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Publication Version October 2017

Local Plan 2031 Part 2 Detailed Policies and Additional Sites

CONTENTS

HOW TO COMMENT ON THIS DOCUMENT 6 APPENDIX A: Site Development Templates FOREWORD 7 APPENDIX B: Land for Safeguarding for Future Transport Schemes - Maps EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 9 APPENDIX C: Harwell Campus Allocations LIST OF POLICIES 12 APPENDIX D: Land Safeguarded for Upper Thames Reservoir 1 INTRODUCTION 14 What is the Local Plan? 15 APPENDIX E: The Saved Policy from Local Plan 2011 regarding The Development Plan 15 Grove Airfield 16 National Planning Policy APPENDIX F: Conservation Areas unmet housing need 17 APPENDIX G: Scheduled Monuments 2 ADDITIONAL SITES AND SUB-AREA STRATEGIES 20 APPENDIX H: Registered Parks and Gardens Introduction 21 Unmet housing need for 22 APPENDIX I: Nationally Described Space Standards Level 1 Other housing needs 25 Sub-area strategies 29 APPENDIX J: Primary and Secondary Retail Frontages Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area 30 APPENDIX K: Leisure and Open Space Standards South-East Vale Sub-Area 44 Western Vale Sub-Area 59 APPENDIX L: Proposed Alterations to the Oxford Green Belt APPENDIX M: Amendment to Adopted Policies Map – Milton 3 DEVELOPMENT MANAGEMENT POLICIES 62 Interchange Services Introduction 62 Building healthy and sustainable communities 62 APPENDIX N: Monitoring Framework Supporting economic prosperity 75 GLOSSARY Supporting sustainable transport and accessibility 87 Protecting the environment and responding to climate change 93

4 IMPLEMENTING THE PLAN 128 Introduction 128 Delivery and contingency 128

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 3 CORE POLICIES ADDITIONAL SITES AND SUB-AREA STRATEGIES Core Policy 4a: Meeting our Housing Needs 26 Development Policy 8: Community Services and Facilities 73 Core Policy 8a: Additional Site Allocations for Abingdon-on- Development Policy 9: Public Houses 74 Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area 32 Core Policy 8b: Dalton Barracks Comprehensive Development Framework 37 SUPPORTING ECONOMIC PROSPERITY Core Policy 12a: Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Development Policy 10: Ancillary Uses on Employment Land 77 Improvements within the Abingdon-on-Thames . Development Policy 11: Community Employment Plans 78 and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area 42 Development Policy 12: Rural Diversification and Equestrian Core Policy 13a: Oxford Green Belt 39 Developments 80 Core Policy 14a: Upper Thames Strategic Storage Reservoir 43 Development Policy 13: Change of Use of Retail Units to Core Policy 15a: Additional Site Allocations for South-East Vale Other Uses 82 Sub-Area 47 Development Policy 14: Village and Local Shops 85 Core Policy 15b: Harwell Campus Comprehensive Development Development Policy 15: Retail Parks 86 Framework 49 Core Policy 16b: Didcot Garden Town 54 Core Policy 18a: Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway SUPPORTING SUSTAINABLE TRANSPORT AND Improvements within the South-East Vale ACCESSIBILITY Sub-Area 58 Development Policy 16: Access 89 Core Policy 19a: Re-opening of Grove Railway Station 58 Development Policy 17: Transport Assessments and Travel Plans 90 Core Policy 20a: Housing Supply for Western Vale Sub-Area 60 Development Policy 18: Public Car Parking in Settlements 91 Development Policy 19: Lorries and Roadside Services 92 DEVELOPMENT POLICIES BUILDING HEALTHY AND SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES Development Policy 1: Self and Custom-Build 65 PROTECTING THE ENVIRONMENT AND RESPONDING TO Development Policy 2: Space Standards 67 CLIMATE CHANGE Development Policy 3: Sub-Division of Dwellings 68 Development Policy 20: Public Art 95 Development Policy 4: Residential Annexes 69 Development Policy 21: External Lighting 96 Development Policy 5: Replacement Dwellings in the Open Development Policy 22: Advertisements 97 Countryside 70 Development Policy 23: Impact of Development on Amenity 98 Development Policy 6: Rural Workers’ Dwellings 71 Development Policy 24: Effect of Neighbouring or Previous Development Policy 7: Re-use, Conversion and Extension of Uses on New Developments 99 Buildings for Dwellings in the Open Development Policy 25: Noise Pollution 101 Countryside 72 Development Policy 26: Air Quality 103 Development Policy 27: Land Affected by Contamination 105

4 District Council Development Policy 28: Waste Collection and Recycling 106 Development Policy 29: Settlement Character and Gaps 107 Development Policy 30: Watercourses 113 Development Policy 31: Protection of Public Rights of Way, National Trails and Open Access Areas 115 Development Policy 32: The Wilts and Berks Canal 117 1 Development Policy 33: Open Space 119 Development Policy 34: Leisure and Sports Facilities 120 Development Policy 35: New Countryside Recreation Facilities 121 Development Policy 36: Heritage Assets 122 Development Policy 37: Conservation Areas 124 Development Policy 38: Listed Buildings 125 Development Policy 39: Archaeology and Scheduled Monuments 127 2

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Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 5 How to comment on this document

This is the ‘Publication Version’ of the Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: It would be helpful if you are able to use our interactive website to respond to Part 2: Additional Sites and Detailed Policies, which is intended for submission the consultation online as it makes it easier for us to record your views. The to the Secretary of State in February 2018 for independent public examination. website can be found at:

Comments to this version of the plan can only relate to the matters of https://myobjective.southandvale.gov.uk/portal/ soundness, as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework: Written response forms can also be requested from the Planning Policy Team • has the plan been positively prepared – will the plan meet development or be viewed, accessed and printed from the Council website. Copies of needs and infrastructure requirements and is it consistent with achieving response forms will also be located at the Council offices and at local libraries sustainable development? across the district. • is the plan justified – is the plan based on a robust and credible evidence base? Response forms can be sent in the following ways: • is the plan effective – can the plan actually be delivered and is it able to respond to change? By post to: • is the plan consistent with national policy – is the plan consistent with the National Planning Policy Framework? Planning Policy Team Vale of White Horse District Council We are also publishing a series of supporting documents and topic papers to 135 Eastern Avenue accompany this consultation document. These documents will be available Milton Park from the start of the consultation and can be viewed and accessed at local Milton libraries and the Council offices, and from the council website at: OX14 4SB

www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 By email to:

The consultation will take place for six weeks from Wednesday 11 October [email protected] 2017 to Wednesday 22 November 2017. Alternatively, why not come along to our public exhibitions where you can We welcome comments on the document. Please respond in a concise submit your comments or discuss the document with our planning officers. The manner and specify clearly what your comment relates to, e.g. state the policy event programme is available on our website (see above). or paragraph number. If you think a policy or paragraph should be changed, it is helpful to us if you propose alternative wording and include this in your Comments should be received by 5pm on Wednesday 22 November comment. 2017.

6 Vale of White Horse District Council Foreword 1

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4 Foreword

This is part two of our Local Plan.

We adopted part one in December 2016. It was important to get it in place as soon as possible so it could protect the Vale from speculative planning applications – this is why we decided to make our Local Plan in two parts.

Part one set out the major housing development sites for the Vale until the year 2031, along with the employment sites and infrastructure needed to support them.

Part two will allocate some further housing sites, and it will provide all the detailed policies that we will use to determine planning applications. We will also use part two to show how we will support Didcot Garden Town and deliver the housing for Oxford that we have agreed to provide in the Vale.

The Vale has been named one of the top places to live and work in , combining rich natural and man-made heritage with cutting-edge science and technology.

Therefore it is very important to make sure the district retains its current high quality of life while providing high-quality new housing that means it is also an affordable place to live, so our children’s generation will be able to bring up their families here as well.

This plan will ensure we look after what is best about the Vale; that we help the district grow and develop in a way that protects its historic and rural features, whilst enhancing and strengthening its status as a home for technology and innovation.

This is our Local Plan and it contains our vision for the Vale.

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Councillor Matthew Barber Councillor Roger Cox Leader of the Council Cabinet Member for Planning

8 Vale of White Horse District Council Executive 1 Summary 2

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4 Executive Summary

Chapter 1: Introduction addressed within the Vale and to support the achievement of sustainable development. This has been informed by co-operation with the Oxfordshire The adopted Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Strategic Sites Growth Board to apportion a ‘working assumption’ unmet need figure of 15,000 and Policies sets out the Spatial Strategy and strategic policies for the homes. The quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing need to be met within the district to deliver sustainable development, including identifying the number of Vale of White Horse is 2,200 dwellings for the period up to 2031, subject to the new homes and jobs to be provided in the area. The Part 1 plan also makes plan making process as agreed in the Memorandum of Co-operation between provision for retail, leisure and commercial development and infrastructure the local authorities in the Oxfordshire Housing Market Area. needed to support them. Chapter 2: Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies To complement the Part 1 plan, the Local Plan 2031: Part 2: Additional Sites and Detailed Policies sets out: The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out the Spatial Strategy, ‘Building on our Strengths’ to help shape where new homes will be built, where opportunities • policies and locations for the new housing to meet the Vale’s proportion of to provide new jobs will be created, and where new infrastructure and services Oxford’s housing need, which cannot be met within the City boundaries will be provided. • policies for the part of Didcot Garden Town that lies within the Vale of White Horse District The Spatial Strategy has three main strands. These are: • detailed development management policies to complement the strategic policies as set out in the Part 1 plan, and where appropriate replaces the remaining saved policies of the Local Plan 2011, and • focus sustainable growth within the Science Vale area • additional site allocations for housing • reinforce the service centre roles of the main settlements across the district, and

• promote thriving villages and rural communities whilst safeguarding The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 identified development site allocations and the countryside and village character. policies to ‘fully’ meet the objectively assessed development and infrastructure requirements for the Vale of White Horse District. It is underpinned and The Part 1 plan established three Sub-Area Strategies that ensure it is locally informed by two key core policies: distinctive and focussed on each part of the district. The three sub-areas are:

• Core Policy 1: Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development • Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe • Core Policy 2: Cooperation on Unmet Housing Need for Oxfordshire • South East Vale • Western Vale The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 sets out additional development site allocations to address the agreed quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing need to be The Part 2 plan ensures that the agreed quantum of unmet need for Oxford

10 Vale of White Horse District Council Executive Summary

to be addressed within the Vale is allocated to the Abingdon-on-Thames The additional sites in Part 2 are underpinned by Core Policy 8a: Additional and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area. The unmet need in the Vale will be addressed Site Allocations for Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area. through a combination of strategic sites allocated in the Part 1 Plan and the The Part 2 plan includes an additional policy to ensure that development of the 1 additional sites allocated in the Part 2 Plan. MOD base at Dalton Barracks is brought forward in line with a comprehensive development framework: The Part 2 Plan also allocates some additional sites to deliver 1,400 homes within the Science Vale area to provide continuing support for economic • Core Policy 8b: Dalton Barracks Comprehensive Development growth, to support the delivery of strategic infrastructure and provide a Framework bespoke mix of housing and tenures tailored towards the needs of key employers in the area. This section also updates selected Core Policies where new information has become available since preparing the Local Plan 2031: Part 1: 2 The Part 2 plan does not identify any additional site allocations within the • Core Policy 12a: Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Western Vale Sub-Area. Improvements within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area: which sets out additional land safeguarding to support the The Additional Sites to complement the Spatial Strategy are underpinned by a delivery of strategic highway schemes. number of Core Policies: • Core Policy 13a: Oxford Green Belt: which updates the Green Belt area in the Vale following a review to inform additional site allocations, to • Core Policy 4a: Meeting our Housing Needs: sets out how the Council address the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford. will address the quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford City to be • Core Policy 14a: Upper Thames Strategic Storage Reservoir: which 3 updates the area safeguarded between the settlements of Drayton, East addressed within the Vale. and Steventon.

Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area South-East Vale Sub-Area

The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 identified land for strategic housing at Abingdon- The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 focuses on housing and economic growth within on-Thames, Kennington (within parish) and Radley, on sites close this Sub-Area. It identified strategic housing at and Grove, on sites to, and easily accessible to, Oxford. The Part 2 plan allocates five additional within the Vale adjoining the settlement of Didcot and at the larger villages of 4 sites within this Sub-Area at with (within Fyfield Milton Heights, Harwell and . and Parish), at the MOD base at Dalton Barracks, and at the larger villages of and . The Part 2 plan allocates two additional sites within this Sub-Area, at the local service centre of Grove and at Harwell Campus.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 11 Executive Summary

The additional sites in the Part 2 plan are underpinned by Core Policy 15a: further detail on a range of development management matters. Additional Site Allocations for South East Vale Sub-Area. The plan also includes an additional policy to ensure that development at Harwell Campus is Chapter 3 policies provide detailed guidance to assist day-to-day decision brought forward in line with a comprehensive development framework: making on planning applications (referred to as Development Policies). The policies have been developed following a review of extant Local Plan 2011 • Core Policy 15b: Harwell Campus Comprehensive Development Saved Policies and an assessment of additional detail that is required to Framework support the Part 1 plan. An element of this section also covers the designation of Didcot as a Garden Town, particularly shaping growth already identified in the Part 1 plan and that The Part 2 policies are structured into the four thematic areas as set out in the being identified in the emerging Local Plan for South Oxfordshire. The Part 2 Part 1 plan. These are: plan includes a policy to support the implementation of the Garden Town: • Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities • Core Policy 16b: Didcot Garden Town: which ensures proposals for • Supporting Economic Prosperity development demonstrate a number of key principles that contribute • Supporting Sustainable Transport and Accessibility towards the successful implementation of the Garden Town. • Protecting the Environment and Responding to Climate Change.

This section also updates selected Core Policies where new information has The policies included are: become available since preparing the Local Plan 2031: Part 1: • Core Policy 18a: Safeguarding of Land for Strategic Highway Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities Improvements within the South-East Vale Sub-Area: which sets out additional land safeguarding to support the delivery of strategic highway Development Policy 1: Self and Custom-Build schemes. Development Policy 2: Space Standards • Core Policy 19a: Re-opening of Grove Railway Station: which updates Development Policy 3: Sub-Division of Dwellings the area safeguarded to support the re-opening of the railway station at Development Policy 4: Residential Annexes Grove. Development Policy 5: Replacement Dwellings in the Open Countryside Development Policy 6: Rural Workers’ Dwellings Chapter 3: Development Management Policies Development Policy 7: Re-use, Conversion and Extension of Buildings for Dwellings in the Open Countryside The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out strategic district wide policies necessary Development Policy 8: Community Services and Facilities to deliver the Plan’s Spatial Strategy and Sub-Area Strategies. This Part 2 Development Policy 9: Public Houses plan sets out policies to complement the Part 1 strategic policies and provides

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Supporting Economic Prosperity Development Policy 30: Watercourses Development Policy 31: Protection of Public Rights of Way, National Development Policy 10: Ancillary Uses on Employment Land Trails and Open Access Areas 1 Development Policy 11: Community Employment Plans Development Policy 32: The Wilts and Berks Canal Development Policy 12: Rural Diversification and Equestrian Development Policy 33: Open Space Developments Development Policy 34: Leisure and Sports Facilities Development Policy 13: Change of Use of Retail Units to Other Uses Development Policy 35: New Countryside Recreation Facilities Development Policy 14: Village and Local Shops Development Policy 36: Heritage Assets Development Policy 15: Retail Parks Development Policy 37: Conservation Areas Development Policy 38: Listed Buildings Supporting Sustainable Transport and Accessibility Development Policy 39: Archaeology and Scheduled Monuments 2

Development Policy 16: Access Development Policy 17: Transport Assessments and Travel Plans Chapter 4: Implementing the Plan Development Policy 18: Public Car Parking in Settlements Development Policy 19: Lorries and Roadside Services The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out a detailed Monitoring Framework to ensure the Core Policies are delivered, by setting out targets to monitor the progress towards achieving the Strategic Objectives as set out in Chapter 3 of Protecting the Environment and Responding to Climate Change 3 the Part 1 Plan. Development Policy 20: Public Art Development Policy 21: External Lighting The Part 2 Plan sets out a Monitoring Framework which identifies how the Development Policy 22: Advertisements Council will monitor the effectiveness and implementation of the Plan for each Development Policy 23: Impact of Development on Amenity Core Policy (as set out in Chapter 2: Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies) Development Policy 24: Effect of Neighbouring or Previous Uses on and Development Policy (as set out in Chapter 3: Development Policies). New Developments Development Policy 25: Noise Pollution Core Policy 47a: Delivery and Contingency 4 Development Policy 26: Air Quality Development Policy 27: Land Affected by Contamination Development Policy 28: Waste Collection and Recycling Development Policy 29: Settlement Character and Gaps

13 Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 13 Overview The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 complements the Local Plan 2031: Part 1 by setting out: 1 • policies and locations for new housing to meet the Vale’s proportion of Oxford’s housing need, which cannot be met within the City boundaries, as agreed by the Oxfordshire Growth Board Introduction • policies for the part of Didcot Garden Town that lies within the Vale of White Horse District • detailed development management policies to complement the strategic policies set out in the Part 1 plan and replace the remaining saved policies of the Local Plan 2011, where appropriate, and • additional site allocations for housing.

This chapter summarises the role of the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 and outlines our approach to its preparation.

In particular, this chapter describes how the plan is consistent with, and has been informed by, national policy and how it meets the requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), with regard to being:

• positively prepared • justified • effective, and • consistent with national policy. 1 Introduction

What is the Local Plan? scale (referred to as strategic) allocates additional development neighbourhood plans prepared by the development sites. It includes sites for housing. community3. 1.1. The Vale of White Horse Local district-wide policies to ensure 1 Plan 2031 provides a policy framework that development contributes to • Adopted Policies Map: This shows 1.4. Neighbourhood Plans can be for the delivery of sustainable meeting the Strategic Objectives of the sites identified for development prepared by either town or parish development across the district. It the plan, such as policies relating and areas where particular policies councils, or a neighbourhood forum, replaces the Local Plan 2011 and is to sustainable construction and apply. It will be updated as each and where adopted, also make up made up of a number of separate conservation of the built, historic part of the Local Plan 2031 is part of the Development Plan for parts. These are: and natural environment. adopted. the district. They can provide an important layer of planning for local • Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Strategic Local Plan 2031: Part 1 was 1.2. The Council’s Local areas and set out in more detail how 2 Sites and Policies: The Local adopted on 14 December 2016. Development Scheme (LDS) sets a community wishes to see its area Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out the out the timetable for preparing each develop. Spatial Strategy and Strategic • Local Plan 2031: Part 2: Detailed part of the Vale of White Horse Local Policies for the district to deliver Policies and Additional Sites: Plan 2031 and is available on the 1.5. Where neighbourhood plans sustainable development. It The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 Council’s website2. are prepared, they must be in general identifies the number of new homes sets out policies and locations for conformity with: the policies set out and jobs to be provided in the area housing for the Vale’s proportion of in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1; any The Development Plan 3 for the plan period up to 2031. It Oxford’s housing need up to 2031, Strategic Policies set out in the Part 2 makes provision for retail, leisure which cannot be met within the 1.3. The Local Plan 2031 prepared plan (i.e. Core Policies); and any other and commercial development and City boundaries. This document by Vale of White Horse District Strategic Policies set out in future for the infrastructure needed to also contains policies for the part of Council will be used to inform planning documents in accordance support them. Didcot Garden Town that lies within decisions on planning applications with the Neighbourhood Planning the Vale of White Horse District and across the district, in conjunction (General) Regulations 20124. The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets detailed development management with any Development Planning out the Spatial Strategies for the policies to complement Local Plan Documents (DPDs) relating to 1.6. The Council will continue to 4 location of development across 2031: Part 1. It replaces the saved minerals and waste prepared by support communities who wish to the district and allocates large- policies of the Local Plan 20111, and Oxfordshire County Council, and any prepare neighbourhood plans. Details

1One Local Plan 2011 policy continues to be saved (Policy H5: Grove Airfield) which is referenced by Core Policy 15a and set out in Appendix E 2http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy 3http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy 4The Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2012/637/contents/made

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 15 1 Introduction

Figure 1.1: An illustration of the documents that make up the Vale of White Horse Local Plan of how the Council can help with the for a local plan to be considered and Development Plan. preparation of neighbourhood plans sound, it must comply with the legal 5 Vale Development Plan are set out on the Council’s website . and procedural requirements of plan making, such as the Duty to Vale Local Plan 1.7. These documents together Cooperate, and demonstrate that it is: make up the Development Plan Vale Local Vale Local for the district (see Figure 1.1). a. positively prepared Plan 2031: Plan 2031: All planning applications will be b. justified Part 1: Part 2: Strategic Detailed determined in accordance with the c. effective, and Sites and Policies and Development Plan taken as a whole, d. consistent with national policy. Policies Additional unless material considerations Sites indicate otherwise. a. Positively prepared

National Planning Policy 1.10. The NPPF states that: Oxfordshire Neighbourhood Saved Policies of County Council Plans 1.8. Government planning policy “The plan should be prepared Local Plan 2011 Minerals and until Local Plan and guidance is set out in the based on a strategy which Waste Local Plan Part 2 adopted National Planning Policy Framework seeks to meet the objectively (NPPF) and the National Planning assessed development and Practice Guidance (PPG). The NPPF infrastructure requirements, sets out the Government’s planning including unmet requirements policies for achieving sustainable from neighbouring authorities development and is complemented where it is reasonable to do so by the PPG, which provides additional and consistent with achieving 6 guidance for practitioners. sustainable development” .

1.9. The Vale of White Horse 1.11. In preparing the Local Plan, Local Plan 2031 has been prepared Vale of White Horse District Council in compliance with national policy. has worked, and continues to work, In particular, the NPPF states that in partnership with its neighbouring

5www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/neighbourhoodplans 6 CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 182

16 Vale of White Horse District Council 1 Introduction

authorities under the Duty to It requires cooperation on issues of neighbouring Oxfordshire authorities. need to be met within the Vale of Cooperate and has undertaken an common concern in order to develop White Horse as 2,200 dwellings, for on-going process of Sustainability sound local plans. 1.16. Core Policy 2 of the Local the period up to 2031. 1 Appraisal to ensure that the Local Plan 2031: Part 1 confirms how the Plan 2031 delivers sustainable 1.14. Within Oxfordshire, co- Vale of White Horse will address the 1.18. Local Plan 2031: Part 1 states development. operative working is managed through quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing that: the Oxfordshire Growth Board. The need, to be provided for within the 1.12. The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Board comprises the leaders of all Vale, through the preparation of “Whilst the Local Plan 2031: Part identifies development site allocations Oxfordshire councils, along with key Local Plan 2031: Part 2 and includes 2 is in preparation, the Council’s and policies to ‘fully’ meet the stakeholders and representatives a clear policy commitment to this housing requirement will be objectively assessed development from business, and is supported by effect. The Policy ensures unmet 20,560. However, if the Part 2 plan 2 and infrastructure requirements for an executive committee and officer need is addressed in a timely manner, is not adopted within two years of the Vale of White Horse District. It is working groups. Vale of White Horse informed by a robust approach to plan the adoption of Local Plan 2031: underpinned and informed by two key District Council also works directly making and prepared in accordance Part 1, then from the time until the core policies: with authorities within and outside the with national policy and legislation. adoption of the Part 2 plan, the county area where it is necessary to Council’s housing requirement will • Core Policy 1: Presumption plan effectively on matters of strategic 1.17. The Part 1 plan makes it clear be 20,560 plus the agreed quantum in Favour of Sustainable and sub-regional significance or that the preparation of the Local Plan of Oxford’s unmet housing need 3 Development cross border interests that are not 2031 Part 2 will be closely informed to be addressed within the Vale of • Core Policy 2: Cooperation Oxfordshire-wide. by the Oxfordshire Growth Board White Horse district” 7 . on Unmet Housing Need for process to apportion the working Oxfordshire 1.15. Local Plan 2031: Part 1 assumption unmet need figure of 1.19. On this basis, the Vale of describes the process undertaken 15,000 homes. A Memorandum White Horse housing requirement, on Oxfordshire Unmet by the Oxfordshire Growth Board of Co-operation between local adoption of the Vale of White Horse Housing Need (referred to as the joint Oxfordshire authorities in the Oxfordshire Housing Local Plan 2031: Part 2, or from two Statement of Cooperation) to Market area was signed on 26 years after adoption of Local Plan 4 1.13. The Duty to Cooperate set out specify how the identified unmet September 2016, which identified 2031: Part 1, whichever is sooner, will in the Localism Act is both a legal housing need for Oxford City an agreed apportionment for the be at least 22,760 dwellings, subject duty and test of effective plan-making. should be apportioned between the quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing to the plan making process.

7Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Strategic Sites and Policies (2016); Paragraph 1.27, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1- strategic-sites

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 17 1 Introduction

b. A justified plan by other plans and strategies, c. An effective plan key services, including water including: the Oxfordshire Local resources, education and transport. 1.20. The NPPF states that: Transport Plan (LTP)9; the Strategic 1.24. The NPPF states that: Economic Plan (SEP)10; and other 1.27. The Part 1 plan set out “The plan should be the strategies and programmes of the “The Plan should be deliverable examples of the Council’s most appropriate strategy, District Council, town and parish over its period and based on commitment to working with our when considered against the councils, neighbouring authorities effective joint working on cross- partners to ensure proper sustainable reasonable alternatives, based on and other organisations. The Local boundary strategic priorities”. planning can be achieved across proportionate evidence”. Plan 2031 (Parts 1 and 2) will help to administrative boundaries13. This work facilitate the delivery of many of the 1.25. To ensure the Local Plan is ongoing and examples include: 1.21. Local Plan 2031: Part 1 sets out aspirations and objectives set out in 2031 forms a realistic, deliverable a Spatial Strategy for the distribution these other plans and strategies. and viable plan, the Council has • the ‘Memorandum of Co-operation’ of growth across the district. The Part worked closely with landowners between local authorities in the 1 and Part 2 plans were informed by: 1.23. A series of reasonable and developers to confirm that the Oxfordshire Housing Market Area a detailed understanding of the issues alternatives were developed and additional development sites being was signed on 26 September 2016 facing the district; a detailed range of considered to inform the Publication allocated in the Part 2 plan are and remains extant. Under this evidence (including, for example, an Version of the Local Plan 2031: Part deliverable. A Local Plan Viability memorandum the authorities have assessment of flood risk, transport 2. The reasonable alternatives are Study has been published alongside agreed the apportionment of the impacts and landscape); and by referred to in the Supporting Topic this Publication Version of the Local working assumption unmet need taking into account the National Papers11. The alternatives have Plan Part 212. figure of 15,000 homes. In addition, Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), also been assessed through the bi-lateral discussions have taken National Planning Practice Guidance Sustainability Appraisal (SA), which is 1.26. The Council has worked place between the Vale and Oxford (PPG), and where appropriate the described further below. closely with organisations such as City Council to discuss how the Housing White Paper8 to develop the Environment Agency, Natural quantum of Oxford’s unmet housing locally distinctive policies. England, Historic England, Highways need to be addressed within the England, Thames Water and Vale can be planned for 1.22. Furthermore, the Part 1 and Oxfordshire County Council who are Part 2 plans have also been informed responsible for providing or managing • working jointly with South

8CLG (2017) Housing white paper: Fixing our broken housing market, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/housing-white-paper 9Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015-2031, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/connecting-oxfordshire 10Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) (2014) Strategic Economic Plan; available at: http://www.oxfordshirelep.org.uk/content/ strategic-economic-plan 11A series of topic papers and technical studies are available from the Council website at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 12HDH Planning and Development available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/ LPP2 13Duty to Cooperate Topic Paper (2017), available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

18 Vale of White Horse District Council 1 Introduction

Oxfordshire District Council and Borough Council and Oxfordshire Environmental Assessment (SEA) and Oxfordshire County Council to County Council, the A420 Corridor a Habitats Regulations Assessment ensure we plan effectively for job Study has been published which (HRA). Both reports have been 1 growth and housing needs along facilitates cross border working published alongside this document16. with supporting infrastructure and planning for growth along this across the Science Vale, including important corridor, including the Didcot Garden Town (see Chapter 2 New Eastern Villages for more details) • supporting work of Thames Water • a ‘Memorandum of Understanding’ and, the Environment Agency to with South Oxfordshire District plan for future water supply and 2 Council and Oxfordshire County flood alleviation15. Council to agree an approach to delivering strategic highway d. Consistent with national infrastructure across the Science policy Vale area, including those that span the district boundaries 1.24. The NPPF states that:

3 • working in partnership with “The plan should enable other Oxfordshire authorities to the delivery of sustainable plan for strategic infrastructure development in accordance with delivery across Oxfordshire as a the policies in the framework”. whole, including consideration for cross border planning (beyond 1.30. The preparation of the Local Oxfordshire) and beyond the plan Plan 2031: Part 2 has involved the period (i.e. after 2031)14 testing of reasonable alternatives 4 through Sustainability Appraisal • working jointly with Swindon (SA) that incorporates a Strategic

14Oxfordshire Infrastructure Strategy: Stage 1 Report (2017), available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/oxfordshire-growth-board 15The Environment Agency is exploring proposals to reduce flood risk in Oxfordshire through its Flood Alleviation Scheme. Further information is available in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1. Thames Water is also exploring options to meet the future water supply needs of the region, and this could include the need for a major new reservoir between the villages of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon. Further information is available in Chapter 2 of this Plan 16Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 2: Habitats Regulations Assessment (HRA) (2017) and Sustainability Appraisal (SA) of Vale of White Horse District Council Local Plan 2031: Part 2 (2017); both documents are available to view and access at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 19 Overview The Part 1 plan sets out the Spatial Strategy for the district to help achieve sustainable development. This is referred to as Building on our Strengths and helps to shape where new homes will be built, where opportunities to 2 provide new jobs will be created, and where new infrastructure and services Additional Sites will be provided. The Spatial Strategy has three main strands which seek to:

• focus sustainable growth within the Science Vale area and Sub-Area • reinforce the service centre roles of the main settlements across the district, and • promote thriving villages and rural communities whilst safeguarding the Strategies countryside and village character.

The Part 1 plan allocates strategic development sites to fully meet the Vale’s own housing requirement up to 2031 (20,560 homes).

This chapter sets out the additional housing allocations needed to ensure the agreed quantum of unmet housing for Oxford to be addressed within the Vale is also fully met. This requirement, as agreed by the Oxfordshire Growth Board, is for 2,200 homes to be delivered within the same period up to 2031, subject to the plan making process.

The agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford to be addressed within the Vale is allocated to the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area. Unmet need in the Vale will be addressed through a combination of strategic sites allocated in the Part 1 plan and the additional sites allocated in the Part 2 plan.

