FIELD WORK Summer 2016

A new model for English farming p.4 Surrey’s Green Belt in crisis p.6 Monitoring and evaluating campaigns p.8 Progress towards our 2026 Vision p.14 Public transport oriented development p.16 Darren Baskill Darren

New mapping helps tackle Night Blight

he most detailed ever satellite maps of England’s dark wildlife and the wider environment: lights typically account for skies have been produced by consultants LUC for CPRE, between 15-30% of local councils’ carbon emissions – often Tenabling users to search by postcode, and providing a produced by the £613 million they were estimated to spend on more detailed and up-to-date analysis of England’s skies than street lighting in 2014-15. The research shows that motorways and the global atlas of light pollution released earlier in June. trunk roads are significant contributors to light pollution. The interactive maps were produced with satellite images CPRE’s recommendations captured at 1.30 am throughout September 2015. They show that the Isles of Scilly, West Devon and Eden in Cumbria are England’s We want Highways England use the maps to identify sections darkest districts, and that the very darkest spot in England, out of motorways and trunk roads that need urgent attention to of more than 2.25million pixels, is a secluded hillside on the East reduce light pollution. Any new lighting should be well designed Kielder Moors in Northumberland. CPRE’s interactive maps also and the minimum required to meet its purpose. Businesses give us an unprecedented level of understanding into where light should review their current lighting and future development pollution is most invasive. Unsurprisingly, nineteen of the brightest plans to save money by dimming or switching off light to 20 skies are above London boroughs, while the very brightest reduce pollution. spot is above a Tata Steel foundry in Rotherham, followed by the Above all, we hope our new maps will encourage local Thanet Earth greenhouse complex in Kent. Nationwide, the maps authorities to develop policies in local plans to control light show that just 22% of England is untouched by light pollution, and pollution, using the maps to inform decisions on local planning that 53% of our darkest skies are over National Parks and Areas applications by ensuring that existing dark skies are protected of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Northumberland National Park and that new developments do not increase local light pollution. enjoys 96% pristine night skies, while countryside to the north of They should also be identifying areas with severe light pollution Newcastle airport and Allestree Park on the edge of Derby provide and targeting action to reduce it, such as investing in dimming oases of dark in areas of high light pollution. technology or running part-night lighting schemes. The maps This research comes at a time of increasing awareness of the can also be used to identify existing dark skies that need to be harmful effects light pollution can have on the health of people, protected and enhanced.

Continued on p.2 CONTACTS COVER STORY

FIELDWORK New mapping helps tackle “Remedial efforts will not Volume 13, Issue 2 Night Blight only save energy, but also Editor: Oliver Hilliam Continued from p.1 enable more of us to enjoy a ([email protected] ) dark sky in the way earlier Contributors: Rebecca With roads being such a major part of the Pullinger, Emma Marrington, problem, we’d like local highway authorities to generations could” CPRE Dorset, CPRE London, develop a Street Lighting Policy, which could Shaun Spiers, Amy Peabody, include Environmental Lighting Zones to ensure Matt Thomson, Peter that appropriate lighting is used in each area. Take action in your area In early 2015, Northumberland County Council Foreman, Tim Harrold, Andy CPRE’s Night Blight website includes the began an ambitious £25 million project to interactive mapping, as well as a host of resources Smith, CPRE Herefordshire, modernise all the street lights in the county for branches and parish councils including a CPRE Oxfordshire, CPRE over the next three years. Around 44,500 street CPRE report and template leaflet to help raise Norfolk, David Edsall, Jackie lights will replaced with Light Emitting Diode awareness and lobby local authorities to take Copley, CPRE Bedfordshire, (LED) technology, with nearly 17,000 existing action to reduce light pollution. CPRE Northamptonshire, lampposts being replaced. The council are Anna Mathieson, Christopher hoping to cut energy consumption by street Detailed maps have been created for English Napier, CPRE Devon, Benjamin lighting by more than 60%, which will lead counties, districts, National Parks, AONBs and Halfpenny, Paul Miner, to savings in the region of £300,000 per year National Character Areas. Each map shows Nicholas Whitsun-Jones, Liz and reduce the carbon footprint of the street the percentage of pixels within the boundary lighting stock by more than 5,000 tonnes of Hamilton, CPRE Kent, Lillian that falls under each brightness category. An carbon dioxide. Burns, Trinley Walker. editable template leaflet has been created for Positive reaction use as a county based handout at CPRE events, showing local information from the maps. They Fieldwork is the newsletter of Duncan Wise, Visitor Development and will also be useful in responding to planning the Campaign to Protect Rural Marketing Manager, Northumberland National applications, and with CPRE contacting English England, published in April, Park, welcomed the report, saying: “Everyone local authorities to promote the maps, it is worth August and November. should have the opportunity to appreciate the arranging meetings with your contacts in local beauty of the Milky Way with their own eyes. authorities to discuss the detailed maps for the CPRE works locally and nationally It should not be the preserve of just those who county or district, and what action they could to stand up for the countryside: are fortunate enough to live in rural areas. We take to tackle sources of light pollution and to protect it from the threats it can all do our bit. If you need to install outside protect dark skies. faces, and to shape its future for lights on your home or business, make sure that they are fully-shielded, to only shine In many cases there is something that can be the better. downwards, where the light is needed. Also done. The first UK law tackling light pollution consider how much light you need and the came into force in 2006 under Section 102 of ISSN 1744-8905 (Print) colour temperature of your light bulb. These the Clean Neighbourhoods and Environment Act ISSN 1744-8913 (Online) simple steps will make a real difference to our (2005). Exterior lighting joined noise and smells quality of life and help ensure that our skies on the list of things that can be treated as a above remain truly dark.” Statutory Nuisance, and something your local council's Environmental Health Department can take legal action against. The law makes “Local authorities should 'exterior light emitted from premises so as to be prejudicial to health or a nuisance' a criminal be identifying areas with offence. This law doesn't tackle all forms of 5–11 Lavington Street light pollution, only incidents of particularly severe light pollution bad lighting from some types of premises which London, SE1 0NZ cause people real nuisance. CPRE would like Tel: 020 7981 2800 and targeting action to to see it used (and our Night Blight website Fax: 020 7981 2899 reduce it” offers further guidance) to raise awareness of [email protected] the issue and to help people who really are www.cpre.org.uk Sir Martin Rees, Astronomer Royal, suffering from severe light pollution. commented: “It has taken a great deal of We have also developed exciting lesson plans A company limited by guarantee, dedicated effort to generate these maps. By for primary school children, with funding from registered in England, number highlighting the regions where light pollution the Royal Astronomical Society. The plans 4302973. Registered charity number is greatest, they will encourage remedial focus on art and design for Key Stage 1 and 1089685. efforts that will not only save energy, but also science for Key Stage 2. They are a fun and enable more of us to enjoy a dark sky in the All the articles and features within educational way for children to learn more way earlier generations could.” Responding about stars and gain a basic understanding of this publication are copyright of the to our research, a Tata Steel UK spokesman CPRE and may not be reprinted or light pollution. Emails have been sent to all distributed without the prior written told the Sunday Times: “We are always English primary schools to encourage use of consent of the publishers. looking at ways of reducing the impact of the lesson plans. We hope that branches and our operations on the environment and the parish councils will promote the lesson plans communities in which we are based. For with their local schools. that reason we have an ongoing programme to replace all lighting with modern low- Find out more: Read our full report, search energy units which are more directional and our mapping and download resources at http:// therefore create less light pollution." nightblight.cpre.org.uk

