CYNGOR CAERDYDD CARDIFF COUNCIL

THORNHILL CEMETERY

NORTHERN EXTENSION

DESIGN & ACCESS STATEMENT (PLANNING STAGE)

Project No: RSSC1099 Date: APRIL 2018 Status: DRAFT FOR PUBLIC CONSULTATION Datblygu’r Ddinas City Development

Dylunio Adeiladau a Rheoli Adeiladu Buildings Design and Construction Management

Gavin M Traylor RIBA Rheolwr Gweithredol (Dros Dro) Operational Manager (Acting) County Hall, Atlantic Wharf, Cardiff CF10 4UW Tel: 029 2233 0200 Design & Access Statement for: Thornhill Cemetery Northern Extension

Project: Thornhill Cemetery Northern Extension

Project No: RSSC1099

Name of site/address: Land off east of Thornhill Road north of M4 at New House Farm, Capel Gwilym Road, Cardiff CF14 9UB

CONTENTS:

PART A: DESIGN STATEMENT

PART B: ACCESS STATEMENT Part A – Design

1.0 Background

2.0 Underlying Philosophy

3.0 Inclusive Design

4.0 Planning Policy

5.0 Character

6.0 Community Safety

7.0 Environmental Sustainability

8.0 Movement to, from and within the development

9.0 Accessibility Part A: DESIGN STATEMENT

1.0 Background

1.1 Cardiff is one of the fastest growing Cities in the UK with an increasing population, and as the population grows so does the death rate for the City. Whilst cremation is the preferred choice for the majority of people, around 30% of deaths still opt for burial for personal and religious reasons.

1.2 As a Council responsible for a growing, diverse community it is essential that it provides the necessary infrastructure to accommodate all citizens who will encounter bereavement at some point and ensure it adequately plans for the long term future.

1.3 At present, the Council operates seven burial sites of which Thornhill, Pantmawr and Western cemeteries are the only current sites providing new graves. The smaller churchyards and the oldest site at Cathays Cemetery are all full for new burials.

1.4 Thornhill Cemetery is the busiest site in the City dealing with over 700 burials a year and over 200 new graves. The site serves residents mainly in the north, east and south of the City.

1.5 Thornhill Cemetery was first opened in 1952 covering a total area of 40 acres including the crematorium facility. The cemetery grounds were extended by a total of 5 acres in 2010 on adjacent land already in Council ownership previously earmarked for cemetery use. There are no options for further expansion as the site is bordered on three sides by housing and on the other by the main A469 Thornhill Road.

1.6 Based on the remaining space at the site and current usage, Thornhill Cemetery will not be able to provide any new graves after June 2020.

1.7 The Council therefore needs to develop a new substantial sized cemetery to cater for the future needs of its residents. 1.8 Many sites have been considered during investigations by officers to identify suitable ground. This has been a challenging exercise in order to meet all of the key criteria such as the size of the area required, ground suitability and an accessible location.

1.9 Of the few sites that met all the required criteria, the preferred location for the Council to continue providing cemetery space in the north of the City has been chosen by Bereavement Services. The site is located off the east side of Thornhill Road north of M4 motorway and currently forms part of New House Farm.

1.10 The site covers an area of about 3.7 hectares (9 acres) in total. It is located less than 650 metres from the existing cemetery at Thornhill and therefore provides the benefit of being able to be managed from the current site which ensures operational costs are not significantly increased. This also means capital costs are significantly less as there will be no need to construct offices, staff facilities and plant & machinery storage.

1.11 The site is of adequate size to allow for a range of burial options to be provided including traditional graves, lawn graves, cremated remains graves with a dedicated natural burial area.

1.12 When fully developed the site will provide adequate space to serve this area of the City for approximately 18 to 20 years.

1.13 The site however occurs outside the Settlement boundary within the green wedge as defined on the Proposals Map of the Adopted Cardiff Local Development Plan (LDP).

1.14 Brief

The brief is for the conversion of agricultural land at New House Farm into a new burial site as an extension of the existing burial site located at Thornhill Cemetery. 2.0 Underlying Philosophy

2.1 Cardiff Council has in place a “Strategic Equal Opportunities Policy Statement” which aims to ensure the Council continues to be an organisation which recognises and values diversity and intends to be a leading edge example of good practice, achieved by implementing equal opportunities across the whole spectrum of the Council’s activities. [Full statement can be viewed on the website www.cardiff.gov.uk – ref. ‘4.HR.152.’ The authority also has in place a draft reasonable adjustments policy.

2.2 Cardiff Council has recently published a draft Single Equality Scheme. This outlines the Council’s commitment to promoting independence and involvement of all people (including disabled people) in the life of the City. Cardiff Council, in line with The Equality Act 2010, has carried out a review of our original Strategic Equality Plan published in 2012. As a result of this review Cardiff Council have produced a new Strategic Equality Plan with new equality objectives entitled 'Equality Making a Difference for Cardiff'.

