(Public Pack)Agenda Document for SWT Full Council, 29/09/2020 18:15
SWT Full Council
Tuesday, 29th September, 2020, 6.15 pm
SWT VIRTUAL MEETING WEBCAST LINK
Members: Hazel Prior-Sankey (Chair), Simon Coles (Vice-Chair), Ian Aldridge, Benet Allen, Lee Baker, Marcus Barr, Mark Blaker, Chris Booth, Paul Bolton, Sue Buller, Norman Cavill, Dixie Darch, Hugh Davies, Dave Durdan, Kelly Durdan, Caroline Ellis, Habib Farbahi, Ed Firmin, Andrew Govier, Roger Habgood, Andrew Hadley, John Hassall, Ross Henley, Marcia Hill, Martin Hill, John Hunt, Marcus Kravis, Andy Milne, Richard Lees, Sue Lees, Libby Lisgo, Mark Lithgow, Janet Lloyd, Dave Mansell, Chris Morgan, Simon Nicholls, Craig Palmer, Derek Perry, Martin Peters, Peter Pilkington, Andy Pritchard, Steven Pugsley, Mike Rigby, Francesca Smith, Federica Smith-Roberts, Vivienne Stock-Williams, Phil Stone, Andrew Sully, Nick Thwaites, Anthony Trollope-Bellew, Ray Tully, Terry Venner, Sarah Wakefield, Alan Wedderkopp, Danny Wedderkopp, Brenda Weston, Keith Wheatley, Loretta Whetlor and Gwil Wren
Agenda 1. Apologies To receive any apologies for absence.
2. Minutes of the previous meeting of Full Council (Pages 5 - 22) To approve the minutes of the previous meeting of the Committee.
3. Declarations of Interest To receive and note any declarations of disclosable pecuniary or prejudicial or personal interests in respect of any matters included on the agenda for consideration at this meeting.
(The personal interests of Councillors and Clerks of Somerset County Council, Town or Parish Councils and other Local Authorities will automatically be recorded in the minutes.)
4. Public Participation The Chair to advise the Committee of any items on which members of the public have requested to speak and advise those members of the public present of the details of the Council’s public participation scheme.
For those members of the public who have submitted any questions or statements, please note, a three minute time limit applies to each speaker and you will be asked to speak before Councillors debate the issue.
Temporary measures during the Coronavirus Pandemic Due to the Government guidance on measures to reduce the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19), we will holding meetings in a virtual manner which will be live webcast on our website. Members of the public will still be able to register to speak and ask questions, which will then be read out by the Governance and Democracy Case Manager during Public Question Time and will either be answered by the Chair of the Committee, or the relevant Portfolio Holder, or be followed up with a written response.
5. To receive any communications or announcements from the Chair of the Council
6. To receive any communications or announcements from the Leader of the Council
7. To receive any questions from Councillors in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 13
8. Small Scale Industrial Space Local Development Order (Pages 23 - 128) Report This matter is the responsibility of Executive Councillor for Planning and Transportation, Councillor Mike Rigby. The purpose of this report is to seek approval of the Small Scale Industrial Space Local Development Order (LDO).
9. Emergency Town Centre Recovery and back-fill of (Pages 129 - 136) Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund Report This matter is the responsibility of Executive Councillor for Asset Management and Economic Development, Councillor Marcus Kravis. The purpose of this report is to seek Member support and approval for the measures proposed.
10. Motion to support the Local Electricity Bill. To consider a (Pages 137 - 142) motion proposed by Councillor Peter Pilkington, seconded by Councillor Sarah Wakefield (attached). An assessment of the implications for the Council should the motion be carried will also be attached.
11. Motion to declare an Ecological Emergency. To consider (Pages 143 - 150) a motion proposed by Councillor Dave Mansell, seconded by Councillor Dixie Darch (attached). An assessment of the implications for the Council should the motion be carried will also be attached.
12. To consider reports from Executive Councillors (Pages 151 - 200) Part I – To deal with written questions to the Executive. Part II – To receive reports from the following Members of the Executive:- a) Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts – Leader of the Council b) Councillor Benet Allen – Deputy Leader & Communications and Culture c) Councillor Christopher Booth – Community d) Councillor Ross Henley – Corporate Resources e) Councillor Marcus Kravis – Asset Management and Economic Development f) Councillor Richard Lees – Sports, Parks and Leisure g) Councillor Peter Pilkington – Climate Change h) Councillor Mike Rigby – Planning and Transportation i) Councillor Francesca Smith - Housing j) Councillor Sarah Wakefield – Environmental Services
An Executive Councillor shall submit a report to an Ordinary Meeting of the Council as to current and future business of their portfolio for the information of and comment from the Council. Such reports are for discussion and comment only and no motion shall be put to the meeting as to any such item other than those closure motions described in Standing Order 5.
JAMES HASSETT CHIEF EXECUTIVE
Please note that this meeting will be recorded. You should be aware that the Council is a Data Controller under the Data Protection Act 2018. Data collected during the recording will be retained in accordance with the Council’s policy. Therefore unless you are advised otherwise, by taking part in the Council Meeting during Public Participation you are consenting to being recorded and to the possible use of the sound recording for access via the website or for training purposes. If you have any queries regarding this please contact the officer as detailed above.
Following Government guidance on measures to reduce the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19), we will be live webcasting our committee meetings and you are welcome to view and listen to the discussion. The link to each webcast will be available on the meeting webpage, but you can also access them on the Somerset West and Taunton webcasting website.
If you would like to ask a question or speak at a meeting, you will need to submit your request to a member of the Governance Team in advance of the meeting. You can request to speak at a Council meeting by emailing your full name, the agenda item and your question to the Governance Team using [email protected]
Any requests need to be received by 4pm on the day that provides 2 clear working days before the meeting (excluding the day of the meeting itself). For example, if the meeting is due to take place on a Tuesday, requests need to be received by 4pm on the Thursday prior to the meeting.
The Governance and Democracy Case Manager will take the details of your question or speech and will distribute them to the Committee prior to the meeting. The Chair will then invite you to speak at the beginning of the meeting under the agenda item Public Question Time, but speaking is limited to three minutes per person in an overall period of 15 minutes and you can only speak to the Committee once. If there are a group of people attending to speak about a particular item then a representative should be chosen to speak on behalf of the group.
Please see below for Temporary Measures during Coronavirus Pandemic and the changes we are making to public participation:- Due to the Government guidance on measures to reduce the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19), we will holding meetings in a virtual manner which will be live webcast on our website. Members of the public will still be able to register to speak and ask questions, which will then be read out by the Governance and Democracy Case Manager during Public Question Time and will be answered by the Portfolio Holder or followed up with a written response.
Full Council, Executive, and Committee agendas, reports and minutes are available on our website: www.somersetwestandtaunton.gov.uk For further information about the meeting, please contact the Governance and Democracy Team via email: [email protected] If you would like an agenda, a report or the minutes of a meeting translated into another language or into Braille, large print, audio tape or CD, please email: [email protected]
Agenda Item 2
SWT Full Council - 7 July 2020
Present: Councillor Hazel Prior-Sankey (Chair)
Councillors Simon Coles, Benet Allen, Lee Baker, Marcus Barr, Mark Blaker, Chris Booth, Paul Bolton, Sue Buller, Norman Cavill, Dixie Darch, Kelly Durdan, Caroline Ellis, Habib Farbahi, Ed Firmin, Andrew Govier, Roger Habgood, Andrew Hadley, John Hassall, Ross Henley, Marcia Hill, Martin Hill, John Hunt, Marcus Kravis, Andy Milne, Richard Lees, Sue Lees, Libby Lisgo, Mark Lithgow, Janet Lloyd, Dave Mansell, Simon Nicholls, Craig Palmer, Derek Perry, Martin Peters, Peter Pilkington, Andy Pritchard, Steven Pugsley, Mike Rigby, Francesca Smith, Federica Smith-Roberts, Vivienne Stock- Williams, Phil Stone, Andrew Sully, Nick Thwaites, Ray Tully, Sarah Wakefield, Alan Wedderkopp, Danny Wedderkopp, Brenda Weston, Keith Wheatley, Loretta Whetlor and Gwil Wren
Officers: Dawn Adey, James Barrah, Chris Brown, Lesley Dolan, Paul Fitzgerald, Chris Hall, Paul Harding, James Hassett, Andrew Low, Gerry Mills, Alison North, Andrew Pritchard, Clare Rendell, Richard Sealy and Amy Tregellas (The meeting commenced at 6.15 pm)
1. Apologies
Apologies were received from Councillors H Davies, C Morgan, A Trollope-Bellew and T Venner.
2. Minutes of the previous meeting of Full Council
(Minutes of the meetings of Full Council held on 27 April 2020 and 26 May 2020 circulated with the agenda)
Resolved that the minutes of Full Council held on 27 April 2020 and 26 May 2020 be confirmed as a correct record.
3. Declarations of Interest
Members present at the meeting declared the following personal interests in their capacity as a Councillor or Clerk of a County, Town or Parish Council or any other Local Authority:-
Name Minute No. Description of Reason Action Taken Interest Cllr L Baker All Items Cheddon Personal Spoke and Voted Fitzpaine & Taunton Charter Trustee Cllr M Barr All Items Wellington Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr M Blaker All Items Wiveliscombe Personal Spoke and Voted
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Cllr P Bolton All Items Minehead Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr C Booth All Items Wellington and Personal Spoke and Voted Taunton Charter Trustee Cllr N Cavill All Items West Monkton Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr S Coles All Items SCC & Taunton Personal Spoke and Voted Charter Trustee Cllr C Ellis All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr A Govier All Items SCC & Personal Spoke and Voted Wellington Cllr Mrs Hill All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr J Hunt All Items SCC & Bishop’s Personal Spoke and Voted Hull Cllr R Lees All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr S Lees All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr L Lisgo All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr M Lithgow All Items Wellington Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr J Lloyd All Items Wellington & Personal Spoke and Voted Sampford Arundel Cllr A Milne All Items Porlock Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr S Nicholls All Items Comeytrowe Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr C Palmer All Items Minehead Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr D Perry All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr M Peters All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr P All Items Timberscombe Personal Spoke and Voted Pilkington Cllr H Prior- All Items SCC & Taunton Personal Spoke and Voted Sankey Charter Trustee Cllr M Rigby All Items SCC & Bishops Personal Spoke and Voted Lydeard Cllr F Smith All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr F Smith- All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Roberts Trustee Cllr V Stock- All Items Wellington Personal Spoke and Voted Williams Cllr R Tully All Items West Monkton Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr A All Items SCC & Taunton Personal Spoke and Voted Wedderkopp Charter Trustee Cllr D All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted
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Wedderkopp Trustee Cllr B Weston All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr L Whetlor All Items Watchet Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr G Wren All Items Clerk to Personal Spoke and Voted Milverton PC
Councillors M Blaker, A Hadley, D Perry and S Pugsley further declared a pecuniary interest on agenda item 8, Discretionary Business Grants Fund and would leave the meeting during the debate. Councillor M Kravis further declared a pecuniary interest on agenda item 11, Coastal Improvement Works and would leave the meeting during the debate. The following Councillors further declared a personal interest on agenda item 8, Discretionary Business Grants Fund:- Councillors R Habgood, L Lisgo, M Lithgow, F Smith, R Tully and B Weston. The following Councillors further declared a personal interest on agenda item 11, Coastal Improvement Works:- Councillors R Habgood, P Pilkington, L Whetlor and G Wren.
4. Public Participation
Mr Heath spoke on Community Gardening in the Borough. Along with a small team of fellow volunteers, for the last two years I have been running a community garden at Somerset Square, Taunton, which was previously run by Taunton Transition Town, under an initiative for this instigated by Councillor Jefferson Horsley nearly ten years ago. Given that this project has shown itself to be enjoyed and valued by very many users of Somerset Square, by people passing through, and by visitors to Taunton too, would the Council please say whether they are willing to endorse a promotion of this kind of a community engagement model into other parts of the district of Somerset West and Taunton? If so, would the Council also indicate how they would see such projects fitting within the Garden Town agenda for Taunton? Would the Council also please indicate what kinds of support, by way of commitment to community gardening, they would like to actually provide? Brian Heath The Riverside Community Garden
The Portfolio Holder for Parks and Leisure gave the following response:- We have recently reviewed the management of Somerset Square and taken the decision to manage this site through the DLO going forwards and thank The Riverside Community Garden for their work in this area in the past. We are currently reviewing how the Council can support communities and community projects across Somerset West and Taunton and this will cover a wide range of possible projects and interests, which may include community gardening schemes. We have over many years supported a range of schemes including allotments, the Transition Towns ‘Incredible Edibles’ project and the Link Power scheme which supports volunteers undertaking gardening work on our housing estates. At this time we are unable to specifically make a statement quantifying how much support we can bring to this in the future. However,
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generally we will try to support community projects where it is appropriate to do so.
Carhampton and Old Cleeve Parish Councils spoke on agenda item 11, Costal Improvement Works. Members have before them at this meeting a report of the Assistant Director, Climate Change and Assets, proposing certain measures to assist in the protection of the coastline at Blue Anchor. The works proposed are within the Parish of Old Cleeve but the border with Carhampton Parish is less than half a mile from the site. The effect of doing nothing at this site will have a significant impact on those living in and passing through Carhampton Parish. Some members of Somerset West and Taunton Council will be aware that Somerset County Council has been consulting with a number of agencies including both Carhampton and Old Cleeve Parish Councils about a “Watchet and Blue Anchor Options Study” in relation to the B3191 details of which are readily available on the County Council’s website. The involvement of both Parish Councils in that consultation was only obtained after much badgering of officers of the County Council and County Councillors. On behalf of Carhampton Parish Council and the residents of the Parish, I would ask Members to accept a minor addition to recommendation 2.1.2 as follows: 2.1.2 That Somerset West and Taunton Council, in consultation with Carhampton and Old Cleeve Parish councils, take the leading role on matters of coastal protection in the delivery of any scheme brought forward. Thank you.
The Portfolio Holder for Environmental Services gave the following response:- In bringing forward the recommendations to the Council meeting I of course discussed the matter fully with the officers concerned and gained an understanding of the role of SWT in respect of coastal protection generally and the issues at Blue Anchor in particular. It was important that the Council now gave the necessary authority for SWT and its officers to assume the lead role in initially seeking buy-in and funding from the Environment Agency. If this were to be successful it is hoped that the EA, Somerset County Council (responsible for the adjacent highway) and SWT (those three bodies being likely to be the major funding parties) can reach an understanding (primarily financial in the first instance before the technical work is commissioned) on how to take this coastal protection work forwards to secure not only the coast at this point but also the integrity of the highway at this point. Much of the work in designing the scheme, if and when that stage is reached, will be highly technical and will be based on advice from specialist professional firms or bodies. If SWT were to be successful in securing funds both from the EA and from SCC (neither of which is certain) and were SWT itself to agree to commit funds towards the work (which would necessitate a further Full Council resolution), both of your Parish Councils would of course be included in reviewing any scheme and commenting on it unless for some reason action had to be taken in emergency. However, I do not consider that SWT should commit itself to consulting with the PC’s at every stage of putting this scheme together with the funding partners. SWT is the coastal protection authority and time is of the essence in getting this matter moving before a further serious collapse takes place, if at all possible. If
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SWT were alternatively seeking to abandon a section of coast or to ‘let nature take its course’ then of course the PC’s would both need to know and to be consulted. That is not the case here now. What was confirmed at Tuesday‘s meeting was authority for SWT to open up a dialogue again following some years of inaction. I will be reporting back to the Council on progress from time to time and am willing to circulate my reports to the PC’s also if that would assist you.
5. To receive any communications or announcements from the Chair of the Council
The Chair of the Council made the following announcements:- The Chair sent her best wishes to Councillor H Davies for a speedy recovery. She clarified the process for Councillors to follow during the debate on Portfolio Holder reports. The Chair advised Councillors that agenda item 10, Charter for Compassion, had been withdrawn from the agenda.
6. To receive any communications or announcements from the Leader of the Council
The Leader of the Council made the following announcement:- The Leader sent her continued thanks to the following groups for their hard work and support within the community during the covid pandemic: community organisations, partner organisations, residents of Somerset West and Taunton (SWT), SWT Council Officers and fellow SWT Councillors.
7. To receive any questions from Councillors in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 13
Councillor M Blaker asked the following question under procedure rule 13:- This Council has many significant projects either underway of planned in Taunton. Can the Leader please set out when residents in the rest of the District will expect to see equivalent levels of investment in their communities?
The Leader of the Council gave the following response:- The Leader agreed that the current administration had invested in the Taunton area as the county town. However, not all investment had been within the Taunton area. Investment had been made in the following: Watchet, Onion Collective, Watchet Harbour Wall Repair, East Quay, Seaward Way Minehead, Wellington Railway Station, along with heritage projects protecting landmarks in the area.
8. Urgent Officer Decision - Rules and Guidance for applications to Somerset West and Taunton Council’s Discretionary Business Grants Fund
During the discussion, the following points were raised:-
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Councillors thanked the officers for their appropriate use of the emergency powers. Councillors queried how much the total funding equalled. The Assistant Director for Customer advised that the initial funding estimate was £48,000,000. The revised figure was £42,000,000 and to date, the authority had paid out £40,000,000 to businesses in the area. Councillors queried when the priority three application phase would start. The Assistant Director advised that he hoped the next phase would be ready by Friday 10 July 2020. Councillors queried who could apply for the priority four funds, was it any business or was there certain criteria. The Assistant Director confirmed that any business could apply for the priority four funds as long as there were funds available. Councillors requested clarification on the criteria for market stall holders. The Assistant Director pointed Councillors to the priority three section of the report.
Resolved that Full Council noted the decisions made.
9. Parking Charging
During the discussion, the following points were raised:- Councillors suggested that parking charges should resume in the town centre car parks and that the park and ride should be free of charge to encourage the use of that service. Councillors supported the proposal because it would support businesses across the whole of the district. Concern was raised on section 3.2 of the report and the financial implications and that it had highlighted areas that could be impacted by the loss of income. Councillors advised that the income created by the parking charges should not be relied upon to balance the budget. Councillors queried why previous data could not have been used to assist in calculating the potential income lost through lockdown. Councillors thanked residents and volunteers for their cooperation and work in the area.
Resolved that Full Council suspended parking charges until 30 August 2020.
10. Charter for Compassion
This item was withdrawn from the agenda.
11. Coastal Improvement Works Report
During the discussion, the following points were raised:- Councillors were pleased to see that powers had been acted upon to rectify the situation.
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Councillors pointed out some corrections to some of the wording used within the report. Councillors requested a member briefing on the topic. Concern was raised on the engineering schemes and Councillors wanted to ensure the works were carried out correctly. The Assistant Director for Climate Change and Assets felt sorry that concern had been raised but due to the location by the B3191, action was necessary. Councillors queried who would be responsible for the maintenance of the area in the future. Councillors requested to see the project costs and works programme as soon as they were available. Concern was raised on section 5.5 of the report on liability and Councillors requested assurance and that the report returned to Full Council once further details had been collated. The Assistant Director gave assurance that the questions on liability would be answered and only then, would the works be continued. He was hopeful that the Environment Agency would support the bid this time. Councillors queried whether the costs of the professional engineer would be shared between all the organisations involved in the project. The Assistant Director confirmed he would bring a report back to Full Council once all the costs and liability was known. Councillors were happy to see the report come forward as it was vital to protect the road for the local residents and the community. It would be catastrophic for the district if no action was taken. The Assistant Director for Climate Change and Assets thanked the Councillors for all their support.
Resolved that Full Council approved:- 1) That Somerset West and Taunton Council officers supported the work necessary to submit a bid to the Environment Agency to fund any Somerset County Council schemes intended to protect the B3191, Watchet to Blue Anchor; 2) That Somerset West and Taunton Council took the leading role on matters of coastal protection in the delivery of any scheme brought forward; and 3) Gave authority for the Director for External Operations and Climate Change and/or Assistant Director, Climate Change and Assets, in consultation with the Lead Member for Environment, the authority to negotiate and approve any Memorandum of Understanding across relevant professional partners associated with any scheme brought forward.
The following Councillors abstained from the vote:- Councillors L Lisgo, D Mansell, A Wedderkopp, B Weston and G Wren.
12. Council Governance Arrangements Report
During the discussion, the following points were raised:- Councillors welcomed the report.
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Councillors requested that the first meeting of the working group be set up as soon as possible. The Monitoring Officer advised that the work would not be delayed due to the pandemic and hoped that the new rules on social distancing would allow for an away day, even if it meant that multiple locations were used and joined together via a video link. Concern was raised on the Terms of Reference and that it referred to a certain type of structure that would suit Somerset West and Taunton Council, but that it should suit the residents and be able to deliver to the wider community. Councillors requested clarification that the Constitutional Working Group and the Governance Arrangements Working Group carried out their reviews separately. Concern was raised on whether it was the right time to start up any reviews on the Governance Arrangements, Constitution or Community Governance, due to the threat of the Unitary Authority business case being submitted by Somerset County Council. Councillors requested reassurance that the working group composition included cross party involvement. The Monitoring Officer advised that all Councillors would be involved and would be sent a survey to gain their initial thoughts on the review and how the work would be carried out. She wanted the review to be as transparent as possible.
Resolved that Full Council approved:- a) An all Member ‘away day’ was arranged to consider the items listed at section 4.5; b) A cross party Members Working Group was established to investigate the options and to report back through the appropriate democratic pathway; c) The Terms of Reference for the Council Governance Arrangements Working Group (Appendix A) were approved; and d) Seven Councillors were selected to form the Working Group along with the Portfolio Holder for Corporate Resources.
13. Access to Information - Exclusion of the Press and Public
Resolved that the press and the public be excluded from the meeting for the items numbered 14 (appendices only) and 15 on the Agenda as the items contained exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule 12A to the Local Government Act 1972, and the public interest in withholding the information outweighed the public interest in disclosing the information to the public.
14. Zero Carbon Affordable Homes Pilot
During the discussion, the following points were raised:- Councillors agreed that it was an exciting project for the community and they were happy to see that Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) were leading with a pilot scheme.
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Councillors highlighted that the locations mentioned within the report were predominantly within the Taunton area and queried whether it would be rolled out to the wider area of SWT. The Assistant Director for Housing Development and Regeneration and Portfolio Holder for Housing advised that they would look to find supplementary sites to join the scheme. Concern was raised that the investment could be lost in the right to buy scheme. The Assistant Director and Portfolio Holder advised that the properties would be protected for 15 years before they were available to be sold. Councillors requested that all types of housing were included in the scheme, including those that required disabled access. Councillors requested assurance that the houses being built provided for our residents and reflected the housing needs assessment. The Portfolio Holder advised that they had requested different types of property were included but that they would be built based on the local housing need. Councillors were pleased to see that officers had gathered data and evidence to support the scheme and that there was a show home included for residents to view. Councillors were in favour of the project and that it showed that SWT were taking climate change seriously and also what could be achieved by a Council. Councillors hoped that the project would show developers what could be achieved. Councillors hoped that all new builds would be able to be built in the same manner in the future.
Resolved that Full Council:- a) Approved the development of up to fifty (50) Zero Carbon Affordable Homes; b) Allocated a Zero Carbon Affordable Homes Capital budget of £10.8m to deliver up to fifty (50) new homes which would include Right to Buy Receipts on all eligible units plus additional borrowing. This comprised a supplementary capital budget increase of £9.3m and a transfer of £1.5m from the social housing development budget within the existing approved capital programme; c) Supported the use of underused SWT garage sites and one temporary housing site for new zero carbon affordable homes; d) Delegated authority to the Housing Portfolio Holder and Director of Housing and Communities, in consultation with the Assistant Director – Finance (Section 151 Officer), to sign off the plans for each site; e) Delegated authority to the Housing Portfolio Holder and Director of Housing and Section 151 Officer to determine the final funding profile for this scheme once the development plans of each individual site had been finalised to identify which elements qualified for RTB funding; f) Noted the use of affordable rents for new build HRA homes in line with the 2020 Rent Setting Policy. The affordable rents would be set to ensure scheme viability at between 60% and 80% of market rent; and
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g) Agreed to suspend investment and letting of garages on the identified sites and supported the negotiation of alternative garage accommodation for garage tenants and garage owners, and where required the Director of Housing and Communities negotiated and completed the purchase of privately owned garages.
15. Commercial Investment Portfolio Update
Resolved that Full Council received and reviewed the delivery of the Commercial Strategy and performance of the Investment Property Portfolio covering the period 17 December 2019 to 31 May 2020.
16. To Re-admit the Press and Public
Resolved that the Press and Public be re-admitted to the meeting.
17. Time Extension
Resolved that the meeting be extended by 30 minutes.
18. To consider reports from Executive Councillors
During the discussion, the following points were raised:- An update on the Future of Local Government in Somerset was requested and Councillors suggested a member briefing could be held. Praise was given on the Canonsgrove Project and the support given to those vulnerable residents. Clarification was requested on the Kingsmead Academy solar panels application. There appeared to be many objections which had not reached the Chair of the Planning Committee. An update was requested on the installation of electric car charging points in some car parks, as the applications had been submitted in 2018/19. Councillors praised the use of the weekly newsletter during the lockdown period and that it had provided them with much needed information for their constituents. More consistent reports were requested from the Portfolio Holders. Further detailed figures were requested on the housing service, especially the homelessness section. Councillors thanked the Portfolio Holder for his work on economic development within the area. An update was requested on when the Members Portal would be implemented.
19. Scrutiny Annual Report - For Information
Resolved that Full Council noted the report.
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20. Audit Annual Report - For Information
Resolved that Full Council noted the report.
(The Meeting ended at 9.45 pm)
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SWT Full Council - 25 August 2020
Present: Councillor Hazel Prior-Sankey (Chair)
Councillors Simon Coles, Ian Aldridge, Benet Allen, Lee Baker, Marcus Barr, Mark Blaker, Chris Booth, Sue Buller, Norman Cavill, Dixie Darch, Dave Durdan, Kelly Durdan, Caroline Ellis, Ed Firmin, Andrew Govier, Roger Habgood, Andrew Hadley, John Hassall, Ross Henley, John Hunt, Marcus Kravis, Andy Milne, Richard Lees, Sue Lees, Janet Lloyd, Dave Mansell, Chris Morgan, Simon Nicholls, Craig Palmer, Martin Peters, Peter Pilkington, Andy Pritchard, Steven Pugsley, Mike Rigby, Francesca Smith, Federica Smith-Roberts, Vivienne Stock-Williams, Phil Stone, Andrew Sully, Nick Thwaites, Anthony Trollope-Bellew, Ray Tully, Sarah Wakefield, Alan Wedderkopp, Danny Wedderkopp, Brenda Weston, Keith Wheatley, Loretta Whetlor and Gwil Wren
Officers: Dawn Adey, James Barrah, Emily Collacott, Lesley Dolan, Chris Hall, Paul Harding, James Hassett, Steve Hughes, Mark Leeman, Alison North, Andrew Pritchard, Marcus Prouse, Clare Rendell, Amy Tregellas and Mark Wathen
(The meeting commenced at 6.15 pm)
21. Apologies
Apologies were received from Councillors P Bolton, H Davies, H Farbahi, L Lisgo, Martin Hill, D Perry and T Venner.
22. Declarations of Interest
Members present at the meeting declared the following personal interests in their capacity as a Councillor or Clerk of a County, Town or Parish Council or any other Local Authority:-
Name Minute No. Description of Reason Action Taken Interest Cllr L Baker All Items Cheddon Personal Spoke and Voted Fitzpaine & Taunton Charter Trustee Cllr M Barr All Items Wellington Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr M Blaker All Items Wiveliscombe Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr C Booth All Items Wellington and Personal Spoke and Voted Taunton Charter Trustee Cllr N Cavill All Items West Monkton Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr S Coles All Items SCC & Taunton Personal Spoke and Voted Charter Trustee
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Cllr C Ellis All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr A Govier All Items SCC & Personal Spoke and Voted Wellington Cllr Mrs Hill All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr J Hunt All Items SCC & Bishop’s Personal Spoke and Voted Hull Cllr R Lees All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr S Lees All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr J Lloyd All Items Wellington & Personal Spoke and Voted Sampford Arundel Cllr A Milne All Items Porlock Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr C Morgan All Items Stogursey Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr S Nicholls All Items Comeytrowe Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr C Palmer All Items Minehead Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr M Peters All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr P All Items Timberscombe Personal Spoke and Voted Pilkington Cllr H Prior- All Items SCC & Taunton Personal Spoke and Voted Sankey Charter Trustee Cllr M Rigby All Items SCC & Bishops Personal Spoke and Voted Lydeard Cllr F Smith All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr F Smith- All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Roberts Trustee Cllr V Stock- All Items Wellington Personal Spoke and Voted Williams Cllr R Tully All Items West Monkton Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr A All Items SCC & Taunton Personal Spoke and Voted Wedderkopp Charter Trustee Cllr D All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Wedderkopp Trustee Cllr B Weston All Items Taunton Charter Personal Spoke and Voted Trustee Cllr L Whetlor All Items Watchet Personal Spoke and Voted Cllr G Wren All Items Clerk to Personal Spoke and Voted Milverton PC
23. Public Participation - To receive only in relation to the business for which the Extraordinary Meeting has been called any questions, statements or petitions from the public in accordance with Council Procedure Rules 14,15 and 16
SWT Full Council, 25 08 2020 Page 18
Mrs Susan Goss spoke on agenda item 7, Hinkley Point C Housing Strategy (Phase 3):- Stogursey Parish currently played host to the 510 bed Hinkley Campus in addition to several HMO’s all occupied by transient HPC contractors. The Parish had no appetite for any further housing development related as a result of the HPC construction - apart from that already specified for a Primary Settlement, as in the extant Local Plan. This community felt that it had already done more than its share to facilitate this development, having suffered at first hand from the noise, dust and traffic issues created by the largest construction site in Europe, over the last 12 years. Whilst understanding the use of the relatively old Housing Needs Survey to ascertain perceived local housing requirements, it should be borne in mind that this survey was innately flawed - as it incorporated the whole of Quantock Ward and not just Stogursey Parish. Having obtained the actual relevant figures for Stogursey from one of the Housing Team at the time, it appeared that the actual housing needs for this Parish alone, were relatively small. It should also be borne in mind that any increase on the back of an uptake in HPC Workers, over and above that permitted by the DCO, should not be used as a driver for any further housing development in the Parish - apart from that already stated in the Local Plan. Even when HPC becomes operational there would not be the forecast 500 extra workers moving to the area. This was due to the fact that some of the existing HPC employees were currently retraining in operational roles, plus the fact that it was planned that existing HPB operational staff would transfer to HPC when decommissioning of HPB commenced in 2023. Stogursey Parish would welcome further funding to improve life for residents if further monies were available but did not, under any circumstances, want or required further housing developments related to the HPC project. Under normal circumstances Stogursey was a quiet rural idyll - residents would like it to remain so. The words of a senior Government official from DECC, who made a visit to the Parish before construction began, were particularly relevant when he stated (off the record naturally) that we were the ‘sacrificial lambs for this project. This Parish had indeed already paid the price..... Thank you for listening. Sue Goss Vice Chair Stogursey Parish Council
Cllr Fran Smith responded as follows:- The proposals themselves did not propose any new developments in the Parish. Seaward Way, Lambrook House (both in Minehead) and Canonsgrove in Taunton were the only development based activities in the plan, which targeted affordable homes and supported vulnerable customers. We had some funding to specifically support Stogursey, which came about because the number of workers in the Parish went over the agreed cap in the DCO (50 instead of 44). We had added some funds to take the total amount to £45k. The new Delivery Officer would work with the community to develop a plan that looked at housing and community issues together, and worked up solutions together. In terms of new development that may or may not come forward, these would be dealt with by the usual planning processes - which was carried out in alignment
SWT Full Council, 25 08 2020 Page 19
with local plan policies. Each application was assessed on its own merits and in relation to the impact the development would have on the area in terms of things like environment, local services and facilities. This assessment did not include whether the development would eventually house HPC workers. There were stipulations for every development in terms of affordable housing. That said this Strategy recognised that Stogursey required its own specific focus due to its proximity to the site and generally the impacts the community has had to face over the years. We needed to start by supporting the community in reviewing impacts, and looking to see what it was we could do to support housing and rental related needs in the area.