2 Fieldwork Summer 2016 SUCCESSES IN THIS ISSUE

featured BREAKthrough contents How our work is making a difference New mapping helps tackle Night Blight p.1 Dorset solar Mapperton solar farm quashed farm defeated p.3 CPRE Dorset campaigners was seriously misled by came after Good Energy A new model for were celebrating in June when the Officers’ Report which Limited were forced to English farming p.4 the High Court of Justice recommended permission be withdraw an earlier application quashed planning permission granted. The report admitted in the face of a successful Reviewing the for the proposed Mapperton that the proposal would do legal challenge. The solar park National Planning Solar Park on land owned by harm to heritage assets but would have covered 106 acres Policy Framework p5 South Dorset MP Richard Drax. failed to point out that, if with 90,000 solar PV panels. Surrey’s Green This decision is the result of this was the case, this would Local residents formed the Belt in crisis p.6 Katharine Butler’s successful not comply with policies in Mapperton Preservation Group application for a Judicial the Local Plan. The judge has to object. Good ideas from Review of East Dorset District refused appeal. Ironically one of the key Herefordshire and Council’s decision to grant Over 700 objections were objections was the adverse Oxfordshire p.7 permission for a solar farm sent to East Dorset District impact on the setting and views Monitoring and to be sited on good arable Council last year to protest from Grade II listed Charborough evaluating land amongst highly valued at what would have been, if Park, which is owned by campaigns p.8 heritage assets in an Area built, the second largest solar Drax. Pevsner, the acclaimed of Great Landscape Value. farm park in Dorset, saying architectural historian, described Northamptonshire’s She was supported by the it represented damaging the landscaped park as “the most litter heroes p.10 Mapperton Preservation Group industrialisation of the the splendid in Dorset”. Rupert Hardy, CPRE’s latest (MPG) and CPRE Dorset. county's beautiful countryside. a representative of both MPG and award winners p.11 Deputy High Court Judge This was the largest protest CPRE Dorset, argued “the vast Rhodri Lewis Price QC agreed ever mounted against a solar installation would have been a Planning for better with Katharine that East installation application in blight on the landscape of infrastructure p.12 Dorset’s Planning Committee Dorset. The revised proposal Thomas Hardy’s Wessex”. Countryside protection still Backing for Metropolitan Green Belt has teeth p.13 CPRE branches in London, There are signs that the created. I will continue to use Progress towards Essex, Kent, Bedfordshire, campaign is having an influence. my full range of planning powers our 2026 Vision p.14 Buckinghamshire, Berkshire, Taking his first Parliamentary to further strengthen protections Surrey and Hertfordshire have questions as the new Secretary for open and green spaces in the A discussion paper p.15 joined forces with the London of State for Communities and London Plan and ensure we are on devolution Green Belt Council to create a Local Government in July, making the most of brownfield The potential of public new ‘Threats to London’s Green Sajid Javid said: “The Green sites across the city.” transport oriented Belt’ map. Belt is absolutely sacrosanct. In further positive news, CPRE development p.16 The map also highlighted Unless there are exceptional Kent’s Richard Knox-Johnston – the huge potential loss of circumstances, we shouldn’t be in his capacity as Chairman of countryside across the Home carrying out any development the London Green Belt Council Counties, with plans for 41,500 there.” New London Mayor, Sadiq - secured support for threatened homes in Hertfordshire; 20,000 Khan, also strongly backed Green Belt playing fields from in Surrey; 27,000 in Essex, the Green Belt, in Bromley – a major sporting stars in July. and a further 29,500 across borough where CPRE London The Oakfield site in Redbridge Berkshire, Buckinghamshire has been tenaciously defending has also been the subject of and Kent. Kevin Fitzgerald, of green spaces, in one of his CPRE London campaigning, and CPRE Hertfordshire, was quoted first major decisions as Mayor. happens to be where former in the Sunday Telegraph Refusing planning permission England footballer, Sir Trevor coverage of the campaign, for a development including a Brooking, and England cricketer saying: “These are attractive stadium, two blocks of flats and Ravi Bopara learned their skills. areas of open countryside, 393 car parking spaces within Both sent letters of support well used for agriculture and Chislehurst’s conservation area, for the campaign, with Bopara recreational amenities and he said: “I am determined to saying that “from the age of 9 to building on them would have oppose building on the Green 16, Oakfield provided me with a a substantial impact of our Belt, which is now even more safe and healthy environment on Green Belt.” important than when it was and off the field”.

Fieldwork Summer 2016 3 OTHER NEWS CAMPAIGN NEWS

Current issues NEWSroundup Ministerial update Following the resignation Keeping you on top of countryside developments of David Cameron, we congratulated Theresa May on becoming Prime Minister. A new model for English farming As MP for Maidenhead she has supported local Early August saw the We believe the report into the sector, the paper campaigns to improve publication of the first identifies a range of policy recommends a package of the town and protect the in a series of research changes needed for the measures to increase the countryside around it, papers that will examine Government to increase the availability of land for new and gave a well-received different aspects of the diversity, sustainability and farmers and growers, such speech at CPRE Berkshire’s food and farming system. resilience of the farming as transparency in land AGM in October 2015. The Food and Farming sector on which so much of ownership, new incentives Hansard reveals that she is Foresight series follows our countryside depends. for landowners to release a keen supporter of urban five successful Housing Firstly, as negotiations begin land and changes to land- regeneration and Green Belt Foresight papers, and that will take England out use planning to deliver protection – even supporting, begins at a time, following of the Common Agricultural allotments, community in 2005, an Early Day Motion the EU referendum Policy, the paper argues for right-to-grow plots and to commend CPRE’s work to decision, when there is secure, long-term public smallholdings. The paper also protect the Green Belt and an opportunity for major suggests the role of county wider countryside. funding to continue, but in We also look forward policy change. a progressive and publicly farms should be reviewed to working with the new The Government will accountable way. Direct with a view to reinvigorating ministers at the Department need to work with a wide funding should provide a the estate and its role of Communities and Local range of organisations to safety net for all farmers as an incubator of new Government, led by Sajid comprehensively review the and growers, with targeted producers. A new national Javid, the new Communities legacy of farming policy help for new entrants and programme of farmer field Secretary and a strong within the EU and to develop to aid succession between schools is recommended supporter of the Green Belt. a new vision and policies generations. In particular, to help develop and spread Even as Business Secretary, he to establish a sound future ‘Green’ farming should methods to cut risks, boost stood up for it, saying on the for farming. With this in be supported by strong productivity and net income Today programme on 10 July mind, CPRE’s Graeme Willis incentives, and rewards as well as restoring nature. last year: “There’s no need to has written a paper, New for practices which ensure build on the Green Belt… it’s Model Farming, designed farming has a positive impact Find out more: Read New very valuable and we need it”. to promote new ideas and Model Farming at www.cpre. Gavin Barwell, the new Housing on natural assets. and Planning Minister has also practical recommendations. To encourage new blood org.uk been an outspoken supporter of the Green Belt in his New Bills in Queen’s Speech Croydon South constituency. He led a campaign to protect Several new bills of interest the right of appeal, we were that their heritage value is local Green Belt, saying: to CPRE were announced heartened that the then considered and protected. “Croydon has got a huge in the Queen's Speech in Planning Minister Brandon Meanwhile, we called on amount of brownfield land May. A Neighbourhood Lewis pledged to “work with the Government to ensure the which we should be using Planning and Infrastructure colleagues to ensure that Bus Services Bill will secure to build the housing we so neighbourhood plans enjoy an integrated bus network desperately need. That doesn’t Bill appears to put mean we should be building neighbourhood plans at the primacy that we intend across local authority over the few remaining green the heart of planning, and them to have in planning law”. boundaries and deep into spaces that we’ve got.” we believe it has been The Digital Economy rural areas. We suggested At Defra, the new Secretary introduced as a direct Bill, meanwhile, seeks to that including a requirement of State, Andrea Leadsom, result of CPRE’s lobbying establish a legal right to for a Bus and Coach has worked well with her on the Housing and fast broadband, following a Investment Strategy in the local CPRE branch and Planning Bill (now Act) in recent consultation discussing Bill would help roll out smart lists cycling and ‘walking the preceding months. how to extend superfast integrated ticketing, GPS in the Northamptonshire Although we did not broadband services to the tracking, faster journeys and countryside’ as her hobbies. succeed with our amendment 5% (most often rural areas) better access. Many members The experienced George for a neighbourhood right of who do not currently have of the House of Lords kindly Eustice returns as farming appeal, we did win significant adequate access. CPRE raised our concerns about minister, and we’ll be urging Parliamentary support for welcomed measures to speed the apparent lack of rural- both – as prominent ‘Leave’ the idea that Neighbourhood up the building of broadband proofing at the Second campaigners – to ensure Planning must carry more infrastructure, and suggested Reading of the Bill. We will that whatever replaces the weight, particularly in the that visual impact could be also be calling for the return Common Agricultural Policy House of Lords which twice minimised by fixing new of a Rural Bus Subsidy Grant and EU environmental voted to introduce the masts to existing buildings to prevent wide swathes of regulations strengthens amendment. Even though the – such as churches or farm rural England becoming bus- protection for the countryside. Government twice rejected building roofs – provided free zones by 2020.

