DRAFT …… Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report – with Evidence Date 17Th July 2020 …

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

DRAFT …… Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report – With Evidence Date 17th July 2020 …... Contents: 1. Introduction 2. Vision Aims and Objectives 3. Issues and Options 4. Heritage and Environment 5. New Housing 6. Design and Development 7. Transport and Movement 8. Leisure and Wellbeing 9. Design Codes 10. Policy-led plan and site allocation 11. Next Steps

General request to B&DBC, please advise if there is anything in the forthcoming local plan consultation that would cause us to change something in this consultation. ..

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

DRAFT Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report July 2020 1.0 Introduction

Purpose Public consultation is a very important part of preparing a Neighbourhood Plan. This document has been prepared as part of a consultation with the local community concerning issues and options for the Cliddeden Neighbourhood Plan. This latest consultation sets out the key issues identified so far together with possible policy options for addressing them. Before bringing forward detailed policies, we are now holding a consultation exercise on the issues and Options. It is intended that this document can be used as a source of information by members of the community when completing the Issues and Options questionnaire (which is being made available separately to each household business, principal landowner and community group in the plan area.

Question for B&DBC: Do we need to write any special letter to landowners affected by the LGS and Gap, or just include them with the standard consultation? Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 15:30 Comment [1]: It’s up to you, I would recommend writing to them at the earliest How to provide feedback on the issues and Options Consultation possible opportunity but I also recognise that you may wish to do this once you have had Every household, principal landowner, community organization and business in the plan any comments back on the issues and options consultation as you may disregard some area is receiving a questionnaire to complete, which contains full details of where to LGS/local gaps as a result of the consultation send the completed questionnaire. An online version of the questionnaire is also being (or choose to add more!).

made available. You could caveat the text in the section to make clear that suggested/proposed designations are possible options at present and be clear that they are not ‘set in stone’. Neighbourhood Plans The 2011 Localism Act has given communities the right to draw up a Neighbourhood Plan. This right is aimed at giving local communities genuine opportunities to influence

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

the future of the places where they live. Once adopted, planning policies contained in a Neighbourhood Plan will help to help determine planning applications for new development. Neighbourhood Planning legislation requires Neighbourhood Plans to meet the following basic conditions:

- has regard to national policies and advice. - contribute to the achievement of sustainable development. - be in general conformity with the strategic policies of the Local plan. - be compatible with EU & European Convention on Human Rights obligations.

Setting Expectations At this point in time it is not possible to determine what will and will not be included in the Neighbourhood Plan. The result of this consultation may or may not be conclusive. Some of the options may not be deliverable or may need to be adjusted with input from B&DBC. In making decisions on the content of the Plan, the Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Team (CNP) will take into account the results from consultations as well as the other evidence. It will not be possible to include every item raised in every consultation.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

The Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Area On 5th June 2018, Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council (B&DBC) approved the application for the proposed area for designation which includes the whole Parish of Cliddesden, which is situated within the Upton Grey and Candover Ward.

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Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

What we have done so far Following the May 2018 Parish assembly, a number of volunteers set up a Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group to lead the preparation of the Plan. From the outset the Parish Council was determined that the residents should be kept informed and given every opportunity to inform the Steering Group of their views. Communication and consultation, in various forms, have played a major role in formulating the Neighbourhood Plan. Various activities have already taken place. An open day in November 2018. Parish assembly presentation in May 2019. A questionnaire in June 2019, and in March 2020 a questionnaire to interested parties. Research has been undertaken, various reports and documents have been published on the Neighbourhood Plan website:

https://cliddesdennp.wixsite.com/cliddesdennp Information from these reports has been incorporated into this document. Also, information has been published in the village newsletter and on Facebook. We have used consultants and held meetings with B&DBC since commencing work on the Plan. Of particular note is the Design Code document created by AECOM with considerable input from the CNP Team. This document can be found here: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx The feedback from these events and information about the area have helped us prepare this document that sets out the key issues and options for the Neighbourhood Plan.

What happens next? Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 15:42 Comment [2]: Should this be parish rather In this Issues and Options document, we have set out the main challenges and options than neighbourhood plan? These are issues for the Neighbourhood Plan. This document can be used as a source of information to experience in the parish and you are setting out the possible options which could be taken provide background when completing the Issues and Options Questionnaire. in the neighbourhood plan to aid the issues identified facing the parish. The Issues and Options stage of the Neighbourhood Plan process is a synthesis of Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 15:44 current thinking from the feedback and evidence gathered on what sort of development Comment [3]: I wonder if this could be should take place in Cliddesden over the Plan period. The Issues and Options stage is framed as this is not a compulsory stage in the not the same as producing a draft Neighbourhood Plan but, rather it is about sharing neighbourhood plan process but you are using it to shape the options taken when drafting current thinking and testing ideas with the community. the neighbourhood plan.

The feedback from this consultation will help us prepare policies and ultimately a draft Could a simple diagram be produced to show version of the Neighbourhood Plan. This will be the subject of a formal consultation the stages? Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 15:46 with residents and businesses for six weeks and then amended if necessary. The Plan Comment [4]: Would ‘comments will then be submitted to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council for publication and a considered and amended where relevant’ be further six-week public consultation before it is sent to an independent Examiner. better? It shows that you are using engagement etc.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

The Examiner will recommend that the Plan is submitted to a local referendum, or that Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 15:47 it is modified to meet the 'Basic Conditions' and then submitted to a referendum, or Comment [5]: The examiner will review that the Plan is refused. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council will arrange a the plan and consider whether it meets the referendum and, if the Plan is passed by a simple majority of those voting, the Borough basic conditions as earlier outlined. If they consider the plan does they will recommend Council will adopt the Plan. that the plan goes to referendum, is amended with modifications to ensure it meets the When the Plan is adopted, it will form part of the Statutory Development Plan for the basic conditions or decides it needs major area, alongside the Local Plan. Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council will continue to modifications. be responsible for determining planning applications and the policies in the Neighbourhood Plan will form part of the basis for those decisions.

Sustainable Development Our Neighbourhood Plan must contribute to the achievement of sustainable development. There are three dimensions to sustainable development: economic, social and environmental. These dimensions give rise to the need for the planning system to perform several roles: -an economic role - contributing to building a strong, responsive and competitive economy, by ensuring that sufficient land of the right type is available in the right places and at the right time to support growth and innovation; and by identifying and coordinating development requirements, including the provision of infrastructure; -a social role - supporting strong, vibrant and healthy communities, by providing the supply of housing required to meet the needs of present and future generations; and by creating a high quality built environment, with accessible local services that reflect the community's needs and support its health, social and cultural wellbeing; and -an environmental role - contributing to protecting and enhancing our natural, built and historic environment; and, as part of this, helping to improve biodiversity, use natural resources prudently, minimise waste and pollution, and mitigate and adapt to climate change including moving to a low carbon economy.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Summary of First open day consultation, November 2018 Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 15:52 Comment [6]: Would it be helpful to add a short para saying how these consultations/open days have led you to Summary of Main Themes from Post It Note Exercise identify the issues and options within this consultation document?

Summary of Main Themes from Dot Voting Exercise

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Summary of 2019 Questions Results

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Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

2. Vision, Aims and Objectives

What are Vision Aims and Objectives? The vision is a statement that describes what you hope your area will be like in the future. It can include what you want the area to look like, the facilities that will be provided and what sort of place it will be to live and work in. The Aims & Objectives will set out how you intend to make your vision happen. There may be more than one aim and objective for each element of the vision depending on the priorities the community have highlighted. Detailed policies and actions can then be developed from the objectives.

How was the Vision Aims and Objectives prepared? With guidance from the initial consultants, an outline Vision, Aims and Objectives was created by the CNP steering team to begin the early consultation with the local community. We are now presenting the Vision, Aims and Objectives for consultation before finalizing the latest draft.

Vision for Cliddesden In 2038 Cliddesden will continue to be secure in its identity as a small and thriving rural settlement physically and distinctly separate from Basingstoke. A community surrounded by fields and woodland which is interwoven with “green fingers” of open landscape. Any new development will be expected to blend in with the existing village and houses will be of a size and tenure to suit the needs of local people of all ages. Its future growth will happen proportionally, organically and sustainably with development taking place alongside the necessary growth in the local infrastructure and services.

Aims and Objectives of the Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan:

Environmental and Heritage Aim: To maintain the distinctive rural nature and landscape setting of Cliddesden. Objectives: 1. Maintain and enhance the rural character of Cliddesden and preserve the conservation area.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

2. Retain and enhance Cliddesden’s narrow winding lanes, trees, hedge rows, verges and wildlife corridors. 3. Maintain the visual and physical separation of Cliddesden from the urban expansion of Basingstoke by means of a “Local Gap.” 4. Protect and enhance wildlife and biodiversity. 5. Preserve Cliddesden’s natural and historic heritage. 6. Maintain and enhance local green space such as Cleresden Meadow, the pond area and the “green fingers” referred to in the “Village Design Statement”. 7. Protect existing views and vistas within the plan area which help to give a sense of space and tranquillity. 8. Reduce light pollution within the plan area. 9. Aspiration: To reduce flooding and drainage issues in the village.

Design and Development Aim: To promote developments that meet the needs of the community. Objectives: 10. Deliver housing to meet the identified housing needs of the plan area. 11. Ensure that new development is of high quality and small scale and reflects the layout and rural character of the surrounding area. 12. Ensure that future housing growth reflects the need to address the imbalance between large and small houses in the village. 13. Promote energy efficiency and sustainability.

Traffic and Movement Aim: To promote healthy living and connectivity between all areas of Cliddesden. Objectives: 14. Protect, and where possible extend the footpath network within the parish to improve access to the countryside and protect local green spaces. To ensure that new development provides for cyclists and pedestrians to connect to key services. 15. Seek solutions to the problems of speeding and road safety in the village and ensure these problems are not made worse by future housing growth.

Leisure and Well Being Aim: To promote the sense of community and wellbeing in the village of Cliddesden Objective: 16. Protect existing community facilities and to support enhancement or provision of new community facilities. ------ooo------

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

3. Issues and Options Based on the feedback provided, the CNP team has identified a number of issues that are related to the aims and objectives. The team has researched the subject and have identified a number of options for each issue. The team believes that all the options identified are valid and necessary to meet the Vision Aims and Objectives of the Plan. The research has included investigating the deliverability of policies and has involved identifying similar issues and options from other “made” Neighbourhood Plans, reviews and discussions with consultants and B&DBC. ------ooo------

4. Heritage and Environment

4.1 Issue: The risk of coalescence with adjacent settlements such as Basingstoke will damage the character of the village.

Sources Protecting the character of Cliddesden by retaining it as a small rural village with its own culture and social community is a key objective of the Neighbourhood Plan. There is a risk that Cliddesden could be consumed into an urban expansion as a result of future development which would destroy its character.

In response to Question 2 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire which asked: “how important do you feel about the following environmental issue”. Responses indicated: 95% agree or strongly agree to “Maintaining the physical separation of Cliddesden from the urban expansion of Basingstoke” This was the highest score of all the questions asked.

