The Watling Chase Community Forest is one of 12 Community Forests around England. It covers an area of approximately 18,840 hectares (72 square miles) of land in and the northern fringe of , which includes several sizeable settlements but is predominantly rural. The majority of the Forest is within the area covered by Council, with other parts within the areas of City and District, Hatfield District, Borough and Councils and the London of Barnet and Harrow.

Implementing the aims of the Watling Chase Community Forest will increase the quality of the environment and the desirability of being located in the area.

Watling Chase

Introduction Community Forest

St Albans Hatfield

Potters Bar

Watford

Barnet

Edgware Stanmore Watling Chase Community Forest - A Guide for Landowners, Developers and Users Introduction

1.1 The aim of this Guide is to highlight the 1.3 Central Government advice in Planning Policy importance of the Watling Chase Community Guidance Note 12 (PPG12) advises that Forest and to explain how development Supplementary Planning Guidance should be proposals within it can help achieve its objectives. reviewed on a regular basis alongside reviews of development plan policies to which it relates. 1.2 This Guide acts as Supplementary Planning SPG does not form part of a Local Plan but it may Guidance (SPG), which is to be taken into supplement specific policies in a Plan. SPG should account as a material consideration in the be issued separately from the Plan, made publicly determination of planning applications. The Supplementary Planning Guidance available and its status made clear. Secretary of State will give substantial weight to SPG in making decisions where the SPG derives 1.4 Sections 1 to 5 of this SPG provide background out of, and is consistent with, any relevant information relating to the Forest and this SPG, national or regional guidance and the whilst section 6 onwards focuses on how development plan, and has been prepared in a development proposals can contribute towards proper manner. This guidance supplements the Forest. policies of the Hertsmere Local Plan 2003 which are set out in Appendix 3.

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling Watling Chase Community Forest

2.1 The Watling Chase Community Forest is one of leisure enterprises, nature areas and public 12 Community Forests around England. It covers open space.’ (Watling Chase Community an area of approximately 18,840 hectares (72 Forest Plan Review 2001, p5). Their square miles) of land in Hertfordshire and the establishment, development and maintenance northern fringe of London,which includes several should increase environmental quality and the sizeable settlements but is predominantly rural. desirability to be located in the area. The map The majority of the Forest is within the area in Appendix 1 shows the extent of the Watling covered by Hertsmere Borough Council, with Chase Community Forest and the boundaries other parts within the areas of St Albans City and of the local authorities in the area. The map in District, District, Watford Appendix 2 shows the location of some of the Borough and Three Rivers District Councils and main non-motorised access routes through the the London Boroughs of Barnet and Harrow. Forest, namely the Timberland Trail, , London LOOP, Hertfordshire Way, London 2.2 Community Forests are not continuous areas Orbital Bridleroute (H25) and Great North of closely grown trees but are instead intended Cycle Route. to be ‘a rich mosaic of landscape, within which land uses include farmland, woodland, villages, Planning Policies and Guidance

3.1 Development proposals must be assessed in 3.5 Planning Policy Guidance Note 9 (PPG9): Nature relation to National and Regional Planning Conservation sets out the Government's Guidance and County and District Council objectives for nature conservation and how level planning policies. National Planning Policy these are to be reflected in land use planning. Guidance and Regional Planning Guidance in The UK Biodiversity Action Plans are also relation to the Watling Chase Community important documents covering a range of Forest are outlined below. County and District wildlife and habitat issues. Council level planning policies are set out in Regional Planning Guidance Appendix 3. 3.6 RPG9: Regional Planning Guidance for the South National Planning Policy Guidance East covers the majority of the area within the 3.2 Several Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPGs) Watling Chase Community Forest. Policy E5 of Supplementary Planning Guidance contain specific references to the Community RPG9 states that development plans should, Forests. These are: ‘promote the retention, protection and PPG2: Green Belts extension of woodland and forest habitats, particularly ancient and semi-natural woodlands PPG7: The Countryside: Environmental and also Community Forests’. However, Quality and Economic and Social boundaries for RPG were adjusted in 2000. The Development new RPG which is currently being prepared for PPG12: Development Plans the includes Hertfordshire and PPG17: Planning for Open Space, Sport five other counties. RPG14 for the East of and Recreation. England will cover the period to at least 2021 and it is anticipated that this will be issued by the 3.3 The most extensive reference to Community

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling Government in late 2004 or 2005. Forests is contained within PPG7, Annex D. This guidance explains that each Community 3.7 Small sections of the Forest fall within the Forest is to have a non-statutory Community London Boroughs of Barnet and Harrow which Forest Plan which describes how the Forest are covered by RPG3: Strategic Guidance for Team and its partners propose to create the London Planning Authorities. RPG3 outlines the Forest. It advises that ‘[a]lthough an approved purpose of the Community Forest programme Community Forest Plan might be a material and states that the London Boroughs should, consideration in deciding a planning application ‘draw up policies which facilitate the within a Forest, policies and proposals that are establishment of the Thames Chase and Watling likely to provide the basis for deciding such Chase Community Forests and include applications or determining conditions to be proposals for associated recreational facilities’. attached to relevant planning permissions should be set out in the development plan, which is subject to statutory procedures.’ 3.4 National Planning Policy Guidance (in PPG7) relating to Community Forests explains that development plans should facilitate the establishment of the Community Forests and ensure that development proposals within them respect the woodland setting. It states that Community Forests offer valuable opportunities for improving the environment around towns by upgrading the landscape and providing for recreation and wildlife. It should be noted that much of the Watling Chase Community Forest is within the Green Belt and, as such, normal Green Belt policies apply. Other Relevant Policies and Strategies

