Looking East towards Monks Brook Boundary line of site

PROPOSED MONKS BROOK TRANSIT SITE

STONEHAM WAY

SOUTHAMPTON

PLANNING APPLICATION

Application by the Director of Communities, Health and Care on behalf of City Council. May 2007. CONTENTS

Section A: Policy and Non-Technical Statement

Summary of Proposal The Site: Location Design and Access Statement Statement of Need Site Selection Access to Services Planning Policy Pre-Planning Consultation

Section B: Technical Statement

Flood Risk Assessment Traffic Statement Health & Safety Security Contamination Noise Management of the Site Community Safety and Community Impact Sustainability Issues Nature Conservation Issues ~ravellerPreferences

Section C: Plans, Elevations and Supporting Documents

Location Plan Site Plan Layout Plan Elevations Sectional Drawings a Survey reports: Ecological, Noise, Environment (including Tree), Contamination (including Hydrological).

Appendices

1. Site' Selection 2. Consultation 3. Draft Management Policy SECTION A

SUMMARY OF PROPOSAL

1 This application seeks permission to establish a Gypsy and Traveller transit site at Monks Brook off Stoneham Way in Southampton (grid reference 444225e 1 16500n).

2. The proposed transit site would be owned and managed by Southampton City Council. It would provide basic amenities for up to 12 caravans on 6 pitches.

The site proposals aim to provide accessible, affordable, temporary accommodation for up to 3 months for Gypsies and Travellers. The design, development and management of the site would focus on establishing a sustainable environment that: Is safe and attractive to Travellers and facilitates improved access to services; Establishes a peaceful and integrated co-existence with the local community; Leads to a reduction in unauthorised encampments; Provides value for money and accountable, robust, financial management; Contributes to wider sub-regional and regional aims to improve Gypsy and Traveller provision.

4. The development of a transit site in the city was approved by the Southampton City Council Cabinet as part of the Gypsies and Travellers Strategy in September 2005. Following an extensive audit of potential sites and an objective selection process, Monks Brook was identified as the most suitable location. The proposal to make a funding bid and make a planning application for a transit site at this specific location was approved by Full Council on 17 January 2007 and by Cabinet on 26 February 2007. However, the proposal is still subject to approval by Planning and Rights of Way Panel.

An Information Day, public meeting and other engagement methods have enabled local people to comment on the site proposals in detail. Gypsies and Travellers have also been consulted. The development of this proposal has actively involved a wide range of services and agencies including Planning Policy, Education, Community Safety, the Police, Health Services, Inclusion, and a number of technical services. The development of the proposal has also involved neighbouring authorities and consultation with operators of transit sites in other parts of the country, as well as representatives of the Department Of Communities and Local Government and the Government Office for the South East.

6. Design and feasibility studies have been undertaken. The Southampton Local Plan sets out permissive criteria for a Gypsy and Traveller site but does not identify specific locations. The proposed land for the transit site is currently 'unallocated' within the Local Plan. THE SITE: LOCATION

7. The site is roughly triangular and is approximately 0.97 acres or 0.392 hectares in size.

8. The site for this proposal is located on the northern outskirts of Southampton, some approximately 4.5km from the city centre. The site is situated immediately south of the M27, bordered by dual carriageway (A335 - Stoneham Way) to the west, Monks Brook Greenway to the east, with the railway beyond. Rough land to the south leads to (Wide Lane) and to the north it ends at the motorway. This area is commonly known as 'Monks Brook'. Please refer to the site location map in Section C.

9. The surrounding area is undeveloped land and has the following characteristics:

To the North: Open greenfield land adjacent and M27 beyond. There is a public footpath, to the north of the city council boundary with that extends from the A335 eastward to cross Monks Brook by a footbridge dividing the area of rough grassland which extends to the approximately 300m beyond before which is a narrow strip of deciduous woodland;

To the East: Monks Brook Greenway marks the boundary and consists of patches of bramble before dropping to the brook which is lined by a willow and alder wet woodland. The railway runs parallel with this boundary beyond which is an industrial/commercia1area and residential properties further to the south;

To the South: Undeveloped greenfieldlwoodland

To the West: Stoneham Way, a dual carriageway, marks the boundary. The proposed site is separated from the highway by a grass verge and amenity planting. Beyond the dual carriageway are playing fields.

10. The nearest residential development is approximately 192 metres away (from the centre of the site), with natural habitat between the site and the nearest housing. Some concerns have been expressed by residents that the development would be visible from some dwellings but such visibility would be very limited. The development would not be visible to any substantial degree from nearby housing.

11. The site is within Southampton City Council boundaries and owned by the council. Immediately adjacent north is land owned by County Council which is within the area of Eastleigh Borough Council and identified as a Strategic Gap.

12. Currently the site is largely open, rough grassland with patches of gorse and bramble scrub. It is used by local people and ramblers for informal recreation such as dog-walking. In the 1980s excavation waste from the construction of the M27 was deposited on the site. This was licensed as inert landfill. View from West to East along the Southampton / Hampshire border. Note Ford Factory visible through trees on opposite side of Brook & Railway Line

Looking South from the Northern Boundary of the site Signs of rubbish dumping nearer Northern side of site

Looking South along the Stoneham Way Boundary [fence] DESIGN & ACCESS STATEMENT

The Proposed Design:

13. The scheme is to develop a transit site to meet the needs of Gypsies and Travellers who stop in Southampton on a temporary, short-term basis. The site proposal seeks to establish a high quality environment that meets statutory requirements and best practice. The site will be managed by a full-time manager, employed by the council and therefore office facilities are provided.

14. The scheme has been prepared in close consultation with Department of Communities and Local Government recommended design consultants, Gypsy & Traveller representatives, Hampshire Police Secure by Design Officers and further consultants with regard to sound, contamination and other ecological issues that may be present and relevant to design.