The equality objectives contained within the plan demonstrate Cardiff Council's ambition for equality to "make the difference" in building a fairer society for all of Cardiff's citizens, and help us achieve our vision of Cardiff becoming Europe's Most Liveable Capital City.

The Strategic Equality Plan is linked directly to the What Matters Strategy , the Corporate Plan and all service area business plans.

2.3 City of Cardiff Council has guidance in place on implementing the Crime and Disorder Act: Section 17 (Mainstreaming of Community Safety) responsibility – which aims to produce a Crime Reduction Strategy for the city [A full copy of the documents can be viewed on the website - www.cardiff.gov.uk 5.HANR.502] 3.0 Inclusive Design

3.1 All aspects of the design have been considered to ensure that there are no barriers created and that the proposed cemetery, including the toilet facility building, can cater for and be accessed by all sections of society.

3.2 An Equality Impact Assessment has been completed by Cardiff Council Bereavement Services in accordance with the requirements of Cardiff Council as a service provider. 4.0 Planning Policy

4.1 As the site lies outside the Settlement boundary and within the Green Wedge as defined on the Proposals Map of the Adopted Cardiff Local Development Plan (LDP), the proposal will need to be assessed against the following policies: KP3 (A): GREEN WEDGE KP3 (B): SETTLEMENT BOUNDARIES KP16: GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE EN1: COUNTRYSIDE PROTECTION EN3: LANDSCAPE PROTECTION 4.2 Policy KP3 (A): Green Wedge of the adopted LDP identifies land for Green Wedge, whereby development that would prejudice the open nature of this land would not be permitted. Paragraph 4.81 of the LDP states that Planning Policy Wales (PPW) provides specific guidance on the consideration of planning applications within the green wedge designation. Paragraphs 4.8.14 to 4.8.18 of Planning Policy Wales (PPW) state the following: 4.8.14 When considering applications for planning permission in Green Belts or green wedges, a presumption against inappropriate development will apply. Local planning authorities should attach substantial weight to any harmful impact which a development would have on a Green Belt or green wedge. 4.8.15 Inappropriate development should not be granted planning permission except in very exceptional circumstances where other considerations clearly outweigh the harm which such development would do to the Green Belt or green wedge. Green Belt and green wedge policies in development plans should ensure that any applications for inappropriate development would not be in accord with the plan. These very exceptional cases would therefore be treated as departures from the plan. 4.8.16 The construction of new buildings in a Green Belt or in a locally designated green wedge is inappropriate development unless it is for the following purposes: • justified rural enterprise needs; • essential facilities for outdoor sport and outdoor recreation, cemeteries , and other uses of land which maintain the openness of the Green Belt or green wedge and which do not conflict with the purpose of including land within it; • limited extension, alteration or replacement of existing dwellings; • limited infilling (in those settlements and other development sites which have been identified for limited infilling in the development plan) and affordable housing for local needs under development plan policies; or • small scale diversification within farm complexes where this is run as part of the farm business. 4.8.18 Other forms of development would be inappropriate development unless they maintain the openness of the Green Belt or green wedge and do not conflict with the purposes of including land within it. 4.3 Policy KP3 (B): Settlement boundaries states in all areas outside the defined settlement boundary, otherwise referred to as countryside, there will be a corresponding presumption against inappropriate development.

4.4 Policy KP16: Green Infrastructure states that natural heritage assets, including the undeveloped countryside are key to Cardiff’s character, value, distinctiveness and sense of place and if development results in overall loss of green infrastructure, appropriate compensation will be required.

4.5 Policy EN1: Countryside Protection states that development beyond the settlement boundaries will only be permitted where the use is appropriate in the countryside, respects the landscape character and quality and biodiversity of the site and surrounding area and where it is appropriate in scale and design. It also states that a landscape assessment and landscaping scheme will be required for significant development proposals.

4.6 Policy EN3: Landscape Protection states that development that would unacceptably harm the character and quality of the landscape and setting of the city will not be permitted.

4.7 In the Landscape Study of Cardiff (May 1999) the area is defined as a broad tract of gently rolling countryside located between the foot of the Caerphilly Ridge and the northern edge of Cardiff. Strategically the area forms the lower part of the backdrop of encircling hills and ridges to the north of Cardiff and is therefore an important component of the wider landscape setting of the city.