Watling Chase Community Forest Plan 4.3 The Forest Plan is a non-statutory document and as such, none of its policies, strategies or 4.1 The first Watling Chase Community Forest Plan proposals override statutory development was adopted in 1995, and a review was plans. However, when it is backed up by produced in 2001, which serves as a supplement statutory planning policies such as local plan to the 1995 Plan. These Plans aim to provide the policies, it can have a strong and positive ‘blueprint’ for the creation of the Forest as a influence over the quality and use of the well-wooded landscape for work, wildlife, landscape. The document aims to encourage education and recreation. They set out policies sustainable development, in line with county, and strategies needed to achieve the regional and national guidance on sustainability. Community Forest. The Plans identify landscape zones of different characters in which different Watling Chase Greenways Strategy

Supplementary Planning Guidance types of strategy will be appropriate. They also 4.4 The Watling Chase Greenways Strategy is set targets and outline how their vision can be supported by a community partnership whose implemented, by identifying funding sources and vision is to develop an accessible network for those who can get involved in a variety of ways. non-motorised journeys in the town and 4.2 The main objectives of the Community Forest countryside. The partnership consists of include: representatives from Countryside Management Service, Hertsmere Borough Council, creating a visually exciting and functionally Hertfordshire County Council and various diverse environment local user groups and organisations. The focus regenerating the environment of the Green is on providing a network for walkers, cyclists Belt and similar areas and horse riders of all abilities to encourage

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling protecting sites of nature conservation value sustainable commuting to school and work and and creating new opportunities for nature to provide opportunities for leisure. conservation 4.5 The Strategy covers the Community Forest protecting areas of high quality landscape (although the focus has predominantly been within Hertsmere) and was chosen in 1998 to increasing opportunities for sport and be a Countryside Agency national pilot for recreation and improving access to the Greenways partly because of this. It was felt countryside that Watling Chase Greenways could help the providing new opportunities for the Community Forest achieve its potential educational use of the area (particularly in terms of sustainable access) and vice versa. Contact details for Watling Chase protecting the best agricultural land and Greenways are given in the ‘Other Key increasing opportunities for farm Contacts’ section. diversification Welwyn Hatfield Cycleway Strategy establishing a supply of timber and other woodland products 4.6 Welwyn Hatfield Council published this strategy in 1998. The aim of the strategy is to increasing community commitment to the create a comprehensive network of cycle Community Forest concept and routes and facilities in the district. This will involvement in its implementation involve extending the existing network, encouraging the private sector to improving linkages to and from key areas and implement the Forest’s aims and invest in improving facilities for cyclists throughout the the area network. creating jobs in the woodland and leisure industries Benefits of the Watling Chase Community Forest

5.1 There are a wide variety of benefits for those environmental benefits incorporated into a living, working and running businesses in the development scheme can improve the quality Community Forest, some of which are outlined of the scheme, help overcome potential below: planning objections and promote good public relations. an appealing environment with good, accessible tourist, sports and recreational an attractive, wooded setting for facilities benefits local residents, attracts development can increase the value of land visitors to the area and helps support the and property. Woodland may be established local economy. on the parts of an already developed site which are unsuitable for built development. a network of routes for non-motorised users can provide opportunities for sustainable 5.2 The range of benefits of the Forest have been commuting and for leisure. highlighted above. It should be noted that

Supplementary Planning Guidance landowners could contribute towards the a pleasant environmental setting for business establishment and aims of the Forest regardless can assist in recruiting and retaining staff, give of whether any development is planned for their a positive image to customers and help land. This might be achieved through schemes attract inward investment to the area. run by the Forestry Commission, Defra or trees improve air quality in the locality and similar organisations (see section 11.1). help offset the polluting effects of Occupiers of land are advised to discuss their development. plans with the landowner at an early stage. a high quality natural environment has Watling Chase Community Forest objectives benefits for individuals' health and wellbeing. might be achieved in any of the ways listed in section 7. woodland can provide screening, act as a windbreak and reduce the costs of heating

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling buildings.

Development Proposals and the Community Forest

6.1 Development proposals must comply with an assessment should be made as to whether relevant planning policies,and guidance,if they are on-site or off-site provision of open space, to be acceptable within the Community Forest. planting etc. would be better, depending on Proposals within or close to the Community the nature and scale of the development and Forest which are considered acceptable can the location and proximity of sites available contribute to its vision and aims and prevent for off-site provision. harm to the Forest in a wide variety of ways. In provision for the long term management of considering development proposals, the following open space, planting etc. should be planned. steps should be taken: these requirements should either be built the appropriate level of provision of open into the proposed development scheme, space, sports and recreational facilities and so attached to a planning consent as conditions on necessary to meet planning policy or included within a legal agreement as requirements should be established (the planning obligations. Council’s SPG on recreation provision for residential development provides further Planning Conditions and Planning guidance). Obligations measures to ensure that a development 6.2 When planning permission is granted, it is usually proposal has overall a beneficial impact on the subject to conditions and sometimes to a Forest, for example by compensating for any planning obligation.These must be relevant to the loss of amenity caused, should be built into proposed development and the way in which it the development scheme. relates to the Community Forest. Benefits cannot be offered as a way of obtaining other benefits to the Forest which could be planning permission for unacceptable achieved, for example improving public access development which is contrary to planning or public enjoyment of the Forest, and which policies. Government Circular 1/97 ‘Planning are relevant to the development proposal, Obligations’ provides further information. should be considered. Contributions by Development Proposals towards the Forest