24. To receive any communications or announcements from the Chair of the Council
The Chair of the Council made the following announcements:- The Chair had attended Eat Minehead and was pleased to see such a lovely event taking place whilst adhering to social distancing. The Chair had attended the VJ Day Service at Wells Cathedral and laid a wreath. A minutes silence was held on behalf of three previous councillors who had passed away, Sally de Renzy Martin, George Burnell and Brian Dennington.
25. To receive any communications or announcements from the Leader of the Council
The Leader of the Council made the following announcements:- The Leader was pleased to see life slowly returning to the area after lockdown. She had attended the VJ Day event held by 40 Commando. The Leader advised that Somerset West and Taunton Council had participated in Eat Minehead and had a stall to assist and engage with the community. She thanked officers for all their hard work and how they had handled the covid-19 pandemic.
26. To receive only in relation to the business for which the Extraordinary Meeting has been called any questions from Councillors in accordance with Council Procedure Rule 13
No questions were received in relation to Procedure Rule 13.
27. Discretionary Rate Relief Policy
During the discussion, the following points were raised:- Councillors thanked the Portfolio Holder for the report and were happy to support the recommendations.
SWT Full Council, 25 08 2020 Page 20
Councillors requested clarification on the funds and the percentages paid by Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) and those paid by Central Government. Clarification was given. Councillors queried the maximum figure stated for the applicable rateable values and whether that was for one or multiple premises. The Strategy Specialist advised that the figure set for the rateable values was based on those located in major towns and cities, so he did not believe that any of the businesses in the SWT area would be impacted by the maximum limit. Councillors queried whether businesses were expected to make contact or whether officers would assist in the application process. The Strategy Specialist advised that it would be a tool for the Economic Development Team to use if they were aware of an employer in need of support. Concern was raised on those businesses located in the rural area of the district who fell outside of the limits used for small business rate relief and discretionary relief and what support was available for them. The Strategy Specialist advised that those businesses were mainly shops and public houses, who were not deemed as major employers in the area. They should have also received a business rates ‘holiday’ for the tax year. Councillors further queried whether manufacturing and non-tourism based businesses were able to gain assistance. The Strategy Specialist advised that any company could apply for assistance through the hardship scheme and discretionary rate relief if they demonstrated a need for support. Councillors were keen to support the report as it gave extra support to the major employers and businesses in the area.
Resolved that Full Council:- 1) Approved the temporary Addendum to the Council’s existing Discretionary Rate Relief Policy; and 2) Noted the costs of additional discretionary business rates relief would need to be allocated as a cost to the 2021/22 General Fund Budget to repay the resulting Collection Fund Deficit, and supported in principle the allocation of business rates pooling gain to meet the costs of the scheme, underwritten by General Reserves.
28. Hinkley Point C Housing Strategy (Phase 3)
During the discussion, the following points were raised:- Concern was raised on the Stogursey area and their planning issues. The Strategy Specialist advised that the Strategy was not proposing any new housing in the Stogursey area. Any items in the development process was separate to the Strategy. Officers were restricted by the Section 106 Agreement for planning applications. Councillors requested a new housing need survey to be carried out for the Stogursey area.
SWT Full Council, 25 08 2020 Page 21
The Strategy Specialist advised that he had sympathy with the area as the previous housing needs survey was flawed and that the demographic who had responded were from the older age ranges and that there had been a lack of responses from the working age residents. The Strategy had money set aside to carry out work in the Stogursey area to assess the housing need. Concern was raised that the residents would link the Strategy and Planning together. Councillors requested that the figures were presented in a different manner that included Parish information. Councillors welcomed Seaward Way and Lambrook House being included in the Strategy but requested assurance that a proper mix of house types were included in the development and that it would remain as social housing. The Strategy Specialist advised that there would be a mixture of housing types used at Seaward Way and that a report was due to go through the democratic path with more detailed information on the project. Concern was raised on the information included in the Equality Impact Assessment and on those that might be impacted. Councillors wanted the Local Plan adopted to protect the local community. Councillors understood the concern raised at Stogursey and that the Hinkley project had impacted on the area, but that the item was for the Strategy and not for Planning, so they were happy to support the report.
Resolved that Full Council adopted the Hinkley Point C Housing Fund Strategy (Phase 3) and supporting project activity (Appendix 4 to the report).
29. Access to Information - Exclusion of the Press and Public
Resolved that the press and the public be excluded from the meeting for the item numbered 10 on the Agenda as the item contained exempt information as defined in Paragraph 3 of Part 1 of Schedule12A to the Local Government Act 1972, and the public interest in withholding the information outweighed the public interest in disclosing the information to the public.
30. Leisure Contract
Resolved that Full Council approved the recommendations numbered 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 within the confidential report.
(The Meeting ended at 8.50 pm)
SWT Full Council, 25 08 2020 Page 22 Agenda Item 8
Report Number: SWT 126/20
Somerset West and Taunton Council
Full Council – 29 September 2020
Small Scale Industrial Space Local Development Order
This matter is the responsibility of Executive Councillor Mike Rigby
Report Author: Sarah Povall, Strategy Specialist
1 Executive Summary / Purpose of the Report
1.1 The purpose of this LDO is to support SME businesses by meeting evidenced demand for enhanced work from home and light industrial freehold spaces. This need has been accentuated by the context of Covid-19, which has led to a national recession requiring local and national government support for business and employment opportunities.
1.2 The creation of this LDO will provide independent entrepreneurs and SMEs with a mechanism to create or expand their businesses outside of SWT’s established centres for employment. There is a clear rationale for the use of an LDO to promote minor scale freehold employment units, as an LDO can provide clarity and certainty while reducing the administrative costs and burdens involved in a full planning application.
1.3 The purpose of this report is to seek Full Council adoption of the Small Scale Industrial Space (Employment) Local Development Order as policy for Somerset West and Taunton council. 2 Recommendations
2.1 Recommendations are that Full Council resolves to: 1) Adopt as policy for the Somerset West and Taunton council area: the Small Scale Industrial Space (Employment) Local Development Order; the accompanying Design Guide; and associated fees/charges.
3 Risk Assessment
3.1 This LDO seeks to mitigate particular economic trends that were identified in the SWT Employment, Retail and Leisure Study (2018), particularly that:
Page 23 Existing demand for industrial space across Somerset West and Taunton is typically for micro business and small and medium enterprise (SMEs). There is a high, viable, deliverable and unmet demand for freehold light industrial units. Specifically, this is for smaller flexible units which could be used across the E(g) use class, although highest demand would be expected for E(g, iii) use. The supply of freehold business units is often undersupplied across Somerset West and Taunton. This is especially the case where employment sites have been promoted alongside housing sites. It is recognised that potential owners of freehold plots rarely engage in the plan making process, however, have the need to react dynamically to changes in the market.
3.2 Without this LDO, and this route for permitted development for small businesses, there is a risk that appropriate opportunities will not be taken to meet this unmet demand. Avoiding this risk would be important in any event, but in the context of promoting economic recovery post Covid-19, it becomes increasingly significant.
3.3 This sort of LDO is new to the Council and as such we are taking a cautious approach with an early post-adoption review mechanism: “the LPA will review progress with the LDO on either the 2nd anniversary of its adoption; or at the point of 10 applications having been permitted (if sooner) to be able to fully reflect on the suitability of the LDO.”
4 Background and Full details of the Report
4.1 This draft Local Development Order (LDO) seeks to enable the development of small scale Class E(g) development within Somerset West and Taunton. The Council is looking to develop this LDO to de-risk the planning process, support and enable increased delivery of small-scale industrial space. As such, the LDO will grant planning permission for development which is found by Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) to be in compliance with the LDO and Design Code:
The Development Order sets out the purpose, procedure, context and legal conditions for all LDO development; and The Design Code sets the acceptable parameters and principles for development which should be evidenced within a compulsory Design and Access Statement submission.
4.2 Somerset West and Taunton, (though especially Taunton and Wellington) has experienced significant housing growth over the last few years, and is expected to continue this growth trajectory for the foreseeable future as the remaining housing allocations of the Taunton Deane Core Strategy, Site Allocations and Development Management Plan, and Town Centre Area Action Plan and the West Somerset Local Plan are built out. However, employment development and the associated jobs the build out of these sites brings have not kept pace.
Page 24 4.3 In 2018, Taunton Deane Borough Council adopted a new Local Development Order (LDO) for the Nexus 25 strategic employment site. The development of this strategic employment site will see some of that balance redressed, primarily through provision of E(g, i) Offices, E(g, ii) Research and Development and E(g, iii) Light Industry uses, with B2 General Industrial and B8 Distribution and Warehousing uses being secondary. However, the SWT Employment, Retail and Leisure Study completed later in 2018 identified latent demand for small flexible industrial units, with strongest demand for E(g, iii) uses. A lack of available, serviced plots and marginal viability issues make meeting demand difficult even in prime locations. De-risking the planning process and enabling easier development of such units could help realise this latent demand. The Taunton Deane Scrutiny Task and Finish Group reported to TDBC’s Scrutiny Committee in November 2018 on the issue of affordable employment land and recommended that:
“TDBC, and the subsequent Council, must identify the means by which the supply of affordable, starter-type employment units can be delivered. There are two suggested means by which this can be undertaken: i. Planning-based approaches boosted through allocation, a streamlined Local Development Order identifying suitable sites or, a more criteria-based Local Development Order that sets the broader locations and parameters subject to which starter units can be delivered…”
4.4 This LDO covers the administrative boundary of Somerset West and Taunton District Council, but does not apply to any of the following site locations:
Within Taunton’s adopted settlement boundary. Within Wellingtons adopted settlement boundary. Within a conservation area. Within the curtilage of a Listed Building. Within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Within a location judged as likely to affect environmental designations. Within a functioning flood plain (flood zone 3b).
4.5 A consultation exercise took place from 13 January to 16 March 2020, meeting the requirements of the LDO consultation procedures set out in article 38 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2015.
4.6 Following this consultation, SWT has considered the representations made and the modifications that might need to be made to the draft LDO.
4.7 SWT received 14 responses to the consultation, and as a result have made minor modifications relating to heritage and highways issues. This follows further discussions with the South West Heritage Trust and Somerset County Council in particular.
Page 25 5 Links to Corporate Aims / Priorities
5.1 “Theme 1: Our Environment and Economy” of the Corporate Strategy sets out the objective to “encourage wealth creation and economic growth throughout the District by attracting inward investment, enabling research and innovation, improving the skills of the local workforce and seeking to ensure the provision of adequate and affordable employment land to meet different business needs.”
5.2 The purpose of this LDO is meet this objective, by helping to support the development of small scale Class E(g) development within Somerset West and Taunton
6 Finance / Resource Implications
6.1 The costs associated with developing the LDO are met from existing budgets. There are no further financial implications for adopting the LDO.
6.2 There is no formal requirement for us to charge for LDO applications, but the Council recognises that we should seek to recover some of the costs associated with the preparation of the Order and the discharge of applications made against it.
6.3 Stantec (previously Peter Brett Associates), the consultants preparing the LDO for SWT, have proposed an appropriate set of fees. Based on experience elsewhere and the approach taken by other Local Planning Authorities, Stantec advise that fees set at 50% of the standard outline planning application fee are appropriate. This is seen as a reasonable charge in view of the need to recover some of the costs but also to incentivise and encourage opportunities for small businesses.
6.4 Accordingly, a flat fee of £500 has been calculated for any applications coming via this route. The approach is based on being a compromise between the expected maximum and minimum parameters (at 50% discount):
200m2 of commercial floorspace (mixed use E(g)) at 50% discount would be: £693 70m2 of commercial floorspace (a standalone office) at 50% discount would be: £231
7 Legal Implications
7.1 The LDO has been prepared and subjected to consultation in accordance with all relevant legal provision, including the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 Sections 61A to D and Schedule 4A, as well as Articles 38 and 41 of the Town and Country Planning Development Management Procedure) Order 2015.
8 Climate and Sustainability Implications
8.1 Underpinning this LDO is the need to encourage employment uses close to where people live. With this shift from a daily commuting pattern to working locally, the LDO hopes to have a positive impact on reducing traffic and associated issues across the
Page 26 District.
8.2 The Design Guide sets out sustainable approaches, which are encouraged within any new employment unit and surrounding landscaping works under this LDO.
9 Safeguarding and/or Community Safety Implications
9.1 None at this stage.
10 Equality and Diversity Implications
10.1 None at this stage.
11 Social Value Implications
11.1 This LDO is intended to have a high social value, by supporting the delivery of small- scale industrial and employment space by removing the need for a planning application by the developer. The LDO and accompanying Design Code will create a straightforward system for potential applicants to understand and interpret potential development opportunities.
12 Partnership Implications
12.1 As part of the Duty to Co-operate requirement (Town & Country Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012), we will be expected to work with other public bodies, particularly neighbouring planning authorities and the County Council on any cross boundary issues.
13 Health and Wellbeing Implications
13.1 None at this stage.
14 Asset Management Implications
14.1 None at this stage.
15 Data Protection Implications
15.1 With permission from the consultees, in line with the GDPR, personal data was collected as part of the consultation on the draft document.
16 Consultation Implications
16.1 The consultation on this document was in line with the Statement of Community Involvement and the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) Order 2015. Following this consultation, SWT has considered what modifications might need to be made to the draft LDO or whether such an order should be adopted or take into account any other representations made in relation to the order.
Page 27 16.2 SWT received 14 responses to the consultation, and as a result have made minor modifications relating to heritage and highways issues, following further discussions with the South West Heritage Trust and Somerset County Council in particular.
17 Scrutiny Comments / Recommendation(s) (if any)
17.1 None at this stage
Democratic Path:
Scrutiny / Corporate Governance or Audit Committees – No Cabinet/Executive – Yes Full Council – Yes
Reporting Frequency: X Once only Ad-
Twice-yearly Annually
List of Appendices (delete if not applicable) Appendix A LDO Appendix B Design Code Appendix C Compliance Form
Contact Officers Name Sarah Povall Direct Dial 01823 219733 Email [email protected]
Page 28
Local Development Order Local Development Order (LDO) for Small Scale Employment Space
Project Ref: 45517/001 | Rev: F | Date: August 2020 Page 29
Contents
1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 Purpose ...... 1 1.2 LDO Principles ...... 1 1.3 Legislative Framework Governing the LDO Process ...... 1 1.4 Scope ...... 1 1.5 Consents ...... 1 1.6 Structure of this LDO ...... 2 2 LDO Boundary ...... 3 2.1 LDO Boundary ...... 3 2.2 Area Exclusions ...... 3 3 Development Considerations ...... 5 3.1 Design Code ...... 5 3.2 LDO Application for Compliance Submissions ...... 5 4 Statement of Reasons...... 6 4.1 Purpose of the LDO ...... 6 4.2 Justification for Creating the LDO ...... 6 4.3 National and Regional Strategies ...... 6 4.4 Planning Policy Context ...... 7 5 Local Development Order ...... 12 5.1 Description of Development Permitted by the LDO ...... 12 6 Conditions ...... 14 7 Process and Procedures ...... 19 7.1 LDO Process ...... 19
Figures
Figure 1. LDO Boundary Plan...... 3 Figure 2. The LDO Process ...... 19
Tables
Table 1. TDCS Development Management Policies ...... 8 Table 2. SADMP Development Management Policies...... 9 Table 3. Relevant WSLP (2016) and WSDL (2006) Development Management Polices...... 10 Table 4. Development Uses Permitted by the LDO...... 12 Table 5. Class E Development Uses Permitted by the LDO from September 2020...... 12
Page 30 Project Ref: 45517/001 | Rev: F | Date: August 2020
Appendices
Appendix A List of Statutory Consultees
Page 31 Project Ref: 45517/001 | Rev: F | Date: August 2020
1 Introduction
1.1 Purpose
1.1.1 This Local Development Order (LDO) will enable the development of small-scale employment space within Somerset West and Taunton. The LDO will grant planning permission for development which is found by Somerset West and Taunton Council (SWT) to be in compliance with the LDO and Design Code.
1.1.2 Any grant of planning permission will be subject to the planning conditions contained within this document.
1.2 LDO Principles
1.2.1 The creation of this LDO will provide independent entrepreneurs and SMEs with a mechanism to create or expand their businesses outside of SWT’s established centres for employment. There is a clear rationale for the use of an LDO to promote minor scale freehold employment units, as an LDO can provide clarity and certainty while reducing the administrative costs and burdens involved in a full planning application.
1.3 Legislative Framework Governing the LDO Process
1.3.1 LDOs are locally focussed planning tools that Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) can use to grant planning permission for specific types of development within a defined geographical area. They are designed to help streamline the planning process by removing the need for preparing and submitting a planning application.
1.3.2 Detailed legislative provisions on LDOs are contained in sections 61A to 61D and Schedule 4A of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) and article 38 of the Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure) (England) Order 2015, as amended (DMPO). Importantly:
an LDO can be used by an LPA to grant planning permission for either a specific development or a particular specified use class and can cover all land within a local authority (61A);
an LDO can grant permission subject to planning conditions (61C); and
planning permission can be withdrawn if the order is revoked or the order is amended so that it ceases to grant planning permission in respect of the development or materially changes any condition or limitation to which the grant of permission is subject (61 D).
1.4 Scope
1.4.1 It is important to note that development proposals that do not fall within the prescribed criteria of the LDO may still be acceptable in planning terms. In such circumstances, proposals that do not conform to the LDO will need to secure planning permission through the normal planning process. Accordingly, such proposals would be considered in the context of local and national planning policies.
1.4.2 The criteria for development permitted by this LDO is provided in Section 6 of this document and the accompanying Design Code.
1.5 Consents
1.5.1 The LDO only removes the requirement to obtain express planning permission. It does not remove the need to obtain other statutory consents such as Building Regulations approval,
Page 32 1
consents under Highways legislation, licensing, and Health and Safety Executive consents. It remains the responsibility of the developer to ensure that all other statutory requirements are followed.
1.5.2 The conditions of this LDO prevent the use of permitted development rights to subsequently change, alter or extend any development delivered through this LDO.
1.6 Structure of this LDO
1.6.1 This LDO is made up of two separate documents:
i. This Development Order provides the purpose, procedure, context and legal conditions for all LDO development; and
ii. The Design Code sets the acceptable parameters and principles for development which should be evidenced within a compulsory Design and Access Statement submission.
Page 33 2
2 LDO Boundary
2.1 LDO Boundary
2.1.1 This LDO covers the land within the administrative boundary of Somerset West and Taunton Council Local Planning Authority, as shown in the boundary plan below.
Figure 1. LDO Boundary Plan.
2.2 Area Exclusions
2.2.1 The Design Code specifies which areas of Somerset West and Taunton are excluded from this LDO, despite being within the LDO boundary.
2.2.2 For avoidance of doubt, this LDO does not apply to any of the below site locations:
a. Within Taunton’s adopted settlement boundary.
b. Within Wellington’s adopted settlement boundary.
c. Within a Conservation Area.
d. Within the curtilage of a Listed Building.
e. Sites in locations judged by SWT (during the consultation process) as likely to negatively affect scheduled monuments or the historic environment designations listed above.
f. Within Registered Parks and Gardens or on Registered Battlefields.
g. Within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
h. Within a location where development could be judged as likely to affect environmental designations, including SSSI, SACs, SPAs and/or Ramsar Sites.
Page 34 3
i. Within flood zone 3 or otherwise identified as high-risk area for long term flooding by the Environment Agency. j. Within 9 metres of a watercourse and/or 20 metres from a main river.
Page 35 4
3 Development Considerations
3.1 Design Code
3.1.1 The Design Code is the principal mechanism for the consideration of LDO compliance. The Design Code provides the development parameters and general design principles which development proposals being delivered through this LDO will have to accord to. The Design Code includes a pro forma which enables LDO applicants to check their submissions against requirements.
3.2 LDO Application for Compliance Submissions
Design and Access Statement
3.2.1 Each Application for Compliance Form will need to be accompanied by a Design and Access Statement, the requirements for which are set out in the Design Code.
3.2.2 Each Design and Access Statement should include:
Site Location Plan
Existing Site Plan;
Proposed Site Plan;
Proposed Building Plan;
Proposed Elevations;
Landscape Plan and External Details;
Proposed Materials; and
Details of Access for pedestrian, cycle, vehicular and modes of transport.
Further Technical Requirements
3.2.3 In some circumstances further technical evidence will be required in support of a compliance submission. Requests for further information will be limited to the following areas:
i. Highways and Access;
ii. Flood Risk;
iii. Ecology;
iv. Heritage Impact; and
v. Ground Contamination.
3.2.4 Information on the circumstances of when further assessments will be required and advice on how to undertake them is included in the Design Code which forms a part of this LDO.
Page 36 5
4 Statement of Reasons
4.1 Purpose of the LDO
4.1.1 The purpose of creating this LDO is to enable the development of small-scale office, research and light industrial floor space in Somerset West and Taunton. This LDO provides a delivery mechanism to enable small scale business units which cater for the needs entrepreneurs to develop new or expanded workspace without having to apply for full planning permission.
4.2 Justification for Creating the LDO
4.2.1 The SWT Employment, Retail and Leisure Study undertaken in 2018 highlights economic trends which this LDO either seeks to help address as an intervention or has regard to as an associated economic trend. These can be summarised as:
Existing demand for industrial space across Somerset West and Taunton is typically for micro business and small and medium enterprise (SMEs).
There is a high, viable, deliverable and unmet demand for freehold light industrial units. Specifically, this is for smaller flexible units which could be used across the B1 use class, although highest demand would be expected for B1(c) use.
The supply of freehold business units is often undersupplied across Somerset West and Taunton. This is especially the case where employment sites have been promoted alongside housing sites.
It is recognised that potential owners of freehold plots rarely engage in the plan making process, however, have the need to react dynamically to changes in the market.
4.2.2 The objective of this LDO is therefore to provide a route for permitted development for small scale (B1) business units to provide a speed and certainty to business start-ups and SMEs looking to expand their existing operations outside of Somerset West and Taunton’s existing key settlements.
4.3 National and Regional Strategies
Towards a One Nation Economy: A 10 Point Plan for Boosting Productivity in Rural Areas - Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs (2015)
4.3.1 In 2015, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) released a strategy document aiming to harness the economic potential England’s rural areas for the prosperity of those living in rural areas and for the benefit of the UK economy.
4.3.2 The document provides a framework of 10 broad areas considered by the Government to be reflective of the particular priorities for rural areas. These included the following measures to encourage a productive rural economy:
better and improved planning regulations;
promoting enterprise zones in rural areas; and
providing opportunities for apprenticeships.
Page 37 6
Heart of the South West Productivity Strategy (2018)
4.3.3 The Productivity Strategy is owned by a partnership that brings together the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP), local authorities, National Parks and health service organisations. The 2018 Productivity Strategy set out to double the size of the Heart of the South West economy over the next twenty years, and to raise productivity levels which on average are currently lower than the UK. The Strategy focusses on three key themes i) business leadership and ideas, ii) improving housing, connectivity and infrastructure and iii) improving the skills of the work force.
Somerset Growth Plan 2017-30 (2017)
4.3.4 The purpose of the Growth Plan is to attract and guide investment, to overcome barriers and maximise sustainable growth from local opportunities.
4.3.5 The Growth Plan for Somerset aims to: create a shared ambition and vision for sustainable and productive growth; support the delivery of infrastructure and housing to enable growth to take place; increase the scale, quality and sustainability of economic opportunity in Somerset; and ensure participation and access to these opportunities for local residents.
4.3.6 The Growth Plan specifically supports growth in rural areas, stating that Somerset will have a business community that is growing because of its use of digital technology and infrastructure, particularly to drive productivity and growth in rural areas. The Plan goes on to identify in its vision that Somerset seeks to be a successful small business economy.
4.4 Planning Policy Context
4.4.1 The LDO supports the implementation of existing planning policies and economic strategies at the national and local level.
National Planning Policy Framework (2019)
4.4.2 Paragraph 51 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) encourages LDOs to be prepared for particular areas and categories of development, where the impacts would be acceptable, and where this would promote economic, social or environmental gains (paragraph 51).
4.4.3 The NPPF makes it clear that the planning system has an important role in supporting a prosperous rural economy through the development and diversification of agricultural and other land-based rural businesses (paragraph 83-84).
4.4.4 The NPPF acknowledges that sites to meet local business and community needs in rural areas may be found adjacent to or beyond existing settlements and in locations that are not well served by public transport. In such circumstances the NPPF states it is important that development is sensitive to its surroundings, does not have an unacceptable impact on local roads, and exploits any opportunities to make a location more sustainable (paragraph 84).
4.4.5 The NPPF states that when considering edge of centre and out of centre proposals, the sequential approach outlined in Section 7 of the document, should not be applied to applications for small scale rural offices or other small-scale rural employment (paragraph 88).
The Development Plan
4.4.6 The relevant adopted Development Plan documents to this LDO are:
The Taunton Deane Core Strategy 2011–2028.
Site Allocations and Development Management Plan 2028.
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West Somerset Local Plan to 2032.
Saved policies from the West Somerset District Local Plan 2006.
Made Neighbourhood Plans at:
- Bishops Lydeard and Cothelstone;
- Stogumber;
- Trull and Staplehay; and
- West Monkton and Cheddon Fitzpaine.
4.4.7 Work has commenced on the new SWT Local Plan. At time of writing, the plan is estimated to be adopted in the Autumn of 2021.
Taunton Deane Core Strategy
4.4.8 The Taunton Deane Core Strategy (TDCS) was adopted in 2012 and sets the long-term strategic vision for the future of the Borough to 2028. The Core Strategy together with the adopted Site Allocations and Development Management Plan (SADMP) formed the Development Plan for Taunton Deane Borough Council prior to the creation of the new Somerset West and Taunton Council in April 2019.
4.4.9 Vision 1 of the TDCS acknowledges the importance of employment led growth to facilitate economic diversification and increased self-containment within the borough. Objective 2 of the TDCS recognises that achieve this vision, there must be the right conditions and sufficient land in appropriate locations.
4.4.10 The TDCS does not allocate land for employment, instead identifying the broad strategic locations for employment growth. The TDCS (SP1) focuses on strategic scale provision at Taunton and Wellington. The justification of this approach to promote the most sustainable pattern for growth, by linking housing and employment growth in areas with existing major infrastructure connections. The proposed employment locations of the TDCS do not account for minor employment opportunities and potential for sustainable small-scale linkages to major and minor rural centres and villages. This LDO promotes the opportunity for such smaller linkages outside of the SWT’s main centres.
4.4.11 The Core Strategy sets out a number of broad development management policies that will be applied at the strategic level across the Borough. Policies relevant to the LDO are summarised in the table 1.
Policy Summary
DM1: General Sets out the criteria for development which includes making the Requirements most effective and efficient use of land.
Aims to encourage a sense of place by addressing design at a DM4: Design range of spatial scales using planning documents that relate to each scale.
DM5: Use of States that the Council will require all development to incorporate Resources and sustainable design features to reduce their impact on the Sustainable environment. Development
Table 1. TDCS Development Management Policies
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Site Allocation and Development Management Plan 2028 (2018)
4.4.12 The SADMP sets out a range of allocations across the Borough consistent with the Core Strategy. The SADMP also provides a set of detailed development management policies for new development in Taunton Deane. These policies are listed in table 2.
Policy Summary
New development will normally be required to make A1 Parking provision for car parking in accordance with the standards in Requirements Appendix F of the SADMP.
ENV1 Protection of Development which would harm trees, woodlands, orchards, trees, woodland, historic parklands and hedgerows of value to the area’s orchard and landscape, character or wildlife will not be permitted. hedgerows
Development which would specifically harm the appearance, character and contribution of landscape quality within a ENV3 Special Special Landscape Feature will not be permitted unless Landscape Features appropriate mitigation measures would reduce such harm to an acceptable level.
New development shall create a high standard of design D7 Design Quality quality and a sense of place.
D9 A co-ordinated A co-ordinated approach shall be adopted to the design of approach to development and associated highways. development and highway planning
Table 2. SADMP Development Management Policies.
West Somerset Local Plan
4.4.13 The West Somerset Local Plan to 2032 (WSLP) was adopted in November 2016 and sets planning policies for the parts of the area outside of Exmoor National Park.
