Schedule of Changes to the draft National Development Framework

Laid to the Senedd on 21 September 2020

Schedule of Changes This document sets out the text of the draft NDF that was consulted on in August 2019; the text as it will appear when amended by the changes the Minister for Housing and Local Government intends to make to the August 2019 draft NDF; and combines as tracked changes the draft NDF text and the NDF as it will be amended by the Minister’s proposed changes.

Text of NDF as Text of draft NDF Combined August amended by Minister’s consulted on in August 2019 and Sept 2020 changes Sept 2020 2019 text

The maps, graphics and diagrams referred to in this document are shown in the annexe which starts on page 144.

Section or Updated Version Draft NDF Draft NDF Section or Policy Tracked Changed Version Policy Section or Number Policy Number Inside Cover Updated Map of Wales Inside Cover Map of Wales Updated Map of Wales Chapter 1 Introduction Chapter 1 Introduction Introduction

Managing change and planning development that will Managing change and planning last for generations is one of the most important development that will last for generations Managing change and planning development that will responsibilities of government. This document is the is one of the most important last for generations is one of the most important Welsh Government’s twenty year plan for shaping the responsibilities of government. This responsibilities of government. This document is the document is the Welsh Government’s Welsh Government’s twenty year plan for shaping the future growth and development of our country. twenty year plan for shaping the future future growth and development of our country. growth and development of our country.

What is this document? What is the National Development What is the National Development Frameworkthis Future Wales – the national plan 2040 is our national Framework? document? development framework, setting the direction for The National Development Framework (NDF)

development in Wales to 2040. It is a development plan with a is a new development plan which will set the strategy for addressing key national priorities through the direction for development in Wales from 2020 The National Development Framework (NDF)Future Wales – planning system, including sustaining and developing a to 2040. It sets a strategy for addressing key the national plan 2040 is a newour national development vibrant economy, achieving decarbonisation and climate- national priorities through the planning plan which will setframework, setting the direction for resilience, developing strong ecosystems and improving the system, including sustaining and developing a development in Wales from 2020 to 2040. It setsis a vibrant economy, decarbonisation, developing health and well-being of our communities. development plan with a strategy for addressing key national resilient ecosystems and improving the health We face a climate emergency which is actively changing and well-being of our communities. priorities through the planning system, including sustaining our environment and directly affecting communities; we The NDF is a spatial plan, which means it and developing a vibrant economy, achieving have an ecological emergency, where the behaviours and sets a direction for where we should be decarbonisation and climate-resilience, developing decisions of the human race are causing harm to the investing in infrastructure and development resilientstrong ecosystems and improving the health and for the greater good of Wales and its people. resilience of ecosystems and species; we have suffered the well-being of our communities. The NDF sets the challenge of delivering effects of a global health pandemic and must re-energise these improvements to public, private and The NDFWe face a climate emergency which is actively our economy in a sustainable way, demonstrating that we third sectors. It makes clear the importance of changing our environment and directly affecting have learnt from previous excesses that have resulted in planning new infrastructure and development communities; we have an ecological emergency, where the inequitable wealth and access to services. The Welsh in such a way they are complementary rather behaviours and decisions of the human race are causing Government will face these challenges and find the than competing priorities, ensuring harm to the resilience of ecosystems and species; we have opportunities are maximised and multiple opportunities for a better Wales with every mechanism at benefits are achieved. suffered the effects of a global health pandemic and must our disposal. Our national development framework, in this The Well-being of Future Generations re-energise our economy in a sustainable way, context, is an important lever to deliver the change we (Wales) Act 2015 influences the way we plan demonstrating that we have learnt from previous excesses need. for new development; it demands that that have resulted in inequitable wealth and access to development and use of land contribute to Future Wales is a spatial plan, which means it sets a direction services. The Welsh Government will face these improving the economic, social, challenges and find the opportunities for a better Wales for where we should be investing in infrastructure and environmental and cultural well-being of with every mechanism at our disposal. Our national development for the greater good of Wales and its people. Wales. Under the commitment to delivering Future Wales sets the challenge of delivering these sustainable development we will maximise development framework, in this context, is an important improvements to the public, private and third sectors. It makes our contribution to each of the well-being lever to deliver the change we need. clear the importance of planning new infrastructure and goals. Choosing where to invest or Future Wales is a spatial plan, which means it sets a direction considering whether a development is development in such a way that they are complementary rather for where we should be investing in infrastructure and suitable in a certain place are difficult than competing priorities, ensuring opportunities are decisions where a balance often has to be development for the greater good of Wales and its people. The maximised and multiple benefits are achieved. found between competing priorities. We must NDF Future Wales sets the challenge of delivering these The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 strive to find solutions which maximise our improvements to the public, private and third sectors. It makes influences the way we plan for new development; it demands contribution to the goals and well-being clear the importance of planning new infrastructure and that development and use of land contribute to improving the objectives. The NDF provides leadership and development in such a way that they are complementary rather economic, social, environmental and cultural well-being of strategic direction for taking these decisions. than competing priorities, ensuring opportunities are Wales. Under the commitment to delivering sustainable The NDF is the highest tier of development maximised and multiple benefits are achieved. plan and is focused on issues and challenges development we will maximise our contribution to each of the at a national scale. Its strategic nature The Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 well-being goals. Choosing where to invest or considering means it does not allocate development to all influences the way we plan for new development; it demands whether a development is suitable in a certain place are parts of Wales, nor does it include policies on that development and use of land contribute to improving the difficult decisions where a balance often has to be found all land uses. It is a framework which will be economic, social, environmental and cultural well-being of built on by Strategic Development Plans between competing priorities. We must strive to find solutions Wales. Under the commitment to delivering sustainable (SDPs) at a regional level and Local which maximise our contribution to the goals and well-being development we will maximise our contribution to each of the objectives. Future Wales provides leadership and strategic Development Plans (LDPs) at local authority level. These plans will identify the location of well-being goals. Choosing where to invest or considering direction for taking these decisions. new infrastructure and development. SDPs whether a development is suitable in a certain place are As the national development framework, Future Wales is the and LDPs are required to be in conformity difficult decisions where a balance often has to be found highest tier of development plan and is focused on solutions to with the NDF and must be kept up to date to between competing priorities. We must strive to find solutions ensure they and the NDF work together issues and challenges at a national scale. Its strategic nature which maximise our contribution to the goals and well-being effectively. Planning decisions at every level objectives. The NDFFuture Wales provides leadership and means it does not allocate development to all parts of Wales, of the planning system in Wales must be nor does it include policies on all land uses. It is a framework taken in accordance with the development strategic direction for taking these decisions. which will be built on by Strategic Development Plans at a plan as a whole. The NDFAs the national development framework, Future regional level and Local Development Plans at local authority Wales is the highest tier of development plan and is focused level. These plans will identify the location of new on solutions to issues and challenges at a national scale. Its infrastructure and development. Strategic and Local strategic nature means it does not allocate development to all Development Plans are required to be in conformity with parts of Wales, nor does it include policies on all land uses. It Future Wales and must be kept up to date to ensure they and is a framework which will be built on by Strategic Development Future Wales work together effectively. Planning decisions at Plans (SDPs) at a regional level and Local Development Plans every level of the planning system in Wales must be taken in (LDPs) at local authority level. These plans will identify the accordance with the development plan as a whole. Future location of new infrastructure and development. SDPsStrategic Wales replaces the Wales Spatial Plan. and LDPsLocal Development Plans are required to be in conformity with the NDFFuture Wales and must be kept up to date to ensure they and the NDFFuture Wales work together effectively. Planning decisions at every level of the planning system in Wales must be taken in accordance with the development plan as a whole. Future Wales replaces the Wales Spatial Plan. Well-being of Future Generations Act 2015 Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 and Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015 and the and the National Development Framework Future Wales National Development FrameworkFuture Wales The Act gives a legally-binding common purpose – the seven The Act gives a legally-binding common well-being goals – for national government, local government, purpose – the seven well-being goals – for The Act gives a legally-binding common purpose – the seven local health boards and other specified public bodies. It details national government, local government, local well-being goals – for national government, local government, the ways in which these bodies must work, and work together, health boards and other specified public local health boards and other specified public bodies. It details to improve the well-being of Wales. It is through the Act that bodies. It details the ways in which these the ways in which these bodies must work, and work together, bodies must work, and work together, to Wales will make its contribution to the achievement of the 17 to improve the well-being of Wales. It is through the Act that improve the well-being of Wales. It is through Wales will make its contribution to the achievement of the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. the Act that Wales will make its contribution to the achievement of the 17 United Nations United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. In developing Future Wales we have recognised our Sustainable Development Goals. In developing the NDF,Future Wales we have recognised our obligations under the Act. Embedding the principles of the Act, In developing the NDF, we have recognised including the five ways of working (long-term thinking, our obligations under the Act. Embedding the obligations under the Act. Embedding the principles of the Act, prevention, collaboration, integration and involvement), within principles of the Act, including the 5 ways of including the 5five ways of working (long-term thinking, our strategic thinking and policy development has informed, working (long-term thinking, prevention, prevention, collaboration, integration and involvement), within influenced and shaped Future Wales. We have carefully collaboration, integration and involvement), our strategic thinking and policy development has informed, considered how Future Wales reflects, aligns with and within our strategic thinking and policy influenced and shaped the NDFFuture Wales. We have maximises its contribution to the well-being goals, objectives development has informed, influenced and carefully considered how the NDFFuture Wales reflects, aligns shaped the NDF. We have carefully and ways of working. with and maximises its contribution to the well-being goals, considered how the NDF reflects, aligns with objectives and ways of working. and maximises its contribution to the well- being goals, objectives and ways of working.

