Steep Parish Plan 2012 Contents

Resolution 1 Letter from Chair Steep Parish Council 1 Introduction 2 Location 3 Short History of Steep 3 Landscape 5 Settlements 6 Planning Context 7 Parish Plan Process 8 Resident Profile 8 Parish Survey 9 All Saints’ Church 11 Charities 12 Schools 12 Societies 15 Agriculture 17 Industry 21 Summary 22 Parish Design Guidance 23 Our Vision for the Future 30 Conclusion 35 Parish Boundary 36 Acknowledgements 36 Thanks 37

The following reports also form part of the work of the Steep Parish Plan Steering Group and are available in separate documents, either accessible through the Steep Parish Plan website www.steepparishplan.org.uk or from the Steep Parish Clerk.

Steep Local Landscape Character Assessment Steep Buildings and Monuments Record Steep Settlement Character Assessment

October 2012 Steep Parish Council Resolution

This is the resolution of the Steep Parish Council 2 July 2012 -

‘It was RESOLVED that Council approves and adopts the Report of the Steep Parish Plan Steering Group, including specifically the Parish Design Guidance (which replaces the Village Design Statement of 2001) and the Action Plan in support of the Report’s vision for the future of Steep.’

Caroline Robinson, Chair, Steep Parish Council I am delighted to be able to introduce this important actions included in the Plan, which will, over time, help community report and particularly glad of the us to move towards the Plan’s goals. opportunity to express our thanks to the Parish Plan Steering Group for their gargantuan efforts in getting to We have already started to make some changes to how this stage. They have gone to great lengths to gather we operate as a Council to enable us to manage these opinions and suggestions from as many people as matters more effectively. We very much hope that the possible in arriving at their conclusions. document will be a unifying agenda that all residents of the Parish can support. The Steering Group’s attention to detail both in the process they have gone through and the finished document has been very impressive and I think they have produced a report that we can all be proud of. Certainly, the Parish Council has unanimously endorsed the vision, the design guidance and the proposed

1 Introduction

Steep from the Hangers

We are fortunate to live in a fine parish with- sion of traffic, and demands for housing are in the South Downs National Park. Steep is just some of the more obvious pressures. an active and varied community. Agriculture This Parish Plan tries to understand such still plays an important part in village life changes and identify appropriate actions and there is some small-scale light-industry through which the Parish Council (as its in Steep Marsh. We have a beautiful medi- sponsor) can respond. eval church, a well-regarded primary school and Bedales, one of the country’s leading In developing a plan for dealing with independent schools. We enjoy the unique change, we will also need to think about backdrop provided by the Ashford Hang- what should be protected and preserved. ers and impressive landscape views to the And we want to reflect the views of the South Downs. Our buildings include historic whole village, recognizing that there is a farmhouses, significant mansions by promi- range of opinion on every topic. The chal- nent Victorian architects, Arts and Crafts lenge is to provide a way forward so that buildings associated with the heritage of future Steep generations can live in a Bedales, and some major modern buildings. vibrant community which is still enjoying its In addition, Steep has cultural associations unique landscape and heritage. To achieve Jubilee Event on with a number of important literary and arts that goal the community, the schools, local Steep Common figures such as Edward Thomas, John Wynd- businesses and the statutory authorities – ham and Sir Alec Guinness. including the Parish Council will need to be working to a common agenda. The Steering As with all communities, Steep is subject Group hope that this report will help to cre- to change. Evolving lifestyles, the relative ate a foundation for that common agenda. decline in agriculture, the increasing intru-

“There are many places which nobody can look upon without being consciously influenced by a sense of their history ... Or woodland walk that speaks of a dead poet or soldier.”

2 Location

Steep is located in the County of Hamp- shire, in the administrative area of East Hampshire District Council and within HAMPSHIRE the newly-established South Downs Na- tional Park. It is about 20 miles north of

Portsmouth, about 60 miles south-west of STEEP London, about 20 miles east of Winchester and 10 miles west of Midhurst. It adjoins the market town of Petersfield which has excellent road and rail communications with London and the south coast, as well as the A272 providing a west-east link between Winchester and East Sussex. It is a large parish, covering nearly five square miles with its highest point on the Hangers reach- ing 800 feet above sea level. Please note this is not to scale. A Short History of Steep

Although there is evidence of flints, enclo- buildings forming the origin of today’s settle- sures and crop marks from pre-roman times ment. There was also extensive land drain- and a Roman villa in Stroud, Steep was age between 1860 and 1880. Conduits and probably not settled until late in the Anglo- sluices were constructed to take water from Saxon period when it was first documented the Ashford Stream for the artificial flooding as Stepe (Steep Place) in the 12th Century. of hay meadows. Hops were grown (for use The Church dates from 1125, at a time in the local breweries), watercress produced when Steep became a sub-parish of East commercially, and a condensed milk factory Meon. This was also a period of extensive was in operation in Steep Marsh before tak- woodland clearing and the creation of farm- ing on a new life as the brickyards. steads such as Aldersnapp, Soal and Dun- hill. The oldest surviving dwelling in Steep is Administratively, Steep became a parish in thought to be Restalls, on the east side of 1867. The latter part of the nineteenth cen- the Church, dating (in part) from the latter tury saw the replacement of farmhouses by years of the sixteenth century. By 1600, the more elaborate residences and the building local cloth-making industry was prospering of large Victorian mansions such as Adhurst and Steep had two fulling mills in operation, St Mary, Coldhayes, Collyers, Stonerwood, driven by the Ashford Stream. This was also Stoner House and Island House. The Village All Saints’ Church the time of the “great rebuilding” which saw School was built in 1875 and the Eames many wooden buildings replaced by stone Almshouses in 1882. The community was structures. Steep, Tankerdale, Gardner’s, relatively self-contained with trades such as Soal and Stroud Farms and possibly the blacksmiths, carpenters and wheelwrights Harrow Inn were all rebuilt. However, this as well as shopkeepers, builders and paint- period of prosperity did not last and, with ers. Farms and the large houses with their the cloth-making industry in decline, severe estates employed bailiffs, gamekeepers, depression followed in the latter part of gardeners and coachmen as well as house- the seventeenth century. By the 1830s the keepers and other domestic staff. agricultural revolution, especially land en- closures, had upset traditional rural society In 1900, Bedales School moved to Steep and created a class of landless labourers, from Sussex. It brought with it, not only a Restalls, Church Road struggling to support their families. This new community of schoolchildren, teach- led to rural unrest and the “Swing Riots” ers and parents, but also its connections swept across southern England, reaching with the Arts and Crafts Movement. Steep Selborne and Liphook in September 1830. became of comparable importance to the The Parliamentary Enclosure Acts of 1856- other main centre of the Arts and Crafts 66 established the final land pattern for Movement in the Cotswolds. The school’s Steep Marsh and Stroud with the scattered arrival in the area, together with its pro-

3 May Pole Dancing on Steep Common

gressive curriculum that included a strong More recently the introduction of new emphasis on practical handicrafts, gave a technology means that working from home new impetus to building in the area. Lit- has become easier. Improvements to the tle Hawsted, Row Cottage, Five Oaks and railways and road access have made the Rozel along Church Road and Mill Cottage area popular and rising house prices (driven on Mill Lane are some of the best domestic in part by the lack of new building land) has examples of this style from the early part encouraged extensions to existing homes. of the twentieth century. Within the Bedales At the same time, Steep has become a grounds the Memorial Library and Lupton more open community, with the church, the Hall are Grade I listed – classifying them as schools, the clubs and societies all drawing buildings of exceptional interest on a na- in significant numbers from outside the par- tional level. The Arts and Crafts style is also ish. The South Downs National Park seems visible at Ashford Chace, the War Memorial likely to increase the numbers of visitors and the Village Hall. Bedales also exerted who come to enjoy Steep’s landscape and indirect influence on Steep through the par- its historical associations. ents of its pupils, who decided to live locally while their children were being educated. The writer and poet, Edward Thomas and “Architecture, with many of his family are a notable example of this. its local characteristics still During the twentieth century the numbers to be traced, will speak as a working in agriculture and associated trades continued to decline, to be replaced voice out of the stones of by business people and professionals castle, church, manor, farm, commuting to Petersfield and beyond, and retirees looking for the peace of the coun- barn and bridge.” tryside. Local building activity was on a much reduced scale, with some of the large mansions being converted into apartments. Council houses were built at Hays Cottages and in Steep Marsh. The Hays Cottages development was originally built as part War Memorial of a programme of settlements for return- ing soldiers after WWII. New houses were constructed in the grounds of Island House; and many of the former domestic service bungalows, gatehouses and lodges were converted and extended for private use.