The Conservation Area Appraisal comments on the setting of the village: “The landscape of the Conservation Area is characterised by a degree of openness that does not occur in adjacent countryside. Open arable land dominates, but small areas of woodland can be found. The village is situated within a shallow bowl in the landscape, with development descending the sides. Four roads enter the village and little can be seen of the settlement before entering. There are, however, extensive views out over the countryside from within the Conservation Area”

The Village Design Statement states: “Cliddesden is at the start of the Downlands and there is a dramatic contrast between the

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report densely developed townscape of Basinsgtoke and the area to the south-east of the M3 with thinly scattered villages and hamlets such as Cliddesden, Winslade, Farleigh Wallop and Ellisfield and occasional isolated farms such as Swallick.” It is this unique character that is at risk from coalescence as a result of further developments in the area. One it is gone, it is gone.

4.1 A Option A: It is proposed to define a Local Gap to the North and West of the village as indicated by the green shared area on the map. Development would not normally be permitted in the Local Gap except in very special circumstances.

Background

It is proposed to prevent coalescence with other settlements by defining a Local Gap, in which Development would not normally be permitted. The area of the local gap is comprised mainly of open fields. This area provides a visual separation and cultural separation from Basingstoke. The M3 has historically acted as a barrier to coalescence. The Village sites in a natural valley, which further adds to its character, isolated from surrounding settlements. The Local gap has been drawn taking into account the line of hedges, field boundaries and parish boundary. Many other Neighbourhood Plans have included Local Gaps to prevent coalescence between settlements. There is a risk of development adjacent to the Conservation Area, having a detrimental effect to the setting and views into the conservation area. Establishing a Local Gap would further protect the Cliddesden Conservation Area from detrimental effects of developments adjacent to it. Defining a Local Gap will also support biodiversity and will help to maintain existing trees, hedgerows and wildlife.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Advantages: Implementing a Local Gap will help to preserve the unique character and community of the small village. It will also help maintain the setting of the Conservation Area. Disadvantages: Landowners may be impacted by constraint on development in the Local Gap.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

4.1B Option B: It is proposed to define a Local Gap to the South and West of the village, to prevent coalescence with any proposed “Garden Village”. Development would not normally be permitted in the Local Gap except in very special circumstances.

Background Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:05

Protecting the character of Cliddesden Local gap shown shaded green. Proposed “Garden Village” shown by red line. Parish boundary Comment [7]: I agree and understand why by retaining it as a small rural village shown by blue line. you have included this but I need to say it may be difficult to do as this is development is only community is a key objective of the perspective at present. With Manydown (for Neighbourhood Plan. There is a risk the WSL NP) the site allocation was in an adopted LP with a reasonable prospect of it that Cliddesden could be consumed being built out. At present with Upper by proposals to build a “garden Swallick the land owner has only notified the council that it is available for development village” containing 2500 houses within and will be included in the SHELAA. the parish. This development would significantly damage the local I don’t want to raise too much expectation so thought I would highlight it but ultimately if character and the local community. It this is a policy in the NP it’s the examiners is therefore proposed to prevent choice and the LPU should have progressed a little more by then so we may know more coalescence with other settlements by with regard to site selection. defining a Local Gap, in which Development would not normally be permitted. Advantages: Implementing a Local Gap will help to preserve the unique character and community of the small village. It will also help maintain the setting of the conservation area. Disadvantages: Landowners’ interests may be impacted by constraint on development in the Local Gap.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

4.2 Issue: The need to retain and protect the green space around the parish which is so important to the character of the area.

Sources

Green Fingers In the Village Design Statement, (adopted by B&DBC in 2004), 6 separate areas of land are identified as “green fingers”. The Village Design Statement states that sympathetic development should: “retain the green fingers which are important to the village character. These should be maintained and continued in further developments to provide views of the surrounding fields from between buildings” Feedback from the Neighbourhood Plan open day in November 2018 showed strong support for preserving the “green fingers” (as identified in the Village Design Statement.) Question 2 of the community questionnaire from 2019 asked “how important do you feel the following environmental issues are for Cliddesden?” Showed strong support for :

-“Maintaining green fingers around Cliddesden as identified in the Village Design Statement.” -“Retaining and protecting the green space around the parish.” -“Retaining and protecting green spaces (woodlands, etc.).” -“Retaining access to green spaces through paths and cycleways.” -“Maintaining and protecting existing trees, hedgerows, wildlife habitats and wildlife corridors.” These results indicate the strength of feeling and how the “green fingers” and other green spaces around the Parish are demonstrably special to the community.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Graph of results in response to question 2: Maintaining the physical separation of Cliddesden from the urban expansion of

Retaining and protecting the green space around the parish Retaining the rural character of the parish Conservation Area Appraisal Retaining and protecting green spaces (woodlands, etc) The Cliddesden Maintaining green fingers around Cliddesden as Conservation identified in the Village Design Statement Area was Preserving the “open” feel of the parish by designated in protecting important views 1981 by Retaining access to green spaces through paths Basingstoke and cycleways Maintaining and protecting existing trees, and Deane hedgerows, wildlife habitats and wildlife Borough Protection of wildlife and plants that are key to Council in biodiversity recognition of Preserving the historical heritage of the parish the special architectural Reducing flooding and drainage issues and historic interest of the Maintaining the “dark skies” feel of the parish village. The Identifying options for renewable energy to Conservation provide for local needs Area Appraisal 0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% document as 4 Very Important 3 2 1 Not Important adopted as Supplementary Planning Guidance by the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council on 20 February 2003 and complements the policies of the Borough Local Plan Many of the LGS’s identified are contained within the Conservation Area: LGS1, LGS2, LGS3, LGS4, part of LGS6, LGS7, LGS9, LGS10, LGS13, and LGS14. “Open spaces are an essential component of the development and character of the Conservation Area. In Cliddesden many important views, or the setting to key buildings, are derived from the relationship of the buildings and the spaces formed around them.” “The contribution of the open land, which surrounds the settlement, cannot be underestimated. The fields, pastureland and wooded clumps to the north-east are key in views into, through and out of the Conservation Area. These spaces provide context to Church Farm and setting to the vernacular buildings along the valley. These qualities apply to the open fields to the south-east

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report and Manor Farm. An example of the relationship between the countryside and village are the glimpsed view between buildings on Church Lane from the pond, which visually leads to the fields beyond. The open land to the west of Cliddesden Down House, also shows the village in its outstanding landscape context, as does the field opposite, the Southlea Development.”

Cliddesden Design Code Document The Cliddesden Design Code Document describes the ‘green fingers’ as follows: “A key characteristic of the settlement pattern of the village of Cliddesden is its connection to the surrounding countryside. There are many ‘green fingers’ of arable land and paddocks that surround the village, enhancing its rural character and ensuring that even within the village centre there are views to the fields beyond. Although Cliddesden sits in the folds of the valley, there is a sense of openness and extent provided by views across the ‘green fingers.’ This is a unique characteristic, which enhances the rural character of Cliddesden.”

Green infrastructure principles support the maintenance of green spaces. Natural England defines Green Infrastructure as follows: “Green Infrastructure is a strategically planned and delivered network comprising the broadest range of high-quality green spaces and other environmental features. It should be designed and managed as a multifunctional resource capable of delivering those ecological services and quality of life benefits required by the communities it serves and needed to underpin sustainability. Its design and management should also respect and enhance the character and distinctiveness of an area with regard to habitats and landscape types. “Green Infrastructure includes established green spaces and new sites and should thread through and surround the built environment and connect the urban area to its wider rural hinterland. Consequently it needs to be delivered at all spatial scales from sub-regional to local neighbourhood levels, accommodating both accessible natural green spaces within local communities and often much larger sites in the urban fringe and wider countryside.” The Cliddesden Design Code Document refers to Green Infrastructure and Open Space. DC06 addresses the need to retain trees hedges and open spaces.

4.2A Option A: Create a policy to protect important areas of open space by defining them as “Local Green Spaces” in which development would not normally be permitted, except in very special circumstances.

Background Any development should not compromise the open character and community value of spaces or detract from the community enjoyment of the space. Any adjacent development should complement the setting of the green space.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Green space can be a key asset for many communities and a specific kind of land designation called a ‘local green space’ can protect these assets from development. A Neighbourhood Plan can include ‘green spaces’, however it does need to be supported by evidence and in particular, Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:11 evidence needs to be presented that demonstrates the green space is “Demonstrably special to Comment [8]: I would say its more than the local community”. Hence the importance of consultation. this and has a specific set of criteria that needs to be met and evidenced. Planning for ‘green spaces’ can help to achieve social, economic and environmental benefits in a neighbourhood. Some of the community and environmental benefits of ‘green spaces’ are: A place for local events where informal social interaction can take place; A place for physical exercise; Forming part of a network of paths and spaces; Enabling movement through an area; Providing habitats for wildlife and a natural corridors and spaces; Adding to local amenity, providing an attractive setting and outlook for surrounding residential and commercial properties; Forming part of the character or setting of historic areas and buildings; Providing areas and opportunities for growing local food. ‘Green spaces’ contribute to quality of place. It is also important in making an area an attractive place to live, work and spend leisure time. So ‘green spaces’ have real economic value to the surrounding area, in addition to supporting healthy lifestyles and community-wellbeing. Local ‘Green Spaces’ will be strongly protected from building development (unless the development meets specific necessary utility infrastructure needs for which there is no alternative feasible site). Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:12 Advantages: The retention of green spaces around the parish has multiple benefits to the Comment [9]: Is it worth adding a community and to the environment. Much of the LGS that has been proposed is already in the reference that once designated, policies for managing development within a LGS should Conservation Area. be consistent with those for green belt (NPPF, para 101). Disadvantages: None

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Maps of proposed green space are shown below:

Map of Cliddesden LGS Close up of LGS in village centre

Note for B&DBC, our analysis discounted LGS15. The map will need to be amended for the final version of the document.