Integrated Sustainability Appraisal

The approach taken to assess Future Wales follows the established and recognised approach of Strategic Environmental Assessment and Sustainability Appraisal, which has been broadened to integrate a number of other impact assessments, as illustrated in Figure A. The Well-being of Future Generations Act has been fundamental in the development of this approach. This has enabled the embedding of the principles of sustainable development at all stages and ensures we comply with our statutory requirements. We have involved and engaged stakeholders to support the plan, ensuring that a collaborative approach has been undertaken, sharing knowledge and recognising the links between topics. Ensuring effects are recognised at the earliest stage and engaging stakeholders throughout this process, seeks to ensure Future Wales is as sustainable as possible.

The NDF and Habitats Regulation Assessment Habitats Regulations Assessment of Future Wales The NDF and Habitats Regulation Assessment Under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive (and Regulation 105 of Integrated Sustainability Appraisal the Habitats Regulations), a Habitats Regulations Assessment Under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive (and Regulation 102 of the Habitats Regulations), The approach taken to assess Future Wales follows the is required where a plan or project has the potential to an assessment is required where a plan or established and recognised approach of Strategic impact upon European designated sites and Ramsar sites project is likely to have a significant effect Environmental Assessment and Sustainability Appraisal, which (collectively known as Natura 2000 sites). Planning Policy upon a Natura 2000 has been broadened to integrate a number of other impact Wales and Technical Advice Note 5 also provide guidance in (European designated) site. Specific assessments, as illustrated in Figure A. The Well-being of relation to Natura 2000 sites, including refusing development mitigation measures have been Future Generations Act has been fundamental in the where there are adverse effects on the features for which a site recommended in the Habitats Regulations development of this approach. This has enabled the embedding of the principles of sustainable development at all has been designated. Specific mitigation measures have been Assessment of the NDF to provide a strong guide to lower-tier plans and projects. It stages and ensures we comply with our statutory developed within the Habitats Regulations Assessment which concludes that, on the assumption that these requirements. We have involved and engaged stakeholders to will provide a strong guide to lower-tier plans and projects mitigation measures are adopted at the lower- support the plan, ensuring that a collaborative approach has (refer to table 6 and Appendix A of the Habitats Regulations tier planning or project scales, significant been undertaken, sharing knowledge and recognising the links Assessment report). Development at the lower-tier plan or effects would be avoided. The Welsh between topics. Ensuring effects are recognised at the earliest project stage will need to demonstrate there are no adverse Government therefore expects the findings of stage and engaging stakeholders throughout this process, effects on the features for which a Natura 2000 site has been the Habitats Regulations Assessment of the seeks to ensure Future Wales is as sustainable as possible. NDF to be taken into consideration during designated, and Future Wales does not support lower-tier their preparation and implementation of all plans or projects where this is not concluded. The Welsh development plans, including Strategic and Habitats Regulations Assessment of Future Wales Government therefore expects the findings of the Habitats Local Development Plans. Under Article 6 of the Habitats Directive (and Regulation Regulations Assessment to be taken into consideration during 102105 of the Habitats Regulations), an assessmenta Habitats the preparation and implementation of all Strategic and Local Regulations Assessment is required where a plan or project is likely to have a significant effect has the potential to Development Plans. The Habitats Regulations Assessment impact upon a Natura 2000 concludes that, on the assumption that the findings of the Habitats Regulations Assessment are adopted at the lower-tier (European designated) site. sites and Ramsar sites (collectively known as Natura 2000 sites). Planning Policy planning or project scales, adverse effects on the integrity of Wales and Technical Advice Note 5 also provide guidance in Natura 2000 sites can be avoided as a result of implementing relation to Natura 2000 sites, including refusing development the policies within Future Wales. where there are adverse effects on the features for which a site has been designated. Specific mitigation measures have