4 Landscape

Steep lies at the edge of the western a Site of Special Scientific Interest by Natu- Weald, at the foot of the steeply wooded ral England. escarpment of the Hangers. The Hangers give Steep its beautiful and much-loved At the foot of the Hangers is the green- setting as well as its name. The scarp is sand terrace, a flatter area of woods and criss-crossed by tracks and bridleways and pastures, sunken lanes and ancient tracks, includes the Shoulder of Mutton, with its which is drained by the Ashford Stream. memorial sarsen stone dedicated to Edward Taking its name from the mix of greensand Thomas. Woods of beech and yew cling to and gault clay on which it stands, this is the steep chalk slopes. where most of the buildings and settle- ments of the parish are situated. Although The 147 hectares of the Ashford Hangers some of the land is cultivated or used for National Nature Reserve lie mostly within animal grazing, tree cover is quite extensive the Parish and are owned and managed by and small copses are found throughout. Hampshire County Council. This reserve Nearby is the mixed farmland and woodland forms part of the 570 hectares Wealden of the lower Rother Valley, which includes Edge Hangers Special Area of Conserva- the town of Petersfield. At the eastern edge tion (an international classification) which of the parish is the River Rother and, at its “These steep identifies our landscape as one of the key south eastern extremity, Adhurst St Mary sides are representatives of beech forests in south on the greensand hills and Westmark, like east England. It is noted for its rich biodi- a toe protruding into the Wealden mosaic of clothed with versity, providing a stronghold for a number heath and farmland which stretches eventu- beeches, of scarce vascular plants, including white, ally to Pulborough in West Sussex. violet and green-flowered helleborine and thousands Italian lords-and-ladies. Eighty hectares of A Local Landscape Character Assessment of beeches the Ashford Hangers are designated as has been undertaken as part of the Parish interrupted by the black yews that resemble caverns among the The Trooper Inn paler trees” Cockshot Lane

Ashford Farm

Lutcombe pond

Ashford Lane

Hangers Way

Petersfield

The Ashford Hangers National Nature Reserve

5 Plan (available in a separately published document). This describes what makes our area distinctive, what it means to local people, how we interact with our landscape and the landscape issues that matter to people who live and work in Steep, as well as those who visit.

The Steep Parish Plan Steering Group believes that the work of the Assessment Team will help us to protect and conserve the most valued elements of our landscape for future generations. The natural views we see today are, in fact, a “managed” “The land- landscape – with some areas being cleared scape retains from time to time (including the feature of the most the Shoulder of Mutton) and others where the encroaching shrubs and trees have Hangers looking towards Steep permanent been left to fill in spaces that were previ- ously open. We should be aware that the effective. This agreement continues today marks of the principal, positive elements of our land- and has been successful in avoiding further past, and a scape – the generally peaceful nature of the major issues. setting and the sense of views which have wise exami- been largely unchanged over the decades For the future we may expect increasing nation of it - will not automatically survive without care visitor numbers, which (although generally and attention. welcomed by Steep’s residents) will bring should evoke risks that will need to be managed. Devel- the begin- Landscape management can be a contro- opment pressures especially on the edge of versial topic. Early in 1996, Hampshire Petersfield, may intrude on the views from nings of the County Council began a programme of the Hangers; and growing traffic density on majestic sen- fencing and grazing on the Hangers, which A3 may increase the volume of noise. All of provoked significant local concern about these issues will need sensitive manage- timent our the impact of this on the character of the ment by a range of agencies over the life of oneness with Hangers. The Ashford Hangers Preserva- this plan. tion Committee was formed in response the future to this situation. Substantial negotiations The detailed proposals on these matters – and the past, eventually led to an agreement to exclude together with a celebration of our landscape the Shoulder of Mutton Hill from the fenc- are included in the Steep Local Landscape just as natu- ing and grazing programme and to ensure Character Assessment Report. This covers ral history that signposts for the area were made a detailed action plan. This is intended to more appropriate to the area in both style conserve the dramatic landform, the skyline should help and number. In return, it was agreed that and the biodiversity-rich woodland and chalk to give the the local community would provide help in grassland of the Hangers. It should also keeping down the scrub, through volunteer conserve the intimate scale and tranquil child a sense work mornings. A consultative committee character of the greensand terrace and the of oneness was also established as a regular forum for simple character of the landscape to the discussion between local representatives, east of the railway. It should also strength- with all forms the County and other involved organisa- en the network of hedgerows, woodland and of life.” tions, to ensure that communications were trees throughout the parish. Settlements Steep is a fragmented collection of settle- However, there are also smaller communi- ments widely spread across its five square ties in Ridge Common Lane/Lythe Lane, miles of countryside. The main concentra- the Dunhurst/Dunhill corner, Stoner Hill, tion of homes, representing about a third Mill Lane, Ashford Lane, Steep Hollow/Ket- of those in the Parish, is clustered along tlebrook, Westmark and finally within the Church Road, and there is another sig- Bedales campus. Each settlement has its nificant collection around Steep Marsh. own unique character and identity.

6 Outside these concentrations there is a Our surveys have shown that Steep scores sprinkling of widely-scattered buildings and very highly on every one of these charac- agricultural structures. Our surveys have teristics and this suggests both the setting shown that, in general, these are attractive of Steep in its outstanding landscape and to the local community, especially as many the unusual richness of its buildings and are well shielded by the shape of the land cultural connections is worthy of being rec- and the cloak of tree cover. Indeed, in look- ognised and celebrated. ing outward from the viewpoints of Steep, even the large neighbouring settlements We recommend that the Parish Council such as Petersfield are largely invisible in should explore with the South Downs Na- Mill Cottage the trees. However, there is an understand- tional Park Authority (SDNPA) the possibility able anxiety about any new and visible intru- of Steep being recognised as a special area sions in the landscape views. within the National Park, which represents all of its key landscape and built heritage Steep is now part of the South Downs qualities. As well as promoting Steep, this National Park and it is worth noting that the could encourage other areas in the Park to Park Authority has identified seven Special celebrate their own excellence. Qualities as key to developing the character of the Park: The Steep Settlement Character Assess- ment and the Steep Buildings and Monu- 1. Diverse, inspirational landscapes and ments Record provide detailed guides to breathtaking views the different aspects of the built environ- 2. A rich variety of wildlife and habitats, ment in Steep and complement the Land- including rare and internationally im- scape Asessment. The Settlement Assess- portant species ment analyses the different charactersistics 3. Tranquil and unspoilt places of the settlements including their history, 4. An environment shaped by centuries types of buildings and key qualities. The of farming and embracing new enter- Buildings and Monuments Record has been prise compiled from a number of sources, includ- 5. Great opportunities for recreational ing English Heritage and ‘The Buildings of Rozel activities and learning experiences England, Hampshire: Winchester and the 6. Well conserved historical features and North’ published by Penguin 2010. These a rich cultural heritage documents are available separately online 7. Distinctive towns and villages through the Steep website and communities with real pride in www.steepvillage.com their area Planning Context

The Steep Village Design Statement (VDS) making on planning applications in our was originally adopted by Steep Parish area. More recently, the East Hampshire Council and East Hampshire District & South Downs National Park Joint Core Council in March 2001. It was produced by Strategy has been prepared. This has been a community-based team from Steep submitted to the Secretary of State for and covered many similar topics to those examination during 2012. Once adopted it in this Parish Plan. It had been hoped that will replace the Local Plan in setting out the the Village Design Statement would influ- broad principles on which planning deci- ence planning decisions by EHDC but in sions for Steep will be based. the event it was only used as an advisory document. However, the Parish Council has This Parish Plan contains more detailed continued to use it as a key reference in Planning Design Guidance on p.23 determining its own position on individual which has been subject to extensive planning applications. consultation and hopefully will be adopted as supplementary planning guidance by Planning policies have evolved since 2001. SDNPA so that it carries weight in future The East Hampshire Local Plan (Second decision making. Review) was adopted in 2006 and in April 2011, the South Downs National Park The Government’s Localism Act 2011 intro- Authority became responsible for decision- duces a new right for communities to draw

7 up a Neighbourhood Plan. This would be We recommend that the Parish Council based on the Parish Plan but will require ex- should keep under review the question of tensive consultation, a formal independent whether to draw up a Neighbourhood Plan examination, a referendum on its specific based on the Parish Plan. proposals and, ultimately, adoption by the National Park. Parish Plan Process The idea of undertaking a Parish Plan was By April 2011 the preliminary landscape launched by the Parish Council at a public work had been completed and the results meeting in September 2009, supported by were presented in a third exhibition in the East Hampshire District Council and Com- Village Hall. During summer 2011 ques- munity Action Hampshire. In early 2010 we tionnaires were sent to all residents and started a series of home-based conversa- businesses in Steep, with help from EHDC. tions, involving small groups across the Par- Additional surveys were completed by chil- ish, to share thoughts, ideas and sugges- dren at Bedales and Steep Primary School. tions about Steep. The results were presented to the Parish Council and in an exhibition in the Village Our first exhibition in the Village Hall in Hall in November 2011, which also included March 2010 invited comments on the the material from the Landscape, Buildings themes and issues that had been identified and Settlement Assessments. A further through these conversations. This was fol- round of consultations with the institutions lowed with a special insert in the Steep and of Steep was undertaken during February Stroud Newsletter May 2010, with further and March 2012. information about the plan and how people could get involved. A further exhibition was The Plan brings together all this work and held in November 2010. In early 2011 work draws some conclusions on the way for- started on the Local Landscape Character ward. The following sections summarise our Assessment, the Buildings and Settlement key findings and recommendations. Record and the Settlement Assessment. Resident Profile

The 2001 Census revealed a total popu- as a whole at the same date. Nearly half lation for Steep of 1,425. Excluding the described themselves as “economically students likely to have been present at active”. Of these, about a quarter were self- Bedales, this suggests a total “regular” employed and about a fifth were working population of just under 1,100, spread over from home. This latter proportion is very 420 households. The age distribution of much higher than that for either East Hamp- residents is shown in the chart and was shire (12%) or for England as a whole (9%) broadly similar to that of East Hampshire at that time.