15. The scheme proposed includes the following:

Access and utilities Before any work can start in terms of site development, access to the site will be built. This includes new road and pedestrian access to the site from Stoneham Way. New water, drainage and electrical services will also be installed to the site running beneath the new pedestrian access. Further details regarding access are provided in the 'Traffic Statement' section of this application.

Boundaries The site will be bunded to varying levels around the North, East, South and for the most part Western edges. The site will also have a mixture of steel palisade and acoustic fencing erected as a barrier around the site. Site boundaries are being treated sympathetically to the surroundings with shrub and tree planting being situated on earth bunds [raised earth mounds] that run along the Northern and Eastern boundaries. Grasses and indigenous planting will be situated on these bunds to complement the existing flora. To delineate a secure boundary to both the site and plots, fencing will be situated approximately one third of the way up these bunds from the inner side of the site. Again, to enhance the resident's views, planting of shrubs and trees will be in evidence on this side of the fencing.

Raised beds covered with existing topsoil and its flora will be created to the rear of each amenity block serving three purposes; A] To help maintain existing flora; B] To create areas of natural greenery for residents; and C] To prevent contravention of fire regulations with regard to caravans and their proximity to each other. All these areas will be maintained at the expense of the council and based on ecological advice as far as possible, with regard to species care.

The southern boundary will again have a bund raised with planting recommended by Southampton City Council Ecologists. Furthermore, the adjacent coniferous copse will have some arboricultural works carried out upon it in compliance with Southampton City Council Ecologist's wishes to encourage the current flora to grow in the future. Fencing will again be erected about a third of the way up this bund, with planting on both sides to enhance views. The western boundary currently lies along a post and rail fence. This, along with a 1980's planted hedgerow, will remain for the most part. The exception being where trees and shrubs will be removed to enable situation of the new site entrance. A bund will be placed inside the site adjacent to the post and rail fence, with new planting as on the other bunds. Fencing on this side will be timber and of the acoustic variety [approx' 2.3m high] in order to lower Decibel levels on the new site in compliance with PPG 23. Existing hedgerows and new planting will help minimise the visual impact of the acoustic fencing, positions of which will be agreed prior to start of construction on site.

Entrance The site entrance will have a steel height restriction barrier and steel gates to help maintain safety of children and to control dogs throughout the site's life. Inside the bunded area for the most part concrete will be laid for plot hard standings and for vehicular access around the site.

Plots The number of individual plots on site will be six. Each plot is designed to take up to two caravans at any one time with parking for 2 additional vehicles. Three semi-detached mono pitch roofed single storey utility blocks will be built on these plots, providing each with washing and electrical facilities.

The blocks will be erected on raft foundations as shown on the enclosed drawings. These will be of a traditional design with insulated brick and block cavity walls. Roofs will be mono-pitched with metal roof panels.

A valley gutter is proposed in the design to keep all rainwater drainage plumbing out of sight. Down pipes will go directly to drainage runs through internal boxing and then to rainwater recovery tanks for recycling to flush WC's.

Each amenity block will have:- Shower room with WC and wash hand basin. A washing room with sink and electrical supply. A maintenance area for all pipe work and hidden electrical services. Heating, to include under floor heating provided by a 'ground source heat pump' [GSHP] Hot water provision External caravan electrical supply points External tap External steel door Internal ply flush bathroom door Internal steel door to maintenance cupboard Altro floor or similar finish to shower room and wash rooms. Fermacell boarding to ceilings Plastered walls to inside of amenity blocks, with white vinyl silk paint finish over all walls and ceilings. External lighting Plot Boundaries To the rear of each amenity block an area will be raised, planted and fenced to maintain gaps between caravans to comply with fire safety recommendations. Plots will be bounded by 1800mm concrete panel fencing to the rear and sides of each plot with these heights lowering to 1200mm nearer the front of each plot. Plot frontages will be enclosed using steel farm gates with wire mesh at low level to help control dogs. This will ensure security and privacy for residents

Drainage The only surface water drainage that may return to Monks Brook either directly or indirectly will be from amenity block roof coverings. This water will be directed to rain water recovery tanks which will then flow to soakaways should rainfall become severe. All other water, either foul or surface, will be removed to foul sewers, through grease 1 oil interceptors which will be maintained by the council. Foul drainage services will run parallel to the highway.

The Management Block There will also be a single storey mono pitched roof management block which will provide: Shower room with wash basin, Office area with computer and telephone, printer, photocopier and additional power outlets. WC area Kitchen area Additional dayroom 1 sleeping quarters. Heating by GSHP External lights to illuminate rear storage area.

Children's Play Area A children's play area will be provided to the North and Centre of the site, all of which will be covered by crash matting which allows grass to grow through it. This area will be surrounded by a 900mm high secure steel fence to help prevent animal ingress and to ensure the safety of young children playing within. Designs for this area are not finalised, though all will be designed to comply with current legislation regarding these areas. These designs will be passed through the planning authority for final approval as they become available and prior to start on site.

GENERAL AREA:

Parking Concrete hard standing for vehicular access and parking for site visitors and extra vehicles off plots will be provided.

Security Two CCTV cameras will be mounted on 14m pole to North boundary of site. One will be for viewing the site entrance, one for viewing the management block.

Lighting Internally there will be seven 900mm post lights for general lighting. One on each plot boundary at the front of plots, two near the management block and two near the entrance. It is expected that existing street lighting will give a general cover to the site, but low level post lighting will help delineate pedestrian access within the site boundaries. Each plot will have a light on the amenity block wall near the door.

Gas bottle & Waste Storage Areas There will be lockable wire cage gas cylinder storage in compliance with Government legislation. Gas bottles will be brought on site by users. Empty bottles will be kept in the secure fenced area and collected regularly by an agent who will ensure safe disposal.

There will be a timber fenced and concrete bunded waste storage area for skips. Domestic rubbish will be gathered on plots in black bags and these will be moved by residents from their own plots to a central skip inside the site entrance. This would be emptied by the council Cleansing Team at regular agreed intervals or as necessary. Advice will be taken from the city's cleansing staff on exact placing and types of skip to ensure maximum safety.