been recommended indeveloped within the Habitats Regulations Assessment of the NDF towhich will provide a strong guide to lower-tier plans and projects. It concludes that, on the assumption that these mitigation measures are adopted at the lower-tier planning or project scales, significant effects would be avoided. (refer to table 6 and Appendix A of the Habitats Regulations Assessment report). Development at the lower-tier plan or project stage will need to demonstrate there are no adverse effects on the features for which a Natura 2000 site has been designated, and Future Wales does not support lower-tier plans or projects where this is not concluded. The Welsh Government therefore expects the findings of the Habitats Regulations Assessment of the NDF to be taken into consideration during theirthe preparation and implementation of all development plans, including Strategic and Local Development Plans. The Habitats Regulations Assessment concludes that, on the assumption that the findings of the Habitats Regulations Assessment are adopted at the lower-tier planning or project scales, adverse effects on the integrity of Natura 2000 sites can be avoided as a result of implementing the policies within Future Wales. How does Future Wales fit with wider Welsh How does the NDF fit with wider Welsh How does the NDFFuture Wales fit with wider Welsh Government policies? Government policy? Government policy? Future Wales is one of a number of documents concerned The NDF gives a spatial expression to Welsh The NDF gives a spatial expression to Welsh Government with infrastructure and development in Wales. The specific Government policies of national importance. policies of national importance. Policies and strategies on purpose of Future Wales is to ensure the planning system Policies and strategies on wide-ranging wide-ranging matters such as housing, transport, energy, matters such as housing, transport, energy, natural resources and health have implications for all parts of at all levels is consistent with, and supports the delivery of, natural resources and health have Wales and can be supported if? Welsh Government strategic aims and policies. implications for all parts of Wales and can be Future Wales is one of a number of documents concerned The role of Future Wales is defined by legislation and by the supported if the planning system is aligned to with infrastructure and development in Wales. The specific deliver their aims. The NDF ensures the aims Programme for Government - Prosperity for All: the national purpose of Future Wales is to ensure the planning system of the planning system across Wales are is aligned to deliver their aims. The NDF ensures the aims of strategy. This states that it has an important role in driving consistent with, and support the delivery of, sustainable growth and combating climate change by guiding Welsh Government policies. the planning system across Wales are at all levels is strategic development over the next 20 years. The role and purpose of the NDF is defined consistent with, and supportsupports the delivery of, Welsh by legislation and by the Programme for Government strategic aims and policies. A number of Welsh Government strategies and policies Government. The NDF is highlighted in have informed and helped shape Future Wales, including Prosperity for All: the national strategy as The role and purpose of the NDFFuture Wales is defined by the Welsh National Marine Plan, the Transport Strategy, holding an important role in driving legislation and by the Programme for Government. The NDF the National Natural Resources Policy and the Low Carbon sustainable growth and combating climate is highlighted in - Prosperity for All: the national strategy as Wales plan. The relationship is two-way with Future Wales change by guiding strategic development holding. This states that it has an important role in driving over the next 20 years. taking their strategic direction and providing a means of sustainable growth and combating climate change by guiding The NDF should be read alongside Planning strategic development over the next 20 years. delivery and a framework for maximising the potential Policy Wales (PPW) which provides planning outcomes. As other documents are reviewed and updated policy on an all-Wales basis. The NDF The NDF should be read alongside Planning Policy Wales they will reflect and take account of the spatial priorities complements PPW, with a shared (PPW) which provides planning policy on an all-Wales basis. The NDF complements PPW, with a shared commitment to identified in Future Wales. commitment to placemaking and by setting placemaking and by setting out the spatial priorities for out the spatial priorities for planning and planning and development where national-level consideration The ambitions of this document reflect and address the development where national-level is required. In combination, and supplemented by Technical main themes highlighted by the National Infrastructure consideration is required. In combination, and Advice Notes and procedural guidance, the NDF and PPW Commission for Wales in 2019 in their first annual report. supplemented by Technical Advice Notes and ensure the planning system across Wales is fully aligned in Future versions of Future Wales will benefit from the procedural guidance, the NDF and PPW working towards national ambitions and well-being goals. The Commission’s infrastructure assessment – the first of which ensure the planning system across Wales is NDF does not repeat PPW nor cover allA number of the same is due in November 2021.Future Wales will be used to fully aligned in working towards national policy areas. Together they set out how the planning system ambitions and well-being goals. The NDF responds to and addresses national challenges and guide both public and private investment. Our aim is to does not repeat PPW nor cover all of the opportunities. ensure investments in infrastructure and development – same policy areas. Together they set out how whether large or small in scale – contribute to our broader the planning system responds to and The NDF will be used to guide both public and private ambitions of greater well-being and the creation of better addresses national challenges and investment. Our aim is to ensure investments and places. opportunities. developments – whether large or small in scale – contribute to The NDF will be used to guide both public the broader ambitions of the Welsh Government and to the We will lead the way with our own investments. Future Wales and private investment. Our aim is to ensure well-being of communities. A broad range of Government will complement the Wales Infrastructure Investment Plan investments and developments – whether strategies and policies have informed and helped shape the large or small in scale – contribute to the and Regional Economic Frameworks by enabling NDFFuture Wales, including the Welsh National Marine development that maximises the impacts of our investment. broader ambitions of the Welsh Government and to the well-being of communities. A broad Plan, the Transport Strategy , the National Natural The scale of ambition for change outlined in Future Wales range of Government strategies and policies Resources Policy and the Low Carbon Wales plan. The reflects the ability of the public sector to deliver new have helped shape the NDF, including the relationship is two-way with the NDFFuture Wales taking their development. Future Wales’ spatial strategy will inform the Welsh National Marine Plan, the Transport strategic direction and providing a means of delivery and a Wales Infrastructure Investment Plan in determining our Strategy and the Low Carbon Wales plan. framework for maximising the potential outcomes. As other capital investment priorities, aligning the planned programme The relationship is two-way with the NDF documents are reviewed and updated they will reflect and taking strategic direction and providing a of infrastructure investments in Wales with Future Wales’ take account of the spatial priorities identified in Future spatial approach. means of delivery and a framework for maximising the potential outcomes. Wales. We will lead the way with our own The ambitions of this document reflect and address the investments. The NDF will complement the Wales Infrastructure Investment Plan and main themes highlighted by the National Infrastructure Regional Economic Development Plans by Commission for Wales in 2019 in their first annual report. enabling development that maximises the Future versions of Future Wales will benefit from the impacts of our investment. The scale of Commission’s infrastructure assessment – the first of ambition for change outlined in the NDF which is due in November 2021.Future Wales will be used reflects the ability of the public sector to to guide both public and private investment. Our aim is to deliver new development. The NDF spatial strategy will inform the Wales Infrastructure ensure investments in infrastructure and development – Investment Plan in determining our capital whether large or small in scale – contribute to our broader investment priorities, aligning the planned ambitions of greater well-being and the creation of better programme of infrastructure investments in places. Wales with the NDF’s spatial approach. The Welsh National Marine Plan is the first We will lead the way with our own investments. The marine plan for Wales and represents the NDFFuture Wales will complement the Wales Infrastructure start of a process of shaping our seas to Investment Plan and Regional Economic Development support economic, social, cultural and PlansFrameworks by enabling development that maximises environmental objectives. Marine planning will the impacts of our investment. The scale of ambition for guide the sustainable development of our change outlined in the NDFFuture Wales reflects the ability marine area by setting out how proposals will be considered by decision-makers. The NDF of the public sector to deliver new development. The and Marine Plan work together to provide a NDFFuture Wales’ spatial strategy will inform the Wales framework for the management of change Infrastructure Investment Plan in determining our capital around our coast. Co-ordination between investment priorities, aligning the planned programme of marine and terrestrial planning is important to infrastructure investments in Wales with the NDF’sFuture sustain and facilitate the development of port, Wales’ spatial approach. harbour and marina businesses and associated enterprises; coastal communities; The Welsh National Marine Plan is the first marine plan for tourism opportunities; energy generation; and Wales and represents the start of a process of shaping our seascapes. The Welsh National Marine Plan seas to support economic, social, cultural and environmental has informed the preparation of the NDF and, objectives. where relevant, should inform Strategic and Local Development Plans and decisions Marine planning will guide the sustainable development of our made through the development management marine area by setting out how proposals will be considered process. by decision-makers.The NDF and Marine Plan work together The NDF replaces the Wales Spatial Plan. to provide a framework for the management of change around our coast. Co-ordination between marine and terrestrial planning is important to sustain and facilitate the development of port, harbour and marina businesses and associated enterprises; coastal communities; tourism opportunities; energy generation; and seascapes. The Welsh National Marine Plan has informed the preparation of the NDF and, where relevant, should inform Strategic and Local Development Plans and decisions made through the development management process. The NDF replaces the Wales Spatial Plan. Model of Future Wales Influence – diagram Model of Influence – diagram Model of Future Wales Influence – diagram Future Wales and… Future Wales and… National Natural Resources Policy National Natural Resources Policy The Natural Resources Policy identifies the key priorities, risks The Natural Resources Policy identifies the key priorities, risks and opportunities to achieve the sustainable management of and opportunities to achieve the sustainable management of natural resources, including addressing the climate change natural resources, including addressing the climate change emergency and reversing biodiversity decline. Its objectives emergency and reversing biodiversity decline. Its objectives are to maintain and enhance the resilience of ecosystems and are to maintain and enhance the resilience of ecosystems and the benefits they provide. Planning Policy Wales outlines how the benefits they provide. Planning Policy Wales outlines how the planning system should contribute towards these goals and the planning system should contribute towards these goals and Future Wales builds on this policy by setting out specific Future Wales builds on this policy by setting out specific policies that: policies that:

- safeguard areas for the purposes of improving the - safeguard areas for the purposes of improving the resilience of ecological networks and ecosystems services, resilience of ecological networks and ecosystems services, to identify areas for the provision of green infrastructure to identify areas for the provision of green infrastructure and to secure biodiversity enhancement (net benefit); and to secure biodiversity enhancement (net benefit); - ensure resilient location and design choices by promoting a - ensure resilient location and design choices by promoting

sustainable growth strategy as well as ensuring the a sustainable growth strategy as well as ensuring the

consideration of natural resources and health and well- consideration of natural resources and health and well- being form part of site and design choices; and being form part of site and design choices; and - facilitate the decarbonisation of the economy, including - facilitate the decarbonisation of the economy, including energy and transport choices, and promote the principles energy and transport choices, and promote the principles of a circular economy. of a circular economy.