The Part 2 plan also allocates some additional sites to deliver 1,400 homes within the Science Vale area to provide continuing support for economic growth in accordance with the Oxfordshire Strategic Economic Plan, to support the delivery of strategic infrastructure and provide a bespoke mix of housing and tenures tailored towards the needs of key employers in this area. 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Introduction • reinforce the service centre roles unmet need for Oxford in the Vale. area. In order to support the Science of the main settlements across the Core Policy 2 sets a timetable for Vale area and the delivery of strategic 2.1. The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 district, and when this additional housing need infrastructure, the plan allocates 1 sets out a Spatial Vision and Strategic will form part of the Vale’s housing additional sites for 1,400 dwellings Objectives that establish the direction • promote thriving villages and rural requirement, subject to the plan within the South-East Vale Sub-Area. of travel for future development and communities whilst safeguarding the making process. investment in the district. They are countryside and village character. 2.10. This chapter sets out the informed by a detailed understanding 2.7. The Vale of White Horse additional sites that are allocated of issues and opportunities facing the 2.4. The Spatial Strategy set out in housing requirement, on adoption by the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 to district and reflect national and local the Part 1 plan makes provision for of the Vale of White Horse Local complement those set out in the priorities. growth of around 23,000 new jobs, Plan 2031: Part 2, or two years after Part 1 plan. The Local Plan 2031 2 218 hectares of employment land, adoption of Local Plan 2031: Part 1, (Parts 1 and 2) seeks to fully meet 2.2. The Part 1 plan also sets out the and at least 20,560 new homes to be whichever is sooner, will be at least the objectively assessed need for Spatial Strategy and strategic policies delivered during the plan period from 22,760 homes18. housing arising from the Vale of for the district to deliver sustainable 2011 to 2031. White Horse district (20,560 homes) development. The strategy, referred to 2.8. The Part 2 plan therefore and from neighbouring authorities as Building on our Strengths, helps 2.5. As has been explained in allocates additional housing sites (2,200 homes) and seeks to deliver to shape where new homes will be Chapter 1, the Part 1 plan addresses to address the agreed quantum of an additional 1,400 homes within the 3 built, where opportunities to provide housing need arising from the Vale of unmet housing need for Oxford to be South-East Vale Sub-Area. The Part new jobs will be created, and where White Horse District (20,560 homes). addressed within the Vale. 2 allocations are consistent with the new infrastructure and services will be The Part 2 plan seeks to address the Spatial Strategy set out in the Part 1 provided. agreed quantum of unmet housing 2.9. The Part 2 plan also sets out plan, in particular by: need for Oxford City to be met within a new policy to support the delivery 2.3. The Spatial Strategy has three the Vale, which has been identified as of the part of Didcot Garden Town • reinforcing the service centre roles main strands. These seek to: 2,200 homes17. that lies within the Vale of White of the main settlements across the Horse District, as well as continuing district 4 • focus sustainable growth within the 2.6. The Part 1 plan makes a clear to support the focus upon strategic Science Vale area policy commitment for how to plan for growth across the wider Science Vale • promoting thriving villages and rural

17The Oxfordshire Growth Board signed a Memorandum of Cooperation – 26 September 2016 – which agrees the apportionment of unmet housing need for Oxfordshire; https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/sites/default/files/folders/ documents/communityandliving/partnerships/growthboard/memorandumofcooperartion.pdf 18The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 was adopted 14/12/2016: on this basis the Vale housing requirement of 22,760 will apply on 14/12/2018, or when the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 is adopted, whichever is sooner. The final housing requirement for the Vale of White Horse, taking into account unmet housing need for Oxford, will ultimately be determined through the plan making process, as set out in Core Policy 2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 21 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

communities whilst safeguarding the neighbouring the city of Oxford. This allocations and the Part 2 additional wide range of employment. countryside and village character, and process was administered by the allocations. Oxfordshire Growth Board. 2.18. It is the case that whilst the sites • focusing sustainable growth within 2.16. On this basis, the Part 2 plan listed above are allocated within the the Science Vale area. 2.13. It is important that, in addition ensures that at least 2,200 additional Part 1 plan with the primary intention to addressing housing need, any dwellings are allocated with the of meeting the Vale’s own objectively 2.1. This chapter also updates additional housing allocations are Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford assessed need for housing, the sites selected Core Policies where new appropriately located to address both Fringe Sub-Area; and that at least are also well located to provide for information has become available the quantum of unmet need to be met 2,200 dwellings are provided for on Oxford’s unmet housing need. Housing since preparing the Part 1 plan, within the Vale, and the districts own sites within this Sub-Area that are on these sites would be just as much for example relating to the need housing requirements. suitably close to and accessible to available to those people falling into for additional safeguarding of land Oxford (Table 2.1)19. the category of Oxford’s need as to support the delivery of strategic 2.14. The Abingdon-on-Thames and to those of the Vale. The Planning highway schemes. Oxford Fringe Sub-Area is closest to 2.17. The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Inspector’s Report of the Examination and has the most frequent and reliable identified land for strategic housing into the Part 1 plan states: Unmet Housing Need for public transport linkages to Oxford and on a range of sites across the district, Oxford for these reasons, the Vale’s agreed including on sites close to, and easily “In reality, it would be all but quantum of unmet need for Oxford accessible to Oxford. These sites impossible to determine if a Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford (2,200 dwellings) is allocated to this include those located to the north and potential occupier of this housing Fringe Sub-Area Sub-Area as set out by Core Policy north-west of Abingdon-on-Thames (Part 1 allocations) represents a 4a: Meeting Our Housing Needs. and at the larger villages of Kennington Vale or Oxford housing need” 20 2.12. As has been explained above, (within Radley parish) and at Radley. Vale of White Horse District Council 2.15. The Vale is not seeking to Ring These sites are suitable locations 2.19. The Planning Inspector’s Report has worked with the other Oxfordshire Fence allocations for the purposes for development in the Vale, with of the Examination into the Part 1 authorities, over the past few years, of addressing the agreed quantum of comparatively high levels of services plan also confirmed that Oxford City to identify how the unmet housing Oxford’s unmet need to be met within and facilities, good public transport Council consider that these sites need for Oxfordshire should be the Vale. The unmet need is met by connectivity with opportunities for (listed above) are well-located to apportioned between those authorities a combination of the Part 1 strategic improvement and good access to a provide for their own unmet housing

19Site Selection Topic Paper (2017), available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 20Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 - Inspector’s Report (2016), Paragraph 25; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and- advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sites

22 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies needs. In total 1,51021 dwellings are harm to the Oxford Green Belt and to Table 2.1: Vale of White Horse Local Plan Part 1 and Part 2 Allocations that are close to and accessible to Oxford. allocated in the Part 1 plan on four maximise opportunities for mitigating sites closest to Oxford at Abingdon- impacts, such as increasing the use of 1 S on-Thames, Kennington (within Radley sustainable modes of travel. ite Allocation Parish) and at Radley. North Abingdon-on-Thames (LPP1 allocation) 950 a 2.22. Dalton Barracks is conveniently North-West Abingdon-on-Thames (LPP1 allocation) 200 2.20. The Council has followed a located close to Oxford and provides comprehensive approach to site the potential for a high quality, North-West Radley (LPP1 allocation) 240 selection, which was consistent to the sustainable Garden Village style South of Kennington (Radley Parish; LPP1 allocation) 270 approach followed to inform the Part development to be created, that is Dalton Barracks (LPP2 allocation) 1,200 22 2 1 plan, and with national guidance . easily accessible to Oxford, Abingdon- Total 2,860 Over 400 sites were assessed and a on-Thames and the surrounding area aThe LPP1 allocation for North Abingdon-on-Thames was for around 800 dwellings, however a Planning refined list of sites subject to detailed by public transport, but also includes Application for 950 dwellings was approved at committee on 26 July 2017. assessment including being informed a comprehensive range of services by comprehensive technical evidence, and facilities on site. At least 1,200 such as assessing transport impacts, dwellings are allocated at Dalton landscape and flood risk. Barracks within the Part 2 plan, with the potential for higher growth in the 3 2.21. The site selection process longer term, subject to appropriate included considering all potential infrastructure being delivered. This sites within the Oxford Green Belt is discussed in more detail later in and considering the likely impact of this chapter (under Additional Site development on the Green Belt and Allocations and Strategic Policies for has been informed by Sustainability the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Appraisal. The Part 2 plan represents Fringe Sub-Area). the Council’s strategy for meeting 4 the plan objectives appropriately, to minimise harmful impacts, such as

21The Part 1 Plan strategic allocation for North of Abingdon-on-Thames was for around 800 dwellings, however a Planning Application for 950 dwellings was approved at committee on 26 July 2017. The strategic allocations within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area set out in the Part 1 Plan contribute towards a provision of 1,660 dwellings 22Site Selection Topic Paper (2017), available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 23 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Affordable Housing for Oxford Oxfordshire Authorities to plan for 2.28. The Oxfordshire SHMA takes Area to help meet the unmet need for Unmet Need housing for Oxfordshire in the longer account of housing mix requirements Oxford, stating, for example: term. It is anticipated this will include across each of the Oxfordshire 2.23. In addition to planning for the the preparation of an updated Strategic authorities and recommends a mix “Whilst the Abingdon-on-Thames appropriate housing requirement, Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) suitable for both Vale and Oxford City. / Oxford Fringe Sub-Area is closer it is also important to plan for the for Oxfordshire. Until the updated The SHMA mix favours 3 bedroom to Oxford, it is true that more than appropriate type of dwellings, and Oxfordshire SHMA and Oxford City properties a little more than the Oxford 3,000 dwellings proposed in the to contribute towards the affordable Local Plans are completed, it will not City evidence suggests (45 % vs. 39 South East Vale (the two Valley housing needs of Oxford city. be possible to determine the precise %). This is consistent with the Oxford Park sites) would also be close affordable housing need for Oxford, City ‘Preferred Options’ Local Plan to Didcot Station with its fast and 2.24. The Part 1 plan sets out the to be provided for within the Vale of 2036, which states a need for more frequent rail service to Oxford” 24. Vale’s approach to affordable housing White Horse. 3 bedroom properties, rather than (Core Policy 24). The Council will smaller dwellings. 2.31. It is therefore important that seek 35 % affordable housing on Housing Mix, Tenure and Size for the role of housing located within the sites capable of a net gain of eleven Oxford Unmet Need 2.29. It is considered that Core Policy South-East Vale is not overlooked, dwellings or more23. 22 already provides sufficient flexibility especially given the fast and frequent 2.27. Planning for an appropriate to support housing mix suitable to both rail service available from Didcot to 2.25. The allocation of affordable mix of housing types, size and tenure Vale and Oxford City. However, the Oxford. However, in total, over 7,000 housing to those in need is a matter is clearly important. Housing mix is policy also provides sufficient flexibility dwellings are provided for within the of housing policy rather than planning addressed through Core Policy 22 as to support a more bespoke mix on Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford policy. Allocations will therefore be set out in the Part 1 plan. This makes Part 2 allocations should this become Fringe Sub-Area, and over 13,000 made in accordance with an approach provision for a mix to be delivered in necessary. dwellings are provided for within the to be agreed between Vale of White accordance with the Oxfordshire South-East Vale Sub-Area. Whilst, Horse District Council and Oxford City Strategic Housing Market Assessment South East Vale Sub-Area the plan identifies sites that are Councils. (SHMA) and provides flexibility should demonstrably close to and accessible the Housing Register demonstrate an 2.30. The Local Plan Part 1 Inspector to Oxford (Table 2.1), it is also the 2.26. The Vale of White Horse District alternative would be more appropriate. also recognised the potential role of case that, in reality, any of the homes Council will continue to work positively housing allocated within the Part 1 allocated across the two Sub-Areas with Oxford City Council and other plan within the South-East Vale Sub- could contribute towards the unmet

23HDH Planning & Development (2014) Local Plan Viability Study, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sit-0 24Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 – Inspector’s Report (2016), Paragraph 56: Available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sites

24 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies housing needs of Oxford City, priority for the Oxfordshire LEP, along is discussed in more detail within the 2.39. No additional sites are proposed including those located in the Vale to with delivering a comprehensive following chapter (under Additional Site for allocation within the Western Vale the west of Didcot. package of strategic infrastructure. Allocations and Strategic Policies for Sub-Area, this area does not relate 1 Housing and infrastructure delivery the South-East Vale Sub-Area). well to either Oxford or Science Vale 2.32. It is therefore not considered will help to unlock the area’s potential and the identified housing need for this necessary to allocate any additional for economic growth and this forms 2.37. The quantum of housing area is already adequately planned for. sites in the Part 2 plan within the a key strand of the Council’s Spatial identified for allocation within the Part South-East Vale Sub-Area to Strategy. 2 plan, as set out within the Part 1 plan specifically address unmet housing (i.e. for 1,000 dwellings) is subsumed need for Oxford. 2.35. Some of the housing the Council by a combination of: updated proposed within the Part 1 plan was completions and commitments that 2 Other Housing Needs deleted from the plan during the have come forward since March 2016; Examination process and did not form the additional allocations set out in this 2.33. In addition to planning for the allocations in the adopted plan. The plan that address unmet housing need quantum of unmet housing need for Planning Inspector, when discussing for Oxford (2,200 dwellings); and those Oxford to be addressed within the the deletion of these sites from the that complement the Spatial Strategy Vale, the Council is also allocating Part 1 plan, stated in his Interim and support infrastructure delivery additional housing to help achieve Report that this: (1,400 dwellings) in the South-East 3 the Council’s objective to support the Vale Sub-Area. Science Vale area. “Would reduce the potential supply of housing in the South-East 2.38. The updated housing supply 2.33. The Science Vale area houses Vale and the Council may wish position for each of the three Sub- a number of significant employment to consider the need to allocate Areas is updated in Core Policies 8b, sites, including the Enterprise Zone replacement sites in this area 15b and 20b. The windfall allowance sites at Harwell Campus and Milton through the Part 2 plan”25. has been updated to reflect up to date Park, and forms the southern end of evidence on the delivery of small sites 4 the Oxfordshire Knowledge Spine. 2.36. For these reasons, 1,400 in the district since 2011. Supporting the accelerated delivery additional homes are allocated within of housing within Science Vale is a the South-East Vale Sub-Area and this

25Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 - Inspector’s Interim Findings (2016), Paragraph 9.12, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/dynamic_serve.jsp?ID=571193448&CODE=26CB26CB6FD3E8B42E026D7C C6DDCDCF

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 25 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 4a: Meeting our Housing Needs Additional dwellings (for example, windfalls) will be delivered through Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. The contribution of all sources of housing supply are The strategy for meeting the housing target for the Vale of White Horse is shown by the following table, which supersedes the table set out in Core set out within Core Policy 4: Meeting our Housing Needs (Local Plan Policy 4: 2031: Part 1) and includes details of the strategic allocations necessary to meet this target, along with a policy framework for development. Category Number of Dwellings This policy sets out how the Council will address housing needs arising Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 22,760 from elsewhere in the Housing Market Area, expressly the quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2017) 4,672 White Horse of 2,200 homes, as agreed at the Oxfordshire Growth Board Housing Supply Known Commitments 3,061 meeting in September 2016. (Apr 2017 to Mar 2031) Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations 12,495 Local Plan 2031: Part 2 allocations 3,420 The housing target for the Vale of White Horse is for at least 22,760 homes Windfallsa 1,100 to be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 12,495 dwellings a will be delivered through strategic allocations. 3,420 dwellings will be Windfall figures are updated to reflect past delivery. delivered through additional allocations. The agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of White Horse of 2,200 dwellings will be provided for through either strategic or additional sites provided for within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area. Additional site allocations also complement those set out within the Part 1 plan to assist with delivering the Spatial Strategy and supporting infrastructure delivery.

Continued overpage

26 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 4a: Meeting our Housing Needs South-East Vale Sub-Area (continued from previous page) 1 Settlement / Parish Settlement Site Name Number of Type Dwellings Additional Allocations Grove Local Service Centre North-West of Grove 400 d e In addition to the strategic site allocations set out in Core Policy 4, Harwell Campus Larger Village Harwell Campus 1,000 development will be supported at the additional site allocations through Total 1,400 a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning authority, developer and other stakeholders, where development meets the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown by 2 Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken as a Western Vale Sub-Area whole. The following tables show how the level of housing required through additional sites will be distributed: Local Plan Part 2 does not allocate additional sites within the Western Vale Sub-Area. Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area Settlement / Parish Settlement Site Name Number of Type Dwellings 3 East Hanney Larger Village North of East Hanney 80 East Hanney North-East of East Hanney 50 Kingston Bagpuize East of Kingston Bagpuize with 600 with Southmoor Southmoor ( (Fyfield and Tubney Parish) b The development proposed at Dalton Barracks will provide services and facilities equivalent to a Larger Parish) Village. c The allocation at Dalton Barracks has the capacity to deliver more housing, subject to appropriate infrastructure improvements. Housing which is in addition to the 1,200 homes is expected to be delivered after Marcham South-East of Marcham 90 2031. 4 d The allocation at North-West of Grove has the capacity to deliver more housing, subject to appropriate b,c Shippon Smaller Village Dalton Barracks 1,200 infrastructure improvements. Housing which is in addition to the 400 homes is expected to be delivered after Total 2,020 2031. e Harwell Campus has services and facilities equivalent to a Larger Village.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 27 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.1 Map showing the additional allocations across the three Sub-Areas within the Vale of White Horse District

28 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Sub-Area Strategies • South-East Vale – which includes much of the Science Vale area 2.40. The Part 1 plan establishes and contains the market town of 1 three Sub-Area Strategies, which give Wantage, the local service centre spatial expression to the plan and of Grove, as well as a number ensure that it is locally distinctive and of significant employment sites, focused on each part of our district. including Harwell Campus, Milton The three sub-areas are: Park and Didcot A Power Station. The Sub-Area also contains a • Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford number of larger villages, including Fringe – which covers the northern , , Harwell, 2 and north eastern part of the Vale Harwell Campus, Milton and Sutton and geographically has strong Courtenay. linkages with the city of Oxford. The Sub-Area contains the market town • Western Vale – which is a more of Abingdon-on-Thames, the local rural area stretching from the North service centre of Botley and several Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding larger villages, including , Natural Beauty (AONB) to the River 3 Drayton, East Hanney, Kennington, Thames, containing the market town Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor, of and several larger Marcham, Radley, Steventon and villages, including , Wootton. A large part of this area is , Stanford-in-the-Vale, designated within the Oxford Green Uffington and . Belt.

4

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 29 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Abingdon-on-Thames and for this Sub-Area (5,438 as set out in 2.45. Kingston Bagpuize with not located within the Oxford Green Oxford Fringe Sub-Area Core Policy 8 within the Part 1 plan) Southmoor is a sustainable larger Belt, or areas of floodplain, which was soundly based. This is not least village offering good access to a are both particularly extensive in this Additional site allocations and because a substantial part of the range of services and facilities and Sub-Area. The provision of smaller strategic policies for the Abingdon- housing need for Vale arises from this excellent public transport connectivity, site allocations within the plan is also on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- Sub-Area. especially to Swindon and Oxford. important and necessary to ensure Area Development on Land East of housing is delivered throughout the 2.43. By adding the agreed quantum Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor plan period. 2.41. This Sub-Area contains our of unmet housing need for Oxford to (within Fyfield and Tubney Parish) largest settlement of Abingdon-on- this Sub-Area, the revised housing provides an opportunity to re-route 2.48. There are concerns associated Thames, which has the greatest requirement increases from 5,438 the A415 out of the existing village with highway impact from development range of services and facilities, a dwellings (Part 1 Plan: Core Policy 8) (effectively providing a bypass) and at Marcham and the village is identified good employment base, excellent to 7,512 dwellings (Part 2 Plan: Core deliver a range of local infrastructure, as an Air Quality Management Area public transport links to Oxford and Policy 8a)26. including a new primary school. (AQMA). It is considered that the beyond, and it has the highest need for majority of additional traffic associated affordable housing within the district. 2.44. The Part 2 plan allocates five 2.46. Locating development where with the proposed allocation at The wider Sub-Area contains the local additional sites within the Abingdon- there is already access to frequent Marcham would travel towards Oxford, service centre at Botley, as well as on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- and premium bus routes helps to Abingdon-on-Thames and Science a number of larger villages including Area to ensure this revised housing maximise the viability and longevity Vale (i.e. away from Marcham) and Cumnor, Drayton, East Hanney, requirement is fully met. Land is of the services, deliver improvements that new opportunities exist for Kennington, Kingston Bagpuize allocated in the Part 2 plan adjacent (increased frequency at evenings and improved public transport, cycling and with Southmoor, Marcham, Radley, to the sustainable larger village of weekends) and help to minimise the walking connections in this area28. The Steventon and Wootton. Kingston Bagpuize with Southmoor need for car travel. Council are satisfied that the relatively (within Fyfield and Tubney Parish), small development (90 dwellings) 2.42. The Planning Inspector at the MOD base at Dalton Barracks 2.47. The larger villages of East proposed to the east of Marcham presiding over the Examination into the (Shippon) and at the larger villages Hanney and Marcham offer a good will not adversely impact the AQMA Part 1 plan concluded that the need for of East Hanney and Marcham (Core range of services and facilities and located in Marcham village. and the proposed housing requirement Policy 8a)27. are relatively unconstrained, and are

26Because the Part 1 plan already made provision for more than the Objectively Assessed Housing Need for Vale, the Sub-Area housing requirement is updated to reflect the residual necessary to meet the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford to be addressed within the district 27More information about how we have selected the additional site allocations is set out in our Site Selection Topic Paper available from the Council website at: www.whitehorsedc. gov.uk/LPP2 28ATKINS (2017) Vale of White Horse District Council – Evaluation of Transport Impacts – Stage 1; SYSTRA (2017) Sustainable Transport Study for the Abingdon to Oxford Corridor, both documents are available to view and access at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

30 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.2: Map showing the additional allocations within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area

1

2

3

4

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 31 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 8a: Additional Site Allocations for Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area Housing Supply Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- Area Category Number of Dwellings The overarching priority and Settlement Hierarchy for this Sub-Area is set Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 7,512 a out in Core Policy 8: Spatial Strategy for Abingdon-on-Thames and Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2017) 2,051 Oxford Fringe Sub-Area (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) along with the strategy for addressing housing need and employment arising in the Vale of White Housing Supply Known Commitments 1,401 Horse. (Apr 2017 to Mar 2031) Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations 1,790 Local Plan 2031: Part 2 allocations 2,020 b Housing Delivery Windfalls 308 Total remaining to be identified (at October 2017) 0 This policy sets out how the Council will address housing needs arising a The Sub-Area housing requirement is updated to reflect the residual necessary to meet the agreed quantum of from elsewhere in the Housing Market Area, expressly the quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford to be addressed within the Vale. unmet housing need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of b Windfall figures are updated to reflect past deliver. White Horse of 2,200 homes, as agreed by the Oxfordshire Growth Board in September 2016.

At least 7,512 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 1,790 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations. 2,020 dwellings will be delivered through additional allocations. The agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of White Horse is 2,200 dwellings, which will be provided for within this Sub-Area through either strategic or additional sites. Additional dwellings (for example, windfalls) will be delivered through Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. The contribution of all sources of housing supply for this Sub-Area are shown in the following table: Continued overpage

32 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 8a: Additional Site Allocations for 2.49. The release of Green Belt be guided by Core Policy 8b: Dalton Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- land currently owned by the MOD Barracks Comprehensive Design Area (continued from previous page) at Dalton Barracks presents an Framework, which is discussed in 1 opportunity for the development more detail below. Additional Allocations of a highly sustainable settlement, located on substantially brownfield Dalton Barracks Comprehensive In addition to the strategic site allocations set out in Core Policy 8, (previously developed) land and with Design Framework development will be supported at the additional site allocations through minimal harm to the purposes of the a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning Oxford Green Belt. The former airfield 2.52. ‘A Better Defence Estate’ was authority, developer and other stakeholders, where development meets site currently houses Nos. 3 and 4 published by Government in November the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown by Regiments Royal Logistics Corps 2016. This report identified 91 sites 2 Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken as a and incorporates a series of large operated by the Ministry of Defence whole. The following table shows how the level of housing required within structures including aircraft hangers. (MOD) to be released for development this Sub-Area through additional development sites will be distributed: The site is located close to the city of to deliver 55,000 homes as part of the Part 2 Allocations Oxford. Government’s wider housing policy29.

Settlement / Parish Settlement Site Name Number of 2.50. Development at Dalton Barracks 2.53. One of the sites identified for Type Dwellings will provide for new infrastructure release, originally by 2029, is Dalton 3 East Hanney Larger Village North of East Hanney 80 (such as new schools / local centre Barracks, located within the Vale of East Hanney North-East of East Hanney 50 / open space) and opportunities for White Horse District to the west of Kingston Bagpuize East of Kingston Bagpuize 600 high quality sustainable transport Abingdon-on-Thames and close to with Southmoor with Southmoor connections between both the city of Oxford. Dialogue between the Defence (Fyfield and Tubney (Fyfield and Tubney Parish) Oxford and Abingdon-on-Thames and Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) and Parish) beyond, incorporating walking, cycling, the District Council has identified an Marcham South-East of Marcham 90 and public transport enhancements. opportunity to release the site sooner Shippon Smaller Village Dalton Barracks 1,200 c.d than 2029 and the Council is satisfied 4 Total 2,020 2.51. It is important that this site is that 1,200 homes can be delivered on planned for comprehensively to ensure the site within the plan period up to c The development proposed at Dalton Barracks will provide services and facilities equivalent to a Larger Village. d The allocation at Dalton Barracks has the capacity to deliver more housing, subject to appropriate infrastructure its potential as a highly sustainable 2031. improvements. Housing which is in addition to the 1,200 homes is expected to be delivered after 2031. settlement is fully realised and this will

29Ministry of Defence (MoD) (2016) A Better Defence Estate, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/better-defence-estate-strategy

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 33 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

2.54. The site consists of around 288 of previously developed land within • land value capture for the benefit of and public transport designed to hectares and contains large areas the site area, constitutes a ‘major the community be the most attractive forms of local of brownfield (previously developed) change in circumstances’ to justify its • strong vision, leadership and transport31. land. The site was originally a military assessment in the context of a Green community engagement airfield, but has more recently been Belt Review. • community ownership of land and 2.59. The District Council is working used as a barracks for Nos. 3 and 4 long-term stewardship of assets in partnership with Oxfordshire County Regiments Royal Logistics Corps. 2.57. The Council considers that • mixed-tenure homes and housing Council to plan for substantial highway Around half of the growth envisaged development at Dalton Barracks types that are genuinely affordable and public transport improvements within the plan period can be delivered has the potential to deliver a highly • a wide range of local jobs in the within this Sub-Area. Plans include onsite even before the military sustainable mixed-used development, Garden City within easy commuting provision for upgrading the A34 units are re-located. However, it is incorporating Garden Village principles distance of homes interchange at Lodge Hill; a north- anticipated that the military units will and including new services and • beautifully and imaginatively bound bus lane between Lodge Hill be re-located no later than 2026. facilities, new schools, opportunities designed homes with gardens, and the interchanges for local employment and a substantial combining the best of town and on the A34; and providing for two 2.55. The site was not considered as Country Park of at least 80 hectares. country to create healthy new Park and Ride sites at Cumnor a potential development site through communities, and including and Lodge Hill (both close to Dalton preparation of the Local Plan 2031: 2.58. Garden Villages are ambitious opportunities to grow food Barracks) for accessing Oxford. Part 1, nor by the Oxfordfordshire and locally-led proposals for new • development that enhances Both of these Park and Ride sites Growth Board process to identify communities that should have high the natural environment, providing a will be connected to key destinations potential sites to accommodate unmet quality and good design hard-wired comprehensive Green Infrastructure in Oxford City via a Rapid Transit housing for Oxford. At the time of in from the outset30. The Town and network and net biodiversity gains, System. undertaking these processes, the site Country Planning Association (TCPA) and that uses zero-carbon and was not considered to be available for have developed principles to help energy-positive technology to ensure 2.60. An Abingdon – Oxford Corridor future development. inform the creation of Garden Villages climate resilience Sustainable Transport Study has and the Council is keen to explore • strong cultural, recreational and informed the sustainable transport 2.56. The Council considers that how these principles can inform the shopping facilities in walkable, provision which should support the the MOD’s release of this site for opportunity for development at Dalton vibrant, social neighbourhoods, and proposed development at Dalton development, especially given its size, Barracks. The TCPA principles include: • integrated and accessible transport Barracks32. The improvements proximity to Oxford and the extent systems, with walking, cycling outlined in the study include the

30CLG (2016) Locally-led Garden Villages, Towns and Cities, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/locally-led-garden-villages-towns-and-cities 31Town and Country Planning Association (TCPA) (2016) Garden City Principles, available at: https://www.tcpa.org.uk/garden-city-principles 32SYSTRA (2017) Sustainable Transport Study for the Abingdon to Oxford Corridor, available at www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

34 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies provision of a bus and cycle link from any proposed development on the site development framework for the Dalton Dalton Barracks to the new Park and and the designated sites, the western Barracks site, which will be adopted as Ride site at Lodge Hill, which would side of Dalton Barracks should be a Supplementary Planning Document 1 provide a direct link from the proposed retained as open space, in the form of (SPD). The Framework will provide development to an interchange with a Country Park, which will also provide more detailed guidance to inform services going in to the centre of recreational open space to residents of proposals for development on the site. Oxford and to other key destinations, the site33. such as the employment sites to the east of Oxford. The study also 2.63. The Part 2 plan makes provision outlines the need for enhancements for around 1,200 dwellings at Dalton to the frequency of bus routes serving Barracks to be delivered within the 2 the site to reach ‘turn up and go’, or plan period up to 2031 in accordance premium route, standard and improved with Core Policies 8 and 8b and pedestrian and cycle links from the site the Site Development Template to Abingdon-on-Thames. set out in Appendix A. However, it is recognised that the longer-term 2.61. The Council will continue to potential for development is much work with Oxfordshire County Council greater, potentially in excess of 4,000 3 to ensure opportunities for public dwellings, subject to provision of transport, walking and cycling in this appropriate infrastructure. area are maximised and are fully integrated with proposals for Dalton 2.64. It is therefore essential that Barracks. development is brought forward in line with a comprehensive development 2.62. Dalton Barracks lies to the east framework in accordance with Core of a number of sites of ecological Policy 8b. 4 importance, including Cothill Fen 2.65. Special Area of Conservation (SAC) The Council will work with the 7 and Sites of Special Scientific Interest DIO and other key stakeholders, (SSSI’s). To provide a buffer between to prepare a comprehensive

33Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 2: Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) (2017), Paragraph 5.5.22, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 35 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.3: Proposed site allocation boundary and Green Belt boundary at Dalton Barracks.