Access The layout and design of the site is designed to minimise risk to site users and local people, as well as road traffic users and pedestrians. See the 'Traffic Statement' in Section B for details. The site will have a new entrance for vehicles. The design is based on a reduction in speed limit to 50 mph that will be achieved through other procedures. There will be a provision for a new footway from the site that will be located alongside the edge of the carriageway in a southerly direction. A central barrier I fence will be located on Stoneham Way to prevent vehicles and pedestrians crossing between carriageways.

The impact on the landscape The scheme includes landscape proposals to blend in with the characteristics of the natural area including the boundary treatment of the site which will provide bunding topped with trees and shrubs and other planting around the perimeter of the site.

Disabled Access The internal arrangement of the amenity blocks will be wheelchair accessible. Within the site itself, access ramps will be provided when necessary to gain access to the amenity blocks which will have one small step up to avoid water ingress. Similarly, these will be provided for access to caravans where required by disabled residents. Otherwise the site will be generally level with hard surfacing to assist any wheelchair users, appropriate lighting and gates accessible to wheelchair users. Other auxiliary aids, such as a loop system in the manager's office, will be provided on the advice of the council's Access Officer. STATEMENT OF NEED

The need for a transit site is based on the following factors:

16. Southampton has been a stopping place for Gypsies and Travellers for decades. The council has records of encampments over the last 10 years. Data since 2000 shows an increase in the number of encampments, rising to between 10 and 22 visits (encampments) per annum, made up of between 8 and 10 caravans (on average).

17. There is one permanent Gypsy and Traveller site in the city, in Kanes Hill, established in 1978. That site is always fully occupied with a waiting list. There is no other authorised provision where Gypsies and Travellers can stop legally in the city.

18. As a result of the lack of provision, Gypsies and Travellers stop in unauthorised and inappropriate places. This causes health and safety risks for the Travellers and is often the source of community tensions.

19. Housing legislation (Housing Act 2004) treats Gypsy and Traveller accommodation needs as a housing need. Under equalities legislation (Race Relations Act 1975, Amendment 2000) Gypsies and Travellers are included as a recognised ethnic minority group. The lack of provision for Gypsies and Travellers in Southampton is essentially a pressing accommodation need for a minority group. The needs of this group have not been addressed in this city since 1978.

20. The council spends about f 100,000 per annum to 'move on' Gypsy and Traveller encampments, but the full use of enforcement powers (under section 60 of the Anti-Social Behaviour Act 2003 which amended section 62 of the Criminal Justice and Public Order Act 1994) cannot be applied unless alternative provision, such as that provided by a transit site is located within the city boundary.

21. Therefore a transit site is needed to: meet the accommodation needs of Gypsies and Travellers where that need is not currently met in the city; reduce unauthorised encampments and the costs and tensions associated with them; fulfil equalities duties under the Race Relations Act 1975 by addressing the needs of this recognised ethnic minority community and taking positive action to reduce community tensions.

22. This need is supported by: Local Policy - under the Gypsy and Traveller Strategy, approved by the council in 2005. Therein the need for a transit site in the city was a clear recommendation in the Strategy which was based on an extensive Scrutiny Inquiry. National Housing and Planning Policy - that requires all authorities to carry out a Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment (under the Housing Act 2004) to be fed into the Regional Spatial Strategy with a view to increasing provision for Gypsies and Travellers across the country. Regional and sub-regional priorities to increase the number of sites across the region and thereby establish a network of Gypsy and Traveller provision at sub-region and county level. Consultation with Gypsies and Travellers that has fed into the Gypsy and Traveller Strategy and the development of this proposal. National funding available via the Department of Communities and Local Government and the Regional Housing Board to meet the development costs of additional transit and permanent sites for Gypsies and Travellers.

In view of the demonstrable need for transit provision in Southampton, it is concluded that the matter is addressed by coming forward with a planning application on a specific site. The alternative would be to address this issue through the Local Development Framework, based on the findings of the GTAA (Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment) and requirements of the subsequent Regional Spatial Strategy. However, such an approach would be likely to delay the provision of a site by approximately 3 or 4 years. A delay of this scale would lead to prolonged disturbances arising from unauthorised encampments and failure to address this housing need. Moreover, Government Guidance contained in the South East Regional Assembly Document 'The Partial Review of the Draft South East Plan: Provision for Gypsy and Traveller Caravan Sites' issued in December 2006 says authorities should progress new Gypsy and Traveller provision without waiting for the GTAA and Regional Spatial Strategy position to be finalised.

24. In view of the need to increase Gypsy and Traveller provision through a transit site, it was determined that the appropriate size of a site in Southampton should be 6 pitches for 12 caravans.

The decision to build a 6 pitch site taking up to 12 caravans is based on a number of factors. Firstly, most unauthorised encampments in the city over several years have been of 2-6 vans initially, but have grown as other groups have opportunistically joined them (leading to an average size of 8-1 0). Once groups increase to more than 12 caravans the site and its users are less homogeneous, harder to manage and potentially have more impact on local communities and services. Additionally, Government Guidance and advice from Gypsies and Travellers suggests that most prefer to use small sites which are well managed. The advice from existing transit site operators in other parts of the country confirms the view that a small scale site is easier to manage and therefore much more likely to be a successful site for all. Therefore, based on an assessment of historical travel patterns in this area, 12 caravans seems the optimum size to ensure good management, low community impact and Travellers' willingness to use the site.

