F R
J u y 2021
www.jb u .
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement i
JB j M Simon Hutchings JBA Consulting The Old School House Tadcaster LS24 9HA
R h y R R f/ u A3 C01 06/01/2021 Final Report Planning Department The Borough Council of Calderdale
C This report describes work commissioned by The Borough Council of Calderdale. Della Adams of JBA Consulting carried out this work.
Prepared by ...... Della Adams, Principal Environmental Consultant, JBA Consulting
Reviewed by ...... James Blythe, Senior Environmental Consultant, JBA Consulting
Approved by ...... Simon Hutchings, Project Manager, JBA Consulting
u This document has been prepared as a Final Report for The Borough Council of Calderdale. JBA Consulting accepts no responsibility or liability for any use that is made of this document other than by the Client for the purposes for which it was originally commissioned and prepared. JBA - Consulting has no liability regarding the use of this report except to The Borough Council of Calderdale. C y h © Jeremy Benn Associates Limited 2021. C b f A printed copy of the main text in this document will result in a carbon footprint of 58g if 100% post- consumer recycled paper is used and 73g if primary-source paper is used. These figures assume the report is printed in black and white on A4 paper and in duplex. JBA - is aiming to reduce its per capita carbon emissions.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement i
x u u y A planning application separate to this scheme is being submitted for a new railway station in Elland on behalf of The Borough Council of Calderdale and West Yorkshire Combined Authority. The need for a new station in Elland is highlighted in transport policy and strategic documents, local, regional, and national planning policies. This scheme, Elland Access Package is submitted on behalf of The Borough Council of Calderdale. The scheme involves pedestrian and cycleway improvements such as widening and resurfacing of existing infrastructure to and from the proposed station. The scheme also involves the construction of two new cycling and pedestrian bridges, one in Elland and one in West Vale. The scheme is designed to enhance pedestrian and cycle access and improve connectivity to and from the new railway station. Elland Access Package will improve the accessibility to Elland, enabling people to access the facilities they need locally, but also beyond, reducing the need to travel by car. Links between the station and surrounding areas will be improved for non-car modes, overall improving the competitiveness, productivity, and growth of Elland. Where feasible, off-highway cycling routes are proposed, improving cycling safety and encouraging a wider range of ages and abilities to use the network, enabling mobility and exercise and encouraging sustainable use of transport. The Access Package scheme will help to create an active, low carbon, environment that supports sustainable travel through the combination of improved high-quality walking and cycling infrastructure. Landscaping and public realm improvements will also contribute to creating attractive connectivity, and an environment where people want to live, work, and socialise. Elland Access Package proposals are in line with local and national planning polices, transport plans and strategies.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement ii
C 1 Introduction ...... 1 Project background ...... 3 Town and Country Planning Act (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (GPDO) ... 3 Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) ...... 3 2 Site location ...... 4 Elland Area ...... 4 West Vale Area ...... 5 3 The Proposed Development ...... 5 Scheme Overview ...... 6 4 Design & Access ...... 7 Bridges, pedestrian, and cycleways ...... 7 4.1.1 Elland Area ...... 7 4.1.2 West Vale ...... 9 Accessibility ...... 10 Landscaping ...... 12 4.3.1 Gasworks Lane: ...... 12 4.3.2 Century Road Park ...... 12 4.3.3 Wistons Lane (North - Station Approach) ...... 12 4.3.4 Wistons Lane (South) and Eastgate ...... 13 4.3.5 West Vale ...... 13 Soft Landscape ...... 14 Hard Landscape ...... 14 Street Furniture ...... 15 Rain Gardens and Sustainable drainage ...... 15 5 Development of the Preferred Option and Alternatives Considered ...... 15 5.1.1 Existing and Proposed Routes ...... 16 5.1.2 Bridge Options ...... 18 5.1.3 The Preferred Option ...... 19 6 Pre-application Consultation ...... 21 7 Planning Policy ...... 23 National Planning Policy ...... 23 Local Planning Policy ...... 25 Emerging Local Planning Policy – Calderdale Local Plan ...... 29 Supplementary Planning Documents (SPD’s) ...... 31 7.4.1 The Central Elland SPD ...... 31 7.4.2 Central Elland SPD Sustainability Report ...... 31 Other Relevant Strategies ...... 31 7.5.1 National Infrastructure Plan (NIDP) (2016 to 2021) ...... 31 7.5.2 My Journey West Yorkshire. Local Transport Plan ...... 32 7.5.3 West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund (WY+TF) & Leeds City Centre Region Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) (2016 -2036) ...... 32
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement iii
7.5.4 West Yorkshire Transport Strategy ...... 32 7.5.5 Calderdale Transport Strategy (2016 -2031) ...... 33 7.5.6 Calderdale Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP) 2018 ...... 33 7.5.7 Calderdale Cycling Strategy ...... 33 7.5.8 Local Cycling and Walking Investment Plans (LCWIPs) ...... 34 7.5.9 Active Calderdale - Physical Activity Strategy 2017 ...... 34 8 Planning Policy Review and Environmental Considerations ...... 34 Principle of the Development ...... 34 Design & Amenity ...... 35 Ecology and Biodiversity ...... 36 8.3.1 Bats...... 37 8.3.2 Breeding birds ...... 37 8.3.3 Fish ...... 38 8.3.4 INNS ...... 38 8.3.5 Otter ...... 38 8.3.6 Habitats ...... 38 8.3.7 Other species ...... 39 8.3.8 Biodiversity NET Gain (BNG) ...... 39 Landscape ...... 40 Heritage and Archaeology ...... 40 Arboriculture ...... 42 Flood Risk Assessment ...... 43 Contaminated land ...... 44 Traffic and Transport ...... 45 Public Rights of Way (PRoW) ...... 45 Noise ...... 45 8.11.1 Operational Noise ...... 45 8.11.2 Construction Noise ...... 45 Dust ...... 46 Construction Environmental Management Plan ...... 46 WFD ...... 47 9 Conclusion ...... 47
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement iv
L f F u Figure 4-1 – Examples of specialist cycles 11 Figure 4-2 – Example the light projections would take place from Gobo projectors on the A659 underpass 13 Figure 4-3 Examples of soft landscaping 14 Figure 4-4 Examples large swathes of wildflower meadows proposed throughout the scheme 14 Figure 4-5 Example of the block paviours 15 Figure 4-6 Examples of proposed street furniture 15 Figure 5-1 Extent of Access Package Improvements (Source: WYG Elland Station Access Package Report) 17 Figure 5-2 The crossing points initially identified in the WYG Package Report 18 Figure 5-3 Laser Scan of the Listed Wharf House 20 Figure 5-4 Rendered view of new Elland Bridge proposal 20 Figure 8-1 Artist impression of the Elland Bridge 36 Figure 8-2 Artist impression of the Elland Bridge 36 Figure 8-3 – Contaminated desk-based assessment study areas 44
L f T b Table 1 - List Documents and Drawings for the planning application submission 1 Table 2 - Stakeholders consulted 21 Table 3 - Tree works at Elland 42 Table 4 - Tree works at West Vale 42
bb AIA Arboricultural Impact Assessment BAP Biodiversity Action Plan BNG Biodiversity Net Gain BRP Bat Roost Potential CMBC The Borough Council of Calderdale CCS Calderdale Cycling Strategy CEMP Construction Environmental Management Plan CEZ Construction Exclusion Zone CIEEM Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management CRT Canals and Rivers Trust DCLG Department for Communities and Local Government EAP Environmental Action Plan EcIA Ecological Impact Assessment EIA Environmental Impact Assessment EPS European Protected Species ERDF European Regional Development Funding FRA Flood Risk Assessment FRAP Flood Risk Activity Permit GPDO General Permitted Development Order INNS Invasive Non-Native Species LNR Local Nature Reserve
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement v
LTP West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan NPPF National Planning Policy Framework NPPG National Planning Practice Guidance OBC Outline Business Case PRA Potential Roost Assessment RPA Root Protection Area SEP Leeds City Region Strategic Economic Plan SPD Supplementary Planning Document WYASS West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Service WFD Water Framework Directive WYCA West Yorkshire Combined Authority WY+TF West Yorkshire Plus Transport Fund WYTS West Yorkshire Transport Strategy IDP Calderdale Infrastructure Development Plan
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement vi
1 u JBA Consulting have been commissioned by The Borough Council of Calderdale (CMBC) to design a scheme for public access improvements associated with Elland Station. The improvements will enhance the links between the station, housing, and employment growth areas, the town centre, and surrounding areas for non-car modes. The proposals herein are referred to as Elland Station Access Package. This combined Planning, Design and Access Statement forms part of the planning application for full planning permission. It provides details of the proposal in relation to the site, setting, design principles and access arrangements. It assesses the proposals against relevant planning policy framework and other material considerations. Details of consultation and a summary of the discussions held with relevant stakeholders is included. This Planning, Design and Access Statement should be read in conjunction with the documents and drawings submitted as a part of the planning application shown in Table 1 below:
T b 1 - L u w f h ub
u F N Application Form BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-AP-PL-0001-Application_Form Landowner Notification List (inc.) Planning, Design & Access Statement BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-A3-C01-Planning_D&A_Statement (this document) Landowner Development Notice BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-AN-PL-0001-Landowner_Development_Notice Landowner Newspaper & Site Notice BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-PH-PL-0001-Landowner_Site_Notice_Photograph (including photograph of the notice on site) BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-AN-PL-0002-Landowner_Newspaper_Notice BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-AN-PL-0003-Landowner_Site Notice Screening Response from The Borough 2019s0633 CMBC Elland Access Package Screening Response Council of Calderdale Flood Risk Assessment BDX-JBA-00-00-RP-C-0001-A04-CO1-Elland_FRA Ecology Impact Assessment (ECIA) BDX-JBAU-XX-RP-BD-0001-S0-CO1-EcIA Biodiversity Net (BNG) Gain Assessment BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-0001-S0-P01-Biodiversity_Net- Gain_Assessment Transport Assessment 200909 Elland Station Access Package_TA Phase 1 Site Investigation BDX-JBAU-XX-RP-GT-0001-S3-P01- Elland_Desktop_Study_Report Heritage and Archaeology Assessment BDX-JBAU-XX-00-RP-EN-0003- Heritage Statement Tree Survey and Arboricultural Impact BDX-JBAU-XX-00-RP-EN-0001-A3-C01- Assessment Tree_Condition_Survey BDX-JBAU-XX-00-RP-EN-0002-A3-C01-AIA Copy of the Design Review Panel YDRS245_PFE_Report Introduction Report response received is submitted as part of the Planning Application
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 1
w F N L Site Location Plan (Red Line Plan) BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0100 Land Ownership Plan (Blue Line Plan) BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DR-C-0110-A3-C01 Construction Access (for info) BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DR-C-0150-A3-C02 H hw y G w Elland GA Overview BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0120 Exley Lane and Park Road GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0121 Gas Works Lane & Riverside Park GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0122 Riverside Park & Wistons Lane GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0123 Jubilee Way to Eastgate GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0124 Eastgate GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0125 Eastgate to Elland Lane General Arrangement GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR- C-0126 Elland Riorges Roundabout GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR- C-0127 Lowfields Way to Elland Riorges Roundabout GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR- C-0128 Elland Riorges Link to Lower Elland GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR- C-0129 Millgate to Riverside Park GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR- C-0130 Wistons Lane Station Approach GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR- C-0131 C T w h G Tow Path Widening GA BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0071 Tow Path Sections & Details BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0072 W V H hw y G w West Vale GA Overview BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-0111 Rochdale Road, West Vale GA BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-0111 Stainland Road, West Vale General Arrangement BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-0112 Heath RUFC to Towpath, West Vale GA BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-0113 B k B k Cy w y G Black Brook Cycleway, West Vale GA & Longsection BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-0114 Black Brook Cycleway West Vale, Longsections & BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-121 Elevations Black Brook Cycleway West Vale, Typical Sections & BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-122 Details B G Elland Navigation and Calderdale Tied Arch Bridge BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0019 Ellland Bridge Section BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0064 Elland Wharfe House Elevations BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0065 Elland Pier Typical Details BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-C-0066 Elland Visualization Sheet V 02 BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-VS-L-0010- Elland_Visualistaion-Sheet_V_002
Elland Bridge Artist Impression BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-VS-L-0011- Elland_Bridge_Artists_Impression W V B G West Vale Bridge Proposals BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-0021 West Vale Artist Impression BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-011 L w Elland Landscape Proposals BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-L-0001 to 0006 West Vale Landscape Proposals BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-L-0001
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 2
j b k u The West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) works in partnership with local councils and businesses to ensure that everyone in the region benefits from a strong, successful economy and a modern, accessible transport network. A range of transport projects are proposed across West Yorkshire, designed to improve the transport network, that will in-turn help to increase housing, employment, and inclusive economic growth across the region. The West Yorkshire Plus Transport Fund (WY+TF), is targeted at enabling key transport related projects and development areas. It will help to create around 20,000 new jobs over the next 10 years. Funding has been obtained from Transforming Cities Fund and West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund for Elland Rail Station and Access Package. The scheme will improve the transport network in Calderdale, improve connectivity across the town, support local businesses and growth. The overarching aim of the new station and associated and Access Package improvements is to allow the transformational regeneration of Elland. Delivery of Elland Access Package (and Elland Station scheme) will help to achieve several objectives of the West Yorkshire Transport Strategy, Leeds City Region Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) and Calderdale Transport Strategy by enhancing sustainable access to jobs and economic opportunities in surrounding areas. It will also increase the competitiveness of Elland itself as an economic centre and the focus of significant growth proposed in Calderdale’s Local Plan. In addition to the Elland Rail Station scheme, WYG were appointed by CMBC to identify opportunities for access and public realm improvements. Access to the station site for non-car modes and improvements to the public realm are proposed, improving links between the station, and surrounding areas. The Access Package measures will assist in delivering a range of benefits and objectives, aligned with the overall station objectives, these are summarised below: • Improve access for non-car modes between the Station, Elland town centre and the surrounding areas. • Improve access for non-car modes between Station and major development sites. • Improve environment/ public realm for non-car access routes to/ from Station and surrounding areas.