4% Steep Age Profile >80 yrs 6%

17% 60-­‐80 yrs 23%

32% 40-­‐59 yrs 34%

16% 25-­‐39 yrs 9%

31% 0-­‐24 yrs 28%

0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40%

2001 2011

8 The results for the 2011 Census are not cal families. As the young move away yet available, but the Steep Survey of 2011 to start a family, there is a reduc- confirmed an increasingly elderly population tion in the demand for local nursery (only 37% under the age of 40 with 29% in school places and then reduced sup- the over 60 group). The other interesting port for the local primary school as feature of the survey results was that, of well. Apart from the those who were economically active, some impact on community continuity “This is the 36% describe themselves as working from this could, in the long-term, have home of home - a much higher proportion even than implications for the viability of the in 2001. schools themselves. orchises and of the dainti- The Steering Group draws two conclusions 2. The increasing proportion of peo- from this information: ple working from home makes the est snails.” provision of appropriate infrastruc- 1. The picture described echoes trends ture – especially broadband services seen in other rural communities in the – absolutely critical to the economic south east where a naturally ageing well-being of the area. population is further exaggerated by a lack of housing supply and high house These topics are referred to later in prices become increasingly beyond the report. the reach of the young – even from lo- Parish Survey

Questionnaires were distributed to all improvement. Most respondents were able households in Steep in June 2011 and we to access medical services easily, although achieved a response rate of a little over some concerns were expressed by non- 35%. A separate questionnaire was also drivers, or those thinking about difficulties sent to local businesses. The students at arising should they became unable to drive. both the Primary School and Bedales com- pleted a modified on-line questionnaire to 90% rated information about the village as give their perspective on the “state of good or excellent with the Steep & Stroud the Parish”. Newsletter cited as the major vehicle of village information. A number of positive Church Road The survey revealed general satisfaction comments and suggestions about the with the sense of community in the Parish, Newsletter were made. Noticeboards were and widespread participation in a range of also an important source of information af- social activities. There are many sugges- ter the Newsletter and there were requests tions about the opportunities for improve- for additional noticeboards around the ment, with a particular focus on ways Parish. Steep has a well-established web to define the centre of the village more site but the level of usage is still relatively clearly. One persistent theme is the lack low. Here, too, a range of suggestions for of somewhere for casual/drop-in meetings improvement were made. with others. A range of suggestions is also made for improvements to Steep Common Only a tiny proportion of Steep’s homes opposite the Church. have mains gas, and only about half have mains sewerage. However, with the excep- Hays Cottages Both of the village pubs are highly valued. tion of one area where the mains water Most comments reflect the wish to keep pressure is inadequate, these elements of the greatly-loved Harrow fundamentally basic service are not regarded as a priority unchanged, whilst there is a wide range of for change. Less than 60% had a broad- suggestions as to how The Cricketers could band connection that they regarded as be more successful, ideas which are cur- “good” (a topic that featured strongly in the rently being progressed with the owners. comments) so this element is undoubtedly the major priority for improvement, both for There is an exceptionally high proportion residential use and for local businesses. of residents who feel that Steep is a safe place to live. However, the Neighbour- The survey asked a question about a hood Watch scheme is seen as capable of number of possible ‘green options’ for

9 sources of energy in the area. There is a prompted the largest volume of comments clear interest in the idea of such commu- in the survey, with the vast majority of re- nity resources, but much more information spondents concentrating their comments on is needed before there can be said to be social/affordable housing. There remains strong “buy-in” to the idea. a wide divergence of views on this subject, with opinions strongly expressed on both A list of familiar concerns about roads or sides of the argument. However, the survey footpaths in the area, including vehicle reveals general recognition of the need for a speeds, poor road maintenance and lack modest increase in the stock of affordable of roadside footpaths emerges from the housing in Steep, to meet at least part of survey answers. the demand from both young families and the elderly. Careful work will be required on Most survey respondents are concerned the precise location and the traffic impact about substantial future developments of any such developments, and excellence within the Parish or in the wider Petersfield of design is also a high priority. area which might intrude into the landscape views, and also noted that incremental Opinion about the revival of a project to changes to existing buildings and smaller- develop a shop and post office in Steep is scale developments can also pose potential fairly evenly divided, but there are doubts threats to the landscape. about the viability of such a venture. Howev- er, the responses suggest that any individu- The dominant sources of unwanted noises al initiative on this should be welcomed and in the countryside are traffic noise from supported. The only other business-related the A3 and the A272 and low-flying military point to emerge from the survey relates to helicopters. In the mainly low-lying area of the impact of business traffic, principally Steep Marsh, traffic noise is much worse in Steep Marsh. This remains a point of than in the rest of the parish and these significant sensitivity for any new proposals residents are also more exposed to noise for developments there. from the railway, especially train horns. Many wide ranging comments were made 80% of respondents are unconcerned about on how the performance of our local coun- or happy with the prospect of increased cillors – parish, district and county – could visitor numbers as a result of the National be improved. Park. However, there will be some impacts that will need to be managed, especially in Overall, 92% of residents showed them- relation to traffic, parking and litter. selves to be satisfied or very satisfied to be living in Steep. The subject of residential development

The Harrow Inn

10 All Saints’ Church

All Saints’ Church, Steep © Hew Granlund

Steep’s church is the oldest and most vis- beginning to be used for exhibitions and ible building in the Parish, and it continues celebrations of village life. to play a vibrant and vital role in community life. The Vicar is an important link between the “If only those Church and the wider community and can poems which The Church recognises its wider responsi- reach out beyond the institution to all. It bilities and has excellent networks with the is worth appreciating, however, that Steep are place other institutions, particularly the schools. is privileged to have its Vicar living in the names could It works with the Parish Council to finance community at a time when the Church as a the newsletter, and has supported this whole is cutting back on its paid employees, be translated as it has developed into more than just a and this arrangement cannot be guaranteed at last, the “church” magazine. The community regards for the indefinite future. Any change would All Saints as “its church” – and not only for mean a stronger role for lay members and pretty, the christenings, weddings and funerals. Weekly recognition of the need to engage all age odd, the attendance is good and there is significant groups of the community in the work of involvement in the church and its activities. the Church. romantic, the A number of younger residents are partici- racy names pating in the Church and other institutions, For the future, the church understands its and this is a good sign for the future. How- historic role as a strong institution with of copse and ever, the need to nurture their involvement links to all parts of the community and sees field and lane and encourage an open and welcoming this continuing. stance is recognised. and house.” The Parochial Church Council is interested in opening up the Church’s buildings for greater community use. There are chal- lenges in doing this, but the Steep Lectures and the occasional concert are examples of what can be achieved. Its importance as a tourist destination within the National Park and an information source about the village and its key inhabitants such as Edward Thomas will increase, and it is also now Steep Mission Church

11 Charities

The Steep War Memorial Village Club is the boundary of the Village Hall car park the charity which manages and owns the and the Bedales headmaster’s house. The freehold of the Village Hall, one of the most area has been intermittently used for allot- important public buildings in Steep. The ments since the Parish was established in charity was established in 1920, based the nineteenth century and, more recently, on a gift of land from Bedales and funds as grazing land. However, it has been the provided by public subscription, with the subject of some controversy in the last ten stated purpose of being “a club and place years. The new board of charity trustees will of physical and mental recreation and for be agreeing new objects for the charity prior educational purposes for the benefit of the to developing a plan for its future. inhabitants of the parish of Steep without distinction of sex or of political, religious or The Eames Almshouses, situated along other opinion”. The Village Hall is today a Church Road, has been providing housing popular and well-equipped facility, efficiently for the older generation in Steep, maintain- run and entirely self-funding. ing its properties to a high standard and keeping a watchful eye on the well-being of The Trustees of the Hall are keen to con- its residents for more than a 130 years. Eames Almshouses tinue to encourage use by all sections of There is a waiting list for the six homes the community, as well as visitors. They in the development. The charity has the are looking at ways of encouraging use financial capacity to increase the number of particularly by the younger age groups and housing units by renting or building (if suita- at improvements to the car park, in conjunc- ble land was available) but no firm plans ex- tion with decisions about the adjacent land ist at the moment. As the Trustees develop referred to below. their thinking on this, they would welcome working with the Parish Council and other A new charity has been established to carry landowners on possible solutions. The char- the community responsibilities for the long ity is also interested in raising the profile term use and management for the patch of the organisation as many people are not of land opposite the end of Mill Lane – an aware of its existence. area of just over half a hectare between Schools Bedales