4 Fieldwork Summer 2016 DIARY DATES

dates NEWSroundup of note A 90th anniversary celebration with Housing and Planning Act CPRE Kent A very special occasion The Housing and Planning Act Government accepted the need Despite a strong campaign to celebrate CPRE’s 90th received Royal Ascent on 12 to protect scarce rural affordable - in conjunction with the anniversary. Tickets cost May 2016. Months of CPRE housing they argued that the National Association of Local £30 per person and include campaigning had notable voluntary agreement left housing councils and Civic Voice - for a drinks, canapés and access results, working closely and associations in the best position Neighbourhood right of appeal, to the grounds (and for an effectively with the CLA to decide where the Right to Buy we only won a small concession extra £2.50, the castle itself). (Country Land and Business would be appropriate, and where that any planning conflicts with Tickets can be booked via Association) and Hastoe replacement properties should made Neighbourhood Plans http://cprekent.org.uk Housing Association as part be built. would be reported on. However, 5th September, Hever Castle, of the Rural Housing Network. On the proposed forced sale cross party support for our calls Kent 4-6pm Although not all of our of high value council houses, for Neighbourhood Planning to amendments were incorporated we succeeded in exempting be strengthened could mean Launch of the there will be opportunities for some rural areas, with the more progress towards this in Northamptonshire more campaigning to improve Government conceding that the subsequent Neighbourhood Countryside Design Guide in National Parks and Areas of secondary legislation. Planning and Infrastructure Bill. CPRE Award winner David Our lobbying to ensure that Outstanding Natural Beauty Overall, our efforts improved a Edsall launches his new guide rural exception sites continue to there are greater planning poor Bill and ensured that rural to maintaining local character. focus on affordable housing for constraints which would make issues were high profile during local people succeeded when the it more challenging to replace its passage. Because this was the 12th September, Stanwick Government put forward its own homes that are sold off with first Bill to go through the ‘EVEL’ Lakes, 7pm amendment to dispense with the new affordable homes for rent. (English Votes on English Laws) requirement for Starter Homes The Government subsequently procedure - meaning that a large Cheltenham Literature (market homes with a 20% committed to exclude local majority would have been needed Festival panel discussion discount for first time buyers) authority housing in these in the Commons to make any on the countryside on such sites. We also argued for areas from forced sale, and changes to Government proposals To celebrate CPRE’s a rural exemption to the Right will look at other rural areas - we put more emphasis on our 90th anniversary book, to Buy housing association that might also be excluded in work with the House of Lords, 22 Ideas that saved the properties, but although the secondary legislation. where we were highly influential. English countryside, join co-author Oliver Hilliam, CPRE Gloucestershire Reviewing the National Planning Policy Framework Vice Chairman, Richard Lloyd MBE, and The Times With the Government needs to provide stronger policies assumes that local authorities can columnist Alice Thomson for consulting on changes to to ensure that brownfield sites control the rate at which houses a discussion on the issues the National Planning Policy are developed before greenfield. are actually built once the sites facing rural England chaired Framework (NPPF), our online The report also endorsed CPRE have been identified and planning action saw over 9,000 people concerns that greenfield sites are permission granted.” by Simon Jenkins. sending a letter to their MP coming forward unnecessarily in A fairer and more effective 14th October, Cheltenham by July, demanding that the areas where brownfield sites with policy would be for the Town Hall, 1pm Government uses the review to planning permission are available. Government to focus on the prioritise Green Belt protection Another bone of contention housebuilders rather than local CPRE Autumn Conference and prioritise brownfield sites. with the Government’s proposals authorities, and we’re calling Key topics will include: With the EU referendum likely is the idea of a housing delivery for more thought to be given to Campaign priorities for to delay the outcome of the test, which would work by incentivising developers to build the next three years; key review, we will continue to ‘comparing the number of homes houses, and in the right places. strategic issues that we need lobby to influence the final that local planning authorities CPRE has suggested that the to tackle; capitalising on decisions on key changes. set out to deliver in their local granting of planning permission opportunities identified. CPRE welcomed the April report plan against the net additions should be tied to a contract with 3rd November, The Studio, 7 of the Communities and Local in housing supply in a local the developer that determines Canon Street, Birmingham, B2 Government select committee planning authority area’. If there the rate at which homes will 5EP 10.30am-5pm on the NPPF consultation. The is a sustained period where be built. We also argue that a report analysed and commented housing targets aren’t being met, developer’s failure to construct on the evidence collected by the current proposal is that the homes at a reasonable rate could the committee, which included local authority would be made lead to financial penalties or the oral evidence from CPRE Chief to earmark more greenfield sites revocation of the developer’s Executive Shaun Spiers, and its for development in addition to right to build all or part of the conclusions showed significant the ones it has already identified. outstanding planning permission, support for many of CPRE’s CPRE’s head of planning, Matt and delegation of that right to arguments. The Committee Thomson, commented: “The competing developers, including agreed that the Government problem is that the test wrongly custom-and self-builders.

Fieldwork Summer 2016 5 OTHER NEWS REPORTAGE

Current issues Lower Thames Crossing letterfrom Transport campaigner Dr Peter Foreman of CPRE Essex writes: “I agree the with CPRE Kent that the Highways Agency needs to re-think about field another crossing; this is not the way forward. Words from local campaigners Much more localism is needed to grossly reduce emissions, rather than destroying more valuable farmland for roads. Kent may now have acres of HGVs parking, because of troubles crossing the channel. The problem is that the environmental damage has no cost in the CPRE Guildford’s Tim Harrold gives his analysis of a draft local present economic system. Instead of building more plan which puts swathes of Surrey's countryside at risk roads for cars and HGVs, which should pay much Dear reader, statement is not reflected in We have commissioned higher taxes, it would be CPRE Surrey is facing a major the draft Local Plan which not Green Balance to review much more economical crisis on the Green Belt as only encroaches on the Green and supply an independent to provide safe foot/cycle never before. Guildford has Belt in a wide range locations, commercial opinion on the paths. Huge areas of land been selected by the M3 Local but calls for housing validity of the OAN housing used for a few storage Enterprise Partnership as one development on a number figure. Their report makes areas causing miles of of four towns where growth of sites in the Surrey Hills clear that they judge this HGVs may be cost effective is to be encouraged and as a Area of Outstanding Natural document to be flawed and with our present economic result the Green Belt is under Beauty (AONB). the OAN figure for Guildford system, but only because huge threat from housing In view of the clear national to be too high. CPRE Surrey all the problems they development at three strategic policy, we should like to see believes the maximum per- cause are not accounted sites: Blackwell Farm on the Guildford Borough Council annum figure should be 481, for, so wider/more roads are Hogs Back (1,800 houses), reconsider the draft Local based on the Green Balance proposed as with the new Gosden Hill Farm between Plan which, as we have seen, evidence. This puts the Thames crossing. Burpham and West Clandon will constitute an extensive credibility of the whole draft Now we have the internet (2,000) and Three Farms incursion into the Borough’s Local Plan in question. And there is no longer the need Meadows at the former Wisley Green Belt, which is expected the proposed numbers seem for so much journeying. Our roads and towns and Airfield close to Ockham, to accommodate over 8,000 even more unlikely in view villages would no longer Ripley and Send (2,100). houses in total. We are also of the £3 billion shortfall in be destroyed by HGVs Another 1,100 houses are dismayed about the draft infrastructure backlog across if the transport system planned between the villages Local Plan’s adherence to the the county which is recorded returned to train carriage of Normandy and Flexford, unrealistic ‘Objectively Assessed in the Surrey Infrastructure and local stops for goods with other major housing Need’ (OAN) figure of 693 Study. The over-estimation of to be moved on by small developments at the Horsleys, houses per annum from GLH housing need and disregard local vehicles. More car- all within the Green Belt. Hearn’s West Surrey Strategic for national Green Belt policy hire facilities at stations It has been made clear Housing Market Assessment makes the draft Local Plan could save hours wasted by the Government that for Guildford, Waverley and unsound. Indeed, our 28-page driving, when work could they remain committed to Woking. This means that the submission to the consultation be done on the train before protection of the Green Belt Borough must find land for the justifiably describes it as you get there or much and wider rural environment. building of 13,860 new homes “over-ambitious”, “unrealistic” closer to your destination. Indeed, the outgoing Minister over 20 years, inevitably putting and “misguided”. Transport, energy and land for Housing & Planning huge pressure on the Green As CPRE Surrey Branch issues in this small island recently restated that “Green Belt and open spaces. What Director, Andy Smith, says: should be co-operating not Belt boundaries should be is required instead is a more “What the Council have come competing, and considered adjusted only in exceptional careful consideration of the up with here is a blueprint holistically, rather than circumstances through many widespread and serious for the steady erosion of the in a ‘big is beautiful’ the Local Plan process and constraints on development Green Belt, the consequence approach.” with the support of local within the Borough, and the of which will be to merge A record 47,000 people. We have repeatedly need to protect and enhance the town of Guildford with people took part in the made clear that demand for the countryside adjacent to neighbouring villages, and to Lower Thames Crossing housing alone will not change and around Guildford, rather lose the tranquillity and rural consultation and a decision Green Belt boundaries.” than undermining this valued character which makes this is still awaited. Unfortunately, this policy resource. Borough so special.”

