CC 2.1 Sustainability Appraisal Of

SUSTAINABILITY APPRAISAL OF THE WOLVERHAMPTON LOCAL

DEVELOPMENT FRAMEWORK

Part 1 Scoping Report

Client: Wolverhampton City Council Report No.: UE-0053_Part 1 Scoping Report_4_210910NCB Status: Consultation Version Date: 21 st September 2010 Author: NCB Checked: NJD Approved: NEJP SA of the Wolverhampton LDF: Part 1 Scoping Report September 2010 UE-0053_Part 1 Scoping Report_4_210910NCB Contents

1 Introduction 1

1.1 Purpose of this Report 1

1.2 The Part 1 and Part 2 Scoping Reports 1

1.3 Wolverhampton City 2

1.4 The Wolverhampton City Council Local Development Framework 4

1.5 Sustainable Development: Context 7

1.6 Integrated Sustainability Appraisal of the Wolverhampton LDF 10

1.7 Consultation on the Scoping Reports 12

2 Approach to Sustainability Appraisal 13

2.1 Introduction 13

2.2 Best Practice Guidance 13

2.3 Stages of SA 13

3 Presenting the SEA scoping information 15

3.1 Sustainability themes 15

3.2 Presenting the policy and plan review, the baseline and the key environmental issues 17

4 Accessibility and transport 19

4.1 Summary of policy and plan review 19

4.2 Summary of baseline data 19

5 Air Quality 27

5.1 Summary of policy and plan review 27

5.2 Summary of baseline data 27

6 Biodiversity and Geodiversity 29

6.1 Summary of policy and plan review 29

6.2 Summary of baseline data 29

7 Climate Change 35

7.1 Summary of policy and plan review 35

7.2 Summary of baseline data 35

8 Economic Factors 41

8.1 Summary of policy and plan review 41

8.2 Summary of baseline data 41

9 Health 47

9.1 Summary of policy and plan review 47

9.2 Summary of baseline data 47

10 Historic Environment 55

10.1 Summary of policy and plan review 55

10.2 Summary of baseline data 55

11 Housing 65

11.1 Summary of policy and plan review 65

11.2 Summary of baseline 65

12 Material Assets 69

12.1 Summary of policy and plan review 69

12.2 Summary of baseline data 69

13 Population 73

13.1 Summary of policy and plan review 73

13.2 Summary of baseline data 73

14 Quality of life 79

14.1 Summary of policy and plan review 79

14.2 Summary of baseline data 79

15 Water and soil 89

15.1 Summary of policy and plan review 89

15.2 Summary of baseline data 90

16 Sustainability Objectives 97

16.1 Purpose of the SA Framework 97

17 Subsequent stages of the SA process to be carried out following scoping, and the assessment methods to be used 99

17.1 Introduction 99

17.2 Refining options and assessing effects 99

17.3 SA and Publication/Submission 99

17.4 SA and Examination 101

18 Consultation on the Scoping Reports 103

18.1 Purpose of Consultation 103

18.2 Consultation Details 103

Appendix A: Annex I of the SEA Directive

Appendix B: Example of a Detailed Assessment Matrix

Appendix C: Review of Policies, Plans and Programmes

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Tables:

Table 1.1: Key facts relating to the Wolverhampton LDF.

Table 1.2: Definition and components of Sustainable Communities

Table 2.1: SA stages, and stages covered in this Scoping Report.

Table 3.1: Sustainability themes.

Table 4.1: Travel to work in Wolverhampton.

Table 4.2: Percent of households within 10 minutes of a local, district or main centre on a weekday by public transport or walking.

Table 5.1: Biodiversity, flora and fauna in Wolverhampton.

Table 7.1: Carbon dioxide emissions in Wolverhampton by source 2005-2007.

Table 7.2: Per capita carbon dioxide emissions in Wolverhampton 2005-2007.

Table 8.1: VAT registrations and deregistrations in Wolverhampton 2001-2007.

Table 8.2: Enterprises by age of business.

Table 8.3: Employment by occupation.

Table 8.4: Employment by sector.

Table 8.5: Qualifications in Wolverhampton.

Table 9.1: Health in Wolverhampton.

Table 10.1: Summary profiles of the twelve Character Areas located in Wolverhampton.

Table 11.1: Households on the Local Authority Housing Register.

Table 11.2: House prices and sales 2003-2010.

Table 11.3: Number of households accepted as homeless.

Table 12.1: Renewable energy power stations in Wolverhampton.

Table 12.2: Waste arisings and recycling rates in Wolverhampton.

Table 12.3: Household waste arisings and recycling rates in Wolverhampton.

Table 12.4: Housing completions on brownfield sites.

Table 13.1: Estimated population change by ethnic group.

Table 14.1: Change in IMD rank between 2004 and 2007, West Midlands urban area Authorities.

Table 14.2: Crime in Wolverhampton: total crimes.

Table 14.3: Crime in Wolverhampton: offences per 1,000 population.

Table 14.4: Current and projected provision of open space.

Table 15.1: Biological Water Quality in Wolverhampton.

Table 15.2: Chemical Water Quality in Wolverhampton.

Table 16.1: SA Objectives.

Figures:

Figure 1.1: Map of Wolverhampton

Figure 1.2: Structure of the Wolverhampton Local Development Framework

Figure 1.3: Five guiding principles of the UK Sustainable Development Strategy, Securing the Future

Figure 4.1: Local transportation network.

Figure 4.2: 24-hour flows into Wolverhampton City Centre.

Figure 4.3: 24-hour flows out of Wolverhampton City Centre.

Figure 4.4: Travel to work in Wolverhampton.

Figure 4.5: Walking and cycling networks in Wolverhampton City Centre.

Figure 5.1: Locations where nitrogen dioxide objectives were exceeded in 2008.

Figure 6.1: View of Wolverhampton city centre from Smestow Valley LNR.

Figure 6.2: Location of biodiversity assets in Wolverhampton.

Figure 6.2: Geology of Wolverhampton and the surrounding area.

Figure 7.1: Changes in annual mean temperature in the West Midlands to 2099.

Figure 7.2: Changes in summer mean precipitation in the West Midlands to 2099.

Figure 7.3: Changes in winter mean precipitation in the West Midlands to 2099.

Figure 8.1: Comparison of business formation in Wolverhampton and the West Midlands.

Figure 8.2: Key business and industrial areas in Wolverhampton.

Figure 9.1: Wolverhampton health summary.

Figure 9.2: General health in Wolverhampton by ward.

Figure 9.3: Participation in sports and active recreation in Wolverhampton.

Figure 9.4: Healthcare services in Wolverhampton.

Figure 10.1: Designated cultural heritage assets in Wolverhampton.

Figure 10.2: Listed buildings and Conservation Areas in Wolverhampton.

Figure 10.3: Wolverhampton Character Areas.

Figure 11.1: Examples of housing in Wolverhampton.

Figure 11.2: Housing Market Areas.

Figure 11.3: Average house prices.

Figure 12.1: Recent trends related to household waste arisings and management.

Figure 13.1: Population density in Wolverhampton.

Figure 13.2: Population density in comparison with other areas.

Figure 13.3: Population density across Wolverhampton.

Figure 13.4: Wolverhampton population pyramid.

Figure 13.5: Wolverhampton’s age structure from 1991 to 2001.

Figure 13.6: Local and national age-population change from 1991 to 2000.

Figure 13.7: Percentage of people from different ethnic backgrounds – Local, Regional and National Ethnicity levels.

Figure 14.1: Index of Multiple Deprivation ranking for each ward in Wolverhampton.

Figure 14.2: Unemployment trends in Wolverhampton.

Figure 14.3: Claimant counts in Wolverhampton by ward.

Figure 14.4: Long-term unemployment variability across Wolverhampton.

Figure 14.5: Location of open spaces in Wolverhampton.

Figure 15.1: Source Protection Zones in the vicinity of Wolverhampton.

Figure 15.2: SFRA flood risk map.

AQMA Air Quality Management Area PM 10 Particulates BAP Biodiversity Action Plan PPPs Policies, plans and programmes BME Black and Minority Ethnic [Groups] PPS Planning policy statement CAMS Catchment Abstraction Management RSDF Regional Sustainable Development Strategy Framework

CO 2 Carbon dioxide RSS Regional Spatial Strategy DCLG Department of Communities and SA Sustainability appraisal Local Government Defra Department of the Environment, Food SAC Special Area of Conservation and Rural Affairs DPD Development Plan Document SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment EU European Union SFRA Strategic Flood Risk Assessment GVA Gross Value Added SI Statutory Instrument IMD Indices of Multiple Deprivation SINC Site of Importance for Nature Conservation LAQMA Local Air Quality Management Area SLINC Site of Local Importance for Nature Conservation LDD Local Development Document SPD Supplementary Planning Document LDF Local Development Framework SPZ Source Protection Zones LNR Local Nature Reserve SSSI Site of Special Scientific Interest LTP2 West Midlands Local Transport Plan STW Sewage Treatment Works 2006-11

NO 2 Nitrogen Dioxide UKCIP UK Climate Impacts Programme NVQ National Vocational Qualification WCC Wolverhampton City Council ODPM Office of the Deputy Prime Minister W. Mids West Midlands ONS Office of National Statistics WMU Water Management Unit

1 Introduction

1.1 Purpose of this Report

This Part 1 Scoping Report has been prepared for Wolverhampton City Council (WCC) as part of the Sustainability Appraisal (SA) incorporating Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Local Development Documents (LDDs) for the City’s Local Development Framework (LDF). The report has been published for consultation with the consultation bodies 1 as required by Regulation 12 (5) of the UK SEA Regulations 2004.

Scoping is the process of deciding the scope and level of detail of an SA, including the environmental effects, the assessment methods to be used, and the structure and contents of the SA Report. Documenting this process, the Scoping Report sets out the scope of, and methodology for the SA of the LDF and summarises the tasks and outcomes of the first stage of the SA process.

1.2 The Part 1 and Part 2 Scoping Reports

The Scoping Report has been structured into two parts. This document, the Part 1 Scoping Report, focuses on the aspects of the SA process that will be common for all of the LDDs in the LDF. The information presented in this report is city-wide and is relevant to the whole of Wolverhampton. Through this approach the Part 1 report sets out the context and methodology for the SA processes for each LDD.

The Part 2 Scoping Reports set out more specific information related to each LDD. Utilising the information provided in the Part 1 Scoping Report, they focus on the key sustainability issues directly relevant to the plan, and present a LDD-specific SA Framework against which the plan or programme can be assessed.

This Part 1 Scoping Report is designed to supplement the information provided in the Part 2 Scoping Reports developed for each LDD. Each LDD Scoping Report will be subject to consultation in line with the SEA and sustainability regulations and as set out in the DCLG guidance on SA for Local Development Frameworks. 2

1 Natural England, English Heritage and the Environment Agency. 2 Guidance referred to is the Department for Communities and Local Government (September 2009): CLG Plan Making Manual: Sustainability Appraisal.

1.3 Wolverhampton City

With a total population of approximately 236,400 3, Wolverhampton is the 13th largest city in England. The city is strategically located in the north west of the West Midlands conurbation in the Black Country, approximately 15 miles north-west of Birmingham, 130 miles north-west of London, and 75 miles south of Manchester. With the city forming the second largest part of the West Midlands conurbation, transport links with the rest of the country by road and rail are excellent.

Wolverhampton contains a rich built and historic environment, including significant features such as West Park, St Peters Church and Wightwick Manor, and a wide variety of other distinctive features and areas of cultural heritage value. This reflects the city’s long and diverse history, including its Victorian and industrial heritage. Central to many parts of the city’s townscape is Wolverhampton’s canal network.

Demographically, Wolverhampton is a diverse city, with 27% people coming from a minority ethnic background 4. Only six miles across, Wolverhampton is one of the most densely populated local authorities in England and is highly urbanised. The city has high levels of deprivation and overall, is ranked the 4th most deprived authority in the West Midlands region and 28th nationally 5.

Wolverhampton was granted City status in 2000 and is currently undergoing rapid transformation as part of the City’s ongoing regeneration. The vision for Wolverhampton, as set out by the City’s Sustainable Community Strategy is as follows:

“By 2026 Wolverhampton’s economy is transformed and the gap in health, wealth and prosperity between communities and neighbourhoods in the City is substantially reduced. Wolverhampton is a place with safe, strong, diverse and popular neighbourhoods; a place where everyone has an improved quality of life and the chance to reach his or her full potential and where the benefits of the city’s growth are widely shared.” 6

The City’s boundaries are set out in Figure 1.1 .

3 2008 ONS prediction, quoted in WCC: Window on Wolverhampton 2009: http://www.wton-partnership.org.uk/UserFiles/File/window2009.pdf 4 WCC: Window on Wolverhampton 2009: http://www.wton-partnership.org.uk/UserFiles/File/window2009.pdf 5 WCC (2008): Wolverhampton’s Building Resilient Communities Delivery and Action Plan 6Wolverhampton Partnership (October 2008) Wolverhampton Sustainable Community Strategy

Figure 1.1: Map of Wolverhampton

1.4 The Wolverhampton City Council Local Development Framework

1.4.1 Replacing the Unitary Development Plan

The current statutory Development Plan for the City comprises the Wolverhampton Unitary Development Plan 2001-2011, which was adopted in June 2006, and the West Midlands Regional Spatial Strategy (RSS).

Wolverhampton City Council is currently preparing their Local Development Framework (LDF). The LDF will set out the spatial planning strategy for Wolverhampton, bringing together other strategies and programmes in the city, including the Sustainable Community Strategy (SCS) and strategies for the economy, housing, education, health, social inclusion, waste, biodiversity, recycling and transport.

Wolverhampton is developing a Joint Core Strategy for the Black Country with Dudley MBC, Sandwell MBC and Walsall Council. The Joint Core Strategy will set out the long term spatial vision for Wolverhampton and the strategic policies required to deliver that vision. The Joint Core Strategy will provide comprehensive policy coverage of the key strategic issues facing Wolverhampton and will have strong links with other Council strategies and programmes, including the Sustainable Community Strategy. The Joint Core Strategy will be the main document in the Wolverhampton LDF.

The LDF, including the Joint Core Strategy, will replace the Unitary Development Plan which was adopted in June 2006. Under the transitional arrangements of the revised planning system, the policies of the Unitary Development Plan will be 'saved' for a 3 year period whilst the Council develops the LDF. It has been necessary to save a number of Unitary Development Plan policies beyond June 2009 because the Joint Core Strategy for the Black Country is not due to be adopted until March 2011. This has been necessary to ensure that there are no gaps in development plan policies during the initial transitional period between the old and new planning systems. Before the adoption of the Joint Core Strategy, the policies of the Wolverhampton UDP will therefore provide the local strategic policies of the development plan.

1.4.2 The Local Development Framework

The LDF will consist of a folder of Local Development Documents (LDDs) that set out how the city may change over the next few years. These LDDs comprise the following documents:

Development Plan Documents

DPDs will set out the vision, strategy and policies for the City. The DPDs currently proposed for the LDF include as follows:

Site Specific Allocations of Land: This DPD will identify and allocate sites for individual or a mixture of uses and will include policies relating to the delivery of specific allocated sites. The identification of sites will be based on detailed assessments of suitable and available sites within Wolverhampton including sustainability criteria.

Area Action Plans: Area Action Plans (AAPs) can be prepared for key areas of change or conservation. The Council intends to prepare three AAPs in the period to 2012: the City Centre AAP, the Stafford Road Technology Corridor AAP and the Bilston Corridor AAP.

Proposals Map: The Proposals Map will illustrate the spatial extent of the policies within the LDF. The proposals map can include inset maps of particular areas that require more detail and is likely to be of similar format to the existing Ordnance Survey based map that accompanies the UDP. Whenever a DPD is prepared, the proposals map will be revised to account for any changes in policy. This will ensure that the adopted proposals map always shows the up to date policy framework. A proposals map will be prepared to illustrate the site specific policies and allocations of the Site Specific Allocations of Land DPD.

Supplementary Planning Documents

Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs) are non-statutory documents that elaborate upon a policy or proposal contained within either a DPD or a saved UDP policy. They are not subject to independent examination by an Inspector but have to follow statutory procedures in their preparation. Once adopted, these documents will form a material consideration in planning decisions.

The following SPDs are included in the latest (February 2009) Local Development Scheme for Wolverhampton. These include a number of updated Supplementary Guidance documents from the UDP:

! Access and Facilities for People with Disabilities SPD;

! Open Space, Sport and Recreation SPD;

! Shopfront Design Guide SPD;

! Bilston High Street Link SPD;

! The Provision of Public Art SPD;

! Transport and Green Travel Plans SPD;

! Places of Worship SPD;

! Design SPD;

! Telecommunications SPD;

! Protection of Heritage and Environment SPD;

! Hedges SPD;

! Day Nursuries SPD;

! Trees and Development SPD;

! Outdoor Advertisements & Signs SPD; and

! Business, Industrial and Warehouse Development SPD.

The following documents set out the process for developing the LDF:

Local Development Scheme: The Local Development Scheme provides a list of the LDDs to be included in the LDF and a timetable for their production. The latest Local Development Scheme was brought into effect in February 2009.

Statement of Community Involvement: The Statement of Community Involvement sets out the Council's intended approach to involving partners, interested parties and the community (including hard-to-reach groups) in the production of the LDF and major development management decisions and the proposed arrangements for participation and consultation. The Statement of Community Involvement was adopted in January 2007.

Figure 1.2 sets out the structure of the Wolverhampton Local Development Framework.

Figure 1.2: Structure of the Wolverhampton Local Development Framework (Source: Wolverhampton Local Development Scheme 2009-12 7).

7 WCC, February 2009: Wolverhampton Local Development Scheme 2009-2012

Table 1.1: Key facts relating to the Wolverhampton LDF

Name of Wolverhampton City Council Responsible Authority Title of plan Wolverhampton Local Development Framework What prompted The Wolverhampton Local Development Framework is being the plan (e.g. developed following the implementation of the Planning and legislative, Compulsory Purchase Act in 2004, which requires local authorities to regulatory or replace their Local Plans and Unitary Development Plans with Local administrative Development Frameworks. provision) The Local Development Framework will replace policies in the Wolverhampton Unitary Development Framework, which was adopted in June 2006. Subject (e.g. Spatial plan. transport) Period covered To 2026. by the plan Frequency of As required. updates Area covered by The area covered by the local planning authority of Wolverhampton the plan City Council (see Figure 1.1 ) Purpose and/or The Local Development Framework consists of a folder of objectives of the documents which will set out how Wolverhampton may change in plan the period to 2026. The LDF will set out the spatial planning strategy for Wolverhampton, bringing together other strategies and programmes in the city, including the Sustainable Community Strategy (SCS) and strategies for the economy, housing, education, health, social inclusion, waste, biodiversity, recycling and transport. Plan contact Ian Culley, Planning Policy and Area Plans, Wolverhampton City point Council Telephone number: 01902 555636 Email: [email protected]

1.5 Sustainable Development: Context

The UK’s sustainable development agenda is shaped by the Sustainable Development Strategy, Securing the Future (March, 2005) and in planning terms by PPS1 Sustainable Development and PPS12 Local Spatial Planning . A common thread which runs throughout all three policy drivers is the importance of sustainable communities.

1.5.1 The UK Sustainable Development Strategy

Securing the Future (2005) suggests that for a policy to be sustainable, it must respect all five of the principles set out in Figure 1.3 . The strategy also recognises that some policies, while underpinned by all five principles, will place more emphasis on certain principles than others. The strategy states that “we want to achieve our goals of living within environmental limits

and a just society, and we will do it by means of a sustainable economy, good governance, and sound science” ( Securing the Future , 2005).

Figure 1.3: Five guiding principles of the UK Sustainable Development Strategy, Securing the Future (2005)

Securing the Future (2005) states that the five guiding principles are promoted through four shared priorities:

“Sustainable Consumption and Production – Sustainable consumption and production is about achieving more with less. This means not only looking at how goods and services are produced, but also the impacts of products and materials across their whole lifecycle and building on people’s awareness of social and environmental concerns. This includes reducing the inefficient use of resources which are a drag on the economy, so helping boost business competitiveness and to break the link between economic growth and environmental degradation.

“Climate Change and Energy – The effects of a changing climate can already be seen. Temperatures and sea levels are rising, ice and snow cover are declining, and the consequences could be catastrophic for the natural world and society. Scientific evidence points to the release of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide and methane, into the atmosphere by human activity as the primary cause of climatic change. We will seek to secure

a profound change in the way we generate and use energy, and in other activities that release these gases. At the same time we must prepare for the climate change that cannot now be avoided. We must set a good example and will encourage others to follow it.

“Natural Resource Protection and Environmental Enhancement – Natural resources are vital to our existence and that of communities throughout the world. We need a better understanding of environmental limits, environmental enhancement and recovery where the environment is most degraded to ensure a decent environment for everyone, and a more integrated policy framework.

“Sustainable Communities – Our aim is to create sustainable communities that embody the principles of sustainable development at the local level. This will involve working to give communities more power in the decisions that affect them and working in partnership at the right level to get things done. The UK uses the same principles of engagement, partnership, and programmes of aid in order to tackle poverty and environmental degradation and to ensure good governance in overseas communities. These priorities for action within the UK will also help to shape the way the UK works internationally, in ensuring that our objectives and activities are aligned with international goals.”

The Sustainability Appraisal that will be carried out for the Local Development Documents of the Wolverhampton LDF will incorporate these key principles at the heart of the assessment process.

1.5.2 Sustainable Communities

As demonstrated by Section 1.5.1 Sustainable Communities are an integral part of the UK Sustainable Development Strategy. Annex A of the Sustainable Development Strategy sets out a definition and identifies components of sustainable communities. This is presented in Table 1.2 :

Table 1.2: Definition and Components of Sustainable Communities, as set out in Annex A of the UK Sustainable Development Strategy

Definition and Components of Sustainable Communities (Defra, 2006)

Sustainable communities embody the principles of sustainable development. They:

balance and integrate the social, economic and environmental components of their community; meet the needs of existing and future generations; and

respect the needs of other communities in the wider region or internationally also to make their communities sustainable.

Sustainable communities are diverse, reflecting their local circumstances. There is no standard template to fit them all. But they should be:

(1) ACTIVE, INCLUSIVE AND SAFE – fair, tolerant and cohesive with a strong local culture and other shared community activities;

(2) WELL RUN – with effective and inclusive participation, representation and leadership;

(3) ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE – providing places for people to live that are considerate of the environment;

(4) WELL DESIGNED AND BUILT – featuring a quality built and natural environment;

(5) WELL CONNECTED – with good transport services and communication linking people to jobs, schools, health and other services;

(6) THRIVING – with a flourishing and diverse local economy;

(7) WELL SERVED – with public, private, community and voluntary services that are appropriate to people’s needs and accessible to all; and

(8) FAIR FOR EVERYONE – including those in other communities, now and in the future.

The evidence base and review of plans, policies and programmes for the SA process (Chapters 4 to 15 ) carefully considers each of these issues to enable an effective and appropriate level of sustainability appraisal that demonstrates a strong awareness of the approach to sustainable communities outlined in Table 1.2 .

1.6 Integrated Sustainability Appraisal of the Wolverhampton LDF

The Local Development Documents that make up the LDF will be subject to the following assessments:

! Sustainability Appraisal; and

! Strategic Environmental Assessment.

Strategic Environmental Assessment is a systematic process for evaluating the environmental consequences of proposed plans or programmes to ensure environmental issues are fully integrated and addressed at the earliest appropriate stage of decision making. Sustainability Appraisals are broader and promote sustainable development through integration of environmental, social and economic considerations into the plan's preparation.

Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) has been introduced to the UK through the EU Directive 2001/42/EC. In England the Directive has been transposed via the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004. Sustainability Appraisal (SA) is a requirement of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and applies to Development Plan Documents. Guidance documents on SA ( Section 2.1 ) have combined these processes to allow for a single appraisal to be carried out by integrating the requirements of SEA into the SA process. SA should fulfil the requirements for producing an Environmental Report under the Annex 1 of the SEA Directive (see Appendix A ).

In the interests of efficiency, following guidelines and the desire to avoid duplication, the two assessment types, SA and SEA, have been integrated under the umbrella of SA and are being undertaken simultaneously for the LDDs. This Scoping Report explains how the integration can be achieved and includes information about the proposed reporting procedure so that each assessment method is clearly referenced and recorded whilst being part of an integrated process.

An Equalities Impact Assessment (EqIA) is a way to make sure plan makers consider the likely impact of policies on equalities issues, identify any unmet needs, and provide means to improve services where appropriate. An EqIA has been incorporated into the SA processes for the LDF.

The SA will also draw on other studies carried out locally and sub-regionally, such as transport assessments and the Strategic Flood Risk Assessment for the city and wider Black Country area.

Throughout this report, unless otherwise specified, SA refers to the integrated process incorporating SA, SEA and EqIA.

The combined approach has been prepared on the following principles:

! SA Objectives (see Chapter 16 ) will be used for appraising potential impacts of the proposed LDD’s policies on various environmental, social and economic components;

! Baseline information (see Chapter 4 to 15 ) including environmental, social and economic factors will be collected and collated. Predicted effects of the LDD’s policies will be measured against the baseline;

! Alternative options for the plan will be appraised using the SA Framework for the LDD (see Chapter 16 ), combined with careful consideration of baseline conditions;

! Preferred options for the plan will be appraised using the SA Framework for the LDD, combined with careful consideration of baseline conditions; and

! Indicators will be devised for all SA Objectives to assist in monitoring delivery of the plan and any significant effects thereof, as well as providing depth to the SA Framework as an appraisal tool.

1.7 Consultation on the Scoping Reports

Public involvement with decision making through consultation is a key element of the SA process. The SEA Regulations require consultation with statutory consultation bodies but not full consultation with the public at the scoping stage. Regulation 12 (5) of the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (SI 1633) states that:

“When deciding on the scope and level of detail of the information that must be included in the report the responsible authority shall consult the consultation bodies.”

The statutory consultation bodies are English Heritage, the Environment Agency and Natural England. Other bodies will be consulted as appropriate – see Section 18 . For each of the LDDs’ Scoping Reports, consultees will have at least five weeks within which to respond.

More details on the arrangements for consultation on the Scoping Reports are presented in the relevant section of the Part 2 Scoping Reports.

This Part 1 Scoping Report consultation document is designed to supplement, and provide a background to the information presented in the Part 2 Scoping Reports developed for each LDD.

2 Approach to Sustainability Appraisal

2.1 Introduction

Wolverhampton City Council has appointed UE Associates to assist with the SA process in order to fully integrate sustainability considerations within the production of the Local Development Framework. The Council, statutory consultees, other environmental bodies and working groups will be engaged in the SA process at different times.

This chapter sets out the broad approach to the SA process, the stages involved, and highlights where the relevant information can be found in this Scoping Report and appendices.

2.2 Best Practice Guidance

The approach for carrying out the SA of the LDF’s Local Development Documents is based on current best practice and the following guidance:

! Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (September 2005): A Practical Guide to the SEA Directive; 8

! Planning Advisory Service (December 2007): Local Development Frameworks Guidance on Sustainability Appraisal; 9 and

! Department for Communities and Local Government (CLG; September 2009): CLG Plan Making Manual: Sustainability Appraisal.

The CLG Plan Making Manual replaces the previous SA guidance for LDFs ( Sustainability Appraisal of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Documents )10 . The Manual accompanies the revised Planning Policy Statement 12 and brings together council experience, advice and guidance in developing sustainability appraisals for local development frameworks. The Manual is web-based, and can be accessed at:

http://www.pas.gov.uk/pas/core/page.do?pageId=152450

2.3 Stages of SA

Table 2.1 provides a summary of the key stages for the SA and illustrates the SA Stages set out in the CLG Plan Making Manual. Those shaded in green indicate the stages covered in

8 The SEA guidance can be found on : http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/planningandbuilding/practicalguide 9 The PAS guidance can be found on: http://www.pas.gov.uk/pas/core/page.do?pageId=225072 10 ODPM (November 2005) Sustainability Appraisal of Regional Spatial Strategies and Local Development Documents. The previous RSS/LDF SA guidance can be found on: http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/planningandbuilding/pdf/142520

this report. The second column indicates where information about each respective stage can be found in this document.

Table 2.1: SA stages presented in the CLG Plan Making Manual, and stages covered in this Scoping Report.

Setting objectives and developing the baseline Location in the report Identifying relevant policies, plans and programmes Chapters 4 to 15 and Appendix C Collecting baseline information Chapters 4 to 15 Identifying sustainability issues Chapters 4 to 15 Identifying appraisal objectives Chapter 16 Consulting on the scope of the sustainability appraisal Consulting on the scope of the sustainability appraisal Chapter 18 Refining options and assessing effects Test the development plan document objectives against the N/A sustainability appraisal objectives Develop and refine the options for the development plan N/A document Predict and appraise the significant effects of the options N/A Consider ways of mitigating adverse effects and maximising N/A beneficial impacts Propose measures to monitor the significant effects of N/A implementing the development plan document SA and Publication/Submission The sustainability appraisal report N/A Consulting on the draft plan and sustainability appraisal report N/A Making significant changes N/A The sustainability appraisal report at submission stage N/A (Regulation 30) SA and examination Examination and adoption N/A Monitoring significant effects N/A

This Scoping Report is the main output of the first stages of the SA process presented above. Chapter 17 discusses in more detail the subsequent stages and outputs of the SA process that will be carried out following the conclusion of consultation on the Scoping Report.

3 Presenting the SEA scoping information

3.1 Sustainability themes

The policy and plan review, the baseline data, and the identification of sustainability issues (i.e. the first three stages in Table 2.1 above) have been presented through a series of sustainability themes that incorporate the required topics listed in the SEA Directive as well as other topics such that a broad and effective range of sustainability themes are covered by the appraisal process. The selected sustainability themes incorporate the SEA ‘topics’ derived from Annex I(f) of the SEA Directive (see Appendix A ):

! biodiversity flora and fauna;

! population;

! human health;

! soil;

! water;

! air;

! climatic factors;

! material assets;

! cultural heritage (including architectural and archaeological heritage);

! landscape; and

! the inter-relationship between these factors.

Table 3.1 presents full details about each sustainability theme in terms of content and specifically, details of the required SEA topic.