4.8 On this basis, to be policy compliant, this planning application submission will need to: • Demonstrate the use of land as a cemetery would maintain the open nature of the green wedge and would not conflict with the purpose of including this land within the Green Wedge designation • Justify the very exceptional circumstances to provide the proposed cemetery which outweighs potential harm to the green wedge • Demonstrates the cemetery use is appropriate in this countryside location having regard to LDP policy and National Guidance • Include a landscape assessment and landscaping scheme if involving significant development proposals in order to demonstrate acceptability in terms of impact on the landscape character and quality • Address any other material considerations

4.9 It should be noted that this information is based on the current LDP and National policies. The policy framework may change over time either through changes to national policy and guidance, potential future Strategic Development Plans or future reviews of the LDP. 5.0 CHARACTER

5.1 Site:

5.1.1 The site is located off the east side of Thornhill Road north of M4 and occurs outside the Settlement boundary within the Green Wedge as defined on the Proposals Map of the Adopted Cardiff Local Development Plan (LDP).

5.1.2 In the Landscape Study of Cardiff (May 1999) the surrounding area is defined as a broad tract of gently rolling countryside located between the foot of the Caerphilly Ridge and the northern edge of Cardiff. Strategically the area forms the lower part of the backdrop of encircling hills and ridges to the north of Cardiff and is therefore an important component of the wider landscape setting of the city.

5.1.3 The existing site mainly comprises a large semi-improved grassland field, currently used for sheep/ cattle grazing, covering approximately 3.7 hectares. The site is bounded on all sides by fencing, with a block of semi-natural broadleaved woodland covered by a TPO between the site and Thornhill Road along the western boundary and hedgerows along the northern boundary beyond which is a reservoir. The M4 motorway is immediately adjacent to the site on its southern boundary, being separated from the site by a small strip of planted woodland and scrub on the sloping highway’s verge. Arable fields make up the majority of the landscape surrounding the site to the north, east and west. Small blocks of woodland are present within this network of arable fields. 5.1.4 With respect to gradient, the highest part of the site occurs near the north east corner. The land falls from this high point towards the south west corner by up to 16m at ~9% gradient with the lowest elevated part of the site coinciding with a swale which occurs approximately one third of the way across the site from the Thornhill Road boundary.

5.1.5 There are high voltage power cables operated by Western Power Distribution which run at high level cross the site from north to south supported on timber poles with a pole mounted transformer at the northern boundary.

5.1.6 The land is owned by Cardiff Council. It currently forms part of New House Farm, Capel Gwilym Road and is subject to a Farm Business Tenancy lease which still has 18 years to run. The leaseholder uses the site for grazing and it is connected to his business.

5.1.7 The Council will need to amend the lease to regain control of the site subject to serving 12 months’ notice on the leaseholder from the anniversary date that the lease was signed once planning consent has been granted for the proposed development. It is therefore anticipated the site will come back into Council administration by October 2019.

5.1.8 Informal discussions have taken place with the tenant and it is hoped that a mutually acceptable agreement can be reached so the lease can be amended before October 2019. The development could provide a new business opportunity by catering for funerals, sales of cut flowers and an increase in visitors to the farm shop and café. 5.2 Layout&scale:

5.2.1 The design has been developed from the original brief through a series of engagement sessions with the client, stakeholders and building professionals. The careful balance of site, layout & scale, schedule of accommodation, building footprint, client priorities and vision, ecology and landscape design have all been considered to inform the design strategy for the site.

5.2.2 The layout & scale of the development is determined by the brief prepared by Bereavement Services.

Proposed site plan 5.3 HardLandscape:

5.3.1 Main vehicular access roads will be about 6m wide and constructed with a tarmac finish.

5.3.2 Footpaths/ secondary maintenance roads will about 3m wide and finished with buff coloured permeable resin bound paving.

5.3.3 An access road will be included alongside the existing Public Right of Way to the north of the site which will enable visitors to directly access associated facilities at New House Farm with segregation between vehicle traffic and walkers. Some adjustment to the PROW route may be necessary as a result for which separate approval will need to be obtained following receipt of planning consent.

5.3.4 All boundaries will have 2.4m high Heras Zenith 358 metal fencing with powder coated finish colour green.

5.3.5 The high level high voltage power cables running across the site will be buried underground to improve the visual appearance of the site. 5.4 SoftLandscape:

5.4.1 The landscape design responds to the brief to create a cemetery that serves to form a space that promotes serenity and reflection whilst being in harmony with the wider landscape.

5.4.2 The choice of plant species will reflect both the local flora as well as drawing on the history and folklore associated with the plants of cemeteries and graveyards.

5.4.3 Though the rural character of the site will change through the sites transformation into a cemetery, the design approach has been to draw upon the character of the existing rural landscape and pattern of small fields in the surrounding area.

5.4.4 The necessary highway works needed to improve access to the site will result in the removal of much of the existing vegetation from the boundary on Thornhill Road. Where possible measures will be taken to retain existing trees. Example of the slate entrance sign that will create a visual link between the proposed cemetery site, and the existing Thornhill Cemetery. 5.4.5 Laying out the new cemetery will involve extensive groundworks which could be detrimental to the existing soil resource on the site. Measures to manage the works to mitigate the impact and retain the soil resource for reuse throughout the site will be developed and included in a Soil Resource Plan (SRP). This will address areas to be protected from earthworks and construction activities; the areas and types of topsoil and subsoil to be stripped, haul routes, stockpile locations; the methods for stripping, stockpiling, re- spreading and ameliorating landscape soils.