T w C u y (G ) ( ) O 2015 (G O) Elland Access Package scheme is submitted to The Borough Council of Calderdale, by The Borough Council of Calderdale. A significant amount of the proposals are permitted development under Part 12, Class A of the GDPO, ‘Development by Local Authorities’, however for clarity, all of the works are included in the planning application as submitted.
( ) Elland Access Package scheme covers a site area of 5.75ha. Exceeding 1ha, the scheme falls within Schedule 2, paragraph 10 (f) “Infrastructure Projects (f) Construction of Roads (Unless included in Schedule 1), of The Town and Country Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) (England and Wales) Regulations 2017 (“the 2017 Regulations”).
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 3
A Screening Opinion was submitted to The Borough Council of Calderdale on the 19 th June 2020 for the proposals (ref: 20/06008/EIA). A response was received on 16 th July 2020 confirming the scheme would not give rise to ‘significant effects on the environment’ as defined in the EIA regulations and an EIA would not be required.
2 The proposals are sited at the north eastern side of Elland (north of the town centre), south and east of the A29, Calderdale Way and at West Vale, on the north west side of Elland.
The main works at Elland are located on the Calder and Hebble Navigation and River Calder, to the north of Elland Town Centre. A new bridge will be constructed from Riverside Park across the River Calder with an access ramp to Gas Works Lane, it will continue across the Calder and Hebble Navigation onto Park Road to the east of the Barge and Barrel Public House. Additional works will take place along multiple routes to the north end of Elland Town Centre, with the aim of improving pedestrian and cycle access to Elland Train Station. An overview of the key locations is given below: Exley Lane to Park Road – encompasses the works to the north of the proposed bridge around Exley Lane and Park Road. This area includes a pedestrian underpass running underneath A629 Calderdale Way, the Barge and Barrel car park, and the towpath along the northern bank of the Calder and Hebble Navigation, between the proposed bridge and the residential flats at bridge View. The works on Park Road run from the junction with Exley Lane to the approach to the new bridge adjacent the Barge and Barrel Public House. The works on Exley Lane run from the junction with Park Road up to the end of the slip road exit from the A629 and the termination of the existing Elland Wood Bottom cycleway. Gas Works Lane – is within Elland Conservation Area. It encompasses the works on the land in between the Calder and Hebble Navigation and the River Calder. The proposed works area is currently vacant and derelict land. Along its western edge was the recently demolished fire damaged and derelict Riverside House. To the west of this area the Grade II listed Wharf House is located adjacent to the site boundary, and beyond this are office buildings adjacent to moorings at Elland Wharf on the canal. Land to the east of the development area is vacant and the A629 Calderdale Way passes overhead on an overpass. Riverside Park – encompasses the works taking place within Riverside Park. The park comprises areas of amenity grassland with numerous mature trees and a number of paths through it. A children’s’ play area and outdoor gym are present. A memorial to Sir John Eland who was murdered close to this spot is present on mound in the west of the park. The east of the area connects to an existing turning head at the junction of Century Road and Wistons Lane, whilst the west of the area passes along Millgate to exist at the junction of Briggate and Elland Bridge. Wistons Lane (North) – The Station Approach encompasses the route running along the east bank of the River Calder from where the non-vehicular access to Wistons Lane joins Old Power Way, alongside the north of the train station, before turning south to rejoin an area with vehicular access towards Morrisons and Jubilee Way. To the north-east of the Station the path runs between the riverbank and an office estate, to the south-west it runs under the bridges for the railway line and A629 Calderdale Way before joining Century Road. Wistons Lane travels south from an existing turning head to connect to the more recently constructed Jubilee Way.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 4
Jubilee Way – is a comparatively recently constructed access road to Morrisons supermarket. It is aligned east west and now divides the old Wistons Lane into a northern and southern section. Wistons Lane (South) and Eastgate – encompasses the southern section of old Wistons Lane. This road connects to Jubilee Way for pedestrians only at present and is terminated at its northern end by a small turning head adjacent an area of grassland to the west and an area of derelict land to the east. Both areas are presently allocated for development. Eastgate – is aligned roughly east-west and forms a side road to Morrisions supermarket. To the east of Morrisons supermarket Eastgate terminates at its old junction with Wistons Lane (south) and the old Elland Lane to the east. Now intersected by Elland-Riorges Link on a raised embankment. Here a ramped path connects to the existing pedestrian crossing on Elland-Riorges Link. Elland Riorges Link – encompasses Elland Riorges link at Elland Lane/Eastgate and the works locations adjacent Lowfields Way Business Park and the dumbbell roundabout giving access to and from the A629 Calderdale Way which runs over the route on an overpass. The route continues eastwards before turning south along the boundary of the Spire Elland Hospital to the junction with Elland Lane by Heathfield Gardens and the Spring Gardens public house. This location is described as Elland Riorges Link to Lower Edge.
W V Proposals are located to the north east of West Vale, around the Heath Rugby Club and the River Calder where a new cycleway will be provided and a new bridge constructed across the River Calder. Additional works will take place to improve pedestrian and cycle connectivity in the area to this new bridge. These works take place in multiple locations and a more detailed description of key site locations is given below. River Calder Bridge – encompasses the proposed new bridge location. A new bridge will be constructed crossing the River Calder from the Calder and Hebble Navigation tow path which runs between the river and the canal, to the southern end of the rugby field, just to the north of Black Brook. Heath Rugby Club and Stainland Road – encompasses work along the southern boundary of the Heath rugby club passing to the north of Black Brook and to the south of the pavilion and club house and a car garage. The route exits onto Stainland Road where is crosses and the road before entering into Clayhouse Park through the existing gates and connecting with the existing footpath and cyclepath. Rochdale Road – located to the west of Clayhouse Park, this area starts at the historic gate piers at the entrance to Clayhouse Park, running north along Rochdale Road to an existing zebra crossing which connects into the existing West Vale Greenway.
3 Th Elland Access Package includes proposals for two new bridges that will improve connections between Elland, West Vale, and the new station. Pedestrian and cycleway improvements, along with landscaping and public ream enhancements from part of the scheme. A scheme overview is set out below, further details are included in Chapter 4.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 5
h O w Elland Bridge is a new multi-span arch bridge in Elland town. One span extends over the Hebble and Calder Navigation, from Park Road to Gas Works Lane. The largest span and tallest arch extends over the River Calder from Gas Works Lane to Riverside Park. A land span and ramps are provided on Gas Works Lane to connect the bridge to the existing towpath and cycle route and another smaller land span is provided in Riverside Park to reduce the extent of raised embankment to assist opening up river views and to reduce the length of the main river span. West Vale Bridge is a new steel truss bridge located approximately 1km upstream from the Elland Bridge, crossing the River Calder at Heath Rugby Club, West Vale. Proposed cycleway and footway improvements in Elland include four primary routes linking the new station. These include: • A route linking to Elland Wood Bottom Cycleway at Exley Lane (which runs alongside A629 Halifax Road) and the large Additional New Housing Sites identified in Exley; • A route linking to the Town Centre via Church Street and Eastgate; • A route linking to the area around Elland Lane on the eastern side of Elland Riorges Link; and • A route linking to the residential area to the east around Elland Lane / Lower Edge Road and the large New Housing Site on land to the north of Old Earth Primary School. The proposals include upgrading and / or widening of existing routes and some new shared cycleways. In Elland, these improvements include: • At the northern end of Elland Bridge, improvements include widening of the canal towpath and Exley Lane footway, and public realm enhancements to the Calderway Way pedestrian underpass. • From the new station, along Wiston Lane heading south west to Century Road and Riverside Park and south to Eastgate and Elland Lane. • A new shared cycleway approach is proposed at the southern end of Elland Bridge, within Riverside Park. • A new Toucan crossing is proposed at Park Road. • The existing Pelican crossing at Elland-Riorges link will be upgraded to a Toucan crossing. • A new parallel crossing is proposed at Jubilee Way. • Improvements parallel to Elland Riorges Link. Similar improvements are proposed along Century Road, and around Riverside Park. • At West Vale, a new pedestrian and cycleway is proposed from Stainland Road, north of Block Brock that provides the 34m approach to the proposed West Vale bridge. • A new Toucan crossing is proposed on Stainland Way, the existing crossing on Rochdale Road will be upgraded to a Tiger crossing, and the existing footway approach at the crossing will be upgraded to a shared cycleway. • Public realm enhancements and landscaping proposals including tree and shrub planting along with reinstatement works within Riverside Park and across the project area.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 6
Full details of the proposals can be found on the submitted drawings. Further details are set out below.
4 &
B y w y
4.1.1 Elland Area Navigation and Calder Bridge – One span extends over the Hebble and Calder Navigation, from Park Road to Gas Works Lane. The largest span and tallest arch extends over the River Calder from Gas Works Lane to Riverside Park. A land span and ramps are provided on Gas Works Lane to connect the bridge to the existing towpath and cycle route and another smaller land span is provided in Riverside Park. The structure is 130m long x 5m wide x 13.5m high (height from ground level at Gas Works Lane to top of highest arch). The main bridge superstructure will be painted steel and a selection of preferred colours are submitted for consultation and approval. The materials for the parapets will be reclaimed squared natural stone and pointing to match the local area. The bridge abutments will be supported on mass concrete or piled foundations and constructed in reinforced concrete clad in natural stone with plinth and coping detailing. The bridge will be accessed from Riverside Park via 1 in 21 approach path on a landscaped bank. A switchback ramp will provide access from between the two spans to the south bank canal towpath and Gas Works Lane. The northern end of the bridge will be accessed via a short 1 in 15 approach ramp from Park Lane. An adjacent ramp will give access down to the north bank canal towpath. Construction compounds will be required close to all three bridge abutments. The car park of the Bridge and Barrel public house is to be used as a construction compound and will be reinstated following construction. Land to the east of the proposed bridge on Gas Works Lane is currently derelict ground and will be utilised as a construction compound. This will be reinstated following the completion of construction. Riverside Park will also be a construction compound and will be fully reinstated and improved following construction works. Works will be designed to minimise tree loss within the park and high-quality replacement planting and landscaping will be provided. The Elland Access Works consist of improvements to cycleway and footway access routes to Elland Station. These improvements are defined as either ‘Primary Routes’ or ‘Secondary Routes’. They are described from north to south. Improvements on Exley Lane consist of minor widening of the existing footway to create a shared cycleway linking the Elland Wood Bottom Cycleway to Park Road. The existing pedestrian subway will be improved with new LED strip lighting. A large extent of macadam surfacing at the junction of Exley Lane and the A629 off-slip will be converted to verges with bulb planting. The existing 4m wide footway on the northern side of Park Road will be converted to a shared cycleway to connect Exley Lane to a new parallel pedestrian and cycle crossing on Park Road, opposite the proposed new bridge location. The Exley Lane and Park Road underpass will be subject to public realm improvements including additional LED lighting and the possible inclusion of artwork. A new Toucan crossing is proposed on Park Road, as well as minor signage decluttering and new line marking to create a shared cycleway. Improvements to the underpass under the A629 potentially consist of rendering, painting and downlighting of abutments, cobbles under the bypass and soft landscaping to immediate east of bridge. BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 7
The canal tow path along the Calder and Hebble Navigation adjacent to the Barge and Barrel public house is to be widened and generally improved. A new canal retaining wall will enable the tow path widening and new surfacing sympathetic to the Conservation Area will be laid. New railings are proposed at the eastern end of the tow path on the approach to a 1:8 ramp leading to the new bridge abutment. Proposed works in addition to the bridge at Gas Works Lane comprise hard landscaping under bridge ramps and soft landscaping between Wharf House and the bridge with vertical bar railings to provide some separation from Wharf House. A dilapidated section of river wall will be repaired and replaced prior to installation of the bridge. At Elland Bridge Riverside Park the proposed works involve improvements in the form of minor widening of the existing cycleway at the entrances from Wistons Lane and along Millgate connecting with the new cycleway approaching the Navigation and Calder Bridge. A new children’s play area is to be provided along with new equipment, and hard and soft landscaping and planting landscaping. The dilapidated Sir John Eland Memorial is to be replaced and the area redesigned. Where Wistons Lane joins Century Road, the existing turning head will be reconfigured, reduced in size and finished in heavy duty rectangular block paving in brindle and charcoal. Improvements are proposed to the main pedestrian and cycleway station approach that is the section of Wistons Lane immediately adjacent the River Calder. A mixture of more ornate paving and macadam is proposed along with public realm and street furniture improvements. The A629 underpass will be improved and landscaped through provision of a frame to the abutments to accommodate panelling with an art or mural feature. New general LED lighting improvements will be provided along with decorative lighting. Seating and soft landscaping will also be provided at the junction with the railway station access. Minor improvements will be made along Century Road. The footway along Wistons Lane (north) will be widened where possible to create a shared footway cycleway. An existing retaining wall and levels difference between Wistons Lane and the adjacent petrol filling station constrains the width available for a short section of the route. A new parallel pedestrian and cycle crossing will be provided on Jubilee Way, providing a controlled crossing point between Wistons Lane north and south. Wistons Lane (south) is a quiet route and no-through route to vehicles and will be modified with a combination of kerb and footway realignment and block paving surface to create a ‘quiet street’ environment. Along Eastgate the existing narrow footway and boundary wall will be removed and a new flagged footway and cycleway provided. Acknowledging the space available, the gradient of this section of route, and its popularity, a fully segregated two-way cycleway will be provided. A small rest and seating area is proposed adjacent to Eastgate at the footway access to Morrisons. At Elland Riorges Link adjacent to Eastgate and Elland Lane the existing Pelican crossing between the eastern area of Elland/ Elland Lane and Morrisons is to be upgraded to a Toucan crossing and existing footways leading to the crossing are to be widened to shared cycleways, gradients here are relatively steep and works are proposed to ease gradients where viable along with provision of hi-grip surfacing and handrails. Minor improvements are proposed to the existing footways and dropped crossings around the A629-Elland-Riorges Link dumbbell roundabout. Along Elland Riorges Link BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 8
to Lower Edge, to the east of the A629, works comprise minor widening of the existing path to a shared cycleway, the addition of a new dropped crossing by Heathfield Grange and the existing 20mph speed limit to be relocated to the north of Oliver Meadows junction. There is potential for additional planting and further tree planting within Elland Riorges Link works area. The existing verge and footway on the eastern side of Lowfields Way will be reconfigured to create a shared cycleway/footway that will connect to a new parallel cycle and pedestrian crossing that will access the front of the proposed new rail station. Details and positioning of the crossing are related to the rail station access design and proposals for this crossing will be submitted with the rail station planning application by WYCA and Atkins.