7.1 Contributions towards the Forest may relate to d) increasing public awareness of the Forest, its land either within the development site itself or aims and importance, especially amongst in the local area, in both rural and urban those who at present do not actively use settings. Examples are given below: the Forest 7.2 Wildlife/habitat creation and e) fostering a greater sense of community and maintenance improving community links a) creating new woodland or extending or 7.5 Ensuring that development has an forming links to existing woodland acceptable impact b) helping to maintain and enhance existing a) ensuring an acceptable visual impact of a woodland areas and other wildlife habitats, proposal through the appropriate planting including rivers and ponds and retention of trees and woodland Supplementary Planning Guidance c) creating new wildlife habitats, including b) protecting existing trees, habitats and hedgerows, grasslands and other priority species from the construction process habitats (as defined by the UK Biodiversity c) undertaking to plant and manage an Action Plan) appropriate number of trees within the d) making a commitment to protect and Forest to help mitigate against the polluting enhance a local nature conservation site, eg. effects of new development through a long term management d) providing informal open space within the agreement development site, or making a contribution 7.3 Improving access towards off-site provision a) providing and improving access routes from e) where there is a potential loss of amenity in Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling the development site to woodland, open an area, provision may be made to space, the countryside and housing areas, compensate the loss by providing open whilst minimising any likely impact on space, planting trees, improving access wildlife of increased visitor numbers arrangements etc. 7.6 It may not always be possible or appropriate b) providing and improving access routes that for development proposals on certain sites to allow shared use by different non-motorised comply fully with standards set out in Local users including users who have a disability Plan policies and Supplementary Planning c) linking up new and existing footpaths, Guidance relating to open space provision, cyclepaths and bridleways with the existing landscaping etc. Where the development is network in the area and with other forms of acceptable in all other regards, there may be an transport, such as buses and trains opportunity for a contribution to be made to d) providing and improving facilities around the the Community Forest, which could be physical network such as cycle storage, signage, or, in certain circumstances, financial. The crossings etc. Council, in association with its Community Forest partners, will seek to identify priorities 7.4 Promoting the use and enjoyment of for action for different areas within the Forest. the Forest Financial contributions could be used, with the a) providing information boards and on-site agreement of the local planning authority, to interpretation aids to enhance a local fund works close to the development site, nature facility and promote understanding which are relevant to the development and the of the wildlife resource Community Forest. Such works should directly contribute towards the aims of the b) improving signage to and within a local Forest in an appropriate timescale. Off-site nature facility contributions may allow the development to c) providing appropriate outdoor recreation proceed and at the same time contribute to and sports facilities and informal open space the aims of the Forest. This approach is or enhancing existing facilities particularly relevant to urban development sites, which are as much a part of the Community Forest as rural sites are. Watling Chase Community Forest Supplementary Planning Guidance Good Practice Gateway Sites Development inRural Opportunities Areas 9.2 9.1 8.1 10.1 oee,there may totake beopportunity However, rural orwoodland characterofthearea. thelandscape and orenhances, contributes to, rural characterandthatany development thatthesesitesmaintaintheir It isimportant shown onthemaps in Appendices 1and2. Theseare attractions closetotheurbanfringe. andappropriate activitiesandvisitor provision, Forest andtobeafocus for information network ofpathsandroutes through the provide tothe principalpointsofentry Forest Gateway siteswhichare intendedto The Forest Planapproved in1995proposes plan policiesandtheirimpactontheGreen subjecttootherlocal acceptable inruralareas, Development proposals whichmay be delivering theobjectives ofGreen Beltland. Community Forests canalsoplay arole in which are inaccordance withtheaimsof typesofdevelopment Certain 'Green Belts'. Planning Policy GuidanceNote2(PPG2): national Green Beltpolicyassetoutin proposals withintheseareas must comply with Forest are designatedasGreen Beltand All oftheruralareas withintheCommunity of good designandpracticemightinclude: Examples discuss proposals atanearly stage. approach theplanningauthorityconcernedto andthey are encouragedto objectives, might contributetoachieving theForest teams shouldexplore how theirdevelopment Developers andtheirdesign the community. Forest andwillhelpraiseawareness ofitwithin will encouragepeopletouseandcare for the this through theprovision ofGateway sites, including promote accesstotheForest, Ifgood planninganddesignare usedto alike. attractive for thecommunity andbusinesses whichcanmake itmore identity ofanarea, help toenhanceorrestore thecharacterand Well plannedwoodland andotherhabitatscan Design important broadleavedimportant settings ancient semi-natural woodland and trees andothervegetation inthevicinityof locally present speciesof planting native, 9.3 contained within Appendix 3. information onGatewayFurther sitesis accessibility by passengertransport. measures tobetaken toimprove their itmay beappropriate torequire sites, considering development proposals for these In on theappearance ofthecountryside. place withouthaving anunacceptableimpact structures andfor eventstemporary totake access isgood andthere are suitableareas for concentrating facilitiesatthesesiteswhere by pressure ofthecountryside offotherparts include: Belt, to theForest education centres/learning facilitiesrelated facilities recreation andleisure outdoor sport, programme planning andimplementinga maintenance created habitatsbecome establishedby ensuring any newly plantedtrees ornewly heritage willbecompromised not plantingtrees where archaeological and from significant viewpoints framingorenhancingviews to maintaining, scale ofthelandscape ensuring thescaleofwoodland reflects the tallherbandscrub grassland, that isvaluabletowildlife suchascoarse created attheexpenseofexistinghabitat ensuring thatnew woodland habitatisnot wildlife-rich including grassland space, creating abalanceofwoodland andopen within woodlands ensuring adiversity ofspeciesandages mineral extraction public access/Greenways proposals re-use ofexistingruralbuildings farm diversification commercial forestry discouraging development which Community links diminishes the quality of the Forest 10.2 One of the aims of the Watling Chase environment such as the fragmentation of Community Forest is to promote links rural landscapes by fencing and other between the urban, rural, farming and business measures communities. Establishing community links can taking into account landscape character increase community support for new assessments development and improve relationships between different communities. Involving the incorporating 'planning out crime' features community in planning for and implementing which will help increase community safety new planting, woodland management and and reduce and prevent crime and disorder, greenspace can also help raise awareness of for example in the creation of new routes the Forest and may help prevent future problems such as neglect and vandalism.