6 Fieldwork Summer Spring 2010 2016 PROJECTS

Norwich Green Belt CPRE Norfolk launched their first-ever online petition in March, calling from GOODideas on Broadland and South letter Norfolk Councils to set up Learning from each other a Green Belt around the historic city of Norwich. Data on household Monitoring river pollution projections by the Office for National Statistics CPRE Herefordshire has been Lugg was in poor condition the context of the county’s demonstrates that the doing its bit to monitor water with phosphate levels rising non-compliance with the number of new houses pollution in the countryside, significantly through the Water Framework Directive and provided for in local where phosphates from summer of 2015. Campaigners Habitat Directive. plans greatly exceed agricultural pollution and then raised the profile of the She said: “The problem is requirements. And sewage treatment can problem when BBC Hereford the very high levels of Soluble with local authorities cause serious damage to and Worcester featured the Reactive Phosphates (SRP) in beginning the process of ecosystems. story on their morning radio our rivers, apparently being reviewing the recently The River Wye is a Special programme in January. addressed by the creation of adopted local plans Area of Conservation CPRE Herefordshire’s priority a Nutrient Management Plan for Norwich and its designated under the EU is to end the secrecy over river (NMP) but whether this is surrounding districts, it Habitats Directive, and pollution in the county, so that effective is a matter of concern, is more urgent than ever although monitored by responsible public authorities not just to myself but to others, that Norwich has a Green the Environment Agency, can be held to account. They including organisations such Belt in place to protect its setting and surrounding data on phosphartes is not argue that the Environment as the Wye and Usk Foundation countryside from the published. In December, the Agency must be required to and CPRE.” Councillor Norman onslaught of development branch submitted a legal publish the monthly phosphate also raised the need to think and urbanisation. If information request using the levels online as they are about water quality when you have not yet signed Environmental Information monitored. There were signs assessing planning applications their petition please Regulations 2004 (known of support in July when the for intensive livestock units, visit www.change.org as an EIR request) to obtain Hereford Times reported that a particular concern for the search for ’Green Belt for the phosphate data for the Councillor Felicity Norman branch which is fighting Norwich’, sign and share! Wye and River Lugg. The was calling for the River Lugg numerous applications for The petition has now data released showed the pollution to be addressed, in ‘broiler shed’ developments. reached almost 1,000 signatures and attracted headlines in the Eastern Raising density Daily Press (EDP) plus an online EDP poll showing With South Oxfordshire it is carrying forward the “at many, if not most, villages a massive majority in District Council currently least 25 per hectare” from contain small rows of terraced favour of the initiative. On consulting on the preferred the existing Core Strategy. cottages, where farm workers the back of this petition options for its Local Plan This is remarkably low, given used to live. campaigners held a very 2032, CPRE Oxfordshire that Government targets are CPRE Oxfordshire is putting promising meeting with is arguing that, where between 30-50 dwellings per pressure on local councils the Planning Heads of appropriate, higher density hectare. Whilst accepting that Broadland and South to introduce compulsory development could reduce precise sites will need to be Norfolk Councils and say minimum densities on all the greenfield land needed evaluated on their own merit, “watch this space!” available sites, to reduce and encourage the right type CPRE Oxfordshire believes the glut of unaffordable of housing. that a yardstick target of at The branch believes that least 70 dwellings per hectare executive homes. Bringing Walks of the month high density housing not would be more appropriate. back terraces would CPRE Hertfordshire has only takes up less precious In fact, campaigners point minimise land take, provide produced an impressive series of illustrated walks land, but it also provides out that historical standards the less expensive houses for people keen to explore less expensive houses. It of 75 per hectare would have that young people need, and help guarantee vibrant the beauty of the county. suggests that lower price been the norm – the average Branch Chairman David communities. houses and starter homes density in Kensington and Irving has devised a walk The branch for local people is where the Chelsea today, where people Find out more: for each month of 2016 real demand lies, not in yet are happy to pay £4 million has produced some simple so far, giving interesting more executive houses for for a terraced house. They density guidelines which can information on local commuters. Campaigners fear argue that such densities be downloaded from www. landscapes and heritage. that the consultation is silent would not be inappropriate cpreoxon.org.uk (search for Each circular walk is on density targets because in the countryside, where ‘how densely should we build?’) between 3 and 10 miles in length, and comes with a detailed map and guide that can be downloaded from We are grateful to for generously sponsoring this page www.cpreherts.org.uk/ campaigns/countryside

Fieldwork Summer 2016 7 OTHER NEWS STEP BY STEP

Current issues stepbystep Growing support for bag charge Guide to good campaigning A poll partly-commissioned by CPRE has revealed increased public support for the bag charge in England. Measuring campaigning progress The ICM-conducted poll for the Break the Bag Habit (BTBH) coalition found that PRE’s quantitative 70% of English respondents assessment of 1 Define your terms: 2 Find the right data now find it reasonable to progress towards SMART targets C As part of developing SMART charge 5p for all carrier its 2026 Vision (see bags - an 8% increase Campaign Spotlight, CPRE’s 2026 Vision, was written targets it is important to look at in support in the eight page 14) illustrates the as an inspiring call to action, what you are trying to achieve: months since the English importance of monitoring not to be analysed; this creates what is it that you want to charge came into force. The and evaluating campaigns. a problem when trying to carry change? In order to then increase was particularly Effective monitoring of out an assessment of progress. measure this change, you need marked amongst younger progress can tell us how The breadth of the Vision to know where you are starting people, where support has and of individual words from. This needs data. jumped 10%. well we are delivering on within the Vision, such as The source and type of Despite this encouraging our aims, providing us with news, the poll indicated that a means to assess any gaps ‘tranquillity’, created the information will depend on more people find the current or problems with achieving first difficulty. Many of what is being measured. There charge confusing than not. them. Evaluation takes it the statements are heavily is a range of official statistics, The charge, introduced on a step further, analysing nuanced, with concepts such collected across a range of 5 October 2015, does not why results were (or were as tranquillity covering a range topics, for example the land apply to businesses of fewer not) achieved by assessing of different areas that cannot use change statistics or the than 250 employees, paper which hurdles were be measured through one, or ‘Monitoring Engagement with bags or franchises such as overcome or which tactics even a few, simple statistics. the Natural Environment’ Subway. Answering the ICM The inspirational text also surveys. A number of other survey, 42% of respondents didn’t seem to work. creates difficulties when trying organisations collect data, found it confusing that only Monitoring and evaluation such as the RSPB’s Farmland some shops charged for bags. is an important part of to measure each statement. We continue to call for a reporting to funders of The Vision, for example, talks Birds Index, or Forestry universal scheme that applies projects, those who have of litter and fly tipping being Commissions woodland data. to all bags and all retailers supported campaigns, no longer tolerated: how can The risks with this data are will eliminate confusion, members of organisations this subjective statement be that the frequency, timeliness boost public support, and as well as the general public measured effectively to match and method of data collection most importantly reduce bag (our potential members!). It the meaning contained with may change over time, usage and litter. is used to justify expenditure, the Vision? making it difficult to make justify further fundraising Whilst, as a Vision for 2026, direct comparisons. and address accountability the document is in theory If no data exists, then you A new National Park? time-bound, it is clear that the will need to carry out your Campaigners from CPRE – as well as increasing the Dorset have been involved chance of success with future Vision itself was not expected own research, for example in proposals for a Dorset initiatives. Furthermore to be anywhere near realistic. your own survey of public and East Devon National it can help rally staff and Many of the statements also attitudes towards a particular Park which have been given colleagues by celebrating represent an ongoing process issue. It is important that this a positive first assessment achievements – a vital part and do not have a well-defined is carried out at the beginning by Natural England. Their of the process of defining end point, such as urban to ensure that there is data for independent report on the progress through milestones. regeneration. These issues comparison when you come to ‘Economic Opportunities, CPRE’s 2026 Vision paints a highlight the importance of evaluate progress. Benefits and Wider Impacts picture of a “beautiful, varied having SMART targets. They In the absence of available of a Dorset and East Devon and tranquil countryside”. allow you to clearly set out data in the Vision Analysis, National Park’ argues that the designation would Here, we ask what lessons what are you trying to achieve. proxies had to be used instead benefit local economies can be learnt from our ‘gap’ Having Specific, Measurable, as a means to measure and businesses, promote analysis (measuring the gap Achievable, Realistic and progress. For example, tolerance affordable housing and between desired and actual Timely objectives allows more against litter was taken to key services, and conserve progress) of our work towards effective analysis of progress. mean the number of groups and enhance the area’s that Vision and how they They mean that there is no involved in CPRE’s Litter Action environment. can be applied to measuring ambiguity in what exactly groups; for successful urban Find out more at https:// CPRE’s ongoing progress and you are trying to achieve, and regeneration the proportion of dorsetandeastdevon your own local group’s future that there is data available to new homes of brownfield sites nationalpark.wordpress.com/ achievements. measure it. was taken as a proxy.