4.1.2 West Vale West Vale Bridge – The West Vale Bridge is a new steel Warren truss bridge crossing the River Calder at the Heath Rugby Club. The structure is 44m long by 3.5m wide by 5.3m high (above ground level) and will be finished in gloss black. The abutments will be supported on CFA concrete piles and clad in natural stone with plinth and coping detailing. The bridge will be accessed from the west by a 34m long 1 in 12 access ramp which has a change in direction approximately half-way along and natural stone burr wall abutments at each end. The bridge will be accessed from the east via a 1 in 20 unsegregated cycleway and footway to tie in with the existing canal tow path on the western bank. Construction compounds will be provided at Heath Rugby Club and on the land between the River Calder and Calder and Hebble Navigation. The access to the Heath Rugby Club compound will be across the existing club car park and a temporary haul road. These and the playing surface of the rugby club will be reinstated on completion. The compound between the River Calder and Calder and Hebble Navigation will be accessed by craning operations and minimal light plant and equipment and emergency vehicle access provided across fields from Elland Bridge along the south and western banks of the canal. The access route will be formed from a temporary matting system. The compound and access route will be reinstated on completion. Access works at West Vale consist of improvements to pedestrian cycle routes. These improvements are discussed from east to west. • The existing pedestrian zebra crossing on Rochdale Road will be upgraded to a parallel crossing in conjunction with minor footway widening and reconfiguration and the existing footway leading from the crossing to the Clay House Park entrance will be upgraded to a shared cycleway. • An existing footpath within Clay House will be improved with hi-grip surfacing and on Stainland Road a new parallel crossing will be provided along with minor widening of the narrow eastern footway. A short length of reduced shared cycleway width of 2m is proposed to help minimise land take from the adjacent North Dean Automotive • A new shared pedestrian and cycleway (the Black Brook cycleway) is proposed from the new crossing at Stainland Road, through the south of the North Dean Automotive and Heath Rugby club following the alignment of Black Brook. The cycleway will be partitioned from the club by green wire mesh panel fencing. A short length of new river wall is to be constructed along Black Brook and the existing concrete ramp and walls adjacent to Black Brook are to be removed and the riverbank improved. A new access will be provided to the rear of North Dean Automotive from the north. Due to levels differences and a desire to minimise
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 9
impacts on existing trees the alignment of the Black Brook route deviates out towards Heath RUFC’s training pitch and is therefore elevated above the pitch, the new cycleway will be retained at high level by a greenwall system.
b y The needs of Disabled pedestrians and cyclists has been considered during the design development process, for bridge structures and the footway and cycle links. The most significant adjustment to designs was at the Elland bridge location. Early concepts for multiple bridges spanning only the watercourses in conjunction with multiple switchback ramps was changed to create an effective single span from Park Road to Riverside Park. This design change significantly improves ramp gradients and also completely removes the need to negotiate three large switchback ramps and a smaller switchback ramp that would have been located at the Park Road end of the structure. The revised proposals allow a single continuous and relatively level route from Park Road to Riverside Park. An additional benefit is the reduction in the amount of land required to accommodate the new structure. A single switchback ramp is still required to connect the new bridge structure and route to Gas Works Lane and the southern canal towpath that heads north to Brighouse. The form of bridge structure was changed from simple bridge beams to trusses to remove the need for deep lower beam section sizes. This adjustment helps to provide the required freeboard to navigation craft during extreme flood conditions whilst reducing access gradients to acceptable standards. Towpath headroom requirements and design standards are also met by the current proposals. Specified bridge widths are 3.5m wide clear internal dimension in accordance with current Design Manual Roads and Bridges requirements. Maximum gradients of 1:20 were identified as preferable and this has generally been achieved other than a short section of the approach at Park Road that is 1:15, the switchback ramp connection to Gas Works Lane that is 1:12 with level landings, and the western approach ramp to the West Vale bridge that is also 1:12 with level landings. To summarise, the access gradients have had to be balanced against the physical and technical requirements set by site constraints such as existing levels, navigation craft and flood freeboard, and the scale and size of ramp structures adjacent to the listed Wharf House and within the River Calder floodplain at West Vale. Priority was given to providing as level a route as possible from Park Road to Riverside Park with the proposal for a single switchback ramp connection to Gas Works Lane considered to be a sensible and unavoidable design feature to a secondary route connection. This has created a more prominent and attractive structure with better accessibility and connectivity for all. Route gradients beyond the bridges are generally dictated by the local terrain and existing levels. Where feasible efforts will be made to improve gradients if they are deemed to be steeper than desirable accessibility gradients, typically stated as being between 1 in 12 and 1 in 20 depending on function and applicable accessibility standards. Further consideration has been given to users of larger and specialist cycles. This includes Disabled cyclists using specialised or custom cycles and individuals or businesses who use Cargo bikes. Many of these cycles are now power assisted by electric motors. These considerations also extend to tandem and family cycles such as tag-a-long’s and trailer bikes. Non-standard or custom cycles for Disabled users are highly varied and subject to the individual’s needs. They can be broadly summarised into categories of cycles as follows:
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 10
• Tricycle • Tandem • Handcycle • Recumbent • Wheelchair tandem • E-cycle (E-bike)
F u 4-1 x f y ( Gu u Cy Wh f W b 2019 3 ) Bridges, routes, road crossings, signage, paving choices and colours including tactile paving have been designed in accordance with appropriate design standards, including, but not limited to, the following key references: • DMRB BA4198 Design and Appearance of Bridges • DMRB BD2917 Design Criteria for Footbridges • DMRB TA9005 Geometric Design of Cycle Routes • DMRB TD3693 Subways for Pedestrians and Cyclists • DFT LTN 1/20 Cycle Infrastructure Design • DFT LTN 2/08 Cycle Infrastructure Design • DFT LTN 1/12 Shared Use Routes for Pedestrians and Cyclists • DFT LTN 1/95 The Assessment of Pedestrian Crossings • DFT LTN 2/95 The Design of Pedestrian Crossings • The Traffic Signs Regulations and General Directions 2016 • DFT Traffic Signs Manual • DETR Guidance on use of Tactile Paving Surfaces • Understanding Tactile Paving at Pedestrian Crossings 3 rd Edition 2015 (Beata Duncan-Jones for London Borough of Hammersmith & Fulham) • Sustrans (Cycle) Design Manual 2014 • TFL London Cycling Design Standards 2014-2016
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 11
L The main design objective of the landscape proposals is to integrate the proposed bridge and cycle routes within the existing urban and environmental context, by creating exciting and aesthetically pleasing surroundings, well knit together in the existing context. The proposals aim to take advantage of key locations along the routes, giving them a new lease of life, by integrating interest, art, play and excitement along the way. Key intervention areas are described in further detail in the following paragraphs with full details illustrated on drawings ref: • BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-L-0001- Elland_Landscape_Proposals • BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-L-0002- Elland_Landscape_Proposals • BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-L-0003- Elland_Landscape_Proposals • BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-L-0004- Elland_Landscape_Proposals • BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-L-0005- Elland_Landscape_Proposals • BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-DR-L-0006- Elland_Landscape_Proposals • BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-L-0001- West_Vale_Landscape_Proposals
4.3.1 Gasworks Lane: Gasworks Lane is currently a rundown dead-end lane, with little activity or appeal other than providing access to the canal towpath. The design would create an access landing to the proposed bridge over the canal and river and wider network. The proposal is to enhance the newly created space between the bridge abutments and below the deck by proposing primarily hard landscape space with seating opportunities. The area will be sympatheticly lit and be open on three sides to create a safe environment. Proposed tree and shrub planting will create a natural and buffered screen between the bridge and Wharf House.
4.3.2 Century Road Park Currently the park consists of neglected green space with mature trees and access routes leading through the park. There is a small memorial and a timber trim trail. The park appears to be predominantly used by local dog walkers. The design incorporates the landing to the proposed bridge and associated ramp connection to the existing footpath network. A new entrance gateway will be created at the entrance to the park on Century Road, offering seating opportunities, as well as the creation of a new enhanced play area at the foot of the bridge inclusive of access slide from Elland Bridge for the younger users. The existing memorial that has be vandalised would be replaced and improved. The setting would be enhanced by repaving the area and incorporating seating opportunities. To mitigate the anticipated tree loss, additional tree planting is proposed throughout the park, as well as areas of shrub planting and wildflower seeding. There will be also be additional seating opportunities throughout the park.
4.3.3 Wistons Lane (North - Station Approach) Presently the space below the A629 overpass forms part of the access route along with the Calder Valley Cycle route, this location presently offers little appeal, other than views of the Calder river.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 12
It is envisaged that this route would form part of the main access route to the proposed Elland Railway Station, and as such would need major enhancements to make this a vibrant and safe space for people to use. The proposal involves enhancing the area with an upgraded hard landscape palette, incorporating green spaces, seating opportunities as well as visual interest by incorporating elements of public art. A bespoke and designed cladding system is proposed at the long blank bridge abutment. Light projections are proposed from Gobo projectors mounted within the recess of the bridge deck (examples below). The cladding system would also incorporate a moiré effect screen, giving an interactive feature and an impression of motion to the users as they travel through the corridor.
F u 4-2 x h h j w u k f G b j h 659 u
Overall, the enhanced lighting levels and enhanced environment would increase the appeal of the area and ensure it can become a vibrant section of the routes as a potential destination from the wider cycle routes.
4.3.4 Wistons Lane (South) and Eastgate Wistons Lane is a quiet road leading from Eastgate North towards Jubilee Way, the Calder Valley Cycle Route and beyond. Vehicular movement is restricted at the junction with Jubilee way, however pedestrian and cycle traffic is still possible. The proposal is to enhance the length of Wistons Lane, by realigning kerbs and providing block paviours and paving. A sustainable drainage feature will be located at the junction with Jubilee Way, incorporating shrub planting and landscaping as well as seating opportunities. Further south, along Eastgate, it is envisaged to widen the footway/cycleway and incorporate a feature seating opportunity at the entrance to Morrison’s Supermarket. This seating would incorporate a backdrop of low-level screening and ornamental planting.
4.3.5 West Vale The aim of our landscape proposals within this area is to integrate the route within its natural environment. Structured planting and tree planting will create a natural setting to the route, enhancing the local environment and its surroundings. It is also envisaged to create sustainable drainage features on either side of the proposed bridge to manage surface water runoff.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 13
f L A defined planting palette of key species throughout the scheme, would enable this linear scheme to be tied together. The species selected would be a mix of evergreen, deciduous shrubs, as well as herbaceous plants, allowing all year-round interest and will be carefully chosen to be ecological beneficial for pollinators and wildlife alike.
F u 4-3 x f f
Tree planting will be substantial enough to have an immediate impact and be robust within the urban environment, with native species selected within the natural environment and ornamental cultivars for the more urban areas. Additionally, large swathes of wildflower meadows, would be beneficial to the environment, as well as being aesthetically pleasing to the users.
F u 4-4 x w h f w f w w h u h u h h
H L Hard landscape materials are often a key factor in relaying a well-designed scheme. The proposed material palette of quality block paviours and materials within the key areas, is aimed at pulling the scheme together along its length and a key repeating waymark, giving the user a sensation of continuity.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 14
F u 4-5 x f h b k u
Fu u The proposals aim to enhance on the street furniture aspect along the route, utilising robust elements, which would be aesthetically pleasing as well as hard wearing. These would be in key areas, where people would either wait or gather or allowing a rest along the route while enjoying the new surroundings.
F u 4-6 x f fu u
R G u b Although many of the routes along the scheme feature minor widening to existing hard standing features, one aim was to relieve pressure on surface drainage. For this purpose, a series of shallow topographical depressions are created along the route, allowing surface water to collect and infiltrate within the ground. Often these features will be low key and noticeable only by the change in mixture within the grass/wildflower seeding and localised areas of planting. As the SuDS feature located at the junction with Jubilee way, is situated in a more prominent location, it is envisaged to create this as more of a focal point, using cobble mulch, feature boulders and accent vegetation.
