Wychavon District Local Plan ADOPTED JUNE 2006

Wychavon District Local Plan Adopted June 2006

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The Ordnance Survey mapping 2006 included within this publication is provided by the Wychavon District Council under licence from the Ordnance Survey in order to fulfil its public function to publicise the Local Plan as the PlanningAuthority. Persons viewing this mapping should contact Ordnance Survey Copyright for advice where they wish to licence Ordnance Survey mapping/map data for their own use.

Planning Services, Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore, Worcestershire. WR10 1PT Tel: 01386 565565 Fax: 01386 561092 Email: [email protected] Foreword

The Local Plan sets out policies and proposals that aim to meet the employment, housing and other needs of Wychavon until 2011. It updates the previous Plan adopted in 1998.

This has not been an easy task. It has involved balancing economic and social needs with a requirement to protect our natural and historic environment and resources. This Plan has been carefully prepared with the aim of improving the quality of life for all communities in the District and has the full support of the Council.

The Plan is for you and your District and thank you to everyone who has been involved in bringing the Plan to adoption.

Councillor Mrs A Steel Councillor Mrs A Mackison Executive Board Member for Planning Chairman of Development Control (Policy) and Rural Affairs Committee

ii Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Contents

List of Policies ...... v Section 1 Introduction...... 1 1.1. Introduction...... 1 1.2. Purpose of the Plan...... 2 1.3. How to Use the Plan...... 2 1.4. A Guide to Reading the Policies...... 2 Section 2 General Strategy...... 3 2.1. Aims and Objectives...... 3 2.2 Accommodating Development in Wychavon...... 5 2.3. General Development Policies...... 9 2.4. Strategic Requirements...... 12 Section 3 Prudent Use Of Resources...... 27 3.1. Introduction...... 27 3.2. Conserving Natural Resources...... 27 3.3. Making the Best Use of Land and Buildings...... 30 Section 4 Protecting The Environment...... 37 4.1. Introduction...... 37 4.2. Protecting Existing Assets...... 37 4.3. Avoiding Hazards...... 56 4.4. Environmental Statements...... 62 Section 5 Social Progress...... 63 5.1. Introduction...... 63 5.2. Building Sustainable Communities...... 63 5.3. Enhancing People’s Surroundings...... 83 Section 6 Economic Opportunity...... 95 6.1. Introduction ...... 95 6.2. Employment Land...... 95 6.3. Lorries in the Vale...... 97 6.4. Employment Locations and Activities...... 100 6.5. Retail...... 106 6.6. Tourism...... 110 Section 7 Implementation, Monitoring and Review...... 113 7.1. Implementation...... 113 7.2. Monitoring...... 113 7.3. Review...... 116

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 iii Proposals map...... 117 ANNEXE 1 Assessment Methodology for Proposed Housing in or adjoining Villages ...... 119 2 Village Accessibility...... 121 APPENDICES 1 Ancient Monuments ...... 123 2 Conservation Areas ...... 127 3 Supplementary Planning Guidance & Supplementary Planning Documents...... 131 4 Description of Strategic Gaps – Appendix to Policy SR10...... 133 5 Occupation of ‘Tolerated’ Gypsy Sites...... 137 6 Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – Policy ENV2...... 139 Sites of International Importance for Nature Conservation – Policy ENV3...... 139 Sites of Special Scientific Interest – Policy ENV4...... 139 GLOSSARY ...... 143

iv Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 List of Policies

General Strategy

General Development Policies GD1 LOCATION STRATEGY FOR NEW DEVELOPMENT...... 9 GD2 GENERAL DEVELOPMENT CONTROL...... 10 GD3 PLANNING OBLIGATIONS...... 11

Strategic Requirements SR1 HOUSING LAND SUPPLY...... 14 SR2 EMPLOYMENT LAND SUPPLY...... 17 SR3 RETAIL ALLOCATIONS IN TOWN CENTRES...... 18 SR4 MIXED USES...... 18 SR5 MINIMISING CAR DEPENDENCY...... 20

Strategic Land Protection SR6 SAFEGUARDED LAND FOR TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE...... 21 SR7 DEVELOPMENT IN THE GREEN BELT...... 23 SR8 MAJOR DEVELOPED SITE IN THE GREEN BELT – HARTLEBURY TRADING ESTATE...... 24 SR9 AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT RESTRAINT...... 25 SR10 STRATEGIC GAPS...... 26

Prudent Use Of Resources

Conserving Natural Resources RES1 AGRICULTURAL LAND PROTECTION...... 27 RES2 RENEWABLE ENERGY FACILITIES...... 28 RES3 MINIMISING WASTE...... 29 RES4 CONSERVING WATER RESOURCES...... 30

Making the Best Use of Land and Buildings RES5 HOUSING DENSITY...... 30 RES6 CONVERSION OF UPPER FLOORS...... 31 RES7 CONVERSION OF EXISTING BUILDINGS OUTSIDE DEFINED DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARIES TO NON-RESIDENTIAL USES...... 31 RES8 CONVERSION OF EXISTING BUILDINGS OUTSIDE DEFINED DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARIES TO RESIDENTIAL USE...... 33 RES9 REPLACEMENT BUILDINGS IN THE COUNTRYSIDE OUTSIDE DEFINED DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARIES...... 34

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Protecting The Environment

Protecting Existing Assets ENV1 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER...... 37 ENV2 COTSWOLDS AREA OF OUTSTANDING NATURAL BEAUTY (AONB)...... 38 ENV3 SITES OF INTERNATIONAL IMPORTANCE FOR NATURE CONSERVATION...... 40 ENV4 SITES OF SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC INTEREST...... 41 ENV5 SITES OF REGIONAL OR LOCAL WILDLIFE IMPORTANCE...... 43 ENV6 PROTECTED SPECIES...... 43 ENV7 PROTECTION OF WIDER BIODIVERSITY...... 45 ENV8 PROTECTION OF HEDGEROWS, TREES AND WOODLAND...... 46 ENV9 REGIONALLY IMPORTANT GEOLOGICAL AND GEOMORPHOLOGICAL SITES...... 47 ENV10 SITES OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE...... 47 ENV11 HISTORIC PARKS AND GARDENS...... 49 ENV12 CONSERVATION AREAS (GENERAL)...... 49 ENV13 ALTERATIONS TO LISTED BUILDINGS...... 51 ENV14 SETTINGS OF LISTED BUILDINGS...... 53 ENV15 DEMOLITION OF A LISTED BUILDING...... 53 ENV16 ENABLING DEVELOPMENT...... 54

Avoiding Hazards ENV17 DEVELOPMENT IN AREAS OF HIGH FLOOD RISK...... 56 ENV18 DEVELOPMENT IN AREAS OF LOW TO MEDIUM FLOOD RISK...... 56 ENV19 SURFACE WATER RUN-OFF...... 58 ENV20 DEVELOPMENT LIKELY TO GIVE RISE TO POLLUTION OR THE RISK OF POLLUTION...... 58 ENV21 BAD NEIGHBOUR USES...... 60 ENV22 CONTAMINATED AND UNSTABLE LAND...... 60 ENV23 DEVELOPMENT INVOLVING HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES...... 61 ENV24 DEVELOPMENT CLOSE TO HAZARDOUS INSTALLATIONS AND PIPELINES...... 62

vi Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Social Progress

Building Sustainable Communities COM1 MIX OF DWELLING TYPES...... 63 COM2 AFFORDABLE HOUSING...... 64 COM3 RURAL EXCEPTION SITES...... 68 COM4 PROVISION OF SUPPORTED AND SHELTERED HOUSING...... 68 COM5 GYPSY SITES – EXISTING PROVISION...... 69 COM6 GYPSY SITES – NEW PROVISION...... 70 COM7 AGRICULTURAL WORKERS’ AND OTHER RURAL WORKERS’ DWELLINGS...... 70 COM8 TEMPORARY AGRICULTURAL AND OTHER RURAL WORKERS’ DWELLINGS...... 72 COM9 AGRICULTURAL OR RURAL WORKERS’ OCCUPANCY CONDITIONS... 73 COM10 PROVISION OF RURAL COMMUNITY FACILITIES ...... 74 COM11 PROTECTION OF COMMUNITY FACILITIES...... 75 COM12 PROVISION OF PUBLIC OPEN SPACE...... 76 COM13 PROTECTION OF OPEN SPACE AND SPORT AND RECREATIONAL BUILDINGS AND LAND IN TOWNS AND VILLAGES...... 79 COM14 SPECIALIST SPORT AND RECREATION FACILITIES IN THE COUNTRYSIDE...... 81 COM15 WATERWAYS...... 82

Enhancing People’s Surroundings SUR1 BUILT DESIGN...... 84 SUR2 LANDSCAPE DESIGN...... 89 SUR3 PARKING PROVISION...... 90 SUR4 SHOPFRONTS AND SIGNS...... 91 SUR5 ADVERTISEMENTS...... 92 SUR6 EXTENSIONS TO BUILDINGS...... 93 SUR7 ANNEXE ACCOMMODATION...... 94 SUR8 EXTENSIONS TO CURTILAGES...... 94

Economic Opportunity

Employment Land ECON1 PROTECTION OF EXISTING EMPLOYMENT LAND...... 95 ECON2 EXPANSION OF EXISTING RURAL EMPLOYMENT SITES...... 96

Lorries in the Vale ECON3 B8 ‘EXCEPTIONS’ POLICY...... 97 ECON4 B8 RELOCATION...... 98 ECON5 EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT WITHIN THE VALE OF EVESHAM HGV CONTROL ZONE...... 99

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 vii Economic Opportunity cont...

Employment Locations and Activities ECON6 EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT ADJACENT TO DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARIES OF VILLAGES...... 100 ECON7 AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS, STRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATED WORKS...... 100 ECON8 FARM DIVERSIFICATION...... 102 ECON9 FARM SHOPS AND ROADSIDE STALLS...... 103 ECON10 THROCKMORTON AIRFIELD...... 104 ECON11 FREIGHT...... 105 ECON12 TELECOMMUNICATIONS INFRASTRUCTURE...... 105

Retail ECON13 LARGE SCALE RETAIL DEVELOPMENT...... 108 ECON14 PRIMARY SHOPPING FRONTAGE...... 108 ECON15 SECONDARY SHOPPING FRONTAGE...... 109 ECON16 FOOD AND DRINK RETAIL...... 109 ECON17 RETAIL SALES AT PETROL FILLING STATIONS (PFS)...... 110 ECON18 GARDEN CENTRES...... 110

Tourism ECON19 TOURIST ACCOMMODATION OUTSIDE DEFINED DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARIES...... 110 ECON20 CARAVAN SITES AND CAMPING SITES...... 111

viii Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Introduction 1

Section 1 Introduction

1.1. Introduction August 2002 and represented the first formal opportunity to comment on the 1.1.1. This is the adopted Wychavon District Plan. Some of the responses received Local Plan prepared under the Town led to changes to the draft Plan and Country Planning Act 1990 (as (Revised Deposit Plan July 2003). amended). It sets out policies and This document was also subject proposals to guide land use and to a six-week public consultation development decisions in the District period. Finally, the Council published up to 2011. The document replaces further changes in January 2004 in a the previous Local Plan that was document titled Pre-Inquiry Changes. adopted in 1998. Following this, a Public Local Inquiry into the Local Plan Review was held 1.1.2. Under the new planning framework between March and December 2004. introduced through the Planning The Inspector, appointed by the and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 Planning Inspectorate, considered this Local Plan now forms part of all duly submitted objections and the Council’s Local Development published his recommendations in an Framework (LDF) as a Development Inspector’s Report (October 2005). Plan Document (DPD). The Local The Council set out its response to Plan Policies are ‘saved’ until 2011, the Inspector’s recommendations in with the exception of Policies on the ‘Proposed Modifications Report’ Open Space and Affordable Housing. published in January 2006 and the These will be replaced by DPD as set Local Plan was adopted on 23 June out in the adopted Local Development 2006. Scheme (LDS).

1.1.5. As a land use policy tool the Local 1.1.3. The Local Plan is a significant Plan can help to deliver the Council’s document. It is important that its strategic objectives, and will also policies and proposals reflect the help in delivering Community needs and aspirations of local people Plan objectives. The Economic and businesses. This document has Development Strategies, Housing been prepared following extensive Strategy, Community Safety Strategy public consultation. The process and the Cultural Strategy provide began in November 2001 with the background information to inform publication of a Key Issues document policy making and implementation. that asked for the community’s views on future development in the District. 1.1.6. The ‘West Midlands Regional Spatial The community’s views on the best Strategy’ (RSS) adopted in June 2004 place to locate new development were provides the overall strategic planning also sought. The comments raised context for the West Midlands through this process were assessed Region. In addition, the adopted against national, regional and county ‘Worcestershire County Structure guidance to see how local objectives Plan 1996 – 2011’ (WCSP) provides could be achieved. a broad development strategy for the whole of the County, and the role of 1.1.4. The First Deposit Version of the Local the Local Plan is to apply both these Plan was placed on deposit in July/ strategic documents in a way that

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 enhances the quality of life for its 1.3.2. The Proposals Map covers the three residents. main settlements in the District of Droitwich Spa, Evesham and 1.1.7. The RSS, WCSP and Local Plan, Pershore and a series of Inset Maps together with the ‘Minerals Local cover the remaining villages and Plan’ prepared by the County Council, hamlets across the District. currently form the Development Plan Documents for the area. The County 1.3.3. In reading the policies of the Local Council, as Highway Authority, have Plan regard should be had to the also prepared the ‘Local Transport strategic context provided by the Plan 2006 – 2011’ (LTP). Under the RSS, and any planning applications Planning and Compulsory Purchase will be determined with regard to the Act 2004 the WCSP is ‘saved’ for policies in their entirety. three years from the legislation commencement date. Therefore, 1.4. A Guide to Reading the Policies from September 2007 the strategic direction for land use development in the District should be wholly guided SR10 This is the policy STRATEGIC GAPS by the RSS. number and title. This should be quoted In order to protect on any correspondence 1.2. Purpose of the Plan their setting and prevent the on the Local Plan for coalescence of ease of reference. 1.2.1. The purposes of the Local Plan are settlements, land to: within the defined All policies and their • allocate land for specific uses Strategic Gaps, as shown on the titles are in bold print. such as housing, employment Proposals Map, will The policies set out and shopping to meet current and be kept open and the criteria by which future needs; essentially free of planning applications development. • provide a land use policy will be assessed. framework that enables needs to be met whilst minimising any harm to the District; 2.4.57. There are a number of areas of land within the District that fall outside the Green Belt and • provide a consistent basis to yet serve as important open areas between guide development control areas of built development. Strategic Gaps decisions; are identified on the Proposals Map and are areas of land that prevent coalescence of • provide certainty where settlements or that separate distinct areas development is likely to take within or around a settlement and form part of its character. These are sensitive areas place up to 2011; that should be kept open and free from • work towards sustainable development. development for the benefit of all.

1.3. How to Use the Plan The paragraphs following each policy explain why it has been included in the Plan. They will 1.3.1. The Local Plan comprises a Written include any relevant supporting information Statement and a Proposals Map. needed to justify the policy or information The Proposals Map identifies sites required as part of a planning application. The allocated for development and text is referred to as the reasoned justification. designated areas subject to specific policies contained in the Written Each paragraph will have a number. This should Statement. be quoted in any correspondence on the Local Plan for ease of reference.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 General Strategy 2

Section 2 General Strategy

2.1. Aims and Objectives 2.1.6. The objectives of the Plan are a combination of social, economic 2.1.1. It is the role of a Local Plan to contain and environmental objectives. policies and proposals that relate to They are not independent of each the development and use of land. This other. It is an inherent role of the section of the Plan sets out what it is Local Plan to reconcile the need for seeking to achieve and summarises development with the need to protect the approach taken to accommodating social, economic and environmental development and managing change resources. based on a number of objectives.

2.1.7. An important principle that underpins 2.1.2. The Government’s agenda for the Local Plan is that, in accommodating sustainability provides a context and development, there shall be no starting point for the strategy of the overall loss or unacceptable impact Plan. Sustainability objectives aim to upon significant economic, social and ensure that all public policy making environmental resources. Indeed, the provides for: key to enhancing quality of life within • the prudent use of resources; the District is to ensure that planning • the effective protection of the decisions are made which integrate environment; these objectives. This ensures • social progress recognising the development can be accommodated needs of everyone; and without the loss of, for example, • the maintenance of a strong significant employment sites, habitats economy. and wildlife, and without placing increased and unacceptable strains on social and physical infrastructure, 2.1.3. Through its role of facilitating or controlling change, particularly in such as schools, health facilities and the location of new development and roads. the types of uses promoted, the Plan is a key ‘tool’ with which to further 2.1.8. In many cases the effects of sustainability objectives. development may be mitigated against. This may occur in a number of ways such as detailed design on-site, 2.1.4. The aim of the Plan, therefore, is to ensure that it provides for: off-site works, financial contributions, particular land use provisions, etc. In

an improvement in the economic some cases the social or economic and social well-being of need for a development may outweigh communities, whilst protecting the need to protect a particular and enhancing the environment in resource. order to improve quality of life.

2.1.5. The objectives of the Plan are listed on page four. It summarises the strategy of the Plan and illustrates how its policies and proposals can help to meet its aim.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 OBJECTIVES ROLE OF POLICIES AND PROPOSALS 1. Protecting and enhancing • Location of development in towns and the environment settlements • Protecting environmental assets such as landscape, natural and cultural resources 2. Conserving land, water and • Location of development mineral resources, reducing • Design of development pollution and promoting energy efficiency 3. Maximising the use of • Location of development in towns and previously developed settlements land and buildings and • Requiring the use of previously developed land encouraging the efficient use before the use of greenfield sites of land • Promoting the re-use of buildings • Developing land at higher densities • Design of development 4. Securing a mixture of new • Provision of adequate supply of land for housing housing types to meet a • Developer contributions for affordable housing range of needs • Design of schemes • To enable affordable housing including rural exceptions housing 5. Meeting wider community • Location of development needs and improving access • Protecting community facilities and services to services and facilities • Facilitating the provision of new facilities 6. Ensuring developers provide • Developer contributions for necessary infrastructure, service provision and new facilities to cover the demand generated 7. Reducing the need to travel • Location of development and improving transport • Design of development schemes • Developer contributions 8. Regenerating and enhancing • Location of development the towns and settlements • Encouraging town centre vitality and a mixture of uses • Encouraging high quality design 9. Providing for a safe and • Design of development secure environment • Location of development to minimise risk of flood and other hazards 10. Fostering economic • Protecting employment land prosperity and diversifying • Providing a range of employment sites and the rural economy encouraging uses that diversify the employment base as well as build on its existing strengths • Enhancing town centre vitality • Supporting tourism development

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 2.2 Accommodating Development in where it can help support existing Wychavon services.

2.2.1. The Local Plan is not prepared 2.2.6. PPG3 provides specific guidance to in isolation. It needs to reflect accommodate housing development Government guidance and ‘dovetail’ in order to limit the amount of with the RSS and the WCSP, whilst greenfield land used and to maximise also meeting local development the ‘recycling’ of Previously Developed objectives. Land (PDL). It states that a search sequence should be followed in National Context identifying appropriate locations for 2.2.2. In addition to the primary legislation, housing, starting first and foremost Government advice for planning with PDL within existing built-up is provided by Planning Policy areas. When the use of greenfield Guidance Notes (PPG) and Planning land cannot be avoided, the guidance Policy Statements (PPS) on a range favours the development of sites of specific topic related areas (see on the edges of towns so called Glossary). ‘urban extensions’ before directing development to locations in good 2.2.3. National planning policy advice public transport corridors. recognises that the Local Plan is a key way in which to deliver sustainability 2.2.7. PPS7 further recognises the role objectives. The overriding principles of the countryside as a valuable to guide development are that new resource enhancing the quality of development should take place in the environment for local people locations that minimise the need for and visitors and its role in promoting travel and that have least impact on economic activity. Development the environment. This is the main proposals are required to balance the thrust of Government policy direction opportunities for rural regeneration and forms a basis for this Plan. against the need to protect the countryside for its own sake. 2.2.4. In particular, PPS1 (Delivering Sustainable Development), PPG3 Regional Context (Housing), PPS6 (Planning for Town 2.2.8. The RSS establishes a location Centres) and PPG13 (Transport) framework to accommodate are notable examples that require development in the region to meet Local Planning Authorities to locate regional objectives which involve: development in ways that help to • build sustainable communities. focusing new development on the major urban conurbation;

2.2.5. PPG3, PPG13 and PPS7 • securing the regeneration of the (Sustainable Development in Rural rural areas of the Region; Areas) recognise the need to balance • supporting cities and towns of the countryside protection with the need Region to meet their local and to provide an appropriate proportion sub-regional development needs; of development to sustain rural • supporting diversification and communities. Generally, the guidance modernisation of the economy; states that villages will only be suitable • ensuring environmental quality for accommodating significant and enhancement; and additional housing development • where it is within the capacity of their improving the Regions transport character to accommodate more and infrastructure.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 2.2.9. The RSS looks to facilitate a ‘step vibrant towns and rural regeneration change’ in the way development is means that the Plan concentrates accommodated in the Region up to new development in the towns and 2021. It places a greater emphasis villages of the District. It protects on the need for the major urban areas the countryside from unnecessary to accommodate much of their own development, only allowing growth in an attempt to redress past development which is essential in trends, which sought to accommodate that location, for example, affordable a significant proportion of development housing to meet local needs (Policy needs in ‘overspill’ towns close to COM2). the Birmingham conurbation. Within this part of the Region the City of 2.2.13. Over the next 5 years the District Worcester is identified as that sub- has to accommodate limited new regional foci. housing development and is required to provide new employment land. Strategic Context In looking to accommodate these 2.2.10. To ‘dovetail’ with the RSS, the WCSP requirements the Plan: provides a strategic context for the • concentrates the majority of Local Plan until 2007. It seeks to: development in or adjacent to the • concentrate the outstanding three main towns; development needs of the County • maximises the use of previously in or adjacent to existing towns; developed land and the re-use • restrict development in the rural of buildings in the towns and area to that which serves local villages; and needs; • seeks to distribute a proportion • promote a sequential approach of new development to to the search for housing land selected villages to assist rural to deliver the use of previously regeneration. developed land before greenfield sites; and 2.2.14. The Council estimates that the • encourage an integrated majority of its residual housing approach to accommodating requirement can be met by utilising housing, employment and brownfield land in the three main transport provision. towns. This position is reinforced with the deletion of the Central Crescent from the RSS, which removes the 2.2.11. It has also been the role of the WCSP to specify the level of employment and previous emphasis on Droitwich Spa housing development that the District as the primary preferred location needs to accommodate up to 2011. for development. This strategy fully accords with WCSP Policies SD5, SD6, SD7, SD8 and SD9, which Local Context promote the use of brownfield land 2.2.12. The most significant way in which the before urban extensions/Areas of Local Plan can meet its own aims Development Restraint (ADR) land, and objectives is in its influence over sustainable rural development, and the location of new development. town centres as foci for key users. The emphasis of Government policy on maximising the use of 2.2.15. Policy SR1 details the housing previously developed land, increasing allocations for this Plan period accessibility to services and facilities, and Policy SR2 the employment encouraging the development of allocations to meet the Structure Plan

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 requirements. Policy SR3 details the of the WCSP (particularly Policies retail allocations for the Plan period. SD5, SD6, SD7, D19, D20 and Development has been directed to D21) and the need to address local the three main towns and maximises employment issues. PDL sites have the use of previously developed been utilised wherever possible, but land. Limited development has been there has been a need to allocate a directed towards the villages. greenfield extension in Evesham at the Vale Business Park. The over- Urban Focus provision in the allocation, against 2.2.16. In terms of meeting the housing WCSP targets, is justified in terms of requirement the Strategy (Policy SR1) WCSP Policy D22. The approach on is based on a sequential approach employment is addressed differently of utilising PDL in accordance with in each town. PPG3 and WCSP Policy SD7. In accordance with the strategy, 2.2.20. Droitwich Spa: There is a significant the majority of residual housing residual employment allocation requirement can be accommodated remaining from the previous Plan at within PDL and greenfield sites within Stonebridge Cross. This will provide identified urban areas. However, in both prestige greenfield employment order to meet the revised housing land for B1 and more general B2 and land supply it is necessary to identify a B8 space (under the Use Classes significant greenfield urban extension Order). Brownfield sites in the central at Evesham. area – mostly in mixed-use sites – will provide additional B1 space, while 2.2.17. Wychavon is a predominantly rural edge-of-centre brownfield sites will District having three market towns, provide general employment land. but with over half the population This level of allocated provision is dispersed across the remaining 90 supplemented by existing vacancies villages and hamlets. The proportions on established estates in the of the housing requirement allocated town. The predominance of B1 between the towns and the villages Space in the allocations meets the reflect the need to: District’s economic development • address issues of sustainability ambitions to address an apparent and PPG3 requirements; mismatch between extensive areas of white-collar housing – often • accommodate a proportion of serving the needs of commuters ‘external’ need (migration); and – and established employment areas • address the issue of rural offering predominantly blue-collar regeneration including the work. Thus, in terms of WCSP Policy provision of affordable housing. D22, allocations in Droitwich Spa are addressing a balanced portfolio and 2.2.18. This approach is based on the balancing employment with housing assumptions that windfall housing growth. cannot sufficiently address issues of local need and that occupancy 2.2.21. Evesham: The employment allocation conditions on unrestricted market through the previous Plan has now housing cannot be imposed. been built out. In addition to the need to provide for new residential 2.2.19. The employment allocations of this development, greenfield employment Local Plan (Policy SR2) have been allocations are required to address: directed primarily to the three main • restructuring of the local economy towns, having regard to the strategy

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 as a result of over-reliance on the Policy D22, allocations in Pershore agricultural sector; are addressing a balanced portfolio, • opportunities, due to the and are ensuring a continuing supply presence of broadband, to of readily available land. develop an IT-related base, centred on strong indigenous 2.2.24. The strategy of the Plan is justified in growth in this field; terms of PPS6, PPG13 and WCSP • the need to accommodate Policy SD9 in its support for town relocation of local businesses that centres and retailing. Brownfield either are poorly sited or have housing, employment and mixed-use outgrown their current sites; and sites are identified in all three town centres under Policies SR1, SR2, SR3 • the opportunity to develop land and SR4. The retail element of this as a relocation site for fruit and Strategy is based on the ‘Wychavon vegetable hauliers, currently Retail Study’ (2001) that identified a unsuitably located in relation need to improve the scale and variety to both their own operational of retail provision in Droitwich Spa and needs and the impact of their Evesham. Retail sites are allocated traffic generation on the local under Policy SR3 in the central area of environment and communities. Evesham, the allocation in Drotiwich Spa having been built out. No such 2.2.22. One edge-of-centre mixed-use need was identified in Pershore. brownfield site is allocated for B1 use – although it is likely that other Rural Regeneration windfall opportunities will arise within the fabric of the town. Thus, in terms 2.2.25. The pre-deposit consultation of WCSP Policy D22, allocations in exercises prior to the production Evesham are addressing a balanced of this Plan highlighted a common portfolio, balancing new housing concern that the rural parts of the growth and ensuring a continuing District were stagnating. Concern supply of readily available land. was expressed about the need to sustain rural areas and the need to improve access to services and 2.2.23. Pershore: The employment allocation through the previous Plan is now built local housing and employment out. A revised commitment at nearby opportunities. Many villagers also Throckmorton Airfield is brought expressed concern at the loss of local forward from the previous Plan and facilities such as shops, post offices reviewed in order to incorporate the and schools. The Council has made full extent of the core of the existing a positive decision to address these built-up area (Policy ECON10). This concerns. As a result, this Plan seeks is well located in relation to Pershore’s to establish a rural regeneration existing industry, its railway station strategy through a combined policy- and a potential link to the Wyre Piddle led approach including the promotion Bypass. It offers an opportunity of limited housing and employment for high-technology employment, development in selected villages. related to objectives in the RSS for the Birmingham-Worcestershire 2.2.26. This approach is sanctioned in Central Technology Belt, which national planning advice: makes effective use of a brownfield • PPG3 (Housing) states that there site. Additionally, centrally located should be adequate housing brownfield sites are identified for B1 provision in rural areas to meet mixed uses. Thus, in terms of WCSP the needs of local people.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 • PPS7 (Sustainable Development 2.2.30. The Local Plan also provides for the in Rural Areas) states that new provision of new and the protection of housing will continue to be existing, community facilities through required in rural areas to sustain Policy COM11 and open space healthy economic activity and the through Policy COM12. viability of village communities. • PPG13 (Transport) refers to 2.3. General Development Policies the suitability of villages to take 2.3.1. Policy GD1, Policy GD2 and Policy additional development where GD3 establish a set of basic controls they will enable access to a range applicable to all applications for of services. development to ensure that their broad location is in line with national 2.2.27. The rural regeneration strategy will objectives and that development can be implemented through Policy be reasonably accommodated. SR1; Policy COM1; Policy COM2; Policy COM3; Policy ECON1; and Policy ECON6. These Policies GD1 LOCATION STRATEGY FOR NEW focus particularly on the social and DEVELOPMENT economic objectives of sustainable development outlined in PPS1. Most new development to 2011 will be accommodated within the main built-up 2.2.28. No major employment allocations areas of Droitwich Spa, Evesham and have been made in the rural areas. Pershore, with some in the villages; in all The rural employment strategy cases it will be within defined development consists of: boundaries and/or on allocated sites. • strategic allocations in the market towns acting as a focus for their At the three towns, sequential preference rural hinterlands (Policy SR3); will be given first, to the re-use of • protection of existing employment previously developed land and buildings; land (Policy ECON1); and second, to urban greenfield land that has • opportunities for brownfield and no significant recreational, amenity or edge-of-settlement development visual value as open space; and third (Policy GD1 and Policy ECON6). (but only at Evesham, if required to meet strategic development needs), to land 2.2.29. Villages with housing allocations adjacent to the development boundary. have been selected on the basis of the methodology set out in Annexe No new development is proposed 1. The main objective is to address anywhere in the defined Green Belt. the concern raised through the pre-deposit consultation exercises Proposals for major shopping, relating to rural regeneration aims. commercial, leisure, sports or recreational It is considered that the best way to facilities should follow a sequential achieve this is to locate development approach in which town centre locations in villages with access to a primary are preferred first, edge-of-centre school and public transport facilities. locations second and out-of-centre The type, size and design of any locations last. new housing in the villages will be controlled by specific policies in this All other development proposals outside Plan and possibly through the use of these areas will only be permitted where Supplementary Planning Documents they accord with a specific policy or (SPD) involving further consultations. proposal in this Plan.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 2.3.2. The strategy of this Plan aims to 2.3.5. Development boundaries for the concentrate and accommodate most villages have been defined having development within the existing regard to their size, character and towns and settlements in the District form. Whilst they relate to the main to further sustainability objectives, built-up area of a settlement, they including reducing the need to travel have been drawn to reflect where new and making best use of existing development, through infilling or minor infrastructure and the long-standing consolidation, would be appropriate as national policy of safeguarding the opposed to defining what constitutes countryside for its own sake. a settlement. This may often differ from the local perception of what 2.3.3. Policies in the Local Plan seek to constitutes a settlement, which could rigorously control development in include isolated groups of houses the countryside, outside defined away from the main built-up area. In development boundaries, to general, the boundaries of villages development that generally requires have been tightly drawn to respect their a countryside location or that is character in terms of size and form. appropriate in the countryside. Within Wherever possible, the development towns and settlements a sequential limits should follow physical features approach to identifying development that can be easily defined on the needs is established, requiring ground. Long back gardens have brownfield sites to be developed been excluded where the potential prior to greenfield sites. Only when for development will have an adverse a search of these areas is exhausted impact on its surroundings. Farm will greenfield sites be considered buildings on the edges of villages beyond, but adjacent to, development have also been excluded in order to boundaries. This is well established facilitate the accommodation of local in national, regional and strategic employment facilities. policy. The sequential approach has been used in the identification of sites allocated for various uses, as part of GD2 GENERAL DEVELOPMENT the development strategy of the Plan CONTROL and will be addressed in consideration of development proposals that come All development proposals should follow forward through the life of the Plan. the principles of sustainable development as set out in national, regional and 2.3.4. Development boundaries under Policy structure plan policy. GD1, have been placed around towns and around some rural settlements Proposals for development that are also in order to identify locations where in accordance with Policy GD1 (Location development is acceptable in principle. Strategy) will be permitted where they PPG3 states that infill development in would not have an adverse effect (where rural settlements can be acceptable, relevant) on any of the following: but goes on to say that where there is a) the character or appearance of to be ‘significant’ additional housing, the building, the surrounding support services are required. Many built environment, or the rural of the rural settlements identified landscape; under Policy GD1 have access to a limited level of service provision, b) public and private amenity, health which makes them suitable for limited and safety; infill development only.

10 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 c) the efficient operation of 2.3.7. It is important that development caters surrounding land uses; for its own impact(s) by providing infrastructure, community facilities d) environmental and cultural heritage and other elements, including resources, nature conservation, maintenance contributions, which are and public rights of way; necessary to maintain and enhance e) the efficient operation of the the quality of life of residents and the transport network; and environment. Planning obligations f) the capacity of existing or are legal agreements, between a proposed utility services and developer and the Council, which social infrastructure to support the ensure that the development of land development. contributes to the aims of the Plan and Community Plan. Relevant criteria in assessing development proposals will normally 2.3.8. Obligations may seek provision or include access and transport contributions for necessary service arrangements, layout and design, the infrastructure proportionate to the type and intensity of proposed uses, any development. This could include cumulative impacts, and any proposed transportation, housing, regeneration, mitigating measures. education, health, liveability and public open space, recreation and 2.3.6. Policy GD2 provides a set of criteria other community benefits. They may against which all development in the also be used to restrict the use of land District must comply before planning to specified uses. Obligations usually permission is granted. As the Plan take the form of a legal agreement is to be read as a whole, there is no and are crucial to achieving the requirement to repeat these criteria objectives of the Plan. In negotiating within other Plan policies. Policy GD2 with a developer, the Council will seek aims to ensure that development is to ensure that a planning obligation carried out without reducing the quality satisfies all the tests set out in of life of residents of the District and Government guidance ODPM Circular without undermining the quality of the 05/2005 ‘Planning Obligations’. District’s environment. Development proposals will be assessed in terms of 2.3.9. The Council’s policy on developer both their individual impact and their contributions is set out in more detail impact when considered cumulatively in Supplementary Planning Guidance with the activities of other uses (SPG) ‘Developer Contributions affecting the area - whether permitted, Towards Service Infrastructure’ established or otherwise tolerated. (2003). The document sets out the obligations likely to be sought including education, health, housing, leisure, GD3 PLANNING OBLIGATIONS public open space, transportation, and other community benefits. Planning obligations will be sought to ensure that development proposals: a) meet the objectives of sustainable development, and of the Plan strategy; and b) can be accommodated with acceptable impacts on the community and the environment.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 11 2.4. Strategic Requirements 2.4.3. The 7450 figure is the total housing requirement for the Plan period 1996– Housing 2011. Between 1996 and 2005, 5241 2.4.1. The Worcestershire County Structure dwellings had been constructed and Plan 1996–2011 (WCSP) has at 1 April 2005, 721 dwellings either provided the strategic framework for have been allocated for development establishing the amount of housing as part of the previous Local Plan and employment land to be provided and have not come forward (Table in Wychavon during the Plan period. 2 (see opposite)), or were granted The Local Plan provides more detailed planning permission. This then leaves Policies and identifies site-specific a requirement of 1488 dwellings to be proposals to meet the housing and provided from 1 April 2005 until 31 employment requirements. March 2011. Land will therefore need to be provided to meet this supply 2.4.2. The residual figure for allocations target. differs slightly from that shown in WCSP Policy D4, as the figures have 2.4.4. The balance of 1488 dwellings will be been updated using the Housing Land met through windfall sites, and new Availability information as at 1 April allocations. Windfall sites represent 2005 (Table 1 (see below)). In addition, those sites coming forward that an allocation for 44 dwellings has been have not been previously identified omitted from this Plan on the basis and usually consist of development that there is no reasonable likelihood on infill sites, disused land or sites of it coming forward. An allocation currently in non-agricultural use that for nine dwellings at Himbleton has become vacant. Windfall sites have been omitted on the basis that it has a major role to play in the supply of been accommodated by a change to adequate housing to meet the needs the village development boundary. of the District. The Council is allowing The previously allocated sites shown for the provision of 635 dwellings in Table 2 have been reassessed in to come forward as windfalls. This conjunction with WCSP Policy D4 and figure has been calculated using an PPG3 and are considered acceptable average of the 1996–2005 annual to carry forward into this Plan period. completed windfalls (the methodology for Wychavon adopted in the WCSP), which comes to 127.

Table 1 Wychavon Housing Requirements for 1996 - 2011 @ 1.4.2005

Structure Plan requirements 1996-2011 7450 Completions @ 1.4.2005 5241 Commitments, permissions and previously allocated sites @ 1.4.2005 721

Balance to be provided from 1.4.2005 to 31.3.2011 1488

Windfall allowance 2005-2011 635 Residual balance to be met through new allocations 853

NB: Commitments have been discounted 4% in line with the Local Plan Inquiry Inspector’s recommendation

12 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Table 2 Previously Allocated Housing Sites Carried Forward @ 1.4.2005

Approx No. Approx No. Town/ Total No. Site of Market of Affordable Village of Units Units Units

St Giles Road Bredon 14 6 20

Orchard, Highfield Road Evesham 7 3 10

South of the Racks Ombersley 14 6 20

Total: 50

2.4.5. The total residual balance of the 2.4.7. The Council will prepare development 853 dwellings to be met through briefs for the larger and/or more new allocations is approximately complex sites allocated in Policy SR1 380. This results in an over-supply prior to the commencement of building of approximately 130 dwellings. works, in order to establish guidelines However, the Public Local Inquiry for the nature and form of proposals. Inspector recommended that the It must be stressed that the number of housing requirement should meet units provided are approximations only a shortfall of approximately 400 – exact figures will be determined as dwellings (comprising a figure of 150 part of a consideration of each site’s additional dwellings, which has been special characteristics in relation to added over and above the WCSP density and a design-led approach to figure). Thus, the further increase in development. the housing figure is part delivered through the inclusion of a greenfield urban extension at Evesham and reinstating three previously allocated sites from the First Deposit Local Plan. This is provided through Policy SR1 on Housing Land Supply (see page 14).