Table 3.1: Sustainability themes

Sustainability Theme SEA topic included in What is Included in the sustainability theme Directive 2001/42/EC

Accessibility and Population Transportation infrastructure transportation Traffic flows Travel to work Public transport accessibility

Air quality Air Air quality management Air pollution sources Air quality hotspots

Sustainability Theme SEA topic included in What is Included in the sustainability theme Directive 2001/42/EC

Biodiversity and Biodiversity flora and Nature conservation designations geodiversity fauna Landscape features Key species Geological features

Climate change Climatic factors Greenhouse gas emissions by source Greenhouse gas emissions trends Climate change adaptation, including flooding

Economic factors Material assets Economic sectors Business start-ups Employment sectors Education and skills Sites and premises

Health Human health Health indicators Healthcare inequalities Sport, fitness and activity levels

Historic environment Cultural heritage Historic development of the city Designated and non designated sites and areas Townscape character and quality of built environment Archaeological assets

Housing Population House prices and affordability Material assets Housing quality and vacancy rates Homelessness

Material assets Material assets Energy Waste arisings and recycling rates Minerals Previously developed land

Population Population Population size and migration Population density Age structure Ethnicity

Quality of life Population Indices of Multiple Deprivation Health Unemployment Crime Recreation and amenity (including open space and green infrastructure)

Water and soil Water Water resources Soil Water quality Contaminated land

It is anticipated that presenting the information through this approach will help enable the reader to easily locate the SA information representing their specific areas of interest.

3.2 Presenting the policy and plan review, the baseline and the key environmental issues

Chapters 4 to 15 introduce a summary of the policy and plan review and the baseline data to be utilised throughout the SA process for each sustainability theme. The information presented in these chapters is of city-wide relevance.

To supplement the city-wide information presented in C hapters 4 to 15 , the Part 2 Scoping Reports will set out the key issues relevant to the spatial area covered by each DPD.

The following sections discuss the purpose of each of these tasks, how the information has been collected and summarised, and where additional information has been provided.

3.2.1 Policy and plan review

The DPDs that make up the LDF may be influenced in various ways by other policies, plans or programmes, or by sustainability objectives such as those laid down in strategies or legislation. The SA process will take advantage of potential synergies between these PPPs and address any inconsistencies and constraints.

Appendix C represents a comprehensive, accurate and concise list and evaluation of the key policies, plans and programmes that are likely to be relevant to the LDF and the SA process. Each PPP has been incorporated on the basis of how its objectives and sustainability requirements affect, or is affected by, the Local Development Framework. The review of PPPs is presented according to the sustainability themes discussed in Section 3.1.

A summary of the PPP review is presented in the following chapters under each sustainability theme. The PPP summaries should be read alongside the more detailed information presented in Appendix C .

3.2.2 Baseline data collection

The following chapters present a review of current environmental and social-economic conditions affecting Wolverhampton by sustainability theme.

The currency, resolution and presentation of data are crucial to an effective baseline. Information selected seeks to:

! Inform the situation at the local level;

! be the most up to date; and

! be fit for purpose.

One of the purposes of consultation on the Scoping Reports is to seek views on whether the data selected is appropriate. The baseline has been constructed utilising a wide range of data sources, with GIS (Geographic Information System) data where available. The data has been presented through tables, text and GIS mapping, and all data sources have been referenced as appropriate. Meaningful data for the purposes of comparison and to address the topics being assessed as part of the SA processes is not always available. Where data is available at a local scale it has been used to inform the Scoping process.

Chapters 4 to 15 summarise the baseline data for Wolverhampton for each sustainability theme.

3.2.3 Key sustainability issues

Drawing on the PPP review and the baseline data presented in Chapters 4 to 15, the Part 2 Scoping Reports set out a series of key sustainability issues relevant to each DPD. The identification of these sustainability issues will help the SA process focus on the key problems and opportunities which may be addressed through each DPD.

The key issues will inform the development of the SA Frameworks that will be utilised to assess the policies and proposals included in each DPD.

4 Accessibility and transport

4.1 Summary of policy and plan review

European and UK transport policies and plans place emphasis on the modernisation and sustainability of the transport network. Specific objectives include reducing pollution and road congestion through improvements to public transport, walking and cycling networks and reducing the need to travel. National policy also focuses on the need for the transport network to support sustainable economic growth.

The PPPs highlight that congestion and poor air quality resulting from transport are key issues for a number of locations in the wider West Midlands area. Regional and local plans therefore focus on appropriate design, location and layout of development, increasing investment in infrastructure, improving the quality and accessibility of public transport, supporting walking and cycling, and enhancing road safety.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to accessibility and transport.

4.2 Summary of baseline data

Wolverhampton’s position at the heart of the West Midlands region provides it with excellent regional and national transport links by road and motorway. With the M54 bordering the city to the north, and the M6 located to the east of the city, which links the M5 to the south, road links to the rest of the country are good – particularly to Birmingham, Staffordshire, Shropshire and the North West. The strategic highway network within Wolverhampton comprises the central Ring Road and a series of radial routes, including the A449, A460 and A454 which link the city centre directly to the motorway network ( Figure 4.1 ).

Figure 4.1: Local rail, Metro and motorway network (Source: Wolverhampton City Council).

The 2006 Congestion Management Study for the West Midlands revealed that between 1996 and 2006, traffic in the metropolitan area increased by 15%. Over the next decade it is predicted to rise by a further 11%, leading to some 20–25% more congestion and delay 11 .

Car ownership in Wolverhampton is lower than metropolitan area and national averages – 64.9% of households in Wolverhampton have access to a car or van, compared to 73.2% for both the West Midlands and England (based on 2001 census data). Reflecting wider trends, as affluence has increased, so has car ownership – in 1991 only 58.7% of households in Wolverhampton owned a car – and this pattern is likely to continue, with the potential to have further impacts on congestion in the city.

A biennial study 12 into the number of vehicles entering and leaving Wolverhampton city centre (undertaken as part of the Local Transport Plan monitoring process) has revealed that there

11 West Midlands Local Transport Plan – Gridlock or Growth? Congestion Management Study, 2007 [online]. Available from: http://www.westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/associated-groups/tif/gridlock-or-growth-congestion-managemen/ [Accessed 7 June 2010].

has been a slight decrease in inbound and outbound traffic since 2002. This is illustrated in Figures 4.2 and 4.3 .

Figure 4.2: 24-hour flows into Wolverhampton City Centre (Source: Wolverhampton Cordon Survey, 2006).

Figure 4.3: 24-hour flows out of Wolverhampton City Centre (Source: Wolverhampton Cordon Survey, 2006).

Wolverhampton is well served by rail and light rail services. Whilst only one fully developed rail corridor exists in the city, around ten trains per hour run throughout the day, and the city has direct links to a wide range of destinations, including Birmingham, Stoke, Manchester, Liverpool, London, Wales, Bristol and the south west of England. Passenger rail services on the Walsall to Wolverhampton Line were however withdrawn in December 2008 13 . This has led to journey times from the city by rail to Walsall increasing from 14 minutes to approximately

12 Wolverhampton Cordon Surveys, 1998-2006 [online]. Available from: http://www.westmidlandsltp.gov.uk/traffic-survey- data/wolverhampton/ [Accessed 7 June 2010]. 13 With the exception of one train a day between Walsall and Wolverhampton. Services were previously hourly.

one hour, as trains between Wolverhampton and Walsall now travel via Sandwell and Dudley, Birmingham New Street and Aston.

The city is well linked by tram, and Midland Metro runs frequent services between Wolverhampton and Birmingham Snow Hill (every eight minutes during the day) via Bilston, Wednesbury, West Bromwich and the Jewellery Quarter. A number of plans are currently proposed to extend the Metro, the most advanced of which includes the extension of the line to Birmingham New Street Station.

Wolverhampton is equipped with a comprehensive bus service to all parts of the City and further afield to adjoining districts (including Birmingham, Bloxwich, Codsall, Dudley, Walsall, Bridgnorth, Cannock, Stafford and Telford). Wolverhampton’s bus network is used on a greater proportion of journeys than the regional and national averages, with 12.78% of people travelling to work by bus ( Figure 4.4 and Table 4.2 ). Average distance travelled to work is also lower for Wolverhampton residents than is the case regionally and nationally. This is largely due to low car ownership and comparatively short distances to centres.

100%

Other 80% On Foot Bicycle Taxi 60% Car Passenger Car Driver Motorcycle 40% Bus / Coach Train 20% Metro / Light Rail Work at home

0% Wolverhampton West Midlands England

Figure 4.4: Travel to work in Wolverhampton (Source: National Statistics Online, 2001).

Table 4.1: Travel to work in Wolverhampton.

TRAVEL TO WORK in Wolverhampton Regional / National Feature Indicator Quantified data Comparator Trends Source Percentage of 2001 2001 No data National Statistics people aged 16-74 Wolverhampton: West available Online. 2001 Census who usually travel 1.73 Midlands: 1.52 Data [online]. Available to work by train England: 4.23 from: http://www.statistics.go v.uk [Accessed: 4 June 2010] Percentage of 2001 2001 No data National Statistics people aged 16-74 Wolverhampton: West available Online. 2001 Census who usually travel 12.78 Midlands: 8.75 Data [online]. Available to work by bus, England: 7.51 from: mini bus or coach http://www.statistics.go v.uk [Accessed: 4 June 2010] Percentage of 2001 2001 No data National Statistics people aged 16-74 Wolverhampton: West available Online. 2001 Census who usually travel 55.00 Midlands: Data [online]. Available Travel to to work by driving 59.97 from: Work a car or van England: 54.92 http://www.statistics.go v.uk [Accessed: 4 June 2010] Percentage of 2001 2001 No data National Statistics people aged 16-74 Wolverhampton: West available Online. 2001 Census who usually travel 10.09 Midlands: 9.52 Data [online]. Available to work on foot England: 9.99 from: http://www.statistics.go v.uk [Accessed: 4 June 2010] Average distance 2001 2001 No data National Statistics (km) travelled to Wolverhampton: West available Online. 2001 Census fixed place of work 9.62 Midlands: Data [online]. Available 11.87 from: England: 13.31 http://www.statistics.go v.uk [Accessed: 4 June 2010]

Despite the good bus and tram network in Wolverhampton, the following table highlights that in comparison to the rest of the West Midlands metropolitan area, the city has fairly poor accessibility between residential areas and local amenities by non-car modes. This may be because of issues such as service frequency, cost, personal security, reliability of services and availability of travel information. A lack of suitable, connected routes across the city for pedestrians and cyclists is also a problem, with busy roads (including the ring road) representing a further barrier. Walking and cycling networks for the city centre are shown in Figure 4.5 .

Table 4.2: Percent of households within 10 minutes of a local, district or main centre on a weekday by public transport or walking.

ACCESSIBILITY in Wolverhampton

Metropolitan area 14 Feature Indicator Quantified data Comparator Source % of households within 10 minutes of a Wolverhampton: LTP2 area: West Midlands local, district or main centre on a weekday 50.1% 57.1% Local Transport by public transport or walking: Plan 2006-11 Between 8 and 9am % of households within 10 minutes of a Wolverhampton: LTP2 area: West Midlands local, district or main centre on a weekday 47.8% 53.8% Local Transport Accessibility by public transport or walking: Plan 2006-11 Between 1 and 2pm % of households within 10 minutes of a Wolverhampton: LTP2 area: West Midlands local, district or main centre on a weekday 39.2% 45.4% Local Transport by public transport or walking: Plan 2006-11 Between 7 and 8pm

14 The West Midlands Metropolitan area LTP2 includes the following local authorities: Birmingham, Coventry, Dudley, Sandwell, Solihull, Walsall and Wolverhampton.

Figure 4.5: Walking and cycling networks in Wolverhampton City Centre (Source: Wolverhampton City Council).

Poor accessibility is closely linked to the sectors of the population who suffer social exclusion, including people with learning difficulties, people with mobility problems, senior citizens, and people without English as their first language. For example, as the LTP2 acknowledges, people with disabilities are particularly at risk of social exclusion, making transport arrangements an important issue. People with learning difficulties need easy-to-understand information, want to feel secure and safe from harassment, require training and support in the use of transport and help from frontline staff who understand their needs. They may also need more flexible, specialised transport services.

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5 Air Quality

5.1 Summary of policy and plan review

A number of objectives have been established in relation to air quality at both the European and the UK level (emanating from the 1996 EC Directive). This includes the setting of targets for reducing emissions of specific pollutants to minimise negative impacts on health and the environment. At the sub-regional and city level emphasis is placed on reducing emissions of

nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) and particulates (PM 10 ), particularly from the transport sector.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to air quality.

5.2 Summary of baseline data

Air quality in many parts of Wolverhampton is poor. The two principal air pollutants affecting

air quality in the city are nitrogen dioxide (NO 2) and particulate matter (PM 10 ), which are both

primarily caused by emissions from vehicles. Whilst the main concentrations of NO 2 and PM 10 are adjacent to transport corridors, particularly along several of the radial routes, and in the city centre, monitoring has shown that the whole of Wolverhampton is affected. To address this, the whole of Wolverhampton was declared an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) for

both NO 2 and PM 10 in March 2005. The purpose of the AQMA is to address the causes of

pollution so that national NO 2 and PM 10 quality objectives (annual mean and hourly) 15 are met.

Following the declaration of the AQMA, a further assessment was carried out on 2006 and an

Air Quality Action Plan was implemented. Analysis of monitoring data showed that NO 2 concentrations had reduced from 2003 peak levels but continued to exceed the objectives at

certain locations within the City. The levels of PM10 fell below the objectives during 2004 and 2005 and projected figures indicated a continuing downward trend. The Action Plan listed 23 actions and incorporated the Local Transport Plan into the long term air quality strategy.

The subsequent 2007 Air Quality Progress Report highlighted that monitoring data showed

the levels of NO 2 and PM 10 increased contrary to the projected concentrations suggested in the 2006 assessment. On this basis, parts of the city centre and certain busy road junctions

continued to exceed the objectives for NO 2 and PM 10 . The subsequent Air Quality Progress

Report in 2008 suggested that levels of NO 2 and PM 10 remained stable.

The 2009 Air Quality Updating and Screening Assessment 16 states that there continue to be a

number of sites in the city exceeding the air quality objective for NO 2. Data collected from automatic monitoring stations and the diffusion tube sites has identified that the annual mean

NO 2 objective is being exceeded at the following locations:

15 The UK Government adopted two air quality objectives for nitrogen dioxide, an annual mean concentration of 40 )g m-3 , and a 1- hour mean concentration of 200 )g m-3 not to be exceeded more than 18 times per year. The objectives are to be achieved by the end of 2005. 16 WCC (2009) 2009 Air Quality Updating and Screening Assessment for Wolverhampton City Council

! Broad Street;

! Lichfield Street, Bilston;

! Lichfield Street, Wolverhampton city centre;

! The Rock, Tettenhall;

! Penn Road/Goldthorne Hill Junction;

! Pipers Row;

! Princess Street;

! Queen Street;

! Ring Road, St Peter’s;

! Stafford Rd/Church Road junction;

! Stafford Road Vine Island; and

! Willenhall Road/Neachells Lane Junction.

Whilst there continue to be exceedances of the NO 2 objective in 2008, there were no

recorded exceedences of SO 2 or PM 10 objectives during 2008.

Figure 5.1 highlights the locations where exceedances of the NO 2 objective occurred in 2008.

Figure 5.1: Locations where exceedances of the NO 2 objective occurred in 2008

6 Biodiversity and Geodiversity

6.1 Summary of policy and plan review

The objectives of policies and plans at all levels focus on the conservation of biological diversity (including a reduction in the current rate of biodiversity loss), and the protection and monitoring of endangered and vulnerable species and habitats. Emphasis is also placed on the ecological importance of brownfield sites, geodiversity, and enhancing areas of woodland and other important habitats. The integration of biodiversity considerations into all environmental and socio-economic planning is strongly advocated.

At a regional level, the recently West Midlands RSS Phase 2 Revision 17 sought to encourage local authorities within their plans and programmes to ‘…encourage the maintenance and enhancement of the Region’s wider biodiversity resources, giving priority to: the protection and enhancement of specific species and habitats of international, national and sub-regional importance as identified in the West Midlands Regional Biodiversity Audit; Local Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAPs) and other BAPs those that receive statutory protection and the biodiversity enhancement areas (policy QE7). The Regional Biodiversity Strategy’s five main priorities for biodiversity in the West Midlands include: maintaining and improving the condition of habitats, species and ecosystems; developing and area based approach to restoring wildlife; monitoring the condition of habitats, species and ecosystems; re-connecting and integrating action for biodiversity with other environmental, social and economic activity; and coping with the impacts of climate change.

At a local level, the Birmingham and Black Country Biodiversity Action Plan sets the priorities for biodiversity for the city, drawing on the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. Biodiversity is also a key consideration of the PPPs promoting an improvement in green infrastructure networks, including the developing Environmental Infrastructure Guidance for the Black Country.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to biodiversity and geodiversity.

6.2 Summary of baseline data

6.2.1 Biodiversity

Although largely urban, Wolverhampton contains pockets of green space, enclosed countryside and areas of open water which provide a variety of habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species. The city contains one 48ha Local Nature Reserve (LNR), Smestow Valley, which is located to the west of Dunstall Park. Smestow Valley supports a wide variety of woodland, grassland and wetland habitats, and acts as an important wildlife corridor. This runs alongside the Valley Park pathway (a disused railway) and the Staffordshire and

17 West Midlands Regional Assembly (October 2008): Regional Spatial Strategy for the West Midlands Phase Two

Worcestershire Canal, giving it an almost urban feel ( Figure 6.1 ). LNRs, as well as providing a degree of protection for species and habitats, are also important resources for helping enhance the understanding of biodiversity assets in the city. Recognising this importance, Wolverhampton City Council is seeking to declare the following sites as LNRs by 2011: Northcote Farm, Bushbury; parts of Goldthorn Wedge, including Ashen and Park coppices; Brook Point Pool; Monmore Green disused railway; Ladymore Pool; Peascroft Wood; Springvale Park; and the Gorge, Cinder Hill 18 .

The city also contains various non-statutory nature conservation designations (which are relevant for both biodiversity and geodiversity). Habitats include various grasslands which grow on a range of substrates (including man-made ones along railways and embankments), occasional woodland (including fragments of ancient woodland), wetland (canals and wet- grassland) sites and interesting geological exposures at old quarry sites. In total, 277ha of land is classified in this way. There are two principle designations used to identify non- statutory sites in this way.

SINCs (Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation) represent sites and species with a sub- regional or City-wide character. In total the SINCs in Wolverhampton make up 148ha of land. These sites represent just 2% of Wolverhampton’s total land area - a lower proportion than any other West Midlands LPA.

The second type of non-statutory nature conservation designation is known as a SLINC (Sites of Local Importance for Nature Conservation). These cover 129ha of more locally (i.e. not necessarily of City-wide significance) important sites for wildlife and geology.

It is particularly important to protect and properly manage the 40 SINCs and 41 SLINCs in Wolverhampton as there are no nationally important or European designated sites in the city. Information concerning SINCs and SLINCs is managed by EcoRecord on behalf of Wolverhampton City Council.

Figure 6.1: View of Wolverhampton City Centre from Smestow Valley LNR (Source: WCC 19 ).

18 Wolverhampton City Council, Unitary Development Plan 2006-2011 [online]. Available from: http://www.cartoplus.co.uk/wolverhampton_2/text/07naturecon.htm#7.6 [Accessed: 2 June 2010]. 19 Wolverhampton CC – Smestow Valley: Local Nature Reserve [online]. Available from:

In addition to the above-mentioned designated biodiversity sites, the following landscape features are considered of importance for wildlife in Wolverhampton due to their ability to act as corridors and reservoirs for biodiversity, as well as giving local communities access to wildlife on their doorstep: linear tree belts and individual trees of special interest; plantations and semi-natural or ancient woodlands; river/stream corridors; canals; ponds, lakes and reservoirs; natural green spaces; redundant railway corridors; hedgerows; old walls, including slag walls; roadside verges; active rail transport corridors; urban ‘wasteland’ sites characterised by limiting environmental conditions (especially at early stages of succession); and gardens and allotments. Many of these features reflect the fact that brownfield sites and disused and underutilised buildings are often important habitats for flora and fauna.

The city’s Local Nature Reserve, SINCs, SLINCs, wildlife corridors and location of key species are shown in Figure 6.2 below.

http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/4D795E66-33F5-452B-A375-2C3A8D817D84/0/smestow_valley.pdf [Accessed 2 June 2010].

Figure 6.2: Location of Biodiversity Assets in Wolverhampton

The Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 (as amended), the Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc.) Regulations 2007, and the Badgers Act 1992 give varying degrees of legal protection to a

number of threatened wildlife species. Protected flora and fauna known to occur in Wolverhampton include great-crested newt ( Triturus cristatus ), black redstart ( Phoenicurus ochruros ), badger ( Meles meles ), bats ( Pipistrellus pipistrellus , Plecotus auritus and Myotis daubentoni ), otter ( Lutra lutra ), water vole ( Arvicola terrestris ) and floating water plantain (Luronium natans ). Legislation usually protects the plants or animals themselves and breeding or resting sites, but feeding areas and habitats occupied for only part of the year (which are essential to the survival of the species) are not legally protected.

The Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) for Birmingham and the Black Country is used to help coordinate the identification, monitoring and improvement of biodiversity in the sub-region. The BAP, which was produced in 2000, identifies various main habitat types (Woodland, trees and scrub; Grassland; Heathland, Wetland, Farmland, Urban wasteland, Parks, playing fields and public open space, Gardens and allotments and Buildings and the built environment) and species (both protected and non-protected) which are either locally or nationally important, and sets out a course of action with targets for their conservation and improvement.

The full list of BAP priority species can be found in the BAP 20 . Some of those which occur in Wolverhampton include: badger (Meles meles), skylark (Alauda arvensis), kestrel ( Falco tinnunculus ), black redstart ( Phoenicurus ochruros ), wall brown butterfly ( Lasiommata megera ), various bat species, great crested newt ( Triturus cristatus ), common toad ( Bufo bufo ), common frog ( Rana temporaria ), bluebell ( Hyacinthoides non-scripta ), and bilbury ( vaccinium sp )21 .

6.2.2 Geodiversity

The geodiversity of Wolverhampton is a vital asset for the city and the Black Country as a whole – in the past, the diversity of mineral wealth including coal, ironstone, limestone, fireclays, brick clays, roadstone, moulding sand, building sand, gravels and building stones gave rise to major industries such as mining, iron and steel production, foundries, glass manufacture and brickmaking 22 . Biodiversity also relies on geology for diversity of habitat, and the ecosystem and soil is the link between them. Reflecting this, geodiversity and biodiversity are at the heart of the proposals for the ongoing Black Country Urban Park initiative 23 .

The geology of the Black Country region is dominated by rocks of the Carboniferous Period laid down approximately 300 million years ago. The geology of Wolverhampton itself is complex, with a combination of Triassic and Carboniferous geology. Specifically, there is Bunter and Keuper sandstone in the west of the city (which acts as a valuable reservoir of underground water), red mudstone in the centre, and a wealth of Upper and Middle coal measures in the east (see Figure 6.3 ). There is also an area of dolerite deposits, with the town

20 Birmingham and Black Country Biodiversity Action Plan. Available from : http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/urbanwt/ecorecord/bap/acrobat/framewk.pdf [Accessed 7 June 2010] 21 Wolverhampton LDF Annual Monitoring Report 2008: Appendix 1 [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/3E1BEFFF-62E8-4314-B9AF-9D25424839F5/0/ldf_amr_2006.pdf [Accessed: 7 June 2010]. 22 Black Country Geodiversity Action Plan [online]. Available from: http://www.laws.sandwell.gov.uk/ccm/content/urbanform/planninganddevelopment/ldf/supplementary-planning- documents/black-country-geodiversity-action-plan.en [Accessed: 7 June 2010]. 23 Whilst a £50 million National Lottery bid was unsuccessful in December 2007 the Urban Park initiative is continuing to progress.

of Wednesfield situated on top of a hill – the result of dissection by the major upper tributaries of the River Tame 24 .

Figure 6.3: Geology of Wolverhampton and the surrounding area (Source: Black Country Geodiversity Action Plan).

24 The Wildlife Trusts: The Physical Geography and Geology of the Black Country

7 Climate Change

7.1 Summary of policy and plan review

Climate-related PPPs focus on both mitigating the causes of climate change and adapting to the effects of climate change. Commitments reducing greenhouse gas emissions range from the international level to the sub-regional level. The PPPs address policy development across all sectors and at all levels, combining both demand management (reduced energy consumption and increased efficiency of use) and supply side measures (low carbon options including fuel mix and renewa bles). A number of the PPPs state specific targets to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases. This is led at the national level by the Climate Change Act, which sets a legally binding target of at least a 34 percent cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 and at least an 80 percent cut by 2050 against a 1990 baseline.

Adaptation measures proposed by the PPPs include a presumption against development in flood risk areas, appropriate design of new development, the promotion of new infrastructure such as sustainable urban drainage systems and improved maintenance to help address the changes that are likely to occur as a result of climate change. Through this approach PPS25 (Development and Flood Risk) seeks to ensure that flood risk is taken into account at all stages in the planning process to avoid inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding, and to direct development away from areas of highest risk.

At a local level, a key document is the Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan for Wolverhampton 2009-2012. This sets out how the City intends to fulfil the Wolverhampton Declaration on Climate Change signed in late 2006, through presenting a plan for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Wolverhampton and for enabling the city to adapt to the effects of climate change. Under the Strategy and Action Plan, a local target has been set to reduce

the city’s CO 2 emissions by at least 35% by 2026, with a shorter-term target of a 12% reduction by 2012 (from 2005 levels).

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to climate change.

7.2 Summary of baseline data

7.2.1 Potential effects of climate change

Climatic and anthropogenic-induced climate change is a relevant issue in Wolverhampton. Locally defined levels of emissions are seen as contributing to national and international changes in climate with implications for a range of environmental and socio-economic receptors.

In June 2009 the outcome of research on the probable effects of climate change in the UK was released by the UK Climate Projections (UKCP09) team 25 . UKCP09 gives climate information

25 The data was released in June 2009: See: http://ukclimateprojections.defra.gov.uk/

for the UK up to the end of this century and projections of future changes to the climate are provided, based on simulations from climate models. Projections are broken down to a regional level across the UK and are shown in probabilistic form, which illustrate the potential range of changes and the level of confidence in each prediction.

As highlighted by the research, the effects of climate change for the West Midlands’ climate by 2050 for a medium emissions scenario are likely to be as follows:

! Under medium emissions, the central estimate of increase in winter mean temperature is 2.1ºC; it is very unlikely to be less than 1.2ºC and is very unlikely to be more than 3.2ºC. A wider range of uncertainty is from 0.9ºC to 3.5ºC.

! Under medium emissions, the central estimate of increase in summer mean temperature is 2.6ºC; it is very unlikely to be less than 1.2ºC and is very unlikely to be more than 4.4ºC. A wider range of uncertainty is from 1ºC to 4.8ºC.

! Under medium emissions, the central estimate of increase in summer mean daily maximum temperature is 3.6ºC; it is very unlikely to be less than 1.3ºC and is very unlikely to be more than 6.5ºC. A wider range of uncertainty is from 1.1ºC to 7.2ºC.

! Under medium emissions, the central estimate of increase in summer mean daily minimum temperature is 2.7ºC; it is very unlikely to be less than 1.1ºC and is very unlikely to be more than 4.8ºC. A wider range of uncertainty is from 1ºC to 5.3ºC.

! Under medium emissions, the central estimate of change in annual mean precipitation is 0%; it is very unlikely to be less than –5% and is very unlikely to be more than 6%. A wider range of uncertainty is from –6% to 6%.

! Under medium emissions, the central estimate of change in winter mean precipitation is 13%; it is very unlikely to be less than 2% and is very unlikely to be more than 27%. A wider range of uncertainty is from 1% to 30%.

! Under medium emissions, the central estimate of change in summer mean precipitation is –17%; it is very unlikely to be less than –37% and is very unlikely to be more than 6%. A wider range of uncertainty is from –39% to 14%.

Presented below are a series of graphs to illustrate UKCP09 information for the West Midlands region over a wider timescale to the end of the century. This is presented in five (10, 33, 50, 67 and 90%) probability levels for each 30-year time period:

Figure 7.1: Changes in annual mean temperature in the West Midlands to 2099 as a result of a medium emissions scenario

Figure 7.2: Changes in summer mean precipitation in the West Midlands to 2099 as a result of a medium emissions scenario

Figure 7.3: Changes in winter mean precipitation in the West Midlands to 2099 as a result of a medium emissions scenario

(Source for all three figures: UK Climate Projections 09

http://ukclimateprojections.defra.gov.uk/content/view/1562/499/ )

Resulting from these changes, the study has suggested that a variety of risks exist for the West Midlands. The risks relevant to Wolverhampton resulting from climate change include as follows:

! Increased incidence of heat related illnesses and deaths during the summer;

! Increase incidence of illnesses and deaths related to exposure to sunlight (e.g. skin cancer, cataracts);

! Increased incidence of pathogen related diseases (e.g. legionella and salmonella);

! Increase in health problems related to rise in local ozone levels during summer;

! Increased risk of injuries and deaths due to increased number of storm events;

! Effects on water resources from climate change;

! Reduction in availability of surface water in reservoirs and rivers for abstraction in summer;

! Adverse effect on water quality from watercourse levels and turbulent flow after heavy rain and a reduction of water flow;

! Increased risk of flooding, including increased vulnerability to 1:100 year floods;

! Changes in insurance provisions for flood damage;

! A need to increase the capacity of wastewater treatment plants and sewers;

! A need to upgrade flood defences;

! Increased likelihood of summer droughts and soil and water deficits, leading to demand for increased irrigation;

! Soil erosion due to flash flooding;

! Loss of species that are at the edge of their southerly distribution;

! Spread of species at the northern edge of their distribution;

! Deterioration in working conditions due to increased temperatures;

! Changes to global supply chain;

! Increased difficulty of food preparation, handling and storage more difficult due to higher temperatures;

! An increased move by the insurance industry towards a more risk-based approach to insurance underwriting, leading to higher cost premiums for local business;

! Increased demand for air-conditioning;

! Increased drought and flood related problems such as soil shrinkages and subsidence;

! Risk of rail tracks buckling due to increased temperature and road surfaces melting more frequently; and

! Flooding of roads and railways.