4.4.14 Policy SC1 of the WSLP provides a settlement hierarchy for new development in West Somerset. The policy states that new development will be concentrated in the district’s main centre of Minehead/Alcombe, however, recognises the potential for small scale development at primary and secondary villages.
4.4.15 Policy EC1 of the WSLP states that proposals which make West Somerset’s economy stronger and more diverse and which are likely to increase the proportion of higher paid jobs locally will be supported. This includes the new development on existing employment sites, or which are have compatible uses where the proposed development would not have an adverse impact on the amenity of existing neighbouring uses.
4.4.16 Policy SC5 of the WSLP states that development which improves the balance of land uses within a settlement in terms of minimising overall transport use will be encouraged. This LDO such an opportunity for mixed uses while minimising and potentially reducing the vehicle trips to larger centres.
4.4.17 Policy EC4 of the WSLP states that the development of home-based business activities within residential properties will be permitted providing there are limitations places on the hours of
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work and deliveries and proposals are consistent with the residential amenity of the area and do not lead to harmful intensification.
4.4.18 The WSLP also includes development management policies affecting the design of new minor scale development. These policies are listed in Table 2 alongside the saved policies of the previous district Local Plan.
Policy Summary Plan Year
The design of development schemes which include CC5 Water measures to economise on the use of water supplies will 2016 Efficiency be encouraged. Development within identified landscape character areas NH5 Landscape should be designed in such a way as to minimise adverse Character 2016 impact on the quality and integrity of that local landscape Protection character area. Policy TW/1 Development proposals that would adversely affect Trees and woodlands, groups of trees or individual trees of significant 2006 Woodland landscape, wildlife or amenity value will only be permitted Protection where conditions can be attached. Development management proposals will be required to
show that an allowance has been made of for the retention Policy TW/2 and protection of existing hedgerows unless they are not 2006 Hedgerows considered to be of value to the area’s landscape,
character or wildlife. Policy BD/6 Proposals for new agricultural buildings should have regard Agricultural 2006 to the existing landscape. Buildings
Table 3. Relevant WSLP (2016) and WSDL (2006) Development Management Polices.
Made Neighbourhood Plans
4.4.19 The following Neighbourhood Plans have been made in the Somerset West and Taunton.
Bishops Lydeard and Cothelstone Neighbourhood Plan
4.4.20 The plan emphasises the importance of the conservation area and surrounding landscape to residents of the village while setting an objective to increase the range, extent, and scale of commercial and light industrial premises (objective 3).
4.4.21 The employment policies of the plan seek to increase the opportunity for local employment and thereby support potential for sustainable patterns of travel.
Stogumber Neighbourhood Plan
4.4.22 The plan emphasises the important use of materials in and around the settlement and the high value of views of the surrounding landscape and supports economic development which accords to the plan’s overall objectives for development (EC1 and O1).
Trull and Staplehay Neighbourhood Plan
4.4.23 The plan recognises that the majority of the parish travel to work by public transport and recognises the opportunity for start-ups and microbusinesses (employing 1-9 people) within the parish to further encourage sustainable growth. Policy EE1 suggests small business units of 50 sqm will be supported on existing employment and mixed-use sites. The plan also supports opportunities to create live work units.
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West Monkton and Cheddon Fitzpaine Neighbourhood Plan
4.4.24 The plan emphasises the two villages rural setting and importance of the existing conservation areas with reference to national and local environmental policies.
4.4.25 The plan also sets an employment objective to minimise commuting and encourage employment opportunities through either the expansion and relocation of existing local businesses or new start-ups which allow residents to work near to where they live (p27).
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5 Local Development Order
5.1 Description of Development Permitted by the LDO
5.1.1 Table 4 sets out the permitted uses as prescribed by the Use Classes Order or in the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015 (or any order revoking and /or re-enacting that order with or without modification) as of August 2020.
5.1.2 The uses in table 4 are permitted through this LDO subject to the parameters specified in the Design Code.
Floorspace Use Class Definition Limitations
Offices - other than those within class A2 Up to 50 sq m B1 (a) (Professional and Financial Services). net/gross*
Up to 200 sq m B1 (b) Research and development of products or processes gross
Light Industry – use for any industrial process which Up to 200 sq m B1 (c) can be carried out in a residential area without gross causing detriment to the amenity of that area.
Table 4. Development Uses Permitted by the LDO.
*This does not prevent office floorspace being included as a subservient ancillary use within proposed Research and Light Industrial premises providing it covers an area of no more than 50 square metres as a part of an overall gross floorspace of no more than 200 square metres.
September 2020 Use Class Amendments
5.1.3 The Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2020 amends the use class order. For the lifetime of this amendment, this LDO permits the uses described in Table 5 subject to the parameters of the Design Code.
Floorspace Use Class Definition Limitations
An office to carry out any operational or Up to 50 sq m E (g) (i) administrative functions. net/gross*
Research and development of products or Up to 200 sq m E (g) (ii) processes. gross
Light Industry – any industrial process, being a use, which can be carried out in any residential area Up to 200 sq m E (g) (iii) without detriment to the amenity of that area by gross reason of noise, vibration, smell, fumes, smoke, soot, ash, dust or grit.
Table 5. Class E Development Uses Permitted by the LDO from September 2020.
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*This does not prevent office floorspace being included as a subservient ancillary use within proposed Research and Industrial premises providing it covers an area of no more than 50 square metres as a part of an overall gross floorspace of no more than 200 square metres.
5.1.4 If the changes enacted through the Town and Country Planning (Use Classes) (Amendment) (England) Regulations 2020 are revoked during the lifetime of this LDO, compliance applications, and any planning permissions granted by compliance decisions made up to the end of its lifetime, will revert to those described in Table 4, or otherwise, will be reviewed in light of other future amendments to the Use Class Order.
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6 Conditions
6.1.1 The following Conditions are necessary to ensure that development is acceptable in planning terms.
No. Condition Reason
The LDO and the terms within it will be active for a period of 15 years following the day of its adoption and will expire following this period. The LPA will review progress with the LDO on either the 2nd anniversary of its adoption; or at the point of 10 applications having been permitted (whichever is sooner) to be able to fully reflect on the continual suitability of the LDO. The review will be completed with 28 days and at the end of the review the LPA In order that the benefits 1. will determine whether to: of the LDO can be secured. a) Retain the LDO as it stands for the remaining 13 years of its life, or an otherwise specified review date;
b) Retain but revise some elements of the LDO; or
c) Revoke and cancel the LDO, thereby removing any unimplemented LDO permissions.
The development permitted by this Order shall not be carried out other than in complete accordance with a permitted Design and Access Statement (including To ensure development any technical assessments) and conditions set out is in line with the 2. within this LDO and the accompanying Design Code intended purpose of the with the exception of material amendments submitted LDO. to and approved in writing by Somerset West and Taunton Council.
No development shall commence until an Application for Compliance with the LDO and a supporting Design and Access Statement has been submitted to the Local Planning Authority. A submission shall include the following information; a) A Site Location Plan/ Existing Site Plan
b) A Proposed Site Layout Plan To enable the impact of the development to be 3. c) Proposed Building Plan fully assessed in line with d) Proposed Elevations Plans the aims of the LDO.
e) Landscaping Plan and External Details
f) Proposed Materials
g) Arrangements of access for pedestrian, cycle, vehicular and other modes of transport
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No. Condition Reason
h) Demonstration of compliance with the LDO Design Code
i) The relevant LDO Planning fee
Where deemed necessary by this LDO or otherwise in writing by the Local Planning Authority, any of the following details may also be required: j) A Flood Risk Assessment including details of a flooding and drainage management strategy to the specification of Somerset West and Taunton’s most recent adopted planning validation checklist, or otherwise agreed in writing with Somerset West and Taunton Council.
k) An Ecological Assessment including details of enhancement, avoidance, and mitigation measures to the specification of Somerset West and Taunton’s most recent adopted planning validation checklist, or otherwise agreed in writing with Somerset West and Taunton Council.
l) A Heritage Statement to the specification of Somerset West and Taunton’s most recent adopted planning validation checklist, or otherwise agreed in writing with Somerset West and Taunton Council.
m) A scheme of contamination remediation to a specification agreed in writing with Somerset West and Taunton Council.
No development shall commence until a Notice of In order that progress 4. Compliance has been issued by the Local Planning and compliance can be Authority. monitored.
Development shall be carried out in strict accordance with the information submitted by the applicant to 5. which the Notice of Compliance has been granted, To ensure compliance and to any additional conditions imposed by the with the LDO. Local Planning Authority forming part of the Notice of Compliance.
This LDO is intended for B1 class uses as defined by Part B of the Town and Country (Use Classes) Order 1987 as of August 2020 and class E(g) uses from September 2020. For the purposes of this LDO, these uses are: offices to carry out any operational or To ensure development 6. administrative functions, for research and accords with the development of products or processes, and any intended purpose of the industrial process, being a use which can be carried LDO. out in any residential area without detriment to the amenity of that area by reason of noise, vibration, smell, fumes, smoke, soot, ash, dust or grit. Any development permitted through this LDO will be retained in this use for the lifetime of the
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No. Condition Reason
development, unless otherwise agreed in writing with the Local Planning Authority.
To avoid the potential This LDO can only be used for a single development cumulative impacts of within an ownership plot. Once development has development on the 7. commenced, any building permitted will not qualify environment and to avoid for further permitted development, either through the the LDO being used for use of this LDO or other national permitted enabling uses that do not development rights. conform with the purpose of this LDO.
To enable the monitoring Not less than 14 days prior to the commencement of of development and the 8. development, a Commencement Notice shall be effective implementation submitted to Somerset West and Taunton Council. of the Order.
To ensure that the No construction work shall be carried out on the site proposed development on any Sunday, Christmas Day or Bank Holiday or 9. does not prejudice the other than between the hours of 0730 and 1900 amenities of hours on weekdays. neighbouring properties.
To ensure the risks from If contamination is found at the site, no further land contamination to the development shall be carried out until: future users of the land a) a scheme of remediation has been submitted to and neighbouring land the Local Planning Authority; are minimised and to protect the environment 10. b) the applicant has received written approval of from contamination and their proposed scheme of remediation; and to ensure that the site will not qualify as contaminated land under c) Remediation has been carried out in accordance part 2A for the with its terms. Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Prior to occupation of the building, space shall be laid out, drained and surfaced within the site in To ensure suitable accordance with the approved plans for the parking access to the site is 11. and turning of vehicles, and such areas shall not provided and retained, in thereafter be used for any purpose other than the the interests of highway parking and turning of vehicles associated with the safety. development.
Prior to the buildings being occupied visibility splays shall be provided in accordance with details which shall have been submitted to and approved in writing To ensure suitable by the Local Planning Authority. There shall be no visibility is provided and 12. obstruction to visibility greater than 300 mm above retained at the site the adjoining carriageway level within the visibility access, in the interests of splays approved by this condition. The visibility highway safety. splays shall thereafter be maintained in the approved form.
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No. Condition Reason
Noise emissions from development which this permission refers shall not exceed background levels by more than 3 decibels expressed in terms of an A- Weighted, 2 Min Leq, at any time during the days and times indicated when measured at any point at the facade of any residential or other noise sensitive boundary.
To ensure the 13. Mon-Fri 0800 hrs to 1800 hrs development is not detrimental to the Sat 0800 hrs to1300 hrs amenity of the area.
At all other times including Sundays and Bank Holidays, noise emissions shall not be audible when so measured. Noise emissions having tonal characteristics, e.g. hum, drone, whine etc, shall not exceed background levels at any time, when measured as above.
If development is adjacent to the railway, prior to the occupation of the building the following shall be carried out: Fencing - If not already in place, the Developer must provide at their expense a suitable trespass proof fence (of at least 1.8m in height) adjacent to Network Rail’s boundary and make provision for its future maintenance and renewal without encroachment upon Network Rail land. Network Rail’s existing fencing / wall must not be removed or damaged and at no point either during construction or after works are completed on site should the foundations of the To ensure that fencing or wall or any embankment therein be development does not 14. damaged, undermined or compromised in any way. affect the safety and Any vegetation on Network Rail land and within continued running of a Network Rail’s boundary must also not be disturbed. neighbouring railway. Signalling - The proposal must not interfere with or obscure any signals that may be in the area. Working Next To The Railway- development adjacent to railway works will need to be undertaken following engagement with Asset Protection to determine the interface with Network Rail assets, buried or otherwise and by entering into a BAPA agreement, if required, with a minimum of 3months notice before works start. [email protected]
Any compliance decision for applications within To ensure that 3.5km of Hinkley Point B will be subject to development would not 15. consultation with the Office for Nuclear Regulation. unacceptably impact Consultation shall be undertaken by Somerset West emergency planning and Taunton Council upon receiving a valid areas in the case of a application. severe event.
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No. Condition Reason
To ensure that All compliance decisions will be subject to development would not consultation with South West Heritage Trust. 16. unacceptably impact Consultation shall be undertaken by Somerset West underground heritage and Taunton Council. assets.
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7 Process and Procedures
7.1 LDO Process
7.1.1 Figure 2 illustrates the process by which the Local Planning Authority will determine conformity with the LDO.
Figure 2. The LDO Process
Stage 1 - Pre-Submission Advice
7.1.2 Pre-submission advice is available to applicants through contacting SWT.
Stage 2 - Submission of Design and Access Statement and Other Required Technical Reports
7.1.3 The Local Planning Authority should be provided with prior notification of any development proposed under the provisions of the LDO. This should be done by completing the Application for Compliance Form. The form, together with the required supporting documents, should be submitted to the Local Planning Authority.
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Stage 3 - Determination
7.1.4 The Local Planning Authority will provide a response with 28 days, which will comprise one of the following;
. A letter of conformity to confirm that the proposed development satisfies the terms of the LDO;
. A request for further information; or
. A letter stating that the proposed development does not meet the terms of the LDO and that an application for planning permission should therefore be made.
Stage 4 – Notice of Development Commencement
7.1.5 Commencement Notice must be submitted to the council no less than 14 days prior to the commencement of development. For avoidance of doubt commencement includes any preparation works. This is to inform the LPA that development is due to start on site and is required for monitoring purposes.
7.1.6 Development must be undertaken in full accordance with submitted details and the conditions of this LDO.
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Appendix A List of Statutory Consultees
A.1.1 Statutory consultees consulted on this LDO included:
Avon and Somerset Constabulary Sedgemoor District Council Blackdown Hills and Quantocks Homes England AONB’s Local Nature Partnership (LNP) British Telecom PLC Marine Management British Transco Organisation Commpro Telecommunications Mid Devon District Council Devon County Council Mobile Operators Association (MOA) East Devon District Council l Mono Consultants Ltd. EDF Energy National Grid English Heritage National Grid UK Transmission Environment Agency Natural England Exmoor National Park Authority Network Rail Infrastructure Heart of South West LEP. Limited Homes and Communities Agency NHS Clinical Commissioning Local Nature Partnership (LNP) Group and NHS Marine Management Organisation Commissioning Board Mid Devon District Council North Devon District Council Mobile Operators Association O2 (UK) Ltd (MOA) Orange Personal Mono Consultants Ltd. Communications National Grid Parrett Internal Drainage Board National Grid UK Transmission RWE npower renewables Natural England Sedgemoor District Council Network Rail Infrastructure Somerset County Council Limited Somerset Health & Wellbeing NHS Clinical Commissioning Board Group and NHS Commissioning Somerset Supporting People Board Partnership North Devon District Council South Somerset District O2 (UK) Ltd Council Orange Personal South West Water Communications The Highways Agency Parrett Internal Drainage Board T-Mobile (UK) Ltd RWE npower renewables Vodafone Ltd Wales and West Utilities
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September 2020
LOCAL DEVELOPMENT ORDER FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE DESIGN CODE
DRAFT
Page 53 1.0CONTENTS DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
CONTENTS
1.0 Introduction 5 2.0 Understanding the Site 21 3.0 Design Code 27 4.0 Submission Requirements 65
MINEHEAD
TAUNTON WELLINGTON
SOMERSET WEST & TAUNTON DISTRICT Somerset West & Taunton District Exmoor National Park Quantocks AONB Blackdown Hills AONB Page 54 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE CONTENTS1.0
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction - What does this LDO cover? - Why A Design Code - Sustainability Context 1.2 Can Your Development be Considered? - Introduction - LDO Exclusion Map - Step 1: Process, Location & Size - Step 2: Technical Matters 1.3 How to Use the Design Code - How to Use the Code - Language & Definitions - Block & Building Design Code diagram
2.0 UNDERSTANDING THE SITE
2.1 Site Location - Site Typologies - Town & Village Centres - Town & Village Peripheries - Rural Areas 2.2 Landscape Setting - Landscape Character Areas
3.0 DESIGN CODE
3.1 Proposed Developments in Town & Village Centres - Urban Design & Landscape Parameters PREPARED BY: - Building Parameters 3.2 Proposed Developments in Town & Village Peripheries - Urban Design & Landscape Parameters - Building Parameters 3.3 Proposed Developments in Rural Areas - Urban Design & Landscape Parameters - Building Parameters
4.0 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
4.1 Design & Access Statement Pro Forma 4.2 Example Drawings
Page 55 INTRODUCTION
Page 56 1.0
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Introduction - What does this LDO cover? - Why A Design Code - Sustainability Context 1.2 Can Your Development be Considered? - Introduction - LDO Exclusion Map - Step 1: Process, Location & Size - Step 2: Technical Matters 1.3 How to Use the Design Code - How to Use the Code - Language & Definitions - Block & Building Design Code diagram
Page 57 1.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
1.1 INTRODUCTION
The Local Development Order (LDO) will help to facilitate much needed, small scale employment space across Somerset West and Taunton, and by doing so, remove the need for a planning application to be made.
The purpose of the LDO is to assist in the standard of design is delivered, and to provide delivery of small scale office, research and light sustainable and stimulating working environments industrial space. Through the LDO the delivery whilst at the same time enabling the diverse of such employment space will be easier and requirements of individual occupiers to be met. faster. The LDO and this accompanying Design Code will create a straightforward system for Development must accord with all aspects of potential applicants to understand and interpret the Design Code in order to benefit from the potential development opportunities. permitted development rights confirmed by the LDO. This Design Code must be considered This Design Code document sets out design alongside the accompanying Local Development parameters to be applied to any development. Its Order (LDO) which addresses planning purpose is to ensure that a high and consistent and procedures in respect of the site.
WHAT DOES THIS LDO COVER?
The LDO permits the following uses:
Use Definition Limitations Class Class E An office to carry out Up to 50 sqm net/ (g) (i) any operational or gross* administrative functions Class E Research and Up to 200 sqm (g) (ii) development of products gross or processes Class E Light industry - any Up to 200 sqm (g) (iii) industrial process, gross being a use, which can be carried out in any residential area without detriment to the amenity of that area by reason of noise, vibration, smell, fumes, smoke, soot, ash, dust or grit.
* This does not prevent office floorspace being included as an ancillary use within Research and Light Industrial premises, providing it covers a floor space area of no more than 50 square metres.
The Design Code will inform applicants of proposed building size allowances/restrictions which relate to individual plot parameters and site location. The total site area including external areas, landscaping and access, must not exceed 1 hectare in size.
6 Page 58 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 1.0
WHY A DESIGN CODE
A Design Code is a proactive method of securing high locations across Somerset West and Taunton. The quality new development, giving the applicant clear Design Code responds to national and local design guidance on delivering office and light industrial space policies by clearly setting out design principles within the given context. The Design Code provides that are appropriate to their context and provides clear guidance to the applicant and certainty to the the required small-scale industrial space whilst community and local authority regarding the quality contributing positively to the site and landscape/ of the proposed development. townscape.
This Design Code is intended to be a benchmark This Design Code sets out plot parameters for height, and reference manual for a range of architectural, scale and massing, proximity to adjacent boundaries, urban and landscape design issues that will inform building materials, colour palettes, roofs, doors and the detailed design of the scheme. The Design windows and landscape works, all of which should Code responds to the LDO framework, identifying draw precedent from the local character of the appropriate approaches for delivering small scale district. employment space within a range of contexts and
SUSTAINABILITY CONTEXT
Underpinning this LDO is the need to encourage employment uses close to where people live. With this shift from a daily commuting pattern to working locally, the LDO hopes to have a positive impact on reducing traffic and associated issues across the District.
The following approaches to low energy and sustainable development will be expected within any new employment unit and surrounding landscape works achieved through this LDO:
• High levels of insulation • Retention of existing trees and hedgerows • Appropriate levels of natural lighting • Measures to support biodiversity • Reuse of building materials where possible • Appropriate waste management and recycling • Use of building materials which can be strategies recycled in the future • Electric vehicle charging points • Use of native plant species characteristic of • Cycle storage to encourage sustainable travel the local landscape • Installation of bird and bat boxes or nesting • Sustainable drainage systems provisions within new buildings
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1.2 CAN YOUR DEVELOPMENT BE CONSIDERED?
Use this chapter to determine whether your proposed development can be considered through this LDO process
Step 1 and Step 2 in chapter 1.2 must be used to Please note: The LDO only removes the determine whether your proposed development can be requirement to obtain express planning considered through this LDO submission process and permission. It does not remove the need to to ensure that potential development does not harm obtain other statutory consents such as: existing environmental, cultural and heritage assets. • The UK Building Regulation requirements in Working through each of the technical effect at the time of submission for approval requirements will confirm: • Consents under Ecological legislation a) whether your proposals are suitable for approval • Consents under Highways legislation via an application of compliance through this LDO or whether a planning application is required • Licensing b) where you need to provide further evidence • Health and Safety Executive consents to demonstrate compliance with the • Listed Building or Scheduled checkpoints with (or within) your Design Monument Consent and Access Statement submission
8 Page 60 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 1.0
MAP OF DISTRICT SHOWING LDO EXCLUSIONS
Somerset West & Taunton District Exmoor National Park Quantocks AONB Conservation Areas SSSI's Blackdown Hills AONB
OTHER EXCLUSIONS NOT VISIBLE AT THIS SCALE INCLUDE: Listed Buildings (and within the curtilage of a listed building) Scheduled Monuments Registered Parks & Gardens Registered Battlefields SACs, SPAs and Ramsar Sites
TAUNTON WELLINGTON
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1.2 CAN YOUR DEVELOPMENT BE CONSIDERED?
STEP 1 Check: Process, Location & Size
1. PROCESS • This is your first LDO at this address and you have NOT previously received an LDO NO certificate of conformity at this address
• Your proposal does NOT require the demolition of any buildings to enable the development of new buildings YES Proceed to • You have completed the DAS check 2 proforma checklist in chapter 4.1
2. SITE LOCATION Is your site located within: You do not qualify for development through this LDO. • Taunton YES A planning application will be • Wellington required for the development. • A Conservation Area
• The curtilage of a Listed Building NO • An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Proceed to check 3 • Other Designated Heritage Asset*
3. SITE SIZE Is your site Less than 1 Hectare? NO
NOTE: Your site area is the extent of land necessary to carry out the YES proposed development, including Proceed external areas, landscaping and the to STEP 2 land you need for site access
* Heritage Assets include - Conservation Areas, Listed Buildings (and within the curtilage of a listed building), Registered Parks & Gardens; Registered Battlefields; Scheduled Monuments. Further information on specific sites can be found on Magic here
10 Page 62 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 1.0
STEP 2 Check: Technical Matters
SUPPORTING TECHNICAL To support your application, you are required to demonstrate INFORMATION consideration of the technical matters which are described over the following pages.
The nature of the technical information you demonstrate will depend on the individual circumstances of your site’s location.
TECHNICAL MATTERS
• Highways and Access Requirements
• Flood Risk and Drainage Requirements
• Ecological Requirements
• Ground Contamination Requirements
• Heritage Requirements
Demonstrating compliance with some matters could be shown on drawings or text within the Design and Access Statement, whilst in other cases, supplementary technical information or specific reports will be required as part of your application.
Please note that where Somerset West and Taunton judge there is insufficient information provided to make a decision, they may request further information on this basis.
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HIGHWAYS AND ACCESS REQUIREMENTS
INTRODUCTION
Access to the site must be achievable via a highway route which is safe and appropriate for the increase in traffic and all sizes of vehicles that the proposals will generate to protect the safety of those travelling to the site and all existing users of the road. Furthermore, the site itself needs to be laid out in such a way that vehicles do not have to stop or park on the public highway in a location that may result in the safety of other road users being compromised.
It is therefore necessary to check certain aspects of the proposals to determine if they are of a suitable standard and are in an appropriate location to support the proposals via the LDO process, or whether a further detailed check with the highway authority (Somerset County Council) is necessary.
The following assessment process determines: a) whether your proposals are suitable for approval via an application for compliance through this LDO b) the level of further evidence required to be included with (or within) your Design and Access Statement submission, or c) whether the LDO route is not possible and a planning application is required instead
LEVEL 1 ASSESSMENT
If the Level 1 assessment set out in the table below confirms that no further assessment is required, then it is appropriate to submit an LDO compliance application without further evidence to support the site in terms of highways and access. If the Level 1 assessment suggests further assessment is required, then progress to the Level 2 assessment to determine if the proposals are suitable for approval via the LDO compliance application route or whether you would be required to submit a planning application instead.
Table 1. Is further evidence required? Parameter No Further Step 2 Assessment is Assessment required Required Proposals are for sole Office E(g)(i) use P with a GFA less than 50m2 with an existing access and at least one additional parking space dedicated to the new development. Proposals are for any combination of Office P E(g)(i)/ Research and Development E(g) (ii)/ Industrial E(g)(iii) uses off an existing access with a total GFA of less than 200m2 Proposals are for sole Research and P Development E(g)(ii) or Industrial E(g)(iii) use off an existing access with a total GFA of less than 200m2
*GFA = Gross Floor Area
*In addition to these requirements, if a Public Right of Way route is affected by the proposals then the applicant must consult with the local PRoW officer
12 Page 64 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 1.0
LEVEL 2 ASSESSMENT
Table 2 sets out the parameters which would need to be met in order to allow approval to be sought via an LDO compliance application. For each parameter in Table 2, evidence will be expected to be provided in plan form to show that the requirement is met.
Table 2. Site eligibility and access evidence required Parameter Evidence of Required Is the site through D&A eligible for an Statement LDO compliance application? Route to Main Site Access – to ensure employees and service vehicles can access the site via a safe and appropriate highway route Main site access is located on a classified road (A, B or C) P P Main site access is located on an unclassified road but within 100m* of a P P classified road Main site access is located on an unclassified road but within 100m* of a P P site with existing consented industrial or commercial use Main site access is located on an unclassified road, without access within X X 100m* to a classified road or existing industrial/commercial site * Distance measured by road rather than crow fly Main site access - to ensure vehicles can enter/exit the highway in a safe manner
Existing access of standard set out in line with parameters detailed on page P P 14 Existing access located on a private road X X
Existing access which does not meet standard set out on page 14 X X
A new access junction is required X X
Internal Layout – to ensure that site layout is appropriate for access to the proposals
Every point of each new building is to be accessible within 45m of the P P adopted highway to ensure adequate emergency access Servicing is possible from the highway (in the same location as is P P currently used for servicing the residential dwelling) or the site layout can accommodate turning of the largest anticipated vehicle (large refuse truck as a minimum) such that vehicles can enter and leave the site in a forward gear. Parking provision on site is provided in accordance with the standard set out P P within the urban design parameters of your site typology Site layout does not meet one or more of the other requirements under X X internal layout heading
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HIGHWAYS AND ACCESS REQUIREMENTS
MAIN ACCESS SPECIFICATION
The main site access junction must meet the specification set out below: • Visibility must be provided looking both directions out of the site in accordance with the requirements set out below. This must be achievable using only land within the applicant’s control or highway verge / footway. Key parameters for showing visibility splays for this can be seen in figure 7.18 of the Manual for Streets guidance document which is available here. For all speeds, an ‘x’ distance of 2.4 metres is applicable. The ‘y’ lengths are listed below: • If the speed limit is 20mph, 25 metres visibility must be provided • If the speed limit is 30mph (indicated by speed limit signs or street lighting in a built-up area), 43 metres visibility must be provided • If the speed limit is 40mph, 90 metres visibility must be provided • If the speed limit is greater than 40mph and the access is onto a classified road, the ‘y’ distance must be provided in line with the length given for Stopping Sight Distance in Tables 2 and 3 within the Design Manual for Roads and Bridges (DMRB) which can be found here. • Minimum width of 6 metres over a length of at least 15 metres at the junction with the adopted highway. • The road onto which the site access connects shall have a minimum carriageway width of 4.8 metres in the location of the site access junction. • Surface water from the site shall not drain onto the public highway. Therefore, if the site levels fall towards the highway, the provision of a suitable drainage system will be required by Somerset County Council. • Gradient of access shall not exceed 1 in 10, for at least the first 15 metres from the edge of the adopted highway. • Access must be consolidated or surfaced (not loose stone or gravel) for at least the first 15 metres, as measured from the edge of the adjoining carriageway. • Entrance gates will be hung to open inwards and be set back a minimum distance of 6 metres from the carriageway edge if large vehicles will not enter the site. However, a minimum set back distance of 15 metres is required if the applicant expects large vehicles to enter the site. • Access to the new building from the adopted highway must be appropriate for shared use between pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles. • Where there is an existing pedestrian footway extending across the site frontage, the internal site layout needs to provide a connection (or connections) to it.
PARKING SPECIFICATION
The parking provision for the new development will be as set out below, with numbers rounded up to the next whole number. In doing so it will need to be demonstrated that there will still be an appropriate level of parking provision serving the existing residential development at the site.
A facility to allow electric charging of one vehicle shall be available for employees. The specification for this shall accord with the Somerset County Council’s Electric Charging Policy current at the time of the application submission. This will need to be obtained from the Somerset County Council website.
Cycle parking will be covered, secure and in close proximity to the building entrance.
14 Page 66 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 1.0
FLOOD RISK AND DRAINAGE REQUIREMENTS
Development within this LDO has the potential to be subject to flood risk. To understand whether your proposal would qualify for the use of this LDO and whether further flood risk assessment and drainage information will be required to be submitted alongside your application, follow the following three steps.