5 f h f O C WYG were appointed by CMBC to identify the opportunities for the access and public realm improvements ahead of JBA’s design. As part of their work, desktop studies and site visits were undertaken to produce a Geographic Extents Review and Access Package Proposals Report including identifying preferred bridge crossing locations and concept designs for the proposed bridges, now heavily modified to the current proposals that improve the form of structures and their function and accessibility. Constraints were identified that included review of background reports that informed the areas considered / discounted. A pedestrian and
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 15
cycle PERS/ CERS audit of the area surrounding the proposed station was also carried out to inform the extent of the study area for the Access Package improvements. An additional traffic-free route from the West Vale area to connect to the Calder Valley Cycleway, and from there to the station and Elland, was also considered and form part of the overall Access Package measures.
5.1.1 Existing and Proposed Routes WYG’s site visit identified alternative routes from the stations site towards the centre of Elland via the existing highway network including Century Road, Eastgate/ Wistons Lane and Jubilee Way/ Elland Riorges Link. A traffic free pedestrian route runs parallel to Century Road via the Elland Bridge Riverside Park. Existing residential/ employment areas to the north/ east of the site can be accessed via the existing pedestrian provision adjacent Lowfields Way/ Elland Riorges Link/ Elland Road. Elland Bridge is the main crossing point of the River Calder/ Calder and Hebble Navigation to the south-west of the site. To the north of the site, Savile Way also provides a crossing of the River Calder but does not cross the Calder and Hebble Navigation. WYG considered alternative pedestrian/ cycle crossing points of both the River Calder and Calder and Hebble Navigation to improve access to the west of the station. The route of the West Vale Link was also considered. WYG identified existing sections of carriageway/ footway that would potentially benefit from accessibility/ public realm enhancements, as well as existing footway/ cycleway provision in the vicinity of the site that could also benefit from improvement (see figure 3-1). The routes between the station and the town centre/ surrounding areas have been classified as primary and secondary routes, with primary routes providing more direct/ attractive links between the station and surrounding areas and secondary routes providing less direct alternatives to the primary routes. Existing public realm areas that could also form part of the access package improvements were also identified. JBA and CMBC walked the entirety of the proposals at Elland and West Vale along with other routes identified as being of potential interest in terms of alternative options. Preliminary designs were progressed along with procurement of surveys, investigations, and land ownership review.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 16
F u 5-1 x f k ( u : WYG k R )
Other areas within Elland were considered via the desktop study/ site visit, however they were discounted because they would not benefit from additional improvement or improvements would not contribute towards the overall scheme objectives in a cost- effective way. Revisions to the original concept proposals contained within the WYG Access Package report are summarised briefly below: • Elland-Riorges Link and dumbbell roundabout removed as primary routes due to safety concerns and poor pedestrian and cycling environment with further level/gradient, bus stop, and crossing complexities. • Primary approach to new rail station identified as Wistons Lane (North) and Riverside Park. • Exley Lane to EWBC Cycleway amended to an off-highway route and identified as a primary route. • Park Road connections removed due to inadequate space and complexities at the existing rail bridge. • Eastgate identified as the primary connection from Elland high street via Church Street. • Eastgate and Wistons Lane (South) proposals significantly enhanced and improved. • Elland Lane connection improved. • Canal Towpath widening identified as providing good continuation of existing towpath cycling routes and preferable to a connection to Park Road.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 17
5.1.2 Bridge Options As part of the Access Package measures, the existing pedestrian and cycle infrastructure was considered and a requirement for new river crossings for pedestrians and cyclists was identified. New pedestrian and cycle bridges across the River Calder and Calder and Hebble Navigation to the west of the station at Elland and at West Vale. The Access Package study initially identified 6 potential crossing points (Figure 5.2 below). A feasibility exercise was undertaken as part of which further studies and surveys were undertaken and key stakeholders including WYCA, Calderdale Council (Planning, Conservation, Highways and Flood Risk Officers consulted). Locations 2, 4 and 6 were considered suitable for proposed bridges.
F u 5-2 Th y f h WYG k R
The WYG concept bridge locations and designs were used to inform a constraints and risk review, desktop study and more detailed survey work undertaken by JBA. The arrangement and form of structures was then developed further. Constraints, land ownership, heritage and conservation, design standards, appearance, ease of use and buildability were taken into consideration. Further work was undertaken by JBA to develop the design of the bridges in the proposed locations, this included: • Desktop and site walkovers. • Ecology survey • Geoenvironmental desk study • Heritage and Conservation review • Topographical surveys • Statutory services searches. • Review objectives and relevant design standards and criteria • Identify site constraints and risk items • Land ownership and title plan review • Preliminary planning and heritage consultations BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 18
• Preliminary discussions with bridge manufacturer • Design development to update outline proposal • Produce preliminary cost estimates for WYG Concepts and for revised options. The following key constraints and design criteria were identified during the development of the bridge design: • Existing river walls • Existing statutory services • Ecology and invasive species • Land ownership • Dilapidated and remote environment of Gas Works Lane and Riversdale Works • Access/approach gradients and ease of use (to Design Manual Roads and Bridges) • Conservation Area and Heritage • Site levels, gradients, thickness/depth of bridge deck/beams • Canal and Rivers Trust require 2.7m headroom over towpaths • Proximity to listed Wharf House and Canal Basin • Badly fire damaged condition and stability of former Riversdale House (understood to be now demolished by the present owner) • Proximity to gas pipe bridge, A629 overpass and existing trees • Access and buildability • Extent of Flood Zones and modelled flood levels allowing for climate change • A629 river bridge abutment retaining wall extends a significant distance west along the northern side of Gas Works Lane. Full details of the constraints and multiple bridge positions were considered at an early stage. Acknowledging the spans involved and requirements for limiting bridge deck heights to ease access gradients, whilst considering ramp lengths to provide sufficient headroom and freeboard to flood levels it was determined that simple beam bridges would not be appropriate. Truss forms of bridge construction are considered more appropriate and, subject to type of truss, potentially more striking and attractive. Initial concept drawings showed simple warren/pratt truss type arrangements. More advanced preferred options considered during design development showed more attractive bow string/vierendeel type trusses and tied arch trusses. The bridge designs were subject to further development through consultation with CMBC Planner and Conservation Officer who expressed a requirement for high quality and sympathetic design. Integrate Plus Design Yorkshire Review Panel were consulted at preliminary design stage for early involvement and design review and guidance.
5.1.3 The Preferred Option Several bridge options were costed for comparison along with a range of bridge types and finishes for the preferred option, acknowledging the requirement for a high quality of design and potential budgetary constraints. Full frame site photography was undertaken, along with further drawings and CAD modelling. A laser scan and elevation drawings of Wharf House have been produced (Figure 5-3 below). The model surveys were combined to inform the scale and perspective of digital renderings to assess the appearance of the bridges in the conservation area and adjacent Wharf House. BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 19
F u 5-3 L f h L Wh f H u
Several configurations and positions for the structure were considered and adjusted including multiple options for the configuration of the ramp connection to Gas Works Lane and the canal towpath. Following consultation, it was established that the preferred form for the footbridges would be a steel tied arch with deck cable hangers. This arch form accomplishes pleasing aesthetic properties and a prominent feature in the landscape and the ‘lightweight’ nature of the structure helps to maintain river views from multiple directions.
F u 5-4 R w f w B
At Westvale the crossing point is located upstream of the confluence of Black Brook with the River Calder and was designated the preferred crossing point location, which will also provide public realm benefits for access to the canal tow path. No stability issues or significant constraints were identified. A simple form of steel warren struss construction was identified as being suitable for the span and cost effective. Developed designs for the West Vale bridge are very similar to the original concept proposals although some minor adjustments have been made.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 20
6 - C u The following stakeholders showing in Table 2 below have been involved throughout the development of the project:
T b 2 - k h u
Consulted Summary of information Conservation Officer CMBC Lauren Clarkson, Conservation Officer at Calderdale Contact: Lauren Clarkson Council was consulted in April 2020 regarding the Archaeology and Heritage assessment. It has been confirmed that Lauren is in agreement with the Heritage statement and approach. West Yorkshire Archaeology Advisory Discussions took place in May 2020 with WYASS who Service (WYASS) have confirmed that our proposed scope of Contact: David Hunter assessment regarding archaeological aspects is acceptable. It was agreed that ground conditions will be assessed around the Southern bridge foundations in Elland to examine any potential archaeological remains, this will allow the scope of archaeological mitigation to be determined. CMBC Ecologist Discussions took place in summer 2019 with Hugh Contact: Hugh Firman – CMBC Firman, CMBC Ecologist to discuss the scheme. In Ecologist June 2020 Hugh reviewed the Draft Ecology Report. There are no concerns regarding the concept of the scheme at present. There have been some discussions regarding lighting and survey works e.g. Bat surveys which will be required. Canals and River Trust (CRT) A site meeting took place with Alan Daines, CRT Contact: Alan Daines – CRT Technical technical Director in November 2019 to discuss land. Director Further discussions took place with the Technical Director to discuss proposals. A meeting was held with CRT Planning Department who discussed the scheme, some comments were made however the meeting was not focused on reviewing the scheme in relation to CRT requirements. Internal CMBC Meetings General meetings have taken place with the internal Contact: Andy Geall - Transportation CMBC Highways and Transportation department. General discussions with a focus on cycling took place from early in the scheme. Further conversations took place in Summer 2019. No issues have been raised to date. Elland Town Board Proposals were presented to the Elland Town Board in January 2020 which included members of the public and a member of the Calderdale Mobility Group Forum. No issues were raised, and the proposals were received positively. Elland Rail station and Access These meetings have taken place throughout the Package Project Board project and include members from West Yorkshire Combined Authority, Network Rail, Northern and Senior Officers within CMBC. Proposals have been received positively.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 21
Consulted Summary of information Design Panel Review Yorkshire Design Panel review process was Contact: Jamie Wilde – Review Panel undertaken on 11th June 2020. This review included Manager experts of Landscape Architect, a Civil Engineer, Urban Design, and a Heritage/Conservation Officer. The scheme received positive feedback with some minor items being raised e.g. bridge could be slightly wider however this is not necessary, and some landscaping preferences were discussed for under the bridge structure. A copy of the Design Review Panel Introduction Report response received is submitted as part of the Planning Application. West Yorkshire Combined Authority In summer 2018, between 18th June 2018 and 20th (WYCA) July 2018, West Yorkshire Combined Authority carried out public engagement activities to collate feedback https://www.yourvoice.westyorks- on the Elland Station and Access Package proposals. ca.gov.uk/elland2020 This included online surveys, a series of public drop- in sessions, stakeholder emails, Elland Town Board and flyers and newsletters. The aim was to understand public opinion and suggestions on the project, which resulted in more waiting shelters being proposed and an investigation into connecting bus routes to the new station. A total of 278 direct responses were received, and an additional 2000 individuals visited the Your Voice webpage which had plans and overviews of the project available to view. West Yorkshire Combined Authority received mostly positive feedback. Anita Seymour Senior Planning A screening request was submitted to Anita Seymour Officer CMBC at CMBC on 19 th June 2020. A screening response (ref: 20/06008/EIA) was received on 16 th July 2020 confirming an EIA would not be required. As part of the screening exercise, the following statutory consultees were consulted: CMBC Environmental Health – No objection. Natural England: Confirming received that the that the site not within a sensitive location. General advisory comments received. Council for British Archaeology – Observations and advice received reading the ‘sensitivity’ of the location about heritage and assets and archaeology to be considered as part of the planning application submission. CMBC Highways – No comments. CMBC Countryside Services – Advice received regarding the Ecology information to be submitted as part of the planning application and the need to include DEFRA biodiversity metric and specify Net Gain measures.
Canals and River Trust (CRT) The Canals and River Trust Planning and Design Team Contact: Simon Tucker – Area were consulted on the scheme, a response was Planner provided on the 2 nd July 2020. Details of bridge foundation proposals were requested at application stage, now confirmed to be piled foundations and BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 22
Consulted Summary of information shown indicatively on the submission drawings. A CEMP was requested and this will be produced at detailed design or post tender stage if contractor input is deemed to be required. Minor comments and requests for details were requested and these are generally included in the application documents. An ecological study was requested and this has been carried out.