7.2.2 Greenhouse gas emissions

In relation to greenhouse gas emissions, Wolverhampton has significantly lower per capita emissions than regional (West Midlands) and national averages. As Table 7.1 highlights, in

relation to CO 2 emissions by end user, the proportion of emissions from industrial/commercial as a percentage of total emissions in the city (41%) is higher than from domestic sources (37%) and road transport (21%). The proportion of emissions from industry and commercial has however been decreasing since 2005. Likewise, whilst between 2005-7 (the latest data available) total emissions from domestic and road transport fell, the proportion of emissions from these sources increased from 57% to 59%.

Overall, CO 2 emissions in the city have been falling broadly in line with regional and national averages.

26 Table 7.1: CO 2 emissions in Wolverhampton by source 2005-2007 (kilotonnes CO 2 and %)

Industry and Domestic Road Transport Total commercial 663 548 321 2005 1,535 43% 36% 21% 640 558 311 2006 1,511 42% 37% 21% 605 538 313 2007 1,459 41% 37% 22%

27 Table 7.2: Per capita CO 2 emissions in Wolverhampton 2005-2007 (tonnes CO 2)

Per capita Per capita Per capita emissions emissions emissions Wolverhampton West Midlands UK 2005 6.5 8.3 8.7 2006 6.4 8.3 8.6 2007 6.2 8.2 8.4

26 Source: Defra (November 2009): 2007 Local Authority Carbon Dioxide figures: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/climate_change/gg_emissions/uk_emissions/2007_local/2007_local.aspx [Accessed 7 June 2010]. 27 Source: Defra (November 2009): 2007 Local Authority Carbon Dioxide figures: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/statistics/climate_change/gg_emissions/uk_emissions/2007_local/2007_local.aspx [Accessed 7 June 2010].

8 Economic Factors

8.1 Summary of policy and plan review

The improvement and maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment are key aims of the strategies at UK and European levels. Other objectives include improvements to the education system to increase the skill levels of both children and adults; and improved productivity and innovation, particularly with regards to technology. At a regional and local level emphasis is placed on community regeneration; improvements to the cultural and visitor economy; inward investment; and the use of Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to improve efficiency and skills. One of the major aims of the Regional Economic Strategy is to close the West Midlands’ £10 billion output gap, by seeking to raise output per head in the region to at least the average for the UK as a whole 28 .

8.2 Summary of baseline data

8.2.1 Economic performance

Wolverhampton, with the rest of the Black Country and other parts of the West Midlands, is experiencing an output gap where consumption of resources exceeds production. In 2006 the output gap for the Black Country was £2.6bn, an increase of £0.2bn over the previous year 29 . This is attributed to too few people in employment, a general shortage of skills and an economy lacking in dynamism.

Table 8.1: VAT Registrations and deregistrations in Wolverhampton 2001-2007

VAT registrations VAT deregistrations 2007 560 435 2006 550 425 2005 520 455 2004 575 480 2003 605 465 2002 540 445 2001 525 475

As highlighted in Table 8.1 , and Figure 8.1 in the period from 2001 to 2007 (the latest year figures are available) VAT registrations in Wolverhampton were overall similar to regional and national averages. In 2007, the year for which latest data is available, VAT Registrations as a proportion of stock in the city (10.1%) were higher than regional averages (9.4%) and similar to national averages (10.2%) 30 .

28 Regional Economic Strategy Delivery Framework, http://www.advantagewm.co.uk/Images/WMES_Delivery_tcm9-9540.pdf 29 Black Country Observatory, 2006. Black Country Quarterly Economic Barometer Q3 2006. 30 ONS, 2010. Official Labour Market Statistics: Local Authority Profiles [online]. Available from:

Figure 8.1: Comparison of business formation in Wolverhampton and the West Midlands region (source West Midlands Regional Economic Assessment: Wolverhampton 31

In the same period, deregistrations as a percentage of stock were higher in the city than West Midlands and Great Britain averages. Whilst overall business survival rates in the city saw improvements in the period to 2006/7, it is likely that deregistrations have increased since due the current economic climate. It should be however be noted that in 2009, a higher proportion of businesses in Wolverhampton were less than three years old compared to regional and national averages ( Table 8.2 ). This suggests that a significant number of start up enterprises at located in the city.

Table 8.2: Enterprises by age of business (2009) 32

Wolverhampton West Midlands England All VAT and/or PAYE Based Enterprises 6,025 177,195 1,844,030 Less than 2 Years Old 18% 15.7% 16.8% 2 to 3 Years Old 15.3% 14.6% 15% 4 to 9 Years Old 27.6% 27% 27.7% 10 or More Years Old 39.1% 42.6% 40.5

The location of key business and industrial areas in Wolverhampton are shown in Figure 8.2 .

https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/2038431971/report.aspx [Accessed: 8 June 2010] 31 West Midlands Regional Observatory (October 2008) West Midlands Regional Economic Assessment Wolverhampton 32 Source: Neighbourhood Statistics [accessed 8 June 2010]

Figure 8.2: Key business and industrial areas in Wolverhampton

8.2.2 Employment and earnings

According to the Official Labour Market Statistics, employment in Wolverhampton is provided in a range of sectors and occupations, as highlighted in Tables 8.3 and 8.4 .

Table 8.3: Employment by occupation (October 2008 to September 2009)

Wolverhampton Wolverhampton West Midlands GB (%) (numbers) (%) (%) Managers and senior 10,100 10.7 14.3 15.7 officials Professional 8,600 9.1 13.0 13.4 occupations Associate professional 12,000 12.7 12.7 14.8 & technical Administrative & 12,700 13.5 11.3 11.2 secretarial Skilled trades 11,800 12.5 11.1 10.4 occupations Personal service 9,900 10.5 9.2 8.5 occupations Sales and customer 7,600 8.0 7.1 7.5 service occupations Process plant & 8,900 9.4 8.4 6.8 machine operatives Elementary occupations 11,900 12.7 12.4 11.3 Source: NOMIS, Official Labour Market Statistics

Table 8.4: Employment by sector (2008)

Wolverhampton West Midlands GB Manufacturing 14.0% 13.8% 10.2% Construction 4.6% 4.9% 4.8% Distribution, hotels and restaurants 23.3% 23.6% 23.4% Transport and communications 5.2% 5.8% 5.8% Financial, IT and other business services 17.9% 18.6% 22.0% Public admin, education & health 30.7% 27.0% 27.0% Other services 4.2% 4.6% 5.3% Tourism-related 6.4% 7.4% 8.2% Source: NOMIS, Official Labour Market Statistics

Wolverhampton has high unemployment rates compared to regional and national averages. This has been discussed further in Section 14.2.2 .

According to the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings 2009, median weekly earnings for full time workers working in the city were £447 compared to £456 for that in the West Midlands and £490 in Great Britain 33 . Average incomes in the city are therefore lower than regional and

33 ONS, 2010. Official Labour Market Statistics: Local Authority Profiles [online]. Available from: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/2038431971/report.aspx [Accessed: 8 June 2010]

national averages – and workers in Wolverhampton receive 9% less than the average worker in Great Britain.

As highlighted by Table 8.5 , low skill levels are a particular issue in Wolverhampton. A significantly higher proportion of the city’s working age population has no qualifications (28.2%) compared to West Midlands (16.0%) and Great Britain (12.4%) averages. A particular issue is the trend that the proportion of unqualified people in Wolverhampton has been increasing since 2000, when 20.2% of the population had no qualifications. This can be compared to the West Midlands and Great Britain, which have seen year on year reductions in the proportion of the labour force without qualifications since 2000, falling from 20.1% and 16.7% respectively 34 .

Table 8.5: Qualifications in Wolverhampton (January 2008-December 2008) 35

Wolverhampton West Midlands Great Britain NVQ4 and above 20.4% 24.5% 29.0% NVQ3 and above 33.3% 42.3% 47.0% NVQ2 and above 51.4% 61.6% 65.2% NVQ1 and above 65.2% 76.4% 78.9% Other 6.6% 7.6% 8.7% qualifications No qualifications 28.2% 16.0% 12.4%

Whilst overall qualification levels in Wolverhampton are low, trends in educational attainment seen in secondary education are extremely encouraging. Between 1997 and 2007, the proportion of 15-16 year olds achieving 5+ A*-C GCSEs increased by 83% in Wolverhampton, compared to improvements of 48% for the West Midlands, and 38% for England. Likewise, in 2009, a higher proportion of students achieved 5+ GCSEs at grade A*-C (70.9%) in Wolverhampton than regional (70.1%) and national averages (69.8%) 36 .

34 ONS, 2010. Official Labour Market Statistics: Local Authority Profiles [online]. Available from: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/2038431971/report.aspx [Accessed: 8 June 2010] 35 ONS, 2010. Official Labour Market Statistics: Local Authority Profiles [online]. Available from: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/2038431971/report.aspx [Accessed: 8 June 2010] 36 Source: Neighbourhood Statistics. Figures are for September 2008-August 2009.

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9 Health

9.1 Summary of policy and plan review

National and regional health related PPPs focus on improving rates of infant mortality and life expectancy; reducing work related illness and accidents; significantly improving levels of sport and physical activity, particularly among disadvantaged groups; promoting healthier modes of travel; supporting the public to make healthier and more informed choices in regards to their health; improving accessibility to healthcare and leisure/recreational facilities; and reducing health inequalities, particularly for children and older people.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to health.

9.2 Summary of baseline data

Indicators of health and wellbeing are poor in Wolverhampton when compared with regional and England averages, and health in the city reflects its status as the 28th most disadvantaged local authority in England. Whilst male and female life expectancy has increased over the last decade, life expectancies for both sexes remain lower than national averages, particularly for men. Men from the least deprived areas in the city can expect to live 7.4 years longer than those in the more deprived areas, whilst in women this difference is 5 years 37 .

Whilst early death rates from heart disease, stroke and from cancer have been falling, and are slightly better than Black Country averages, they remain significantly above the West Midlands and England average. The percentage of obese children and the estimated percentage of obese adults are high and the estimated proportions who eat healthily (fruit and vegetables) and are physically active are low. There are also higher levels of smoking related deaths than the England average. Linked to this, rates of recorded and self-reported ill-health are high.

Infant deaths are considerably higher than regional and national averages, and low birthweight is a long-running and significant problem for the city. The most recent Start to Life Health Equity Audit (January 2008) 38 showed an improvement in the number of wards in the city where low birth weight was below the national average. The five wards where lower than average rates of low birth weight remain include Tettenhall Wightwick, Merry Hill, Spring Vale, Wednesfield North and Fallings Park.

Reflecting these health issues, priorities for Wolverhampton from the Joint Strategic Needs Assessment are: obesity, teenage pregnancy and reducing the impact of alcohol 39 .

37 Department of Health, Wolverhampton Health Profile 2009. The profile can be accessed via the following weblink: http://www.apho.org.uk/default.aspx?QN=HP_FINDSEARCH 38 WCC (2008)Health Equity Audit, Start to Life- A Re-Audit: http://www.wolverhamptonhealth.nhs.uk/Library/Documents/Corporate/Board_papers_Feb2008/Agenda%20Item%2011%20Appen dix%20i%20Start%20to%20life%20Health%20Equity%20reAuditfinal.pdf 39 WCC, Wolverhampton PCT (July 2008), Wolverhampton Partnership, Wolverhampton Joint Needs Assessment: http://www.wton- partnership.org.uk/UserFiles/Microsites/wfpin/File/joint%20startegy.pdf

Figure 9.1 illustrates an overall summary of health in Wolverhampton.

Figure 9.1: Health profile of Wolverhampton (Source: Department of Health) 40 .

As suggested by Figure 9.2 , significant health inequalities exist across Wolverhampton. Health is a particular issue in the more deprived communities in the south-east of the City, and health within Bilston East, East Park and Ettingshall is poor compared to the rest of Wolverhampton. Only Penn and Tettenhall Regis (two of the least deprived wards in the west of the city) have health levels comparable with regional and national averages.

40 Department of Health – Wolverhampton Health Profile 2009 [online]. Available from: http://www.apho.org.uk/resource/view.aspx?RID=71295 [Accessed 9 June 2010].

Health in Wolverhampton

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% Poor 50% Fair 40% Good 30% 20% 10% 0% Park Penn Oxley England Bilston E Bilston N Bilston Graiseley Hill Merry East Park East Wolver'ton Blakenhall Ettingshall St. Peter's St. Spring Vale Spring Bushbury N Bushbury S Bushbury Heath Town Heath Tettenhall R Tettenhall W Midlands W Wednes'd N Wednes'd S Wednes'd Tettenhall W Tettenhall Fallings Park Fallings

Figure 9.2: General health in Wolverhampton by ward (Source: ONS).

Sport England’s Active People Survey (2009) 41 revealed Wolverhampton to be ranked 327 th out of the 354 local authorities in England in terms of the percentage of adults (16+) participating in at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity sport and active recreation (including recreational walking) on three or more days of the week - a rank of 1 reflects the most active authority area. Compared to 20.1% for the West Midlands and 21.6% nationally, only 17.5% of Wolverhampton’s adults undertake such levels of activity (the average for the Black Country is almost identical at 17.75%). In comparison to other local authorities, the rank of Wolverhampton in relation to this indicator has improved from 347 th out of 354 local authorities in England in the 2006 Active People Survey.

The percentage of adults participating in at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity sport and active recreation on three or more days of the week is shown for each area in Wolverhampton below ( Figure 9.3 ).

41 Sport England Active People Survey 2009 [online]. Available from: http://www.sportengland.org/research/active_people_survey/active_people_survey_3.aspx [Accessed 9 June 2010].

Figure 9.3: Participation in sports and active recreation in Wolverhampton (Source: Sport England 2006).

The age profile of Wolverhampton (see Section 13.2 on population) reveals that compared to the national average, a larger proportion of the population is under 14 years old or over 65 (with fewer people in the 35-60 range). These are the age groups most vulnerable to health issues. In addition, population dynamics mean that the age structure of the city is changing – between 1991 and 2001 the number of young people fell, with an increase in the over-75 age group. Reflecting this trend, currently in Wolverhampton there are now more people aged 60 or above than there are those below 15, and this ageing of Wolverhampton’s population is set to continue. This will increase the dependency ratio of the city, with the potential to place pressures on community and health services (the location of the latter being shown in Figure 9.4 ).

Figure 9.4: Location of healthcare services in Wolverhampton.

Table 9.1: Health in Wolverhampton.

HEALTH in Wolverhampton

Regional / Quantified National Feature Indicator data Comparator Trends Source Life Life expectancy at birth - 2006-08 2006-08 2001-03 Neighbourhoo Expect- Males W’hampton: W. Mids: 77.17 W’hampton:74. d Statistics, ancy 75.72 England: 77.93 4 http://www.nei West Midlands: ghbourhood.st 75.6 atistics.gov.uk England: 76.23 [accessed 9 June 2010]. Life expectancy at birth - 2006-08 2006-08 2001-03 Females W’hampton:80. W. Mids: 81.57 W’hampton: 5 England: 82.02 80.1 West Midlands: 80.4 England: 80.72

Infant The number of infant deaths 2003-05 2002-04 2002-04 Black Country Mortality (deaths under 1 year) per W’hampton: Black Country: W’hampton:8.0 Observatory, 1,000 live births 7.9 6.5 West Midlands: 2006. Black 2003-05 6.9 Country Health W. Mids: 6.8 England: 5.2 Barometer England: 5.1 2006.

Road The rate of people of all 2003-05 2004 1997 Black Country Accident ages killed or seriously W’hampton:0.5 Black Country: Black Country Observatory, Casualties injured in road traffic 0.4 0.8 2006. Black accidents per 1,000 W. Mids: 0.5 Country Health population England: 0.6 Barometer 2006.

Sport / % of adults (16+) 2009 2009 2006 Sport England. Fitness participating in at least 30 W’hampton: Black Country: W’hampton:16. Active People minutes of moderate 17.5 17.75 1 Survey 2009 intensity sport and active W. Mids: 20.1 Black Country: [online]. recreation (including England: 21.6 16.0 Available from: recreational walking) on West Midlands: www.activepeo three or more days of the 20.6 plesurvey.com week England: 21.4 [Accessed: 9 June 2010]

Obesity % of the population 2003 2003 Stable in the Black Country classified as obese W’hampton: Black Country: West Midlands Observatory, 23.6 24.0 since 2001 2006. Black W. Mids: 26.5 Country Sports England: 22.6 Barometer 2006.

Cancer Directly age standardised 2005-07 2005-07 2003-05 Black Country mortality rates per 100,000 W’hampton: W’hampton: Observatory, population for cancer (all 129.9 England: 115.5 131.8 2006. Black malignant neoplasms) at all 2002-04 Country Health ages under 75 years Black Country: Barometer 135 2006 and W. Mids: 122 Department of 2003-05 Health – England: 119 Wolverhampto n Health Profile 2009.

HEALTH in Wolverhampton Coronary Directly age standardised 2005-07 2005-07 2003-05 Black Country Heart mortality rates per 100,000 W’hampton: England: 79.1 W’hampton: Observatory, Disease population for coronary 99.9 113.9 2006. Black and heart disease and stroke 2002-04 Country Health Stroke related conditions Black Country: Barometer (circulatory disease) at all 117 2006 and ages under 75 years W. Mids: 103 Department of 2003-05 Health – England: 90.5 Wolverhampto n Health Profile 2009. Smoking Smoking related deaths per 2005-07 2005-07 2003-05 Department of 100,000 population aged 35 W’hampton:24 England: 210.2 W’hampton:26 Health – or over 0.1 2.6 Wolverhampto England: 234.4 n Health Profile 2007 and 2009.

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10 Historic Environment

10.1 Summary of policy and plan review

Historic environment priorities from international to local level include protecting designated resources and their settings (such as listed buildings, conservation areas, scheduled monuments, and registered parks and gardens); recognising the cultural aspects of landscape and establishing mechanisms for their protection against inappropriate development; recognising the potential value of unknown and undesignated resources; and preserving/enhancing sites and landscapes of archaeological and historic interest so that they may be enjoyed by both present and future generations.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to the historic environment.

10.2 Summary of baseline data

10.2.1 Context for the historic environment in Wolverhampton

The historic environment of Wolverhampton, which gives the city its sense of place and identity, is defined both by its individual heritage assets, designated and non-designated, and the setting of these assets through the city’s historic landscapes and townscapes. Although much of Wolverhampton’s history is considered rooted in the industrial age, archaeological finds suggest that Wolverhampton has been continually settled for approximately 6,000 years. The city was founded in 985 AD and the earliest surviving buildings and structures survive from Saxon times, approximately 1,000 years ago. The city prospered with the growth of the wool trade in the 13 th Century, and later the cloth trade, and by the early 18 th Century the town had a population of approximately 7,500.

The rapid growth and prosperity of Wolverhampton and its industry began in the latter years of the eighteenth century. The main industrial activities in Wolverhampton arose largely from the city’s natural resources, such as iron ore, coal and limestone, which was amenable to iron production and ironmongery and steelworks, and as early as the late 17th century Wolverhampton was noted for making steel buckles, sword hilts and steel jewellery. With the growth of the canal and railway network (constructed in the early 1770s and 1830s respectively), the city became prominent in the manufacture of a range of metal goods, and the city rapidly expanded and changed in form.

Whilst the industrial revolution destroyed evidence of a large proportion of Wolverhampton’s preindustrial history; it also created a wealth of new buildings and structures which are now some of the city’s greatest heritage assets. As is the case for the rest of the Black Country, Wolverhampton’s rich industrial heritage is a key factor in underpinning the unique character and distinctiveness of the area.

The decline of Wolverhampton’s industries in the latter half of the 20 th Century was accompanied by a modernising of housing, roads and shopping facilities, and large demographic changes, leading to significant changes in the townscape and built environment of the city. Prominent amongst this was the construction of the two-mile Ring Road (built in stages between 1960 and 1986) around the City Centre, which has dramatically transformed the public realm in this area.

In addition to the city’s built up areas, many of Wolverhampton’s open spaces also have a long history, containing woodlands and hedgerows which are evidence of management by farmers and landowners hundreds of years ago. There are also historic parks, gardens and green open spaces that continue to provide enjoyment for local people – East Park, West Park (which is Grade II listed), Bantock Park and Hickman Park, for example, were opened up in the late 19 th and early 20 th centuries to provide factory workers with opportunities for fresh air and exercise 42 .

10.2.2 Designated and non-designated features and areas

Many important features and areas for the historic environment in Wolverhampton are recognised through historic environment designations. These include listed buildings, Scheduled Monuments and Registered Parks and Gardens, which are nationally designated, and conservation areas, which are usually designated at the local level. English Heritage is the statutory consultee for certain categories of listed building consent and all applications for scheduled monument consent. The historic environment is protected through the planning system, via conditions imposed on developers and other mechanisms. The locations of listed buildings and conservation areas within the city can be seen in Figure 10.2 .

There are a total of 375 listed buildings in Wolverhampton. Two of these are Grade I listed (St Peters Church and Wightwick Manor), 23 are Grade II* listed and 350 are Grade II listed. Wolverhampton, like other local authorities, has also compiled ‘local list’ containing sites deemed to be of historic importance to local communities. The list currently contains 283 entries 43 including buildings, locally important parks, gardens and visible archaeological sites.

Conservation areas are areas of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. Conservation areas contain buildings, structures and other features of historic or architectural importance which, together with the open spaces between them, interact to create areas of special quality and interest 44 . Local authorities have the power to designate as conservation areas in any area of 'special architectural or historic interest' whose character or appearance is worth protecting or enhancing. This is judged against local and regional criteria, rather than national importance as is the case with listing. Conservation Area designation increases the local planning authority's control over demolition of buildings and over certain alterations to residential properties which would normally be classed as 'permitted development' and not require planning permission. Wolverhampton’s first designations were made in 1972, and the City

42 The History of Wolverhampton – The City and its People [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhamptonhistory.org.uk/ [Accessed 9 June 2010]. 43 Wolverhampton CC – Local List [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/environment/land_premises/conservation/buildings/local_list.htm [Accessed: 9 June 2010]. 44 Wolverhampton CC – Conservation Areas [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/environment/land_premises/conservation/areas/ [Accessed 9 June 2010].

now has 30 such areas (a relatively large number, representing 40% of the Black Country total), including stretches of canal, industrial areas and Victorian suburbs 45 . The location of conservation areas in Wolverhampton are shown in Figure 10.2 .

Information on all known archaeological sites and finds in Wolverhampton can be found on the Black Country Sites and Monuments Record. Included on the list are four scheduled monuments, which are sites of national importance and protected by the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. These include the following sites:

! Cross shaft in St Peter’s churchyard;

! Churchyard cross at St Bartholomew’s churchyard, Penn;

! Lady Godiva’s churchyard cross in St Bartholomew’s churchyard, Penn; and

! The cross in St Mary’s churchyard, Bushbury.

The Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest was first published by English Heritage in 1988. Although inclusion on the Register brings no additional statutory controls, registration is a material consideration in planning terms. Parks and gardens are registered as: Grade I, which are parks and gardens deemed to be of international importance; Grade II*, which are parks and gardens deemed to be of exceptional significance; and Grade II, which are deemed to be of sufficiently high level of interest to merit a national designation. There are two Registered Parks and Gardens in the city:

! West Park (Grade II); and

! Wightwick Manor Gardens (Grade II)

Since 2008, English Heritage has released an annual Heritage at Risk Register. The Heritage at Risk Register highlights the Grade I and Grade II* listed buildings, and scheduled monuments, wreck sites and registered parks and gardens in England deemed to be ‘at risk’. The 2009 Heritage at Risk Register highlighted that following buildings and sites are deemed to be at risk:

! The Greyhound and Punchbowl Inn (Formerly Stoke Heath Manor House), High Street, Bilston (Grade II* listed);

! Graiseley Old Hall, Carlton Road (Grade II* listed); and

! Cross shaft in St Peter's Churchyard (Scheduled Monument) 46 .

45 Wolverhampton CC – Conservation Areas [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/environment/land_premises/conservation/areas/ [accessed 9 June 2010]. 46 Source: Heritage at Risk Register 2009, http://risk.english-heritage.org.uk/2010.aspx, [accessed 9 June 2010]

Figure 10.1: Designated cultural heritage assets in Wolverhampton.

Figure 10.2: Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas in Wolverhampton.

It should be noted that not all of Wolverhampton’s overall historic environment resource is subject to statutory designations, and non-designated features comprise a large part of what people have contact with as part of daily life – whether at home, work or leisure. For example,

although not listed, many buildings are of historic interest, and which are seen as important by local communities. An example of this in Wolverhampton is faith buildings.

Also of major significance for Wolverhampton’s historic environment is the canal network - a unique cultural heritage asset which often defines the townscape and built environment of the city. Once used primarily for industry, in recent years there has been a rapid growth in the use of the canal network for recreation and tourism, providing a valuable resource for economic regeneration and cultural and leisure activities. Though the Shropshire Union Canal and the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal are designated as a Conservation Area, no management appraisal has yet been scheduled, and only the locks of the Birmingham Canal (built in 1768) are protected. Reflecting the importance of the city’s canals, the Black Country is aiming to gain World Heritage Site status for its canal network. The next ‘Tentative List’ of possible sites for designation is due to be submitted by the UK Government to Unesco in 2011.

10.2.3 Historic landscape characterisation

The historic environment is closely linked to the townscape character, local distinctiveness and the quality of the public real. Recognising these influences, the Black Country Historic Landscape Characterisation has been carried out by the Black Country Archaeology Services in association with English Heritage and the Black Country Authorities. The Study seeks to act as a tool in understanding the landscape and the townscape of the Black Country, through placing it in the context of the historic development of its constituent parts. The purpose of the Characterisation is to assist the sensitive management of the physical environment in the future 47 .

As part of the Historic Landscape Characterisation, the landscape of Wolverhampton has been divided into twelve Character Areas, the spatial coverage of which are presented in Figure 10.3 . A summary profile of each Character Area is presented in Table 10.1 . A detailed profile of the twelve Character Areas can be found at the WCC website at: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/environment/land_premises/conservation/archaeology/ .

47 Black Country Archaeology (December 2008) The Black Country: A Historic Landscape Characterisation First Report

Figure 10.3: Wolverhampton Character Areas (Source Wolverhampton City Council)

Table 10.1: Summary profiles of the twelve Character Areas located in Wolverhampton

Character Area Description

WV01: This area represents the commercial and industrial core of the city of Wolverhampton City Wolverhampton, and almost half of its area is given to industrial purposes, Centre & Industrial the majority of which is currently the result of mid to late 20th century Districts development. In the south-west of the Character Area, the commercial centre of the city is serviced by the convergence of roads, railways and canals. The Character Area as a whole is largely surrounded by residential suburbs. WV02: This area is dominated by 20th century residential neighbourhoods and forms Wolverhampton the outer suburbs of the city of Wolverhampton. Its western edge forms the Outer Western boundary with Staffordshire, while outside its south-eastern limits are the Suburbs older residential suburbs of the city. Almost three-fifths of land in the Character Area is residential, although it also contains more land given to recreational purposes than any other part of Wolverhampton. WV03: South Bilston This area is dominated by industrial sites, almost all of them developed in the & Ettingshall 20 th century. It includes the commercial centre of Bilston, and more open land than in any other Wolverhampton Character Area — accounting for a quarter of its area. Crossed by numerous major roads, railways and canals, the area also includes some small residential enclaves. Nevertheless, the industrial nature of the Character Area distinguishes it from the residential districts which surround it. WV04: Ettingshall This small Wolverhampton character area is overwhelmingly residential (i.e. Park & Lanesfield more than four-fifths of its area), and this aspect of its character distinguishes it from industrial districts located immediately to its north and east, alongside a canal and railway. However, it is in some senses a continuation of residential areas to the south, which are on the other side of the local government boundary with Dudley. The dominant housing type is mid 20 th century detached, much of which was built on former coal mines or agricultural land. WV05: Fallings Park This area includes the north-eastern residential suburbs of Wolverhampton: & Wednesfield North almost two thirds of its area is taken by housing, the majority of which originates in the first three decades of the 20 th century. This character of mainly pre-Second World War housing is not only unusual in the Black Country (only 3 out of 56 Black Country Character Areas are of this type), but it distinguishes the area from more industrial districts to the south, and suburbs of later origin to its north and west. WV06: North Bilston, This area is generally residential — with more than two-thirds1 of its area Portobello & accounted for by housing. However it is nevertheless situated in the core of Moseley the Black Country, being largely built on former colliery land, and now surrounded by industrial areas on three sides. Like much of the Black Country, the modern landscape of the character area is overwhelmingly of mid to late 20 th century origin. WV07: Wednesfield This area is generally industrial — with three-fifths of its area accounted for South by factories, workshops and warehouses, and a further fifth by open land. Among the twelve Character Areas in Wolverhampton, this is one of the least diverse in terms of its modern use, with only three different types of land use accounting for nearly all of the area. The eastern edge of the area forms the boundary between Wolverhampton and Walsall, and on the other three sides it is bordered by areas of more residential character. WV08: Bradley This small area is typified by mid to late 20 th century housing, which makes up three-fifths of its area. Although the area adjoins industrial land to the north, its character of modern settlement is continued in the landscape to the south: it exists as a separate area partly as a result of having local authority boundaries on three sides. These boundaries themselves coincide with the lines of former or current railways and canals.

Character Area Description

WV09: Ashmore Park This area is overwhelmingly residential (housing occupies three-quarters of its area), and also represents a landscape created in the immediate post-war 20 th century. In many ways, these are characteristics shared by the area to the east (see Bentley Character Area Profile), over the boundary between Wolverhampton and Walsall. The area can otherwise be distinguished from the areas to the south which are industrial in character, and from the older housing to the west. WV010: Pendeford, This area is one of relatively new housing: housing accounts for half of the Fordhouses & land and almost all of it was constructed in the second half of the 20th Bushbury century. The area also contains important sites of industry, public services and recreational facilities, which also all date to the period after 1938. It is the most recently developed suburb of the city of Wolverhampton, as well as its most northerly part. WV011: Blakenhall, Unusually for what is a large area of the Black Country, this suburban section Bradmore & Penn of Wolverhampton is dominated by housing from the early, pre-war part of the 20 th century; only two of the other 50 or so character areas in the Black Country can also be typified in this way. The area can be distinguished from commercial and industrial areas to its north and east. In the west and south the area shares a border with Staffordshire. WV012: The landscape in this area is unusual in the modern Black Country in that it Wolverhampton contains large numbers of residential properties originating from before the Inner Western 20th century (only one of the other 57 areas in the Black Country is Suburbs comparable in this respect). The largest single recreational element of the area, West Park, is a significant part of what remains of the Victorian townscape.