------ooo------Brian Karley 15/7/20 18:18 Comment [10]: Will need to redraw map without LGS15 for the final document.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

4.3 Issue: The need to protect biodiversity, wildlife, trees, hedgerows and wildlife corridors across the parish.

Sources In response to Question 5 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire which asked: “What principles should influence the design of any new residential developments”. Responses indicated:

94% agree or strongly agree to: “Retain and protect existing hedges and wildlife corridors within and adjacent to developments sites” and, 93% agree or strongly agree to: “Retain and protect existing trees within and adjacent to development sites” The Village Design Statement highlights how sympathetic development should be undertaken, this included: “preserve and enhance the extensive and important tree cover (see aerial photo above) within the village including mainly indigenous species of semi-mature trees and shrubs (see Appendix1). The existing cloak of natural vegetation should be extended to integrate any new buildings. Sufficient space should be allocated for the future growth of these plantings and their care.” The Conservation Area Appraisal highlights the importance of trees and hedges: “Individual and groups of mature trees are an essential component of the character of the Conservation Area and this is evident in both intimate views along the roads, and from longer vistas over the settlement” “Hedges border many gardens, and uncultivated areas throughout the Conservation Area generally have hedge-lined boundaries, especially at the roadside. They strongly influence the character of Church Lane and Woods Lane in particular” Natural England defines Green Infrastructure as follows: “Green Infrastructure is a strategically planned and delivered network comprising the broadest range of high quality ‘green spaces’ and other environmental features. It should be designed and managed as a multifunctional resource capable of delivering those ecological services and quality of life benefits required by the communities it serves and needed to underpin sustainability. Its design and management should also respect and enhance the character and distinctiveness of an area with regard to habitats and landscape types. “Green Infrastructure includes established ‘green spaces’ and new sites and should thread through and surround the built environment and connect the urban area to its wider rural hinterland. Consequently, it needs to be delivered at all spatial scales from sub-regional to local

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report neighbourhood levels, accommodating both accessible natural green spaces within local communities and often much larger sites in the urban fringe and wider countryside.” Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council’s Green Infrastructure Strategy states: “Accessible and cared-for ‘green spaces’ provide opportunity for physical activity and contact with nature which has direct health benefits, reducing (in combination with other factors) the occurrence of heart and respiratory disease, stress, mental illnesses and obesity and associated economic benefits Recreation and Leisure ‘green spaces’ close to residential areas.” “’Green spaces’ and habitat networks are essential to healthy ecosystems. Habitats are essential for the species that they support and connectivity allows for foraging, dispersal and reduces vulnerability to local species extinction through genetic exchange and repopulation. Accessible green spaces allow people to experience nature, which in turn encourages environmental stewardship.” Green Infrastructure describes the network of ‘green spaces’ and natural elements that connect through cities, towns, villages and countryside. Green Infrastructure includes a wide variety of spaces and elements including parks, playing fields woodlands streams and river corridors, allotments and churchyards. It is important to consider the features and spaces that make up our neighbourhood. From the results of the consultation open day and the Questionnaire, it is clear that the Local Community place high value on, ‘green spaces’, and place great importance on protecting the environment. There are numerous public rights of way including footpaths and bridleways as well as permissive paths through and around the Plan area. These rights of way together with roads, hedgerows and the disused railway line are an important part of the Green Infrastructure network providing connectivity and corridors for wildlife. The footpaths and bridleways are an important feature for the community and should be protected and enhanced. In responding to Question 2 of the Questionnaire, 90% responded important or very important “Retaining access to ‘green spaces’ through paths and cycleways” And 92% important or very important “Maintaining and protecting existing trees hedgerows, wildlife habitats and wildlife corridors” The Cliddesden Design Code Document describes woodlands as follows: “Ancient Woodland can be found at Buckshorn Copse in the south-east of the Neighbourhood Plan Area, whilst Ancient Replanted Woodland and Priority Deciduous Woodland Habitats can be found around Audley’s Wood to the northeast. Woodpasture and Parkland (BAP Priority Habitat) can also be found around Audley’s Wood, whilst at White Hill Dell to the south-west of the Plan Area there is a small pocket of Priority Deciduous Woodland at the disused pit, which connects with other Priority Woodlands and Ancient Woodlands beyond the Plan Area. A Traditional Orchard (Priority Habitat Inventory) can be found to the rear of properties south of Woods Lane and east of Cleresden Rise.”

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

The Cliddesden Design Code Document describes hedgerows as follows: “The Neighbourhood Plan Area benefits from a pattern of historic hedgerows and woodland, which are prevalent across the area, but especially so in the south, where large areas of woodland and some plantations can be found. The disused railway line also creates a large vegetated swathe running north/south through the Plan Area. The settlement of Cliddesden benefits from a framework of mature trees and hedgerow boundaries, which contribute to its rural character.”

The Design Code Document goes on further: “Mature trees and hedges contribute to the rural character of the Plan Area and these should be retained in any development. See Table 4 for a list of suitable trees that should be used in each Character Area. b. Historic hedgerows, Ancient and semi-natural woodlands contribute to the enclosed character of the Plan Area, especially in the south, and these should be retained and enhanced to ensure their long-term survival. Development that proposes to remove historic hedgerows and woodland should be resisted. c. Around the village of Cliddesden ‘green fingers’ play an important role in Green Infrastructure and contribute to the rural character of the village (see Section 3.3.2 and Figure 4). ‘Green Fingers’ are primarily arable and paddock fields, which provide an important visual resource, whilst their hedgerows and boundary trees contribute significantly to the biodiversity of the Plan Area.” The Cliddesden Design Code Document refers to Green Infrastructure and Open Space. DC06 addresses the need to retain trees, hedges and open spaces.

4.3A Option A: Create a policy to ensure that trees, hedgerows, woodlands and wildlife corridors in the plan area are protected and enhanced.

Background Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:17 Any developments will be required to demonstrate at least a 10% measurable increase in Comment [11]: Just a thought, this only biodiversity (before versus after development) which will need to be maintained for at least 30 has one option, this is the same for a few other issues. Do you need to consider having years. another option? I appreciate this could be do nothing but If there is just one option, is it an Important hedgerows in the Plan area will be identified for the policy. A similar approach has option or has the choice been made? been employed in the Bramley Neighbourhood Plan. Question for B&DBC: Do we need to prepare a hedgerow map (as per Bramley) for this consultation, or is this enough? Can we provide the hedgerow map later in the process? Can

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report you help advise what if any further research and evidence would be needed to support a Policy to protect trees, hedgerows, woodlands and wildlife corridors? Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:13 The aim of the Policy will be to preserve protected species and ancient or species-rich Comment [12]: There is no need to hedgerows, and woodlands. Preserve ecological networks, and the migration and transit of provide a hedgerow map at this stage, but as noted would need to be included at pre- flora and fauna. Protect ancient trees or trees of arboricultural value. the mitigation, submission (draft) stage. preservation, restoration and re-creation of wildlife habitats, and the protection and recovery As previously explained levels of evidence of priority species. Providing a net gain in flora and fauna. vary but would be helpful to reference the council’s Green Infrastructure Strategy One of the principles to protect and enhance biodiversity in paragraph 175 in the NPPF states: adopted in 2019 and Landscape, biodiversity “if significant harm to biodiversity resulting from a development cannot be avoided (through and trees SPD and determine whether there is any elements that can be included for the locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or, as a last evidence. If you see any policies with good resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused.” policies for biodiversity etc I would check the examiners report to see if they reference an Humans depend on biodiversity for: evidence base for the policy and view the documents supporting the NP. -Food -variety of diet, reliance on pollinators, seed dispersers and the web of organisms that relate to them. -Health -access to nature for both physical and mental health, new drugs and treatments developed from the study of plant and animal species. -Ecosystem services -cleaning air and water, coastal protection, protection from floods and soil erosion. Moreover, biodiversity can be important in helping communities adapt to and mitigate climate change. Hedgerows, woodlands and wildlife corridors are an important component of Green infrastructure. B&DBC Policy EM5 supports Green Infrastructure, along with the borough’s Green Infrastructure Strategy. Advantages: The Policy will help support the natural environment and biodiversity which are very important to the community. It will also have a small but positive effect on climate change. Disadvantage: None.

4.4 Issue: The need to protect the historic character and rural setting of Cliddesden.

Sources

In response to Question 2 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire which asked: “how important do you feel about the following environmental issue”. Responses indicated: 95% agree or strongly agree to: “Retaining the rural character of the parish”,

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

93% agree or strongly agree to: “Preserving the “open” feel of the parish by protecting important views, and 89% agree or strongly agree to “Preserving the historical heritage of the parish”. The Village Design Statement makes several references to how sympathetic development should be carried out including: “blend into the landscape. There should be no building or development that would harm the skyline or be visually intrusive into the valley settlement”. “maintain the far-reaching views from public footpaths”. “maintain the villages’ rural character by:” “respecting the width and verges of lanes and their wildlife”. “respect and enhance Cliddesden’s overall amenity value to the wider community of Basingstoke as a generally quiet, rural and tranquil adjunct to Basingstoke”. The Conservation Area assessment makes a number of comments that highlights the importance of views, heritage assets and the character of the area. The Design Code Document describes the 5 separate Local Character areas that go to make up the Plan Area.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

4.4A Option A: A policy that seeks to protect the important Views and Vistas in the Parish, (including those identified in the Conservation Area Appraisal and Design Code document.) Design Code DC09.

Background This distinctive landscape provides an attractive visual backdrop and setting for Cliddesden village and the wider Parish. It also offers important and stunning opens views to and from the countryside. As the Cliddesden Conservation Area Appraisal states. “The landscape of the Conservation Area is characterised by a degree of openness that does not occur in adjacent countryside. Open arable land dominates, but small areas of woodland can be found. The village is situated within a shallow bowl in the landscape, with development descending the sides. Four roads enter the village and little can be seen of the settlement before entering. There are, however, extensive views out over the countryside from within the Conservation Area” and “Open spaces are an essential component of the development and character of the Conservation Area. In Cliddesden many important views, or the setting to key buildings, are derived from the relationship of the buildings and the spaces formed around them.” The Conservation area appraisal has identified a number of important views on the CAA map. However, views are not necessarily material consideration taken into account when assessing planning proposals. Additional protection can be given to protecting important views by including them in the Neighbourhood Plan.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

The Cliddesden Design Code Document includes Map of Views from Cliddesden Design Code Document a section on Views and Landmarks and states: “Due to the undulating topography of the Plan Area, there are expansive views from a number of locations around the settlement of Cliddesden.”

Design Code DC09 describes a number of important views that need to be retained and protected. The need to conserve and enhance these important views and that they should be taken into account when designing developments in and around the Parish were major themes of the consultation.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

The CNP Team has conducted further study in the Plan Area and has identified further important views, see separate map: Map of further important Views:

Map of further important Views There are a variety of different types of views including, views into the village, views out of the village and views around the countryside that are all important to the community and which need to be protected.

Advantages: Protecting views and vistas that are important to the local community will help to preserve the special character of the area.

Disadvantages: None.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

4.4B Option B: A policy that seeks to preserve the character of the landscape in the parish.

Background Landscape character. Developments should conserve and enhance the landscape character of the parish. Design for any new development must have regard to and where possible enhance the overall character of the parish’s landscape quality as well as conserving and enhancing the areas natural beauty. Visibility of a development within the landscape, including from more distant viewpoints, will be taken into consideration.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

4.4C Option C: A policy that seeks to protect the historic setting of listed buildings and heritage assets and requires developers to demonstrate how developments are aligned with the character areas as defined in the Design Code document.

Background There are 15 listings covering a total of 19 buildings in the parish:

10, Woods Lane Audley's Wood Barn at Laithe House Church of St Leonard Cliddesden Down House Granary at Church Farm Jolly Farmer Public House Manor Farm House Old School House 1,2,3 Rectory Row 4,5,6 Rectory Row Thatches The Laithe House Wall House Yew Tree Cottage

It is proposed that a list other important but Contains Ordnance Survey Data. Crown Copyright and database right 2020. Historic England 2020 undesignated heritage assets is prepared. The local significance of undesignated heritage assets, including significant buildings or structures and also managed landscape features, will be taken into account where any application for development might affect them. Par 197 of the NPPF: “The effect of an application on the significance of a non-designated heritage asset should be taken into account in determining the application. In weighing applications that directly or indirectly affect non-designated heritage assets, a balanced judgement will be required having regard to the scale of any harm or loss and the significance of the heritage asset.”