36 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 8b: Dalton Barracks Comprehensive The Council will continue to work with the Defence Infrastructure Development Framework Organisation, Oxfordshire County Council, Natural England and other 1 relevant stakeholders to prepare a comprehensive development framework for the site. Additional guidance will be provided by a comprehensive All new development at Dalton Barracks will be guided by a comprehensive development framework that will be published as a Supplementary development framework. Planning Document and will ensure proposals are considered in the context of a comprehensive approach to the whole site, including: The new housing allocated at Dalton Barracks will be provided to an exemplar standard and following Garden Village principles to ensure the i. the development is in accordance with the requirements of a travel potential for highly sustainable and accessible development is fully realised. plan for the whole site to make the necessary contributions in order to 2 The new settlement will form a mixed-use community incorporating on-site implement sustainable transport initiatives, including minimising car services and facilities, including new schools, a local centre, providing local usage and increasing the use of public transport, walking and cycling opportunities for employment and ensuring excellent public transport, cycle way and footpath connections to Oxford and Abingdon-on-Thames. This ii. the development is in accordance with and makes the necessary development will come forward in accordance with Core Policies 8a and 8b contributions to a comprehensive landscape plan for the whole site, and the Site Development Template set out in Appendix A. including the provision of a Country Park of at least 80 hectares

3 The site is removed from the Oxford Green Belt in accordance with Core iii. proposals for new development and redevelopment should be Policy 13a. The site area, however, contains a large area of land that will demonstrated that there would be no adverse impact on Cothill Fen remain within the Oxford Green Belt and any development on this area will SAC and protection for the SSSI located to the west of the site, and be limited to Green Belt-compatible development. This area will include a substantial Country Park, located on the western side of the site that should iv. proposals for buildings and structures (including their extensions) be planned for as part of the comprehensive development framework. will not unacceptably harm the character and appearance of the surrounding area, taking into account their location, scale, bulk and Proposals for development at Dalton Barracks must demonstrate how they height. 4 contribute towards a comprehensive approach to development.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 37 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Oxford Green Belt for a local plan to include alterations 2.69. A comprehensive approach to additional site specific assessments to Green Belt boundaries and indicate assessing potential development sites of all available sites, including those 2.66. The Part 1 plan demonstrated that further alterations may be was undertaken to inform the selection beyond the Green Belt, the Council ‘exceptional circumstances’ to necessary (i.e. to address unmet need of sites for inclusion within the Part has concluded that ‘exceptional release four strategic development for Oxford), but that this approach 2 plan. This approach followed circumstances’ exist to justify removing sites around Abingdon-on-Thames, was preferable to deleting land from methodology consistent with the from the Green Belt one additional Kennington (within Radley Parish) and the Green Belt when it was unclear if approach to preparing the Part 1 plan parcel of land. Radley from the Oxford Green Belt. the released land would be needed and was informed by a comprehensive The Planning Inspector’s Final Report for future development. The Planning suite of technical evidence, including 2.72. This plan therefore proposes to alter into the Examination of the Part 1 plan Inspector’s Report stated that: Sustainability Appraisal (SA). This the Green Belt boundary to remove states that the release of these sites: evidence included an assessment of land from the Green Belt at Dalton “Retaining these parcels of land how any potential development sites Barracks (Shippon), to be allocated “Would have only limited impacts in the Green Belt now would located within the Oxford Green Belt as an additional housing allocation as on the function of the Green not prevent their deletion from contributed to the purposes of the shown by Figure 2.3 (Core Policy Belt, primarily being localised Green Belt through the ‘Part 2’ Green Belt36. This ensured the Part 2 13a: Oxford Green Belt). 34 encroachment of the countryside” . plan or any other local plan or plan was informed by up-to-date and local plan review, if the necessary accurate information. 2.73. The change to the Green Belt 2.67. The Part 1 plan also proposed exceptional circumstances were to at Dalton Barracks has been informed 35 the release of other parcels of land be demonstrated” . 2.70. Furthermore, the release of the by a detailed Green Belt Study of from the Oxford Green Belt, as it was Dalton Barracks site by the MOD for the site and its surroundings37. The considered they may be required 2.68. A local Green Belt Review, development (discussed in Paragraph area proposed to be removed from to contribute to addressing unmet which considered the Vale District, 2.53) is considered to constitute a the Green Belt is not considered to housing needs for Oxford. However, was undertaken to inform preparation ‘major change in circumstances’ as contribute strongly to the purposes of modifications to the plan deleted these of the Part 1 plan. A subsequent the site was previously not considered the Green Belt, particularly as much of further proposed changes to the Green Green Belt Study, which considered available. the site is previously developed land, Belt. The Planning Inspector’s Final Oxfordshire as a whole, was prepared and so its removal will have limited Report into the Examination of the Part to assist work of the Oxfordshire 2.71 Taking this evidence into impact on the function of the Green 1 plan made it clear that it is not ideal Growth Board. account, and by undertaking Belt.

34Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 - Inspector’s Report (2016), Paragraph 87; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sites 35Vale of White Horse Local Plan 2031: Part 1 - Inspector’s Report (2016), Paragraph 91; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031-part-1-strategic-sites 36CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 80 37Hankinson Duckett Associates (HDA) (2017) Vale of White Horse District: Green Belt Study of Local Plan Part 2 Sites, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov. uk/LPP2

38 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

2.74. The area proposed does not Growth Board as a potential site to extend beyond the Dalton Barracks accommodate unmet housing need Core Policy 13a: Oxford Green Belt site as the site is large enough for Oxford, or by the Vale of White 1 to accommodate a substantial Horse through preparation of the sustainable settlement in its own Local Plan 2031: Part 1. This change right. This approach ensures that is considered to be a ‘major change The Council’s approach to development within the Oxford Green Belt is the potential for development is in circumstances’ set out in Core Policy 13 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1). maximised and that further changes • assessment work, including a to the Green Belt will not be required Green Belt Study of the potential The Green Belt boundary is amended to reflect the additional site in the future. The openness between development sites considered allocation at Dalton Barracks made through Core Policy 8b: Additional Abingdon-on-Thames and Shippon, in preparation of the Part 2 plan, Site Allocations for Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- 2 Shippon and Wootton, of much of the including for Dalton Barracks Area. This is shown by the Adopted Policies Map and Figure 2.3 and existing airfield area, and between and the surrounding land, which Appendix L to address the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for the proposed new development and demonstrates that its removal from Oxford at Dalton Barracks (Shippon). Whitecross, are all substantially the Green Belt for development maintained (Figure 2.3). Shippon would have limited impact on the is inset to the Green Belt as it will function of the Green Belt38 form an integrated and continuous • the site is close to Oxford and has 3 settlement with Dalton Barracks. the potential to be developed as a highly sustainable new community 2.75. The ‘exceptional circumstances’ with excellent public transport, to justify the amendment to the Green walking and cycling connectivity to Belt boundary at Dalton Barracks are: Oxford and Abingdon-on-Thames and is considered to be compatible • the availability of a highly with the Spatial Strategy set out in sustainable and significant site the Part 1 plan, and 4 for development, not previously • the site contains a large area of available, and so not previously brownfield (previously developed considered either by the Oxfordshire land)39.

38Hankinson Duckett Associates (HDA) (2017) Vale of White Horse District: Green Belt Study of Local Plan Part 2 Sites, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 39Hankinson Duckett Associates Associates (HDA) (2017) Green Belt Review: Exceptional Circumstances Assessment - Dalton Barracks, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 39 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Safeguarding of land for strategic • Land for improvements to Local Transport Plan proposes that Lodge Hill and Hinksey Interchanges. highway improvements within the Lights. both of these Park & Ride sites form This will facilitate efficient access via Abingdon on-Thames and Oxford interchanges on Rapid Transit Lines, sustainable public transport modes Fringe Sub-Area 2.78. Vale of White Horse District providing high frequency links to key to Oxford from the A34 corridor to the Council continues to work in destinations across Oxford City and south, Abingdon-on-Thames and the 2.76. The Part 1 plan recognises partnership with Oxfordshire County beyond. proposed new sustainable settlement that this Sub-Area benefits from Council, Highways England and other on land at Dalton Barracks. excellent public transport connectivity, stakeholders to plan for future highway 2.80. For the reasons explained particularly to the nearby city of infrastructure improvements and to above, four locations are safeguarded 2.82. Land is also safeguarded Oxford, but that there are also some support the delivery of the Oxfordshire by Core Policy 12a: Safeguarding for a bus and cycle link to facilitate transport related constraints in the Local Transport Plan 4, which has of Land for Strategic Highway sustainable travel between the new area. These include access to the been prepared to support jobs, Improvements within the Abingdon- sustainable community proposed for A34 at Abingdon-on-Thames and housing growth and economic vitality on-Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- Dalton Barracks and the proposed Botley, and the Drayton Road (B4017) in the area40. Area (Figure 2.4). Two of these sites transport interchange at Lodge Hill. accessing Abingdon-on-Thames from are identified by Oxfordshire County the south. 2.79. The Local Transport Plan and Council as their preferred locations 283. Finally, land is safeguarded its supporting evidence proposes for the new Park and Ride sites along for the possible future provision of a 2.77. Land is safeguarded by the Part a number of additional transport the A34 and A420 corridors and once Southern Marcham Bypass. Traffic 1 plan to support the delivery of the schemes within the Abingdon-on- developed, will assist in achieving flows through Marcham are presently following transport schemes: Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub- sustainable development associated constrained by narrow roads and the Area41. Two of these are for new Park with the additional housing proposed village centre has been identified • South Abingdon-on-Thames Bypass and Ride sites for accessing Oxford in the Part 2 plan42. as an Air Quality Management Area linking the A415 to the west and from the A34 and A420 corridors (AQMA)43. Whilst there is currently south of the town, including a new in an effort to reduce congestion 2.81. As explained above, and in no funding identified to support River Thames crossing accessing Oxford. These are addition to a new Park and Ride facility the delivery of a bypass, land is proposed for delivery within the plan at Lodge Hill, land is also safeguarded safeguarded to ensure its potential • Diamond Interchange at the A34 period up to 2031 and have been for an additional lane on the A34 to long-term provision is not prejudiced. Lodge Hill Junction, and identified as strategic priorities for accommodate a single carriageway the County Council. In addition, the north-bound bus lane between the

40, 41, 42Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015-2031, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/connecting-oxfordshire 43http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and- advice/environment/pollution/air-quality

40 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

2.84. The Council will continue to work Figure 2.4: Proposed opportunities for highway, public transport, walking and cycling improvements within the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford with Oxfordshire County Council to Fringe Sub-Area. investigate opportunities for improving 1 public transport, cycling and walking within this Sub-Area, especially in the context of the new sustainable community proposed for Dalton Barracks.

2

3

4

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 41 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 12a: Safeguarding of Land for Upper Thames Strategic Water the Upper Thames Reservoir remains Strategic Highway Improvements within the Storage Reservoir as its preferred option, if a large Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford Fringe storage reservoir solution is found Sub-Area 2.85. The Part 1 plan safeguards land to be necessary. Land safeguarded for the possible future provision of a for a proposed reservoir to the North Strategic Water Storage Reservoir of is updated in Core In addition to land safeguarded for identified transport schemes set out in within the Vale between the villages Policy 14a following Thames Water’s Core Policy 12 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) the following schemes are also of Drayton, East Hanney, Steventon, Fine Screening Report Update (April safeguarded: and to the North of Longworth (Core 2017)45, which confirms that the site no Policy 14: Strategic Water Storage longer needs to be safeguarded. i. Park and Ride site for accessing Oxford from the A420 corridor at Reservoirs). Core Policy 14 also Cumnor facilitates the provision for a new route 2.88. In order to fully reflect the ii. Park and Ride site for accessing Oxford from the A34 corridor at of the Wilts and Berks Canal, should updated plans prepared by Thames Lodge Hill any proposal for a reservoir come Water (the latest plans were not forward in the future. reflected in the adopted version of iii. Single carriageway north-bound bus lane between the Lodge Hill A34 the Part 1 plan46), the Local Plan Interchange and Hinksey A34 Interchange, and 2.86. Thames Water is examining 2031: Part 2 updates the area to be iv. Provision for a public transport and cycle link between Dalton the means by which sufficient water safeguarded for the possible future Barracks and the Lodge Hill Park and Ride site, and can be provided to meet the future provision of the Upper Thames v. South Marcham Bypass linking the A415 to the west of Marcham and needs of the region. The shortlisted Reservoir (Core Policy 14a). east of Marcham options include new strategic water storage capacity in the Upper Thames These schemes are safeguarded in accordance with Core Policy 12 and Catchment and the possible need for a as shown by maps in Appendix B and the Adopted Policies Mapa major new reservoir within the district.

a The area shown on the Adopted Policies Map illustrates where Core Policy 12 will apply. It does not seek to show a precise alignment for the transport scheme, which will need to be informed by detailed design 2.87. The Water Resources work, carried out in consultation with Oxfordshire County Council and other relevant parties. Management Plan (WRMP) 201444, published by Thames Water, confirms

44Thames Water (2014) Water Resources Management Plan (WRMP), available at: https://corporate.thameswater.co.uk/about-us/our-strategies-and-plans/water-resources/developing-our-next-plan---wrmp19 45Thames Water (2017) Thames Water WRMP19 Resource Options - Fine Screening Report Update, April 2017, available at: https://corporate.thameswater.co.uk/About-us/Our-strategies-and-plans/Water-resources/Document-library/Thames-Water-reports 46Land was safeguarded in the Part 1 Plan for a future reservoir between the settlements of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon in accordance with Core Policy 14: Strategic Water Storage Reservoirs. The safeguarded area has been updated in the Part 2 Plan to include additional land for ancillary works, following evidence submitted by Thames Water at Regulation 19 stage for the Publication Version of the Local Plan 2031: Part 1: Strategic Sites and Policies.

42 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 14a: Upper Thames Strategic Storage Reservoir 1

Land is safeguarded for a reservoir and ancillary works between the settlements of Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon in accordance with the proposals set out in the Water Resources Management Plan 2014 and Core Policy 14 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1).

This Policy replaces the area safeguarded between the settlements of 2 Drayton, East Hanney and Steventon as shown by the Adopted Policies Map and Appendix D.

3

4

7

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 43 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

South-East Vale Sub-Area arguably the most important and in 2015 and partnership working is West and East Harwell Campus) significant growth corridor in Oxfordshire now under way to plan for the future reduced the planned housing supply Additional site allocations and and one of the most important in the of the settlement and area more in the Science Vale area by 1,400 strategic policies for the South-East South-East of England48. comprehensively. This will ensure dwellings. The replacement of these Vale Sub-Area that Didcot can fulfil its potential as a sites within the Part 2 plan will not only 2.91. For these reasons, the Sub-Area service centre at the heart of Science provide additional housing supply, 2.89. The South East Vale Sub-Area is planned to accommodate around 70 Vale and provide quality and fit-for- but will also assist with delivering the provides the main focus for housing % of our projected employment growth purpose facilities and services for its Spatial Strategy and the aim of the and economic growth within the Vale (15,830 of 23,000 jobs) and around 75 expanding population. plan objective to achieve sustainable of White Horse District, as identified % of the housing identified by the Part development overall. The Council by the Spatial Strategy set out in 1 plan. 2.94. The Part 1 plan identified considers that additional housing is Core Policy 4 within the Local Plan sites for strategic housing growth required to: 2031: Part 1. The Sub-Area contains 2.92. This Sub-Area contains the at a number of locations within this a number of internationally significant market town of Wantage, the local Sub-Area, including at Wantage • help to achieve and maintain a Science Vale sites, including the service centre of Grove and extends and Grove, on sites within the Vale sustainable balance of housing and Enterprise Zone sites at Harwell eastwards to Harwell and Milton adjoining the settlement of Didcot, employment within the Science Campus and Milton Park. parishes, which sit on the western and at the sustainable larger villages Vale area by ensuring that housing edge of Didcot. The settlement of of Milton Heights, Harwell and Sutton is located close to the provision 2.90. Science Vale is also one of Didcot itself lies within neighbouring Courtenay. of new jobs and is accessible by the key growth areas set out within South Oxfordshire, but some of sustainable modes of travel the Oxfordshire Strategic Economic the housing proposed for the area 2.95. Modifications to the Part 1 plan Plan and is the focus of significant is located within the Vale and both removed two sites proposed on land • help to deliver the Science Vale investment from the Oxford and Councils are working closely to plan adjoining Harwell Campus within Strategic Infrastructure Package49 Oxfordshire City Deal announced in for the area together. the North Wessex Downs Area of through developer contributions by 2014 47. The City Deal seeks to support Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). assisting further in the achievement a wave of innovation-led growth to 2.93. The settlement of Didcot, and of sustainable development within maximise the area’s world class assets. those adjoining parishes located 2.96. The removal from the Part the Science Vale area Science Vale sits at the southern end within the Vale of White Horse, 1 plan of these two sites located of the Oxfordshire ‘Knowledge Spine’; were identified as a Garden Town adjacent to Harwell Campus (North- • support the Oxfordshire LEP priority

47, 48Oxford and Oxfordshire City Deal (2014); available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/city-deal-oxford-and-oxfordshire 49Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015-2031, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/ltp4-policy-and-overall-strategy

44 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

for accelerating housing delivery 2031. These include the site at Grove ensuring they are fully integrated. It within the Oxfordshire Knowledge Airfield, which was allocated in the is, however, expected that housing 50 Spine growth corridor , and Local Plan 2011 and the policy (H5) for development on the North-West of 1 this site continues to be saved (Core Grove site will not come forward until • in the case of housing at Harwell Policy 15a and Appendix E). towards the end of the plan period and Campus, deliver bespoke housing much closer to 2031. types and tenures tailored 2.99. It is important that the new specifically to meet the identified development planned for Wantage business and local economic needs and Grove delivers infrastructure (such of the Campus. as new services, facilities and roads) alongside the delivery of new housing. 2 2.97. For the above reasons, the To assist with infrastructure delivery in Part 2 plan allocates two additional this area, an additional development sites within this Sub-Area at the site is allocated in the Part 2 plan at local service centre of Grove and North-West of Grove on land between at Harwell Campus (albeit on land the Monks Farm and Grove Airfield already allocated for development51; sites. Figure 2.5). Development at Harwell 3 Campus will be considered within 2.100. The allocation of the North- a comprehensive development West of Grove Site will assist with framework approach in accordance delivering the North Grove Link Road with Core Policy 15b: Harwell (NGLR) that will form an important Campus Comprehensive connection between Grove Airfield and Development Framework. the A338, along with contributing to a range of other services and facilities. 2.98. The Part 1 plan allocates a Allocating this site will also ensure the 4 number of sites at Wantage and masterplanning for this site can be Grove and these are expected to be considered alongside planning for the delivered through the plan period up to Monks Farm and Grove Airfield sites,

50Oxford and Oxfordshire City Deal (2014); available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/city-deal-oxford-and-oxfordshire 51Harwell Campus is currently allocated for employment development through a combination of Core Policy 6 and Saved Policy E7 (Appendix C).

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 45 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.5: Map showing additional allocations housing within the South-East Vale Sub-Area

46 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 15a: Additional Site Allocations for

South-East Vale Sub-Area 1

The overarching priority and Settlement Hierarchy for this Sub-Area are set South-East Vale Sub-Area Housing Supply out in Core Policy 15: Spatial Strategy for South-East Vale Sub-Area (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) along with the strategy for addressing housing Category Number of need arising in the Vale of White Horse and for employment. Dwellings Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 12,150 b Housing Delivery 2 Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2017) 1,536 This policy sets out additional site allocations to complement those set Housing Supply Known Commitments 887 out within the Part 1 plan to assist with delivering the Spatial Strategy (Apr 2017 to Mar 2031) Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations 9,055 c and supporting infrastructure delivery. The additional allocation proposed Local Plan 2031: Part 2 allocations 1,400 at Harwell Campus is specifically proposed to help meet the identified Windfalls 484 d business and local economic needs of the Campus. Total remaining to be identified (at October 2017) 0

3 At least 12,150 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 2011 a This does not impact on the requirement for the Science Vale Ring Fence Area, as detailed in Core Policy 5 b the Sub-Area housing requirement is updated in-line with changes to the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford a and 2031. 9,055 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations . Fringe Sub-Area to reflect the residual necessary to meet the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for 1,400 dwellings will be delivered through additional allocations. Additional Oxford to be addressed within the Vale cLocal Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations include the saved Local Plan 2011 allocation at Grove Airfield for 2,500 dwellings (for example, windfalls) will be delivered through Neighbourhood homes as set out in Core Policy 15. This Local Plan 2011 allocation (Policy H5) continues to be saved. The Full Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. The Local Plan 2011 Policy for this site is set out in Appendix E d contribution of all sources of housing supply for this Sub-Area are shown in windfall figures are updated to reflect past delivery the following table: 4

Continued overpage

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 47 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Harwell Campus Comprehensive a number of key organisations and Core Policy 15a: Additional Site Allocations Design Framework facilities, including: the European for South-East Vale Sub-Area (continued Space Agency; the Health Protection from previous page) 2.101. Harwell Campus is a nationally Agency; the Medical Research and internationally significant centre Council; the Science and Technology Additional Allocations for research and innovation and its Facilities Council’s Rutherford continued development is crucial Appleton Laboratory; and the Diamond In addition to the strategic site allocations set out in Core Policy 15, to both the success of the Oxford Light Source. development will be supported at the additional site allocations through Economy and the national prospects a masterplanning process involving the community, local planning for job growth associated with ‘big 2.105. Harwell Campus is a “world authority, developer and other stakeholders where development meets science’. leading hub for science technology the requirements set out within the Site Development Templates shown and business, boasting the diamond by Appendix A and are in accordance with the Development Plan taken 2.102. The Campus is located within Light Source, the largest UK funded as a whole. The following table sets out the additional development sites Science Vale and is at the heart of the scientific facility to be built for over 40 for this sub-area: Council’s strategy, as set out in the years”52. This puts the Campus in the adopted Local Plan 2031: Part 1 to top ten Science Parks in the world. Part 2 Allocations promote Science Vale as a world-class location for science and technology- 2.106. To ensure its continued Settlement / Parish Settlement Site Name Number of based enterprise and innovation. development and success, Harwell Type Dwellings Campus needs to compete on an e Grove Local Service Centre North-West of Grove 400 2.103. The Campus is around 294 international stage and provide a Harwell Campus Larger Villagef Harwell Campus 1,000 hectares in total and 93 hectares of the world class environment, which can Total 1,400 site were identified as an Enterprise continue to attract inward investment, Zone in 2012. The site is allocated commercial enterprise and highly for development by Core Policy 15 skilled staff. e The allocation at North-West of Grove has the capacity to deliver considerably more housing, subject to (Local Plan 2031: Part 1), which is appropriate infrastructure improvements. Housing which is in addition to the 400 homes is expected to be 2.107. delivered after 2031. complemented by Core Policies 15a To achieve its full potential, f Harwell Campus has services and facilities equivalent to a Larger Village. and 15b (Local Plan 2031: Part 2). the campus needs to evolve from a Science and Innovation Park to 2.104. The Campus already contains a world class campus environment

52UKSPA - Harwell Innovation Centre; available at: http://www.ukspa.org.uk/members/harwell-innovation-centre

48 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 15b: Harwell Campus Innovation Village. Development proposals will be considered in the Comprehensive Development Framework context of a comprehensive approach to the whole Campus, in accordance 1 with the criteria set out below. Additional guidance will be provided by a comprehensive development framework that will be published as a All new development at Harwell Campus will be guided by a Supplementary Planning Document and include: comprehensive development framework. i. development is in accordance with and meets the requirements of a The new housing allocated at Harwell Campus will be provided to an travel plan for the whole campus to make the necessary contributions in exemplar standard and in the form of an Innovation Village to unlock order to implement sustainable transport initiatives, including minimising the unique potential for economic growth offered by the Campus. The car usage and increasing the use of public transport, walking and 2 new Innovation Village will be fully and successfully integrated with the cycling Campus, incorporating on-site services and facilities and reflect a tailored mix of dwellings to help meet the needs of the organisations located at ii. development is in accordance with and makes the necessary the Campus. This development will come forward in accordance with contributions to a comprehensive landscape plan for the whole Core Policies 15a and 15b and the Site Development Template set out in campus. No development will be permitted within structural areas of Appendix A. open space and perimeter landscaping. In considering proposals for new development and redevelopment, a high quality of landscaping 3 Sufficient land is also made available at Harwell Campus for research, will be required, existing important wildlife habitats will be retained innovation and economic development to accommodate at least 5,400 and opportunities for the creation of new wildlife will be taken, where net additional jobs in the plan period up to 2031 within the designated possible Enterprise Zone. iii. proposals for buildings and structures (including their extensions) Proposals for development within the Campus must demonstrate how will not unacceptably harm the character and appearance of the they contribute towards a comprehensive approach to development. surrounding area, taking into account their location, scale, bulk and height, and 4 The Council will continue to work with Harwell Campus, the LEP, the AONB Management Board and other relevant stakeholders to prepare iv. any external lighting scheme must have a minimal impact in terms of a comprehensive development framework for the Campus and the light pollution.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 49 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

offering a work-live-play community. innovators to live and work alongside 2.111. The development of a new Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding The new work-live-play community will each other. The CBRE survey neighbourhood is strongly supported Natural Beauty (AONB). The Part 2 be delivered as an Innovation Village, has shown strong support from by Oxfordshire Local Enterprise plan therefore makes provision for with a new residential neighbourhood Campus employers for the provision Partnership (LEP) and both Vale of around 1,000 dwellings at Land North being created as an attractive living of a community of this type at the White Horse District Council and of Harwell Campus in accordance with environment, designed to provide Campus, and it is considered that Oxfordshire County Council. Funds Core Policies 15a and 15b (Figure new homes for both permanent and this community is likely to attract new from the LEP are being secured 2.6). transient employees working both at employers to locate at the Campus. and directed to deliver important the Campus and within Science Vale. local infrastructure improvements to 2.114. However, it is important the 2.110. The development of a new support and enable both economic Campus also accommodates at 2.108. A survey of existing Campus neighbourhood at the Campus offers and housing growth to come forward least 5,400 net additional jobs in the organisations, undertaken by CBRE the opportunity to create a purpose- locally. plan period up to 2031 and has the for the Harwell Campus Partnership, built environment, tailored towards potential to provide further jobs beyond has shown that in addition to the housing needs of the Campus 2.112. Designation of much of the 2031, as ongoing decommissioning of business sector clustering, there and the local science community. campus as an Enterprise Zone is the licensed site takes place54. is predisposition towards social / The CBRE survey revealed that an equally important aspect of the community clustering among the the existing Campus organisations site’s development. The development 2.115. It is essential that both housing Campus workforce53. view accommodation costs locally makes a significant contribution to and future employment development and the lack of flexible (short-term) the Oxfordshire LEP business rate at Harwell Campus is brought 2.109. Providing for residential uses accommodation as a negative income derived from development on forward in line with a comprehensive as well as a business community factor that is affecting their ability Enterprise Zone land and it is therefore development framework. This is will foster more interconnectivity to attract suitably qualified staff. A crucial that employment development important not only to ensure that between the different individuals new, purpose-built environment will on the Enterprise Zone continues to be new development supports the and organisations. The aspiration also be a key advantage in terms supported. vision for the Campus, but to ensure of the Campus is to create a of sustainability and will reduce the development is fully integrated with vibrant community, to allow greater potential need to travel both now 2.113. The Council considers, for the Campus, reflects its location within cooperation and cross-pollination and in the future as new companies the reasons explained here, that the North Wessex Downs Area of of ideas by providing opportunities and research establishments look to ‘exceptional circumstances’ exist to Outstanding Natural Beauty, and is for scientists, technologists and relocate to the Campus. justify development within the North developed to ensure that any further

53SQW (2017) Harwell Campus “Exceptional Circumstances” report, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 54Cambridge Econometrics and SQW (2014) Economic Forecasting to Inform the Oxfordshire Strategic Economic Plan and Strategic Housing Market Assessment

50 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies strategic infrastructure improvements • There is a need for the • The cost of developing elsewhere sites would prevent the objective are delivered in parallel. development (including national is greater and the scope for doing to support a single sustainable 1 considerations): so is very limited: community from being achieved. 1 2.116. Based on the detailed evidence listed above, the Council - the underlying scientific asset - It is considered that the impact - The Council have considered considers that there are ‘exceptional base is world class, but without of not supporting residential a wide range of alternative circumstances’ to justify residential sufficient numbers of suitably development at Harwell Campus development sites, including those development at Harwell Campus qualified people who are willing would be detrimental to the at Rowstock, West of Harwell 2 that are in the public interest and in and able to commit to working at local economy, and in particular, Village, Milton Heights and North accordance with national policy. These Harwell, its impact will be stymied prevent the sites unique potential of East Hendred. These sites can be summarised as: to support nationally and are constrained, including the 2 - The need for the development internationally important growth in likelihood of leading to greater • The development is in the public has been demonstrated by the science and innovation business. impact on the setting of the North interest: Campus, and lead organisations Wessex Downs AONB. 3 located at the Campus, and - The Enterprise Zone site is - Harwell must be recognised is strongly supported by the considered to be of sufficient size • There will be limited detrimental as a national and international Department for Business, Energy to support delivery of the identified effects on the environment, asset which has seen substantial and Industrial Strategy and the employment growth projected for the landscape and recreational 3 investment and in which further Oxfordshire Local Enterprise this site within the Plan period up opportunities: investment in leading-edge Partnership. The development of to 2031. The wider Campus site scientific facilities is proceeding an Innovation Village offering a contains substantial land available - The land proposed for 4 apace. The UK taxpayer has highly sustainable ‘live-work-play’ to support further, and longer development at Harwell invested substantially, over community is considered essential term, economic growth. Campus is already allocated for decades, and is continuing to to unlock the potential of the development and is predominantly do so. Taking steps to ensure a campus and ensure it continues - Developing a sustainable ‘work- brownfield (previously developed) significant return on investment to offer a world class facility. The live-play’ community in the form land (Appendix C). 4 is certainly therefore in the public housing proposed will offer a of an Innovation Village could 5 interest. tailored mix of types and tenures only be realistically provided - It has been demonstrated that the to appropriately reflect the unique on-site. Trying to provide a multi- proposed residential development needs of the Campus. campus approach using remote at Harwell Campus would have

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 51 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

limited impact on the landscape Planning Document (SPD). A Local • facilities capacity study setting of the AONB and those Development Order (LDO) will also demonstrating how proposals limited impacts that have been be prepared to facilitate the effective will deliver enhanced community identified are capable of being and accelerated planning of proposals services, infrastructure, recreational successfully mitigated. coming forward on the Campus. The facilities and improved retail Framework will provide more detailed facilities, and - Detailed work is ongoing to guidance to inform proposals for • statement on contamination. develop a comprehensive development on the site, including the development framework for the need for the following: site, which includes, for example, the need to achieve a high quality • landscape and visual assessment, landscaping scheme (Core Policy including on the North Wessex 15b). Downs AONB and the development of a heights parameters plan for the 2.117 The requirements for the campus housing allocation at Harwell Campus • design statement demonstrating will be brought forward in accordance how the scheme will achieve with the Site Development Template exemplar design that is fully set out in Appendix A. The formerly integrated with the wider Framework saved Local Plan 2011 (Policy E7: Masterplan and is consistent with Harwell Science and Innovation the Council’s Design Guide SPD Campus) is also replaced by the Part • ecological assessment 2 plan Core Policy 15b. including mitigation plans and, where considered appropriate, 2.118. The Council will work with compensation plans Harwell Campus Partnership and • light pollution assessment other key stakeholders to prepare • transport assessment and travel a comprehensive development plans framework for the campus, which • historic buildings and historic will be adopted as a Supplementary environment assessment

52 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.6: Proposed site allocation development boundary at Harwell Campus.