SITE SELECTION

26. The proposed location for this transit site was identified following a lengthy site selection process. The detailed analysis is attached as Appendix 1 of this document. In summary it included: An audit of land owned by the council and some private land (considered due to location or planning allocation). A 'long list' of locations was considered - this included 46 locations and involved officers from 13 service areas of the council. There was no bias applied to areas of the city, ward, type of land or council interests in it. All potential options were considered. Initially locations were then rejected if they were too small, not available (in time to make a successful funding application and to provide an operating site in a reasonable timeframe) or for insurmountable physical reasons, such as dangerous access. This left a 'shortlist' of 6 locations. An objective set of criteria was agreed to establish a sequential preferencelweighting system. The criteria used, was based on the (then) ODPM requirements for funding development of Gypsy and Traveller sites and the Southampton Local Plan criteria (Revised Deposit 2003). In total locations were considered against 16 criteria (1 2 at shortlist stage), with additional weighting being given to Traveller preference, community impact, Planning position and distance to housing. From this detailed selection process, Monks Brook came out with the highest score. In particular, of all shortlisted locations, this site was deemed to be most likely to succeed at the Planning application stage. In Planning terms, all the other shortlisted sites were expressly safeguarded within the Local Plan for some specific purpose except for Monks Brook which is unallocated in the Local Plan (known as white land).

ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS

27. A report to Full Council and Cabinet (copy available on request or on Southampton City Council website) identified the alternative option to consider was to defer a decision on a specific location in favour of identifying a location through the Local Development Framework (LDF) process. This option was rejected due to the lengthy timescale such a route would take (estimate up to 3 or 4 years), the extra resources that route would require, the fact there was no assurance of external funding beyond the current rounds and the impact of multiple uncertainty across the city that would arise if multiple locations were openly considered for a potential transit site. Moreover, the case for Monks Brook was considered compelling.

28. This location supports the analysis of need and demand as detailed above, because it is in the vicinity of previous unauthorised encampments, it is on a direct route in and out of the city and matches existing Gypsy and Traveller travel patterns.

29. Sites which are allocated or safeguarded in the Local Plan for some specific purpose have been scored lower than those which are not allocated (known as "whiteland"). Test Lane is allocated for employment development (Policy MSA19). The Botley Road site is safeguarded as a strategic gap (Policy NE 9). Bakers Drove, Stoneham Lane and Lordshill Recreation Centre are expressly protected by Policy CLT3 as open space with the latter two identified for sports playing pitches. All of these therefore score lower than the Monks Brook site which is not expressly protected. ACCESS TO SERVICES

30. Monks Brook lies on the northern boundary of the city. There are 2 residential areas to the south east and south west, and a small local shopping centre immediately to the south. estate lies to the south east of the proposed site location. Swaythling is to the south west of the site.

31. Schools: There are two secondary schools, eight infant, primary and junior schools and two pre-schools within walking distance or a short drive (under 2 miles) in this area. In the development of this proposal representatives of the Children's Services Directorate and Inclusion Team have been in discussions with the nearest primary school and also discussed the impact on schools more widely with relevant officers. There are vacancies at the local school, but experience suggests site-users may choose to go to schools in other parts of the city to be near to friends or relatives (for example schools near the permanent Gypsy and Traveller site in the city) or to attend Catholic schools. These options can be supported and facilitated. An officer within Children's Services already has the remit to support inclusion of Gypsy and Traveller children in schools and she is very successful at supporting both the schools and families.

32. Health Services: The city council has a health protocol with the Southampton Primary Care Trust and Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust to deliver services to people in transit. Travellers will be seen on site by staff from the Homeless Healthcare team and assisted as appropriate or referred to local surgeries, walk in centres, etc. Basic healthcare including children's immunisations, child developmental checks, repeat prescriptions and confidential advice will take place on site; a room is available in the site manager's building for privacy if required. There are four doctors' surgeries within a 3 mile radius, two of which are within 1.5 miles. There are two dentist surgeries within I.5 miles, neither of which are currently accepting NHS patients. There is a Sure Start Children's Centre at Bassett Green Primary School. The nearest walk-in centres are in Shirley Road, 3 miles to the west, and Bitterne 3 miles to the east. The nearest hospital is Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, in the Coxford area of Southampton. The nearest provider of pre and antenatal care is the Princess Anne Hospital which has specialist midwifery team for Gypsies and Travellers. There are two pharmacies within a two mile radius. The nearest is half mile away.

33. Shops and retail facilities: Mansbridge has a corner shop and 2 public houses. Immediately south of the site, running along Swaythling High Road is Swaythling shopping centre. This contains approximately 20 shops including a bank, hairdressers, laundrette, Post Office and several convenience stores and take away food suppliers. 34. Community facilities: There is a local housing office, community centre and youth centre all near to the proposed site.

PLANNING POLICY

35. The Southampton Local Plan Review sets out a permissive criteria-based policy HI5 for Gypsy and Traveller temporary transit sites - no specific locations are identified. The current proposal is for a permanent transit site but the criteria were used to assess the relative merits of potential locations in the site selection process. The criteria requiring occupation for no more than 4 weeks in any calendar year by the same group is not appropriate for a permanent transit site.

36. Monks Brook is 'unallocated' land in the Local Plan Review.

37. The site is not protected open space under policy CLT3 but does have value as a form of amenity land and so should be considered under policy CLT4. Although originally intended to deal with amenity, this policy permits development of amenity land only where the land has no overall landscape or nature conservation value and has no recreational value. This application may be regarded as a departure from Policy CLT4.

38. The Governments Planning Policy Guidance 17 "Planning for Open Space and Recreation1'(PPG 17) says that existing open space should not be built on unless an assessment has been undertaken which has clearly shown the open space to be surplus to requirements. An audit of open space in the city has been carried out. This does not show a surplus of open space. In these circumstances the justification for development of the site is based upon: The need for the development The relatively poor quality of the open space The availability of other natural and semi-natural green spaces and green corridors in the vicinity of the site The detailed site selection exercise that considered all other opportunities for the development to take place on alternative sites.

39. The Residential Development Guidelines have been addressed in the preparation of the detailed proposals and in terms of the impact on the character of the area. This is dealt with in the Design and Access statement above.