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11 Housing

11.1 Summary of policy and plan review

National and sub-regional objectives for housing include improvements in housing affordability; high quality housing; a more stable housing market; improved choice; location of housing supply which supports accessibility and patterns of economic development; and an adequate supply of publicly-funded housing for those who need it. In addition, new homes should meet high Code for Sustainable Homes ratings in terms of water and energy efficiency, and meet the government target of zero carbon emissions by 2016.

Local plans and strategies focus on the affordability of housing, the quality of housing, access to services, and meeting the housing needs of vulnerable people. The housing needs of elderly people, disabled people and gypsies, travellers and travelling show-people are also provided with a focus by national, regional and local policies.

11.2 Summary of baseline

The housing stock of Wolverhampton consists of approximately 104,000 dwellings, and in relation to housing quality and demand there is a large divide between different areas of the city. Average house prices are fairly similar throughout the northern, central and eastern parts of the city. In the affluent west however, within the Outer Suburban Area Housing Market Area 48 (see Figure 11.1 ) average house prices are substantially higher. The Northern Corridor Area has the lowest demand, which is partly due to poor housing quality, and evidence suggests many residents cannot afford the cost of necessary repairs and improvements, such as more efficient heating, better insulation and damp proofing. A quarter of the city’s council housing stock is found within the Northern Corridor.

Table 11.1: Households on the Local Authority Housing Register49

Wolverhampton West Midlands

April 2007 to March 2008 4,965 150,011

April 2006 to March 2007 6,029 121,053

April 2005 to March 2006 6,347 126,629

April 2004 to March 2005 6,603 126,543

April 2003 to March 2004 5,326 119,588

April 2002 to March 2003 4,371 107,155

April 2001 to March 2002 4,016 95,020

48 Five ‘Housing Market Areas have been identified in city by WCC Housing team, based on indicators such as house prices, housing tenure and type, empty properties and turnover. These areas are presented in Figure 11.1. 49 Source: Neighbourhood Statistics

The Bilston and Wednesfield Areas also have high proportions of council-owned properties. The most significant problem in the Inner City Core is the high number of vacant properties – 5.3% compared to the city average of 3.3%, whilst high levels of air pollution and crime have led to a poor living environment in some areas.

Figure 11.1: Examples of housing in Wolverhampton

Figure 11.2: Housing Market Areas (Source: Wolverhampton Housing Market Briefing 50 ).

House prices in Wolverhampton are lower than sub-regional, regional and national averages. In May 2010, average house prices were £109,907, in comparison to £115,808 in the Black Country, £135,697 in the West Midlands and £165,314 in England and Wales. Whilst, as highlighted by Table 11.2 , house prices have fallen since the peak of the market in 2007, there remains a significant demand for affordable housing in the city. This in part reflects the continuing disparity between house prices and average incomes. For example in 2009 the average annual income required to buy an average home in the city was £30,370, significantly higher than the average gross annual income of £18,658 51 . Affordability has been a particular problem for the Outer Suburban Area: at the height of house prices in 2007/8 the average annual income required in this area was 50,874. The most affordable area of the city is the

50 Wolverhampton CC, Housing Market Briefing, Issue 7 [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/housing/strategy/market_areas.htm [Accessed 16 July 2010]. 51 Shelter: Annual Housing Watch: http://localhousingwatch.org.uk/local_authority_detailed.php?la=319 [accessed 19 th July 2010]

Northern Corridor, where in 2007/8 an income of £28,463 was required to buy an average home 52 . This is still significantly above average incomes in the city.

Reflecting the demand for affordable housing, the latest available Strategic Housing Market Needs Assessment 53 suggests that there is an annual requirement for 621 affordable houses per annum in the city.

Table 11.2: House prices and sales in Wolverhampton 2003-2010 54

Date Average house price Sales

May 2010 £109,907 No data available

May 2009 £105,199 119

May 2008 £126,918 216

May 2007 £121,421 302

May 2006 £115,932 309

May 2005 £109,826 272

May 2004 £97,668 272

May 2003 £82,621 309

Figure 11.3: Average House Prices (Source: Wolverhampton Housing Market Briefing 55 ).

52 Wolverhampton CC, Housing Market Briefing, Issue 7 [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/housing/strategy/market_areas.htm [Accessed 16 July 2010]. 53 Ecotec (2008) Strategic Housing Market Assessment for the C3 Housing Market Area of the West Midlands 54 UK Land Registry. Land registry property prices [online]. Available from: http://www1.landregistry.gov.uk/houseprices/housepriceindex/report/ [Accessed: 19 July 2010]

Poor quality housing is common in many parts of the city, and has been linked to poor health, underachievement, and higher levels of unemployment. As a result, improving the condition of housing stock is one of the four key aims of the Wolverhampton Housing Strategy 2004/05 – 2006/07. The other aims were:

! To make all neighbourhoods safe, popular and desirable;

! To ensure there is an adequate supply of housing which meets needs and aspirations; and

! To ensure that people with special needs, or who are vulnerable, have appropriate housing and support.

Whilst the number of households accepted as homeless increased slightly from 2008 to 2009, there has been an overall reduction since 2006. Likewise, compared with regional and national averages, there is a relatively low proportion of people sleeping rough. However, the proportion of black and minority ethnic (BME) families registered as homeless is particularly high. Over a quarter of Wolverhampton’s population are from BME communities, and this is growing. Households in BME communities are larger: research shows that 25% of BME households contain five or more people and within the Indian community, 26% of households contain six or more people 56 . Future housing provision in the city will therefore need to consider these needs.

Table 11.3: Number of households accepted as homeless 57

Month and year Number of households accepted as homeless

April 2008 to March 2009 430

April 2007 to March 2008 416

April 2006 to March 2007 569

April 2005 to March 2006 457

April 2004 to March 2005 464

April 2003 to March 2004 202

April 2002 to March 2003 330

55 Wolverhampton CC, Housing Market Briefing, Issue 7 [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/62172B8D-763D-4855-8FFF-89F68DB35CD3/0/hmabriefing7.pdf [Accessed 10 June 2010]. 56 Wolverhampton CC, Housing Strategy Annual Review 2007/08 [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/housing/strategy/hr_0708.htm [Accessed 19 July 2010]. 57 Source: Neighbourhood Statistics [accessed 19 th July 2010] and Ecotec (2008) Strategic Housing Market Assessment for the C3 Housing Market Area of the West Midlands

12 Material Assets

12.1 Summary of policy and plan review

The material assets sustainability theme covers a range of policy areas, including waste management, minerals, energy production and previously developed land.

National level PPPs seek to the protect minerals resources and promote appropriate after uses for minerals workings. PPPs at all levels seek to promote the ‘waste hierarchy’. This seeks to prioritise waste management in the following order: reduction; reuse; recycling and composting; energy recovery; and disposal. National and regional PPPs also support the use of previously developed land. At the sub-regional level, the Black Country Joint Core Strategy includes policies for minerals and waste.

An expansion of renewable energy production is strongly promoted by European and national PPPs. Under EU Directive 2001/77/EC, member states are jointly required to achieve 22% of electricity production from renewable energies by 2010; with the UK-specific target is 10%. This has been reinforced by the UK’s recent Renewable Energy Strategy which seeks to produce 15% of electricity from renewable sources by 2020.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to material assets.

12.2 Summary of baseline data

12.2.1 Renewable Energy

There are two operational power stations in Wolverhampton, both of which are renewable energy generators 58 . These are described in Table 12.1 .

Table 12.1: Renewable energy power stations in Wolverhampton

Renewable energy power stations in Wolverhampton Company Address Installed Type Eligibility Name Generating Capacity Severn Trent Oxley Moor Road 625 KW Renewable Eligible for the renewables Water Ltd (Oxley) obligation 59 Wolverhampton Corporation Yard, 8,700 KW Renewable Eligible for the Climate Waste Services Crown Street Change Levy exemption Ltd (Bushbury South) (CCL Accredited generating station for Municipal & Industrial Waste)

58 Association of electricity producers - List of all UK power stations [online]. Available from: http://www.aepuk.com/faq_pdf/dukes_2005_5.11.xls [Accessed: 22 Oct 2007]. 59 The Renewables Obligation places a mandatory requirement for UK electricity suppliers to source a growing percentage of electricity from eligible renewable generation capacity (currently increasing to 15% by 2015).

12.2.2 Waste

Municipal and household waste arisings in Wolverhampton are greater than sub-regional, regional and national averages, and in 2008/9 134,473 tonnes of municipal waste were produced in Wolverhampton, 118,587 tonnes of which was household waste 60 . According the Wolverhampton City Council Waste Strategy, by 2026 it is predicted that household waste arisings for Wolverhampton will exceed 140,000 tonnes per annum 61 .

In 2008/9 the majority (58%) of Wolverhampton’s waste was incinerated, 12% was put to landfill and the rest (30%) was recycled or composted 62 . This compares with 2006/7 when 60% of the city’s waste was incinerated, 17% sent to landfill and 23% was recycled or composted. Waste from Wolverhampton is currently sent to landfill sites in Dudley and Staffordshire as there are no landfill sites in Wolverhampton. Compared to the other Black Country Authorities, Wolverhampton City Council is in a relatively strong position with regard to the trading of Landfill Allowances due to a recent reduction in reliance on landfill as a waste management option.

Table 12.2: Waste Arisings and Waste Management in Wolverhampton 2008/9 (tons) 63

Landfill Incineration Recycled Composted Other Total Waste with EfW Arisings Amount of 13,240.67 65,995.06 19,634.27 19,716.81 0.00 118,586.81 Household Waste Arisings Additional 32,13.91 11,808.41 761.54 0.00 102.44 15,886.30 Municipal Waste Arisings Total 16454.58 77803.47 20395.81 19716.81 102.44 134,473.11

In comparison with national and regional averages, household recycling rates in Wolverhampton in 2008/9 were unfavourable; the city recycles, composts and reuses 33% of its household waste in comparison to 36% regionally and 37% nationally 64 . WCC therefore established a strategy to achieve a city-wide recycling and composting rate exceeding 38% by 2010. This will be achieved by a combination of dry kerbside recycling, community bring sites, kerbside collections of green waste, increased recycling at Household Waste Recycling Centres and a proactive scheme of community involvement. For example, the Waste Partnership operates a series of Neighbourhood Recycling Initiatives across the City, allowing local communities to recycle materials that are not normally included as part of the fortnightly kerbside recycling service (such as cardboard, plastic bottles, metal, textiles, wood and WEEE

60 Defra - Municipal waste statistics 2008/9 [online]. Available from: http://www.defra.gov.uk/evidence/statistics/environment/wastats/bulletin09.htm [Accessed: 2 August 2010]. 61 Wolverhampton CC - A Municipal Waste Management Strategy for Wolverhampton 2006-2026 [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/FFB70FB2-8053-41D8-AB7C-3D1C0B08A68E/0/wastestategy.pdf [Accessed: 2 August 2010]. 62 Defra - Municipal waste statistics 2008/9 [online]. Available from: http://www.defra.gov.uk/evidence/statistics/environment/wastats/bulletin09.htm [Accessed: 2 August 2010]. 63 Wolverhampton City Council (December 2009) Annual Monitoring Report 2008-9 64 Defra: Municipal Waste Management Statistics: http://www.defra.gov.uk/evidence/statistics/environment/wastats/bulletin09.htm [accessed 22 July 2010]

materials). Collection events are co-ordinated by Local Neighbourhood Management Teams working closely with the Partnership.

Table 12.3: Household waste arisings and recycling rates in Wolverhampton 2006-2009 65 .

Kg of household waste collected per Percentage of household waste sent Year person in Wolverhampton for reuse, recycling or composting 2006/07 520 23.79%

2007/08 520 26.62%

2008/09 502 33.15%

There are two main household Waste Recycling Centres in Wolverhampton. These are located at: Anchor Lane, Lanesfield and Shaw Road, Bushbury. There are also 43 recycling “bring” sites in the city.

Figure 12.1: Recent trends related to household waste arisings and management 66

12.2.3 Minerals

As highlighted in the most recent Annual Monitoring Report for the City, Wolverhampton does not have any active or proposed primary aggregate schemes in operation, and no such applications have been received.

There are three known permanent facilities recycling Construction, Demolition & Excavation Waste in Wolverhampton. From the 2008 regional aggregates survey, the total CD&EW sold for aggregate purposes in Wolverhampton was approximately 105,000 tonnes 67 .

12.2.4 Previously developed land

In relation to the reuse of brownfield land, the proportion of completions of housing taking place on previously developed land has been consistently high in the city since 2001/2. Due to the city’s urban nature and the availability of previously developed land, the city wide

65 Defra: Municipal Waste Management Statistics: http://www.defra.gov.uk/evidence/statistics/environment/wastats/bulletin09.htm [accessed 22 July 2010] 66 Wolverhampton City Council (December 2009) Annual Monitoring Report 2008-9 67 Wolverhampton City Council (December 2009) Annual Monitoring Report 2008-9

target for new development is 99%. This target has been met in six of the previous eight years.

Table 12.4: Housing completions on brownfield sites 68 .

Percent of new homes built on previously Year developed land 2001/02 94%

2002/03 100%

2003/04 99%

2004/05 99%

2005/06 99%

2006/07 100%

2007/08 96%

2008/09 99%

68 Wolverhampton City Council (December 2009) Annual Monitoring Report 2008-9

13 Population

13.1 Summary of policy and plan review

PPPs on population include a range of different objectives, including tackling social exclusion, improving human rights and public participation, improving health, and ensuring every child has the chance to fulfil their potential by reducing levels of education failure, ill health, substance misuse, crime and anti-social behaviour. At the regional and local levels, support for cultural diversity and young people are key aims.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to population.

13.2 Summary of baseline data

13.2.1 Population size, change and density

Mid-year estimates from the Office of National Statistics (ONS) placed the population of Wolverhampton at 238,500 in mid 2009 69 . The City saw an overall population decline of 2.3% between the 1991 and 2001 Census (over 5,600 people) 70 , a trend largely caused by out- migration. Since 2001 however the population has increased slightly from 238,000. The population of Wolverhampton is expected to increase slightly (by 1.2% in the next 20 years, with a fall by 2028. This is due to population growth taking place among BME communities, with the biggest percentage increase amongst those of mixed ethnic background 71 .

Table 14.2: Estimated population change by ethnic group (Source: Ecotec (2007) Population and Household Forecasts for Black Country Districts with an Ethnic Group Dimension. Report to Wolverhampton City Council)

Population by ethnicity Year All White Mixed Indian Pakist- Other Black Other ani Asian 2008 238,000 177,500 7,300 32,050 4,500 3,100 11,950 1,750 2016 239,900 171,800 8,800 34,200 6,100 4,250 12,850 2,050 2026 241,800 163,600 11,150 36,150 8,550 5,900 14,200 2,400

Wolverhampton has a population density of 24 people per hectare, the second most densely populated area within the West Midlands (despite some falls in density in recent years). Figures 13.1 to 13.2 demonstrate Wolverhampton’s population density characteristics, including comparisons with national and regional rates, as well as variations within the City itself.

69 Neighbourhood Statistics - Resident Population Estimates 2009 [online]. Available from: http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/ [Accessed: 22 July 2010]. 70 Wolverhampton CC - West Midlands Region Local Authority Comparisons, [online]. Available from: www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/.../8CC47100-F703-4086-9EB7-601F50039053/0/census_local_authority_comparisons.pdf [Accessed 22 July 2010]. 71 Source: Ecotec (2007) Population and Household Forecasts for Black Country Districts with an Ethnic Group Dimension. Report to Wolverhampton City Council.

Population change

Figure 13.1: Population Density (Persons per Hectare) (Source: Great Britain Historical GIS Project) 72 .

Figure 13.2: Wolverhampton’s Population Density in comparison with other areas (Source: ONS) 73

72 Great Britain Historical GIS Project - A Vision of Britain Through Time: Wolverhampton [online]. Available from: http://www.visionofbritain.org.uk/data_theme_page.jsp?u_id=10076912&c_id=10001043&data_theme=T_POP [Accessed 22 July 2010]. 73 Wolverhampton CC – Local Authority Comparisons [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/8CC47100-F703-4086-9EB7- 601F50039053/0/census_local_authority_comparisons.pdf [Accessed 22 July 2010].

Figure 13.3: Population Density across Wolverhampton (Source: UE Associates / WCC) .

13.2.2 Age structure

There are number of variations from national population trends within Wolverhampton’s age structure. For example, the fall in the number of children in Wolverhampton over the last ten years contrasts with a slight increase nationally. Similarly, at a local level, the increase in the number of older people (65 and over) and the decrease in younger people (15-29 years) was more pronounced than that at a national level. Although the largest proportion of Wolverhampton’s population are in the 30-34 and 35-39 age groups, the number of people aged sixty or over (21.9%) has increased by nearly a fifth since 1991. This rise is most notable amongst those aged 75 and over – people in this age group now account for over 8% of the city’s population. This highlights the importance of sufficient community services in Wolverhampton to provide for an ageing population.

Aspects relating to Wolverhampton’s age structure are presented in Figures 13.4 to 13.6 .

Figure 13.4: Wolverhampton Population Pyramid (Source: ONS) 74 .

74 Neighbourhood Statistics - resident population estimates 2001-2005 [online].

Figure 13.5: Wolverhampton’s age structure from 1991 to 2001 (Source: Information & Resource Briefing) 75 .

Figure 13.6: Local and National Age-Population Change from 1991 to 2000 (Source: Information & Resource Briefing).

13.2.3 Ethnicity and Religion

Wolverhampton’s Black or Minority Ethnic background (BME) population is approximately 22% (52,545 people) which is considerably larger than the national figure of 9.1% ( Figure 13.7 ). This proportion is expected to grow over next two decades. Just under a quarter of the population classified themselves as being from a BME background (one in five people),

75 Wolverhampton CC – Census 2001, Information and Research Briefing [online].

the largest groups being Indian (12.3%) and Black (4.7%) 76 . Whilst the population classified as ‘White’ have the lowest unemployment rate, (3.4% of the total population in unemployment), people of ‘Black’ origin have the highest unemployed rate (6.7%), followed by people of ‘Chinese/Other’ and ‘Mixed’ classifications (just over 5%).

Linked to its multi-cultural population, Wolverhampton has a comparatively high level of religious diversity. For example, the proportion of people who are Sikh is much higher in Wolverhampton than in Birmingham (10.7% compared with 1.2%). This is influenced by the respective sizes of the Indian community in these two locations, which is much higher in Wolverhampton.

Figure 13.7: Percentage of people from different ethnic backgrounds – Local, Regional and National Ethnicity levels (Source: Information & Resource Briefing).

76 Wolverhampton CC – Census 2001, Information and Research Briefing [online].

14 Quality of life

14.1 Summary of policy and plan review

A wide range of objectives exist within policies and plans from a European to a local level with regards to Quality of Life. In particular these focus on improving social progress and social inclusion; reducing poverty; improving housing quality; preventing crime, anti-social behaviour and truancy; improving skill levels and employability; and regenerating communities.

The Equality Act 2006 sets out that people should not be disadvantage on the basis of age; disability; gender; proposed, commenced or completed gender reassignment; race; religion or belief and sexual orientation.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to Quality of Life.

14.2 Summary of baseline data

14.2.1 Indices of Multiple Deprivation

The Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) identifies levels of deprivation across England, providing a nationally recognised measure of relative deprivation. It is an index made up from seven indicators or ‘domains’: income; employment; health deprivation and disability; education; skills and training; housing; living environment and geographical access to services.

Based on the IMD 2007, Wolverhampton is ranked as the 28 th most deprived out of 354 Local Authority areas in England. This is an increase from a rank of 35 th in 2004 and 29 th in 2000 77 . As highlighted by Table 14.1 , the fall in rank is similar to other authorities within the West Midlands conurbation, with the exception of Solihull.

Table 14.1: Change in IMD rank between 2004 and 2007, West Midlands urban area Authorities 78

Local Authority 2004 Rank 2007 Rank Wolverhampton 35 28 Walsall 51 45 Birmingham 15 10 Solihull 183 199 Sandwell 16 14 Dudley 109 100

77 Wolverhampton City Council (June 2008): Information and Research Briefing: Indices of Deprivation 2007: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/68412ED8-286F-4F82-B7A5- 8CA67FA66462/0/InformationandResearchBriefingJun08200kb.pdf 78 Wolverhampton City Council (June 2008): Information and Research Briefing: Indices of Deprivation 2007: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/68412ED8-286F-4F82-B7A5- 8CA67FA66462/0/InformationandResearchBriefingJun08200kb.pdf

As highlighted by Figure 14.1 , which is shaded according to the ward rankings for IMD, deprivation in the city is unevenly distributed, with the areas with more severe deprivation representing much of the central area, as well as areas to the north and south-east. The least deprived areas are generally found in the more affluent west.

Figure 14.1: Index of Multiple Deprivation ranking for each ward in Wolverhampton. (Source: Wolverhampton City Council 79 ).

Many Wolverhampton communities are extremely deprived by comparison with communities elsewhere in England and wards within the 25% most deprived in the country include: Bilston East; Bilston North; Blakenhall; Bushbury North; Bushbury South and Low Hill; East Park, Ettingshall; Fallings Park; Graiseley; Heath Town; Oxley; St. Peter’s; Spring Vale; Wednesfield North; and Wednesfield South. This represents 75% of Wolverhampton’s wards. Five of these wards (20% of Wolverhampton’s total), comprising Bushbury South and Low Hill, East Park, Ettingshall, Heath Town and St. Peter’s are within the 5% most deprived in England.

79 Wolverhampton CC, Index of Multiple Deprivation, 2007 [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/68412ED8-286F-4F82-B7A5- 8CA67FA66462/0/InformationandResearchBriefingJun08200kb.pdf [Accessed 22 July 2010].

At a Lower Super Output Area (LSOA) level 80 , in 2007 the city had 77 LSOAs in the 20% most deprived in England, an increase of two LSOAs from the 2004 index. This represents just under half of areas in the city. Of these, 37 are in the 10% most deprived in England (23%), 15 are in the 5% most deprived, and two are in the 1% most deprived. Over half of Wolverhampton is in the most deprived fifth of England on the employment domain, the highest proportion for any of the domains. Just under half of LSOAs are at the same level for the income, health and skills domains. The city fairs slightly better on other domains, and substantially better on the Barriers to Housing and Services domain, where only six LSOAs were in the most deprived 20% of the country 81 .

14.2.2 Unemployment

Wolverhampton has high unemployment rates compared to regional and national averages. In April 2010, the figure for Jobseeker Allowance claimants as a percentage of working-age population was 8%, which is higher than the figure for the West Midlands (5.2%) and for Great Britain (4.1%). Between July 2008 and June 2009, the employment rate was 64.2%, which compares poorly with regional (70.2%) and national (72.9%) averages. Economic activity rates stood at 73.1% in 2009, which is below the regional rate of 77.7% and the national rate of 78.9% 82 . Due to the recent economic climate, unemployment has seen overall increases over the last year both in Wolverhampton and in the West Midlands.

The distribution of unemployment in the city is presented in Figure 14.3 . St. Peter’s, Heath Town and Ettingshall wards have the highest concentration of unemployment across the city. This is over three times the national rate. Tettenhall Regis in the west of Wolverhampton is the ward with the lowest overall unemployment rate.

Figure 14.2: Unemployment trends in Wolverhampton, the West Midlands and Britain. (Source: Wolverhampton City Council Policy Team 83 ).

80 Lower Super Output Areas (LSOAs) are standardised geographical areas designed for the collection and publication of small area statistics. There are 158 LSOAs in Wolverhampton. 81 Source: West Midlands Regional Observatory (October 2008): West Midlands Regional Economic Assessment, Wolverhampton 82 ONS, 2010. Official Labour Market Statistics: Local Authority Profiles [online]. Available from: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/2038431971/report.aspx [Accessed: 8 June 2010] 83 Wolverhampton CC, Unemployment Briefing produced by the Policy Team, 2007 [online]. Available from:

According to the Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings 2009, median weekly earnings for full time workers working in the city were £447 compared to £456 for that in the West Midlands and £490 in Great Britain 84 . Average incomes in the city are therefore lower than regional and national averages – and workers in Wolverhampton receive 9% less than the average worker in England.

Figure 14.3: Claimant Counts in Wolverhampton by Ward, July 2007. (Source: Wolverhampton City Council Policy Team).

http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/NR/rdonlyres/FC54C3F3-4999-417F-997E-9AAE638BC543/0/unem_brief_1007.pdf [Accessed 22 July 2010]. 84 ONS, 2010. Official Labour Market Statistics: Local Authority Profiles [online]. Available from: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/2038431971/report.aspx [Accessed: 8 June 2010]

Figure 14.4: Long-term unemployment in Wolverhampton

14.2.3 Crime

Recent figures for 2009-10 show recorded crime stands at a rate per 1,000 population of 52 in Wolverhampton compared with 49 for the West Midlands and 45 nationally. The total recorded offences figure fell from 13,317 in 2008/09 to 12,268 in 2009/10, a reduction of 8% 85 . In common with other parts of the country, crime rates in Wolverhampton have seen consistent falls over the last few years, as highlighted by Tables 14.2 and 14.3 .

Table 14.2: Crime in Wolverhampton: Total Crimes 86

Wolverhampton West Midlands England and Wales Total crimes 09/10 12,268 127,842 2,426,304 Total crimes 08/09 13,317 138,978 2,677,660 Total crimes 07/08 14,733 151,765 2,885,979 Total crimes 06/07 15,467 171,348 3,242,228 Change 06/07- 09/10 -20.68% -25.39% -25.17%

Table 14.3: Crime in Wolverhampton: Offences per 1,000 population 2007/8- 2009/10 87

England and Wolverhampton West Midlands Wales Offences per 1,000 population 09/10 52 49 45 Offences per 1,000 population 08/09 56 53 50 Offences per 1,000 population 07/08 62 58 54

Despite recent successes in reducing crime rates, some key types including crime against a person, burglary, robbery and vehicle crime are still high (robberies for example are occurring at a rate of over twice the national average) 88 . Crime and the fear of crime does not occur evenly across the city and is concentrated in the most disadvantaged neighbourhoods and amongst the most vulnerable communities 89 . Alongside, 17% of all crimes in Wolverhampton in 2005-06 were committed in the city ‘core’ and young people are the most common targets for crime.

14.2.4 Recreation and amenity (including open space and green infrastructure)

The city contains an extensive array of leisure and recreation facilities including:

! Aldersley Leisure Village;

! Wolverhampton Swimming and Fitness Centre;

! Bilston Leisure Centre;

85 Home Office, Crime in England and Wales [online]. Available from: http://rds.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/recordedcrime1.html [Accessed 22 July 2010]. 86 Home Office, Crime in England and Wales [online]. Available from: http://rds.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/recordedcrime1.html [Accessed 22 July 2010]. 87 Home Office, Crime in England and Wales [online]. Available from: http://rds.homeoffice.gov.uk/rds/recordedcrime1.html [Accessed 22 July 2010]. 88 Wolverhampton CC, Crime Statistics [online]. Available from: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/council/statistics/crime/crime_stats.htm [Accessed 22 July 2010]. 89 Wolverhampton’s Community Plan, 2002-12 [online]. Available from: http://www.wton-partnership.org.uk/sites/site90/custom/pdf_files/comm_plan_full.pdf [Accessed 30 April 2008].

! Central Baths;

! Graiseley Community Healthy Living Centre;

! The Civic Halls;

! Wolverhampton Art Galley;

! Bantock House Museum;

! Bilston Craft Gallery;

! Molineux Stadium, Wolverhampton Wanderers FC;

! Northycote Farm and Country Park;

! A variety of parks including West Park, Bantock Park, East Park and Hickman Park;

! Golf courses; and

! Allotments

According to the City’s Playing Pitch Study (2008), there are 222 playing pitches in Wolverhampton. These include as follows:

! 92 adult football pitches;

! 78 junior football pitches;

! 19 mini soccer pitches;

! 17 cricket squares;

! 8 adult rugby union pitches;

! 2 junior rugby union pitch;

! 2 grass hockey pitches; and

! 4 full sized Synthetic Turf Pitches 90 .

73% of these are ‘secured’ for community use, which means that there is a formal community use agreement in place. Areas for sport are often located within schools, private clubs or on public open space. The same study suggests that:

! There is an over-supply of full-size adult football pitches;

! There is under-supply of junior football pitches;

! There is an under-supply of mini-football pitches;

! There is an under-supply of cricket pitches;

! There is an over-supply of adult rugby union pitches; and

! Supply of hockey pitches is currently meeting demand.

90 Wolverhampton City Council (July 2008): Playing Pitch Study. The study can be accessed at: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/leisure_culture/parks_green_spaces/sports/default.htm

The Wolverhampton Open Space Audit and Needs Assessment was completed in October 2008 and presents an assessment of local open space needs in the city for five ‘analysis areas’. These analysis areas are as follows:

Central and South Analysis Area - covering the City Centre, Whitmore Reans and Newbridge area to the North West as well as neighbourhoods to the south of the City including All Saints, Blakenhall, Parkfields, Goldthorn Park, Woodcross, Springvale and Penn.

Bilston - covering the Bilston Town Centre and surrounding neighbourhoods of Bradley, Stowheath, Portobello, Monmore Green, Stowlawn and the Lunt.

Wednesfield - covering Wednesfield Town Centre, Ashmore Park, Perry Hall, Heath Town, New Cross, New Park Village, Fallings Park and Wood End

North - covering neighbourhoods including Pendeford Oxley, Fordhouses, Low Hill, The Scotlands, Bushbury and Moseley Parklands.

Tettenhall - covering Tettenhall village and surrounding neighbourhoods including Tettenhall.

The Open Space Audit and Needs Assessment highlights that a number of these areas currently experience a deficiency in recreational open space, including Tettenhall, Central and South and Wednesfield. The deficiencies in these areas are projected to increase to 2021. City-wide, in 2007, there was an open space deficiency of 32.39ha. This is currently projected to increase to 43.94ha by 2021 91 .

Table 14.4: Current and projected provision of open space in Wolverhampton 92

Analysis area Total existing Provision Required to Surplus / Surplus / recreational open meet total open space deficiency- deficiency- space standard of 4.74 ha per 2007 2021 1,000 Tettenhall 229.81 246.43 - 16.62 - 22.18 Central and 227.41 271.36 - 43.95 - 50.06 South North 207.64 192.59 + 15.05 + 10.71 Wednesfield 171.07 210.27 - 39.20 - 43.94 Bilston 248.38 196.05 + 52.33 + 47.91 City-wide 1084.31 1116.70 - 32.39 -57.56

The location of open space in Wolverhampton is presented in Figure 14.5 .