5.4.6 Numerous habitats such as ponds, wildflower meadows, wetland and woodland edge areas have been created to enhance biodiversity in the site.

5.4.7 The boundary planting of native species hedges and trees defines the site edges, creating enclosure and softening views into the site. The above image shows tree planting at a newly created cemetery at Pantmawr. The trees will reach maturity in 15 years time. 5.5 Thornhill Road Entrance and environs.

5.5.1 The use of native specie hedges, predominantly hawthorn reflects the boundaries of adjacent fields and houses. By clipping these hedges a formal appearance can be created emphasising the care and maintenance associated with the cemetery. The clipped hedge on the Thornhill Road boundary leads the eye to the main entrance into the cemetery. This is enhanced through formal slate pillars and cast iron gates that give gravitas to the entrance. With the inclusion of slate monoliths depicting the cemeteries name, a visual link is created to the main cemetery at Thornhill.

5.5.2 The main access road into the cemetery leads to the car park and site building which houses toilets and wash facilities. An avenue of wild cherries to the north of the access road leads visitors on into the cemetery and through to the car park. These cherries also serve to mask the phone tower to the north of the site.

5.5.3 The road narrows to create the impression of a causeway as it crosses the northern water feature. The water feature comprises of a series of tranquil ponds that give the visual appearance of being connected with cascades. The upper pond is formal with vertical timber sides, water lilies and fish. To the rear of the pond there is a path and timber retaining wall incorporating slate carvings and a serpentine timber bench. From this bench, across the still water of the pond, there are inspiring views of Cardiff and the Bristol Chanel beyond. This is a place Pond similar to the lower pond proposed for the for quiet reflection. extension to Thornhill Cemetery site.

5.5.4 The lower pond is set a metre below the northern access road. A small cascade leads down to the waters edge, to a pond of shallow gravel and boulder shores. This pond will promote biodiversity with native wetland planting and habitats. Adjacent to the lower pond will be a gravel garden which will include stones and boulders incorporating plaques in memory of loved ones.

5.5.5 A further, larger cascade will lead from this pond creating a contrasting area characterised by the sound and energy of a babbling brook

5.5.6 Surrounding the ponds and adjacent to the cemetery entrance, ornamental planting of flowering shrubs and roses will form a visual connection with the site building and car park. This formal area will be Example of slate carvings that could be incorporated into contained by a clipped hawthorn hedge, reflecting the gardens of farm hardwood retaining wall, to the rear of the upper pond. houses and homes set within the surrounding rural landscape. 5.6 BurialPlots

5.6.1 Burial plots within the cemetery will expand across the site over many years. The development of the cemeteries grass land will reflect this. Burial areas identified for immediate use will be grass seeded and will receive regular cuts throughout the growing season to maintain a close cut sward.

5.6.2 Those areas identified for longer term development will be seeded with an appropriate perennial wild flower mix, incorporating fine grasses. These areas will be maintained as wildflower meadows with one or two cuts a year, with all cuttings removed to lower the fertility of the soil promoting the growth of the wildflowers . As and when burial plots come into use, these areas will receive more frequent cuts, with cuttings left to increase the fertility of the soil. The grasses will then become dominant creating a species rich mown sward.

5.6.3 Within the cemetery, and following the cemeteries roads, avenues of Hornbeam will be created. These avenues help to create visual movement through the site. Smaller fruiting trees Perennial wildflower meadows are proposed for areas such as Wild Cherry and Mountain Ash provide bursts of colour where the burial plots are not coming into service until a in spring and autumn. future date

5.6.4 At the end of roads, vistas are created and it is in these areas it is proposed to plant Yew trees to act as focal points in the cemetery. The Yew trees are traditionally associated with churches and grave yards and therefore create a historical link.

5.6.5 Single semi mature oaks planted centrally within the burial areas will create a sense of maturity to the new landscape, provide strong focal points to help orientation and link the site to the surrounding landscape character 5.7 BoundaryTreatment

5.7.1 The boundary treatment of the cemetery will include hedgerow, tree and woodland edge planting drawing from the existing landscape character.

5.7.2 The hedges that lie adjacent to Thornhill Road and the cemeteries northern access road will be clipped native specie hedge mixes, predominantly Hawthorn. The hedges will be maintained to a maximum height of 2m. This will reflect the hedges that lie adjacent to the roads that traverse the rural landscape. This will enclose the existing cemetery site, helping to consolidate the new sites identity. Example of native specie hedgerows, when clipped 5.7.3 Within the cemetery site and surrounding the woodland burial give a formality to the cemeteries boundary. plot, a native woodland edge mix will be planted. The woodland edges will be a minimum of 3m in width, increasing to 10m in some areas. The native specie plants will be allowed to develop to their full height with pruning restricted in order to promote healthy growth. These areas will restrict views in and out of the site, creating enclosure and quiet spaces.