2.4.6. The housing allocations have been assessed with regard to their compliance with the spatial strategy, as well as having regard to their impact on the appearance and character of the surrounding area. All the urban sites have been subject of an ‘Urban Capacity Study’ (UCS) and market testing undertaken by consultants in 2002. They are developable within the Plan period. Policy SR1 must be read in conjunction with Policies on mixed use, density, design, planning obligations, affordable housing and phasing.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 13 SR1 HOUSING LAND SUPPLY

Sufficient land will be provided in the District to enable the construction of 7450 dwellings between April 1996 and March 2011. The residual element of this requirement will be met through windfall housing and allocations. The allocations will comprise the following sites:

Site Town/Village Approx No. Approx No. of Units of Affordable Housing Units

1. Previously Developed Sites

Canal Basin Project (mixed use) Droitwich Spa 80 24

Willow Court, Westwood Rd Droitwich Spa 24 7

Land Rover Garage, Hanbury Rd Droitwich Spa 70 21

Former Gas Depot, Common Rd Evesham 20 6 (mixed use)

Inland Revenue, Burford Rd Evesham 10 3

Land rear of Lime St / Northwick Rd Evesham 50 15

Evesham United FC, Common Rd Evesham 75 22

Children’s Home, Peewit Rd Evesham 30 9

Health Centre, Lower Priest Lane Pershore 15 4

Garage Court, St Andrews Rd Pershore 10 3

Garage Court, Abbots Rd Pershore 13 4

Garage Court, Mill Lane Pershore 14 4

Land rear of High St (mixed use) Pershore 40 12

Garage, High St (mixed use) Pershore 34 10

Total: 485 144

2. Sites included through the Local Plan Inquiry

Land off Badsey Rd Evesham 300 90

Badsey Fields Lane Badsey 20 6

Ivy Lane Bretforton 20 6

Leys Road Harvington 20 6

Tewkesbury Road Eckington 20 6

Total: 380 114

14 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 3. Urban Greenfield Sites

Nursery, Bewdley Lane/Blind Lane Evesham 40 12 (mixed use)

Orchard, Coopers Lane Evesham 47 14

Total: 87 26

4. Villages

Adj School, High St Inkberrow 20 6 (GF)

Moreton House Fernhill Heath 20 6 (PDL)

Total: 40 12

Total Residual Allocations: 992 296

KEY: PDL = Previously Developed Land; GF = Greenfield Land

Employment 2.4.8. The WCSP has provided the strategic 2.4.9. The 110 ha figure is the total framework for establishing the amount employment requirement for the Plan of employment land to be provided in period 1996 - 2011. Between 1996 Wychavon during the Plan period. and 2005, 48.23 ha of employment The Local Plan provides more detailed land had been developed and at policies and identifies site-specific 1 April 2005, 42.73 ha either had proposals to meet the employment been granted planning permission or requirements. was under construction. This then leaves a requirement of 19.04 ha to be provided from 1 April 2005 until 31 March 2011 (Table 3). Land will, therefore, need to be provided to meet this supply.

Table 3

Wychavon Employment Land Supply Requirement (ha) for 1996 – 2011 @ 1.4.2005

Structure Plan requirement 1996 – 2011 110.00 ha

Completions @ 1.4.2005 48.23 ha

Permissions, previously allocated sites and sites under construction 42.73 ha @ 1.4.2005

Balance to be provided from 1.4.2005 – 31.3.2011 19.04 ha

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 15 2.4.10. The balance of 19.04 ha will be met through specifically allocated sites. Additionally, there is a need to address specific employment issues (para. 2.2.19 – 2.2.22) through specific allocations that take the overall allocation in Policy SR2 to a level in excess of the residual requirement. This is justified in terms of WCSP Policy D22.

2.4.11. Policy SR2 identifies that element of the District’s employment land supply and sites to be allocated during the Plan period. Existing sites are identified and/or protected through Policy ECON1. Together, these sites cater for a range of uses of varying sizes, are geographically well spread throughout the District with many well located in relation to the towns. They are generally well used and successful, and are significant sources of local employment. For these reasons the Plan will protect this range of sites to meet the requirements of existing and future businesses.

2.4.12. The amount of new land to be provided for employment is set out in the WCSP. It indicates that about 110 ha should be accommodated in the District between 1996 and 2011. Taking account of completions, planning permissions and allocations at 1 April 2005, the residual figure is 19.04 ha. The allocations are justified in terms of the strategy in Section 2.2.

16 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 SR2 EMPLOYMENT LAND SUPPLY

Sufficient land will be provided in the District to enable the construction of110 hectares of employment land in B1, B2 and B8 uses between April 1996 and March 2011. The residual element of this requirement plus additional land to meet specific employment needs will be met through allocations. The allocations will comprise the following sites identified on the Proposals Map:

Site Town Use Approx Area

1. Previously Developed Sites

Nuway Droitwich Spa B1, B2, B8 1.03 ha

Coal Yard Droitwich Spa B1, B2, B8 1.09 ha

Canal Basin Project Droitwich Spa Mixed use – B1 0.25 ha

Former Gas Depot Evesham Mixed use – B1 0.05 ha

Garage, High Street Pershore Mixed use – B1 0.16 ha

Land rear of High Street Pershore Mixed use – B1 0.10 ha

Health Centre, Lower Priest Pershore Mixed use – B1 0.05 ha Lane

Total: 2.73 ha

2. Urban Extension

Vale Park Evesham B1, B2, B8 15.25 ha

Vale Park Evesham Restricted B8 4.00 ha

Total: 19.25 ha

Total Allocations: 21.98 ha

Throckmorton Airfield (see ECON10) Pershore Hi-Tech 10.00 ha

All sites identified under parts 1 and 2 will be retained for employment use throughout the Plan period unless proposals comply with the provisions of Policy ECON1 (Employment Land).

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 17 Retail and a high anticipated growth in comparison goods expenditure SR3 RETAIL ALLOCATIONS IN TOWN means that the preferred retail use CENTRES will be for non-food. Policy SR3 will be reviewed regularly as the retail market The following town centre sites are will continue to change/evolve, for allocated for retail use and are identified example, potential increase in home on the Proposals Map: deliveries, shopping via the Internet, and this will determine the demand a) Avon Street/High Street, Evesham for floor space both qualitatively and – comparison goods (non-food); quantitatively. and b) Bridge Street / Cowl Street / High Mixed Uses Street / Oat Street, Evesham – comparison goods (non-food). SR4 MIXED USES

2.4.13. National and strategic guidance The following sites are allocated for mixed establishes a sequential approach uses and identified on the Proposals to the search for retail sites that Map: concentrates on town centres as • Canal Basin, Droitwich Spa; the priority. The next level of the sequence is edge-of-centre sites, • Former Gas Depot and adjoining followed by out-of-centre sites and, land, Common Road, Evesham; finally, out-of-town sites. Each level is • Abbey Road Depot, Evesham defined in PPS6 (Planning for Town (excludes residential Centres). The strategy of this Plan development); is to focus retail development within • Nursery, Bewdley/Blind Lane, town centres and to support local and Evesham; neighbourhood facilities. • Garage, High Street, Pershore; • Land rear of High Street, 2.4.14. The ‘Wychavon Retail Study’ (2001) Pershore; shows that the District’s town centres are vulnerable because their viability Allocated mixed-use schemes that and vitality could easily be reduced include residential allocations are also by the planned improvements to the listed in Policy SR1. Other proposals for retail offer in competing higher-order mixed-use developments within defined centres, in particular Cheltenham and development boundaries will normally be Worcester. In order to retain more permitted where they: local expenditure, Wychavon’s town centres need to improve their retail a) contribute to the vitality and offer. The Retail Study identified three viability of settlements; and sites specifically for retail use which it b) present a compatible mix of uses. is hoped will improve retailer demand, particularly from multiples as they normally help to underpin the retail 2.4.16. PPG3 states that “…Local Authorities function of town centres. should promote developments which combine a mix of land uses, 2.4.15. In Droitwich Spa, the retail allocation including housing, either on a site has been built out. In Evesham, or within individual buildings…”. It there is a high degree of retention argues that this is important not only of convenience goods expenditure to accommodate new households but also to bring new life into our towns.

18 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 The Council supports this aim and 2.4.21. To pursue this aim the Council considers that such developments can will rigorously apply its transport contribute to other planning objectives, policies in addition to promoting and including the need to produce balanced supporting initiatives, in particular communities, reducing the need Safer Routes to School, set out in the to travel and improving community Worcestershire ‘Local Transport Plan safety. Furthermore, it considers 2006 – 2011’ (LTP). that the benefits of mixed uses can apply equally to villages and, in some 2.4.22. The location of new development can circumstances, to proposals that influence the need to travel, though include mixes other than housing. not necessarily the demand to travel. The Local Plan, in recognising the 2.4.17. The allocation at Abbey Road Bus need to integrate transport and land Depot, Evesham is not considered use, has allocated future growth suitable for residential use. In addition principally in the three towns and, to a to the sites allocated in Policy SR4, lesser extent, in the more sustainable the Council will normally permit villages. The allocations have, mixed-use development schemes in wherever possible, utilised previously other locations that comply with the developed land in order to conserve locational and development control greenfield land. By concentrating policies of this Plan. In particular, the development in the more sustainable Council will consider the opportunities locations there is an opportunity for residential uses on the upper floors to reduce the need to travel by car, of the Evesham retail allocation sites, create a more efficient public transport in accordance with Policy SR3. system and improve accessibility for the whole community. 2.4.18. All proposals will need to demonstrate that the mix of uses is appropriate in 2.4.23 The Government, through various combination, having regard to their publications, most notably PPG13, the likely impacts on one another and their Integrated Transport White Paper ‘A respective operational and amenity New Deal for Transport’ and ‘Transport requirements. 2010 – The Ten Year Plan’ (2000), has set out its transport priorities, 2.4.19 Mixed uses may be appropriate including reducing congestion, better on other developments where integration and a genuine wider ancillary uses can support the main choice of quicker, safer, more reliable proposed use. Therefore, it may be travel on road, rail and other public appropriate to include community or services. Despite the welcome and neighbourhood shopping facilities on long-awaited focus on integrated a major residential site, or crèche or policies and significant increases to café facilities on a major industrial investment in transport infrastructure, site. road traffic levels continue to rise with a 1.5% increase between 2005/2006 Transport (Department of Transport 2006), 2.4.20. The Council’s overall aim with regard whilst the UK remains the most to transport is: car-dominated society in Europe. Traffic growth in Worcestershire has, to minimise the need to travel by historically, mirrored national traffic car, and to improve accessibility to growth and a 32% growth in road everyday facilities for all. traffic volume is predicted for the period 1996 – 2010.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 19 2.4.24. The Road Traffic Reduction Act 1997 2.4.28. The Council will continue to work requires Local Authorities to meet traffic with the County Council to secure reduction targets. Whilst recognising improved public transport services. that new development is but a small New development is being directed to percentage of total development areas where access by public transport the Council will vigorously apply could be feasible, so developers are its transport Policies in order to expected to contribute to schemes meet LTP targets. The Council will that could improve accessibility by continue to work with the County this mode. Council and other organisations, in particular SUSTRANS and with the Highways Agency to achieve the LTP SR5 MINIMISING CAR DEPENDENCY objectives. Development proposals that are likely to 2.4.25. In determining planning applications generate significant traffic movements the Council will adhere to the following must be supported by thorough movement hierarchy of users: Transport Assessments. These should a) pedestrians; demonstrate that all transport impacts have been analysed, and can be mitigated b) people with mobility difficulties; particularly by maximising safe access to c) cyclists; the site on foot, on cycles, and by public d) public transport and taxis; transport. e) powered two wheelers; f) commercial/business users; Proposals may include: g) car-borne shoppers; a) the provision of direct, easy and h) coach-borne visitors; safe access to existing/proposed pedestrian, cycle and public i) car-borne commuters and visitors. transport routes;

2.4.26. In order to reduce car usage, genuine b) on-site and off-site highways safety transport alternatives need to be measures that encourage walking, provided that will require continued cycling and public transport; and increases in investment and even then c) new public transport services attitudes to travel may only change in or improvements to existing the long-term. services.

2.4.27. Although there is a high level of car 2.4.29. The car continues to be the dominant ownership in the District relative to mode of transport and makes up other rural areas, there are still a 60% of all trips under 2 miles/3.5 significant number of residents who do km (National Travel Survey, 2006), not have access to a car. Improving a distance that could be made on public transport infrastructure and foot or by cycle if conditions were services can improve accessibility more favourable. The 2001 Census for these people and, in some cases, shows a continuing decline in these where services are frequent and modes of transport with detrimental regular, provide an alternative to using consequences for the environment the car. Improving the connectivity and public health. New infrastructure between bus and rail services can and/or highway safety improvements also attract passengers who would can make cycling and walking more otherwise have used a car. realistic alternatives to the car. In order to pursue Road Traffic Reduction Act

20 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 1997 targets, the Council will continue outputs and will be monitored to to work with the County Council and ensure that the agreed targets are other organisations in order to meet met. In order to help achieve this, the aims, objectives and targets the Council will require developers to set out in the LTP and the National enter into a Section 106 Agreement Cycling Strategy and the Walking that stipulates agreed travel targets, Strategy. Development proposals based on the needs of the locality. must, therefore, demonstrate that movement within the site and site 2.4.34. Proposals that could have a material access is favourable to pedestrians impact on the safety or efficient and cyclists. operation of the trunk road network will need to be submitted with a 2.4.30. The locational strategy of the Local Transport Assessment to include the Plan is designed to minimise the need identification of developer-funded to travel and minimise car use by mitigation works. directing development sequentially to Wychavon’s main towns and villages, where there are higher levels of SR6 SAFEGUARDED LAND FOR service provision and transport TRANSPORT INFRASTRUCTURE alternatives. To supplement this, Policy SR5 is intended to mitigate the The following specific sites, as shown on transport impact of new development. the Proposals Map, will be safeguarded for Transport Assessments, advocated potential improvements to the District’s in PPG13 and in the RSS, are more transport infrastructure. comprehensive than the former Traffic Railway Schemes: Impact Assessments and aim to a) Worcestershire Parkway Station; determine the overall transport impact b) Cotswolds and Malverns Line; of new developments and whether these can be reduced to an acceptable County Road Scheme: level by introducing various measures c) Keytec Industrial Park to Wyre to improve access by cycling, walking Piddle By-pass; and public transport. Cycling/Riding/Walking Schemes: d) Hartlebury to Stourport-on- 2.4.31. A Travel Plan is a method by which Severn; organisations can evaluate the transport needs of their employees Canal Schemes: e) Droitwich Spa Canals; and reduce the need to travel by car by implementing a range of actions. Combined Scheme (Cycling/Walking & By requiring Travel Plans for certain Rail): developments, the Council aims to f) Stratford to Cheltenham (including the satisfy the Government’s requirement former Chord Lines at Honeybourne for Local Authorities to reduce traffic Junction); levels in their areas. General: g) The Council will not permit proposals 2.4.32. The West Midlands Area Multi-Modal that would jeopardise railway- Transport Study (2001) indicated transport-related developments at that the adoption of Travel Plans on railway stations; a major scale is needed in order to h) Proposals that would compromise the change travel behaviour. Council’s cycling and walking network, National Cycle Network Routes 41, 2.4.33. Travel Plans should have measurable 45 and 46, Public Rights of Way or

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 21 Quiet Lanes will not be permitted potential for reopening this route for unless alternative routes can be heavy rail services is low, it still offers provided that are demonstrably better an opportunity for a cycling/riding/ in quality, attractiveness, convenience walking route linking Hartlebury with and safety. Stourport-on-Servern. This would provide an important link to Route 45 Worcestershire Parkway Station (Severn Valley) of the National Cycle Network. 2.4.35. The technical study carried out by Halcrow (2001) shows that there is merit in pursuing a parkway station at Droitwich Spa Canals Norton that would enable a better rail 2.4.39. The opening up of the Droitwich service for passengers travelling on Spa Barge Canal, which runs both the Cotswolds and Malverns Line between the town centre and the and the South-West to North-East River Severn, and the Droitwich Spa Main Line. The Council will continue Junction Canal, which runs between to be represented on and support the the town centre and the Worcester Worcestershire Parkway Steering - Birmingham canal could bring Group in its pursuit of this important major economic, environmental and strategic transportation project. recreational benefits to the area. The redevelopment of the Droitwich Spa Cotswolds and Malverns Line canal basin for mixed uses would also provide a centre of attraction within 2.4.36. Initial studies carried out by Oscar Faber and Halcrow show that walking distance of the town centre. there are positive economic and The Council is committed to the environmental benefits in dualling reopening of this significant resource various sections of this line in order and will continue to work with British to increase capacity. The Council will Waterways, County Council, the continue to be represented on and Droitwich Spa Civic Society, Droitwich support the Cotswolds and Malverns Canals Trust, The Waterways Trust, Line Partnership in its bid to secure Droitwich Spa Town Council and other Rail Passenger Partnership funding interested parties in order to see the for this project. project through.

Keytec Industrial Park to Wyre Stratford to Cheltenham Piddle Bypass (Western Link) 2.4.40. The restoration of the line between Cheltenham and Stratford-upon- 2.4.37. This link could provide some local environmental benefits, particularly for Avon is a long-term project being Pinvin and Wyre Piddle. The scheme pursued, principally, by two private is unlikely to come forward without organisations, the Gloucestershire a substantial developer contribution. and Warwickshire Steam Railway The Council supports the principle of (Plc) and the Stratford and Broadway this scheme, with the proviso that it Railway Society. The former operates does not compromise the strategic trains (light rail) between Toddington Local Plan Policies, and will work with and Cheltenham Racecourse and the County Council in securing it. this service is becoming an important local tourist attraction. Network Rail, in their ‘Network Management Hartlebury to Stourport-on-Severn Statement 2000’, has acknowledged 2.4.38. The Council supports LTP proposed that there is long-term potential for interchange improvements at the line to be incorporated within the Hartlebury Railway Station. Whilst the national rail network for heavy rail.

22 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 2.4.41. The reintroduction of rail services c) (in both instances) are for one or could have positive environmental more of the following purposes: impacts, for example reducing the i) land uses for the purposes of number of vehicles on local roads. agriculture, forestry, outdoor sports and recreation, horse 2.4.42. This route also has the potential, riding, cemeteries and other without prejudicing future rail uses suitable to the rural use or safety considerations, to area and which preserve the accommodate a section of Route 41 openness of land; (Bristol to Stratford-upon-Avon) of the National Cycle Network that could ii) new buildings that meet a generate economic development proven agricultural need or that benefits through increased tourism. are essential for uses outlined under i) above; 2.4.43. The Council will continue to work with iii) small-scale social housing the principal interested parties in order schemes to meet proven local to safeguard the line and achieve a needs that accord with Policy dual use in appropriate places. COM3 (Rural Exceptions Policy); Development near Railway iv) limited infilling within defined Stations development boundaries; 2.4.44. The car parks at the District’s railway stations are at capacity. The lack of v) limited extension or car parking at railway stations has replacement of existing been shown to reduce the demand to buildings in accordance with travel by rail. Also, in order to provide Policy SUR1, Policy SUR6 realistic alternatives to car travel and Policy RES9 (Design, there needs to be local transport Extensions, and Replacement interchange facilities to improve the Buildings); efficiency and effectiveness of public vi) re-use of buildings in transport services. Therefore, the accordance with Policy RES7 Council will scrutinise development and Policy RES8 (Conversion proposals that would reduce the of Existing Buildings); and potential to increase car parking or vii) the limited infilling of the transport interchange projects at identified employment sites in railway stations. accordance with the provisions of PPG2 Annexe C. Strategic Land Protection 2.4.45. Green Belts are perhaps the most well known of planning policy tools used SR7 DEVELOPMENT IN THE GREEN to shape and control urban form and BELT growth. They are areas of open land that are protected from many forms Within the Green Belt, proposals will of development. Areas of Green Belt only be permitted for development where land in the District are found to the they: north of Droitwich Spa and between a) would not detract from the open Droitwich Spa and Worcester. The character of the Green Belt; or former has existed since the 1950s b) would not conflict with the purposes whilst the latter was included as an of including land within it; and extension in 1975. The land forms part of the wider West Midlands Green

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 23 Belt that surrounds the Birmingham such land uses is also an appropriate conurbation and Coventry and serves type of development in the Green Belt. to prevent the unrestricted expansion However, it is still important that the of the conurbation, to prevent the scale, location or design of buildings coalescence of towns and villages or structures does not impair the open around it and to safeguard the character of the Green Belt. countryside from encroachment and to protect historic towns. The Major Developed Site (MDS) in the Green Belt, identified on the Proposals Map 2.4.46. The general extent of the Green Belt at Hartlebury Trading Estate is regarded is outlined in the WCSP, although it as being suitable for redevelopment and is the role of the Local Plan to set environmental improvement under the precise boundaries. The Green Belt provisions of PPG2 Annexe C. boundary is defined on the Proposals Map. Proposals involving the redevelopment of this site should: 2.4.47. The protection of the Green Belt is a) have no greater impact than the an overriding planning consideration existing development on the and there is a presumption against openness of the Green Belt and the inappropriate development within purposes of including land within it. Policy SR7 outlines the types of it, and where possible have less; development considered by national planning guidance PPG2 (Green b) contribute to the achievement Belt) to be appropriate within Green of the objectives for use of land Belts. Appropriate land uses are in Green Belts, set out in Policy those which for the most part would SR7(Development in Green Belt) retain the openness of the Green Belt. and have regard for the provisions Development that is necessary to the of Policy ECON1 (Employment functioning of such land uses is also Land); an appropriate type of development c) not exceed the height of existing in the Green Belt. However, it is still buildings; and important that the scale, location or design of buildings or structures does d) not occupy an area larger than not impair the open character of the the footprint of existing buildings, Green Belt. unless this would achieve a reduction in height, which would benefit visual amenity. SR8 MAJOR DEVELOPED SITE IN THE GREEN BELT – HARTLEBURY 2.4.48 Annexe C of PPG2 provides a TRADING ESTATE framework for dealing with major developed sites in the Green Belt, The protection of the Green Belt is recognising that these sites present an overriding planning consideration opportunities to help secure jobs and and there is a presumption against prosperity without further prejudicing inappropriate development within it. The the Green Belt designation. Policy outlines the types of development considered by national planning guidance 2.4.49. The Council is able to identify such (PPG2) to be appropriate within Green sites and include policies in the Belts. Appropriate land uses are those adopted Local Plan to enable the site’s which for the most part would retain the redevelopment or infilling. Proposals openness of the Green Belt. Development should: that is necessary to the functioning of • have no greater impact on the

24 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Green Belt than the existing urban area and the Green Belt, which development; may be required to meet longer-term • contribute to the achievement of development needs. The previous objectives for the use of land in Local Plan identified a number of Green Belts; areas of safeguarded land or Areas of • not exceed the height of existing Development Restraint (ADR) for this buildings; and purpose. • not occupy a larger area of the 2.4.52. ADR are identified at Droitwich site than any existing buildings. Spa, Fernhill Heath, Wychbold and Hartlebury. The Hartlebury Industrial Estate is considered suitable for identification 2.4.53. Droitwich ADR comprises a large as a Major Developed Site in the greenfield site to the south of the Green Belt. main built-up area of the town and a smaller area directly to the south-east 2.4.50. When applying Policy SR8, regard of the urban area. Both ADR sites should be given to Policy ECON1 of would comply with WCSP Policy SD4, the Local Plan and Inset Map 96 that which seeks access to development defines the development footprint. by different modes to minimise the Reference in the Policy to “footprint need to travel. Both ADR sites are of existing building” shall relate to also considered to comply with WCSP the aggregate ground floor area Policy SD5, which aims to achieve of the existing buildings, excluding balanced communities. temporary buildings, and open spaces with direct external access between 2.4.54. Fernhill Heath, Hartlebury and sections of a building. Wychbold have been rated as ‘very high’ or ‘high’ in the Village Accessibility Index, with good bus services and SR9 AREAS OF DEVELOPMENT a range of existing local facilities. RESTRAINT The ADR sites are considered to be those where new development would Areas of Development Restraint (ADR) contribute to minimising the need are shown on the Proposals Map. Land to travel and achieving balanced identified as an ADR will be safeguarded communities. and will not be released unless and until it is required for development in a future 2.4.55. The existing ADR land has been review of the Local Plan. retained for this Plan period to meet possible longer-term development 2.4.51. Planning guidance states that the needs beyond 2011. essential character of Green Belts is their permanence and that their 2.4.56. The development strategy of this protection must be maintained as far Local Plan does not require greenfield as can be seen ahead. In other words, land releases around Droitwich Spa the guidance requires that Green Belt to accommodate development within boundaries should be related to a the period up to 2011. As a result, the time-scale which is longer than that existing Green Belt boundary remains normally used for other aspects of the unchanged in this Plan and the ADR Plan. To achieve this and to ensure land will be retained and will not be the protection of the Green Belt for the used to accommodate development longer term, the guidance advocates unless, and until it is required to do so the safeguarding of land between the

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 25 in a future review of the housing need development. However, there may within LDF. be circumstances that permit minor development proposals, in particular the reasonable and limited needs for SR10 STRATEGIC GAPS the expansion of an existing business or businesses, without harm to the In order to protect their setting and purpose, function or character of a prevent the coalescence of settlements, Strategic Gap. land within the defined Strategic Gaps, as shown on the Proposals Map, will be kept 2.4.59. A brief description of each Strategic open and essentially free of development. Gap is listed at Appendix 4. A robust Minor development proposals may, review of each separate Strategic Gap however, be permitted if they do no will be undertaken by the Council, harm, individually or cumulatively, to the which is identified in the adopted function and purposes of a Strategic Gap, Local Development Scheme (LDS). or to its open character.

2.4.57. There are a number of areas of land within the District that fall outside the Green Belt and yet serve as important open areas of land between areas of built development. Strategic Gaps are identified on the Proposals Map and are areas of land that prevent the coalescence of settlements or that separate distinct areas of development within or around a settlement and form part of its character. These are sensitive areas that should be kept open and free from development.

2.4.58. PPS7 and the 2000 Rural White Paper recognise the need to protect the countryside from the increasing pressure for development and to prevent urban sprawl. Strategic Gaps have been designated in a number of areas around the District which fall outside the Green Belt but are important open areas of land between built-up areas. The purpose of the Strategic Gaps identified on the Proposals Map are to protect the setting and separate identity of settlements to avoid coalescence, to retain the existing settlement pattern by maintaining the openness of the land and/or to retain the physical and psychological benefits of having open land near to where people live. These are, therefore, sensitive areas that should be kept essentially free from

26 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Prudent Use of Resources 3

Section 3 Prudent Use Of Resources

3.1. Introduction 3.1.4. Our cultural heritage and wildlife forms a valuable asset within the 3.1.1. Many of the policies within the Plan District adding to its diversity as well involve the use of a resource or as part of the national resource. impact upon it, and it is important to Listed buildings, for example, are ensure that development proposals a finite resource which if lost would pay due attention to the sustainability have a significant impact both locally of resources. This section should, and nationally. Policies to cover their therefore, not be read in isolation protection are covered in Section 4 - from the other policies of the Plan. In Protecting the Environment. providing for the development needs of the District, it is important that care is taken to conserve and protect 3.2. Conserving Natural Resources valuable resources. The focus of PPG3 (Housing) on the re-use of RES1 AGRICULTURAL LAND previously developed land and on PROTECTION making the best use of existing stock recognises the value of protecting our Development involving the significant countryside and greenfield sites from loss of the best and most versatile development. agricultural land (grades 1, 2 and 3a) will only be permitted if the need for the 3.1.2. Focusing development within the development outweighs the agricultural main towns, which support a greater considerations and where either: range of facilities/services and a) sufficient suitable alternative land which have better access to public of a lower grade (grades 3b, 4, transport, will help to reduce the need and 5) is either unavailable or to travel and minimise car journeys. significantly less sustainable; or It is not just where we build that is important but the way in which we b) available lower grade land has an build. Good design that is based on environmental value recognised adaptable building design, the re- by a wildlife, landscape, historic or use of materials and incorporates archaeological designation. energy efficient methods means that resources can be conserved with the 3.2.1. National planning guidance states additional benefit of savings in energy that Local Planning Authorities consumption. should assess the opportunities for developing brownfield sites first, 3.1.3. There are many ways in which the before greenfield. However if the Council can make the best use of stock development of agricultural land is including promoting the conversion unavoidable, then PPS7 (Sustainable of upper floors to residential or Development in Rural Areas) employment use where appropriate requires that poorer quality land (i.e. and the re-use of empty homes as grades 3b, 4 and 5 Agricultural Land detailed in its Housing Strategy. It will Classification) is used in preference also favourably consider the use of to that of higher-quality. The latter houses for multiple occupation where is referred to as the best and most proposals comply with Policy GD2. versatile agricultural land that should be protected as a national resource.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 27 3.2.2. The best and most versatile use of renewable energy is generally agricultural land should only be supported as a means of increasing developed exceptionally where the the diversity and security of supply overriding need for the development and of reducing harmful emissions outweighs the agricultural to the environment. Renewable considerations and where there is a energy schemes can also play a lack of suitable lower-quality land; the role in developing regeneration and use of lower grade land is outweighed diversification schemes. There are by sustainability considerations; a number of potential sources of or the lower-quality land has an renewable energy including: environmental value recognised by • solar; a designation, for example: Area of • bio gas; Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) • Sites of Special Scientific Interest energy crops; and (SSSI). • wind power.

3.2.5. Other developing sources include RES2 RENEWABLE ENERGY FACILITIES photovoltaics, which is the conversion of light into electrical energy. The Proposals for renewable energy schemes incineration of waste from energy will be permitted where the applicant recovery is not considered to be a can demonstrate that the proposal form of renewable energy as it does would contribute nationally or locally not occur naturally and repeatedly in to energy needs and where it would not the environment. have an adverse impact on the local environment. 3.2.6. Renewable energy generation often requires large structures to collect Proposals will be required to demonstrate, and harness the energy and since through careful location, siting, layout and most sites proposed would usually be design, that any adverse impacts have in rural areas, they will almost always been assessed and can be addressed have some local environmental effects. through an approved programme of The wider environmental benefits mitigation measures. associated with such schemes will be carefully weighed against the 3.2.3. PPS22 (Renewable Energy) sets out continued commitment to protect the Government’s policy on developing the environment. Proposals within renewable energy sources where or adjacent to the Cotswolds AONB they are both economically attractive will be subject to careful scrutiny due and environmentally acceptable. to the character and quality of the The term renewable energy is used landscape, and in the Green Belt no to cover those energy flows that development will be permitted that occur naturally and repeatedly in the would be likely to adversely effect its environment – energy from the sun, purpose. the wind, the oceans, and the fall of water. 3.2.7. Where the use of solar panels by householders requires planning 3.2.4. The Government’s target is to meet permission, applications associated 20% of UK electricity requirements with listed buildings or those within using renewable energy by 2020, a Conservation Area will not be subject to the costs on consumers permitted where they would have being acceptable (The Energy an adverse impact on the character Challenge, 2006). The increased or setting. This is in keeping with

28 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 policies set out under Protecting the 3.2.11. A condition will be attached to Environment. all permissions requiring any structures to be removed and the 3.2.8. The growing of energy crops is site restored following permanent dean agricultural or forestry practice commissioning of the turbine. and does not need planning permission. However, permission will be required for any buildings RES3 MINIMISING WASTE or plant machinery associated with the activity. Where possible, these Detailed or reserved matters applications should be accommodated through for new development, building or the conversion of an existing building other operations will be required to or where this is not possible, any new demonstrate: building should be in keeping with the a) how waste and waste materials area and should not detract from the generated by the development and character of the landscape. during its construction are to be minimised, re-used, reclaimed or 3.2.9. Wind turbines will be permitted where recycled; and their scale, siting or cumulative effect would not have an adverse impact b) how the potential pollution from on the quality of the area. Proposed waste is minimised and unavoidable developments should be sited in waste disposed of, so as to avoid sympathy with existing landscape or minimise adverse environmental features such as hedges and roads, effects. and with contours. Where permission 3.2.12. Worcestershire County Council for a wind turbine(s) is granted, future is seeking to ensure that the proposals for development in the management of waste in the County vicinity of the turbine(s) will not be conforms to the principles set out in permitted where it would impair the the Government’s ‘Waste Strategy turbine’s performance. 2000’ and PPG10 (Planning and Waste Management). The aim is 3.2.10. In assessing new proposals, to work towards sustainable waste applicants will be required to illustrate management through a waste the visual impact of the proposed hierarchy based on: development on the landscape, including the impact on the existing • reduction; skyline, landform and characteristics, • re-use; and a full assessment of the impact • recycling, composting or energy on any neighbouring properties. recovery; and Details should include the layout, • incineration without energy number, size and height of machines, recovery or landfill (disposal, only the design and colour of the proposed to be done if none of the above turbines and any on-site buildings, are appropriate). the proposed access and the level of traffic movements generated during 3.2.13. The construction of new development construction and following installation. and other building operations, and its Where the Council considers that subsequent occupation and demolition the proposal is likely to have a or removal can have a significant significant environmental impact, an impact on the use of finite resources Environmental Assessment will be and materials. For example, when required. existing buildings are demolished for

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 29 redevelopment, this not only produces provision of essential infrastructure, waste but disregards past investment which includes water supply in-line of materials and energy in the site. with the principles set out in PPS1 Developers will, therefore, be required (Delivering Sustainable Development) to demonstrate how waste issues at para. 27. This will ensure that generated through construction, new demands can be met without occupation and demolition of existing detriment to the environment or to buildings has been addressed with the supplies of existing customers. the overall aim of minimising waste The Environment Agency and Severn by: Trent Water Ltd will be consulted on all • site selection and the design of major developments in this regard. development, which minimises the need for excavation; 3.3. Making the Best Use of Land and • utilising construction methods, Buildings which minimise the use of raw materials and maximise the RES5 HOUSING DENSITY use of secondary aggregates, recyclable and recycled New housing development that accords materials, where feasible on site; with other policies in the Plan will normally • incorporating waste material into be expected to achieve a minimum the design; and density of 30 dwellings per ha (dph) • maximising the re-use of existing (net). Lower densities will not normally buildings and promoting designs be permitted, and will need special that lend themselves to re-use. justification in terms of the character of the local environment. 3.2.14. Practices such as energy efficiency, recycling and the use of sustainable In towns and villages densities generally materials and products are, in should fall within the range of 30-50 addition, important mechanisms for dph. In town centres and other locations making better use of resources and with good public transport accessibility, materials and should be addressed densities of around 70 dph should be as part of the construction process in achieved. In all cases higher densities accordance with the design principles will be considered where appropriate. set out at Policy SUR1. All proposals should be so designed as to incorporate suitable outdoor amenity RES4 CONSERVING WATER space, and to have no unduly adverse RESOURCES impact on the character of the area, or on neighbours’ residential amenity. Development proposals that increase the requirement for water will only be 3.3.1. PPG3 advocates making the best use permitted where adequate resources exist of our housing land and encourages or can be provided without detriment to higher densities than previously the quality or quantity of existing water considered. The highest possible and the wider environment. densities will, therefore, be sought for the dwelling mix that is appropriate 3.2.15. The supply of water to new for sites, provided there is no adverse developments is becoming impact on either the character increasingly difficult. In delivering of the area or the amenities that sustainable development it is nearby residential occupiers would necessary to have regard to the reasonably be expected to enjoy.