Supplementary Planning Guidance Funding Opportunities

11.1 The Community Forest is based on a the Environment, Farming and Rural Affairs partnership between the private, public and (Defra) through agri-environment schemes. voluntary sectors and the local community, and Contact details are included at the end of this is financed from a number of sources. The guidance. Countryside Management Service can provide 11.2 Many benefits to the Forest will be achieved advice regarding funding opportunities through planning conditions and planning available. The main source of public funding is obligations associated with planning the Forestry Commission’s Woodland Grant permissions, which will be funded by Scheme which can help with the costs of developers. Paragraph 6.2 discusses this in establishing new woodlands and improving the further detail. Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling management of existing woodlands. Funding may also be available from the Department of

Recent Examples of Good Practice 12.1 Set out below are recent examples of good site with three public access points. The practice within the Community Forest, most of transfer of the land and payment by the which are also located within the Green Belt. developer of a one-off sum for its It should be noted that although contributions maintenance, are to be secured by a legal towards the Community Forest formed a key agreement, and a trust will be formed to part of these schemes, in most cases implement and manage the open spaces. developers otherwise demonstrated 'very 12.3 Crossoaks Farm,Well End, Herts special circumstances' for development in the (Hertsmere Borough) Green Belt. Once the principle of development had been determined to be Planning permission was granted in 2002 for a appropriate or acceptable in light of the very new grain and general storage barn at the special circumstances demonstrated, the local above site within the Green Belt and a planning authority sought to secure a Landscape Conservation Area. A condition of proportionate contribution towards Forest the planning consent required the submission objectives. and approval of a scheme of enhancement and management of woodlands and wildlife at the 12.2 International University,The Avenue, farm, including new tree planting, landscaping Bushey (Hertsmere Borough) and screening in the vicinity of the new Planning permission was granted in 2001 for a building. The Countryside Management major development involving the provision of Service (CMS) worked with the applicants in 307 new residential units, offices and preparing a suitable scheme involving the associated works on a 26 hectare site. planting of new trees, shrubs and mixed native Extensive new landscaping and tree planting hedging, designed to provide an appropriate within the site was incorporated into the landscaped context and effective screening for scheme. In addition, a new public open space the new development. is to be provided on land adjacent to the main 12.4 Arsenal Football Club Training Ground, 12.6 The Highfield Development, St Albans Bell Lane, (Hertsmere (St Albans City and District) Borough) Outline planning permission was granted in Planning permission was granted in 1998 for a 1996 for the redevelopment of 2 former training ground for the Football Club hospital sites in the Green Belt for residential, incorporating training pitches, a new building, retail, business and community uses. Over 700 car parking, an access road and extensive dwellings will be built on the site. Benefits to landscaping. A section 106 legal agreement was the countryside of the scheme include the put in place and a financial contribution of creation of a 24 hectare park with substantial £40,000 was secured to improve rights of way new tree planting, the provision of new public in the area around the training ground. This access, the creation of play areas and external included improving sections of the Timberland recreation facilities, and provision for the long Trail, a 17 km route through the Community term management of the park.