91 Wolverhampton City Council (October 2008): Wolverhampton Open Space Audit and Needs Assessment 92 Figures presented in Wolverhampton (November 2009) Draft Open Space, Sport and Recreation Supplementary Planning Document

Figure 14.5: Location of open space in Wolverhampton

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15 Water and soil

15.1 Summary of policy and plan review

National water policies are primarily driven by the aims of the EU Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC, as translated into national law by the Water Framework Regulations 2003. Key objectives include improving the quality of rivers and other water bodies to 'good ecological status' by 2015; considering flood risk at all stages of the plan and development process in order to reduce future damage to property and loss of life; and incorporating water efficiency measures into new developments. PPS23 sets out how issues of pollution should be addressed in accordance with the Pollution Prevention and Control Act 1999 and the PPC Regulations 2000.

National and regional strategies also have a strong focus on maintaining and protecting the availability of water in the West Midlands. Severn Trent’s and South Staffs Water’s Water Resource Management Plans also provide the means of enabling water to be supplied and treated in the area. Water supply and use is guided by the Environment Agency’s Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS). In Wolverhampton, these include the Tame Anker and Mease CAMS and the Staffordshire Trent Valley CAMS.

PPS25 (Development and Flood Risk) seeks to ensure that flood risk is taken into account at all stages in the planning process to avoid inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding, and to direct development away from areas of highest risk. A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment has also been carried out for the Black Country 93 .

The Water Framework Directive requires all inland and coastal waters to reach ‘good chemical and ecological status’ for surface waters and ‘good status’ for groundwater in terms of quality and quantity by 2015.

National and regional policies and strategies on soil seek to: prevent soil pollution; reduce soil erosion from wind and water; maintain soil diversity; improve the quality of soil, including through the remediation of contaminated land and through promoting an increase in organic matter in soil; protect and enhance stores of soil carbon and water; recognise soils’ role for natural systems; and increase the resilience of soils to a changing climate.

Appendix C presents a more detailed analysis of the PPPs relevant to water and soil.

93 Jacobs on behalf of the Black County Authorities (February 2009): Black Country Strategic Flood Risk Assessment. The SFRA can be found on the Black Country Joint Core Strategy website at: http://blackcountrycorestrategy.dudley.gov.uk/evidencesa

15.2 Summary of baseline data

15.2.1 Water resources and water quality

The water environment of Wolverhampton is dominated by an extensive network of canals. There are 15.5 miles of canal and 25 locks within the City boundaries, comprising of the Birmingham Canal, the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, and the Shropshire Union Canal. In addition there are three minor rivers within the City - the River Penk, Bilston Brook and Smestow Brook - and several lakes. In common with much of the Black Country, water quality in Wolverhampton has been affected by the historic presence of industry, leading to large areas of contaminated land, and the city’s urban form, leading to a large extent of impermeable surfaces and hence problems of pollutants in run-off. Wolverhampton is also home to Barnhurst Sewage Treatment Works (located immediately to the west of the Staffordshire and Worcestershire Canal, where the Wards of Oxley and Dunstall Park meet), which is one of 17 sewage works (out of 69 in the West Midlands) deemed to be at high risk of contaminating local watercourses.

The vulnerability of groundwater to pollution is determined by the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil and rocks, which control the ease with which an unprotected hazard can affect groundwater. Groundwater Source Protection Zones (SPZs) indicate the risk to groundwater supplies from potentially polluting activities and accidental releases of pollutants. Designed to protect individual groundwater sources, these zones show the risk of contamination from any activities that might cause pollution in the area. In this context they are used to inform pollution prevention measures in areas which are at a higher risk, and to monitor the activities of potential polluting activities nearby.

The Environment Agency has graded SPZs into four zones, as follows:

Categories of groundwater Source Protection Zones (source Environment Agency 94

Zone 1 (Inner protection zone): Any pollution that can travel to the borehole within 50 days from any point within the zone is classified as being inside zone 1. This applies at and below the water table. This zone also has a minimum 50 metre protection radius around the borehole. These criteria are designed to protect against the transmission of toxic chemicals and water-borne disease. Zone 2 (Outer protection zone): The outer zone covers pollution that takes up to 400 days to travel to the borehole, or 25% of the total catchment area – whichever area is the biggest. This travel time is the minimum amount of time that it has been established pollutants need to be diluted, reduced in strength or delayed by the time they reach the borehole. Zone 3 (Total catchment): The total catchment is the total area needed to support removal of water from the borehole, and to support any discharge from the borehole. Zone 4 (of special interest): Where local conditions mean that industrial sites and other polluters could affect the groundwater source even though they are outside the normal catchment area.

As highlighted by Figure 15.1 , a Source Protection Zone covers the west and north of the city, with Zone 1 and 2 protection zones existing in the vicinity of West Park. and in the area surrounding Wightwick Manor, Castlecroft, Perton and Tettenhall Wood.

94 Environment Agency website: http://www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/37805.aspx

Key: Zone 1: Inner Zone Zone 2: Outer Zone Zone 3: Total catchment Zone 4: Special interest

Figure 15.1: Source Protection Zones in the vicinity of Wolverhampton (source: Environment Agency)

CAMS are six year strategies developed by the Environment Agency for managing water resources at the local level. CAMS will be produced for every river catchment area in England and Wales. The Wolverhampton area is covered by the following CAMS:

! Worcestershire and Middle Severn CAMS (December 2006);

! The Staffordshire Trent Valley CAMS (July 2007); and

! Tame, Anker and Mease CAMS (March 2008).

The CAMS documents contain maps and descriptions of the local Water Management Units (WMUs), groundwater and surface water, and an assessment of water availability at times of low flow – normally mid to late summer. CAMS also classify each WMU into one of four categories: ‘over-abstracted’; ‘over-licensed’; ‘no water available’; or ‘water available’.

On this basis, the Staffordshire Trent Valley CAMS suggests that the part of the city within the CAMS area (the Coven WMU) is within the ‘water available’ category. Likewise, the Tame, Anker and Mease CAMS suggests that the part of the city within this CAMS area is within the

‘water available’ category. However the part of Wolverhampton within the CAMS (relating to Smestow Brook) is deemed to be within the “over-abstracted” category. Drinking water is supplied in the city by Severn Trent Water and South Staffs Water.

Following significant improvements in biological water quality 95 between 1990 and 1995, there has been little change since. Though the percentage of watercourses classified as of ‘bad’ biological quality dropped quite substantially between 2003 and 2006 (the latest figures available), those deemed to be of ‘good’ quality have remained low - at 6% over the same period. In terms of the percentage of watercourses deemed to be of ‘poor’ or ‘bad’ quality, of the 34 Local Authorities in the West Midlands, Wolverhampton currently fares the worst with 54% of watercourses falling in this category (the average for the region is 11%). In contrast, only 5% of the UK’s rivers in 2006 were deemed to be of ‘poor’ or ‘bad’ biological quality 96 .

Table 15.1: Biological Water Quality in Wolverhampton

Chemical water quality in Wolverhampton Watercourse Quality Type of water quality assessed GOOD FAIR POOR BAD Year % % % % 1990 Biological 0 0 0 100 1995 Biological 0 14 58 28 2000 Biological 11 0 68 21 2002 Biological 11 0 67 22 2003 Biological 0 10 59 31 2004 Biological 1 10 82 7 2005 Biological 1 25 67 7 2006 Biological 6 20 67 7 Average for the Black Country 2006 Biological 21 25 42 12 Average for the West Midlands 2006 Biological 59 30 7 4 (source, Defra: http://www.defra.gov.uk/evidence/statistics/environment/inlwater/iwriverquality.htm , accessed 10 June 2010 )

Chemical water quality in Wolverhampton is much better, with 92% of watercourses being classed as ‘good’ or ‘fair’ quality (compared to 93% for the West Midlands as a whole). Chemical water quality particularly improved in the City between 2003 and 2005. Whilst the percentage of watercourses deemed to be of ‘good’ quality in Wolverhampton is now higher than the Black Country average, it falls short of the average for the West Midlands, and is further behind the national average (in 2006, 69% of the UK’s rivers were classed as ‘good’ chemical quality).

95 River Water Quality database for regional and local authority areas in England and Wales [online]. Available from: http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/statistics/inlwater/iwriverquality.htm [Accessed 10 June 2010]. 96 Environment Agency: River Quality – an overview [online]. Available from: http:// www.environment-agency.gov.uk/yourenv/eff/1190084/water/213902/river_qual/?lang=_e [Accessed 12 May 2008].

Table 15.2: Chemical Water Quality in Wolverhampton

Chemical water quality in Wolverhampton Watercourse Quality Type of water quality assessed GOOD FAIR POOR BAD Year % % % % 1990 Chemical 0 29 51 20 1995 Chemical 0 84 16 0 2000 Chemical 0 77 23 0 2002 Chemical 6 75 19 0 2003 Chemical 0 77 23 0 2004 Chemical 0 92 1 7 2005 Chemical 11 80 1 7 2006 Chemical 18 74 1 7 Average for the Black Country 2006 Chemical 7 63 25 5 Average for the West Midlands 2006 Chemical 64 29 6 1 (source: Defra: http://www.defra.gov.uk/evidence/statistics/environment/inlwater/iwriverquality.htm , accessed 10 June 2010 )

Considerable improvements are still required to meet the target of all watercourses to reach ‘good’ water quality status by 2015 (as required by the Water Framework Directive 97 ). However, the Annual Monitoring Report 2008-09 of Wolverhampton’s LDF highlighted that in the year to 31 st March 2009, no consents were granted which would have adverse implications on watercourses or which were contrary to the advice of the Environment Agency on water quality grounds.

15.2.2 Flooding

According to the Black Country Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, the three main types of flood risk which exist in Wolverhampton are as follows:

Fluvial flooding

Fluvial flooding, or river flooding, occurs when river levels increase to the extent that they burst their banks.

As highlighted by the Black Country SFRA, with no major rivers in the city, and the majority of the river network in Wolverhampton culverted, the threat of flooding from watercourses in Wolverhampton is lower than for many areas in the West Midlands. Localised events do however happen from time to time close to brooks and canals during extreme conditions. The SFRA highlights that some properties near Smestow Brook in the western part of the city are at risk from fluvial flooding, mainly concentrated within the Compton area. Further properties

97 The Water Framework Directive, which came into force in December 2000, requires all inland and coastal water bodies to reach at least "good status" by 2015. More information on the WFD can be found on: http://www.defra.gov.uk/environment/water/wfd/index.htm

close to Graisley Brook and Oxley Brook are also located in areas deemed to be of ‘High Probability’ of flooding.

Surface water flooding

Surface water flooding takes place when the ground, rivers and drainage systems cannot absorb heavy rainfall. Typically this type of flooding is localised and occurs quickly after heavy rain. It is often a significant issue in areas where natural drainage has been heavily modified.

The SFRA states that the main flood risk in the city posed to properties is from this type of flooding, mainly due to blocked road gullies and extreme surface water runoff. According to the SFRA, the high level of impermeable surfaces and the extensive network of culverted rivers within the city has led to a number of areas in Wolverhampton being susceptible to surface water flooding. Within the urban built up area of Wolverhampton this is a particular risk accentuated by inadequate drainage systems in some areas. The risk of flash flooding is likely to be increasingly exacerbated by climate change.

Groundwater flooding

Flooding from groundwater takes place when prolonged rainfall over a long period raises the water table to above ground level. According to the Black Country SFRA, the risk of groundwater flooding is typically highly variable and heavily dependent upon local conditions at any particular time. However, flood risk generated by groundwater appears to be a much more significant issue within the Wolverhampton City Council area compared to the other Black Country Councils. This reflects general rising water tables within the area due to the significant reduction in industrial groundwater extraction over the last 20 years following the termination of several industrial abstraction licenses. Historically, several groundwater flooding issues have been reported, most notably within the north-eastern (Newholds, Scotlands and Wood Heyes) and south-western areas (Merry Hill, Bradmore and Blakenhall) of Wolverhampton 98 .

PPS25, Development and Flood Risk, provides a Sequential Test to enable Local Planning Authorities to apply a risk-based approach to site allocations within their authority boundary. The test classifies sites into one of four flood risk zones based on the annual probability of flooding. These zones are as follows:

! Zone 1, Low Probability: This zone comprises land assessed as having a less than 1 in 1000 annual probability of river or sea flooding in any year (<0.1%).

! Zone 2, Medium Probability: This zone comprises land assessed as having between a 1 in 100 and 1 in 1000 annual probability of river flooding (1% – 0.1%) or between a 1 in 200 and 1 in 1000 annual probability of sea flooding (0.5% – 0.1%) in any year.

! Zone 3a, High Probability: This zone comprises land assessed as having a 1 in 100 or greater annual probability of river flooding (>1%) or a 1 in 200 or greater annual probability of flooding from the sea (>0.5%) in any year.

98 Jacobs on behalf of the Black Country Authorities (February 2009) The Black Country Strategic Flood Risk Assessment

! Zone 3b, The Functional Floodplain: This zone comprises land where water has to flow or be stored in times of flood. This is land assessed as having a 1 in 20 (5%) or greater annual probability of river flooding in any year or is designed to flood in an extreme (0.1%) flood, or at another probability to be agreed between the Local Planning Authority and the Environment Agency.

The location of flood risk zones in Wolverhampton are presented in Figure 15.2 .

Figure 15.2: Flood risk map (Source: Jacobs on behalf of the Black Country Authorities (2009) Black Country Strategic Flood Risk Assessment)

The Annual Monitoring Report 2008-09 of Wolverhampton’s LDF highlighted that in the year to 31 st March 2009, ten objections to planning applications were made by the Environment Agency on flood risk grounds 99 .

99 Wolverhampton City Council (December 2009) Wolverhampton Annual Monitoring Report 2008-9

16 Sustainability Objectives

16.1 Purpose of the SA Framework

The various LDDs included in the Wolverhampton Local Development Framework will be assessed through an SA Framework of objectives, decision making criteria, indicators and targets.

The SA Framework provides a way in which sustainability effects can be described, analysed and compared. The SA Framework consists of SA objectives which, where practicable, may be expressed in the form of targets, the achievement of which is measurable using indicators. SA objectives and indicators can be revised as further baseline information is collected and sustainability issues and challenges are identified. These can also be utilised in monitoring the implementation of each LDD.

The purpose of the SA Framework’s SA objectives is to provide a way of ensuring the proposed LDD’s policies consider the sustainability needs of the area in terms of their social, environmental and economic effects. The SEA topics identified in Annex I (f) of the SEA Directive are one of the key determinants when considering which SA Objectives should be used for the environmental criteria. Consequently, the SA Objectives incorporate all sustainability themes (see Table 3.1 ) to ensure the assessment process is robust and thorough.

The SA objectives have drawn on the baseline information, the key issues and other plans and programmes of particular interest discussed earlier in this Scoping Report (see Chapters 4 to 15 ). They have also drawn on information presented in the Regional Sustainable Development Framework 100 (which has identified 33 sustainability objectives for use in the region) and other sources of information including sustainability appraisal work undertaken in connection with the Black Country Joint Core Strategy.

To expand on the central focus of each SA objective (as they are high-level and potentially open-ended) the SA Framework includes a series of questions or ‘decision making criteria’ for use when applying the SA Framework to the assessment of proposed LDD policies. These are accompanied by the indicators and targets for each SA Objective.

The development of the SA Framework is the main output of the fourth task set out in the CLG Plan Making Manual ( Section 2.3 ).

The SA Objectives that will be used for the SAs of each LDD have been set out in Table 16.1 .

100 Sustainability West Midlands, 2006. A sustainable future for the West Midlands – Regional Sustainable Development Framework . Version Two. Appendix 2.

Table 16.1: SA Objectives.

SA Objective Sustainability theme

To safeguard and improve community health, safety and 1 Health well being.

To reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainable 2 Accessibility and transportation modes of transport.

To reduce waste and maximise opportunities for 3 innovative environmental technologies in waste Material assets management.

4 To plan for the anticipated levels of climate change. Climate change

To minimise Wolverhampton's contribution to climate 5 Climate change change.

To provide environmentally sound, good quality 6 Housing affordable housing for all.

To encourage opportunities for investment in order to 7 Economic factors grow the local and sub-regional economy.

To reduce poverty, crime and social deprivation and 8 Quality of life, population secure economic inclusion.

To ensure easy and equitable access to services, Transportation and accessibility, 9 facilities and opportunities. quality of life

To protect, enhance and manage sites, features, areas 10 and landscapes of archaeological, historical and cultural Historic environment heritage importance.

To protect, enhance and manage the character and appearance of the landscape and townscape, 11 Historic environment maintaining and strengthening local distinctiveness and sense of place.

To use and manage land, energy, soil, mineral and water 12 resources prudently and efficiently, and increase energy Material assets, water and soil generated from renewables.

To protect, enhance and manage biodiversity and 13 Biodiversity and geodiversity geodiversity

To maintain, and where necessary, improve, the overall 14 Air, water and soil quality of the natural and built environment.

As highlighted above, these SA Objectives will be developed into more detailed SA Frameworks for the Part 2 Scoping Reports .

17 Subsequent stages of the SA process to be carried out following scoping, and the assessment methods to be used

17.1 Introduction

This chapter summarises the stages of, and approach to the SA processes that will be carried out for each LDD following consultation at the scoping stage 101 . This has been presented through the stages set out in CLG Plan Making Manual ( Section 2.3 ). Where appropriate, the assessment methods to be used have been included.

17.2 Refining options and assessing effects

The assessment of options (or alternatives) is an important requirement of the SEA Directive, which requires that the Environmental Report 102 includes the following information about reasonable alternatives: “ an outline of the reasons for selecting the alternatives dealt with, and a description of how the assessment was undertaken including any difficulties (such as technical deficiencies or lack of know-how) encountered in compiling the required information” (see Appendix A ).

Reasonable alternatives will be assessed through the SA process, and the assessment of alternatives will take place following consultation on the Scoping Report, and enable options for each LDD to be explored. A potential approach to this task is through preparing an internal high-level strategic assessment document. If this approach is taken, a single matrix will be used to assess identified LDD options using the SA Objectives (see Chapter 16 ). The assessment findings will then be interpreted with a written commentary, presenting results according to effect on the relevant sustainability themes ( Section 3.1 ). Whilst this report would not be a requisite of the SEA Directive, a report of this nature can help demonstrate iteration between the plan making process and the SA, and provide a coherent story of the LDD’s evolution and choice of options. The internal high-level assessment document can accompany Regulation 25 consultation on the LDD as this would help deliver the requirement of Article 6.2 of the SEA Directive.

17.3 SA and Publication/Submission

The next stage of the SA will involve assessing successive drafts of the LDD. Whilst assessment work has been undertaken in the previous stage, the information that is prepared during this stage is more detailed.

101 The end of consultation on each LDD’s Scoping Report will conclude the first two main stages of the SA process as presented in CLG Plan Making Manual (Section 2.3). 102 Or, for SA, the Sustainability Appraisal Report.

In terms of the assessment methodology, a two stage sequential approach to assessment will be utilised. The first stage is to produce a ‘High Level Assessment’ of all policies and proposals presented in the LDD. The second stage is more detailed and evaluates specific aspects of the plan proposals which have been identified as being potentially adverse in some way. This approach is more comprehensive and is supported by the Planning Advisory Service 103 guidance, which refers to the technique as ‘sieving’.

Findings from the High Level Assessment will be presented in matrix format. The high-level matrix is not a conclusive tool or model. Its main function is to identify at a strategic level whether or not the assessment requires a more detailed examination or whether satisfactory conclusions may be drawn from the high-level assessment without the need for further (time consuming) detailed analysis of a particular policy.

In cases where further detailed analysis is required, a secondary level of assessment will be used. This introduces the application of Detailed Assessment Matrices. The purpose of Detailed Assessment Matrices are to provide an in-depth assessment of the different aspects of a particular policy which revealed potentially significant adverse effects at the high-level assessment stage. The Detailed Assessment Matrices evaluate specific aspects of the LDD proposals to meet the requirements of the SEA Directive.

Detailed Assessment Matrices will include:

! A description of the predicted effect;

! The duration of the effect: whether the effect is long, medium or short term;

! The frequency of the effect: will it be ongoing?

! Whether the effect is temporary or permanent;

! The geographic significance: whether the effect is of localised, regional, national or international significance;

! The magnitude of effect;

! The severity of significance; and

! Whether mitigation is required/possible to reduce the effect.

Appendix B includes an example of a Detailed Assessment Matrix.

As required by the SEA Directive, cumulative, synergistic and indirect effects will also be identified and evaluated during the assessment. An explanation of these is as follows:

! Indirect effects are effects that are not a direct result of the plan, but occur away from the original effect or as a result of a complex pathway.

! Cumulative effects arise where several developments each have insignificant effects but together have a significant effect, or where several individual effects of the plan have a combined effect.

103 Planning Advisory Service (2007) Local Development Frameworks; Guidance on Sustainability Appraisal p.32.

! Synergistic effects interact to produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual effects.

The assessment of these effects will be presented in tabular format and show where the different effects arise when two or more draft policies operate together.

Wherever possible, throughout the SA process, Geographic Information Systems will be used as an analytical tool to examine the spatial distribution of identified effects.

17.3.1 Draft SA Report

The above process will lead to the preparation of a Draft SA Report. This version will be an internal document designed to provide sustainability feedback to the plan makers at an important time in the LDD’s preparation.

The purpose of the Draft SA Report is to enable plan makers to take on board assessment findings, and proposed mitigation and monitoring, before finalising the Regulation 25 consultation version of the LDD.

17.3.2 Consultation Version of the SA Report

Once plan-makers have received and considered the Draft SA Report, any amendments which are been made to the LDD will then be re-appraised by the SA process. The result of the appraisal at this stage in the process will be a finalised SA Report to accompany the Regulation 27 “Publication” of the LDD.

The SA Report will be written in a form suitable for public consultation and use by decision- makers. This version of the SA Report will be fully compliant with all aspects of the SEA Directive as set out in Annex 1 of the Directive ( Appendix A ). In line with the requirements of the SEA Directive, a Non-Technical Summary will be produced to accompany the finalised consultation version of the SA Report. It is important to recognise that whilst the LDD is technically made available as a “published version”, in order to meet the requirements of the SEA Directive (Article 6.1), this is a consultation exercise as part of the SA process.

Following the Publication period (six weeks), any amendments which are made to the LDD will be appraised before preparing the final version of the SA Report to accompany the Submission (Regulation 30) version of the LDD.

17.4 SA and Examination

In accordance with SA procedures, a post-adoption statement will be produced at the very end of the process, following Examination when the LDD is adopted.

Having completed the assessment of the LDD, the SA process requires the plan making authority to monitor any aspect of the assessment findings that might be associated with significant effects in the future. To address this requirement, a monitoring framework will be prepared to incorporate indicators which are related to the identified potential adverse effects. This will be included in the Regulation 27 Publication version and Regulation 30

Submission version of the SA Report, and a finalised version will be included in the post- adoption statement for the SA.

Indicators will be chosen in terms of their ability to provide information at the earliest possible stage under circumstances of a potential effect taking place. The monitoring framework will include suggestions for the indicators to be measured at a scale and frequency that suits identified effects. The monitoring framework will also, where possible, reflect data already collected at the City level, including from the National Indicator set.

18 Consultation on the Scoping Reports

18.1 Purpose of Consultation

The SEA Regulations state that a Scoping Report shall be prepared which will be the subject of consultation with statutory consultation bodies for a minimum period of five weeks.

Public involvement through consultation is a key element of the SA process. The SEA Regulations require consultation with statutory consultation bodies but not full consultation with the public at the scoping stage. Regulation 12 (5) of the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 (SI 1633) states that:

“When deciding on the scope and level of detail of the information that must be included in the report the responsible authority shall consult the consultation bodies.”

The statutory consultation bodies are English Heritage, the Environment Agency and Natural England. A wide range of other stakeholders have also been given the opportunity to comment on the Scoping Report.

18.2 Consultation Details

This Part 1 Scoping Report has been prepared in such a way that future Part 2 LDD scoping reports can be prepared in similar styles and be able to draw on information already presented in this Scoping Report (rather than repeating it every time an LDD is produced for the Wolverhampton Local Development Framework). Producing the Scoping Report in this way i.e. in two parts, helps make the overall process more efficient for the LDF in general.

Full consultation details including who is being consulted and where the Scoping Report may be viewed are available in Part 2 of this Scoping Report for each LDD (see the relevant chapter for each LDD). Consultees will include the statutory consultation bodies and other stakeholders as seen appropriate for each LDD by Wolverhampton City Council.

This is only Part 1 of the Scoping Report for the Wolverhampton Local Development Framework. It must be read in conjunction with the relevant chapter of Part 2 for each LDD to understand and see how the Scoping Report is compliant with the SEA and SA Regulations.

All comments received on the Scoping Reports will be reviewed and will influence the sustainability appraisal process for each LDD.

Both the Part 1 and Part 2 Scoping Reports are available to download at: http://www.wolverhampton.gov.uk

Alternatively hard copies can be viewed at :

Reception 24 Wolverhampton City Council The Civic Centre St. Peter’s Square Wolverhampton WV1 1SH Tel: 01902 551155

All comments received on the Scoping Reports will be reviewed and will influence the SA process for each LDD. Consultation responses will also inform the initial stages of the development of the relevant LDD.

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Statutory Instrument 2004 No. 1633

The Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004

INFORMATION FOR ENVIRONMENTAL REPORTS

1. An outline of the contents and main objectives of the plan or programme, and of its relationship with other relevant plans and programmes.

2. The relevant aspects of the current state of the environment and the likely evolution thereof without implementation of the plan or programme.

3. The environmental characteristics of areas likely to be significantly affected.

4. Any existing environmental problems which are relevant to the plan or programme including, in particular, those relating to any areas of a particular environmental importance, such as areas designated pursuant to Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the conservation of wild birds[10] and the Habitats Directive.

5. The environmental protection objectives, established at international, Community or Member State level, which are relevant to the plan or programme and the way those objectives and any environmental considerations have been taken into account during its preparation.

6. The likely significant effects on the environment, including short, medium and long-term effects, permanent and temporary effects, positive and negative effects, and secondary, cumulative and synergistic effects, on issues such as –

(a) biodiversity; (b) population; (c) human health; (d) fauna; (e) flora; (f) soil; (g) water; (h) air; (i) climatic factors; (j) material assets; (k) cultural heritage, including architectural and archaeological heritage; (l) landscape; and (m) the inter-relationship between the issues referred to in sub-paragraphs (a) to (l).

Appendix A, Page 1 7. The measures envisaged to prevent, reduce and as fully as possible offset any significant adverse effects on the environment of implementing the plan or programme.

8. An outline of the reasons for selecting the alternatives dealt with, and a description of how the assessment was undertaken including any difficulties (such as technical deficiencies or lack of know-how) encountered in compiling the required information.

9. A description of the measures envisaged concerning monitoring in accordance with regulation 17.

10. A non-technical summary of the information provided under paragraphs 1 to 9.

Appendix A, Page 2 Appendix B: Example of a Detailed Assessment Matrix (from the SA of the Black Country Joint Core Strategy)

This page is intentionally blank. DETAILED ASSESSMENT MATRIX Regeneration Corridor 6: Darlaston, Willenhall, Wednesfield Mitigation Duration Temporary Geographic Level of Severity of Positive or or other No. Description of SA Objective Description of predicted effect Frequency or Magnitude Supporting comments / Proposed mitigation Medium significance certainty significance adverse action Short term Long term permanent term required?

Enhancements to existing open space in the corridor and the The current development of three new health facilities Safeguard and improve community health, provision of new open space in in Willenhall, 1.5km north of the corridor and in 1 + + + Ongoing Permanent Local Low Medium Negligible Positive No safety and well being. residential growth will support Bentley has been deemed to meet primary healthcare physical activity and outdoor needs in the area. recreational activities.

Improvements to the railway line and a new station at Willenhall, the 529 Bus Showcase, the Willenhall transport interchange and a high volume public Whilst in the short term, congestion may be reduced transport route between Walsall, by highway improvements, in the medium and long Willenhall and Wolverhampton term congestion is likely to increase over a wider area will support modal shift and as traffic flows increase. Encouragement of car use sustainable transport use. Reduce traffic congestion and promote Positive through road improvements may also reduce the 2 sustainable modes of transport into and -/+ -/+ -/+ Ongoing Permanent Sub-regional Medium Low Moderate and Yes economic viability of existing and proposed public However RC6's support of throughout the Black Country. negative transport networks. highway improvements, including the Junction 10 Improvements in walking and cycling or green Improvement, the Darlastan SDA infrastructure networks have also not been supported Access Roads, improved access by RC6. to Neachells and improved access to Longacres from the Keyway, has the potential to encourage car use, and discourage modal shift.

The proposals for the Regeneration Corridor seek to retain existing strategic waste management facilities, and permit new waste management Reduce waste and maximise opportunities for RC6 also seeks to ensure that new developments facilities in appropriate locations. 3 innovative environmental technologies in waste ++ ++ ++ Ongoing Permanent Local High Medium Moderate Positive No address waste as a resource and minimise waste management. wherever possible. The development of new household waste recycling centres and the expansion of the SITA Wastecare site are also promoted by the proposals.

According to the SFRA, part of the corridor lies within an area of Flood Risk Zone 2. This has been acknowledged by RC6. The potential need for more detailed The predicted impacts of climate change include an flood risk assessments to be increased frequency of storm events and an increased Plan for the anticipated different levels of carried out to accompany new risk of flash flooding. This risk is likely to increase 4 + + + Ongoing Permanent Local Medium Medium Minor Positive No climate change. development has also been further as the effects of climate change become acknowledged. increasingly apparent, with implications for any proposed development. An improvement and increase in the area of open space in the area will also support climate change adaptation.

Appendix B: Example Detailed Assessment Matrix (from the SA of the Black Country Joint Core Strategy) DETAILED ASSESSMENT MATRIX Regeneration Corridor 6: Darlaston, Willenhall, Wednesfield Mitigation Duration Temporary Geographic Level of Severity of Positive or or other No. Description of SA Objective Description of predicted effect Frequency or Magnitude Supporting comments / Proposed mitigation Medium significance certainty significance adverse action Short term Long term permanent term required?