Flood Risk Step 1 If your proposals fall within Flood Zone 3, it therefore does Your application is only eligible for this LDO if your site is: not qualify for development • Located within flood zone 1 or 2 according to Environment Agency’s Flood through this LDO and a planning Map for Planning which can be found here application will be required.
• Not identified as a high-risk area for surface water flooding according to If your proposal meets national Long Term Flood Risk Mapping all criteria of step 1, • Further than 9 metres from a watercourse and 20m from a main river proceed to step 2.
If you have answered yes to any Flood Risk Step 2 criteria in Step 2, a Flood Risk Assessment must be undertaken Is your site: and submitted alongside (or within) your design and access • Within an area within flood zone 1, but has critical drainage problems as statement (see additional notified by the Environment Agency information below), before moving • Within flood zone 2 to step 3 - Drainage.
• Potentially affected by sources of flooding other than rivers and the sea If You have answered ‘No’ to all of the criteria move to step 3 - Drainage.
Step 3 - Drainage Your application must include a drainage strategy (submitted alongside your Design & Access Statement) which demonstrates how surface water will drain from your site without increasing flood risk at the site or elsewhere. Any strategy will be expected to prioritise drainage connections as follows:
1) Infiltration into the ground through sustainable drainage methods
2) Watercourse or surface water bodies
3) Surface water sewers
4) Highway drains
Proposals will not be deemed compliant where it is proposed that surface water is drained into foul water sewers.
Further information on sustainable drainage methods can be found here
ADDITIONAL The development uses included within this LDO are considered as ‘less vulnerable’ INFORMATION to flooding and is therefore appropriate for consideration through this process. Development will provide less than 200m of new floorspace and be set within an overall site coverage of less than 1Ha. This means proposed development through this LDO is minor in nature and therefore will not require a sequential or exception test.
Information to support undertaking a suitable Flood Risk Assessment is available through the Environment Agency’s National Standing Advice. It is likely you will need a flood risk specialist to carry out the flood risk assessment for you and make the necessary step 3 recommendations.
You do not need to submit your Flood Risk Assessment as a separate submission. This information must be submitted alongside the rest of your Design and Access Statement.
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ECOLOGICAL REQUIREMENTS
Development within this LDO has the potential to impact environmental designations and local habitats. To understand whether your proposal would qualify for the use of this LDO and whether further ecological information will be required to be submitted alongside your application, follow the following two steps.
Step 1 Firstly, you must check the central government database for nearby If your proposal fulfils any of the environmental designations. To do this, simply: stated criteria or states “ALL 1. Open Magic Maps, available here APPLICATIONS”, it is judged as likely to affect a protected 2. Type in your postcode. designation or species. It therefore does not qualify for 3. Tick the ‘Designations’ box on the ‘Table of Contents’ tab and then tick the development through this LDO ‘Land-Based Designations’ subcategory box. and a planning application will be 4. Click the information button on the toolbar and then click on your site (If required. you cannot see your site, untick non-statutory on the drop down list).
5. Read the criteria for ‘SSSI Impact Zones’ to understand whether If your proposal does not development is likely to impact any protected habitats (SSSI, SACs, SPAs fulfil any of the criteria, and Ramsar Sites); proceed to Step 2. 6. If your proposal qualifies for consultation with Natural England as per column two including where it is stated “ALL APPLICATIONS” your proposal does not qualify for this LDO.
Step 2 There is potential for wildlife to be found in and around occupied properties and be affected by works covered by this LDO. Are any of the following buildings or features present at your site: If you have answered yes to any • Veteran (historical or important trees, cellars, ice houses, old mines and criteria in Step 2, there is an caves? increased chance of protected • Buildings with features suitable for bats, or large gardens in suburban and species being present at your site. rural areas? An ecology survey (extended stage • Traditional timber-framed building (such as a barn)? 1 survey) will therefore be required to be undertaken and findings • Lakes, rivers and streams (on the land or nearby)? submitted alongside your Design & • Heathland on, nearby or linked to the site (by similar habitat)? Access Statement (see additional • Meadows, grassland, parkland and pasture on the land or linked to the site information below). (by similar habitat)? • Ponds or slow-flowing water bodies (like ditches) on the site, or within 500m and linked by semi-natural habitat such as parks or heaths? If You have answered ‘No’ to all of the criteria no further evidence is • Rough grassland and previously developed land (brownfield sites), on or required however we may request next to the site? evidence at a later date after • Woodland, scrub and hedgerows on, or next to the site? reviewing your application. • Coastal habitats?
ADDITIONAL If evidence of habitation is found at your site during the ecological survey, you INFORMATION must also include a summary of your ecologists “recommended mitigation” which will be need to be implemented prior to any development at the site. Any ecology survey must be undertaken by a qualified ecologist at the appropriate time of year in accordance with Natural England Standing Advice, available here. The chosen ecologist will be able to advice on necessary avoidance, enhancement and mitigation measures. To find a suitably qualified ecologist to complete a survey and suggest mitigation measures, you can search here. If species are discovered following the commencement of development, you must stop immediately and consult your chosen ecologist.
16 Page 68 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 1.0
GROUND CONTAMINATION REQUIREMENTS
Is there is a reason to believe NO - No further contamination could be an issue evidence required. at your site?
YES As part of your LDO application you must provide proportionate but sufficient site investigation information (a risk assessment). Guidance on this is provided below.
ADDITIONAL If there is a reason to believe contamination could be an issue, applicants INFORMATION must provide proportionate but sufficient site investigation information (a risk assessment) prepared by a competent person to determine the existence or otherwise of contamination, its nature and extent, and the risks it may pose and to whom/what (the ‘receptors’) so that these risks can be assessed and satisfactorily reduced to an acceptable level.
HERITAGE REQUIREMENTS
The site location exceptions and design expectations in this LDO are tailored to avoid impact on our heritage assets and their setting. However, a minority of applications may be affected by archaeological remains which are not readily apparent. To aid decision making, your Design and Access submission must make reference to a review the Somerset Historic Environment Records (SHER) and list any details of assets on or within 200m of your site. SHER online mapping can be accessed simply through the South West Heritage Trust website.
A small number of proposals will also have the potential to be affected by the presence of archaeological remains which may not be apparent on SHER. We therefore suggest contacting South West Heritage Trust directly before submitting your LDO application. The South West Heritage Trust will be a consultee on all LDO applications and can be contacted directly for pre submission advice at [email protected]. uk and by phone on 01823 278805. Please title any pre submission requests with ‘SWT LDO Pre Application Request” and your site address.
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1.3 HOW TO USE THE DESIGN CODE
HOW TO USE THE CODE Please refer to the flow diagram below which illustrates how to use the Design Code and prepare the supporting information to accompany your Application for Compliance Form.
The Code is divided into sections, starting with the site and context, before focusing in on urban design, landscape and building proposals. Within each section individual ‘Codes’ are highlighted, covering specific design requirements and parameters.
HOW TO USE THE DESIGN CODE FLOW DIAGRAM: Does the Proposed Development meet LDO Criteria set out in chapter 1.2
YES NO Go to chapter 2.1 Planning Permission Which typology is your site is Required located within?
Town & Village Town & Village Rural Area Centre Periphery
Go to Go to Go to Chapter 3.1 Chapter 3.2 Chapter 3.3
Review chapter 2.2 to understand which character area your site is within and respond accordingly
Go to chapter 4 ‘Submission Requirements’
18 Page 70 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 1.0
LANGUAGE & DEFINITIONS:
Appropriate screen planting Bikes contained in 3 Recycling / bin proposed building or in storage secure exterior store 6m 4 Retained existing garden 50m2 minimum Sustainable behind building line drainage of servicing / Remaining garden must parking surface relate to the existing dwelling its layout and living spaces 2. 1. 2.
Compliant Pavement visibility splay Existing Access Road
BLOCK AND BUILDING DESIGN CODE DIAGRAM:
2. 3. 4. 1.
2.
1. Your Dwelling 4. Parking Space for Proposed LDO Unit
2. Neighbouring Properties Building Line
3. Proposed LDO Unit
Page 71 19 UNDERSTANDING THE SITE
Page 72 2.0
2.0 UNDERSTANDING THE SITE 2.1 Site Location - Site Typologies - Town & Village Centres - Town & Village Peripheries - Rural Areas 2.2 Landscape Setting - Landscape Character Areas
Page 73 2.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
2.1 SITE LOCATION
SITE TYPOLOGIES This Design Code covers a number of area Typologies which are seen throughout the District. The Code is divided into 3 sections, which covers each Typology: Town and Village Centres, Town and Village Peripheries and Rural Areas. Prospective applicants must use the guidance in this chapter to identify which typology their site lies within.
Any proposed site must be considered in relation to the appropriate section within chapter 3 of this document. Each section will set out the simple parameters which the proposed development must conform with.
THE 3 TYPOLOGIES ARE: 1. Town and Village Centres
2. Town & Village Peripheries
3. Rural Areas
Once you have established your site typology, review Section 2.2 (Landscape Setting) before proceeding to the relevant typology section within Chapter 3.0.
1.
2. 3.
ABOVE: AERIAL VIEW OF SETTLEMENT HIGHLIGHTING LOCATION OF EACH TYPOLOGY
22 Page 74 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 2.0
1. TOWN & VILLAGE CENTRES
The site: • Is bordered on all sides by neighbouring development • Would have limited impact on wider landscape views due to proposed buildings being seen within the existing context • Could be adjacent to but not within a Conservation Area
2. TOWN & VILLAGE PERIPHERIES
The site: • Is bordered on 2 or more sides by existing development • Has views to the open countryside • Could be adjacent to but not within a Conservation Area
3. RURAL AREAS
The site: • Is within an isolated cluster of buildings made up of a dwelling and existing agricultural buildings in the open countryside OR • Is an isolated dwelling or within a small group of isolated dwellings in the open countryside
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2.2 LANDSCAPE SETTING
LANDSCAPE CHARACTER AREAS The proposed development must respond positively to the surrounding landscape in order that any change does not adversely affect local character.
The Somerset West and Taunton Design Guide sets out principles for each Landscape Character Area. The relevant parameters for each area, relating to landscape, architectural design and materials are summarised in this Design Guide.
The Landscape Character Areas identified within the Design Guide are demonstrated on the diagram opposite.
1. Minehead Environs
2. Central West Somerset
3. Quantocks
4. Quantock Vale
5. Exmoor Fringes
6. Vale of Taunton Deane
7. Taunton (urban)
8. Clay Plateau (Churchinford)
9. Fivehead Vale
10. Sandstone Ridge
OPPOSITE: CHARACTER AREAS & BOUNDARIES EXTRACTED FROM SWT DESIGN GUIDE
24 Page 76 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 2.0
1. 4.
2.
3.
5.
10. 7. 6.
9.
8.
Page 77 25 DESIGN CODE
Page 78 3.0
3.0 DESIGN CODE 3.1 Proposed Developments in Town and Village Centres - Urban Design & Landscape Parameters - Building Parameters 3.2 Proposed Developments in Town and Village Peripheries - Urban Design & Landscape Parameters - Building Parameters 3.3 Proposed Developments in Rural Areas - Urban Design & Landscape Parameters - Building Parameters
Page 79 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.0 DESIGN CODE
3.1 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTS IN TOWN & VILLAGE CENTRES
28 Page 80 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
• Are bordered on all sides by neighbouring development • Would have limited impact on wider landscape views due to proposed buildings being seen within the existing context • Could be adjacent to but not within a Conservation Area
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3.1.1 URBAN DESIGN & LANDSCAPE PARAMETERS
ACCESS & PARKING • The site must have existing vehicular access to the proposed REQUIREMENTS employment unit - if a new access is required then planning permission will need to be obtained.
• The existing access arrangements must comply with the requirements set out in Chapter 1.2. Please note, access requirements will differ dependent on proposed building use and size.
• The design of and access to the new building must comply with Building Regulations Document M Volume 2 (Buildings other than dwellings).
• The parking provision for the proposed employment building must be as set out in the table below. This must not compromise parking for the existing building:
Type Town and Village Centres Cycle 1 per 50m2 of gross floor area Vehicle 1 per 40m2 of gross floor area Disabled 1 of the vehicle spaces provided must be sized for disabled use. Motorcycle 1 space
Parking bays must be sized as follows:
• Perpendicular - 2.4m wide x 5m long
• Parallel - 2.4m wide x 6m wide
• Disabled - as above with a 1.2m buffer on the offside and rear of the space
• Bays must have a minimum of 6m perpendicular distance to the rear of the space to allow adequate manoeuvring area for vehicles entering/exiting spaces.
BUILDING SIZE & LOCATION • The building must not protrude in front of the building line (the REQUIREMENTS front elevation of the existing dwelling) • The building footprint must be no larger than 10% of rear garden area (curtilage behind existing building line minus the existing dwelling area and any outbuilding areas) up to a maximum of 50m2 for office (E(g)(i)) and 200m2 for research & development and light industrial (E(g)(ii) and (iii))
• The remaining garden behind the building line must not be less than 50m2
• The remaining garden must relate to the existing dwelling and its layout and living spaces.
• The location of the proposed building on the plot must not cause detriment to the amenity of existing dwelling.
LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE & • Landscape proposals must be submitted that illustrate how POTENTIAL VISUAL IMPACT appropriate planting (and/or other landscape works) could help REQUIREMENTS integrate the development in its setting. Please refer to the Somerset and West Taunton Design Guide for guidance.
30 Page 82 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
EXAMPLE SCENARIOS:
PROPOSED UNIT OFF EXISTING ACCESS AT THE FRONT & REAR Rear Access Road
Proposed Unit (footprint to be no larger than 10% of rear garden area behind building line up to maximum areas)
Existing Dwelling
Building Line
Existing Access
Garden Area Behind Building Line
Retained Existing Garden (50m2 minimum) Road
* NOTE: This scenario is only applicable to Office E(g)(i) use where the requirement for existing access could be less than an area of 6m x 15m
PROPOSED UNIT IN A TOWN OR VILLAGE CENTRE SETTING
3.
2.
1.
1. Existing access 2. Proposed unit set behind 3. Usable amenity space the building line which relates well to existing dwelling
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3.1.2 URBAN DESIGN & LANDSCAPE DETAILS
SURFACING MATERIALS Any new paving or surfacing material must be permeable to allow sufficient drainage. This includes materials such as: • Gravel • Permeable concrete block paving • Porous asphalt
REFUSE & CYCLE STORAGE • Secure covered bike storage must be provided unless they are provided internally (1 space per 50m2) • External bin storage must be provided on plot behind the front elevation of the proposed building (unless provided internally). Bins must not be stored at the front of the site facing onto the street • Adding a green roof to your cycle or bin store can help provide useful foraging habitat for birds. This can be as simple as a sedum mat which is rolled out across the roof and secured.
EXTERNAL LIGHTING • Private external lighting must be designed to minimise light pollution on neighbouring properties (i.e. directional light spread) • All external lighting (space and security lighting) must be provided by energy efficient fittings with appropriate control systems and daylight cut-off sensors.
TOWNSCAPE/ LANDSCAPE Refer to Principles in the Somerset West and Taunton Design Guide CHARACTER AREAS Document for guidance on the distinctive character of your area.
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NATURAL BOUNDARIES & TREES Where appropriate planting (and/or other landscape works) are required to integrate the development into its setting, applicants must use a mix of species that supports wildlife, including insects and birds.
TREES
Trees provide an abundance of benefits, from absorbing harmful gases and creating oxygen, to providing food and shelter for many species of wildlife.
Tree planting must include native species (or varieties of native species) e.g: Acer campestre (Field maple), Betula pendula (Silver Birch), Sorbus aucuparia (Rowan), Prunus padus (Bird cherry), Malus sylvestris (Crab apple), Quercus robur (English Oak), Sorbus aria (Whitebeam)
HEDGEROWS
As well as providing screening and natural shelter, hedgerows are very important for wildlife as they act as movement corridors as well as feeding and nesting areas.
Consider using a mix of native species for new hedges e.g: Mixed Native Hedge (bee and butterfly friendly): Corylus avellana (Hazel), Crataegus monogyna (Common Hawthorn), Ilex aquifolia (Holly), Malus sylvestris (Crab apple), Prunus padus (Bird Cherry), Prunus spinosa (Blackthorn), Rosa canina (Dog Rose), Sorbus aucuparia (Rowan), Viburnum lantana, Viburnum opulus (Guelder Rose).
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3.1.3 BUILDING PARAMETERS
BUILDING REQUIREMENTS • Only single storey buildings are permitted
• Mezzanine structures are not permitted
• Flat roofs are not permitted
• The maximum ridge height of a building is 4 metres
• Unless within 2 metres of the boundary of the curtilage of the dwelling, where the maximum ridge height for any roof form is 2.5 metres
• The maximum eaves height for any roof form is 2.5 metres
• Simple roof forms that express the building form must be used (e.g. pitched, asymmetric pitch, mono-pitch or barrel vaulted)
• A roof form and pitch angle which matches the ‘host’ dwelling is preferable, providing it complies with the maximum ridge and eaves heights, and permitted roof forms, as stated above
• The ridge of a mono-pitched structure must not face the boundary of the curtilage of the dwelling
• The height of the building must be measured from the highest ground level immediately adjacent to the building
• Any window (or rooflight) inserted on a wall or roof slope forming a side elevation of the building must be obscure-glazed, and non- opening.
• There must be no surface water connections from new buildings to the foul sewer network. Surface water connections from new impermeable areas increases the risk of sewer flooding and pollution.
POTENTIAL ROOF FORMS Ridge Ridge Ridge Ridge
*Eaves
Asymmetric- Mono- Barrel Pitched Flat pitched pitched vaulted
OBSCURE GLAZING REQUIREMENTS: Windows and rooflights facing boundaries to curtilage must be obscure -glazed and non opening
34 Page 86 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
MAXIMUM RIDGE & EAVES HEIGHT IN RELATION TO YOUR SITE BOUNDARY
YOUR 2m NEIGHBOURING DWELLING DWELLING
Max Ridge Boundary
4m 2.5 Boundary Max Ridge
2.5
PERMITTED RIDGE POSITION ON A MONO-PITCHED BUILDING
YOUR NEIGHBOURING DWELLING DWELLING
Ridge Boundary
Ridge Boundary
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3.1.4 BUILDING ELEMENTS
The building must appear subservient to the main dwelling and demonstrate its E (g) function through its form, façades and detailing. The building must use a subdued pallet of contextual materials which are simple and fit for purpose.
WALL MATERIALS Wall materials must be either:
Of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling E.g. • If predominantly brick, then a matching brick must be used for new building • If predominantly local stone, then a matching stone must be used for new building • If predominantly render, then a similar tone of render must be used for new building • The reuse of local stone or brick is encouraged to reduce the use of new materials, increasing the sustainability of the building.
OR
Of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in the construction of the existing dwelling Permitted contemporary wall materials include: • Good quality timber cladding detailed to a high standard. Timber must have a natural appearance and should not be unnaturally stained or varnished • Profiled metal cladding in a natural, subdued colour detailed to a high standard
ROOFLIGHTS Rooflights must be positioned so as not to cause any adverse glint/glare and light pollution when it is dark outside. Rooflights must match the colour of the roof finish.
36 Page 88 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
ROOF MATERIALS The chosen roof material must be appropriate to the designed roof pitch. Roof materials must not be reflective or cause any glare throughout the day. Roof materials must be either:
Of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling E.g. • If slate, then a matching slate must be used for new building • If tile or local tile then a matching tile must be used for new building • The reuse of roof materials is encouraged to reduce the use of new materials, increasing the sustainability of the building.
OR
Of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in the construction of the existing dwelling Permitted contemporary roof materials include: • Grey metal standing seam roof • Profiled metal roofing in a natural, subdued colour detailed to a high standard • Green roof detailed to a high standard
WINDOWS & DOORS • Windows and doors must be simple, well-proportioned and suit the function of the building. • Domestic proportioned openings must be avoided. • Where large format doors are required, they must be in a complimentary material and colour tone to the material palette of the wider building. • Windows and doors must be recessed within the walls and not flush with the external face. • Blinds to all windows and rooflights to minimise light pollution.
Windows and doors of a standard size must be of a similar material and colour tone to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling.
OR
If a contemporary approach is taken to the building, windows and doors must be simple and crisp in profile and be of a colour tone which complements the contemporary material palette of the wider building.
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3.1.5 BUILDING DETAILS
GUIDANCE NOTES • Buildings will generally be expected to have one material used on the walls and one material used on the roof to ensure a clean, simple building and avoid ad-hoc pepper-potting of materials, or stark contrasts of material. • Where a cladding material is used on the walls a visible masonry ‘plinth’ may be used in which must be of a similar appearance to masonry used in the construction of the existing dwelling, or of a complementary contemporary appearance to the cladding material above. • Eaves and verges must be tight and simple to suit the simple form and of the building and its function. • Simple trim details must be used to produce uninterrupted eaves lines. • The use of standard box shape eaves and projecting fascia and bargeboards must be avoided unless already on the existing dwelling. • Downpipes must be integrated into the design of the roof and façades of the building to minimise impact of pipes on the overall design. • Rooflights must be used sparingly and purposefully and have a maximum upstand of 150mm from the roof plane. Rooflights must match the colour of the roof finish.
Masonry ‘plinth’ Neat verge detail One material to walls & roof
Clean lines to eaves Simple trim details Simple roof form
38 Page 90 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
MATERIALS
Building materials must either: Be of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling
OR
Be of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in New building in the construction of the existing similar materials to dwelling existing dwelling
Buildings are expected to have one material for the walls and one material for the roof
BUILDING DETAILS
1.
2.
3.
1. Rooflights are expected to be used sparingly and purposefully and have a maximum upstand of 150mm
2. Windows and doors must be recessed within walls and not flush with the external face
3. The position of downpipes must be well considered and eaves and verge details are expected to be simple
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3.0 DESIGN CODE
3.2 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTS IN TOWN & VILLAGE PERIPHERIES
40 Page 92 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
• Are bordered on 2 or more sides by existing development • Have views to the open countryside • Could be adjacent to but not within a Conservation Area
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3.2.1 URBAN DESIGN & LANDSCAPE PARAMETERS
ACCESS & PARKING • The site must have existing vehicular access to the proposed REQUIREMENTS employment unit - if a new access is required then planning permission will need to be obtained.
• The existing access arrangements must comply with the requirements set out in Chapter 1.2. Please note, access requirements will differ dependent on proposed building use and size.
• The design of and access to the new building must comply with Building Regulations Document M Volume 2 (Buildings other than dwellings).
• The parking provision for the proposed employment building must be as set out in the table below. This must not compromise parking for the existing building:
Type Town and Village Peripheries Cycle 1 per 50m2 of gross floor area Vehicle 1 per 40m2 of gross floor area Disabled 1 of the vehicle spaces provided must be sized for disabled use. Motorcycle 1 space
Parking bays must be sized as follows:
• Perpendicular - 2.4m wide x 5m long
• Parallel - 2.4m wide x 6m long
• Disabled - as above with a 1.2m buffer on the offside and rear of the space
• Bays must have a minimum of 6m perpendicular distance to the rear of the space to allow adequate manoeuvring area for vehicles entering/exiting spaces.
BUILDING SIZE & LOCATION • The building protrude in front of the building line (the REQUIREMENTS must not front elevation of the existing dwelling)
• The building footprint must be no larger than 10% of rear garden area (curtilage behind existing building line minus the existing dwelling area and any outbuilding areas) up to a maximum of 50m2 for office (E(g)(i)) and 200m2 for research & development and light industrial (E(g)(ii) and (iii))
• The remaining garden behind the building line must not be less than 50m2
• The remaining garden must relate to the existing dwelling and its layout and living spaces.
• The location of the proposed building on the plot must not cause detriment to the amenity of existing dwelling.
LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE & • Where the site lacks existing mature boundaries around the POTENTIAL VISUAL IMPACT proposed new building the submission must include a strategy REQUIREMENTS to illustrate how appropriate planting (and/or other landscape works) could help integrate the development in its setting.
• New buildings must not protrude outside of the defined built up area/landscape features which define the edge of a town or village
42 Page 94 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
EXAMPLE SCENARIOS: Open Open Countryside Countryside PROPOSED UNIT POSITIONS OFF EXISTING ACCESS
Proposed Unit
Existing Dwelling Field within Ownership Building Line Open Countryside
Existing Access
Garden Area Behind Building Line Road Road Retained Existing Garden (50m2 minimum)
Road
Open Countryside PROPOSED UNIT IN TOWN OR 3. 2. 4. VILLAGE PERIPHERY SETTING
1.
Field within Open Ownership Countryside 3.
2. 4.
1. 5.
1. Existing access
2. Proposed unit set behind existing building line 4 Settlement edge (not necessarily owner’s 3. Usable amenity space boundary which relates well to existing dwelling 5. Open countryside
Page 95 43 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.2.2 URBAN DESIGN & LANDSCAPE DETAILS
SURFACING MATERIALS Any new paving or surfacing material must be permeable to allow sufficient drainage. This includes materials such as: • Gravel • Permeable concrete block paving • Porous asphalt
REFUSE & CYCLE STORAGE • Secure covered bike storage must be provided unless they are provided internally (1 space per 50m2) • External bin storage must be provided on plot behind the front elevation of the proposed building (unless provided internally). Bins must not be stored at the front of the site facing onto the street • Adding a green roof to your cycle or bin store can help provide useful foraging habitat for birds. This can be as simple as a sedum mat which is rolled out across the roof and secured.
EXTERNAL LIGHTING • Private external lighting must be designed to minimise light pollution on neighbouring properties (i.e. directional light spread) • All external lighting (space and security lighting) must be provided by energy efficient fittings with appropriate control systems and daylight cut-off sensors.
TOWNSCAPE/ LANDSCAPE Refer to Principles in the Somerset West and Taunton Design Guide CHARACTER AREAS Document for guidance on the distinctive character of your area.
44 Page 96 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
NATURAL BOUNDARIES & TREES Where appropriate planting (and/or other landscape works) are required to integrate the development into its setting, applicants must use a mix of species that supports wildlife, including insects and birds.
TREES
Trees provide an abundance of benefits, from absorbing harmful gases and creating oxygen, to providing food and shelter for many species of wildlife.
Tree planting must include native species (or varieties of native species) e.g: Acer campestre (Field maple), Betula pendula (Silver Birch), Sorbus aucuparia (Rowan), Malus sylvestris (Crab apple), Quercus robur (English Oak), Sorbus aria (Whitebeam)
HEDGEROWS
As well as providing screening and natural shelter, hedgerows are for very important for wildlife as they act as movement corridors as well as feeding and nesting areas.
Hedgerow planting must include native species (or varieties of native species) e.g: Mixed Native Hedge (bird friendly): Corylus avellana (Hazel), Crataegus monogyna (Common Hawthorn), Malus sylvestris (Crab apple), Prunus padus (Bird Cherry), Prunus spinosa (Blackthorn).
Page 97 45 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.2.3 BUILDING PARAMETERS
BUILDING REQUIREMENTS • Only single storey buildings are permitted • Mezzanine structures are not permitted
• Flat roofs are not permitted
• The maximum ridge height of a building is 4 metres
• Unless within 2 metres of the boundary of the curtilage of the dwelling where the maximum ridge height for any roof form is 2.5 metres
• The maximum eaves height for any roof form is 3 metres
• Simple roof forms that express the building form must be used (e.g. pitched, asymmetric pitch, mono-pitch or barrel vaulted)
• A roof form and pitch angle which matches the ‘host’ dwelling is preferable, providing it complies with the maximum ridge and eaves heights, and permitted roof forms, as stated above.
• The ridge of a mono-pitched structure must not face the boundary of the curtilage of the dwelling.
• The height of the building must be measured from the highest ground level immediately adjacent to the building
• Any window (or rooflight) inserted on a wall or roof slope forming a side elevation of the building must be obscure- glazed, and non-opening.
• There must be no surface water connections from new buildings to the foul sewer network. Surface water connections from new impermeable areas increases the risk of sewer flooding and pollution.
POTENTIAL ROOF FORMS Ridge Ridge Ridge Ridge
*Eaves
Asymmetric- Mono- Barrel Pitched Flat pitched pitched vaulted
OBSCURE GLAZING REQUIREMENTS: Windows and rooflights facing boundaries to curtilage must be obscure -glazed and non opening
46 Page 98 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
MAXIMUM RIDGE & EAVES HEIGHT IN RELATION TO YOUR SITE BOUNDARY
YOUR 2m NEIGHBOURING DWELLING DWELLING
Max Ridge Boundary
4m 3
Max Ridge
2.5
PERMITTED RIDGE POSITION ON A MONO-PITCHED BUILDING
YOUR NEIGHBOURING DWELLING DWELLING
Ridge Boundary
Ridge Boundary
Page 99 47 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.2.4 BUILDING ELEMENTS
The building must appear subservient to the main dwelling and demonstrate its E (g) function through its form, façades and detailing. The building must use a subdued pallet of contextual materials which are simple and fit for purpose.
WALL MATERIALS Wall materials must be either:
Of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling E.g. • If predominantly brick, then a matching brick must be used for new building • If predominantly local stone, then matching stone must be used for new building • If predominantly render, then a similar tone of render must be used for new building • The reuse of local stone or brick is encouraged to reduce the use of new materials, increasing the sustainability of the building. OR
Of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in the construction of the existing dwelling Permitted contemporary wall materials include: • Good quality timber cladding detailed to a high standard. Timber must have a natural appearance and should not be unnaturally stained or varnished • Profiled metal cladding in a natural, subdued colour detailed to a high standard
ROOFLIGHTS Rooflights must be positioned so as not to cause any adverse glint/glare and light pollution when it is dark outside. Rooflights must match the colour of the roof finish.
48 Page 100 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
ROOF MATERIALS The chosen roof material must be appropriate to the designed roof pitch. Roof materials must not be reflective or cause any glare throughout the day. Roof materials must be either:
Of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling E.g. • If slate then a matching slate must be used for new building • If tile or local tile then a matching tile must be used for new building • The reuse of roof materials is encouraged to reduce the use of new materials, increasing the sustainability of the building. OR
Of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in the construction of the existing dwelling Permitted contemporary roof materials include: • Grey metal standing seam roof • Profiled metal roofing in a natural, subdued colour detailed to a high standard • Green roof detailed to a high standard
WINDOWS & DOORS • Windows and doors must be simple, well-proportioned and suit the function of the building. • Domestic proportioned openings must be avoided. • Where large format doors are required, they must be in a complimentary material and colour tone to the material palette of the wider building. • Windows and doors must be recessed within the walls and not flush with the external face. • Blinds to all windows and rooflights to minimise light pollution.