PRE-PLANNING CONSULTATIONS

40. The council has undertaken extensive consultation with relevant agencies, services and Government Office of the South East as well as provided detailed public information on this proposal. Please see Appendix 2 for a summary of the consultation with local residents and businesses that includes feedback on what the council will do in response to that consultation and copies of the FAQ papers produced. 41. Broadly the consuItation1information exercise included:

Local residents and businesses near the proposed site; A single point of contact was provided for the public to write, call or e-mail comments and questions A public Information Day - with 2 drop-in sessions and a public meeting in the area A discussion meeting with elderly residents living nearest to the site In addition, local people had 3 opportunities to raise issues and concerns as part of the democratic approvals process - with the proposal being presented at Full Council, Cabinet Consultation and Cabinet Decision meetings Further formal statutory planning consultation will follow as part of the planning procedures.

The Gypsy and Traveller community and representative groups; As part of the Scrutiny Inquiry and review leading to the council's Gypsy and Traveller Strategy, Travellers and their representatives were asked about broad views on transit sites (e.g. would they use one, what was the preferred size, features of a site etc) - this shaped the broad proposal Gypsy and Traveller residents at Kanes Hill (the permanent site in Southampton) have been asked for in-put to the draft design and other development issues Representatives of Gypsy and Traveller groups, i.e. Romani Rights Association, Friends Families and Travellers and Irish Traveller Movement in ~ritain',were sent information about the site at the same time as local residents and businesses. One organisation sent a representative to visit the site and has provided verbal feedback on its suitability. Another organisation recommended a more local Traveller who has lived on local authority sites, used transit sites and now owns his own site on the south coast. This person works with national Gypsy and Traveller organisations and acts as an independent consultant for local authorities. He has visited the site and given valuable advice, influencing details of the design. Both support the development of the site in principle as it has been identified by sequential planning and on the basis of monitoring of unauthorised encampments in the area. Neither has identified any show stoppers from Gypsy and Traveller perspectives. They and others will continue to work with the city council to ensure the site is designed to best meet Traveller's needs within the limitations of its size and position

Involvement of Services and Agencies; The widest range of local services have been consulted and in some cases actively involved in the site selection, design and development stages of this proposal. Many provided advice and support at the public information events and are active members of the Project Team Services involved include Police, Children's Services1 Education (consultationlinformationincluded discussions with the local primary school Head Teacher), Planning, Legal, Highways and Transport, Valuers, Property Services, Environment and Sustainability, Community Safety, Inclusion, Neighbourhood Renewal, Health services, Rights of Way, Housing, Leisure and Public Relations. Neighbouring Authorities; Neighbouring authorities have been consulted throughout the development stage through the Hampshire Joint Authorities Panel on Gypsies and Travellers and once the proposed site became public border authorities have been informed and consulted on the detailed proposals.

Government Office and Other experts; The Gypsy and Traveller Officer for the Government Office for the South EastJDepartment for Communities and Local Government has been consulted on many occasions regarding the site selection and development stage of this proposal. The advice, support and guidance of Gypsy and Traveller site providers across the country has been invaluable, this includes visits and contacts with Bristol, Kent, Wiltshire, Swindon, Darlington, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Brighton and Hove, Surrey County Council, Milton Keynes and Hampshire County Council. Consultation and discussions have also taken place with the Railway Inspectorate, Network Rail, British Airports Authority, Ramblers Association, the Environment Agency, Southampton City Council Ecologist and Archaeologists as well as technical specialists who have undertaken the surveys on site.

42. The feedback from consultation has shaped the design and specific proposals for this scheme, examples of this include: Review of exit routes - includes raised crash barrier to prevent vehicular or pedestrian crossing of the dual-carriageway Revised design of the access barriers to ensure enclosure of children and dogs for road safety Confirmed CCTV and other security measures Revised site layout to allow better vehicular access Review of amenity block design to allow better access

SECTION B

FLOOD RISK

The site was previously identified as an area of flood risk by the Environment Agency. The Environment Agency reviews flood risk areas on a regular basis and have excluded this site from the flood risk area associated with Monks Brook. Due to the recent change in designation of this area a hydrological survey has been carried out. It suggests that since spoil was deposited on site in the 1980's water is still flowing into the Brook from under the area. There are concerns that any use of the land may create an easy path for contamination to flow into Monks Brook and then on to the River Itchen. Clearly there are means of designing out this problem, both during the build phase of the project and during the site's life. Recommendations for minimising contamination risk are laid out within the report and will be followed in full both during the design and build phase and throughout the working life of the site. Concrete cover, properly designed drainage with interceptors, bunding, fencing, litter picking on a weekly basis and other simple methods will be employed. The Environment Agency has been informed of this proposal and any recommendations made by them will be followed.

2. Refer to the drawing WOSCCTRANSl07-00106. This shows the relationship between site levels and surface water of the brook in flood.

TRANSPORT STATEMENT

INTRODUCTION

3. The site is located to the east of Stoneham Way and will require a new access to be constructed from this road. There is at present no access onto this road (except for a field gate in the vicinity of the site) but there is a lay-by on the west of the northbound carriageway.

4. The proposed transit site will consist of 6 pitches which will accommodate a maximum of 12 caravans together with parking for site residents for approximately 12-18 vehicles. Additional parking for site residents will be available inside the site entrance. Parking for site staff and visitors will be available in allocated areas.

5. Stoneham Way is part in Eastleigh Borough Council and part in Southampton City Council with the entrance to the site being within Southampton.

EXISTING TRANSPORT ENVIRONMENT

6. The application site is located on the eastern side of Stoneham Way A335 which is a two lane (in each direction) dual carriageway road with a direct link from junction 5 of the M27 motorway.

7. This link road continues into Southampton and also joins the A33 % mile to the south of junction 5.

SPEED & VOLUME

8. The existing speed limit is 70mph and the two way 12 hourly vehicle flow is approximately 35000 vehicles.

ACCIDENTS

9. There have been 3 accidents on Stoneham Way in the last 3 years, not including the junctions at either end.

ACCESS ISSUES

10. The development will have a new access for vehicles which will allow for them to enter and exit from the site with ease when towing a caravan. Stoneham Way as part of these proposals will be having a reduction in speed limit to 50mph.