8 Fieldwork Summer 2016 OTHER NEWS

Current RANT Media Spalding Media RANT issues

Northants design guide For the countryside to prosper at a time when there is considerable pressure in the county for expansion, some new development in the villages and small market towns is important. The new CPRE Northamptonshire Design Guide seeks to encourage the right kind of building in suitable locations so that the county’s distinctive vernacular style is maintained. The text, amply supported by illustrations and diagrams, shows how to assess the existing character and CPRE's community award schemes are good ways of monitoring progress on littering, settlement pattern, and finding case studies and celebrating success (Pictured: Holbeach was CPRE Lincolnshire's indicates details of building Best Kept Town of 2014) design that will enhance rather than clash with the existing buildings. Quantitative evaluation is evaluate the need for new They can also help show that The branch hope that it will be highly important for providing an staff and volunteers, for which change is possible, even if only useful to those involved objective view, not impacted funding could be applied for. at the moment, changes are with producing Local upon by specific personal If detailed data is collected occurring on a relatively small Neighbourhood Plans, experiences of a campaign: than the impact of CPRE’s scale. Ultimately, case studies to Parish Councillors other non-measureable involvement in the proposals can show us what success looks assessing the details of changes are also important. could be measured. like: for example, an exemplar planning applications in Changes in policy and In addition to the day to day housing development can their area, to developers, both large and small, allocations of government recording of information, it is show that high standards are who wish to build on essential that these findings funding for example can also realistic and achievable. That’s sites adjacent to existing be a useful measure of success. are collated into regular why our ‘Living the Vision’ vernacular buildings, and However, the use of statistics reports. Whether or not these document was published to remind planning officers can help determine the are for funders or supporters alongside the Vision in 2009, to of the important details impact of these changes and of the campaign/work, regular show how our long-term aims which give the buildings investments ‘on the ground’. evaluation enables better could be achieved by adopting their local character. After understanding of progress pioneering schemes as a the official launch of the guide at Stanwick Lakes on towards your goals. benchmark. the 12th September (see CPRE is in the process of 3 Monitor day to day, page 5) the branch shall be developing its next strategic and annually 4 distributing the Guide to Use case studies plan – for 2017-2019. It will those actively involved in Outside of specific campaigns Case studies should be build on the Vision to create these issues. where it is often easy to used to illustrate the case: a small number of SMART The branch’s 2016 design award winners included have a small number of where have your aims been objectives. These will include SMART objectives, day to a number of key performance the Mercedes Technology achieved, why did they Centre at Brixworth, where day monitoring can help the work, what can be learnt for indicators, possibly a number the large, well designed effective evaluation of our work. the future? The analysis of of which have been used as modern building has been For example, branches progress towards CPRE’s 2026 indicators within the Vision sensitively integrated respond to significant numbers Vision has been a case study analysis, that will enable us to into the landscape, and of planning applications and in this article, for example. effectively measure progress in The Artizan public house local plan proposals each year; Real life examples are the areas chosen. in Northampton which but how many of these does invaluable when illustrating was been sensitively refurbished to enhance CPRE win or improve? And how more complex issues, and Find out more: Read the a nineteenth century many relevant applications local examples from CPRE assessment of progress residential area. were not responded to due branches have long been a towards CPRE’s 2026 Vision at Find out more at www. to a lack of capacity? These crucial means of illustrating www.cpre.org.uk/annex-of- cprenorthants.org.uk statistics could be used to national policy arguments. vision-analysis

Fieldwork Summer 2016 9 PARISH BEAT

Saving local heritage CPRE Bedfordshire joined together with the people of Kempston and The Victorian Society to save PARISHbeat The Bury manor house in Kempston from a planning Effective solutions for your parish application that would have seen its demolition. At a meeting of Bedford Shaping the neighbourhood Borough Council Planning Committee on Monday 11 July, councillors listened PRE Lancashire’s discussed the Neighbourhood cycle-paths connecting to CPRE Bedfordshire’s arguments and planning manager, Plan vision and how it could different parts of the Parish. unanimously rejected plans C Jackie Copley, visited be best achieved via stated New development should to demolish The Bury and Broughton in Amounderness strategic objectives, written enable the provision of a replace it with a massive Parish Council in July, to policies and spatial plans central village ‘focal point block of 55 flats. advise on next steps for its to guide development over feature’ with the family The Bury manor house Neighbourhood Plan process the next 20 years. While the friendly leisure, health and and the 17th Century following an initial round of Neighbourhood Plan cannot retail facilities which were wall surrounding it is the public consultation. be used to halt housing identified in the consultation last remaining historic Broughton and the wider development, which was feedback as lacking in the landmark to the west of area is the focus of the Preston identified as site allocations area. Also discussed was Bedford. A spokesperson City Deal, with ambitious in the Central Lancashire the retention of important for CPRE Bedfordshire said: “We are so pleased that development proposals Local Plan, it can influence green spaces, to provide an councillors recognised including a new by-pass developers to bring forward attractive setting, and to how important it was to and volume housing. Jackie development that is necessary. protect local farmland. the people of Kempston advised the Parish Council The Guild Wheel cycleway, Find out more: For and Bedford Borough to on keeping Broughton a key local visitor attraction, further information about retain a part of our history distinctive by drawing on its prompted a suggestion to the progress of Broughton’s particularly when this heritage assets and other ensure new neighbourhood Neighbourhood Plan at www. area west of Kempston local characteristics. She is cycle-friendly with broughtonparishcouncil.org.uk is undergoing such a massive amount of new housing development. The Northamptonshire’s litter heroes sense of place created by the retention of well- CPRE Northamptonshire their competition entries. The first £150. In Blisworth the pick started known local buildings is was delighted to tie in their prize of £500 was awarded to Little as a school poster project and was so important to people.” regular annual spring-cleaning Houghton. They submitted an then extended to other villagers, CPRE Bedfordshire is now competition with the national impressive report which showed who picked the main roads. The calling on the owners of Clean for the Queen campaign. The Bury to enter into how the whole community children not only picked litter, but Any group in the county who meaningful discussions supported the day, with the school discussed the causes behind the with local people and other holds a litter pick between March and midsummer was producing litter posters and problem and potential solutions. interested parties, with a volunteers from several village The branch felt that it was good to view to developing creative eligible for cash awards to be proposals for the site which spent on litter projects or other groups participating. They also recognise that community action would see the manor house community-related initiatives. sent six very good photographs, is just as important in market as the focal point. The branch was delighted with which beautifully illustrated their towns as in villages, and rewarded the number of communities hard work and achievement. Towcester for its ‘Tidy-Up’ project, endeavouring to clean up the There were three runners which picks litter in areas of the Joining CPRE county, with many sending in up, Blisworth, Brigstock and town not covered by the Town or CPRE Staffordshire is keen detailed, illustrated reports with Towcester, each receiving prizes of District council. to build relations with local Parish Councils to offer support on neighbourhood Standing up for Stroud planning and challenging planning applications. If CPRE Stroud District Group is homes on Baxter’s Field in Laurie application for 95 houses ‘South your Parish Council would hoping that their successful Lee’s Slad Valley. of Charfield’ was refused as be interested in joining recent objections to damaging The new Stroud Local Plan the then ‘Emerging’ Local Plan them, the branch can planning applications are a is also having a positive had achieved sufficient weight. arrange for a representative sign that the Stroud Local Plan impact in Berkeley Vale. CPRE CPRE has also been involved in to attend your council will help protect the District’s campaigners were pleased resisting the application for 186 meeting to explain that Kingswood – currently a what they have to offer. countryside. Campaigners houses which would be a huge For more information, helped stop plans for 150 houses target for developers – is not blot on the setting of Berkeley, email protect@ in Minchinhampton and saw considered a suitable place for with an appeal against this cprestaffordshire.org.uk off a renewed attempt to build further development, while an refusal to be heard in August.