A successful and well-regarded independent Although some of the catering staff live on- school, Bedales currently looks after around site, the majority live to the south of Peters- 750 students across the three schools on field and are transported in daily via a mini- the campus. After a period of growth, the bus service. The school has recently begun school now sees a broadly stable outlook building work for three new houses for staff over the next decade or so. The balance with a new access off Church Road. between day and boarding pupils is also felt to have reached a fairly stable point The school has established a community with about 300 full time boarders, with the out-reach programme to encourage pupils school strongly committed to full boarding to engage with local activities of various for a material proportion of the pupils. In sorts. The school is very committed to this Olivier Theatre Bedales School terms of future trends, the school foresees and it will continue. The school is also keen a continuing increase in the use of the to improve communications with the village school facilities during the holiday periods. through open evenings and events. An early example of this is the plan for a The school benefits from a high-speed (but small arts-oriented annual Summer School high-cost) dedicated broadband service to for adults starting in 2013. support the large numbers of computers on the campus. The school – reflecting There are about 70 accommodation units the views of the residents revealed in the for teaching and domestic staff on the Survey above – would strongly support Bedales campus and along Church Road. improvements in the overall broadband

12 service to Steep (see Parish Council action exploring joint work on any “green projects” plan) which could provide a cheaper alterna- proposed by the community. tive. The school would also be interested in

Orchard Building, Bedales Shcool

Steep Church of England Primary School

Steep Primary School, established in 1875, roll across Petersfield is rising and will rise is also flourishing. The school currently has further with the proposed development just over a 100 pupils and is now full every schemes. There is therefore expected to be year. About one in five of the pupils are increased pressure on the available places residents of Steep. Some pupils may also in the surrounding village schools. Steep come from Steep Marsh although as noted School is regularly having to turn away dis- below this is outside the catchment area. appointed parents who would like to send their children here. There is an anomaly in It is one of a number of “small” schools the way that school catchment areas are in the area (like Sheet, Buriton, East and set, in that, although Steep Marsh is physi- West Meon) where year groups are less cally and administratively part of Steep, it is than a class of 30. There are good links treated as part of the catchment of Sheet between the village schools with regular Primary School. This topic is referred to Steep School Hall governor liaison and collaboration over elsewhere in this report. common curriculum issues and training. In spite of the decline in the younger popula- There are no plans to build extra class- tion of Steep, the current primary school rooms but the school is always looking at

Steep Primary School

13 ways of improving its accommodation and during school hours, but it is very popular is currently exploring ways of enhancing the after school. car park, as some employees currently have to park in Church Road. Efforts are made to work and integrate with the wider community. The village is invited Communication between All Saints’ Church to join the school for the annual Christmas and the school is active and effective. The and Summer Fayres; the school has linked Vicar regularly visits the school for collec- with the Welcome Club to share assembly tive worship and is well known to the pupils. presentations; and members of the local The relationship with Bedales is described community come into the school to hear as the best it has ever been. Bedales children read. students regularly come into Steep School to gain work experience or help out. The The school regularly uses the village web- Bedales pool is made available for all year site as a source of local information and groups for lessons during the year and, has expressed a wish to see an information whenever there has been snowfall, Bedales page developed, with contact information has always cleared the access to Steep for all the key institutions and activities Steep School School – a service which is much appreci- in Steep. It has been suggested that this ated. might also be useful on a leaflet, modeled perhaps on the Welcome Pack summary The Common is a huge asset for the offered to new residents. school. When the weather is suitable, it is used for PE and playtime as well as Sports The school is twinned with Bellville School Days, the Dance Festival, the Summer Fay- in Wandsworth (which was the birthplace of re, the Summer Ball and so on. The children Edward Thomas) and exchange visits have do not use the Common play equipment already begun. Jubilee Day Nursery

The Nursery has been running since 1977 and Bedales as day time child care. Look- and moved to Steep Village Hall 20 years ing to the future, the Nursery would like to ago. It currently has 32 children on its see an upgraded Village Hall car park with register and, of these, five children are improved access from Church Road and a from Steep parish. The school is thriving telephone line at the Village Hall to support and is optimistic about its future. Some of a broadband service. the children may go on to Steep Primary School but it is no longer a feeder Nursery. It enjoys good relationships with its immedi- ate neighbours and joins with Steep School for events such as Harvest Festival and Nativity. Students from Bedales regularly assist as part of their community service programme. The Nursery uses the Common for its Sports Day each year and also for picnics.

The reduction in the proportion of Steep children has happened steadily over the years and reflects the changing and older demographic profile of the village.

The Nursery brings a substantial number of people into the village from other parts of Petersfield, and its presence in the heart of the village adds to the sense of a daily, vibrant community, as well as making an im- portant contribution to the costs of running the Village Hall. It has also been used from time to time by staff from Steep School Steep Village Hall

14 Societies Steep Flower Show

2012 will be the Steep Flower Show’s 50th A Plant Sale is usually held in May as an year at Bedales and it has been going since important fund raiser and this also helps to at least the Second World War. Steep is increase awareness of the Flower Show. an “open” Flower Show which means that anyone can enter, not just local residents. The Flower Show Committee hopes that the There are normally over 700 individual event will continue to grow and develop, entries and hundreds of people attend each although no major changes are foreseen at year, from all parts of Steep and farther the moment. The team which sets up the afield. Like the bonfire night event on Steep show is always looking for willing hands to Common, this is an event which attracts a help in preparing for the big day and plans wide cross-section of the community. It is to recruit additional helpers this year. more than just a “Flower” Show in that a wide variety of classes such as crafts, pho- This is a major, annual, community event tos and poems are included and - always for Steep and has contributed to developing eager to engage the younger generation - good relationships between Bedales and its the “scarecrow” exhibition has also proved host community. to be popular with children.

Steep Flower Show

Steep Film Society

The society was established nine years ago the autumn and winter seasons. It provides in memory of the actor Sir Alec Guinness, a much appreciated community event on a a long-time resident of Steep. Set up with regular basis, enabling people to mix and a bequest from Sir Alec and a Lottery Grant engage on their own terms and see films to purchase equipment, the society now which they either missed when on general comprises more than 230 members, of release or to which they would not normally which about a third are Steep residents. It be exposed. The remarkably loyal audience works well with a small committee, choos- tends to be more representative of the ing films from lists and suggestions from slightly older sections of the population. Sir Alec Guinness members. It offers a varied programme over

15 Steep Tennis Club Started in 1906, the club is very active with leagues and is about to launch an Academy a membership of more than 500, of which initiative aimed at encouraging youngsters around ten percent are local residents. from all backgrounds to take up the sport. Owning its land and buildings, it boasts The clubhouse has been recently extended eight courts (of which six are floodlit) and modernised, but there are no plans for and a practice court. With two profes- expansion in the foreseeable future. sional coaches, it runs 13 teams in various Steep Cricket Club There has been a cricket club in Steep for a pavilion, install an AstroTurf wicket and at least 120 years. Owning its grounds, purchase a bowling machine for juniors. The the club runs a full programme of matches, club is now firmly in the hands of a younger usually involving three games over each generation of players, with an emphasis on weekend in the season. In addition there developing youth cricket. are four junior teams and the club has also With strong links to local schools, it be- hosted Steep Stool Ball Club for the last 25 lieves that there will be a supply of new years. Financially stable, the cricketers have cricketing talent to assure a confident been successful in raising funds to build future for the club.

Petersfield Golf Club Petersfield Golf Club The Golf Club is located in Steep having course in Petersfield. The main problem moved from the Heath, Petersfield to for the club is the access from the A3. It Tankerdale Lane, adjoining the A3 in 1997. is a very short slip road. Access is difficult The Club has about 800 members of whom in the dark and poor weather, particularly half are local to the Petersfield area. It with the increased volume and speed of manages about 120 acres of landscaped traffic following the opening of the Hindhead land, including clubhouse and reservoir. A Tunnel. successful club, it also owns a Pay and Play

Because of the spread of their membership across such a wide area, the Cricket, Tennis, and Golf Clubs are located in the community rather than being part of it, but they do, never- theless, greatly value and respect their attractive surroundings.

In addition to the above, the Welcome Club was re-formed as a direct result of a local meets twice each month for a variety of meeting preparing for the Steep Parish Plan activities such as a talk, film, entertain- questionnaire. There is also a flourishing ment by local children or games, followed Women’s Institute which meets monthly in by tea and cakes provided by some of Steep Village Hall (known as the Stroud the younger members of the community. Evening WI) and, most recently, a Short Mat Ages range from 60’s to 90’s and there is Bowls club taking advantage of the recently always a good atmosphere and conversa- improved space in the Village Hall. tion with friends and neighbours. This group

16 Agriculture The Farms

Agriculture is an essential feature of Steep. Whether measured by its contribution to community life or its effect on the land- scape, Steep would not be what it is today without its farms.