Welsh National Marine Plan Welsh National Marine Plan The Welsh National Marine Plan is the first of its kind for Wales The Welsh National Marine Plan is the first of its kind for Wales and represents the start of a process of shaping our seas to and represents the start of a process of shaping our seas to support economic, social, cultural and environmental support economic, social, cultural and environmental objectives. Marine planning will guide the sustainable objectives. Marine planning will guide the sustainable development of our marine area by setting out how proposals development of our marine area by setting out how proposals will be considered by decision-makers. will be considered by decision-makers The Marine Plan has informed the preparation of Future Wales The Marine Plan has informed the preparation of Future Wales and, where relevant, it should inform Strategic and Local and, where relevant, it should inform Strategic and Local Development Plans and planning decisions. The timescales for Development Plans and planning decisions. The timescales for the production of the Marine Plan and Future Wales have the production of the Marine Plan and Future Wales have overlapped, enabling the production of both plans to be joined overlapped, enabling the production of both plans to be joined up. This link will continue as both plans are implemented and up. This link will continue as both plans are implemented and reviewed. reviewed. Future Wales and the Marine Plan work together to provide a Future Wales and the Marine Plan work together to provide a framework for the management of change around our coast. framework for the management of change around our coast. Co-ordination between marine and terrestrial planning is Co-ordination between marine and terrestrial planning is important to sustain and facilitate the development of port, important to sustain and facilitate the development of port, harbour and marina businesses and associated enterprises; harbour and marina businesses and associated enterprises; coastal communities; tourism opportunities; energy generation; coastal communities; tourism opportunities; energy generation; and seascapes. and seascapes.

Wales Transport Strategy Wales Transport Strategy The Wales Transport Strategy provides the framework for The Wales Transport Strategy provides the framework for transport related activities and sets out the strategic priorities transport related activities and sets out the strategic priorities of of a safe, integrated, sustainable, efficient and economic a safe, integrated, sustainable, efficient and economic transport system serving Wales. It provides the context for the transport system serving Wales. It provides the context for the Welsh Government’s aim to reduce the need to travel, Welsh Government’s aim to reduce the need to travel, particularly by private car, and supports a modal shift to particularly by private car, and supports a modal shift to walking, cycling and public transport. This is reflected in walking, cycling and public transport. This is reflected in Planning Policy Wales and Future Wales, which put Planning Policy Wales and Future Wales, which put placemaking at the heart of the planning system. This modal placemaking at the heart of the planning system. This modal shift is supported by the sustainable transport hierarchy, which shift is supported by the sustainable transport hierarchy, which prioritises walking, cycling and public transport. prioritises walking, cycling and public transport. The current Wales Transport Strategy, One Wales: Connecting The current Wales Transport Strategy, One Wales: Connecting the Nation, was published in 2008. Since then the Active the Nation, was published in 2008. Since then the Active Travel Travel (Wales) Act 2013 has been introduced, which is (Wales) Act 2013 has been introduced, which is increasingly increasingly influential in the way we integrate active travel influential in the way we integrate active travel with new with new development. This is essential to enable people to development. This is essential to enable people to walk and walk and cycle as part of their everyday activities. Metro cycle as part of their everyday activities. Metro schemes are schemes are also being developed in the South East, South also being developed in the South East, South West and the West and the North, which are being driven by significant North, which are being driven by significant investment from investment from the Welsh Government and its delivery the Welsh Government and its delivery partners. The metro partners. The metro projects will provide significant projects will provide significant opportunities for communities opportunities for communities and new development to be and new development to be supported by good quality public supported by good quality public transport. Transport transport. Transport technologies have also advanced technologies have also advanced significantly in recent years, significantly in recent years, with ultra-low emission vehicles with ultra-low emission vehicles capable of having a capable of having a transformative effect on the transformative effect on the decarbonisation of transport. decarbonisation of transport. A new Wales Transport Strategy is being developed which will A new Wales Transport Strategy is being developed which will recognise these changes and look to address future recognise these changes and look to address future opportunities and challenges. The existing and emerging opportunities and challenges. The existing and emerging Wales Transport Strategy, along with the associated transport Wales Transport Strategy, along with the associated transport policies and projects, have directly contributed to the spatial policies and projects, have directly contributed to the spatial strategy, outcomes and policies of Future Wales. strategy, outcomes and policies of Future Wales. How does the NDF fit with Strategic and How does the NDF fit with Strategic and Local The structure of the Welsh planning system Local Development Plans? Development Plans? A plan-led system There are three different tiers to the There are three different tiers to the development plan in Our planning system is development plan led. Development development plan in Wales – the NDF, Wales – the NDF, Strategic Development Plans and Local plans are prepared at national, regional and local scales, Strategic Development Plans and Local Development Plans. The NDF is all Wales; Strategic with the three tiers together in combination comprising ‘the Development Plans. The NDF is all Wales; Development Plans are prepared at a regional level covering development plan’. The Welsh Government by producing Strategic Development Plans are prepared at more than one local planning authority area; Local Future Wales contributes the national tier of the a regional level covering more than one local Development Plans are prepared by each individual local planning authority area; Local Development planning authority. development plan. Strategic Development Plans cover Plans are prepared by each individual local Strategic and Local Development Plans must support the regional and sub-regional scales and Local Development planning authority. implementation of the NDF, and the strategic decisions they Plans consider issues at the local scale. Strategic and Local Development Plans must take must conform with the direction provided by the NDF. support the implementation of the NDF, and The three tiers of the development plan should be aligned the strategic decisions they take must The role of each The structure of the Welsh planning and complement each other. Strategic Development Plans, conform with the direction provided by the system which have not yet been prepared in any region, are required NDF. to be in conformity with Future Wales. Similarly, Local The role of each development plan is to plan Development Plans must be in conformity with Future Wales and manage land use at its spatial scale. The A plan-led system and the Strategic Development Plan for their area. Strategic NDF therefore considers issues at the and Local Development Plans must be kept up to date to national scale, Strategic Development Plans Our planning system is development plan is to plan and cover regional or sub-regional scales and ensure they and Future Wales work together effectively. manage land use at its spatial scale. The NDF therefore Local Development Plans consider issues at considers issues at the led. Development plans are Planning decisions at every level of the planning system in the local scale. All three tiers are important prepared at national scale,, regional and local scales, with Wales must be taken in accordance with the development plan and it is the collective effect of all tiers as a whole. working together that is the strength of the the three tiers together in combination comprising ‘the planning system in Wales. development plan’. The Welsh Government by producing Future Wales and its spatial strategy has been prepared in the The NDF and its spatial strategy has been Future Wales contributes the national tier of the context of the three tiered development plan system. Future prepared in the context of the three tiered development plan. Strategic Development Plans cover Wales does not seek to take decisions that are most development planning system. The NDF does regional orand sub-regional scales and Local Development appropriately taken at the regional or local level. It provides not seek to take decisions that are most Plans consider issues at the local scale. All strategic direction for all scales of planning and sets out policies appropriately taken at the regional or local level. It provides direction and in the case of and key issues to be taken forward at the regional scale. It does The three tiers are important of the development plan should Strategic Development Plans, sets out the be aligned and complement each other. Strategic not seek to identify the exact location for new development or policies and key issues the Welsh Development Plans, which have not yet been prepared in any the scale of growth in individual settlements. The regional and Government requires the regions to take local tiers are the most appropriate level at which to take these forward. It does not seek to identify the exact region, are required to be in conformity with Future Wales. decisions, involving communities as they do so. location for new development, the scale of Similarly, Local Development Plans must be in conformity with growth in individual settlements or prescribe Future Wales and the Strategic Development Plan for their precise boundaries of areas where area. Strategic and Local Development Plans must be kept up development should not take place. The to date to ensure they and it is the collective effect of all tiers Planning Policy and the Development Plan regional and local tiers are the most workingFuture Wales work together that is the appropriate level at which to take these The content and policies of all three tiers of the strengtheffectively. Planning decisions at every level of the decisions, involving communities as they do development plan are strongly influenced by Planning Policy so. planning system in Wales. must be taken in accordance with Wales. This is the complete land use planning policy the development plan as a whole. document for Wales. It contains policy statements on all main land uses and is therefore the foundation of all national, The NDFFuture Wales and its spatial strategy has been prepared in the context of the three tiered development regional and local planning policies. planningplan system. The NDFFuture Wales does not seek to The land use policies set out in Planning Policy Wales do not take decisions that are most appropriately taken at the need to be addressed by every tier of the development plan; regional or local level. It provides strategic direction for all some issues have Wales-wide connotations while other scales of planning and in the case of Strategic Development matters should be addressed at a regional and local scale. Plans, sets out the policies and key issues the Welsh Every authority preparing a development plan is responsible for Government requires the regions to takebe taken forward. at considering which elements of Planning Policy Wales need to the regional scale. It does not seek to identify the exact location be addressed within their tier of the development plan. Some for new development, or the scale of growth in individual policies in Planning Policy Wales are not spatial; these do not settlements or prescribe precise boundaries of areas where need to be repeated in development plans. development should not take place.. The regional and local tiers are the most appropriate level at which to take these decisions, involving communities as they do so.