10 Fieldwork Summer 2016 PROFILE OTHER NEWS

Current PARISHbeat CAMPAIGNER issues Support for digester For CPRE South Downs and Central Hampshire District Group is supporting an CPRE’s new award winners anaerobic digester at Sparsholt College. This would be a large industrial-style plant but is Regional Group. He has also designed to use feedstock of CPRE served as vice-President of CPRE grasses and ryegrasses from Suffolk and a trustee of CPRE local farms, where they will be a break crop, rather than Norfolk, and even as a Vice- commercial and food waste Chairman of CPRE South West. as used in other anaerobic Barry was instrumental in setting digestion plants. It is intended up the East of England Regional to supply gas to the grid and Group and was their Chairman to heat the College, so saving from 2001 – 2005. He has been a liquid petroleum gas. The group staunch supporter of the regional have asked for an independent group, believing that branches assessment as to whether this are stronger together, and has feedstock could provide the represented CPRE at dozens of 60,000 tons per year the plant important events and meetings would need, more mitigation of landscape and lighting over the years. impacts, and a condition to Finally, CPRE Leicestershire’s prevent tractor and trailer traffic Tony Stott received an passing through local villages. Barry Porter (left) receives his Lifetime Achievement Award from Outstanding Contribution Award East of England chair Greg Peck having first joined CPRE in the mid 1970s. Tony has been interested Saving Devon’s bats in planning, countryside and CPRE Devon district groups are special conference in committee’s Technical Secretary environmental issues for a long doing their bit for the Great July, 90 Years of CPRE: – responding to planning time as an academic and local Horseshoe Bat. Teignbridge Yesterday, Today applications and District A councillor. After retiring from members are working hard and Tomorrow, was a fitting Plan Consultations, as well as Charnwood Borough Council in with local residents’ groups setting for the presentation of to protect habitats and appearing at appeal inquiries 2003, he became increasingly the four latest CPRE awards and public examinations of both flyways, and have lobbied active within CPRE’s Leicestershire the district council to protect to outstanding campaigners the County Structure Plan and Branch, serving as Chairman from in the East Midlands and East District Local Plan. David became the bats from damaging 2008 until April this year. Under planning applications of England regions. CPRE Northamptonshire’s his leadership there has been a within Teignbridge and the CPRE East of England’s official representative to the East revival of the Branch thanks to his other four districts in the planning expert Michael Brooks Midlands Regional Group in 1998 strategic, pro-active and team- South Hams Special Area of received a Long Service Award, and contributed to the work of sprited approach. Conservation (SAC). CPRE having given freely of his time the region ever since. Tony helped implement volunteers continue to and knowledge since joining CPRE From contributing to CPRE’s a strategic plan which has lobby for the completion of 1984. Michael was a member of work on the East Midlands prioritised activities and ensured an overarching mitigation strategy for the bats, and the small group which examined Regional Spatial Strategy and that the Branch has a positive the East of England Regional campaigning on the Government’s the speedy implementation approach to issues such as rural of a co-ordinated approach Plan, and also helped develop Milton Keynes and South affordable housing development to their protection across the CPRE response to the Plan’s Midlands growth policy, David and neighbourhood planning. the five planning authorities review in 2009. He has, on many has worked closely with many His writing, editing and desk top of the South Hams SAC. occasions, used his expertise branches in the midlands and East publishing skills and knowledge of Torbay volunteers continue to help the regional group to of England. His latest project has planning issues also enable him to challenge development respond to consultations, and has been to coordinate the production to produce an excellent Branch that threatens the Greater run training courses for volunteers of ‘The Northamptonshire Design Newsletter, which together with Horseshoe Bat and other across the region on the planning Guide’ which seeks to promote his leadership on the creation of protected species like the Cirl system and how to tackle good design and traditional a Branch website in 2013, has Bunting. They are concerned that existing EU Habitats planning applications. character in new building. revitalised their communications. Directives are not being Also receiving a Long Service Receiving a Lifetime enforced, and are working to Award was David Edsall of CPRE Achievement Award was Barry Find out more about ensure that ‘Brexit’ does not Northamptonshire, who joined Porter, who joined CPRE in nominating your local colleagues mean a ‘bonfire of European CPRE in 1993 and became the 1993 and is currently the Vice- for an award at www.cpre.org.uk/ protective regulations without East Northamptonshire District Chairman of the East of England awards replacement UK legislation’.

Fieldwork Summer 2016 11 OTHER NEWS ANALYSIS

Current issues INreview Building more homes The cross-party House of Our perspective on countryside issues Lords Economic Affairs Committee released its report, Building more homes, in July. CPRE provided written Suitable and harmonious infrastructure? evidence to the committee’s investigation of the housing crisis, and the final report n 1926, CPRE’s first top three most controversial thinking about infrastructure recommends that the statement of aims and issues identified in the 2017 as networks - rather than Government lift its building Iobjects declared: “It is part consultation on the National discrete, individual schemes target to 300,000 homes a of [CPRE’s] policy to promote Infrastructure Assessment vision, - the importance of the local year, with local authorities suitable and harmonious and streamline pre-application becomes clear. When it comes and housing associations development.” What are consultation on Nationally to rolling out broadband, leaving freed to build substantial the prospects for such Significant Infrastructure out the last few miles is a false numbers of homes for rent development now? Projects, taking responsibility for economy. Likewise with energy, and sale. CPRE is calling for a new this from developers. we will need to improve the local The report makes clear that a small number of large, approach to infrastructure Making not distribution of energy as we get private housebuilders will not planning, one where national breaking places more decentralised, ‘smart’ power. build the numbers or types of and local aspirations go hand in The emphasis should be on small homes we need, suggesting hand. The National Infrastructure Poor decisions can ruin places. scale local improvements. In fact that small and medium Commission offers a great But good design need not cost investing at the local level can sized housebuilders, as well opportunity to help deliver more, even leaving aside the reduce or remove the need for as local authorities, must this, and we welcome the economic value of beautiful infrastructure in the first place. be empowered to provide Government’s decision in May to places, and the cost of ugly Improving energy efficiency is more genuinely affordable include quality of life within the places which no one wants to at least as important as building housing, to rent and to buy. Commission’s scope. There still look at, still less live near. How Local communities, via power stations. neighbourhood planning, needs to be a substantial shift in should the route strategies that are also shown to have a emphasis, however, particularly Highways England is preparing “Investing at the role in encouraging more on full engagement. take account of opportunities housebuilding. Engaging with people to make better places. The local level can The report is also helpful removal of the A14 viaduct in in outlining the gap between The French have developed Huntingdon or the tunnelling reduce or remove permissions granted and one of the finest processes for of the A3 under the Devil’s houses built, with developers public debate on infrastructure Punchbowl are well known. the need for sitting on thousands of projects. First developed in the But there are other, smaller unfulfilled permissions. The infrastructure in potential opportunities, not Committee recommended 1980s after public outrage over that local authorities are a high speed railway proposed least in rural areas. the first place” granted the power to levy through vineyards, they In response to the council tax on developments have continuously improved Government’s roads reform Change is happening quickly. that are not completed within it. France’s Public Debate agenda, CPRE made the There are real risks that some a set time period. For rural Commission has representatives case for a ‘roads retrofit’. We people and some areas will areas specifically, measures from user groups, the courts, are pleased that the Road not share the benefits. We to extend the Right to Buy industry, environmental NGOs, Investment Strategy includes need better evidence about to housing associations and courts and local politicians, not a £500 million Environment network effects for new forms to define starter homes as least those from rural areas. Fund to help deliver this. We of infrastructure and better affordable are criticised for debates about how the costs and reducing the supply of homes Of the dozens projects it has hope that Highways England for people who need low considered, a third have been will shortly announce plans benefits should be distributed cost rental accommodation. fundamentally changed. In some to deliver green bridges across society. We need ‘Place CPRE spokesman Benjamin cases, such as the planned route over its network, to restore Responsive Infrastructure’, a new Halfpenny commented: of Charles De Gaulle Express air landscapes and connectivity for balance between investment in “As the depth of this report rail link, the objectors’ proposal wildlife and communities. The local and national needs, and indicates, there are many became what was approved. Netherlands has over 60; we proper consideration of when issues for new Communities Scheme promoters welcome only have half a dozen. new infrastructure might not be Secretary Sajid Javid to its feedback, as it means they the right option. address. Further investment Fair split between get things right early on. We Find our more: Read a in brownfield sites, support local and national for smaller housebuilders, believe a similar Commission longer version of Shaun Spiers' and additional pressure should be set up here through There will always be competing speech to the Local Government on builders to build out the Neighbourhood Planning tensions between investing Association July conference at permissions would be good and Infrastructure Bill. It in large and small scale www.cpre.org.uk/magazine/ places to start.”” could carry out debates on the infrastructure. But once we start features