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Development will need to take into account the provisions for the Conservation Area. Question for B&DBC. Do we need to include the proposed list of non designated heritage assets in this consultation, or can we just build the list separately? Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:19 Comment [13]: No need to include the list of non-designated heritage assets now, this 4.4D Option D: can be produced at a later date on a map or an appendix to evidence base etc. The Parish Council will undertake a project to achieve a formal local heritage listing and will continue to take steps to conserve local heritage assets

Background There are a number of structures and features within the parish that contribute to the history of Cliddesden, even though they may not have listed status. Examples being the old forge and the telephone box. The intent is to protect and conserve history and heritage of the village.

4.5 Issue: The rural character of the village is being damaged by avoidable light pollution. Dark skies are being compromised with a consequent negative impact on wildlife.

Sources An important feature of a rural village is the starry night sky. By allowing artificial lights to wash out our starry night skies, we are losing touch with our cultural heritage. Question 2 of the community questionnaire from 2019 asked “how important do you feel the following environmental issues are for Cliddesden?” Responses indicated: 82% agree or strongly agree to “maintaining the “dark skies” feel of the parish.” Too much light pollution has consequences: it washes out starlight in the night sky, interferes with astronomical research, disrupts ecosystems, has adverse health effects and wastes energy. In disrupting ecosystems, light pollution poses a serious threat in particular to nocturnal wildlife, having negative impacts on plant and animal physiology. It can confuse the migratory patterns of animals, alter competitive interactions of animals, change predator-prey relations, and cause physiological harm. The rhythm of life is orchestrated by the natural diurnal patterns of light and dark; so disruption to these patterns impacts the ecological dynamics. With respect to adverse health effects, many species, especially humans, are dependent on natural body cycles called circadian rhythms and the production of melatonin, which are regulated by light and dark (e.g., day and night). If humans are exposed to light while sleeping, melatonin production can be suppressed. This can lead to sleep disorders and other health

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report problems such as increased headaches, worker fatigue, medically defined stress, some forms of obesity due to lack of sleep and increased anxiety. And ties are being found to a couple of types of cancer. With respect to energy wastage, lighting is responsible for at least one quarter of all electricity consumption worldwide. Over illumination can constitute energy wastage, especially upward directed lighting at night. Energy wastage is also a waste in cost and carbon footprint. The Basingstoke Astronomical Society meets at the Cliddesden School. According to the society, this location is estimated to have light pollution levels similar to a suburban setting based on satellite data from CPRE.

4.5A Option A: A policy that requires any development proposals that include external lighting must be accompanied by a lighting scheme that has regard to national design guidance. Street lighting (currently almost non-existent in the parish) will be discouraged, even within the core village. Security and other outside lighting that will adversely affect the amenities of other occupiers or habitats or which cause unnecessary light pollution which reduces the quality of the dark night sky will be refused

Background Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:20 An important element in appreciation of the natural environment is protection of the area’s Comment [14]: Again, this is the only dark night skies. The good news is that light pollution can be reduced fairly easily by shielding option. Should there be another option/choice? lights properly, by only using light when and where it is needed, by only using the amount that is needed, by using energy efficient bulbs, and by using bulbs with appropriate spectral power distributions for the task at hand. In 2019, following some lighting changes, complaints were made concerning increased light pollution from Sony that was affecting Cliddesden. Sony initiated a project to replace all its external lighting, this resulted in a reduction in light pollution and as confirmed by Sony a reduction in electricity consumption. Advantages: It is not expensive to implement lighting that is kind to the environment, it just requires a little thought. Disadvantages: None-

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

4.6 Issue: The road network through the village of Cliddesden is affected by flooding on a regular basis and presents a danger to road users.

Sources The road network through the village of Cliddesden is affected by flooding on a regular basis following moderate to heavy rainfalls. This is likely to increase the risk of a road traffic incident as road users (vehicles, horse riders, cyclists and pedestrians) negotiate these conditions. The pond in the centre of the village fills with silt washed in from the highways and needs to be cleared. In November 2019, the parish council submitted a document to the County Councillor and HCC Highways (20191104-IRTB_Pond_Highways.pdf) titled: "OBSERVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR CONSIDERATION BY HAMPSHIRE HIGHWAYS, BASINGSTOKE AND DEANE BOROUGH COUNCIL AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS REGARDING THE HAZARD POSED BY THE HIGHWAYS WATER RUN OFF IN CLIDDESDEN".

This document describes problems and provides evidence, associated with, rainwater, flooding and silting of the village pond.

4.6A Option A: Aspiration. The Parish council will work with appropriate bodies to find ways to address problems of flooding in the village.

Background A Neighbourhood Plan cannot address such problems of flooding through direct Policies’. However, it is appropriate to identify aspirational policies or projects that can be undertaken.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

------ooo------Brian Karley 15/7/20 18:18 Comment [15]: Will need to redraw map without LGS15 for the final document.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

5. New Housing Introduction Housing Design and Developments has always been and will always be one of the most contentious areas of the Neighbourhood Plan. Even before we began the consultation on the Plan, the application to build some 40 houses in a field on Farleigh Road opposite Southlea was met by some 200 letters of objection from the village. This and other factors led to the Council turning down the application and the subsequent appeal was also dismissed. It is important to note the comment of the inspector who said in his report. “I find the proposed scheme would erode the linear pattern of development in this part of Cliddesden and would be harmful to landscape setting of the village. Furthermore, it would result in the significant erosion of an important view of the wider landscape setting. This would be harmful to the character and appearance of the surrounding area and the Conservation Area as a whole.” From the information given by the community at the first open day and in the questionnaires, there is strong evidence that people believe Cliddesden is being harmed by over development. The B&DBC Local Plan has a current target for at least 10 houses to be built in Cliddesden, Policy SS5. 22 new houses were completed since 2011, but do not contribute to the B&DBC target of 10 houses, because Policy SS5 requires the houses to be built in groups of 5 or more in order to qualify. The evidence provided by the first open day and the questionnaire, showed great concern and support for maintaining and protecting the rural character of the area. Many residents do not want to see any further development. Community consultation has found that there is strong support for the protection of the countryside from further development. There are currently 33 houses on the social register in Cliddesden, equating to 16% of the housing stock. When checked with B&DBC, there was no evidence from waiting lists to indicate that there was any further need for social housing in Cliddesden.

5.1 Issue There is a need to meet identified housing needs of the plan area and to deliver at least 10 houses.

Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:22 Sources Comment [16]: Should issue 5.1 be clear that the at least 10 need to be within or adjacent to the SPB?

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

The B&DBC Local Plan has a current target for at least 10 houses to be built in Cliddesden, Policy SS5. When analysing responses to the Questionnaire, the Team agreed a principle that a greater than 50% response was needed in order to provide a meaningful subject to take forward from the Questionnaire and to use in preparing Issues and Options. This principle was discussed with and agreed by B&DBC. Question 4 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire asked: “What type of housing is most needed in Cliddesden.” The highest scoring response to this question was: “Housing for people with a local connection to Cliddesden”, 54% of respondents indicating there was some need or a strong need. Indeed, this was the only choice to receive more than a 50% score. The next highest score was 41%, showing no conclusive evidence of support for development of new homes. The response to Question 5 showed 87% agree or strongly agree: “be small scale and incremental in nature, rather than large scale development”.

5.1A Option A: A policy that states appropriate proposals for new housing within or adjacent to the SPB that meet the policies of the NP and the requirements of SS5 will be supported. Once the requirement of policy SS5 has been met (currently net gain 10 houses), proposals for developments outside the village and adjacent to the SPB, or outside the SPB, will be subject to Local Plan Policies in the countryside (i.e. SS6).

Background Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:25 B&DBC Policy SS5 currently has a requirement, within the Plan period 2011 – 2029, for a net Comment [17]: This relates to market and gain of 10 houses such that: affordable housing and option b relates to affordable housing, are these options -10 or more (net) dwellings on a site and be within the Cliddesden Settlement Policy Boundary comparing apples with pears so to speak? or -5 or more (net) dwellings on a site and be adjacent to the Cliddeden SPB (e.g. two sites) Planning permissions that do not qualify for the Policy SS5 are those which: -have less than 10 dwellings (net gain of nine or less) on a site within the SPB; or -have 5 or more (net) dwellings on a site that is not adjacent to the SPB; or -have less than 5 dwellings on a site outside of the SPB; or are allocated through the local plan. The Neighbourhood Plan does not envisage the need for further proposals once the B&DBC Policy SS5 requirement (currently net gain of 10 houses) has been satisfied, since residents have

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report made clear their wish to safeguard the rural character of the village and the Parish and that any development should be small scale and incremental in nature. Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:26 A similar policy has been included in the Sherfield on Loddon Neighbourhood plan. Comment [18]: There is a risk the LPU could increase this requirement in future. The Advantage: We meet the requirement of the plan. current policy requirement in Policy SS5 is up to 2029 (as that’s when the current local plan Disadvantage: We may be required to provide more housing, if B&DBC raise the target during runs until), the LPU would run to 2030/40 so could result in additional housing for those the plan review currently being undertaken. additional 10 years if that makes sense?.

No need to include the reference above but I don’t want to raise expectations too much.

5.1B Option B

A policy to prioritise any new “affordable” housing for those with a local connection to the parish.

Background Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:23 Feedback from consultation has informed the process that the community would wish to see an Comment [19]: Is this option relating to a ability for young brought up in the area to stay in the area. rural exception site, which doesn’t need to meet SS6 and can be in the countryside? A rural exception site would only meet SS5 if in

or adjacent the SPB. Question 4 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire asked: “What type of housing is most needed in Cliddesden.” The highest scoring response to this question was: “Housing for people with a local connection to Cliddesden”, 54% of respondents indicating there was some need or a strong need. Indeed, this was the only choice to receive more than a 50% score. In all new housing developments providing affordable housing, the occupancy of affordable homes will be prioritised for households with a local connection with the Parish of Cliddesden, as defined by the Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council Housing Allocations Scheme and any relevant planning policy guidance

Whitchurch (Hampshire) employed a similar policy in their Neighbourhood Plan.

The affordable thresholds are set by B&DBC Policy CN1. For example, for sites between 5 and 10 houses, covering an area greater than 1000 sq m., there should be, “on site” provision of affordable housing. For sites with 11 or more houses, there should be, “on site” provision of affordable housing. In the above cases, affordable housing should make up 40% of the total. “Affordable” routes to home ownership include: Housing for sale that provides a route to ownership for those who could not achieve home ownership through the market. There are many different types of products that fall into this category, including shared ownership, relevant equity loans, other low-cost homes for sale, at a price at least 20% below local market

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report value and rent to buy which includes a period of intermediate rent.

Question for B&DBC, do we need to mention anything about there not being a need for affordable rental homes in Cliddesden. We had an email from B&DBC indicating there was no significant demand as indicated by waiting lists and there are 33 houses on the social housing register, which is 16.26% of the 203 households. Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:29 Advantage: This will help families and those people with a local connection to remain in the Comment [20]: I don’t think it’s essential Parish when looking for a new home. to highlight that within the document. Disadvantage: None ------ooo------

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

6. Design and Development

6.1 Issue. The design of new developments has often not been sensitive to the character of the area. There is a need to ensure that new development is of high quality and small scale and reflects the rural character of the area.

