimise impacts, and where possible, secure a net gain in biodiversity, and this policy sets out a number of ways in which this might be achieved.

Policy CS.8 – Historic Environment A. Protection and Enhancement The District’s historic environment will be protected an enhanced for its inherent value and for the enjoyment of present and future residents and visitors. Priority will be given to protecting and enhancing the wide range of historic and cultural assets that contribute to the character and identity of the District, including:

1. Designated heritage assets such as Listed Buildings, Conservation Areas, Registered Gardens, the Battle of Edgehill Historic Battlefield, Scheduled Monuments, and sites of archaeological importance, and their settings; 2. non-designated heritage assets and their settings;

3. Stratford-upon-Avon’s historic townscape and street scene, and sites associated with William Shakespeare, to maintain the town’s international and cultural importance; 4. the distinctive character of the market towns, villages and hamlets, including their settings, townscapes, streets, spaces and built form;

5. features that reflect the historic interaction of human activity on the landscape, including local vernacular building styles and materials, traditional farm buildings, and historic features associated with canals, navigations and railways;

6. working with the highways authority and infrastructure providers to ensure works to streets and the public realm do not detract from the historic value of the street scene; and;

7. seeking to reduce the number of heritage assets at risk. B. Proposals Affecting the Significance of a Heritage Asset Where proposals will affect a heritage asset, applicants will be required to undertake and provide an assessment of the significance of the asset using a proportionate level of detail relating to the likely impact the proposal will have on the asset's historic interest. Proposals which would lead to substantial harm to, or total loss of significance of, designated heritage assets will only be permitted where substantial public benefits outweigh that harm or loss and it is demonstrated that all reasonable efforts have been made to sustain the existing use or find reasonable alternative uses. Where a development proposal will lead to less than substantial harm to the significance of a designated heritage asset, this harm must be justified and weighed against the public benefits of the proposal, including securing its optimum viable use. For non-designated heritage assets, proposals will be assessed having regard to the scale of any harm or loss and the significance of the heritage asset. Where harm or loss of a heritage asset can be fully justified, as part of the implementation of the proposal the District Council will require archaeological excavation and/or historic building recording as appropriate, followed by analysis and publication of the results. C. Appreciation, Design and Management Proposals will be high quality, sensitively designed and integrated with the historic context. The design and layout of development proposals will be informed by an understanding of the significance of the historic asset and environment.

Policy CS.9 – Design and Distinctiveness A. Ensuring Local Distinctiveness All forms of development will improve the quality of the public realm and enhance the sense of place, reflecting the character and distinctiveness of the locality. Proposals that would damage or destroy features which positively contribute to local distinctiveness will not be permitted. Understanding local context is key to achieving good design and proposals should take into account any relevant design principles and contextual analysis set out in local guidance. Where required as part of a planning application, Design and Access Statements will set out how new development responds to its unique context and enhances local distinctiveness.

B. Ensuring High Quality Design High quality design will be achieved by ensuring that all development is: 1. Attractive: Proposals will be of a high quality architectural design and include appropriate landscaping to create places where people want to live, work and visit. Proposals should use a limited palette of materials to give coherence to the overall design. The provision of landscaping will be accompanied by appropriate mechanisms to ensure its ongoing management and maintenance.

2. Sensitive: Proposals, including layout and orientation, will be sensitive to the setting, existing built form, neighbouring uses, landscape character and topography of the site and locality. Proposals will reflect the context of the locality, ensuring a continuity of key design features that establishes the identity of the place, making best use of on-site assets including landscaping features as well as public views and vistas and not harming existing ones.