7 y
N y The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) in 2012. The Framework was updated on 19th February 2019 and sets out the government’s planning policies for sustainable development in England, based on economic, social, and environmental objectives: a) economic objective – to help build a strong, responsive and competitive economy, by ensuring that sufficient land of the right types is available in the right places and at the right time to support growth, innovation and improved productivity; and by identifying and coordinating the provision of infrastructure; b) a social objective – to support strong, vibrant and healthy communities, by ensuring that a sufficient number and range of homes can be provided to meet the needs of present and future generations; and by fostering a well-designed and safe built environment, with accessible services and open spaces that reflect current and future needs and support communities’ health, social and cultural well-being; c) an environmental objective – to contribute to protecting and enhancing our natural, built and historic environment; including making effective use of land, helping to improve biodiversity, using natural resources prudently, minimising waste and pollution, and mitigating and adapting to climate change, including moving to a low carbon economy. Chapter 3 of the NPPF, relates to ‘Plan-Making’. It states that the planning system should be plan-led, succinct and up-to-date plans should provide a positive vision for the future of each area. Paragraph 20, of chapter 3 relates to Strategic Policies set out an overall strategy for the pattern, scale and quality of development, including the provision for infrastructure for transport, telecommunications, security, waste management, water supply, wastewater, flood risk and coastal change management, and the provision of minerals and energy (including heat); Chapter 8, ‘Promoting healthy and safe communities’ aims for planning policies and decisions to achieve healthy, inclusive and safe places which: a) promote social interaction, including opportunities for meetings between people who might not otherwise come into contact with each other – for example through mixed-use developments, strong neighbourhood centres, street layouts that allow for y y within and between neighbourhoods, and active street frontages; b) are safe and accessible, so that crime and disorder, and the fear of crime, do not undermine the quality of life or community cohesion – f x
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 23
h u h h u f b u and high quality public space, which encourage the active and continual use of public areas; and c) enable and support healthy lifestyles… and layouts that encourage walking and cycling. Chapter 9, ‘Promoting sustainable transport’ requires planning policies to provide for high quality walking and cycling networks and supporting facilities such as cycle parking. When considering development proposals, applications for development should: a) give priority first to pedestrian and cycle movements, both within the scheme and with neighbouring areas; and second – so far as possible – to facilitating access to high quality public transport, with layouts that maximise the catchment area for bus or other public transport services, and appropriate facilities that encourage public transport use; b) address the needs of people with disabilities and reduced mobility in relation to all modes of transport; c) create places that are safe, secure and attractive – which minimise the scope for conflicts between pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles, avoid unnecessary street clutter, and respond to local character and design standards. Chapter 11, ‘Making effective use of land’ states that panning polices and decisions should promote an effective use of land in meeting the need for homes and other uses, while safeguarding and improving the environment and ensuring safe and healthy living conditions. It recognises undeveloped land can perform many functions, such as for wildlife, recreation, flood risk mitigation, cooling/shading, carbon storage or food production. Section 12 outlines the importance of well-designed buildings and promotes development sympathetic to local character and history, including the surrounding built environment and landscape setting. Section 15 relates to ‘Conserving and enhancing the natural habitat’ and sets out ways that planning policies and decisions should protect and enhance the natural and local environment. These include: a) protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, b) recognising the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside, and the wider benefits from natural capital and ecosystem services; c) minimising impacts on and providing net gains for biodiversity. Paragraph 174 identifies ways that plans should protect and enhance biodiversity a geodiversity. This includes promoting the conservation, restoration and enhancement of priority habitats, ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species; and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity. Chapter 9 relates to promoting sustainable transport. It requires transport issues to be considered from the earliest stages of development proposals so that: • opportunities to promote walking, cycling and public transport use are identified and pursued;
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 24
• patterns of movement, streets, parking, and other transport considerations are integral to the design of scheme and contribute to making high quality places. In addition, significant development should focus on locations which are or can be made sustainable, through limiting the need to travel and offering a genuine choice of transport modes. This can help to reduce congestion and emissions and improve air quality and public health. Chapter 9, paragraph 104 states that planning policies should: • be prepared with the active involvement of local highways authorities, other transport infrastructure providers and operators and neighbouring councils, so that strategies and investments for supporting sustainable transport and development patterns are aligned; and • provide for high quality walking and cycling networks and supporting facilities such as cycle parking (drawing on Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plans); Chapter 16 outlines policies for the protection and enhancement of the historic environment in plan-making and decision taking. Decisions affecting heritage assets should be undertaken based on an understanding of the significance of any heritage asset affected by development, based on a proportionate evidence base. Paragraph 38 relates to decision making and requires planning authorities to work proactively with applications to secure developments that will improve the economic, social and environmental conditions of the area.
L y The proposed development lies within the planning authority of Calderdale Council. The Local Plan will replace the Replacement Calderdale Unitary Development Plan (RCUDP) once approved and adopted. However, until then all planning decisions are based on the RCUDP which was adopted on 25 th August 2006 and amended in August 2009. The policies that are relevant to the proposed development are described below: y G 1: u u b will promote sustainable development by making Calderdale a place where people want to live, work and visit through: The improvement of employment opportunities, mixed use development, traffic reduction measures and better public transport links; • The effective protection and enhancement of the environment; • The conservation and efficient use of resources; and • The promotion of development which recognises the needs of everyone including safety and security issues. • y G 2: L f will site new developments with regard to a sequence of locational preferences. All sites refer to accessibility by good quality public transport. • y GB 1: Th bu f h qu y f h bu requires all new development will be required to achieve high standards of design that makes a positive contribution to the quality of the local environment. This includes the creation of roads, footpaths and public spaces that are attractive and safe, that promote sustainable forms of transport, in particular walking, cycling and public transport, before other motor vehicles. • y GT3: w k designates roads according to their function and helps to define the transport corridors within y G 2 . The A629 which
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 25
runs through the proposed development is classified as a Category 2 road. This includes roads which link major centres within Calderdale, and which connect these centres to the Category 1 network and to major centres within West Yorkshire and other adjacent areas. Park Road is a Category 3 road, which includes roads that link secondary centres within Calderdale to major centres within the District and in adjacent areas and to the Category 1 and 2 networks. • y GT4: H hy f will ensure the needs and safety of each group of road users are sequentially considered so that new schemes will ideally improve existing conditions and, in any event, will not worsen conditions. It defines the Hierarchy of Consideration as: 1 Pedestrians, people with disabilities and emergency services; 2 Cyclists and horse riders; 3 Public transport users; 4 Taxis and motorcyclists; 5 Deliveries to local areas; 6 Shoppers travelling by car; 7 Other freight movements; 8 Other high occupancy vehicles; and 9 Other private cars. y GT5: T outlines that where a transport assessment is required to be submitted alongside a planning application, taken account of the Hierarchy of Consideration ( y GT4 ). y GCF1: f u u h f seeks to provide all education, highways, sewerage, drainage, flood prevention, landscaping, open space, nature conservation, public transport or other identified needs generated directly by any development within a local area. y GCF2: b u y u k to meet their statutory obligations and to comply with the relevant environmental standards enacted in Government and European Union legislation will be permitted provided that: • Mitigation measures are put in place to alleviate significant adverse impacts from the development; • The design of the development respects the character of the area; and • The development is consistent with other relevant UDP Policies. y GN 1: C f h u b will maintain a Green Belt around the main built-up areas. The Plan will seek to restrain development outside the urban areas through the general extent of the Green Belt. y GN 2: f h outlines that development should protect, conserve and enhance the character, quality and diversity of the natural, historic and cultural environment (whether in urban or outlying areas) within the district in order to improve the quality of life for all and to maintain the natural heritage of the district for use by future generations and for its own sake. y B 1: G seeks to ensure development makes a positive contribution to the quality of the existing environment or, at the very least, maintain that quality by means of high standards of design. y B 2: y y h y states that development should not significantly affect the privacy, daylighting and private amenity space of
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 26
adjacent residents or other occupants and should provide adequate privacy, daylighting and private amenity space for existing and prospective residents and other occupants. y B 3: L requires development proposals, where appropriate, to be accompanied by landscaping schemes that include good quality hard and soft landscaping. They should be designed as an integral part of the development proposal and should contribute to the character and amenity of the area and, where possible, enhance local biodiversity. y B 4: f y u y states that the design and layout of new development should address the safety and security of people, property, and reduce the opportunities for crime. y B 5: Th y u f h hw y should: • Ensure the safe and free flow of traffic (including provision for cyclists) in the interest of highway safety; • Allow access by public transport where appropriate; • Provide convenient pedestrian routes and connectivity within the site and with its surroundings; • Incorporate traffic calming, and speed management and reduction measures where appropriate; • Provide an attractive environment which respects the local character of the area; • Take account of the Hierarchy of Consideration of Policy GT4; and • Help to reduce opportunities for crime. y B 6: Th f f states that all new developments should provide a safe and attractive environment at all times for pedestrians accessing or traversing the site. In particular, routes should be reasonably direct, well lit, overlooked, have acceptable surfacing, be attractively landscaped, and provide an environment where opportunities for crime are minimised. y B 7: CCTV h h will be provided in a manner which: • Does not significantly harm amenity; • Does not have a detrimental impact on the environment; and • Preserves or enhances Conservation Areas and does not adversely affect Listed Buildings, Historic Parks and Gardens or their settings, where these are material considerations. y B 8: f outlines development proposals within buildings or sites that provide goods, facilities or services to the public should incorporate design features that facilitate easy access for all including those with disabilities. y B 10: ub will support the creation and display of works of at in public areas, including appropriate locations within the street scene, provided that the work of art is of high design quality, appropriate or complementary to its location and does not create unacceptable environmental, amenity, traffic or other problems. y B 14: Sets out requirements for proposals impacting listed buildings. y B 15: f L Bu will not permit development, where through its siting, scale, design, or nature, it would harm the setting of a Listed Building.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 27
y B 17: f L Bu sets out circumstances where the total or substantial demolition of a Listed Building will only be permitted. y B 18: w h C seeks to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of Conservation Areas, and sets out criteria where development in conservations areas will be permitted. y B 22: h f N f states that development has an adverse impact upon Class I archaeological sites and Class II Sites of unscheduled national importance and their settings will not be permitted. y B 23: h f R requires Class II Sites of regional importance will be preserved where possible. y B 24: f f h V u requires the preservation of Class III archaeological sites to be preserved where possible. y T3: ub T N w for development over 1ha, located immediately adjacent to public transport services, convenient pedestrian connections or links should be provided to and within the development site to facilitate easy access to nearby public transport access points such as a railway station or bus stop. y T4: Bu F B h u O h L states that improvements to bus and rail passenger facilities and their environs throughout the District will be undertaken as necessary, and in light of priorities within the West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan. y T13: Cy w y designates the following routes as cycleways: • Calder Valley Cycleway (National Cycle Network); • Hebble Trail/ Elland Wood Bottom Lane Link; • Western Halifax; • Ovenden Cycle Route; • Triangle to Sowerby Bridge; and • Old Lane, Halifax. y T16: N w x y h seeks to bring forward schemes within shopping centres, along with appropriate traffic management to assist in improvements to the vitality, viability, safety, sustainability and environment of centres throughout Calderdale, where considered appropriate and where resources allow. y T19: B y k Gu sets out guidelines for bicycle parking. y N 14: f L y states that development likely to have an adverse effect on a Site of Ecological or Geological Interest, Local Nature Reserve or Priority Habitat will not be permitted unless it can be clearly demonstrated that there are reasons for the proposals that outweigh the need to safeguard the nature conservation value of the site. y N 15: W f C states that development will not be permitted in a Wildlife Corridor if it would: • damage the physical continuity of the Corridor; or • impair the functioning of the Corridor by preventing movement of species; or iii. harm the nature conservation value of the Corridor. y N 16: f that development will not be permitted if it would harm the habitat requirements of legally protected, rare or
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 28
threatened wildlife species and the species themselves unless provision is made to protect those species and their habitats. y N 17: B y h requires development where possible to enhance biodiversity. y N 18: f W sets out to ensure development on or adjacent to areas of flowing or standing water does not harm the ecological value of the area. Where development is permitted the developer will be expected to incorporate: y N 21: T sets out development criteria for proposals in proximity to trees. This includes the preparation of a Tree Survey. y N 22: f H w states that measures to achieve the protection, conservation and enhancement of hedgerows and the adoption of sensitive management practices based on sound ecological principles by all landowners will be supported by the council. y 5: Control of External Lighting states that urban-type lighting in non-urban, countryside areas will not be supported unless there is exceptional circumstances. y 9: f C will require a site contamination survey and prepare and supply to the Council, a report outlining the results of the survey and identifying any remediation measures that are required. y 10: f w h C sets out conditions by which development will be permitted on sites where there is minor contamination or a slight. y 12: f W R u states that development will not be permitted if: i) it would adversely affect the quality of water resources by means of pollution; or ii) it would delay or prevent schemes to improve river quality; or iii) it would adversely affect habitats and species dependent on the aquatic environment. y 14: f G u w states that development will not be permitted if the drainage from it poses an unacceptable risk to the quality or use of surface or ground water resources. y 15: W w y requires development proposals alongside canals and rivers should maintain or, where practical, make a positive contribution to recreation, tourists and environmental value. y 20: f F R k states that development will not be permitted if it would increase the risk of flooding due to surface water run-off or obstruction, unless agreements are in place which allow the carrying out and completion of necessary works before the development is brought into use.