12 Fieldwork Summer 2016 RESPONSE OTHER NEWS

Current INreview QandA issues The answers you need Tree Protection Readers pointed out that the Fieldwork (Spring 2016) article on Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs) could imply that trees Countryside protection still has teeth have no protection if not under a TPO or in a conservation there is not an up-to-date five (or any other policy) was a area. Although there are Q The NPPF states that year supply. A report on the question of planning judgement exemptions, the unauthorised relevant local policies should industry website Planning for the local planning authority, felling of more than a handful be considered out of date Resource states that the ruling and not something for the of reasonably mature trees where a local authority does ‘could give developers wider courts. You can also refer local would come under Forestry not have an up-to-date five scope to build on protected planning officers to a more Commission regulations. year supply of housing sites. I land’, and other local authorities recent planning inspector’s Hedgerow Regulations can live in an area that does not have used the case to suggest decision in Ilfracombe, North also in certain circumstances have such a supply, but surely that ‘a lack of a 5 year land Devon. This refers to the stop unauthorised tree felling, national policies covering my supply means … protective Richborough judgment. But tree felling in SSSIs may need threatened local AONB can policies such as the AONB are the planning inspector makes consent, and felling can be never be considered ‘out of significantly weakened and clear that the judgment did prevented if it might impact date’ – does their protection on protected species such viewed as out of date’. not prevent him from refusing hold in any circumstances? as bats and dormice, or on a However, the judge in the planning permission for a major, scheduled ancient monument. Richborough case makes the and harmful, development Find out more and A A recent Court of Appeal particularly important point proposal in an AONB, and on the download the useful booklet, case involving Cheshire East and that ‘there will be many cases’ grounds of policies in the NPPF Tree Felling – Getting Suffolk Coastal Councils (the in which restrictive policies mentioned above that restrict Permission, at www. Richborough Estates case) has ‘are given sufficient weight to development in these areas. forestry.gov.uk/england- attracted particular controversy, justify the refusal of planning Find out more: Read the fellinglicences being widely interpreted as permission despite their not Richborough judgement here meaning that protection for being up to date’ in the sense www.bailii.org/ew/cases/ areas like Green Belts, Areas of that the local authority lacks a EWCA/Civ/2016/168.html Neighbourhood Plans Outstanding Natural Beauty and five year land supply. The judge and search for the Ilfracombe Neighbourhood Plans have Sites of Special Scientific also clearly said that the weight decision using Reference: APP/ broken through the 200 mark Interest is now weakened where to be given to a restrictive policy X1118/W/15/3012049 following strong support for local plans in three referendums in Herefordshire. Local Government Ombudsman This is on top of more than 1,900 communities across investigation of your issue or applications in the Green England - covering nearly 10 Q I’m concerned that my that no action was taken after Belt. In a decision which million people - that have now local authority is consistently a promise of action was made criticises St Helens also started to get their own breaching national policies in writing. Other examples of Metropolitan Borough Council plans in place. Since 2013 all on Green Belt in my area. I maladministration include: for allowing a five bedroom 200 plans that have progressed have written to the council on taking too long to reach a house to replace a dormer to the referendum stage have several occasions and my decision; giving the wrong bungalow in Green Belt, been approved by voters, with nearly 340,000 votes cast. On local CPRE has made information; not following its Dr Jane Martin, the Local representations but we feel Government Ombudsman, average 89% of people who own rules, or the laws; breaking have voted were in favour of like we’re being ignored. Can formal commitments or said: “Planners should be we take the matter to the the proposed plan for their promises or not following clear and consistent in their Local Government neighbourhood. correct decision-making decision-making to ensure Ombudsman? public confidence in the From 1 October a parish process. The Ombudsman will council or neighbourhood planning process. I would only investigate a complaint if forum will be able to ask expect the council to give s/he considers that you have the communities secretary A Writing to the Local careful consideration of the suffered sufficient injustice to to intervene in the decision Government Ombudsman (LGO) proper application of national justify it, such as suffering whether to hold a referendum can be an option if you feel all and local Green Belt policy on a neighbourhood plan or other avenues have been distress, losing money, or should another application having your quality of life neighbourhood development exhausted. You need to be for the site be received.” order, in certain circumstances. reduced. convinced that the breach is Find out more: For our A neighbourhood planning serious, and be able to show The LGO recently reminded guide to contacting the LGO forum will also be able to ask the local authority is guilty of authorities of the importance and other useful case studies the relevant local planning 'maladministration'. This could of correctly and consistently search for ‘ombudsman’ at authority to notify it of mean, for example, that there applying relevant policies http://planninghelp.cpre. planning applications in was no proper response or when considering planning org.uk its area.

Fieldwork Summer 2016 13 OTHER NEWS CAMPAIGN SPOTLIGHT

Current issues Progress towards our CPRE Kent success A planning inspector has 2026 Vision dismissed an appeal by a developer wanting to build 67 homes on the former Norton Ash Garden Centre near PRE’s Vision for the The great campaigns Research commissioned Faversham. CPRE Kent had Countryside in 2026 by CPRE into local food webs objected to the plans because contains 62 statements More of England’s landscapes has highlighted the scale and C are protected for more reasons. the site is unsustainable with covering topics as diverse as importance of local food to the no community facilities, and green belts and green energy The extension to the Lake national economy. There has would be completely car- to farming and beautiful District and Yorkshire Dales also been an increase in pride in dependent. The inspector landscapes. It encompasses National Parks was announced local food, illustrated by the rise agreed that “it amounts to the full range of subjects which in 2015 and means that these of the gastropub and certification the creation of a suburban CPRE actively campaigns on, beautiful landscapes are better schemes for local produce. housing estate in a rural protected. In addition, CPRE’s location with few facilities”. He as well as those which, whilst The creation of a better maps of dark skies have been said “the proposal is not in a essential for the fulfilment of planning system – one that sustainable location and does CPRE’s overall aims, are carried used as evidence for three areas protects the countryside and not represent development in out by other organisations. of England (the Northumberland, enables local communities the right place”. As part of the process that is Exmoor and South Downs and local decision makers a The inspector also agreed currently being undertaken to National Parks) that have say in local development – is that the development is develop the next CPRE Strategic received Dark Sky status, a major element of CPRE’s in fundamental conflict Plan 2017-2019, an assessment enabling their Management campaigning. CPRE has had with Swale’s development was undertaken of the progress Authorities to push for better some successes across a range plan because the site is that has been made towards this lighting strategies to ensure the within countryside outside longevity of England’s properly of any settlement. CPRE Vision since it was first published “CPRE has played Planner Jillian Barr said: in 2009. This analysis has allowed dark skies. “We were pleased that the CPRE to take stock of national CPRE’s Stop the Drop campaign a key role in inspector took notice of successes and those across our has led to the development of over equipping local Swale’s emerging local plan branches and districts, as well 840 Litter Action Groups showing and attached weight to its as identifying those areas which that there is less ‘tolerance’ for communities with settlement strategy. We may need to be the focus of our litter. There has also been a hope the council will take efforts in the future. Of the 14 6% drop in the number of sites the tools required this decision into account indicators, 3 illustrated progress suffering from unacceptable levels when considering other in the last 6 years; 6 have seen of litter in the Local Environmental to create their own speculative development proposals.” little or highly variable change; Quality Surveys of England neighbourhood The branch is now fighting and 5 have taken us further away (LEQSE). The 5p plastic bag charge proposals for a ‘garden town’ from achieving the Vision. has been widely supported. plans” of 10,000 homes in Shepway, Otterpool Park. Their letter to the Communities Secretary questioned the wisdom of the development when existing pressures already mean the area is categorised by

the Environment Agency as District Lake the of Friends being under ‘severe water stress’. Campaigners are also objecting to two phone masts, both over 300m high, near the Wantsum Channel, the setting of the historic Richborough Fort. Due to the flat, open nature of the landscape, the proposed masts would represent a substantial and unpleasant feature, ruining views to and from Richborough Castle across this beautiful and distinctive area. Find out more about CPRE CPRE’s former President, Sir Andrew Motion, joined local campaigners to make the case Kent’s latest campaigns at for National Parks extensions – an indicator of progress towards our Vision http://cprekent.org.uk/