Planning Policy and the Development Plan

The content and policies of all three tiers of the development plan are strongly influenced by Planning Policy Wales. This is the complete land use planning policy document for Wales. It contains policy statements on all main land uses and is therefore the foundation of all national, regional and local planning policies.

The land use policies set out in Planning Policy Wales do not need to be addressed by every tier of the development plan; some issues have Wales-wide connotations while other matters should be addressed at a regional and local scale. Every authority preparing a development plan is responsible for considering which elements of Planning Policy Wales need to be addressed within their tier of the development plan. Some policies in Planning Policy Wales are not spatial; these do not need to be repeated in development plans. Figure B illustrates how different tiers of the development plan Figure B illustrates how different tiers of the development plan cumulatively address issues contained in Planning Policy cumulatively address issues contained in Planning Policy Wales Wales Future Wales does not contain statements on all land use Future Wales does not contain statements on all land use planning issues set out in Planning Policy Wales. It has planning issues set out in Planning Policy Wales. It has policies policies on issues where the Welsh Government considers on issues where the Welsh Government considers them a them a national priority at this time, or matters which are national priority at this time, or matters which are distinctly distinctly spatial and require national leadership. For example, spatial and require national leadership. For example, we we believe affordable housing is currently a critically important believe affordable housing is currently a critically important issue in all parts of Wales, while deciding where to locate renewable energy generation technology is a spatial issue of issue in all parts of Wales, while deciding where to locate such significance that national ambitions are unlikely to be renewable energy generation technology is a spatial issue of achieved without national planning policies. such significance that national ambitions are unlikely to be achieved without national planning policies.

Planning policy and development plans – weight in decision- Planning policy and development plans – weight in decision- making making

Decisions on planning applications must be taken in Decisions on planning applications must be taken in accordance with the development plan. Planning Policy Wales accordance with the development plan. Planning Policy Wales is not part of the development plan, but as the principal is not part of the development plan, but as the principal statement of national planning policy it has substantial weight statement of national planning policy it has substantial weight in the planning process. Development plans must be in the planning process. Development plans must be consistent with national policy, and if a development plan is consistent with national policy, and if a development plan is absent or has lapsed, these national policies assume absent or has lapsed, these national policies assume significant weight in the planning decision-making process; this significant weight in the planning decision-making process; this means Planning Policy Wales is a ‘material consideration’. means Planning Policy Wales is a ‘material consideration’. Development plans are tested to ensure they are consistent Development plans are tested to ensure they are consistent with Planning Policy Wales. with Planning Policy Wales. To help show the link with national planning policy, every To help show the link with national planning policy, every Future Wales policy is cross-referenced against relevant Future Wales policy is cross-referenced against relevant parts of Planning Policy Wales, using icons to indicate key parts of Planning Policy Wales, using icons to indicate key chapters and references to specific sections. Both Planning chapters and references to specific sections. Both Planning Policy Wales and Future Wales should be considered in Policy Wales and Future Wales should be considered in their entirety. The cross-references help identify links their entirety. The cross-references help identify links between both documents but they are not the only links and between both documents but they are not the only links and the relationship between Planning Policy Wales and Future the relationship between Planning Policy Wales and Future Wales can be wider than those identified. Wales can be wider than those identified.

= Strategic and Spatial Choices; = Active and = Strategic and Spatial Choices; = Active and

Social Places, = productive & enterprising places; Social Places, = productive & enterprising places; = distinctive and natural places = distinctive and natural places . Hover over the symbol for a specific cross-reference to . Planning Policy Wales to find the specific paragraph. Hover over the symbol for a specific cross-reference to Planning Policy Wales to find the specific paragraph. Document Structure Document Structure Document Structure The document follows a sequential structure, with each section The document follows a sequential structure, The document follows a sequential structure, with each section with each section building on the previous building on the previous one. building on the previous one. one.