Supplementary Planning Guidance Forest which caters mainly for walkers but 12.7 Cuckmans Farm, Ragged Hall Lane, with some multi-use sections, and which Chiswell Green (St Albans City and opened in May 2002. In addition, a 3.5 km District) stretch of the Hawkshead link was established which links the Great North Cycle Route to In 2003, the Council granted planning the Timberland Trail near London Colney. A permission for the part demolition and part new bridleway was also provided as a link in conversion of farm buildings and the erection the H25 London Orbital Bridleway Route. of three dwellings. The floorspace of the proposed dwellings was less than that of the 12.5 Hatfield Aerodrome site, Hatfield existing buildings. The Council concluded that (Welwyn Hatfield District and St Albans very special circumstances existed that City and District) justified permitting this ‘inappropriate Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling The majority of this 322 hectare site of development’ in the Green Belt, because the redundant industrial land lies within Welwyn application proposed a major contribution to Hatfield District, but 56 hectares falls within St the Community Forest, covered by a Section Albans City and District. A masterplan was 106 Legal Agreement. This included planting a adopted in 1999 for the development of the 4 hectare woodland, planting a number of site for mixed uses including employment, orchards in the surrounding area, re- housing, education, leisure and social and establishing a pond and providing additional community uses. As part of the development public footpath routes. of the site, it is intended to create areas of 12.8 Examples of Typical Contributions woodland, interspersed with grassland and watercourses and to extend existing Examples of typical contributions towards the hedgerows and woodlands. Community Forest which could be expected for different types of development are set out in Appendix 4.

What Should You Do Now?

13.1 From an early stage, you should consider the Think about whether your proposal could implications of your development proposal harm any of the objectives of the Forest alongside the objectives of the Community and, if so, what steps could be taken to Forest. Follow the steps below: mitigate against such harm. Consider what positive contribution your Take into account the contents of this SPG. proposal could make towards the Contact the local planning authority early Community Forest (see section 7). on to discuss your proposals and seek advice from other relevant contacts. Local Authority Contacts

Planning,Transport and Building Control Unit, Planning Department,Welwyn Hatfield District Hertsmere Borough Council, Civic Offices, Council, Council Offices,The Campus,Welwyn Elstree Way, Borehamwood, Herts,WD6 1WA. Garden City, Herts,AL8 6AE. Tel:020 8207 2277, Fax: 020 8207 7444. Or e- Tel:01707 357000. mail [email protected] Forward Planning Unit, Environment Department, Planning Department, London Borough of Barnet, Hertfordshire County Council, County Hall, Barnet House, 1255 High Road,Whetstone, , SG13 8DN. Tel:01992 556297. London, N20 0EJ,Tel:020 8359 4623, Fax: 020 (Structure Plan enquiries) 8359 4616. County Development Unit, Environment Planning Department, London Borough of Department, Hertfordshire County Council, Harrow, Department of Environmental Services, County Hall, Hertford, SG13 8DN. Tel:01992 Supplementary Planning Guidance Civic Centre, Station Road, Harrow, HA1 2UY, 556229. (Minerals Local Plan enquiries) Tel:020 8424 1457, Fax: 020 8424 1551 County Development Unit, Environment Planning Department, St Albans City and District Department, Hertfordshire County Council, Council, Civic Centre, St Peter’s Street, St Albans, County Hall, Hertford, SG13 8DN. Tel:01992 Herts,AL1 3JE. Tel:01727 866100. 556229. (Waste Local Plan enquiries) Department of Planning and Leisure,Three Rivers Rights of Way Unit, Environment Department, District Council,Three Rivers House, Northway, Hertfordshire County Council, County Hall, , Herts,WD3 1RL,Tel:01923 Hertford, SG13 8DN. Tel:01992 555262, Fax: 776611, Fax: 01923 896119, 01992 555251 (Rights of Way enquiries) www.threerivers.gov.uk

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling Town Planning: Strategy,Watford Council,Town Hall,Watford, Herts,WD17 3EX,Tel:01923 226400, Fax: 01923 278562, Email: [email protected]

Other Key Contacts

Architectural Liaison Service, County Community Watling Chase Greenways Officer, Hertsmere Safety and Partnership Unit, Hertfordshire Borough Council, Civic Offices, Elstree Way, Constabulary,The Campus,, Borehamwood, Herts,WD6 1WA. Herts,AL8 6AF,Tel:01707 638033. Tel:020 8207 7566. Countryside Management Service, Barnet The Countryside Agency, East of England Region, Countryside Centre, Byng Road, Barnet, Herts, City House, 2nd Floor, 126-128 Hills Road, EN5 4NP,Tel:020 8447 5466, Fax: 020 8447 5465, , CB2 1PT,Tel:01223 354462. email: [email protected]. Additional Contacts