Windows and doors of a standard size must be of a similar material and colour tone to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling.
OR
If a contemporary approach is taken to the building, window and standard sized doors must be simple and crisp in profile and be of a colour tone which complements the contemporary material palette of the wider building.
Page 101 49 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.2.5 BUILDING DETAILS
GUIDANCE NOTES • Buildings will be expected to have one material used on the walls and one material used on the roof to ensure a clean, simple building and avoid ad-hoc pepper-potting of materials, or stark contrasts of material. • Where a cladding material is used on the walls a visible masonry ‘plinth’ may be used in which must be of a similar appearance to masonry used in the construction of the existing dwelling, or of a complementary contemporary appearance to the cladding material above. • Eaves and verges must be tight and simple to suit the simple form and of the building and its function. • Simple trim details must be used to produce uninterrupted eaves lines. • The use of standard box shape eaves and projecting fascia and bargeboards must be avoided unless already on the existing dwelling. • Downpipes must be integrated into the design of the roof and façades of the building to minimise impact of pipes on the overall design. • Rooflights must be used sparingly and purposefully and have a maximum upstand of 150mm from the roof plane. Rooflights must match the colour of the roof finish.
Masonry ‘plinth’ Neat verge detail Simple trim details
Clean lines to eaves Simple trim details Simple roof form
50 Page 102 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
MATERIALS
Building materials must either: Be of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling
OR
Be of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in New building in the construction of the existing similar materials to dwelling existing dwelling
Buildings are expected to have one material for the walls and one material for the roof
BUILDING DETAILS
1.
2. 3.
1. Rooflights are expected to be used sparingly and purposefully and have a maximum upstand of 150mm
2. Windows and doors must be recessed within walls and not flush with the external face
3. The position of downpipes must be well considered and eaves and verge details are expected to be simple
Page 103 51 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.0 DESIGN CODE
3.3 PROPOSED DEVELOPMENTS IN RURAL AREAS
52 Page 104 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
• Is an isolated cluster of buildings made up of a dwelling and existing agricultural buildings OR • Is an isolated dwelling or within a small group of isolated dwellings in the open countryside
Page 105 53 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.3.1 URBAN DESIGN & LANDSCAPE PARAMETERS
ACCESS & PARKING • The site must have existing vehicular access to the proposed REQUIREMENTS employment unit - if a new access is required then planning permission will need to be obtained.
• The existing access arrangements must comply with the requirements set out in Chapter 1.2. Please note, access requirements will differ dependent on proposed building use and size.
• The design of and access to the new building must comply with Building Regulations Document M Volume 2 (Buildings other than dwellings).
• The parking provision for the proposed employment building must be as set out in the table below. This must not compromise parking for the existing building:
Type Rural Areas Cycle 1 per 200m2 of gross floor area Vehicle 1 per 30m2 of gross floor area Disabled 1 of the vehicle spaces provided must be sized for disabled use. Motorcycle 1 space
Parking bays must be sized as follows: • Perpendicular - 2.4m wide x 5m long • Parallel - 2.4m wide x 6m long • Disabled - as above with a 1.2m buffer on the offside and rear of the space • Bays must have a minimum of 6m perpendicular distance to the rear of the space to allow adequate manoeuvring area for vehicles entering/exiting spaces.
BUILDING SIZE & LOCATION • The proposed building must be no larger than 10% of rear garden REQUIREMENTS area (curtilage behind existing building line minus the existing dwelling area and any outbuilding areas) up to a maximum of 50m2 for office (E(g)(i)) and 200m2 for research & development and light industrial (E(g)(ii) and (iii))
• The primary entrance to the proposed building must be no further than 15m from the edge of an existing dwelling/outbuilding
• The remaining garden behind the building line must not be less than 50m2.
• The remaining garden must relate to the existing dwelling and its layout and living spaces. The location of the proposed building on the plot must not cause detriment to amenity of existing dwelling. • Where existing farm buildings already protrude in front of the main dwelling building line, no proposed building should protrude in front of these. • Proposed buildings must not obscure main dwelling’s principal elevation • Where possible, proposed buildings should aim to create a courtyard feel as is common within rural development, whilst utilising existing access areas.
LANDSCAPE STRUCTURE & • Where the site lacks existing mature boundaries around the proposed POTENTIAL VISUAL IMPACT new building the submission must include a strategy to illustrate REQUIREMENTS how appropriate planting (and/or other landscape works) could help integrate the development in its setting. Please refer to the Somerset West and Taunton Design Guide for guidance.
• New buildings must not protrude outside of the defined built up area/landscape features i.e. existing hedgerows or tree belts.
54 Page 106 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
EXAMPLE SCENARIOS:
PROPOSED UNIT POSITIONS OFF EXISTING ACCESS
Open Countryside Open Countryside Open Countryside
Building Line Proposed Unit Garden Area Behind Retained Existing Building Line Garden (50m2 Existing Access Existing Dwelling minimum) 15m Offset
Open 5. Countryside
3. 4. 2.
1. 4. Open Countryside
3. 2.
1. 5.
1. Existing access 3. Usable amenity space 4. Settlement edge (not which relates well to necessarily owner’s 2. Proposed unit set behind existing dwelling boundary existing building line, creating a courtyard feel 5. Open countryside
Page 107 55 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.3.2 URBAN DESIGN & LANDSCAPE DETAILS
SURFACING MATERIALS Any new paving or surfacing material must be permeable to allow sufficient drainage. This includes materials such as: • Gravel • Permeable concrete block paving • Porous asphalt
REFUSE & CYCLE STORAGE • Secure covered bike storage must be provided unless they are provided internally (1 space per 50m2) • External bin storage must be provided on plot behind the front elevation of the proposed building (unless provided internally). Bins must not be stored at the front of the site facing onto the street • Adding a green roof to your cycle or bin store can help provide useful foraging habitat for birds. This can be as simple as a sedum mat which is rolled out across the roof and secured.
EXTERNAL LIGHTING • Private external lighting must be designed to minimise light pollution on neighbouring properties (i.e. directional light spread) • All external lighting (space and security lighting) must be provided by energy efficient fittings with appropriate control systems and daylight cut-off sensors.
TOWNSCAPE/ LANDSCAPE Refer to Principles in the Somerset West and Taunton Design Guide CHARACTER AREAS Document for guidance on the distinctive character of your area.
56 Page 108 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
BOUNDARY TREATMENT Where appropriate planting (and/or other landscape works) are required & DETAILS to integrate the development into its setting, applicants must use a mix of species that supports wildlife, including insects and birds.
TREES
Trees provide an abundance of benefits, from absorbing harmful gases and creating oxygen, to providing food and shelter for many species of wildlife.
Tree planting must include native species (or varieties of native species) e.g: Acer campestre (Field maple), Betula pendula (Silver Birch), Fagus sylvatica (Beech), Quercus robur (English Oak), Sorbus aria (Whitebeam), Tilia x europaea (Common Lime), Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine)
HEDGEROWS
As well as providing screening and natural shelter, hedgerows are for very important for wildlife as they act as movement corridors as well as feeding and nesting areas.
Hedgerow planting must include native species (or varieties of native species) e.g: Mixed Native Hedge (traditional): Acer campestre (Field Maple), Corylus avellana (Hazel), Crataegus monogyna (Common Hawthorn), Prunus spinosa (Blackthorn), Malus sylvestris (Crab apple), Rosa canina (Dog Rose).
Page 109 57 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.3.3 BUILDING PARAMETERS
BUILDING REQUIREMENTS • Flat roofs are not permitted • Mezzanine structures are permitted but their area must be included as part of the permitted overall internal area. • Simple roof forms that express the building form must be used (e.g. pitched, asymmetric pitch, mono-pitch or barrel vaulted) • A roof form and pitch angle which matches the ‘host’ dwelling is preferable, providing it complies with the maximum ridge and eaves heights, and permitted roof forms, as stated above. • Any window inserted on a wall or roof slope forming a side elevation of the building must be obscure-glazed, and non- opening. • There must be no surface water connections from new buildings to the foul sewer network. Surface water connections from new impermeable areas increases the risk of sewer flooding and pollution.
RIDGE • The maximum ridge height of a building is 5.5 metres • Unless within 10 metres of the boundary of the curtilage of the where the maximum ridge height for any roof form is 4.5 metres • The ridge of any mono-pitched building must not face the boundary of the curtilage of the dwelling.
EAVES • The maximum eaves height for any roof form is 5 metres • Unless within 10 metres of the boundary of the curtilage of the dwelling where the maximum eaves height for any roof form is 4 metres • The height of the building must be measured from the highest ground level immediately adjacent to the building
POTENTIAL ROOF FORMS Ridge Ridge Ridge Ridge
*Eaves
Asymmetric- Mono- Barrel Pitched Flat pitched pitched vaulted
OBSCURE GLAZING REQUIREMENTS:
Windows and rooflights facing boundaries to curtilage must be obscure -glazed and non opening
58 Page 110 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
YOUR 10m DWELLING
Max Ridge Boundary
5.5m 5m
Max Ridge Boundary
4.5m 4m
MEZZANINE PERMITTED AS PART OF TOTAL FLOOR AREA:
YOUR DWELLING
Boundary
Note: If a neighbouring dwelling is within 10m of the proposed new building then the maximum ridge and eaves height must adhere to the building parameters set out in the building requirements list in section 3.3.4
Page 111 59 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.3.4 BUILDING ELEMENTS
The building must appear subservient to the main dwelling and demonstrate its E (g) function through its form, façades and detailing. The building must use a subdued pallet of contextual materials which are simple and fit for purpose.
WALL MATERIALS Wall materials must be either:
Of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling E.g. • If predominantly brick, then a matching brick must be used for new building • If predominantly local stone, then matching stone must be used for new building • If predominantly render, then a similar tone of render must be used for new building • The reuse of local stone or brick is encouraged to reduce the use of new materials, increasing the sustainability of the building. OR
Of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in the construction of the existing dwelling Permitted contemporary wall materials include: • Good quality timber cladding detailed to a high standard. Timber must have a natural appearance and should not be unnaturally stained or varnished • Profiled metal cladding in a natural, subdued colour detailed to a high standard
ROOFLIGHTS Rooflights must be positioned so as not to cause any adverse glint/glare and light pollution when it is dark outside. Rooflights must match the colour of the roof finish.
60 Page 112 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
ROOF MATERIALS The chosen roof material must be appropriate to the designed roof pitch. Roof materials must not be reflective or cause any glare throughout the day. Roof materials must be either:
Of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling E.g. • If slate then a matching slate must be used for new building • If tile or local tile then a matching tile must be used for new building • The reuse of roof materials is encouraged to reduce the use of new materials, increasing the sustainability of the building. OR
Of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in the construction of the existing dwelling Permitted contemporary roof materials include: • Grey metal standing seam roof • Profiled metal roofing in a natural, subdued colour detailed to a high standard • Green roof detailed to a high standard
WINDOWS & DOORS • Windows and doors must be simple, well-proportioned and suit the function of the building. • Domestic proportioned openings must be avoided. • Where large format doors are required, they must be in a complimentary material and colour tone to the material palette of the wider building. • Windows and doors must be recessed within the walls and not flush with the external face. • Blinds to all windows and rooflights to minimise light pollution.
Windows and doors of a standard size must be of a similar material and colour tone to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling. OR If a contemporary approach is taken to the building, window and standard sized doors must be simple and crisp in profile and be of a colour tone which complements the contemporary material palette of the wider building.
Page 113 61 3.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
3.3.5 BUILDING DETAILS
GUIDANCE NOTES • Buildings will be expected to have one material used on the walls and one material used on the roof to ensure a clean, simple building and avoid ad-hoc pepper-potting of materials, or stark contrasts of material. • Where a cladding material is used on the walls a visible masonry ‘plinth’ may be used in which must be of a similar appearance to masonry used in the construction of the existing dwelling, or of a complementary contemporary appearance to the cladding material above. • Eaves and verges must be tight and simple to suit the simple form and of the building and its function. • Simple trim details must be used to produce uninterrupted eaves lines. • The use of standard box shape eaves and projecting fascia and bargeboards must be avoided unless already on the existing dwelling. • Downpipes must be integrated into the design of the roof and façades of the building to minimise impact of pipes on the overall design. • Rooflights must be used sparingly and purposefully and have a maximum upstand of 150mm from the roof plane. Rooflights must match the colour of the roof finish.
Masonry ‘plinth’ Neat verge detail Simple trim details
Clean lines to eaves Simple trim details Simple roof form
62 Page 114 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 3.0
MATERIALS
Building materials must either: Be of a similar appearance to those used in the construction of the existing dwelling
OR
Be of a contemporary appearance to complement those used in the construction of the existing dwelling New building in similar materials to existing dwelling
Buildings are expected to have one material for the walls and one material for the roof
BUILDING DETAILS
1.
2. 3.
1. Rooflights are expected to be used sparingly and purposefully and have a maximum upstand of 150mm
2. Windows and doors must be recessed within walls and not flush with the external face
3. The position of downpipes must be well considered and eaves and verge details are expected to be simple
Page 115 63 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Page 116 4.0
4.0 SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS 4.1 Design and Access Statement Pro Forma 4.2 Example Drawings
Page 117 4.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
4.1 DESIGN AND ACCESS STATEMENT PRO FORMA
A Design and Access statement is a short report to explain and justify your proposal and gives you an opportunity to demonstrate your commitment to achieving good design and compliance with the technical criteria set out in chapter 1.2
The Design and Access Statement is a short report which MUST: • State the use of the proposed building in real terms (rather than solely stating the use class) • Include with or within any further evidence you are required to provide following review of the technical matters in Chapter 1.2 • Include all of the Drawings/ Information listed below (a - h) (NOTE: All drawings must be to a metric scale and any figured dimensions given in meters and a scale bar and direction north arrow must be included).
a) Site Location Plan / Existing Site Plan (1:1250/ 1:2500) This drawing must show nearby named roads. The properties shown must be numbered or named to ensure that the exact location of the application is clear. The application site must be edged clearly with a red line. It must include all land necessary to carry out the proposed development (including the existing access from a public highway, visibility splays, open areas around buildings). A blue line must be drawn on the plan around any other land owned by the applicant, close to or adjoining the site. b) Existing Site Plan (e.g. 1:200) This drawing must show the layout of your existing site in relation surrounding buildings and open spaces. c) Proposed Site Plan (e.g. 1:200) This drawing must show the layout of your proposed development on the site in relation to other buildings and open spaces. Any required visibility splays must be demonstrated here. d) Proposed Building Plan (1:50/ 1:100) This drawings must show the amount of floor space proposed and the uses which will be undertaken within the building. e) Proposed Elevations (1:50/ 1:100) These drawings must show the scale of the proposed building, i.e. its height, width and length in relation to its surroundings. f) Proposed Landscaping and External Details Details of planting, boundary details, lighting and proposed hard landscaping must be provided. The foul and surface water drainage strategy must be demonstrated. Note: for smaller schemes this information could be illustrated on the site plan. For larger more complex proposals, a separate landscape plan must be provided. g) Proposed Materials Details of the proposed materials to be used on the outside of the building must be provided. Note: this information could be illustrated on the building elevations. h) Arrangements of access for pedestrian, cycle, vehicular and other modes of transport The access section of the Design and Access statement refers only to access to the development and not to the inside of individual buildings. This needs to describe how the proposed building will be accessed and demonstrate compliance with the technical matters set out in chapter 1.2.
The information and drawings within the Design and Access Statement must all demonstrate compliance with this LDO Design Code
66 Page 118 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 4.0
4.2 EXAMPLE DRAWINGS – E(g)(i) USE KEY Proposed Application Area Other land within applicants ownership
SITE LOCATION PLAN
EXISTING SITE PLAN Page 119 67 4.0 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE
PROPOSED SITE PLAN
PROPOSED BUILDING PLAN 68 Page 120 DESIGN CODE FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT SPACE 4.0
PROPOSED ELEVATIONS
Page 121 69 1.0
CONTROL
Date: 18/09/20 Project: Somerset West & Taunton Council Employment LDO | 18036 Produced by: AS / KS Date: 18th Sept 2020 Checked by: PO Date: 18th Sept 2020 Page 122 Somerset West and Taunton Council Deane House Belvedere Road Taunton TA1 1HE
APPLICATION FOR COMPLIANCE FORM LOCAL DEVELOPMENT ORDER FOR SMALL SCALE EMPLOYMENT USES
Request for confirmation that a development is compliant with the Local Development Order
Before Filling Out This Form
The purpose of this Local Development Order (LDO) is to enable the development of light industrial and office development at the individual or neighbourhood scale in order to aid local small scale start ups and small businesses access to space in association with their existing properties. LDOs allow implementation at a faster rate and cheaper cost than would usually be achievable through a standard planning application, providing the market flexibility often required for small scale industries. However, in order to benefit from the LDO, applicants must demonstrate that proposals are in compliance with the guidance and specifications set out within the adopted LDO documents.
This Local Development Order is split into two parts which should be read in conjunction with this form: 1. The Design Code document which sets the acceptable parameters and principles for development which should be evidenced within your Design and Access Statement submission; and 2. The Development Order document which provides the legal conditions for the implementation of LDO development.
This form is a checklist tool which allows both applicants and Somerset West and Taunton Council to assess whether a proposal is complaint with the specifications of the Local Development Order. It includes sign-posting to key elements within the LDO documents for applicants to cross reference when completing their submissions.
These boxes sign-post where there is relevant guidance and specifications within the Design Code document.
These boxes sign-post where there is relevant guidance and specifications within the Local Development Order document.
In circumstances where you identify a gap in your submission, we suggest that you do not submit this form and your Design and Access Statement at this time as it is likely that we will require further information to process your LDO application. This will lead to delay in processing your proposals. Part A: Applicant Details Please insert your personal details in the boxes below. If you are being represented by a third party or agent, their details may also be inputted and they will be the delegated primary contact for future correspondence.
Applicant’s name And/or delegate’s name and address and address
Applicant’s And/or delegate’s telephone number telephone number
Applicant’s email And/or delegate’s email address address Site address or grid Original application reference1 (Easting, reference (if Northing). amendment or resubmission)
1 Grid references can be found at available from https://gridreferencefinder.com/) Page 123 1 Somerset West and Taunton Council Deane House Belvedere Road Taunton TA1 1HE
Part B: Stage 1 Compliance Check
This initial compliance check confirms whether your proposal is eligible for further consideration. It is important to note that your proposal cannot be compliant with the LDO if it fails these basic parameters and we will not ask for any further information to assist the processing of your application.
To complete this section you will need to have read the following sections of the Design Code Document:
• Section 1.1 Introduction (What Does This LDO Cover?)
• Section 1.2: Can Your Development Be Considered? (Step 1 Check: Process Location & Size)
1. Does your proposal fit within the floorspace parameters Yes / No provided with in Section 1.1 of the Design Code Document (‘What Does This LDO Cover’)?
2. Please state the floor space proposed within each use class Offices Research and Light Industrial as described in that section in square metres. Development
3. Does your proposal pass the Step 1 Check presented in Yes / No Section 1.2 of the Design Code document?
Part C: Submission Checklist - General Requirements
The submission checklist allows you to check and confirm you are submitting the correct documents for your compliance application to be considered valid.
To complete this section you will need to have read the following sections of the Design Code Document:
• Section 4.1 Design and Access Statement Pro Forma
For this section you will need to read the following sections of the Design Code Document: 1. Have you included the following information within your Design and Access statement ?
Site Location Plan/Existing Site Plan (1:1250) Yes / No
Existing Site Plan (e.g. 1:200) Yes / No
Proposed Site Plan (e.g. 1:200) Yes / No
Proposed Building Plan (1:50/ 1:100) Yes / No
Proposed Elevations (1:50/ 1:100) Yes / No
Proposed Landscaping and External Details Yes / No
Proposed Materials Yes / No
Arrangements of access for pedestrian, cycle, vehicular and Yes / No other modes of transport
• Section 1.1 Introduction - What Does ThisPage LDO Cover? 124 2 • Section 1.2: Can Your Development Be Considered?
Somerset West and Taunton Council Deane House Belvedere Road Taunton TA1 1HE
Part D: Submission Checklist - Technical Matters
The technical matters checklist allows you to check and confirm whether you have undertaken the right level of technical work to support your submission. This section is split into five separate sections which align with the technical matters described in the Design Code document. These are: • Highways and Access Requirements; • Flood Risk and Strategy Requirements; • Ground Contamination Requirements; • Ecological Requirements; and • Heritage Requirements.
Part D1: Highways and Access Requirements
To complete this section you will need to have read the following sections of the Design Code Document:
• Section 2.1: Site Location (Site Typologies)
• Section 1.2: Can Your Development Be Considered? (Step 2 Check: Technical Matters - Highways and Access)
• Section 3.1: Proposed Development in Town and Village Centres (Access and Parking Requirements)
• Section 3.2: Proposed Development in Town and Village Peripheries (Access and Parking Requirements)
• Section 3.3 Proposed Development in Rural Areas (Access and Parking Requirements)
1. Which site location typology is your site within?
2. Is your proposal for sole Office (B1(a)/E(g)(i)) use with a Yes / No gross floor area of less than 50m square with an existing access point onto the highway.
3. If ‘yes’ does your proposal provide one additional parking Yes / No / Not Applicable space in accordance with the size specifications of the parking requirement of your site location typology.
4. If you have not answered yes to the above questions, does Yes / No your proposal pass the Level 2 Highway and Access Assessment in Section 2.1 of the Design Code document.
5. Will your proposal affect the route of a public right of way? Yes / No
Part D2: Flood Risk and Drainage Requirements
To complete this section you will need to have read the following sections of the Design Code Document:
• Section 1.2: Can Your Development Be Considered? (Step 2 Check: Technical Matters - Flood Risk and Drainage)
6. Please specify all flood zones covered within your site area Flood Zone 1 Flood Zone 2 Flood Zone 3 (as defined by your red line plan).
Page 125 3 Somerset West and Taunton Council Deane House Belvedere Road Taunton TA1 1HE
Part D2: Flood Risk and Drainage Requirements (continued)
7. Is any part of your site identified as being at high risk of Yes / No surface water flooding according to national long term flood risk mapping? 8. Is your site either within 9m of a watercourse or within 20m Yes / No of a main river? 9. Does your proposal qualify for a Flood Risk Assessment Yes / No / Not Applicable under the step 2 criteria of the flood risk drainage requirements of the Design Code document (page 15). If so have you prepared a Flood Risk Assessment to be submitted in support of your proposal?
10. Do your proposals clearly illustrate and describe how Yes / No surface water will drained from your site?
Part D3: Ecology Requirements
To complete this section you will need to have read the following sections of the Design Code Document:
• Section 1.2: Can Your Development Be Considered? (Step 2 Check: Technical Matters - Ecology)
11. Does the proposal pass the Step1 Ecology Requirements Yes / No test on page 16 of the Design Code document?
12. Does your site include any of the features listed in the Yes / No Step 2 Ecology Requirements test on page 17 of the Design Code document?
13. If the answer was ‘Yes’ to question 14, has an extended Yes / No / Not Applicable stage 1 walkover survey been undertaken by a recommended ecologist? Are their findings included within your submission, and does your proposal clearly describe avoidance, mitigation and enhancement measures (where appropriate).
Part D4: Land Contamination Requirements
14. To your knowledge, has your site previously been used Yes / No for industrial processes or mining?
15. Is there any other reason to believe that your site may be Yes / No contaminated?
16. If the answer was ‘Yes’ to either of the above, does your Yes / No / Not Applicable submission include a risk assessment which accords with Somerset West and Taunton’s latest published planning validation requirements?
Page 126 4 Somerset West and Taunton Council Deane House Belvedere Road Taunton TA1 1HE
Part D5: Heritage document : To complete this section you will need to have read the following sections of the Local Development Order document :
• Section 2.2: Area Exclusions
17. Does your site fall within exception categories c,d or f Yes / No listed in section 2.2 of the LDO document?
18. Have you reviewed Historical Environmental Mapping for Yes / No / Not Applicable your site and included extracts of Historical Environmental Records for your site within your Design and Access submission?
Part E: Conditions All development permitted by this LDO is done so in strict accordance with the planning conditions laid out within the Local Development Order document. Some of these conditions require further evidence to be submitted in order to allow development to legally commence on site, or before any buildings can be legally occupied and put into use.
To complete this section you will need to have read the following sections of the Local Development Order document:
• Section 6: Conditions
1. Please confirm you have read the conditions in section 7 Yes / No and understand that any permission granted by this Local Development Order is only done so in strict compliance with those conditions.
Part F: Fees & Submission
Please submit your application electronically to [email protected]. All applications are charged at a fee of £500 (excluding VAT). You can make your fee payment by giving us a call on 01823 219147 or via BACs using the details below.
Sort Code: 60-80-06 Account Number: 70853673
BANK NAME - Somerset West and Taunton General Account
Remittance advices can be sent to : [email protected]
Part G: Confirmation
The information I have given in this form and accompanying plans is correct and complete to the best my knowledge and belief.
Signature Date Page 127 5 Somerset West and Taunton Council Deane House Belvedere Road Taunton TA1 1HE
Part H: Post Submission Information and Amendments
Upon receipt of this form, your Design and Access Statement and the correct payment your application documents will be duly considered within the prescribed 8 week determination period. Following this period, you will be issued a Certificate of Compliance if your application is determined to be compliant with the parameters of the LDO. Otherwise you will receive written advice on how to proceed.
If you wish to make minor amendments to your proposal, either during the determination period for your compliance application, or following a successful compliance application, please resubmit all of your documents including a re-completed copy of this form with a cover note explaining the extent of such alterations; including clear direction to where such changes are demonstrated within your submission. A fee will not be charged for amendments on such applications, however this may affect the length of the determination period.
sections of the Design Code Document:
• Section 1.1 Introduction - What Does This LDO Cover?
• Section 1.2: Can Your Development Be Considered?
Page 128 6 Agenda Item 9
Report Number: SWT 127/20
Somerset West and Taunton Council
Full Council – 29 September 2020
Emergency Town Centre Recovery and back-fill of Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund
This matter is the responsibility of Executive Councillor Kravis
Report Author: Gordon Dwyer, Economic Development Specialist
Statement of Climate Change Prior to taking forward actions, consideration will be given to the Council’s declaration of a Climate Emergency to ensure that the services delivered through this funding will not adversely affect Carbon Reduction targets, including consideration of travel, infrastructure, waste and preservation of the environment.
1. Executive Summary / Purpose of the Report
1.1. Following Covid-19 Lockdown, £535,000 has been made available for the purposes of Emergency Town Centre Recovery by repurposing the Council’s existing Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund earmarked reserve. This has been carried out to put in place short-term impactful interventions in our Town Centres to provide an urgent response to attracting footfall back in to the high street to support businesses located in these areas.
1.2. It is proposed to back-fill the repurposed budget by £500,000 from General Reserves, thereby ensuring that the Council is able to continue to deliver its adopted Economic Strategy and provide longer term support for economic recovery.
1.3. The purpose of this report is to seek Member support and approval for the measures proposed.
2. Recommendations
2.1. Full Council notes that £535,000 has been repurposed for Emergency Town Centre Recovery following Covid-19 Lockdown utilising the Council’s Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund held in earmarked reserves.
2.2. To approve a budget allocation of £500,000, funded from General Reserves, to back- fill the Economic Growth and Prosperity fund. Page 129 2.3. To delegate authority to approve expenditure of the budget allocation of £500,000 as referred to in 2.2 to the Director of Development and Place in consultation with the Economic Development Portfolio Holder.
2.4. In relation to 2.1, to agree that the Director of Development and Place and Economic Development Portfolio Holder consult with councillors from the Taunton Charter Trustees alongside the Taunton Chamber of Commerce as part of the Working Group for Taunton.
3. Risk Assessment (if appropriate)
3.1. The provision of Emergency Town Centre Recovery funds, (announced in a Press Release of 15 July 2020 as the Council’s commitment to recovery, investment, jobs and opportunity), has diverted the Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund earmarked reserve into emergency Town Centre recovery.
3.2. If additional funds are not now made available it will be difficult for the Council to deliver its adopted Local Economic Development Strategy and take advantage of economic recovery opportunities to further stimulate the local economy following Covid-19. The likely consequences would be the slow-down of recovery and greater increase in economic stagnation/business closure with resultant overall increase in unemployment within the District in the medium to long term.
3.3. To ensure risk is minimised and best value obtained, all funds will be administered either directly by the Council or indirectly through agreed service level agreements in line with Council procurement procedures.
4. Background and Full details of the Report
4.1. Since the announcement of ‘Lockdown’ in March 2020, Somerset West and Taunton Council has provided the administrative function for the business support made available by Central Government in the form of Business Rates Holidays, Small Business Grants, Retail and Hospitality Grants and has delivered a Discretionary Grant Scheme. The Council has also accessed the ERDF Reopening Town Centres Safely Fund to deliver interventions to facilitate the re-opening of key service centres in a Covid-19 safe manner.
4.2. During the Lockdown period, Covid-19 restrictions have had a severe impact on the way Town Centres, Service Centres and Town Centres across the District have been able to function. The discouragement of face-to-face services in order to curtail the spread of the virus has adversely affected businesses trading within these traditional service centres.
4.3. Whilst some businesses have been able to adapt how they interact with their customers, the negative impact on the majority of businesses based in these areas has been significant and is well documented in the national media. This is also reflected in local Town Centre footfall statistics which dropped dramatically during the Lockdown period.
4.4. As Covid-19 restrictions have eased, public habits and public confidence in visiting services in a traditional face-to-face means has not returned to its previous levels, nor is it expected to do so for some time (if at all). Page 130 4.5. Whilst there is an immediate need to support existing businesses in the Town Centre to sustain the economy, there is also a wider recognition that Town Centres and Neighbourhood Service Centres as a whole may also need a re-think of their services and their functional role within the local economy if they are to continue to attract the public to the services that they offer.