1 1. There will also be the provision of a new footway from the site that will be located alongside the edge of the carriageway in a southerly direction until it meets the existing footway at its junction with the A27. This footway will then provide good pedestrian access to Swaythling.

12. Traffic movements to and from this site are relatively small numbers compared to the flow on the road and as there are traffic signals at junction 5 there will be sufficient gaps in the traffic flow to allow these vehicles access onto Stoneham Way. Likely daily trips (out and return) when fully occupied is 60 trips per day. However, the majority of these trips will not be towing caravans as once in occupation the Travellers use cars and vans for daily travel.

13. The flow of entry and exit to the site, when caravans are in tow and especially when there is more than one caravan, will form part of the site management procedures.

14. A central barrierlfence will be located on the Stoneham Way to prevent vehicles and pedestrians from crossing between carriageways.

15. In order to achieve the necessary sight lines for exiting traffic it will be necessary to remove some trees and shrubs which will be replaced as part of a planning agreement with Hampshire County Council Highways.

16. Parking for occupants, site staff and visitors is provided; There is a turning circle within the design. Parking for visitor's vehicles will be marked out on the site. Each individual plot can accommodate 2 caravans and 2 or 3 vehicles. An additional parking area for 1 or 2 lorries or cars is available near the entrance. The remainder of the circulation area will be kept free for vehicles.

HEALTH AND SAFETY

17. The health and safety of site users will be ensured by: Site design in association with police and the Community Safety Manager to ensure no potential hidden areas, crime hot spots or traffic congestion point within the site Full consultation at design stage with Highways Agency and Railway Agencies regarding road and rail dangers and regular reviews with these agencies to swiftly ameliorate any problems if they develop Remediation of any land contamination Annual health and safety inspections of amenity blocks, on site equipment, including barriers and fencing, and play area A planned programme of grounds maintenance to ensure the safety of the landscaping Regular domestic waste collection and site cleansing On site fire fighting procedures and equipment as required by the Fire and Rescue Service Deterrence of fly tipping on site by CCTV. Agreed access arrangements for all emergency services including keys to height barriers Link to council out of hours service Appropriate lighting on site and at access points Site license will prohibit fires on site including domestic and trade waste fires Secure footway with fencing to ensure safe routes to local services for pedestrians Oil interceptors Provision of appropriate voltage electricity plug-in points

RAILWAY

18. The main issue is the proximity of the site to the uncontrolled pedestrian rail crossing to the east of the site and Monks Brook. The public foohvay to the north of the site leads to the crossing and beyond to Wide Lane. Both Network Rail and HM Railway lnspectorate have been consulted about this proposal. It is believed that there will be no substantial increase in risk arising from this development. Any concerns arising from the development of the transit site would be limited by the following: The small scale of the development The provision of a new footway for pedestrians alongside Stoneham Way linking back to the Swaythling Centre The minimal need for residents to use the route The position of the pedestrian access to the site on the western frontage with effective barriers to prevent access directly towards the railway. On site management and a Code of Conduct for occupants of the site that will have a strong emphasis on health and safety.

AIRPORT

19. BAA has been informed of the proposals. The site Code of Conduct will forbid any fires or other pollutant activities and so it is envisaged that the proposal will not raise objections in terms of airport safety.

SECURITY

20. The Police and the council's Community Safety Team have been actively involved in the development of this proposal. On and off-site security has been built into the proposal in both the site design and site management proposals.

SlTE DESIGN

21. Security measures include CCTV at the site entrance, secure bunding and fencing to prevent caravans moving to adjacent land, design of site blocks and layout to design out crime, e.g. checking sight lines for cameras etc.

SlTE MANAGEMENT

22. Southampton City Council will manage the site. There will be a full-time site manager based within the Community Safety Team. A copy of the Draft Management Policy is provided in Appendix 3.

23. Information received from other local authorities managing transit sites suggests that 24 hour staffing on site is not usually necessary. Good liaison with the police and the council Out of Hour's services, City Patrol and Community Safety teams should be sufficient to ensure appropriate cover. However, in order to ensure flexibility to meet changing circumstances the office accommodation has been designed to accommodate overnight stays for short periods of time if necessary.

24. The site will have a double entrance arrangement. There will be a steel height restriction barrier and high steel gates to help maintain both security and safety of children and dogs. The height restriction barrier will be controlled only by the site manager or other authorised staff and emergency services. Travellers with caravans or large vehicles can only access or exit the site via this barrier. Caravans and large vehicles will only be able to access the site with the council's prior approval and on condition they have completed all identity and police checks. The barrier will also need to be opened to allow caravans to exit the site and this should ensure that caravans do not leave without the site manager's knowledge.

25. In addition to the height barrier there will be gates at a lower level which will allow occupiers and visitors to access or leave the site in cars and small vehicles when the barrier is locked and the manager is not present. This will enable site users to take children to school, go shopping, make work trips and use local services, e.g. doctors, launderette etc. Parking on the verge or roadside will not be allowed and there will be parking restrictions leading to enforcement action.

26. When the site is unoccupied there will be no access to the site for vehicles of any size as the entrance will be secured by gates.

27. Occupants of the site will be subject to a licence that includes a Code of Conduct, which will cover on and off-site conduct to ensure a peaceful, safe and secure environment and co-existence within the local area.

CONTAMINATION

28. Preliminary results show only localised contamination of a low to medium environmental risk. The Contamination Survey is provided in Section C.

NOISE

29. Noise survey results show an approximately 5m wide strip adjacent to Stoneham Way which in its current state would make building accommodation for human habitation difficult without severe acoustic measures being implemented. As such, the scheme does not envisage location of plots or accommodation within this area. In addition some acoustic fencing design is necessary along this boundary and will be taken through the full planning process to ensure its compliance with local development guidelines.