3. Distinctive: The layout of proposals will be easy to navigate with buildings designed and positioned to define and enhance a hierarchy of streets and spaces, taking account of the relationship between building height and street width. Public and private spaces should be clearly defined and areas that have little or no public or biodiversity value should be avoided. Densities should be appropriate to the site taking into account the fact a key principle of good design is the relationship between the height, width and depth of buildings. 4. Connected: Proposals will be well-integrated with existing built form, enhancing the network of streets, footpaths and green infrastructure across the site and the locality, and retaining existing rights of way. 5. Environmentally Sustainable: Proposals will respond to climate change. Measures should include energy efficiency technologies, low carbon and renewable energy sources, the use of local materials where possible, effective water management and flood protection, and appropriate landscaping. 6. Accessible: Proposals will encourage walking and cycling and provide for or be close to, community facilities, having good access to public transport. 7. Safe: Proposals will incorporate effective measures to help reduce crime and the fear of crime and to minimise danger from traffic. Schemes linked to the evening and night-time economy will incorporate measures to help manage anti-social behaviour and to avoid unacceptable impact on neighbouring uses, residents and the surrounding area. Measures should include pedestrian and cycle friendly streets and opportunities for natural surveillance whilst avoiding large parking courts and blank building elevations. 8. Healthy: Proposals will ensure a good standard of space and amenity for occupiers. Occupants of new and neighbouring buildings will be protected from unacceptable levels of noise, contamination and pollution, loss of daylight and privacy, and adverse surroundings.

C. Design Innovation High quality design innovation will be encouraged where it reflects and complements the immediate local environment and maximises sustainability benefits. Where such an approach is appropriate it should be based on the characteristics of the built environment in the local area and have a beneficial purpose.

Policy CS. 11 – Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Development proposals in the District involving land either within, or outside but affecting, the Cotswolds AONB should conserve and enhance the special landscape qualities and scenic beauty of the AONB and be consistent with the objectives set out in the Cotswolds AONB Management Plan. Small-scale development and activities are appropriate, in accordance with Policy AS.10 Countryside and Villages, but must not harm the historic or built character, local distinctiveness or landscape quality of the AONB. The impact of development proposals on the economic and social well-being of the area will be taken into account, including the specific needs of agriculture.

Policy CS.12 – Special Landscape Area The high landscape quality of the Special Landscape Areas, including their associated historic and cultural features, will be protected by resisting development proposals that would have a harmful effect on their distinctive character and appearance which make an important contribution to the image and enjoyment of the District. The cumulative impact of development proposals on the quality of the landscape will be taken into account. The following Special Landscape Areas are identified and their extent is shown on the Policies Map:

▪ Arden

▪ Cotswold Fringe

▪ Feldon Parkland

▪ Ironstone Hills Fringe

Development proposals relating to settlements that lie within a Special Landscape Area must respect the current and historic relationship of that settlement within the landscape.

Policy CS.25 – Healthy Communities A. Infrastructure, Services and Community Facilities With the release of land for development, suitable arrangements will be put in place to improve infrastructure, services and community facilities to mitigate impact of development and integrate it with the existing community.

Policy AS.10 – Countryside and Villages In order to help maintain the vitality of rural communities and a strong rural economy, provision will be made for a wide range of activities and development in rural parts of the District. All proposals will be thoroughly assessed against the principles of sustainable development, including the need to:

▪ minimise impact on the character of the local landscape, communities and environmental features;

▪ minimise impact on the occupiers and users of existing properties in the area;

▪ avoid a level of increase in traffic on rural roads that would be harmful to the local area;

▪ make provision for sustainable forms of transport wherever appropriate and justified;

▪ prioritise the re-use of brownfield land and existing buildings; and

▪ seek to avoid the loss of large areas of higher quality agricultural land.

Cotswold AONB Management Plan 2018-2023

Policy CE1 – Landscape This policy states that 1. Proposals that are likely to impact on, or create change in, the landscape of the Cotswolds AONB, should have regard to, be compatible with and reinforce the landscape character of the location as described by the Landscape Character Assessment and Landscape Strategy and Guidelines. 2. Proposals that are likely to impact on, or create change in, the landscape of the Cotswolds AONB, should have regard to the scenic quality of the location and its setting and ensure that views – including those into and out of the AONB – and visual amenity are conserved and enhanced.

Policy CE3 – Local Distinctiveness 1. Proposals that are likely to impact on the local distinctiveness of the Cotswolds AONB should have regard to, be compatible with and reinforce this local distinctiveness. This should include:

▪ being compatible with the Cotswolds Conservation Board’s Landscape Character Assessment, Landscape Strategy and Guidelines and Local Distinctiveness and Landscape Change;

▪ being designed and, where relevant, landscaped to respect local settlement patterns, building styles, scale and materials;

▪ using an appropriate colour of limestone to reflect local distinctiveness.