4.6. To provide immediate support required to stimulate local town and service centres the Council has made available £535,000 from the balance of the Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund currently held in earmarked reserves. This Fund is funded from increased business rates retained income received in 2019/20 through the 75% Business Rates Retention Pilot.
4.7. Focussing these resources for the purposes of Emergency Town Centre Recovery for immediate actions to stimulate Town Centre economies is in line with the intent of supporting the local economy. In principle allocations are to be made available to settlements in proportion with their size and function throughout the District as follows:
In Principle Allocations £ £200,000 x 1 for Taunton 200,000 £100,000 x 2 for Minehead and Wellington 200,000 £135,000 for Neighbourhood Service Centres of Watchet, 135,000 Dunster, Porlock, Dulverton and Wiveliscombe and Williton Total 535,000
4.8. Work to develop plans for emergency recovery is well underway and in July and August 2020 workshops were held with each community to identify need and commence development of local Town Centre Recovery Plans.
4.9. Town Centre Recovery Plans focus on immediate actions to stimulate High Street economies. Each differs depending on community priorities, however there is a general emphasis on actions which ensure that the town remains welcoming to visitors. For example ensuring that the public realm is well maintained and presented, that there is vibrancy through stimulating outdoor markets and entertainment and that the centre and its activities and attractions are well marketed.
4.10. Funds from the Emergency Town Centre Recovery Fund will be devolved through service level agreements, to an appropriate financially accountable authority/body within each community. During 2020/21 officers will be working closely with all grant recipients to ensure outputs are set and grants are offering value for money.
4.11. The purpose of the recommended £500,000 is to back-fill the Council’s Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund. Covid-19 has had a devastating effect on the local economy. This budget will support the delivery of medium and long term proposals to stimulate the economy through delivery of the adopted Economic Development Strategy and refreshed activity appropriate for a time of Covid recovery.
4.12. The budget needs to remain flexible in order to take advantage of partnership opportunities as they develop. However the types of activity that the fund could potentially enable include: Development of retail/leisure/housingPage 131 zoning plans for town centres and development of place plans to identify the unique narrative for each town Activity to strengthen local business networks, clusters and town centre partnerships Business skills support for the adoption of new digital technologies (such as Shop Appy) Activity supporting Inward Investment within the District There is also cross over with other strategic ambitions of the Council such as Garden Town, Climate Change, Coastal Productivity Plans, Heritage and Cultural plans and potential to support economic aspects of these from this proposed budget.
Administration of Funds
4.13. The Emergency Town Centre Recovery Fund of £535,000 will be devolved through a grant agreement to an appropriate financially accountable business group or local authority within each community as follows:
Taunton - Devolved to Taunton Chamber of Commerce Minehead and Wellington - Devolved to Minehead BID and Wellington Town Council respectively. Watchet, Dunster, Porlock, Dulverton, Wiveliscombe and Williton - To be discussed with local Town and Parish Councils and local business representative organisations.
4.14 As will be specified in the grant agreements, each grant recipient will set up a sub- group to oversee project delivery. Membership of this group will be representative of the local business community and from at least one Somerset West and Taunton Councillor. For Taunton, as per recommendation 2.4, this will be two representatives from the Charter Trustees.
4.15. It is proposed that the £500,000 to back-fill the Council’s Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund will be administered directly by the Economic Development Team in line with Council procurement procedures.
5. Links to Corporate Strategy
5.1. The proposals link to the priority strategic themes and outcomes as follows:
Strategic Theme: Our Environment and Economy
The proposals clearly link to: Objective 6. Support the town centres throughout the District to meet the challenge of changing shopping habits.
The action plans that are under development also incorporate aspects of the use of arts and culture, improving the skills of the local workforce, enhancing public spaces and therefore also help support the following objectives of this strategic theme:
Objective 3. Encourage wealth creation and economic growth throughout the District by attracting inward investment, enabling research and innovation, improving the skills of the local workforce and seeking to ensure the provision of adequate and affordable employment land to meet different business needs. Page 132 Objective 5. Provide and maintain green open spaces and parks, enhanced public spaces, as well as additional opportunities to safely walk or cycle in order to encourage active and healthy lifestyles.
Objective 8. Support the enhancement of arts and culture provision within the District.
6. Finance / Resource Implications
6.1. This reports sets out two significant levels of investment focussed on supporting recovery in the local economy. Part of the funding for this already exists within an earmarked reserve set aside for economic initiatives, and part will require Full Council to approve a supplementary increase to the General Fund Revenue Budget, funded from General Reserves.
6.2. The Council approved the allocation of £1.2m to an Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund within the 2019/20 Revenue Budget, based on the projected additional retained income through the 75% Business Rates Retention Pilot. A prudent approach to allocating these funds was taken as the actual income projected was not confirmed until the end of last financial year. Commitments were made from this fund towards the Coal Orchard and Firepool schemes, leaving a balance of £577k available to support economic initiatives this year. It is proposed the majority of this funding is prioritised to support the activities planned in the Emergency Town Centre Recovery Fund, through existing delegated budget authority of the Director of Development and Place.
6.3. The proposed Economic Recovery Fund is a new one-off budget requirement this year. It therefore needs to be approved by Full Council as a supplementary budget allocation, and is proposed to be funded by an allocation from General Reserves. The expected balance of General Reserves at the start of the financial year is £4.5m (see separate report to the Executive regarding the 2019/20 financial outturn).
Summary of Budgets: £ Funded By Approval 535,000 Emergency Town Centre Earmarked Approved in 2020/21 Original Recovery Fund Reserve Budget, with balance held in earmarked reserve until fully spent. 500,000 Back-fill of Economic General Full Council approval needed Growth and Prosperity Reserve for Supplementary Budget. Fund 1,035,000 TOTAL
6.4. It is assumed the cost of administration will be absorbed within existing resources, and similarly for devolved funds it is assumed administration will be managed within the existing resources of the devolved body.
7. Legal Implications (if any)
7.1. In the case of the Emergency Town Centre Recovery Fund, funds will be devolved to the relevant organisation for which each recipient will enter into a legally binding agreement with the Council. Page 133 7.2. The Council is obliged to give 3 months’ notice in writing to terminate any funding agreement or to notify of a change to levels of funding provided.
7.3. In the case of the Economic Recovery Fund, this fund will not be devolved and so there are no specific legal implications. The fund will be managed by SWT.
8. Climate and Sustainability Implications (if any)
8.1. In the case of the Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund, prior to taking forward actions, consideration will be given to the Council’s declaration of a Climate Emergency to ensure that the services delivered through this funding will not adversely affect Carbon Reduction targets, including consideration of travel, infrastructure, waste and preservation of the environment.
8.2. In the case of the Emergency Town Centre Recovery devolved funds, the same will apply and consideration of the above will be written into the grant funding agreements.
9. Safeguarding and/or Community Safety Implications (if any)
9.1. In the case of the Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund, officers will ensure that any companies commissioned to provide services have in place appropriate Health and Safety Policies.
9.2. In the case of the Emergency Town Centre Recovery devolved funds, the same will apply and consideration of the above will be written into the grant funding agreement.
10. Equality and Diversity Implications (if any)
10.1. In the case of the Economic Growth and Prosperity Fund, officers will assess impacts and methods of delivery any services provided to ensure that they eliminate discrimination, advance equality of opportunity for disadvantaged groups and individuals and support cohesive communities.
10.2. In the case of the Emergency Town Centre Recovery devolved funds, the same will apply and consideration of the above will be written into the grant funding agreement.
11. Social Value Implications (if any)
11.1. By the nature of the proposals any actions delivered, or services commissioned are intended to create positive implications for the community, for example in terms of up-skilling of the local workforce through business support workshops, or through creating more vibrant communities, indirectly safeguarding jobs.
12. Partnership Implications (if any)
12.1. The proposals involve working in partnership with nine communities across the District to deliver emergency and recovery plans. Working in this way will ensure the benefit of the funding is maximised for the community. It also ensures that any services / infrastructure improvements delivered link closely and/or align with the Council’s services and ambitions for the District.
Page 134 12.2. Partners who are utilising Council funds to forward these projects will be obliged through Service Level Agreements to acknowledge support of Somerset West and Taunton Council and agree communications messages with SWT prior to any event taking place.
13. Health and Wellbeing Implications (if any)
13.1. The proposals aim to ensure that service centres across the District remain thriving and more resilient. Indirectly therefore, the proposals support safeguarding jobs, developing skills and safeguarding and improving places for people to engage other people in their community.
14. Asset Management Implications (if any)
14.1. No asset management implications have been identified within proposal developed to date. There may be asset management considerations for activity such as outdoor events (if on Council land). Should these arise, these protection and best use of our assets will be a consideration during any further development of the proposals.
15. Data Protection Implications (if any)
15.1. Many of the services the Council currently funds hold and maintain sensitive information regarding customers and clients. Recipients of grant funding will be obliged to following regulations and guidance in relation to GDPR.
16. Consultation Implications (if any)
16.1. The majority of delivery will support the delivery of actions identified within the adopted Economic Development Strategy which was developed through extensive consultation.
16.2. Proposals for the shorter-term emergency actions are being worked up through consultation with the business and residents of each community concerned. To date this has included surveys and online workshops throughout in July and August 2020.
16.3. Further consultation will be carried out with key organisations, groups and individuals within the community to help shape and refine the priorities further.
17. Scrutiny/Executive Comments / Recommendation(s) (if any)
17.1 Scrutiny Committee considered an earlier version of this report on 2nd September 2020 and supported the recommendations 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 as written in the report, but also asked that Executive consider the following recommendation:
That the Director of Development and Place and Economic Development Portfolio Holder, in consultation with Taunton Councillors, consider including Visit Taunton in addition to the Taunton Chamber of Commerce as the grant distributing bodies for Taunton.
17.2 The Executive considered the report on 16th September 2020 and were supportive of the recommendations 2.1, 2.2 and 2.3 asPage written 135 in the report. Executive also considered the recommendation of Scrutiny Committee and after further debate agreed the following wording for the recommendation which is included in this report as 2.4:
That Director of Development and Place and Economic Development Portfolio Holder consult with councillors from the Taunton Charter Trustees alongside the Taunton Chamber of Commerce as part of the Working Group for Taunton.
Democratic Path:
Scrutiny – Yes.
Executive – Yes
Full Council – Yes
Reporting Frequency: Once only
Contact Officers
Name Gordon Dwyer Name Lisa Redston Direct Dial 07881218674 Direct Dial 07881218666 Email g.dwyer@somersetwestand Email l.redston@somersetwestandtaunton taunton.gov.uk .gov.uk
Page 136 Agenda Item 10
Full Council – 29 September 2020
Motion to support the Local Electricity Bill
Motion proposed by Councillor Peter Pilkington, seconded by Councillor Sarah Wakefield
Preamble:-
That Somerset West & Taunton District Council notes that and;
(i) Acknowledges the efforts that this council has made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy.
(ii) Further recognises; That very large financial setup and running costs involved in selling locally generated renewable electricity to local customers result in it being impossible for local renewable electricity generators to do so, That making these financial costs proportionate to the scale of a renewable electricity supplier’s operation would enable and empower new local businesses, or councils, to be providers of locally generated renewable electricity directly to local customers, and That revenues received by new local renewable electricity providers could be used to help improve the local economy, local services and facilities and to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions;
Recommendations:-
This Council therefore resolves to:-
1. Support the Local Electricity Bill, supported by 187 MPs which, if made law, would establish a Right to Local Supply which would promote local renewable electricity supply companies and co-operatives by making the setup and running costs of selling renewable electricity to local customers proportionate to the size of the supply operation; and 2. Inform the local media of this decision; and 3. Write to local MPs, asking them to support the Bill, and; 4. Write to the organisers of the campaign for the Bill, Power for People, (at 8 Delancey Passage, Camden, London NW1 [email protected]) expressing its support.
Page 137
Somerset West and Taunton Council
Motions to Council – Assessment Form
On receipt of a Motion from a Councillor, the Governance Team will carry out an assessment as to its contents to establish whether there are likely to be significant consequences to the Council should the Motion be carried at the subsequent Full Council meeting.
The first question to be addressed will be:-
“Can the Motion, if approved, be implemented without the need for any resource (financial and otherwise) to be identified outside existing budgets or staffing capacity?”
If the answer is ‘yes’, then the Motion can proceed towards discussion and resolution.
An example of a Motion which would fall into the above category would be where the Council is being asked to lobby the Government, Somerset County Council or other body on a particular issue. If the motion is carried, the action required will usually involve no more than a letter being prepared and sent to the intended recipient.
However, as in the case of the recent Motion on ‘Climate Change’, the answer to the above question would clearly be ‘no’.
In such circumstances, detailed analysis of the wording of the Motion will be required to identify what will be needed if the Motion – when it comes before Full Council – is carried.
Such analysis will include:-
What additional resource would be required to ensure the Motion (if approved) could be implemented? What needs to be done to identify the level of resource necessary both in financial and staff terms? Are any approvals needed to provide these resources? Will this require reports to be submitted through Scrutiny and the Executive? If a Supplementary Estimate is required, Full Council approval will be required too.
If such analysis is required, the Governance Team will arrange for the attached pro- forma to be completed and this will accompany the relevant Motion onto the agenda of the Full Council meeting so all Members are aware that further investigation will be required before the Motion – even if it is carried – can be implemented.
Page 139 Motions to Council – Assessment Proforma
(To be used in circumstances where it appears the wording of a proposed Motion will commit the Council to providing further financial or staffing resources which cannot be met from existing budgets)
Brief Details of the Motion – The motion is for the Council to support the Local Electricity Bill, lobby our local MPs on the issue, publicise our support and let the organisers of the campaign know about our support.
The Bill will make it possible for local community energy companies to supply local people with locally generated electricity and will make the costs of setting up and running this model more proportionate. Community energy is an important initiative that can bring forward more much-needed clean energy, retain economic benefits locally, and engage more people in where their energy comes from. It has the potential to be a key part of delivering on the UK’s legally binding net zero target by bringing forward locally supported renewable projects. However, it is currently unable to compete on a level playing field with utility companies, as to do so costs millions of pounds. Considering the volume of energy that community energy companies generate and would be able to sell to local customers in comparison to established utility companies, these costs are highly disproportionate. The Local Electricity Bill proposes to obligate OFGEM to make it easier for local electricity generators to sell their electricity to local customers and to make the costs of doing so more proportionate.
The emerging SWT Carbon Neutrality and Climate Resilience Action Plan states the importance of community energy and includes potential actions to “Build awareness and capacity for community energy projects and play a more direct and proactive role in enabling”; and “Lobby Government to remove artificial barriers…to delivery of renewable energy including onshore wind in the district”. The recommendations of this motion would align with these actions.
Motion
Full Council – 29 September 2020
Motion to support the Local Electricity Bill
Motion proposed by Councillor Peter Pilkington, seconded by Councillor Sarah Wakefield
Preamble:-
That Somerset West & Taunton District Council notes that and;
(i) Acknowledges the efforts that this council has made to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy.
Page 140 (ii) Further recognises; That very large financial setup and running costs involved in selling locally generated renewable electricity to local customers result in it being impossible for local renewable electricity generators to do so, That making these financial costs proportionate to the scale of a renewable electricity supplier’s operation would enable and empower new local businesses, or councils, to be providers of locally generated renewable electricity directly to local customers, and That revenues received by new local renewable electricity providers could be used to help improve the local economy, local services and facilities and to reduce local greenhouse gas emissions;
Recommendations:-
This Council therefore resolves to:-
1. Support the Local Electricity Bill, supported by 187 MPs which, if made law, would establish a Right to Local Supply which would promote local renewable electricity supply companies and co-operatives by making the setup and running costs of selling renewable electricity to local customers proportionate to the size of the supply operation; and 2. Inform the local media of this decision; and 3. Write to local MPs, asking them to support the Bill, and; 4. Write to the organisers of the campaign for the Bill, Power for People, (at 8 Delancey Passage, Camden, London NW1 [email protected]) expressing its support.
Questions to be addressed
What additional resource would be required to ensure the Motion (if approved) could be implemented?
Answer – No additional staffing or financial resource would be required. The ability to write letters to our local MPs and the campaign organisers and prepare a press release on the matter can be met from existing staffing resources. There are no financial resource implications of the motion.
What needs to be done to identify the level of resource necessary both in financial and staff terms?
Answer – No further work is required to understand what is necessary.
Page 141 Are any approvals needed to provide these resources? Answer – Only approvals required are from task/line managers for relevant officers to prepare the letters and press releases.
Will this require reports to be submitted through Scrutiny and the Executive? If a Supplementary Estimate is required, Full Council approval will be required too. Answer – No
Likely timescale involved – Half a day, maximum
Page 142 Agenda Item 11
Somerset West and Taunton Shadow Council
Ecological Emergency Motion
Proposed by Councillor Dave Mansell and seconded by Councillor Dixie Darch
Council notes:
1) Our societies and economies are intimately linked with and depend on biodiversity and nature. The natural world is essential for the provision of nutritious food (with soil and pollinators having a vital role), clean water, fresh air, medicines, and protection from extreme weather, as well as being our source of energy and raw materials.
2) The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the relationship between people and nature. When we destroy and degrade habitats, we increase the risk of disease spillover from wildlife to people.
3) A recent assessment by the Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) found that species extinction rates are tens to hundreds of times higher than historical averages. Around one million animal and plant species are threatened with extinction, many within decades - more than ever before in human history.
4) Due to overuse of natural resources, WWF’s 2020 global Living Planet Index shows an average 68% fall in monitored populations of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles and fish between 1970 and 2016.
5) The State of Nature 2019 report highlighted the critical decline in biodiversity in the UK. Farming has had the biggest effect in recent decades and the impact of climate change is now increasing. 15% of UK species are classified as threatened with extinction and 2% are already extinct.
6) The Environment Bill will require the introduction of a Local Nature Recovery Strategy and Nature Recovery Networks.
7) Councils already declaring an ecological or biodiversity emergency include Bath & North East Somerset, Brighton and Hove, Bristol, Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole, Cotswold, Forest of Dean, Herefordshire, Mendip, South Somerset and Sutton.
Council resolves to:
1) Declare an ecological emergency.
Page 143 2) Address ecological issues alongside climate emergency actions and ensure that opportunities to gain co-benefits from addressing both the climate and the ecological emergencies are maximised.
3) Add ecological implications alongside those for climate and sustainability in committee and council reports.
4) Where possible, embed climate action and ecological initiatives within all council work areas, including COVID-19 recovery projects and programmes.
5) Promote woodland planting and rewilding in the right places and with the right species, peatland restoration, natural flood management, wild flower meadows, and habitat creation and restoration. As well as being important for biodiversity, these actions can often have an important co-benefit of storing carbon, so helping to address climate change.
6) Reduce energy and material consumption by promoting waste reduction, reuse and recycling, product durability, energy efficiency and renewable energy generation. Avoid consumption that threatens further destruction of globally important wildlife habitats and the use of single-use plastics without effective and on-going recycling in place.
7) Work with local, county, regional and national partners to increase wildlife habitats, green infrastructure and natural capital in Somerset West and Taunton.
8) Ensure that addressing the climate and ecological emergencies and nature recovery are strategic priorities for planning policies and design guides for new development, including by identifying appropriate areas for habitat restoration and biodiversity gain.
9) Manage Council services, buildings and land in a biodiversity-friendly manner, including by reviewing use of harmful chemicals, such as pesticides, and taking opportunities to create new wildlife habitats.
10) Provide advice for local communities on how to incorporate biodiversity, green infrastructure and natural capital into Neighbourhood Plans and other initiatives.
11) Encourage residents to take biodiversity measures in their own homes by, for example, wildlife gardening and home composting.
12) Ask the Chief Executive to propose a sum, within the budget setting process for 2021/22, to allow the production of an ecological emergency action plan and annual progress report. Undertake consultation with stakeholders on policies and projects for the plan. Report annually to Council Committees and Full Council on progress, continuing work and future projects to address both the climate and ecological emergencies.
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References
State of Nature 2019 nbn.org.uk/stateofnature2019 nbn.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/State-of-Nature-2019-UK-full- report.pdf
IPBES, May 2019 - Global Assessment Report on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services ipbes.net/global-assessment www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/blog/2019/05/nature-decline- unprecedented-report
WWF, 2020 - Living Planet Report 2020 livingplanet.panda.org/en-gb
Christine Johnson, 8 April 2020 - Why do viruses jump from animals to humans? Clues to the COVID-19 pandemic blogs.royalsociety.org/publishing/why-do-viruses-jump-from-animals-to- humans-covid
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Somerset West and Taunton Council
Motions to Council – Assessment Form
On receipt of a Motion from a Councillor, the Governance Team will carry out an assessment as to its contents to establish whether there are likely to be significant consequences to the Council should the Motion be carried at the subsequent Full Council meeting.
The first question to be addressed will be:-
“Can the Motion, if approved, be implemented without the need for any resource (financial and otherwise) to be identified outside existing budgets or staffing capacity?”
If the answer is ‘yes’, then the Motion can proceed towards discussion and resolution.
An example of a Motion which would fall into the above category would be where the Council is being asked to lobby the Government, Somerset County Council or other body on a particular issue. If the motion is carried, the action required will usually involve no more than a letter being prepared and sent to the intended recipient.
However, as in the case of the recent Motion on ‘Climate Change’, the answer to the above question would clearly be ‘no’.
In such circumstances, detailed analysis of the wording of the Motion will be required to identify what will be needed if the Motion – when it comes before Full Council – is carried.
Such analysis will include:-
What additional resource would be required to ensure the Motion (if approved) could be implemented? What needs to be done to identify the level of resource necessary both in financial and staff terms? Are any approvals needed to provide these resources? Will this require reports to be submitted through Scrutiny and the Executive? If a Supplementary Estimate is required, Full Council approval will be required too.
If such analysis is required, the Governance Team will arrange for the attached pro- forma to be completed and this will accompany the relevant Motion onto the agenda of the Full Council meeting so all Members are aware that further investigation will be required before the Motion – even if it is carried – can be implemented.
Page 147 Motions to Council – Assessment Proforma
(To be used in circumstances where it appears the wording of a proposed Motion will commit the Council to providing further financial or staffing resources which cannot be met from existing budgets)
Brief Details of the Motion -
Motion – Cllr D Mansell
1) Declare an ecological emergency.
2) Address ecological issues alongside climate emergency actions and ensure that opportunities to gain co-benefits from addressing both the climate and the ecological emergencies are maximised.
3) Add ecological implications alongside those for climate and sustainability in committee and council reports.
4) Where possible, embed climate action and ecological initiatives within all council work areas, including COVID-19 recovery projects and programmes.
5) Promote woodland planting and rewilding in the right places and with the right species, peatland restoration, natural flood management, wild flower meadows, and habitat creation and restoration. As well as being important for biodiversity, these actions can often have an important co-benefit of storing carbon, so helping to address climate change.
6) Reduce energy and material consumption by promoting waste reduction, reuse and recycling, product durability, energy efficiency and renewable energy generation. Avoid consumption that threatens further destruction of globally important wildlife habitats and the use of single-use plastics without effective and on- going recycling in place.
7) Work with local, county, regional and national partners to increase wildlife habitats, green infrastructure and natural capital in Somerset West and Taunton.
8) Ensure that addressing the climate and ecological emergencies and nature recovery are strategic priorities for planning policies and design guides for new development, including by identifying appropriate areas for habitat restoration and biodiversity gain.
9) Manage Council services, buildings and land in a biodiversity-friendly manner, including by reviewing use of harmful chemicals, such as pesticides, and taking opportunities to create new wildlife habitats.
10) Provide advice for local communities on how to incorporate biodiversity, green infrastructure and natural capital into Neighbourhood Plans and other initiatives.
Page 148 11) Encourage residents to take biodiversity measures in their own homes by, for example, wildlife gardening and home composting.
12) Ask the Chief Executive to propose a sum, within the budget setting process for 2021/22, to allow the production of an ecological emergency action plan and annual progress report. Undertake consultation with stakeholders on policies and projects for the plan. Report annually to Council Committees and Full Council on progress, continuing work and future projects to address both the climate and ecological emergencies.
Questions to be addressed
What additional resource would be required to ensure the Motion (if approved) could be implemented?
Answer – To support debate of the Motion an assessment of the impact of the motion is recommended. The additional resource required to undertake this work prior to debate is estimated to be 1 x Strategy Officer for a period of 4 months with a revenue budget of £25,000 to commission work outside the professional competencies of the officers. An approximate sum of £50,000
What needs to be done to identify the level of resource necessary both in financial and staff terms?
Answer – The officers with the competencies to undertake this work are currently fully committed. Those officers would need to pause their current activity to be reassigned or additional staff brought in to undertake this specific piece of work – that work would include a resource assessment for implementing the Motion if passed.
If the assumption is made that there are some synergies with the CNCR Plan, but acknowledge ecological outcomes were out with that plan, should the Motion pass the resourcing bill could mirror the Climate Change resource bill i.e. 1 x Programme Manager, 1 x Project Manager and a revenue budget of circa £75k – 150k to commission specialist reports. A new revenue cost of £250k - £350k not including the revenue impact on supply change costs, service change or lost income.
Are any approvals needed to provide these resources? Answer – Neither the sum to commission impact studies nor the estimated cost of supporting the motion if passed are within the existing council budget. Will this require reports to be submitted through Scrutiny and the Executive? If a Supplementary Estimate is required, Full Council approval will be required too. Answer – Absent an assessment of the impact of the Motion the likely costs, both direct and indirect, are unknown.
Page 149 Likely timescale involved –
The officers capable of undertaking a review to understand the implications of this motion are currently committed to existing activity aligned with the Council’s response to Covid and delivering against the Corporate Plan. It will not be possible to provide an assessment of the implications of the Motion prior to Full Council on 29th September 2020.
To understand the impact of the Motion impact an assessment should include:
1. An Impact assessment on contractors (including supply chain and through life assessments) 2. An Impact assessment on existing Council contracts e.g. Street Cleansing (Weed treatments), Leisure (Chemical usage and discharge consents) and Somerset Waste Partnership 3. An Impact assessment on existing Council services and operations 4. A legal assessment on planning implications.
Page 150 Agenda Item 12
Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020
Report of Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts – Leader of the Council
The last few months have been some of the busiest that I have had in my time as Leader. I was reflecting that having been appointed the Leader by my group only 17 months ago, I have been dealing with one challenge or another with my Executive throughout that time.
The current triple of challenges of maintaining momentum on our collective aspirations as promoted within our corporate plan which you can see through my executive members reports, working to meet the threat that COVID presents to our people, communities and economy and now developing the Stronger Somerset bid and getting our to talk to communities and partners makes for an incredibly difficult but important period in our civic lives.
In line with these challenges I have been taking time to partners including Town and Parish Councils including a visit to Wiveliscombe. This will continue for the coming months with regards not only to the Stronger Somerset Proposal but also our corporate plan and COVID. I am also talking to Partner organisations such as the Board at Musgrove. I am also connected into National Networks such as the DCN (District Council Network) and have been on numerous seminars with MHCLG.
Alongside this I have had positive meetings with Arts Taunton regarding their ambitions and discussed Canonsgrove at the Somerset’s Citizens Assembly which was attended by a vast area of organisations interested in social justice.
Some of the challenges we were facing prior to lockdown that have gone onto the back burner are starting to need to be dealt with and I am pleased that the Stronger Somerset bid has continued to commit to a Town Council for Taunton.
I am proud of the work that we have continued to do jointly as a Council led by the Executive and supported by our officers and you as members. We have many challenges but also opportunities ahead in the coming weeks but as the last year has shown, this council is ready to face them.
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Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020
Report of Councillor Benet Allen – Deputy Leader and Communications & Culture
The Communications and Engagement team continues to support and promote the work of the Council with key messages about our services and initiatives.
The team is working closely with colleagues across the Council on the release of information through our own channels, and in printed and broadcast media, as we take steps towards recovery from the ongoing Covid-19 crisis.
It is also fully engaged with work on the Stronger Somerset proposals for two new unitary Councils and a combined authority, which have now been backed by all of the four Somerset district councils.
The communications lead is working closely with neighbouring district councils and the county council on joint messaging around actions implemented by the multi-partnership groups that have been operating throughout the Covid-19 pandemic.
All press releases are available to read on the SWT website and are flagged on our social media platforms where our social media specialist has been key in supporting campaigns and news with imaginative content.
The VJ Day 75 commemorations with veterans and dignitaries hosted by 40 Commando in the Memorial Garden at Norton Manor Camp was a notable success with many people watching video footage of the service on our social media feeds. Emergency Services Day was also marked on 9 September and The Civic Officer is now making plans for Remembrance 2020.
The events team has ensured that organisers have been able to hold successful events within Covid-19 guidelines including the funfair in French Weir Park, a pop up theatre performance in Castle Green, and the Taunton Independent Market which started up again on Sunday 13 September. A variety of fitness classes, yoga classes and football lessons are still operating successfully across our parks and open spaces.
Culture
A new SWT Cultural strategy is now near completion and has been shared in draft form with the Council’s Cultural Forum for any final revisions before being submitted for Full Council approval later this year. This high-level strategy will provide a framework upon which a delivery plan will subsequently be agreed and implemented.
Page 153 SWT continues to support key cultural organisations through the Cultural budget, and is ensuring that the Cultural and Creative sector is reflected in the District (and County-wide) Covid Recovery and Growth plan.
Page 154 Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020
Report of Councillor Chris Booth - Community
Things are slowly returning to some sense of normality and I was delighted to be able to go on my first post-Lockdown portfolio-trip to Minehead, firstly to meet with the YMCA Dulverton Group-run Beach Hotel to see how they support rough sleepers in the West Somerset community, as well as the Minehead Eye and the fantastic work they do not just in supporting young people but many people from new mothers to an OAP choir!
Before Covid, I did always try to nominate a group, organisation or person who had made an outstanding contribution to the community. I still feel now that this would be remiss of me when so many people are doing so much to help the district recover from the impacts of Covid.
I would also like to thank our staff for producing the Voluntary and Community Sector Newsletter which I know members and the wider readership appreciate.