5.7.4 The existing hedgerows to the north and east of the site will be laid to create a traditional rural boundary that promotes the health of the hedge. Gapping up with native hedge species ensures a continuous field boundary habitat, linking into the surrounding area.

5.7.5 Planting of climax specie trees such as Oak and Hawthorn will reflect the mature landscape of the surrounding area. They will create both enclosure for the cemetery as well as creating positive visual impact on the wider landscape. The use of Evergreen Oak and Holly within the planting mixes will help to reduce noise and visual intrusion from Thornhill Road and the M4, throughout the year.

Avenues of trees create a visual rhythm in the landscape, drawing the visitor further into the site. 5.8 Wetland Area

5.8.1 The inclusion of the SUDS scheme to the southwest corner of the site creates a valuable wetland habitat. Planting reflects local plant species that promote biodiversity. The use of Bird Cherry associated with wetland habitats creates colour both in spring and autumn with blossom and fruit. The mass planting of Yellow Flag Iris in the wetter parts of the attenuation pond creates a dramatic visual impact in early summer.

5.9 Biodiversity

5.9.1 Ecology and biodiversity will be enhanced by the creation of numerous habitats, including wildlife corridors linking with the wider landscape. Hedgerows will include native species of Hazel and Honeysuckle that enhance them as Dormice habitats.

5.9.2 In existing mature trees and hedgerows - and over time as the Mature trees create a visual impact in the wider landscape. site matures - bat, bird and dormice nest boxes will be They will provide colour throughout spring, summer and incorporated into the scheme. into autumn. They provide a valuable habit for local wildlife.

5.9.3 Ornamental plantings will be designed to encourage wildlife and provide a rich source of food for pollinators. By using both native and exotic plants the supply of nectar can be increased beyond our short summer season.

5.9.4 The creation of new habitats and the choice of native plant species has been informed by the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal undertaken by Wardell Armstrong on behalf of Cardiff City Council. In addition the comments by Cardiff Council Tree Officer’s and Ecologists have been carefully considered and incorporated into the design.

The above picture demonstrates a formal planting scheme using native species of plants. Whilst providing colour and visual interest, the garden benefits local wildlife. 5.10 Ecology Biodiversity:

5.10.1 A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal was undertaken by Wardell Armstrong in November 2017 which included an extended phase 1 habitat survey. The findings have been taken into consideration while developing the concept and design.

5.10.2 As a result of consultation with the Council’s Ecology Officer an endoscopic inspection of all trees with bat roost potential, as highlighted in the Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, will be undertaken prior to submission of the planning application.

5.10.3 Any hedgerow removal will be undertaken between March and October following hand searches by a suitably qualified and licenced ecologist to determine the presence of Hazel Dormice which are currently presumed to be distributed within the habitats present on site.

5.10.4 As any loss of hedgerows as a result of the proposed development could have adverse impacts on this species, appropriate mitigation measures are included in the landscape design.

5.10.5 An Ecology Method Statement will be included in the tender package and Reasonable Avoidance Measures incorporated into the Construction Management Plan. 5.7 Appearance of structures and buildings:

5.7.1 Public Toilet Facility The design philosophy for the toilet block is for a deliberately understated building of simple form which will have minimal impact by blending into the site by the use of high quality natural materials externally.

Aesthetically the building utilises a combination of traditional, natural and modern materials in a flexible arrangement that creates a vibrant and ‘green’ facility for public use. Innovative factors are being explored to adopt modern methods of construction to further support the environmental credentials.

The proposed materials to be used for construction are as follows: • Proprietary green roof to single pitch • Powder coated metal gutters and downpipes • Structural timber posts to support roof overhang • Stained timber cladding to external walls • Stained timber doors and windows

5.7.2 Stand-alone Shelters Two public shelters for use by mourners constructed from similar materials to the public toilet facility will be provided on the site.

5.7.3 Flower Preparation Tables Five flower preparation tables, complete with water supply, central preparation area and green & general waste bins, will be provided for public use. The tables will be finished with timber cladding and polished concrete worktops & splashbacks. 6.0 Community Safety

6.1 Cardiff County Council has guidance in place on implementing the Crime and Disorder Act: Section 17 (Mainstreaming of Community Safety) responsibility which aims to produce a Crime Reduction Strategy for the city [A full copy of the documents can be viewed on the website - www.cardiff.gov.uk 5.HANR.502]

6.2 South Wales Police’s Crime Prevention Design Advisor has been consulted on the project and the recommendations made have been considered and incorporated where practicable.