Farming has been practised in Steep over many centuries but, within that continual presence, there has been constant change. We have today fewer farms than we had, say, 50 years ago; what they do and how they do it has evolved; and the number of people employed in agriculture has contin- Ashford Farm ued to reduce. However, our farmers remain moisture and which is sheltered by the a vital part of the local economy and make Hangers to the north, provides the slightly a valuable contribution to the ever-growing warmer and wetter conditions in which need for food here and abroad. grass thrives. There are eight significant farming enter- The nature of the landscape – folded, prises operating within the Parish. Together undulating land, bordered by steep slopes they look after nearly 1,000 acres of our – tends to favour traditional smaller-scale landscape. Each of the businesses is farming rather than the industrial-scale unique, but together they cover a number farming operations which demand wider of types of livestock and arable farming, spaces to flourish. This is a limitation on and a range of target markets from local the potential of the farm businesses but to national, retail to wholesale, traditional also encourages them to work with the to organic. None of the farms run milk- grain of the landscape rather than trying to production operations in Steep any more, a mould it to the needs of the farm. From the major change from 50 years ago when most point of view of the farming spectator, this farms would have been expected to manage helps to preserve and protect the valued a dairy herd. appearance of our surroundings. Indeed, the maintenance work carried out by the One activity which is common to most of farmers on the margins of the fields – cut- the farms is grass production, whether to ting hedges, clearing ditches creates the be grazed by animals or for turf. Our low- attractive mosaic of land which is a feature lying land, with its heavier soil which retains of the views from the Hangers.

It is worth noting that during the last sev- eral years a younger generation of farmers has started to take the reins of some of Steep’s farms, and will undoubtedly bring a new perspective to future developments. The Parish Plan Survey recorded the affec- tion that the community holds for the farms of Steep, as well as the value attributed to the work that they do. Residents also ex- pressed some regret at the gradual decline in the volume of agricultural activity. Oc- casional comments are made about muddy roads and minor lane-edge damage, but it is clear from our discussions that all of the farmers understand the importance of landscape and will continue to care for the surroundings in which they work.

17 Westmark

The Future for Farming

Contrasted with the rural idyll of yesteryear The survival of Steep’s farms will depend (which, of course, was never remotely as on their ability to respond to these changing delightful as some imagined it to be) agri- conditions quickly, effectively and imagina- culture is today a harshly competitive busi- tively – identifying market opportunities and ness, dramatically affected by national and responding with the right level of quality; international forces way beyond the control aiming to be the best at what they do. It is of an individual farmer in Steep. also likely to require continued diversifica- tion of activities on the farms. This may The European Union Common Agriculture involve providing specialised contract ser- Policy and its system of support payments vices to other farmers; encouraging tourism (an important element in farming econom- (through farm experiences and holiday lets); ics for five decades) is due for radical farm-door sales and farm shops; and look- reform as early as 2013. This is widely ing at alternative uses for existing buildings. expected to result in a further reduction in, The increasing interest in locally sourced, or elimination of, subsidies. Any resulting in- high quality foods also represents an op- crease in consumer prices may increase the portunity. Survival will demand improved ef- demand for imported food and apply further ficiency and the embrace of new equipment downward price pressure on local produc- and technology. ers. The purchasing power of the supermar- kets who buy some of the farms’ output (either directly or indirectly) is strong and “Every traveller in unsentimental – demanding ever increasing quality at the same or lower prices or going Hampshire remembers the elsewhere to obtain it. Farmers grapple with road that sways with airy the unpredictability of the climate and the risks of the sudden appearance of disease motion and bird-like curves such as foot and mouth, or the recently down from the high land of identified Schmallenburg virus. If we add to this brew the continued depressed state of clay and flint through the the economy, which particularly affects the chalk to the sand and the premium end of the market, it is clear that farming will continue to be a very river.” challenging business.

18 How can others help?

It is clear that the community already experience with East Hampshire District values the presence, as well as the work, Council – which was responsible for plan- of the farms in Steep. Continued tolerance ning decisions before the designation of the and understanding by residents of farmers National Park has generally been positive, as they do their best to respond to the chal- with officers reasonably well informed on lenges mentioned above will undoubtedly agricultural matters. be appreciated. The farming community recognises that it Although it is not immediately obvious that needs to act responsibly when using the farming is a priority objective for our new roads and lanes of the area. There is a National Park, it is nevertheless properly case for a constructive dialogue with the respected in the EHDC/SDNPA’s Joint Core County authorities to ensure that the right Strategy (see page 20 overleaf). The words level of support is provided to keep these clearly reflect some of the sensitivities out- key arteries flowing properly – especially in lined above and it is hoped that the implied snowy weather and when unusual volumes support from the SDNPA will be delivered of traffic may be expected. in practice, as it gets into its stride. Past

Smallholdings

In addition to the farms, Steep also sup- would have done historically. But they are ports a number of smallholdings where significant in their contribution to the mo- the output - whether crops or animals - is saic of land use and can offer ‘value added’ predominantly consumed by the owners. diversification such as nurturing These ventures do not, in general, oper- rare breeds. ate on a scale to support a family as they Equestrian Activities

The third important element of land use in as a natural progression where parcels of Steep relates to horses. Significant areas idle farmland are sold off. Aspects of this are given over exclusively to grazing for change can be controversial but there are horses and there are several equestrian benefits to local farmers as equestrian ac- properties with stable complexes. Whilst tivies provide a market for local grass, hay some may lament the steady change of and haylage. Equally, horse-riding provides land use from farming to equestrian, the a great deal of pleasure for a significant changes that have occurred in recent years number of Steep’s residents. are an undeniable fact and can be seen

19 Timber Management

Historically, woodlands within the parish atic woodland and coppice management de- were actively managed. This was a source clined after 1945. Bringing our patchwork of of local employment particularly during the woods and coppices back into more active winter months. Coppices were “harvested” and sustainable management could, if done at short intervals (seven to ten years) to appropriately, have significant and long term produce small-size woodland products such environmental benefits for biodiversity, im- as charcoal, hazel for hurdles, thatching prove the appearance of the landscape, and spars and bean poles, ash for tool handles possibly provide employment. There would and sweet chestnut for fencing. Coppices also be scope for residents to use locally were grown under long-lived oak and ash sourced firewood and other woodland prod- “standards” (large, tall trees) which were ucts and for exploration of the possibilities used in buildings, as well as meeting some of wood-fired heating for public buildings. of the demand for firewood. We can still see “The beeches evidence of such activity today but system- on the beech- covered hills roar and strain as if they would fly off the hill, and anon they are as meek as a grey horse leaning his head over a gate.”

East Hampshire District Local Plan: Joint Core Strategy Extract para. 5.34

“The rural economy and enterprise strategy is to retain and enhance both established and new businesses and rural enterprises subject to their being consistent in scale and environmental impact with their location. As a part of this strategy priority will also be given to:

• working with others to retain, develop and promote rural enterprise, in particu- lar that associated with agriculture, horticulture and forestry infrastructure that can support local products and local markets • developing markets for sustainably produced local, land-based products, includ- ing local foods sold through local outlets, and wood products • developing initiatives that help nurture markets and business enterprise in rural skills including traditional building skills • promoting understanding by the local community of the needs of rural enter- prise • enabling residential development essential to maintain a rural workforce, in- cluding agricultural workers’ dwellings and rural affordable housing where there is an established local need.“

20 Industry

Steep’s industrial activity – in the form of fice management in Steep Marsh can best small-scale business units – is all concen- be addressed. trated in Steep Marsh. It is located mainly on the Brickyards site at the north end of Although the existing units do not bring sig- the Marsh but, more recently, also at the nificant economic benefit or employment to end of Pratts Lane adjacent to its abrupt local people at the moment, activity of this exit on to the A3. sort is an important element of an active and varied community and its existence can The former brickyard used local clay to represent local opportunity in the future. make bricks until the 1940s; several clay- pits are still evident in adjacent woods. It In recent years, a substantial business was subsequently developed into a poultry unit has been established on the Gardner’s farm based around a number of single Farm site at the end of Pratts Lane and is storey sheds for egg production. In 1980 currently occupied by Haste. This has the the site was split into two. The poultry advantage of being very close to a junction business continued under the new owner- with the A3 but that junction is very abrupt, Business Units ship of a larger-scale operation based in making access somewhat dangerous. The Stoner Hill the Winchester area, utilising two large site is quite exposed and therefore highly sheds at the west end of the site. The visible in the landscape. It has also been remainder of the site was developed with suggested that there may be some oppor- small single-storey sheds designed as light tunities for business unit development on industrial units. There are approximately land within the Hilliers Garden Centre site ten businesses running on the site today, in on the east side of the A3 but still within addition to the poultry farm. These include the Steep boundary. This area has much carpentry/joinery, catering, carpet storage, better vehicular access than Steep Marsh. commercial plant suppliers and ink car- tridge/toner refilling. “The woods below it hurry Poultry rearing continues and improves- down to a precipitous pit full ments in production methods have ad- dressed the problem with flies. The main of the glimmering, trembling issue for local residents is the impact of and murmuring of innumer- traffic from delivery vehicles and this has caused conern. Decisions about any ad- able leaves and no sight or ditional units will need to consider how traf- sound of men.”

Steep Marsh

21 Summary

Based on all of the information above, we would characterise the views of Steep’s community and institutions today as follows:

We are generally very satisfied with where we live. Taken together, we believe that things can be improved but are certainly not pressing for major change - we quite like it how it is. Although living in a physically fragmented community across several settlements, we • appreciate the exceptional landscape and heritage of the area • value the well-established and effective institutions • and enjoy participating in community events and the flourishing clubs and societies

We generally know what’s going on in the Parish, thanks to an excellent newsletter and the power of the poster on noticeboards and telegraph poles; and the website is gradually becoming more commonly used as a store of useful information.