Mixed effect:

Improvements to the railway line and a new station at Willenhall, the 529 Bus Showcase, the Willenhall transport interchange Encouragement of car use through road and a high volume public improvements may reduce the economic viability of transport route between Walsall, existing and proposed public transport networks. Willenhall and Wolverhampton Highway improvements should incorporate provision will help limit greenhouse gas for public transport, such as bus priorit y measures, bus Positive Minimise the Black Country's contribution to emissions. lanes and red routes. They should also incorporate 5 -/+ -/+ -/+ Ongoing Permanent International Low Low Major and Yes climate change. provision for walking and cycling routes, and aim to negative RC6, by supporting highway improve these networks to help facilitate modal shift. improvements, including the Junction 10 Improvement, the The proportion of greenhouse gas emissions which DSDA Access Roads, improved originate from transport sources is rising in the Black access to Neachells and Country. improved access to Longacres from the Keyway, has the potential to encourage car use, and increase greenhouse gas emissions however.

Total housing provision of 1,575 The proposals for the corridor do not however dwellings up to 2026 will help Provide environmentally sound, good quality suggest to what level of affordable housing provision 6 increase the availability and + + + Ongoing Permanent Local Low Medium Negligible Positive No affordable housing for all. will be included within the housing numbers, or the variety of housing in the tenure or type of housing. corridor.

Investment and economic growth in the area will be supported b y an encoura gement of retail and office provision in Encoura ge opportunities for investment in order This will be supported by accessibility improvements 7 Wednesfield Town Centre, and ++ ++ ++ Ongoing Permanent Local High Medium Moderate Positive No to grow the local and sub-regional economy. in the area. the proposed transformation of North Darlaston and Neachells employment areas to high quality industrial locations. SA Objectives SA

Improvements to the railway line and a new station at Willenhall, the 529 Bus Showcase, the This will help improve accessibilit y to jobs and services Willenhall transport interchange for those without access to a car, and support social and a high volume public Reduce poverty, crime and social deprivation inclusion. Improvements in walking and cycling or 8 transport route between Walsall, + + + Ongoing Permanent Local Medium Medium Minor Positive No and secure economic inclusion. green infrastructure networks have not been Willenhall and Wolverhampton supported by RC6 however. This would further will support accessibility to support accessibility and social inclusion. services, facilities and opportunities and support social inclusion.

Improvements to the railway line and a new station at Willenhall, This will help improve accessibilit y to jobs and services the 529 Bus Showcase, the for those without access to a car. Improvements in Ensure easy and equitable access to services, Willenhall transport interchange 9 + + + Ongoing Permanent Local Medium Medium Minor Positive No walking and cycling or green infrastructure networks facilities and opportunities. and a high volume public have not been supported b y RC6 however. This would transport route between Walsall, further support accessibility. Willenhall and Wolverhampton will support accessibility.

The proposals for the Regeneration Corridor acknowledge the heritage value of the canal network and seeks to support the restoration of disused canal branches. It also seeks to support the conservation of and The 7.71 hectare Willenhall Conservation area is enhancement of Willenhall Protect, enhance and manage sites, features, Positive located in the centre of the corridor. 16 Grade II centre. 10 areas and landscapes of archaeological, -/+ -/+ -/+ Ongoing Permanent Sub-regional Low Low Minor and Yes listed buildings exist within the conservation area. historical and cultural heritage importance. negative There are also a number of listed features in the east There are however potential of the corridor close to James Bridge Cemetery. effects on landscape, townscape and setting of cultural heritage assets from highway improvements. This includes indirect effects on noise pollution and visual intrusion from potential increases in traffic.

The proposals for the Regeneration Corridor acknowledge the heritage value of the canal network and seeks to support the restoration of disused canal branches. It also seeks to support the Protect, enhance and mana ge the character and conservation of and appearance of the landscape and townscape, enhancement of Willenhall Not Impacts on landscape and townscape will include from 11 - -- Ongoing Permanent Sub-regional Low Low Minor Negative Yes maintaining and strengthening local centre. anticipated noise pollution and visual intrusion. distinctiveness and sense of place. There are however potential effects on the built environment from highway improvements. This includes indirect effects on noise pollution and visual intrusion from potential increases in traffic.

The proposals for Regeneration Use and manage land, energy, soil, mineral and Corridor 6 seek to ensure that 12 water resources prudently and efficiently, and minerals resources in the area + + + Ongoing Permanent Local Medium Medium Minor Positive No increase energy generated from renewables. are protected, and resources are not sterilised.

The Regeneration Corridor includes a number of SLINCS and SINCS and is linked to the Rough Wood The proposals for the and Rou gh Wood Chase Local Nature Reserves b y the Regeneration Corridor canal. It also contains the Fibbersby Local Nature acknowledge the corridor's Reserve, an important wetland site. The RC also biodiversity assets, and states includes a number of wildlife corridors. These assets that steps should be made to Value, maintain, restore and re-create are significant parts of the sub-region's biodiversity 13 protect and enhance them and, + + + Ongoing Permanent Local Medium Medium Minor Positive No biodiversity and geodiversity. network. where proposals could impact on these designations, ensure There is further potential for new development to that adequate mitigation further support biodiversity networks in the area, and measures are provided against to link these key sub-regional features. In this respect any adverse effects. the proposals for RC6 have not sought to improve local green infrastructure networks.

Highway improvements have the potential to impact on air and noise quality. Whilst short term improvement in localised air and Maintain, and where necessary, improve, the RC5 seeks to ensure that noise quality may result from highway improvements, 14 overall quality of the natural and built provision will be made for + - -- Ongoing Permanent Sub-regional Medium Medium Moderate Negative Yes in the medium and long term air and noise quality environment. managing contaminated soils may deteriorate as traffic growth occurs. arisin g from land remediation for new development. This will support soil and water quality in the area.

The proposals for Regeneration Corridor 6 will support accessibility to services, facilities and opportunities, promote social inclusion, and offer some protection to key biodiversity and historic environment features in the corridor. It also offers new employment opportunities. Overall The promotion of highway improvements through RC6 will however have implications for longer term congestion, air and noise quality and greenhouse gas emissions, and the setting of the corridor's cultural heritage assets and townscape. There is also further potential for new Effect development in the corridor to support improved biodiversity linkages between key features and support an enhancement of walking and cycling networks. Whilst some improvements to open space have been proposed, an overall enhancement of the corridor's green infrastructure network has not been supported by RC6.

Proposed New development in the corridor should be accompanied by an expansion and improvement of walking and cycling networks, linking key facilities and services and public transport linkages. This should also be accompanied by an expansion in multifunctional green Mitigation infrastructure networks.

Key Major negative effect -- Adverse Severe Superior Beneficial Negative effect - Major Major The 'Duration' column is noted as: Magnitude of significance Positive effect + Moderate Moderate is illustrated as: Major positive effect ++ Minor Minor Neutral environmental effect Negligible Negligible

Appendix B: Example Detailed Assessment Matrix (from the SA of the Black Country Joint Core Strategy)

Appendix C: Review of Policies, Plans and Programmes

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Review of Policies, Plans and Programmes

Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Accessibility and Transport EU European transport policy for 2010 : Aims to strike a balance between economic development and the quality New development proposed as part of the LDF should take place in areas time to decide (2001) and safety demands made by society in order to develop a modern, with good access to the public transport network and/or provision should sustainable transport system for 2010. be made where appropriate for new or improved public transport connections, as well as walking and cycling networks. Department for Transport: Transport Ten The Government’s aims are to tackle congestion and pollution by improving New development proposed as part of the LDF should take place in areas Year Plan (2000) all types of transport - rail and road, public and private - in ways that with good access to the public transport network and/or provision should increase choice; and to invest in the future to create prosperity and a better be made where appropriate for new or improved public transport environment. Specific objectives include more integrated transport connections, as well as walking and cycling networks. solutions; public and private partnership; and modernisation of the transport network. ODPM PPG13: Transport (2001) The objectives of this guidance are to integrate planning and transport at New development proposed as part of the LDF should take place in areas the national, regional, strategic and local level to: promote more with good access to the public transport network and/or provision should sustainable transport choices for both people and for moving freight; be made where appropriate for new or improved public transport promote accessibility to jobs, shopping, leisure facilities and services by connections, as well as walking and cycling networks. public transport, walking and cycling, and reduce the need to travel, especially by car. Department for Transport: Transport Sets out factors that will shape transport in the UK over the next thirty Increased housing provision, employment development and new services, White Paper: The Future of Transport – A years. Also sets out how the Government will respond to the increasing facilities and amenities are likely to increase demand for travel in Network for 2030 (2004) demand for travel, while minimising the negative impact on people and the Wolverhampton. The LDF should therefore take into account the objectives environment. of the White Paper in order to minimise transport's effect on the environment. Department for Transport: The Future of Sets out a blueprint for a new streamlined structure for Britain's Railway. The Wolverhampton LDF has the potential to stimulate increased usage of Rail White Paper (2004) The proposals aim to provide a single point of accountability for the the railway network. network's performance, allow closer working between track and train and provide for greater devolution of decision making. Department for Transport: An Evidence Summary report of the findings of an evidence base review investigating the The Wolverhampton LDF has a role to play in influencing public behaviour in Base Review of Public Attitudes to research base on public attitudes towards climate change and transport terms of promoting modal shift and encouraging the sustainable design and Climate Change and Transport Behaviour behaviour. construction of new buildings. (2006) Department for Transport: National The National Cycling Strategy aims to increase cycle use for all types of The Wolverhampton LDF should take into account the objectives of the Cycling Strategy and Review (1996, journey. The Review focuses on the mechanisms established for the National Cycling Strategy by facilitating cycle friendly development, reviewed 2005) delivery of cycling and the effect these have had on increasing cycling rates. supporting the provision of new cycling routes within development areas and improving the public realm. TEP Green Infrastructure for the West This technical paper is presented as a guide to the spatial mapping and The LDF should include provision for green infrastructure to link new Midlands Region: Technical mapping assessment of GI needs and opportunities, and accompanies the West developments to each other and areas elsewhere. Paper (2006) Midlands Green Infrastructure Prospectus. The paper outlines a systematic guide to the assessment of GI in relation to standards of provision and the potential to deliver wider social, economic and environmental gains; supported by pilot studies from the West Midlands. Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C1 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* West Midlands Joint Committee: West Sets out three principal elements for transport in the West Midlands: New development should be allocated to areas with good access to the Midlands Local Transport Plan (2006) making the best use of the existing transport network; enhancing the public transport network. Provision should be made where appropriate for quality of public transport; and targeting investment in infrastructure to new or improved public transport connections, as well as walking and support regeneration. The four Transport Shared Priorities - reducing cycling networks. congestion, improving accessibility, improving air quality, improving road safety - are also outlined. West Midlands Joint Committee: West The plan provides analysis of congestion within the West Midlands, The Wolverhampton LDF should aim to facilitate development which limits Midlands Congestion Target Delivery Plan including traffic hotspots. The target is for on target routes in the AM peak the growth of congestion. (2007) (0700 - 1000) to accommodate an expected increase in travel of 4% with a 5% increase in journey times between 2005 and 2011. Wolverhampton City Council: The overall aim of the strategy is to increase the number of journeys The LDDs should aim to support new pedestrian infrastructure, facilitate Wolverhampton Walking Strategy (2005) undertaken by foot in Wolverhampton. The strategy recognises the improvements to the public realm and improve perceptions of security to importance of walking as a mode of transport and aims to give pedestrians encourage an increase in the number of journeys undertaken by foot. a high priority in transport and land use proposals in order to improve safety and security for pedestrians and encourage more people to walk. It aims to achieve this through the provision of new and improved infrastructure, better management and maintenance of the highway and a review of standards for pedestrian facilities. Wolverhampton City Council: The overall aim of the strategy is to increase the number of journeys The LDF’s LDDs should aim to support new cycle infrastructure, facilitate Wolverhampton Cycling Strategy (2005) undertaken by cycle in Wolverhampton. improvements to the public realm, improve road safety and improve perceptions of security to encourage an increase in the number of journeys The Strategy seeks to: undertaken by cycle.

Create a safe, direct, attractive, and convenient cycle network from home to places of work, shops, public buildings, and leisure facilities. Integrate cycling with public transport to provide 'seamless journeys' and an attractive and convenient alternative to the car. Support traffic management and enforcement measures for cyclists and pedestrians and to promote responsible and safe use of the highway by motorists and cyclists. Provide secure and conveniently located cycle parking to serve employment commercial, shopping and housing developments as well as Civic premises. Further develop safe and convenient and well signposted cycle routes to the countryside and adjacent towns and villages to encourage cycling for leisure. These need to link with other cycle routes to provide for longer journeys. Provide the framework for an education and information programme to encourage more journeys to be undertaken by cycle and provide the opportunity to teach essential road safety skills.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C2 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Air Quality EC Air Quality Directive (1996) Aims to improve air quality throughout Europe by controlling the level of The Wolverhampton LDF may have impacts on air quality in the City as a certain pollutants and monitoring their concentrations. In particular the result of increased housing and employment provision and the provision of Directive aims to establish levels for different air pollutants; draw up new services, facilities and amenities. common methods for assessing air quality; methods to improve air quality; and make sure that information on air quality is easily accessible to Member States and the public. DETR Air Quality Strategy for England, The Strategy provides specific UK targets for reducing air pollution and sets The LDF should seek to improve air quality in affected areas by promoting Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. out local authority responsibilities for achieving most of these. It states that the layout of development which supports modal shift, clean technologies Working Together for Clean Air (2000) land use planning has a key role to play in contributing to these targets. and the provision of open space. ODPM PPS23: Planning and Pollution PPS23 is intended to complement the new pollution control framework The LDF should seek to improve air quality in affected areas by promoting Control (2004) under the Pollution Prevention and Control Act 1999 and the PPC the layout of development which supports modal shift, clean technologies Regulations 2000. and the provision of open space. West Midlands Joint Committee: West Sets out three principal elements for transport in the West Midlands: The Wolverhampton LDF should support modal shift and aim to limit the Midlands Local Transport Plan (2006) making the best use of the existing transport network; enhancing the growth in congestion in the city through appropriate development. This is quality of public transport; and targeting investment in infrastructure to particularly important for air quality as transport-related nitrogen dioxide support regeneration. The four Transport Shared Priorities - reducing emissions are a significant concern for the city. congestion, improving accessibility, improving air quality, improving road safety - are also outlined. Wolverhampton City Council: Air Quality The Air Quality Action Plan includes 23 proposed actions which aim to The Wolverhampton LDF should seek to improve air quality in the city by Management Action Plan (2006) improve the air quality in Wolverhampton. These actions are listed under promoting development which facilitates modal shift, reduces travel the following headings: reducing vehicle emissions; improving public demand, encourages the growth of clean technologies and supports open transport; improving the road network; measures to reduce traffic volumes; space provision. reducing air pollution from industry, commerce and residential areas; and changing levels of travel demand/ promotion of alternative modes of transport. Biodiversity and Geodiversity EC Sixth Environmental Action Nature and biodiversity (including soil communities) has been identified as The LDF should aim to promote development which improves Programme 2002-2012 (2002) one of four priority areas for Europe. The EAP requires specific action to environmental quality in Wolverhampton through the effective remediation counteract pressures arising notably from pollution, the introduction of non- of contaminated land and the improvement of water quality. The LDF native species, and potential risks from releasing genetically modified should also avoid promoting high-polluting land uses near important organisms. biodiversity sites. EC Biodiversity Strategy (1998) Member states are required to develop national strategies, plans or The LDF should have due regard to national, regional and local biodiversity programmes for the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity, strategies. and integrate as far as possible and as appropriate, the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity into relevant sectoral or cross-sectoral plans, programmes and policies. The Pan-European Biological and The strategy aims to stop and reverse the degradation of biological and The LDF should support the provision of green infrastructure and Landscape Diversity Strategy (1995) landscape diversity values in Europe. biodiversity-friendly design and layout to enhance biological and landscape diversity.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C3 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* UN Convention on Biological Diversity The aims of the Convention include the conservation of biological diversity The LDF should include provision which enhances biological diversity (e.g. (1992) (including a commitment to significantly reduce the current rate of provision of woodland and greenspace) where possible in order to meet the biodiversity loss), the sustainable use of its components and the fair and requirements of the UN Convention, whilst at the same time avoiding equitable sharing of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic biodiversity loss through careful choice of development sites. resources. Bern Convention on the Conservation of The Convention seeks to conserve wild flora and fauna and their natural Protected species are present throughout the City, so the LDF should European Wildlife and Natural Habitats habitats, and to monitor and control endangered and vulnerable species. ensure that where development is necessary in areas containing these (1979) species, adequate mitigation is carried out before development commences. Monitoring of such species will also be necessary. DEFRA Wildlife and Countryside Act The principle mechanism for the legislative protection of wildlife in Great Protected species are present throughout the City, so LDF should ensure (1981, as amended) Britain. that where development is necessary in areas containing these species, adequate mitigation is carried out before development commences. Monitoring of such species will also be necessary. DoE Biodiversity: The UK Action Plan Government’s strategy for protection and enhancement of biodiversity, The LDF should support the provision of green infrastructure and (1994) from 1992 convention on Biodiversity commitments. Advises on biodiversity-friendly design and layout to support flora and fauna. opportunities and threats for biodiversity. DEFRA Working with the Grain of Nature: Government’s strategy for the integration of biodiversity into public, private The Wolverhampton LDF should seek to address the objectives of the A Biodiversity Strategy for England (2002) and voluntary sector policies and programmes in England. regional biodiversity strategy by fully addressing biodiversity considerations through the LDF development process.

In particular the LDF should support new development which avoids sensitive areas and seeks to support regional biodiversity networks. TCPA Biodiversity by Design: A Guide for The development process should consider ecological potential of all areas Brownfield biodiversity should be a key consideration of the Sustainable Communities (2004) including brownfield sites. Local authorities and developers have a Wolverhampton LDF, in addition to greenfield sites, with areas of particular responsibility to mitigate impacts of development on designated sites and importance avoided and appropriate mitigation implemented wherever priority habitats and species and avoid damage to ecosystems. necessary.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C4 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* DCLG Planning Policy Statement 9: Sets out planning policies on protection of biodiversity and geological Biodiversity considerations must be fully considered by the LDF. In particular Biodiversity and Geological Conservation conservation through the planning system, replaces PPG 9 on nature development should avoid sensitive areas and seek to increase provision of (2005) conservation (published October 1994). The key principles of PPS9 are as wildlife friendly areas such as green space within the City. Local geodiversity follows: assets should also be recognised by the LDF. (i) Development plan policies and planning decisions should be based upon up-to-date information about the environmental characteristics of their areas. These characteristics should include the relevant biodiversity and geological resources of the area. In reviewing environmental characteristics local authorities should assess the potential to sustain and enhance those resources. (ii) Plan policies and planning decisions should aim to maintain, and enhance, restore or add to biodiversity and geological conservation interests. In taking decisions, local planning authorities should ensure that appropriate weight is attached to designated sites of international, national and local importance; protected species; and to biodiversity and geological interests within the wider environment. (iii) Plan policies on the form and location of development should take a strategic approach to the conservation, enhancement and restoration of biodiversity and geology, and recognise the contributions that sites, areas and features, both individually and in combination, make to conserving these resources. (iv) Plan policies should promote opportunities for the incorporation of beneficial biodiversity and geological features within the design of development. (v) Development proposals where the principal objective is to conserve or enhance biodiversity and geological conservation interests should be permitted. (vi) The aim of planning decisions should be to prevent harm to biodiversity and geological conservation interests. Where granting planning permission would result in significant harm to those interests, local planning authorities will need to be satisfied that the development cannot reasonably be located on any alternative sites that would result in less or no harm. In the absence of any such alternatives, local planning authorities should ensure that, before planning permission is granted, adequate mitigation measures are put in place. Where a planning decision would result in significant harm to biodiversity and geological interests which cannot be prevented or adequately mitigated against, appropriate compensation measures should be sought. If that significant harm cannot be prevented, adequately mitigated against, or compensated for, then planning permission should be refused. English Nature: Climate Change - Space Scene setting information for the next 80 years in terms of climate change. Provision of green space and green corridors in the City will have benefits for Nature? (2006) Prescribes suggested actions to be taken now in preparation for change. for biodiversity networks.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C5 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* DEFRA England's Trees, Woods and Government objectives include: to safeguard England’s resource of trees, The LDF should aim to protect trees and woods and recognise their value to Forests - a Consultation Document (2006) woods and forests for future generations; to protect the environmental landscape, biodiversity, climate change mitigation and adaptation, resources of water, soil and air, and to protect and enhance biodiversity and environmental quality and for the public realm. Planting of trees within landscapes, and cultural values; to ensure that woodlands and trees development sites should be encouraged. enhance the quality of life for those living in, working in, or visiting England; to encourage the development of new or improved market for sustainable woodland products and services where this will deliver identifiable public benefits, nationally or locally. DEFRA Guidance for Local Authorities on The Duty is set out in Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Biodiversity considerations must be fully considered by the LDF. In particular Implementing Biodiversity Duty (2007) Communities Act (NERC) 2006, and states that: “Every public authority development should avoid sensitive areas and seek to increase provision of must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the wildlife friendly areas such as green space within the City. Local geodiversity proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving assets should also be recognised by the LDF. biodiversity”. Particular areas of focus include: Policy, Strategy and Procurement; Management of Public Land and Buildings; Planning, Infrastructure and Development; and Education, Advice and Awareness. Forestry Commission & West Midlands Aims to inspire and guide those involved in the management of trees, The LDF should aim to protect trees and woods and recognise their value to Conservancy: West Midlands Regional woodlands and forests in the region to secure the sustainable development landscape, biodiversity, climate change mitigation and adaptation, Forestry Framework (2004) and Delivery of this resource. environmental quality and for the public realm. Planting of trees within Plan (2005/06) development sites should be encouraged. West Midlands Biodiversity Partnership: Key challenges include: maintaining and improving the condition of Biodiversity considerations should be fully considered by the Restoring the Region’s Wildlife - Regional habitats, species and ecosystems; developing an area based approach to Wolverhampton LDF. In particular development should avoid sensitive areas Biodiversity Strategy for the West restoring wildlife; monitoring the condition of habitats, species and and seek to increase provision of wildlife friendly areas such as green space Midlands (2005) ecosystems; re-connecting and integrating action for biodiversity with other within the city. The LDF also should recognise the benefits of improved environmental, social and economic activity; and coping with the impacts of biodiversity infrastructure for climate change adaptation. climate change. West Midlands Regional Sustainability Proposals for environmental improvements which will benefit the people of Provision of green space and green corridors in the city will have benefits Forum: Enriching Our Region - An the West Midlands and help the region to play its part in revitalising urban for biodiversity networks. Environmental Manifesto for the West areas, protecting natural environment and heritage. Midlands (2005) Geodiversity Partnership: The Black The Black Country Geodiversity Action Plan aims to make the diverse Local geodiversity assets should be fully recognised by the LDF, with an Country Geodiversity Action Plan (2006) geological heritage of the Black Country accessible and enjoyable across avoidance of "sterilisation" of sites of value for their geodiversity resource. the four Black Country citys. Birmingham and Black Country BAP Focuses on aspects of the local ecology which are in need of protection or The Wolverhampton LDF should aim to protect and enhance both Group: Birmingham and Black Country conservation, includes targets and methods. greenfield and brownfield biodiversity assets. A particular area of Biodiversity Action Plan (2000) importance is likely to be the canal network. CABE Making Contracts Work for Advises on how to make the most of the potential for biodiversity in urban New provision, or improvement of biodiversity-friendly urban parks should Wildlife: How to Encourage Biodiversity in parks and it shows how the commitment of individuals and employers can be supported by the LDF. Urban Parks (2006) make the difference between failure and inspiring success.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C6 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Wolverhampton City Council: Two of the six main themes of the Environment Strategy are to Biodiversity considerations must be fully considered by the LDF. In particular Wolverhampton Environment Strategy improve nature conservation in the city and develop and maintain the green development should avoid sensitive areas and seek to increase provision of (2009) infrastructure and the public realm, The stated aims of the Environment wildlife friendly areas such as green space within the City. Local geodiversity Strategy in relation to biodiversity are as follows: assets should also be recognised by the LDF. Increase areas of habitat Enhance the biodiversity in natural areas such as nature reserves Support wildlife recording and survey work Promote ecologically sound methods for gardens, public open space and allotments Educate about nature conservation and other living things Black Country Environmental Once completed, the Black Country EIG will set out a route map for the New and improved provision of multifunctional green infrastructure and Infrastructure Guidance (in development) delivery of environmental transformation at both sub region and local level improvements to existing networks should be key aims for the LDF. This and will form part of the Black Country Core Strategy. It will act as an should support Environmental Infrastructure work already being carried out organising framework for integrating physical resources and natural systems across the sub-region to support improvements to biodiversity habitats and with ecological, geological and historical assets, enabling environmental networks. transformation and protecting and enhancing distinctiveness across the Black Country. Climate Change UN Framework Convention on Climate Sets an overall framework for intergovernmental efforts to tackle the The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage efficient design of new Change (1992) challenge posed by climate change. development and redevelopment; support layout of development which reduces the need to travel and which encourages walking, cycling and public transport use; and support the growth renewable energy provision in the City. The LDF should also facilitate climate change adaptation, such as a presumption against development in flood risk areas, supporting a growth in green infrastructure and promoting the development of sustainable urban drainage systems. IPCC Kyoto Protocol to the United Commits member nations to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide and The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage efficient design of new Nations Framework Convention on other greenhouse gases, or engage in emissions trading if they maintain or development and redevelopment; support layout of development which Climate Change (1997) increase emissions of these gases. reduces the need to travel and which encourages walking, cycling and public transport use; and support the growth renewable energy provision in the City. EC Sixth Environmental Action Climate change has been identified as one of four priority areas for Europe. The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage efficient design of new Programme 2002-2012 (2002) The EAP's main objective is a reduction in emissions of greenhouse gases development and redevelopment; support layout of development which without a reduction in levels of growth and prosperity, as well as adaptation reduces the need to travel and which encourages walking, cycling and and preparation for the effects of climate change. public transport use; and support the growth renewable energy provision in the City. The LDF should also facilitate climate change adaptation, such as a presumption against development in flood risk areas, supporting a growth in green infrastructure and promoting the development of sustainable urban drainage systems.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C7 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* EU Sustainable Development Strategy This Strategy identifies key priorities for an enlarged Europe to focus on up The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage efficient design of new (2006) to 2010, including climate change and clean energy, and sustainable development and redevelopment; support layout of development which transport. reduces the need to travel and which encourages walking, cycling and public transport use; and support the growth of renewable energy provision in the City. The LDF should also facilitate climate change adaptation, such as a presumption against development in flood risk areas, supporting a growth in green infrastructure and promoting the development of sustainable urban drainage systems. UK Climate Change Act 2008 (2008) The 2008 Climate Change Act seeks to manage and respond to climate The Wolverhampton LDF should seek to encourage a reduction in change in the UK, by: greenhouse gas emissions in the City to reflect national targets for climate change mitigation through encouraging modal shift, supporting appropriate locational policies for development, encouraging energy and resource Setting ambitious, legally binding targets; efficiency and supporting renewable energy provision. It should also seek Taking powers to help meet those targets; to increase the resilience of the City to the effects of climate change. Strengthening the institutional framework; Enhancing the UK’s ability to adapt to the impact of climate change; and Establishing clear and regular accountability to the UK Parliament and to the devolved legislatures.

Significantly, the Act sets a legally binding target of at least an 80 percent cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and at least a 34 percent cut by 2020. These targets are against a 1990 baseline.

UK Renewable Energy Strategy (2009) The UK has committed to sourcing 15% of its energy from renewable The LDF should encourage renewable energy provision in Wolverhampton sources by 2020 – an increase in the share of renewables from about 2.25% through helping to realise opportunities for new renewable energy facilities in 2008. The Renewable Energy Strategy sets out how the Government will in the City and supporting an increase in microgeneration. achieve this target through utilising a variety of mechanisms to encourage Renewable Energy provision in the UK. This includes through streamlining the planning system, increasing investment in technologies and improving funding for advice and awareness raising.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C8 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* The UK Low Carbon Transition Plan (2009) The UK Low Carbon Transition Plan sets out how the UK will meet the The LDF should seek to support the aims of the UK Low Transition Plan by Climate Change Act’s legally binding target of 34 percent cut in emissions encouraging the growth of the renewable energy provision in the City; on 1990 levels by 2020. It also seeks to deliver emissions cuts of 18% on improving the energy efficiency of existing housing; helping facilitate the 2008 levels. growth of green jobs and supporting the development of environmental technologies locally. The main aims of the Transition Plan include the following:

Producing 30% of energy from renewables by 2020; Improving the energy efficiency of existing housing; Increasing the number of people in ‘green jobs’; and Supporting the use and development of clean technologies.