The Arboricultural Association,Ampfield House, The Forestry Commission, East of England Romsey, Hampshire, SO51 9PA,Tel:01794 Conservancy, Santon Downham, Brandon, , 368717, Fax: 01794 368978, www.trees.org.uk, IP27 0TJ,Tel:01842 815544, email: [email protected]. (Website provides www.forestry.gov.uk. lists of tree consultants and surgeons and other Authority, City Hall,The Queen's useful information). Walk, London, SE1 2AA,Tel:020 7983 4100, Biodiversity Policy Unit, Zone 110B,Temple Quay www.london.gov.uk House, 2 The Square,Temple Quay, Bristol, BS1 Mayor of London and London Assembly, City 6EB,Tel:0117 3728974, Fax: 0117 3728182, Hall,The Queen's Walk, London, SE1 2AA,Tel: Email: [email protected] 020 7983 4000, Fax: 020 7983 4057, British Association of Landscape Industries Email: [email protected], www.london.gov.uk Supplementary Planning Guidance (BALI), Landscape House, Stoneleigh Park, Groundwork Hertfordshire, Mill Green, Hatfield, National Agricultural Centre,Warwickshire, CV8 Herts,AL9 5PE,Tel:01707 260129, 2LG,Tel:02476 690333, Fax: 02476 690077, Fax: 01707 270867. www.bali.org.uk. Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust, Grebe House, Defra Helpline, Department for Environment, St Michaels Street, St Albans, Herts,AL3 4SN,Tel: Food and Rural Affairs, Ergon House, 17 Smith 01727 858901, Fax: 01727 854542. Square, London, SW1P 3JR,Tel:0845 9335577, Fax: 020 7238 3329. Herts Biological Records Centre (HBRC), c/o Environment Department, Hertfordshire County English Nature, , Hertfordshire and London Council, County Hall, Pegs Lane, Hertford, Herts, Team,Harbour House, Hythe Quay, Colchester, SG13 8DN,Tel:01992 555220, Fax: 01992

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling Essex, CO2 8JF,Tel:01206 796666, 556152, Email: [email protected]. Fax: 01206 794466, Email: [email protected], London Wildlife Trust, Harling House, 47-51 www.english-nature.org.uk (Essex and Great Suffolk Street, London, SE1 0BS,Tel:020 Hertfordshire) 7261 0447, Fax: 020 7261 0538, Email: [email protected], English Nature, Essex, Hertfordshire and London www.wildlifetrusts.org Team,Devon House, 12-15 Dartmouth Street, Queen Anne's Gate, St James's, London, SW1H National Farmers’ Union, 164 Shaftesbury 9BL,Tel:020 7340 4870, Fax: 020 7340 4880, Avenue, London,WC2H 8HL,Tel:020 7331 7200, Email: [email protected], Fax: 020 7331 7313. www.english-nature.org.uk (London) Environment Agency,Apollo Court, 2 Bishops Square Business Park, St Albans Road West, Hatfield, Herts,AL10 9EX,Tel:01707 632300, Fax: 01707 632498

Further Funding Information

Further information on funding available through the the Forestry Commission’s Woodland Grant Scheme Department of the Environment, Farming and Rural is available on the Defra website www.defra.gov.uk. Affairs (Defra) Countryside Stewardship Scheme and Further contact details are shown above. Relevant Policy Documents and Guidance

Department for the Environment,Transport and The Forestry Authority. Forests and the Regions. RPG3: Strategic Guidance for Archaeology Guidelines, HMSO, 1995. London Planning Authorities, 1996. The Forestry Authority. Community Woodland Department for the Environment,Transport and Design Guidelines, HMSO, 1996. the Regions. Planning for Sustainable The Forestry Commission, Department for the Development:Towards Better Practice, 1998. Environment,Transport and the Regions, Department for the Environment,Transport and Government Office for the Eastern Region, the Regions. A Better Quality of Life:A Strategy Countryside Commission, et al, England Forestry for Sustainable Development for the United Strategy - A New Focus for England's Woodlands: Kingdom, 1999. Strategic Priorities and Programmes, 1998. Supplementary Planning Guidance Department for Transport, Local Government Hertfordshire County Council Rights of Way and the Regions. Planning Policy Guidance Note Unit. Good Practice Guide: Operational 2: PPG2 Green Belts, 1995. Procedures and Standards for Rights of Way in Hertfordshire, 2001. Department for Transport, Local Government and the Regions. Planning Policy Guidance Note Hertsmere Borough Council. Supplementary 7: PPG 7 The Countryside: Environmental Quality Planning Guidance: Recreational Provision For and Economic and Social Development, 2001. Residential Development, 2001. Department of the Environment. Biodiversity: Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. RPG9: The UK Action Plan, HMSO, 1994 Regional Planning Guidance for the South East, 2001. English Partnerships and the Urban Villages Forum. Making Places:A Guide to Good Practice Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. Planning Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling in Undertaking Mixed Development Schemes, Policy Guidance Note 9: PPG 9 Nature English Partnerships and the Urban Villages Conservation, 2002. Forum, 1998. Office of the Deputy Prime Minister. Planning Forest of Marston Vale. Invest in the success of Policy Guidance Note 17: PPG 17 Planning for the Forest of Marston Vale, Forest of Marston Open Space, Sport and Recreation, 2002. Vale, 2002. (www.marstonvale.org.uk) The Watling Chase Team. Watling Chase The Forestry Authority. Lowland Landscape Community Forest – Forest Plan, 1995. Design Guidelines, HMSO, 1992. The Watling Chase Team. Watling Chase The Forestry Authority. Forests and Water Community Forest Plan Review, 2001. Guidelines, HMSO, 1993. The Watling Chase Team. Watling Chase The Forestry Authority. Forests and Nature Community Forest Landscape Supplement, 2001. Conservation Guidelines, HMSO, 1994. The Forestry Authority. Forests and Recreation Guidelines, HMSO, 1994.