30 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Design solutions will need to comply major rebuilding or extension, and with Policy SUR1. Development without detriment to its historic proposals will also need to provide character; and adequate garden areas or, where c) it does not lead to a dispersal appropriate, high quality shared open of activity which would have space. The density levels proposed an adverse impact on the local are in accordance with the WCSP economy or the vitality of nearby Policy D9. towns or villages; d) adequate access, servicing, RES6 CONVERSION OF UPPER amenity areas and parking are FLOORS provided within the curtilage of the application site, and without The conversion for residential and/or B1 detriment to the building or its rural use of the upper floors of commercial setting; and premises in the towns will be permitted, e) the proposed use would not subject to the requirements of Policy GD2 generate any significant increase (General Development Control). of HGV traffic on minor and/or unsuitable roads. 3.3.2. Floor space above shops in the market towns offers potential for meeting some 3.3.4. The emphasis of PPS7 with regard to of the District’s housing need. This the conversion and adaptation of rural initiative is generally supported and buildings is that in the first instance they such development will be encouraged should be considered for employment provided that the development is of a uses to aid the local economy and high standard of design and can be suggests that commercial, industrial or integrated physically and visually into recreational uses may be appropriate. its surroundings. Where appropriate, This adaptation can help to reduce requirements for car parking provision the demand for new buildings in the will be relaxed. countryside and encourage new enterprises and jobs in rural areas. 3.3.3. This Policy will not apply in areas of high flood risk (Policy ENV17). 3.3.5. The conversion of buildings to new uses requires sensitive treatment. One of the aims of adaptation is to RES7 CONVERSION OF EXISTING preserve evidence of previous social BUILDINGS OUTSIDE DEFINED and cultural lifestyles. New uses DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARIES TO should be accommodated into the NON-RESIDENTIAL USES building in such a way as to preserve its internal and external character; this A proposal for the conversion of an is especially so with former agricultural existing building (or buildings) outside buildings and barns. Many features of defined development boundaries for modern adaptation are alien to the non-residential and/or mixed uses will be building’s character and should be permitted, providing: avoided. The range of alien features a) the new use and scale of includes dormer windows, roof lights, development are appropriate to steel flues, excessive new openings, the location; flush fitting glazed infil screens, excessive use of internal partitions b) the building is of permanent and and floors, fireplaces and satellite substantial construction and is antennae. capable of conversion without

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 31 3.3.6. In all cases, the proposal should be proposal will not have an adverse aesthetically and environmentally impact on the viability and vitality acceptable, should not cause of nearby towns and villages. The demonstrable harm in amenity or road provision of tourist accommodation safety terms and should be of a form, can make a limited contribution bulk and general design in keeping to the rural economy and may be with the surroundings to minimise the acceptable where commercial or impact upon the open countryside. community uses are not possible and The conversion of rural buildings in the design and layout is acceptable the countryside will be expected to in terms of its effects on the building comprise a detailed building survey and its setting in the landscape. Such and report of the structural condition accommodation will be subject to of the building(s), and the proposed occupancy restrictions. method of conversion and alteration. In exceptional cases, a condition 3.3.9. The Council acknowledges the may be imposed to remove permitted increasing pressure to convert development rights, if the character of modern purpose-built farm buildings. the building(s) concerned or its setting However, modern buildings of pre- justifies this. fabricated construction, which are reasonably capable of being 3.3.7. The conversion of buildings in the dismantled or occupy a prominent open countryside will be subject to isolated location, will be subject to careful scrutiny due to the impact careful scrutiny. on the landscape and the potential for increasing traffic movements. 3.3.10. To ensure that the character and In determining applications, the appearance of the countryside is Council will assess the nature of the preserved and protected, the Council local road system. Where a site is will require evidence to demonstrate served by poor access or single-track that the building is structurally sound lanes, which are incapable of being enough for conversion without the improved without adversely affecting need for subsequent rebuilding. This the landscape or local environment, will usually take the form of survey re-use for employment uses may drawings of the existing building at not be considered suitable. In such 1:50 scale, together with a structural cases the applicant will be required engineer’s report. to demonstrate that the benefits to the local economy arising from 3.3.11. In determining proposals to convert the conversion have been weighed a building erected under agricultural against the environmental impact permitted development rights, account of the proposal. Traffic generation will be taken of the extent to which arising from the proposal will be the building has been used for its carefully assessed and applications original purpose. Where a proposal resulting in an unacceptable level of involves the re-use or conversion HGV or other vehicle movements on of agricultural buildings, permitted unsuitable roads will not be permitted development rights may be withdrawn in accordance with WCSP Policy for new farm buildings on the relevant D29. part of that particular agricultural unit or holding, to control the proliferation 3.3.8. For applications involving retail use, of such buildings and safeguard the there will be a requirement for the landscape. applicant to demonstrate that the

32 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 3.3.12. The Council will also apply the the development boundary, or a use of conditions in appropriate residential conversion would form circumstances: a subordinate part of a scheme for a) Proposals for small workshops, business re-use; and commercial or industrial use may c) through the submission of evidence, be subject to conditions limiting with a planning application for the hours of working and/or residential conversion, that the types of delivery vehicle, where above priorities after having been these operations may affect fully explored are found to have the amenities of neighbouring been unsuccessful. properties; b) Proposals for retail will be subject In all cases, proposals should meet the to a condition restricting sales to following three additional criteria: goods that are produced on-site; and d) reasonable accessibility to service c) Proposals for holiday facilities, including health centres, accommodation will be subject to schools and shops, by means other a condition limiting occupancy. than private vehicle; e) the building being of permanent 3.3.13. Proposals for expansion of and substantial construction and employment uses will be assessed capable of conversion without under Policy ECON2. major rebuilding or extension, and without detriment to its character 3.3.14. It is the Council’s intention to support or appearance; and this Policy with a Supplementary f) the ability to provide a residential Planning Document (SPD) that will set curtilage and any associated out in detail the design requirements domestic features, without of conversions. detriment to the building or its rural setting. RES8 CONVERSION OF EXISTING 3.3.15. PPS7 reiterates the previous BUILDINGS OUTSIDE DEFINED presumption in favour of non- DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARIES TO residential conversions, without RESIDENTIAL USE precluding residential use in all A proposal for the conversion of an circumstances. However, residential existing building (or buildings) outside conversions may have a part to defined development boundaries for play in meeting identified needs residential use will only be permitted through a Registered Social Landlord where it has been demonstrated: (RSL) survey or similar for new market or affordable housing need. a) that all reasonable efforts to secure Notwithstanding this, conversions an employment, community or of rural buildings for residential use recreational use for the building are unlikely to contribute to the local have been unsuccessful; and economy and the conversion is often b) it would either meet a specific detrimental to the fabric and character identified local housing need of the building. The internal sub- (for example essential worker division to form bedrooms and living accommodation or affordable areas, and new doors and windows housing), and would obviate the and other features in prominent need for a new dwelling outside elevations are frequently out of scale

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 33 and character with their original consent for further alterations etc. any simple design and volume in a barn permission for conversion of a rural conversion. building will incorporate a condition removing all Permitted Development 3.3.16. Conversion to employment uses is, Rights. This will ensure that some therefore, the preferred use. The control can be exercised over further purpose of Policy RES8 is to allow minor alterations, extensions and, in residential use only where it can be some cases, permanent outbuildings demonstrated that an employment that may affect the character or use is not appropriate in terms of appearance of the building or the complying with Policy RES7 or where surrounding countryside. a residential proposal complies with criteria a) – f) on previous page. 3.3.20. The Council will support this Policy with a SPD that sets out in detail 3.3.17. Where a residential conversion is further policy guidance and design permitted as part of a business use, requirements relating to conversions. it will be subject to the following conditions: a) all work associated with the RES9 REPLACEMENT BUILDINGS IN business should be completed THE COUNTRYSIDE OUTSIDE prior to the dwelling being DEFINED DEVELOPMENT occupied; and BOUNDARIES b) the occupation of the dwelling will be tied to the business use. Outside defined development boundaries, the replacement of existing buildings will be permitted where: 3.3.18. In support of an application for residential use, applicants will be a) the scheme would replace an expected to provide evidence that incongruous building with one the building concerned has been of better design, more in keeping actively marketed at a realistic price with its surroundings and the rural – for commercial or recreational landscape; use for a minimum of 12 months b) replacement would be preferable in before a proposal for residential use terms of design and sustainability will be considered. A copy of the to conversion and/or repair and sales particulars and details of the extension; advertising should be submitted as part of any application together with c) the replacement would be on records of any enquiries relating to much the same site as the existing the property. Evidence will be sought building, and of a similar size, scale from the Council’s Regeneration and footprint, unless variations Team on the demand for employment are demonstrably preferable accommodation, appropriate uses for reasons of site planning or and Local Labour Markets to inform design; policy decisions. These guidelines d) the scheme would not involve the also apply to renewals of existing open storage of goods, containers planning permissions for conversions or waste materials; and to residential use when the permission has lapsed or is being renewed. e) the existing building is not a caravan, mobile home, or other temporary structure, or subject to 3.3.19. Notwithstanding that the building may be listed and subject to listed building a temporary planning permission.

34 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 3.3.21. Whilst national policy generally 3.3.26. Proposals for the replacement of non- restricts new development in the residential buildings with residential countryside, PPS7 allows for the development will be treated as new replacement of suitably located, housing development in accordance existing buildings of permanent design with other relevant Plan Policies, and construction (para. 19), particularly PPG3 and PPS7. for economic development purposes. Generally, it is preferred that existing buildings are re-used. However, PPS7 allows for replacement buildings if they will provide a more acceptable and sustainable development, more in keeping with their surroundings and landscape, than the repair, conversion or extension of the existing building.

3.3.22. The replacement should be in the same position as the existing building, and of comparable size, scale and footprint, unless it can be demonstrated that alternatives are more appropriate in planning or design terms. This policy only applies to buildings with established use rights or specific permanent planning permission. It does not apply to any of the instances referred to in criteria e) on previous page.

3.3.23. In order to prevent dwellings from being extended disproportionately, a condition may be imposed removing the permitted development rights normally available to extend dwellings.

3.3.24. Where a building has been erected as permitted development, the replacement building would require to be acceptable in planning terms in its own right, subject to the imposition of any reasonable conditions.

3.3.25. Where a scheme is considered reasonable, the Council will be justified in ensuring there is no open storage of goods, containers, waste materials or finished products by way of condition or legal agreement.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 35 36 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Protecting the Environment 4

Section 4 Protecting The Environment

4.1. Introduction 4.1.3. The second half of the section addresses wider issues of 4.1.1. The first part of this section contains environmental quality. It contains policies that seek to protect and policies that not only address the enhance the environmental quality environmental impact of pollution of the District. The District contains but also ensure the avoidance of a number of environmental assets hazards. that contribute to the quality of its environment. These include its landscapes, its range of habitat types, 4.2. Protecting Existing Assets which sustain a wealth of biodiversity (the range of plant and animal life) ENV1 LANDSCAPE CHARACTER and its cultural assets such as historic buildings, features and landscapes. Proposals for development must The quality and diversity of these demonstrate that they are informed by, assets contribute enormously to the and sympathetic to, landscape character. quality of the District’s environment Proposals will be required to safeguard, and to the quality of life of residents. restore or enhance the character of the They also help to attract businesses natural and built environment in which to this area, which provides economic they are proposed. opportunities. Policies in the Plan seek to protect and enhance these Proposals for development must assets not only for their own sake and demonstrate that they: for the benefit of future generations a) are appropriate to, and integrate but also for the contribution they make with, the landscape character of to the social and economic well-being the area; of the area. b) proposals will be required to 4.1.2. Whilst many of these assets are safeguard, restore or enhance the of outstanding quality – reflected character of the natural and built by the range of international and environment in which they are national designations applied to proposed; and important examples of landscape, c) relate to the sensitivity of the habitats, species and buildings particular landscape and the wider – the District also contains a wealth context, to accommodate change. of environmental assets which are more common-place but which, Development proposals that would nevertheless, contribute to its adversely affect the landscape character environmental quality. In their entirety of an area will not normally be allowed. these assets amount to a valuable stock of environmental resources 4.2.1. The landscape of the District in the District. Policies in the Plan contributes immensely to the quality aim to ensure that there is no overall of its environment and is integral to loss of these resources by protecting the quality of life of residents and the those which are irreplaceable and area’s economy. It is important that by ensuring that any loss of wider it is protected and enhanced and resources is compensated. that development proposals do not

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 37 undermine its quality. 4.2.3. Landscape Character Assessments and Historic Landscape Character 4.2.2. Traditionally, and outside the nationally Assessments will be used as protected landscapes, Local Plans Supplementary Planning Documents have sought to protect other areas (SPD) to inform the decision making of landscape which are considered process. The Cotswolds AGLV and to be of scenic quality or value. The the Droitwich SLA are identified previous Local Plan identified a on the Proposals Map and will be Cotswolds Area of Great Landscape considered for development control Value (AGLV) to the south of the purposes as part of Policy ENV1. District and a Special Landscape As areas of scenic value they will be Area (SLA) at Droitwich Spa on this integrated into Landscape Character basis. However, it is increasingly Assessments as they are compiled. recognised that it is a combination of elements that contribute to the character of a landscape, its scenic ENV2 COTSWOLDS AREA OF quality and appearance, diversity OUTSTANDING NATURAL and distinctiveness. The character of BEAUTY (AONB) the landcape is derived from ‘natural’ factors – its geology, geographic Development within or affecting the location and the characteristic setting of the AONB that would harm vegetation and habitat types it the natural beauty of the landscape will sustains, coupled with human not be permitted. Agricultural, forestry intervention and cultural influences or small-scale development necessary over time. These factors generate a for the social or economic well-being number of elements and need to be of the AONB will be permitted where it considered if development is to be will conserve or enhance the character, sensitively accommodated without appearance and special qualities of the adverse effect on the character of landscape. the landscape or if development is to contribute to an enhancement of Proposals for major development within landscape character by improving or impacting upon the AONB will not be degraded elements. They include: permitted unless it can be demonstrated • landscape elements that that there is an overriding national need contribute to local distinctiveness for the proposal in that location and that – habitat types, building materials no other alternative site to accommodate and design; the development is available. • historic and cultural elements, 4.2.4. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty for example, settlement, field or (AONB) are areas of naturally transportation patterns, walls, important landscapes designated landmarks, open spaces, parks, under the same legislation as National gardens and orchards; Parks, with the primary legislative • levels of activity, tranquillity and objective being the conservation of day/night-time appearance; the natural beauty of the landscape. • the condition of landscape The Countryside and Rights of Way elements; and (CROW) Act 2000 states that AONB • views into and out of the have the same status as National landscape. Parks with regard to this primary aim.

4.2.5. The Cotswolds AONB is the largest in England and it straddles the

38 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 administrative areas of 17 Local appropriate enhance the character, Authorities including part of south- special qualities and appearance of east Wychavon along the Cotswold the Cotswolds AONB. The presence Escarpment and Bredon Hill. of the designation does not negate many forms of development in the 4.2.6. The landscape of the Cotswolds is area. Indeed, it is vital that planning distinct and scenically attractive. The decisions are made with regard to character of the landscape owes much the economic and social well-being to the geology and landform of the area and needs of communities within the together with the variety of vegetation Cotswolds AONB. The challenge is to and habitat types it sustains. Natural accommodate development to meet change and processes, together with the economic and social needs of human intervention and management, local communities whilst conserving produce the diversity of landscape and enhancing the landscape – which types ranging from wooded valleys is itself a fundamental economic, to rolling hills to river valleys to social and environmental resource. farmed land, with villages scattered throughout, all of which contribute to 4.2.9. Proposals for development within the the special character of the Cotswolds Cotswolds AONB or for affecting its AONB. setting will be determined, therefore, against any Policy in the Plan that is 4.2.7. Local Authorities and other specific to the type of development partners have adopted an advisory proposed including Policy GD1 and Management Strategy. The Cotswolds Policy GD2, together with this Policy. AONB Partnership, on behalf of Local Authorities and other parties, has 4.2.10. The siting of major development prepared a Management Plan (2004) within the Cotswolds AONB will as required by the CROW Act 2000, to only be allowed in exceptional provide a co-ordinated and strategic circumstances. Such development approach to its management in order may include, for example, waste to conserve the natural beauty of the disposal facilities, mineral working, landscape. The Management Plan is a major road development or generally statutory document and the aims and major development proposals that are objectives are the starting point from more national than local in character. which policies and projects relating to Proposals for such development will the use and management of land are be subject to rigorous examination developed. This is currently under because of the serious impact they review, to be completed by April can have on the landscape and will 2008. only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that a proposal is in 4.2.8. The planning system is one important the national interest and cannot be way in which the objectives of the accommodated outside the area. Cotswolds AONB Management Plan can be implemented. This Policy, read 4.2.11. The ability to undertake certain forms in conjunction with others in the Local of development without the need Plan, aims to ensure that in guiding for planning permission (General and controlling development (such Permitted Development Order) is as new building and the use of land allowed within the Cotswolds AONB. and buildings), planning decisions However, if it is considered that the are made that do not adversely special qualities of the landscape are affect, but conserve and where being adversely affected and require

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 39 additional protection from types of sites known as Natura 2000 that are permitted development, the Council critical to the biodiversity of Europe will use its powers under Article 4(2) of as a whole. Special Protection the General Permitted Development Areas (SPAs) are those which host Order (1995) to withdraw certain internationally important populations specified classes of Permitted of rare breeding or migratory birds. Development. These may include, for Ramsar Sites are Wetlands of example, Agricultural or Residential International Importance and Special Permitted Development Rights. Areas of Conservation (SAC) and are identified for the importance of their flora and fauna, some of which contain ENV3 SITES OF INTERNATIONAL species identified in the legislation IMPORTANCE FOR NATURE as having “priority” status. The sites CONSERVATION are “designated” under the EU Birds Directive, the Ramsar Convention and Proposals for development that may affect the Habitats Directive, respectively. a designated or candidate Special Area of Conservation will be subject to the most 4.2.13. At present, the District contains one rigorous examination. Development that site of international importance, would have an adverse effect or result Bredon Hill, which has the status of in an unacceptable risk of an adverse a SAC because of its importance for effect on the integrity of a site will not be a species of beetle – the violet click permitted unless: beetle. It is possible that the number of internationally important sites may a) there are imperative reasons of increase during the Plan period. over-riding public interest for the development; and 4.2.14. The planning implications for the b) the Council is satisfied that there control of development affecting are no reasonable alternative sites international sites are translated from or solutions to accommodate the EU legislation into national legislation development proposed. (The Conservation (Natural Habitats etc.) Regulations 1994) and are Where a proposed location hosts a reaffirmed in PPS9 (Biodiversity and priority natural habitat type and/or priority Geological Conservation). These species, development that would have documents make it clear that, for an adverse effect on the integrity of the the purposes of planning control, site will not be permitted unless it can be sites which are not fully ‘’classified’’ demonstrated to be necessary for reasons or ‘’designated’’ by the EU, such of human health or public safety or have as Bredon Hill, but which have beneficial consequences of primary ‘’proposed’’ or ‘’candidate’’ status importance for nature conservation. awaiting designation, should be considered in the same way as if they Where development satisfies the had already been designated. above tests, appropriate compensatory measures will be required as part of the 4.2.15. In accordance with PPS9 and the granting of planning permission. regulations, it is considered that development (other than that which 4.2.12. European Union (EU) legislation is proven to be necessary for the affords international protection to the management of the site for nature most important nature conservation conservation purposes) which sites throughout Europe. Its aim is to maintain a coherent network of Bredon Hill was designated as a SAC in 2006

40 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 would have an adverse effect on the imposed on any planning permission integrity of a site and which could not to keep damage to a minimum and be overcome by the use of planning a planning agreement will be sought conditions or a legal agreement, to secure appropriate compensatory should be permitted only in the measures prior to the granting of most exceptional circumstances of permission. overriding national need. As the Bredon Hill SAC does not host any 4.2.19. It should be noted that a number species identified as having ‘’priority’’ of types of development under status under the regulations, planning legislation are granted development proposals affecting this permission without the need for the site will be considered against this submission of a planning application test. (permitted development). The Habitats Regulations prevent such 4.2.16. Developers will, therefore, usually be permitted development rights where a required to provide an appropriate development is likely to cause damage assessment of the implications of their to a site of international importance. proposals to accompany applications The Council will consult with English and usually to a specification Nature to ascertain whether a agreed by English Nature. It should planning application is required that be noted that, additionally, some would need to follow the procedures specific projects may also require outlined above. Developers are the preparation of an Environmental advised to consult English Nature Statement under the Town and Country prior to undertaking such work. Planning (Environmental Impact Assessment) Regulations 1999. This will assist the decision making process. ENV4 SITES OF SPECIAL SCIENTIFIC Indeed, to ensure the appropriate INTEREST protection of sites, the Council will not grant planning permission for Proposals for development likely to affect development unless the full impact a designated or proposed Site of Special of the scheme can be determined, Scientific Interest will be subject to most thus a precautionary approach will be rigorous examination. Development used in the determination of planning which would have an adverse impact or applications. which would result in an unacceptable risk of an adverse effect on the integrity 4.2.17. As natural habitats are often fragile and of a site will not be permitted unless: vulnerable to indirect as well as direct a) the reasons for the development damage, the same consideration will outweigh the impact on the be given to proposals outside a site importance of the site and the that could result in indirect damage. need to safeguard the nature Similarly, damage to the integrity of a conservation value of the national site can occur as a result of the effects network of such sites; and of proposals in conjunction with other development or operations. The b) the Council is satisfied that there cumulative effects on a site will be are no reasonable alternative sites another consideration in determining or solutions to accommodate the proposals. development proposed.

4.2.18. Where development satisfies the tests Where development is permitted, damage outlined above, conditions will be will be required to be kept to an absolute minimum and where habitat is destroyed,

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 41 appropriate compensatory measures will implemented without damage to the be required. site or whether a scheme can be modified in order to prevent damage. 4.2.20. Sites of Special Scientific Interest Conditions will be used or planning (SSSI) are designated by English agreements sought where this can be Nature under the Wildlife and achieved. Applicants will be required Countryside Act 1981. They are areas to submit full details of proposed of special interest that are nationally works and in some cases may be or in some cases internationally required to provide an independent important in terms of ecological or assessment of the effects of proposals geological features. The locations of to assist the decision making process. SSSI in the District are indicated on It should be noted that this could the Proposals Map. be in addition to any requirement to produce an Environmental Statement 4.2.21. Once a site is designated an SSSI, under the Town and Country Planning owners and occupiers are legally (Environmental Impact Assessment) required to notify English Nature of Regulations 1999. any operation that may be damaging to the site. Likewise, it is a statutory 4.2.25. Planning permission will not be requirement that the Council consults granted for schemes that would lead English Nature on any planning to damage of a site unless it can be applications that may affect the demonstrated that the reasons for integrity of a site. a proposal outweigh the national importance of the site. Such reasons 4.2.22. The Government’s policy on the would be for development that is protection of SSSI is set out in PPS9, considered to be in the national which clearly states that, as a set of interest. Additionally, developers will nationally important sites, they should need to demonstrate that there is no be protected. reasonable alternative site or solution to accommodate the development 4.2.23. Planning proposals for development without damage and that the proposal that are likely to affect a site will is the least damaging means of be subject to special scrutiny. accommodating the development. As many ecological habitats are fragile, consideration will be given 4.2.26. The Council will use conditions or to proposals that could lead to will seek planning agreements to indirect damage either individually ensure that damage/disturbance or cumulatively as well as proposals is kept to an absolute minimum. In within a site that may result in direct addition, where habitat is destroyed, damage. To ensure appropriate the Council will, in appropriate cases, protection of sites, the Council will require compensatory measures to not grant planning permission for secure an equivalent area of suitable development unless the full impact of habitat type(s) adjacent to or in the scheme can be determined, thus close proximity to the site, or secure a precautionary approach will be used improved management of nearby in the determination of applications. sites.

4.2.24. In considering proposals, the Council, in consultation with English Nature, will seek to establish whether a proposal is acceptable and could be

42 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 ENV5 SITES OF REGIONAL OR LOCAL permission will only be granted for WILDLIFE IMPORTANCE proposals that can be accommodated without an adverse effect on a site and Development proposals which would have will be subject to planning conditions an adverse effect or which would result and Section 106 Agreements where in an unacceptable risk of an adverse appropriate. Developers should note effect on a Local Nature Reserve, Special that the translocation of habitat is not Wildlife Site or a Site of Wildlife Importance considered acceptable. (subject to a Section 39 Agreement under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981) 4.2.30 Development which would damage or will not be permitted unless it can be destroy such sites will only be permitted demonstrated that: where it can be demonstrated that for national or local, social or economic a) the reasons for the development reasons the development outweighs outweigh the intrinsic value of the the nature conservation value of site and the need to safeguard the the site and the need to maintain a network of such sites; network of such sites and that there b) there are no reasonable alternative are no alternative sites or solutions sites or solutions to accommodate to accommodate the development the development proposed; and proposed. Additionally, to ensure c) appropriate compensatory habitat no overall loss of biodiversity in the provision or management is District resulting from development, provided. developers will be required to provide compensatory habitat provision or 4.2.27. There are a range of other sites which management. are considered to be of substantive nature conservation value and which contribute significantly to biodiversity ENV6 PROTECTED SPECIES in the District. They include Local Nature Reserves, designated by Development proposals which would Local Authorities, and a number have an adverse effect or which would of non-statutory sites known as result in an unacceptable risk of an Special Wildlife Sites identified by adverse effect on any species protected Worcestershire Wildlife Trust. by National Legislation will not be permitted unless: 4.2.28. Sites identified and covered by this a) there are over-riding reasons for Policy include a range of semi-natural the development that are in the habitats incorporating species and public interest and that outweigh habitats that are regionally/locally the protected status of the species; significant, scarce or rare. They are and important not only in their own right but b) the Council is satisfied that there also for their contribution in providing are no reasonable alternative sites links to statutorily protected sites. or solutions to accommodate the development proposed; and, where 4.2.29. The Council will require planning appropriate applications to be accompanied by sufficient information to determine c) measures have been taken to the extent of any impact on the site. reduce disturbance to the species The impact of indirect and cumulative to a minimum, and included to actions as well as direct effects of a facilitate the survival of individual proposal will be considered. Planning members of the species.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 43 Development proposals which would adverse effect on the species in situ have an adverse effect on any species or whether a scheme will result in an protected by European Legislation will adverse impact. Given the importance only be permitted where, in addition to a), of ensuring the needs to safeguard b) and c) above, it can be demonstrated protected species, the Council will that the impact of the proposal is not adopt a precautionary approach in detrimental to the maintenance of the its decision making. Applications that species’ population at a favourable are not accompanied by information conservation status in its natural range. that establishes the full extent of any impact will be refused. The Policy will 4.2.31. There are a number of rare or be applied to development that has threatened species that are protected indirect, as well as direct impact on by legislation. Rare or threatened a species that includes the habitat on species in Europe are listed in the EU which it is dependent. Assessment Habitats Directive and Directive on the information will only be considered Conservation of Wild Birds enacted if surveys are undertaken at the into UK law by the Conservation correct time of year for the species (Natural Habitats etc) Regulations concerned. 1994, whilst nationally, rare or threatened species are identified in 4.2.33. Where it is evident that a scheme the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. could not proceed without an The presence of such species is a adverse effect on the species, the material consideration in determining Council will only permit proposals proposals for development. A number where it can be demonstrated that of these species occur within the there are overriding reasons for the District and developers should be development which are in the public aware that whilst they can occur in interest (such as public health, safety designated sites of importance, they or other social or economic reasons) do occur elsewhere. This Policy will and where it can be demonstrated that also be applied to those species listed there are no reasonable alternative in the Countryside and Rights of Way sites or solutions to accommodate Act 2000 (CROW) and protected the development proposed. In under the National Biodiversity Action addition, applicants will be required to Plan. demonstrate that a chosen scheme is one which reduces disturbance to an 4.2.32. The Council considers it inappropriate absolute minimum and that, where it to permit development that would is possible and appropriate, mitigation lead to the needless destruction measures are included to ensure the of any species protected by law. survival of the species to sustain the It will consult closely with English current population in the longer term. Nature on proposals that are likely to have an impact on any protected 4.2.34. It should be noted that where the species. Applicants will be expected species concerned is one that is to provide full details of a scheme protected by European Legislation, that may, in some cases, include the in addition to the above tests, provision of an assessment to identify proposals will, in the first instance, the extent of any impact. This will be determined against the extent determine whether a proposal can to which they are detrimental to the be accommodated and its effects maintenance of the population at a mitigated with the use of conditions or favourable conservation status. The Section 106 Agreements, without an Council will be guided by advice from

44 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 English Nature on this matter. Developers will be required to prepare an ecological assessment 4.2.35. Developers should be aware that on all proposals likely to affect the translocation of a species is not important ecological sites. considered an appropriate mitigation measure and that this will only be Developers will be required to prepare a considered in the most exceptional professional assessment in all proposals circumstances. likely to affect sites of ecological importance. 4.2.36. Applicants are advised to contact English Nature or local wildlife groups 4.2.38. The District contains a wealth of where there is reasonable evidence biodiversity or ‘’variety of life’’. It is of the presence of a protected reflected not only in the presence of species on a site. These bodies can rare, threatened or important habitat provide invaluable information on and species but also in a wealth of the protection of species, which, if more common habitat and species. incorporated in the early stages of Habitats range from, for example, a proposal, can assist the decision woodland, unimproved and semi- making process. improved grassland, wetlands and rivers to smaller features such as 4.2.37. It should also be noted that any individual trees, hedgerows, verges requirement for planning permission and walls. Such habitats have their will be in addition to any site licence own intrinsic value and are often that may be required from the valued because they do support a appropriate authority before works range of more common species, the can commence. sight of which, to many people, can be as important as the protection of “scientifically” important sites. ENV7 PROTECTION OF WIDER Additionally however, many act as BIODIVERSITY wildlife corridors or “stepping stones”, which are essential for the migration, Development proposals will be required dispersal and genetic exchange of to retain important ecological features, species which is vital to the “health” including natural habitat and features of sites of designated importance. of nature conservation value in situ. Proposals which would have an adverse 4.2.39. This Policy seeks to manage the impact on the integrity of other habitats, protection of levels of biodiversity species and features will only be permitted by recognising the importance of where: habitats and features that fall outside designated sites and their value a) the reasons for the proposal as wildlife corridors. In all cases, outweigh the impact on the intrinsic proposals will need to be accompanied nature conservation value of the by evidence, such as an ecological habitat, species or feature; assessment, to support and justify b) the Council is satisfied that there the approach taken. are no reasonable alternative sites or solutions to accommodate the 4.2.40. In the majority of cases development development proposed; and will be able to be sited in order to retain c) compensatory habitat provision wildlife habitats, species and features. or management is provided in Indeed, their continued presence can appropriate circumstances. help to enhance a scheme. Where this

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 45 cannot be achieved and a proposal value of the area. All proposals affecting would result in destruction of a habitat trees, hedgerows or woodland will need or feature, the importance of the site to be accompanied by an assessment or feature will be assessed against that justifies the approach taken. the reason for the proposal. 4.2.43. Trees are an important part of 4.2.41. The Policy should not be interpreted Wychavon’s character. They add as offering protection to all habitat colour, variety, screening, shade types which is equal to that applied and shelter in both rural and built-up to designated sites. It offers flexible areas; they can provide a link with levels of protection to be applied the past; they have an ecological by assessing the local social and value as habitat for a variety of economic reasons for a development plants and animals; and they are against the impact it would have on beneficial as carbon sinks – helping the importance of these other sites filter greenhouse gases. Developers and features, which can vary in need to consider not only the trees terms of their scientific significance, etc themselves, but the impact of recreatability, quantity and distribution. any proposals on their immediate or Habitat survey data, the District’s wider setting, for example, the siting emerging Biodiversity Action Plan or removal of buildings, structures and guidance from English Nature, and other planting will need to be the Biological Records Office and undertaken so as not to impact on Worcestershire Wildlife Trust will help their health or growth potential. Where to inform the implementation of this trees etc are affected by development, Policy. the application will be accompanied by an assessment of their value and 4.2.42. Policy SUR2 will also be used to the impact of the proposals on them, ensure that the opportunity to increase which will be used in determining it. levels of biodiversity is taken through landscaping schemes such as the 4.2.44. Hedgerows, trees and woodland all provision of habitat creation in larger have varying degrees of protection development. The Biodiversity Action under planning legislation and the Plan will help inform such schemes. Council will seek to protect those that it considers will benefit the visual, historic or ecological value. ENV8 PROTECTION OF HEDGEROWS, TREES AND WOODLAND 4.2.45. Development proposals need to consider the trees themselves, Development proposals requiring together with the impact upon their planning permission will not be permitted immediate or wider setting. Where where they would have an adverse impact trees or hedgerows are affected by on hedgerows, trees or woodland, their development, the application will need setting or their wider habitat, where such to be accompanied by an assessment features are considered to be important of their value and the impact of the for their visual, historic or ecological proposals on them, both during and value of the area. following construction works (see BS5837: 2005 (Guide for Trees in Removal of hedgerows, trees or woodland Relation to Construction)). will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the proposal will 4.2.46. The Council will use its powers under benefit the visual, historic or ecological the Town and Country Planning Act

46 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 1990 and the Town and Country proposals for development that would Planning (Trees) Regulations 1999 affect them will be considered against to protect important hedgerows, trees this Policy. The Council recognises the or woodland that it considers to be value of RIGS and the need to protect threatened. them through the planning process. Therefore, proposals that would result in the loss of or damage to a site will ENV9 REGIONALLY IMPORTANT only be permitted where the national GEOLOGICAL AND or local need for a development is GEOMORPHOLOGICAL SITES considered to outweigh the impact on the intrinsic value of the site. This also Development proposals which would applies where it can be demonstrated affect a Regionally Important Geological that there are no reasonable and/or Geomorphological Site (RIGS) alternative sites or solutions to will only be permitted where the feature accommodate the development for which the site is important can be proposed. To compensate for any preserved in situ as part of the scheme. loss, where it is possible to create or Development that would have an provide comparable areas of interest unacceptable effect on a RIGS will not be on or off the site, this will be sought as permitted unless: part of any permission. a) the reasons for the development outweigh the impact on the intrinsic importance of the site; ENV10 SITES OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE b) the Council is satisfied that there are no reasonable alternative sites Proposals for development affecting or solutions to accommodate the national, regional or locally important development proposed; and archaeological sites and their settings c) where it is possible, exposures or whether scheduled or unscheduled, will areas of comparable geological only be permitted where proposals can interest are created or made demonstrate that the archaeological available elsewhere on the site or interest is capable of being preserved in on a substitute site. situ and without damage to its setting.

4.2.47. RIGS are non-statutory geological If this is not merited, where the reasons or geomorphological sites that are for the proposal outweigh the intrinsic considered worthy of protection importance of the site/remains or the for their educational, scientific, setting of the feature and there is no historic or landscape importance. reasonable alternative site or solution They are selected at a local level to accommodate the development by representatives of groups with proposed, then the developer must agree expertise in geology, geomorphology to an appropriate level of investigation and conservation. They are important and recording prior to and during not only for their intrinsic, scientific development and the subsequent analysis value but also as valuable educational and publication of results and curation of facilities. remains.

4.2.48. The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Applications for development affecting Earth Heritage Trust Group has a sites where archaeological remains are programme for the identification of likely to exist should be accompanied by RIGS. Once sites have been identified, an assessment/survey to establish the nature, condition or significance of any

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 47 remains prior to the determination of any Additionally, as archaeological planning application. remains are irreplaceable, the Council does not wish to see the needless 4.2.49. Archaeological remains are finite, loss of other remains of regional or irreplaceable resources. They are local significance. Proposals will be cultural assets that serve to help us expected to preserve archaeological understand our national and local remains in situ. Where this cannot heritage and identity. They are to be be achieved, protection against valued and protected not only for their loss through the development educational role but for their own sake. control process will be assessed by They are, however, fragile resources considering the intrinsic importance of that are vulnerable and can be easily the remains against the national and destroyed. Planning control is one local social and economic need for way of assisting their preservation. the development proposed. Remains In the consideration of development of regional and local significance vary proposals encouragement will be in terms of their historical significance given to the sympathetic management and their present state of preservation. of archaeological sites and, where Additionally, whilst some may not be appropriate, for the provision of on- individually significant in their own site interpretation and educational right, collectively they can constitute activities and to the protection and a historically important archaeological management of remains. landscape. Developers will be required to demonstrate that there 4.2.50. PPG16 (Archaeology and Planning) is no alternative site or solution to requires that there should be a accommodate the development. presumption in favour of protecting nationally important (scheduled or 4.2.52. Where loss of an archaeological unscheduled) remains and their resource can be justified due to an settings. Proposals for development overriding need for development that in such cases will only be permitted cannot be sited or designed to avoid where it can be demonstrated it can damage, the Council will require be accommodated without damage that an appropriate programme of to the archaeological interest, in situ. archaeological investigation and Developers will be required to provide recording is agreed prior to the sufficient details of their proposals for granting of planning permission. an assessment to be made to ensure Where appropriate, this may include that remains are capable of being provision for the procurement of finds, preserved in situ and without damage. analysis and publication of results. In some cases this will include the provision of a full evaluation/ 4.2.53. Scheduled Ancient Monuments are assessment to the specification of formally designated archaeological the Council. Applications will not be sites or monuments of national determined without such information. importance. There are 72 such sites in Wychavon; these are listed in 4.2.51. Consultations with Worcestershire Appendix 1. There are over 7100 County Archaeology Service prior known archaeological sites recorded to making a development proposal on the County Sites and Monuments is advised. Where development Record. This number is growing as proposals are made, it is expected knowledge increases. This information that developments preserve is available for public inspection at the archaeological remains in situ. offices of the Archaeological Services.

48 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 In appropriate circumstances garden.) The ‘Wychavon Historic developers are required to consult Parks and Gardens’ Supplementary the County Sites and Monuments Planning Document (SPD) was Record for up-to-date information published in January 2005. and advice before the proposals are drawn up and may have to provide an 4.2.57. Whilst there are no statutory controls archaeological evaluation of the site over the protection of historic parks to a standard agreed by the Council and gardens, PPG15 (Planning to define the extent and nature of and Historic Environment) advises any remains. The management, Planning Authorities to protect understanding and enhancement of registered parks and gardens through archaeological sites where relevant their planning functions. In addition to should be taken into account when registered sites there are a number considering development proposals. of other parks and gardens which Advice will also be sought from contribute to the heritage of the district English Heritage where appropriate. and the character of the landscape. They range from formal public or 4.2.54. Proposals affecting a Scheduled private farmland to cottage and farm Ancient Monument or its setting will gardens. In considering proposals for require Scheduled Ancient Monument development affecting such gardens, Consent from English Heritage the Authority will seek to ensure that proposals respect the contribution a garden makes to the character of the ENV11 HISTORIC PARKS AND GARDENS landscape and schemes will also be considered under Policy ENV1 of this Development proposals will only be Plan. An historic landscape appraisal permitted where there is no adverse effect report may be required where on the appearance, character or setting development affecting an historic park of an historic park or garden of either or garden or its setting is proposed. national significance (as identified on the Proposals Map) or local importance. 4.2.58. While inappropriate development will be resisted, there may be 4.2.55. Historic parks and gardens are a circumstances where carefully significant element of the District’s planned developments may result in historic and cultural heritage and, as the restoration of historic landscapes well as their own intrinsic value as through the use of conditions or parks and gardens, they are integral planning agreements. The integrity to the character and appearance of an historic landscape depends on of the landscape in which they are coherent and consistent long-term located. management for the whole site, given that fragmentation of ownership can 4.2.56. The most important examples of lead to long-term degradation. historic parks and gardens are identified by English Heritage and are listed in its national Register of Parks ENV12 CONSERVATION AREAS and Gardens of Special Historic (GENERAL) Interest. The Register grades sites to reflect the importance of their historic Proposals for development within or interest in the national context. (The affecting the setting of Conservation Grades I, II*, and II are independent Areas will be required to preserve or of any Grade of listed building which enhance their character or appearance. may be associated with the park or

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 49 Development that would affect a derived from a wide range of inter- Conservation Area will be determined related historical and architectural having regard to the following: elements. These include the design and mixture of historic buildings, a) the siting, position, layout and street patterns, building lines/scale landscaping of new development and plot layouts, the relationship proposals should respect between buildings and spaces, the traditional street patterns, building mix of uses of land and buildings, as lines, existing landscape features well as a variety of other features such including trees and hedges, plot as views, vistas, landmarks, open layouts and views into and out of spaces, vegetation, hard landscaping the area; and building materials, street furniture, b) the proportions and design of new night-time appearance and other development and alterations to elements. It is the combination of all existing buildings should respect of these qualities which contribute the context provided by adjacent to the character and appearance of buildings and the surrounding Conservation Areas. Their character, area. Building materials must be therefore, is not solely dependent on appropriate to the locality; the quality of individual buildings. c) changes of use should preserve or enhance the character or 4.2.61. The Council intends to undertake appearance of the area; and Conservation Area Assessments and compile design guidance for d) the development should not involve Conservation Areas during the Plan the demolition of any building period which will review and detail or feature that makes a positive the elements which contribute to contribution to the character or the special qualities and character appearance of the area, unless the of individual Conservation Areas, to Council is satisfied that there is assist the decision making process. an overriding justification for the demolition proposed. 4.2.62. Proposals for development will be assessed to ensure that a scheme 4.2.59. Conservation Areas are defined by will either preserve or enhance the the Planning (Listed Buildings and character and appearance of an Conservation Areas) Act 1990 as area. It is not the intention that new ‘areas of special architectural or development or changes of use of historic interest’, the character or land or buildings should, unduly, be appearance of which it is desirable to prevented, but instead that schemes preserve or enhance. Local Planning respect the qualities of an area. It Authorities designate them and follows that development that would planning control is an important way not respect the qualities of an area in which this statutory requirement would result in the degradation of an can be achieved. There are 66 area’s character and, therefore, will Conservation Areas in the District be resisted. and their character and appearance varies, reflecting the diversity and 4.2.63. It is not the intention of the Council distinctiveness of local cultural to stifle all efforts towards innovative heritage. A schedule of Conservation design within Conservation Areas. Areas is contained at Appendix 2. Materials and elevation treatment will be an important aspect of modern 4.2.60. The distinctive character of an designs and modern interpretations individual Conservation Area is

50 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 of traditional and locally distinctive 4.2.67. It is the duty of the Council to materials and design elements will be undertake periodic reviews of their considered. Conservation Areas (Section 69(2) of the 1990 Act), to ensure that 4.2.64. The majority of schemes within they are still of special interest. Conservation Areas will involve Where subsequent developments traditional design in those cases, have eroded that special interest, close attention to traditional detailing, then boundary revision or even materials, elevational proportions and cancellations of Conservation Areas traditional building techniques will be will be pursued separately from the equally as important as the broader Local Plan process, in accordance design issues such as height, scale with para. 2.9 of PPG15. and position, if the special quality of a Conservation Area is not to be undermined. ENV13 ALTERATIONS TO LISTED BUILDINGS 4.2.65. In addition, proposals should not result in the loss or destruction of any feature Permission for the alteration, extension, which makes a positive contribution conversion or change of use of listed to the character or appearance of a buildings will only be granted where: Conservation Area. Changes of use a) it would not result in damage or in Conservation Areas will be viewed loss of fabric or features of special cautiously, but an application is likely to architectural or historic interest; succeed if it would enhance the vitality of an area or provide for the re-use of b) the character and setting of the an historic building. Proposals that buildings will be preserved; would lead to traffic or environmental c) the individual proposal would not problems or which would be harmful prejudice the future use of other to an area’s character will be resisted. parts of the building or other Within Conservation Areas, controls buildings forming an integral part exist over the demolition of unlisted of the site; and in the case of buildings and structures and control extensions, the proposal: over works to trees. i) would be subservient to the existing building in size, 4.2.66. The ability to undertake certain forms of minor development without material and situation; and the need for permission (permitted ii) would respect the character development) is not affected by of the building in form, Conservation Area status. Where scale, massing, proportion, it is considered that individual fenestration, use of materials, Conservation Areas require additional detailing and siting. protection from types of minor development, the Council will consider 4.2.68. Buildings of special architectural or using its powers under Article 4(2) of historic interest are known as listed the General Permitted Development buildings. They represent the best Order (1995) to withdraw certain examples of the Nation’s architectural specified classes of Permitted and historic heritage. Buildings are Development. Any proposals for such listed by the Secretary of State for development will then require the Culture, Media and Sport and are submission of a planning application. classified into Grades I, II*, and II based on the degree of interest.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 51 Wychavon contains approximately built. Often, however, such uses are 3000 listed buildings. Once a building no longer either viable or required. is listed, consent is required from the Securing new uses will help to secure Council to demolish it or to make a building’s future and, therefore, the internal or external alterations that Council will support in principle, the would affect the building’s character re-use of listed buildings. or fabric. Indeed, it is a criminal offence to undertake such works 4.2.71. Frequently, however, new uses may without the written consent of the require alterations or extensions to Local Planning Authority. This listing buildings to ensure their continued status also applies to anything fixed use in the longer term. Similarly, to a listed building. Any structure whilst the uses of a majority of listed within the curtilage that has been buildings are well established, this too there since before 31 July 1948 (even can result in demands for changes if not attached to the listed building) and adaptations to buildings to reflect is itself listed. This includes boundary changing lifestyles and modern and garden walls and gates. requirements.