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Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 53 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Didcot Garden Town science and technology to support Didcot Garden Town. The Garden continued and accelerated growth of Town Masterplan Area does not form Core Policy 16b: 2.119. The Government announced businesses in these sectors. a development boundary for Didcot Didcot Garden that Didcot would become a Garden and will include substantial areas of Town Town in December 2015. Garden 2.122. The Garden Town initiative formal and informal open space and Towns are locally-led and ambitious will help to shape growth already green infrastructure. The important proposals for new communities that identified through the Local Plan 2031: separation between the surrounding Proposals for development work as self-sustaining places and Part 1 within the Vale and that being villages, including for example within the Didcot Garden Town should have high quality and good identified within the emerging Local Sutton Courtenay, will continue to be Masterplan Area, as defined on design embedded from the outset55. Plan 2033 for South Oxfordshire protected from development. the Adopted Policies Map and for housing, employment and shown by Figure 2.8, will be 2.120. The designation of Didcot and infrastructure. The emerging South 2.124. To assist the delivery of the expected to demonstrate how the neighbouring parishes in the Vale Oxfordshire Local Plan will focus on Garden Town, further detail, for they positively contribute to of White Horse as a Garden Town is shaping the town centre of Didcot example in respect of design, will be the achievement of the Didcot an exciting opportunity. Both South and helping the area to function set out either in a future Development Garden Town Masterplan Oxfordshire and the Vale of White more successfully in a joined-up way, Planning Document (DPD) or Principles (Figure 2.7). Horse District Councils are working whilst embracing the key principles of Supplementary Planning Document closely together and in partnership Garden Towns. (SPD). Local Development Orders with Oxfordshire County Council and (LDOs) will also be developed to other key stakeholders to develop a 2.123. To support the successful support the delivery of individual sites. joined-up vision and delivery strategy implementation of the Garden Town for the area. initiative, seven high level principles have been developed (Figure 2.7) 2.121. It is important that the area to help shape how development realises its potential as a thriving and proposals come forward. Proposals attractive location to live, work and for development within the Garden visit and in particular to provide a high Town Masterplan Area will be quality service centre at the heart of expected to demonstrate how they Science Vale. This will allow Science comply with these principles in Vale’s international reputation for accordance with Core Policy 16b:

55CLG (2016) Locally-led Garden Villages, Towns and Cities; available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/locally-led-garden-villages-towns-and-cities

54 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.7: Didcot Garden Town Masterplan Principles

1. Design – The Garden Town will be characterised by design that adds value to Didcot and endures over time; it will encourage pioneering architecture of 1 buildings and careful urban design of the spaces in between, prioritising green spaces over roads and car parks. All new proposals should show the application of the Council’s adopted Design Guide SPD and demonstrate best practice design standards. 2. Local Character – The Garden Town will establish a confident and unique identity, becoming a destination in itself that is distinctive from surrounding towns and villages whilst respecting and protecting their rural character and setting. Didcot’s identity will champion science, natural beauty, and green living, in part delivered through strengthened physical connections and active public and private sector collaboration with the Science Vale. 3. Density and tenure – The Garden Town will incorporate a variety of densities, housing types and tenures to meet the needs of a diverse community. This

will include high density development in suitable locations, such as in central Didcot and near sustainable transport hubs; higher density development will be 2 balanced by good levels of public realm and accessible green space. 4. Transport and movement – The Garden Town will reduce reliance on motorised vehicles and will promote a step-change towards active and public transport through the creation of a highly legible, attractive and accessible movement network and the appropriate location of housing, employment and leisure facilities. The Garden Town will seek to improve opportunities for access to sport and physical activities through Sport England’s Active Design Principles. Cycling and pedestrian links between the Garden Town, its surrounding villages, and natural assets and the strategic employment sites will be enhanced. 5. Heritage – the Garden Town will conserve and enhance heritage assets, both designated and non-designated, within and adjacent to the development

area. This includes the Scheduled Monuments of the settlement sites north of Milton Park and east of Appleford and any archaeological remains and historic 3 landscapes and / or landscape features identified in the Oxfordshire Historic Environment Record, the Oxfordshire Historic Landscape Character Assessment, other sources and / or through further investigation and assessment. 6. Landscape and Green Infrastructure – New development in the Garden Town will enhance the natural environment, through enhancing green and blue infrastructure networks, creating ecological networks to support an increase (or where possible achieve a net gain) in biodiversity and supporting climate resilience through the use of adaptation and design measures.The Garden Town will also seek to make effective use of natural resources including energy and water efficiency, as well as exploring opportunities for promoting new technology within developments. Innovative habitat planting and food growing zones will characterise the Garden Town and, in turn, these measures will support quality of life and public health. 4 7. Social and community benefits – The planning of the Garden Town will be community-focused, creating accessible and vibrant neighbourhoods around a strong town centre offer of cultural, recreational and commercial amenities that support well-being, social cohesion and vibrant communities. The Garden Town will embrace community participation throughout its evolution. It will promote community ownership of land and long-term stewardship of assets where desirable.

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 55 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.8: Didcot Garden Town Masterplan area.

56 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Safeguarding of land for strategic could have major benefits in relieving highway infrastructure necessary over A34 at Milton Heights) are being highway improvements within the strategic traffic from the A34 and to ensure planned employment and investigated as part of ongoing work South-East Vale Sub-Area bringing further investment to the housing development in the area led by the County Council, and for 1 Science Vale area56. A number of can be sustainably accommodated this reason, land is safeguarded in 2.125. The South-East Vale Sub-Area route options have been proposed, and requires all new development Core Policy 18a to avoid their future contains much of the Science Vale with routes around Oxford linking to contribute to the delivery of these delivery being prejudiced. area, Enterprise Zone sites, other with the A34 either to the north or schemes. significant employment locations south of Abingdon. Outline costs 2.131 Land is safeguarded for the and forms the southern part of the have been produced, with value for 2.128 Core Policy 18: Safeguarding Culham to Didcot Thames River Oxfordshire Knowledge Spine; money, environmental, transport and of Land for Transport Schemes in Crossing in the Local Plan 2031: Part perhaps the most significant growth economic impacts feeding into a the South-East Vale Sub-Area (Local 1, in accordance with Core Policy 18: 2 corridor identified in Oxfordshire detailed study, including a Strategic Plan 2031: Part 1) safeguards land Safeguarding of Land for Transport and one of the most important in the Outline Business Case, which will be for 12 strategic highway schemes to Schemes in the South-East Vale South-East of England. published in 2017. The Council will ensure the delivery of these schemes Sub-Area. continue to liaise with the relevant is not prejudiced. 2.125. For these reasons, the South- organisations and stakeholders as 2.132 Ongoing work has identified East Vale Sub-Area forms the focus the study continues to develop, in 2.129 Vale of White Horse District a need to amend the area of land of employment and housing growth order to understand the impacts and Council continues to work in safeguarded for the Culham to Didcot 3 within the Vale and is supported by a opportunities it presents for the district. partnership with Oxfordshire County Thames River Crossing (referred to comprehensive package of strategic It is expected that any proposal will be Council, Highways England and other in Local Plan 2031: Part 1 as ‘a new infrastructure. This includes highway included in the next Road Investment key stakeholders to plan for highway strategic road connection between the infrastructure set out in the Science Strategy which falls within the plan infrastructure in this area and work A415 east of Abingdon-on-Thames Vale Area Strategy that forms part of period; 2020 to 2025. is ongoing to continue to plan for the and the A4130 north of Didcot’). On the Oxfordshire Local Transport Plan future needs of the area. this basis, it is proposed that the 4. 2.127 Core Policy 17: Delivery of safeguarded area is updated in Strategic Highway Improvements 2.130 Additional strategic highway accordance with Core Policy 18a: 4 2.126 The announcement by the within the South-East Vale Sub- infrastructure schemes (dedicated Safeguarding of Land for Transport Department for Transport to explore Area (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) access to / from the A34 to Milton Schemes in the South-East Vale an Oxford – Cambridge Expressway identifies a package of strategic Park and pedestrian and cycle bridge Sub-Area.

56CLG (2016) Oxford to Cambridge Expressway Strategic Study: Stage 3 Report, available at: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/oxford-tocambridge-expressway-strategicstudy-stage-3-report and HM Treasury (2016) Autumn Statement 2016, available at: www.gov.uk/government/ publications/autumn-statement-2016-document

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 57 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 18a: Safeguarding of Land for Core Policy 19a: Re-opening of Grove Railway Strategic Highway Improvements within the Station South-East Vale Sub-Area

Land is safeguarded to support the delivery of a new Thames River Land is safeguarded to support the re-opening of the railway station at Crossing between Culham and Didcot, in accordance with Core Policy Grove in accordance with Core Policy 19 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1). 18 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1). This policy updates the area safeguarded at Grove as shown by the This policy updates the area safeguarded as shown by the Adopted Adopted Policies Map and Appendix B. Policies Map and Appendix B.

In addition to land safeguarded for identified transport schemes set out in 2.133 The Council continues to which was not available to inform the Core Policy 18 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) the following schemes are also support the re-opening of a railway Part 1 plan. This work has identified safeguarded: station at Grove in accordance with a need to safeguard a wider area for • dedicated access to / from the A34 to Milton Park Core Policy 19 and is working in the provision of a new station until the partnership with Oxfordshire County detailed feasibility work is completed • provision for a new pedestrian and cycle bridge across the A34 at Council and others to investigate how and a preferred location identified. Milton Heights. this ambition could be realised within On this basis, the safeguarded area These schemes are safeguarded in accordance with Core Policy 18 and the plan period. Detailed feasibility is updated in accordance with Core as shown by maps in Appendix B and the Adopted Policies Mapa. work is now underway to inform the Policy 19a: Re-opening of Grove preferred location of a new station, Railway Station. aThe area shown on the Adopted Policies Map illustrates where Core Policy 18 will apply. It does not seek to show a precise alignment for the transport scheme, which will need to be informed by detailed design work, carried out in consultation with Oxfordshire County Council and other relevant parties.

58 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Western Vale Sub-Area the Vale. Core Policy 20a clearly Plans, or come forward through the 2.134 For the reasons explained demonstrates that this requirement has Development Management Process, above, the Part 2 plan does not 2.132 The Western Vale Sub-Area been adequately planned for, although where in accordance with the identify any additional site allocations 1 is predominantly rural in character additional development may still be Development Plan. within the Western Vale Sub-Area. and contains the historic market allocated in future Neighbourhood town of Faringdon and a number of attractive rural villages. It forms an important part of the district and it was necessary for the Part 1 plan to make provision for appropriate development within this Sub-Area (less than 15 % 2 of the Part 1 allocations). However, the Western Vale Sub-Area contains less opportunity for strategic employment growth than, for example, the South- East Vale Sub-Area, and may be considered less well related to Oxford than, for example, the Abingdon-on- 3 Thames and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area (Figure 2.9).

2.133 The housing requirement for this Sub-Area is updated by Core Policy 20a: Housing Supply for Western Vale Sub-Area in-line with changes made to the Abingdon-on-Thames 4 and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area to reflect the residual necessary to meet the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for Oxford to be addressed within

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 59 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Core Policy 20a: Housing Supply for Western Western Vale Sub-Area Housing Supply Vale Sub-Area Category Number of Dwellings Housing requirement for the full plan period (Apr 2011 to Mar 2031) 3,098 a The overarching priority and Settlement Hierarchy for this Sub-Area are set Housing Completions (Apr 2011 to Mar 2017) 1,085 out in Core Policy 20: Spatial Strategy for South-East Vale Sub-Area (Local Plan 2031: Part 1) along with the strategy for addressing housing Housing Supply Known Commitments 773 need arising in the Vale of White Horse and for employment. (Apr 2017 to Mar 2031) Local Plan 2031: Part 1 allocations 1,650 Local Plan 2031: Part 2 allocations 0 Housing Delivery Windfalls 308 b Total remaining to be identified (at October 2017) 0 This policy updates the housing supply for the Western Vale Sub-Area to aThe Sub-Area housing requirement is updated in-line with changes to the Abingdon-on-Thames and Oxford ensure consistency with the other two Sub-Areas located across the district. Fringe Sub-Area to reflect the residual necessary to meet the agreed quantum of unmet housing need for There is no contribution towards the agreed quantum of unmet housing Oxford to be addressed within the Vale. bWindfall figures are updated to reflect past delivery. need for Oxford City to be addressed within the Vale of White Horse within this Sub-Area and no additional site allocations are set out within the Part 2 plan.

At least 3,098 new homes will be delivered in the plan period between 2011 and 2031. 1,650 dwellings will be delivered through strategic allocations. Additional dwellings (for example, windfalls) will be delivered through Neighbourhood Development Plans or through the Development Management Process. The contribution of all sources of housing supply for this Sub-Area are shown in the following table:

60 Vale of White Horse District Council 2 Additional Sites and Sub-Area Strategies

Figure 2.9: Map showing strategic growth within the Western Vale Sub-Area

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Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 61 Overview The Local Plan 2031 (Parts 1 and 2) sets out a planning policy framework to guide development in the Vale up to 2031. The plan’s policies seek to achieve a balance between delivering new housing, supporting 3 economic growth and protecting the Vale’s high quality natural and built Development environment. The Part 1 plan sets out strategic district-wide policies necessary to deliver the plan’s Spatial Strategy and sub-area strategies. The Part 2 Management plan policies complement the Part 1 strategic policies and provide further detail on a range of specific matters.

Policies The policies in this chapter provide more detailed guidance to assist day-to-day decision making on planning applications (referred to as Development Policies). These policies have been developed following a review of extant Local Plan 2011 saved policies, which they replace, and an assessment of whether any additional detail is required to support the implementation of the Part 1 plan. This assessment has taken account of a number of evidence-based studies that help to inform the plan.

The Part 2 policies are structured into the four thematic areas as set out in the Part 1 plan. These are:

• building healthy and sustainable communities • supporting economic prosperity • supporting sustainable transport and accessibility, and • protecting the environment and responding to climate change. 3 Development Management Policies

Building Healthy and Housing Policies • Development Policy 1: Self and enabling rural workers’ dwellings to Sustainable Communities Custom Build – which promotes support rural businesses, and 3.4. The housing policies within Self Build and Custom Build to meet • Development Policy 7: Re-use, 1 Introduction Local Plan 2031: Part 2 aim to enable the need highlighted within the Self Conversion and Extension of the specific needs of current and Build Register Buildings for Dwellings in the 3.1. A key role of the Local Plan future residents to be met in relation • Development Policy 2: Space Open Countryside – which sets 2031 is the delivery of housing to to the sub-division of dwellings, Standards – which seeks to out the measures where the re- fully meet the identified need and to residential annexes, Self-Build and ensure internal space of housing use or conversion of buildings for ensure the housing provided is of an Custom-Build, and ensuring dwellings is delivered to an appropriate housing will be appropriate in the appropriate type to meet the district’s are built to appropriate space standard to reflect the needs of open countryside. requirements standards. the community. This includes the 2 optional building regulations and the Community Facilities Policies 3.2. The Part 1 plan identifies the 3.5. The policies in the Part 1 plan national described space standards overall housing need for the district seek to prevent isolated development • Development Policy 3: Sub- 3.7. Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Core and sets out a Spatial Strategy that in the countryside, other than where Division of Dwellings – which Policy 7 – Providing Supporting directs development towards the most exception policies apply57. However, sets out measures to ensure sub- Infrastructure and Services seeks sustainable locations. the Council recognises that instances division of housing is appropriately to ensure the provision of services can apply where housing may be designed and executed and facilities, to support the delivery 3 3.3. The Part 1 plan also identifies appropriate in the open countryside • Development Policy 4: of sustainable development within the a number of strategic district-wide and for this reason, the Part 2 plan Residential Annexes – which district. policies (Core Policies 22-27) that sets out policies to enable small- seeks to ensure that residential ensure the supply of housing is scale rural housing development in annexes are designed appropriately 3.8. The Part 2 plan policies relating of the right size, type and tenure the open countryside in the context • Development Policy 5: to community facilities seek to ensure to meet the needs of existing and of replacement dwellings, the re-use Replacement Dwellings in the appropriate protection of existing future residents. To help achieve the of existing dwellings or dwellings for Open Countryside – which sets facilities and guide the provision of strategic objectives set out within rural workers. out criteria to guide development in new community facilities to accessible 4 the Part 1 plan, the Part 2 plan sets the open countryside and viable locations. out policies that provide additional 3.6. The housing policies set out in • Development Policy 6: Rural detailed guidance on specific matters. the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 are: Workers’ Dwellings – which sets 3.9. Policies relating to community out the Council’s approach to facilities set out within the Part 2 plan are: 57Development in open countryside will not be appropriate unless specifically supported by other relevant policies as set out in the Development Plan or national policy, as stated in Core Policy 4: Meeting our Housing Needs in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 63 3 Development Management Policies

64 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

• Development Policy 8: Custom Housebuilding Act 201560 and 61 Community Services and Housing and Planning Act 2016 place Development Policy 1: Self and Custom-Build Facilities – which provides a number of duties on Local Planning 1 guidance where community Authorities (LPAs). These include The Council will support the provision of plots for sale to self and custom services and facilities, including keeping a register of individuals and builders on major development sites. village and community halls, will be associations who have expressed an supported, and interest in acquiring serviced plots or in Self and Custom-Build plots may contribute towards affordable housing • Development Policy 9: Public custom build. LPAs should also have provision and will need to comply with Core Policy 24: Affordable Housing. Houses – which provides regard to the demand recorded on With this in mind, the Council will consider making decisions where protection for retaining existing the register in the preparation of Local appropriate. Planning permissions will include conditions requiring Self- public houses. Plans. The Housing and Planning Act 2 and Custom-Build housing to be completed within 3 years of a self or 2016 also requires LPAs to permit the custom builder purchasing a plot. Housing Policies development of sufficient serviced plots to match the demand on their Where plots have been made available and marketed appropriately for Self-Build and Custom-Build Self-Build and Custom Build Register. at least 12 months but have not sold, the plot(s) may either remain on the open market as Self or Custom-Build or be offered to the Council or a 3.10. The NPPF requires local 3.12. Vale of White Horse District Housing Association as land to deliver additional affordable housing within planning authorities to address the Council and South Oxfordshire 3 years of the date of a planning permission. 3 need for all types of housing, which District Council has asked individuals includes provision for Self-Build and and organisations looking to buy land After 3 years, if the plot has not been sold to a self or custom builder and 58 Custom-Build . Self-Build and Custom- to build their own home to express no affordable housing provider has expressed an interest in delivering Build housing is defined as dwellings their interest. The Council maintains affordable housing on the land, in accordance with Core Policy 24, the built or completed by (or commissioned an up to date Self- and Custom-Build developer will be able to develop the land for further private housing. by) an individual or association of Register that demonstrates interest individuals to be occupied as homes by in Self-Build within the district. As of The Council will develop a Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) those individuals59. August 2017, there were 174 recorded to provide detailed guidance on planning for Self- and Custom-Build 4 interests for Self and Custom-Build development within the Vale of White Horse district. 3.11. The recent Self-Build and in the district, although a number of aAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010

58CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 159, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework 59Housing and Planning Act 2015, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ ukpga/2016/22/contents/enacted 60Self-build and Custom Housebuilding Act 2015; available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2015/17/contents/enacted 61Housing and Planning Act 2016; available at: http://www.legislation. gov.uk/ukpga/2016/22/contents/enacted

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 65 3 Development Management Policies

these related to both Vale and South 3.15. Where opportunities arise LPAs is optional, but in order to adopt standards required for dwellings, Oxfordshire districts62. for Self-Build plots to be provided these approaches, evidence and however LPAs can choose to through major development justification is required64, 65. set Optional Higher Accessibility 3.13. The Council will positively proposals, the Council will support Standards than these minimum encourage opportunities for Self-Build their provision in small clusters where 3.17. The Oxfordshire Strategic standards based on local evidence67. provision to support those who wish they are appropriately designed and Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) to construct a Self or Custom-Build incorporated into the masterplan for 2014 demonstrates that there is a 3.19. The National Described Space home. The Council’s Housing Delivery the site and consistent with other need for housing to be delivered in Standards identify standards for Strategy (2017)63 demonstrates that policies within the Development Plan. the Vale of White Horse District for the space within new dwellings and the majority of those interested in people with specific requirements, are suitable for application across Self-Build are looking for individual Space Standards such as the older population, and all tenures. The standards set out plots to allow them to construct a people with disabilities. Core Policy requirements for the minimum gross bespoke home and the Self and 3.16. Following the publication of the 26: Accommodating Current internal (floor) area and storage of Custom-Build Register will be used to Housing Standards Review in 2015, and Future Needs of the Ageing new dwellings. The PPG is clear bring together interested parties. the Government launched a new set Population identifies the need for that where a local planning authority of technical standards for internal housing to be designed to meet wishes to require the Nationally 3.14. The Council will therefore spaces in new buildings. The review the changing needs of the district’s Described Internal Space Standards, support opportunities for Self-Build concluded that government regulations residents throughout their lives. they can only do so through their in the district on proposals for major and space standards should be Local Plan68. development where in accordance simplified and recommended two 3.18. Part M(4) of the Building with Core Policy 3: Settlement approaches: the Optional Building Regulations 201066 sets out the 3.20. The Housing Delivery Strategy Hierarchy and Core Policy 4: Regulations for High Accessibility accessibility standards for dwellings, (2017) has identified a need for the Meeting our Housing Needs and Standards and the Nationally with requirements set out in three district to implement different levels the Development Plan taken as a Described Space Standards. The categories as summarised in Table of the nationally described internal whole. implementation of either approach by 3.1. Category 1 sets out the minimum space standards (these are set

­62The Council obtains a register to record self and custom build interest in the Vale for internal use for monitoring purposes. Individuals and organisations can also register their interest for plots for self-build and custom-build in both Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire Districts. Further information on self and custom build is available on the Council website at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/application-advice/general- planning-advice/custom-and-self 63The Council is currently preparing a Housing Delivery Strategy in partnership with South Oxfordshire District Council 64Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Councils have prepared a Housing Delivery Strategy, accompanied by a series of technical studies including: Wessex Economics (2017) – Housing Study: To support the development of a joint Housing Delivery Strategy for South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse, available at http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/housing/joint-housing-delivery-strategy 65(2014) Planning Practice Guidance: Ref 56-005-20150327; available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/housing- optional-technical-standards 66HM Government (2010) The Building Regulations 20101 – Approved Document M – Access to and use of buildings: Volume 1 – Dwellings, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ access-to-and-use-of-buildings-approved-document-m 67CLG (2015) Technical housing standards – nationally described space standard, available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/technical-housing-standards- nationally-described-space-standard 68CLG (2014) Planning Practice Guidance, Ref: 56-002-20160519; available at:

66 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

out in Appendix I) for one and two 3.21. Where LPAs intend to bed market housing and affordable adopt both the Optional Building Development Policy 2: Space Standards housing as set out in Development Regulations for Higher Accessibility 1 Policy 2: Space Standards. Standards and the Internal Space Proposals for new residential development should meet the following space standard requirements except where it can be demonstrated they would be unviablea.

Proposals for new build one and two bedroom market homes, and all Table 3.1: Part M of Building Regulations 2010 affordable housing, will need to ensure they are in accordance with the Category Definition 2 Department for Communities and Local Government’s Technical Housing M4(1) Category 1 - Visitable dwellings A new dwelling makes reasonable provision Standards - Nationally Described Space Standard Level 1 as set out in Appendix I. for most people, including wheelchair users, to approach and enter the dwelling and to Proposals for major residential development should ensure 15 % of market access and use the facilities. dwellings and all affordable housing are constructed to the Category 2 M4(2) Category 2 - Accessible and A new dwelling makes reasonable provision standard as set out in the Building Regulations Approved Document M adaptable dwellings for most people to access the dwelling. It Part 2. 3 incorporates features that make it potentially For site of 100 units or more, 5 % of affordable housing should be built to suitable for a wide range of occupants, Category 3 standard and an allowance of 2 % of market housing will be including older people, those with reduced delivered to Category 3 standards if there is demonstrable need. mobility and some wheelchair users. M4(3) Category 3 - Wheelchair user A new dwelling makes reasonable provision, dwellings either at completion or at a point following

completion for a wheelchair user to live in the 4 dwelling and use any associated private aViability should be set out in an independent viability assessment on terms agreed by the relevant parties, including the Council, and funded by the developer. This will involve an open book approach. outdoor space, parking and communal bAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010 facilities.

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Standards, the impact of their delivery implemented through the application availability of adequate parking within with Level 1 of the National Housing on viability needs to be considered. of Core Policy 22: Housing Mix. the site; and the provision of adequate Described Standards. A Viability Assessment has been garden and other amenity space. undertaken alongside preparation 3.23. The housing mix identified by Proposals need to demonstrate 3.25. The Sub-Division of dwellings of the Part 2 plan and includes an the Oxfordshire SHMA includes the compliance with Development are considered to be separate units assessment of these standards. need to provide for some smaller Policy 2: Space Standards, and which require their own facilities This concludes that the policies will housing units. These are particularly in particular will need to comply and living spaces. This differs from not have a detrimental impact on useful to help provide housing for viability. However, the PPG69 is clear younger households and for those that where there are instances that looking to downsize. The Council development may not be viable, therefore recognises that the sub- the requirement of delivering the division of existing units can help to Development Policy 3: Sub-Division of Dwellings Optional Building Regulations Higher provide a proportion of the smaller Accessibility Standards should not housing units needed, and that sub- be applied. Development Policy 2 division can make an effective use The sub-division of dwellings will be permitted provided that: therefore includes some flexibility in of land. However, the sub-division of relation to viability. larger housing units can sometimes i. each dwelling will be completely self-contained and have adequate give rise to a detrimental effect on a living space in accordance with Development Policy 2: Space ‘Sub-Division’ of Dwellings building’s design and the amenity of Standards neighbours and the surrounding area. ii. it is of a good quality design which maintains or enhances the character 3.22. As part of new housing and appearance of the building, street scene and surroundings in provision there is a need to ensure an 3.24. To ensure accommodation is accordance with the Council’s Design Guide SPD appropriate balance of housing types. provided of an appropriate standard, iii. there would be no demonstrable harm to the amenity of the occupiers The Oxfordshire Strategic Housing proposals for sub-division need to of neighbouring properties, and Market Assessment70 (SHMA) consider and demonstrate: provision iv. adequate and safe access to each of the dwellings is achieved. and recommends a suitable housing mix of adequate living space; an appropriate parking is provided in accordance with Core Policy 35: to meet the district’s needs. The appropriate layout of rooms; adequate Promoting Public Transport, Cycling and Walking. delivery of this housing mix will be noise insulation measures; the

69CLG (2014) Planning Practice Guidance, Ref: 56-002-20160519; available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/housing-optional-technical-standards 70CGL Hearn (2014) Oxfordshire Strategic Housing Market Assessment, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031/evidence-base/strategi

68 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Houses of Multiple Occupancy (HMO) surrounding area (Development 26: Current and Future Needs of there is a strong functional which have separate bedrooms but Policy 22: Impact of Development the Ageing Population, and for this relationship between the existing shared facilities. The sub-division of on Amenity) and that measures to reason Development Policy 4 is set dwelling and the annex, and the 1 dwellings require planning permission minimise any adverse effect on the out below to address this requirement. annex is within the curtilage of the which is monitored on an annual amenity of neighbouring properties existing dwelling. This will apply for basis, whilst HMO’s can be completed are an integral part of the proposal. 3.30. It is essential that proposals both detached and non-detached under Permitted Development for residential annexes demonstrate units. Where the proposal is for a Rights71. 3.28. The sub-division of housing units should also ensure that safe and 3.26. The sub-division of units can appropriate access is provided as well Development Policy 4: Residential Annexes also give rise to significant changes as the provision of adequate parking, 2 in the external appearance of which should be in accordance with dwellings and their curtilage. It is the Highway Authority’s guidance73 Proposals for both detached and attached residential annexes will be therefore essential that good design and the Council’s Design Guide SPD74. permitted provided that: is incorporated into proposals to Compliance with Core Policy 35 and minimise their impact on the character Development Policy 15: Access, will i. it has been demonstrated there is a strong functional relationship and appearance of the building and also need to be demonstrated. between the existing dwelling and the proposed annex surrounding area, and to maintain or ii. the annex is within the curtilage of the existing dwelling 3 enhance its character. Compliance Residential Annexes iii. the size, scale, location and design of the annex is subordinate to the with Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Core existing dwelling Policy 37: Design and Local 3.29. Residential annexes within the iv. it is appropriate in size to meet its stated purpose Distinctiveness and the adopted curtilage of existing dwellings can v. there would be no demonstrable harm to the amenity of neighbouring Design Guide72 will be critical. help to meet accommodation needs of residents growing families, such as for families vi. adequate and safe access is achieved, and 3.27. Proposals will also need to to support older or disabled relatives. vii. the design and siting of the annex is capable of being reasonably demonstrate that they do not lead Such proposals are not covered by integrated with the function of the original dwelling once the need for it 4 to an impact on the amenity of the Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Core Policy has ceased, without creating an independent dwelling unit in the future.

71The change of use from Use Class C4 to a single dwelling with up to six residents (Use Class C3) is covered by Permitted Development Rights. Proposals involving the change of use of an HMO that exceeds this threshold will require planning permission 72Vale of White Horse Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) (2015), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/local- development-framework/supplementar-2 73Oxfordshire County Council (2014) Transport for New Developments: Transport Assessment and Travel Plans, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/transport- new-developments 74Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/ local-development-framework/supplementar-2

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detached unit, the conversion of an and access of an annex should be in outbuilding would be preferable over accordance with the Council’s Design Development Policy 5: Replacement Dwellings in the construction of a new building. Guide SPD75. Open Countryside

3.31. The size, scale, location and Replacement Dwellings in the In the open countryside, the replacement of an existing dwelling will be design of the annex needs to be Open Countryside permitted provided that: appropriate and subordinate to the existing dwelling. Although the Council 3.33. The Council is seeking to i. it is for a new dwelling which replaces an existing dwelling and only on supports, where appropriate, the use avoid the development of new and a one-for-one basis of annexes, overdevelopment will isolated dwellings in the countryside ii. it is situated within the original footprint unless an alternative site can not be supported, nor the provision in accordance with the NPPF76. be shown to have greater benefits for the locality, and of singular independent units where However, where dwellings are iii. the size, scale, mass, footprint and visual impact of the new dwelling they would otherwise be considered constructed on previously developed respects the rural character, locality and landscape setting. inappropriate. For this reason, land and replace existing dwellings proposals will need to ensure they on a one-for-one basis, they will be can demonstrate how the annex considered in accordance with Core could reasonably be integrated into Policies 3 and 4 in the Local Plan 3.35. The replacement dwelling Rural Workers’ Dwellings the original dwelling, should the need 2031: Part 1, and Development should also occupy the same for the annex cease in the future. Policy 5: Replacement Dwellings in footprint as the original unless it can 3.36. The Council supports the The future use of annexes as single the Open Countryside. be demonstrated that an alternative provision and growth of rural dwellings will not be supported. location has clear benefits in terms enterprises in the district and is aware 3.34. Proposals will need to of its effect on the landscape, for that the demands of rural businesses 3.32. Proposals should demonstrate demonstrate how they respect the example, to site the replacement can sometimes necessitate the need they would not lead to a detrimental rural character, landscape and their dwelling within a less conspicuous, for one or more employees to live impact on the amenity of the locality in the open countryside, well-screened location. either at, or close to, their place of surrounding area or neighbouring through appropriate size, scale, work. This demand can arise from a residents. Safe and appropriate and mass and comparison of the range of rural based enterprises, such access to the annex would also replacement dwelling. as farming, forestry, and commercial need to be achieved. The design equine related businesses. The

75Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/local-development- framework/supplementar-2 76CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Paragraph 55

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Council will therefore support the Re-use, Conversion and Extension Development Policy 6: Rural Workers’ Dwellings need for rural workers’ dwellings in of Buildings to Dwellings in the the open countryside where there is a Open Countryside 1 demonstrable need in order to sustain The provision of a rural worker dwelling in the open countryside will be the effective operation of a viable rural 3.39. As set out above, new isolated permitted provided that: business. A financial appraisal will homes in the open countryside are 77 i. it is essential, and can be demonstrated there is an existing need for need to be provided with any proposal. contrary to national policy and should one or more permanent full time workers to be readily available at all be avoided. However, under special times for the rural enterprise to operate viably 3.37. The proposal will need to circumstances, developments that ii. the functional need cannot be met by other suitable and available demonstrate that there is no suitable re-use redundant or disused buildings 2 existing dwellings in the locality of the rural enterprise available existing accommodation in may be appropriate, if the resultant iii. the rural enterprise is economically sustainable, has been established the vicinity of the rural business (such development enhances the setting of for at least 3 years and is likely to remain economically viable for the as the nearest settlement) or buildings the development. On this basis, the foreseeable future suitable for re-use and conversion to Council supports the appropriate re- iv. the size and scale of the dwelling is commensurate with the needs of residential use, either on the site of the use or conversion of buildings in the the rural enterprise, and rural enterprise, or in its locality. open countryside. v. it respects the landscape setting, local character, and its locality. 3.38. Proposals from new rural 3.40. Appropriate re-use and 3 Development proposals will be required to submit a financial appraisal to enterprises requiring a rural worker conversion of buildings in the demonstrate that criteria (i) and (iii) are met. dwelling will need to demonstrate countryside can avoid existing how the business will be viable and buildings being left vacant and thus If a rural worker dwelling is essential to support a new rural enterprise it sustainable for the longer term. If the prone to vandalism and dereliction. should be provided temporarily by a caravan, a wooden structure which proposal complies with this policy, The re-use of these buildings can help can easily be dismantled, or other temporary accommodation for the first permission will be given for temporary to enhance the rural character and three years. accommodation for the first three locality, particularly where traditionally Planning permission will be subject to an appropriate occupancy years before an application for a designed buildings are brought back 4 condition, restricting its occupation to a person who is directly employed permanent dwelling will be considered. into use and their appearance is on a permanent full time basis by a rural enterprise in the locality. enhanced. Re-use and conversion can also help to reduce the demand for new developments in the countryside.

77CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Paragraph 55

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the original building alongside the local services and community facilities, Development Policy 7: Re-use, Conversion and re-use and conversion of the original which include public houses, local Extension of Buildings for Dwellings in the Open building, need to demonstrate they are shops and places of worship, to help Countryside proportionate to the original building. support economic growth within rural In the open countryside, the re-use, conversion and extension of buildings areas. Furthermore, paragraph 70 for housing will be permitted provided that: 3.43. Proposals located within the of the NPPF sets out the need to Oxford Green Belt will need to comply plan positively for the provision of i. the building is of permanent and substantial construction and is with Core Policy 13: Oxford Green community facilities and to protect capable of conversion without extensive reconstruction. A structural Belt and other relevant policies in the against their unnecessary loss. survey will be required and a detailed survey may be required, where Development Plan. appropriate 3.46. The Part 1 plan supports the ii. it respects the character, appearance and setting of the original Community Facilities provision and retention of community building, and Policies services and facilities and seeks to iii. it respects the rural landscape, character and locality, and enhance their vitality and sustainability iv. it retains features of architectural or historic merit, where appropriate. Community Services and Facilities wherever possible. Core Policy 3: Settlement Hierarchy, as set 3.41. Conversions need to be of 3.42. The re-use and conversion of 3.44. Community services and out in the Part 1 plan, classifies the a standard that would not result in buildings also needs to be in keeping facilities play a key role in creating settlements in the Vale according to the need for substantial alteration with their surrounding rural character and sustaining healthy and inclusive their role and function based on an or rebuilding. To demonstrate this, and locality as well as respecting the communities. The quality and assessment of their local services proposals need to provide a structural character and setting of the original accessibility of community services, and facilities79. report and, where relevant, a detailed building. Many old rural buildings such as schools, places of worship, survey of the original building. If the are of traditional design, often village and community halls and 3.47. Alongside Core Policy 3: proposal would result in a complete constructed using local materials libraries is important as part of Settlement Hierarchy, the Part 1 or substantial reconstruction of the and thus are in keeping with the rural maintaining sustainable and viable plan also seeks to direct growth to the buildings, then the proposal will be character and locality. Proposals places. most sustainable locations, namely considered under other relevant policies that lead to the enhancement of the the Market Towns, Local Service in the development plan regarding new traditional design of the building will 3.45. The NPPF78 refers to the Centres and Larger Villages (Core development in the countryside. be supported. Proposals that extend importance of retaining and developing Policy 4: Meeting our Housing

78CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 28 79Town and Village Facilities Study (2014); available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/dynamic_serve.jsp?ID=627990532&CODE=8A68D726 4487B3F058DCC613A1DAA55E

72 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Needs). Directing appropriate Development Policy 9: Public Development Policy 8: Community Services and levels of development to our most Houses. Facilities sustainable settlements helps to 1 protect and support the viability of our 3.50. Proposals for redeveloping a. Development proposals for the provision of new or extended community important community services and services or facilities that either lead facilities and services, including village and community halls will be facilities. to an improvement in the provision or supported, particularly where: would result in alternative provision will 3.48. The Council will continue to be supported provided the alternative i. they are located within or adjacent to the built-up area of an existing support the protection of existing provision is an improvement to or settlement community services and facilities. is equivalent to the facility lost, and ii. they would clearly meet an identified local needa, and Development Policy 8: Community is conveniently located to serve the 2 iii. they are accessible for all members of the community and promote Services and Facilities sets out community. social inclusion. criteria to inform proposals that would involve new provision, or the 3.51. Village and community halls are b. Development proposals that would result in the loss of existing loss of an existing facility. Proposals recognised as essential community community facilities and services, including village and community involving the loss of an existing facilities. They are often used to host halls, will only be supported where it can be demonstrated that: facility will need to provide evidence a variety of community events and to demonstrate how the facility is no activities, as well as contributing towards 3 iv. it would lead to the significant improvement of an existing facility, or longer economically viable and / or no developing community cohesion within the replacement of an existing facility equally convenient to the local longer meets a local need. Proposals new and existing developments. community it serves and with equivalent or improved facilities involving the change of use of local v. the facility is no longer economically viable for the established use, or shops and / or other Class A uses 3.52. The Council will support there is a suitable and sustainable alternative that is located nearby, will be assessed in accordance with proposals that involve the provision and Development Policy 12: Change of of new village and community halls vi. the facility is no longer required. Use of Retail Units. that are well located to serve the local community. Proposals for the loss 4 a a local standard is applied to village and community halls. This is set out in Appendix F. 3.49. Proposals that are likely to of existing village and community involve the loss of a public house halls will only be supported where will be assessed in accordance with developers are able to demonstrate

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that the criteria in Development Public Houses Policy 8: Community Services and Development Policy 9: Public Houses Facilities are adequately met. 3.55. Public houses are often valued as local facilities within the 3.53. A local standard has been communities they serve. For example, Proposals that would result in the loss of a Public House will only be developed (Appendix K) to ensure they may provide a meeting point, permitted where it can be clearly demonstrated that: proposals for new village halls and provide a venue for local events and i. the retention of the public house is not economically viable and it can community centres meet appropriate more generally provide both social be demonstrated that all reasonable efforts have been made to sell quality and accessibility measures. and economic benefits. The Part 1 or let the property as a public house on the open market at a realistic Developers should take this standard plan seeks to retain and improve the price, and into account, along with the Council’s vitality and sustainability of the Vale’s ii. there is no reasonable likelihood of a suitable alternative facility or Local Leisure Facilities Report rural communities, principally by service of benefit to the local community making use of the building. (2016)80, when preparing their supporting appropriate development, proposals. especially at the Vale’s larger villages. no reasonable prospects for the 3.54. The local standards for village 3.56. To help support the vitality building being used for an alternative halls and community centres will also of rural communities, the Council community use. be expected to guide proposals for will expect all reasonable options major development81. New provision or for retaining Public Houses to be improvements to existing facilities will considered before alternative uses be met through either the Community will be supported. Development Infrastructure Levy (CIL), or Section Policy 9: Public Houses sets out 106 planning obligations in accordance policy criteria for proposals that would with Core Policy 7: Providing involve the loss of a public house. In Supporting Infrastructure and accordance with this policy, evidence Services. will be required to demonstrate that the retention of the public house is no longer economically viable, that it has been marketed at a realistic market price and that there are

80Vale of White Horse District Council (2016) Local Leisure Facilities Report; available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 81As defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010

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Supporting Economic set out in Core Policy 6: Meeting Employment Policies • Development Policy 10: Ancillary Prosperity Business and Employment Needs Uses on Key Employment and safeguarded by each Sub-Area 3.63. The Part 1 plan Core Policy Sites – which seeks to support 1 Introduction Strategy (Core Policy 8: Spatial 6 allocates land for additional new the provision of ancillary uses on Strategy for Abingdon-on-Thames employment development over existing employment land 3.57. The Local Plan 2031 plans and Oxford Fringe Sub-Area; Core the plan period at a number of key • Development Policy 11: for and supports a strong and Policy 15: Spatial Strategy for strategic locations. The Part 1 plan Community Employment Plans – sustainable economy with particular South East Vale Sub-Area; and Core Policy 28 supports proposals which encourages a more localised focus on promoting Science Vale as Core Policy 20: Spatial Strategy for for additional employment uses approach to recruitment, associated a world-class location for science Western Vale Sub-Area). on unallocated sites, subject to with new development, and and technology-based enterprise, certain criteria and Core Policy 29 • Development Policy 12: Rural 2 especially the Enterprise Zone sites at 3.61. The Part 1 plan also identifies safeguards the strategic employment Diversification and Equestrian Milton Park and Harwell Campus. a number of strategic policies (Core sites identified in the plan for future Developments – which supports Policies 28-32) that establish employment uses. proposals for rural diversification 3.58. The Local Plan reinforces a planning policy framework to and new equestrian uses and the service centre role of the main further support economic and retail 3.64. The Part 2 plan policies buildings in the countryside. settlements across the district, development across the district. provide additional guidance enabling promotes thriving villages and rural These policies cover: Change of appropriate ancillary uses at strategic Retail Policies 3 communities, and supports the rural Use; Further and Higher Education; employment sites which support economy. Development to Support the Visitor existing and new employment 3.66. Alongside the Part 1 plan Core Economy; and New Development generating uses and promote the use Policy 32: Retail Development and 3.59. The Part 1 plan makes provision on Unallocated Sites and for Retail of Community Employment Plans other Main Town Centres Uses, for around 218 hectares of strategic Development and other Main Town to foster a more localised approach the retail policies within the Part 2 employment land for new employment Centre Uses. to skills and employment. Other plan provide additional guidance on development, in accordance with our employment policies aim to support other types of retail, including village assessed need82, which is anticipated 3.62. The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 rural diversification and enable and local shops, retail parks and for 4 to deliver approximately 23,000 jobs in sets out additional detailed policies to equestrian developments. change of use. the plan period up to 2031. complement those set out in the Part 1 plan. 3.65. Policies relating to employment 3.67. The retail policies in the Part 2 3.60. Strategic Employment sites are set out within the Part 2 plan are: plan are:

82URS (2012) Vale of White Horse Employment Land Review Update

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• Development Policy 13: Change of Use of Retail Units to Other Uses – which sets out measures to support proposals involving the change of use of retail units in different locations and includes the following sub-policies: • Development Policy 13a: Primary Shopping Frontages • Development Policy 13b: Secondary Shopping Frontages • Development Policy 13c: Town Centres Uses • Development Policy 13d: Faringdon Town Centre, and • Development Policy 13e: Local Shopping Centres

• Development Policy 14: Village and Local Shops – which seeks to protect existing village and local shops and supports proposals to meet local needs, and

• Development Policy 15: Retail Parks – which sets out guidance for proposals for change of use on retail parks.

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Employment Policies main employment uses of the sites. The provision of larger scale retailing, Development Policy 10: Ancillary Uses on Ancillary Uses on such as food superstores and non- Employment Land 1 Employment Land food retail warehouses, for example, could prejudice the availability of Proposals for uses other than B1, B2 and B8 business uses on existing 3.68. Providing facilities ancillary land for other business uses. The employment land will be permitted if the following criteria are satisfied: to the main business uses on large use of Local Development Orders employment sites helps to make them (LDOs) or Supplementary Planning i. the proposal is primarily designed to provide for users of the more attractive to incoming firms and Documents (SPDs) can also support employment site improve the quality of the working the sustainable development of ii. the use is ancillary to the main business or employment function of the environment for employees. Ancillary employment sites by providing further wider site, and 2 facilities also help employment sites to guidance. iii. the use, either alone or combined with other existing or proposed uses, develop sustainably by reducing the would not adversely affect the vitality and viability of any town centre or need for traffic movements. 3.71. The Part 1 plan supports shopping centre (including local centres) or the social and community appropriate new employment vitality of a nearby village. 3.69. The need for ancillary facilities development in the Vale and is particularly important at some of the recognises the need to protect existing In connection with any planning permission, conditions may be imposed Vale’s most significant employment employment sites. The Council will to limit the scale of the operation and to restrict the range of activities 3 sites, such as the Enterprise Zone consider proposals for alternative uses proposed or goods sold, where necessary, to ensure that the criteria set sites at Milton Park and Harwell on employment sites in accordance out above are met. Campus, as these have developed with Core Policy 29: Change of Use from historic sites that are located of Existing Employment Land and Proposals will also be permitted where they are considered acceptable away from larger settlements. Harwell Premises, particularly where they through an adopted Local Development Order or Supplementary Planning Campus and Milton Park both contain provide ancillary supporting services. Document. a range of ancillary facilities that include cafés, restaurants, shops and 3.72. In accordance with Core 4 recreation and sporting facilities. Policy 29, Development Policy 10: Ancillary Uses on Employment 3.70. It is important that any ancillary Land sets out criteria to support the uses are appropriate, to support the

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provision of ancillary uses on existing developments. The measures employment land, such as business contained within a CEP seek to Development Policy 11: Community Employment parks and industrial estates, provided mitigate the impacts of development Plans the proposals are small in scale. through ensuring local people can better access employment, skills, and All new development proposals should demonstrate how opportunities for Community Employment Plans training opportunities arising from local employment, apprenticeships and training can be created and seek development. CEPs can also help to to maximise the opportunities for sourcing local produce, suppliers and 3.73. Sustainable development create the proper alignment between services, during both construction and operation. can include new jobs or should the jobs created and a local labour make it easier for jobs to be force with the appropriate skills. CEPs The Council may require the submission of a site-specific Community created locally, and a key principle can also reduce the need to source Employment Plan (CEP) for the construction and operation of majora 83 of National Planning Policy is employees from outside of the area, development sites, using a planning condition or legal agreement. to drive and support economic reducing the need for longer distance commuting. development. Development should The CEP should be prepared in partnership with the District Council and therefore consider how to maximise any other partners to deliver the agreed CEP. The CEP should cover, but opportunities to deliver the greatest 3.75. The Oxfordshire Strategic not be limited to: benefit for local communities. Economic Plan84 identifies the importance of CEPs as an action to i. local procurement agreements 3.74. Providing jobs and training help deliver the People Programme, ii. apprenticeships, employment and training initiatives for all ages and for the local community offers the in particular by addressing exclusion abilities, and opportunity to generate and share from the labour market, upskilling and iii. training and work experience for younger people including those not in increased economic prosperity. other measures to help young people education, employment or training. Community Employment Plans and adults who are marginalised or (CEPs) prepared in partnership with disadvantaged from work. CEPs will aAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010. developers, the council, and skills assist with delivering the council’s providers can play an important role in Corporate Plan 2016-202085 strategic achieving this. A CEP is an employer- priorities to optimise employment led initiative which can form part of opportunities; encourage local planning obligations for significant

83CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 9, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework 84Oxfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) (2014) Strategic Economic Plan; available at: http://www.oxfordshirelep.org.uk/content/strategic-economic-plan 85 Vale of White Horse District Council Corporate Plan 2016-2020; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/about-us/how-we-work/corporate-plan

78 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

apprenticeships and local workforce Supporting a Prosperous Rural and maintenance facilities can gain schemes that benefit our young Economy economic advantages in the purchase people; support the Government’s of larger and more specialised 1 objective of achieving full employment, 3.77. National policy supports the machinery. and; ensure that the skills needed of need for economic growth in rural our employers are identified, and that areas to create jobs and prosperity86. 3.79. The Part 1 plan supports training programmes are in place to It seeks to support sustainable growth appropriate development to help provide a skilled labour force. and expansion of all types of business meet the local needs of the Vale’s and enterprise in rural areas, including rural communities. In particular, 3.76. To support this approach, all the development and diversification of Core Policy 28: New Employment new development is encouraged agricultural and other land-based rural Development on Unallocated Sites 2 to maximise opportunities for local businesses. It also seeks to promote sets out the Council’s approach for economic development and we may the retention and development of local the provision of new employment seek the preparation of CEPs for services and community facilities in development on unallocated sites, major development. Where a CEP is villages, such as local shops. including in rural areas. This policy required developers will be provided supports the re-use, conversion and with a template as a basis. Through 3.78. The NPPF also encourages adaptation of existing buildings for discussion with the council appropriate rural diversification as a source of employment in rural areas, subject to 3 targets and outcomes for the site- extra income to help rural businesses, a number of criteria. specific CEP will be agreed. The CEP including agricultural businesses87. will then be subject to regular review Some producers could benefit 3.80. In accordance with Core Policy and monitoring meetings with the from getting closer to the market, 28, Development Policy 12: Rural council. We will provide assistance for example by establishing farm Diversification and Equestrian to identify appropriate local partner shops to sell their produce direct to Development sets out guidance to agencies and organisations to work the public. In other cases, it may be support and promote proposals for with and support the developer to beneficial for producers to provide rural diversification where they are 4 facilitate the timely delivery of the CEP. other services. For example, farmers ancillary to the main use of the site, or providing agricultural equipment hire relate to the existing enterprise. The

86CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 28 87CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 28

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following policy applies to proposals Development Policy 5: Rural Development Policy 12: Rural Diversification and requiring full planning permission Workers’ Dwellings. Equestrian Development and will be relevant to cases where the planning authority has power to Retail Policies Proposals for rural diversification will be supported provided they are determine whether prior approval ancillary to, and related to, the existing business enterprise. The re-use, is required. Where proposals are 3.83. The Part 1 plan seeks to conversion or adaptation of suitable existing buildings will be determined located within the Oxford Green strengthen the service centre role of in accordance with the requirements of Core Policy 28. Proposals may Belt, Core Policy 13: Oxford Green the Vale’s Town Centres and Local be subject to a condition to safeguard their use in the interest of the local Belt in the Part 1 plan will also apply. Shopping Centres by maintaining and economy. enhancing their vitality and viability. 3.81. Development Policy 12 The plan’s Spatial Strategy reinforces Farm shops will be supported where it can be demonstrated that they do also supports proposals for new the service centre roles of the Vale’s not undermine the viability and vitality of shopping provision in nearby equestrian use and buildings in main settlements by concentrating villages. Control over the types of produce sold may be sought by the countryside, provided they are retail provision in the town centres of planning condition. accessible and appropriate to the Abingdon-on-Thames, Wantage and landscape and the surrounding Faringdon, and the local centres of Proposals for the keeping, rearing, training and livery of horses on a environment. Development proposals Grove and Botley, as defined in the commercial basis will be permitted where: involving new equestrian use and Adopted Policies Map. buildings that are associated with i. the proposed premises will have safe access from the site to public the keeping of horses for private use 3.84. The Part 1 plan supports bridleways, gallops or other exercise areas in order to avoid conflict and the business of horse breeding, the function of the Market Town of between horses and other public highway users, and training and livery, will be supported Abingdon-on-Thames and the Local ii. the proposal does not unacceptably impact upon the site and the where they are appropriate within Service Centre of Botley to provide amenity of its neighbours. the landscape and fully accord with main shopping and commercial uses for other planning policies set out in the residents and visitors of the Vale, in line Local Plan 2031 and all other material with Core Policy 10: Abbey Shopping planning considerations. Centre and the Charter and Core Policy 11: Botley Central Area. 3.82. The provision of rural workers’ dwellings is set out separately under

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3.85. The Part 1 plan also supports are identified in the town centres of available within the Study90. Shopping Frontages and town centre proposals for new retail development Abingdon-on-Thames and Wantage. areas. This policy also supports and town centre uses in Market 3.90. All proposals will be required proposals for the change of use to 1 Towns and Local Service Centres, 3.88. Primary Frontages are likely to be of high quality design that retail and other main town centre uses in line with Core Policy 32: Retail to include a high proportion of retail contributes positively to making better in suitable locations. Development and other Main Town uses, which may include food, drinks, places to live and work in line with Centre Uses. clothing and household goods. Core Policy 37: Design and Local 3.93. In line with Core Policy 32, Secondary Frontages provide greater Distinctiveness and the Design the Part 2 Development Policy Change of Use of Retail Units opportunities for a diversity of uses Guide SPD or other relevant policies 13: Change of Use of Retail to Other Uses such as restaurants, cinemas and in the Development Plan. Units supports the change of use businesses89. from retail to other uses, subject to 2 3.86. National policy supports the 3.91. The Council will consider the criteria including the impact on the need to clearly define Primary and 3.89. The Primary and Secondary impact of proposals on the amenity function, character and appearance Secondary Shopping Frontages in Shopping Frontages have been of neighbouring uses in accordance of existing provision and the amenity designated centres and to make clear updated through preparation of the with Development Policy 23: of neighbouring uses. This policy which uses are acceptable in such Vale of White Horse Retail and Town Impact of Development in Amenity, includes five sub-policies covering locations. However, new permitted Centres Study (2017). This work Development Policy 24: The Effect the following scenarios for proposals development rights have been recommends some minor changes of Neighbouring or Previous Uses involving a change of use from retail 3 introduced allowing change of use to these retail areas and new areas in New Development, Development to other uses: from retail to other uses, including to be designated. New Primary Policy 25: Noise Pollution and A1 (shops) to A2 (professional and Shopping Frontages are proposed for any other relevant policies in the • Development Policy 13a: Primary financial services) uses, without the Kings Walk and Limborough Road in Development Plan. Shopping Frontages – which need for planning permission88. Wantage. New Secondary Shopping seeks to protect retail space within Frontages are proposed for the 3.92. Core Policy 32 supports a Primary Shopping Frontages 3.87. Town Centre areas are Square and Ock Street in Abingdon- sequential approach for proposals designated in Abingdon-on-Thames, on-Thames, and for Arbery Arcade involving new retail and other main • Development Policy 13b: 4 Wantage and Faringdon. Primary in Wantage. All of these are shown town centre uses outside of the Secondary Shopping Frontages and Secondary Shopping Frontages in Appendix J and further detail is designated Primary and Secondary – which seeks to support the

88The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/596/contents/made 89CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Annex 2, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/national-planning-policy-framework/annex-2-glossary 90Nathaniel Litchfield and Partners (NLP) (2017) Retail and Town Centres Study Update, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

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Development Policy 13: Changes of Use of Retail Units to Other Use

Development Policy 13a: Primary Shopping Frontages

Proposals within primary frontagesa involving a net loss of Class A1 retail space at ground floor level will not be permitted, unless a marketing exercise of 12 months demonstrates that the site or premises are not reasonably capable of being used or redeveloped for these uses.

aAs defined on the Adopted Policies Map or where amended through an adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan

change of use from retail to other • Development Policy 13e: Local demonstrate that the unit(s) is no uses within Secondary Shopping Shopping Centres – which seeks longer viable for its present, or any Frontages subject to a set of criteria to support the change of use from other realistic and suitable, retail retail to other uses within Local use. They must demonstrate that the • Development Policy 13c: Other Shopping Centres. unit(s) has remained un-sold or un-let Town Centre Uses – which seeks for at least 12 months. In addition, to support the change of use from 3.94. Development proposals applicants will need to provide retail to other uses within the town involving a net loss of Class evidence relating to the marketing centres of Abingdon-on-Thames A1 retail space in designated of the unit(s) for its present use for and Wantage and supports access Primary Shopping Frontages will a minimum period of 12 months up to upper floors in town centres be assessed in accordance with to the date at which the planning Development Policy 13a. In seeking application was lodged. Applicants • Development Policy 13d: to demonstrate that the unit(s) has no are encouraged to contact the Council Faringdon Town Centre – which reasonable prospect of being used to discuss the scope of the marketing seeks to protect retail space within or redeveloped for retail purposes, exercise. Faringdon Town Centre, and applicants will be expected to

82 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Development Policy 13b: Secondary shopping frontages Development Policy 13c: Other Town Centre Uses 1 Proposals within secondary frontagesa involving a change of use at Proposals in the town centres of Abingdon-on-Thames and Wantage ground floor level from Class A1 (Retail) to uses within other A Classes, to (other than on the ground floor of premises in the primary and secondary offices (Class B1), to healthcare facilities (within Class D1), to amusement frontages) within classes A2, A3, B1 (offices), for healthcare facilities / entertainment uses and for residential accommodation (Class C3), will (within class D1), for amusement / entertainment uses and for residential be supported if the following criteria are met: accommodation (class C3) will be supported, provided there would be no demonstrable harm caused to the living conditions of any neighbouring i. the proposal would not individually, or cumulatively with other non- residents in terms of noise, odours or general disturbance. retail uses, cause harm to the function, character or appearance of the 2 existing shopping provision or to the town centre as a whole Conditions may be applied relating to the hours of opening, sound ii. the proposal would add to the range and variety of goods and services proofing and control of cooking odours where appropriate to ensure available to the local residents, and that environmental, highway or other problems are not created and that iii. there would be no harm caused to the public amenity of the town residential amenities are protected. centre or living conditions of any neighbouring residents in terms of noise, odours or general disturbance. New shopping and commercial development (including changes of use) within the town centres of Abingdon-on-Thames, Faringdon and Wantagea 3 Conditions may be applied relating to the hours of opening, sound shall, where possible, incorporate specific provision to maintain or improve proofing and control of cooking odours where appropriate. the means of access to upper floors.

aAs defined on the Adopted Policies Map or where amended through an adopted Neighbourhood aAs defined on the Adopted Policies Map or where amended through an adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan Development Plan

4

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Development Policy 13d: Faringdon Town Centre Development Policy 13e: Local Shopping Centres

Proposals within Faringdon Town Centre involving a change of use from Within the existing local shopping centres at Peachcroft, Abingdon-on- retail (within Class A1, A2, A3) to other uses including residential (Class Thames and Mill Brook Park, Grovea, proposals involving a change of C3), healthcare facilities (within Class D1) or office (Class B1) uses will use from Class A1 (retail) to Classes A2 (professional services) and A3 not be permitted on ground floor frontages unless they retain active (food and drink) will be supported provided that: frontages in accordance with the Design Guide Supplementary Planning Documents and comply with other relevant policies of the Development i. the proposal would not individually, or cumulatively with other non- Plan. retail uses, cause harm to the function, character or appearance of the existing shopping provision or to the town centre as a whole New residential, healthcare or office uses will be permitted on upper ii. the proposal would add to the range and variety of goods and floors subject to no demonstrable harm being caused to the living services available to the local residents, and conditions of any neighbouring residents in terms of noise, odours and iii. there would be no harm caused to the public amenity of the town general disturbance. centre or living conditions of any neighbouring residents in terms of noise, odours or general disturbance.

Proposals involving a change of use to residential (Class C3) or office (Class B1) uses will not be permitted at ground floor level. Such uses will be permitted on upper floors subject to criteria (i) and (iii) above being met.

aAs defined by the Adopted Policies Map or where amended through an adopted Neighbourhood Development Plan

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Village and Local Shops other local services to enhance the sustainability of communities. Development Policy 14: Village and Local Shops 3.95 The Council recognises the 1 importance of small neighbourhood 3.98 The Part 1 plan seeks to ensure shops, particularly village shops, to that development is supported by Proposals for the development or extension of village and other local local communities. Village shops a sufficient range of services and shops with less than 500 sq.m gross retail floorspace, designed to meet located in the Larger and Smaller facilities and particularly focuses the day-to-day needs of the local population, will be permitted provided Villages and local shops, such as development in the rural areas to they comply with other relevant policies in the Local Plan 2031. individual corner shops, located in maintain the vitality and sustainability the Market Towns and Local Service of local services, as well as Proposals that result in the loss of a village shop and or local shop will be Centres, play a key role in creating supporting appropriate development permitted provided that it demonstrates: 2 and sustaining healthy, inclusive in Smaller Villages to help meet the communities. local needs of rural communities. i. the building is or has become unsuitable for its existing use and is no longer economically viable, taking into account all reasonable efforts 3.96 The retention of existing village 3.99 Development Policy 14: made to sell or let the property on the market at a realistic price, and and local shops or the provision of Village and Local Shops seeks to ii. there is no reasonable likelihood of a suitable alternative facility or new ones is key to the development of protect the loss of existing village service of benefit to serve the needs of the local community making sustainable and inclusive communities. and local shops, subject to criteria, to use of the building. 3 ensure that local shopping provision 3.97 National policy is clear for the is retained to help meet the local need to promote the retention and needs. The policy also supports development of local services and proposals for village and local shops communities facilities in villages, in at a small scale where they accord particular the need to guard against with relevant policies in the Local Plan the unnecessary loss of valued 2031. facilities and services where this would 4 reduce the communities ability to meet day-to-day needs. It also recognises the need to plan positively for the provision of community facilities and

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Retail Parks centres being the highest priority for new retail development. Development Development Policy 15: Retail Parks 3.100 The District currently has two proposals over 1,000 sq.m of floor significant Retail Parks; Fairacres space in the town centres and 500 Retail Park, Abingdon-on-Thames sq.m of floor space elsewhere will Uses on retail parks within the district, including at Fairacres in Abingdon- and Tower Retail Park, need to be supported by an impact on-Thames and Seacourt Tower Retail Park in Botley, will be restricted to Botley. These have been established assessment to assess the likely stores selling bulky goods. to provide outlets for bulky goods. impacts on existing retail provision. Both are located in edge of town Change of use on retail parks within the district to convenience retail locations that are outside the main 3.103 In line with Core Policy 32, uses, or for new convenience retail units, will only be permitted if: town centre of Abingdon-on-Thames Development Policy 15: Retail and the Local Service Centre of Parks, seeks to restrict uses at the i. the impact assessment required under Core Policy 32 demonstrates Botley. existing retail parks at Fairacres in that the development would not have a detrimental impact on the Abingdon-on-Thames and Seacourt existing retail provision in the town centre of Abingdon-on-Thames or 3.101 The Part 1 plan seeks to Tower in Botley to stores selling bulky the Local Service Centre in Botley, and support a strong and sustainable goods. ii. it can be demonstrated that there are no suitable alternative sites economy within the district. The within Abingdon-on-Thames town centre or the Botley Central Area Spatial Strategy seeks to deliver 3.104 The policy also supports sustainable growth by reinforcing proposals for convenience retail uses the service centre roles of the subject to specific criteria, including main settlements, in particular taking into account impacts on concentrating larger shopping, existing retail provision and assessing tourism and community facilities alternative locations. at Abingdon-on-Thames, Botley, Faringdon, Grove and Wantage.