L y C L Calderdale Local Plan Publication Draft 2018 is currently under Examination. The plan coveres a period up to 2023, once adopted it will replace the RCUDP, until then planning decisions will remain to be based on the RCUDP and the NPPF, however in- line with paragraph 48 of the NPPF, weight can be to relevant emerging Local Plan policies depending on: a) The stage of preparation of the emerging plan (the more advanced, the greater the weight;
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 29
b) The extent to which there are unresolved objections to relevant policies (the less significant the unresolved objections, the greater the weight that may be given); and c) The degree of consistency of the relevant policies in the emerging plan to this Framework Emerging planning polices contained with Local Plan Publication Draft 2018, relevant to the Access Package improvements and not necessary covered within the RCUDP include: y CC1: C Ch requires development proposals should contribute to mitigating and adapting to the predicted impacts of climate change by Supporting Sustainable Transport Networks through a reduction in travel demand, traffic growth and congestion. y HW1: H h f states that development should contribute to reducing the causes of ill health, improving health, and reducing health inequalities. This can be achieved by providing a healthy living environment, promoting and enabling healthy lifestyles as the normal, easy choice and providing good access to health facilities and services. Policy HW3: Wellbeing requires the Council and its partners to work together to create and safeguard opportunities for safe, healthy, fulfilling and active lifestyles by: • Ensuring new developments provide opportunities for healthy living and improve physical and mental health and well-being through the encouragement of walking and cycling, good design (including the minimisation of social isolation and creation of inclusive communities), sound safety standards, access to services, sufficient open space and other green infrastructure, sports facilities and opportunity for recreation; y M1: T - Elland Station and Elland Access package ae listed as strategic transport Interventions expected to be delivered through the plan period. y M2: T states that across the local highway network, Calder Valley Line and canal towpath networks should consider the following objectives: • Unlocking economic development potential; • Minimising congestion and improving journey times; • Improving opportunities for walking/cycling and use of public transport; • Managing travel demand; • Reducing casualties; • Improving air quality; • Contribution to reducing carbon emissions; • Improving social inclusion. • Applications for transport investment will be considered favourably where a balanced approach to meeting this list of important yet potentially competing objectives is struck. y M3: f u T - Elland Access Package Scheme as land safeguarded to ensure the transport schemes can be successfully implemented. y M4: u b T - Decision makers will aim to reduce travel demand, traffic growth and congestion through the promotion of sustainable development and BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 30
travel modes. This will be achieved by a range of mechanisms that encourage the use of other forms of transport, relevant to the Access Package Scheme: • Enhancement and expansion of footpath, bridleway and cycle networks within Calderdale and the continued creation of links with neighbouring authorise y M5: u u u b T aims to encourage people to make greater use of more sustainable modes of travel. New development will need to consider linking with cycling and walking routes wherever practicable possible.
u y u ( ’ )
7.4.1 The Central Elland SPD The Central Elland SPD was prepared as part of the emerging Calderale Local Development Framework (LDF)and in accordance with the Local Development Scheme (LDS). As the LDF’s Core Strategy has not yet been prepared, the SPD is linked to policies contained in the Replacement Calderdale Unitary Development Plan (RCUDP). The primary objective of the SPD is to encourage regeneration and sustainable development of central Elland. Its sets out key principles for future the future development of Central Elland which includes ‘creating a cohesive place in which people can move safety between the various areas, by sustainable means’. The SPS outlines key issues that are of detriment to its regeneration, key to the proposals are: • Urban Design (including Riorges link) • Public Realm • Segmentation, Connectivity and Cohesion • Highways Issues The preferred option for highways issues is prioritising sustainable modes of travel.
7.4.2 Central Elland SPD Sustainability Report The Sustainability SPD promotes the redevelopment, including improvements to the infrastructure of Central Elland in a manner that encourages its social, economic, and environmental suitability. The object of the SPD is to encourage a Central Elland where people want to live, work and play, providing the facilities where people need locally, in a pleasant environment, easily accessible by sustainable mean. Reducing the need for car travel, and the need to travel per se, can contribute to the wider goal of creating sustainable communities.
O h R
7.5.1 National Infrastructure Plan (NIDP) (2016 to 2021) The NIDP brings together the government’s plans for economic infrastructure over the next 5 years with those to support delivery of housing and social infrastructure. The government has a commitment to invest over £100 billion by 2020-21, alongside significant ongoing private sector investment in infrastructure. This investment will drive wider economic benefits, including: • supporting growth and creating jobs in the short term as projects are built – especially where public investment is used to attract private investment.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 31
• raising the productive capacity of the economy in the long term as the benefits of new infrastructure are felt; reduced transaction costs; larger and more integrated labour and product markets; and better opportunities to collaborate and innovate. • driving efficiency – enabling greater specialisation and economies of scale. • boosting international competitiveness – attracting inward investment and enabling trade with foreign partners. Set out within the NDIP, Highways England’s objective under ‘Road period 1’ (runs from 2015 to 2020) includes helping cyclists, pedestrians and other vulnerable road users of the strategic road network.
7.5.2 My Journey West Yorkshire. Local Transport Plan The West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan (LTP) is the statutory plan for transport in West Yorkshire from 2011 to 2026. It sets out the needs, objectives, and ambitions over medium to long term. In line with Elland Access Package improvements, the Plan sets out three key objectives, these include: i. Economy – To improve connectivity to support economic activity and growth in West Yorkshire and the Leeds City Region. ii. Low Carbon. To make substantial progress towards a low carbon, sustainable transport system for West Yorkshire, while recognising transport’s contribution to national carbon reduction plans. iii. Quality of Life. To enhance the quality of life of people living in, working in and visiting West Yorkshire.
7.5.3 West Yorkshire-plus Transport Fund (WY+TF) & Leeds City Centre Region Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) (2016 -2036) The Fund is targeted at enabling key development areas and will help to create about 20,000 new jobs over the next 10 years. A number of strategic transport projects will be delivered to facilitate growth identified in the Strategic Economic Plan (SEP), which encompass: • Improved motorway access • Orbital road improvements • Radial improvements on corridors for better public transport options into our urban centres • Road and rail improvements between district hubs to provide capacity and better connectivity • Enhanced rail station gateways with increased car parking capacity for park and ride.
7.5.4 West Yorkshire Transport Strategy The West Yorkshire Transport Strategy was adopted by WYCA in August 2017 as a long-term document that identifies what a successful transport system might look like in 2040. It will be integrated with wider plans to support growth and proposes to seek further views from partners and people across the City Region as it is developed and implemented. The Strategy has details of how WYCA and local authorities intend to create a modern, well connected transport network serving the needs of businesses and residents, enhancing prosperity, health and wellbeing for people and places across West Yorkshire. Improving connectivity for strategic growth areas, including Elland is set out with the WYTS policies. The West Yorkshire Transport Strategy states a strategic requirement for 'the creation of healthy and safer streets'. BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 32
7.5.5 Calderdale Transport Strategy (2016 -2031) Calderdale’s transport system aims to underpin economic prosperity, high rates of productivity, a dynamic labour market, social cohesion, and a healthy environment by the end of the Local Plan period in 2031. Calderdale’s transport network will help established industries, such as financial services and advanced manufacturing to flourish and support the expansion of newer sectors of the economy. The goal of the Calderdale Transport Strategy is to make this vision a reality. The three core drivers of the strategy are growth, connectivity, people, and the environment, that are underpinned by themes of sustainability, technology, and acceptability. The Calderdale Transport Strategy also aims to achieve a shift towards active travel such as walking and cycling through a combination of the creation of high-quality walking and cycling infrastructure, changes to the highway environment to reduce the dominance of motor vehicles and behavioural and attitudinal changes. This supports the vision set out in the Active Calderdale Physical Activity Strategy to ‘be the most active borough in the north of England by 2020.
7.5.6 Calderdale Infrastructure Delivery Plan (IDP) 2018 The Calderdale Infrastructure Delivery Plan 2018 is in the process of being updated with a 2020 Plan. It is a collection of projected infrastructure provision that will support development proposed within the Calderdale Local Plan, to ensures its delivery in a timely, coordinated, and sustainable way. It is identified within the IDP that the Council has secured WYTF funding to develop proposals for the new station at Elland including an enhanced Access Package linking the station site with the town centre and surrounding residential and industrial areas. The IDP identifies specific road network issues including capacity constraints in Elland Town Centre. In terms of growth related to the Local Plan, specific locations with congestion issues were identified, those relevant to the Access Package improvements include: • Riorges Link • Exley Lane • Stainland Road For walking and cycling infrastructure, the IDP recognises Calderdale for its extensive network of Rights of Way. This includes around 2000 paths, totally 700miles of footpath, 12miles of bridleways and short networks of byways. This includes two national trails (the Pennine Way and Pennine Bridelway), with work underway to improve sections of the Calder & Hebble Navigation and Rochdale Canal towpaths. These works will create a continuous high-quality walking and cycling route from Todmorden to Brighouse and may lead to the realignment of some of the existing N Cy N w k u between Luddenden Foot and Hebden Bridge. The IDP also identifies the Strategic Cycle Network and key routes serving the borough, with section of key routes to be developed, recognising local links to the Cy N w k as well and those within key settlements of the borough are of equal importance to the Strategic Cycle Network itself.
7.5.7 Calderdale Cycling Strategy Calderdale Cycling Strategy (CCS), ‘Cycling, a way of life in Calderdale’ was adopted in 2017 to supplement the existing Calderdale Transportation Strategy 2016 to 2031. The CCS has a vision that “Everyone is able to use an intuitive and integrated network of high quality on road, greenway and off road routes, connecting communities
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 33
activities and destinations, whilst improving their health, wellbeing and contributing to economic growth”. Upgrading National Cycle Network, expanding existing Strategic Cycle Networks are development aspiration of the CCS. This includes linking the West Vale viaduct route with the Calder Valley Greenway route (and Hebble Trail) at Elland, and development of a traffic-free/quiet road route to Broad Carr and beyond towards Huddersfield. Connectivity and visibility improvements of the of the Strategic Cycle network routes are also proposed by filling in gaps, improving signage in town centres, including Elland. Making settlements more cyclist and walker friendly, particularly with reference to improved cycle parking, bike/rail integration, lower speeds and other traffic calming measures, and wider place-making initiatives.
7.5.8 Local Cycling and Walking Investment Plans (LCWIPs) Local Cycling and Walking Investment Plans (LCWIPs), as set out in the Government’s Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (2017), are a strategic approach to identifying cycling and walking improvements required at a local level. The five West Yorkshire Districts and WYCA have successfully bid to Government for funding support to develop LCWIPs to ensure a prioritised programme of infrastructure improvements for future investment and ensure that consideration is given to cycling and walking within the local planning process.
7.5.9 Active Calderdale - Physical Activity Strategy 2017 Aligned with Sports England’s ‘Towards an Active Nation Strategy’ 2016 to 2021, Calderdale’s Physical Activity Strategy aims to deliver the most active Borough in the North of England, by 2021. Relevant to the proposals this will, in part be done • by encouraging residents to be more physically active; and • making it easier for residents to make lifestyle choices that increase activity and improve health
8 y R w C
f h Elland Access Package will improve sustainable access and connectivity around Elland for non-car modes. The proposals will enable people to access facilities they need locally, reducing the need to travel by car. Infrastructure improvements across Elland will help to support redevelopment locally, and wider growth across West Yorkshire as a result of improved connections to and from Elland Station in accordance with the National Infrastructure Plan, SEP and Transport Strategies set out above. The majority of the Access Package improvement works involve upgrading existing cycleway and footpaths in-line with specific improvement areas set out in Calderdale IDP, making effective use of land and appropriate in terms of location, in accordance with GP2 and GT4 of the RCUDP. Currently Elland and West Vale have a lack of connective PROW’s and cycle paths illustrated in the Transport Assessment support as part of the application. The proposal will improve the public realm, segmentation, connectivity, and cohesion together with highways issues identified within the Central Elland SPD that previously negatively impacted the regeneration of Elland. The proposals will encourage regeneration and sustainable development of central Elland, ‘creating a cohesive place in which people can move safety between the various areas’, by sustainable means in accordance with the Central Elland Sustainability Report (SDP).
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 34
The proposals aim to achieve a shift towards active, low carbon, sustainable travel such as walking and cycling through the combination of improved high-quality walking and cycling infrastructure, changes to the highway environment to reduce the dominance of motor vehicles and behavioural and attitudinal changes. This supports Calderdale Transport Strategy and the vision set out in the Active Calderdale Physical Activity Strategy to ‘be the most active borough in the north of England by 2020. The proposed cycleway improvements will improve the connectivity of the National and Strategic Cycle routes, linking the West Vale viaduct route with the Calder Valley Greenway route (and Hebble Trail) at Elland, in accordance with Calderdale Cycling Strategy, Calderdale IDP and LCWIPs. The proposals also support wider infrastructures schemes and strategies including Elland Station, A629 Halifax to Huddersfield Scheme (Phase 4) and Elland Future High Street Bid. Encouraging sustainable modes of travel through Elland Access Package will help to reduce congestion, minimise pollution and support the move to a low carbon economy in accordance with GP1 of the RCUDP and the LTP. The Access Package improvements overall meet the social, economic, and environmental objectives of the NPPF, creating a sustainable Elland, and a healthy community that promotes social interactions, with street layouts that allow for safe and easy pedestrian and cycle connections within and between neighbourhoods, where people what to live, work and socialise in accordance with Chapters 3, 8 and 9 of the NPPF. The proposals are in-line with the Calderdale’s emerging Local Plan. The Access Package is a strategic transport intervention, that advocates sustainable travel, mitigates towards the impacts of climate change and will contribute towards healthy lifestyles set out in the emerging Local Plan polices CC1, HW1, HW3 IM1 to IM4.