4.2.69 The Council has prepared SPD to 4.2.72. Changes and alterations can cause assist applicants (See Appendix 3). harm to a building’s character and the The ‘Accessible Historic Environment’ extent to which a listed building can SPD sets out guidance on improving accommodate demands for changes, access to historic buildings and arising from new or existing uses, places. PPG15 states that it is an varies significantly between buildings. important principle that disabled It is dependent on the special interest people should have dignified and of the building and the features that easy access to and within historic justify its designation, together with buildings. If treated as part of an the effect a proposal may have on integrated review of access for all these. Therefore, whilst many listed visitors, it should normally be possible buildings can sustain a degree of for well-designed access facilities to sensitive change or alteration, others be installed without compromising the may be sensitive to even small historic buildings special character. or ‘minor’ alterations. Proposals The chief constraint in conservation for changes or alterations will be terms will rise from the design of considered in terms of their effect the buildings fascade or setting. upon the character, special interest, Where the proposed installation of setting and fabric of the building. The ramps, handrails or lifts would lead to Council will resist proposals that would unacceptably damaging alterations, harm the character, special interest, other options should be explored; for setting and fabric of a building. example through the adaptation of a Where changes are permitted, they secondary entrance. should complement the historic and architectural character of the building 4.2.70. In seeking to protect listed buildings, and will be expected to be of an the Council recognises that the appropriate design, using traditional best way to secure the retention materials and appropriate building and upkeep of listed buildings is to techniques. encourage their use and usefulness. Inevitably, the most appropriate 4.2.73. New development within the setting of and least damaging use for a listed a listed building should be designed building will be that for which it was so as to be sympathetic to the

52 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 building in terms of siting, massing that is ancillary to it. However, it can scale, proportions, materials and include land and buildings that are design detailing. It should not detract some distance from it, especially if the from the character or setting of the gardens, ancillary buildings or hard building. landscaping have been laid out to complement its design or function. In 4.2.74. An alternative use for a listed building the case of groups of listed buildings, may also bring demands to the site the introduction of new buildings of the building, or on other buildings such as garages, greenhouses or associated with the building. While an summerhouses, which weaken or alternative use of a listed building in obscure the character of the original itself may be able to be accommodated grouping, must be avoided. without harm, the new use of the space around the building may be harmful to 4.2.77. New development within the setting of its setting and the relationship of the a listed building should be designed building with its context. A new use for so as to be sympathetic to the building a building may also have to consider in terms of siting, massing scale, the use and future of other associated proportions, materials and design buildings within the site. A proposal detailing. It should not detract from the for an alternative use of a building character or setting of the building. cannot be considered in isolation of the wider impact the new use may have on its setting, relationship with, ENV15 DEMOLITION OF A LISTED and use of, associated buildings. BUILDING

4.2.75. Works of alteration or extension of a Consent for the demolition of a listed listed building that affect its character building will not normally be granted. as a building of special architectural Exceptions will only be made where: or historic interest, require separate Listed Building Consent under the a) it is clearly demonstrated that it Planning (Listed Buildings and is not practicable to continue to Conservation Areas) Act 1990, in use the building in its current or addition to any planning permission previous use or find another viable requirements. It is a criminal offence to use for the building; execute such works without consent. b) demolition will not cause material harm to the structure, character or setting of any other listed building; ENV14 SETTINGS OF LISTED and BUILDINGS c) a proposal for redevelopment would produce substantial benefits Proposals for development will only be for the community that would permitted where they would preserve the outweigh the loss resulting from setting of a listed building. the building’s demolition.

4.2.76. Local Planning Authorities have a statutory responsibility to have regard Where, exceptionally, demolition of a to the desirability of preserving the listed building is permitted: setting of a listed building when d) demolition shall not take place considering development proposals. until detailed proposals for The setting of a listed building is often the sites future use have been an essential part of its character and granted planning permission and is not necessarily confined to land

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 53 a contractual obligation signed to 4.2.81. Frequently, requests for the demolition undertake the said works; and of a listed building are not for reasons of good planning but due to neglect, e) a suitable programme has been failure to secure new uses or failure arranged to record those features to incorporate them into schemes for of historic interest that would be new development. Often, demolition lost in the course of the demolition can be avoided through limited works. maintenance and repair to halt deterioration. Ideally, however, it is the 4.2.78. Listed buildings are finite historic resources and once demolished re-use of a listed building that helps to are lost and cannot be replaced. ensure its survival in the longer term. Similarly, inappropriate alterations will It can be feasible to incorporate listed damage a building’s special interest. buildings within new development and The presumption, therefore, is always this option should always be carefully in favour of their preservation. In considered. Therefore, the majority exercising listed building control there of listed buildings are still capable of is a statutory requirement on Local re-use and their destruction is seldom Planning Authorities to have special necessary. There are a number of regard to the desirability of preserving policies in this Plan which would the building or its historic interest. support the re-use of listed buildings This reflects the importance that is for a range of uses. attached to protecting listed buildings from unnecessary demolition and 4.2.82. If, exceptionally, the demolition of a insensitive alteration. listed building is permitted, conditions will be used, where appropriate, to ensure that a comprehensive record 4.2.79. The Council may require that an application for Listed Building of the building/site is undertaken Consent should include a historic prior to the commencement of work. evaluation of the building, to establish Additionally, where it is appropriate its special architectural or historic and to avoid a site being left vacant interest, prior to the determination of indefinitely, a signed contract for the the application. redevelopment of the site will be required and planning permission for a redevelopment scheme must have 4.2.80. The total or substantial demolition of a listed building requires special been granted before demolition is justification, and consent will only be allowed to take place. granted in exceptional circumstances where it is demonstrated that the proposal is unavoidable. In considering ENV16 ENABLING DEVELOPMENT whether a proposal is unavoidable, the Council will consider the condition Development proposals defined as of the building, the cost of repairing Enabling Development will be considered and maintaining it in relation to its only where all the following criteria are importance and the value derived met: from its current use. In addition, a) the development would not the efforts that have been made to materially detract from the repair the building and to continue its archaeological, architectural, existing use; the adequacy of efforts historic or landscape, nature to find suitable alternative uses; and conservation interest of the site or the merit of an alternative proposal its setting; for the site. b) it has been demonstrated clearly

54 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 that all other potential options have 4.2.84. Many applications affect historic been fully evaluated; buildings and places and should, subject to conforming to other c) the proposal avoids detrimental planning policies, either enhance or fragmentation of the management preserve their integrity. Occasionally, of the site; however, enabling development d) the enabling development will is proposed which, whilst it would secure the long-term future of the achieve the preservation or secure site; the future of an historic structure e) the justification for the development or landscape, would normally be arises from the inherent needs rejected as contrary to other national of the heritage asset, rather than or local planning policies. Very special the circumstances of the present circumstances must, therefore, exist owner or the purchase price paid; in order to justify why development, which would otherwise be regarded f) sufficient financial assistance is not as inappropriate, may be permitted. available from any other source; The objective of such applications is g) it is demonstrated clearly that the to provide funds for repairs that cannot amount of enabling development is be generated from any other source. the minimum necessary to secure So unlike most planning decisions, the long-term future at the site; the financial consequences of the and granting of planning permission are h) the value to the community of not only relevant, but also fundamental the resulting development and to the decision making process. the enhanced historic interest of the site clearly outweigh the 4.2.85. Subject to the proposed enabling disadvantages of providing the development meeting the criteria listed enabling development. in the Policy, planning permission will be granted where: 4.2.83. Enabling development is defined a) the impact of the development is by English Heritage in their Policy precisely defined at the outset, statement ‘Enabling Development through the submission of full and the Conservation of the Heritage rather than outline applications Asset’ (2001). This is development and all necessary supporting that is contrary to established documents; planning policy (national or local), b) with reference to the guidance but which is permitted in exceptional contained in ODPM Circular circumstances because it brings public 05/2005 ‘Planning Obligations’ benefits that have been demonstrated the objective of the preservation clearly to outweigh the harm that of the historic interest of the site is would be caused. Where exceptional linked securely and enforceable circumstances can be demonstrated, to the planning permission; such development can be regarded c) the historic interest is restored as a useful planning tool through to an agreed standard, or funds which the community may be able made available to secure this to secure the future of an important aim, prior to the occupation of the listed building, Registered Garden or enabling development; and Scheduled Ancient Monument that is d) the Planning Authority closely neglected, dilapidated or otherwise, monitors implementation of the perceived to be at risk. It can also proposed development. assist in regeneration strategies.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 55 4.3. Avoiding Hazards 3. FUNCTIONAL FLOOD PLAIN

Development in areas of high flood risk ENV17 DEVELOPMENT IN AREAS OF will only be permitted in the functional HIGH FLOOD RISK flood plain where it comprises: 1. DEVELOPED AREAS a) appropriate open-air recreation, sport, amenity and conservation Development in areas of high flood risk uses (excluding caravan and may be permitted on existing previously camping sites), provided adequate developed sites outside the functional warning and evacuation procedures flood plain, where it can be shown that: are in place; or a) the appropriate minimum standard b) essential transport and utilities of flood defence with no net loss infrastructure designed and of flood plain storage (including constructed so as to operate in suitable warning and evacuation times of flood which would result in procedures) can be maintained for no net loss of flood plain storage, the lifetime of the development; no increase to flood risk elsewhere and and no impediment to water flows. b) the site is not required for washland creation as part of the overall ENV18 DEVELOPMENT IN AREAS OF flood defence strategy for river LOW TO MEDIUM FLOOD RISK catchments; and c) it can be demonstrated that no Development in areas of low to medium suitable alternative sites in lower- flood risk will be permitted provided risk areas are available (Zones 1 that: and 2). a) the risk of flooding is addressed in the design of the development with 2. UNDEVELOPED AREAS no adverse impact on the wider environment; Development in areas of high flood risk will only be permitted exceptionally in b) adequate measures have been undeveloped and sparsely developed taken into account to ensure the areas outside the functional flood plain development itself would not lead where: to an increased risk of flooding; and a) that location is essential and it can be demonstrated that no suitable c) it can be demonstrated that no alternative sites in a lower-risk area suitable alternative sites in lower are available (Zones 1 and 2); and risk areas are available (Zone 1). b) it is provided with the appropriate 4.3.1. Flood risk involves both the probability minimum standard of flood of a flood occurring and the scale of defence, does not impede flood its effects. It can be an issue both in flows or result in a net loss of flood river flood plains and on other sites plain storage; and where inadequate provision is made c) it relates to the use of the land to deal with surface water run-off (see for sports pitches and/or other Policy ENV19). PPG25 (Development informal recreation, sport, amenity and Flood Risk) aims to control and conservation uses, provided development in areas at risk from adequate warning and evacuation flooding and control development that procedures are in place. could increase the risk of flooding.

56 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 These aims are consistent with those 4.3.4. For undeveloped and sparsely of sustainable development. Flooding developed areas (Part 2 of Policy can threaten human life, cause ENV17), residential, commercial substantial damage to property and and industrial development is not have a devastating impact on the suitable unless a particular location is wider environment. Washlands can essential, for example, for navigation be defined as areas of flood plain and waterbased recreation uses, where water is stored in times of flood. agriculture, transport and utilities Development should not compromise infrastructure and an alternative lower these areas or the creation of new risk option is not available. Caravan areas, which may be required as part and camping sites should not be of the overall flood defence strategy located in these areas. for river catchments. 4.3.5. The functional flood plain is defined 4.3.2. The Council will consider applications as unobstructed or active areas where for development in accordance with water regularly flows in times of flood the sequential test outlined in PPG25 (Part 3). (Table 1: para. 30). This identifies zones of flood risk from those with 4.3.6. The onus is on the applicant to little or no risk to those at high risk. investigate and evaluate the extent The test should be applied with priority of risk from flooding. The Council for development of sites in lower flood will require the developer to submit a risk areas, i.e. directing development detailed flood risk assessment where away from the functional flood plain the proposed development: and high-risk flood areas. • lies within a river flood plain or washland shown on an indicative Annual flood plain map prepared by the Probability Environment Agency; Flood Zone of River • lies within or adjacent to any Flooding watercourse; • is adjacent to any flood bank or 1. Little or no risk <0.1% other flood control structure; 2. Low to medium risk 0.1–1.0% • lies within an area where indications suggest there may be 3. High risk – drainage problems; 1.0% a) developed areas • is likely to involve the culverting or or diverting of any watercourse; b) undeveloped areas greater c) functional flood plain • is of such a scale relative to the receiving watercourse/drainage system that there could be a 4.3.3. The Environment Agency holds significant increase in surface information regarding the risk of water run-off from the area. flooding for some watercourses in the form of indicative flood plain maps. 4.3.7. Failure to provide an appropriate flood For other watercourses not shown risk assessment where required may by the Environment Agency enquiries result in an application for planning can be made with the Council’s permission being refused. Engineering Department. The policies in this section need to be read in conjunction with the indicative flood plain and catchment area maps.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 57 ENV19 SURFACE WATER RUN-OFF can be achieved by using a series of porous surfaces, swales (broad All development proposals will be open ditches), ponds and wetlands. encouraged to incorporate and maintain SUDS have the added bonus in that Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems attractive landscape features are (SUDS), which provide for the use or created that can enhance biodiversity. disposal of surface water where site For smallscale proposals, water conditions are favourable. management can be achieved through the use of water butts and Where acceptable reasons are provided porous surfaces, for example. why SUDS are not feasible, an alternative drainage system will need to be agreed 4.3.11. Certain sites for new development by the Council. The re-use and recycling will need to demonstrate as part of of water within the development will be the application how SUDS have been encouraged. considered. Such sites will include applications for dwellings and all new 4.3.8. PPG25 states that Flood risk and commercial developments (except other environmental damage can be minor extensions). Commercial managed by minimising changes in developments include industrial the volume and rate of surface run off and office employment, retail, from development sites through the tourist, agricultural and leisure uses. use of sustainable drainage systems. Planning obligations will be used to This should be complementary to ensure the long-term maintenance of the control of development within the systems. Generally, all applications flood plain. for development will be required to demonstrate that the most sustainable 4.3.9. Traditionally, run-off is routed directly method of surface water run-off has into pipes and drains to be moved been incorporated in the design and as quickly as possible to the nearest layout, since it is the cumulative discharge point, typically a brook or impact of development that can a stream. These traditional methods exacerbate flooding problems. have resulted in the following: However, it is acknowledged that • an increase in watercourse such systems are not always suitable pollution; in all circumstances and will depend • an increase in flooding, bank on site conditions. A SPD on the use erosion and loss of aquatic of sustainable drainage techniques habitats; and will be prepared and will give details on the methods and applications of • reduction in groundwater supply. SUDS.

4.3.10. Continuing to drain built-up areas without taking these wider issues into ENV20 DEVELOPMENT LIKELY TO GIVE consideration is not a sustainable RISE TO POLLUTION OR THE long-term option. Sustainable Urban RISK OF POLLUTION Drainage Systems (SUDS) constitute a series of alternative methods for Proposals will not be permitted for dealing with surface water run-off development that will exacerbate, or in new developments. The main could potentially give rise to, water, air, objective of SUDS is to manage water noise, light or other pollution unless: on-site by minimising run-off, slowing discharge rates and retaining water a) adequate mitigation measures for treatment. For larger sites this have been taken to ensure that any

58 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 discharges or emissions will not of detailed assessments of the effects cause harm to land-use, including of proposals. the effects on health or the wider environment; and Air Pollution b) adequate mitigation measures 4.3.14. Good air quality is essential for human have been taken to ensure that health and the well-being of the there is not an unacceptable risk of environment as a whole. Generally, discharges or emissions occurring air pollution from smoke and the which could cause harm to land burning of domestic fuels has greatly use, including the effects on health reduced. However, pollution from road and the natural environment; and traffic has increased substantially. Planning has an important role in c) the proposed development, preventing new development, which through its potential to pollute, would result in increased pollution will not have an adverse effect levels. Design, construction and the on investment confidence in the use of materials can mitigate against surrounding area. high levels of pollution, but a major impact on reducing pollution from road 4.3.12. Pollution is the release of substances into the environment that can cause traffic can be made by locating new harm to human health, property or development near to existing facilities any other living organism supported (such as schools and shops) and with by the wider environment. It can be access to public transport. For larger detrimental to the quality of our air, new developments reference will be rivers and soil. The Government made to the Council’s Environmental attaches great importance to Health Department and in particular controlling and minimising pollution consideration will be given to the as part of its objectives for sustainable Council’s Review and Assessment of development (PPS23 Planning and Air Quality to ensure compliance with Pollution Control). Noise and light National Air Quality Objectives. pollution can adversely affect human health and the wider environment. Water Pollution 4.3.15. The Council will strictly control any 4.3.13. The control of the release of development that threatens surface substances into the environment water quality. However, far more is directly administered by the fresh water is found underground Environment Agency and Local than on the surface. Groundwater Authorities under the Pollution resources are an invaluable source Prevention and Control Act 1999. of water for public supply, industry The planning system’s involvement and agriculture as well as sustaining relates solely to controlling the the base flows of rivers and wildlife location of development and changes wetland habitats. Activities such as in the use of land which could give the disposal of effluent in soakaways, rise to pollution, or the risk of pollution. landfilling or inappropriate storage of The potential of sites with existing chemicals can result in the pollution sources of pollution to affect the use of groundwater. The potential risk of other land for development is also of pollution of ground and surface a material planning consideration. In water is a material consideration in determining applications, the Council determining planning applications. will consult with the relevant pollution The impact of new development in control agency and will, in appropriate terms of affecting water resources is circumstances, require the submission addressed in Policy RES4.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 59 Land Pollution other health problems. Noise can also adversely affect wildlife as well as the 4.3.16. Land contamination is specifically addressed in Policy ENV22 of this character of an area. Section. 4.3.21. In determining applications where noise disturbance is an issue, regard Light Pollution will be given to detailed advice and 4.3.17. Outdoor lighting is often used for technical assessments provided in security and safety reasons as well PPG24 (Planning and Noise) together as to allow for certain evening sports with advice from the Council’s activities. However, poorly designed Environmental Health and Building lighting schemes can have safety Consultancy Officers. PPG 24 states implications for motorists and other that the planning function should aim road users by way of dazzle. Equally, to minimise the adverse impact of the privacy and amenity of residential noise wherever possible. This can occupiers can be adversely affected be achieved through directing the through light spillage; the rural location of development itself and/or character of areas can be detrimentally by the use of conditions or Section affected by the introduction of an 106 Agreements to mitigate against urban feel (skyglow). Excessive high noise levels. Mitigation measures lighting can damage wildlife habitats may include the provision of natural and be a drain on energy resources. or purpose-built barriers, changes to The visibility of stars is much reduced layout, restriction of operating times by light pollution. or the specifying of noise limits. Mitigation measures can help to allow 4.3.18. Where buildings, public spaces and for a mix of uses in more sustainable car parks warrant lighting, the intensity, town centre locations. time-length of illumination and focus of such lighting should be designed to minimise unnecessarily obtrusive and ENV21 BAD NEIGHBOUR USES glaring light and light spillage. Details of external lighting schemes for certain Proposals for development will not new developments will be required as be permitted adjacent to established part of a planning application. bad neighbour uses unless adequate mitigation measures have been taken 4.3.19. The Council will permit floodlighting to prevent unacceptable harm to the and ancillary lighting for major sports occupiers of the development proposed. and recreational development except where such provision will cause an 4.3.22. Bad neighbour uses should be located unacceptable disturbance or will be such as to minimise detrimental visually intrusive. Where permission impacts on amenity. It would therefore for floodlighting is given, the hours be inappropriate to allow residential during which it may be used may be development adjacent to these uses. limited. The installation of shielding or screening may be required. ENV22 CONTAMINATED AND UNSTABLE Noise Pollution LAND 4.3.20. Noise can have a significant effect on the quality of people’s lives and Proposals for the development of on the wider environment. Excessive contaminated or unstable land will be noise levels can cause stress and permitted provided that the contaminant

60 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 or instability can be remedied to controlled waters or the potential to adequately alleviate the risk of cause pollution of controlled waters. harm to human health and the wider DETR Circular 2/2000 ‘Contaminated environment. Land’ gives guidance on those types of industrial use that would be 4.3.23. The Government encourages the considered potentially contaminated full and effective use of land that has land. previously been developed. It states that, given proper safeguards to 4.3.26. The Council has a duty to inspect human health and the environment, the District for contaminated land. land that is contaminated or unstable The Public Register of Contaminated can be put to a suitable use PPS Land is a Register of sites designated 23 and PPG 14 (Development on as Contaminated Land, where Unstable Land). The re-use of enforcement action is to be taken contaminated or unstable land is in to ensure appropriate remedial line with the principles of sustainable measures are completed. The development because it effectively Register is maintained by the Council recycles land and can reduce the and is available for public inspection pressure on greenfield sites. at the Civic Centre in Pershore.

4.3.24. To determine the suitability of the 4.3.27. Unstable land, and more particularly site for development, the applicant subsidence, is an issue in the District will be required to provide a detailed along the old salt runs in and around assessment as part of any proposal Droitwich Spa. The areas affected by which should include the following: subsidence are constantly changing a) a thorough appraisal of the site to through natural processes, but an agreed specification, historical information regarding specific sites records concerning the site and its may be obtained from the Council’s relation to the surrounding area; Building Consultancy section. The b) a targeted risk assessment; and presence of unstable land does not necessarily mean that development c) appropriate remedial measures to cannot take place. An appraisal will overcome any problems involved be required to ascertain whether in the development of the site remedial measures could overcome (including the environmental the instability to prevent risk of harm impacts of the remediation) and to human health and the general a validation report confirming environment. completion of any agreed remedial measures. A waste management licence may be ENV23 DEVELOPMENT INVOLVING required if contaminated material HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCES is to be retained on-site. Any contaminants to be removed from Proposals that would involve the the site have to be disposed of at presence of hazardous substances or a registered landfill site. proposals involving the storage and use of hazardous substances will not be 4.3.25. Potentially contaminated land includes those sites where former permitted if the proposal: or current use may cause significant a) poses an unacceptable level of harm, or have the possibility of risk to the public or the natural causing significant harm to human environment; health or cause the pollution of b) cannot provide adequate

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 61 emergency access to the site and the Health and Safety Executive adjoining areas of human activity (HSE) is responsible for notifying that potentially may be affected; consultation zones around such sites. or Local authorities are required to seek the HSE’s view on the likely risks to c) will seriously prejudice the any proposed development within development of neighbouring those zones (DoE Circular 11/92 land. ‘Planning Controls for Hazardous 4.3.28. Certain manufacturing and other Substances’; DETR Circular 04/00 processes that use substances ‘Hazardous Substances’). defined under The Planning (Hazardous Substances) Act 1990, 4.3.31. In Wychavon, consultation zones exist are considered to be a risk to human around several sites as well as some health. This can be due to their oil and gas pipelines. These zones toxicity or reactive nature. Hazardous are subject to review by the HSE, and Substance Consent needs to be their number and extent may change obtained for the use or storage of such during the Plan period. Information substances above certain quantities. regarding location may be obtained In addition, planning permission may from the Planning Department. be required for development involving hazardous substances. 4.4. Environmental Statements 4.4.1. The Town and Country Planning 4.3.29. The development of hazardous (Environmental Impact Assessment) installations and the storage and Regulations 1999, require developers use of hazardous substances must to submit an Environmental Statement not increase the risks to persons with certain development proposals. in the area, the wider community or The purpose of the Statement is to the environment to an unacceptable provide an assessment and analysis degree. The Council will aim to of the potential environmental effects keep hazardous installations and of proposals to assist the decision substances separate from land uses, making process. An Environmental with which they may be incompatible Statement is mandatory for in accordance with Planning (The projects listed under Schedule 1 Control of Major Accident Hazards) of the regulations. Schedule 2 lists Regulations 1999 (as amended development for which a Statement 2005). may be required. All proposals for development covered by Schedule 2 will be screened by the Local Planning ENV24 DEVELOPMENT CLOSE TO Authority to establish whether an HAZARDOUS INSTALLATIONS Environmental Statement is required. AND PIPELINES 4.4.2. The Regulations also extend the Within the defined consultation zone requirement for an Environmental of a hazardous installation or pipeline, Statement to Permitted Development development will only be permitted if that is likely to have significant the development and its uses will not environmental effects. Where this be subject to an unacceptable risk of is the case, Permitted Development an accident from the installation or the Rights will not apply and a planning pipeline. application, accompanied by an Environmental Statement will be 4.3.30. Where hazardous installations exist, required.

62 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Social Progress 5

Section 5 Social Progress

5.1. Introduction people and places, they will provide attractive places in which to live, work 5.1.1. This section sets out policies that and socialise. The policies ensure that help to develop the District as a the potential impacts of developments sustainable, well-designed, high at all levels are fully assessed so that quality and attractive place in which the living environment continues to to live and work. It is divided into be enhanced. two parts - Building Sustainable Communities and Enhancing People’s 5.2. Building Sustainable Communities Surroundings - and recognises both the social needs of individuals and communities and the development COM1 MIX OF DWELLING TYPES needs of the District. The Council will seek to ensure 5.1.2. The Government is committed to that proposals for new residential developing strong, vibrant and development and residential conversions sustainable communities and to (including changes of use) incorporate promoting community cohesion in a mix of dwelling types, sizes and both urban and rural areas. This affordability that reflect and respond means meeting the diverse needs to the housing needs of the individual of all people in existing and future settlements across the District. communities, promoting personal well- being, social cohesion and inclusion This Policy will apply to proposals for and creating equal opportunity for residential development consisting of all citizens. The policies in the first 10 or more dwellings within the towns of section provide the planning tools to Droitwich Spa, Evesham and Pershore ensure a balance of private, social and and to proposals of 5 or more dwellings other housing needs in the District as in other settlements. well as encouraging and facilitating community facilities, access to open In the application of the Policy, regard space, and leisure and recreation will be had to: opportunities.

5.1.3. The second section on Enhancing a) the extent to which a diversity People’s Surroundings recognises that of dwelling sizes and types is the condition of our surroundings has a proposed having regard to the direct impact on the quality of life, and overall scale of development and the conservation and improvement the physical characteristics of the of the natural and built environment site; brings social and economic benefit b) the existing profile of the housing for local communities. This section stock in the settlement; and also promotes the use of good c) the findings of a Parish Plan or design principles in the layout of the consideration of any statistical buildings and their relationship with or other relevant evidence as to their surroundings. Where buildings housing need where available. integrate well, and their design addresses the connections between

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 63 Applications for extensions to dwellings Development Plan Document (DPD) will be assessed against the need to retain on Balanced Housing Markets as set an appropriate range and mix of dwelling out in the adopted Local Development types within the individual settlements. Scheme (LDS).

5.2.1. The Policy complies with PPG3 (Housing), which states that Local COM2 AFFORDABLE HOUSING Authorities should adopt Policies that take into account changes in In order to help meet demonstrated housing needs in their areas (para. affordable housing needs, the Council will 9). PPG3 goes on to indicate that seek the provision of affordable housing Local Authorities should ensure new within all residential developments, housing developments help secure including conversions (and including a better social mix by avoiding the adjacent land if it can be expected to form creation of large areas of housing of part of a larger site), of either: similar characteristics (para. 10). They a) 0.5ha and over, or 15 dwellings, should also secure an appropriate mix whichever is the lesser; or of dwelling size, type and affordability to meet the changing composition of b) in settlements of less than 3000 households in their area, in light of population, either 0.25 ha and over, the likely assessed need (para. 11). or 7 dwellings or more, whichever A mix of housing types and sizes is is the lesser where there is an important for providing local choice identified housing need. and building balanced communities. On the above qualifying sites the Council 5.2.2. Furthermore, there is some concern will seek up to 30% of the units to be that extensions are impacting on the affordable, but the number, type, tenure mix and eroding the stock of smaller and dispersal of units to be provided will be housing (up to about 90 to 100 m2). subject to negotiation following analysis In this regard, and in addition to the of the Housing Needs Survey, Common design elements in Policy SUR6, Housing Register, Parish Survey, and the Council will consider proposals any relevant site-specific factors. The for extensions against their effect Council will require affordable housing to on a settlement’s mix and will refuse be provided on-site. Exceptionally, where proposals where it considers the it is jointly agreed between the Council impact to be unacceptable in these and developer that on-site provision is terms. The Council will analyse 2001 inappropriate, the subsequent sequence Census information to help inform the for provision of affordable homes shall application of the policy. be: c) in the first instance, on an agreed 5.2.3. Demographic trends indicate the alternative site, usually within the proportion of the population requiring same town or, within rural areas, smaller dwellings is rising, largely in the same or adjoining parish. due to the changing composition of In such cases the alternative households. The evidence suggests site should either have planning the majority of predicted growth will permission for affordable housing, be in one-person households. The or there is a reason able prospect Council will assess proposals in the of achieving planning permission; light of available information, including and the Council’s Housing Strategy, to d) if no suitable alternative site is promote dwelling mix. It will prepare a available, by payment of commuted

64 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 sums. This option only applies it is recognised that the provision to brownfield sites that could of new units is only one (albeit an otherwise not be brought forward important one) of several mechanisms for development. for meeting the housing needs of the District. Planning permission for the schemes will not be granted unless the proposal 5.2.5. The general definition of affordable incorporates the following details to the housing to be used in the Plan is satisfaction of the Council: that used by Judge Boggis in the case of Wychavon District Council e) the number (or proportion if in and Westbury Homes (2000) and outline) of affordable housing units supplemented by the definition in the and the means by which these will Council’s 2002 ‘Affordable Housing’ be provided; Supplementary Planning Guidance f) the sector(s) of the housing market (SPG): whose needs the housing units are “Housing in the area of the relevant intended to meet; Council which is available to those g) secure arrangements to ensure the who cannot afford to rent or buy what units will remain affordable and is available on the open market’’ (HH available to meet the requirements Judge Boggis, 2000). of those in housing need in perpetuity; 5.2.6. Affordable housing is generally h) a justification of how the site categorised into two types: benefits from reasonable access to a) “housing provided by an local services and public transport; organisation allocating on the and basis of need. While such dwellings will normally be made i) for proposals in rural parishes, available for rent, they may arrangements for ensuring also include subsidised home preference for occupants with a ownership, such as shared local connection. ownership, where a Registered Social Landlord (RSL) [or Local 5.2.4. The planning system has a role to play in helping to provide housing for Authority] retains a continuing all sectors of society and to create interest’’; and ‘mixed and balanced communities’ as b) “low-cost market housing, helping promoted by PPG3 (para. 10). DETR to meet the needs of first time Circular 6/98 (para. 1) ‘Planning and buyers, single people, the elderly Affordable Housing’ advises that and other low income households, ‘’a community’s need for affordable that cannot afford to rent or buy housing is a material planning houses generally on the open consideration’’, it being recognised market’’ (Affordable Housing SPG, that the market will only provide 2002). part of the range of housing which a community requires. The Council 5.2.7. To help determine affordability in this will, therefore, seek a proportion of respect, the Council may have regard new units on qualifying sites to be to local incomes and house prices/ affordable. This will help to meet the rents. needs of those on lower incomes in the District and the aims of the 5.2.8. In 2000, Fordham Research Ltd Council’s Housing Strategy, although undertook a district-wide Housing Needs Survey (HNS) on behalf of

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 65 the Council. The HNS estimated that in the 1998 Local Plan exceeded 24 an additional 2400 affordable homes units. In this Plan there are insufficient would be required up to 2005 for the sites of greater than 24 units to Council to meet all of its current and deliver enough affordable housing projected housing need. to meet the needs of the District. Furthermore, the number of units on 5.2.9. The level of housing need smaller sites is proportionally greater, demonstrated by the HNS exceeds primarily because of the preference the total amount of housing for regenerating brownfield sites. For development that the Local Plan has these reasons the threshold has been to allocate. The Council is, therefore, lowered to 15 or 0.5ha. Sites of this adopting a common sense approach size and nature have been included to addressing this housing need to help achieve national and local as the planning system is only one, objectives intended to make the best albeit important, method of delivering use of land and re-use of previously affordable housing. The thresholds developed land. and levels of provision of affordable housing set out in this Policy strike 5.2.13. Similar reasoning has been applied to a reasonable balance between justify lower thresholds for the villages increasing the delivery of affordable as permitted by para. 10 of DETR homes on qualifying sites, ensuring Circular 6/98. Analysis of the HLA that appropriate sites come forward for records (1986 to 2001) indicate that development and achieving balanced approximately 67% of new housing in communities. Policy SR1 identifies rural areas was achieved on sites of the approximate level of affordable less than 25 units, 59% on sites of less housing provision to be sought on than 15 and 45% on sites of less than allocated sites during the Plan period. 7 units. It is, therefore, considered These figures may vary depending on reasonable to reduce the threshold identified needs and site conditions. for rural settlements to 7 or 0.25 ha whichever is the lesser (i.e. half of 5.2.10. Proposals should comply with the that for the urban areas), to ensure Council’s Affordable Housing SPG. that there is a reasonable chance of satisfying some of the need for 5.2.11. In accordance with DETR Circular affordable housing in the rural areas 6/98 ‘Planning and Affordable where a local need is demonstrated. Housing’, justification is provided below for adopting lower thresholds 5.2.14. The number and type of affordable for qualifying sites. units to be sought by the Council on a particular site will be informed by 5.2.12. Assessment of the Housing Land interrogation of the HNS, the Common Availability (HLA) records from April Housing Register and, where relevant, 1986 to March 2001 showed that Parish Survey. Exceptionally, and only approximately 5427 new homes, on problematic brownfield sites, a approximately 83% of the total, figure which is less than that revealed were provided within Droitwich Spa, as the housing need for the area may Evesham and Pershore on sites be accepted where there are proven (including adjacent and cumulative significant abnormal development sites) of greater than 24 units, whereas, costs. approximately 381 new homes, or 6%, were on sites between 15 and 5.2.15. The Council considers, in accordance 24 units. Many of the sites allocated with advice from PPG3 (paras 21; 22),

66 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 that it is appropriate for the developer expected for market housing, provide to provide the required affordable quality and choice, incorporate energy housing element on all qualifying efficient designs and appropriate use sites. In exceptional cases, however, of materials. Generally, the grouping and subject to agreement between the together of more than 10 affordable Council and the developer, it may be housing units should be avoided to appropriate to allow the developer to maximise social inclusion. provide the affordable housing element on an alternative site which would 5.2.18. For initial and subsequent allocations contribute towards the affordable of affordable homes on sites in rural housing needs of the area. In such areas, preference should be given cases the alternative site should to those in housing need with a local have planning permission for such a connection. This would normally be use or have a reasonable prospect achieved by a clause in the Section of securing planning permission. In 106 Agreement. instances where planning permission is required on the alternative site, the 5.2.19. Generally, it is considered that local Council would expect the submission connection would comprise one or of both applications, which would be more of the following: considered simultaneously. A Section a) existing residents in unsuitable 106 Agreement would also be required housing within the local area; to ensure the original site is not b) people currently living within but developed unless the secondary site requiring separate accommodation is also developed. In the absence of a in the local area, for example, suitable alternative site for affordable those living with parents or in tied housing, and subject to agreement accommodation; with the developer, the Council may accept a financial contribution in lieu c) people who work locally but are of affordable housing. The monies unable to afford housing locally; provided in this way will be used by d) people who currently live the Council to provide additional elsewhere, or are homeless, but affordable accommodation within the have firm links to the local area, for District. example, elderly people returning to an area to be close to relatives. 5.2.16. In most instances, it is anticipated that the provision plus the initial and 5.2.20. For the purpose of this Policy, ‘local subsequent occupation of affordable area’ would normally be considered to housing will need to be controlled comprise the parish or adjoining rural via a Section 106 Agreement. The parishes within the Wychavon area. considerations to be secured are set out in the Council’s Affordable Housing 5.2.21. The Council will annually monitor SPG. The RSLs have an important the provision of affordable housing role with regard to the long-term through the HLA Survey and Housing management, and in some instances, Strategy. This will be used to help direct provision of affordable housing. inform the number of units requested Developers are, therefore, advised to on individual applications in involve the RSLs early in the planning conjunction with the Housing Needs process. Survey (and any subsequent review) and the Common Housing Register. 5.2.17. Applications for affordable housing will be to the same high standard of design

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 67 COM3 RURAL EXCEPTION SITES need with a local connection for the initial and subsequent allocations In rural areas, as an exception to normal – this would normally be achieved development policy, proposals will be via a Section 106 Agreement. Local permitted for affordable housing sites on connection is defined in the reasoned the edges of villages, to meet the specific justification to Policy COM2. The housing needs of the local area where: local area is normally defined as the parish and immediately adjoining rural a) the need has been proven and parishes within Wychavon. no other suitable or appropriate and available sites exist within 5.2.24. For reasons of sustainability, the the development boundary of the Council considers it is generally settlement; inappropriate to locate new affordable b) the site has reasonable access to housing on sites that do not have public transport and local services/ ready access to public transport and facilities; and local services and facilities, because c) secure arrangements exist to it is more likely that provision of ensure the housing will remain affordable housing in locations with affordable and available to meet poor accessibility will lead to increased the needs of local people in problems of social and economic perpetuity. isolation and a greater dependency on the car. 5.2.22. The Council would normally expect housing for local needs to be provided 5.2.25. It is expected that the developments within the development boundary or should achieve a good standard on allocated sites. However, DETR of quality, design and appropriate Circular 6/98 and Annex B of PPG3 materials and satisfy the general Housing Update (January 2005) housing amenity and design Policies recognises that it is often difficult to in this Plan as amplified by the secure adequate land for affordable Council’s Affordable Housing SPG. housing in rural areas, particularly in villages where new housing allocations 5.2.26. The need for a rural exception site have not been made, and enables should be clearly demonstrated with the deficiency to be met via a rural reference to the Housing Needs exception policy. This Policy facilitates Survey, Common Housing Register affordable housing developments to and, where relevant, Parish Plans be permitted on suitable sites within and/or surveys prepared by the or on the edge of rural settlements Worcestershire Rural Housing where development would not Enabler. normally be permitted, provided that it will meet a genuine local need and that there is no cross-subsidisation COM4 PROVISION OF SUPPORTED with high value or general market AND SHELTERED HOUSING housing. The size of the application site and the number of units proposed Where a need is identified in the Local should be commensurate to the Housing Strategy, the Council will permit existing settlement to avoid over- the provision of supported and sheltered development. housing within defined development boundaries or through the conversion of 5.2.23. The Council will need to be satisfied an existing building, in locations which that priority is given to those in housing have good access to a range of local services and to public transport.