Planning and Climate Change: The PPS is a supplement to PPS1 and aims to focus on national policy and The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage efficient design of new Supplement to PPS1 (2007) to provide clarity on what is required at regional and local levels. It also development and redevelopment; support layout of development which aims to ensure that decisions are made at the most appropriate level and in reduces the need to travel and which encourages walking, cycling and a timely fashion to deliver the action needed to address climate change. public transport use; and support the growth renewable energy provision in the City. The LDF should also facilitate climate change adaptation, such as The Statement focuses on both mitigation and adaptation measures. a presumption against development in flood risk areas, supporting a growth in green infrastructure and promoting the development of sustainable urban drainage systems. DfT An Evidence Base Review of Public Summary report of the findings of an evidence base review investigating the The Wolverhampton LDF has a role to play in influencing public behaviour in Attitudes to Climate Change and research base on public attitudes towards climate change and transport terms of facilitating the energy efficient design and construction of new Transport Behaviour (2006) behaviour. buildings, changing travel patterns and reducing car use and improving green infrastructure. ODPM PPS25: Development and Flood Explains how flood risk should be considered at all stages of the plan and The LDF should seek to ensure development does not take place in flood Risk (2006) development process in order to reduce future damage to property and risk areas, and does not increases flood risk in existing or potential (due to loss of life. climate change) flood risk areas. It should also seek to ensure that new development proposals utilise the SFRA which has been carried out the Black Country, and apply the sequential/exception test where appropriate. The LDF should also seek to limit the risk of flooding from surface run off through the incorporation of SUDS and other measures. DfT An Evidence Base Review of Public Summary report of the findings of an evidence base review investigating the The LDF has a key role for influencing public behaviour in terms of changing Attitudes to Climate Change and research base on public attitudes towards climate change and transport travel patterns, reducing car use, and improving green infrastructure. Transport Behaviour (2006) behaviour. Carbon Trust: The Climate Change This report summarises the nature of the climate change issue. It explains The LDF should promote development which contributes to a limitation of Challenge: Scientific Evidence and the fundamental science and the accumulating evidence that climate greenhouse gas emissions in the City. Implications (2005) change is real and needs to be addressed. It also explains the future It should also facilitate climate change adaptation, through supporting the potential impacts, including the outstanding uncertainties. sustainable management of flood risk areas, promoting design and layout which increases the resilience of the City to climate change, facilitating a growth in green infrastructure and promoting the use of sustainable urban drainage systems.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C9 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Energy Saving Trust: Renewable Energy Provides information about the integration of renewable energy sources The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage the incorporation of renewable Sources for Homes in Urban Environments into new and existing dwellings in urban environments. It covers the basic energy provision into the design of new housing. (2005) principles, benefits, limitations, costs and suitability of various technologies. Sustainability West Midlands: The The aim of the study was to set out the overall picture of issues, challenges The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage efficient design of new Potential Impacts of Climate Change in and priorities regarding the likely impact of climate change in the West development and redevelopment; support layout of development which the West Midlands (2004) Midlands for the first time, with the intention of feeding into key regional reduces the need to travel and which encourages walking, cycling and strategies. public transport use; and support the growth of renewable energy provision in the city. The LDF should also facilitate climate change adaptation, such as a presumption against development in flood risk areas, supporting a growth in green infrastructure and promoting the development of sustainable urban drainage systems. Wolverhampton City Council and The Climate Change Strategy and Action Plan has been produced in The Wolverhampton LDF should seek to encourage a reduction in Wolverhampton Partnership: Climate fulfilment of the Wolverhampton Declaration on Climate Change and sets greenhouse gas emissions in the City to reflect national targets for climate Change Strategy and Action Plan for out the plan to adapt the city to climate change and to reduce CO2 change mitigation through encouraging modal shift, supporting appropriate Wolverhampton 2009-2012 (2009) emissions across Wolverhampton. It seeks to address climate change locational policies for development, encouraging energy and resource through the following key themes: buildings and planning, energy, water, efficiency and supporting renewable energy provision. It should also seek waste, transport, wildlife and green spaces, adapting to future climate to increase the resilience of the City to the effects of climate change. change, working with the community, public health and air quality.

The objectives of the Strategy and Action Plan are as follows:

Reducing CO2 emissions from buildings, vehicles, services and activities across the city; Ensuring that all buildings and services are resilient to changing climate impacts over coming decades; Encouraging developers to design and build new buildings and developments in the city in a way that minimises CO2 emissions and takes into account the changing climate and how this affects the city; and Advising and supporting local residents, businesses, stakeholders and partners on ways in which they can reduce their own CO2 emissions and to consider ways in which they may need to adapt to a changing climate.

Under the Strategy and Action Plan, a local target has been set to reduce the city’s CO2 emissions by at least 35% by 2026, with a shorter-term target of a 12% reduction by 2012 (from 2005 levels).

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C10 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Economic Factors EU European Employment Strategy (1997, The EES is designed as the main tool to give direction to and ensure co- The Wolverhampton LDF should support the growth of jobs and revised 2005) ordination of the employment policy priorities to which Member States employment in the City across a range of sectors and should support should subscribe at EU level. existing jobs. The LDF should facilitate the provision of new educational and learning facilities to help improve skills, improve community cohesion and increase opportunities in the City. EU The Lisbon Strategy (2000, revised The Lisbon Strategy was adopted in March 2000 and aims to make the EU The Wolverhampton LDF should facilitate the provision of new educational 2005) the most dynamic and competitive economy by 2010. This strategy involves and learning facilities to help improve skills, improve community cohesion a range of policy areas, from research and education to environment and and increase opportunities in the City. The LDF also has the potential to employment. help deliver urban renaissance through improvements to the vitality and vibrancy of the City and enhancing the local environment through appropriate land use, design and layout. ODPM: PPS1 Delivering Sustainable Sets out the Government's planning policies on the delivery of sustainable Sustainable economic development which supports environmental Development (2005) development through the planning system. Specific aims are: social improvements, improves community cohesion and the enhances vitality and progress which recognises the needs of everyone; effective protection of vibrancy of the City should be a central aim of the Wolverhampton LDF. the environment; the prudent use of natural resources; and the maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment. DCLG: Planning Policy Statement 4: Sets out the Government's policy framework for planning for sustainable Sustainable economic development which supports environmental Planning for Sustainable Economic economic development in urban and rural areas. PPS4 seeks to: improvements, enhances community cohesion and the enhances the vitality Growth (December 2009) of the City should be central aims of the LDF. Build prosperous communities by improving the economic performance of cities, towns, regions, sub-regions and local areas, The vitality and vibrancy of rural areas in Wolverhampton, including the both urban and rural; economy, should also be a key consideration. Reduce the gap in economic growth rates between regions, The SA should seek to ensure that economic-related development in promoting regeneration and tackling deprivation; Wolverhampton addresses the full range of the city’s local and sub-regional environmental and social needs. Deliver more sustainable patterns of development, reduce the need to travel, especially by car and respond to climate change; Promote the vitality and viability of town and other centres as important places for communities; and Raise the quality of life and the environment in rural areas by promoting thriving, inclusive and locally distinctive rural communities whilst continuing to protect the open countryside for the benefit of all. DETR The Urban White Paper Our Towns Sets out the Government's aims to provide jobs, a healthy economy, decent The Wolverhampton LDF should facilitate the provision of new educational and Cities: the Future: Delivering an homes, good public services and an attractive and safe environment. and learning facilities to help improve skills, improve community cohesion urban renaissance (2000) and increase opportunities in the City. The LDF also has the potential to help deliver urban renaissance through improvements to the vitality and vibrancy of the City and enhancing the local environment through appropriate land use, design and layout.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C11 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* DfES Education and Skills: Delivering Objectives are to: give children an excellent start in education so that they The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage the provision of new Results, A Strategy to 2006 (2002) have a better foundation for future learning; enable all young people to educational and learning facilities to help improve skills and increase develop and to equip themselves with the skills, knowledge and personal opportunities in the City. qualities needed for life and work; and encourage and enable adults to learn, improve their skills and enrich their lives. DTI UK Manufacturing Strategy (2002) Sets out a strategy for helping manufacturing companies fulfil their The Wolverhampton LDF should facilitate the provision of new educational potential in the UK by moving up the value chain to high skilled, knowledge and learning facilities to help improve skills and improve the quality of the intensive operations. The major aim of the strategy is to close the workforce in Wolverhampton. productivity gap with major competitors. Department of Work and Pensions: UK This Employment Action Plan sets out the UK Government's response to The LDF should facilitate the provision of new educational and learning National Action Plan for Employment the Employment Guidelines under the three overarching objectives of full facilities to help improve skills and increase opportunities in the City. (2004) employment, quality & productivity, and cohesion & social inclusion. HM Treasury: Science & innovation Describes how the UK should attract the highest-skilled people and The Wolverhampton LDF should facilitate the provision of new educational investment framework 2004-2014 (2004) companies which have the potential to innovate turn innovation into a and learning facilities to help improve skills, improve community cohesion commercial opportunity. and increase opportunities in the City. The LDF also has the potential to attract new companies and higher skilled people through improvements to the vitality and vibrancy of the City and enhancing the local environment through appropriate land use, design and layout. DEFRA Securing the Future - UK Sets a broad-ranging policy agenda for achieving sustainable development The Wolverhampton LDF, in addition to securing the provision of high Government sustainable development in the UK. This includes topics related to helping people make better quality employment land in Wolverhampton, should facilitate the provision strategy (2005) choices; sustainable consumption and production; climate change and of new educational and learning facilities to help improve skills, improve energy; protecting natural resources and enhancing the environment; and community cohesion and increase opportunities in the City. The LDF also creating sustainable communities. has the potential to help facilitate community cohesion through improvements to the vitality and vibrancy of the City and enhancing the local environment through appropriate land use, design and layout. DfES 14-19 Education and Skills White Sets out proposals, which build on the strengths of the existing education The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage the provision of new Paper (2005) system, designed to ensure that every young person masters functional educational and learning facilities to help improve skills and increase English and maths before they leave education. opportunities in the City. DfES Five Year Strategy for Children and Sets out the DfES skills and education strategy, seeking to address historic The LDF should encourage the provision of new educational and learning Learners (2005) weaknesses and put a clear focus on children, learners, parents and facilities to help improve skills and increase opportunities in the City. employers, promoting personalisation and choice. DfES Further Education: Raising Skills, Seta out a commitment to develop a new approach to funding for 14-19 The LDF should encourage the provision of new educational and learning Improving Life Chances (2005) year-olds and to move to a position where more funding is driven directly facilities to help improve skills and increase opportunities in the City. by employer and learner choice. DTI Technology Strategy - Developing UK Key goals are to: help leading sectors and businesses maintain their position The Wolverhampton LDF should support the growth of Information & Capability (2006) in the face of global competition; stimulate those sectors and businesses Communications Technology by encouraging and facilitating the expansion with the capacity to be among the best in the world to fulfil their potential; of high speed ITC networks across the City. ensure that the emerging technologies of today become the growth sectors of tomorrow; and combine all these elements in such a way that the UK becomes a centre for investment by world-leading companies.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C12 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Advantage West Midlands: Delivering Sets out a Vision for transforming the West Midlands into a world-class The Wolverhampton LDF, in addition to securing the provision of high Advantage: The West Midlands Economic region by 2010. This will be achieved by: Developing a Diverse and quality employment land in Wolverhampton, should facilitate the provision Strategy and Action Plan 2004-2010 Dynamic Business Base; Promoting a Learning and Skilful Region; Creating of new educational and learning facilities to help improve skills, improve (2004) the Conditions for Growth; and Regenerating Communities. community cohesion and increase opportunities in the city. The LDF also has the potential to support the city's economy by improving the vitality and vibrancy of the city and enhancing the local environment through appropriate land use, design and layout. Advantage West Midlands: West Aims to build on the innovative potential of companies through increasing The Wolverhampton LDF should encourage the provision of new Midlands Regional Innovation Strategy and exploiting research and development, promoting creative talent and educational and learning facilities to help improve skills and increase and Action Plan (2004) developing all aspects of an innovative and market led culture. opportunities in the city. The LDF should support the growth of Information & Communications Technology by encouraging and facilitating the expansion of high speed networks across the city. Advantage West Midlands: Revised West The vision for the strategy is for the West Midlands to be a global visitor The Wolverhampton LDF has the potential to support the city's visitor Midlands Visitor Economy Strategy (2007) destination where people, business and culture connect. It focuses in economy by improving the vitality and vibrancy of the city and enhancing particular on image and perceptions; regeneration and inward investment; the local environment through appropriate land use, design and layout. business destinations; and quality of life. This should draw on Wolverhampton's unique assets, including the city's historic environment, the canal network and the Urban Park. The LDF should also support the provision of new visitor attractions and green infrastructure. Culture West Midlands: Growing the Sets out guiding principles to provide the 'bedrock' for the growth of the The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of cultural facilities in Cultural Economy in the West Midlands West Midlands cultural economy and identifies the key opportunities for Wolverhampton, as well as associated educational, leisure and recreational (2007) achieving that growth, namely the ongoing growth of the cultural sector, amenities. increasing demand for cultural products and services, the sector’s ability to help drive the regional economy, a new vision for public sector partnerships and the opportunities provided by the 2012 Olympics. Advantage West Midlands: West Objectives for the West Midlands region include: developing a diverse and The Wolverhampton LDF, in addition to securing the provision of high Midlands Regional Economic Strategy dynamic business base; promoting a learning and skilful region; creating the quality employment land in Wolverhampton, should facilitate the provision conditions for growth; and regenerating communities in the West Midlands. of new educational and learning facilities to help improve skills, improve Specific areas for focus include innovation, future development, and lifelong community cohesion and increase opportunities in the city. The LDDs also learning. have the potential to support the city's economy by improving the vitality and vibrancy of the city and enhancing the local environment through appropriate land use, design and layout. West Midlands ICT Cluster Opportunity The ICT Cluster works to enable the region to become renowned for its The Wolverhampton LDF should support the growth of Information & Group: The West Midlands ICT Cluster R&D and innovation in the digital industries. Communications Technology by encouraging and facilitating the expansion Strategy (2005) of high speed networks across the city. West Midlands Regional Skills Addresses skills issues and opportunities in the West Midlands. Objectives The LDF should encourage the provision of new educational and learning Partnership: Priorities Action Plan (2005) include: use a data-driven approach; align the supply of training and related facilities to help improve skills and increase opportunities in the city. business support to the current and future demands of employers and individuals; and ensure that employers understand their future skill needs, and that employers and individuals play their role by investing in skills. Advantage West Midlands: Regional ICT Aims for the West Midlands to become a leading region in the use of ICT to The Wolverhampton LDF should support the growth of Information & Strategy - Digital West Midlands (2006) enhance productivity, competitiveness and efficiency for the benefit of all its Communications Technology by encouraging and facilitating the expansion citizens. of high speed ITC networks across the city. Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C13 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* West Midlands Regional Assembly: Sets out sustainable development objectives for the region - sustainable Sustainable economic development which supports environmental Regional Sustainable Development consumption and production; climate change and energy; natural resource improvements, improves community cohesion and the enhances vitality and Framework (2006) protection and environmental enhancement; and sustainable communities - vibrancy of the city should be a central aim of the Wolverhampton LDF. and a process for incorporating these objectives into policies, strategies and plans in the West Midlands. Advantage West Midlands and Trade Sets out proposals for international trade with the West Midlands, The Wolverhampton LDF should promote these aims by the development of Partners UK: International Trade Strategic specifically to give leadership and to achieve excellence in the development high quality employment land in locations accessible to the national and Plan for the West Midlands (no date) and delivery of a comprehensive range of international trade services to regional transport network (including the rail network). business throughout the West Midlands designed to instil confidence, increase export potential and activity and to raise the region’s annual share of UK exports to at least 9%. Black Country Tourism: The Black Country The Strategy's aims are for the visitor economy to be recognised as an The Wolverhampton LDF has the potential to support the city's visitor Visitor Economy vision and Strategic entity and valued and placed within the sub-region; for key local destination economy by improving the vitality and vibrancy of the city and enhancing Framework (2004) nodes to be established with a critical mass of attractors in each location; the local environment through appropriate land use, design and layout. and to change people's perceptions of the area specifically in relation to This should draw on Wolverhampton's unique assets, including the city's anti-social behaviour and by making real improvements to the urban historic environment, the canal network and the Urban Park. The LDF should environment. also support the provision of new visitor attractions and green infrastructure. Health EC Together for Health: A Strategic Building on current work, this Strategy aims to provide an overarching The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new health, Approach for the EU 2008-2013 (2007) strategic framework spanning core issues in health as well as health in all sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the City and support layouts policies and global health issues. which encourages walking, cycling and more active lifestyles. The LDF should also ensure the provision of high quality, well located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. ODPM PPG17: Planning for Open Space, Sets out open space, sport and recreation considerations for regional and The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new sporting, Sport and Recreation (2002) local planning bodies. These include an assessment of needs and leisure and recreational facilities in the City and help facilitate an opportunities; setting local standards; maintaining an adequate supply of improvement in open space provision. open space and sports and recreational facilities; planning for new open space and sports and recreational facilities; and planning obligations. DCMS & Strategy Unit: Game Plan: A The Government's long term vision for sport and physical activity by 2020 is The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new sporting, Strategy for delivering Government’s to increase significantly levels of sport and physical activity, particularly leisure and recreational facilities in the City. sport and physical activity objectives among disadvantaged groups; and to achieve sustained levels of success in (2002) international competition. DoH Tackling Health Inequalities: A Lays the foundation for meeting the government's targets to reduce the The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new health, Programme for Action (2003) health gap on infant mortality and life expectancy by 2010. The Programme sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the City and support layouts emphasises the need to improve health and the factors that contribute to which encourages walking, cycling and more active lifestyles. The LDF health faster in disadvantaged areas than elsewhere. should also ensure the provision of high quality, well located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. DoH Choosing Health: Making Healthy Sets out the key principles for supporting the public to make healthier and The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new health, Choices Easier, White Paper (2004) more informed choices in regards to their health. There is a particular focus sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the City and support layouts on children and young people, and people from poorer communities. which encourages walking, cycling and more active lifestyles. The LDF should also ensure the provision of high quality, well located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C14 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* DoH & Department for Work and Lays out a 'blueprint for change', so that work related illness and accidents The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new health, Pensions Health and Safety Executive: can be avoided, but if not ensures people get fast treatment and that they sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the City and support layouts Health, work and well-being - Caring for can access occupational health when it is needed. It also puts the emphasis which encourages walking, cycling and more active lifestyles. The LDF our future (2005) on creating healthy working environments. should also ensure the provision of high quality, well located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. DoH Our health, our care, our say: a new Puts emphasis on moving healthcare into the community and will therefore The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new health, direction for community services (2005) have an impact on sustainable development considerations, including sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the City and support layouts supporting local economies and how people travel to healthcare facilities. which encourages walking, cycling and more active lifestyles. The LDF should also ensure the provision of high quality, well located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. Forestry Commission: Trees and Provides detailed examples of how the Woodland Sector (trees, woodlands The LDF should support the provision of open space and green networks Woodlands - Nature's Health Service and green spaces) can significantly contribute to people’s health, well-being within new and redevelopment. (2005) (physical, psychological and social) and quality of life. Increasing levels of physical activity is a particular priority. DoH & Government of West Midlands: Ill health relating to smoking, alcohol, obesity, sexual health and mental The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new health, Choosing Health for the West Midlands health are identified as key areas for action to tackle health inequalities. In sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the city and support layouts (2006) addition specific targeted action is recommended for children and older which encourages walking, cycling and more active lifestyles. The LDF people. should also ensure the provision of high quality, well located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. Sport England: A Regional Plan for Sport Aims to significantly increase participation in sport within all age and social The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new sporting, in the West Midlands 2004-08 (2004) groups, leading to improvements in health and other social and economic leisure and recreational facilities in the city. benefits and providing the basis for progression into higher levels of performance, for those with the talent and desire to progress. West Midlands Regional Authority: The purpose of the strategy is to look at the broader issues that affect The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new health, Regional Health and Wellbeing Strategy people’s health and wellbeing, such as access to transport, good housing sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the city and support layout (2007) and economic issues. It aims to drive and influence delivery of which encourages walking, cycling and more active lifestyles. The LDF healthimprovements across the West Midlands by linking with other should also ensure the provision of high quality, well located and affordable regional strategies. housing appropriate for local residents' needs. Wolverhampton City Primary Care Trust: Aims to identify and reduce health inequalities in Wolverhampton and The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new health, Wolverhampton health improvement and improve the quality of life for people in the city. sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the city and support layout modernisation programme 2002-2010 which encourages walking, cycling and more active lifestyles. The LDF (2002) should also ensure the provision of high quality, well located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. Wolverhampton City Primary Care Trust The strategy aims to improve young people’s mental health services in the The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of new and improved and Wolverhampton City Council: city by improving services to address the requirements of the Children Act health, sporting, leisure and recreational facilities in the city. Wolverhampton Child and Adolescent 2004 (which requires all agencies to work together to plan, design and Mental Health Draft Strategy 2007-10 deliver ‘joined up’ services to meet the needs of their children and young people) Historic Environment and Townscape UNESCO World Heritage Convention Aims of the Convention are: defining cultural and natural heritage; The protection and enhancement of cultural heritage assets and their (1972) recognising the protection and conservation; understanding the value; and settings should be a key consideration for the Wolverhampton LDF. establishing 'the World Heritage fund'. Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C15 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Council of Europe: Convention on the Aims for signatories to protect their architectural heritage by means of The protection and enhancement of cultural heritage assets and their Protection of the Architectural Heritage of identifying monuments, buildings and sites to be protected; preventing the settings should be a key consideration for the Wolverhampton LDF. LDF Europe (1985) disfigurement, dilapidation or demolition of protected properties; providing should support high quality design and appropriate layout of new financial support by the public authorities for maintaining and restoring the development. architectural heritage on its territory; and supporting scientific research for identifying and analysing the harmful effects of pollution and for defining ways and means to reduce or eradicate these effects. Council of Europe: The Convention on the The convention defines archaeological heritage and identifies measures for Archaeological assets, both potential and realised should be provided with Protection of Archaeological Heritage its protection. Aims include integrated conservation of the archaeological full consideration through the Wolverhampton LDF. (Revised) (Valetta Convention) (1992) heritage, and financing of archaeological research and conservation. Council of Europe: European Landscape Aims to promote the protection, management and planning (including The Wolverhampton LDF should support development which protects, and Convention (2006) active design and creation of Europe's landscapes, both rural and urban, where possible improves the landscape character of the City. This should and to foster European co-operation on landscape issues. include augmenting historic landscapes. DCMS Ancient Monuments and An act to consolidate and amend the law retain to ancient monuments, to Development affecting areas of archaeological resource will need to have Archaeological Areas Act (1979) make provision of matters of archaeological or historic interest, and to due regard to this Act. provide grants by secretary of state to the Architectural Heritage fund.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C16 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* DCLG: Planning Policy Statement 5: PPS5: Planning for the Historic Environment sets out the Government's The protection and enhancement of cultural heritage assets and their Planning for the Historic Environment planning policies on the conservation of the historic environment in settings should be a key consideration for the Wolverhampton LDF. The (March 2010) England. LDF should support high quality design and appropriate layout of new development and protect and enhance landscape quality and the local It presents the Government’s objectives for planning for the historic distinctiveness. environment, including: Archaeological assets, both potential and realised should be provided with full consideration by the Wolverhampton LDF. To deliver sustainable development by ensuring that policies and

decisions concerning the historic environment: The LDF should also aim to increase awareness and understanding of the Recognise that heritage assets are a non-renewable resource historic environment and aim to facilitate greater public engagement with take account of the wider social, cultural, economic and the heritage protection system. environmental benefits of heritage conservation; and recognise that intelligently managed change may sometimes be necessary if heritage assets are to be maintained for the long term.

To conserve England’s heritage assets in a manner appropriate to their significance by ensuring that:

decisions are based on the nature, extent and level of that significance, investigated to a degree proportionate to the importance of the heritage asset wherever possible, heritage assets are put to an appropriate and viable use that is consistent with their conservation the positive contribution of such heritage assets to local character and sense of place is recognised and valued; and consideration of the historic environment is integrated into planning policies, promoting place-shaping.

PPS5 has a three main groups of policies. The first part of the document concentrates on plan making polices. The second part focuses on development management. A policy is also included for heritage and climate change,