Community Chest
As I write this, the Community Chest is still on the democratic path but having gone through Scrutiny I am very much hopeful that the Council will pass the unique opportunity to support our local community groups, organisations, and charities, many of whom require urgent financial support due to the impacts of Covid in order to continue the fantastic work they do, with access to a total grant pot of £250,000.
The key criteria include a maximum of £7,500 per applicant to bid for which should make up a maximum of 75% of their needed amount. We are also ideally looking for organisations that have an income of £10,000 or less but we will be flexible where possible.
We hope that the process will go live via our website from the beginning of October. If members come across anybody interested without internet access, please contact myself or Scott Weetch.
A further note to members is that our partners at Somerset Community Foundation are also offering applications of up to £10,000 - more can be found on their website.
Safer Somerset Partnership
I recently attended a quarterly meeting of the Safer Somerset Partnership, a meeting of all relevant stakeholders to discuss matters ranging from health to crime.
Page 155 I am happy to share more details about what was debated but two subjects for me were the most prominent:
Family Safeguarding Model
This is an upcoming reform by Children’s Services at Somerset County Council. This model is about creating a more holistic approach to helping children such as employing adult social workers and to train staff further on understanding child mental health concerns. One of the aspects that initially concerned me was the desire to have less children in the system (though I welcome this in principle as currently there are 550 children in the system in Somerset and another 300 subject to a child protection plan) as part of a model which is to bring about savings mostly as a result of this. I did raise this as an issue as it must be made very clear when this model comes forward next year that the wellbeing of vulnerable children must always come before savings and children won’t be put at risk. I hope to have more information on this as currently there is no set target for how many children are to be cut out of the system.
Domestic Abuse
The Somerset Integrated Domestic Abuse Service (SIDAs) has been operated by You Trust since April, having previously been operated by LiveWest. You Trust is a charity who specialise in areas from domestic abuse to homelessness. There seems to be progress now being made here as a worker has been recruited to tackle those who may be suffering who have disabilities as well as those in rural communities who may not be normally picked up. There is also training being offered to local community leaders to recognise the signs and there will be a campaign called the Dragonfly Project to help encourage local businesses to also spot the signs as well as offering safe spaces where stickers will be placed on their shop/business windows to indicate to victims that this is a place to seek help and shelter.
Members will be relieved to know that cases actually haven’t been that much different to last year despite what we all probably suspected but at the same time, the severity of the cases has been worse and there has also been an increase in the older members of the population reporting domestic abuse, including an 86 year old! There is also a huge concern of the backlog of court cases with many not getting a hearing until next year which leaves many victims in limbo until then.
West Somerset
West Coast 360
West Coast 360 is a website for the hospitality/catering and leisure industry - a platform to inspire, enthuse and engage individuals into this sector. Our West Somerset team help administer this website and are currently revamping the
Page 156 website to better suit the audience and be more user friendly with improved content.
Community Hubs
The community employment hubs are part of the Somerset growth and recovery plan. The hubs will be a place to go in a relaxed non-judgmental environment for individuals to gain bespoke support towards work, life and wellbeing. They will encompass Citizens advice, national careers and positive people for added value and a more rounded provision. Hub update:
Williton: The children’s centre is run by SCC the centre we are in negotiations to reopen the Williton hub late Oct; SCC will inform when it is possible to access the premises
Watchet: The Sanctuary remains closed for all activity due to the small space and difficulties in social distancing. This will be reviewed late September in the hope of opening in late October
Stogursey: The Greyhound pub closed down prior lockdown therefore St Audries rooms located in a managed residential home was to be the new location but alas Covid19 prevented the move. Due to the nature of the venue we are unable to open in St Audries rooms but the hub lead is currently looking into another potential venue in Stogursey In the hope of opening late October.
Minehead: The hub lead and team of volunteers are looking into the measures and systems to be put into place to re-open late October. Dulverton: The hub is usually held in the Library again social distancing is difficult due to the size of the venue. We are looking into an alternative location to enable the hub to re-open late October New hubs: There will be 5 in the most deprived areas of Taunton- Priorswood, Albemarle, High street presence (TBC), Wellington in the W.H.E.R.E centre & Minehead the youth hub at Minehead Eye. We will also be linking ‘Young Somerset’ youth project to all existing and new hubs to encourage support of 16-24. We are awaiting confirmation of a bid to DWP to support the cost implications of supporting this initiative as part of our recovery plan.
One Teams
North Taunton Priorswood Coronavirus Community Help Group volunteers will continue to support the community as the renamed ‘Priorswood Good Neighbours’ now part of the Community Centre.
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North Taunton provided some activities for children and families over the Summer (pictured below) with Taunton North Youth Club running socially distanced outdoor football and rollerblading, Youth Unlimited had youth workers out and about in local parks to chat to young people twice a week.
Priorswood Library and the One Team held weekly Story Time in Lyngford Park with free picnics (provided by Fair Share and distributed by Brook Green Nursery) during August. Neroche Woodlanders joined the final story time and provided free Activity Packs linked to that week’s story ‘Stickman’. A great example of everyone working together!
Priorswood Community Centre has had a very positive response to its Just Giving Page, donations and offers of help which has enabled work to get underway to repair the damage from a recent arson attack and is busy making necessary arrangements to enable it to open safely very soon. Much loved and missed by many in the community.
A Community Litter pick will take place supporting the Keep Britain Tidy The Big September Clean campaign.
North Taunton also got positive coverage on the BBC 3 programme Gotten Gains which is currently on BBC Iplayer.
Halcon
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Halcon One Team – Continues to meet weekly via Microsoft teams. There has been a noticeable increase in requests for support from statutory agencies for families in need. ASB, neighbour disputes have placed significant strain on resources.
Halcon Link Centre – Foodbank and essential supplies (prescriptions, utilities) continue to be provided to hundreds of homes across not only East Taunton wards but across the town. We have supported trustees to run the project and allow much needed holiday breaks for the manager and volunteers.
Green relief - A collaboration with the National Citizen Service, Exmoor National Park and the Link Centre Halcon. 8 young People volunteered to refurbish some planters in Valley Road Halcon and replant trees and shrubs that we sourced from Exmoor National Park, with the help of Exmoor Ranger Dave Gurnett.
Women’s walking group – In collaboration with SASP and the Link Centre we have started a women’s walking group to help with isolation, health and wellbeing and domestic abuse. We have focused on local women who previously attended the chill and chat group. After a slow start, (mainly weather related), interest is increasing.
Wellington
Wellington continues to do well post-Covid with lots of enthusiasm to strengthen the resolve of the One Team going forward in partnership with the many stakeholders and volunteers that make Wellington a shining example. I will attend the monthly meeting just after I submit this report to see how things are going and happy to provide more information on community efforts.
Eat Festivals
A big thank you to staff and councillors that attended both Eat Festivals in Minehead and Wellington to give a variety of support and advice.
Beccy Brown and Coleen Blake both attended the East festival in Wellington and will be at the next Minehead one in October to promote the soon to be; reopening of the WS Community Employment hubs and the opening of the new hubs across Taunton Deane. This promotion is also in partnership with Skill Up Somerset re: impartial advice on apprenticeships, skills and training for individuals and businesses. Please see more at: https://www.skillupsomerset.org.uk/
Page 159
Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020
Report of Councillor Ross Henley – Corporate Resources
This report is split into the areas sitting under the Internal Operations directorate i.e. Customer, Finance and Corporate. The matters to update Members on, are as follows:
All areas under Internal Operations continue to provide ongoing support for the Coronavirus response, but is also starting to pick up the reins again on business as usual activities and objectives.
Customer
Business Grants The Revenues and Operational Support teams have continued to be heavily involved in the processing of business grants throughout the summer. The application window for both the Government and our local discretionary schemes has now closed and we are in the process of dealing with the final few cases. To date we have paid out £43.9m to 3,800 businesses.
Benefits We continue to process new applications and changes of circumstance for Housing Benefit and Council Tax Support. We have seen an increase in the Council Tax Support caseload from 11,000 to approx. 11,500, which is linked to the economic impact of the Coronavirus crisis.
We have recently recommenced work on delivering the process changes identified in the Benefits Lean Review exercise. This will include implementing a ‘there and then’ approach to processing new claims and changes, although we now want to trial this approach over the telephone as opposed to face-to-face. This reflects learning from the past 4 months where we have had to find new ways of dealing with customers.
We are also working with our software supplier to further automate the processing of change notifications from the DWP. These make up a significant proportion of the work and automating could release resourcing to focus on other essential benefits work.
Revenues The Revenues Team have been heavily involved in the administration of the Governments Small Business, Retail, Hospitality & Leisure and elements of our Local Discretionary Business Grant schemes.
The focussing of resourcing on the business grant schemes had resulted in the build-up of a backlog of council tax and business rates work. The team have now cleared this backlog and are processing changes, on average, within 15 working days. The processing of valuation lists is up to date.
Page 161 We have recommenced a limited property inspection service and are risk assessing visits before they are being made.
We are working closely with Sedgemoor on the development of in-house Revenues software.
Business Intelligence (BI) The BI team have continued to provide ongoing data support for Coronavirus response activities such as the business grants and work with vulnerable customers.
In addition ongoing progress is being made to get our basic governance processes (e.g. corporate performance monitoring and reporting, risk management, monitoring of audit actions) back on track. A regular corporate performance monitoring regime has now been introduced providing for monthly reviews by the Senior Management Team and quarterly reports to Members. This is underpinned by a new Performance Management Framework.
The team are also currently working closely with Property Services to clear a backlog of work relating to our Property Terrier.
Corporate Strategy The team has been heavily involved in supporting the administration of the various business grant schemes. This has included developing an addendum to the Business Rates Discretionary Rate Relief Policy, which was agreed by Members on 25 August 2020.
The team are now focussing on developing and progressing the Customer Access & Experience Programme. The initial phases of this involve data collection to inform the shape of future service delivery. This will include a customer satisfaction survey, the analysis of complaints and the use of mosaic data.
Customer Services & Deane Helpline The Deane Helpline has continued to provide the full service for customers. During this period we have dealt with 45,000 calls to the Deane Helpline, with an average abandonment rate of only 1% and 95% of calls being answered within 60 seconds. We have successfully introduced a new self-service option for installing equipment for new customers, which allows us to install equipment in a socially distanced way and is also more efficient.
We have reopened the Deane House Customer Hub on an appointments only basis. This has gone very smoothly. The Customer Champions have triaged all requests and in most cases have been able to resolve the customer’s issue over the phone. Where a face to face meeting is the only way to provide a solution an appointment has been made, this has been very rare.
The Taunton Visitor Centre also reopened, initially just for refunds for cancelled concerts and events but now also to the general public to support our reopened High Street. Safety and careful control of how we interact with our customers Page 162 has of course been a top priority so we have worked closely with Kate Lusty to achieve this.
We have recently recruited 3 new customer champions to fill vacancies within the team and are working with the People Managers to develop and deliver effective induction training.
Performance in August has been challenging primarily due to staff shortages (hence the recruitment) and ongoing problems with the Somerset Waste Partnership around collections and deliveries of new and replacement bins.
The Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline has been relatively quiet with only around 15-25 calls per day on weekdays and only 3-6 on Saturdays and Sundays. Calls to this service are routed to staff already on duty in our virtual call centre or during out of hours periods, to Deane Helpline. This therefore does not have a negative impact on our resources and can be continued until the Coronavirus situation has cleared.
Calls Abandoned Average Wait Time April 13,537 3% 32 seconds May 14,348 9% 1 minute 3 Seconds June 18,899 12% 1 minute 51 seconds July 17,999 12% 1 minute 50 seconds August* 13,666 13% 1 minute 59 seconds
*Up to 25/8/20
We have had to temporarily suspend the Customer Satisfaction Survey due to necessary changes needed to the IVR Call Queue to enable the Somerset Coronavirus Support Helpline to work correctly, we will put it back into operation as soon as practical.
We have suspended the Customer Outreach Project for the duration of the current Coronavirus Pandemic and instructions on Social Distancing, we will restart this shortly and incorporate the lessons we’ve learned throughout Lockdown to target rural locations through appointments rather than as drop in sessions.
Income The processing of daily Direct Debit income runs and outgoing payment processes has continued without significant problems despite the lockdown restrictions. To date there has not been any significant reduction in the numbers of customers paying by Direct Debit. These processes are vital for maintaining our essential income streams (rent, business rates, council tax etc.) and for paying suppliers.
We are continuing to actively encourage customers to move away from making payments by cheque, as processing cheques is more costly and requires us to bring staff into Deane House.
Page 163 We are also starting to recommence formal action to recover unpaid council tax, business rates and sundry debts. However, we are taking a gentle approach to switching back on the recovery processes and reviewing the impact as we go. The focus is very much on encouraging contact from customers who are experiencing financial difficulties so that we can provide help and support. To enable this we are limiting the numbers of notifications issued on any one day.
The team is also responsible for administering the ‘right to buy’ function for Housing and this has now successfully recommenced.
We are in the process of testing and implementing new BACS payment and Direct Debit software.
Operational Support The Operational Support has been heavily involved in the administration of our Local Discretionary Business Grants scheme.
During this time the team has also continued to process supplier invoices quickly to ensure that we are getting payments out to business promptly. We averaged 97% of invoices being paid within 30 days for the first 4 months of the financial year.
The team have also maintained the processing and scanning of incoming post throughout the lockdown period, which has necessitated bringing staff into Deane House.
Programme Management Office (PMO) Work has continued to implement robust, standardised and consistent mechanisms for the managing and monitoring of our key programmes and projects.
We are in the process of implementing a new reporting and monitoring framework to ensure regular progress monitoring at all levels within the organisation. This will, in due course, provide for quarterly reporting to Members and will link to the delivery of the Corporate Strategy objectives.
Corporate
People
Communications Providing guidance on employer expectation. This has evolved since lockdown easing and education settings being re-opened Information on support and wellbeing services Interpreting Government Guidance and communicating to staff Guidance for employees on travel abroad Working with colleagues in other Districts to ensure consistency
COVID 19 Response – ongoing Collation and on-going staff tracking Page 164 COVID 19 testing Dealing with vulnerability and health conditions Supporting dependent responsibilities Redeployment into essential services
Culture New Performance Management approach is under development Transition to ‘People Business Partners’ and Directorate working and new proposition is underway which has included coaching training for People Managers ‘People Culture’ documents and People Policies have been created. Commenced rollout with SMT and UNISON for feedback. A Neurodiversity project has been established which looks into greater inclusion in our recruitment and working practices Neonatal leave and pay incorporated into the Maternity Policy Pay Policy Statement completed and approved
Data Development HR data continues to progress – provision of Directorate dashboards including data on casework, sickness, leave, recruitment, starters and leavers, health & safety, well-being Reviewing staffing in terms of agency and contractors work continues Pay award communicated to employees and agencies and implementing changes with pay backdated to 1 April
Health & Wellbeing Working remotely survey has been completed with some positive results around staff preferences for homeworking. Results are being analysed with action planning underway Weekly Wellbeing bulletin and CareFirst bulletin have been sent out to staff as a reminder of support available Staff Facebook Page has been set up with message from the SWT Chaplain
HR Case Management/Employee Relations We have continued to see an increase in the number of cases with 50% of all cases in Housing & Communities. The HR and People Partner teams are working closely to manage all cases. A Member’s training session on the Appeals Process has been delivered.
Learning & Development Work has been progressing with the Management Catalogue which will be a mixture of coaching/development tools and practical management tools for managers and aspiring managers of people.
As part of the Digital Modernisation Programme, we are implementing a cloud- based application called “Learning Pathways”; this will enable us to upload and store our own training content which will include: Coaching and live training events Recorded training videos Page 165 Links to external web activities (TED talks, people and management focussed) Team building activities Coaching models Guides and policies (recruitment, absence and reviews etc.) Links to internal training material Departmental training videos and guides (e.g. finance, H+S, procurement) Performance management. Wellbeing guides for managers
A number of sessions on Change Resilience sessions have been delivered by Carol Carpenter with more specific sessions aimed at staff working at the depot.
Recruitment This has been a busy quarter with 50 roles being advertised and recruited for internally and externally. There is still some challenges in recruiting certain skillsets including:
Specialist Estates Surveyor, Mechanical & Electrical Specialist, Planning Specialist Business Change Manager, Case Manager Housing Executive
We still to continue to appoint and develop from our existing staff where possible.
Roles Advertised
June Internal External 30 13 9 July Internal External 14 5 3 August Internal External 6 1 0
The plan for entire remodelling of the recruitment process has continued with the new, leaned recruitment process published on the intranet and supporting documents.
Staff Support Guidance and support for Managers managing remotely Variety of support to individuals and teams regarding home working, managing work/life balance during lockdown, mental health and resilience support DSE guidance for homeworking Working with the county-wide Workforce Recovery Cell to share best practice and consistency of approach
ICT Services Page 166
Infrastructure Team The Infrastructure team have been working closely with external contractors to improve the resilience of the ICT estate, which has put SWT in a much better position with regards to Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity. The team are also currently working with the project to deliver the M365 suite of software, which will increase support for an agile workforce.
Service Desk Team Currently supporting the upgrade to Windows 10 Enterprise for all laptops in readiness for the move to the new SharePoint Online.
Applications Team Further application upgrades and patches have been completed (for Open Revenues, DRS and Insight), to keep the application estate up to date and in support. Ongoing pieces of work are underway to update some application servers to newer Windows versions, we are working to implement pieces of work for the Digital Modernisation programme as well as other project work throughout the authority.
Governance and Democracy
Continue to work on projects of: Member Training Council Governance Arrangements Community Governance review for Taunton Servicing the ordinary and special meetings scheduled
Live streaming and watching of Council committee meetings is still proving popular and is reaching more people that meetings held in the Chamber. The statistics for July to the date of this report, are as follows:
Page 167 Finance and Procurement
Priorities for the finance and procurement service has continued to be around ensuring delivery of core business and support various measures in response to COVID.
Significant additional work has been required to complete weekly and monthly reports to central Government on the estimated financial implications of Coronavirus, and on implementing grants and business rates holidays for eligible businesses across the district. Government has recently provided details of an income loss compensation scheme, which helps to offset some of the reduction in our sales, fees and charges income due to Coronavirus measures and economic downturn. The finance team is working with services to measure these losses and will submit 3 claims during the year – the first being due at the end of September.
The service is focussing on implementing improvements in some areas, notably in budget monitoring where we are developing a new budget monitoring monthly reporting process to make financial information more easily accessible for budget holders, resulting in improved financial control and better information for the leadership team.
The 2019/20 Unaudited Statement of Accounts was approved by the S151 Officer on 13 August, ahead of the 31 August statutory deadline, and this is published on the Council’s website. The external auditor is currently completing their work to provide assurance over the accuracy of these.
Some key reports will be progressing through to committees during September and October. These are scheduled to go to Scrutiny on 30 September and the Executive on 28 October:
2019/20 Budget Outturn – this report will set out how the Council performed against its first annual budget last year. 2020/21 Budget Monitoring – this will show progress against this year’s budget and summarise the forecast impact of COVID on our finances. 2021/22 Financial Strategy – this includes an update of the medium term financial projections and an outline of the approach to balancing the budget in future.
Overall the Council has strengthened its reserves position which places us in a strong position to mitigate the net impact of COVID on the current year’s expenditure increases and income losses, as well as provide flexibility to support the budget in future. This is set out in some detail in the above reports, and I encourage members to review these.
Work will focus in the next 2-3 months on the detailed planning and work needed to prepare the draft budget for next financial year, with progress due to be reported to Members before Christmas.
Page 168 Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020 Report of Councillor Marcus Kravis – Asset Management and Economic Development Economic Development Digital Innovation Centre – Somerset County Council and Somerset West and Taunton have submitted a joint application and business case to the LEP’s Getting Britain Building fund for £5.5m to deliver a 3000m2 Digital Innovation Centre, in addition to the ERDF £1.6m submitted in March. The final funding decisions are anticipated at the end of October 2020 and if fully approved, a build out by January 2022 on Firepool. Innovation Park feasibility work – the first phase of an innovation park feasibility study is being undertaken, which has involved significant stakeholder and business engagement in the area of healthcare, digital/big data and cleantech low carbon. The findings of this first phase will be shared with senior executive and officers at the end of September to determine next steps. SWT Economic Recovery and Growth Plan – the Economic Development team has been developing the SWT Economic Recovery and Growth Plan, ensuring projects and activities are aligned to the Heart of the SW LEP recovery plan themes and to the collective Somerset Recovery plan activities. Following the expression of interest submitted to Government in July for financial support to deliver ambitious recovery and growth plans for Somerset, SWT are working with other LAs and partners to develop the final action plan and request by the end of November 2020, this work is being overseen by James Hassett. Emergency Town Centre Fund – to support the recovery of our essential Town Centre businesses a £535,000 fund has been made available by SWT to enable Town and Parish Councils and business representative groups to work together to deliver essential training, activities, events and public realm improvements that will support and strengthen the districts Town Centres and Neighbourhood Retail Centres and encourage shoppers and visitors to ‘go local’ while staying safe and following government Covid19 guidance. Implementation plans are being developed for each area following consultation with businesses and visitors, with delivery to begin in October 2020. Employment Hubs – The Economic Development team have been successful in securing £50,000 from the Business Rates Retention fund to support the continuation of Community Employment Hubs and introduce a new Youth Employment Hub in the west of the district. The funding will also enable the introduction of 4 new employment hubs across the east of the district, in areas of low income and social mobility. A further bid for £83,000 has been made to the DWP to support this work, and to provide Access to Training and Employment Grants for those struggling with barriers into work.
Redundancy Support Packages and Employment and Skills Support - The Economic Development Team have developed a cohesive Redundancy Support Package for employers facing the difficult decision to reduce their staff or to close as a result of the Covid19 pandemic, and for employees who find themselves facing redundancy. This includes a range of employment and training advice and grants, signposting to support and financial assistance for businesses, and 1 to 1 support from members of our Economic Development Team. SWT Customer Advisors have received training on how to help those contacting the council for help. The Redundancy support package has been piloted successfully to a large employer Page 169 and influential business in our District and is now available for any business facing difficulties through the SWT website.
Tourism and Coastal Communities Regeneration – The Economic Development Team continue to work with partners to deliver phase 4 of the Hinkley Tourism Action plan through the Hinkley Tourism Action Partnership, with £160,000 ring-fenced to support post Covid19 recovery of the Tourism sector across the Somerset West and Taunton and Sedgemoor Districts. The team continue to influence the Visitor Economy Support Programme, with £500,000 secured from the Business Rates Retention fund to aid recovery of the visitor economy and to work with partners on the Exmoor Covid 19 recovery plan. The Enterprising Minehead programme of projects to improve the seafront and harbour areas including the installation of new play and leisure equipment and the provision of attractive public realm and events space continues to be rolled out. The team are also continuing to fund and work with Minehead, Porlock and Watchet Tourist information Centres to maximise their offer.
Re-Opening of The High Streets Customer relations and enquiries - We are continuing to receive customer related enquires concerning the re-opening of the High Streets. The dedicated email address has provided the Business and wider Community a single focal point to contact the Economic Development team directly with areas of concern and suggestions. Feedback is collated and used to inform further safety measures such as the continuation of the temporary pedestrianisation of East Street Taunton.
Improving use of Data and Business Account Management - SWT has invested in an Company Information, Enquiry and Property Customer Relationship Management System ‘Evolutive’ to enable the Economic Development and Property teams to manage and report on Business Customer enquiries and to support Business Account Management, in particular with our key employers and most influential local businesses and inward investors. Asset Management and Economic Development Coal Orchard The contractor continued to work through the Covid19 lockdown period, albeit at a reduced pace due to social distancing restrictions and the slow down due to supply chain impact. Following an intense period of risk assessment and implementation of the necessary physical and organisational changes to ensure the site can work safely, the project is running at maximum capacity given the new measures. The revised programme is now to complete all three blocks and the public realm for May 2021. Seaward Way light industrial build The main build programme for Seaward Way light industrial units was delayed by approx. 6 weeks via the Covid19 lockdown. Now back to maximum operating capacity under the new social distancing measures, the site is due for completion in late October 2020. We have now secured a tenant for both units. The design of the residential build is being progressed by the Housing team and will be submitted for planning in the near future. Firepool GWR building / cycle path Page 170 Work to refurbish the GWR building and bring it back into working use, and build the temporary cycle path between Canal Road and Trenchard Way will start Q3/Q4 2020. Further enabling works on the old cattle market site to break up the concrete to enable infrastructure and utility work will also commence in the same period. Digital Innovation Centre SWT are working in collaboration with SCC on delivery of a 3000m2 Digital Innovation centre on the Firepool site. SCC were successful in their application to the HotSW LEP Getting Building Fund for £5.5m, which complements further funding successes and will enable the site to come forward in 2021. SWT have committed to supplying the site for the centre on Firepool and will be providing the necessary infrastructure and utilities to the build. Special Purpose Vehicle SWT have been exploring the most efficient delivery route large projects such as Firepool and are considering a dedicated development arm which will be solely focussed on delivery of key regeneration projects. The proposal will be debated at Full Council on 29th September. Infrastructure, Utilities and Flood work Detailed design and specification work to address the many civil and engineering issues on the main Firepool site has been continuing, and work will start in earnest in Q1 2021. These works, such as service and sewer diversions and upgrades are necessary to enable the rest of the development and are a key part of the delivery package for Firepool, working with utility providers and other external bodies such as the Environment Agency. Heritage Tonedale Mill The S48 Repairs notice has been served and discussions continue with the owners on their response to the notice and the emergency works required on site. A Site Security Plan has been promised to the LPA by the 11/9/20. Assets Dulverton Weir An application has gone into the SRA for a large project to fully restore the weir and leat in 2022. Future reports will confirm the status of the application. Temporary works were carried out in 2020 to prevent the leat running dry (statutory obligation to keep water running). Generally relations with the local trust are excellent and discussions are ongoing about the trust taking over the site once works are complete. Norton Hillfort After renewed effort over the summer the lease is coming closer to allow the site to transfer to the SWHT. Funding is currently being sought for a programme of works for the winter to allow the smooth handover of the site. Bus Station Work is underway to submit a planning application to convert the Bus Station into a temporary pay and display car park. This is in parallel with the development of longer term uses for the site, in relation to the other leisure and commercial uses in that part of town and the Heritage and Conservation context. Page 171
Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020
Report of Councillor Dr. Richard Lees – Sports, Parks and Leisure
Good sports, parks and leisure facilities improve the health and wellbeing of our local communities.
Section 1 – Leisure Events
Events
When Government announced an easing of lockdown, event and promotional booking enquiries started to come in. We worked to create a COVID-19 Secure Risk Assessment for events and promotional bookings.
Current guidance has allowed officers to support and facilitate the following events and activities:
Reboot Fitness Classes Regular session over multiple parks and open spaces.
Goodland Gardens
Fitness Activity Small Yoga classes 1-2-1 Personal Training Session
Castle Green
Taunton Independent Market A new independent market will appear on Castle Green which will take place on the second Sunday in the month starting again on 13 September 2020
Moorlands Rowland and Anderton Funfair 13 September – 4 October.
French Weir Park
Stokes’ Funfair 23 August – 1 September
Longrun Meadow Orienteering 6 September
Park Run Looking to resume from late September
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Section 2 – Everyone Active
Community Sport and Health
In line with Government guidelines, Everyone Active has reopened its leisure centres, swimming pools in addition to its golf course. Blackbrook, Wellington and Wellsprings is offering gyms and classes, which has been extremely popular. Each gym session will be for a 50 minute period, allowing a 10 minute period for staff to clean equipment before the next session.
Swimming pools offer programmed classes and lane swimming. Everyone Active is now preparing to offer family swim sessions and a broader range of pool activities in line with the guidelines. The Spa has reopened, but due to social distancing, the Thermal Spa has remained closed.
Everyone Active is pleased to be able offer indoor tennis and recommenced their indoor coaching programme. Team sports can also restart when each sport's national governing body has published a government-approved action plan and related guidance on playing safely. Everyone Active are contacting all hirers and those with block bookings to confirm their requirements within the constraints of social distancing and the sport’s national governing body’s guidance.
Everyday centres will continue to close for an hour during the day to fog (sterilise) all machines and gym equipment, this will also take place at the end of each day.
Section 3 – Play and Recreation
Play equipment repair and replacement grant
Since the last report Covid-19 halted all playground works. The S106 function also moved from Planning into External Operations. Since moving across to the new Directorate, major projects have commenced relating to both the design of parks and open spaces and the administration of S106 Agreements. The outcome of these projects will inform future decisions surrounding the repair and replacement of play equipment.
Section 106 Funding
The level of S106 funding contributions is negotiated with developers during the planning application process. Somerset West and Taunton Council normally receives the actual payment of these S106 monies either when the development work commences or at a previously agreed phase of the development.
We continually monitor all agreements for payment trigger points. Once these trigger points are met then an invoice to the developer is raised. Once the money from the development is received for the area then the relevant Parish/Town Council is informed. The Parish/Town Council and Community Engagement Leads inform the community of the available funding and seek suitable projects to come forward and apply.
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S106 Funding awarded The awards are made to parish/town councils and community organisations where facilities that are provided are open to the general public with no membership restrictions, and have a wide public and community benefit. E.g. play areas, community village halls, sports & outdoor recreational facilities that contribute towards the provision and/or enhancement of the community. Assistance is continually being given to applicants with potential forthcoming projects.
The following projects have been advanced since the last report, with use of Section 106 funding:
Completed Projects Creech St Michael allotments project for water butts, path etc. Creech St Michael Village Hall for disabled toilets and associated works
Ongoing Projects Bishops Hull Village Hall & Playing Fields for new equipment in the park on the recreation ground Wiveliscombe Community Centre project for lift and fire escape Baseball pitch at Victoria Park equipment (fence) Dragon’s Trail Project enhance area along the canal Creech St Michael Parish Council for recreation ground Hamilton Road Allotments project Bicknoller Village Hall-community shop project Watchet Bowling Club-hall and gym project North Curry - Outdoor Sport Recreation Stogursey Parish Council for notice boards Regal Theatre Minehead for redevelopment of basement for changing area Minehead Town Council for outdoor gym equipment at recreation ground Minehead Eye for a climbing wall Watchet Town Council for new MUGA
Over the last 3 months we have recently granted the following projects
Creech St Michael Village Hall for toilet block and kitchen - £37,471.56 Bishops Hull Hub, new community hall build - £236,196.52
We are frequently assisting communities and organisations with their on-going projects.