Our mains services are generally satisfactory and we broadly welcome the coming of the South Downs National Park. However, the age profile of the community is gradually becoming older – and at a faster rate than the national trend (which has implications for the future).

We recognise the need for some additional residential development for local people but are concerned about the visual impact of any new development and an increase in traffic. There is unease about the divisive nature of recent debates about affordable housing. Traffic continues to be a challenge throughout the parish and we would like its quantity and speed to be reduced. In particular we would like the traffic impact of business, mainly affecting the Steep Marsh community to be reduced. We regret the slow decline of agriculture locally but many of us feel lucky to be able to work from home.

We regret the passing of the Village Shop and Post Office but are not yet convinced that it can be revived. All three of our schools are effective, well-regarded and foresee a stable future, although the relatively small number of Steep children attending the Nursery and Primary Schools is a potential concern for the future. We would like to see relationships between Bedales and the community further developed and improved.

We love The Harrow and worry about the future of The Cricketers. We value the church as an active and supportive player in the wider community, as well as for the many members of its congregation.

On this foundation, we have formulated two important sections of this report – the Parish Design Guidance and the vision for the future.

22 Parish Design Guidance

The setting of Steep, with its distinctive series of detailed policies has been devel- built heritage of buildings and monuments oped that update our original Village Design within an outstanding landscape, means Statement to reflect the new planning poli- that it is important to ensure that it is cies being applied through the Joint Core conserved and enhanced for future genera- Strategy and Local Plan. tions. This Design Guidance is intended to assist that process. After due considera- Set out below are the key elements of tion, the Steering Group does not think it guidance for each of these topic areas. practical or appropriate to seek Conserva- It is intended that these should be taken tion Area status for Steep but recognises into account by anyone submitting plan- that we do have a number of the features ning applications as well as those deciding that Conservation Areas display. To give an on them or wishing to express support or increased level of protection and in con- objection to them. junction with the proposal to seek special status in the National Park (see page 7), a

“All the year round the coombes, dripping, green and still, are cauldrons for the making and unmaking of mists, mists that lie like solid level snow or float diaphanous and horizontal of airiest silk across the moon or the morning sun.”

23 SECTION 1: General Principles

1 Design Guidance - Setting, Character and Landscape

The special character of Steep’s landscape will be conserved and enhanced. Any develop- ment, extension or alteration of buildings and structures should: a. Protect and enhance Steep’s settlements by respecting their history and heritage, especially in relation to individual buildings as listed in the Steep Buildings and Monuments Record b. Conserve traditional farm buildings and maintain their external fabric, appearance and setting if their use is changed; ensure new farm buildings are sensitively inte- grated into the landscape c. Conserve and encourage natural features which contribute to the distinctive char- acter of Steep’s landscape as identified in the Steep Local Landscape Character Assessment d. Protect views into and out of Steep, respecting the natural beauty, wildlife and tran- quillity of the landscape and the setting of its cultural and built heritage e. Enhance the landscape setting of new developments, including extensions, by incor- porating new planting of native species and further improve bio-diversity through the planting of hedges, trees, wild flowers and creating ponds f. Avoid the siting of buildings, telecommunication masts or power lines in positions Steep from the that would intrude on the sensitive silhouette of the Hangers Hangers g. Minimise signage; use traditional designs and materials where signs are necessary

2 Strategic Gap

The open gap between Steep and Petersfield which includes most of the Bedales estate in the centre, and large areas of agricultural land to the east and west is protected by Joint Core Strategy Policy CP21. It is crossed by the C18 highway, and by several public footpaths. The most used is the Hangers Way, a long distance footpath, which forms an important link to Petersfield and provides views to the south and the northern edge of the town with the Downs beyond.

Briefly stated, the “Strategic Gap” extends from the A3 northwards to Steep. Development should not be permitted in any of this area.

3 Settlement Boundary

Steep Settlement Boundary

24

Within Steep, the East Hampshire Local Plan Second Review defines a Settlement Bound- ary for Steep. This should be respected by future developments.

Outside this boundary, the Joint Core Strategy Policy Development in the Countryside ap- plies (CP17). This acts as a general restraint on development and is intended to ensure that only proposals with a genuine and proven need in a countryside location are allowed.

Any amendments to the Settlement Boundary would need to be subject to careful consid- eration and appropriate community consultation.

4 Rural Economy and Enterprise

Home working and diversification of farms help to promote the rural economy. It is recog- nised that these uses will continue to be permitted and encouraged, provided that they do not harm the character of the site and do not adversely affect the landscape, natural beauty, wildlife, cultural opportunities and opportunities for recreation. Further, new propos- als will need to fully assess the impact of traffic on the tranquility and setting of the development.

Bracket Fungi 5 Horse Related Developments

The cumulative impact of equestrian uses can have a major impact on the landscape. A full planning application is normally required for keeping horses for non-agricultural purposes and for buildings to house them (unless these qualify as permitted development under the General Permitted Development Order). Horse-keeping for agricultural purposes not requir- ing planning approval, must be part of a registered agricultural unit. It is anticipated that the South Downs Planning National Park Authority will issue guidance on horse related developments, but in the meantime Local Plan Policy C12 should apply.

New buildings used for the stabling of horses will be expected to locate within the folds of landscape and woods so that they do not adversely affect the character and appearance of the surroundings.

“Local Plan Policy C12 Planning Permission will be granted for stables, horse-riding schools and/or riding centres in the countryside provided that the scheme would:

1. Re-use existing buildings or, where none exists or is not capable of conversion, be sited within an existing group of buildings 2. Be well-related to existing or proposed bridleways 3. Not cause or exacerbate conflicts between equestrians and other users of the public highway 4. Not harm the living conditions of existing or future residents, and 5. Not harm, by itself or in combination with existing equestrian establishments, the character of the local landscape including the countryside setting of settlements

25 6 Design

The design of buildings needs to relate to the character of their surroundings and the distinctiveness of localities. Steep’s diverse built environment and its many key buildings and monuments are important, not only locally, but also within a national context, particu- larly its Arts and Crafts heritage. The Parish has a great diversity of buildings and although there is no single style or character that can be directly applied to new developments, it is important that the character, identity, landscape and heritage context of the Parish is respected and supported and that for each separate settlement within Steep, appropriate design guidance is applied.

Developments should:

a. Be of a high standard in terms of design and architecture b. Be generally two-storey, respecting the scale, height, massing and density of adjoining development and related spaces, buildings, materials and landscape features c. Use good quality and natural materials of appropriate scale and colour harmonising with the surroundings d. Recognise the distinctiveness of individual settlements, as set out in section 2 and the key buildings and monuments that reflect the cultural heritage of Steep

SECTION 2: Design Guidance for individual settlement areas within Steep

Steep consists of a series of settlements and key buildings that have been appraised and described in the Settlement Character Assessment and the Record of Monuments and Buildings. Developments, alterations or extensions should be sympathetic to the character- istics and buildings of the individual settlements -

i) Ridge Common Lane and Lythe Lane

Both lanes have farms and cottages within the folds of fields and copses, mostly hiding a variety of traditional cottages with tile hangings and steep roofs. There are also a few modern houses but with a traditional look-and-feel. The farms are all Grade II listed: Soal (the oldest part being sixteenth century timber-framed with elevations of exposed timber framework, and with twentieth century additions in identical style and materials), Lythe with its Barn (early and late eighteenth century) and Aldersnapp (early nineteenth century). Other significant but unlisted buildings are Stroud Mission Church, built to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Jubilee in 1896; Collyers, a Victorian mansion of 1883/4 (referred to as a “pecu- liar house” by Pevsner); and Stonerwood Park, a neo-Georgian design by Baillie Scott and Beresford (1931) on the site of a former mansion and including gardens designed by Inigo Triggs, which are listed on Hampshire’s Historic Gardens Register.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. Open views to the Downs and Hangers, folds of fields and copses in the landscape b. The setting of: the listed farms at Aldersnapp, Soal, Lythe and its Barn; Stroud Mis- sion Church; Collyers; and Stonerwood Park and its gardens c. Small clusters of houses in period styles, being mainly the former dwellings of agricul- tural labourers attached to the foregoing farms

ii) Dunhill and Dunhurst

Dunhill is a small hamlet comprising the Grade II listed Vine Cottage, the Old Farmhouse (Dunhill Farm) and Granary, together with a small mix of modern houses set back from the road behind hedges and trees. These homes sit beside Stoner Hill Road (also known as Alton Road and formally designated as the C18). The road, which winds its way up Stoner Hill, was built in the 1820s as a turnpike to enable stagecoaches to avoid the very steep climb that the original, medieval route from Steep to Winchester entailed, as the land

26 around the village of Stroud was boggy. However, Parliament refused authority to collect tolls, resulting in heavy losses for the road builders. Today, it is a busy route linking Peters- field and Alton and the speed of traffic, despite the introduction of a 30 mph limit, is still a problem. Access to these dwellings, and to parts of the Bedales estate, is sometimes difficult and hazardous and will be a topic for consideration by the new Parish Traffic Management Group.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. Views of the small hidden hamlet and farmstead and its setting within the hollow and folds of the land, together with the listed buildings at Dunhill Farm and Vine Cottage. iii) Stoner Hill – The Cricketers Inn to Island