2. Innovative designs – which are informed by local distinctiveness, character and scale – should be welcomed.

Policy CE6 – Historic Environment and Cultural Heritage 1. The historic environment and cultural heritage of the Cotswolds AONB, both designated and undesignated, should be conserved and enhanced through effective management. 2. Designated historic environment sites, such as Scheduled Monuments and listed buildings, should be protected, in line with national policy and guidance. 3. Proposals that are likely to impact on the historic and cultural heritage of the Cotswolds AONB should have regard to these features and seek to conserve and enhance them. This should include respecting historical features, buildings, sites, layout and context, including the relationship between the existing feature or settlement and the landscape. 4. Historic Environment and Cultural Heritage should be a key component of future agri- environment, land management and rural development support mechanisms in the Cotswolds AONB.

Policy CE7 – Biodiversity 1. Biodiversity in the Cotswolds AONB should be conserved and enhanced by establishing a coherent and resilient ecological network across the Cotswolds AONB and in its setting. This should be achieved by implementing the following principles:

▪ Better: Existing wildlife sites should be protected, in line with national policy and guidance, and be brought into good condition through effective and appropriate management.

▪ Bigger: The size of existing wildlife sites should be increased.

▪ More: More wildlife sites should be created.

▪ Joined: Connectivity between wildlife sites should be improved by creating new wildlife corridors and ‘stepping stone’ sites and the provision of green infrastructure. The pressure on wildlife should be reduced by improving the wider environment, including the provision of less intensively managed ‘buffer zones’ around wildlife sites.

2. Proposals that are likely to impact on the biodiversity of the Cotswolds AONB should provide a significant net-gain in biodiversity. 3. Biodiversity should be a key component of future agri-environment, land management and rural development support mechanisms in the Cotswolds AONB.

Policy CE13 – Waste Management 1. The waste hierarchy, shown below, should be promoted:

▪ Reduce

▪ Reuse

▪ Recycle

2. Proposals for new landfill sites and strategic waste facilities should not normally be permitted in the AONB. Any waste management facilities that are permitted in the AONB should be sited and managed in such a way that adverse environmental impacts are minimised, in line with relevant permitting regimes.

Warwickshire County Council Waste Core Strategy (July 2013)

Policy CS2 – The Spatial Waste Planning Strategy for Warwickshire This policy sets out the locations where preference will be given for the location of waste management facilities. Within the broach locations identified, the policy states that new waste developments will be directed to certain kinds of sites, including:

▪ land within or adjoining a sewage treatment works.

Policy DM1 – Protection and enhancement of the natural and built environment New waste development should conserve, and where possible enhance, the natural and built environment by ensuring that there are no unacceptable adverse impacts upon:

▪ Natural resources (including water, air and soil);

▪ Biodiversity

▪ Geodiversity

▪ Archaeology

▪ Heritage and cultural assets and their settings

▪ The quality and character of the landscape

▪ Adjacent land uses of occupiers; and

▪ The distinctive character and setting of the County’s settlement.

Waste management proposals should demonstrate that valued landscapes and sites, species, habitats and heritage assets (and where relevant, their settings) of international importance will be preserved or conserved and where possible, enhanced.

National Planning Policy Framework (2018)

Paragraph 8 states that the planning system has three overarching objectives, which are interdependent and need to be pursued in mutually supportive ways. The first of these is an

economic objective, to help build a strong, responsive and competitive economy by ensuring that sufficient land of the right type is available in the right places and at the right time to support growth, innovation and improved productivity; and by identifying and co-ordinating the provision of infrastructure. Paragraph 11 states that there should be a presumption in favour of sustainable development. Local plans should positively seek opportunities to meet the development needs of their area and development proposals which accord with an up-to-date development plan should be approved without delay. Where there are no relevant development plan policies, or the policies are out-of-date, permission should be granted unless policies in the Framework that protect areas or assets of particular importance prove a clear reason for refusing the proposed development, or the adverse impacts of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in this Framework taken as a whole.