Sources: The Basingstoke and Deane Landscape, Biodiversity and Trees Supplementary Planning Document Appendix 4.1 Section 5, describes the Chalk and Clay Downs that include Cliddesden: “Recent development has largely taken the form of detached housing built around culs-de-sac. The developments have tended to ignore the traditional building materials, styles and layouts in the area, and in some cases have detracted from the character of the settlements.” In November 2018 a planning application for 40 houses on Farleigh meadow was refused at appeal by the inspector. The planning application had generated in excess of 200 objections “Accordingly, I find the proposed scheme would erode the linear pattern of development in this part of Cliddesden and would be harmful to landscape setting of the village. Furthermore, it would result in the significant erosion of an important view of the wider landscape setting. This would be harmful to the character and appearance of the surrounding area and the CA as a whole.”

In referring to an area of development from the 1980s to 2000s, the Cliddesden Design Guide Document states: “This development pays little regard to the special qualities of the Neighborhood Plan Area”.

Question 5 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire which asked: “What principles should influence the design of any new residential developments”.

Responses indicated: 94% agree or strongly agree to: “ensuring a rural feel to developments”. 87% agree or strongly agree to: “be small scale and incremental in nature, rather than large scale development”. 89% agree or strongly agree to: “be proportionate to scale, layout and character of surrounding buildings”. 86% agree or strongly agree to: “should not backfill, by using existing housing gardens”.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

63% agree or strongly agree to: “be linear in form (as opposed to clustered).”

The village Design Statement, adopted by B&DBC in 2004 also provides multiple examples of how sympathetic development should be undertaken.

6.1A Option A: A policy that states that development proposals must show how they would conserve or enhance the character of the plan area in line with Design Codes, Conservation area appraisal and Heritage Supplementary Planning Document (March 2019).

Background The distinctive character of Cliddesden is described in the Village Design Statement and in the Cliddesden Design Code Document, which provides a character assessment and sets out the elements of various character areas. The B&DBC Heritage SPD defines principles for development, for example in a Conservation Area and developments that affects the setting of heritage assets such as listed buildings. The Questionnaire results are quite clear in that the majority of respondents see the importance of developments “be proportionate to scale, layout and character of surrounding buildings”. Advantage: Maintains the character and layout of the village. Otherwise developments could be in clusters, culs-de-sacs and a more suburban feel. Disadvantage: None.

6.1B Option B: A policy that states that development proposals should reflect the linear “one plot deep” character of the area, which often enables views of the countryside. Backland/garden/infill development does not reflect this traditional linear pattern and should be resisted. Design Code DC01.

Background Cliddesden has a high-quality built environment and contains residential areas of low density with large mature gardens, which has developed in a linear fashion over time. The intent of this Policy is to ensure that any new developments maintain the characteristics of the Plan Area.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

One factor that has caused erosion of the village character has been pressure to build in gardens, either from demolishing existing buildings and developing the site or by building within gardens. In order to preserve these areas from inappropriate garden development, this Policy will seek to control further infill to prevent over development. Such sites are often landlocked sites behind existing buildings. Such sites often have no street frontages. Developments that follow a more “estate” clustered style, also erode the character of the village. Previous garden or clustered development proposals have met with resistance from local communities because of their detrimental impact on the character and amenities of the surrounding residential areas. They have caused a loss of amenity to existing properties including loss of privacy, loss of daylight, overlooking, visual intrusion by a building or structure, noise disturbance, reduced space around buildings, loss of car parking and loss of mature vegetation and biodiversity. These kinds of developments can also have difficult vehicular access to the highway.

Advantage: Maintains amenities of neighbouring properties, the character of the village and maintains biodiversity.

Disadvantage: It may constrain the ability of owners to redevelop properties.

6.1C Option C: A policy that states that development should respond to the type, scale and form of existing buildings, be in keeping with the design and appearance of local buildings and not adversely affect the amenities enjoyed by neighbouring buildings. (Design Code DC02)

Background The Cliddesden Design Code Document has been produced by consultants to set out the important features which make up the village. It has been funded by Locality, the organization set up to help develop Neighbourhood Plans. Advantage: It will help maintain the rural nature of the village in the buildings in any new development. Disadvantage: Some may view it as stifling new styles of building and architecture. However, “innovative design and appearance” was the lowest scoring response to Question 5 in the Questionnaire with 38%, or in other words meaning that 62% disagreed or strongly disagreed.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

6.1D Option D: A policy that states that development should be of a high standard of design, use similar design features and high quality materials that are sympathetic to the plan area’s rural character. The design of proposals should have regard to the 10 characteristics of ‘well designed places’ set out in the National Design Guide. (Design Code DC03).

Background The Cliddesden Design Code Document has been produced by consultants to set out the important features which make up the village. It has been funded by Locality, the organization set up to help develop Neighbourhood Plans. Design Code 03 covers Architectural details that should be used in new developments. According to the Government, the National Design Guide sets out a blueprint for how Local Authorities can achieve quality and great design, and recommends what developers need to deliver to help win the support of communities – “ensuring new homes are built faster and better.” Good design is set out in the Guide under the following 10 characteristics: Context, Identity, Built Form, Movement, Nature, Public Spaces, Uses, Homes and buildings, Resources and Lifespan. B&DBC Policy EM10 sets out the requirements for Delivering High Quality Development. Advantage: It will help maintain the rural nature of the village in the buildings in any new development. Disadvantage: Some may view it as stifling new styles of building and architecture. However, “innovative design and appearance” was the lowest scoring response to Question 5 in the Questionnaire with 38%, or in other words meaning that 62% disagreed or strongly disagreed.

6.1E Option E A policy that states that developments should be responsive to the plot widths, proportions and position within plots. Building lines should contribute to the informal and historic appearance of the plan area. (Design Code DC05).

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Advantage: The Design Guide Document describes how the village has developed over time. The maintenance of building lines and plot widths will continue that pattern in any new development and will help maintain the village character. Disadvantage: Some may view it as stifling new styles of building and architecture. However, “innovative design and appearance” was the lowest scoring response to Question 5 in the Questionnaire with 38%, or in other words meaning that 62% disagreed or strongly disagreed.

6.1F Option F A policy that states developers should consult early with the local community early in the planning application process (pre application stage) for any development of 10 or more houses.

Background Cliddesden is a small historic village with a Church that dates back to the 12th Century. It has 19 listed buildings and the heritage and environment are treasured by the local community who wish to preserve its unique character. Consultation is seen as an essential means to ensure that development does not erode the special character and community of Cliddesden. The NPPF encourages developers to engage with the local community. Advantage: Early engagement has significant potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning application system for all parties. Good quality discussion enables better coordination between public and private resources and improved outcomes for the community. Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:31 Disadvantage: Some developers may see this as an unnecessary activity. Comment [21]: Should another option be include a mixture of the above? Which do they consider to be most important? It may be more than 1 option.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

6.2 Issue: Development over time has resulted in a high proportion of larger houses making it difficult for those wishing to stay in the parish (whether those looking for a first-time home or those wishing to downsize). There is a need for any new development to address the imbalance between large and small houses.

Sources House prices in the area have continued to outpace increases in earnings. The average house price for Cliddesden in the period April 2018-19 was £565,000. The average for Basingstoke and Deane for the same period was £333,852. In addition, in common with many communities, there has been a marked decrease in the availability of smaller homes. There has been an influx of house buyers who extend or demolish an existing dwelling and replace it with a larger one. To ensure a balanced community, this trend needs to be modified where possible. Homes suitable for single people or couples without children are in limited supply compared with family-sized homes with 3 or more bedrooms. This situation is common with other local rural areas. B&DBC Housing Supplementary Planning Document July 2018 concludes: “Based on this evidence, there is a need for development to focus on the provision of two and three bed properties, with a particular requirement for two bedroom houses. Two and three bed properties should generally comprise at least half of the new dwellings delivered as part of new development (subject to the other considerations of CN3). Although there is a continuing need for family homes, dwellings with four or more dwellings should only be provided as part of a range of dwellings to provide mixed and sustainable communities.” Given that there is already an excess of larger properties of 4 bedrooms and above, there is little need for developments to include larger properties. Question 4 of 2019 Community Questionnaire which asked: “what type of housing is most needed in Cliddesden”, did not generally show a need or strong need greater than 50% for any type of housing, except for people with a connection to Cliddesden. What it did show was a stronger need for smaller houses (up to 3 bedrooms) rather than larger houses of 4 or more bedrooms. Question 4 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire asked: “What type of housing is most needed in Cliddesden.” The highest scoring response to this question was: “Housing for people with a local connection to Cliddesden”, 54% of respondents indicating there was some need or a strong need. Indeed, this was the only choice to receive more than a 50% score indicating that residents did not generally see a clear need for any type of housing.

What the results from the Questionnaire did demonstrate, there was no need for larger houses. So that when meeting B&DBC targets for Policy SS5 or when ‘windfall houses’ are proposed, then houses should be smaller in size.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Housing for people with a local connection to Cliddesden Starter homes Small houses (1 or 2 beds) semi-detached Affordable retirement accommodation Affordable housing for rent Other affordable routes to home ownership Small houses (1 or 2 beds) terraced Small houses (1 or 2 beds) detached Discount market sales housing Sheltered and care accommodation Single storey accommodation Medium houses (3 beds) semi-detached Medium houses (3 beds) detached Rental accommodation Medium houses (3 beds) terraced Custom build houses Large houses (4 or more beds) detached Large houses (4 or more beds) Large houses (4 or more beds) semi-detached Flats

0% 10% 20% 30% 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100%

4 Strong Need 3 2 1 No Need

In 2004 the Cliddesden Village Design Statement was adopted by B&DBC. It was recognised then, that there was an imbalance of larger homes (which has not been addressed since). The document stated that sympathetic development should: “provide accommodation that will enhance the existing diversified social structure. This means building housing ranging from low-cost, through smaller quality homes for the retired and young professional to family homes of varying sizes. Development in the immediate future should restore this balance which has been lost over the last ten to fifteen years by larger homes becoming predominant.” Cliddesden data from the 2011 census is presented below, showing the size of houses by number of rooms, with comparison to the Local Borough and to England.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

No. of Rooms

8 7 6 5 4 3

Percentage 2 1 0 Cliddesden BDBC England

Average household size

Average number of rooms per household

Average number of bedrooms per household

The average number of rooms per household for Cliddesden in 2011 was 7.3., this is nearly 26% more than the B&DBC average of 5.8 and 35% higher than the England average of 5.4.

No. of bedrooms (percentage of households)

45 40 35 30 25 20 15 10 5 0 1 bedroom 2 bedrooms 3 bedrooms 4 bedrooms 5 or more bedrooms

Cliddesden Basingstoke and Deane England

Cliddesden Parish has significantly less 1 and 3 bedroom houses compared to the district: 3.9% 1 bedroom houses vs. 9.1% in B&DBC and 11.8% across England. 25.1% 3 bedroom houses vs. 42.6% in B&DBC and 41.2% across England.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

The percentage of 2 bedroom households in Cliddesden is comparable to the B&DBC area almost solely due to the 1960’s built social housing development (named Hoopersmead) which is comprised of 24 two bedroom bungalows. Cliddesden Parish does, however, have a significantly higher proportion of 4 & 5 bedroom houses compared to the district: 30.5% vs 20.2%in B&DBC and 14.4% across England.