Section 4 - Parks and Open Spaces Team sports have now taking place on open spaces again, with risk assessments in place in line with government guidance on the both the Safe Return of Outdoor Sport and Recreation in England and Return to Recreational Sport Framework. We continue to work with the sports clubs to make this as easy as possible for them.
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Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020 Report of Councillor Peter Pilkington – Climate Change
Countywide Somerset Climate Emergency Strategy Following the temporary pause due to COVID, SCC have now redrafted and re- issued this document ready for approval and formal adoption across all 5 councils. The Strategy will be considered by the Joint Scrutiny Task and Finish Group towards the end of September. It is then scheduled to start the approval process within SWT at Scrutiny on the 7th October, followed by Executive on the 20th October and Full Council on the 15th December.
Somerset West and Taunton Carbon Neutrality and Climate Resilience Action Plan (CNCR) The final draft of this document has been shared with ‘All Members’ at the briefing session on the 24th August and was circulated via email and added to Mod.gov on the 4th September. It will now be shared with staff. The Plan is a response to the target to work towards carbon neutrality by 2030, which has already been adopted through the Council’s Corporate Strategy. The CNCR will then be considered by Scrutiny, Executive and Full Council alongside the County-wide Strategy. Operational Service Plan – Climate Change Chris Hall (Assistant Director for Climate Change, Regulatory Services, and Asset Management) and Sue Tomlinson (Programme Manager Climate Change) have reviewed the CNCR immediate actions and are incorporating them into the their service plan. Actions with no existing budget will be developed into business cases and bought through the democratic process for necessary approvals. Climate Change Structure Chris Hall has now received approval for his structure and we have gone out to recruit additional recourses to help progress the immediate actions within our developing service plan. CDP The Council completed its annual disclosure of climate action to CDP in August. CDP is a not-for-profit charity that runs a global disclosure system for investors, companies, cities, states and regions to manage their environmental impacts. By disclosing our climate actions, we are able to benchmark our actions against other local authorities in the UK and around the world, learn from others and raise the Council’s own profile as an organisation and as an area. In 2019, our disclosure earned the Council a score of “C” – Awareness. The emerging CNCR Action Plan
Page 177 will set an aspiration to work towards achieving a score of “A” – Leadership by 2023. We will discover our score for 2020 later this year. All Member briefing session 24th August All Members we invited to a briefing session where they received presentations and updated on the following items; 1. Broadening our Knowledge – Corporate Emissions and Environmental Impact (Dr Dan Lash, University of Exeter) 2. Countywide Climate Emergency Strategy 3. SWT Carbon Neutrality and Climate Resilience Action Plan 4. Taking Action Now; a. New Build Homes Standards b. Zero Carbon Affordable Homes Pilot c. DC Share d. SWT EVCP Grant Funding e. EScooter Trial
Countywide EV Strategy In partnership with the other Somerset local authorities, the Council has commissioned WSP to produce a Somerset EV Charging Strategy which will provide a basis for the local authorities to; Develop and deliver specific projects on their own land and assets as appropriate, informed by the best way to future proof investment, maximise opportunities and benefits Influence investment in the grid and work to release capacity in the grid by WPD Set policies and guidance and allocate specific sites for charge point development through Local Plans and other means Lobby Government and others on what prerequisites are required in order to proliferate EVs in Somerset Understand what their role should be on delivering charge points going forward.
A public survey, prepared by graduates on the Somerset Local Government Graduate Scheme, was undertaken in June to gauge the attitudes of the public towards EVs, and the potential influence that the varied geography and communities of Somerset may have on EV take-up across the county. The Strategy is expected to be complete by the end of September. DC Share Riccardo, WPD and SWT are progressing due diligence to confirm site locations and preparing an Ofgem update by the end of September.
Page 178 15 rapid charge points in total of which 10 will be 50kw and 5 will be 100kw, split across three locations (Coal Orchard, Firepool and Canon Street) Fleet Transition to Electric Vehicles Officers (and PFH) attended the ‘Low Carbon Emission Vehicles for Local Authority Fleets, Market Awareness & Demonstration Days’ organised by Mid Devon Council and held at Trucksmith in Uffculme. We have since taken delivery of a Renault Zoe demo vehicle to assist with our thinking and vehicle selection, ahead of procuring new electric vehicle leases to replace our existing pool cars, as they come to the end of their lease agreements later in the year. Electric Vehicle Charge Points WPD have now provided the DNO costs associated with installing charge points at key locations across our district and we are working with EVCP operators to develop an installation plan. We will provide further detail in due course. DfT EScooter Trial SWT submitted a bid to the DfT on the 28th August to take part in the trial, and at the time of writing are awaiting confirmation as to whether our bid has been approved. Rental E-Scooters legally allowed on UK roads, cycle lanes and cycle tracks in trial areas from 4th July 2020 E-Scooter operator selected via procurement process Concession contract between SWT and operator No cost to SWT Operator must comply with DfT vehicle standards and data requirements Operator will service and maintain the scooters and manage the scheme Thorough Equalities Impact Assessment completed SCC have amended the TRO’s Joint comms and engagement with ASP and operator Scheme start date end of Sept/beginning of Oct subject to DfT approvals Trial will run for 12 months
Oak Trees Offer / 3 Free Trees We will be launching this scheme in time for Parish and Town Councils to plant their trees during National Tree Week which runs from 28th November to 6th December. Water Refill Stations
Page 179 Working with Wessex Water we are planning to install a water refill stations in prominent locations within our district. Very much at the planning stage at present, we will provide further detail in due course. Solar PV We are actively progressing the option to install Solar PV at our wellington depot and will provide further detail in due course. Zero Carbon Affordable Homes Pilot The PFH for Climate Change and for Housing were provided with an in depth briefing on progress in early September. The briefing included; 5 sites have been prioritised Planning pre application in September and these could deliver 43 units. Two other sites will progress as ownership issues are resolved and these could delivery ten units. Energy advisors Hydrock have been appointed to support the council deliver low carbon heat and power solutions. The procurement process has identified two shortlisted volumetric modular suppliers with who the council will have a dialogue. The council will seek to appoint a main supplier over the next few weeks following study visits to schemes they have developed and their factories. Work is progressing with the employers agent to retain the fast pace of this programme and manage the complexities of delivering zero carbon homes.
The NTWP team are working with Engie to improve the low carbon credentials of the new homes above the current building standard requirement. Options including improved fabric insulation and fabric first approach are being explored. Members will be asked to consider a new scheme at Seaward Way, Minehead of 53 units later in the year. The schemes is seeking to apply the emerging SWT low carbon standard including the potential for ground source heat pumps. EcoFlex Scheme SWT is joining the EcoFlex scheme allowing private sector owners and landlords access energy saving measures using funding from the big energy companies. Energy Company Obligation (ECO) - is a requirement placed on energy companies over a certain size to help improve domestic energy performance of the homes of those vulnerable to the cold or on low incomes. In the ECO3 phase there is a new additional facility called Flexible Eligibility. This is where Councils can set criteria to direct assistance towards local private sector homes at risk of fuel poverty, but falling outside of the normal rules of ECO (usually qualifying benefits). ECO flexibility will support the delivery of national fuel poverty targets to improve the
Page 180 EPC ratings of households in fuel poverty. This statement of intent will also help deliver the aims of the Somerset Strategic Housing Framework which facilitates a partnership approach to the delivery of sustainable, warm and healthy homes for all Somerset residents.
SWT have worked with Somerset independent living to agree the approach. Although the scheme is aimed at reducing fuel poverty it has links to energy reduction.
Page 181
Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020
Report of Councillor Mike Rigby – Planning and Transportation . Performance – Planning Applications and Appeals
Please see the table below for the performance from April to July.
Planning Committee Training
To date the following training has taken place: The Role of a Councillor on Planning Committee – 11th June 2020 The fundamentals of the Local Plan system and the new district-wide Local Plan – 25th June 2020 The Use of Planning Conditions – 3rd September 2020
The following topics are outstanding and will be covered over the coming months: Planning White Paper Types of application including CLUED Planning Obligations including S106 agreements and CIL – on hold due to the current proposed changes Appeals process and awards for cost Viability – a training session took place last year, a follow up session is currently being arranged for November 2020. Heritage Assets Design Guide
The Chair and Vice Chair of Planning Committee are due to attend the training session that is being delivered by the Planning Advisory Service in October which is titled: How to Run a Good Planning Committee. The training that is being provided is aimed at helping Members understand the planning process and their role on planning committee. The topics that will be covered will be high level but aimed at Members understanding what their role is in the decision making process.
Team Structure With a few changes in the team in relation to planning officers, please see appendix 2 for a map showing the district and who will be covering each area.
Vacancies Planning Specialist – advertised previously but the suitable candidate turned the offer down due to uncertainty regarding the unitary discussions. The role will be re-advertised.
Wellington Station
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Further discussions have been held with DfT and Network Rail, seeking clarity about their requirements for this SOBC within the Restoring your Railway framework, the scope of which looks to be different to that set out in DfT’s Transport Analysis Guidance (WebTAG). The final brief is set to be agreed with the consultants in the week beginning 14th September, after which work will commence. The final SOBC is scheduled to be complete by December. An alternative site location for Wellington Station has been identified by WSP, adjacent to Longforth Farm (allocated in the Local Plan for employment). Initial work suggests that this location is likely to meet track and signalling requirements; while the associated infrastructure and access can also be accommodated. Discussions with the land agent for Longforth Farm have begun positively.
Employment LDO
The final LDO is set to go to Executive on 16th September; and then Full Council on 29th September to be formally adopted as Council policy
Local Plan 2040
SWT conducted a public consultation on the ‘Issues and Options’ stage of the Local Plan earlier this year from 13 January to 16 March 2020. We are producing the Consultation Report of this in two parts. Part 1 is available on our website and it contains the results of the questionnaires. Part 2 will summarise the more detailed comments that we received and is timetabled to be available in October 2020.
The next step of the Local Plan would be to progress with further evidence gathering and to produce a Draft Plan for further consultation. However, the Government’s recent Planning Reform proposals and change to the calculation of housing need will impact upon the content and scope of the Local Plan so we need to review what this means for our Local Plan if the proposed changes are confirmed.
Furthermore, the timetable is likely to be affected by the outcome of the unitary proposals for Somerset. Whichever unitary scenario emerges, a Local Plan would need to be produced to cover the whole of the new planning authority area. The background work and consultation so far on the Local Plan 2040 will still be of relevance to any new Local Plan for a unitary authority
Active Travel – East St
An online consultation to gather feedback from all members of the community is now live. A decision is awaited from the Department of Transport on the part 2 funding which would support the temporary closure of East St under the current TRO. With the potential re-tightening of Covid19 measures, retaining as much
Page 184 space to allow social distancing may still be required. The consultation asks for opinions on both the benefits and the issues created by the closure. In addition, ongoing discussions are taking place with disability groups on how the closure has affected those with mobility and other issues, and how SWT working in collaboration with SCC can mitigate them.
Active Travel – officer support.
From 1st October SWT will have a dedicated Active Travel officer. Their remit will involve developing existing outline proposals into detailed delivery plans, working closely with cycling, walking and disability groups to ensure any plans are inclusive and support, and seeking out funding opportunities to support schemes across the district.
Car Parking
Members will be aware that car parking charges have now been reintroduced. The suspension of charging served its purposes of helping key workers, reducing Covid transmission and, more latterly, supporting our businesses as they emerged from lockdown. Work is now beginning on how to implement our manifesto commitment to provide an hour free in our car parks. Expect further reporting on this soon.
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SWT Performance report
Full definition Target Unit Apr-July Denominator Apr-July Numerator Apr-July % of major planning applications determined within 13 weeks (or within agreed Total number of major planning applications completed within 13 75 % 100% 10 10 extension of time) Total number of major planning applications received weeks or agreed extension % of minor planning applications determined within 8 weeks or agreed extension Total number of minor planning applications completed within 8 65 % 84% 105 88 of time Total number of minor planning applications received weeks % of other planning applications determined within 8 weeks or an agreed Total number of other planning applications completed within 8 80 % 90% 220 198 extension of time. Total number of other planning applications received weeks or an agreed extension % of planning appeals received that have been overturned % 16% Number of appeals received 19 Number of appeals overturned 3 Page 187 Page
Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020 Report of Councillor Fran Smith – Housing Housing Development and Regeneration Team Housing Strategy
Members have approved the Hinkley Point C Housing Strategy and the implementation stage of the various projects will now progress. Work is progressing across partners across the County to adopt a health, care and housing memorandum of understanding as are discussions regarding the establishment of a Homelessness Reduction Board. Eco Flex scheme is now being adopted in SWT which provides access to fuel poor private households for energy saving measures such as insulation, fuel switch, etc.
Housing Enabling
A programme aimed at increasing affordable homes in the most difficult parts of the district through a community led approach is commencing with the recruitment of a part time specialist officer to work primarily in the Exmoor National Park with communities including Parish Councils. The Programme aims to unlock rare development opportunities through community awareness and activity. Work is taking place with planning to understand the implications of the planning white paper on affordable housing supply in Somerset.
HRA New Homes
There are 309 HRA homes at various stages of delivery. Laxton Road (8 units) will be ready to let around Christmas followed by NTWP phase A homes (47) and zero carbon homes with five sites prioritised for early delivery (43 units) Plans are progressing well for other schemes at Seaward Way (53 units in the west of Somerset) and Oxford Inn (11 units in Taunton). Both these schemes will follow the Council’s approval route with the aim of achieving executive support and member approval in December 2020. Seaward Way has the benefit of an allocation of funds from the Hinckley Point C Housing Strategy. The hope is to have an approved pipeline of 373 units which will front load the Council’s and HRA business plans ambition of 1000 units over 30 years. Many of these homes will create or adopt the SWT low carbon standard which is emerging as a standard that provides close to zero carbon in occupation (very low energy use by the customer based on a fabric first approach) and reduced energy and carbon use in the construction and maintenance of the homes in line with the London Energy Transformation Initiative (LETI) approach The Council is working with our contractor Engie to improve the low carbon qualities of the NTWP new homes and the refurbished homes. SWT is
Page 189 looking to improve the fabric of the homes over the tendered requirements and current building regulation requirements.
Housing Property Team Responsive and Void Repairs
All responsive repairs (both emergency and non-emergency) are now being undertaken, with measures in place to keep both residents and staff safe from COVID-19 whilst work is carried out. During lockdown only emergency repairs were undertaken and this has led to a backlog of non-emergency repairs. This backlog is reducing but it will nevertheless take some time to return to normal levels of service delivery in all areas of repairs work. Void repairs were undertaken during lockdown but reduced capacity and a need for social distancing in properties led to delays in completion and a backlog occurring. This backlog has now been resolved.
Property Safety Compliance
Progress on property safety compliance includes: A review of all compliance areas against every property. Recruitment to two new posts within the Property Compliance team - a Compliance Manager and a Landlord and Compliance Specialist. Additional asbestos management surveys. New Asbestos Management and Fire Safety policies and procedures. Further programme of Fire Risk Assessments (FRAs). Visits to advise residents on fire safety and enforce clearance of communal areas. Undertaking FRA recommended remedial actions and maintenance inspections. Continuing with Gas Safety checks. Undertaking a programme of Water Risk Assessments. Carrying out electrical checks to communal areas. A comprehensive update report was recently provided to the Audit and Governance and Audit committee.
Housing Asset Management
Stock condition surveys recommenced. Procurement of external resource to undertake additional energy surveys.
Capital Programmes
All capital programmes ceased during lockdown. However, procurement was undertaken and contracts are now recommencing. External painting and replacement soffits and gutters being undertaken.
Page 190 Kitchen, bathroom, window, insulation and heating programmes to recommence shortly. Contractor availability likely to be a challenge in completing all programmes planned for 2020/21.
Housing and Communities Teams Supported Housing Staff capacity has continued to be reduced, due to Covid related absences (sickness and childcare). A reduced, phone based service has continued to be provided for all sheltered and extra care tenants, with home visits only being completed where necessary. Many of our older tenants have continued to shield, or live in a similar way to how they were during the lockdown, to reduce Coronavirus risks to themselves and others. Many tenants have reported that they are happy to be receiving welfare checks and support by phone, as they are feeling anxious about having visitors and using PPE/not having access to much PPE. Tenants have been reassured by staff who are visiting using the appropriate PPE. Staff have been able to complete aids and adaptions assessments within tenant’s homes, to enable them to have the support they need to remain independent within their home. Staff are offering Deane Helpline welfare calls and other useful helpline numbers for tenants to access support and feel less isolated. Our Extra Care sites have remained Covid-free, thanks to tenants and Care staff following the government guidance and precautions. Staff have been on-site every week, to complete maintenance, gardening and health and safety checks. Some temporary housing placements within Extra Care (from hospital discharges) have been able to remain within the schemes, on a permanent tenancy, with the care support they require. Lettings At the beginning of lockdown we suspended the advertising and letting of properties whilst the voids team concentrated on properties to be used as emergency accommodation for homeless applicants due to the closure of commercial Bed and Breakfasts. Government guidance was issued advising only essential home moves would happen, in line with this we direct matched 13 properties that had been held during lockdown that the voids team were then able to turn around to those tenants in our temporary accommodation who were owed a Homeless duty which also freed up some of this much needed accommodation. Procedures for the team were amended to comply with Covid risk assessments, verifications were carried out remotely and viewings were still
Page 191 carried out but with the Officers allowing the prospective tenant to view the property independently. The 17 properties at Pyrlands Fields were successfully let, some to North Taunton decant residents and the team are now up to date with any backlogged properties and are getting back to normal timescales. SWT has been successful in securing Hinkley C funding to create the role of a Home Moves Plus Officer Full time for 2 years. This post will work within the Lettings team to work with tenants to encourage and facilitate moves for those currently under-occupying properties and allowing SWT to make best use of its stock for the benefit of all those on the Housing Register. The Officer will promote their service to existing tenants and develop an excellent knowledge of our stock and identify those who are under-occupying. The Officer will provide assistance with joining Homefinder Somerset to encourage a move via the Housing Register, especially those in 4 bed plus properties who will be awarded a priority on Homefinder for downsizing, they will also explore the option of mutual exchange and also promote the Transfer Removal Grant that financially incentives a move for those who qualify. This role is important in promoting the best use of our stock and ensure that tenants are in the most suitable and sustainable properties for their needs.
Somerset Independence Plus (SIP) As we have moved out of lockdown, the hard work of the team is paying off as contractors return to site to full capacity. There were a few minor hiccups but I’m glad to report the supply chain and contractor availability has held up with no major incidents. All technical staff are undertaking full site visits since the middle of July conscious and adhering to the Covid19 risk assessments that are in place to protect both clients and staff. SIP have just launched a new service to tackle hoarding. Designed to assist clients who have extensive problems with clutter in their home. The Independent Living Officers’ will centre their level of intervention based upon the clutter scale. Besides working with the client to clear the property, they will also put in place an agreed plan with the client to prevent hoarding in the future. Besides hoarding the ILO’s also undertake Homes Safety Checks and low level mental health advice. Home Safety checks through a detailed survey of the home to identify any hazards and suggest mitigation measures to eliminate or reduce the risk, such as sign posting to the fire service or remedial works through the technical team. Low level mental health advice which is fundamentally a service to identify clients with mental health issues and provide a sign posting service to the appropriate mental health teams. Working alongside them in finding solutions to support their mental health and resume independent living. SIP has successfully recruited a Hospital Resettlement Coordinator. Working out of Musgrove Park Hospital and surrounding NHS Community Hospitals, the post will be responsible for assisting patients with a smooth discharge from hospital into their home setting. The post will be jointly
Page 192 managed by Health and Somerset Independence Plus. It is an 18 month post, funding will be from the Better Care Fund. Historically there has been a national problem in the hospitals with bed blocking and failed discharges. Delays where the patient was awaiting a care package in their own home made up 20.8% of all delays in 2018/19. On a daily basis 10 in every 100,000 of the population of Somerset were delayed from leaving hospital during that year. In March 2019, 1,065 hospital days were lost due to bed blocking which equates to 34 beds at a cost of £1,810,500 in one month. The post will plan home based solutions ahead of the point of discharge avoiding the common issue of overstatement of need which slows down release from hospital. The post will be actively involved in attending discharge plans and preoperative meetings, facilitating and coordinating services both inside and outside in the wider community with agencies and SIP ILO’s to ease patients out of hospital and into their home setting.
Homelessness and Rough Sleepers The provisions at Canonsgrove in Trull and the Beach Hotel in Minehead are still operational and providing emergency accommodation and support to single homeless people in SWT. We are currently housing 50 residents at Canonsgrove and 22 at the Beach Hotel.
In the last quarter 32 clients have been moved into long term accommodation and 6 have moved into other supported accommodation.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) announced in August a new funding opportunity through the Next Steps Accommodation Programme (NSAP) to help with the cost of keeping emergency accommodation for rough sleepers set up as a response to Covid-19 running in the short term and progress plans for longer term support and ‘Move On’ housing options.
SWT Housing Enabling and Homeless Teams came together to successfully submit a bid and are awaiting to hear the outcome. The bid requested a mix of revenue and capital funding for ‘move on’ type accommodation for rough sleepers/homeless and support to continue the Canonsgrove initiative whilst future options are appraised. Any funding received through this current funding bid must be spent by April 2021. It is anticipated further opportunities to access more funding will be available following the current bid announcement.
The homelessness team have offered advice and assistance to 254 households who have presented as homeless or threatened with homelessness in the last quarter. This number is expected to increase significantly once restrictions on landlords issuing notices seeking possession have been lifted. However, the extension of notice periods to a minimum of 6 months in most circumstances means that our
Page 193 homelessness team will have a greater opportunity to intervene and prevent homelessness.
We have seen a slight increase in the number of rough sleepers across the district with the last count registering 14 street homeless. A number of these individuals have been identified as coming from out of area and our Rough Sleeper Team has worked to successfully reconnect these individuals to their place of origin.
Homefinder Homefinder continues to carry a backlog, in part this is due to an increased demand on the service and a renewed interest in people updating their applications due to changes in personal circumstances due to Covid-19. The team also provide telephone support to the wider Homeless team who have also seen an increased demand on their service. In addition we have started to run renewals and are sending out a couple of hundred a week as we need to ensure we hold up to date data, this also encourages applicants to contact the service and increases demand. It is an important process to complete as Homefinder Somerset will influence decisions in other areas of work and we need to ensure that if we choose to transfer data to a newly procured system next year that we are only paying to transfer the data we need to. The timetable for the procurement of the new system is still as planned and the partnership is looking to issue the invitation to tender in the next couple of weeks. Homefinder will be included in the review of the Homeless Service by the newly appointed Managers.
Income The Rent Recovery team continues to work to support our tenants through the effects of having a reduced income or in some cases redundancy due to COVID-19. They continue to embrace the “LEAN” approach to rent recovery and the rent arrears are showing the benefit of this (£670K). The team have now started to make appointments in Deane House for those vulnerable tenants who cannot manage their accounts or benefits claims over the phone or digitally, and are referring tenants to I2A to help them back into work. Conversations are now being held with Taunton Citizen Advice on restarting the Money Matters drop in surgeries. We are also in the process of recruitment for a second Debt and Benefit Officer which will mean we are a full team.
Anti-Social Behaviour In the last quarter we have been reviewing the existing ASB policy, with the team now working on processes to work alongside this. Although we had an increase in serious ASB cases during Covid this is now starting to slow down a little and the team have seen the number of new cases declining. The two dedicated officers have a caseload of 38 open cases
Page 194 which is around average. It should be noted that these are the more complex cases and lower level ASB and nuisance are handled by Tenancy Management or Supported Housing Officers.
Tenancy/Estate Team The team are now preparing schedules for re-introducing Estate Walkabouts, Community skip days and block inspections, We are hoping to get this back up and running by end September/early October and in a way that keeps staff and our customers safe. We have worked on a process for delivering Annual Tenancy Checks with an officer visiting households to assess the condition of the tenancy and property. This process includes an inspection of the property/garden and for the officer to work on any issues that arise. This has involved chasing outstanding repairs, making referrals to other services such as MIND and a befriending service; carrying out property and garden inspections; assisting the tenant to get furniture and giving them support and advice. As working on minor hoarding issues. This trial period has already proved to be adding value to both the customer and us. Recruitment for two full time tenancy/estate offices is currently ongoing to give a full complement of staff.
Housing Performance Team
The Housing Performance Team has been created to drive service improvements in our customer experience and service delivery as well as oversee housing governance. A series of governance meetings and activities are already underway. Recruitment of the team of seven is also underway and work has already started on our complaints responses. By December we will self-assess our performance against the new Housing Ombudsman code. Engagement and communication with our tenants will be key activities. This month a newsletter will be sent to around 6000 tenants and work will commence on our engagement plans. We have been focussing efforts on our complaints performance, understanding our complaints process and closing off any open complaints. On the 4th September we were showing 44 open complaints and 20 (45%) were closed during that week and work has been ongoing to close the remaining complaints as soon as possible. Customers have been contacted and the process of investigation and resolution started, it is the “official” closure that has taken longer than the 10 days targeted. We are looking at how we can improve this performance within our directorate.
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Full Council Meeting – 29 September 2020 Report of Councillor Sarah Wakefield – Environmental Services Flood and Coastal Protection
Flood Board
The West Somerset Flood Board has been reconvened under my chairmanship after a six months break. I am conducting a review of its terms of reference and intend to rename it as an SWT body (to include the former TDBC area) and also to include coastal protection (as SWT is the coastal protection authority and the issues are often related). West Somerset Flood Group will continue to exist as a contributor body along with the EA, IDB, SRA, Wessex Water and representatives of parishes and other interested parties.
Splash Point
Replacement work on the Splash Point wall failure started on 7th September, this follows an extensive period of design, contracting and licensing. This solution will reinstate the defence wall, the overtopping wall, and the beach access. Works are planned to take 12 weeks to complete, subject to weather conditions remaining favourable.
Blue Anchor
Emergency repair works to the Blue Anchor sea wall have been carried out. This work was enabled as SWT have been awarded £385k following a bid to the Environment Agency for funding to undertake the necessary emergency works to the existing sea defence at Blue Anchor. Phase One of this was actually completed during the bidding process and Phase Two will start in early October (to extend the rock armour sea wall). This emergency scheme gives some protection and allows us to buy time for the delivery of a permanent solution.
Further and more permanent works to protect the B3191 (which is close by at this point) are now possible, as SWT are in receipt of a proposal from SCC to contribute £4 million of Government funding primarily to protect the highway which will also give much needed protection to affected properties at that location. This capital input should allow the more extensive rock face and cliff protection works to be carried out. This matter is planned to be coming forward to Scrutiny, Executive and Full Council for discussion and decision in October.
Street Cleansing (IdVerde)
Page 197 Additional Litter - With the beautiful weather and lockdown, we have experienced large numbers of visitors to our coastal towns, which has required litter bin emptying to be increased. Cleansing will continue to address the changing needs as well as undertaking the scheduled street sweeping and cleansing activities. Additional Fly tipping - This has been a varied period for the Cleansing Team. Lockdown has seen increased levels of fly-tipping across the Authority’s area, which has also been experienced across the County and nationwide. The recycling centres are now fully open, which has seen a reduction in the number of fly-tips now being reported. Refuse (Somerset Waste Partnership)
Additional Waste - Throughout the period of lockdown, increased amounts of waste, particularly glass and card, was presented by residents. This was due to home clear-outs, internet shopping and the temporary closure of the recycling centres, in accordance with the Government operating guidelines. Green waste collections have re-commenced from June and all recycling centres re-opened and are now accepting all materials. Recycle More - Somerset Waste Board agreed a new timetable for the introduction of Recycle More. The service will be launched in the first phase to Mendip from October 2020, coming to the rest of the county in three phases over the following 18 months. The new service will be introduced area by area, so SWP’s five depots can be upgraded to handle the thousands of tonnes of extra recycling. Slim My Waste - Food waste tonnage collected was up by more than a quarter in recent months, partly as a result of the successful Slim My Waste campaign, in which residents black bins were encircled with ‘Slim My Waste’ tape and an information left to promote the recycling of food waste. SWP New Contractor (Suez) - It has been a challenging period for SWP, with the commencement of the new collection contract at the same time as lockdown, the scheduling of the RecycleMore rollout and the re- opening recycling centres within the guidelines, during which they have delivered a service to our residents and performance has been improving week by week from a somewhat shaky start. Bereavement Service COVID19 - The Bereavement service has been at the forefront of preparedness for the response to the COVID19 pandemic. The whole team has remained on duty and delivered outstanding bereavement services to the public. Extra measures taken included: Engaging with the Local Resilience Forum through the Excess Death Group so that there was a clear understanding of capacity issues across Somerset from a range of stakeholder perspectives
Page 198 and to build a full picture that was able then to deal collaboratively with emerging problems. Extension of the cemetery at Taunton Crematorium and the preparation of 100 prepared graves (so far we have not had to use any of them). Supported Musgrove Park Hospital NHS Trust by siting a body storage facility at the crematorium. Identified a number of staff members from the organisation who were willing to assist with administrative functions and trained them in advance to be called upon as necessary as the pandemic progresses and retrained past crematorium staff to provide resilience in cremation and grave digging activities Proactively secured the servicing of the cremators so that we are ready for the seasonal peak that winter will bring. (This is a 2 week operation) Regular COVID 19 updates to our stakeholders through a regular newsletter, informing them and the public of changes in legislation and of any adaptations to service requirements Improved Appearance of site The team have developed the grounds yard to an appropriate and safe standard and visually attractive which included replacement of defective mains storm drains. Installed a new access footpath to provide easier and safer access for the public to access the chapel and car park. A new florist, Stems of Taunton are now renting one of the underused buildings which generates and income and a offers a service that compliments the site. Paperless working – the team introduced paperless and remote working practices that extended to wider stakeholders including registration offices, Funeral directors and doctors and hospitals. This paperless remote model will become the standard service delivery.
Staffing
Appointment of Assistant Director for Commercial Services – Stuart Noyce who started in post on the 28th August 2020. Most office staff continue to work from home or slightly altered working arrangements
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