Note: On 12 June 2003 the Council’s Regulatory Appendix 1: Map (To view the map, please click on the link) Committee resolved to adopt this guidance Appendix 2: Map (To view the map, please click on the link) with immediate effect.The Council’s Statement of Consultation and the Schedule of responses to public consultation can be obtained separately from the Council.

APPENDIX 3 Development Plan Policies

Each Borough or District Council within Policy 51:Watling Chase Community Forest Hertfordshire has a Local Plan which covers their “The creation of Watling Chase Community individual area. The Hertfordshire Structure Plan Forest will be supported in the south of the Review 1991-2011, the Hertfordshire Minerals Local County,in the area shown on the Key Diagram, Plan Review 2002-2016 and the Hertfordshire Waste for the purposes of landscape improvement, Local Plan 1995-2005 cover the whole of recreation, nature conservation, forestry and Hertfordshire. For each of the local Councils, the farming. policies in their Local Plan and in the Hertfordshire County Council Plans are used in the determination Relevant local plans should show the boundary of planning applications. In determining planning of Watling Chase on proposals maps, and take applications within the London Boroughs, decisions the approved Forest Plan into account in the will be made in accordance with each Borough's formulation of policies and proposals for Supplementary Planning Guidance Unitary Development Plan and the draft London Plan development and the use of land in the Forest of the Mayor of London. area.” The policies from the Hertfordshire County Council Hertfordshire Structure Plan Alterations 2001-2016 Plans, the Local Plans and the Unitary Development The deposit draft of this document was published in Plans most relevant to the Watling Chase Community February 2003. Forest are set out below. Other policies within these Policy 51:Watling Chase Community Forest plans will also be relevant to particular proposals, and advice can be sought from the local planning “The objectives of the Watling Chase authorities. Community Forest (WCCF) will be supported in the area indicated on the Key Diagram, for Hertfordshire County Council the purposes of landscape improvement, Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling Hertfordshire Structure Plan Review 1991-2011 recreation, nature conservation, forestry and Policy 5: Green Belt farming. “…Throughout the Green Belt priorities for Relevant local plans should show the boundary the use of land are to: of WCCF on proposals maps, and take the approved WCCF Forest Plan into account in i) provide opportunities for access to the the formulation of policies and proposals for open countryside for the urban population; development and the use of land in the Forest ii) provide opportunities for outdoor sport, area”. and outdoor recreation near urban areas; iii) retain attractive landscapes, and enhance landscapes near to where people live; iv) improve damaged and derelict land; v) secure the nature conservation interest; vi) retain land in agricultural, forestry and related uses; and vii) support the objectives of Watling Chase Community Forest Development which is permitted in the Green Belt, and management of land and activities within it, should aim to contribute to these priorities.” Hertfordshire Minerals Local Plan Review 2002-2016 on foot and appropriately surfaced and screened (First Deposit Draft, September 2002) car parking will be permitted. Recreation / information facilities may be developed at an Minerals Policy 8 – Contribution to Bio- appropriate scale all in accordance with a site Diversity brief which has been agreed by the appropriate “Proposals for mineral development should, authorities after public consultation. where appropriate, provide opportunities to Note: At (Bignell’s Corner), no events are contribute to the delivery of the UK, Eastern anticipated but this is included as a Gateway Site since it Region and local biodiversity action plan provides information and interpretation of the targets. Additionally, proposals that prejudice Community Forest, allows use of the existing natural the delivery of these targets or would result in area at Wash Lane Common and is a rest and the loss of, or damage to habitats, and/or refreshment facility for those using non-motorised species will not be supported. Where transport on the adjacent off-road network.” appropriate, the minerals planning authority Supplementary Planning Guidance will seek long-term overall enhancement to Four Gateway sites are identified on the Local Plan local biodiversity through restoration or by Proposals Map: other means such as by the attachment of 1 Country Park conditions or planning obligations.” 2 The Willows (previously known as Supplementary Planning Guidance for Mineral Extraction Bowmansgreen Open Farm) in Hertfordshire, First Deposit Draft, September 2002 also contains relevant guidance. 3 Park Hertfordshire Waste Local Plan 1995-2005 4 Bignell’s Corner, South Mimms Various policies within this plan are relevant, particularly policies 33, 34 and 35. These policies aim Welwyn Hatfield District Council