& y The location of the bridges and the development of the details have evolved over a period of time and has been subject to detailed consultation with CMBC and the Yorkshire Design Panel, with input from disciplines including Landscape, Civil ‘s, Urban Design, and Heritage/Conservation. The proposed bridges are substantial structures in the landscape setting. Part of the works are in Elland Conservation Area, (northern abutment of Elland Bridge and canal towpath widening). The proposals are of a high quality and seek to ensure the development makes a positive contribution to the quality of the existing environment and reflect the character of the conservation area. The proposals including the extensive landscaping and proposed public realm works will be a significant visual improvement to the area, in accordance with policy BE1 of the RCUDP. This is illustrated in visualisations submitted as part of the application with existing and proposed viewpoints drawings ref: BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-VS-L-0010, BDX-JBAU-XX-EL-VS-L-0011, BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C- 0021 BDX-JBAU-XX-WV-DR-C-011
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 35
F u 8-1 f h B
F u 8-2 f h B
The proposals to widen and resurface the canal towpath will enhance the conservation area and make a positive contribution to recreation, tourism and environmental value set out at policy EP15 of RCUDP As part of the design, layout and access have been fully considered to meet the objectives set out in policy BE4 with focus on provision of safe off-highway cycling for all abilities and pedestrian routes and connectivity, with additional proposals for landscaping and public realm improvements. These include art and lighting and CCTV to provide an attractive setting that respects the local character, whilst providing a safe environment that reduces the opportunities for crime in accordance with BE4, 5 & 6 and BE10 of RCUDP. The proposals incorporate design features that facilitate easy access to all including those with disabilities set out at policy BE8 of the RCUDP.
y B y A Preliminary Ecological Appraisal (PEA) survey was conducted by JBA Consulting on 24th July 2019, with further survey work undertaken on 19th November 2019 (JBA Consulting, 2020). The PEA incorporated a desk-based study, an extended Phase 1
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 36
habitat survey to identify the habitats present on site and an initial assessment of the potential for the site to support protected species. Further surveys were undertaken by JBA in 2020 in relation to bats and invasive non-native species (INNS). An Ecological Impact Assessment (EcIA) report was prepared in August 2020 (JBA Consulting) with details the methodologies and results of the surveys, which are used to inform an assessment of the likely impacts associated with the scheme and the mitigation measures required to reduce ecological impacts. The assessment of impacts is based on the scheme general arrangements and other information provided Calderdale Council. A desktop assessment undertaken as part of the PEA confirmed no statutory designated nature conservation sites recorded within 2km of the proposed works. There is a single geological Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), Elland Bypass Cutting, which is 1.5km to the south east of Gas Works Lane. The EcIA identified the ecological effects associated with the scheme are:
8.3.1 Bats Due to the number of trees and buildings in the wider area with bat roosting potential, and the high value of the foraging habitat in the vicinity of the bridge locations, it was considered that bats could be affected by the proposed works. Bat activity surveys were carried out remotely due to the spread of the sites and issues regarding working at night on riverbanks. Automated bat detectors were deployed at each bridge site and at the site of the proposed cycleway alongside Black Brook. The results indicated Bat activity levels at Black Brook to be lower than expected. This is probably due to the presence of artificial street lighting at the road bridge. Bat activity levels on the River Calder showed almost continuous foraging activity by Common Pipistrelle, with noticeably less Soprano Pipistrelle’s and Myotis bats than could have been expected on a watercourse. The River Calder does however provide a very important food resource for the local bat population. The prevalence of Leisler’s records at Riverside Park suggests that either this site is an important foraging site, or, more likely given the times of appearance in the earlier part of the evening, very close to a roost. Maintaining connectivity throughout the site by re-planting removed areas of habitat in key commuting and foraging locations will mitigate the effects of fragmentation of foraging and commuting routes. Given the high value foraging habitat, if works are to be undertaken during the bat activity season, night working should be avoided as bats are extremely sensitive to disturbance using artificial lights. The lighting design must comply with guidance provided by the BCT and the Institute for Lighting Professionals (2018). Lighting must be minimised as far as reasonably practicable for health and safety purposes, and any lights used must be fitted with directional cowls to avoid unnecessary lightspill. As a general precaution trees within the Riverside Park earmarked for removal should be subject to pre-felling inspections to ensure that none have bat roosts.
8.3.2 Breeding birds The woodland and bankside vegetation provides suitable habitat for nesting birds. Vegetation clearance will consider bird nesting periods to avoid impacts upon nesting birds. Any works around the river channel will be subject to a survey for nesting Kingfisher, and other Schedule 1 bird species.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 37
8.3.3 Fish Although all works are away from, or not within, watercourses. There remains a minor risk of impacts from pollution incidents during construction. The Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) will detail the mitigation measures required to ensure there are no significant impacts to the important ecological features present on-site during construction. Work on the CEMP will commence at detailed design stage.
8.3.4 INNS Invasive species are prevalent along the river and within works footprints. Himalayan Balsam is found throughout the whole area, with Japanese Knotweed in small stands near the Rugby Club and large infestations in the Gas Works Lane area. Wall Cotoneaster is also found along Gas Works Lane. An INNS Management Plan has been prepared and submitted as part of the application which will implemented to prevent spread of these species during the works.
8.3.5 Otter Otter are known to be present along the River Calder. Evidence of Otter presence was observed during the Phase 1 survey, this included an active Otter holt located beneath a Willow tree situated by the rugby pitch at the confluence of Black Brook and the River Calder. There was a fresh spraint located outside the entrance on the November 2019 site visit. There will be no direct loss of river habitat or severance, direct impacts, of commuting routes. However, the proposed works could cause disturbance to Otter sheltering and foraging in the local area. A licence will be obtained from Natural England to permit disturbance before works commence. An exclusion zone will be put in place around the holt to prevent incidental disturbance during works. All site staff will be made aware of the presence of Otters and know what to do in the event of an Otter being disturbed during works by means of a toolbox talk. Additional monitoring is required to determine the level of use at this site. If it is used occasionally by a single transient animal then a licence may not be considered necessary by Natural England, but if shown to be used to raise young, the impact of disturbance is greater and further mitigation will be required. Any open excavations required for construction of bridge supports in proximity to any channel must be fitted with a ramp, or other means of escape, in case an animal becomes trapped overnight. Any materials stockpiled on site must also be secure to avoid collapse in the event of an exploring animal becoming trapped in the event of a collapse. While no permanent or temporary night lighting is currently proposed during the works, with all works being undertaken during daylight hours and outside the main Otter activity period (dawn and dusk), should it become necessary e.g. security lighting, this will be angled away from the watercourses and any connecting culverts and habitats to avoid light impacts to Otter. Any such required lighting should be on a timer/trigger and not permanently on. Pollution prevention measures will be implemented during construction in close proximity to the River Calder and Calder and Hebble Navigation to prevent pollution events degrading the riparian habitat.
8.3.6 Habitats Loss of other non-priority habitats including, tall ruderal, scrub and some individual trees will result from the construction of the scheme. This will affect the width of the BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 38
proposed pathway, and bridge piers, from the rugby club bridge to the canal towpath. This will be permanent loss of an area of less than 0.01ha. The parkland at Riverside park will see a temporary loss of amenity grassland and ornamental tree species. Following completion of the works, Riverside Park will be re- landscaped and subject to replacement tree planting. The proposed development will result in the loss or fragmentation of habitats that support protected species. However, vegetation clearance along Black Brook and across the Rugby Club Bridge will be limited in scope and scale.
8.3.7 Other species Common amphibian species, invertebrates and Hedgehog habitat is widespread around the works areas. Site staff will be made aware of the potential for these animals to be present within the site and to know what to do in the event of discovery. The proposed works will not result in the permanent loss of a significant amount of habitat. Vegetation clearance at each location must be carried out with due care. If an animal is discovered within the footprint of the works during vegetation clearance, in the first instance they should be left alone to disperse naturally. This and other mitigations should be detailed fully in a specific CEMP/LEMP.
8.3.8 Biodiversity NET Gain (BNG) The EcIA has been undertaken to ensure the proposals would not harm protected species or their habitats in accordance sections 15 and paragraph 174 of the NPPF and policy with NE16 of the RCUPD. The proposed development will result some loss or fragmentation of habitats however this will be limited and mitigated by landscaping and replacement planting where possible, minimising impact on the wildlife corridor in accordance with policy NE15 of the RCUPD. The EcIA concludes that providing the mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures specified in the EcIA are applied, no significant residual impacts will result from the scheme. This includes on the Calder and Hebble Canal, site of ecological interest in accordance with policy NE14 of the RCUPD. Overall, the development will aim to protect, maintain, and enhance the biodiversity interest of the site, in accordance with and NE17 and NE18 The Defra Biodiversity Metric (2.0) tool was used for the proposed access routes to Elland Station. Assessments of existing habitats and the predicted effects of post- works site restoration and mitigation informed the ‘biodiversity unit value’ for before and after the implication of the scheme. In accordance with the emerging Environmental Bill, all development should aim to achieve biodiversity net gain of 10%. The BNG assessment covers the impacts of the new infrastructure and construction impacts. In addition, SUDs schemes, situated around the bottom of Wistons Lane have been included in calculations as these will be planted with biodiversity in mind. The type and condition of habitat are based on detailed field observations made by JBA ecologist during site visits to inform the ecological constraints report. There are two main ‘natural’ habitat types currently present on site, these are broadleaved woodland, which is represented by the natural riparian fringe of the watercourses and mixed scrub which is found alongside Black Brook and on the left bank of the Calder at West Vale. The remaining habitats are urban in nature, consisting of undistinctive amenity grasslands. Removal of these habitats has only a small biodiversity loss of overall woodland and scrub. However, the scheme includes tree planting, restoration and landscaping together with the use of SUDS drainage BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 39
features to add further ecological benefits. The creation of these more diverse habitats provides a significant overall increase in biodiversity gain through the scheme. Overall, the Biodiversity metric calculator shows that following removal of existing habitats on and off-site, and completion of site restoration there should be an overall gain of 2.02 ‘habitat units’ which is an increase of 20.19%.
L As set out at section 4.2 the proposals aim to integrate the proposed bridge, pedestrian, and cycle routes within the existing urban and environmental context, by creating exciting and aesthetically pleasing surroundings, well knit together in the existing context. This included extensive landscaping that incorporates good quality hard and soft landscaping that are an integral part of the proposals. The landscaping will positively contribute to the character and amenity of the area and, where possible, enhance the local biodiversity of the area in accordance with Policy BE3 of the RCUPD. In addition, the proposals have been designed to meet the objectives of policy BE6 of the RCUPD by creating safe and attractive pedestrian routes that are reasonably direct, well-lit, and overlooked. The proposals will be appropriately surfaced, will be attractively landscaped, and provide an environment where opportunities for crime rates are minimised. Furthermore, the proposals are in accordance with the Central Elland Sustainability SPD as it provides high quality and attractive environment that allows the public to move safely and efficiently between key areas by sustainable means.
H h y Archaeological Desk-Based Assessment and Heritage Statement has been prepared by JBA Consulting to assess the effects of the proposed Elland Rail Station Access Package on archaeology and heritage assets. The assessment included a review of relevant sources including data searches of the National Heritage List for England, West Yorkshire Historic Environment Record, Elland Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan, consideration of historic mapping, review of previous archaeological reports, and consideration of published and secondary sources. A site walkover survey was also undertaken to understand the site, heritage assets and their settings. A study area of 1km around the proposed new Navigation and Calder Bridge and 500m around the new West Vale Bridge was utilised to encompass other pedestrian and cycleway improvements and place the development locations in a wider context. The study area lies partially within Elland Conservation Area. The assessment concluded that overall effect on the Conservation Area is considered to be neutral as although the new Navigation and Calder Bridge will be a substantial new structure in the landscape it will still be possible to appreciate the historic character and heritage significance of the Conservation Area. Within the Conservation Area there are numerous individual heritage assets and the effects on these individually are outlined below. Wharf House is a Grade II Listed Building located to the immediate west of the proposed central bridge abutment and access ramp. The works will open up this building to wider views and appreciation through the demolition of the adjacent Riversdale House, the removal of vegetation which currently obscures it and the implementation of high-quality public realm through soft and hard landscaping. The significance of effect is considered to be slight beneficial, and the proposals meet the
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 40
requirements of policies BE14 and BE15 of the RCUDP in terms of development within the setting of a listed building. The demolition of Riversdale House within the Conservation Area will be in accordance with policy BE19 of the RCUDP if the structure makes no material contribution to the character or appearance of the area and no other reasonable beneficial uses can be found for a building. Riversdale House is an unlisted, fire damaged and derelict building adjacent to Wharf House. It will be demolished to accommodate the new bridge. Its demolition is considered to be moderate adverse due to the loss of the asset, but it will result in an overall improvement to the appearance and character of the Conservation Area in accordance with policy BE18 of the RCUDP which seeks to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of Conservation Areas as it currently detracts from this. A programme of building recording is proposed prior to demolition. The widening of the canal towpath on the northern bank will result in the removal and replacement of cobbled setts which make a positive contribution to the character and appearance of the Conservation Area. These will be replaced but will be seen alongside more modern materials. This will result in a slight adverse effect. There will be a slight adverse effect on a key view as identified in the Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plan, down the River Calder from the unlisted portion of Elland Bridge. The new bridge will be a significant new structure in this view which is currently dominated by the river and mature trees along both banks. Riverside Park lies outside of the Conservation Area and will be refurbished following construction. As part of the refurbishment the current memorial to the murder of John Eland in the 14 th century will be replaced. This memorial is in a poor condition and its replacement offers an opportunity to enhance the public interpretation and appreciation of this event, in accordance with policy GNE2 of the RCUPD which states that development should protect, conserve and enhance the character, quality and diversity of the natural, historic and cultural environment. The southern bridge abutment in Riverside Park is located in the position of the former Elland Corn Mill. Shown on historic maps from the mid 19 th century it has been suggested that it was present from the 14 th century onwards, although the evidence for this has not been identified. The mill was demolished prior to 1982. There is potential that archaeological remains associated with the mill and its water management features may be present within the park and would therefore be affected by the construction of the bridge. The significance of effect would be moderate or slight adverse depending on the date and importance of the archaeological remains. A programme of archaeological recording is proposed that will meet the requirements of archaeology polices of the RCUPD to record any archaeological remains in this location. There is low potential to impact archaeological remains across the rest of the Elland proposals area. At West Vale a new bridge is proposed over the River Calder to connect West Vale to the Calder and Hebble Navigation. This bridge and the associated access works in West Vale are located in an area which remained undeveloped and in agricultural use until the development of the rugby club in the 20 th century. The potential to discover archaeological remains is very low. The West Vale bridge is considered to have a neutral impact on the setting of the Grade II Woodside locks and the canal. The bridge is located to the north west of the locks and will be partially screened with vegetation. There are considered to be slight beneficial effects to the setting of the Grade II Listed 24-26 Rochdale Road cottages and Clayhouse Park and its associated assets. This will
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 41
arise through the improvement to public realm in the vicinity of these assets from the access improvements. Measures to protect the historic entrances to the east and west of Clayhouse Park during construction have been recommended in accordance with policy GNE2 of the RCUPD. The impacts on non-designated heritage assets including Riversdale House and archaeological remains such as Elland corn mill is considered against paragraph 197 of NPPF which requires a balanced judgement to be made regarding the scale of harm to a heritage assets and its significance.
b u u A Tree Survey and Arboricultural Impact Assessment (AIA) have been prepared by JBA Consulting for trees at both Elland and West Vale in accordance with policy NE21 of the RCUDP. There are several mixed age, species and condition of trees growing adjacent to the proposals. The proposals have been designed to avoid impacting trees where possible, however some tree loss is unavoidable. The AIA identified a total of 33 trees / tree groups, including 20no. C category (low value) trees and 13no. B category (moderate value) trees will need to be removed to accommodate the proposed bridge at Elland (Table 1a below). An additional 8no. trees have been classified as ‘U’ category (poor quality and value) unsuitable for retention based on their current health and condition. Nine C category (low value) trees / tree groups will need to be removed to accommodate the West Vale bridge. A further 10 trees have been classified as ‘U’ category (poor quality and value), unsuitable for retention based on their current health and condition (Table 1b).