6.3 Due to its fairly isolated location and with the lack of any buildings in the vicinity to provide surveillance over the site it has been advised that the following recommendations are considered in order to reduce the chances of criminal activity or anti- social behaviour:

• The main vehicle and pedestrian accesses should include a gated entrance which should be secured during the night to prevent unauthorised access after usual opening hours.

• The tree line and hedgerows along the boundary with the A469 Thornhill Road and the public footpath to the north should be examined and if they can be breached easily it will be necessary to install fencing or railings along these boundaries to prevent unauthorised access.

• If the northern footpath is to be left with open access into the site then consider installing barriers to prevent motorcycle access into the footpath and site.

• If the main entrance is designed with an open aspect with low walls topped with railings to approximately 2.1mtrs high this would provide some natural surveillance in to the car park and toilet/shelter area from the A469.

• The public toilet/shelter should include a facility to be locked during the hours when the site is closed.

• Consider coin operated entry toilets which will deter casual entrance into the facility during the day when the site is open.

• All pipework and toilet cisterns should be located behind panelling to prevent vandalism.

• All lighting to the shelter/toilet should be anti-vandal.

• Trees and shrubs should be positioned away from the buildings giving a clear and unobstructed view of the area. All shrubs and hedges should have a maximum growth height or be pruned thereby maintaining a clear field of vision around the site. Mature trees should not mask lighting columns nor become climbing aids. 7.0 Environmental Sustainability

7.1 Wherever possible the design will promote, specify and use locally sourced materials which have a commitment to sustainability and the environment. Cardiff Council is committed to sustainability.

7.2 The following are some of the measures being proposed for incorporation into the design of the public toilet facility:

- Air sources heat pump to provide background heating - Solar hot water - Photovoltaics - Natural ventilation - Control of solar gains - Rainwater harvesting for flushing of toilets - A or A+ rated materials in accordance with BRE Green Guide to Specification - Green roof to reduce surface water run-off - Off-site fabrication to speed up construction time and reduce site waste - Wall construction and key junction details will be developed in order to achieve a highly air tight building.

7.3 There will also be a sustainable urban drainage system with site run-off entering an attenuation pond in the south west corner of the site to control surface water outfall. 7.4 Waste:

7.4.1 The existing arrangements at the Thornhill Crematorium are as follows: Green waste – separately collected in house and composted on site Plastic waste – separately collected on site & recycled via Agriplass as part of the ICCM Plastics recycling programme Metal waste – separately collected on site & recycled via Orthometals as part of the ICCM metals recycling scheme. General waste – 2 x 1100 litre bins collected weekly via commercial waste Mixed recycling (office) – 2 x green bins collected weekly via commercial waste 1 x food caddy collected weekly. 1 x 14m skip – removed monthly via Biffa/Amber

The proposals for the new site will be as follows: Green waste and all recyclables will form part of the Thornhill waste collections. There will be small flower arranging/ bin stations in the new cemetery and general waste will be transferred to Thornhill Crematorium’s waste collection by Bereavement Services staff.

7.5 Noise:

7.5.1 It is anticipated the development once completed will have a minimal noise impact.

7.6 Lighting:

7.6.1 The facility will only be open to the public during daylight hours. Low level directional bollard lighting will be installed along the entrance road and car park and will only be in operation when necessary. It is therefore anticipated the development, once completed, will result in minimal light pollution.

7.7 AirQuality:

7.7.1 It is anticipated the development once completed will have a minimal impact on air quality.

7.8 Groundwater Protection:

7.8.1 A Tier One Hydrogeological Risk Assessment was undertaken by Peter Mitchell Associates in January 2015 and a site investigation by TGMS Ltd. in April 2015, including 12 months dip-well monitoring of groundwater, which concluded there would be a low risk of water contamination as a result of the proposed development. 7.9 Drainage:

6.9.1 Surface water run-off will be managed by the installation of an attenuation pond with the outfall being connected to the existing surface water drainage system within the M4 verge which is controlled by the South Wales Trunk Road Agent (SWTRA). This arrangement has been agreed in principle with SWTRA subject to any initial concerns being overcome during the detailed design phase of the scheme and incorporated into a legal agreement covering the longer term issues.

7.9.2 There is no foul water drainage in the vicinity so foul water from the toilet block will be collected in a septic tank located adjacent to the toilet building within the car park. It has been agreed Bereavement Services will sign up to a maintenance contract for the regular emptying of the tank.

7.10 Flood Consequence Assessment:

7.10.1 Reference to the development site maps contained in TAN15 (Planning Policy Wales Technical Advice Note 15: Development and Flood Risk) indicates the site is considered to be at no risk of fluvial or tidal/coastal flooding and low risk of surface water flooding.

7.10.2 A flood consequence assessment is not therefore deemed necessary.

8.0 Movement to, from and within the development

8.1 A Transport Statement has been prepared in line with this application and the recommendations incorporated into the design.

8.2 The safe and efficient movement of people and vehicles to, from and within the site has been a major factor during the design process in defining the site access, egress and overall site layout.