The Cricketers crossroads is a focal point where Ridge Common Lane and Church Road meet Stoner Hill. The Cricketers Inn and the commercial uses at the former garage face each other across this junction. Beyond, Stoner House and Island, two former country mansions are dominant. Both have gardens listed in the Hampshire Register of Historic Gardens and a mix of housing set within their grounds, above the former council estate of Hays Cottages.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. Commercial uses at Steep Garage and the continued use of the Cricketers Inn as a Public House and its associated visitor facilities b. The setting of Island and Stoner House and their respective grounds, together with their status as a Special Housing Area (Local Plan Policy H9) iv) Church Road

Church Road is a linear form of settlement along a ridge leading as far as All Saints’ Church and Restalls (with its garden designed by Inigo Triggs), both Grade II* listed proper- ties. With the Bedales estate on its southern edge, the road contains a range of mostly twentieth century housing, including some key Arts and Crafts Grade II listed buildings - Five Oaks, Row Cottage, Little Hawsted - and others not listed, such as Merries, Pennyfold and Rozel. More recent housing is found on both sides, together with the Victorian Primary School and Almshouses and the Village Hall and the Grade II listed War Memorial. The Memorial, dating from December 1918, was the earliest erected in Hampshire following the First World War and was designed by Inigo Triggs who also designed Petersfield’s War Memorial in the High Street.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. The linear form of Church Road and its Settlement Boundary, together with the size, scale, design and character of existing buildings b. The sense of openness and spaces between the buildings, and the avoidance of any “tunnelling” effect c. Recreational/community provision that complements the Village Hall, and minimises the impact on adjoining properties d. The scale, style and character of Church Road’s Victorian and Arts and Crafts Listed buildings and the setting of other significant but unlisted Arts and Crafts buildings

v) Mill Lane and Ashford Lane

Mill Lane winds through a quiet and rural part of Steep, crossing the Ashford Stream below the waterfall that drains the large expanse of water above which was the original mill pond. The Lane is hidden and enclosed by a ridge escarpment to the north and with intermit- tent southerly views out to the Downs. Ashford Lane is a sunken lane, enclosed by banks and trees at the foot of the Hangers (a National Nature Reserve (NNR) and Site of Special

27 Scientific Interest (SSSI). The Hangers Way uses and crosses both lanes and is well trav- elled by walkers, cyclists and horse riders. Above is the sarsen memorial stone to Edward Thomas with its views to the Downs and beyond. Along the lane are a mix of farm houses and the large Arts and Crafts manor house of Ashford Chace and its gardens (listed in the Hampshire Historic Gardens Register). There are several country houses set on the ridge between the two lanes, looking out to the South Downs.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. Future developments (extensions, conversions or replacement of existing properties) that respect the scale, tranquillity and rural character of the area and the views in and out b. The setting of the listed Grade II Mill Cottage, and the modern buildings of Millponds, Millfall and Mill Corner at Ashford Stream c. The setting of the listed Grade II coach-house to Old Ashford Manor with its roadside wall and Bees Cottage; Berryfield; Ashford Chace with its Gateway and Gatehouse buildings; and Little Ashford Farm

vi) Steep Hollow; Kettlebrook Lane; Elmwood Lane (part) and Burntash Lane

Steep Hollow leads from the eastern end of Church Road to Kettlebrook and eventually to Sheet, with the tennis and cricket clubs on the left followed by the Harrow Inn. It is linked to Elmwood and Burntash Lanes by the new Shipwrights Way, crossing the Ashford Stream. Extensive tree cover and sandy soils give a different feel to the area from other parts of Steep, with buildings largely hidden in the landscape.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. The character and rural setting of Steep Cricket and Tennis Clubs b. The setting of the listed Grade II Steep Farmhouse, Harrow Inn and Kettlebrook Cot- tages c. The rural character, landscape and tree cover of the area

vii) Steep Marsh

Steep Marsh is at the foot of the scarp with ancient farms, the Victorian mansion of Coldhayes with its gardens, oast houses and a wide range of more modern housing in a residential hamlet. There are also significant agricultural, industrial and commercial de- velopments here with the industrial units on the Brickyards site representing the largest concentration of this type of activity in Steep, generating significant volumes of traffic. Traffic is probably the most sensitive issue in this area and is referred to elsewhere in the Parish Plan as a matter for action. However, there are special planning restrictions in force here which require planning permission for all types of development, including sheds and fences. Bowyers Common Lane leads east from the centre of Steep Marsh to an abrupt junction with the A3, beside which a new development of industrial units (the Gardner’s Farm complex) has been established.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. The landscape and rural character of Steep Marsh to be maintained by respecting views in and out to the Hangers, the boundaries set by existing buildings and settle- ments, and the gaps between neighbouring communities b. The setting of the listed Grade II* Coldhayes and its gardens, Grade II Gardner’s and Steep Marsh Farms, together with the unlisted oast houses

viii) Adhurst St Mary and Westmark

East of the A3 the golf course, the Adhurst St. Mary estate, Westmark Farm and the land on either side of the A272 wrap around the outskirts of Sheet and Petersfield.

28 Although the estate is well wooded, the open land of the golf course and the farmland around the A272 is flat and offers fine views to the South Downs.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. The open landscape and views to the South Downs b. The setting of the listed Grade II Tankerdale farm and Adhurst St Mary (comprising the house, its estate and a park which is listed in the Hampshire Historic Gardens Register), including the need to protect and conserve the building, which is “at risk”

ix) Bedales

Bedales Schools are set in a large estate of over 100 acres within an undulating rural land- scape bordered by the A3, Bell Hill and Church Road. There are several significant build- ings including the listed Grade I Memorial Library and Lupton Hall, the Olivier Theatre and Orchard Buildings on an open campus, with views out to the Downs. A Master Plan Strategy and a Landscape Strategy & Management Plan have been adopted by the School. The estate is part of the Strategic Gap between Petersfield and Steep, recognised in the Joint Core Strategy and identified in Policy CP21.

The key design features to be recognised and respected in this area are:

a. The Adopted Site Master Plan Strategy and the Landscape Strategy & Management Plan (“A School Within a Farm” 2009) b. The open landscape setting of the school campus and its Arts and Crafts heritage, recognising that new designs can complement and add to the variety, provided their quality is of the highest standard c. The setting of the listed Grade 1 Memorial Library and Lupton Hall, and that of the Orchard Building and the Olivier Theatre d. The need to minimise the impact of school traffic on Church Road, ensuring that suit- able school travel plans are implemented and kept up-to-date

SECTION 3: Design Guidance Conclusions

The intention of the above guidelines, as in the original VDS, is not to prevent or inhibit development but to ensure that all new developments help to “conserve and enhance” those characteristics of Steep which the community holds most precious. This guidance is the result of extensive consultation and we believe it fairly reflects the views of the local community. We hope and expect that this Design Guidance will be adopted by the South Downs National Park Authority as Supplementary Planning Guidance. It would then become a material consideration in the planning decision process.

29 Our vision for the future

Leo Gauvain Steep Photography Winner

Our Vision for Steep

• A community that values and respects its exceptional landscape and heritage

• An active and vibrant community with a range of facilities and activities for all ages, involving all the different settlements of Steep

• A community linked to the outside world with high speed broadband, websites and information provision promoting opportunities for employment, economic growth and social activity

• A sustainable community that recognises the need for affordable housing and employment to meet local needs, in appropriate locations designed to fit with the local landscape and built heritage

• A community that manages the impact of traffic on its roads and lanes

• A special place in the South Downs National Park for visitors, with their impact recognised and managed

30 Our Vision will be achieved by specific actions in twelve areas:

Point One APPROPRIATE RECOGNITION OF OUR UNIQUE LANDSCAPE AND BUILT HERITAGE BY THE NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY REFLECTED IN PLANNING DECISIONS

Steering Group to work with the National Park Authority on ways in which Steep’s qualities can be recognised and further enhance the power of the Design Guidance elements of the Parish Plan to influence planning decisions.