MANAGEMENT OF THE SITE

30. Residents will be able to use the council Action Line (hot line) to report any concerns or complaints about the site. The council would undertake to establish a local management group to monitor the impact of the transit site on the local area and make recommendations to address any concerns. This local management group would comprise of representatives of residents, businesses, schools and other interested parties, plus council officers, Police and ward councillors. The management group would be able to use a small part of the budget to resolve minor issues or make improvements and a commitment would formally be made by the council to act swiftly to respond to the issues raised by this group. It is likely that this management group would effectively have a type of community monitoring role and meet regularly to review any impact of the site on the area.

REFUSE COLLECTION, LITTER ARRANGEMENTS

Ensuring the site is maintained in good repair, clean and tidy, safe and pleasant to occupy is the role of the Site Manager and histher line manager. This role and responsibility is clearly set out in the Management Policy and will be reflected in Job Descriptions and work plans. The Site Manager will undertake a daily review of the site and address any issues. This daily inspection will include litter and action required to ensure the site is clean and tidy at all times. A weekly detailed inspection and report of site conditions will also be carried out. Site-users will also be expected to play their part in keeping their pitches and the site in a neat and tidy condition. This responsibility will be clearly laid out in the Site licence and code of conduct.

32. Domestic rubbish will be gathered on plots in black bags and these will be moved by residents from their own plots to a central skip by the site entrance. This would be emptied by council cleansing team at regular agreed intervals or as necessary. Advice will be taken from the city's cleansing staff on exact placing and types of skip to ensure maximum safety.

COMMUNITY SAFETY AND COMMUNITY IMPACT

33. Monks Brook lies on the northern boundary of the city. There are 2 residential areas to the south east (Mansbridge) and south west (Swaythling) and the Swaythling local shopping centre immediately to the south.

34. Mansbridge Mansbridge estate lies to the south east of the proposed site location. The 2001 census data suggests it has about 1600 people in 767 households including 38 households in a single purpose built sheltered housing block. The area has a slightly higher number of people aged 5-1 5 and over 65 than the city average. The majority of housing is privately owned or housing association property. The large Ford factory is situated in Wide Lane with additional parking to the east of Mansbridge Road. Some smaller industrial units are situated in Wide Lane. The Mansbridge area lies across and along parts of the Monks Brook greenway which provides footpaths from Bitterne through to the city boundary and beyond. It is used by dog walkers, local people and ramblers groups. Road access to the area is restricted by narrow roads and the railway bridge which has a height restriction, a no right turn from the south bound lane of the dual carriage way and no right turn onto the north bound carriageway. Pedestrian access to the area from the proposed site would be down the proposed new footway.

35. Community Impact on Mansbridge

Traffic - Caravans will be unable to access or exit the Mansbridge area from the railway arch and unlikely to access it via Wessex Lane because of size restrictions. Site occupants using cars and vans may access the area but it is likely site residents will prefer to use services in Swaythling High Road although the local corner shop and pub may be used.

School -The local school may be used by children staying on the site during school terms. The school currently has some spaces and the Children's Services and Learning Directorate demographic forecasts suggest this will continue to be the case for the next 5 -10 years. However, as noted elsewhere (see 'Access to Services'), other schools in the city may also be used and there is robust support provided by the Children's Services and Learning Directorate for Gypsy and Traveller families, schools and settled communities to access and sustain education services in a positive way.

36. Swaythling

To the south west of the proposed site lies Swaythling. Some housing is along Stoneham Lane which runs parallel to the dual carriage way separated from the proposed site by the dual carriage way and fields. Some of Stoneham Lane area falls outside the Southampton City Council boundary. The majority of houses in the southern area, closest to the site, are privately owned or housing association properties. Housing to the further south and west is largely council owned or privately rented. The BTC Sports Club is set off Stoneham Lane to the south west of the site and is separated from the site by a dual carriage way and field. According to the 2001 census there are 2327 residents here although this covers the area extending to the university.

37. Community Impact on Swaythling

Traffic - Residents who took part in the consultations on this proposal raised concerns about increased traffic congestion and risks relating to caravans moving to and from the site. The Traffic Statement in this application confirms that this proposal will not result in a substantial increase in traffic on the dual carriageway and that safety measures will be in place, including speed reductions, to ensure the proposal does not create a hazard for site- users or road-users. Residents also raised concerns about loss of access to the public footpath and I or shared use with site-users. However, the proposals will not be removing public Right of Ways and although Gypsies and Travellers like any other citizens have the right to use public areas, the site design does discourage access to the greenway. Moreover, transit sites in other parts of the country are located near to public footpaths with no reports of problems experienced by the general public. Other issues of concern to residents are covered in the consultation section of this application.

38. Community Safety Impact

Antisocial behaviour - There are some concerns about antisocial behaviour in the area by young people either living locally or coming from the residential area to the west. The users of the proposed site may become a target for this activity. Some local people fear that site users will come into the area and behave in an antisocial manner. These concerns are being addressed by: Strong site management. Interagency working. Establishment of a local management group made up of local community groups, agencies, including the police, and Gypsy and Traveller representatives. The management structure locates site management in the Southampton City Council Community Safety Team, which is also responsible for City Patrol, Anti-Social Behaviour Team and responding to unauthorised encampments. A small minority of the Gypsy and Traveller population may be criminals, as are a small minority of the settled population. However experience shows that there a very few crimes attributable to unlawful encampments of Gypsies and Travellers. The situation is further improved in respect of permanent and legal temporary sites where the evidence at national or local level indicates that there are no increases in any crimes in the area where such sites exist. The council would manage the site and enforce a strict code of conduct on users of it. The council has powers to evict any Travellers and ban them from returning to the site (in extreme circumstances even ban them from the city) for breaching the code of conduct. The Police have been consulted and are involved in the design of the site. The Police have confirmed that they would be able to support the smooth running of the site. Robust safety and security measures would be put in place on the site, including CCTV, lighting, fencing and bunding around the site. There would be no noise from generators as electricity would be supplied on site. There would be acoustic fencing surrounding the site to both keep the external noise (of road and railway) at bay for Travellers and this would also reduce any noise from on the site being heard. Dogs would not be allowed to roam freely. Ensuring dogs are under control will be part of the code of conduct. If there is a breach, the Dog Warden can remove dogs. Rubbish and waste disposal facilities would be on site and keeping the site clean and free of mess would be a requirement of the code of conduct and enforced as part of the site management. Experience from other transit sites, independent research (in Scotland) and the permanent site in Southampton at Kanes Hill is that the anticipation and fear of 'trouble' by local people is not borne out once a site is up and running. Consultation with the Police affirms the above view. The Police also note that they "appreciate the need for a transit site and why this is a good location"; they will work with the council and other agencies to manage any issues arising from local people, Travellers and agencies. SUSTAINABILITY ISSUES