68 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 5.2.27. Supported housing is housing Private sites with planning permission for people who are unable to live will be safeguarded for continued gypsy independently or who need a particular accommodation use at their permitted kind of support. The Housing Needs level. Survey (HNS) indicates that at 2000, 10.6% of the households within the Appendix 5 lists gypsy accommodation District have such needs and includes sites which do not have planning the physically disabled, frail elderly, permission, but are tolerated for continued people with learning disabilities, use at the level of the June 2005 ‘Count of people with mental health problems, Gypsy Caravans’. vulnerable young people, children leaving care and people with hearing 5.2.30. This Policy relates to gypsies as and sight impairments. defined in the Caravan and Control of Development Act 1960 as ‘’persons of 5.2.28. Wychavon is a member of the nomadic habit of life, whatever their Worcestershire Supporting People race or origin’’. Group, a multi-agency network which examines the need for supported 5.2.31. In May 1994 the Secretary of State housing in the county and identifies for the Environment brought into force priorities for meeting that need. the Gypsy Encampments (District of Wychavon) Order, which gave 5.2.29. In assessing sites for supported designation to the District under the housing, a prime consideration will terms of Section 10 of the Caravan be the accessibility to services and Sites Act 1968. public transport with preference for sites, including mixed-use sites, 5.2.32. The designation acknowledges the close to the town centre. Developers provision made for public pitches at will be encouraged to design the Hipton Hill, Pinvin, Hinton-on-the- accommodation in accordance Green, Cleeve Prior and Lower Smite with the ‘Lifetime Homes’ concept Farm. As at June 2005, figures from (originated by the Joseph Rowntree the County Council indicates that there Foundation) and ‘Egan’ principles. were 129 permanent pitches across the District. The Council’s policy on the toleration of existing specified COM5 GYPSY SITES – EXISTING private sites is in accordance with PROVISION Policy COM5.

In order to ensure the provision of 5.2.33. Although the Criminal Justice and adequate permanent gypsy caravan sites Public Order Act 1994 means that within the District, the following official Local Authorities no longer have a sites as identified on the Proposals Map statutory duty to provide adequate will be safeguarded for continued use: accommodation for gypsies residing in, or resorting to, their area, the Site A - Cleeve Prior; Council wish to maintain the current Site B - Hinton-on-the-Green; level of approved/tolerated provision. These sites should be protected from Site C - Hipton Hill; other forms of development to ensure Site D - Pinvin; adequate provision for gypsy needs Site E - Lower Smite Farm. which can be demonstrated.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 69 COM6 GYPSY SITES – NEW PROVISION them to secure the kind of sites they need, and thus help avoid breaches Proposals for new or extensions to of planning control. existing gypsy caravan sites will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that a genuine need for additional sites COM7 AGRICULTURAL WORKERS’ exists to accommodate gypsies residing AND OTHER RURAL WORKERS’ in or with clear ties to the District and DWELLINGS the proposed development satisfies the following criteria: Permanent agricultural workers’ a) is capable of being satisfactorily dwellings in the countryside will only be assimilated into the surrounding permitted where: landscape; a) it is essential for the long-term b) is of satisfactory scale in keeping operation of the agricultural holding with surrounding settlements; and for a worker to live on site; c) is reasonably close to service b) the need is based on a full-time facilities, in particular schools, agricultural worker, or one who is shops and health facilities. primarily employed in agriculture; c) the enterprise has been established 5.2.34. Current legislation relating to gypsy for at least three years, has been provision is such that any increase on profitable for at least one year the current levels of provision is likely and is financially sound and has a to be by way of private provision. reasonable prospect of remaining Applications for new gypsy caravan so; sites and extensions to existing d) the need could not be met by: permitted ones must demonstrate • that a genuine need exists and that an existing dwelling on the the site is satisfactorily located. holding; • the conversion of an existing 5.2.35. Government advice on gypsy sites suitable building on or adjoining and planning as set out in ODPM the holding; or Circular 01/2006 ‘Planning for Gypsy • any available dwelling and Traveller Caravan Sites’ requires elsewhere in the vicinity that that Local Planning Authorities shall is affordable to an agricultural encourage private site provision worker; through advice and practical help e) the size and specification of the with planning procedures to gypsies dwelling is reasonably related to who wish to acquire their own land for the functional requirement of the development. unit and appropriate in terms of scale and design to its setting and 5.2.36 However, it goes on to state that ‘’It is surroundings; and strongly recommended that gypsies and travellers consult Local Planning f) the proposed dwelling is sited Authorities on planning matters to minimise its impact on the before buying land on which they appearance and character of intend to establish any caravan site, the area - preferably adjacent to for which planning permission will existing buildings. almost always be required’’. The aim should be, as far as possible, to help Permitted development rights to gypsies to help themselves, to allow extend the dwelling which are normally available for dwellings may be removed

70 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 by condition. Planning permission may 5.2.40. The functional test requires the be granted subject to a Section 106 applicant to demonstrate that for the Agreement preventing the severing of efficient functioning of the unit there the agricultural worker’s dwelling from is a genuine long-term need for one the Agricultural holding. or more full-time workers, primarily employed in agriculture, to be readily In exceptional circumstances, rural available at most times and that this workers’ dwellings will be permitted where could not be achieved by the use of an it can be demonstrated that the operation existing dwelling, or a building suitable needs to be located in the countryside and for conversion, either on the holding that it is necessary for the operation of or in the locality. A case based solely the business to live on site. In addition, all on grounds of security will rarely be proposals will be required to comply with sufficient. Furthermore, the Council the same tests outlined for agricultural will investigate the history of the site workers’ dwellings. to establish whether buildings, which may have been a potential source of 5.2.37. Development is strictly controlled in accommodation, have been disposed the countryside in order to maintain its of previously – in the Council’s opinion character and openness. One of the this may constitute lack of evidence for few circumstances in which residential accommodation to serve the needs of development may be justified in the the holding. countryside is to serve the needs of agriculture or in exceptional 5.2.41. The applicant will also have to circumstances rural workers’ demonstrate that the proposal dwellings, where it is necessary to satisfies the financial test referred to the operation for workers to live on in PPS7 Annexe A – that the unit and the site. Whether this is essential will the agricultural activity have been depend upon the business activity in operation for at least three years, concerned and not on the personal have been profitable for at least one preferences or circumstances of any of them, are economically sound and particular individual – generally, it is have the potential to remain so. A as appropriate for such workers to planning application should, therefore, live in nearby settlements and not on be accompanied by an independent, the site. comprehensive appraisal of the functional need for a dwelling with 5.2.38. Rural workers’ dwellings will be supporting financial information. It required to follow the same tests should be noted that the economic as agricultural workers’ dwellings viability relates to the agricultural and permissions will be subject to activity as well as the unit as a whole. conditions tying the dwelling to the Therefore, on an established farm it business. would not be appropriate to allow a new permanent dwelling for a new 5.2.39. Government advice contained in agricultural activity, unless the activity PPS7 (Sustainable Development itself is proved viable. in Rural Areas) Annexe A, states that proposals for new permanent 5.2.42. Proposals for a new home to agricultural dwellings should only accommodate a retired agricultural be allowed where they satisfy the or rural worker will not be acceptable functional and financial tests and and are not in accordance with this these will be used when considering Policy. applications.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 71 5.2.43. The Council is keen to minimise COM8 TEMPORARY AGRICULTURAL future problems of affordability of AND OTHER RURAL WORKERS’ agricultural dwellings for agricultural DWELLINGS wage earners and will therefore not accept unusually large or expensively Proposals for temporary agricultural constructed dwellings that would be dwellings will only be permitted where: difficult to sustain in the long term on a) the proposal is to satisfy the needs an agricultural income. It is, therefore, of a new agricultural activity or generally anticipated that the habitable expansion where clear evidence accommodation (i.e. excluding exists of a firm intention and ability garaging, but including office space, to develop the business concerned, for example), should not exceed 150 together with evidence of sound m2 in area (as measured externally). financial planning; and Furthermore, the dwelling should be in keeping with its setting and b) there is a functional need for the surroundings, and sited and designed accommodation proposed; and to minimise any harmful impact on the c) the need could not be met by: landscape or environment. • an existing dwelling on the holding; or 5.2.44. Where planning permission is • subsequently granted: the conversion of an existing suitable building on or adjoining • a standard occupancy condition the holding; or will be imposed stating that the • occupancy of the dwelling will any available dwelling be limited to a person solely or elsewhere in the vicinity; and mainly working, or last working, d) it is sited to minimise its impact on in the locality, in agriculture, the landscape (preferably adjacent or a widow or widower of such to existing buildings) and would a person, and to resident not cause unacceptable harm to dependants; the character or appearance of the • the Council may impose an area. occupancy condition on any other dwelling on the agricultural unit In exceptional circumstances, temporary concerned; rural workers’ dwellings will be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the • the applicant will generally be operation needs to be located in the requested to enter into a Section countryside and that it is necessary for 106 Agreement to tie the dwelling the operation of the business to live on to the holding that originally the site. In addition, all proposals will justified its existence. be required to comply with the same In order to prevent agricultural tests outlined for temporary agricultural dwellings being extended workers’ dwellings. disproportionately in relation to agricultural wages a condition may 5.2.45. This Policy is intended to complement be imposed removing the permitted Policy COM7 relating to the provision development rights normally available of permanent new agricultural or rural to extend dwellings. workers’ dwellings in the countryside. It is also important to address the accommodation requirements arising from a new enterprise – whether on a newly created agricultural unit/rural business or an established one.

72 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 5.2.46. Applicants will be expected to where the Council is satisfied that: demonstrate that there is a functional a) the dwelling is now located within need for the accommodation, together a defined development boundary; with evidence that there is a firm or intention and ability to develop the enterprise. In addition, the Council will b) the long-term need for the dwelling only grant permission for proposals in the locality has ceased. that are considered acceptable in terms of their landscape and 5.2.48. New agricultural workers’ dwellings environmental impact. are permitted as an exception to the normal strict planning control 5.2.47. Where planning permission is operating in the countryside in order subsequently granted: to meet specific economic and • a standard occupancy condition social needs of the rural community. will be imposed stating that the Policy COM7 aims to ensure that occupancy of the temporary such dwellings are only permitted dwelling will be limited to a where there is a genuine long-term person solely or mainly working, need. However, changes in farming or last working, in the locality, may result in these dwellings no in agriculture, or a widow or longer being required for agricultural widower of such a person, and to purposes – this may be particularly resident dependants; relevant to tied dwellings built more than 20 years ago. Although it is • it will be for a temporary period not appropriate for them to remain of up to three years with a permanently vacant, applications condition requiring the removal for the removal of the condition will of the accommodation and re- need to be carefully assessed in instatement of the site after the order to establish whether there is permission expires if planning a continuing need for agricultural consent has not been granted for dwellings in the locality (not just on a permanent dwelling; the specific holding) as stated by • generally, it will be inappropriate PPS7 Annexe A. to either repeatedly renew temporary permissions or 5.2.49. Applications submitted under criterion approve for periods longer b) will be a requirement to demonstrate than three years because this that a vigorous marketing campaign is considered sufficient time to has been undertaken to sell or lease demonstrate the viability of the the property to such persons who would enterprise. satisfy the ‘occupancy’ condition. This will normally require that the property has been continuously and actively COM9 AGRICULTURAL OR RURAL marketed in the local press, in the WORKERS’ OCCUPANCY national agricultural press and visibly CONDITIONS on site for a minimum of 12 months at a price that reflects the agricultural Generally, occupancy conditions will be occupancy condition. The Council retained on agricultural and rural workers’ may require a longer marketing period dwellings. However, occasionally, for properties with a restricted, niche circumstances may have changed such market – such as large dwellings that the Council may agree to the removal which may only be affordable to farm of the condition. Proposals to remove an managers rather than the average occupancy condition will be permitted agricultural worker. The Council

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 73 may also require applicants to therefore, the facilities available need demonstrate that they have a definite to cover a number of communities or intention to move. Similarly, changes a range of uses. The provision of new in the rural economy may result in tied local facilities in towns and villages is dwellings no longer being required important in terms of sustainability, in the locality to accommodate rural as they can reduce the length and workers. All proposals to remove the number of car trips and provide a occupancy condition will be required service to those who do not have to demonstrate that the long-term access to transport. Consideration need has ceased and that a vigorous of new community facilities may be marketing campaign has been necessary to address issues of social undertaken in accordance with the exclusion, as new community facilities above. may help to cater for the elderly and young people in order to encourage 5.2.50. Occasionally, a tied dwelling may, and enable them to stay in their subsequently, have been surrounded community. by more recent development so that it now falls within a defined development 5.2.52. The crucial role of village shops boundary. In such instances, the in maintaining villages as viable Council will support the removal of communities is recognised by the occupancy condition. PPS6 (Planning for Town Centres). All communities need access to a range of community facilities and it COM10 PROVISION OF RURAL is, therefore, felt that a full range of COMMUNITY FACILITIES facilities should be provided wherever possible and all community facilities Proposals for the building of new, or should be given a similar level of extensions to existing, community protection to that suggested for shops. facilities will be permitted provided: PPS7 states that people who live in rural areas should have reasonable a) the site and the facility is within or access to a range of services and that adjacent to, a defined settlement planning authorities can facilitate the boundary; provision of these services and help b) the proposal will not impact upon to retain existing services. existing community facilities or the established retail hierarchy of 5.2.53. There are, however, difficulties the area; and associated with funding of public c) the proposal is easily and safely facilities and it is often commercial accessible by cycle and on foot. factors, rather than need, that determine the location of facilities 5.2.51. Community facilities are essential provided by the private sector. elements of sustainable communities Therefore, the Council cannot ensure and include places of worship, village that all the facilities required will be halls, shops, fuel stations, post offices, provided. It would not be appropriate human burial grounds, libraries, banks, to allocate land for their provision and schools, local cinemas, play areas, instead the Council’s position is to doctors surgeries, pubs, children’s facilitate development for community nurseries and recreation/leisure uses. facilities rather than to provide for A full range of these facilities cannot them; therefore, any appropriate be provided in all of the local parishes applications will be determined on due to limited population levels and, the basis of relevant criteria and other

74 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Policies in the Plan. Development COM11 PROTECTION OF COMMUNITY arising from the private and voluntary FACILITIES sectors will be dealt with in the same way. Proposals for any new development which would result in the loss of a 5.2.54. The most appropriate location for community facility or adversely affect such facilities is within or adjacent the operation of a community facility will to settlements where the greatest only be permitted where an acceptable concentration of residents and visitors and feasible alternative facility exists, or can be served and the impact on a replacement can be provided within an the open countryside is minimised. easy and safe walking distance, subject However, in some instances, it may to compliance with other policies within be more appropriate to site the facility the Local Plan. next to settlements, such as in the case of village halls or where a facility 5.2.56. In order to sustain the vitality of the requires a larger land take which is main town centres in the District, the unlikely to be accommodated within Council will endeavour to support the the defined development boundary. evening economy. Although retailing These may include village cricket underpins such centres, it is the pitches, bowling greens, and football Council’s opinion that town centres pitches/playing fields with small- should contain and retain a wide range scale changing facilities. Proposals of uses that need to be accessible to for new or extensions to such a large number of people, including facilities will be permitted adjacent employment, shopping, offices, leisure to settlements where provision and entertainment uses, hospitals within a development boundary is and higher education amongst other not feasible. This is providing the uses. PPS6 makes clear that the development is of a minimum size to diversity of uses in town centres, meet the requirements of the likely and their accessibility to people user groups and is acceptable in living and working in the area, make terms of its impact on the landscape an important contribution to their and residential amenity, particularly in vitality and viability. The Council will terms of noise and floodlighting. determine applications that concern the evening economy in accordance 5.2.55. The Council will permit the floodlighting with the general principles set out in and ancillary lighting for small-scale PPS6. sport and recreational facilities except where such provision will cause an 5.2.57. Due to the importance of community unacceptable disturbance or will be facilities in villages and local centres visually intrusive. Any form of lighting to the sustainable objectives of this allowed must meet the requirements Plan, it is vital that improvements to of Policy ENV20. The hours of use existing facilities are encouraged and may be restricted and the installation that existing facilities are protected. of shielding or screening will be There needs to be strong justification considered by the Council to minimise for doing otherwise. Such justification impact. would include where the facility has remained unused over a long period of time, despite reasonable efforts to secure its re-use or where there is a proven lack of demand or local need demonstrated in consultation with

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 75 the local community. This approach 5.2.59. PPG17 (Planning for Open Space, would apply to all proposals involving Sport and Recreation) defines open a change in the use of all or part of space as all open space of public a community facility or proposals value, including not just land, but also that would unduly compromise the areas of water, including parks and operation of a community facility. gardens, green corridors, outdoor sports facilities, amenity green 5.2.58. Some community facilities are space, allotments, cemeteries, civic commercially run enterprises, and market squares and natural and including pubs, shops and fuel semi natural green spaces. However, stations. In these cases, applicants it does not include spaces left over must demonstrate that they have after planning (SLOAP) and other actively marketed the site in its incidental areas of land, such as existing use for a period of at least road-verges, which are not intended 12 months, providing comprehensive for a specific use. documentary evidence of such, including details of any genuine 5.2.60. PPG17 stresses that open spaces, enquiries and where and when the sport and recreation all underpin site was marketed. The applicant must people’s quality of life and the demonstrate that the use is no longer following are the long-term outcomes viable or could not be made viable that it aims to deliver: or is not locationally or operationally • networks of accessible, high- capable of providing a reasonable quality open space and sport return. The Council will require and recreation facilities, in both evidence in the form of 2 consecutive rural and urban areas, that meet years of accounts and will take into the needs of residents and consideration whether there is scope visitors, are fit for purpose and for an alternative community use economically and environmentally for the facility or whether there are sustainable. any feasible measures available to • an appropriate balance improve viability. between new provision and the enhancement of existing provision. COM12 PROVISION OF PUBLIC OPEN • clarity and reasonable certainty SPACE for developers and landowners in relation to the requirements and Proposals for new residential expectations of Local Planning development of 5 dwellings or more will Authorities in respect of open be required to provide public open space space, sport and recreation (POS) where the adopted standard or provision. assessed standard indicates a deficiency of provision in the local area. 5.2.61. The Government is firmly of the view that achieving these outcomes Where on-site provision is not appropriate, depends on Planning Authorities first financial contributions will be sought to undertaking local assessments of provide new or enhance existing provision need and audits of provision, as it is according to local circumstances. considered that national standards cannot cater for local circumstances. The long-term maintenance of such Forthcoming ‘Provision of Open facilities may be met by a lump sum Space’ Development Plan Document payment secured by means of condition (DPD), as set out in the Council’s or by legal agreement as appropriate

76 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 LDS, will provide further guidance. 5.2.63. Public Open Space Standards The preparation of this document will Category Hectares Space draw on a district-wide Open Space required Audit to be completed by September per 1000 2006. In tandem with the adopted population standard, the Council will also use Children’s existing open space survey work that Play 0.7 To include provides a solid basis for the new equipped play approach and will inform how the space (0.02 Council will apply the standards in the ha), other meantime. opportunities for outdoor 5.2.62. In order to implement the revised play, and guidance in PPG17 the Council is casual space. undertaking further consultation with Sports stakeholders on current provision and Grounds 1.7 Of which at future needs of open space, sport and least 1.2 ha recreation facilities through the Open should be for Space Audit. The local standards will pitch sports. include quantitative and qualitative General assessments, accessibility and Use 0.4 Informal, consideration of the cost of using such as a facility and will form the basis for walking, redressing deficiencies through and could the planning process. The National be accounted Playing Fields Association (NPFA) for within the recommend a minimum standard landscaping of 2.43 ha (6 acres) per thousand of the population, which is broken down into development two broad categories: one for adult Total 2.8 ha and youth recreation 1.6 – 1.8 ha (4.0 – 4.5 acres) necessary per thousand 5.2.64. The Council’s adopted SPG ‘Developer population; with the remaining 0.6 Contributions Towards Services – 0.8 ha (1.5 – 2.0 acres) identified Infrastructure’ provides further for children’s play. This is a minimum information on designing new areas standard and, in addition to formal of open space and the categories recreational space, there is a need for that should be provided. In certain informal areas for walking, jogging, instances it may not be appropriate sitting, etc. for both local people and to require any open space provision visitors. POS for such use is expected even if the development exceeds 5 to make up the remaining area of the dwellings. These may include cases Council’s 2.8ha (7 acre) standard, where the viability of a redevelopment which is as follows: scheme is an issue or where the amount and quality of open space provision within the locality meets or exceeds the adopted standard for the local area, such as if the amount and quality of provision within the appropriate distance thresholds matches or exceeds the adopted provision standards for the local area. Certain forms of development, such

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 77 as rest homes or sheltered homes for 5.2.66 The Council also recognises that the elderly, will normally be exempt Public Rights of Way are an important from part or all of the requirements recreational facility that needs and will be judged on their merits. A protection and enhancement. The full list of exempt developments can Council will seek opportunities to be found in the SPG. provide better facilities for walkers, cyclists and horse riders, for example, 5.2.65. Well designed public open space by adding links to existing rights of can greatly enhance the aesthetic way networks. value and safety of an area. For example, lighting can decrease the 5.2.67. The Council has adopted the risk of criminal activity and, therefore, approach of only requiring on-site increase the feeling of safety which, in open space provision or a contribution turn, leads to an increase in the use of to off-site open space provision if a facility. Where a need for equipped the development results in a site children’s play space is identified, the exceeding 5 dwellings or more. This Council will require this to be integrated is due to the cost of negotiating and within the development itself, where administering an agreement likely to it will be well supervised and safe be higher than the benefit gained to to use. When considering planning the local community in developments applications that will incorporate an of less than 5 houses. The Council element of open space or a sport or will, however, seek open space recreational facility, the Council will contributions on sites that have been seek to ensure that they are accessible purposefully subdivided or reduced in by walking, cycling and public size to below this threshold. Similarly, transport as alternatives to the use the requirement for open space will of the car in accordance with PPG17. also include smaller parcels of land In instances where improvements to that are perceived as consecutive or an existing open space or a sport or cumulative, but together exceed 5 recreational facility is sought as an dwellings. Any existing dwellings that alternative to on-site provision, the are to be retained and not subdivided council will seek to encourage better will be excluded from the threshold accessibility to the existing sites, calculation. However, where existing taking into account the mobility needs properties are to be either subdivided in the local population. The following or demolished and replaced, then all levels of accessibility (from a person’s the resulting units will be taken into home to a facility) will be used in the account to establish whether the site assessment of proposals. falls above the relevant threshold for triggering the need for open space Toddler play area within 200m provision. 1 ( /8 mile) 5.2.68. As the Local Planning Authority Children’s play area within 400m the Council expects developers to (1/ mile) 4 contribute to open space requirements Small local park within 800m as part of the development site itself, (1/ mile) particularly in respect of children’s play 2 area provision. However, it recognises Local park within 1200m that there may be circumstances 3 under which on-site provision is not ( /4 mile) appropriate. This may be due to the Council’s assessment identifying that

78 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 there is adequate open space in the a) an improved or an equivalent vicinity but the quality of that space replacement facility to meet the is poor or specific site conditions local need can be provided in an prohibit the provision of open space accessible location; or or facilities. In such circumstances an b) the development is for recreational appropriate financial contribution will and/or community purposes related be sought from the developer, thus to the use of the space, buildings allowing the developer to contribute or land; or towards public open space facilities and their maintenance in the local area. c) an assessment of community The Council will enter into a Section need has been undertaken clearly 106 Agreement with the developer showing the space, building or to secure appropriate finances to land to be surplus to requirements; fund improvements to facilities in the and locality, where a deficiency exists, or d) the development results in the whereby the development will lead to improvement of the open space, such a deficiency, as identified by the building or land. assessment and audit carried out by the Council. The planning decision In all cases, the proposal must be sited will only be issued after the Section so as not to compromise the essential 106 Agreement has been completed. character of the space, building or land. The Council’s SPG explains financial 5.2.70. During recent years, the development contributions in further detail. pressures on open space and sport and recreational buildings and 5.2.69. It is important that arrangements land within towns and villages has are made to ensure that on-site increased, threatening the amount open space or off-site contributions to of land available for recreation and existing open space and facilities are amenity purposes, and the visual maintained in the long-term. There character of the area that may are a variety of mechanisms that can contribute to local distinctiveness. achieve this, which are covered in more detail in the SPG. The Council 5.2.71. Government advice contained in will use planning obligations under PPG3 and PPG17 stresses the various circumstances in line with the need to retain and protect valuable revised PPG17 and ODPM 05/2005 amenity and recreational open ‘Planning Obligations’ in order to spaces, buildings and land within improve the quantity or quality of both rural and urban areas. Parks, open space, sports and recreation playing fields, informal open spaces, provision. allotments and private gardens are some of the uses that can be of great importance to the appearance of a COM13 PROTECTION OF OPEN neighbourhood. Planning permission SPACE AND SPORT AND will only be granted for development RECREATIONAL BUILDINGS affecting open spaces or sports and AND LAND IN TOWNS AND recreational buildings or land where VILLAGES the reasons for the development outweigh the value of the space in Proposals for development that would connection with the assessment of result in the loss of, or would adversely need and an audit of open space. affect the character of, open space or sport or recreational buildings and land, 5.2.72. Public Open Space (POS) is an will only be permitted where:

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 79 essential part of the urban heritage playing fields, with the presumption and is important for the character, against any alternative development. appearance and identity of an area. The Council will also use the approach It plays an important educational and that any development providing the ecological role and helps to foster opportunity to exchange the use of community development. Towns one site for another to substitute for and villages need open space to any loss of open space, or sports or function properly and efficiently. It is a recreational facility should be at least legitimate aim of the planning system as accessible to current and potential to protect important open areas for new users. Any replacement should their recreational, environmental, also be at least as equivalent in terms visual or ecological value and for the of size, usefulness, attractiveness and general amenity of the community in quality, and in the case of allotments, which they are located. Small spaces similar land quality. In all cases the in village conservation areas can Council will seek to ensure that be particularly important in terms obligations or conditions to secure the of village character and form. POS exchanged land and its maintenance can be a valuable asset whether it is undertaken. is in private or public ownership and whether or not it is publicly accessible. 5.2.75. PPG17 stresses that parks, recreation Additionally, in protecting this land, the grounds, playing fields and allotments Council will have regard not only to its must not be regarded as Previously individual value but to its contribution Developed Land as defined in Annexe to the overall open space network C of PPG3. If other open spaces within the built-up area and links to or sport and recreational land or the open countryside and the rights of buildings do fall within the definition way network. of Previously Developed Land (PDL), its existing and potential value for 5.2.73. PPG17 emphasises that existing recreation and other purposes open space and sport and recreation should be properly addressed before buildings and land should not be built development is considered. on unless an assessment has been undertaken that clearly shows the open 5.2.76. Many large areas of open land are space, land or buildings to be surplus attached to community facilities such to requirements in accordance with the as schools, hospitals, sports grounds, standards adopted for the local area. etc. The Council recognises the The Council has undertaken a district- occasional need for these facilities wide assessment in accordance with to be developed and will balance this Policy COM13, which will inform the need against the need to retain open DPD for Open Space Provision. For land. Exceptionally, therefore, the open space to be considered surplus Council will permit community facility to requirements, consideration will be development on areas of protected given to all of the functions that the land. Where such development is open space can perform. Not all open permitted as part of a community use, space or sport and recreation buildings it should be sited in a manner that and land are of equal merit and some does not prejudice the value of the may be available for alternative uses. open space, buildings or land, or the reason for protection. If, for example, 5.2.74. In accordance with PPG17 the an area is protected as part of a linear Council will give careful consideration run of open space through a built-up to any planning applications involving area, any development permitted

80 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 should be sited to protect the linear disturbance to the tranquillity of the nature of the whole, particularly on countryside or general nuisance to its public frontage, and not lead to its other users of the countryside or fragmentation and subsequent loss in residents; and value. c) floodlighting and/or ancillary lighting would not cause an 5.2.77. If an existing open space is extended unacceptable disturbance or be in any way, or if new open space visually intrusive and, where areas are created, for example, on necessary, shielding or screening new housing developments under the is provided. terms of Policy COM12, then these areas will be protected by Policy 5.2.79. The development of recreational COM13. and sporting facilities within the countryside is an important aspect 5.2.78. Most of the larger open spaces that of developing the District’s potential contribute to the quality or character in terms of tourism and to encourage of a particular area within the the use of the countryside by local District are shown on the Proposals people. Those facilities likely to be Map. However, smaller areas of considered under this Policy include soft landscaping that can greatly off road motor sports facilities, clay enhance the character of housing pigeon shoots, stud farms and other areas are considered too small to be general outdoor pursuits. consistently defined on the maps. In addition, not all areas of open space 5.2.80. The Council wishes to ensure that or sport and recreational land and the character and landscape of the buildings are presently shown on the countryside is improved and will maps. The assessment and audit, as require proposals for all recreational required by PPG17, will provide more facilities and activities to make a detailed information on protected positive contribution to the character areas. However, in the meantime, of the surrounding area. The character the Council will use the open space of the countryside, its ecology, wildlife definition used in Policy COM12 as and any historical or archaeological a guide to whether a proposal will features are vital to its attraction as need to be considered as being or a place for recreation and must be affecting important open space, land protected. or buildings against this Policy.

5.2.81. Due to their likely significant impact on the countryside and possible COM14 SPECIALIST SPORT AND detrimental affects on wild habitats RECREATION FACILITIES IN and biodiversity, proposals for golf THE COUNTRYSIDE courses will be subject to special scrutiny by the Council. Locations Planning permission for specialist sport closer to the main areas of population and recreation in the countryside will be are to be preferred, as they will granted provided: help to minimise the need to travel a) new buildings are kept to a and distances to be travelled. It minimum in line with the operational is important that care is taken in requirements of the activity based landscaping to ensure that any new on the needs of the user groups; species planted are indigenous to the and area and the pattern and form of new planting is characteristic of the area. b) proposals do not cause undue

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 81 Developers should demonstrate how and the potential problems of the they will safeguard existing habitats noise and smell arising from such and incorporate new habitats into the developments. Other concerns can development. arise from the excessive subdivision of fields into small paddocks, perhaps 5.2.82. It is mainly rural sporting activities for renting to individual horse-owners, that generate high levels of noise, for which may lead to a proliferation of example, clay pigeon shooting and pressures, for example, for individual motor car/bike events. Whilst noise loose-boxes, jumping equipment and nuisance would normally be dealt fencing. In extreme cases, authorities with under a separate legislation, have considered the use of Article 4 land use planning can minimise the Directions to control such subdivision. associated conflicts by directing such The availability of public bridleways development to areas where potential and their ability to withstand erosion conflicts are reduced. The criteria may be factors in considering the for selection of sites for regular use locational appropriateness of should have regard to the potential particular proposals. The impact on impacts to the site, to the adjacent land the local road network will also be and to nearby residents. Sites close assessed when considering proposals to existing noise generators such for such developments. as main roads would be preferable. Where sport uses cannot keep noise 5.2.85. Recreation and sport in the levels within acceptable limits, they countryside create a significant will not be permitted. Proposals will contribution to the rural economy need to comply with Policy ENV20. and are often important ways for farmers to supplement their incomes. 5.2.83. The waterways, ponds and lakes of Small–scale schemes that support the District are important features the greater use of the countryside and should be protected for use will be encouraged provided they by local people and tourists. It is are designed sympathetically. All important that the natural attributes proposals should undertake proper of a waterway are not adversely management measures to promote affected by any form of water-based sustainability and respect for the recreation on rivers, canals, ponds countryside, and avoid unacceptable and lakes. It is essential that the environmental impacts. ecosystem is protected and pollution prevented. Existing walkways and cycleways should be retained and COM15 WATERWAYS where possible enhanced as part of the proposed development. Fishing Proposals for new build structures should be managed properly in order or extensions to existing structures to ensure sustainable fish stocks. including marinas, boating stations and permanent moorings will be permitted 5.2.84. Proposals for riding schools, stud where: farms and development associated a) the proposal is situated on the with hunting, cross country, polo, edge of or within urban areas; and driving, livery, horse breeding, horse training and the hire of horses b) the proposal is required to should take into account the need enhance and improve access to to provide adequate pasture at a the waterway or is required for the standard of 0.6 to 0.8 ha per horse, proper functioning of the facility; and

82 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 c) the proposal will meet a half way between marinas and within demonstrated need. an urban area.

5.2.86. Wychavon District has a number of 5.2.91. Moorings can, collectively, have a waterways, which unfortunately have negative impact on the landscape relatively poor public access. This of a waterway. It is, therefore, Policy is aimed at increasing access important to restrict the development and opportunities for recreation of permanent or residential moorings along navigable rivers and canals to basins, marinas and urban and assisting, where environmentally locations or sites used historically acceptable, in their restoration. for this function. Where possible, There are many opportunities for the Council will also encourage the the promotion and development of transposition of existing moorings tourism along the waterways of the into basins and ‘cuts’, which would District and further opportunities to improve the appearance of the banks link towns and villages through a of waterways and the flow of river network of footpaths and cycle paths traffic. The development of moorings, along the banks of waterways. other than overnight stays, will be judged on their merits, having regard 5.2.87. The Council has prepared an SPD on to their impact on the landscape, the Droitwich Spa Canals restoration access and parking arrangements scheme. The Droitwich Canals are and the number of existing moorings also referred to in Policy SR6 and in the vicinity. Overnight or short-stay WCSP Policy RST9. moorings will be permitted where they can be accommodated without harm 5.2.88. The character of the waterway, its to the character of the canal or river ecology, its wildlife and any historical and the local area and, usually, where or archaeological features are vital to there is public footpath access. its attraction as a place for passive recreation and therefore must be 5.2.92. Where appropriate, advice will be protected. sought from the Environment Agency and other agencies to determine the 5.2.89. Hence, the building of any new need for a proposal. structures along the waterway is restricted to, within, or adjacent to, 5.2.93. Any development or works in or close urban areas. Marinas offer a wide to a watercourse may require the prior range of facilities and invariably formal permission of the Environment include new development. Such Agency in the form of Land Drainage development can have an urban Consent. Notwithstanding this, appearance and generate significant the Environment Agency will be road traffic movements, and is consulted on applications involving considered inappropriate in rural waterways for advice on the need for areas including those within villages. a proposal and whether it is likely to create an unacceptable impact either 5.2.90. Boating stations consist of off-river individually or cumulatively. moorings under shore surveillance with facilities concerned with the 5.3. Enhancing People’s Surroundings running repairs and maintenance of craft, together with sewage disposal 5.3.1. Government guidance has point and fuel and fresh water established a major role for design supplies. These should be located in delivering both its sustainability and planning agendas. The

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 83 Government’s thinking on design SUR1 BUILT DESIGN is that high-quality and inclusive design should create well-mixed and All proposals for new buildings must integrated developments which avoid demonstrate a high standard of design segregation and have well-planned and make a positive contribution to the public spaces that bring people visual quality of the environment. together and provide opportunities for physical activity and recreation. PPS1 In the consideration of development (Delivering Sustainable Development) proposals, the following design aspects states that ‘’High quality and inclusive will be taken into account: designs should be the aim of all those a) scale, height and massing; involved in the development process’’. PPG3 states that ‘’local planning b) architectural detailing; authorities and developers should c) quality of materials; think imaginatively about designs and layouts which make more efficient d) visual interest, particularly in use of land without compromising the terms of its contribution to the quality of the environment’’. street scene; e) appropriate levels and form of 5.3.2. It is the intention of the Council landscaping; through consideration of development f) local distinctiveness, as against the Policies contained in this appropriate; and plan to ensure that developments are sustainable, durable and adaptable, g) vitality and community safety. making efficient and prudent use of resources whilst achieving a visually Proposals should make the best use attractive, locally distinctive, legible of land and buildings and incorporate and secure environment. One of energy efficiency and water management the key principles is in delivering measures, whilst respecting the criteria Sustainable Development whilst set out above. ensuring it makes the best use of land. 5.3.4. Policy SUR1 establishes the general design principles to be applied in the 5.3.3. PPS1 advocates that Local Plan. There are four key elements the Development Documents (LDD) Council will consider in determining should contain robust design policies development proposals: based on stated objectives for the • Context and Structure considers future of an area and an understanding development in its wider setting. and evaluation of its present defining • Street Scene considers the characteristics. Given the diversity interface between development of character in Wychavon’s built and what is around it. and natural environment, the design policies of this Plan are intended as a • Built Form considers the design, guide to general principles that will be layout and juxtaposition of considered as part of the development buildings. control process. • Resource Conservation considers how design can contribute to efficient use of resources.