Occupancy rating

180 160 140 120 100 80 60 40 20 0 +2 or more +1 0 -1 -2 or less

2001 2011

Occupancy rating provides a measure of whether a household’s accommodation is overcrowded or under-occupied and gives an indication of how many households may be living in overcrowded conditions. For example; a rating of zero meets the basic standard, a rating of +2 means at least 2 rooms more than the basic standard. Cliddesden Parish has a significant number (189 or 93%) of households with a spare occupancy rating (+1 & +2). This trend has also increased from the 2001 to 2011 census. In the Parish, 20.7% of households (42) are single person occupied. 11.3% of all households were one-person pensioner (over 65) households compared to the figure for the District which was 7.9%. The total percentage of houses with all household members over 65 was 24.1%, considerably higher than the B&DBC figures of 18%. This reflects the age demographic for the Parish. 27.6% of households in the Parish had dependent children compared to 31.4% across the district. There were 7 lone parent households (with dependent children) which equates to 3.4% of all households, considerably lower than the 9.1% figure for the District.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Approved planning permission

Planning permissions approved since 2011

0 2 bedroom house 3 bedroom house 4 bedroom house 5 bedroom house single storey two storey extension extension

Planning permission approved since 2011

Conclusion Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:33 From the housing census data and the occupancy data, it can be seen that the size of house in Comment [22]: I can’t answer that with any certainty. I would say that in the Cliddesden is larger than the National and Local average. Further, the evidence from planning inspectors report for WSL Janet the examiner permission data since 2011 shows that extensions and 4 and 5 bedroom house construction has suggested that a housing assessment would be the only way to justify a percentage. exceeded the construction of houses less than 3 bedrooms, which has further compounded the situation. Para 104 for your reference: It is not in dispute that there is a demand The occupancy rating shows an increase from 2001 to 2011. It also shows a significant number for small dwellings within the Parish and that the trend is for existing dwellings to be of houses with an occupancy of +2, which is an indicator of the large size of the house relative extended or for large dwellings to be constructed in the Parish. However, whilst to the number of occupants. I have been selective in my quotes from the SPD, there is little local evidence The B&DBC housing SPD requires developments to include at least 50% 2 and 3 bedroomed before me to quantify in planning policy properties. Given the shortfall of smaller houses and the surplus of large houses, in order to terms the proposed restriction on the size of new dwellings to 100 square metres, or redress the imbalance, it would make sense to raise this percentage, such that 80% of where more than one unit is provided then developments contain houses of 3 bedrooms or less, for the lifetime of this Neighbourhood at least 50% of the new units should not exceed 80 square metres as specified in Plan. Policy WSL5. In particular, I have not been provided with a local Housing Needs Question for B&DBC. Have we produced enough evidence to support the 80% figure? If not Survey. In these circumstances, Policy WSL5 is not in general conformity with what more evidence would you suggest? strategic policy as it is unclear if the specific size thresholds would satisfy the need to include a range of house type and size to address local requirements, as specified in BDLP Policy CN3.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

6.2A Option A: A policy that requires any new development to deliver a high proportion (80%) of smaller homes (i.e. 3 bedrooms or less.

Background There is an excess of larger houses versus smaller houses in Cliddesden. Census data shows a surplus of larger houses in Cliddesden. The number of larger houses in recent planning applications has exceeded the number of small houses. There have also been multiple planning applications for extensions. Recent planning applications have been approved for more larger houses and there have also been planning applications Question 4 of 2019 Community Questionnaire which asked: “What type of housing is most needed in Cliddesden, did not generally show a need or strong need greater than 50% for any type of housing, except for people with a connection to Cliddesden.” What this did show was a stronger need for smaller houses (up to 3 bedrooms) rather than larger houses of 4 or more bedrooms. The imbalance can only be addressed if a significant proportion of any new houses built, are smaller houses. Advantage: The imbalance was first recorded in the Village Design Statement 2004 and no attempt has been made to address the imbalance. Disadvantage: Will require developers to build smaller houses which tend to have a smaller profit margin.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

6.2B Option B: A policy that states that extensions and annexes should be appropriate in scale and design to the original building, they should not compromise the character and pattern of the surrounding area, be in keeping with the design and appearance of the original building and not adversely affect the amenities enjoyed bay adjacent buildings. (Design Code DC04)

Background Extensions to dwellings can have a significant effect on the character and appearance of the building and on the locality. It can also have a significant effect on neighbouring properties. There have been examples of extensions which significantly increase the size of the dwelling and overdevelop the plot. Design Code DC04 sets out information for modifications and extensions. Advantage: Will ensure that extensions are of a size in keeping with the surrounding houses. Disadvantage: Constrains the freedom of the building owner to develop.

6.2C Option C: A policy to maintain a stock of smaller houses, such that extensions on homes of 3 or fewer bedrooms should normally only be approved where the new floor area does not exceed that of the original dwelling by more than 25%.

Background

There have been examples of extensions which significantly increase the size of the dwelling and overdevelop the remaining plot.

Advantage: Will ensure that extensions are of a size in keeping with the surrounding houses.

Disadvantage: Constrains the freedom of the building owner to develop.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

6.2D Option D: A policy for replacement dwellings, where the new dwelling (or dwellings) should not exceed the floor space of the existing dwelling (or dwellings) by more than 25% and the new dwelling should occupy the same position on the plot.

Background Cliddesden is a rural village characterised by houses set in well proportioned plots with large gardens. Properties have been bought by developers who then demolish the building and build multiple replacement buildings. This has had the effect of damaging the character of the village and impacting biodiversity through damage to established trees and hedges. There has been a detrimental effect on neighbouring homes by an impact on their amenities, such as light, privacy and tranquility. Advantage: Will protect the village character and the amenities of the surrounding houses.

Disadvantage: Constrains the ability of the building owner to re-develop.

6.2E Option E: Proposals for the replacement of an existing dwelling or the extension of an existing property will only be permitted if the works do not result in the loss of a small dwelling, i.e. the property will only still contain no more than 3 bedrooms.

Background Over time, many houses in the village have been extended which, has reduced the supply of smaller homes in the village.

Advantages: Will help to maintain the availability of smaller homes in the village will help maintain the balance of available homes in the village. Disadvantages: Constrains the ability of the building owner to re-develop. ------ooo------

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

6.3 Issue: There is a need to promote energy efficiency and sustainability

Sources The Government and B&DBC have both declared a climate emergency. There are constraints on what a Neighbourhood Plan can do in practice, however, a Neighbourhood Plan can encourage zero carbon homes and high levels of energy efficiency. The design and standard of any new development should aim to meet a high level of sustainable design and construction and be optimized for energy efficiency, targeting zero emissions. This includes siting and orientation to optimise passive solar gain, the use of high quality thermally efficient building materials, installation of energy efficiency measures such as insulation and double-glazing. The retrofit of heritage properties/assets is encouraged to reduce energy demand and to generate renewable energy where appropriate, providing it safeguards historic characteristics and development is done with engagement and permissions of relevant organisations. Alterations to existing buildings must be designed with energy reduction in mind and comply with sustainable design and construction.

Paragraph 148 in the NPPF states: “The planning system should support the transition to a low carbon future in a changing climate, taking full account of flood risk and coastal change. It should help to: shape places in ways that contribute to radical reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, minimise vulnerability and improve resilience; encourage the reuse of existing resources, including the conversion of existing buildings; and support renewable and low carbon energy and associated infrastructure.” B&DBC Policy EM10 seeks to deliver high quality design. One criterion is to: “f) Minimise energy consumption through sustainable approaches to design.” Question 5 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire which asked: “What principles should influence the design of any new residential developments”. Responses indicated: 89% agree or strongly agree to “be built sustainably and energy efficient”.

6.3A Option A: A policy for sustainable design, that requires developments to include energy saving measures and minimise carbon footprint and carbon emissions, that provide a minimum of 20% above the current standards. Proposal will be expected to make efficient use of natural resources (including water), making the most of natural resources to reduce vulnerability to climate change impacts in the long term.

Background

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

PPG, (at Paragraph: 001 Reference ID: 56-001-20150327), makes it clear through a link to a Written Ministerial Statement of 25 March 2015, that it is not appropriate to refer to any additional local technical standards or requirements relating to the construction or performance of new dwellings in Neighbourhood Plans. This can only be applied to non- residential properties where it refers to such matters. There is, therefore, a limit to what can be proposed in a Neighbourhood Plan. The figure of 20% above current standards is in line with current proposals from B&DBC in their current Plan review. Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:38 Advantage: Will help in the drive to mitigate Climate Change in the long term. Comment [23]: The current LP has no standards for energy efficiency for new Disadvantage: Could increase the one-time cost of construction to the developer. development (and only relies on building regs at present). I don’t think you would be able to achieve this as it is adding an additional requirement through the NP (which isn’t in ------ooo------line with the WMS).

The LPU will seek additional standards for energy efficiency but this won’t form part of the development plan for at least 3 to 4 years.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

7. Transport and Movement

7.1 Issue: The speed and volume of traffic in Cliddesden has a negative impact on residents’ quality of life and is a potential danger to pedestrians and cyclists.

Sources Question 1 of the 2019 Community Questionnaire asked: “Do you have any concerns about any of the following aspects of Cliddesden? Responses indicated: 85% agree or strongly agree to “The speed of traffic”. The subject of traffic generated more comments in the Questionnaire than any other subject. As reported in the Village Newsletter June 2020, Woods Lane has been the subject of a number of accidents: “This time a BMW 3 -series crashed into the stone ballast on Woods Lane”. “There have been at least 10 similar accidents in the past few years and two in the last month.”

The Farleigh Road has seen an increase in the volume of heavy goods traffic in recent years. The narrowness of the road and the need for pedestrians to walk into the road puts them at risk. Farleigh Road provides parking for residents, however, due to the nature of the steep bank, it is not possible to open a car door adjacent to the bank. Hence it is always necessary to access the vehicle from the road and to open car doors into oncoming traffic.

One positive effect of the narrow roads and twisting lanes around Cliddesden, is that it does have the effect of slowing the majority of drivers down, since their vision ahead is obscured and when cars are parked there is a chicane effect. Similarly, the presence of oncoming traffic does slow traffic down. Question for B&DBC, do we need any traffic speed data or volume data, or is this enough evidence? Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:41 Comment [24]: This is enough evidence for now but would expect more info at pre- submission stage or in an evidence base doc.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

7.1A Option A: Create a policy to require developments which would increase traffic movements in the village, to be supported by a Transport Statement which measures the traffic impact of the proposal and includes measure to mitigate against this impact. Particular attention needs to be given to developments incorporating new access points and/or road infrastructure, or an increase in traffic volume over existing access points.