9.0 Accessibility

9.1 Accessibility issues are covered in Part B which follows this section. Part B - ACCESS

1.0 Background

2.0 Underlying Philosophy

3.0 Influencing Legislation and Guidance

4.0 Consultation

5.0 Representation

6.0 Operational Level

7.0 Effective ongoing Management

8.0 Staff Development & Training

9.0 Specific Access Issues with the Proposal

10.0 Public and Transport Links

11.0 Technical Guidance

12.0 Information and Communication Strategy

13.0 Conclusions 2.0 Underlying Philosophy 2.1 Cardiff Council has in place a “Strategic Equal Opportunities Policy Statement” which aims to ensure the Council continues to be an organisation which recognises and values diversity and intends to be a leading edge example of good practice, achieved by implementing equal opportunities across the whole spectrum of the Council’s activities. [Full statement can be viewed on the website www.cardiff.gov.uk – ref. ‘4.HR.152.’ The authority also has in place a draft reasonable adjustments policy. 2.2 Cardiff Council has recently published a draft Single Equality Scheme. This outlines the Council’s commitment to promoting independence and involvement of all people (including disabled people) in the life of the City. Cardiff Council, in line with The Equality Act 2010, has carried out a review of our original Strategic Equality Plan published in 2012. As a result of this review Cardiff Council have produced a new Strategic Equality Plan with new equality objectives entitled 'Equality Making a Difference for Cardiff'. The equality objectives contained within the plan demonstrate Cardiff Council's ambition for equality to "make the difference" in building a fairer society for all of Cardiff's citizens, and help us achieve our vision of Cardiff becoming Europe's Most Liveable Capital City. The Strategic Equality Plan is linked directly to the What Matters Strategy , the Corporate Plan and all service area business plans. 2.3 City of Cardiff Council has guidance in place on implementing the Crime and Disorder Act: Section 17 (Mainstreaming of Community Safety) responsibility – which aims to produce a Crime Reduction Strategy for the city [A full copy of the documents can be viewed on the website - www.cardiff.gov.uk 5.HANR.502] 3.0 Influencing Legislation & Guidance Legislation: • Planning Policy Statement 1, ODPM, 2005 • Cardiff Unitary Development Plan, 2003 • Planning and Access for Disabled People - A good practice guide, Drivers Jonas, ODPM, 2003 • Equalities Act 2010 Guidance: • Approved Document to Part M of the Building Regulations, 2004 • BS8300:2001 Incorporating Amendment No. 1 Design of buildings and their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people Code of practice, 2005 • Guidance on Access Statements, DRC, 2004 4.0 Consultation

· Staff · Key personnel · the Council’s Access Officer · the Council’s Highways Section · the Council’s Strategic Planning Section · the Council’s In-house Ecologist · the Council’s In-house Tree Officer · South Wales Police Crime Prevention Design Advisor

5.0 Representation

5.1 The design team have consulted with the Council’s access officer and the recommendations from these discussions have been considered and incorporated in the design. It is envisaged that these discussions continue throughout the duration of the design development to ensure all matters are appropriately addressed.

5.2 Existing site levels will be altered to reduce slopes and undulations so as to ensure the site and facilities are more accessible for visitors and staff.

5.3 The number of toilets available for public use is based on a calculation for the provision of sanitary appliances for public toilets as contained in BS 6465-1:2006 to accommodate the largest anticipated funeral gathering. This results in a total of 3no. unisex accessible toilets aimed at providing maximum flexibility of use.

5.4 Each toilet cubicle will be enlarged to 2000x2200mm to fully meet the requirements of Approved Document M (Access to and use of buildings).

5.5 The building roof overhang has been extended at the front to provide sufficient shelter from the weather and a sheltered area with fixed benching will be provided to one side of the building. 5.6 The guidance contained in the Approved Document M (Wales) of the Building Regulations will be followed with regard to access into the toilet facility which will be predominantly level, but with a maximum gradient along the direction of travel from the car park between 1:40 and 1:60 slope.

5.7 The surface of a parking bays designated for disabled people, in particular the area surrounding the bays, will allow the safe transfer of a passenger or driver to a wheelchair and transfer from the parking bay to the access route to the building without undue effort, barriers to wheelchairs or hazards from tripping.

5.8 People with mobility impairments who arrive as passengers will be able to alight from a vehicle close to the accessible entrances of the toilet facility in a way that is convenient for entry into the building.

6.0 Operational Level

6.1 Cardiff Council has in place a “Strategic Equal Opportunities Policy Statement” which aims to ensure the Council continues to be an organisation which recognises and values diversity and intends to be a leading edge example of good practice, achieved by implementing equal opportunities across the whole spectrum of the Council’s activities. [Full statement can be viewed on the website www.cardiff.gov.uk – ref. ‘1.CM.042’: issue 3: Dec.03.]. The authority also has in place a draft reasonable adjustments policy

6.2 An Equality Impact Assessment has been completed by Cardiff Council Bereavement Services in accordance with the requirements of Cardiff Council as a service provider. 7.0 Effective Ongoing Management

7.1 Building management will ensure that effective policies and procedures relating to disability access and awareness will be put in place.