5.3.5. Policy SUR1 is underpinned by a range of adopted Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG). The Council has set out,

84 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 in its Local Development Scheme (LDS), give more details on the principles Supplementary Planning Documents outlined below. (SPD) and Development Plan Documents (DPD) which will address specific design 5.3.8. The aim of Policy SUR1 is to establish issues both topic-based and site-specific a set of broad-based criteria that will (Appendix 3): help to produce an environment that: • topic-based guidance will include • reflects and enhances local a residential design guide; character; ‘Shopfront Design Guide’ and ‘House Extensions Guide’. The • is safe; County Council has produced • functions effectively and a draft ‘Landscape Character efficiently and is easily used by Assessment’ SPG, and all; transportation design guidance • contributes to sustainability (including parking standards) objectives – particularly related to that the Council will consider movement, energy efficiency and adopting. the best use of land; and • the Council will continue its • has a high standard of design policy of adopting site and quality. area specific design guidance as appropriate – including Context and Structure site specific Design Concept 5.3.9. Settlement and building form is a Statements (DCS), area specific result of the interaction of a number development frameworks, urban of factors – these include landscape, design strategies for the towns, topography, local materials, movement conservation area appraisals and patterns and local economic and village design statements. social history. This interaction gives each settlement a special form, 5.3.6. Applicants are directed to the Council’s resulting from its own unique set of Advisory Leaflet No. 2 (Advice Note circumstances – this is its context. on Design Statements and Drawings Policy ENV1 clearly establishes the to Support Planning Applications need for proposals to sit within the in Wychavon), which clarifies the capacity of the landscape. need for planning applicants to set out a statement of design principles. 5.3.10. The Council is increasingly concerned Detailed advice on house extensions that some recent developments ignore is contained in the Council’s ‘House these locally unique elements as Extensions Advice Note’ SPG. more are undertaken by developers and businesses operating nationally 5.3.7. There is a range of advice and and/or using standard design guidance on design in the built approaches. Policy SUR1 is intended environment including spaces and to address this concern by requiring streets, either published or endorsed new development to reflect, and not by the Government. This includes ignore, locally distinctive elements. In ‘Places, Streets and Movement’ (DETR drawing on local distinctiveness and 1998), ‘By Design’ (DETR 2000), ‘The character, the built form should not Urban Design Compendium’ (English become a pastiche of earlier forms, Partnerships, 2000), ‘Better Places but rather one that draws its themes to Live’ (DTLR, 2001) and ‘Buildings from them. in Context’ (English Heritage and the Commission for Architecture and the 5.3.11. A combined Design and Access Built Environment 2002). These all

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 85 Statement should accompany all space, a highway or a footway, the applications, including listed building setting or curtilage of buildings or a consent (except household extensions public square enclosed by buildings. and ‘change of use’) for full/outline Broadly, the same design principles planning permission in accordance should apply whether the space is with Section 3 of DCLG Circular in the private or public realm. Thus, 01/2006 ‘Guidance of Changes to the this Policy addresses the space that Development Control System’. is the setting of buildings, the publicly accessible spaces within a settlement The Street Scene (highways, footpaths, squares, open spaces) and the three-dimensional 5.3.12. Below this contextual level, new developments need to address uses elements which enclose it (building of: frontages, planting, walls, fences, etc.). A street is intended to describe • linkages – integration with any part of the highway. surroundings, both visually and in the development of 5.3.15. Highways and parking are frequently the movement network and the major influence on the form of movement choices; the public realm. Their impact is • identity – creating a sense of felt, not only in its design quality, but place which strengthens local also in terms of meeting objectives identity; based around making the best use • legibility – easily understood of land and maximising movement routes, landmarks and buildings; choices (both in terms of routes and and travel mode). In recent years • functional diversity and efficiency the Government has published or – ensuring that streets, spaces endorsed much advice on highway and buildings are designed to be: design and layout – of particular a) efficient (make best use of relevance are ‘Places, Streets and land and reduce the need to Movements’ (DETR 1998); The travel); Urban Design Compendium (English Partnerships 2000); and guidance b) effective (locate land uses in such as PPG3 and PPG13. The main places where people want to principles of this advice are: use them); and • the need to consider the place c) diverse (contributing to not the car; variety, choice, vitality and the • creation or enhancement of the importance of designing to sustainability in settlements maximise movement choices, in order that they can provide particularly to promote walking, for a range of needs). cycling and use of public transport; and 5.3.13. A consideration of the structure of a • the need for a flexible, objective settlement is the basis for the detailed driven approach to design and design work of any proposal, and can layout. establish a coherent framework for developments. 5.3.16. Whilst it is important to meet the requirements of the Highway Authority, 5.3.14. The Council expects the spaces Government guidance stresses the in any scheme to be the result of a need for street design to be linked well considered design approach to a sensitive design-led approach – whether it is a hard or soft open that addresses the needs of all users

86 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 as established in the movement consider appropriate locally distinctive hierarchy. In residential areas this elements incorporating existing will often require an approach based features that contribute to character on ‘Home Zone’ principles. or local distinctiveness. The materials and landscaping elements used in 5.3.17. Access in and around buildings streets and spaces need to be suited should be available for people of all to their purpose and layouts should abilities – this is a requirement of the avoid clutter. Both landscape and Disability Discrimination Act 1995. building design should consider opportunities for incorporating public 5.3.18. Safety and security is a vital element art. The Developer Contributions in designing the built environment SPG supports Policy GD3, and – this should be achieved as much establishes a mechanism for its as possible through the layout and provision. Clearly, the function of a positioning of buildings, spaces and building will have a significant impact uses, rather than through the need on its form, but the principles set out to introduce other elements such as in this Policy will apply whatever that security fencing, shutters or cameras. function, be it residential, commercial, Streets and spaces in settlements industrial, retail, community or a petrol should have high levels of passive filling station. surveillance – through their general use and through overlooking by the 5.3.20. Tandem development is frequently active edges of buildings. A mix of difficult to achieve in a manner uses – particularly in central areas that maintains privacy. However, if and local centres – will help to achieve backland sites are sufficiently large, this. Public and private space should a satisfactory design solution can be clear and unambiguous and the frequently be achieved, with care, layout of buildings should reflect this. that delivers brownfield land and Pavilion style buildings – frequently density objectives without impacting used on commercial, industrial or on privacy. retail parks – have the potential for public access on all sides and need to Built Form rely on additional security measures 5.3.21. Well designed buildings and places to address their shortcomings. They should emerge from an understanding rarely contribute to good urban of function – whether it be the spaces and will not be encouraged. function of the building itself or the Layouts should protect private space function of the wider area. Buildings from areas with public access. that have a function of significance Detailed building and landscape within the community (religious or design should consider security – for civic buildings, banks, etc.) should example, avoiding the creation of be given a visual significance by way dark threatening areas (recessed of their size, location or features and doorways, remote footpaths, etc.), used as landmarks, visual stops or which contribute to opportunities for feature corner buildings. crime or generate a fear of crime. Incorporating elements that reach out 5.3.22. Privacy is an important consideration to the street (balconies, bays etc.) can in both layout and detailed design. contribute to passive surveillance and In terms of layout, modern housing increased security. developments have frequently relied on distance standards to achieve 5.3.19. Landscape treatments need to privacy between the habitable rooms

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 87 of facing dwellings. However, such approach outlined in this section. standards frequently fail to deliver Where rural buildings are converted density or design quality objectives. for employment or housing use or In such circumstances, privacy is where farmland is incorporated within often better achieved by offsetting the a residential curtilage, landscape and windows of facing buildings or setting boundary treatments need to reflect their frontages at angles slightly off the and enhance their wider rural setting. parallel to obscure views. This allows distances between facing buildings to 5.3.25. Buildings should have appropriate be reduced, contributing to objectives levels of amenity, for example, intended to make the best use of land privacy or garden space in housing. and achieve higher design quality. This amenity should be provided for This approach needs a sensitive on new developments, and that of design treatment that considers the neighbouring properties should be relationship between distances and protected from infringement by new elements such as enclosing building developments. heights. The aim is to ensure a satisfactory built environment that 5.3.26. As with spaces and streets, the built allows sufficient levels of light and form can incorporate art. This can be air. on a small or large scale, depending on the size, function or location of the 5.3.23. Retail premises should be designed building. It might, for example, include so that refuse can be stored in a a mosaic floor in a shop entrance, manner that does not interfere with relief brickwork or the introduction of a public or private amenity or interfere stained glass fanlight. The Council’s with design quality (see ‘Shopfront SPG on Developer Contributions, Design Guide’ SPG). Homes should that supports Policy GD3, provides a have adequate internal area for bulky mechanism for the provision, funding goods or long-term storage to meet and maintenance of public art. their reasonable needs. Provision should be made for adequate space 5.3.27. One of the primary aims of this to facilitate the recycling of waste Policy is to produce quality design generated within the building(s). – this need not always requires the Where an unmet need is identified, highest quality materials, but it does larger developments, including require a considered approach. those with a significant public, Innovative modern design treatments tourist or customer presence, should are unlikely to be appropriate in all incorporate a designated area for a situations. However, in central areas, waste recycling facility which is easily landmark locations, commercial areas accessible and would not adversely or occasionally within a domestic affect the amenity of neighbouring scale street scene, they may suit uses. specific circumstances. Where they are considered to be appropriate, an 5.3.24. Landscaping around buildings should approach that addresses the design be used positively, to enhance the principles set out in this Plan is setting of a building and its relationship required. with the public realm. See also Policy SUR2. Outside settlements, Resource Conservation spaces, streets and landscape 5.3.28. Where interesting or distinctive treatment necessarily have a different features and materials exist function, but still need the considered they should be retained, where

88 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 appropriate, and incorporated alternative uses can be found if within developments – this helps to the building is no longer required maintain links with the past, adds to or suitable for its present use; visual interest and encourages local • the design of the building distinctiveness. Developers should should take into account the consider what opportunities there are minimum standards of the to re-use materials, in order to reduce current building regulations in demands on finite building resources. respect of conservation of fuel This need not necessarily be within and power and, where possible, the built form, but may be as base efforts should be made to exceed courses or fill material. the requirements using locally available products; and 5.3.29. Buildings should be capable of • water conservation measures. adaptation in order that their internal arrangements can meet the 5.3.31. In addition, new developments requirements of a range of occupiers offer the potential to incorporate and that occupants can adapt them to water saving mechanisms, such as their own changing needs across the rainwater harvesting butts and grey period of their occupancy. (bath and sink) water recycling for use in gardens. Such devices serve to 5.3.30. Designers should also consider the reduce the overall demand for water. implications of layout and detailing Developers will need to show how on energy efficiency. There are a water management measures will be number of ways in which this can be incorporated into new development achieved: proposals at the application stage. • the siting, orientation, and/or See also Policy ENV19. layout of development can maximise the opportunities for using natural light and passive SUR2 LANDSCAPE DESIGN solar gain. Reducing the impact of wind can minimise the rate at In appropriate cases development which heat is lost from a building; proposals should be accompanied by an • the use of integrated approaches assessment of their landscape impact to energy generation and use, to justify the approach taken to the such as combined heat and landscape of the site. Such assessment power schemes or renewable will need to incorporate a landscape energy practices; scheme that: • the choice of construction a) is planned as an integral part of the methods and the use of materials development; with reduced energy input such as recycled products. Techniques b) is appropriate to the character of such as Life Cycle Analysis can the surrounding locality; also play a part to identify where c) retains and enhances significant improvements can be made to natural habitats/features and other reduce the environmental impact features of landscape, amenity or of a product or process in terms historical value; of energy and raw materials d) includes soft landscaping features used and wastes produced. It or habitat using indigenous species can also be used to guide the and hard landscaping features that development of new products; are appropriate to the character of • adaptable building design so

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 89 the locality; and fencing, walls and paving, as well as ‘soft’ landscape. e) provides for adequate maintenance and long-term management. 5.3.35. It is important that hard and soft landscape schemes take account of 5.3.32. The landscape of new development is the local character, as the design, an important way in which its impact type and location siting of landscape can be softened or reduced and the can be visually intrusive and can quality of the environment retained undermine character if it is designed or enhanced. It is important that without reference to that character. landscape is integral to the design Additionally, landscape schemes of development schemes and that offer the opportunity to enhance its function is clear. Sometimes, a biodiversity by creating new habitats landscape scheme may be required or by improving the continuity of to screen a development or to wildlife corridors and to enhance assimilate it into a setting, so that the local distinctiveness through the development sits well in relation to its use of specific planting materials surroundings. and features. The introduction of Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems 5.3.33. Proposals for new development (SUDS) (Policy ENV19) into a should respect existing landscape development may have an impact on features and seek to retain and the nature of the landscaping provided enhance those that are of value to and will often provide an opportunity the character and appearance of the for habitat improvements. The Council locality, amenity, nature conservation will liaise with applicants to ensure the or cultural heritage. This includes submission of appropriate schemes. natural features, such as ponds, trees, hedges and other habitat, and open 5.3.36. Conditions will be used or legal spaces as well as hard landscape agreements sought to ensure features such as walls. Wherever the implementation of long-term possible, development will be sited in maintenance and management of a order to retain features of value as part landscape scheme. of a scheme. Indeed, their inclusion can frequently enhance the quality of a scheme. Planning applications will be SUR3 PARKING PROVISION accompanied by landscape schemes and detailed survey information to Development proposals will be required a standard required by the Council to satisfy the parking standards set out in order to establish the impact of in PPG13 (Annexe D), PPG3 and Traffic a scheme on natural features in Advisory Leaflet 05/95. The Council will particular. Landscape schemes will be apply these standards to all developments submitted with planning applications regardless of size. in order that they can be considered as part of the overall proposal. They Proposals will be required to provide: will establish the timing of any planting within the development and details of a) minimum disabled, cycle, measures to protect features during motorcycle and lorry parking construction. provision; and b) maximum car parking provision. 5.3.34. Many landscape schemes will, additionally, require the use of new The required level of parking below ‘hard’ landscape features, such as

90 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 maximum standard will be determined by SUR4 SHOPFRONTS AND SIGNS various factors including highway safety, local on-street and off-street parking Applications for the installation or provision and the accessibility of the site alteration of shopfronts or signs will be by non-car transport modes. Where on- granted where: site car parking cannot be fully provided, a) the scale, proportions, appearance proposals that would otherwise be and character of all elements relate acceptable may be supported provided well to those of the building and that highway safety is not compromised the street scene; and the developer proposes mitigation measures that meet the Council’s b) traditional features both within objectives. the shopfront and on the building frontage are retained; and 5.3.37. Restricting the supply of car parking is c) security features are necessary in order to reduce the land accommodated in a manner that take of development, tackle traffic is sympathetic to the character of congestion and promote sustainable the shopfront, the building and the travel choices. PPG13 (Transport) street scene. and RSS both advocate restricting parking provision, particularly in Contemporary materials and designs relatively accessible locations, and will be permitted where they conform the use of maximum standards for to the principles of scale and enclosure broad classes of development. As traditional in shopfronts. the Highway Authority’s parking standards are currently in draft form, In Conservation Areas and on listed detailed parking standards will be buildings: provided through a Supplementary Planning Document. d) the Council will have particular regard to the impact of illumination on the character and appearance 5.3.38. The Council needs to strike a balance between encouraging new investment of the building, the street scene in town centres by providing adequate and the Conservation Area, levels of short-term parking and including its setting. Internally, potentially increasing local traffic illuminated signs will not normally congestion caused by too many cars. be permitted. The application of maximum parking e) traditional materials will be standard will be influenced by location required; and that location’s accessibility f) plastic projecting or fascia box potential by non-car modes of signs will not be permitted; and transport. g) fixed canopies will not be 5.3.39. For proposals requiring more parking permitted. provision than that required by the previous use, the Council will require Proposals for signs will be considered on the developer(s) to fund mitigation their merits having regard to the interests measures if it is considered that the of public safety and amenity. The Council on-site parking shortfall would have will have particular regard to the materials a detrimental impact on either the used, the form of lettering and the style character of the area or the highway of any projecting signs in order to ensure safety issues arising from increased that they do not adversely affect the on-street parking. character of the building or the area.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 91 Matters regarded as important in design windows outside opening times. will take precedence over corporate The design of both the shutter itself style. and any housing use for its storage can have a significant impact on 5.3.40 Policy SUR1 establishes a set the appearance of the building or of general principles for design the street scene. Where security throughout the District. Intended to screening is absolutely necessary, supplement Policy SUR1, the above grilles that cover only the window and Policy is included because shopfronts allow displays to be viewed will be and their signs have a significant favoured. They should be removable impact on their locality, particularly in and proper arrangements must be town centres and Conservation Areas. made for their storage in a location that The Council has adopted a ‘Shopfront does not detract from the shopfront. Design Guide’ SPG that develops the principles established in Policy SUR1 5.3.43 Given the unavoidable design and is a material consideration in relationship between a shop’s determining applications for consent frontage and its signage, the proposed on shopfronts and their signage. shopfront must make provision for signage that accords with the design 5.3.41 Traditionally, shop frontages have and materials. Applications for new followed well-tried principles with a fine shopfronts on listed buildings must attention to architectural detailing and be accompanied by fully detailed a respect for character of the building drawings. and the street within which the shop is set. Together with new construction techniques, the development of SUR5 ADVERTISEMENTS modern materials (such as plastics for signs and canopies or anodised Consent will be granted for outdoor aluminium for window frames) has advertisements, including poster allowed shopfront design to move in a advertisements on hoardings, provided direction that can effectively ignore the their display will not adversely affect the character of the building or the street amenities of the area (including residential scene. The Policy does allow for the amenities and the appearance of the use of modern materials, as they can building, structure and surroundings to be used to good effect in shop design. which they relate), or public safety. However, they should not disregard the need for a sense of balance Illumination will be considered against and structure in building design and its impact on amenities, public safety and the street scene and should avoid Policy ENV20 on light pollution. the ground floor becoming divorced in visual terms from the building of 5.3.44 PPG19 (Outdoor Advertisement which it forms part or its surroundings. Control) acknowledges that outdoor Similarly, corporate house styles are advertising (including shopfront usually developed to apply in a range fascias – see Policy SUR4) is of situations – they will normally need essential to commercial activity in a to be individually tailored to address free and diverse economy. However, the character of either buildings or the appearance of a building or place streets. can easily be spoiled by a poorly designed or located advertisement 5.3.42 Many shops are fitted with security or sign, or by an insensitive choice of shutters and grilles to protect display materials.

92 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 5.3.45 Within retail or other commercial areas subject to amelioration or enhancing in towns, well designed advertisements measures of design or landscaping. and signs related to businesses in the area (including well designed illumination) can add to the sense of SUR6 EXTENSIONS TO BUILDINGS vitality of the area, including evening vitality. Harmony will not be achieved, Proposals will be permitted for extensions however, by excess in number or to buildings where: scale, by inappropriate positioning, a) their scale is subservient to the colours or materials, or by over- original building; and dominant illumination. In considering applications the Council will have b) they harmonise with the character regard to the full range of aspects of the existing landscape or of amenity (including residential streetscape; and amenity) and public safety (including c) there is no adverse effect on highway safety), which are set out in the amenity that neighbouring PPG19. Where applications relate residents could reasonably expect to listed buildings or Conservation to enjoy; and Areas, the same tests apply but in the additional context of the formally d) they do not result in an recognised qualities of the building unacceptable reduction in either: or area. Listed Building Consent may i. private amenity space (for also be required in such instances. residential extensions); or The Council’s ‘Shopfront Design’ ii. ancillary operational space (for SPG provides detailed guidance on non-residential extensions); or many of the considerations included iii. the local supply of smaller in the Policy and may also assist in residential units. consideration of other advertisement applications that may need to be 5.3.48. PPS1 states that ‘’design which considered under the Policy. is inappropriate in its context ... should not be accepted’’ (para. 5.3.46 Within rural areas, including villages, 34). Extensions to residential and the landscape character and any non-residential buildings constitute village setting will be particular the most frequent proposals for considerations to take into account. development. It is important to ensure Under the Town and Country all extensions are of an appropriate Planning (Control of Advertisements) design and do not have an adverse Regulations 1992, advertisements impact on the residential amenity of within the Cotswolds AONB will have any occupants of nearby properties strict control. or the character of the area. The term ‘original’ means, in relation to a 5.3.47. Poster hoardings and other building existing on 1 July 1948, as freestanding outdoor advertisements existing on that date and, in relation are rarely linked in content to the to a building on or after 1 July 1948, premises or areas to which they as so built. relate. Their larger scale rarely harmonises with that of a street or 5.3.49. Detailed design guidance on rural scene. Where the Council may, residential extensions is contained in having considered issues of amenity the SPG on House Extensions. and safety, be minded to consider granting consent, this may be

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 93 5.3.50. There is some concern that extensions amenity of adjoining occupiers is not are impacting on the mix and eroding undermined. A condition or Section the stock of smaller housing (about 90 106 Agreement will be used to ensure – 100 m2). To counter this trend, this any accommodation is retained as Policy should be read in conjunction ancillary to that of the main dwelling. and comply fully with Policy COM1 The intention of the Policy is to restrict relating to dwelling mix, which is why opportunities for the future use of this approach is being taken and how such accommodation as separate it will be implemented. residences where this is inappropriate in planning terms. In all cases, the proposals will be subservient to the SUR7 ANNEXE ACCOMMODATION main building and minor in nature.

Residential annexe accommodation will be permitted where it is an extension SUR8 EXTENSIONS TO CURTILAGES to an existing building that is accessed from within the main building. Detached Proposals for the extension of residential new build annexe accommodation will curtilages will only be permitted where: only be permitted where an extension is a) there are no unacceptable effects not a practical option. either individually or cumulatively on the character or appearance of In all cases, the proposal will: the locality or wider area; and a) be ancillary to the function of the b) there are no unacceptable effects main house; and on the amenity of adjoining b) be subservient to the main building; occupiers. and 5.3.52. Proposals for extensions to residential c) have no adverse impact on the curtilages can arise if adjacent land, amenity of the main building or which is not in residential use, becomes adjoining properties; and available. The change of use of land d) have no new vehicular access. to residential can, however, result in the erosion of the quality of the 5.3.51. Residential annexes to main landscape. In the open countryside dwellings can provide for changes in this can have significant effects on the accommodation needs of families the appearance and character of over time. As such, accommodation the landscape, particularly when should be for dependants of the domestic paraphernalia, landscaping occupants of the main house. Where and fencing are added. In settlements, annexe accommodation requires extensions to curtilages can also planning permission, it should be adversely affect the traditional and provided through an extension to historic layout and character of a main dwelling, without having an villages. adverse effect on the character of a dwelling, the site or locality. Separate 5.3.53. Where permission is granted, buildings will only be considered if conditions will be imposed, accompanied by evidence that an where appropriate, that require extension is not a practical option in the implementation of a suitable design terms. It is important that, in landscaping scheme/boundary any case, the design of a scheme is treatment, and Permitted Development acceptable, that the dwelling retains rights may be removed. sufficient amenity space and that the

94 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Economic Opportunity 6

Section 6 Economic Opportunity

6.1. Introduction many of the more traditional sectors of the economy have undergone 6.1.1. The policies in this section of the Plan restructuring to enhance their seek to enhance economic prosperity competitiveness, and this has led and opportunity within the District in to the localised loss of employment a way that does not undermine the opportunities. Agriculture itself has quality of the District’s environment. faced significant structural changes and continues to decline as a major 6.1.2. As a predominantly rural area employer with significant impacts traditional agricultural and horticultural upon the rural economy. activity and related businesses have long been a significant element 6.1.5. The Policies in this Plan aim to of the local economy. The south safeguard and improve employment of the District around the Vale of opportunities. They build on and assist Evesham is renowned for its fruit and those sectors that have historically vegetable production, packaging and contributed to the economy of the distribution activities. Light industrial District. Additionally, the Policies and manufacturing activity also aim to assist the diversification of contributes to the local economy and is the District’s economic base, by concentrated mainly in the north. The maximising the advantages of the service sector, tourism, distribution area and facilitating the development and wider haulage activity are also of wider economic activity, in elements of the local economy. particular, hi-tech and office sectors, and providing new economic uses in 6.1.3. The quality of the District’s the countryside. environment, its location and accessibility – particularly in relation 6.1.6. The Plan also recognises that to the motorway network, coupled town centres and settlement vitality with historically, a good supply of and viability are important to the employment land, has meant that local economy and Policies aim the District has been successful in to regenerate and enhance these attracting inward investment covering areas. most sectors including the introduction of limited hi-tech activity. 6.2. Employment Land

6.1.4. Whilst the economic base across the District is relatively broad and ECON1 PROTECTION OF EXISTING unemployment levels are low, the EMPLOYMENT LAND local economy is not without its weaknesses. The dominance of Proposals for the change of use or manufacturing, service and food redevelopment of land or premises based activities means that the District identified for or currently in employment has a relatively low wage economy, in use will not be permitted unless: which average earnings are only 81% a) there is a sufficient supply of sites of the national average. Additionally, for a range of employment uses to Figure from ‘Worcestershire County Economic meet both immediate and longer- Assessment 2005 – 2006’ (WCC 2006) term requirements over the Plan

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 95 period; and add to the important mixture of uses necessary for communities in the b) the applicant can demonstrate District. that the site/premises is no longer capable of meeting employment 6.2.2. To ensure that the District can needs; or accommodate and retain a range c) development of the site for other of employment uses, this Plan will appropriate uses will facilitate the protect all employment sites to ensure relocation of an existing business that a balanced range in terms of size to a more suitable site; or and location is retained. Proposals for d) unacceptable environmental the loss of any employment site will problems are associated with the be considered, in the first instance, in current use of the site and the terms of the quantitative and qualitative proposal will remove them; or effect the proposed loss would have on this supply, and proposals that would e) the use is ancillary to an have a detrimental effect individually employment use; or or cumulatively will be refused. f) the site is located in a town Where a proposal is considered not centre and the proposed use to have a detrimental effect on the will contribute to the vitality and supply of sites, applicants will still be viability of the centre or forms part required to demonstrate that there of a regeneration project. are overriding reasons why the land should be developed to other uses by 6.2.1. The supply of employment land in the satisfying any of criteria b) – f) outlined District is made up of the core sites in the Policy. This may include the identified under the previous Policy, requirement for a site to have been together with smaller unidentified continuously marketed for a minimum sites which frequently accommodate of 18 months, to demonstrate that the valuable employment uses within site/premises is no longer capable of the towns or in the rural area. It is meeting employment needs. important that policies in this Plan seek to protect employment land to ensure 6.2.3. It is important that once land is that there is sufficient land in a range allocated for industrial or business of locations to cater for the different uses that, subject to other Plan policies, land/locational requirements of a in particular Policy GD1, Policy GD2, variety of business uses. Employment Policy SR5, Policy ENV1, and Policy land can often be subject to pressure ECON2, new development should to accommodate alternative uses. be directed towards it. Proposals for Once lost, however, it will be additional employment use within the difficult to replace it. The Council is towns and settlements are generally limited in terms of the amount of supported where they accord with land it can make available for such other Plan policies. development. The incremental loss of employment land will erode the variety of sites/premises necessary ECON2 EXPANSION OF EXISTING for a strong employment base. The RURAL EMPLOYMENT SITES Council is particularly concerned about pressure to redevelop both Outside defined development boundaries, small-scale local employment sites proposals for the expansion of existing for non-employment purposes within employment sites and/or uses will be the urban area and villages which permitted, providing:

96 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 a) the site/use is currently operating the District. without significant harm to its surroundings and the rural 6.3.2. In a number of instances the scale environment; and location of activity associated with the larger operators, alone or in b) the proposal is for the reasonable combination with others, has resulted and limited needs for expansion of in significant problems associated an existing business or businesses; with traffic movements. The east of and Evesham, in particular, experiences c) the site and its surroundings frequent movements of heavy goods can accommodate such limited vehicles (HGVs) generated by storage expansion without significant and distribution activity which has harm to the character, appearance historically been located on former or amenity of the area. military bases, farms and airfields in the countryside at some distance 6.2.4. Wychavon has a large number of from the primary road network. The employment sites, including some cumulative effects of growth in the protected by Policy ECON1, and industry has increased, the frequency uses in rural locations. Although the and size of vehicular movement strategy of the Plan is primarily urban resulting in significant disturbance focused (and would not normally and safety implications for residents of direct development to such areas) settlements located on the main lorry the continued viability of the existing routes. The following three policies aim businesses is important to the local to address these issues. Wychavon, economy. Such proposals, however, along with the neighbouring districts will only be permitted on sites or of Cotswold and Stratford-on-Avon, for businesses that are currently have adopted Supplementary operating without any significant Planning Guidance (SPG) ‘Lorries adverse impact. Furthermore, in the Vale of Evesham – in 2001’ mindful of their rural location and in intended to address the problem of order to minimise adverse impacts intensification of B8 space (under and ensure acceptable design the Uses Classes, i.e. storage and solutions, proposals should be minor distribution centres). It is a material and should not lead to a level of use consideration in determining planning that is beyond the capacity of the site, applications. The SPG identifies a the surrounding area or the wider control zone within the three districts landscape. This Policy is not intended to which it applies. Policy ECON3 to apply to larger, more strategic sites and Policy ECON4 will operate within outside settlements, such as those Wychavon but will accept relocations allocated under Policy SR2. This from anywhere within the zone. Policy does not apply to the Plan’s principal employment allocations under Policy SR2 at Throckmorton ECON3 B8 ‘EXCEPTIONS’ POLICY Airfield and Vale Park (Phase 2). As an exception to other locational 6.3. Lorries in the Vale policies in the Plan, planning permission 6.3.1. The Vale of Evesham is well known will be granted for existing food storage as a major location for fruit and and distribution businesses operating vegetable production, and storage and in the Vale of Evesham Control Zone to distribution activity associated with relocate to sites better situated on the this activity is widespread throughout primary Lorry Route Network, provided that:

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 97 a) transport movement associated Planning permission will be granted for with the business in its such a relocation provided transport existing location has resulted movement associated with the business in unacceptable environmental in its existing location has resulted in impact and the applicant can unacceptable environmental impact demonstrate that operation from and the applicant can demonstrate that the proposed site will result in operation from the proposed site will transportation/environmental result in transportation/environmental improvement; and improvements. b) the proposed site is a brownfield site or a greenfield site adjacent to The Council will require that the future established business activity which use of evacuated sites is restricted by a can accommodate the business legal agreement to ensure that it does not without an unacceptable transport, replicate the existing transportation and landscape or environmental environmental problems. impact. 6.3.4. This Policy seeks to address this particular local issue through the The Council will require that the future allocation of 4 ha of land at Vale use of ‘evacuated’ sites is restricted by a Park, Evesham, to help facilitate legal agreement to ensure that it does not the relocation of existing food and replicate the existing transportation and distribution businesses, which environmental problems. have resulted in significant adverse environmental impact in the Vale. 6.3.3. As an exception to other policies in this The land, together with about 5.5 ha Plan, that restrict new development in at Vale Park, is already restricted for the open countryside, this Policy aims this purpose and planning permission to facilitate and support the relocation will only be granted for the relocation of existing food storage and distribution when it can be demonstrated that the operations – whose activities environmental impact associated with demand the use of HGV vehicles that HGV movement would be improved individually or cumulatively result in and where the future use of the serious environmental impact – to site currently accommodating the new sites that are better located for business can be restricted by a legal access onto the primary Lorry Route agreement. Network. To ensure that this Policy can help achieve its desired objective, 6.3.5. The allocation of this area of land is planning permission will, however, in addition to that allocated to meet only be granted for such relocation if WCSP requirement and has been it is in the power of the applicant to secured by the Council as part of the enter into a legal agreement to restrict larger Vale Park allocation, for the the future use of the existing site. purpose of relocating existing HGV activity. As the only readily available land capable of providing a relocation ECON4 B8 RELOCATION site, it is an essential addition to the employment land portfolio. Four hectares of land adjacent to the Vale The benefits that this allocation Business Park at Evesham is identified to affords, in terms of addressing the accommodate the relocation of existing exceptional environmental, traffic food storage and distribution businesses and economic issues prevailing in operating in the Vale of Evesham Control the Vale of Evesham, provides the Zone. justification for exceeding the level of

98 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 employment land provision provided are received, which could further by the WCSP. exacerbate environmental problems associated with HGV traffic movements in the Vale. The Policy ECON5 EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT supports a Cross Boundary Strategy WITHIN THE VALE OF EVESHAM for dealing with Lorries in the Vale HGV CONTROL ZONE that has been adopted as SPG by a number of authorities affected by the Within the Vale of Evesham Control issues (see para. 6.3.2). Zone indicated on the Proposals Map, proposals for any uses likely to generate 6.3.7. In general, employment uses which HGV movements including expansions can demonstrate that an increase to existing businesses, will be permitted in HGV movement would not be where it can be demonstrated that the use generated will be acceptable under and scale of activity proposed will not this Policy and where they are generate an increase in HGV movements acceptable under other policies in this through any of the settlements within the Plan. zone. Planning permission will only be granted for proposals that would result in 6.3.8. Where, however, a proposal an increase in lorry movement (over 7.5 would result in an increase in tonnes maximum gross weight) where it HGV movement, schemes will can be demonstrated that: only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the reasons for the a) there is a need for the development proposal, such as economic benefits to be sited in that location and that to the local community, outweigh the development cannot be sited the impact of the increase in traffic. elsewhere in locations with better Additionally, proposals will need to access to the main Lorry Route demonstrate why it is necessary that Network; and they require the proposed location and b) the reasons for the development why the proposal cannot be located in that location outweigh the harm elsewhere outside the control zone, that would be caused by any on sites with better access to the Lorry increase in HGV traffic; and Route Network. Once development c) transportation requirements would satisfies these tests, applications will not result in more than a 5% increase be considered against the extent to in HGV traffic generated by the which increases in lorry movements business over the level prevailing occur. Permission will not be granted at the time of the application; and for uses that would result in more than a 5% increase in HGV traffic, d) the routes proposed to serve the individually or cumulatively, over the development would minimise level prevailing at the time of the environmental impact. application.

6.3.6. This Policy seeks to control the 6.3.9. The SPG includes details of further extent to which new development information that will be required to be or expansion of existing businesses submitted as part of any application generates HGV movement in the Vale for development. of Evesham. It aims to ensure that the policies aimed at facilitating the relocation of HGV generating uses are not undermined when planning applications for new development

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 99 6.4. Employment Locations and b) the proposal is in scale and Activities character with the site, nearby buildings, and the wider locality; 6.4.1. The District is a predominantly rural area that has seen agriculture and c) it would not cause noise, land based rural economic activity disturbance or other nuisance to restructure and decline, as a major nearby dwellings; and employer, in recent years. Whilst d) the village is served by a regular business in and around the towns public transport service. and outside the District are the major sources of a range of employment 6.4.3. Whilst PPS7 (Sustainable opportunities, it is important that Development in Rural Areas) generally economic activity is encouraged in aims to restrict new development in the wider rural area. This can help the countryside, it also recognises to diversify and enhance the area’s that an increasing number of economy and provide for those economic uses are appropriate. The wishing to work locally. A strong majority of purpose built employment rural economy can also ensure that accommodation and land in the District the rural landscape of the District is are located adjacent to the main towns maintained and managed so that and this is appropriate in furthering it retains its diverse character and general sustainability objectives. It quality, which is itself a prime asset to is important, however, that the Plan the economy of the District. finds specific ways in which to assist rural regeneration and to provide for 6.4.2 As stated, the Plan supports appropriate more sustainable rural communities. employment development within To minimise landscape impact and defined development boundaries in to encourage new employment the rural area. In addition, a number of development in the rural area (which Policies support limited employment can be out competed by the housing development outside these areas market within villages) the Policy where the need to facilitate new provides for small-scale employment employment in the rural area can be development in locations immediately balanced against the need to protect abutting settlements having regard the countryside, in accordance with to the nature and character of those national policy. Policy RES7, Policy settlements. To assist in achieving ECON8, and Policy ECON6 are objectives of diversifying the rural examples. economy, uses will be restricted to those falling within B1 and B2 use.

ECON6 EMPLOYMENT DEVELOPMENT ADJACENT TO DEVELOPMENT ECON7 AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS, BOUNDARIES OF VILLAGES STRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATED WORKS Proposals for new, small-scale employment development (for B1 and Where planning permission is required, B2 uses only) outside but adjacent to development for the purposes of village development boundaries will be agriculture or forestry will be permitted, permitted, providing: provided: a) no suitable alternative sites are a) it is necessary and designed for available within the development these purposes; boundary; b) it makes acceptable arrangements

100 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 for the storage/disposal of waste; modern buildings, of the type outlined and above, and other larger structures, particularly in prominent locations, c) any new buildings or structures can be potentially visually intrusive. are sited close to existing farm or forestry buildings, unless the 6.4.8. Therefore, in considering applications functional need for a more isolated for development or schemes submitted site can be clearly demonstrated. under the notification system, the Council will seek to balance and 6.4.4. A significant amount of applications for agricultural development are received respond to the changing requirements each year. It is particularly important of the farming industry with the that new buildings, structures and need to ensure that the landscape works are not visually intrusive in the impact of agricultural development is landscape. minimised.