3.102 Core Policy 32: Retail Development and other Main Town Centre Uses sets out a sequential test for retail development, with town

86 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Supporting Sustainable 17. Core Policies 12, 18, 19 and 21 accessibility and through supporting • Core Policy 36: Electronic Transport and Accessibility also safeguard land to support the key improvements to the transport Communications - sets out future delivery of strategic highway network, including a specific policy the district’s intention to ensure 1 Introduction improvements. relating to the A34 (Core Policy 34). that electronic communication infrastructure, in particular superfast 3.105 The Spatial Vision and Strategic 3.107 Chapter 2 of this plan (Local • Core Policy 33: Promoting broadband, is provided in new Objectives of the Local Plan 2031: Plan 2031: Part 2) sets out how the Sustainable Transport and development, which will maximise Part 1 seek to encourage sustainable agreed quantum of unmet housing Accessibility - sets out how the opportunities for working and modes of transport and a reduction need to be addressed within the Council will work with the County accessing services at home. in the need to travel wherever Vale will be addressed by allocating Council and others to promote possible. This is consistent with the additional development sites. Chapter sustainable transport accessibility 3.110 The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 2 objectives set out in the NPPF and the 2 also augments our Sub-Area to new development, including sets out more detailed Development Oxfordshire Local Transport Plan 4 Strategies, where new policies are measures set out in the Local Management policies that seek to (updated 2016). The Local Transport needed to support the additional Transport Plan 492 provide additional detailed guidance Plan includes Area Strategies for the development sites, or where new on specific matters to complement Science Vale area and the A420, information is available to support the • Core Policy 34: A34 Strategy those policies listed above and as set which are both located within the Vale planning of these areas. - recognises that the Council will out in the Part 1 plan. of White Horse continue to work with Highways 3 3.108 Additional future transport England and Oxfordshire County 3.111 The Part 2 transport policies 3.106 The Part 1 plan also identifies schemes are therefore supported Council in planning for managing provide additional guidance to ensure a number of site-specific proposals by Core Policies 12a, 18a and traffic on the A34, including proposals adequately evaluate their and policies relating to transport and 19a (Chapter 2). These relate, in addressing Air Quality impacts on transport impacts and provide safe these are set out in our three Sub- particular, to an identified need for air the route and suitable access. There are also Area Strategies. The spatial focus for quality improvements and the wider two specific policies addressing local new jobs and homes to be located in Oxfordshire Public Transport Strategy91. • Core Policy 35: Promoting Public issues relating to car parking and lorry the Science Vale area is recognised Transport, Cycling and Walking - services. 4 by the Part 1 plan as requiring a 3.109 The Part 1 plan also identifies sets out how the Council will ensure comprehensive package of supporting a number of strategic policies (Core that new development promotes 3.112 The transport policies set out transport infrastructure and this is set Policies 33-36) which seek to promote public transport, cycling and within Local Plan 2031: Part 2 are: out in more detail by Core Policy sustainable transport modes and walking, and 91https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/connecting-oxfordshire 92Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015-2031, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/ connecting-oxfordshire Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites 87 3 Development Management Policies

• Development Policy 16: Access – which sets out the key requirements for suitable and safe access within development proposals

• Development Policy 17: Transport Assessments and Travel Plans – which provides additional guidance on the information required within Transport Assessments or Statements and Travel Plans

• Development Policy 18: Public Car Parking in Settlements – which seeks to protect and improve the quality of car parks in appropriate settlements, and

• Development Policy 19: Lorries and Roadside Services – which seeks to enable and focus lorry and roadside services at appropriate locations.

88 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Access sustainable transport modes can 94 be maximised” . Development Policy 16: Access 3.113 Improving the quality of new 1 development and achieving high 3.116 The NPPF also stresses the design standards is a priority for the importance of: All proposals for new development will be required to be of high Local Plan 2031: Part 1, as supported quality design in accordance with Core Policy 37: Design and Local by Core Policy 37: Design and • the efficient delivery of goods and Distinctiveness. In addition to those criteria set out in Core Policy 37 Local Distinctiveness, which sets supplies and other relevant Local Plan policies, proposals for development will out criteria that all new developments also need to provide evidence to demonstrate that: need to demonstrate are met. • giving priority to pedestrian and cycle movements i. adequate provision will be made for loading, unloading, circulation, 2 3.114 The physical form and qualities servicing and vehicle turning, and of a place shape the way it is used • safe and secure layouts which ii. acceptable off-site improvements to the highway infrastructure and the way people and vehicles minimise conflicts, and (including traffic management measures), cycleways, public rights of move through it. The NPPF is clear way and the public transport network can be secured where these are that development proposals should • considering the needs of people not adequate to service the development. ensure “safe and suitable access with disabilities95. to the site can be achieved for all 3 people”93. 3.117 Core Policy 37: Design and Local Distinctiveness sets out 3.118 Development Policy 16: 3.115 Furthermore, the NPPF states twelve criteria that all development Access sets out some additional that proposals should comply with to detail to complement that provided by ensure they are comprehensively Core Policy 35, Core Policy 37, and “plans and decisions should planned; these include consideration other Part 1 policies. ensure developments that generate for connectivity, and the safe significant movement are located movement and access for all users 4 where the need to travel will so developments are not overly be minimised and the use of dominated by vehicular traffic.

93CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 32 94CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 34 95CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 35

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Transport Assessments and helps to support a comprehensive Travel Plans approach to their assessment and the Development Policy 17: Transport Assessments and identification of appropriate mitigation Travel Plans 3.119 Promoting sustainable modes measures, should they be necessary. of travel, such as through public Proposals for major development will need to be supported by a Transport transport, cycling, and walking, is a key 3.121 A Transport Assessment should Assessment or Statement and Travel Plan in accordance with Oxfordshire priority for both Vale of White Horse set out the transport issues relating County Council guidance, including their Walking and Cycling Design District Council and for Oxfordshire to a proposed development. It will be Standards, and the latest National Planning Practice Guidancea. The County Council. These modes of travel used to help us determine whether scope of the assessment should be agreed with the County Council can help to reduce congestion, make a the impact of the development is as the highway authority, in association with the district council, as the positive contribution to local air quality acceptable and therefore should planning authority. Highways England should also be consulted as and help to encourage active and be supported by appropriate traffic appropriate, in accordance with Highways England guidance. healthy lifestyles­96 for communities modelling and take account of any within the Vale. For this reason, the particular local sensitivities, such as ‘The Transport Assessment and Travel Plan should consider opportunities Part 1 plan sets out the requirement those relating to air quality, noise and / to support the take up of electric and / or low emission vehicles, in for major development proposals or safety. accordance with latest best practice, and in particular if part of mitigation to be supported by a Transport identified in line with Development Policy 25: Air Quality. Assessment or Statement and Travel 3.122 Mitigation measures may be Plan (Core Policy 35: Promoting required to address the transport The Transport Assessment and Travel Plan will need to demonstrate Public Transport, Cycling and impacts of development. The consistency with Core Policy 37: Design and Local Distinctiveness Walking) which will need to take into Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) in addition to the sustainable transport priorities identified in Local Plan account Oxfordshire County Council Regulation 123 list should be referred 2031: Part 1 and other relevant Local Plan policies. and National Planning Practice to, as some infrastructure projects and a refer to Oxfordshire County Council Guidance for New Developments, available at https://www.oxfordshire. 97 Guidance . types will be wholly funded by CIL. gov.uk/cms/public-site/transport-new-developments; Oxfordshire County Council Walking and Cycling Where applicable, mitigation measures Design Standards (2017), available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/transport-development- control-tdc and CLG (2014) Travel plans, transport assessments and statements, available at: https://www. 3.120 Ensuring that proposals for may be required through Section gov.uk/guidance/travel-plans-transport-assessments-and-statements development are accompanied by 106 and Section 278 agreements. b Highways England (2015) The Strategic Road Network: planning for the future (2015) and Highways England and Circular 02/2013: the strategic road network and the delivery of sustainable development. appropriate supporting information

96Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Connecting Oxfordshire: Local Transport Plan 2015 – 2031 – Active & Healthy Travel Strategy, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/ltp4-countywide-strategies 97refer to Oxfordshire County Council Guidance for New Developments, available at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/transport-new-developments and CLG (2014) Travel plans, transport assessments and statements, available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/travel-plans-transport-assessments-and-statements

90 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Transport Assessment or Statements Public Car Parking in Settlements and Travel Plans will be required Development Policy 18: Public Car Parking in under condition through Section 106 3.124 The promotion of public Settlements 1 agreement. transport, cycling and walking remains an important priority, especially to Within the town centres of Abingdon-on-Thames, Wantage and Faringdon 3.123 A Travel Plan should set out provide good access to town centres and the local centres at Abingdon-on-Thames, Botley, Faringdon, Grove how a development will be managed, for employment purposes or for the and Wantage, as defined by the Adopted Policies Map, the loss of post occupation, to meet targets for higher order goods and services they public car parking, particularly for short stays, will not be permitted if it car journeys to and from the site and provide. However, in a rural district would adversely affect the vitality and viability of these centresa. promote sustainable travel. It should like the Vale, it is also important that comprise a package of measures and high quality car parking continues to Any proposals for the replacement of parking should demonstrate how 2 initiatives with the aim of reducing be made available. This is particularly replacement provision will be made of equivalent capacity, accessibility the number of car journeys made important for those living in the more and convenience. by people travelling to and from the rural areas of the district who may not site by providing greater choice. It have access to public transport or Proposals for improving the quality of town centre parking provision will should also take account of initiatives other sustainable transport options. be supported, particularly where the proposals complement Core Policy identified by local organisations, for 32: Retail Development and other Main Town Centre Uses. example, schools may have an interest 3.125 The provision of high quality a 3 in whether safety improvements are parking in town centres is supported Proposals should be accompanied by an assessment of parking using parameters agreed by the District and Local Town or Parish Council and demonstrate that the viability of the town and local centre will not be needed for key walking and cycling by the NPPF, that states, for example, affected. routes. that “Local authorities should seek to improve the quality of parking in town centres so that it 3.126 Proposals for improving Planning Document100 and 98 is convenient, safe and secure” or replacing town centre parking Oxfordshire County Council’s Parking and highlights the need to protect the provision will be supported where the Standards101. viability of facilities that provide for proposals complement Core Policy 4 99 ‘day to day needs’ . 32 in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1, the Design Guide Supplementary

98CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 40 99CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 70 100Vale of White Horse Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (2015), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/local-development-framework/supplementar-2 101refer to Oxfordshire County Council Guidance for New Developments, available at https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/public-site/transport-new-developments

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3.127 The district will therefore by central government as having continue to support the availability safety concerns, and in line with Development Policy 19: Lorries and Roadside of suitable and sufficient car parking Core Policy 34: A34 Strategy, the Services within town and local centres district will continue to work with and ensure that proposals for Highways England, the County The provision of additional service facilities (including facilities for their redevelopment provide for Council and others on exploring and refuelling, car and lorry parking, toilets, refreshment facilities and picnic an equivalent level of parking in reviewing route improvements on areas) along the A420 and A34 will be permitted within the boundaries of accessible and convenient locations. this road. The A420 also performs a the following sites identified on the Adopted Policies Map: Where appropriate, the district will also strategic function for transport access support plans for improving the quality between Oxford and Swindon and i. Milton Interchange of car parking provision including the the appropriate provision of service ii. Buckland, and provision of segregated pedestrian facilities along this important route iii. Park Road, Faringdon. walkways within car parks. can help to contribute towards the promotion of road safety. In line with Core Policy 34: A34 Strategy, the Council will continue Lorries and Roadside Services to work with Highways England, the County Council and others on 3.130 However, whilst safety assessment of proposals for any new lorry and / or roadside service 3.128 The NPPF states that local considerations on these roads imply areas along the A34 and A420 in the Vale of White Horse where these authorities should work with other a need to support roadside facilities, are seen as required as part of the on-going development of the Route stakeholders to develop strategies for there is a need to guard against the Based Strategy and / or other highway safety reviews. the provision of roadside facilities for unnecessary proliferation of sites. motorists to support the safety and There is also a need to ensure that welfare of the road users102. high standards of provision can be achieved on existing sites before • Buckland and Park Road, Faringdon 3.129 Within the Vale of White looking to new sites. These two on the A420; and Horse District, there are currently objectives will be achieved through • Milton Interchange on the A34. two main routes identified on which Development Policy 19: Lorries (Appendix M) roadside service improvements will and Roadside Services. The generally be supported. Firstly, the existing sites on the A34 and A420 A34 trunk road has been identified are located at:

102CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 31

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Protecting the topic areas: design; landscape; Green the impact of development on the provision of adequate and Environment and Infrastructure; leisure and historic neighbouring amenity appropriate facilities for the sorting, Responding to environment storage and collection of waste for 1 Climate Change • Development Policy 24: Effect of development proposals 3.134 The policies in Local Plan Neighbouring or Previous Uses Introduction 2031: Part 2 relating to Protecting on New Developments – which • Development Policy 29: the Environment and Responding to sets out measures to ensure new Settlement Character and Gaps – 3.131 The Local Plan 2031 seeks to Climate Change are: occupiers are less affected by which sets out measures to ensure protect the natural, built and historic existing or neighbouring uses that proposals do not compromise environment and respond to climate • Development Policy 20: Public important gaps between settlements change. The Spatial Vision and Art – which seeks to support or • Development Policy 25: Noise 2 Strategic Objectives help to achieve encourage the promotion of public Pollution – which seeks to ensure • Development Policy 30: this by setting out a policy framework art in new development new development is acceptable in Watercourses – which seeks to ensure new development achieves relation to noise pollution to ensure that watercourses are high quality design standards and by • Development Policy 21: External accommodated appropriately within responding to climate change. Lighting – which sets out measures • Development Policy 26: Air new development to ensure that development Quality – which seeks to ensure 3.132 The Part 1 plan identifies a involving external lighting is all new development adequately • Development Policy 31: Protection 3 number of strategic policies (Core appropriately designed and located considers air quality of Public Rights of Way, National Policies 37 - 46) that help to Trails and Open Access maintain and achieve a high quality • Development Policy 22: • Development Policy 27: Land Areas – which seeks to support environment across the district. These Advertisements – which Affected by Contamination – improvements to the Public Rights policies set out how the Council will sets out measures to ensure which sets out measures to ensure of Way Network and Open Access seek to respond to climate change that development involving land affected by contamination Areas, and to protect National Trails and continue to protect the Vale’s advertisements is appropriately is appropriately remediated and historic, built and natural environment designed and located mitigated • Development Policy 32: The Wilts 4 and Berks Canal – which seeks to 3.133 This section includes policies • Development Policy 23: Impact of • Development Policy 28: Waste support the long-term vision for the that apply across the whole district Development on Amenity – which Collection and Recycling – which restoration of the Wilts and Berks under a number of environmental sets out measures to minimise sets out measures to ensure Canal

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• Development Policy 33: Open • Development Policy 37: Design 3.138 The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Space – which sets out measures Conservation Areas – which sets out a strategic policy framework and local standards for the provision sets out measures to ensure 3.135 Good design is a key aspect of to support the delivery of high quality of open space in association Conservation Areas are protected sustainable development and should design, in particular through Core with new developments and the from inappropriate development contribute positively to making better Policies 37 and 38. In addition, protection of existing open space in places. New development should the Council has an adopted Design the Vale • Development Policy 38: Listed create a sense of place and distinct Guide Supplementary Planning Buildings – which sets out the character where people will feel safe Document (SPD), which sets out • Development Policy 34: Leisure Council’s measures for assessing and be proud to live and work. more detailed guidance to ensure and Sports Facilities – which sets development proposals that affect a that new development is provided to out measures and local standards Listed Building and / or its setting 3.136 The importance of achieving the highest quality standards that are for the provision of leisure and sport good design in new developments appropriate for the Vale. facilities in association with new • Development Policy 39: can also contribute towards improving developments and the protection of Archaeology – which sets out health and well-being, by creating 3.139 The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 existing leisure and sports facilities the Council’s approach to the opportunities for social interaction and provides further guidance to support in the Vale conservation and enhancement by making people more active within and encourage the promotion of of Scheduled Monuments, the community103. public art in association with new • Development Policy 35: New nationally important archaeological development along with providing Countryside Recreation Facilities remains and other non-designated 3.137 The Vale of White Horse District guidance for development associated – which supports the development archaeological sites consists of a network of historic market with external lighting, advertisements, of small scale countryside towns and other settlements that are and the impact on amenity and recreational facilities in the open set in a diverse and attractive rural previous uses. countryside landscape. It is therefore important that new development respects the • Development Policy 36: Heritage local character and distinctiveness of Assets – which sets out the these towns and villages in the Vale. Council’s approach to conserve and enhance heritage assets in the Vale

103Sport England (2015) Active Design, available at: https://www.sportengland.org/facilities-planning/active-design/

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Public Art that the inclusion of public art has been considered as part of their Development Policy 20: Public Art 3.140 Public art can improve the development proposals, taking into 1 quality of new developments, and account the design and location in along with high quality design can help accordance with the Council’s Design For all proposals for major developmenta, or sites larger than 0.5 to create stimulating and rewarding Guide SPD. Development Policy hectares, the provision of public art will be sought that makes a significant environments that are of benefit to 20: Public Art seeks to promote contribution towards the appearance of the scheme or the character of the current and future generations. quality art within new developments area, or which benefits the local community. by encouraging partnership working 3.141 National policy places an between professional artists and Applicants will be required to set out details for the provision of public art, emphasis on public art in design and craftspeople and encouraging local including its location and design in accordance with the Council’s Design 2 place-making for new developments. participation to help establish an Guide SPD. Successful schemes can make identity for an area. aAs defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010. places more interesting, exciting and aesthetically pleasing for residents 3.143 Developers will be expected and the community. Public art to contribute towards the provision incorporated into public spaces can of public art in order to help improve the local economy. Proposals that also help to bring neighbourhoods the appearance of the scheme contribute towards the appearance 3 together and provide a space for in accordance with the Council’s of a scheme, for example, to make a social activities and civic life. Developer Contributions SPD104. positive contribution to the character of an area or draw inspiration from 3.142 The Council will seek to support 3.144 The Council will support local culture and history to improve public art within new development proposals for art within residential the ‘sense of place’, will also be schemes in accordance with its Arts and commercial development that supported. Development Strategy. Public art benefits the local community and should be considered at an early stage helps to establish civic or corporate 4 of the design process. Developers will pride and identity, encourage public be expected to demonstrate as part enjoyment and engagement, promote of the Design and Access Statement the renewal of social skills or support

104Vale of White Horse District Council (2017) Developer Contributions – Delivering Infrastructure to Support Development Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/ planning-and-building/planning-policy/delivering-infrastructure/section-106-plan

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External lighting a detrimental impact on an area’s for all types of outdoor lighting, it Local Distinctiveness (in the character. Pole-mounted light fittings is important that the impact on the adopted Local Plan 2031: Part 1). 3.145 Light can be seen as a form are often required for many sport and amenity of the surrounding area of pollution, where it impedes a view recreation facilities and the height is considered when determining 3.149 Development proposals located of the night sky or causes glow in and number of these fittings can applications that involve the use within the North Wessex Downs Area the countryside, and can harm local be obtrusive, particularly if located of external lighting. This can be of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) biodiversity. Light fittings can also within the open countryside or in a particularly important when related to or its setting should seek to avoid and affect the visual amenity of an area. Conservation Area. illuminated advertisements, security reduce light pollution, including control For example, inappropriately designed floodlights for commercial and of lighting schemes that threaten the and/or located spotlights can have 3.146 Given the increasing demand residential premises, street lighting integrity of dark night skies, taking and floodlights for outdoor sports and account of the North Wessex Downs recreational facilities. AONB Management Plan106. Development Policy 21: External Lighting 3.147 Although some lighting 3.150 Applications for the display of is considered to be Permitted advertisements that involve an element Development that involves external lighting will be permitted provided that: Development, the Council will of external lighting should demonstrate ensure applications that involve the that the proposal would not have an i. there would not be an adverse effect on the character of the area, the use of lighting will be determined adverse effect on the local character amenity of neighbouring uses or on local biodiversity in accordance with Development or the amenity of neighbouring uses, ii. there would not be a hazard for pedestrians or people using any type Policy 21: External Lighting. and would not cause harm towards the of transportation, and safety of pedestrians. iii. the lighting proposed is the minimum necessary to undertake the task 3.148 The Council will expect for which it is required applicants to demonstrate, through 3.151 Where permission is granted preparation of a lighting strategy, that for a proposal that involves external Where permission is granted for external lighting, conditions may be they have appropriately considered the lighting, the Council may impose imposed that require: design of their scheme in accordance planning conditions to mitigate the with Development Policy 21, the impacts from external lighting. iv. the fitting of devices to reduce glare and light spillage, and principles set out in the Design Guide v. restricting the hours during which the lighting may be operated. SPD, Core Policy 44: Landscape 3.152 In certain circumstances, and Core Policy 37: Design and applicants may be required to take

106North Wessex Downs AONB Management Plan 2014-2019, available at: http://www.northwessexdowns.org.uk/uploads/File_Management/NWD_Docs/About_Us/Management_Plan/NWD_AONB_Management_Plan_2014-19.pdf

96 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies appropriate measures to control the signage, including, for example: fascia level of illumination, glare, spillage of signs on shops; poster hoardings; Development Policy 22: Advertisments light, angle and hours of operation. highway signage; and pole mounted 1 This is particularly relevant where signs at petrol stations. Proposals for advertisements should demonstrate how they contribute to external lighting could affect an maintaining or achieving a safe, attractive and well-designed environment, adjacent area of Green Infrastructure 3.156 Advertisements are essential and: or other areas with light sensitive to commercial activity in the district biodiversity. and as the range of premises with i. not cause a hazard for pedestrians or people using any type of flexible opening hours expands, the transportation 3.153 The Council encourages demand for illuminated advertisements ii. not obscure or hinder any interpretation of any traffic sign, railway sign, applicants to use the Institution continues to increase. Unsympathetic, 2 or aid to navigation by water or air of Lighting Professionals (ILP) poorly-positioned or intrusively iii. not hinder the operation of any device used for the purpose of security Guidance Notes for the Reduction of illuminated signs can harm the or surveillance or for measuring the speed of any vehicle Obtrusive Light (2011) that contains appearance of a building or area iv. not adversely affect the historical significance of buildings, or the design and installation guidance and may also cause a hazard to character of an area through size and setting and recommendations in different pedestrians, including people with 107 v. not contribute to an unsightly proliferation or clutter of signage in the Environmental Zones . visual impairments and road users. vicinity and detract from the amenity of the street scene vi. not cause visual intrusion by virtue of light pollution into adjoining 3 3.154 In assessing proposals 3.157 The Council considers that residential properties and avoid light pollution of nearby wildlife that would generate external illuminated signs can, if carefully habitats, and lighting, reference must also be designed, be appropriate in vii. not include flashing internal or external illumination. made to Development Policy 22: commercial areas where they can Advertisements. provide visual interest and vitality. environment within their vicinity. For visually intrusive, the Council will Advertisements 3.158 Advertising hoardings and example, in residential areas, they are encourage developers to consider the stand-alone boards may also detract likely to be visually intrusive and spoil design, size, materials and the degree 4 3.155 Advertisements cover a wide from the quality of the townscape of the appearance of the neighbourhood. of illumination108. range of external display material and the district, and lead to a poor visual To ensure advertisements are not

107The Institute of Lighting Engineers (2000) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Light Pollution, available at: https://www.gov.je/SiteCollectionDocuments/Planning%20and%20building/SPG%20Lightpollution%202002.pdf; The Institute of Lighting Professionals (2011) Guidance Notes for the Reduction of Obtrusive Light; available at: https://www.theilp.org.uk/documents/obtrusive-light/ 108Vale of White Horse Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) (2015), available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning-and-building/planning-policy/local-development-framework/supplementar-2

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3.159 Advertisement proposals where, cumulatively, they would spoil will not cause harm to the amenity of ensure new development does not are guided by national policy and the appearance of a town centre or neighbouring or nearby properties. overshadow or visually dominate guidance, the Town and Country the open countryside. The Council will existing properties or adversely Planning (Control of Advertisements, encourage businesses in the same 3.166 Amenity can be compromised affect their existing levels of privacy. England) Regulations 2007, and location to combine their advertising by new development in a number Furthermore, it is important that the subsequent amendments. needs for this reason. of ways: through detrimental loss of design of new development minimises daylight and sunlight to existing and any impacts, both for the short and 3.160 The Council will seek to 3.163 Development Policy 22 also adjacent occupiers; loss of privacy long term. ensure that no harm is caused by ensures that advertisements do not and outlook, and harmful noise, odour, the cumulative effects of illuminated cause visual intrusion by virtue of light vibration and air pollution from existing 3.168 The Council will consider the advertisements associated with pollution, and avoid flashing internal and proposed developments. impact of development proposals commercial property. or external illumination. on amenity in accordance with 3.167 Care should be taken to Development Policy 23. 3.161 Proposals for development 3.164 Where advertisements are involving the use of illuminated proposed in relation to business advertisements will need to premises, the Council may seek Development Policy 23: Impact of Development on demonstrate compliance with appropriate mitigation through a Amenity Development Policy 22: planning condition to reduce any Advertisements along with other harmful impacts, for example, Development proposals should demonstrate that they will not result in relevant policies: Core Policy 37: limiting the hours of operation of any significant adverse impacts on the amenity of neighbouring uses when Design and Local Distinctiveness; illumination. considering both individual and cumulative impacts in relation to the Core Policy 39: Historic following factors: Environment; and Development Impact of development on amenity i. loss of privacy, daylight or sunlight Policy 20: External Lighting. ii. dominance or visual intrusion 3.165 In addition to applicants iii. noise or vibration 3.162 Developers will be required to demonstrating that their proposals iv. dust, heat, odour, gases or other emissions ensure that proposals for illuminated achieve high design standards (in v. pollution, contamination or the use of / or storage of hazardous advertisements will not harm or accordance with Core Policies 37 substances; and detract from amenity and public safety. and 38 and the Design Guide SPD), it vi. external lighting. Advertisements may not be acceptable is also important that their proposals

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Effect of neighbouring or previous mitigation measures should be uses on new developments incorporated into the proposal as Development Policy 24: The Effect of Neighbouring or agreed with Council officers. Previous Uses on New Developments 1 3.169 Development Policy 23: Impact of Development on Amenity 3.172 Proposals should also Development proposals should be appropriate to their location and should seeks to ensure that development demonstrate conformity with Core be designed to ensure that the occupiers of new development will not be proposals are acceptable in amenity Policies 37 and 38 and the Design subject to adverse effects from existing or neighbouring uses. terms, including for neighbouring Guide Supplementary Planning Development will not be permitted if it is likely to be adversely affected by uses. However, it is equally important Document along with: Development existing or potential sources of: to ensure that any potential effects Policy 23: Impact of Development of neighbouring uses would not on Amenity; Development i. noise or vibration 2 harm the occupiers of the proposal. Policy 25: Noise Pollution; and ii. dust, heat, odour, gases and other emissions Potential impacts could include: Development Policy 27: Land iii. pollution, contamination of the site or its surroundings and hazardous noisy uses or activities; sources of Affected by Contamination. substances nearby pollution or odour; land affected by iv. loss of privacy, daylight or sunlight contamination; and installations using v. dominance or visual intrusion, or or storing hazardous substances. vi. external lighting

3 3.170 Development Policy 24: The Effect of Neighbouring or Previous Uses on New Developments requires applicants to consider any potential adverse impacts from existing and potential sources.

3.171 Where proposals for new 4 development are likely to lead to adverse impacts to occupiers by neighbouring uses, appropriate

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Noise Pollution policy, the Council will ensure that of environmental noise. Depending measures from the developer to where new development may create on the level of environmental noise, control the exposure to noise through 3.173 Noise and associated vibration additional noise, and in instances the impact can in some cases be planning conditions. For example, can have an adverse impact on where new development would be satisfactorily mitigated, allowing noise- developers may be required to insulate environmental amenity and on sensitive to the existing acoustic sensitive development to proceed buildings, erect screens or natural biodiversity, and may have a range environment, the impact of noise will on the affected site. The Council will barriers, ensure adequate distances of sources, which can include: road not cause an unacceptable impact on require an appropriate scheme of are established between noise and traffic; trains; aircraft; commercial amenity. mitigation that should have regard the noise sensitive land use or limit the uses; and entertainment premises. to the need to provide a satisfactory operating times of a potentially noisy 3.177 Development Policy 25: environment for future occupiers and activity. 3.174 Noise pollution can lead to Noise Pollution seeks to ensure take account of other material planning harmful impacts on health and well- that development proposals set considerations such as urban design. 3.181 Developers will be expected to being, which may be from direct or out a scheme of mitigation, where take into account the council’s noise indirect sources, for example, through noise-generating development 3.179 Proposals for noise-sensitive planning guidance to ensure noise is the loss of sleep or by affecting would otherwise result in an development in areas with elevated adequately addressed and mitigated relaxation and social interaction. unacceptable impact on neighbouring noise levels, and / or proposals within their development proposals. uses, environment or biodiversity. for noise-generating development Developers should further engage with 3.175 The planning process can assist Developers should also take into in noise-sensitive locations, will the Council’s Environmental Health by ensuring that, as far as possible, account Core Policy 44: Landscape be required to provide evidence team early during the planning process ‘noise sensitive’ developments, such in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1 if of existing levels of environmental to help ensure the approach taken is as dwellings, schools, hospitals and proposals are likely to impact on noise and the measures needed acceptable. nursing homes are located away from the landscape, including the North to bring noise down to acceptable existing sources of noise. Furthermore, Wessex Downs AONB and / or its levels109. This will typically require development types that may be setting. the submission of an assessment associated with generating noise can of environmental noise and scheme be located in areas where noise will be 3.178 The policy also ensures that of mitigation as part of a planning less likely to lead to harmful impacts. noise-sensitive uses are located and application. designed in such a way that they 3.176 In accordance with national are protected from existing sources 3.180 The Council may also seek

109Chartered Institute of Environmental Health, Acoustic & Noise Consultants, Institute of Acoustics (2016) Draft Professional Practice Guidance on Planning & Noise - New Residential Development; available at: http://www.association- of-noise-consultants.co.uk/propg-planning-noise-new-residential-development/; World Health Organisation (1999) Guidelines for Community Noise; available at: http://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/environment-and-health/noise

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Development Policy 25: Noise Pollution 1

Noise-Generating Development i. the location, design and layout of the proposed development ii. measures to reduce noise within the development to acceptable levels, Noise-generating development that would have an impact on including external areas, and environmental amenity or biodiversity will be expected to provide an iii. the need to maintain adequate levels of natural light and ventilation to appropriate scheme of mitigation that should take account of: habitable areas of the development.

i. the location, design and layout of the proposed development In areas of existing noise, proposals for noise-sensitive development 2 ii. existing levels of background noise should be accompanied by an assessment of environmental noise and an iii. measures to reduce or contain generated noise, and appropriate scheme of mitigation measures. iv. hours of operation and servicing.