Background Development proposals should preserve or enhance the tranquility, rural nature and layout of the existing roads, lanes, byways and footpaths, recognizing the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside and the community within it, by minimizing the adverse impact of traffic. Proposals which do not demonstrate these factors have been adequately addressed would not be supported. Any new development proposal with measurable traffic impact will require a traffic study as part of the planning application. Any works recommended by that study as necessary to bring the road network and traffic impact to an acceptable level will be funded by the proposed development. The traffic impact study is to include impact on pedestrians and cyclists in order to promote sustainable travel. This would have the benefit of tailoring measures to any specific problems that were identified from the development, such as access. New development that includes new access points and/or road infrastructure should seek to incorporate accessible, traffic-free routes for pedestrians, people with disabilities, people with pushchairs, cyclists and, where appropriate, equestrians. Such development should set out how the design includes and, where possible, enhances access to the village centre, community facilities, local green open spaces and the nearby countryside for such users. The needs of any non-motorised vehicle users (as described in the paragraph above) must be taken into account in all traffic planning, but especially in relation to rural lanes and roads. Hazards arising from an increase in vehicle numbers where agricultural buildings are being converted to residential or commercial use will need to be taken into consideration. Measures to be taken to ensure this may include, for example, separation of pedestrians /cyclists from vehicular traffic where possible, improvements to signage or means of speed reduction.

7.1B Option B: Aspiration: Create a project, subject to available funding, for the PC to work with relevant bodies to bring forward traffic management measures to improve pedestrian, cyclist and vehicular safety in the parish.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Background Policies within a Neighbourhood Plan to deliver traffic related policies are limited, as Neighbourhood Plans are mainly concerned with land usage. Therefore, these matters may often only be aspirational and cannot form part of planning policy. This would be a project to look into different options evaluate and select the most effective.

7.2 Issue: Narrow roads and winding lanes are a feature of the parish that contribute to its rural character and are to be maintained. Further on street parking would be detrimental to the village character and generate further traffic problems.

Sources Cliddesden is a rural Parish with little in the way of sustainable transport, consequently car ownership is very high. The 2011 census showed that 14 households (6.9%) did not own a car and subsequently are reliant on other forms of transport such as public transport services. Over the whole B&DBC area 15.2% did not own a car. That the number of Cliddesden households without cars is less than half that of B&DBC reflects the rural nature of the parish and the poor public transport services available. In total 399 cars are owned by household Cars/vans by household residents in the Parish Area, with most households 80 owning 1 or 2 cars. The graph shows an increase 60 in car ownership from 2001 to 2011. 40 The majority of residents’ journeys are made by 20 car, as opposed to any other sustainable means. 0 In response to Question 6 of the Community None One Two Three Four or Questionnaire, “When travelling away from the more village, what is your main method of travel”: 2001 2011 For leisure: 81% indicated the car. For commuting: 71% indicated the car (although 23% were blank, which may reflect a population of retired residents).

The Cliddesden Design Code Document describes Lanes as follows: “Lanes within the Plan Area have a sense of enclosure, created by high hedges, sunken lanes and banks, and in the Village Core by high walls.”

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

“Many parts of the Neighbourhood Plan Area have an overarching sense of enclosure, created by high hedges, sunken lanes and banks aligning the road, such as at Woods Lane, Church Lane and along roads in the south of the area.” Narrow roads contribute to traffic calming. Increasing the width of roads would result in increased speed and traffic volumes. Neither of which are sustainable.

Section 8 of the NPPF promotes sustainable transport. B&DBC Policy CN9 promotes a safe, efficient and convenient transport system. It includes the need to ensure that new development does not compromise highway safety. B&DBC Policy EM10 seeks to ensure high quality development, including that there is appropriate parking provision in accordance with adopted parking standards.

7.2A Option A: Create a policy requiring all proposals for new developments to provide off street parking provision commensurate with local car ownership rates in order to avoid an increase in on-street parking in the vicinity of the area which would detract from highway safety and residential amenity. Garages should be extra to this provision. Design Code DC07

Background As there is virtually no public transport in the village, car ownership is high. It is therefore essential that adequate consideration be given to parking for residents and visitors. Parking in- street is not an acceptable solution, as most of the roads are narrow and on street parking would tend to urbanise the environment. The wish of the community is to retail the rural character. Therefore, on plot parking is the preferred solution and this is described in further details in DC07. The B&DBC Supplementary Planning Document (2018) aims to ensure that developments provide a suitable level of well-designed vehicle and cycle parking. This includes parking standards reflecting car ownership levels, design guidance and provision for electric vehicle charging.

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Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

7.3 Issue: There is a lack of sustainable transport in the village and an over reliance on cars as primary mode of transport.

Sources Cliddesden has very little in the way of essential facilities. It has a Church, a Public House, a car repair garage, a stables’ and a pottery. There is a primary school just outside the Parish. Basingstoke is the nearest place where important facilities can be found and residents need to travel for shops, post office, chemists’, doctors and dentists. Young people need to travel for secondary schools or colleges. Cliddesden is only served by a very infrequent bus service. There is one service on a Wednesday to Basingstoke and one service on a Friday to Basingstoke. The return journey allows less than 1.5 hours for shopping or other appointments, which severely limits it usefulness. There are other services along the A339, but this would mean a long walk, and for some would mean walking along a difficult stretch of the A339 where there is no footway. As evidenced by the survey, very few journeys are made by bus, bicycle or by walking. The car is the main means of transport.

7.3A Option A: Option: create a policy to require developers to provide safe access for pedestrians to link up with existing or proposed footpaths. Any such footpaths will need to be approved by the Parish Council. Design Code DC08.

Background The intent is to encourage people to make more use of sustainable forms of transport and use the car less. The intent is to enable residents to walk safely to the school, village centre, Church and bus stops. Footpaths and cycleways should form part of a coherent network, linking to other parts of the village (as a pedestrian alternative to using through roads). Development proposals must safeguard the character, use and amenity of existing network green infrastructure and rights of way, including footpaths, cycleways and bridleways. The network of the existing footpaths and public rights of way and green infrastructure in the Parish should be safeguarded, retained and enhanced. Whilst footpaths will be encouraged, experience has shown that developers do not necessarily take into account the needs of pedestrians in the context of the village layout and character.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

For example; the (rejected in 2018) Farleigh Meadow proposal for 40 houses, included footpaths that did not connect meaningfully to the rest of the village. Such footpaths would not be acceptable.

Therefore, the routing and construction of any proposed footpaths will need to be approved by the Parish Council. Footpaths will need to take account of the character of the area. Paving or tarmac footpaths are not considered to be in keeping with the rural village character and would not be supported. Design Code DC08 makes reference to footpaths and rights of way and the need for new developments to maintain existing rights of way and provide new connectivity. ------ooo------

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

8. Leisure and Wellbeing

8.1 Issue: Cliddesden has only limited community facilities. It is therefore important to protect those facilities and encourage the provision of additional facilities that meet the needs of the local community.

Sources Community facilities, such as Churches, Village halls and pubs are the essential glue that helps bring a community together. They facilitate social interaction, provide outlets for vital services and play a central role in community life. Cliddesden has only a limited number of facilities such as the Village Hall, Church and Pub to support community. These facilities are essential to support social interaction and support the community spirit that contributes to the health and wellbeing of the community. At the time of the 2019 Questionnaire the Village Pub, the Jolly farmer, was closed for several months and there was concern the important facility community would be lost. An application for the Jolly Farmer to be designated as an asset of community value is currently pending a decision by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council. 90% of Questionnaire respondents believed that “a pub is a vital part of rural village life” The Village Hall is well used by local clubs and societies and is the hub of social activity. The clubs and societies offer many and varied activities for local people regularly throughout the year. The monthly Village Newsletter is a valuable asset which has been produced by members of the community for more than 42 years. It is distributed to every household in the Parish. It contains an editorial, a calendar of local events each month, Village Hall activities, short articles from different organisations and groups about forthcoming events, activities and other topical matters. It also contains a directory of local organisations including Neighbourhood Watch and the Police. There was a village shop and post office. However, the difficulties of running a small rural shop are well known, and the shop closed some years ago. The premises’ is now home to a small craft pottery workshop. Paragraph 28 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states that: ‘To promote a strong rural economy, local and neighbourhood plans should: Promote the retention and development of local services and community facilities in villages, such as local shops, meeting places, sports venues, cultural buildings, public houses and places of worship.’

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

NPPF also seeks to ensure that planning policies and decisions achieve healthy, inclusive and safe places which promote social interaction, including opportunities for meetings between people who might not otherwise come into contact with each other. Protecting the Village’s community facilities will be a key means of helping to achieve these National Planning Policy aims. NPPF also goes on to stress the need to “guard against the unnecessary loss of valued facilities and services, particularly where this would reduce the community’s ability to meet its day-to-day needs”.

8.1A Option A: A policy that seeks to protect Existing Community facilities by creating a list of “valued facilities”

Proposals that will mean a loss or erosion of the “valued facilities” will be resisted, unless alternative equivalent facilities are provided elsewhere.

Background Facilities which have an important value to the maintenance of community life are protected from change of use or redevelopment. Proposals relating to the ‘Valued Facilities’ identified below will be permitted where they would result in improvements to that facility and/or assist in ensuring its continued availability. Any proposals that would result in the loss of a ‘Valued Facility’ or have an adverse impact on its viability in the future will not be supported unless satisfactory alternative facilities are provided or it is demonstrated that the facility is no longer required or is no longer viable.

It is proposed to create a list of valued Community assets that would include:

-The Jolly Farmer Pub and Garden. -The Cliddesden Village Hall and grounds. -The Cliddesden Parish Church and Churchyard. There will be a presumption in favour of the protection of existing “Valued Facilities”. There will be a presumption in favour of the re-use of such facilities for health, education or community type uses. The change of use of existing facilities to other uses will not be permitted unless the following can be demonstrated: 1. The proposal includes alternative provision, on a site within the locality, of equivalent or enhanced facilities. Such sites should be accessible by public transport, walking and cycling and have adequate car parking, or 2. There is no longer a need for the facility, and this can be robustly demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Parish Council. Satisfactory evidence will need to be produced (including

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report active marketing locally and in the wider area) that, over a minimum period of 12 months, it has been demonstrated that there is no longer a demand for the facility. Section 8 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states that planning policies should “promote the retention and development of local services and community facilities.” Paragraph 83 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) states that “planning policies should enable the retention and development of community facilities including meeting places, sports venues, open space, public houses and places of worship.” Paragraph 92 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) further reinforces this and uses the term ‘Valued Facilities’.

A similar Policy was employed by Wootton St Lawrence.

8.1B Option B: A policy that seeks to support new community facilities. Proposals that will enhance the viability of any community facility and which improve existing or provide additional recreation and community facilities will be supported provided there is a demonstrated need and the proposals causes no harm to the community or environment.

Background Proposals that will enhance the viability of any community facility and which improve existing or provide additional recreation and community facilities, will be supported subject to: a) There being a demonstrated need of the local population. b) The proposal would not have harmful impacts on the residents and other activities. c) The proposal would not have harmful effects on the surrounding local environment. d) The proposal would not have unacceptable impacts on traffic and the local road network.

In any such community facility there would need to be: - Appropriate levels of parking provided. - Where it is a replacement or relocated facility, it should be at least equivalent to the capacity and quality as the existing facility. - It does not adversely affect the amenities enjoyed by any nearby residential properties. - It is well related in both visual and accessibility terms to the centre of the village. - The building is of a scale and design that is in keeping with its surroundings. - Accessibility for all.