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling to ensure that proposals for waste disposal, transfer, Welwyn Hatfield District Plan Alterations No. 1 – adopted 2 processing and recycling operations have an March 1998 acceptable impact on significant landscape features, the landscape in general and nature conservation Policy CR7 – Community Forest sites. The policies encourage landscaping, tree planting “Within the boundary of the Community Forest and other measures to protect and enhance the defined on the Proposals Map the establishment important features of sites, where appropriate. of the Forest for purposes of landscape Hertsmere Borough Council conservation, recreation, wildlife conservation and timber production will be encouraged.” Hertsmere Local Plan 2003 Welwyn Hatfield District Plan Review – Revised Deposit Policy C7 – Watling Chase Community Forest Version – June 2002 “The Watling Chase Community Forest Plan and Policy RA12 – Watling Chase Community Forest any supplementary planning guidance to develop its themes will be a material consideration in the “The Watling Chase Community Forest is determination of planning applications in the defined on the Proposals Map. Within the Forest area when the principal aims of the Forest boundaries of the forest, the Council will seek to Plan will be taken into account. It will also achieve the objectives of the Forest Plan in terms provide the framework for formulating and of planting, leisure and landscape improvement, implementing projects in partnership with other where this accords with Green Belt policies. The organisations such as the Countryside Council will treat the Forest Plan as a material Management Service and Groundwork consideration in determining planning Hertfordshire.” applications within its boundaries. Proposals for the provision of improved access to the forest Policy C8 – Watling Chase Community Forest and appropriate outdoor leisure and small scale Gateway Sites recreational facilities will be permitted and will be “At the sites noted on the Proposals Map as required to be accompanied by substantial Gateway sites the provision of facilities for those landscaping, including, where appropriate, arriving by passenger transport, cycle, horse and woodland planting.” St Albans City and District Council Three Rivers District Council St Albans City and District Local Plan Review 1994 Three Rivers Local Plan 1996-2011 (adopted 2002) Policy 143A:Watling Chase Community Forest Paragraph 2.77:Watling Chase Community Forest “The District Council will support the establishment of the Watling Chase Community "The Watling Chase Community Forest Forest in the general location indicated on Figure borders on the extreme south-east of the 21A. Within the Community Forest, the Council District. Although the decision has been taken will welcome detailed proposals for the purposes not to extend the Forest into this District, this of landscape conservation, recreation, nature Council supports the concept and principles of conservation and timber production. Proposals the Community Forest, and will encourage the should be consistent with Green Belt policy development of pedestrian and cyclist links to (Policy 1) and the other policies in this Plan, the Forest." particularly Policies 91, 96, 103 and 106.” Supplementary Planning Guidance St Albans City and District Local Plan Second Review London Borough of Barnet The Council has published a preliminary document Unitary Development Plan for the Borough of Barnet called “What Issues Should Be Considered In The (adopted 1991) Review?” which includes two issues relating to the Community Forest. The pre-deposit consultation No reference to Watling Chase Community Forest document on the Second Review is due to be published Barnet Unitary Development Plan - Revised Deposit in September 2003, followed by the Deposit Draft in 2001 September 2004. A public enquiry for this plan is currently scheduled for early 2004.

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling Watford Borough Council Policy O18 Watford District Local Plan 1993 "The council will require that development Policy SE4: Green Belt Character/Use proposals in the Watling Community Forest Area have regard to the objectives of the "The Council will seek to protect and enhance forest plan" the character and improve the use of land within the Green Belt by:- c) encouraging the establishment of Watling Chase Community Forest as identified on Harrow Unitary Development Plan (adopted 1994) the Proposals Map whilst seeking adequate public access and nature No reference to Watling Chase Community Forest conservation measures." Harrow Unitary Development Plan - Revised Deposit Watford District Plan 2000 Proposed Modifications Draft 2002 The Proposed Modifications to the Watford District A public enquiry took place in April 2003.The Council Plan 2000 were placed on deposit August to expect to adopt the Plan in early 2004. September 2003, with the adoption of the Plan due Policy EP41A:Watling Chase Community late 2003. As such, the content of this policy may be Forest slightly amended prior to adoption. "The Council supports the aims of the Watling Policy SE27:Watling Chase Community Chase Community Forest and will encourage Forest proposals that secure its effective "Within the defined area of the Watling Chase implementation, provided they are consistent Community Forest, as shown on the Proposals with Green Belt objectives and Areas of Special Map, development proposals should contribute Character." to the objectives of the Forest Plan." APPENDIX 4 Contributions towards the Community Forest

Set out below are hypothetical examples designed to permission for development which is contrary to indicate what type of contributions towards the planning policies, where planning objections cannot be Community Forest could be expected for different overcome by contributions being made towards the types of development. It should be noted that each Forest. development proposal will be assessed on its own Developers are advised to contact the local planning merits. Sometimes, contributions towards the Forest authority at an early stage to discuss appropriate can be used directly to overcome related planning contributions. The Countryside Management Service objections to development proposals, to make may be asked to advise on contributions for major proposals acceptable in planning terms. Benefits schemes. cannot be offered as a way of obtaining planning Supplementary Planning Guidance

Development Typical contribution which Means of securing could be secured contributions

Demolition of one house and Planting of two semi-mature trees Planning condition requiring replacement with a larger house and six small trees within grounds submission, approval and involving loss of one mature tree of house, appropriate to the site. implementation of landscaping and three small trees. scheme.

Watling Chase Community Forest Chase Community Watling Demolition of three redundant Planting of row of ten appropriate Tree planting secured through commercial buildings and trees to screen development planning condition. Public path erection of eight detached from adjacent highway. Forming formation secured through houses. public footpath through section 106 agreement and/or development to form link highway agreement. between public footpath to front of site and park to rear of site.

Demolition of two pairs of semi- £40,000 to create new wildlife Section 106 agreement. detached houses and erection of habitat on local authority owned two blocks of twelve flats. open space opposite site including signage, interpretation board and contribution towards long-term management costs.

Major extension to hotel and Establishment of 2 hectare Section 106 agreement. restaurant. extension to existing woodland adjacent to site and £20,000 contribution towards improving public rights of way in the vicinity of the site.

The Countryside Agency