14 Fieldwork Summer 2016 OTHER NEWS

of issues, including obtaining (mostly rhetorical) support for Current the Green Belt across political parties; gaining traction (and Gazette Malvern issues Government funding) for the idea of ‘brownfield first’ Devolution in England and the commitment to a Lillian Burns, Vice Chair of brownfield register; and CPRE CPRE North West, has written and its branches have played a discussion paper giving an a key role in equipping local insight into the impact of devolution on CPRE’s work. communities with the tools Assessing the government’s required to create their own fast moving and far reaching neighbourhood plans, following devolution of powers agenda the Localism Act 2011. in England, the paper queries whether the end “The presumption result is likely to be a neatly assembled jigsaw made up in favour of Neighbourhood Planning brought communities together and of empowered communities has real potential – but has local democracy increased overall? forging their own future or sustainable a scene that communities struggle to understand and development is and the 18% increase in the is strengthened to give can’t influence. It is hoped this number of hedgerows protected neighbourhood plans adequate paper will stimulate thinking and discussion within Town giving the green by the Hedgerows Regulations weight against speculative and Parish Councils as well light to developers, between 1998 and 2010. development, it can be as within CPRE. Devolution It is clear that attitudes considered a great democratic is being pitched as bringing leading to towards ‘sustainable gain. But in the absence of real greater spending powers and development’ and the progress towards our Vision control over decision-making continued loss of environment have also not of a country where quality to a more local level, but the Green Belt land” developed in the way that CPRE of life is valued as highly as paper asks what the setting would have hoped for. Economic economic growth, could an up of non-elected Combined Authorities will mean to non- After much branch-led precedents reign supreme; for economic valuation of nature and the environment – through governmental organisations campaigning to prevent energy example, the NPPF’s presumption (NGOs) which interact with natural capital – enable us to developments where the in favour of sustainable government at different benefit of renewable energy development is giving the green more effectively protect the levels, to the first tier of local did not outweigh landscape light to developers, leading to landscapes that are valued by government (Local Councils) or and community impacts, CPRE continued loss of Green Belt local communities? to the average citizen? also welcomed the change in land and open countryside, with The Natural Capital Committee To date ‘devolution’, from government policy to ensure ever-increasing housing targets. was established after our Vision a Parish Council perspective, has largely meant being that onshore wind energy At the same time, the proportion was published, to advise the ‘invited’ to take over services, developments must be backed of new homes being built on Government on the use of the country’s natural assets, buildings and responsibilities by local communities, and give brownfield land has decreased from principal authorities including the countryside. more weight to cumulative over the past 6 years, suggesting that neither local government visual impact. our Vision that “successful urban As Shaun Spiers notes in level are statutorily obliged regeneration…has been crucial his narrative to the Vision to support. Despite many The frustrations in protecting the countryside” is Assessment: “If we were writing smaller Parish Councils feeling the Vision today we would use and defeats even further from being the case insufficiently-resourced to the frame of natural capital, take on these burdens, most then before One of the key frustrations of the setting out the wide range of have been doing so for fear In addition, despite the rise quantitative analysis was the lack benefits that a healthy natural of losing the services or of Neighbourhood Planning, of a regularly updated data set environment brings. In particular, buildings or pieces of land from the devolution of decision community use. The paper across some important issues (see we would draw out the fact that making is not being carried sets out what has happened the ‘Step by step’ guide on page improving access to a Green Belt out in a democratic way. 10 thus far, looks at the ‘devo 8 to help avoid this). The most richer in nature is essential to million people are now involved deals’ to date, assembles recent information on hedgerows meeting the nation’s aspirations in neighbourhood planning, opinions from a number of and soils, for example is almost for natural capital.” And Shaun’s commentators, attempts to but there is no mechanism for 10 years old. This means that conclusion still holds true: “It is make an assessment of what their effective involvement in whilst qualitative opinion on an attractive vision. It is worth the outcomes and implications devolution deals or the activity of these elements suggest that the fighting for. But we need major might be, and recommends length of hedgerows is declining Local Enterprise Partnerships. changes in policy, thinking and what moves NGOs and Town and the quality of our soils is feeling if we are to achieve it.” and Parish Councils might Hope for the future consider making. worsening, it is difficult to assess Read our full Find out more: Find out more: Download the real situation – in the context Neighbourhood planning is Assessment of Progress against Devolution: A CPRE discussion of positive stories from branches the best planning innovation the CPRE 2026 Vision at http:// paper from http://www.cpre. promoting hedge-laying schemes, for many years; if the system www.cpre.org.uk/news org.uk/news

Fieldwork Summer 2016 15 THE LAST WORD

MATTER of fact Support for your case

Public Transport Oriented Development

aking the Link, the up to a better quality of life. within a given area can lead to “Development sixth in the Campaign DEFRA research estimates a 12.5% increase in output per Mto Protect Rural the social cost of road noise as worker. Connectivity naturally around public England’s (CPRE) Housing between £7 billion and £10 billion fosters economic growth: a key Foresight series, shows how a year. Another inherent benefit economic benefit of high density transport hubs effective coordination between is the potential for reducing development around transport transport and development carbon and other emissions, hubs is a reduction in overall generates can improve access to, and such as particulates, through congestion. At the present rate business, take up of, public transport by increased use of public transport of increase, congestion will cost building high density housing and reduction in car traffic. PTOD the UK economy an estimated investment and close to public transport hubs. encourages sustainable living £307 billion between 2013 and This joined-up approach also through prioritising walking and 2030. Development around employment, fosters compact communities cycling within higher density, public transport hubs also and promotes with a range of amenities mixed use neighbourhoods, where generates business, investment on one site which are a range of facilities are available, and employment, all of which urban accessible on foot, resulting providing opportunities for contribute to economic growth. in vibrant communities with employment, health and leisure. Existing transport regeneration” opportunities to provide green Aspects of green urbanism and infrastructure could be also access to essential services spaces that can improve the high-density development can be used more efficiently or through public transport and/or quality of life. brought together around public disused rail lines reopened. walking - in order to facilitate By siting homes and other transport hubs, as Cervero and CPRE-commissioned research PTOD. This method should amenities around public Sullivan outlined in their research examined the case for also aim to increase public transport hubs, there is less need into the relationship between reopening a second main rail participation in the planning for cars and for development green urbanism and TOD. line in Devon and Cornwall. The process through open data land. This combined approach Hammarby Sjöstad in Sweden results showed that bringing maps that could be modelled is known technically as transit was one of three cities that came the line back into use would on five, 10 and 20 year oriented development (TOD), a as close to matching the ideal deliver significant benefits to projections for development term coined in the United States. of a ‘green TOD’ as possible. The Okehampton and Tavistock, as scenarios. This would allow The concept, while not new, is assessment of the city included well as the surrounding rural the public to engage with local currently attracting renewed evaluation of an environmental area. Rural areas could be development plans more fully, interest in England. In particular, impact profile, commissioned by reinvigorated by reopening the as well as helping to embed a the December 2015 consultation the City of Stockholm. This found line, helping local businesses, cultural shift towards PTOD. on proposed changes to the that in 2002, when Hammarby including tourism, and This form of planning should National Plannning Policy Sjöstad was approximately half- housing development would be made easier by the Bus Framework (NPPF) discussed built, it had already achieved a be encouraged, resulting in Services Bill, which will require ‘increasing residential density 32%-39% reduction in overall affordable accommodation private transport operators around commuter hubs’. emissions and pollution, a 28%- for young people who need to publish data on routes, Making the Link aims to 42% reduction in non-renewable better transport connections fares, timetables and delays. contribute emerging planning energy use and a 33%-38% to the local employment hubs Open data maps available policy and provide some initial reduction in ground-level of Plymouth and Exeter. PTOD to the public could also be recommendations for planning ozone compared with similar must have frequent public used to assess the potential authorities embarking on Public communities. transport infrastructure in place to support development. In levels of new developments’ Transport Oriented Development smaller towns and cities, there connectivity to transport (PTOD) - a new term introduced Economic and may be scope to open disused infrastructure and wider using in the paper. social benefits rail lines to encourage PTOD. walking or cycling modes only, Environmental benefits Buchanan, in a study of the Making the link recommends as TfL has done, using ATOS to economic impact of high-density that guidance should be produce online maps showing PTOD can make communities development and tall buildings in provided to help authorities active travel accessibility. more attractive places in which to central business districts, refers to develop an Access to Find out more: Read the full live. Better design, green spaces, to quantified evidence that that a Opportunities and Services report at www.cpre.org.uk/ less traffic and less noise all add doubling of employment density (ATOS) approach - measuring resources

16 Fieldwork Summer 2016