T b 3 - T w k
B C U C y C y C y C y
T b 0 13 20 8 T qu u w k 0 3 0 0
T b 4 - T w k W V
B C U C y C y C y C y T b 0 0 9 10 T qu u w k 0 0 0 0
As part of the landscaping proposals for the site, 80+ trees are to be planted, along with shrub and grassed seeded areas. Landscaping and replacement tree planting proposals will improve for amenity and conservation. The landscaping proposals will mitigate the impacts of tree loss and provide the opportunity to plant good quality trees and vegetation, for the long-term continuity of tree cover and improve the site for biodiversity area in accordance with BNG targets and policy BE17 of the RCUDP.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 42
F R k A Flood Risk Assessment has been prepared by JBA for the proposed pedestrian foot and cycle bridges associated with the Elland Rail Station Access Package (a copy is submitted as part of this application). This FRA was produced to assess the impact that the proposed bridges may have upon local river levels and provide information on the nearby features and land use associated with the access package. The first bridge, the Elland Bridge, is proposed to be a multi-span, tied-arch, steel fabricated pedestrian and cycle bridge that will span from the Riverside Park at Century Road on the right bank (south) side of the River Elland to the A6025 Park Road on the west bank of the Calder and Hebble Navigation Canal (north), spanning both watercourses and the parcel of land at Gas Works Lane, which will also have the main support pier and access point to the bridge. The bridge will be located between the existing upstream Elland Road highway bridge and the downstream A629 Calderdale Way fly-over highway. The West Vale Bridge, will be further upstream at the West Vale Floodplain on the right bank of the River Calder next to the Heath Rugby Union playing fields. The new steel truss bridge will span the river to the left bank and joining the existing tow path of the canal to the east. The Environment Agency’s Flood Map for Planning indicates that both proposed bridge locations are within Flood Zone 3 and as such both have a 'High' probability of fluvial flooding from the River Calder. This indicates that each site could experience flooding during a 1 in 100 (1% AEP) or greater flood event. As well as the Flood Map for Planning, the latest Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) carried out by Calderdale MBC was consulted for the latest modelled flood extents at the bridge locations. As part of the SFRA areas designated as Flood Zone 3b by CMBC are shown in Figures 3-1 and 3-2 of the FRA. The modelled flood zones at the site of the proposed Elland Access Bridge show that the bridge will span over the full width of the modelled floodplain, with the proposed abutments outside the floodplain as much as possible to reduce any impact the bridges may have. At the Elland Bridge location there are no designated Flood Zone 3b areas, the right bank is designated as Flood Zone 2 within Riverside Park and beyond the left bank of the Calder & Hebble Navigation Canal is designated Flood Zone 1 where the left abutment will be located. The central pier and access stairs will be located on the unused land on Gas Works Lane which is shown to be a mix of Flood Zone 2 and 3a. For the proposed West Vale Bridge the left abutment will be in the parcel of land between the River Calder and the Canal which is modelled to be in Flood Zone 1 due to the higher ground here. Conversely the right abutment is located within the modelled Flood Zone 3b for the River Calder and as such will need to minimise any loss of floodplain storage. The hydraulic model supplied by the Environment Agency has been used and updated to include the proposed bridge structures, the modelling results confirm that the proposed bridges will not affect the watercourses for flood events up to the 1 in 100 year event, with minimal to negligible impact for larger flood events. Overall, it is deemed that the Elland Access Package will have low to negligible impact on local fluvial flood risk and the proposed mitigation measures will reduce the impact of the proposals so that flood risk is not increased elsewhere. The Access Package improvements overall have a low risk of surface water flooding. Surface water from improved access routes will be managed by implementing SuDS and formalizing drainage systems to restrict the rate of runoff from the proposed routes.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 43
The proposals are therefore in accordance with policy EP20 of the RCUPD, ‘Protection from Flood Risk’ that states that development will not be permitted if it would increase the risk of flooding due to surface water run-off or obstruction.
C In line with policy EP9 of the RCUDP, a contaminated land desk-based assessment has been prepared by JBA consulting to assess the geological and contaminated land conditions on and beneath the parts of the proposed Access Package improvements. The study area (indicated in Figure 1 below) has been divided into four areas of investigation; Area 1 West Vale/Heath Rugby club, Area 2 Calder and Hebble Navigation Canal Bridge, Area 3 Calder and Hebble Navigation Canal and Area 4 River Calder bridge.
F u 8-3 C k-b u y
The assessment includes a Phase 1 Desk Study, Phase II Ground Investigation and a review of gas monitoring and environmental laboratory testing of boreholes from ground investigations conducted at Riversdale Gas Works November 2004. Historic ground investigations identified hotspots of contamination within made ground encountered within Area 4, likely associated with the legacy of the Gas Works. There are also several historic landfill locations at the site that are a likely source of contamination. With the exception of the ground investigation within Area 4, no known geoenvironmental testing undertaken across the site. Gas measurement were taken at three boreholes across made ground and alluvium strata at site. Borehole WS3 and WS10 demonstrated elevated levels of methane and carbon dioxide. Installation of permeable membrane is recommended to prevent gas ingress into the foundation and floor slabs in line with current practice and BRE recommendations. Environmental laboratory testing of soil and water samples were compared to Inter Departmental Committee for Development of Contaminated Land (ICRCL) thresholds. From testing it is evident that some contamination of heavy metals hydrocarbons is present within Area 4. Arsenic, Lead and PAH contaminants were recorded above action level within samples collected from boreholes across the site. Overall, the above confirms that that appropriate survey work has been carried out in relate to potential contaminated land and the proposals have been considered and designed in accordance with policies EP9 and EP10 of the RCUDP.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 44
T ff T A Transport Assessment has been prepared in accordance with policy GT5 of the RCUDP for the Access Package improvements on behalf of CMBC by Optima Highways and Transportation Consultancy Ltd. An overview of local and national transport policy relevant to the scheme has been provided and it has been shown that the scheme in conjunction with the new station will provide the benefit of assisting Calderdale Council in achieving its stated aims with regard to modal shift and encouraging sustainable development. The Transport Assessment demonstrates that that there will be no unacceptable impacts from the proposed Elland Station Access Package on the transport network or on highway safety. The scheme will bring about benefits in terms of enhanced safety for pedestrians and cyclists as well as other benefits in relation to health, use of sustainable transport and promoting sustainable development, in accordance with policy T13 and T16 of the RCUPD. The Transport Assessment also looks at other schemes currently being planned and implement which are either linked, or support the to the Access Package works, these include: • Elland Station • A629 Halifax to Huddesfield Scheme (Phase 4) • Elland Future High Street Bid. The Transport Assessment concluded there are no reasons on highways or transport grounds why the proposals should not be granted planning permission. The proposals are in-line with the West Yorkshire Local Transport Plan, Policy T4 of the RCUDP and wider proposals listed above.
ub R h f W y ( R W) Elland Access package will impact some PRoW’s that will need to be temporarily diverted during the construction phase of the project. These works will be discussed and agreed with the PRoW Officer during the planning application determination.
N
8.11.1 Operational Noise Noise assessments were deemed unnecessary as the scheme will not result in any changes in operational noise. Consideration has been given to construction noise.
8.11.2 Construction Noise Most of the scheme is sited within or adjacent to trafficked, industrial or retail areas less sensitivity to noise from construction activities. During the construction of the scheme, temporary noise generating activities will include: • Site clearance and earth moving activities, using excavators and dumpers. • Piling and ground improvement activities. • Installation of off-site build structures (bridges), using a mobile crane. • Delivery of materials to and from site resulting in increased traffic movements. • Resurfacing / path and cycle way improvement works.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 45
Good practice guidelines will be adopted as standard including BS 5228 Code of Practice for Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites 2009 and The Best Practicable Means, as described in Section 79(9) of the Environmental Protection Act 1990. Specifically, the following measures will be put in place to keep noise impacts to a minimum following agreement with CMBC: • A build off-site approach will be adopted where possible to minimise noise and time spent on site • Control of noise at the source through suitable selection of plant • Switching off vehicles when not in use • One-way systems to minimise reversing • Staff de-briefed on the requirement to minimise nuisance from site activities • Restriction of working hours Overall, the scheme construction noise with be temporary. Controls agreed with CMBC will be adopted to ensure that noise disturbance is minimised. The contractor will ensure they inform any nearby residents prior to undertaking these operations if they are required. If any work is required outside of the normal working hours, this will be agreed with CMBC prior to commencement.
u No operational air quality impacts are predicted from the proposed development. To minimise the risk of causing statutory nuisance the construction contractor will adopt a Best Practical Means approach in controlling emissions. For example, sheeting of construction works and damping down of stockpiles which, if employed in areas near to receptors, would avoid significant adverse effects. Measures to be adopted include: • storage of any waste materials in covered skips (if practicable) or screened areas and as far from potentially sensitive receptors as possible (such materials should be removed from the site for proper disposal as soon as possible); • regular inspection and cleansing of paved surfaces – especially site access points - using appropriate means to minimise dust mobilisation; • sheeting or enclosure of all loads of potentially dusty materials to be transported on the public highway; and • monitoring of the adjacent highway for mud on the road (road sweeper to be deployed if required); As part of the active management of the works, daily visual inspections of site conditions and potential dust sources will be made to ensure appropriate allocation of resources and the effectiveness of control measures. Weather forecasts will also be used to inform, control, in planning activities. The appropriate dust control measures should be incorporated into the method statements for the works. Opportunities to reduce construction traffic or to avoid traffic during peak hours will also be adopted
C u M In accordance with Planning Advice Note 8, working with contractors and specialist’s temporary works designers, a CEMP will be prepared for the scheme. The CEMP will take into consideration environmental protection to comply with legislation, both broad and local, and ensure that impacts on humans and the environment are minimised. The CEMP will continue to, inform practices so that impacts from sources such as noise, traffic, pollution and disturbance will be mitigated and minimised BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 46
throughout the duration of the scheme. The CEMP will be in place prior to the commencement of works.
WF The scheme is current being assessed for other environmental requirements such as licences, permits and consents that will ensure the protection of water quality and resources in line with polices EP12 and EP14 of the RCUPD
9 C u Elland Access Package is a scheme submitted on behalf The Borough Council of Calderdale for the construction of two pedestrian and cycleway bridges in Elland and West Vale, together way with pedestrian cycleway improvements. Landscaping and public realm improvements also form part of the proposals. The scheme has funding from WY+TF and alongside the proposed station will improve the transport network in Calderdale, improve connectivity across the town, supporting local businesses, growth, and prosperity. Delivery of the Elland Access Package scheme will help to achieve several objectives of the West Yorkshire Transport Strategy, Leeds City Region Strategic Economic Plan (SEP), Calderdale Transport Strategy, IDP, other Transport Strategies and plan set out above by enhancing sustainable access to jobs and economic opportunities in surrounding areas, improving links between the station and surrounding area, supporting the growth and regeneration of Elland whilst reducing congestion. The Access Package measures will help to create an attractive, healthier, active, low carbon, cohesive environment that supports sustainable travel through the combination of improved high-quality walking and cycling infrastructure, creating a place where people what to live, work and socialise. A range of environmental reports have been undertaken to assess and mitigate the impacts of the proposals on environmental factors such as flood risk, WFD, ecology, trees, heritage, and landscape. Mitigation measures have been developed by the scheme Ecologists to minimise disturbance on protected species and habitats. The scheme will not have any long-term impact on local landscape character. The scheme Landscape Architect and Ecologists have devised planting and habitat enhancements that will help to mitigate the visual impact of the proposals. SUDS drainage features create ecological benefits. The proposed diverse habitats will provide significant overall gain of 2.02 ‘habitat units’ which is an increase of 20.19% in biodiversity gain through the scheme. Elland Access Package scheme is in line, local, regional, and national planning policies, transport policy, plans and strategic documents.
BDX-JBAU-XX-00-DS-PL-0001-Planning_D&A_Statement 47
Offices at: Coleshill Doncaster Dublin Edinburgh Exeter Glasgow Haywards Heath Isle of Man Limerick Newcastle upon Tyne Newport Peterborough Saltaire Skipton Tadcaster Thirsk Wallingford Warrington
Registered Office South Barn Broughton Hall SKIPTON North Yorkshire BD23 3AE United Kingdom
+44(0)1756 799919 info@JBA - consulting.com www.JBA - consulting.com Follow us:
Jeremy Benn Associates Limited
Registered in England 3246693
JBA - Group Ltd is certified to: ISO 9001:2015 ISO 14001:2015 OHSAS 18001:2007