7.2 Building management will ensure that any specialist equipment or decorative features provided to aid disabled people will be effectively maintained.

8.0 Staff Development & Training

8.1 Staff will continue to be trained in disability awareness and in any new and evolving duties of the Equalities Act 2010.

8.2 Staff will be trained in the testing and use of any specialised equipment included in the scheme, e.g. hearing induction loops, alarm call systems where installed.

9.0 Specific Access Issues with the Proposal

9.1 There are no access issues relating to the proposals for the public toilet facility which are deemed non compliant.

10.0 Public and Transport Links

10.1 Pedestrian Although pedestrian numbers arriving at the site are likely to be low, the access route to the site along Thornhill Road from the south will be considerably improved by the provision of a 3m wide footpath.

10 .3 Cycle Cyclist numbers using the site are expected to be very low and as a result a suitable low number of cycle parking spaces have been included in the scheme. 10 .4 Bus Stagecoach South Wales operates a regular bus service between Cardiff and Caerphilly which passes the site. The Transport Statement/ Assessment will address the need for new bus stops to be established close to the new site entrance on both sides of Thornhill Road together with a reduction of the existing speed limit to 30mph together with a pedestrian crossing.

Existing bus stop locations 10 .5 Car The majority of people attending funerals or tending to graves at the existing Thornhill Cemetery arrive by car and this will continue to be the case for the proposed burial site.

A dedicated right hand turn lane will be formed on Thornhill Road to improve the vehicular entrance to the site and signage will be installed to improve safety.

Adequate on site parking will be provided for 31no. visitor’s cars adjacent to the public toilet block and vehicles will be able to park along the internal access roads as overspill or for closer access to the graveside if necessary.

There are 6no. accessible parking spaces for disabled people included within the total car park capacity. 11.0 Technical Guidance

11.1 The project design will be to best practice for access and facilities for disabled people including the following technical design guidance:

· Approved Document to Part M of the Building Regulations, 2004 · BS8300:2001 Incorporating Amendment No. 1 Design of buildings and Their approaches to meet the needs of disabled people Code of Practice, 2005 · Building Sight, RNIB, 1995 · Sign Design Guide, JMU Access Partnership/Sign Design Society, 2000 · Building Bulletin 91 Access for Disabled People to School Buildings . Management & Design Guide, DFEE, 1999

12.0 Information and Communication Strategy

12.1 External signage and way finding will be included as part of a wider signage strategy for the whole site.

12.2 Consideration will be given to the use of some dementia friendly signage.

12.3 Good visibility of the main site entrance and entrances/ access to the public toilet building will be included as part of the design. 13.0 Conclusions

13.1 This Design and Access Statement sets out the background to the proposal, the need for a new cemetery in terms of future burial requirement for the north of Cardiff, and how the site constraints, opportunities, and design requirements have influenced and directed the project design.

13.2 This Design and Access Statement also sets out the criteria whereby the policies contained in the Adopted Cardiff Local Development Plan (LDP) and Planning Policy Wales (PPW) are complied with. The land is situated on the lower foothills of Caerphilly Mountain north of the M4 Motorway forming part of an important and valued backdrop to the city and is therefore designated as green wedge. There are very real development pressures in north Cardiff and further residential development in this area would significantly impair this important backdrop to the city. Conversion of this site into a cemetery would prevent any future development and preserve the open nature of this part of the green wedge for many years to come – in accordance with PPW the development is sustainable and the planting proposals aim to enhance both the natural landscape and local ecology. The development will therefore help to maintain the green wedge as a natural buffer between the settlements of north Cardiff and the green wedge to the north. The proposed buildings have been designed sympathetically to blend into their setting. They are essential facilities connected with the operation of the cemetery and in accordance with PPW they should therefore not be considered as inappropriate development in the green wedge location. The proposed development would not detract from the character and appearance of the area and the function of the green wedge as a recreational resource is enhanced. The existing public right of way immediately to the north that provides access into the wider countryside is improved. PPW states that agricultural land should only be developed if there is an overriding need for the development. In this case there is an overriding need for a new cemetery in the north of the city and, of the many locations considered, the proposed site is preferred as it meets all of the key criteria required for the new cemetery. There are many examples of cemetery developments in Green Belts/ green wedges having previously been permitted.

13.3 Overall, the project will result in overwhelming betterment to the community, in terms of the quality and capacity of burial provision, its impact on the environment, and its operating costs. The project meets the requirements of applicable planning policy and it is respectfully contended that there are no reasonable grounds to withhold the granting of full planning permission.