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Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

9. Design Code Document

9.1 Issue or Objective: To adopt the Cliddesden Design Code document

The Cliddesden Neighbourhood Planning Team engaged with consultants AECOM to produce a Design Code Document. This Document defines different character areas in the Parish and defines nine Design Codes covering: settlement pattern, building typology, architectural details and materials, building modifications and extension, building line and boundary treatments, green infrastructure and open space, parking and utilities, footpaths and rights of way and views and landmarks. The Design Code Document can be found here: ……. LINKxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

9.1A Option A: A policy that states that all new development proposals should have regard to the Design Code document (included as an appendix to the Neighbourhood Plan), taking full account of the historic character of the Cliddesden Conservation Area, other heritage assets and the landscape character and other local distinctive characteristics of the Neighbourhood Plan area.

Background. Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:44 The Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan (CPN) Team and B&DBC have both been involved in the Comment [25]: There is some overlap development of the Design Guide Document. This has included the CNP Team meeting with with these options and the earlier options which mention the design code and design i.e AECOM and accompanying them on a field visit to the Parish. The CNP Team and B&DNC have one plot deep etc. also been involved in reviewing and providing comments on Drafts of the Design Code Document. Funding to develop the Design Code has been provided by the Government Neighbourhood Planning Grant. Advantages: The Design Code has been prepared by professional consultants AECOM, who are the appointed national partners for Neighbourhood Plans. Disadvantages: It has taken some considerable time and effort to generate the Design Code Document, however the CNP Team felt it was worth this effort to achieve a professional set of Design Codes for Cliddesden to take account of the local character and environment.

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Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

10. Policy Led Plan and Site Allocation

10.1 Issue or Objective: Site Allocation

1. What is Site Allocation? A Neighbourhood Plan should set out a positive vision that meets local needs and makes sense for the local community. There are some options in how a Neighbourhood Plan can be put together. It might include policies alone or it might include policies and allocated sites for development. The site allocation process can be time consuming and complex. Allocating sites is not mandatory. A significant proportion of Neighbourhood Plans do not allocate sites. 2. Cliddesden Neighbourhood Planning Team’s decision to develop a Policy Led Plan. The CNP Team has carefully considered the benefits and concerns of site allocation. Experience from other parishes has shown that site allocation can be highly controversial. The Team has concluded that for Cliddesden, the concerns outweigh the benefits. The Team has also agreed the team members are not sufficiently skilled or experienced and therefore, has chosen to develop a Policy Led Plan and chosen not to undertake site allocation. 3. A “Policy Led Plan”. After working for 2 years, the CNP Team strongly believes that putting our efforts into policies rather than site allocation will provide better long-term protection for the village and for those things important to the community. The CNP Team has therefore, decided to deliver a “Policy Led” Plan, rather than to allocate sites for development in the Plan. A Policy Led Plan will: • Deal with strategy and provide guidance for any acceptable development. • Have the support of Basingstoke & Deane Borough Council and our designated. professional consultants. • Make it easier to share information and consult throughout the Parish. • Reduce the workload on the small number of interested volunteers, which should speed up the complicated process of producing a Plan. • Require less consultant input and expertise which should reduce the overall cost. • Remove the trigger for individual concerns in the Parish (as in many other parishes) and enable a more harmonious and less controversial process.

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

4. Consequences of the vote. If the community vote disagrees with the CNP decision and wishes to allocate sites, then the Village will need to find a new Neighbourhood Plan Team with appropriate skills to undertake site allocation and complete the Plan.

5. A list of benefits and concerns can be found below.

Basingstoke and Deane Policy SS5 Cliddesden has a target to deliver at least 10 new houses in the current plan period (2011 to 2029) as a result of B&DBC local plan policy SS5. Policy SS5 states that it will be necessary to identify sites/opportunities to deliver a net gain of at least least 10 homes within and adjacent to each of the settlements with defined Settlement Policy Boundaries in the borough. Cliddesden is one of those settlements named in the policy. Policy SS5 adds that this can be identified through means such as neighbourhood planning, rural exception schemes or a review of Settlement Policy Boundaries. Policy SS5 further states that If developments of a qualifying size come forward within or adjacent to the named settlements via alternative means to neighbourhood planning, for example via a planning application, this will contribute towards the targets set out within the policy. B&DBC are currently undertaking a review of the local plan and it is possible that the figure of 10 houses could increase. The Policy SS5 requirement could be met through the Neighbourhood Plan allocating sites, however site allocation is not mandatory. There is no formal requirement in legislation to require sites to be allocated as a part of Neighbourhood Planning. Nationally, significant numbers of Neighbourhood Plans do not include allocation of sites. In May 2018, in a national survey of 330 made Neighbourhood Plans, Lichfields Planning and Development consultancy found 60% had no housing targets or allocations. (see: https://lichfields.uk/media/4128/local-choices_housing-delivery- through-neighbourhood-plans.pdf).

Five year housing land supply

The Borough Bouncil will monitor the number of homes being delivered by neighbourhood plans in line with the requirements of Policy SS5 of the ALP. This information will be recorded on an annual basis in the Authority Monitoring Report to

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

ensure that the Borough Council is continually demonstrating a 5 year supply of deliverable sites. In December 2016 a Written Ministerial Statement was issued designed to support the role of Neighbourhood Plans, providing further evidence of the significance the Government are placing on Neighbourhood Plans in the planning decision making process. The statement provides a new layer in the application of national planning policy and the critical issue of whether an LPA can demonstrate a five year housing supply. National Planning Policy states that all LPA’s must be able to demonstrate that there is enough specific available and deliverable land to meet the housing needs of the area for the next five years. If an LPA does not have a five year housing land supply, policies for the supply of housing in the ALP and also within Neighbourhood Plans should be considered out of date for the purposes of determining a planning application. However, the Written Ministerial Statement (the PPG was updated in 2017 as a result of this Written Ministerial Statement) confirms that relevant policies for the supply of housing in a Neighbourhood Plan, should not be deemed to be ‘out-of-date’, where all of the following circumstances arise at the time a decision on a planning application is made: • The Written Ministerial Statement is less than two years old, or the Neighbourhood Plan has been part of the development plan for two years or less; • The Neighbourhood Plan allocates sites for housing; and • The LPA can demonstrate a three-year supply of deliverable housing sites. Any housing that is either allocated in the Neighbourhood Plan or meets the qualifying criteria of ALP Policy SS5, will be considered in the Council’s annual housing monitoring (which is reported in the Authority Monitoring Report). As noted in Paragraph 4.68 of the ALP, where a settlement (as listed in Policy SS5) has not met the requirements of ALP Policy SS5, the Council reserves the right to identify opportunities to address any shortfall through appropriate means such as the allocation of housing sites in a future Development Plan Document produced by the Borough Council. The Borough Council will continue to work with Parish/ Town Councils’ to ensure that the Policy SS5 requirements are met in a timely manner. As of April, 2020, B&DBC is unable to demonstrate a 5 year land supply.

10.1A Option A: The Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan will concentrate on a Policy65 -led approach and will NOT allocate sites for development. Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Benefits and Concerns of Site Allocation Robyn Kelly 30/7/20 16:45 Benefits Comment [26]: Is this section better In the event of the Local Plan being shown not to have a 5 year land supply, then any housing policies suited and combined with the section where you talk about Policy SS5 earlier on? I don’t within a Neighbourhood Plan without sites allocated, will be considered be invalid (until the 5 year land think it fits here. supply returns). If the Local Council is shown to have only 3 years (rather than 5 years) land supply, then a Neighbourhood Plan with sites allocated will provide a further 2 years of protection.

Through site allocation it is possible to direct where development takes place. However, this does not mean that development will not take place in other sites as well, hence it is an enabler for development rather than a constraint.

If deemed appropriate or desirable, it would be possible to define specific design characteristics for a given site that was allocated through a Neighbourhood Plan.

Concerns The site allocation process is complex and time consuming and is likely to add a further 12 months before the Plan is completed. Experience from other Parishes has shown that a site allocation process can be highly controversial. The CNP Team members do not believe they have the required skills and resources to safely conduct a site allocation process and is not prepared to risk undertaking site allocation.

Following earlier proposals by developers and hearing opinions from residents, it seems there are no universally agreeable sites for development. A site allocation process within the Neighbourhood Plan would therefore only result in heightened concerns in the Parish and would generate unnecessary friction, controversy and unpleasantness.

A Neighbourhood Plan containing controversial Site Allocations, could be at risk of being voted down at the referendum.

The Settlement Policy Boundary is effectively full, and there are no obvious sites within the SPB that would meet the Basingstoke and Deane Policy SS5 requirement for new houses.

There is a risk that the site allocation process will inadvertently generate more development, rather than constraining it. If the community chooses to allocate sites, it will be necessary to perform a call for sites, and this may generate unexpected new sites and interest in development. It will also put sites into the public domain and will provide awareness to predatory developers. A site allocation process, increases the risk of further sites being targeted for housing by developers.

It will be challenging to identify suitable sites for development adjacent to the SPB that that are compatible with the Cliddesden Conservation Area.

All Cliddesden sites listed in the 2019 SHEELA are in a countryside location where new housing is generally only permitted as an exception. The consistent conclusion from the B&DBC assessment is that

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report the sites are available and may be achievable, but, “due to its location in the countryside its development would not be in line with the Borough’s current planning framework.”

There is a strong local feeling that Cliddesden is being harmed by development and many residents do not want to see further development, considering that the village has taken its fair share of new housing. Consultation has shown there is a strong desire to protect the rural Parish of Cliddesden, protect the “Green Fingers of land” and a strong desire to protect Cliddesden from coalescence with Basingstoke. This makes allocating sites for development very challenging.

Site allocation is a positive means to direct development. A Neighbourhood Plan that focusses on site allocation, will not prevent other sites coming forward. If it is desired to influence and constrain development then it is essential for a Neighbourhood Plan to have policies designed to do that.

Experience has shown that allocating sites does not bring the protection expected. One local Parish undertook site allocation as part of their Neighbourhood Plan. Their preferred site for housing was rejected by the Local Council during the development of the Plan and therefore, the Neighbourhood Plan Team had to allocate another less desirable site. This second site had the negative effect of offering developers the opportunity to seek further planning permission for more houses, in a location that was not desired by the community. After the Neighbourhood Plan was approved, the first preferred site (which had been earlier rejected by the Local Council) was subsequently granted permission. The original Neighbourhood Plan with site allocation provided for 18 houses. Since then, 40 planning applications for new houses have been approved for development.

Even if a site allocation process is followed and the Neighbourhood Plan identifies and assesses a site as being ideal for development, it does not automatically mean the site will be given planning permission and any development must still go through the planning application process.

It is entirely possible that planning applications will come forward that satisfy the requirement for Policy SS5 before the Neighbourhood Plan is completed, effectively overtaking the site allocation process, rendering site allocation void, or in a worse case opening up the prospect of more development.

B&DBC are currently reviewing the local plan and the requirement for 10 houses under Policy SS5 may increase. However, the final number is unknown. If we create a Neighbourhood Plan with site allocation, it may be out of date in 2023 and would need to be updated. Or, it will be necessary to allocate sites for more than 10 houses with the associated risk of development that comes with more sites.

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11. Next Steps

Cliddesden Neighbourhood Plan Issues and Options Report

Please complete your questionnaire and follow the instructions provided to return it to the Cliddesden Neighbourhood Planning Team. Please answer every question to provide an accurate picture of your views. Thank you.