Sequence diagram Sequence diagram Sequence diagram The introductory first chapter explained the purpose of Future The introductory first chapter explains how the NDFexplained Wales and how it fits within wider Welsh Government policy The first chapter explains how the NDF fits within wider Welsh Government policy the purpose of Future Wales and how it fits within wider Welsh objectives. Key challenges and opportunities facing Wales objectives and the purpose of the NDF. Government policy objectives and the purpose of the NDF. over the next 20 years are highlighted in Chapter 2. Chapter Key challenges and opportunities facing . Key challenges and opportunities facing Wales over the 2 also introduces the four regions of Wales: Wales over the next 20 years are highlighted next 20 years are highlighted in Chapter 2. It Chapter 2 also in Chapter 2. It also introduces the three The North | Mid Wales | The South West | The South regions of Wales and provides a background introduces the threefour regions of Wales and provides a East to the economic, environmental, cultural and background to the economic, environmental, cultural and social conditions in each region: social conditions in each region: The challenges and opportunities inform Future Wales’ North Wales | Mid and South West Wales | Outcomes, which taken together are a vision for change over South East Wales The North Wales | Mid andWales | The South West Wales the next 20 years. These Outcomes, set out in Chapter 3, The challenges and opportunities inform the || The South East Wales form the basis and the context for the remaining chapters. NDF outcomes, which taken together are a The challenges and opportunities inform the NDF Chapter 3 also explains how the impact of Future Wales will vision for change over the next 20 years. outcomesFuture Wales’ Outcomes, which taken together are be measured and assessed. These outcomes, set out in Chapter 3, form the basis and the context for the remaining a vision for change over the next 20 years. These A spatial strategy is presented in Chapter 4. The strategy chapters. outcomesOutcomes, set out in Chapter 3, form the basis and focuses on the main areas of change where the planning A spatial strategy is presented in Chapter 4. the context for the remaining chapters. Chapter 3 also system at a national scale will focus to achieve Future Wales’ The strategy focuses on the major patterns of explains how the impact of Future Wales will be measured development and areas of change on which Outcomes. The spatial strategy is the overarching framework and assessed. the planning system at a national scale will for deciding where to locate nationally significant developments focus to achieve the NDF outcomes. The A spatial strategy is presented in Chapter 4. The strategy in order to maximise their contribution to the well-being goals. spatial strategy is the overarching framework focuses on the major patterns of development andmain areas A strategic diagram shows the main components of the spatial for deciding where to locate nationally of change on whichwhere the planning system at a national significant developments, in order to strategy. maximise their contribution to the well-being scale will focus to achieve the NDF outcomes.Future Wales’ goals. A strategic diagram shows the main Outcomes. The spatial strategy is the overarching framework Chapter 4 also provides a policy framework for all-Wales components of the spatial strategy. for deciding where to locate nationally significant issues of national importance, including urban and rural Chapter 4 also provides a policy framework developments, in order to maximise their contribution to the development, affordable housing, transport, digital for all-Wales issues of national importance, well-being goals. A strategic diagram shows the main communications, ecological networks and low-carbon including renewable energy, affordable components of the spatial strategy. energy. housing, mobile communications, ecological networks and charging infrastructure for Chapter 4 also provides a policy framework for all-Wales Chapter 5 sets the Welsh Government’s ambitions and electric vehicles. policies for nationally important growth and development in Chapter 5 sets the Welsh Government’s issues of national importance, including renewable the four regions. It highlights the key locations for ambitions and policies for nationally important energyurban and rural development, affordable development, identifies opportunities for developing growth and development in the three regions. housing, mobiletransport, digital communications, It highlights the key locations for infrastructure and sets a framework for regional and local ecological networks and charging infrastructure for electric development, identifies opportunities for planning. vehicleslow-carbon energy. developing infrastructure and sets a Chapter 5 sets the Welsh Government’s ambitions and policies framework for regional and local planning. for nationally important growth and development in the threefour regions. It highlights the key locations for development, identifies opportunities for developing infrastructure and sets a framework for regional and local planning.

Section or Updated Version Draft NDF Draft NDF Section or Policy Tracked Changed Version Policy Section or Number Policy Number Chapter 2 Wales: An Overview Chapter 2 Wales: An Overview – Challenges and Opportunities Wales is a nation with a long and proud history and a rich Wales: An Overview – Challenges and Wales is a nation with a long and proud history and a rich social and cultural heritage. We face challenges and Opportunities social and cultural heritage. We face challenges and opportunities and are committed to protecting the well-being opportunities and are committed to protecting the well- Wales is a nation with a long and proud of our future generations. being of our future generations. history and a rich social and cultural heritage. We face challenges and

opportunities and are committed to protecting the well-being of our future generations. Our Population We are a nation of over 3 million people, whose population Changing population Changing population Our Population has grown by 8% between 1997 and 2017 and is projected We are a nation of over 3 million people, to rise by a further 3.7% by 2043. 698,400 people live in the We are a nation of over 3 million people, whose population whose population has grown by 8% between six local authority areas in the north, 205,000 in the two has grown by 8% between 1997 and 20072017 and areis local authority areas in mid Wales and 2,232,000 in the 14 1997 and 2007 and are projected to rise by a projected to rise by a further 4% between 20183.7% by local authorities across the south. further 4% between 2018 and 2038. We are 2043. 698,400 people live in the six local authority areas in an ageing nation, reflecting wider UK and the north, 205,000 in the two local authority areas in mid [Map 1] European trends, and will have a third more Wales and 2038. 2,232,000 in the 14 local authorities across the south. people aged 65 and over by 2038. We are

living longer but life expectancy is below the We are an ageing nation. Between 1998 and 2018, the [Map 1] proportion of the population aged 65 and over increased UK as a whole. Communities are spread from 17.4% to 20.8% and the proportion of the population across Wales from the populated northern We are an ageing nation, reflecting wider UK. Between aged 15 and under fell from 20.6% to 17.9%.We will have and southern areas to sparsely populated 1998 and European trends, and 2018, the proportion of the 30.6% more people aged 65 and over, and 64.9% more mid Wales. population aged 65 and over increased from 17.4% to people aged 75 and over by 2043. 20.8% and the proportion of the population aged 15 and under fell from 20.6% to 17.9%.We will have a third30.6% [Graphic 1] more people aged 65 and over by 2038. , and 64.9% more people aged 75 and over by 2043. We are living longer but life expectancy is below the UK as a whole. People born in Wales in 2016-18 have a life [Graphic 1] expectancy of 82.3 years for females and 78.3 years for males compared to 82.9 years for females and 79.3 years We are living longer but life expectancy is below the UK as for males for the UK as a whole. General health reporting a whole. People born in Wales in 2016-18 have a life shows pronounced spatial differences across Wales, with expectancy of 82.3 years for females and 78.3 years for Gwynedd reporting the highest rates of good or very good males compared to 82.9 years for females and 79.3 years general health and Blaenau Gwent the lowest. for males for the UK as a whole. General health reporting shows pronounced spatial differences across Wales, with [Map 2] Gwynedd reporting the highest rates of good or very good general health and Blaenau Gwent the lowest. Communities are spread across the whole of Wales. The mid and western areas of Wales are more sparsely [Map 2] populated and rural in character, the southern and northern areas less sparse and more urban. Communities are spread across the whole of Wales from the populated northern. The mid and southernwestern [Map 3] areas toof Wales are more sparsely populated mid Wales.and rural in character, the southern and northern areas less sparse and more urban. Text supported by:  Map 1 – Population map [Map 3]  Graphic 1 - chart showing population distribution by age and gender  Map 2 - map showing percentage of adults reporting Text supported by: they are in good or very good general health by local  Map 1 – Population map authority area  Graphic 1 - chart showing population distribution by  Map 3 - map of Rural Urban Classifications age and gender  Map 2 - map showing percentage of adults reporting they are in good or very good general health by local authority area  Map 3 - map of Rural Urban Classifications Our Language Welsh is a living language, with over 562,000 speakers A living, thriving Welsh language A living, thriving Welsh language Our Language across all parts of the nation. Our ambition for the Welsh Welsh is a living language, with over language is to reach a million Welsh speakers, as well as Welsh is a living language, with over 562,000 speakers 562,000 speakers across all parts of the increasing the percentage of people who speak Welsh daily across all parts of the nation. Our ambition for the Welsh by 10% by 2050. nation. Our ambition for the Welsh language language is to reach a million Welsh speakers, as well as is to reach a million Welsh speakers, as well increaseincreasing the percentage of people who speak [Map 4] as increase the percentage of people who Welsh daily by 10% by 2050. Communities in the Welsh speak Welsh daily by 10% by 2050. speaking heartlands in the north-west and west Wales continue to live everyday life through a language spoken in Text supported by Communities in the Welsh speaking our nation for 1,500 years.  Map 4 - map showing Welsh speakers heartlands in the north-west and west of [Map 4] Wales continue to live everyday life through a language spoken in our nation for 1,500 Text supported by years.  Map 4 - map showing Welsh speakers