Action by Parish Plan Steering Group with SDNPA: end 2012

Point Two A MORE EFFECTIVE CENTRE FOR STEEP AROUND THE VILLAGE HALL The Parish Plan Survey revealed a wish by many residents to create a more effective centre to the village on land around the Village Hall. This is currently held in trust by a charity, as described on page 12. A range of uses has been suggested including a building or covered space for people to meet which could provide refreshments; the opportunity to sell local produce; or act as a National Park visitor centre/information point. Additional car parking; gardening allotments; housing; an orchard; a village shop/post office; a village green – and leaving it as it is! Although the land adjacent to the Village Hall is in the middle of the village, it is currently excluded from the Steep Settlement Boundary within which development is permitted. This land is allocated for recreational use in the existing Local Plan but is not at present used for this purpose.

a. The Parish Council should encourage the devolopment of a comprehensive plan for the future use of this land for community benefit b. The South Downs National Park Planning Authority should be engaged at an early stage to ensure that it will be able to be flexible and supportive, when the plan is produced

Action by both charities with the Parish Council by end 2012; to produce a final Plan by end 2013

Point Three MODEST CHANGES TO STEEP COMMON

a. Review seating to consider if there should be more and if some modest picnic seating should be available b. Review the play equipment to consider if it should be further enhanced c. Explore whether there could be some modest and sensitive provision for parking, given the increased popularity of the Common as a leisure amenity

Action: Steep Common Group report to Parish Council by late 2012

Point Four AN INCREASE IN WELL-PUBLICISED, VOLUNTARY, NEIGHBOUR-SUPPORT ACTIVITIES

a. Work with Community First East Hampshire (CFEH) to increase local volunteering to support our community by identifying opportunities, providing training and developing a local contact point

Action by Steering Group/CFEH by Spring 2013

b. Ensure Neighbourhood Watch coordinators are appointed for each settlement, so that all households are covered c. Review and publicise the arrangements for Police liaison and incident reporting

31 d. Improve communications between coordinators and ensure that regular publicity is undertaken throughout Steep

Action on all items by Neighbourhood Watch Group by Autumn 2012

Point Five MORE OPPORTUNITIES FOR INVOLVING STEEP MARSH IN VILLAGE LIFE

The Steep Marsh community is physically separate from the main concentration of population in Steep, and the road system (and gravity!) tends to encourage travel towards Liss and Petersfield rather than up to Steep unless there is a strong reason to make the climb. However, we are all part of a single administrative unit, we share a name and the Steering Group strongly supports continued action to strengthen the linkages between Steep and Steep Marsh (as well as the other “outlying” parts of the Parish). The following actions are proposed:

a. Review the possibility of transferring Steep Marsh into the catchment area of Steep Primary School b. Hold two Parish Council meetings a year in a location in Steep Marsh c. Use the monthly Library Van visit as an opportunity to hold councillor “surgeries” in the Marsh, and use them as information sessions, perhaps also involving the community policeman. Use these to identify key priorities of community

Action: Parish Council - on-going, starting Autumn 2012

d. Establish a flagship parish project to support the upgrading of the very poor state of the lanes and verges of Steep Marsh, in conjunction with Hampshire Highways

Action: Parish Council Traffic Management Group - end 2012

Point Six HIGH SPEED BROADBAND SERVICES AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE AREA AND IN OUR PUBLIC BUILDINGS

a. Ensure households register their interest in better broadband speeds on the HCC website b. Work closely with Nick Drew of EHDC and HCC to ensure Steep is included in the proposed roll out of enhanced rural broadband c. Develop plan for provision of a line for broadband service to the Village Hall

Action: Parish Council - on-going

Point Seven THE COMMUNITY WEBSITE AND SOCIAL MEDIA PROVIDING ACTIVE SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND A LIVELY FORUM FOR DEBATE, IN SUPPORT OF A HEALTHY NEWSLETTER

a. Continue to encourage all organisations, groups and societies to publicise their events in a monthly diary in the Newsletter, on noticeboards and the website

Action by Newsletter Team by Autumn 2012

b. Build a voluntary email database of Steep residents, as a basis for sending out reminder email alerts for upcoming events

Action by WebMaster by Autumn 2012

c. Refresh the structure and appearance of the website

32 Action by WebMaster by end 2013

d. Encourage Newsletter and website to work together to mutual benefits

Action by Parish Council by Autumn 2012

e. Review suggestions for additional noticeboards around the Parish including junction of Lythe Lane with Ridge Common Lane, Hays Cottages, and Steep School/common and improve maintenance of the boards

Action by Parish Council by end 2012

Point Eight A MODEST INCREASE IN THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING STOCK, AIMED PRINCIPALLY AT THE ELDERLY AND YOUNG FAMILIES WITH LOCAL CONNECTIONS

Whilst the general goal is reasonably clear, the way in which it is achieved is not at all defined at this stage. However, the Steering Group believes that the characteristics of an acceptable solution are becoming clearer.

The proposed criteria against which any proposal should be judged will vary slightly according to the location but the following is an initial position:

• excellence of design, preferably echoing Arts & Crafts style • low visual/landscape impact (building mass) and appropriate positioning in the selected site or sites • minimum traffic impact • sustainability (“green-ness”) • economically viable

It is possible, but by no means certain, that the land in the centre of the village could be part of the solution. In any event the Parish Council will need to talk with local landowners, including Bedales, about other site possibilities. It is recommended that the Parish Council should work in conjunction with the Eames Almshouses charity and other sources of expertise and funding on the project.

a. Establish community project team to work on site identification and partner selection

Action by Parish Council by early 2014

Point Nine ADDITIONAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT LIMITED TO SITES WITH MINIMAL TRAFFIC IMPACT

The challenges of business traffic in Steep Marsh are discussed on page 21. The Parish Council should consider the following recommendations of the Steering Group and confirm its approach for future planning applications:

a. No further business units on the Brickyards site without accompanying work on traffic management b. Examine the possibility of additional business units on the Gardner’s Farm site (currently occupied by Haste, adjacent to the A3 junction in Bowyers Common Lane), but only if accompanied by an upgrade to the A3 junction and appropriate screening c. Examine the possibility of the use of land forming part of the Hilliers Garden Centre on the east side of the A3; of farm property looking for diversification; and other sites for future business unit expansion

Policy review and decision by the Parish Council by end 2012

33 Point Ten IMPROVED TRAFFIC MANAGEMENT WHICH ENABLES RESIDENTS TO MOVE AROUND MORE CONFIDENTLY AND SAFELY THAN THEY CAN TODAY

a. Work with Hampshire Highways to explore ways that could discourage the use of Steep Marsh, Church Road and Ridge Common Lane as “rat runs” to decrease volume of traffic b. Work with Hampshire Highways to review speed limits on Stoner Hill and Ridge Common Lane and investigate how lower speeds might be encouraged or enforced c. Investigate whether the “Quiet Lanes” concept that has been piloted in other areas would be appropriate for some Steep lanes d. Open a new dialogue with Bedales regarding traffic flow in and out of the campus to reduce traffic using Church Road e. Investigate with Hampshire Highways the feasibility of designating and upgrading the footpath along the C18 as a dual cycle/footpath f. Work with Bedales and Hampshire Highways regarding upgrading the surface of the footpath from the church to Petersfield to make it suitable for year round use by school pupils g. Investigate the suitability and possibility of installing a safe footpath from Island to Hays Cottages

Action: Traffic Management Group report to Parish Council by Summer 2013

Point Eleven A QUIETER AND LESS INTRUSIVE A3

a. Campaign with our MP and in liaison with Parishes, EHDC, HCC and SDNPA to persuade the Highways Agency to install a quiet surface when the carriageway is renewed

Point Twelve INCREASED VISITOR NUMBERS AS A RESULT OF THE NATIONAL PARK WELCOMED, INFORMED AND MANAGED

Review access and parking arrangements for visitors to key attractions such as the Church and Shoulder of Mutton and link to the South Downs National Park’s Management Plan

Action by Traffic Management Group by Summer 2013

Review options for Village Hall to provide refreshments, information and toilets

Action by Village Hall Trustees by Summer 2013

Work with SDNPA to improve footpath and track signage

Action by Steering Group by Winter 2013/14

Develop current visitor information, including one or more structured walks in the area, in both printed and internet form

Action by Steering Group by Winter 2013/14

34 Conclusion

Parish Councils have an unenviably challenging task, representing the level of democracy closest to the electorate, but with little in the way of financial resources or ultimate decision-making authority. However, whilst most of the priorities above will require hard work and guidance from the Parish Council, we believe - based on our best assessment of the views of all of those with an interest in Steep - that this represents a truly common agenda, not just the ambitions of a few. By working carefully together with all of the stakeholders over the next few years this vision can be achieved by the Parish Council and the community of Steep.

35 Parish Boundary

Steep Parish

Acknowledgements

“The Origins of Steep” by W.H. Whiteman (Petersfield Area Historical Society, 1978)

Archaeology and Historic Buildings Record, held by Hampshire County Council

Edward Thomas quotes from “The South Country”, Little Toller Books 2009

“Buildings of England, Hampshire: Winchester and the North” by Michael Bullen, John Crook, Rodney Hubbuck and Nikolaus Pevsner, Penguin 2010

Illustrations by Rollo Wicksteed

Design and layout by PosAbilities Ltd

Images supplied by the Steep Parish Plan Steering Group and local residents

Ordnance Survey Map Licence Number LC 100024238

36 Thanks

We would like to extend our thanks to all of those who helped us with expertise and opinion in the course of our work. We are particularly grateful to Steep Parish Council (the main sponsors of this Plan), East Hampshire District Council, Hampshire County Council and Bedales School for financial support and to the South Downs National Park Authority for advice.

The following were members of the Steep Parish Plan Steering Group:

Tony Struthers (Chair) Peter Cruttenden (Secretary) Trevor Hines (Treasurer) Graham Banks Fran Box Terry Cook Linda Henderson Drake Hocking Jim MacDonald Philip Mileham Linda Munday (EHDC) Alex Patchett-Joyce James Rush Geoffrey Russell Lucy Soal (EHDC) Celia Storey Ray Street Jeremy Young

37