Paragraph 12 states that where a planning application conflicts with an up-to-date development plan Local Planning Authorities may take decisions that depart from an up-to-date development plan where material considerations in a particular case indicate that the plan should not be followed.

Paragraph 20 states that strategic policies should set out an overall strategy for the pattern, scale and quality of development, and make sufficient provision for: b) infrastructure for transport, telecommunications, security, waste management, water supply, wastewater, flood risk, coastal change management and the provision of minerals and energy. Paragraph 25 states that authorities should collaborate to identify the relevant strategic matters which they need to address in their plans, and should engage with infrastructure providers. Paragraph 28 non-strategic policies should be used by local planning authorities and communities to set out more detailed policies for specific areas, neighbourhoods or types of development. This can include the provision of infrastructure. Paragraph 81 states that planning policies should seek to address potential barriers to investment, such as inadequate infrastructure, services or housing, or a poor environment. Paragraph 122 states that planning policies and decisions should support development that makes efficient use of land, taking into account the availability and capacity of infrastructure and services – both existing and proposed – as well as their potential for further improvement. Paragraph 193 states that when considering the impact of a proposed development on the significance of a designated heritage asset, great weight should be given to the asset’s conservation. This is irrespective of whether any potential harm amounts to substantial harm, total loss or less than substantial harm to its significance. Paragraph 196 states that where a development proposal will lead to less than substantial harm to the significance of a designated heritage asset, this harm should be weighed against

the public benefits of the proposal including, where appropriate, securing its optimum viable use.

National Planning Practice Guidance (NPPG) - Water supply, wastewater and water quality (22 July 2019)

The NPPG provides guidance on water supply, wastewater and water quality. It states that adequate water and wastewater infrastructure is needed to support sustainable development. A healthy water environment will also deliver multiple benefits, such as helping to enhance the natural environment generally and adapting to climate change.

06 Planning Policy Assessment

This application seeks consent for the extension of the existing sewage treatment works at Nethercote, Great Wolford.

Requirement The extension to the existing site is required to accommodate infrastructure which is necessary to meet the requirements of the Water Framework Directive which seeks to improve the conditions at the Nethercote Brook, through the imposition of tightener Phosphorus permits. The provision of infrastructure to meet existing and future requirements is supported in both local and national planning policy, and local authorities should seek to address potential barriers to investment, such as inadequate infrastructure, services or housing, or a poor environment (NPPF Paragraphs 8, 20, 25, 28 and 81). The NPPF (paragraph 11) states that there should be a presumption in favour of sustainable development and that local authorities should positively seek opportunities to meet the development needs of their area. Proposals which accord with an up-to-date plan should be approved without delay. Policy CS.1 states that the Council will adopt this principle of sustainable development and will work proactively with applicants to find solutions which mean that proposals can be approved wherever possible, and to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in the area.

Design, location and landscape The site is positioned in an area of open countryside, and both the existing STW and the application site are situated within the Cotswold Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). There is also a Special Landscape Area (SLA) to the north-west which includes the village of Great Wolford. As the proposed works will extend the existing STW, and will connect into the existing sewerage network, it is necessary for the proposed works to be positioned in this location, and they could not reasonably be located elsewhere. The proposed extension to the existing STW has been carefully designed to be of the minimum scale necessary for operational purposes, and to respect the character and quality of the landscape and the AONB. In accordance with advice from Warwickshire County Council, RSK have prepared a Landscape Visual Appraisal for the site. The report considered that the proposed development would not result in prominent changes to the characteristics of the wider landscape or affect the integrity of landscape designations within the study area, including the Cotswolds AONB and Special Landscape Area. It considered that the change in land use would not be seen as incongruous due to the low level of the structures proposed, and the finish of the materials selected for the structures which would be viewed in the context of the wider rural and agricultural land-uses.