PPS5 replaces PPG15: Planning and the Historic Environment and PPG16: Archaeology and Planning. DCLG: Planning Policy Statement 5: The purpose of the Practice is to assist local authorities, owners, applicants The LDF should seek to ensure that the principles sets out in the Practice Planning for the Historic Environment: and other interested parties in implementing Planning Policy Statement 5 Guide are mirrored by the forward planning process and new development Practice Guide (Planning for the Historic Environment) and to help in the interpretation of in the City. policies within the PPS.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C17 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Planning (Listed Buildings and An act to consolidate certain enactments relating to special controls in Development affecting listed buildings and conservation areas will need to Conservation Areas) Act (1990) respect of buildings and areas of special architectural or historic interest have due regard to this Act. with amendments to give effect to recommendations to give effect to recommendations of the Law Commissions. Heritage Protection for the 21 st Century: Sets out a vision of a unified and simpler heritage protection system, which The LDF should aim to increase awareness and understanding of the historic White Paper (2007) and Heritage is easier to understand and use, and is more efficient, accountable and environment through facilitating the protection of assets, enhancing their Protection Bill (2008) transparent. Also aims to increase the opportunities for public involvement settings and encouraging walking, cycling and improvements to the public and community engagement within the heritage protection system. realm. The LDF should also aim to facilitate greater public engagement with the heritage protection system. DCMS The Historic Environment: A Force Sets out how the historic environment holds the key to: an inspiring The protection and enhancement of cultural heritage assets and their for Our Future (2001) education resource; more attractive towns and cities; a prosperous and settings should be a key consideration for the Wolverhampton LDF. sustainable countryside; world class tourist attractions; and new jobs. English Heritage and CABE: Buildings in Aims to stimulate a high standard of design when development takes place Development in areas of sensitivity for their historic environment value Context: New Development in Historic in historically sensitive contexts by showing 15 case studies in which should have due regard to this document. Areas (2002) achievement is far above the ordinary and trying to draw some lessons both about design and about the development and planning process, particularly regarding building in sensitive locations. English Heritage and CABE: Guidance on Provides advice and guidance on good practice in relation to tall buildings Provision for tall buildings in the City (if they are proposed) should have Tall Buildings (2003) in the planning process and to highlight other related issues which need to regard to this guidance document. be taken into account, i.e. where tall buildings would and would not be appropriate. ODPM Secure and Sustainable Buildings Amends the Building act, and others, with regard to sustainable The protection and enhancement of cultural heritage assets and settings Act (2004) construction practices and conservation of historic buildings. Also states the should be a key consideration for the Wolverhampton LDF. general nature of security provisions which should be in place at the construction stage and beyond. English Heritage: Conservation Principles This English Heritage document sets out the framework for the sustainable The LDF should seek to ensure that the principles set out in the document for the Sustainable Management of the management of the historic environment. This is presented under the are reflected by new development in Wolverhampton. Historic Environment following six headline ‘principles’: Principle 1: The historic environment is a shared resource Principle 2: Everyone should be able to participate in sustaining the historic environment Principle 3: Understanding the significance of places is vital Principle 4: Significant places should be managed to sustain their values Principle 5: Decisions about change must be reasonable, transparent and consistent Principle 6: Documenting and learning from decisions is essential. Advantage West Midlands: Revised West The vision for the strategy is for the West Midlands to be a global visitor The Wolverhampton LDF has the potential to support heritage-led Midlands Visitor Economy Strategy (2007) destination where people, business and culture connect. It focuses in regeneration in the city. particular on image and perceptions; regeneration and inward investment; business destinations; and quality of life.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C18 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* West Midlands Regional Sustainability Sets out proposals for environmental improvements which will "benefit the The LDF should support development which improves the public realm, Forum: Enriching Our Region: An people of the West Midlands and help the region to play its part in built environment and townscape of the city. Environmental Manifesto for the West revitalising urban areas, protecting natural environment and heritage." Midlands (2005) Black Country Authorities: Black Country The Black Country has been divided into over 12,000 HLC polygons Historic Landscape Characterisation work carried out in Wolverhampton Historic Landscape Characterisation describing the present and past land use of each individual area. Larger should inform new development supported by the LDF. Project (2007) Character Areas have also been created, designed to assist in the presentation and understanding of the distinctive landscape of the Black Country. Housing EU Sustainable Development Strategy This Strategy identifies key priorities for an enlarged Europe to focus on up Housing should be allocated on previously developed land where possible, (2006) to 2010. This includes climate change and clean energy, sustainable and in areas with good accessibility to employment and services. Energy transport, sustainable protection and consumption, health, better use of efficiency and the use of natural resources should be considered at the natural resources, social inclusion and fighting global poverty. It aims to construction stage. achieve better policy integration in addressing these challenges, and to ensure that Europe looks beyond its boundaries in making informed decisions about sustainability. DTI Draft Strategy for Sustainable "Themes for Action" include: re-use existing built assets; design for The Wolverhampton LDF should support the development of energy Construction (2006) minimum waste; aim for lean construction; minimise energy in construction; efficient, environmentally sustainable housing which both limits short term minimise energy in building use; avoid polluting the environment; preserve impacts during construction and limits longer term impacts on a range of and enhance bio-diversity; conserve water resources; respect people and environmental receptors. New development should also support their local environment; and set targets (benchmarks & performance community cohesion and residents' wellbeing. indicators). HM Treasury: Barker Review of Housing Government objectives include: to achieve improvements in housing The Wolverhampton LDF should ensure the provision of high quality, well Supply, Delivering Stability: Securing our affordability in the market sector; a more stable housing market; location of located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. Future Housing Needs (2004) housing supply which supports patterns of economic development; and an adequate supply of publicly-funded housing for those who need it. ODPM Previously-Developed Land that Shows the amount of brownfield land reported by local authorities as New development should take place on previously developed land may be available for Development (2003) available for development. wherever possible. DCLG Code for Sustainable Homes: A Aims to measure sustainability of new homes according to a set of criteria The Wolverhampton LDF should support as high Code for Sustainable Step Change in Sustainable Home which have been developed from the Building Research Establishment Homes ratings as possible for new housing development. Building Practice (2006) (BRE) EcoHomes Standard; the Code has six levels set by a scoring system, whereby points are given for achieving certain levels of sustainability. Compliance requires meeting minimum standards for water efficiency, with additional points awarded for meeting standards relating to surface water run-off and pollution. DCLG PPS3 Housing (2006) Objectives include: high quality housing; a mix of housing, both market and The Wolverhampton LDF should ensure the provision of high quality, well affordable; a sufficient quantity of housing taking into account need and located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. It demand and seeking to improve choice; housing developments in suitable should also where possible, promote new development on previously (accessible) locations; and efficient and effective use of land, including re- developed land. use of previously-developed land where appropriate.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C19 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* DCLG Homes for the future: more The Housing Green Paper outlines plans for delivering homes; new ways of The Wolverhampton LDF should ensure the provision of high quality, well affordable, more sustainable (2007) identifying and using land for development; more social housing- ensuring located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs, whilst that a decent home at an affordable price is for the many; building homes promoting high environmental standards and development on previously more quickly; more affordable homes; and greener homes - with high developed land. environmental standards and flagship developments leading the way. DCLG Building a Greener Future: Policy This policy statement confirms the Government's intention for all new The Wolverhampton LDF should support as high Code for Sustainable Statement (2007) homes to be zero carbon by 2016 with a major progressive tightening of Homes ratings as possible for new housing development. the energy efficiency building regulations - by 25% in 2010 and by 44% in 2013 - up to the zero carbon target in 2016. Regional Housing Board: West Midlands The core aims of the RHS include: mixed, balanced and inclusive The Wolverhampton LDF should ensure the provision of high quality, well Regional Housing Strategy (2005) communities; Urban and Rural renaissance; new housing provision; located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. economic development of the Region; Housing Market Renewal Area Pathfinders; Government’s Decent Homes standards being met in the municipal, social sectors; provision of social and other affordable housing; minimise environmental resource consumption and traffic and improve the quality of the environment. Wolverhampton City Council: Housing The Housing Strategy reviews housing and related issues across the City in The Wolverhampton LDF should ensure the provision of well designed, high Strategy (2004) both the public and private sectors and sets out agreed objectives, quality, appropriately located and affordable housing relevant for local priorities for action, and how these will be delivered. Comprises four residents' needs. New residential development should also support priorities: to make all neighbourhoods safe, popular and desirable; to community cohesion and residents' wellbeing. ensure there is an adequate supply of housing which meets needs and aspirations; to ensure that people with special needs or who are vulnerable have appropriate housing and support; and to ensure all housing in Wolverhampton is in good condition. Wolverhampton City Council: Affordable The SPD aims to help meet housing needs and create mixed, balanced and The Wolverhampton LDF should ensure the provision of a wide range of housing Supplementary Planning sustainable communities in the city by maximising opportunities to provide high quality, well located and affordable housing appropriate for local Document (2006) affordable housing. The SPD seeks to provide a mechanism for securing residents' needs. and delivering affordable housing in accordance with Government guidance and will help to reduce uncertainty, ensure a consistent approach and provide clear guidance for developers regarding the Council’s approach towards affordable housing provision. Wolverhampton City Council: Under four themes, (Homeless prevention, housing advice and information; The Wolverhampton LDF should ensure the provision of high quality, well Homelessness Strategy (2007) health; accommodation and support; and crime reduction and community located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. safety) the Homelessness Strategy 2007-10 aims to deliver a strategic framework and vision which will assist in the implementation of quality services for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness within Wolverhampton. Material Assets (including energy and waste) EC Sixth Environmental Action Natural resources and waste (in particular recycling) has been identified as European renewables targets should be considered by the Wolverhampton Programme 2002-2012 (2002) one of four priority areas for Europe. The EAP requires member states to LDF. The LDF should also seek to reduce the volume and quantity of waste achieve 22% of electricity production from renewable energies by 2010; to generated and promote reuse and recycling. significantly reduce the volumes of waste generated and the quantity going to disposal; and to give preference to waste recovery and recycling. Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C20 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* EC Directive on Electricity Production Seeking tp promote renewable energy use in electricity production, the The LDF should encourage renewable energy provision in Wolverhampton from Renewable Energy Sources (2001) directive, which took effect in October 2001, sets national indicative targets through helping to realise opportunities for new renewable energy facilities for renewable energy production from individual member states. Whilst the in the City and supporting an increase in microgeneration. overall target for the 15 original member states is for 22% of electricity to be produced from renewable sources, the target for the UK is 10%. EC Waste Framework Directive (1975, Objective is the protection of human health and the environment against Sustainable waste management, including the provision of sites for localised updated 2006) harmful effects caused by the collection, transport, treatment, storage and recycling and reuse facilities, should be a key consideration for the LDF. tipping of waste. Particular focus is placed on the re-use of recovered materials as raw materials; restricting the production of waste; promoting clean technologies; and the drawing up of waste management plans. EC Landfill Directive (1999) Aims to prevent or reduce as far as possible negative effects on the Sustainable waste management, including the provision of sites for localised environment, in particular the pollution of surface water, groundwater, soil recycling and reuse facilities, should be a key consideration for the LDF. The and air, and on the global environment, including the greenhouse effect, as LDF should present a presumption against allocations for new landfill well as any resulting risk to human health, from the landfilling of waste, capacity. during the whole lifecycle of the landfill. MPS1 Planning and Minerals Sets out the principles and the key planning policy objectives against which The Wolverhampton LDF should recognise the potential of former minerals plans for minerals and decisions on individual applications should be made. sites for landscape and biodiversity/geodiversity-led restoration. It should These cover the areas of exploration, survey, safeguarding, protection of also, where appropriate, aim to safeguard against the sterilisation of certain heritage and countryside, supply, bulk transportation, environmental minerals resources. protection, efficient use, and restoration. Cabinet Office: Waste Not, Want Not, A A study into how England’s current waste management practices could be Sustainable waste management, including the provision of sites for localised Strategy for tackling the waste problem improved to reduce the current, and growing, waste problem. recycling and reuse facilities, should be a key consideration for the LDF. (2002) DEFRA Waste and Emissions Trading Act Sets out legislative provisions for waste (including waste sent to landfill, Sustainable waste management, including the provision of sites for localised (2003) waste management in England and Wales, and recycling plans), and about recycling and reuse facilities, should be a key consideration for the LDF. penalties for non-compliance with schemes for the trading of emissions quotas. DTI Energy White Paper: Our Energy Sets out Government’s long term energy policy, including requirements for The Wolverhampton LDF should support energy efficient layout and design Future – Creating a Low Carbon Economy cleaner, smarter energy; improved energy efficiency; reduced carbon in development and help facilitate the provision of localised renewable (2003) emissions; and reliable, competitive and affordable supplies. energy facilities. DTI Sustainable Energy Act (2003) Aims include increasing the use of renewable energy; cutting the UK’s The Wolverhampton LDF should support energy efficient layout and design carbon emissions; maintaining the reliability of the UK’s energy supplies; in development and help facilitate the provision of localised renewable promoting competitive energy markets in the UK; and reducing the number energy facilities. of people living in fuel poverty. ODPM PPS22: Renewable Energy (2004) Provides advice to planning authorities on how and where to develop The LDF should have due regard to PPS22 in siting new renewable energy renewable energy, and what types. facilities.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C21 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* UK Renewable Energy Strategy (2009) The UK has committed to sourcing 15% of its energy from renewable The LDF should encourage renewable energy provision in Wolverhampton sources by 2020 – an increase in the share of renewables from about 2.25% through helping to realise opportunities for new renewable energy facilities in 2008. The Renewable Energy Strategy sets out how the Government will in the City and supporting an increase in microgeneration. achieve this target through utilising a variety of mechanisms to encourage Renewable Energy provision in the UK. This includes through streamlining the planning system, increasing investment in technologies and improving funding for advice and awareness raising. ODPM PPS10: Planning for Sustainable Planning authorities are encouraged to deliver sustainable waste Sustainable waste management, including the provision of sites for localised Waste Management (2005) management through the development of appropriate strategies for recycling and reuse facilities, should be a key consideration for the LDF. growth, regeneration and the prudent use of resources; and by providing sufficient opportunities for new waste management facilities of the right type, in the right place and at the right time. DEFRA Waste Strategy for England (2007) Aims are to reduce waste by making products with fewer natural resources; Sustainable waste management, including the provision of sites for localised break the link between economic growth and waste growth; re-use recycling and reuse facilities, should be a key consideration for the LDF. products or recycle their materials; and recover energy from other wastes where possible. Notes that for a small amount of residual material, landfill will be necessary. DTI Micro Generation Strategy (2006) Acknowledges that local authorities can be pro-active in promoting small- The Wolverhampton LDF should help facilitate the provision of localised scale, local renewable energy generation schemes through “sensible use of renewable energy facilities. planning policies”. West Midlands Regional Assembly: West Provides guidance to waste planning authorities, and waste Sustainable waste management, including the provision of sites for localised Midlands Regional Waste Strategy (2001) collection/disposal authorities in the Region for their land use and waste recycling and reuse facilities, should be a key consideration for the LDF. management planning, for the period to 2011 and beyond. It sets the framework for monitoring regional progress towards more sustainable waste management; achievement of the national targets and helps to promote the importance of, and to secure commitment to, more sustainable waste management practices by industry and commerce and the general public. WMRA, AWM and GOWM: West Sets out how the region can contribute towards the development of The Wolverhampton LDF should support energy efficient layout and design Midlands Regional Energy Strategy (2004) renewable energy and greater take up of energy efficiency. Objectives in development and help facilitate the provision of renewable energy include improving energy efficiency; increasing the use of renewable energy facilities. resources; maximising uptake of business opportunities; and ensuring focused and integrated delivery and implementation. Wolverhampton City Council: Waste Outlines the strategic framework for waste management in the city over the Sustainable waste management, including the provision of sites for localised Management Strategy 2006-2026 (2006) next 20 years. Aims to: ensure that all waste streams are considered recycling and reuse facilities, should be a key consideration for the LDF. together and that solutions chosen for individual waste streams are considered in view of the impact on the management of others; consider waste minimisation, reuse, recycling, energy recovery, disposal, promotion, education and local market development in a coherent and planned way: and ensure consistency with adjoining local authority areas and compliments Government targets.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C22 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Population EU Sustainable Development Strategy This Strategy identifies key priorities for an enlarged Europe to focus on up The Wolverhampton LDF should support community cohesion through the (2006) to 2010. This includes health, social inclusion and fighting global poverty. It provision of new educational, health, leisure and recreational facilities and aims to achieve better policy integration in addressing these challenges, by facilitating development which improves the public realm, promotes and to ensure that Europe looks beyond its boundaries in making informed social inclusion and accessibility. decisions about sustainability. UN The Aarhus Convention (1998) Links environmental rights and human rights. It establishes that sustainable The Wolverhampton LDF has the potential to promote development which development can be achieved only through the involvement of all improves community cohesion, enhances environmental quality and stakeholders and links government accountability and environmental facilitates stakeholder involvement. protection. Social Exclusion Unit: Preventing Social The primary aims are to prevent social exclusion, and reintegrate people The Wolverhampton LDF should support community cohesion through the Exclusion (2001) who have become excluded. Improvement is required in the areas of provision of new educational, health, leisure and recreational facilities and truancy, rough sleeping, teenage pregnancy, youth at risk and deprived by facilitating development which improves the public realm, promotes neighbourhoods. social inclusion and accessibility. DCLG: Planning Policy Statement 12: PPS12 sets out the Government's policy on local spatial planning. A key aspect of PPS12 is the integration of Local Development Frameworks Local Spatial Planning (2008) Explaining what local spatial planning is, and how it benefits communities it with Sustainable Community Strategies (SCSs). The LDF should therefore also sets out what the key ingredients of local spatial plans are and the key achieve a large degree of integration with the developing Wolverhampton government policies on how they should be prepared. It should be taken SCS. into account by local planning authorities in preparing development plan documents and other local development documents. The document replaces Planning Policy Statement 12: Local Development Frameworks . Cabinet Office: Reaching Out: An Action Sets out an action plan to improve the life chances of those who suffer, or The Wolverhampton LDF should support community cohesion through the Plan on Social Exclusion (2006) may suffer in the future, from disadvantage. Guiding principles for action provision of new educational, leisure and recreational facilities and by include: better identification and earlier intervention; systematically facilitating development which improves the public realm, promotes social identifying ‘what works’; promoting multi-agency working; personalisation, inclusion and accessibility. rights and responsibilities; and supporting achievement and managing underperformance. Chief Secretary to the Treasury: Every Aims to ensure that every child has the chance to fulfil their potential by The provision of new educational, leisure and recreational facilities should Child Matters - Change for Children - reducing levels of education failure, ill health, substance misuse, crime and be a key consideration for the LDF. The LDF should also support Green Paper (2003) anti-social behaviour. development which improves the public realm, reduces crime and the fear of crime and supports community cohesion. Black Country Consortium: Diversity and A paper which considers diversity issues within the Black Country Study, The Wolverhampton LDF should support community cohesion through the the Black Country Study - The need for a also contains diversity data for the sub-region. Aims are to treat diversity as provision of new educational, leisure and recreational facilities and by diversity strategy (2006) a major opportunity, promote social cohesion as a theme in its own right, facilitating development which improves the public realm, promotes social and tackle poverty. inclusion and accessibility. Wolverhampton City Council: Supporting The Supporting People Strategy two main aims are: “to enable a diverse The Wolverhampton LDF should ensure the provision of high quality, well People Strategy (2005) range of vulnerable people to exercise choice and independence in their located and affordable housing appropriate for local residents' needs. The own lives by providing the support services necessary to achieve this” and, LDF should also support community cohesion through the provision of new “to work with a wide range of service providers to ensure the provision of educational, health, leisure and recreational facilities and by facilitating housing-related support services of a high quality and standard that meets development which improves the public realm, promotes social inclusion the needs of a diverse community”. and accessibility.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C23 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Quality of life EU Sustainable Development Strategy This Strategy identifies key priorities for an enlarged Europe to focus on up Sustainable development should be the central consideration of the (2006) to 2010, including social inclusion and fighting global poverty. It aims to Wolverhampton LDF. The LDF should support a reduction of deprivation in achieve better policy integration in addressing these challenges, and to the City by: promoting development location and layout which improves ensure that Europe looks beyond its boundaries in making informed accessibility to services, facilities and amenities; enhancing the local decisions about sustainability. environment through appropriate land use, design and layout and incorporation of green infrastructure; facilitating the provision of new educational and learning facilities to help improve skills and increase opportunities; and supporting social inclusion. ODPM PPS1 Delivering Sustainable Sets out the Government's planning policies on the delivery of sustainable The Wolverhampton LDF should support a reduction of deprivation in the Development (2005) development through the planning system. Specific aims are: social City by: promoting development location and layout which improves progress which recognises the needs of everyone; effective protection of accessibility to services, facilities and amenities; enhancing the local the environment; the prudent use of natural resources; and the maintenance environment through appropriate land use, design and layout and of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment. incorporation of green infrastructure; facilitating the provision of new educational and learning facilities to help improve skills and increase opportunities; and supporting social inclusion. ODPM Warm Homes and Energy Requires the Government to develop and instigate a strategy to eradicate The Wolverhampton LDF should help facilitate the provision of affordable, Conservation Act (2000) fuel poverty in England by 2016 and Wales by 2018. high quality and energy efficient housing. ODPM Sustainable Communities: Building Sets out a long-term programme of action for delivering sustainable The Wolverhampton LDF should support a reduction of deprivation in the for the Future (2003) communities in both urban and rural areas. It aims to tackle housing supply City by: promoting development location and layout which improves issues in the South East of England, low demand in other parts of the accessibility to services, facilities and amenities; enhancing the local country, and the quality of our public spaces. environment through appropriate land use, design and layout and incorporation of green infrastructure; facilitating the provision of new educational and learning facilities to help improve skills and increase opportunities; and supporting social inclusion. ODPM & Home Office: Safer Places: The Practical guide to designs and layouts that may help with crime prevention The LDF should draw on this guide by promoting design and layout which Planning System and Crime Prevention and community safety, including well-defined routes, places structured so improves perceptions of security and reduces crime and the fear of crime. (2004) that different uses do not cause conflict, places designed to include natural surveillance and places designed with management and maintenance in mind. Home Office: Youth Justice - The next The key proposals are to: strengthen parenting interventions; improve The provision of new educational, leisure and recreational facilities should steps - companion document to Every understanding of trials and trial preparation; manage remandees better in be a key consideration for the Wolverhampton LDF. The LDF should also Child Matters (2000) the community; establish a simpler sentencing structure with more flexible support development which improves the public realm, reduces the fear of interventions; run community intensive supervision and surveillance as the crime and supports community cohesion. main response to repeat and serious offending while still having custody available; introduce a more graduated progression between secure, open and community facilities; and improve youth justice skills and organisation. ODPM PPG17: Planning for Open Space, Sets out open space, sport and recreation considerations for regional and Increased provision of green infrastructure and improvements to existing Sport and Recreation (2002) local planning bodies. These include an assessment of needs and networks should be key aims for the Wolverhampton LDF. This should opportunities; setting local standards; maintaining an adequate supply of support Green Infrastructure work already being carried out in the City. open space and sports and recreational facilities; planning for new open space and sports and recreational facilities; and planning obligations.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C24 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* DEFRA England's Trees, Woods and Government objectives include: to safeguard England’s resource of trees, Appropriate planting and management of trees as part of a wider and Forests - a Consultation Document (2006) woods and forests for future generations; to protect the environmental improved green infrastructure network should be supported by the LDF. resources of water, soil and air, and to protect and enhance biodiversity and landscapes, and cultural values; to ensure that woodlands and trees enhance the quality of life for those living in, working in, or visiting England; to encourage the development of new or improved market for sustainable woodland products and services where this will deliver identifiable public benefits, nationally or locally. Countryside Agency: The Countryside in A vision for the landscape of urban/rural fringe environments and how to Increased provision of green infrastructure and improvements to existing and Around Towns – A vision for better manage these areas and make improvements. Key functions for the networks should be key aims for the Wolverhampton LDF. This should connecting town and country in the environment include: a bridge to the country; a gateway to the town; a support work already being carried out at the regional level. pursuit of sustainable development (2005) health centre; a classroom; a recycling and renewable energy centre; a productive landscape; a cultural legacy; a place for sustainable living; an engine for regeneration; and a nature reserve. English Nature: Accessible Natural Green Aims to help Local Authorities develop policies which acknowledge, protect The Wolverhampton LDF should seek to support the expansion of Space Standards in Towns and Cities: A and enhance the contribution natural spaces make to local sustainability. Accessible Natural Green Space and improve the quality of existing areas. Review and Toolkit for their Three aspects of natural space in cities and towns are discussed: their Implementation (2003) biodiversity; their ability to cope with urban pollution; ensuring natural spaces are accessible to everyone. The report aims to show how size and distance criteria can be used to identify the natural spaces which contribute most to local sustainability. English Nature: Accessible Natural Green Aims to help Local Authorities develop policies which acknowledge, protect The Wolverhampton LDF should seek to support the expansion of Space Standards in Towns and Cities: A and enhance the contribution natural spaces make to local sustainability. Accessible Natural Green Space and improve the quality of existing areas. Review and Toolkit for their Three aspects of natural space in cities and towns are discussed: their Implementation (2003) biodiversity; their ability to cope with urban pollution; ensuring natural spaces are accessible to everyone. The report aims to show how size and distance criteria can be used to identify the natural spaces which contribute most to local sustainability. Forestry Commission - West Midlands Sets out a 20 year vision for a greener, healthier West Midlands that Increased provision of green infrastructure and improvements to existing Green Infrastructure Prospectus (2007) recognises the importance of our environment and the many benefits it networks should be key aims for the Wolverhampton LDF. This should provides, including: opportunities for sport and recreation, creating support work already being carried out in the city, including the healthier communities, supporting and enhancing biodiversity, cooling our development of the Black Country Urban Park initiative. urban areas in summer, reducing the impact of noise and air pollution, reducing the risk of flooding. Forestry Commission & West Midlands Aims to guide those involved in the management of trees, woodlands and Appropriate planting and management of trees as part of a wider and Conservancy - West Midlands Regional forests in the region to secure the sustainable development of this resource. improved green infrastructure network should be supported by the LDDs. Forestry Framework (2004) and Delivery Plan (2005/06)

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C25 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Black Country Consortium: The Black The aim of the Black Country Study is to find ways to: reverse the trend of The Wolverhampton LDF should support a reduction of deprivation in the Country Study (2006) people leaving the Black Country; raise income levels by ensuring better city by: facilitating the provision of new educational and learning facilities to skills and types of jobs; attract and retain people with higher level skills help improve skills and increase opportunities; promoting development (change the socio-economic mix); and protect and enhance the layout which improves accessibility to services, facilities and amenities; and environment and create a safe, attractive and healthy place to live and enhancing the local environment through appropriate land use, design and work. Themes include housing, economy & skills, transport, centres, layout and incorporation of green infrastructure; and improving the vitality environment and diversity. and vibrancy of the city. Black Country Environmental Once completed, the Black Country EIG will set out a route map for the New and improved provision of multifunctional green infrastructure and Infrastructure Guidance (in development) delivery of environmental transformation at both sub region and local level improvements to existing networks should be key aims for the LDF. This and will form part of the Black Country Core Strategy. It will act as an should support Environmental Infrastructure work already being carried out organising framework for integrating physical resources and natural systems across the sub-region. with ecological, geological and historical assets, enabling environmental transformation and protecting and enhancing distinctiveness across the Black Country. Wolverhampton City Council: The Wolverhampton Environment Strategy seeks to provide a coherent The LDDs which make up the LDF should seek to support improvements to Wolverhampton Environment Strategy framework for action to improve the city’s environment. Recognising the environmental quality in the City through improvements in green (2009) link between a high quality environment and residents’ quality of life, the infrastructure networks, enhancements to the public realm and built Strategy sets out the following vision for Wolverhampton’s environment in environment, supporting non car modes of transport, protecting and 2026: enhancing biodiversity and historic environment assets, reducing resource “By 2026 the careless disregard of the environment in the past has been consumption and supporting climate mitigation and adaptation. redressed. We recognise that it is our life support system: it provides the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, the raw materials and energy we need to make things. These resources and systems are limited. As we care for them, we care for ourselves.” The strategy seeks to deliver this vision through the following five objectives: 1. Improve nature conservation in the city 2. Develop and maintain the green infrastructure and the public realm 3. Develop sustainable consumption and production 4. Adapt to climate change and reduce the city’s contribution to greenhouse gas emissions 5. Achieve sustainable transport. Safer Wolverhampton Partnership: Crime The purpose of the strategy is to plan and co-ordinate work to prevent and The provision of new educational, health, leisure and recreational facilities Reduction, Community Safety and Drug reduce crime and disorder and to address drugs issues in the area. and an improvement in job opportunities should be a key consideration for Strategy 2005-8 (2005) the Wolverhampton LDF. The LDF should also support development which improves the public realm, reduces crime and the fear of crime and supports community cohesion.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C26 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Wolverhampton City Council: Cultural Aims are to use cultural activities to improve the quality of life for all, The Wolverhampton LDF should support the provision of cultural facilities in Strategy (2006) particularly young and older people; support formal and informal lifelong the city as well as associated educational, leisure and recreational amenities. learning; ensure inclusive participation and promote community cohesion; improve the health and well-being of Wolverhampton’s citizens; and to support the economic vitality of Wolverhampton, including maximising the visitor potential of residents and tourists. Water and Soil Defra: Safeguarding our Soils: A Strategy The Soil Strategy for England outlines the Government’s approach to The LDF should support a reduction of soil loss and erosion, promote an for England (2009) safeguarding soils for the long term. It provides a vision to guide future improvement of soil quality, including a reduction of land contamination, policy development across a range of areas and sets out the practical steps and promote soil protection during the construction of new areas of that are needed to take to prevent further degradation of our soils, development. enhance, restore and ensure their resilience, and improve understanding of the threats to soil and best practice in responding to them. Key objectives of the strategy include: Better protection for agricultural soils; Protecting and enhancing stores of soil carbon; Building the resilience of soils to a changing climate; Preventing soil pollution; Effective soil protection during construction and development; and Dealing with the legacy of contaminated land Soils Lead Coordination Network: Soils This document sets out the Soils Lead Coordination Network’s vision for soil The LDF should seek to reflect the vision presented in the document by and the Natural Heritage: a Vision by the conservation. seeking to support a reduction of soil loss and erosion, promote an Soils LCN for the Protection of the UK Soil The “desired outcomes” of the vision are as follows: improvement of soil quality, including a reduction of land contamination, Resource and Sustainable Use of Soils and promote soil protection during development. (2007) (i) Maintaining the diversity and biodiversity of UK soils; (ii) Controlling and when appropriate reversing loss of soil carbon and water-holding capacity; (iii) Reducing accelerated soil erosion and sediment transport into watercourses; and (iv) Ensuring appropriate status of soils in mitigation and remediation scenarios to control the impact of climate change.

Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC This provides an overarching strategy, including a requirement for EU The Wolverhampton LDF should seek to ensure that water quality in the Member States to ensure that they achieve 'good ecological status' by City is not negatively affected by planned developments, particularly 2015. River Basin Management Plans were defined as the key means of regarding surface run-off during and after construction which could lead to achieving this. a deterioration in quality of rivers and canals. DTI Building a Better Quality of Life: A Encourages construction industry to adopt a more sustainable approach The Wolverhampton LDF should support water efficiency, the use of Strategy for More Sustainable towards development; identifies ten Themes for Action, which include sustainable urban drainage systems and appropriate layout to support water Construction (2000, currently under conserving water resources. quality and quantity. review)

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C27 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* DEFRA The Water Environment (Water Requires all inland and coastal waters to reach “good status” by 2015. This The Wolverhampton LDF should support development which reduces the Framework Directive) (England and is being done by establishing a river basin City structure within which frequency and severity of pollution events, limits the risk of flooding, Wales) Regulations (2003) demanding environmental objectives are being set, including ecological improves water quality and facilitates water conservation and reuse. targets for surface waters. ODPM PPS23: Planning and Pollution Planning should aim to reduce the impacts of pollution through new and The LDF should treat potential pollution from new development as a Control (2004) redevelopment and realise opportunities for new development to material consideration, help realise opportunities for the remediation of remediate areas of contaminated land. Potential effects of new contaminated land and promote the precautionary principle where development on environmental quality through pollution should be viewed uncertainties occur. as a “material consideration.” The LDDs should set out the criteria against which applications for For new development and redevelopment, the precautionary principle potentially polluting developments will be considered in accordance with should be invoked where uncertainties occur. Appendix 1 of PPS23.

Local Development Documents should set out the criteria against which applications for potentially polluting developments will be considered. ODPM PPS25: Development and Flood Explains how flood risk should be considered at all stages of the plan and The Wolverhampton LDF should avoid development in existing or potential Risk (2006) development process in order to reduce future damage to property and (due to climate change) flood risk areas. It should also seek to utilise the loss of life. SFRA which has been carried out for the City, including the sequential/exception test where appropriate. The LDF should also promote development which reduces the risk of flooding from surface run off. Environment Agency: Water Resources Looks at the steps needed to manage water resources to the 2020s and The Wolverhampton LDF should support development which limits the risk for the Future: A Strategy for England and beyond, with the overall aim of improving the environment while allowing of flooding, improves water quality and facilitates water conservation and Wales (2001, reviewed 2005) enough water for human uses. reuse. Environment Agency: Building a Better Guidance on addressing key environmental issues through the development The Wolverhampton LDF should support development which reduces the Environment: A Guide for Developers process (focusing mainly on the issues dealt with by the Agency), including frequency and severity of pollution events, limits the risk of flooding, (2006) managing flood risk, surface water management, use of water resources, improves water quality and facilitates water conservation and reuse. preventing pollution. POS, LGA: Planning Policies for Recommends ways of integrating benchmarks for sustainable building into The Wolverhampton LDF should support water efficiency, the use of Sustainable Building: Guidance for Local Local Development Frameworks. Includes a definition of sustainable sustainable urban drainage systems and appropriate layout to support water Development Frameworks (2006) building, covering design and construction practice, and water conservation quality and quantity. techniques. These include water efficiency measures such as dual flush WCs, rainwater collection and greywater recycling, and a maximum standard for water use in hotels and offices. Creating a Better Place: Midlands Local Main aims of this regional West Midlands strategy Include: The Wolverhampton LDF should aim to complement these regional aims of Contribution 2006/11: Environment the Environment Agency. Agency Local Strategy (2006) Reversing the growing problem of illegal waste dumping;

Developing understanding of the links between a poor environment, health and poverty in the region’s most deprived areas to focus effective action; Raising awareness throughout the region of individuals’ impact on the environment; making the most of the opportunities for water- based recreation and exercise. Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C28 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Scott Wilson on behalf of the Black Developed to provide an input into the Black Country Joint Core Strategy, The LDF should seek to support sustainable water management and Country Authorities: Black Country Water the study identifies the existing capacity of the Black Country’s water promote the sustainable use of water resources in the City. Cycle Study and Scoping Surface Water environment and water cycle infrastructure, and has used this assessment to Management Plan (2009) determine impacts as a result of proposed development in the sub region to 2026, and where new infrastructure is required. Jacobs, on behalf of the Black Country A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment was completed for the Black Country in The LDF should have full regard to the outcome of the SFRA carried out in Authorities: Black Country Strategic February 2009. The document summarises the background and policy for the sub-region. This will be a vital document to help Wolverhampton adapt Flood Risk Assessment (February 2009) the development of SFRAs, the guiding principles for undertaking a SFRA, to increases in flood risk brought about by the effects of climate change. It the outputs of the SFRA and strategic flood risk management guidance for should also seek to ensure that the development process in the city fully the four Local Planning Authorities in the sub-region (Wolverhampton, utilises the SFRA, and where appropriate the sequential and exception Dudley, Sandwell and Walsall). tests. Environment Agency: Catchment Area Catchment Area Management Strategies (CAMS) are six year strategies The LDF should seek to support sustainable water management and Management Strategies. developed by the Environment Agency for managing water resources at the promote the sustainable use of water resources in the City. The City is covered by the following local level. These documents guide water supply and use in the city and te CAMS: wider area.

Staffordshire Trent Valley CAMS The CAMS documents contains maps and descriptions of the local Water (July 2007); and Management Units (WMUs), groundwater and surface water, and an assessment of water availability at times of low flow – normally mid to late Tame Anker and Mease CAMS summer. CAMS also classify each WMU into one of four categories: ‘over- (March 2008). abstracted’; ‘over-licensed’; ‘no water available’; or ‘water available’. Severn Trent Water: Corporate and The water company aims to protect public health by delivering safe drinking The Wolverhampton LDF should support development which improves soil Environmental Policies (2007) water and effective sanitation services, and protect the environment by and water quality, and which helps facilitate water conservation and reuse. safely recycling waste water. In addition, it aims to devote greater resources to leakage control.

Polic y and Plan Review: Appendix C29 Title of PPP Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of How it affects, or is affected by the Local Development Framework in PPP terms of sustainability issues* Severn Trent Water: Water Resources The Water Industry Act 1991, as amended by the Water Act 2003, places a The LDF should seek to support sustainable water management and Management Plan (2010) requirement on all water companies to prepare a Water Resources promote the sustainable use of water resources in the City. Management Plan (WRMP). The Water Resources Management Plan sets out how Severn Trent Water proposes to meet demand in the period to 2035 in as efficient and sustainable a way as possible, whilst complying with environmental legislation and regulatory requirements. The company’s strategic objectives for water supply demand planning are as follows:

Adopt the overall least financial, social and environmental cost strategy for achieving and maintaining target headroom throughout the planning period to 2035; Comply with environmental legislation and meet environmental obligations Continue to promote water efficiency programmes and water recycling for businesses and consumers; Accelerate the installation of water meters and more sophisticated tariffs Continue to drive down the level of leakage from the network; Reinforce the network to avoid interruptions to supply; Design and maintain water resources and supply systems with the aim of having no more than three hosepipe bans in 100 years; Increase the scope for water transfers across the region and between water companies; Develop new water resources when required; Ensure no failures in water quality

* This includes the environmental issues as set out in the SEA Directive - biodiversity, flora, fauna, population, human health, soil, water, air, climatic factors, material assets, cultural heritage (including architectural and archaeological heritage) and landscape - as well as socio-economic issues such as quality of life, economic factors and housing.

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