6.4.9. In this respect, new buildings, 6.4.5. It is important to note that not all agricultural development requires structures and works will be required planning approval. The Town and to be acceptable in the landscape Country Planning (General Permitted in terms of their siting, size, scale Development) Order 1995 effectively and design, including the type and grants planning permission for a colour of materials. The siting of range of buildings/works via a system works, structures and, in particular, of notification, whereby the Local buildings is of prime importance. Planning Authority is only required Buildings should be located so as to approve the details of a scheme, to be seen in the context of existing relating to its siting, design and buildings. Skyline sites should be external appearance. avoided and landscape features and landforms should be utilised to reduce visual impact. Proposals should be 6.4.6. The location, design and size of modern agricultural development is capable of being provided without influenced by a number of factors extensive earthworks. A landscaping which include modern and changing scheme will frequently be required farming techniques and operational to accompany proposals that should requirements, the agricultural help ‘knit’ buildings or works into the economy, and increasingly stringent surrounding landscape. environmental and animal welfare 6.4.10. The Council will consider imposing regulations. Farm buildings present a condition on appropriate planning the most obvious example of the permissions requiring the removal of influence of the above. Present the building if it is no longer needed building requirements tend to be for for agricultural purposes or if it is large industrial scale buildings of considered unsuitable for another utilitarian design using prefabricated appropriate use. It is likely that such materials and construction methods conditions will only be used where and these can potentially have a the operational requirements of a significant impact on the landscape of farm require a particularly obtrusive an area. building or it would be sited in an isolated or prominent location. 6.4.7. Whilst small-scale agricultural development, such as sheds or 6.4.11. The sub-division of farm buildings underground slurry tanks, may have and, in particular, the separate sale little impact on the landscape, larger of land and buildings are of particular

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 101 concern. These can lead to an they should be small in scale and increase in demand for new buildings sited close to existing buildings. on existing or new holdings, which can have a significant impact on the 6.4.12. There is a need to facilitate the landscape and detract from the open diversification of farm-based nature of the countryside, particularly operations in order to supplement on a cumulative basis. Proposals for farm incomes and to help sustain new development on ‘bare’ land, or the rural economy. In accordance on holdings that have sold or found with PPS7, the Council will support alternative uses for buildings will be well-conceived farm diversification scrutinised thoroughly, and particular schemes for business purposes that regard will be paid to the impact the help to sustain farming or contribute proposed development will have to the local economy but which, at on the landscape. It should not, the same time, are sustainable in the therefore, be assumed that permission countryside and do not detract from for new buildings will necessarily the character of the local area with be forthcoming. Applicants may be respect to landscape and amenity. In required to demonstrate a functional particular, the transport implications need for a proposed building that will of any proposal must be fully need to explain or justify any prior assessed and their impact minimised. disposal of suitable buildings. The re- Proposals will be considered against use of buildings for uses to supplement employment policies that address the farm incomes, for example, would principle of the location together with provide such a justification. Policy GD2.

6.4.13. PPS7 encourages the re-use ECON8 FARM DIVERSIFICATION of existing buildings for farm diversification schemes, as the visual Well conceived proposals for farm impact of a proposal will be reduced diversification will be permitted, provided if it can be accommodated through that: the conversion of an existing farm building. However, some enterprises a) the scale and intensity of activity are or proposals may require new build appropriate to a rural environment. accommodation. Applicants must, Any new uses generating HGV therefore, demonstrate why it is not traffic will only be acceptable if possible to accommodate a proposal the site is readily accessible from through the re-use of an existing the Lorry Route Network, without building. Whilst PPS7 seeks to compromising road safety or strictly control new development in residential amenity; the countryside, it also recognises b) the proposed use is compatible with, that new buildings to accommodate and helps to sustain agricultural farm diversification schemes may be operations on the farm; considered a reasonable exception to c) any associated open storage, this general rule but should be small in including vehicles, is limited in scale. The Council may use conditions extent and well screened; and or planning obligations to prevent the severance of a diversified use from d) existing buildings are used where the parent farm holding, particularly if possible, and converted to conform new buildings are allowed. with Policy RES7 (Conversion of Existing Buildings); alternatively, where new buildings are essential,

102 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 6.4.14. The provision of overnight ECON9 FARM SHOPS AND ROADSIDE accommodation for tourists is an STALLS important form of farm diversification and a valuable source of additional Permission for roadside stalls or income to the farming community. farm shops (in cases where planning Proposals will generally re-utilise permission is required), and related existing buildings. New buildings will signage, will only be granted where: only be permitted if small scale and a) the range of goods to be sold where the applicant can demonstrate is restricted principally to that the proposal has been specifically unprocessed foodstuffs, plants, designed for the purpose and will and rural craft products, produced not result in substantial, permanent locally; and building(s) with the potential for general residential use. b) it is demonstrated that the proposal would not detrimentally affect the 6.4.15. The traditional role of the District viability and vitality of a sequentially in relation to fruit and vegetable preferred retail operation. production, combined with its geographical location makes it an 6.4.16. The sale of locally grown produce and attractive location for storage and plants from roadside sites is a long distribution activity, particularly relating established practice in Wychavon, to the food industry. The problems enabling growers to supplement their associated with such activity in the income and provide a useful service. Vale of Evesham relate in the main to Small craft products, from businesses the historic development and location established as part of agricultural of sites, and policies to address diversification, are a newer potential these issues are included in this feature where the viewing of the craft Plan (Policy ECON3, Policy ECON4 processes themselves can be an and Policy ECON5). Other policies added attraction to the visitor. in the Plan do not negate additional B8 uses in the District but B8 uses, 6.4.17. These operations, if not controlled, can or other uses generating HGV traffic have a detrimental impact on visual on unsuitable roads, are usually not amenity and compromise highway appropriate for farm diversification safety. Also, if the range and source schemes. This is primarily because of goods sold is not restricted, there of the problems associated with traffic could be an adverse impact on nearby movements of heavy goods vehicles shops. Large farm shops/roadside on local road networks, unless the stalls could also generate additional site is readily accessible to the Lorry car journeys as their locations are Route Network. Where a scheme is not normally easily accessible via considered reasonable, the Council other modes of transport. Issues will be justified in ensuring that any of landscape and retail impact are open storage, for example, of goods, strategic concerns that are reflected vehicles, containers, waste materials by WCSP Policy D36. Signage or finished products, is limited in may be individually or cumulatively extent and well screened. This may discordant in countryside settings. be achieved by way of condition or legal agreement. 6.4.18. For the purposes of the Policy, ‘produced locally’ is taken to be within the parish or adjacent parish.

6.4.19. Planning permission is not needed for

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 103 farm shops where the food produce research, storage, and training, some sold is grown on the agricultural of which are associated with its former holding itself, and is sold in its natural military use. The core area extends to state and has not been processed approximately 23ha and includes 5 except for its packaging. large hangars and numerous smaller buildings.

ECON10 THROCKMORTON AIRFIELD 6.4.21. The Council’s aim, in association with Advantage West Midlands and the Within that part of the former landowner (who is a well recognised Throckmorton Airfield, defined on the international leader in the high Proposals Map, planning permission technology industry), is to redevelop will be granted for up to 10ha of new B1 the site as a Technology Park. The and B2 (High-Tech) uses, subject to the provision of a Technology Park will prior completion of a new road link from complement the existing Malvern the site to the A44 Wyre Piddle bypass. Hills Science Park by enabling Permission will be granted for new build businesses to grow within the area, within this 10ha, and for the re-use or providing opportunities to diversify redevelopment of existing established the local economy, and will support lawful buildings within the wider defined the RSS economic aims of the Central Policy ECON10 policy area, provided: Technology Belt (RSS Policy PA3). a) the intensity of use and density 6.4.22. As identified on the Proposals Map, of development, whether for an Policy ECON10 allows for up to 10ha individual proposal or cumulatively, of the core area to be re-used or is consistent with the rural location, redeveloped for new B1 or B2 uses. the character of the site and its B1 and B2 proposals, which support categorisation as a Technology the development of a Technology Park; Park, will be permitted where they are b) any new buildings do not exceed of a high quality design and would the height of existing buildings; enhance the character of the area, and and where the proposal would not c) any proposals include adequate result in an unacceptable level of arrangements for access, servicing traffic movements. and landscaping. 6.4.23. The Council, in conjunction with In addition, proposals for the re-use or the landowner, will produce a redevelopment of existing buildings Supplementary Planning Document should not lead to a major increase (SPD) to guide development for in their combined footprint. The main the site. All proposals will need development principles for the site, to demonstrate that they are in covering all these matters, will be set out accordance with the Council’s SPD in a development brief as a Supplementary for the site and include adequate and Planning Document (SPD). appropriate arrangements for access, servicing and landscaping. Any 6.4.20. Throckmorton Airfield is a development proposals for this site previously developed site which will require a travel plan illustrating lies approximately 5 kilometres to links to public transport and may the north-east of Pershore and has also require Transport Assessments subsequently been used for a variety to ensure compatibility with local of employment uses including transport networks.

104 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 6.4.24. Policy ECON2 will not apply to this a) clear evidence of need; site. b) that the ICNIRP Guidelines for safe emissions can be met; ECON11 FREIGHT c) there are no environmentally preferable and technically Proposals that would generate significant feasible alternatives, in particular, heavy goods vehicle traffic will only be brownfield sites; permitted where: d) mast or site sharing, including non- a) the site is easily accessible via the telecommunication structures, is Lorry Route Network (as defined in not practicable and would result in the Proposals Map); a greater detrimental impact on the landscape; b) there is no adverse environmental impact on residential amenity; and e) that, in cases where the proposed infrastructure would be within 3 c) the proposal would not reduce kilometres of an airfield boundary, the potential to either increase the appropriate airfield has been rail freight or provide rail freight notified. facilities. Prior approval will be required in respect In all cases, the developer must of the details of siting and appearance of demonstrate that the goods cannot be development permitted under the GPDO moved by rail. 1995 (as amended) for free-standing mast proposals, or if the site could adversely 6.4.25. Heavy goods vehicle traffic can have affect the Green Belt, Cotswolds AONB, unacceptable environmental impacts, Areas of Special Landscape, Sites of including damage to infrastructure, Special Scientific Interest, other landscape noise, and pollution, as well as social designations, historic designations, impacts, such as discouraging cycling Conservation Areas (and their settings) and walking. The Council, whilst and listed buildings (and their settings). recognising the need to encourage In all these cases a network connectivity local employment opportunities of a diagram is required which shows scale appropriate to their location, the proposal’s place within the wider aims to minimise the environmental network, the area coverage plots and the impacts of heavy goods vehicle alternatives examined, including existing traffic on local communities and masts and sites that might be shared. infrastructure.

6.4.27. Mobile phone technology continues 6.4.26. For proposals that impact on the Vale to evolve rapidly and offers the of Evesham, applicants will need to potential to reduce the need to travel. comply with other policies of the Plan The telecommunications industry has and the SPG on Lorries in the Vale. now commenced its ‘third generation’ (3G) programme, which is likely to require a significant number of new ECON12 TELECOMMUNICATIONS masts. Although, in principle, some INFRASTRUCTURE of these could be accommodated on existing telecommunications sites, the Proposals for the erection of technical requirements for the new telecommunications infrastructure will programme are different and much of need to demonstrate and/or satisfy the the existing infrastructure is operating following: at full capacity. Approximately 78%

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 105 of all UK households use a mobile are considered suitable for further phone, so the Council recognises telecommunications investment. the need to facilitate the necessary infrastructure to accommodate this 6.5. Retail demand. 6.5.1. The Local Plan Retail Strategy is supportive of national Planning Policy 6.4.28. The Council has, however, a duty to safeguard visual amenity, particularly Guidance, in particular, PPG6 (Town in landscape/townscape designated Centres and Retail Development) and areas, and the policy complements subsequent ministerial statements, as the advice contained in PPG8 it emphasises a plan led and sequential (Telecommunications) WCSP Policy approach to retail development. D44 (Telecommunications). In order The Proposals Map identifies where to minimise environmental impacts, retail investment is encouraged and the Council will, in appropriate cases, supported. seek a Section 106 Agreement to 6.5.2. The Wychavon retail hierarchy, ensure satisfactory sites are available supportive of both the ‘Wychavon for other telecommunications Retail Study’ (2001) and the WCSP infrastructure. The Council also Policy D.31 (Retail Hierarchy), is has a duty to ensure that the health defined as follows: of people living or working near telecommunications infrastructure Town Centre (Droitwich Spa, is not compromised. The Stewart Evesham, Pershore) Report ‘Mobile Phones and Health’ Edge of Town (Normally within (2000) suggests that there is no 300m of the town general risk, from electromagnetic centres of Droitwich fields, to the health of people living Spa, Evesham, near telecommunications base Pershore) stations but there is a need to ensure District Centre (No District Centres that new developments comply with within Wychavon) ICNIRP (International Commission Local Centre (Identified on the on Non-Ionising Radiation Proposals Map and Protection) Guidelines. Because subject to COM12) of the public perception regarding Local Shops (Within defined telecommunications infrastructure development operators are required to enter into boundaries; not pre-planning application discussions. identified on the Proposals Map but 6.4.29. Telecommunications masts that are subject to Policy less than 15 metres in height do COM12) not require planning permission. Nevertheless, in such cases, Out of Centre (The Link Evesham; operators must submit a prior approval Worcester Road application (notification) and such (Evesham); applications should be supportive of Kidderminster Road the aims of Policy ECON12. (Droitwich Spa); and Racecourse Road 6.4.30. In order to help operators and (Pershore). speed up the decision making process, the Council will maintain 6.5.3. This hierarchy forms the basis of the a register of masts and sites that sequential approach to determining retail planning applications.

106 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 6.5.4. The Retail Strategy complements the • retailer demand; sustainable development strategy • retailer representation; by directing retail growth at the town • retailer views; centres in order to improve their • shopping habits; and vitality and viability. Town centres are more accessible by a range of modes • shop vacancies. of transport and there is greater potential for linked trips because of 6.5.8. The main conclusions of the the range of land uses. Town centre ‘Wychavon Retail Study’ are as retail development can therefore follows: reduce the need to travel. • the town centres are neither robust nor vibrant and are vulnerable 6.5.5. The Council has, therefore, allocated to competing higher order retail three sites for retail development in centres; the town centres as set out in Policy • there is insufficient growth in SR3. convenience goods expenditure to support a new large food store 6.5.6. The ‘Wychavon Retail Study’ provides in Evesham; a robust basis for determining • comparison goods expenditure planning applications, and any that do growth could support new not clearly demonstrate that they are floorspace subject to retailer supportive of the retail strategy will be demand and suitable town centre refused. The Council recognises that sites; the degree of uncertainty attached • potential to ‘clawback’ to forecasts of retail expenditure convenience goods expenditure and floorspace requirements is likely leakage in Droitwich Spa and to increase over the life of the Plan Pershore; and because of changes in the retail industry and shopping habits, for • support for the continuation example, likely growth in internet- of Wychavon’s Town Centres based retailing. The Council, in line Initiative. with PPS6, will continue to monitor retail provision and carry out a mid- 6.5.9. It is inevitable that Wychavon’s town term review of retail expenditure centres will be subject to increased forecasts to identify retail capacity and competition from neighbouring provide an indication of the quantity higher-order centres, in particular, of retail floorspace required. Cheltenham and Worcester. In order to at least maintain their vitality 6.5.7. The ‘Wychavon Retail Study’ and viability, the town centres must undertook a health check to assess improve their retail offer. Retail the vitality and viability of the town development in locations ‘out-of- centres and identified the level of centre’ and ‘out-of-town’ can easily qualitative and quantitative need for jeopardise the town centre retail offer. new retail development during the Therefore, such proposals will have 2001 to 2011 Local Plan period based to clearly demonstrate the ‘need’ for on the following: the development as defined below. • diversity of uses; 6.5.10. Outside town centres the need for large • pedestrian flows; scale (in excess of 250m2 net floor • prime shop property yields; space) must be clearly demonstrated. • prime shop rents; The constituent elements of need will vary from time to time and place

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 107 to place but normally comprise the 6.5.12 Given the size of the District’s town following: centres and their position in the wider • expenditure capacity; retail hierarchy, for the purposes of • market/ retailer demand; this Policy, large-scale refers to a proposal of 250m2 (net). However, • physical capacity; smaller proposed developments will • qualitative requirements/ be scrutinised and may be refused if deficiencies; they clearly fail to satisfy the Policy. • sustainability objective; and • impact on town centre viability/ 6.5.13. Wychavon’s town centres are the focus vitality. for a range of services and therefore offer the opportunity for linked trips, 6.5.11. The preferred locations for large-scale thereby reducing the overall need food and non-food retail are the town to travel. The town centres, relative centres of Droitwich Spa, Evesham to other locations, are also more and Pershore. Proposals for smaller- accessible to non-car modes. The scale, including local needs, retail are ‘Wychavon Retail Study’ highlights subject to Policy COM11. the need to focus retail development in the town centres, as diluting the retail offer would jeopardise their ECON13 LARGE SCALE RETAIL vitality and viability. In line with PPS6 DEVELOPMENT the Council will continue to monitor retail provision. Government Retail Large-scale retail development should Policy, as set out in the 2000 Rural be focused on the town centres and White Paper, recognises the critical well related to the primary or secondary role that market towns play in helping shopping frontages as defined on the rural areas thrive, principally by being Proposals Map. For proposals outside the a focus for economic development town centre the need for the development and regeneration. The sequence for must be demonstrated. Proposals must: retail development is set out in the reasoned justification to Policy SR3. a) demonstrate why the development cannot be accommodated on a sequentially preferred site(s); ECON14 PRIMARY SHOPPING b) provide a Retail Impact FRONTAGE Assessment, which demonstrates that there will be no detrimental Proposals for a change of use of retail (A1) impact on the viability and vitality ground floor units will only be permitted of a town centre or prejudice where it is clearly demonstrated that: shown to any planned town centre a) it will not individually nor retail scheme; cumulatively have a detrimental c) be easily and safely accessible impact on the vitality and viability by public transport, cycling and of the Primary Shopping Frontage; walking; and d) demonstrate that it will achieve a b) it will not create a cluster of non- net reduction in the number and retail uses nor fragment the retail length of car journeys; and shop frontage; and e) be of a size that is consistent with c) the proposed uses will be in the scale, function and catchment Financial and Professional A2 or of the town. Food and Drink A3.

108 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Non-retail uses will generally be supported the use of existing commercial on the upper floors particularly if these properties. The principal function of are currently empty. Secondary Shopping Frontages is, however, retail and the Council will 6.5.14. The ‘Wychavon Retail Study’ shows have consideration to the guideline that due to competition from higher of no more than 30% of non-retail order retail centres there is a need to units in these locations. Residential strongly resist proposals that would proposals will need to be justified by reduce the proportion of retail units an appropriate 12 month marketing in the Primary Shopping Frontage. In exercise which clearly demonstrates order to safeguard the retail function that any use within A1, A2, A3 or D2 of town centres, the Council will have uses is not commercially viable. consideration to the guideline of no more than 15% of non-retail units within the Primary Shopping Frontage. ECON16 FOOD AND DRINK RETAIL Concentration of non-retail units and the break up of large retail units often Proposals for new or extensions to dilute the retail offer, which, due to existing class A3 uses will be acceptable the subsequent decline in ‘footfall’, where it can be clearly demonstrated can have a detrimental impact on the that: remaining retail units. a) the proposal will not reduce town centre retail viability and vitality; and ECON15 SECONDARY SHOPPING b) the proposals will not have a FRONTAGE significant adverse impact on crime and disorder. Proposals for a change of use of retail (A1) to non-retail (A2, A3, D2) uses at 6.5.16. The uses are part of the entertainment ground floor may be permitted where it is and leisure market and can be clearly demonstrated that: an important element of the local economy. They can also enhance the a) it will not individually nor vitality of places through increased cumulatively have a detrimental footfall and natural surveillance. impact on the vitality and viability of However, these uses need to be the Secondary Shopping Frontage; carefully designed and controlled and so that they do not have negative b) it will not create a concentration of environmental impact through noise, non-retail units. smell, litter and disturbance issues. Proposals for a change of use to The Council has a duty, under the residential at ground floor may only be Crime and Disorder Act 1998 (Section permitted if criteria a) and b) are satisfied 16), to try to minimise opportunities for and that it is clearly demonstrated that anti-social behaviour. In considering without such a change of use the unit will proposals, the Council will be remain vacant. guided by the view of West Mercia Police’s Architectural Liaison Officer. 6.5.15. A1 Secondary Shopping Frontages, by Proposals should also comply with definition, are subordinate to Primary Policy SUR4, Policy ECON14, and Shopping Frontages in terms of the Policy ECON15. retail function of the District’s towns. Therefore, the Council will generally take a more flexible approach to

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 109 ECON17 RETAIL SALES AT PETROL 6.5.18. This Policy is aimed at businesses FILLING STATIONS (PFS) where retail sales are intended to be the primary function rather than Proposals for convenience goods retailing ancillary to an existing agricultural or from a PFS will have to demonstrate that horticultural business operated from it is clearly ancillary to the main use as a the site. PPS6 is clear in the need to PFS unless: sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of town centres. Therefore, in a) it serves an identifiable local need; order to prevent the emergence of out- and of-town retail operations, the Council b) there are no sequentially preferred will strictly limit the range of products convenience stores serving the to be sold and the amount of retail locality. space afforded to goods not linked to the land or produced locally by 6.5.17. Petrol filling stations (PFS) can provide horticultural and nursery businesses a valuable local service where there is operating in the Vale of Evesham. a clear local need that cannot be met Otherwise, there is a risk of creating from a local convenience store. The out-of-town retail sites which generally Council will limit the size of PFS retail attract car-borne customers from a 2 outlets to 250m so that they primarily wide catchment area and divert trade, serve local and motorists needs particularly in comparison goods, from and do not generate car journeys existing town centres. Proposals will from settlements further afield which need to comply with other policies of already have a convenience goods the Plan, in particular, Policy ECON8 outlet. In order to reduce the potential and Policy ECON13. for car journey generation there is a need to protect local sequential 6.6. Tourism preferred convenience stores which, by their nature, generally offer greater accessibility. ECON19 TOURIST ACCOMMODATION OUTSIDE DEFINED DEVELOPMENT BOUNDARIES ECON18 GARDEN CENTRES Additional tourist accommodation A proposal for a new or extended garden outside defined development boundaries centre will be permitted outside a defined will be permitted where the proposal development boundary, provided all the involves: following criteria are met: a) the conversion and/or change a) it is on the site of an existing of use of an existing building horticultural business and would Policy RES7 (Conversion to Non- primarily sell produce from that Residential Use); or business and/or other local b) the limited extension of existing horticultural businesses; tourist accommodation. Other b) it would serve a demonstrable local new-build tourist accommodation need; in the countryside will be strictly controlled. c) it would not harm the vitality or viability of any nearby centre; and Proposals for new hotels or motels d) it would be readily accessible on will only be permitted on the edges of foot, bicycle or public transport. Droitwich Spa, Evesham or Pershore, where:

110 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 i) there is a demonstrable need in that avoided at all costs. location, and no suitable alternative site within the development 6.6.5. In all cases the proposals should not boundary; and have a harmful affect on the character of the local area or the amenity of ii) the site is readily accessible adjoining occupiers, there should be (including by public transport) to no conflict with other policies in the and from the town centre, and from Plan and they should comply with the trunk road network. Policy ECON19.

6.6.1. New permanent accommodation may be provided either through 6.6.6. The Council will give detailed the building of new hotels and consideration to proposals within the guesthouses, extending existing Cotswolds AONB to ensure additional hotels and guesthouses or through development does not undermine its the conversion of existing buildings. character.

6.6.2. It is important that new hotels and guesthouses are built in areas ECON20 CARAVAN SITES AND that have the amenities to support CAMPING SITES them and their guests, and that the size of the hotel is relative to the A proposal for a new or extended caravan size of the settlement. Large-scale or camping site will only be permitted developments, for example, will only where: be considered in larger urban areas. a) the proposal is for a small number However, in order to develop the area of units, unobtrusively sited and sustainably, it may become necessary well screened from public view; to limit development. b) it would not harm the character or appearance of the countryside, or 6.6.3. By encouraging the development cause noise or disturbance to any of tourist accommodation in built- nearby dwellings; up areas, the environmental impact of building in the open countryside c) any new buildings would be is avoided. Sites within settlements demonstrably necessary, sited as are more practical as they already unobtrusively as possible, and have the infrastructure and the public designed to complement the site’s transport links required by this Local surroundings; and Plan. The Council will give detailed d) the vehicular traffic generated consideration to proposals within could be safely accommodated on the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding the local highway network. Natural Beauty (AONB) to ensure additional development does not e) it would make adequate provision undermine its character. for water supply and utilities, and for sewage and waste disposal. 6.6.4. So that tourism enhances the local 6.6.7. Caravanning and camping are popular community, it is important that it does recreational pursuits and provide not conflict with the local population. flexible tourist accommodation and The conversion of buildings to mobile holidays at the moderately guesthouses and hotels, especially priced end of the market. They can be within residential areas, can generate of great benefit to the local economy. patterns of activity that are disruptive As most are self-catering, local shops, to local residents. This should be

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 111 pubs and restaurants can benefit. conditions will be particularly Also, the large numbers of visitors stringent for applications for caravan contribute greatly to local attractions sites, to prevent them from becoming and other local businesses. obtrusive in the countryside because of inadequate indigenous screening or 6.6.8. All proposals for new or extensions to poor topographical location. Sensitive existing caravan and campsites will areas include exposed riverbanks have to meet criteria a) – e). All holiday and high or sloping land that is (i.e. non-gypsy) caravan sites, whether visually prominent or land within the touring or static, as well as camping Cotswolds AONB. sites (where planning permission is required) and holiday chalets will 6.6.12. It is essential that sites are well apply. The planning implications of screened all year round, not just in mobile homes (residential caravans) the summer months when vegetation parks and gypsy sites will be is at its thickest. Where screening considered against the same criteria is seasonal, touring caravans or the for housing development. Proposals removal of static caravans from the should seek to minimise the impact site in winter will be required. on the landscape through careful siting and should be well screened by 6.6.13. For static caravans, conditions will be landscaping or the existing landform. imposed on any planning consent, It is also important that there should be limiting occupation to a period not no adverse affect on the surrounding exceeding 10 months in any one environment, wildlife, agricultural year, thus avoiding permanently sited uses, or archaeological and historic caravans being used as residential sites of interest. accommodation.

6.6.9. The number of pitches proposed will 6.6.14. The Department for Communities and be a key consideration in assessing Local Government ‘Good Practice the impact of proposals. Accordingly, Guide on Planning for Tourism’ small sites are likely to be viewed (2006) recognises the need for Local more favourably than large sites. The Authorities to examine the scope Council defines ‘small sites’ as no for improvements in the quality of more than 15 pitches or units. their sites (Annexe 4, para. 22). In special circumstances, therefore, 6.6.10. Access is of particular importance and the Council may consider minimal sites must be located close to major expansion of a site so that improved roads. The Council must be satisfied layout and/or better landscaping can that the extra traffic generated does be implemented. not compromise highway safety. Static sites however do not need to be located near to major roads, but the road network must be able to cope with the initial delivery of caravans and the consequent traffic of visitors and service vehicles. Access to public transport, public footpaths and cycle routes will be considered when dealing with planning applications.

6.6.11. Landscaping and locational

112 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Implementation, Monitoring and Review 7

Section 7 Implementation, Monitoring and Review

7.1. Implementation and needs to be undertaken as a continuous process. By monitoring 7.1.1. The implementation or use of the chosen indicators, the Council can policies and proposals of this Plan will measure the performance of the Plan’s involve the co-operation of all those policies and their implementation concerned with the development and can determine whether the aims process. The Council’s primary and objectives of the Plan are being role will be to ensure that planning achieved. The ‘plan, monitor, manage’ applications are determined in approach to the delivery of housing accordance with the Development in PPG3 (Housing) will also be fully Plan unless material considerations addressed through this process. can demonstrate otherwise. It also has Monitoring will assist the managed a role in assisting with the formulation release of land for housing and will of high-quality development proposals, indicate whether the Plan’s intended negotiating with developers on behalf approach to phasing is working and of the community and through the will inform future allocation of land for direct provision of certain facilities housing in the emerging Wychavon and services. Local Development Framework (LDF). 7.1.2. The development process provides an opportunity for the Council 7.2.2. The Plan’s Development Strategy to negotiate improvements in and policies have been appraised infrastructure and community facilities, as part of a Sustainability Appraisal which may be needed to secure an of the Local Plan. This has been acceptable balance of uses and form undertaken to inform and enhance the of development. This opportunity environmental, social and economic will be implemented through Policy integrity of the Plan. To assist this GD3 and through the production of task and for monitoring purposes, Development Briefs, which may be the Council has developed a series adopted as Supplementary Planning of Sustainability Indicators, which are Documents where appropriate. set out in Table 4 on page 114.

7.1.3. Where the determination of 7.2.3. As the Plan was developed under the applications falls to other agencies, Planning and Compulsory Purchase such as the Worcestershire County Act 1991 these criteria are not Council or Secretary of State, the intended to measure every Policy in Council will expect those agencies the Plan, but address key aspects of to have regard to the Policies and the objectives based on the aims of Proposals of this Plan in reaching sustainability, which are at the heart of their decision. the Plan’s Strategy. They concentrate on performance indicators, which the 7.2. Monitoring Local Plan can have a direct influence 7.2.1. Monitoring is the process of collecting, over, and avoid the use of general collating and presenting information environmental, economic and social on indicators which have been capital indicators, which are only selected as defining or influencing influenced to a limited extent by land- development trends in Wychavon use planning.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 113 7.2.4. Under the new system, introduced by the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, planning should take a holistic approach to the provision of, and for, future development. This will be reflected in the Local Development Documents (LDD) which, in time, shall replace the Local Plan in the emerging Wychavon Local Development Framework.

Table 4 Sustainability Indicators for Monitoring Sustainability Criteria Relation to Monitoring Indicator Local Plan objective(s) Prudent Use of Resources Safeguarding soil Area of Grade 1, 2 and 3a agricultural land 2 resources lost Safeguarding ground and Number of developments using 2 river water resources sustainable drainage Number of developments utilising Promoting energy renewable energy schemes efficiency and renewable Number of developments utilising energy 2 energy use and water conservation measures conservation Number of developments utilising water conservation measures Percentage of new homes and Re-using previously 1, 3 employment built on previously developed developed land land compared to greenfield Change of use of vacant buildings Re-using buildings 1, 3

Protecting the Environment Protecting ancient 1 Loss of Ancient Woodland woodlands Protecting the Green Belt 1, 3, 7, 8 Exception development allowed in the GB Protecting the AONB 1 Development allowed in AONB Safeguarding LB/AM, Developments resulting in damage/ archaeology, other cultural 1 destruction of LB /AM (Enforcement assets Notices) Area of development allowed within SSSI/ Impact on biodiversity 1 SWS Area of development allowed within river Protection from flooding 9 flood plains Reducing pollution 2, 8, 9 Developments incorporating conditions

114 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Sustainability Indicators for Monitoring continued.... Sustainability Criteria Relation to Monitoring Indicator Local Plan objective(s) Levels of road traffic Percentage of homes built with access to public transport Reducing the need to Number of Travel Plans completed 1, 2, 5, 7, 8 travel by car Value of developer contributions towards sustainable transport Car parking provision in new developments Length of new cycleways/pedestrian Promoting walking/cycling 7, 9 routes Social Progress Improving quality of Number of developments incorporating 5, 7, 8, 9, 10 surroundings design assessments Ensuring safety and Number of developments incorporating 9 security ‘Secured By Design’ principles Supply of residential land measured against the Structure Plan Number of dwellings negotiated for affordable housing and achieved through rural exception site as percentage of overall supply Providing housing for all 4 Value of contribution towards affordable housing through Section 106 Agreements Types and mix of sizes of housing Density achieved in new housing developments Area of open space negotiated for new housing developments Value of developer contributions to Providing for the needs 5, 7, 8, 10 public open space of leisure/recreation Area of existing public open space lost to other developments

Effectively involving Percentage number of respondents to local people in decision 5 consultation exercises making and action Losses of existing commercial / Providing for the needs communal facilities 5, 6 of community Creation of new commercial/communal facilities

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 115 Sustainability Indicators for Monitoring continued.... Sustainability Criteria Relation to Monitoring Indicator Local Plan objective(s) Economic Opportunity Unemployment rates Providing for 8, 10 Percentage of new employment land employment measured against the Structure Plan Improving the vitality and viability of town and 5, 8, 10 Number of vacant shops village centres Providing for Tourism 8, 10 Number of holiday lets approved

7.3. Review

7.3.1. The majority of this Plan will be ‘saved’ within the LDF until 2011; however, some sections will be replaced earlier as LDD on the ‘Core Strategy’, ‘Balanced Housing Markets’ and ‘Open Space’ Development Plan Documents (DPD) in accordance with the Local Development Scheme (LDS).

7.3.2. The ‘Annual Monitoring Report’ (AMR) will continue to monitor the aims and objectives of the Plan and this monitoring will inform future policy development.

116 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Proposals Map 8

Proposals map

Proposals Map (inserted at front of document)

Inset Maps 1 Droitwich Spa (inserted at front of document) 2 Evesham (inserted at front of document) 3 Pershore (inserted at front of document)

A4 Inset Maps 4 Abberton 30 Hatfield 5 Abbots Morton 31 Himbleton 6 Aldington 32 Hinton on the Green 7 Aston Somerville 33 Huddington 8 Bevere 34 Kington 9 Bishampton 35 Kington (The Bourne) 10 Blackminster 36 Kinsham 11 Bradley Green 37 Little Comberton 12 Bredon’s Hardwick 38 Littleworth 13 Bredon’s Norton 39 Martin Hussingtree 14 Broad Marston 40 Naunton Beauchamp 15 Broughton Hackett 41 Northampton 16 Charlton 42 Oldfield 17 Childswickham 43 Peopleton 18 Conderton 44 Sale Green 19 Crossway Green 45 Sneachill 20 Crowle Green 46 Stock Green 21 Cutnall Green 47 Stoke Prior 22 Defford 48 Stoulton & Hawbridge 23 Drakes Broughton 49 Sytchampton 24 Dunhampstead (Trench Lane) 50 Throckmorton 25 Fladbury 51 Uphampton 26 Flyford Flavell 52 Upper Strensham 27 Great Comberton 53 Upton Warren 28 Hadzor 54 Wadborough 29 Hanbury 55 White Ladies Aston

A3 Inset Maps 56 Ashton-under-Hill 64 Cleeve Prior 57 Badsey 65a Cookhill 58 Beckford 65b Cookhill 59 Birlingham 65c Cookhill 60 Bredon 66 Cropthorne 61 Bretforton 67 Crowle 62a Broadway 68 Eckington 62b Broadway 69 Elmley Castle 63 Church Lench & Atch Lench 70 Fernhill Heath

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 117 A3 Inset Maps Cont.... 71 Hartlebury 86 Sedgeberrow 72 Harvington 87 South Littleton 73 Honeybourne 88 Tibberton 74 Inkberrow 89 Upton Snodsbury 75 Kemerton 90 Westmancote & 76 Lower Moor Lower Westmancote 77 North Littleton & Middle Littleton 91 Whittington 78 Norton Juxta Kempsey 92 Wick 79 Norton & Lenchwick 93 Wickhamford 80 Offenham 94 Wychbold 81 Ombersley 95 Wyre Piddle 82 Overbury 96 Hartlebury Trading Estate 83 Pebworth 97 Long Lartin 84 Pinvin 98 Worcestershire Parkway 85 Rous Lench

Disclaimers

1. The Proposals Map and Inset Maps have been produced using the District Council’s Geographical Information System. This would allow extracts of the map/s to be viewed at scales other than those used in the Local Plan. The District Council stresses that there is a limited degree of tolerance with regard to the manner in which the maps have been produced and therefore it should not be interpreted other than at the published scale.

2. The centre of the line which demarcates a particular designation represents the precise boundary to be applied.

3. The responsiblitiy for making certain designations and defining their extent lies with organisations other than the District Council. Where these are identified on the Local Plan Proposals Map and Inset Maps, the District Council cannot be held responsible for the precise boundaries of the designation. This situation relates in particular to Sites of Special Scientific Interest (English Nature) and Ancient Monuments (English Heritage).

118 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Annex & Appendices 9

ANNEXE 1

Assessment Methodology for Proposed Housing in or adjoining Villages Proposals for open market housing that is not ‘infill’, will be assessed against all the following criteria: i) the ability to support a primary school that is within the Policy GD1 boundary or is within a reasonable and safe walking distance; ii) the overall accessibility rating of the village (see Annexe 2) and the availability of a regular bus service to a nearby town; iii) the availability of other more sequentially preferable sites or buildings within the village; iv) the scale and mix of any existing allocations and/or windfall permissions; v) the impact on appearance and/or character of the area or other site-specific considerations; and vi) the availability of existing capacity to accommodate the development or ability to support new capacity in physical and social infrastructure.

The definition of “safe walking distance” is that it should be reasonable and safe. The precise distance will depend on local circumstances and will be determined in consultation with the Highway Authority (Worcestershire County Council).

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 119 120 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 ANNEXE 2

Village Accessibility

VERY HIGH MEDIUM LOW VERY LOW NONE HIGH 5 4 3 2 1 0

ASHTON UNDER BREDON’S ABBOTS BRETFORTON BADSEY ABBERTON HILL HARDWICK MORTON

BROUGHTON ASTON BROADWAY BREDON BECKFORD ALDINGTON HACKETT SOMERVILLE

CLEEVE PRIOR COOKHILL BIRLINGHAM CONDERTON BEVERE ATCH LENCH

ECKINGTON CHARLTON BISHAMPTON CROSSWAY GREEN BLACKMINSTER HADZOR

DUNHAMPSTEAD BREDONS HANBURY CROPTHORNE CHILDSWICKHAM HATFIELD (TRENCH LANE) NORTON

CROWLE AND GREAT BROAD HARTLEBURY CHURCH LENCH HINDLIP CROWLE GREEN COMBERTON MARSTON

GRAFTON HINTON ON THE HARVINGTON DEFFORD CUTNALL GREEN HIMBLETON FLYFORD GREEN

DRAKES LITTLE HAMPTON INKBERROW ELMLEY CASTLE HUDDINGTON BROUGHTON COMBERTON LOVETT

MARTIN NAUNTON OMBERSLEY FERNHILL HEATH FLADBURY KINGTON HUSSINGTREE BEAUCHAMP

PINVIN HONEYBOURNE FLYFORD FLAVELL MIDDLE LITTLETON KINSHAM NETHERTON

HILL & LOWER NORTON JUXTA STOKE PRIOR KEMERTON ODDINGLEY NORTHAMPTON MOOR KEMPSEY

NORTON & TIBBERTON LITTLEWORTH OLDFIELD ROUS LENCH SALE GREEN LENCHWICK

UPTON OFFENHAM NORTH LITTLETON STOCK & BRADLEY STRENSHAM SNEACHILL SNODSBURY

WYCHBOLD PEOPLETON OVERBURY SUMMERFIELD SYTCHAMPTON THROCKMORTON

WESTMANCOTE SEDGEBERROW PEBWORTH WICK & LOWER UPHAMPTON WESTMANCOTE

WHITE LADIES WICKHAMFORD SOUTH LITTLETON WADBOROUGH ASTON

STOULTON & WYRE PIDDLE HAWBRIDGE

UPTON WARREN

WHITTINGTON

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 121 Guide to village assessment Obtain one point for the availability of:

• Village shop or other outlet where general groceries may be bought • Community facility such as a hall or club • Public house • School which has part of the County’s 8% surplus spaces • Regular bus service

Villages can score from zero to five, with zero taken as no accessibility and five to suggest the highest levels of accessibility, at village level. Some villages with a score of 4 or 5 may feel they have little access to services, or find it difficult to believe that they are termed accessible. However, accessibility may be seen as a relative concept, operating at different levels, and the facilities assessed are those relating to essential day to day needs within a local community.