The report concludes that while there may be temporary impacts associated with the construction of the proposed extension, during operation no landscape or visual effects were assessed as being moderate or greater. A scheme of boundary landscaping to mitigate the visual impact of the works has been prepared, and will be carried out to minimise the visual and landscape impacts of the extended site on the surrounding protected landscape. Policy CS2 supports the development of waste management facilities on land within and adjoining existing sewage treatment works, and as the site has been carefully designed to respect and minimise the impact on the Cotswold AONB. It is therefore considered that the proposed works will accord with Policies CS.5, CS. 9, CS.11, CS.12, AS.10, CE1 and CE3.

Ecology A preliminary ecology appraisal and additional otter and water vole surveys have been undertaken by Middlemarch Environmental Ltd (June 2019 and September 2019). The recommendations set out in these reports will be followed to ensure that the works do not adversely affect the surrounding ecology or any protected species which might be present in the vicinity. As such it is considered that the proposed works are accord with Policies CS.6, DM1 and CE7.

Flood risk and water environment The existing site and proposed extension are both located in areas of Flood Zone 1 and have a low probability of flooding. The proposed works are being undertaken to meet the requirements of the Water Framework Directive, which seeks to improve the conditions of Nethercote Brook, and one of the aims of Policy CS.4 seeks to protect and improve water quality and the water environment. it is therefore considered that the proposed works accord with local policy.

Heritage Policy CS.8 seeks to protect and enhance the significance of the District’s heritage assets and the policy states that where proposals may affect the significance of a heritage asset, applicants will be required to undertake and provide an assessment of the significance of the asset and the likely impact of the proposal on the assets historic interest. Given that the proposed site extension will be relatively small in scale and will adjoin the existing STW, it is considered that the proposed works will not adversely affect any heritage assets in the areas surrounding the site. Additionally, any impacts resulting from construction activities would most likely be temporary in nature. The proposed works will not adversely affect the moated site scheduled monument to the north-west of the site. Furthermore, a review of the site and subsequent investigations undertaken by Oxford Archaeology following guidance from Warwickshire County Council,

revealed that although there was evidence of ridge and furrow earth work within the site, no other archaeological finds of significance were identified. As such, it is considered that the proposed works are in accordance with Policies CS.8, CE6 and NPPF Paragraphs 193 and 196.

Amenity and PROWs The site does not adjoin and will not affect any public rights of way. The nearest residential properties to the site are located at Nethercote Fields Bed and Breakfast, approximately 100m to the north-east of the existing site, and along the northern edge of Nethercote Road approximately 140m north-west of the proposed extension. The proposed works will not adversely affect the amenity of these properties and existing and proposed landscaping should minimise any visual impacts of the new site extension. The proposed works are considered to accord with both local and national planning policy.

07 Conclusion

This planning application seeks permission for the extension of the existing sewage treatment works at Nethercote, Great Wolford. The extended site will accommodate a new Inlet Pumping Station including handrailing and a lifting davit, a Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC), an RBC control and blower plinth kiosk, ferric dosing pump and control panel kiosk, ferric dosing system, safety shower, potable water booster kiosk, Motor Control Centre (MCC) kiosk, two new reed beds and security fencing. The existing access road into the site will be resurfaced and extended and a turning head will be provided. The proposed works are necessary to meet the requirements of the Water Framework Directive, which seeks to improve the conditions at the Nethercote Brook through the imposition of a 1.5mg/l phosphorus permit on the final effluent entering the brook by the end of December 2021. The existing site and proposed extension will be located within the Cotswold AONB, and are close to a Special Landscape Area. It is necessary for the works to be situated in this located, adjoining the existing site and they could not be reasonably located elsewhere. The site has therefore been carefully designed to respect and protect the character and quality of the surrounding landscape and a scheme of mitigation planting has been developed to further minimise the impact of the works. The site is relatively isolated between the villages of Great Wolford and Little Wolford. There are no public rights of way adjoining the site and, once complete the proposed works should not adversely affect the amenity of any of the properties to the north-east and north-west of the site. The development is not considered likely to result in any adverse impacts on local heritage assets or flood risk, and the works will be undertaken in accordance with the recommendations set out in the ecology reports. The works are considered to accord fully with all relevant national and local planning policy and it is respectfully requested that the application be approved.

Appendix A – Email from Warwickshire County Council (Archaeology)