Our Natural Resources Our Natural resourcesResources We are committed to living within our means, using only our Natural resources We are committed to living within our means, using only share of the planet’s resources and using them efficiently. Natural resources and resilient biodiversity our share of the planet’s resources and using them Natural resources and resilient biodiversity and ecosystems efficiently. Natural resources and resilient biodiversity and and ecosystems support our well-being and support our well-being and prosperity. They have shaped our ecosystems support our well-being and prosperity; they. past and will shape our future. prosperity; they have shaped our past and They have shaped our past and will shape our future. will shape our future. Welsh coal, steel and This map indicates broad areas where nationally important iron drove the industrial revolution, and our This map indicates broad areas where nationally important ecological networks may exist. It gives an indication of the wind, solar and tidal resources point forward ecological networks may exist. It gives an indication of the connectivity of ecological networks at a strategic scale where to a clean, sustainable future. We depend on connectivity of ecological networks at a strategic scale where connectivity across a range of habitats and between high quality natural resources to fuel our connectivity across a range of habitats and between biodiversity hotspots provides a potential indication of industries, provide our food, clean air and biodiversity hotspots provides a potential indication of ecosystem resilience. Darker areas have most resilience and water and create jobs and wealth. We are ecosystem resilience. Darker areas have most resilience and lighter areas have least resilience. committed to living within our means, using lighter areas have least resilience. only our share of the planet’s resources and [Map 5] using them efficiently. [Map 5]

Welsh coal, steel and iron drove the industrial revolution, Welsh coal, steel and iron drove the industrial revolution, and our wind, solar and tidal resources point forward to a and our wind, solar and tidal resources point forward to a clean, sustainable future. clean, sustainable future.

[Map 6] [Map 6]

We depend on high quality natural resources to fuel our We depend on high quality natural resources to fuel our industries, provide our food, clean air and water and create industries, provide our food, clean air and water and create jobs and wealth. We must carefully manage the use of our jobs and wealth. We must carefully manage the use of our natural resources and ensure that through a strong circular natural resources and ensure that through a strong circular economy, we maximise their use and contribution to economy, we maximise their use and contribution to society. We are committed to living within our means, society. using only our share of the planet’s resources and using them efficiently. [Map 7] [Map 7] Our productive land is a vital resource. Agriculture has shaped our landscapes and supported our rural and market towns for Our productive land is a vital resource. Agriculture has generations. We must continue to value and protect our shaped our landscapes and supported our rural and market agricultural land and ensure it can feed and support us. towns for generations. We must continue to value and protect our agricultural land and ensure it can feed and support us. [Map 8] [Map 8] Our climate and geography ensure we are supplied with and are able to collect and manage our water resources. As our Our climate and geography ensure we are supplied with and climate changes, we will need to ensure that we use and are able to collect and manage our water resources. As our manage our resources efficiently. climate changes, we will need to ensure that we use and manage our resources efficiently. [Map 9] [Map 9] Text supported by:  Map 5 - map showing relative ecological connectivity; Text supported by:  Map 6 - map showing wind speeds  Map 5 - map showing relative ecological connectivity;  Map 7 - map of national mineral resources  Map 6 - map showing wind speed  Map 8 - map of best quality agricultural land  Map 7 - map of national mineral resources  Map 9 - map of large raised reservoirs  Map 8 - map of best quality agricultural land  Map 9 - map of large raised reservoirs Our Landscape and Ecology Our landscapes are amongst the best in the world and tell A living landscape A living landscape Our Landscape and Ecology the story of our nation from volcanoes, glaciers, mountains Our landscapes are amongst the best in the and river valleys to castles, farms, industrial heritage and Our landscapes are amongst the best in the world and tell world and tell the story of our nation from ports. A quarter of our country is covered by our three the story of our nation from volcanoes, glaciers, mountains national parks and five areas of outstanding natural beauty. volcanoes, glaciers, mountains and river and river valleys to castles, farms, industrial heritage and We have a number of World Heritage Sites and nature valleys to castles, farms, industrial heritage ports. A quarter of our country is covered by our three conservation areas, and our coast on three sides connects and ports. A quarter of our country is national parks and five areas of outstanding natural communities and people to the sea. covered by our three national parks and five beauty. We have a number of World Heritage Sites and nature conservation areas, and our coast on three sides areas of outstanding natural beauty. We connects communities and people to the sea. [Map 10] have a number of World Heritage Sites and [Map 11] [Map 12] nature conservation areas, and our coast on [Map 10] three sides connects communities and [Map 11] Text supported by people to the sea. [Map 12]  Map 10 – a map showing nature conservation designations Text supported by  Map 11 - a map showing landscape and nature  Map 10 - a map showing nature conservation conservation designations designations.  Map 12 – a map showing heritage and coast  Map 11 - a map showing landscape and nature conservation designations.  Map 12 – a map showing heritage and coast

Our Economy Our economy changed profoundly in the late 20th Century and Industrial legacy Industrial legacy Our Economy will change again through the 21st. Wales’ main population Our economy changed profoundly in the late centres in the south and north were strongly tied to the Our economy changed profoundly in the late 20th Century 20th Century and will change again through traditional heavy industries they grew up around, and as these and will change again through the 21st. Wales’ main industries declined, so too did the local economies and the the 21st. Wales’ main population centres in population centres in the south and north Wales were communities that relied upon them. south and north Wales were strongly tied to strongly tied to the traditional heavy industries they grew up the traditional heavy industries they grew up around, and as these industries declined, so too did the local [Map 13] around, and as these industries declined, so economies and the communities that relied upon them. On average, economic activity, wages and productivity in too did the local economies and the Wales are lower than the UK average. Gross Value Added Despite steady improvements, economic activity, wages communities that relied upon them. On and productivity in Wales are lower than the UK average. (GVA) per head in Wales in 2017 was £19,900 compared average, economic activity, wages and to the UK average of £27,300. [Graphic 2] productivity in Wales are lower than the UK average. Gross Value Added (GVA) per A changing economy Our economy now is more service-based. The fastest- head in Wales in 2017 was £19,900 [Map 13] growing sectors between 2008 and 2018 were Professional, compared to the UK average of £27,300. scientific and technical services, administrative and support Despite steady improvements, economic activity, wages duties; and Public administration, defence, education and and productivity in Wales are lower than the UK average. health.

A changing economy [Graphic 2] [Graphic 3] Our economy now is more service-based

Our economy now is more service-based and there is an Small and medium sized enterprises are an important part of and there is an increasing focus on increasing focus on technology and the digital sector. our economy and grew more in Wales in 2018 than within technology and the digital sector. Over the Over the last 10 years the. The fastest -growing parts of the UK as a whole. There were 14,045 enterprise births in last 10 years the fastest growing parts of our our economy in terms of employment have been in the Wales in 2018, giving it an enterprise birth rate of 13.3%, economy in terms of employment have been information and communication sectors. between 2008 the third highest rate of the twelve UK countries and in the information and communication and 2018 were Professional, scientific and technical regions. Of businesses started in Wales in 2013, 93.6% sectors. Small and medium sized enterprises services, administrative and support duties; and Public survived their first year, 60.6% year three and 42.0% were are an important part of our economy and administration, defence, education and health. still operating after five years.