122 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 APPENDIX 1

Ancient Monuments

Parish Monument No. / Title Grid Ref. Abbots Morton 31953 Moated site adj St Peter’s Church SP 026 550 Ashton-under- 29366 Village cross 80m east of St Barbara’s Church SO 997 376 Hill Birlingham 319 Eckington Bridge SO 922 423 (Eckington) Bredon 303 The Tithe Barn SO 918 368 Charlton 202 Roman settlement north-west of Ryden Farm SP 020 456 Charlton 287 Enclosures north/north-east of Fernhill Farm SP 006 469 Charlton 288 Settlement site north-east of Fernhill Farm SP 009 469 Childswickham 29370 Village cross (previously 267) SP 074 385 Childswickham 31956 Moated site (previously 289) SP 075 384 Churchill 31943 Moated site, Churchill Court SO 923 535 Conderton 228 Conderton Camp SO 971 383 Crowle 30049 Moated site, Crowle Court SO 921 559 Dormston 30054 Moated site at Moat Farm SO 984 572 Doverdale 31952 Moated site, west of Church of St Mary SO 859 660 Droitwich Spa 241 Roman settlement, Bays Meadow SO 898 639 Droitwich Spa 339 Dodderhill Roman Fort SO 902 637 Droitwich Spa 30097 Vines Park, Salt Workings SO 899 635 Eckington 229 Ditched enclosures south-east of Eckington SO 932 404 Field Farm Eckington 230 Ditched enclosures 1/2 mile (800m) north of SO 943 417 Woollas Hall Farm Eckington 319 Eckington Bridge SO 922 423 (Birlingham) Elmley Castle 29369 Village Cross (previously 268) SO 980 414 Elmley Castle 280 Elmley Castle SO 979 403 Elmley Castle 290 Moated site SO 985 401 Elmley Castle 31966 Moated site, Manor Farm, Kersoe SO 985 401 Elmley Lovett 27577 Churchyard cross, St Michael’s Church SO 865 696 Elmley Lovett 30081 Medieval settlement surrounding St Michael’s SO 865 695 Church Evesham 221 Abbot Chyryton Wall, Boat Lane SP 029 437- SP 032 437

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 123 Ancient Monuments Cont...

Parish Monument No. / Title Grid Ref. Evesham 253 Evesham Abbey (remains of) SP 038 436 Evesham 254 Abbot Reginald’s gateway and old vicarage SP 038 438 Evesham 255 West porch of Bengeworth Old Church SP 043 435 Fladbury 201 Settlement site north of Spring Hill SO 984 467 Grafton Flyford 200 Deserted medieval village SO 960 559- SO 962 558 Hadzor 338 St John the Baptist Church SO 915 625 Hanbury 31950 Moated site Huntingdon Farm SO 928 623 Hanbury 31948 Moated site 450m west of Parkhall Farm SO 973 617 Hanbury 31978 Icehouse and Ponds, Hanbury Hall SO 941 638 Hanbury 31975 Standing cross, School Road and Astwood Lane SO 954 641 Hanbury 31977 Dovecote, south of Pumphouse Farm SO 954 631 Hinton on the 30098 Settlement site north-east of Narrow Meadow SP 034 413 Green Farm SP 030 410 Huddington 31944 Moated site at Huddington Court SO 942 572 Inkberrow 31942 Moated site east of Gannow Farm SP 002 590 Honeybourne 292 Deserted village of Poden SP 127 435 Cookhill 256 Cookhill Nunnery SP 054 573 Inkberrow 31941 Moated site (previously 293) SP 017 572 Kemerton 212 Settlement site north-east of Kinsham SO 939 357 SO 938 358 Kemerton 220 Double ditched enclosures south of Robin Mill SO 954 364 Kemerton 233 Kemerton Camp SO 958 402 Naunton 294 Sheriff’s Naunton deserted village north-east of SO 959 524 Beauchamp Naunton Court Netherton 236 Ditched enclosures 1/4 mile (400m) north of SO 991 421 Chapel Farm Netherton 259 Netherton Chapel SO 990 416 North and 309 Tithe Barn SP 080 470 Middle Littleton Norton and 295 Prehistoric enclosures 3/4 mile (120 m) east of SP 054 477 Lenchwick Norton Church Offenham 30099 Saxon Cemetery - Bennetts Hill SP 068 459 Ombersley 242 Hawford Roman Camp SO 844 604 SO 845 604 Ombersley 310 Dovecote at Hawford Grange SO 846 607 Overbury 205 Double ditched enclosure north of Oakey’s Lane SO 959 367

124 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Ancient Monuments Cont...

Parish Monument No. / Title Grid Ref. Overbury 215 Enclosures and ring ditches west of Crashmore SO 957 355 Lane Pershore 260 Pershore Abbey (site off) SO 948 458 Pershore (Wick) 321 Pershore Bridge SO 952 452 Rous Lench 31955 Moated site east of St Peter’s Church SP 015 534 (previously 296) Strensham 31947 Strensham Castle (previously 284) SO 904 405 Throckmorton 31946 Moated site and medieval settlement SO 981 497 Ullington 30058 Medieval settlement SP 109 470 Upton 203 Castle Hill camp SO 938 554 Snodsbury Upton 29867 Churchyard cross, St Kenelm’s Churchyard SO 943 543 Snodsbury Upton Warren 31954 Moated site and fishponds south-west and north SO 907 710 of Durrance Farm SO 909 715 Whittington 239 Crookbarrow SO 875 524 Wick 204 Double ditched enclosure north-east of Wick SO 963 464 Village Wick 207 Settlement site south-east of Wyre Piddle SO 967 465 Wick 216 Settlement site north-east of Wick Village SO 967 456 Wick 217 Cursus and trackway north-west of Oakland SO 975 433 Farm Wick 29875 Churchyard cross 40m north-west of St Mary’s SO 962 453 Church Willersey WT344 Willersey Hill camp SP 117 382 Wyre Piddle 29368 Village cross (previously 276) SO 963 474 Wyre Piddle 324 Wyre Bridge SO 961 476

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 125 126 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 APPENDIX 2

Conservation Areas

Settlement Area Designated Revised 4th Oct Abberton The central core around a twisting road March 1976 in this small settlement 2005 12th July Abbots Morton Most of this very pleasant village Nov 1969 2005 The central core of this small Aldington settlement July 1975 17th May Ashton-under-Hill The central area of this village Nov 1969 2006 Atch Lench Most of this small settlement July 1996 The central area in the centre of the Badsey village Sept 1975 Beckford The central area of the village March 1972 Bevere Most of the older part of the settlement Sept 1975 Birlingham A small area adjoining the almshouses Dec 1975 Upper Birlingham A small area around the church July 1996 June Bredon The central area of the village Nov 1969 1987 11th July Bredon’s Norton Most of the village Sept 1975 2006 Bretforton The central area of the village Nov 1969 14th June Broad Marston The core of the settlement March 1976 2005 Oct 1990 The central area of the village and & Broadway area of open countryside to south Nov 1969 28th Mar 2006 12th July Childswickham The central area of the village Nov 1969 2005 Church Lench The central area of the village Sept 1975 Cleeve Prior The central area of the village Nov 1969 Jan 1983 Conderton Most of the village March 1976 Cropthorne Most of the village Nov 1969 Crowle The central area of the village Nov 1969 High Street, Friar Street, St Andrew’s Droitwich Spa Street, Victoria Square and parts Jan 1975 June adjoining, including St Peter’s Fields 1980

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 127 Conservation Areas Cont…

Settlement Area Designated Revised Running through Vines Park Droitwich Link connecting to Worcester/Birmingham Oct 1987 Canal canal at Hanbury All the locks and bridges and including Droitwich Canal Salwarpe Village Sept 1975 The central area of the village to both Eckington sides of the main road Oct 1975 Elmley Castle The central area of the village Nov 1969 High Street, Vine Street, Merstow Green, Bridge Street, Waterside and part of Church Street August Evesham Nov 1968 1989 Extended to include an area to the north along High Street Fladbury The central area of the village Feb 1973 Great Comberton The central area of the village Nov 1969 Hadzor The central area of the village July 1996 Hampton Small central core of settlement April 1988 The central area of the village, Hartlebury Hartlebury Castle and environs Nov 1969 Harvington The central area of the village Nov 1969 10th Oct Himbleton Almost all of the village July 1975 2006 Honeybourne The central area of the village Sept 1975 Huddington All the village July 1975 Inkberrow The central area of the village Nov 1969 Kemerton Most of the village Mar 1972 Kinsham The central core of the settlement Sept 1975 Little Comberton The central area of the village Nov 1969 Small area around the historic core of Lower Moor the village July 1996 Martin Most of central area around the Hussingtree church July 1996 Middle Littleton The core of the settlement March 1976 Naunton Beauchamp Most of this small settlement Dec 1975 Northampton Most of this small settlement Dec 1975 North Littleton The central area of the village July 1975 Norton (Evesham) The central area along the main road July 1975

128 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Conservation Areas Cont…

Settlement Area Designated Revised Offenham The central area of the village Nov 1969 14th June Ombersley The central area of the village Nov 1969 2005 Overbury Most of the village Mar 1972 14th June Pebworth Most of the village March 1972 2005 Peopleton A small central core of the village Dec 1975 High Street, Bridge Street, Broad Pershore Street, most of Newlands, Abbey Nov 1968 August Grounds and Pershore Sports Ground 1989 Rous Lench Most of the village July 1975 South Littleton The central area of the village Sept 1975 Stoulton Small area around the church July 1996 Uphampton Most of the village Jan 1975 Upton Snodsbury The central core around the church Nov 1969 Upton Warren Most of the settlement July 1975 Westmancote Most of the settlement Sept 1975 Small central area of village around Whittington the church Sept 1976 Wick Most of the village Sept 1975 Wickhamford All the old village Sept 1975 Worcester/ Birmingham Bridges, Locks, etc., and a few Sept 1975 Canal buildings associated with the canal Wyre Piddle The central area of the village Sept 1975

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 129 130 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 APPENDIX 3

Supplementary Planning Guidance & Supplementary Planning Documents

The following list sets out all the adopted Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) and Supplementary Planning Documents (SPD). The list also sets out proposed new SPD, some of which are under preparation at the time of publication. Please note that a more detailed programme of SPD preparation is set out in the Council’s Local Development Scheme, which is available to view in the Council’s Community Contact Centres and on its website www. wychavon.gov.uk. The Council has also published a series of planning advice notes. These are not SPG or SPD and are set out in the publications section on our website.

Site-Specific SPG/SPD

Adoption Date Supporting Local Title Status (anticipated date) Plan Policy Accessible Historic Adopted SPD January 2006 ENV13, ENV14 Environment Historic Parks and Gardens Adopted SPD January 2005 ENV11 Droitwich Canals (includes proposed development sites at Netherwich Basin, Saab Adopted SPD September 2004 SR1, SR4 Garage, Land Rover Garage and Hanbury Road Evesham Riverside Strategy: Adopted SPD January 2002 SR1, SR4 Development Framework Evesham Riverside Development Guide: Mill Adopted SPG November 2001 SR1, SR4 Street/Common Road Evesham Riverside Development Guide: Port Adopted SPG January 2002 GD1 Street Evesham Riverside Development Guide: Abbey Adopted SPG September 2002 SR1, SR4 Road Depot Land Rear of High Street Adopted SPG August 2002 SR1, SR4 Pershore Development Guide Design Concept Statement: Adopted SPD October 2005 SR1 Peewit Road, Evesham Design Concept Statement: Bewdley Lane/Blind Lane, Adopted SPD May 2006 SR1, SR4 Evesham

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 131 Site-Specific SPG/SPD Cont…

Adoption Date Supporting Local Title Status (anticipated date) Plan Policy Design Concept Statement: Adopted SPD October 2006 SR1 Badsey Road, Evesham Design Concept Statement: Proposed SPD (January 2007) SR2, ECON10 Throckmorton Airfield Ombersley Conservation Area Adopted SPD June 2005 ENV12, SUR1 Appraisal Pebworth Conservation Area Adopted SPD June 2005 ENV12, SUR1 Appraisal Lorries in the Vale of Adopted SPG November 2001 ECON5 Evesham Local Parish Plans * Information Please refer to LDS SUR1 Source

* Many parishes are preparing Parish Plans or Village Design Statements (VDS). Whilst these documents (or elements of them) could be adopted as SPD the preference of the Parishes has been to put them forward for adoption as a Local Information Source.

Topic-Based SPG/SPD/Advice Notes

Adoption Date Supporting Local Title Status (anticipated date) Plan Policy SUR1, ECON14, Shopfront Design Guide Adopted SPG February 1995 ECON15 House Extensions Advice Adopted SPG January 2001 SUR1, GD2 Note

Affordable Housing Adopted SPG November 2002 COM2

Developer Contributions Adopted SPG October 2003 GD3 Towards Service Infrastructure

Cycling Strategy Adopted SPG November 2003 SR5

RES7, RES8, Re-use of Rural Buildings Proposed SPD (June 2007) ECON8 GD2, ENV3, ENV4, ENV5, Biodiversity Proposed SPD (August 2007) ENV6, ENV7, ENV8 Developer Contributions Proposed SPD (May 2007) GD3 (S106) for Education Not yet Parking Standards Proposed SPD SUR3 programmed

132 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 APPENDIX 4

Description of Strategic Gaps – Appendix to Policy SR10. a) Beckford – Inset Map 58 There are two areas of land that form important breaks between the built-up areas of Beckford. One lies to the north of the A46 (T) and comprises flat arable land, allotments and some domestic development, although its general appearance is one of an open area, detached from the main built-up settlement. The second gap is an attractive part-wooded area bound by mature hedges and includes part of the Manor House grounds and bridges Carrant Brook. Both gaps have the function of preventing the erosion of gaps between distinct areas of development to maintain the setting and character of the settlement. b) Crowle and Crowle Green – Inset Maps 20 and 67 The large open area of land between the two settlements is in agricultural use and comprises two separate farms, sloping gently to the road. The land is bound by mainly mature hedging. The Strategic Gap has been designated in this area with particular importance to maintaining the separate identities of Crowle and Crowle Green and therefore preventing their coalescence. c) Droitwich – Inset Map 1 The Strategic Gap straddles the A442 and forms an important break in built development comprising Berry Hill industrial estate and Westlands to the south of Hampton Lovett and Stonebridge Cross industrial estate to the north. The western portion is more extensive, comprising rising land to the north and is very prominent in the landscape from a number of public vantage points. The northern section has been recently landscaped as part of the Stonebridge Cross development. Within this section there is some limited development comprising Jakemans Farm. The eastern section has greater tree cover and there is no built development. d) Evesham – Inset Map 2 Separating Evesham from Hampton is an extensive area of agricultural land that follows the River Isbourne up to Pershore Road. The land is largely undeveloped and includes a wooded walkway enclosed by field boundaries and farm tracks. The land gently slopes towards the river on both sides and presents a very attractive visual break between Evesham and Hampton, preventing their coalescence, thus allowing them to maintain their different identities. e) Hinton-on-the-Green – Inset Map 32 This village has developed into two distinct parts separated by the land around the River Isbourne. The Strategic Gap here comprises land either side of the principle road through the village, which forms an important open feature within Hinton. The northern part comprises attractive sloping grazing land and the southern side is agricultural and scrubland. Both present an important break to the village, enhancing its character. f) Norton (and Lenchwick) – Inset Map 79 Norton comprises two distinctive parts separated by an open undeveloped area of gently sloping grazing land situated to the south of St Egwin’s Church. This break in an otherwise built-up frontage provides an important visual gap between the traditional buildings in the northern part of the village and the more modern developments to the south. The gap also has the function of protecting the setting of the Church, contributing to its character.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 133 g) Norton-Juxta-Kempsey – Inset Map 78 Norton-Juxta-Kempsey’s proximity to Worcester poses a threat of the two settlements merging. This will result in the loss of identity of this settlement, which is centred around the church with a large more modern development between the city and the village at Norton Barracks. The Strategic Gap in this location serves an important function in preventing urban sprawl from Worcester and protecting the visual gap between the two settlements. The Strategic Gap is undeveloped and is currently in agricultural use bound and contained by firm edges. The proximity of the M5 motorway and the open space adjacent to it, which is protected by Policy NE11 of the Worcester City Local Plan, is another important consideration in protecting this land at Norton-Juxta-Kempsey. h) Pebworth – Inset Map 83 Pebworth is divided into two distinct areas of development each displaying its own different character and form. A large area of land separates the two parts of the village; the land plays a significant role as a recreational facility and creates an important visual break. Its character creates a village green ambience with an open frontage bound by mature trees and hedges which contributes to the amenity of the area. The remainder of the land behind is currently in agricultural use and stretches to the school boundary to prevent the two identities from coalescing. i) Pershore – Inset Map 3 This Strategic Gap incorporates a large triangular piece of land between the two neighbouring villages of Pinvin and Wyre Piddle with a mixture of uses on it. The northern edge of the built-up area of Pershore and Pinvin, along Station Road, contains sporadic development comprising Pershore High School and the Pershore Trading Estate. Between Pershore and Wyre Piddle, apart from the builders’ merchants, there is no development, the land being in agricultural use, and to the south of the road, within the flood plains of the River Avon and Piddle Brook. This Strategic Gap has an important function in maintaining the three separate identities of Pershore and the two villages and prevents the sprawl of development in this general location. j) Pinvin – Inset Map 84 Pinvin is an elongated settlement split into two parts by the B4084. The open area adjacent to the road that splits the two parts is itself divided by the road leading to the centre of the village. On the eastern side, the Strategic Gap is open flat grazing land and to the west is a small copse presenting a very attractive entrance to the village. The function of the Strategic Gap is to maintain the identity and character of Pinvin, preventing the coalescence of the two separate parts. It is also highly important to prevent the merging of the open land between Pinvin, Pershore and Wyre Piddle. k) Upton Snodsbury – Inset Map 89 Upton Snodsbury comprises two main parts; the main built-up area forming the central part of the village and an isolated group of properties that straddle the A422. The Strategic Gap has been designated to protect the separate identities of the village and its open approach to the settlement also serves as an important visually pleasing entrance. The land is currently used for grazing and is mainly bound by hedges. l) Whittington – Inset Map 91 Whittington is a scattered settlement presenting gaps in the clusters of development, which form significant visual breaks in the built form contributing to its rural character. These spaces have been designated as Strategic Gaps in their own right. The area adjacent to the Berkley Close development straddles Church Lane and is undeveloped segmented grazing land that slopes towards the motorway. The area adjacent to the village hall is also undeveloped gently sloping grazing land in close

134 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 proximity to the motorway. The third area is situated on the western side of the dual carriageway, which slopes up towards St Peter’s and comprises grazing land, Whittington Hall, several low-key business uses and a few residential properties. There is a strong need to preserve the identity of Whittington given its proximity to Worcester, making it a vulnerable area under pressure for development. The designation of the Strategic Gap will prevent the coalescence of Worcester and Whittington whilst maintaining the unique development pattern that has evolved. The M5 motorway runs to the east of Whittington and its proximity along with the open space adjacent to it, which is protected by Policy NE11 of the adopted Worcester City Local Plan, is another important consideration in protecting this land at Whittington. m) Wyre Piddle – Inset Map 95 The designated Strategic Gap at Wyre Piddle lies to the north-west of the main built-up area and has the function of separating Wyre Piddle from both Pershore and Pinvin, in order to maintain their separate identities and character. The land itself is elevated grazing land bound by mature trees and hedges between Wyre Hill and Wyre Road. It presents an important area of land that needs to be protected from further development and threat of sprawl from Pershore.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 135 136 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 APPENDIX 5

Occupation of ‘Tolerated’ Gypsy Sites

Site Reference Occupied No. of Caravans Cutnall Green T201 Yes 5 Fladbury T053 Yes 1 Hipton T053A Yes 0 Twyford T179 Yes 6 Evesham T081 Yes 5 Cropthorne T082 Yes 5 Badsey T100 No 0 Badsey T102 No 0 Comberton T104 Yes 0 Lineholt T007 Yes 3 Holt Fleet T018 No 0 Ombersley T019 Yes 5 Waresley T005 No 0

Source: Count of Gypsy Caravans (June 2005)

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 137 138 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 APPENDIX 6

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty – Policy ENV2

Grid Site Name Description Area (ha) Reference Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Bredon Hill 3,760 396 238 (AONB) Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Broadway 1,119 409 236 (AONB)

Sites of International Importance for Nature Conservation – Policy ENV3

Site Name Area (ha) Grid Reference Bredon Hill 359.86 394 240

Sites of Special Scientific Interest – Policy ENV4

SSSI Name Location Area (ha) Grid Reference Avon Valley Birlingham 0.91 392 242

Avon Valley Birlingham 0.57 392 242

Avon Valley Birlingham2 5.62 393 243

Avon Valley Bow Brook, Defford 0.17 391 242

Avon Valley Fladbury 2.66 398 245

Avon Valley Harvington Mill 0.04 406 247

Avon Valley Harvington Mill 2.38 406 247

Avon Valley Lower Bow Brook, Defford 3.64 391 242

Avon Valley Lower Moor 1.45 397 264

Avon Valley Pensham 0.35 394 243

Avon Valley Pershore 0.33 395 245

Avon Valley Pershore2 1.06 395 245

Avon Valley Ramsdon Road Defford 0.13 392 245

Avon Valley Ramsdon Road Defford 0.39 392 245

Avon Valley Strensham 1.02 391 240

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 139 SSSI Name Location Area (ha) Grid Reference Avon Valley Strensham 7.44 391 239

Avon Valley Strensham 0.46 391 240

Avon Valley Upper Bow Brook, Defford 4.2 392 243

Avon Valley Woodmancote 1.79 390 241

Avon Valley Wyre Piddle 0.17 396 247

Avon Valley Wyre Piddle2 0.66 396 247

Baynhall Meadow Naunton Beauchamp 2 1.06 398 253

Beckford Gravel Pit Beckford Gravel Pit 0.22 397 236

Bredon Hill Bredon Hill 370.7 394 239

Bredon Hill Elmley Castle 6.13 397 241

Bredon Hill Nr Westmancote 5.56 394 238

Broadway Hill Broadway Hill 15.11 410 236

Cooksholme Meadows Littleworth 8.34 388 250

Cropthorne New Inn Section Cropthorne 0.12 399 244

Dean Brook Valley Pastures Shell 4.34 394 260

Dormston Church Meadow Dormston 1.34 398 257

Eckington Railway Cutting Eckington 1.1 391 241

Foster’s Green Meadows Foster’s Green Hanbury 12.23 397 264

Grafton Wood Grafton Wood 49.33 397 256

Great Blaythorn Meadow Wadborough 2.1 391 248 Hartlebury Common & Hartlebury Common 0.4 381 270 Hillditch Coppice Hartlebury Common & Hartlebury Common 1.33 381 270 Hillditch Coppice Hartlebury Common & Hartlebury Common 6.54 382 270 Hillditch Coppice Hartlebury Common & Hartlebury Common 11.01 381 270 Hillditch Coppice Hartlebury Common & Hartlebury Common 69.15 382 270 Hillditch Coppice Hartlebury Common & Hartlebury Common 0.1 381 270 Hillditch Coppice

140 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 SSSI Name Location Area (ha) Grid Reference Hartlebury Common & Hartlebury Common 0.14 382 270 Hillditch Coppice Hartlebury Common & Hartlebury Common 0.14 381 270 Hillditch Coppice Highclere Fladbury 1.01 401 248

Long Meadow Inkberrow 4.93 401 255 Lower Saleway Farm Lower Saleway Farm Meadow 4.45 392 260 Meadows Naunton Court Meadows Naunton Court Lower Meadow 3.82 395 252

Naunton Court Meadows Naunton Court Upper Meadow 1.2 395 252

Oakley Pool Martin Hussingtree 5.43 389 260

Pipershill Common Pipershill Common Hanbury 12.07 395 265

Pipershill Common Pipershill Common Hanbury 3.81 395 265

Portway Farm Meadows Flyford Flavell (north) 0.93 398 254

Portway Farm Meadows Flyford Flavell (south) 1.55 398 254

Rabbit Wood Rabbit Wood Grafton Flyford 16.02 395 257

Rectory Farm Meadows Bredon 16.07 392 238 Salt Meadow, Earl’s Earl’s Common 2.8 396 259 Common Stock Wood Meadows Stock Wood Inkberrow 1.77 399 258

Tiddesley Wood Tiddesley Wood Pershore 80.63 392 245

Trench Wood Trench Wood, Sale Green 62.1 392 258

Tunnel Hill Meadow Norton & Lenchwick 0.77 402 247 Upham Meadow & Summer Mill End Bredon 0.28 392 237 Leasowe Upton Warren Pools Upton Warren 42.64 393 266

Westwood Great Pool Great Pool Westwood House 29.26 388 263

Windmill Hill Middle Littleton 6.3 407 247

Yellow House Meadow Naunton Beauchamp 1.75 396 252

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 141 142 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 GLOSSARY

Affordable Housing – for those who are unable to buy or rent housing on the open market. Comprise rented or part-owned accommodation (usually provided and managed by Housing Associations) or low-cost market housing. Occupation may be limited to people with a local connection.

Areas of Development Restraint (ADR) – an area of land safeguarded for consideration for possible long-term development needs. Areas are excluded from the Green Belt.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) – a specifically defined and protected environmental area. Areas of national importance for their landscape value within which the conservation and enhancement of natural beauty is most important.

Best and Most Versatile Agricultural Land – land that should be protected as a national resource for future generations and is defined as Grades 1, 2 and 3a of the DEFRA Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) scheme.

Biodiversity – the whole variety of life encompassing all genetic, species and ecosystem variations.

Biodiversity Action Plan – a Plan intended to focus resources to conserve and enhance biodiversity by taking account of national and local priorities.

Brownfield – see previously developed land.

Community Plan – a document that sets out the overall aims, priorities and plans for a particular local area. As the name suggests, a Community Plan should address the present and future needs of the local community. The Local Development Framework aims to provide the ‘spatial planning’ context to the Community Plan.

Commuted Sums – see Planning Obligations.

Conservation Area – a specifically defined and protected environmental area in view of its special architectural or historic interest. These are designated by Local Planning Authorities.

County Structure Plan – provides County-wide strategic framework for the control of development. The County Structure Plan will be saved under the Local Development Framework until 2007.

Defined Development Boundary– Development boundaries for the villages have been defined having regard to their size, character and form. They have been drawn to reflect where new development, through infilling or minor consolidation, would be appropriate. See Policy GD1.

Department of Local Government and Communities (DLGC) – Government Department which promotes social equality and is responsible for housing, planning, urban regeneration and local government. Formerly the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) until May 2006.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 143 Design Concept Statement (DCS) – sets out the development principles and master plan to inform future planning applications. Adopted as SPD.

Development – for planning purposes, the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 defines ‘development’ as ‘the carrying out of building, engineering, mining or other operations in, on, over or under land or the making of any material change in the use of any building or other land’. Unless a particular activity is exempt by statute, the carrying out of any form of development requires planning permission. Additionally, there are specific exclusions from and inclusions within the definition. For the avoidance of doubt, you are advised to contact the Council’s Planning Department.

Development Brief/Guide – guidance for prospective developers and other interested parties about how a site or area should be developed, taking account of constraints and opportunities, and building on Local Plan Policy. Development Briefs were often adopted as Supplementary Planning Guidance, and can be adopted as Supplementary Planning Documents under the new planning system.

Development Plan Document (DPD) – The Documents that a Local Planning Authority must prepare under the new planning system that will contain the ‘Statutory’ policies and proposals to guide future development in the district. They are subject to a rigorous process of community involvement, consultation and independent examination. The following are the minimum DPDs that a Local Planning Authority must produce: • Core Strategy; • Site-Specific Allocations of land; • Area Action Plans (where needed); and • Proposals Map (with Inset Maps, where necessary).

Edge-of-centre – for shopping purposes an edge-of-centre location needs to be within an easy and safe walking distance (maximum 300m) of a primary or secondary shopping frontage. For office, leisure and other uses the threshold distance is 500 m.

English Nature – Government agency responsible for promoting, protecting and enhancing nature conservation. To be incorporated within Natural England from October 2006.

Environment Agency – Government agency with wide ranging powers for environmental protection. Was formed by the amalgamation of the National Rivers Authority, Her Majesty’s Inspectorate of Pollution and the Waste Regulation Authorities.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) – this process refers to the evaluation of the impacts likely to arise from a major project on the natural and man-made environment. The Town and Country Planning (Assessment of Environmental Effects) Regulations 1999, impose significant new duties upon Local Planning Authorities.

Exception Site – a location where development would not otherwise be granted planning permission under normal circumstances.

Flood Plain – is defined as unobstructed or active areas where water regularly flows in times of flood.

Green Belt – a specifically defined area where development is controlled to prevent settlements merging and to keep land open.

144 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Greenfield sites – undeveloped or vacant land not included in the definition of ‘previously developed land’.

Housing Needs Survey – a detailed assessment of housing need by examining the suitability of present housing and the ability of households to afford market-priced housing.

Listed Building – buildings and structures which have been deemed by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport as being of special architectural or historic interest, and which it is desirable to preserve, including any object or structure fixed to the building or any object or structure which is within the curtilage of the building and which forms part of the land and has done so since before 1st July 1948.

Local centre – small grouping of shops of a local nature normally comprising a newsagent, general grocery store, sub-post office, chemist.

Local Area for Play (LAP) – unsupervised, casual, informal element of play space, within 200m of home.

Local Development Documents (LDDs) – will comprise: • Statement of Community Involvement (SCI); • Strategic Environmental Assessment/Sustainability Appraisal (SEA/SA); • Development Plan Documents (DPD); and • Supplementary Planning Documents (SPD).

Local Development Framework (LDF) – the LDF, prepared under the new planning legislation, will contain a series of LDDs, which will provide the Local Planning Authority’s policies and proposals for meeting the community’s economic, environmental and social aims for the future of their area where this affects the development of land.

Local Development Scheme (LDS) – the LDS sets out the programme for preparing the LDDs.

Local Equipped Area for Play (LEAP) – unsupervised play area, equipped for children of 4 to 8 years, within 400m of home.

Local Nature Reserve – area of publicly owned land which is conserved and managed for its wildlife interest. Bylaws can be applied to prevent disturbance.

Local Needs – anticipated requirements (for example, for housing) generated by local growth or other (for example, demographic) trends. This specifically excludes demands generated by inward migration.

Local Transport Plan – a plan prepared by Highway Authorities (ie. the County Council) detailing transport priorities and actions to be taken.

Mixed Use Development – developments that include a combination of land uses, which may include housing, employment, leisure and community facilities.

Multi-Modal Studies – transport studies in which consideration is given to problems and solutions affecting all modes of travel.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 145 Multi-Use Games Area (MUGA) – equipped, unsupervised areas for formal sport for both children and adults.

Neighbourhood Equipped Area for Play (NEAP) – unsupervised play area, equipped mainly for older children (8+), but to accommodate younger children, within 1200m of home.

Net Site Density – includes only those areas that will be developed for housing and directly associated uses. It is solely based on the form of development envisaged and does not need to reflect the inclusion of non-residential uses. It is the most commonly used approach in allocating housing land. It is further defined in PPG3 Annexe C.

Out-of-centre – locations that are clearly separate from the town centre but still within a development boundary.

Out-of-town – locations outside the development boundary.

Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest – parks and gardens listed in a register maintained by English Heritage. Like listed buildings, they are graded by reason of their historic layout, features and architectural ornaments.

Planning Obligations – agreements between developers and the Council to properly accommodate or mitigate proposed development.

Planning Policy Guidance Note (PPG) – a series of documents produced by the Government covering a wide range of planning issues. PPGs advice on the implementation of the law and Government policy regarding the purpose and function of the planning system. As at March 2002 the following have been issued: PPG2 Green Belts, January 1995 PPG3 Housing, March 2000 PPG4 Industrial and Commercial Development and Small Firms, November 1992 PPG5 Simplified Planning Zones, November 1992 PPG8 Telecommunication, August 2001 PPG13 Transport, March 2001 PPG14 Development on Unstable Land, April 1990 PPG15 Planning and the Historic Environment, September 1994 PPG16 Archaeology and Planning, November 1990 PPG17 Planning for Open Space, Sport and Recreation, July 2002 PPG18 Enforcing Planning Control, December 1991 PPG19 Outdoor Advertisement Control, March 1992 PPG20 Coastal Planning, September 1992 PPG21 Tourism, November 1992 PPG24 Planning and Noise, September 1994 PPG25 Development and Flood Risk, July 2001.

146 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Planning Policy Statements (PPS) - Government statements of national planning policy being phased in to supersede Planning Policy Guidance notes (PPGs): PPS1 Delivering Sustainable Development, February 2005. This replaces PPG Note 1: General Policies and Principles (published February 1997). PPS3 Housing, November 2006. This replaces PPG Note 3: Housing (published March 2000). PPS6 Planning for Town Centres, March 2005. This replaces Revised PPG Note 6: Town Centres and Retail Developments (published June 1996) and subsequent policy statements. PPS7 Sustainable Development in Rural Area, August 2004. This replaces PPG Note 7: The Countryside – Environmental Quality and Economic and Social Development (published February 1997). PPS9 Biodiversity and Geological Conservation, August 2005. This replaces PPG Note 9: Nature Conservation (published October 1994). PPS10 Planning for Sustainable Waste Management, July 2005. This replaces PPG Note 10: Planning and Waste Management (published September 1999). PPS11 Regional Spatial Strategies, September 2004. This replaces PPG Note 11: Regional Planning (published October 2000). PPS12 Local Development Frameworks, September 2004. PPS22 Renewable Energy. Includes the companion guide, August 2004. This replaces PPG Note 22: Renewable Energy (published February 1993). PPS23 Planning and Pollution Control, November 2004. This replaces PPG Note 23: Planning and Pollution Control (published July 2002).

Previously Developed Land (PDL) – fully defined in PPS3, Annexe A. Land which is or was occupied by a permanent structure, including the curtilage of the developed land and any associated fixed surface infrastructure. PDL is also known as ‘brownfield’ land.

Ramsar Sites – a wetland site of Special Scientific Interest, which is designated under the Ramsar Convention as being of international importance.

Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS) – the RSS, incorporating a regional transport strategy, provides a spatial framework to inform the preparation of local development documents, local transport plans and regional and sub-regional strategies and programmes that have a bearing on land-use activities. By 2010 it will provide the overall strategic planning context for the West Midlands Region.

Registered Social Landlord (RSL) – a housing association or not for profit company registered by the Housing Corporation to provide affordable housing.

Renewable Energy – energy forms that occur naturally and repeatedly in the environment, for example, wind, solar and tidal power.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 147 Scheduled Ancient Monument – features (both underground or on the surface) of archaeological or historic interest identified by the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport which are subject to legal protection to prevent them being damaged or destroyed. The regulations are similar to those applied to listed buildings but are administered by English Heritage rather than Local Authorities.

Section 106 Agreement – a legal document which seeks to ensure compliance with the necessary requirements of a planning permission to which it relates.

Sequential Approach – order-of-preference approach to the location of all new development in the following order: locations within urban areas on previously developed land; and locations within urban areas on greenfield land. These are followed by locations adjacent to urban areas outside the Green Belt and adjacent to the urban area in Areas of Development Restraint, and, in exceptional circumstances, by locations adjacent to urban areas on land currently designated as Green Belt.

Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) – a specifically defined area where protection is afforded to ecological or geological features. The protection is not fool-proof, and is subject to Government regulations.

Special Area of Conservation (SAC) – designated areas under the European Union Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of wild fauna and flora intended to protect the habitats of threatened species of wildlife.

Special Protection Areas (SPA) – areas classified under the European Union Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds intended to protect the habitats of threatened species.

Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) – SPDs are intended to elaborate upon the policy and proposals in DPDs but do not have their status or are not given as much weight at Appeals. However, they are statutory planning documents (unlike SPG) and form part of the Local Development Framework.

Supplementary Planning Guidance (SPG) – planning guidance that supplements the policies and proposals in the Plan by providing advice at a greater level of detail to help those preparing planning applications. Following public consultation and a resolution from the Council, the guidance can be used as a ‘material consideration’ in determining planning applications.

Sustainability Appraisal (SA) – a formal, systematic process evaluating the social, economic and environmental impacts of a policy, plan or programme and its alternatives, including the preparation of a written report on the findings.

Sustainable Development – is defined as: ‘Development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs’ (Brundtland Commission Report, 1987).

Urban Capacity Study – study to determine the potential of an area to accommodate development, its density and its wider implications for sustainable development.

Urban Design – the objective of addressing the challenges facing urban and rural areas in the region and to maintain viable and sustainable urban communities.

148 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Use Classes Order – a statutory instrument within the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. It defines various classes of use for buildings or land.

Village Design Statement (VDS) – sets out design guidance for new development based on distinctive local character.

Washland Creation - the creation of an area of flood plain where water is stored in time of flood. Such an area may have its effectiveness enhanced by the provision of structures to control the amount of water stored and the timing of its release to alleviate peak flood flows downstream (PPG25 Development and Flood Risk).

West Midlands Regional Spatial Strategy – see RSS.

Windfall Sites – development that is granted planning permission within the Plan period which had not been specifically identified as an allocation in the Plan. Usually sites comprise less than 10 units.

Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 149 150 Wychavon District Local Plan - Adopted June 2006 Planning Services, Civic Centre, Queen Elizabeth Drive, Pershore, Worcestershire. WR10 1PT Telephone: 01386 565565 Fax: 01386 561092 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.wychavon.gov.uk