Development will not be permitted if mitigation cannot be provided within Development will not be permitted if mitigation cannot be provided to an an appropriate design or standarda. appropriate standard with an acceptable design.

Noise-Sensitive Development 3 Noise-sensitive development in locations likely to be affected by existing aCurrently set out in British Standards 4142:2014 and 8233:2014. The Council is currently developing sources of noiseb will be expected to provide an appropriate scheme of guidance relating to noise mitigation. bBusy roads, railway lines, aerodromes, industrial / commercial developments, waste, recycling and energy mitigation to ensure appropriate standards of amenity are achieved for plant, and sporting, recreation and leisure facilities. future occupiers of the proposed development, taking account of: Development Policy 24: Noise Pollution

4

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Water Quality supporting infrastructure, in the Vale110 possible, achieving improvements in, the Council may require developers is carefully planned to help achieve the water quality. to undertake measures to ensure that 3.182 The pollution of controlled objectives set out in the WFD111. a proposed development does not waters may pose a risk to human 3.188 In line with Core Policy 43: contaminate surface or groundwater health and lead to an impact on 3.185 Development would be Natural Resources the Council resources, including ponds, streams wildlife. It is therefore important the considered unacceptable if it led to will therefore resist developments and other watercourses. Works may planning process is used, as far a deterioration in WFD status, or that pose unacceptable risk to also be required to remedy historical as possible, to minimise the risk of prevents the waterbody achieving water quality. Core Policy 43 will contamination to protect these water pollution caused by new development. ‘good’ ecological status. help to ensure that development resources. is either located where adequate 3.183 Maintaining and enhancing 3.186 National policy requires water resource are already available, 3.191 The Environment Agency (EA) water quality of rivers, lakes and councils to consider the need to plan or where new provision of water has published a Thames River Basin underground water bodies can also effectively to protect and enhance resource can be made to serve the Management Plan112 that identifies be important because they can be local surface water and groundwater new development, without adversely areas of poor water quality and an important source of water and to allow new development to proceed, affecting abstraction, river flows, assesses surface watercourses, lakes, can provide a valuable amenity and while avoiding costs at the planning water quality, agriculture, fisheries, canals and groundwater for various recreational resource. application stage. In doing so, councils amenity or nature conservation. characteristics including those that should consider the type or location may be required to achieve a ‘good’ 3.184 The Water Framework Directive of new development where an 3.189 In circumstances where ecological status. The Council will (WFD) requires that all ‘water bodies’ assessment of the potential impact on development may be likely to have support the EA and other partners including rivers, lakes, estuaries, water bodies may be required. an adverse impact on water quality, it to prevent groundwater pollution coastal waters and groundwater, will be necessary for a detailed water and improve surface water quality. achieve a good ecological status. 3.187 Core Policy 43: Natural quality assessment to be undertaken. In accordance with Core Policy 43, Under the WFD, all water bodies are Resources seeks to ensure that The need for an assessment will proposals will be expected to include classified by current and future water developers make provision for the depend on the type or location of new sufficient information to demonstrate quality, ecological and chemical status. effective use of natural resources, development how they have taken into account the It is therefore important that future including the need for proposals to Thames River Basin Management Plan. development, including the provision of cause no deterioration in, and where 3.190 Where development is allowed,

110Core Policy 7: Providing Supporting Infrastructure and Services in the adopted Local Plan 2031: Part 1 111Vale of White Horse Water Cycle Study (2015); available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/planning- and-building/planning-policy/new-local-plan-2031/evidence-base 112Environment Agency (2015) Thames River Basin Management Plan; available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/river-basin-management-plans- 2015#thames-river-basin-district-rbmp:-2015

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Air Quality Action Plan114 in accordance with Core Policy 43: Natural Resources. Development Policy 26: Air Quality 3.192 National planning policy is 1 clear on the importance of taking into 3.195 Proposals will be considered in account the potential impacts of air accordance with Development Policy Development proposals that are likely to have an impact on local air quality when assessing development 26: Air Quality. Early engagement quality, including those in, or within relative proximity to, existing or proposals. Furthermore, legislative113 with the Council’s Air Quality Officer potential Air Quality Management Areas (AQMAs) will need to demonstrate limits are set for concentrations of is encouraged to help ensure the measures / mitigation that are incorporated into the design to minimise any major air pollutants that may impact approach taken is acceptable. impacts associated with air quality. on public health, amenity and Where sensitive development is proposed in areas of existing poor air local biodiversity, such as airborne 3.196 It is likely that an Air Quality 2 quality and / or where significant development is proposed, an air quality particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide. Assessment will be required, where assessment will be required. proposals are of a large scale and 3.193 Air quality within the Vale of / or likely to have a significant or The Council will require applicants to demonstrate that the development White Horse District is predominantly cumulative impact upon local air will minimise the impact on air quality, both during the construction process good, although there are specific areas quality, particularly where development and lifetime of the completed development, either through a redesign where air pollution exceeds the levels is located in or within relative proximity of the development proposal or, where this is not possible or sufficient, set by European and UK regulations. to an AQMA. The level of assessment through appropriate mitigation in accordance with current guidance. 3 For this reason, the Council has will depend on the nature, extent and declared three Air Quality Management location of the development. Mitigation measures will need to demonstrate how the proposal would Areas (AQMAs), which relate to make a positive contribution towards the aims of the Council’s Air Quality elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide 3.197 Any air quality assessments Action Plan. (NO2). These are located at Abingdon- and other related work should be Mitigation measures will be secured either through a negotiation on a on-Thames, Botley and Marcham. undertaken by a competent person scheme, or via the use of a planning condition and / or planning obligation / company in line with best practice depending on the scale and nature of the development and its associated 3.194 Development proposals and the Council’s emerging Air Quality 4 115 impacts on air quality. located within these areas will need Developer Guidance. to demonstrate how they take into account the Council’s Air Quality 1132008 Ambient Air Quality Directive; available at: http://ec.europa.eu/environment/air/quality/legislation/existing_leg.htm; Air Quality Standards Regulations 2010; available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2010/1001/pdfs/ uksi_20101001_en.pdf 114Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Air Quality Action Plan, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/environment/pollution/air-quality 115Environmental Protection UK and Institute of Air Quality Management (2017) Land-Use Planning and Development Control: Planning for Air Quality; available at: http://www.iaqm.co.uk/text/guidance/air-quality-planning-guidance.pdf

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Land affected by contamination 3.200 Source Protections Zones 3.202 The need to adequately deal and to also ensure that developers (SPZs) are mapped zones that with contamination is a national are able to demonstrate that the 3.198 The Government has are used to identify areas close to requirement, and efforts should be proposal will prevent unacceptable encouraged councils to consider drinking water sources where the made to reduce the potential risk risk from pollution in the future. the need to reclaim and redevelop risks associated with groundwater or harm caused to human health, brownfield land rather than greenfield contamination are greatest. property and the wider environment. 3.205 Where development, sites. Brownfield land is land that has Developments within SPZs must The Council has a legal duty to redevelopment or re-use is been previously developed, often for not increase the risk to drinking address contamination in accordance proposed on or adjacent to land industry and so where the potential water supply abstraction. Types of with European Directives, for example, that is suspected or known to be for contamination may be greater. development associated with risks of the Water Framework Directive, contaminated, proposals should The contamination of land can have high pollution, including, for example, the Environmental Protection Act be accompanied by an appropriate adverse impacts on health and social cemeteries or waste operations may 1990, Building Regulations and level of information in the form of a well-being, as well as damaging not be appropriate within SPZs. This Environmental Permitting Regulations. Contaminated Land Preliminary Risk natural habitats and contributing to is particularly notable within SPZ1, the Consultant Report. This would typically the pollution of surface waters and area immediately around the drinking 3.203 Development Policy 27 consist of a desk-based study and a groundwater. water source. requires developers to address site walkover as a minimum. all land contamination risks to the 3.199 Land contamination is often a 3.201 National policy and guidance development, environment, controlled 3.206 Where development involves result of previous industrial activities is clear that the responsibility for waters and adjacent land associated a particularly vulnerable use to such as fuel storage, vehicle safe development on sites affected with the development. contamination and land is not suspected, maintenance, landfills, gasworks by contamination lies with the or known to be contaminated, a and other industrial activities. Other developer and / or landowner. The 3.204 Development Policy 27 will Contaminated Land Questionnaire will locations, such as rural areas, may developer / landowner is responsible be used by the Council to assess be required as a minimum116. contain contaminants from agricultural for identifying land affected by and determine the suitability practices, natural occurrence, contamination, ensuring that of development proposals by 3.207 These assessments should be unsuitable made ground used in remediation is undertaken to secure a considering the potential implications submitted with the planning application previous developments, or as a result safe development and that the land is of any existing contamination for and undertaken in accordance with of leaching, gas or groundwater suitable for its proposed use. the new development, environment, the Council’s best practice and current contamination from surrounding land. controlled waters and adjacent land, national guidance117.

116Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Council’s (2016) Contaminated Land Questionnaire; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2016_10%20Contaminated%20Land%20Questionnaire%20 SODC%20VOWH%20version.pdf 117Oxfordshire Contaminated Land Group Consortium (2017) Oxfordshire Planning Advice Note: Dealing with Land Contamination During Development – A Guide for Developers, available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/environment/pollution/contaminated-land/contaminated-land-planning-advice

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3.208 Further works will be required Waste Collection and Recycling Development Policy 27: Land Affected By before a planning application is Contamination determined if the developer has not 3.211 National Policy requires 1 provided sufficient information to councils to consider the importance Proposals for the development, redevelopment or re-use of land known, or demonstrate that the development is of waste provision and management suspected, to be contaminated, will be required to submit a Contaminated considered viable. alongside other land uses when Land Preliminary Risk Consultant Report. looking at development opportunities.

a 3.209 Where the Council is satisfied In promoting good urban design, Where development involves a particularly vulnerable use to that the development is viable, subject new development should integrate contamination and land is not suspected, or known to be contaminated, a to any further contaminated land opportunities for local waste Contaminated Land Questionnaire will be required. investigations and / or remedial works, management. 2 Planning conditions may be imposed where the Council is satisfied that all planning permission may be granted risks associated with the development, environment, controlled waters and subject to appropriate conditions 3.212 The key role of the Local neighbouring land uses from land affected by contamination have been or obligations that ensure any land Plan 2031 is to ensure that proper identified and the development is viable. contamination is addressed. provision is made for waste and recycling, storage and collection, Proposals that fail to demonstrate that the intended use would be 3.210 Applicants who are aware and opportunities are taken for compatible with the condition of the land, or which fail to exploit of possible land contamination incorporating re-use and recycling 3 appropriate opportunities for decontamination, will be refused. will be encouraged to engage in facilities in all new developments. pre-application discussions with aDevelopments that are classed as particularly vulnerable to contamination include: residential (limited to creation of new residential units); nursing homes; allotments; schools; nurseries and crèches; children’s the Council’s Contaminated Land 3.213 The Council will encourage playing areas and playing fields; and mixed use development, including vulnerable proposals. Officer and, where appropriate, developers to make provision for the the Environment Agency, prior to effective use of natural resources, submitting a planning application. including minimising waste and This will indicate whether further making provision for the recycling of preliminary investigations, intrusive waste on site, in accordance with Core 4 site investigations data and remedial Policy 43: Natural Resources. proposals may be needed before a planning application can be determined. 3.214 In line with Core Policy 43, Development Policy 28: Waste

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Collection and Recycling seeks to ensure that proposals for new Development Policy 28: Waste Collection and Recycling development provide adequate facilities for the sorting, storage and collection of waste and to further All development proposals will be expected to be should be integral to the design of the proposed encourage sustainable waste consistent with the Council’s Waste Planning Guidance. development. In assessing recycling and refuse management initiatives. provision, the following points should be considered: For development proposals, the Council will consider favourably the use of sustainable waste management 3.215 For development proposals, v. the level and type of provision, having regard to the initiatives, where they are likely to provide environmental developers will be required to above requirements and relevant space standards and financial benefits provide adequate storage space for vi. the location of the provision, having regard to the need to provide and maintain safe and convenient wheeled bins in accordance with the 1. Development proposals for residential use must ensure: Council’s Waste Planning Guidance. access for occupants, while also providing The Council will particularly support i. sufficient space is provided for the storage of satisfactory access for collection vehicles development proposals that use individual or communal recycling and refuse vii. the impact of the provision on visual amenity, sustainable waste management containers, and having regard to the need to minimise the initiatives, including for example, home ii. access is provided that is safe for existing users / prominence of the facilities and screen any composting, water butts, grey water residents and for refuse and recycling collection external provision schemes and on street litter bins. vehicles. viii. the impact of the provision on health and amenity of neighbouring development and the proposed 2. Development proposals for non-residential use must 3.216 Refuse and recycling storage development, and ensure: and collection facilities should be ix. the security of the provision against scavenging pests, vandalism and unauthorised use. designed and provided in accordance iii. sufficient space is provided for the storage of with the Council’s adopted Design communal recycling and refuse containers, and Recycling and refuse storage should be separate from Guide SPD and Vale of White iv. provision is made that is adequate for the proposed cycle storage, car parking and key circulation areas. Horse and South Oxfordshire use class. District Council’s Waste Planning Development will not be permitted if recycling and Guidance118. The location and design of recycling and refuse provision refuse provision that meets the above requirements cannot feasibly or practicably be provided.

118Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Council (2015) Waste Planning Guidance; available at: http://www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/services-and-advice/recycling-rubbish-and-waste/our-policies-and-your-questions/future- planning-pr-0

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Landscape Proposals will be expected to: Settlement Character and Gaps village character. The Part 1 plan supports appropriate development in Landscape Character • incorporate appropriate landscape 3.222 The conservation of the intrinsic Smaller Villages to help meet the local 1 proposals that reflect the character character and beauty of the countryside needs of rural communities. Core 3.217 The Vale of White Horse of the area through appropriate is a core planning principle of the NPPF. Policy 3: Settlement Hierarchy occupies an attractive part of the design and management, and classifies the settlements in the Vale Upper Thames Valley. It consists of 3.223 The Spatial Strategy for the according to their role and function. In a distinctive and diverse landscape • preserve and promote local Local Plan 2031: Part 1 supports particular, villages not included within incorporating the rolling sweep of distinctiveness and diversity the need to promote thriving villages this classification are considered to the chalk downs (including parts of and, wherever possible, enhance and rural communities, whilst form part of the open countryside. the North Wessex Downs Area of damaged landscape areas. safeguarding the countryside and 2 Outstanding Natural Beauty; AONB), wide vistas of the lowland clay vale, 3.220 The Part 1 plan makes it clear the rising limestone Corallian Ridge, that Core Policy 44 will be applied Development Policy 29: Settlement Character the River Ock and areas of floodplain using the most up-to-date evidence and Gaps of the River Thames. and landscape studies available from Development proposals will need to demonstrate that the settlement’s Natural England, the District and character is retained, and physical and visual separation is maintained 3.218 The Part 1 Plan seeks to protect, County Council, and from the North between settlements. 3 and where possible enhance, key Wessex Downs AONB Board. The features that contribute to the nature most up-to-date study prepared by Development proposals will be considered in the context of Core Policy and quality of the district’s landscape. the Vale of White Horse is the Vale 4 in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1, and in addition, will only be permitted of White Horse Landscape Character provided that: 3.219 In particular, Core Policy 44: Assessment (2017)119. Landscape, as set out in the Part 1 i. the physical and visual separation between two separate settlements is plan, identifies the most important 3.221 Proposals will also be considered not diminished landscape features that should be in accordance with Core Policy 37: ii. cumulatively, with other existing or proposed development, it does not 4 protected and enhanced and requires Design and Local Distinctiveness compromise the physical and visual separation between settlements, and proposals to demonstrate how they and the Council’s Design Guide SPD. iii. it does not lead to a loss of environmental or historical assets that have responded to these identified individually or collectively contribute towards their local identity. aspects of landscape character.

119Hankinson Duckett Associates (2017) Vale of White Horse Landscape Character Assessment, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

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3.224 The Part 1 plan supports the gives each settlement a unique identity Green Infrastructure limited to: woodlands; parks; rivers; need to protect the local character and that is cherished and valued. watercourses; trees; ponds; Public distinctiveness of rural settlements 3.229 The Local Plan 2031: Part 1 Rights of Way; and cycle paths. 1 and the open countryside. Core 3.227 Core Policy 44: Landscape, seeks to ensure that new development Together they provide a network of Policy 4: Meeting our Housing set out in the Part 1 plan, includes the provides an appropriate contribution green space, both urban and rural, Needs restricts development in the need to protect, and where possible to delivering Green Infrastructure and within and adjacent to settlements. countryside, principally in order to enhance, the important landscape takes account of the Council’s Green maintain its rural character except settings of settlements. Infrastructure Strategy121. 3.232 The provision of GI promotes where consistent with rural exception a positive effect on people’s physical policies120. 3.228 Development Policy 29: 3.230 The Green Infrastructure health and well-being by providing Settlement Character and Gaps Strategy sets out a vision for the opportunities for access to nature, 2 3.225 The district’s countryside seeks to protect further against the creation of an interconnected, sport, play, recreation and social performs an important role in loss of physical or visual separation multifunctional Green Infrastructure interaction. It serves as a function for protecting parts of the open between settlements. In applying (GI) network of green and blue improving the quality of the visual and countryside that are accessible by the this policy, the Council will take into spaces and corridors in the Vale. natural environment and mitigating Public Rights of Way network. These account Core Policy 4 in the Part 1 In considering new development flood risk. GI also protects and provide recreation and amenity value plan and the Landscape Character proposals, it is important to ensure enhances local nature conservation by for residents and visitors of the Vale Assessment when assessing that GI is designed in a way that creating and connecting habitats for 3 alike. The open countryside also acts development proposals that are enhances the connectivity between GI wildlife. to separate and provide a setting for located between settlements. Such assets at both district and local level. the district’s individual settlements. proposals will be assessed, having 3.233 Core Policy 45: Green taken into account the individual 3.231 Green Infrastructure relates to Infrastructure ensures that GI is 3.226 The Council recognises the effects of the proposal, the cumulative the active planning and management appropriately designed and integrated importance of safeguarding the effects of existing and other of multi-functional open space into new developments and helps to separate identity and characteristics proposed development or the loss networks. It includes sites protected improve the function and linkages to of individual settlements as well as the of environmental or historical assets for their importance to wildlife or existing GI assets across the Vale. 4 open gaps that help separate these that contribute towards a settlement’s the environment, nature reserves, places. This separation protects the distinct and local identity. greenspaces and greenway linkages. 3.234 The Council recognises the local character and distinctiveness that Other assets include, but are not importance of improving the health

120Hankinson Duckett Associates (2017) Vale of White Horse Landscape Character Assessment, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 121 Chris Blandford Associates (2017) Vale of White Horse and South Oxfordshire District Councils Green Infrastructure Strategy (2017), available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

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and well-being of residents in the Vale, range of habitats, acting as wildlife species. Fed from aquifers in the chalk 3.241 The Part 1 Plan seeks to whilst maintaining and enhancing corridors, and forming an important rocks of the North Wessex Downs, maintain and improve the natural the natural environment, including element of the Vale’s ecological the water is characterised as having environment including GI and biodiversity, landscape, GI and network. They make a significant high clarity and quality with a stable waterways. Core Policy 45: Green waterways. contribution towards the character of temperature regime. It is the quality Infrastructure ensures a net gain in our landscape and form an important of the water as well as the in-stream GI is achieved for new development 3.235 The Local Plan 2031: Part 2 part of GI. Watercourses also provide and bankside habitats that make chalk proposals. The Part 1 plan recognises provides additional detail that focuses vital ecosystem services, particularly streams so important for a variety of the contribution of waterways and river on the importance of watercourses in terms of improving water quality and rare and protected species, including, corridors to the character, biodiversity as an asset of GI. Watercourses are drainage and flood management, but for example, White Clawed Crayfish, and landscape quality in the Vale. vital to biodiversity and provide a also providing green space for informal Otters and Water Voles. Chalk streams Core Policy 46 in the Part 1 plan unique range of habitats that form an recreation, benefiting health and well- in the Vale arise from the escarpment ensures that proposals likely to harm important part of the Vale’s ecological being. of the North Wessex Downs, and the links between priority habitats or network. headwaters are often associated with corridors for priority species achieve a 3.238 Of specific note are the Vale’s spring-line villages. Examples include net gain in biodiversity either through Watercourses globally rare chalk streams. There are the Letcombe Brook and Ginge Brook. appropriate mitigation or off-setting. around 224 known chalk streams in 3.236 The term watercourse refers England, which constitutes over 85 % 3.240 It is estimated that only around 3.242 In line with these Part 1 policies, to both main rivers, (larger rivers, of the total world resource. As a result a quarter of Britain’s chalk streams Part 2 sets out Development brooks and streams) and ordinary Chalk Rivers have been specifically are achieving good ecological Policy 29: Watercourses to ensure watercourses (headwaters and smaller identified as a priority for conservation status under the Water Framework that watercourses are positively brooks and streams)122. All types of under Section 41 of the Natural Directive124. The health of all integrated in the design of new watercourse have a part to play in Environment and Rural Communities watercourses are under pressure development from the outset, and enhancing biodiversity across the Act (2006)123. from a variety of issues including that the ecological importance of the district. abstraction, pollution originating from watercourse is not compromised, 3.239 The geology of chalk streams urban developments, and increased and biodiversity is retained and 3.237 All watercourses are vital produces characteristic features that human associated disturbance. enhanced. By giving consideration to biodiversity, providing a unique support special wildlife habitats and to the watercourses from the start of

122Watercourses as defined in s72(1) Land Drainage Act 1991, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1991/59/section/24; Ordinary watercourses as defined in the Flood and Water Management Act 2010, available at: http://www. legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/29/contents 123s41 Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006, available at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2006/16/contents 124World Wildlife Fund (WWF) (2015) The State of England’s Chalk Streams, available at: http://assets.wwf.org.uk/downloads/wwf_chalkstreamreport_jan15_forweb.pdf

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the design process, it is possible to development. The extent of the buffer • prevent permanent overshadowing Wherever possible, a minimum 10 make the most of attractive riverside is dependent on the size and nature of the water by buildings m buffer should be maintained. settings that can form natural areas of of the development, but it should be a Where development occurs on GI useful for informal recreation and minimum of 10 metres wide, measured • reduce the risk of pollution caused land outside the boundaries of an other ecosystem services. Proposals from the top of each bank. Larger by run-off, and existing settlement a significantly should consider how access to developments should provide further wider buffer is likely to be required. watercourses can be improved for all buffering, and these additional areas • reduce incidences of flooding by users including provision for those can be used for informal recreation. allowing water storage and the • seek to reinstate buffer zones where with mobility impairments. natural drainage of rainwater. previous land uses or development 3.245 Buffer zones are important as have not provided this, and 3.243 All development proposals they can help to: 3.246 Proposals should: adjacent to watercourses should • where a buffer zone is not included aim to avoid damaging impacts • allow the watercourse to undergo • include long term management in a proposal, justification must on the watercourse and provide the natural processes of erosion plans for the buffer zone which be provided by the developer mitigation for any unavoidable and deposition and natural retain and enhance its biodiversity to the satisfaction of the local impacts. All development proposals changes to the bank profile without value planning authority before planning that incorporate watercourses should necessitating intrusive and harmful permission will be granted. ensure that the watercourse is bank protection works • where a 10 m wide buffer zone is protected from the development and not considered possible by the local 3.247 Buffer zones should be reserved aim to provide enhancements to the • provide space for semi-aquatic planning authority (for example in as a natural or semi-natural habitat, watercourse that benefit biodiversity and terrestrial habitats which are dense urban areas where existing free from built development and formal and other ecosystem services. important to the lifecycle of many development comes closer to the landscaping. Soft infrastructure such species watercourse), a smaller buffer as pedestrian footpaths should be kept Buffer zones zone may be allowed, but should to a minimum, for example a footpath • create, maintain and enhance still be accompanied by detailed that provides limited pedestrian access 3.244 Buffer zones are important wildlife corridors which can also plans to show how the land will be to the watercourse is more likely to along watercourses to give species be used as part of the green managed to promote biodiversity, be considered acceptable than one and habitats protection from infrastructure networks within and how maintenance access to which closely follows the length of the increased disturbance associated with development the watercourse will be created. watercourse. Buffer zones should be

112 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities planted with native species that are sustain significant life naturally found by local riversides. Development Policy 30: Watercourses It should not form domestic land or • changes in the channel dynamics 1 parking areas of any kind, but may resulting from the flow are focused form part of the requisite GI for new into a particular route Development of land that contains or is adjacent to a watercourse will only developments. be permitted where it would not have a detrimental impact on the function • culverts are often protected from or setting of the watercourse or its biodiversity, or the detrimental impact can be appropriately mitigated. 3.248 Watercourses should be blockage by screens, which usually designed into the development to makes the culvert impenetrable to Plans for development adjacent to or encompassing a watercourse should create a safe space, overlooked by, and animals such as otter, water voles, include a minimum 10 m buffer zone along both sides of the watercourse 2 where possible, fronted by, dwellings fish and invertebrates to create a corridor of land and water favourable to the enhancement of or other buildings, and forming an biodiversity. attractive part of the development with • culverts can prevent the movement a positive impact on the visual amenity of species along the river corridor Proposals which involve culverting a watercourse are unlikely to be and character of the settlement. and lead to animals, such as otters considered acceptable. and other large mammals, being Culverts forced onto roads in order to seek Development which is located within 20 m of a watercourse will food and shelter. Not only can this require a construction management plan to be agreed with the Council 3 3.249 Culverting a watercourse has lead to animal deaths, it can also before commencement of work to ensure that the watercourse will be an impact on the ecology of the lead to road traffic incidents, and satisfactorily protected from damage, disturbance or pollution. watercourse by removing habitat and fragmenting the channel and its river • culverting can significantly increase corridor. All opportunities to de-culvert the risk of flooding due to the risk the feasibility of de-culverting 3.251 It should be noted that in a watercourse should be taken. New of blockage; restricted access can the watercourse. Where bridges addition to any planning permission, culverting should be avoided and only make maintenance and clearing of are proposed as an alternative consent is required from either the used as a last resort as: blockages more complicated. to culverting, the construction Environment Agency or the Lead 4 method should take into account Local Flood Authority to carry out any • the absence of sunlight, natural 3.250 For these reasons, sites for new the importance of maintaining an work within 8 metres of a watercourse. banks and vegetation means that development with existing culverts obstruction free bank for wildlife. culverts are not usually able to will be expected to investigate

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Public Rights of Way, National runs from Overton Hill, near Avebury Trails and Open Access Areas in Wiltshire, to Ivinghoe Beacon Development Policy 31: Protection of Public Rights of in Buckinghamshire, and offers Way, National Trails and Open Access Areas 1 3.252 Public Rights of Way, National attractive views and, in most places, Trails and designated Open Access a sense of remoteness to visitors and Development on and / or over public rights of way will be permitted Areas are an important resource for residents in the Vale. where the development can be designed to accommodate satisfactorily health and well-being, recreational the existing route, or where the right of way is incorporated into the and tourism activities and for their 3.255 The Thames Path is a long development site as an attractive, safe and continuous route. Alternative tranquillity, landscape, ecological and distance walking trail, following the routes will need to be made equally or more attractive, safe and historical significance to the Vale. route of the River Thames. Starting convenient to rights of way users. Such routes and areas also provide from its sources in the Cotswolds, the 2 both residents and visitors to the route passes features such as water The Council will actively seek opportunities to improve the accessibility Vale with an opportunity to access, meadows and the historic Market and the addition of new connections and status upgrades to the existing enjoy and experience the diversity of Town of Abingdon-on-Thames. rights of way network, including National Trails. Proposals of this nature farmed and open countryside areas will be supported where they would not lead to increased pressure on used for a number of recreational 3.256 The Council supports the sensitive sites, such as those of important ecological value. activities, including walking, cycling continued need to protect and and horse-riding. further enhance these long-distance Development will not be permitted where proposals remove, narrow or 3 recreational paths. materially impair the approved line of the Thames Path or Ridgeway National Trails National Trails, key connecting routes, and / or public access to them. Public Rights of Way 3.253 National Trails are long distance routes designated under legislation, 3.257 National policy recognises two of which run through the Vale. Public Rights of Way as an important way users by adding links to existing produced by Oxfordshire County These are the Ridgeway and the component of sustainable transport rights of way networks, including Council, sets out the vision for the Thames Path. links that should be protected or National Trails125. management and improvement of 4 enhanced. Paragraph 75 of the NPPF access to the rights of way network 3.254 The Ridgeway is one of the requires councils to seek opportunities 3.258 The Oxfordshire Rights of Way by identifying opportunities for oldest routes in Europe. The trail to provide better facilities for rights of Management Plan 2015-2025126, improvements to the network.

125CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 75 126Oxfordshire County Council (2014) Oxfordshire Rights of Way Management Plan 2015-2025, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/ oxfordshires-rights-way-management-plan

Local Plan 2031: Part Two – Detailed Policies and Additional Sites Vale of White Horse District Council 115 3 Building Healthy and Sustainable Communities

3.259 The Council will seek to access points and permissive linking ensures the continued protection of completion and future development protect public rights of way and long- routes128­ . National Trails and key connections. of the Wilts & Berks Canal130. This distance footpaths so that the routes strategy sets out the Partnership’s and their existing recreational and 3.262 Core Policy 37: Design Wilts and Berks Canal vision to restoring the Wilts & Berks amenity value are not undermined and Local Distinctiveness in the Canal as a navigable waterway to by new development. Opportunities Part 1 plan and the Design Guide 3.264 The Wilts & Berks Canal is deliver a community asset and GI to improve the access to, and the SPD, ensures proposals for new an important historic feature in the corridor, linking Wiltshire, Swindon addition of links to the existing rights development are of a high quality landscape and links the River Thames and Oxfordshire. of way network, including National design that meets recreational needs, at Abingdon-on-Thames with the Trails, will be supported. including the need to link or integrate Kennet and Avon Canal at Semington 3.266 Restoration works have been Public Rights of Way with the existing near Melksham. The historic route undertaken on sections of the canal that Open Access Areas development pattern. of the canal crosses the Vale from are located within the Vale, including at south of Shrivenham, passing through Shrivenham, Wantage, Grove, Drayton 3.260 Open Access Areas are 3.263 The Part 2 plan sets out the settlements of Uffington, West and the creation of a new junction at identified in the Countryside and Development Policy 31: Protection Challow, East Challow, Wantage and Abingdon. These restored sections Rights of Way Act 2000 as areas of of Public Rights of Way, National Grove, to Abingdon-on-Thames. The now provide a valuable ecological and open country and / or common land. Trails and Open Access Areas historic line of the Wilts and Berks nature conservation resource. The These areas are important to the Vale to ensure development proposals Canal is identified on the Adopted full reinstatement of the canal’s entire in providing for a range of recreational improve access to rights of way that Policies Map. towpath would enhance the route’s activities including walking, sight- are safe and attractive. Developers recreational and socio-economic value. seeing, bird watching, climbing and will also be encouraged to consider 3.265 The canal ceased to function as running. how access to rights of way can a navigable route in 1914 and the Wilts 3.267 The Council supports in be improved for all users, including & Berks Canal Trust is now working principle the restoration of the Wilts 3.261 The areas of Open Access land provision for people with physical to a long-term vision towards the full & Berks Canal located within the are defined and mapped by Natural disabilities. Alternative provision must restoration of the canal. Wiltshire, Vale. Once restored, the canal England127, with additional mapping by meet the statutory tests and legal Swindon and Oxfordshire Canal would bring significant benefits in Oxfordshire County Council to show process and be necessary to enable Partnership has recently published terms of attracting visitors to the development129. This policy also its Restoration Strategy for the Vale, contributing towards the local

127Natural England (2017) CRoW & Coastal Access Maps, available at: http://www.openaccess.naturalengland.org.uk/wps/portal/oasys/maps/MapSearch 128Oxfordshire County Council (2017) Countryside Access Maps, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/countryside-access-maps 129section 257 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 130Wiltshire, Swindon and Oxfordshire Canal Partnership (2015) A Restoration Strategy for the Completion and Future Development of the Wilts & Berks Canal; available at: http://www.canalpartnership.org.uk/index.php/restoration-strategy

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Development Policy 32: Wilts and Berks Canal 1

The Council will continue to safeguard a continuous route corridor for Proposals for the reinstatement of the canal along its historic alignment restoration of the Wilts & Berks Canal using the historic line wherever will need to demonstrate that the cultural, historic and natural environment possible, as identified on the Adopted Policies Map. will be protected and enhanced, with no overall adverse effect, and that potential impacts on ecology, landscape, flood risk, water resources The Council will support schemes for the restoration of the canal in line (abstraction) and water quality have been fully assessed and taken into with the delivery plan identified in the Wiltshire, Swindon & Oxfordshire account. Proposals for the reinstatement of discrete sections of the canal Canal Partnership Restoration Strategy by: will also need to demonstrate that the potential environmental impacts 2 of the restoration project as a whole have been assessed and taken into i. ensuring that development protects the integrity of the canal corridor account. alignment and its associated structures ii. ensuring that where the canal is affected by development, the Where directly related to the development, financial contributions may be alignment is protected or an alternative alignment is provided, and sought via legal agreements towards the improvement or restoration of iii. ensuring associated infrastructure of development does not prejudice the related canal and towpaths and appropriate mitigation. the delivery of the canal.