39. A sustainable construction approach has been taken with this project. The new amenity blocks are to be constructed using a traditional build method for longevity of building life. Design of blocks allows for a service area within each block thus hiding much extraneous service provision. Under-floor heating for the blocks will also minimise risk of damage to heating fittings. Additionally, an EcoHomes approach will be taken as far as the specification will allow, bearing in mind these are not houses, but amenity blocks.

40. Shared rain water recovery systems will be fitted along with ground source heat pumps for hot water and heating provision. Based on previous National Energy Foundation studies the site should achieve a minimum renewable energy provision of 22% but as these figures are based on semi detached bungalows we are optimistic that the recommendations will allow us to achieve greater than this for the site.

NATURE CONSERVATION

41. A full ecological survey and environmental survey were carried out in February 2007. Further surveys will be conducted in May during the growing season. All surveys will be conducted in consultation the council's Planning Ecologist. All findings will be referred to appropriate agencies for further discussion if necessary The site design will be sensitive to issues raised by surveys (see Section C for surveys).

42. Site boundaries are being treated sympathetically to the surroundings with shrub and tree planting being situated on earth bunds. Grasses and indigenous planting will be situated on these bunds to complement the existing flora. Planting of shrubs and trees will be in evidence on this side of the fencing.

43. The southern boundary adjacent coniferous copse will have some arboricultural works carried out upon it in compliance with recommendations of Southampton City Council Ecologist to encourage the current flora to grow in the future.

44. The western boundary 1980's planted hedgerow will remain for the most part. The exception being where trees and shrubs will be removed to enable situation of the new site entrance.

45. An ecological survey has been carried out for the site, the results of which are included. Advice has also been obtained from Southampton City Council's Planning Ecologist with regards to existing flora 1 fauna and desirable boundary treatments for the project. Their advice has been followed - in particular with regard to location of fencing with respect to bunds and with regard to additional planting and arboriculture. The conditions to be met are that removal of any existing hedgerow will need to take place between 1'' September and 2oth February in order not to disturb breeding birds, their nests or eggs. The entire site will be fenced and bunds erected prior to commencement of building works to protect the surrounding environment during construction. 46. A tree survey has been carried out along with a full topographical survey of the site and land leading down to Monks Brook. The site does not encroach on any trees other than at the proposed site entrance. Any trees on the site will be surrounded before any works commence by 1.2 metre high chestnut pale fencing. All enclosed areas shall be kept clear at all times of all excavated material, building materials, plant and rubbish. A landscape protection action plan will be submitted for approval by the planning authority before any works commence.

TRAVELLER PREFERENCES

47. As part of the Scrutiny Inquiry leading to the council's Gypsy and Traveller Strategy, Travellers and their representatives were asked about broad views on transit sites (e.g. would they use one, what was the preferred size, features of a site etc) - this shaped the broad proposal. Gypsies and Travellers prefer greenfield sites in summer and hard standing sites in winter. They prefer not to be too close to residential properties and to be close to main roads and services especially shops, etc. This proposal meets those preferences.

48. Gypsy and Traveller residents at Kanes Hill (the permanent site in Southampton) have been asked for in-put to the draft design and other development issues. The location of Kanes Hill is similar in some ways to Stoneham being bounded on 2 sides by a green area, close to a road which provides access and a short distance from local services. The general view was support for the proposed design features.

49. Feedback from Gypsies and Travellers noted that given the transient nature of a short-term site like this one, Gypsies and Travellers using the site will be highly mobile. Therefore, the design was modified to enable more turning space and use every possible space for accommodating vehicles, small and possible large trailers, etc.

50. Consultation also highlighted that Travellers are very possessive and cautious with their children's safety. The site design ensures full visibility of the play area from all plots.

51. Other details like types of electrical sockets and washing lines were raised by Gypsy and Traveller consultation and have or will be included in the development.

52. Advantages for Gypsies and Travellers of this site include: Direct access to roads on main travelling routes as well as direct road into the city Discreet location in natural habitat Affords privacy - 192m away from local residents The location was used by Gypsies and Travellers in the past Reasonable access to local services including schools and health services

53. Disadvantages for Gypsies and Travellers of this site are: Roads and railway nearby could be noisy Mitigation: o A noise survey has been carried out and found it passes current required standards o Acoustic fencing to be built into the design Railway Crossing, busy roads and brook nearby could be a safety risk Mitigation: o Discussions with the Railway Inspectorate and Network Rail to agree safety position o Site design will 'close off' rear access of the site that leads to the crossing and stream - to remove direct access to it and steer towards the front of site for access o Site design will be in consultation with the Highways Agency and Highways and Transport experts to ensure the safest possible access and exit to the site. This includes lowering the speed limit on the dual carriageway. o Safety warnings to be given as part of the 'welcome' information for site- users The site is often water-logged Mitigation: o The Environment Agency has removed this part of the land from the Flood Risk Plan o Drainage and contamination surveys have been taken with no risks identified o With good drainage current water-log will be removed

SECTION C

ATTACHMENTS Location Plan Site plan Layout plan Elevations Sectional Drawings Survey reports: Ecological, Noise, Environment (including Tree), Contamination (including Hydrological).

APPENDICES Site Selection Consultation Draft Management Policy