Proposals designed to develop the canal’s recreational and nature 3 conservation potential, in particular, the use of the old line of the canal for walking and cycling, will be supported.

economy, promoting sustainable Berks Canal should be safeguarded policy also ensures that proposals for policy ensures that invasive non- transport, including for pedestrians, from development that would restoring the canal demonstrate that native species have been considered cyclists and horse riders, and prejudice the canal’s restoration. the potential impacts of restoration in terms of their presence in existing 4 providing an important element of the on the existing wildlife and natural reaches of the canal, and how their strategic GI network in the district. 3.269 Development Policy 32: environment have been fully spread, through any newly connected Wilts and Berks Canal safeguards considered, both locally and as part reaches of the canal network, will be 3.268 The historic line of the Wilts and the historic route of the canal. The of the whole restoration scheme. The prevented.

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3.270 The future restoration of the aquatic habitats Leisure Policies Major Commercial canal will follow the historic route Leisure Facilities as shown on the Adopted Policies 3.272 The preparation of masterplans 3.275 Open space, leisure and sports Map. As the historic route to the and supporting documents will assist facilities make a valuable contribution 3.278 Major commercial leisure south of Abingdon has already the consideration of the likely overall towards improving the health and facilities such as sports halls, been developed, an exception impacts of the canal restoration well-being of local communities and swimming pools and cinemas are from the historic line to the south of scheme and how to minimise or increasing opportunities for social considered as main town centre Abingdon will also be safeguarded mitigate any likely negative effects. interaction across the district. uses as reflected by Core Policy in accordance with Development 32: Retail Development and other Policy 32. If future development 3.273 The Council is likely to 3.276 The Part 1 plan seeks to Main Town Centre Uses, as set were to come forward to the south expect a developer to undertake an improve the health and well-being out in the Local Plan 2031: Part 1. of Abingdon, the route of the Environmental Assessment as part of of Vale residents by ensuring The policy is based on a sequential canal will be reviewed through an application to demonstrate that the development is supported by a approach, which aims to locate these a masterplanning process in spread of invasive non-native species, sufficient range of services and types of development within the town accordance with Core Policy 38 in and the disturbance to the existing facilities, creating well designed and centre boundaries wherever possible. the Local Plan 2031: Part 1. ecology and water supply have been attractive places and protecting and This approach is consistent with fully considered. enhancing the natural environment. paragraphs 23, 24, 26 and 27 of the 3.271 Proposals for the restoration NPPF131. of the canal must take into account 3.274 The Council will support 3.277 The Part 2 plan provides the status and objectives of relevant appropriate measures to improve detailed policies that focus on new existing waterbodies in the area, as access to the Wilts and Berks Canal. provision of open space, leisure and set out in the Thames River Basin Development proposals located on sports facilities, protecting existing Management Plan (2015), prepared or adjacent to the route of the canal facilities, and providing support for under the Water Framework Directive. will be expected to contribute towards small-scale recreational facilities The proposals will need to identify the improvement or restoration of within the countryside. where the source of water will be the canal. Financial contributions obtained from to ensure that it will not will have to comply with relevant have a detrimental impact on existing legislation and national advice. waterbodies, or aquatic and semi-

131CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Paragraph 23, 24, 26 and

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Open Space, Leisure and be enjoyed by residents and visitors of Sports Facilities the Vale alike. Development Policy 33: Open Space 1 Open Space 3.281 Amenity green space also forms part of public open space a. Proposals for majora residential developments will be required to 3.279 Open space can be defined as and this is recognised as informal provide or contribute towards safe, attractive and accessible open primarily open land, whether green or recreational spaces, communal space in accordance with the open space standards as set out in hard surfaced, that offers important green spaces in and around housing Appendix K including: opportunities for sport and recreation, developments, and village greens. as well as providing visual amenity. Their primary purpose is to improve i. children’s play and youth provision Open space can include, but is not and enhance the appearance of the ii. public open space (15% of the residential area), and 2 limited to: areas of public open space local environment and to enhance the iii. allotments. that have a recreational function (e.g. well-being of residents. b. Development of open space will only be permitted provided that: parks, gardens and amenity green space); children’s play and youth 3.282 There is a good level of access i. when assessed against the Open Spaces Report, it is clearly shown provision (e.g. designated equipped to a range of open spaces across the that the open space is surplus to requirements; or playing space); and allotments. district, although the provision of open ii. the loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced by Full definitions of the types of open space does vary within individual equivalent or better provision in terms of scale, quantity and quality in a 3 space provision within the Vale are settlements. The Vale of White Horse suitable and accessible location; or contained within Appendix K. Open Spaces Report132 highlights iii. the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the where any shortfalls in open space needs for which clearly outweigh the loss; or 3.280 Parks and gardens form part provision exist across the district iv. the proposed development is ancillary to the main use of the site and of public open space and are defined and provides an assessment of the strengthens its public open space function. as formal green spaces that include: quantity, quality, and accessibility of a urban parks; country parks; forest open spaces, and identifies any future As defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010. parks; and formal gardens. They requirements. 4 provide accessible, high quality usable public open space for informal and 3.283 A combined standard for formal recreational activities that can amenity green space, parks

132Vale of White Horse District Council (2016) Open Spaces Report, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

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and gardens will apply for new demonstrate that the proposal would developments to ensure multi- either provide a community benefit or Development Policy 34: Leisure and Sports Facilities functional green space is incorporated that alternative provision of equal or and designed appropriately. better value will be provided. a. New housing developments will be required to provide or contribute 3.284 In order to ensure that adequate Leisure and Sports Facilities towards indoor and outdoor leisure and sports facilities in accordance new provision is made and existing with the local standards as set out in Appendix K. deficiencies are not exacerbated, 3.287 Access to both indoor and On sites of major developmenta financial contributions towards providing or the Council will require the provision outdoor leisure and sports facilities is improving off-site provision will be required. of open space in association with important to allow local communities new development in line with and residents to participate in sporting b. Development of existing leisure and sports facilities will only be Development Policy 33: Open activities and contribute towards permitted provided that: Space. their health and well-being. Outdoor sports facilities can include: natural i. when assessed against the Leisure Facilities Study, Local Leisure 3.285 Major development proposals or artificial playing pitches; bowling Facilities Study and / or Playing Pitch Study, it is clearly shown that the will need to provide or contribute greens; and tennis courts. Indoor leisure and / sport facility is surplus to requirements; or towards public open space that is sports facilities can include: sports ii. the loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced safe, accessible and of high quality, in halls; swimming pools; athletics tracks; by equivalent or better provision in terms of scale, quantity and quality accordance with the standards set out and gyms. Full definitions of the types in a suitable and accessible location; or in Appendix L. 15% of the proposed of sports and leisure facilities within iii. the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the residential area should be provided as the Vale are provided in Appendix K. needs for which clearly outweigh the loss; or public open space. iv. the proposed development is ancillary to the main use of the site and 3.288 The Vale has a good level of strengthens its function. 3.286 The Council will continue provision and access to a range of a to protect existing open spaces in leisure and sports facilities. The Vale As defined by Development Management Procedure Order 2010. accordance with Development of White Horse Playing Pitch Study133 Policy 33: Open Space. and the Vale of White Horse Leisure Development proposals that result in Facilities Study134 provide an up- the loss of open space will need to to-date assessment of the quality,

133Vale of White Horse District Council (2015) Playing Pitch Study, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2 134Vale of White Horse District Council (2014) Leisure and Sports Facilities Study 2013-2031, available at: http://www. whitehorsedc.gov.uk/java/support/Main.jsp?MODULE=FolderView&ID=627981333&CODE=4589D59B5ACF9D9B49FAD25E9C0D215F&NAME=13+COM+-+Communities%2C+Services+and+Recreation&REF=Local%20Plan%20- 2031%20Part%201%20Examination%20Library; Vale of White Horse District Council (2016) Local Leisure Facilities Study, available at: www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk/LPP2

120 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies quantity, and accessibility of each Countryside Recreation Facilities Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Proposals should consider how type of leisure and sport facility in the (AONB), provided it respects the scale access can be improved for all users district. The most recent and up-to- 3.292 The countryside is used and character of the locality and is including provision for those with 1 date studies should be utilised by extensively for informal recreational consistent with other relevant policies mobility impairments. applicants to inform their proposals. activities, such as walking, cycling, set out in the Development Plan. running, riding and fishing. National 3.296 In line with Core Policy 31, 3.289 The provision of leisure and policy and guidance makes clear the 3.295 The Council will support the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 sets sports facilities will be determined importance of supporting sustainable proposals for small scale recreational out Development Policy 35: New in accordance with Development rural tourism and leisure activities, facilities in the countryside that may Countryside Recreation Facilities Policy 34: Leisure and Sports especially where they benefit include the provision of small picnic to provide support for small scale Facilities and the application of communities and visitors. sites, roadside parking areas, viewing proposals for recreational facilities in 2 the local standards contained in points and interpretation facilities. the open countryside. Proposals need Appendix L. 3.293 The Part 1 plan seeks to support a strong and sustainable 3.290 Developers will be expected to economy, recognising the role that Development Policy 35: New Countryside refer to the Council’s Priority Action the Vale’s open countryside and Recreation Facilities Plan135, which identifies the specific surrounding rural settlements can play projects and future priorities for sport in promoting a visitor economy, whilst Development proposals for small scale countryside recreational facilities 3 and leisure facilities in the Vale. improving the health and well-being of will be supported, provided that: residents and visitors alike. 3.291 Where more than one i. it does not harm the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural development is taking place on 3.294 Core Policy 31: Visitor Beauty and / or its setting adjoining sites, the Council will Economy encourages new ii. it is consistent with Core Policy 13: Green Belt expect developers to consider how development to advance the visitor iii. it does not adversely impact on heritage assets the provision of sports and leisure economy for leisure and business iv. it is located within good access to public transport and will not impact facilities can be coordinated locally. purposes. The policy supports small- 4 on the existing Public Rights of Way Network scale development related to the visitor v. it respects the settlement character, locality and intrinsic beauty, and economy within the Oxford Green vi. it does not harm the ecology of the area. Belt or the North Wessex Downs

135The Priority Action Plan is set out in the Council’s up to date Playing Pitch Study and Leisure and Sports Facilities Study.

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to demonstrate there is no harm to the important to consider through the AONB, Green Belt, heritage assets planning process. Heritage assets Development Policy 36: Heritage Assets and that the settlement character and include Listed Buildings, Scheduled ecology of the area is respected. Monuments, Conservation Areas and Registered Parks and Gardens. Proposals for new development that may affect heritage assets The Historic Environment (designated and non-designated) must demonstrate that they conserve 3.300 The Part 1 plan seeks to ensure and enhance the special interest or significance of the heritage asset and 3.297 The Vale of White Horse all new development conserves its setting in accordance with Core Policy 39 (Local Plan 2031: Part 1), benefits from substantial heritage and enhances the natural, historic, and particularly where they: assets that make a positive cultural and landscape assets of contribution towards the district’s the Vale. Core Policy 39: Historic i. make a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness and / local character and distinctiveness. Environment sets a framework or They also have wider social, cultural, to ensure proposals conserve ii. make a positive contribution towards wider social and economic economic and environmental benefits and enhance heritage assets in benefits and / or by encouraging community pride and accordance with national policy and iii. provide a viable future use for a heritage asset that is consistent with promoting tourism. legislation. the conservation of its significance, and / or iv. protect a heritage asset that is currently at risk. 3.298 National policy and guidance 3.301 The Part 2 plan incorporates places significant emphasis on the Development Policy 36: Heritage need to conserve heritage assets Assets, which sets out how forms part of the evidence base to landscape and helps identify the in a manner appropriate to their development proposals will be support the Local Plan 2031 and specific characteristics that make the significance, so they can be enjoyed considered in the context of the social, will be a material consideration Vale’s landscape locally distinctive. and continue to contribute towards environmental, cultural and economic in the determination of planning The Oxfordshire Historic Environment the quality of life of current and future significance of the assets. applications136. The HLC helps Record (HER) provides an overview generations. to inform our understanding and of the historic environment and 3.302 The Oxfordshire Historic management of the Vale’s historic archaeological monuments and 3.299 Heritage assets may be Landscape Characterisation (HLC) landscape. The study examines features in the district. classified as either Designated or prepared by Oxfordshire County the historical and archaeological Non-Designated and both can be Council and Historic England processes that have influenced the 3.303 Developers should refer to

136Oxfordshire County Council and Historic England (2017) Oxfordshire Historic Landscape Characterisation Project, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/oxfordshire-historic-landscape-characterisation-project

122 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies sources of information on the historic Conservation Areas to cover parts Appraisals and Management Plans. Guide SPD to ensure proposals are environment such as the HLC, the of the district that are of special The Council continues to review the appropriately designed to reflect the 137 HER , the National Heritage List architectural or historic interest. There district’s Conservation Areas and Conservation Area’s special interest 1 for England138 and, where relevant, are 52 Conservation Areas in the will prepare or update Conservation and character and its surrounding Conservation Area Character Vale. These are listed in Appendix F. Area Character Appraisals on a features. Appraisals, early on to ensure rolling basis139. The Council will resist their proposals are based on an 3.307 The pattern of development development proposals that would 3.311 Historic shopfronts are a finite understanding of the significance of any in a locality may contribute to a lead to harming Conservation Areas. resource, which should be restored heritage assets that may be affected. Conservation Area’s special interest. or preserved where possible. For example, some of the older parts 3.309 Development Policy Proposals for new shopfronts, or the 3.304 Development proposals should of the Vale’s towns and villages reflect 37: Conservation Areas sets alteration to an existing shopfront, 2 also take into account the principles set patterns of development created by out measures to ensure that within commercial centres should out in the Council’s Design Guide SPD. burgage plots (medieval rental plots Conservation Areas are protected ensure the design reflects the special with long narrow curtilages). An from inappropriate development. interest and traditional characteristics Conservation Areas example can be found on the east Proposals located in a designated of existing shopfronts within the side of Stert Street in Abingdon-on- Conservation Area will need to satisfy settlement in accordance with the 3.305 Conservation Areas are Thames. This distinctive pattern of a number of criteria to show it can Design Guide SPD and Development designated due to their historic or development, of tightly knit narrow conserve or enhance the special Policy 37. 3 architectural interest. They form buildings with rear plots, makes a interest, character and appearance an important and visible part of the positive contribution towards the of the asset. This can include the Vale’s cultural heritage and enhance character and local distinctiveness of setting of the Conservation Area, the the attractiveness of individual the area. relationship with the landscape, the settlements for residents and visitors local character and distinctiveness, alike. 3.308 Core Policy 39: Historic or the wider social and environmental Environment sets out the effects. 3.306 As required under Section 69 Council’s approach to planning for 4 (1) of the Planning (Listed Buildings Conservation Areas, for example, 3.310 Developers should also take and Conservation Areas) Act setting out a commitment to prepare into account the relevant principles 1990, the Council has designated Conservation Area Character set out in the Council’s Design

137Oxfordshire County Council (2016) Historic Environment Record, available at: https://www.oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/historic-environment-record 138Historic England (2017) The National Heritage List for England, available at: https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/hpg/heritage-assets/nhle/ 139Historic England (2017) The National Heritage List for England, available at: https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/hpg/heritage-assets/nhle/

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Development Policy 37: Conservation Areas

Proposals for development within or affecting the setting of a Conservation v. be sympathetic to important spaces such as paddocks, greens, Area must demonstrate that it will conserve or enhance its special interest, gardens and other gaps or spaces between buildings which make a character, setting and appearance. Development will be expected to: positive contribution to the pattern of development in the conservation area i. demonstrate that it contributes to the conservation area’s special vi. ensure the wider social and environmental effects generated by interest and its relationship within its setting the development are compatible with the existing character and ii. take into account important views within, into or out of the conservation appearance of the conservation area, and area and show that these would be retained and unharmed vii. ensure no loss of or harm to any building or feature that makes a iii. respect the local character and distinctiveness of the conservation area positive contribution to the special interest, character or appearance of in terms of the development’s: siting; size; scale; height; alignment; the conservation area unless the development would make an equal or materials and finishes (including colour and texture); proportions; greater contribution in terms of public benefit. design; and form, in accordance with the Design Guide Supplementary Planning Document and any relevant Conservation Area Character Wherever possible the sympathetic conservation or restoration and re-use Appraisal of structures which make a positive contribution to the special interest, iv. be sympathetic to the original curtilage of the dwelling and pattern of character or appearance of the Conservation Area, will be encouraged to development that forms part of the historic interest of the conservation prevent harm through the cumulative loss of features that are an asset to area the Conservation Area.

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Listed Buildings that any harm or loss of a Listed Building should be exceptional Development Policy 38: Listed Buildings 3.312 The Vale has over 2000 and would require convincing 1 listed buildings, ranging from justification in terms of public country houses to cottages and benefit. Applications involving Proposals for additions or alterations to, or the demolition of, a Listed includes structures such as bridges, listed buildings should describe the Building (including partial demolition), or for development within the memorials, telephone kiosks and significance of any heritage assets curtilage of, or affecting the setting of, a Listed Building must demonstrate gravestones. affected, proportionate to the asset’s that it will: significance and the proposal. In 3.313 A listed building is contained some circumstances, further surveys i. conserve or enhance their heritage significance and setting in the National Heritage List for and analysis may be required prior ii. respect any features of special architectural or historic interest, 2 England140. Listing identifies a building to the application being determined. including, where relevant, the historic curtilage or context, such as as showing special architectural and Heritage Statements, Statements of burgage plots, or its value within a group and / or its setting, such as historic interest, and gives it statutory Significance and Impact Assessments the importance of a street frontage or traditional shopfronts, and protection so that it can be protected should be produced in line with iii. be sympathetic to the Listed Building and its setting in terms of its for future generations. current best practice and relevant siting, size, scale, height, alignment, materials and finishes (including national guidance. colour and texture), design and form, in order to retain the special 3.314 The listing of a building applies interest that justifies its designation through appropriate design, in 3 to the interior as well as exterior, and 3.316 Core Policy 39: Historic accordance with Core Policy 37 and the Design Guide Supplementary includes any object or structure fixed Environment seeks to conserve and Planning Document. to the building, or that forms part enhance designated heritage assets, of the land141. Listed Buildings form including Listed Buildings. Proposals Proposals for the change of use of a Listed Building or building within its part of our communal heritage; their that would harm the significance of curtilage will be viewed favourably where it can be demonstrated that the outward appearance and internal such assets and their setting will be new use can be accommodated without any adverse effect on the special make-up contributes to the local resisted in line with Core Policy 39 architectural or historic interest of the building and its appearance or distinctiveness of the Vale’s historic and national guidance. character. 4 landscape. 3.317 Development Policy 38: 3.315 The NPPF makes clear Listed Buildings provides further

140Historic England (2017) The National Heritage List for England, available at: https://historicengland.org.uk/advice/hpg/heritage-assets/nhle/ 141Planning (Listed Building and Conservation Areas) Act 1990

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guidance to ensure applicants of materials to protect or enhance gardens. situated above ground that provide a demonstrate that proposals within the historic significance taking into significant contribution towards the or affecting the setting of a Listed account the Council’s Design Guide 3.322 Proposals that would lead to Vale’s distinctive landscape. Building would enhance their SPD and any other relevant guidance. the harm or total loss of a Registered significance, whilst respecting Park or Garden will be assessed 3.325 The Vale has an important the existing local character and 3.320 Applications for reasonable in accordance with Development archaeological heritage, with remains distinctiveness. adjustments to Listed Buildings Policy 36 and Paragraph 133 of the dating back to prehistoric times, and to improve access for people with NPPF. is home to an extensive range of 3.318 Proposals for the partial or mobility issues or disabilities, which archaeological features, including total demolition of a Listed Building would not otherwise significantly Archaeology burial mounds, field systems, historic will only be permitted in exceptional harm the fabric of the building and, routes and ancient settlements. The circumstances in accordance with if necessary, could be removed 3.323 Archaeological remains are a majority of these features are buried national policy142, provided an without harm to the significance of finite and irreplaceable resource that below ground, although there are applicant can demonstrate that its the building at a later date, will be represent a unique record of past some features, for example, The significance would not be diminished considered favourably. times. The remains are often fragile Barn at , which are and no pertinent details of its and highly vulnerable to damage situated above ground that provide a appearance or construction would be Registered Parks and Gardens and disruption by development or significant contribution towards the lost. agricultural activity. Vale’s distinctive landscape. 3.321 The Vale of White Horse District 3.319 Any alteration or extension has eight Registered Parks and 3.324 The Vale has an important 3.326 A network of historic routes also to a Listed Building must take into Gardens that are identified by Historic archaeological heritage, with remains exist as an archaeological feature, account its significance and special England on the National Heritage List dating back to prehistoric times, and ranging from pre-historic tracks such architectural and historic interest, for England143. These are shown on is home to an extensive range of as The Ridgeway, Roman roads, and should not detract from or the Adopted Policies Map and listed archaeological features, including medieval coffin ways, salt roads, and overwhelm the existing building. in Appendix H. There are also many burial mounds, field systems, historic droveways, to later turnpike roads and Extensions or new development in the non-designated historic parks and routes and ancient settlements. The canals. These routes are integrated curtilage of a Listed Building should gardens of local interest. The Council majority of these features are buried into the Vale’s landscape and serve normally be clearly subservient to will seek to work with Oxfordshire below ground, although there are an important function in linking the original building in appearance, Gardens Trust and others to establish some features, for example, The settlements and forming a unique with appropriate textures and colours a local list of historic parks and Barn at Great Coxwell, which are setting for the Vale’s distinctive 142CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 132 143Historic England (2017) The National Heritage List for England (NHLE), available at: https://historicengland.org.uk/listing/the-list/

126 Vale of White Horse District Council 3 Development Management Policies

Development Policy 39: Archaeology and Scheduled Monuments 1

Development will be permitted where it can be shown that it would not be For other archaeological remains, the effect of a development proposal detrimental to the site or setting of Scheduled Monuments or nationally on the significance of the remains, either directly or indirectly, will be important designated or non-designated archaeological remains. taken into account in determining the application. As such assets are also irreplaceable, the presumption will be in favour of the avoidance of harm. When researching the development potential of a site, applicants will be The scale of the harm or loss will be weighed against this presumption expected to undertake an assessment of appropriate detail to determine and the significance of the heritage asset. whether the site is known or is likely to contain archaeological remains, and 2 demonstrate how the development proposals have had regard to any such In exceptional cases, where harm to or loss of significance to the asset remains. is considered to be justified, the harm should be minimised and mitigated by a programme of archaeological investigation, including excavation, Where the assessment indicates known archaeological remains on site, recording and analysis. Planning permission will not be granted until this and development could disturb or adversely affect important archaeological programme has been submitted to, and approved by, the local planning remains and / or their setting, applicants will be expected to: authority, and development should not commence until these works have been satisfactorily undertaken by an appropriately qualified organisation. i. submit an appropriate archaeological desk-based assessment, or The results and analysis of findings subsequent to the investigation 3 ii. undertake a field evaluation (conducted by a suitably qualified, should be published and made available to the relevant local and county archaeological organisation) where necessary. authorities. Nationally important archaeological remains (whether scheduled or demonstrably of equivalent significance) should be preserved in situ. Development proposals that would lead to harm or total loss of significance of such remains will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances where: iii. it can be demonstrated that the harm or loss is necessary to achieve 4 substantial public benefits that outweigh that harm or loss, or iv. all of the circumstances of paragraph 133 of the NPPF apply.

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landscape features, such as White 3.329 The Part 1 plan ensures that demonstrate that development 3.334 Development proposals that Horse Hill and Uffington Castle. new development conserves and would not have a detrimental are likely to lead to the substantial enhances designated heritage impact on the site and / or its harm or total loss of significance of 3.327 Some nationally important assets and non–designated heritage setting. An assessment should be nationally important archaeological sites are selected for protection assets and their setting, including undertaken that refers to records remains will be assessed against the as Scheduled Monuments by the Scheduled Monuments and assets of such as the Oxfordshire Historic criteria in Development Policy 39, government on the advice of Historic archaeological importance. Landscape Characterisation (HLC) in particular the need to demonstrate England. At present there are 69 and Oxfordshire County Council’s that the substantial harm or loss is Scheduled Monuments within the 3.330 Developers are encouraged to Historic Environment Record (HER) necessary to achieve public benefits district. Scheduled Monuments take into account Core Policy 39 and to determine whether a site has or is that outweigh that harm or loss. are given statutory protection the Oxfordshire Historic Landscape likely to contain known archaeological under the Ancient Monuments and Characterisation Project (published remains. 3.335 Proposals affecting other Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which by Oxfordshire County Council and archaeological remains will be requires consent to be obtained from Historic England) when considering 3.333 Depending on the outcome of assessed by the Council based on the Secretary of State for any works proposals for development. this assessment, developers may the degree of harm to the significance that affect them. These are listed in be required to submit an appropriate of the asset versus the public benefits Appendix G. 3.331 In line with Core Policy archaeological desk-top based of the development proposal. 39, Development Policy 39: assessment or a field evaluation 3.328 Some non-scheduled Archaeology and Scheduled conducted by a suitably qualified 3.336 Where the substantial archaeological sites may Monuments provides greater archaeological organisation for harm or loss to such assets is demonstrably be of equivalent guidance to support the conservation instances where there are known justified, the Council will expect the significance to Scheduled Monuments and enhancement of Scheduled archaeological remains on site. In the developer to minimise the harm and should be considered subject Monuments, nationally important event that significant archaeological through appropriate mitigation to the policies for Scheduled archaeological remains and other materials are discovered once works measures, including a programme of Monuments. Other non-designated non-designated archaeological sites are commenced, the developer archaeological investigation, agreed archaeological assets are protected that are of demonstrably equivalent should contact Oxfordshire County by the Council, based on excavations, under the government’s policy on significance. Council’s archaeological officer for recording and analysis. non-designated heritage assets144 and further advice. Core Policy 39 in the Part 1 plan. 3.332 Proposals will need to

144CLG (2012) National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Paragraph 139

128 Vale of White Horse District Council Overview This chapter sets out a detailed monitoring framework to ensure the plan policies are delivered. It sets out: 4 • what will be delivered by each policy • targets to monitor progress towards achieving the Strategic Objectives Implementing as set out in Local Plan 2031: Part 1, and 1 • what action we will take if the policies do not deliver in accordance with the targets. the Plan The implementation of the plan will be reported against the targets through the Authority’s Monitoring Report.

2

3

4 4 Implementing the Plan

Introduction Enterprise Partnership, neighbouring authorities, developers, infrastructure 4.1. Monitoring the Local Plan 2031 providers, local communities and Core Policy 47a: Delivery and Contingency policies is important to ensure they interest groups and other organisations are effectively being delivered, that relating to the ‘Duty to Cooperate’. they continue to be relevant to the Core Policy 47a will work in tandem with Core Policy 47 to ensure local area, and meet the requirements 4.5. The Council will publish effective monitoring of both Local Plan 2031: Part 1 and Local Plan of national planning policy. information at least annually to 2031: Part 2. 4.2. This chapter sets out how show progress with Local Plan If the Local Plan 2031: Part 2 policies are not delivered in accordance we will implement the strategy and implementation in its Authority with the Monitoring Framework set out in Appendix N the contingency includes clear arrangements for the Monitoring Report. measures identified in the Monitoring Framework will apply. delivery, monitoring and review of the plan and its policies. 4.6. The Council has included a As with Local Plan 2031: Part 1, if the development of the additional Monitoring Framework at Appendix sites and Sub Area Strategies identified in Local Plan 2031: Part 2 N, which identifies how the Council Delivery and Contingency is not taking place as envisaged, the Council, in conjunction with its will monitor the effectiveness and partners, will investigate the reasons for the situation and will implement 4.3. We will continue to work jointly implementation of the Local Plan 2031: appropriate action which may include one or more of the following: with stakeholders to deliver Local Part 2 for each policy. The Council i. seeking alternative sources of funding if a lack of infrastructure is Plan 2031 objectives. This will include recognises that appropriate action will delaying development or causing significant problems as a result of partnership working with both public need to be taken if implementation of new development; agencies and the private sector and the plan is clearly off track. ii. seeking to accelerate delivery on other permitted or allocated sites is necessary to ensure development iii. identifying alternative deliverable sites that are in general progresses in a manner consistent with 4.7. The Council is also aware accordance with the spatial strategy of the Part 1 Plan, through the the strategy identified in this plan. that the plan needs to be resilient to changing circumstances and be appropriate mechanisms; and if required iv. undertaking a partial or full review of the Local Plan 2031, if 4.4. To deliver the visions and flexible and responsive if the plan is investigation indicates that its strategy, either in whole or in part, is objectives in this plan, the Council will not delivering in according with the no longer appropriate. work collaboratively with key partners Monitoring Framework. Core Policy and stakeholders involved, this 47a: Delivery and Contingency, sets includes (and not limited to) the Local out the Council’s intended approach.

129 Vale of White Horse District Council Alternative formats of this publication are available on request

These include large print, Braille, audio, email, easy read and alternative languages

Please contact Planning on 01235 422600

Planning Policy Team 135 Eastern Avenue, Milton Park, Abingdon, OX14 4SB

Email: [email protected] www.whitehorsedc.gov.uk