grew more in Wales in 2018 than within the [Graphic 3] [Graphic 4] UK as a whole. Research and innovation are

recognised as twin drivers for competitive Small and medium sized enterprises are an important part of In 2019 across Wales the majority of enterprises had fewer economic advantage and driving our economy and grew more in Wales in 2018 than within than 10 employees. Around 64% of large enterprises fell productivity. The importance of developing the UK as a whole. Research and innovation are under two sectors: Wholesale, retail, transport, hotels, food an innovative and knowledge based society, recognised as twin drivers for competitive economic and Communication and financial and business services. built upon research and innovation, is an advantage and driving productivity. The importance of The sector with the highest proportion of enterprises in the developing an innovative and knowledge based society, micro size-band was Agriculture, forestry and fishing. integral factor for driving our global built upon research and innovation, is an integral factor for Half of workplace employment is based in the south east. competitiveness and supports our driving our global competitiveness and supports our sustainable economic and social sustainable economic and social improvement [Graphic 5] improvement ambitions. ambitions.There were 14,045 enterprise births in Wales in Commuting patterns are a distinctive feature of our regional 2018, giving it an enterprise birth rate of 13.3%, the third economies, with significant daily movements of people to their highest rate of the twelve UK countries and regions. Of place of work. These patterns reflect long-standing and well- businesses started in Wales in 2013, 93.6% survived their developed regional hierarchies and centres of employment. first year, 60.6% year three and 42.0% were still operating

after five years. [Map 14]

[Graphic 4] People in Wales travel on average 16.7 miles to work, with those in more rural areas travelling on average over 22 miles. In 2019 across Wales the majority of enterprises had fewer

than 10 employees. Around 64% of large enterprises fell [Graphic 6] under two sectors: Wholesale, retail, transport, hotels, food

and Communication and financial and business services. The value of exports for Wales for the year ending September The sector with the highest proportion of enterprises in the 2019 was £17.8 billion, up £0.8 billion (4.9%) compared with micro size-band was Agriculture, forestry and fishing. the previous year. There was an increase in exports to EU Half of workplace employment is based in the south east. countries of £503 million (4.9%) and an increase in exports to non-EU countries of £333 million (5.0%), compared with the [Graphic 5] year ending September 2018. Exports to the EU accounted for Commuting patterns are a distinctive feature of our regional 60.9% of Welsh exports compared with 48.8% for the UK. economies, with significant daily movements of people to their Germany continued to be the top export destination for Wales, place of work. These patterns reflect long-standing and well- accounting for 16.6% of exports. Welsh exports are dominated developed regional hierarchies and centres of employment. by ‘Machinery and Transport Equipment’ which make up 49.7% of exports. [Map 14] The value of imports to Wales in 2019 was £18.1 billion, down £232 million (1.3%) compared with 2018. There was a People in Wales travel on average 16.7 miles to work, with decrease in imports of goods from the EU of £372 million those in more rural areas travelling on average over 22 miles. (5.2%) and an increase to non-EU countries of £140 million (1.2%). Imports from the EU accounted for 37.6% of Welsh [Graphic 6] goods imports in 2019, compared with 54.3% for the UK. The USA continued to be the top import partner country for Wales, The value of exports for Wales for the year ending September accounting for 17.6% of Welsh goods imports. Imports to 2019 was £17.8 billion, up £0.8 billion (4.9%) compared with Wales continued to be dominated by ‘Machinery and Transport the previous year. There was an increase in exports to EU Equipment’ which made up 37.4% of goods imports. countries of £503 million (4.9%) and an increase in exports to non-EU countries of £333 million (5.0%), compared with the The value of mineral and material resources and the industry year ending September 2018. Exports to the EU accounted this supports is important at the local, regional and UK levels. for 60.9% of Welsh exports compared with 48.8% for the UK. In 2015 the minerals products industry supported 3,800 jobs Germany continued to be the top export destination for Wales, accounting for 16.6% of exports. Welsh exports are directly, almost £650 million of sales/turnover and over £220 dominated by ‘Machinery and Transport Equipment’ which million of GVA in Wales. The industry plays a vital role in make up 49.7% of exports. supporting the Welsh construction sector, which represents The value of imports to Wales in 2019 was £18.1 billion, down 6% of the Welsh economy, provides 88,000 jobs and has a £232 million (1.3%) compared with 2018. There was a turnover of £3 billion. decrease in imports of goods from the EU of £372 million (5.2%) and an increase to non-EU countries of £140 million Text supported by: (1.2%). Imports from the EU accounted for 37.6% of Welsh  Map 13 - Welsh index of multiple deprivation map goods imports in 2019, compared with 54.3% for the UK. The  Graphic 2 - graphic showing GVA per head USA continued to be the top import partner country for Wales,  Graphic 3 - graphic showing change in workplace accounting for 17.6% of Welsh goods imports. Imports to employment by sector Wales continued to be dominated by ‘Machinery and  Graphic 4 - graphic showing business survival rates Transport Equipment’ which made up 37.4% of goods  Graphic 5 - graphic showing workplace employment imports. levels on a regional basis  Map 14 & Graphic 6 - commuting patterns map and The value of mineral and material resources and the industry graphic this supports is important at the local, regional and UK levels. In 2015 the minerals products industry supported 3,800 jobs directly, almost £650 million of sales/turnover and over £220 million of GVA in Wales. The industry plays a vital role in supporting the Welsh construction sector, which represents 6% of the Welsh economy, provides 88,000 jobs and has a turnover of £3 billion.

Text supported by:  Map 13 - Welsh index of multiple deprivation map  Graphic 2 - graphic showing GVA per head  Graphic 3 - graphic showing change in workplace employment by sector  Graphic 4 - graphic showing business survival rates  Graphic 5 - graphic showing workplace employment levels on a regional basis  Map 14 & Graphic 6 - commuting patterns map and graphic

Our visitors Our visitors

We attract visitors from all over the world, We attract visitors from all over the world, with 10% of our with 10% of our overnight visitors coming overnight visitors coming from outside the UK. There were from outside the UK. There were 96 million 96 million tourist day visits in 2018, 10 million overnight tourist day visits in 2018, 10 million overnight stays and around £6.3 billion generated from tourism for stays and around £6.3 billion generated from the Welsh economy. tourism for the Welsh economy. Our Digital Infrastructure We are an increasingly connected nation. In September A connected nation A connected nation Our Digital Infrastructure 2019 93% of homes and businesses had access to We are an increasingly connected nation. superfast broadband speed and 31% to ultrafast. We are We are an increasingly connected nation. In September 93% of homes and businesses have access broadly in line with UK access to superfast (94%) but some 2019 93% of homes and businesses havehad access to a way behind the UK rate for ultrafast (54%). This is a to a superfast fixed broadband speed, superfast fixed broadband speed, though only 38% of consequence of our dispersed settlements and distinctive though only 38% of homes in Wales use the homes and 31% to ultrafast. We are broadly in Wales use topography, and increasing coverage is a key goal. service. The next stage is to develop access the service. The next stage is to develop line with UK to ultrafast fixed broadband speeds. In 2018, access to ultrafast fixed broadband speeds. In 2018,superfast (94%) but some way behind the UK rate for [Map 15] ultrafast coverage rose by almost 20 ultrafast coverage rose by almost 20 percentage points, to percentage points, to cover 29% of Welsh Text supported by cover 29% of Welsh homes and businesses.(54%). This homes and businesses. This figure remains  Map 15 - a map of broadband availability figure remains behind the UK average, which is a behind the UK average, which is a consequence of our dispersed settlements and distinctive consequence of our dispersed settlements topography, and increasing coverage is a key goal. and distinctive topography, and increasing coverage is a key goal. [Map 15]

Text supported by  Map 15 - a map of broadband availability Our Connections Our place in the worldConnections We live alongside our neighbours, with close ties across the Our place in the world We live alongside our neighbours, with close ties across border in north, mid and south Wales. There are almost 8 We live alongside our neighbours, with close the border in north, mid and south Wales. There are million people living within 50 miles of the Wales-England almost 8 million people living within 50 miles of the Wales- ties across the border in north, mid and border. More than a fifth of our population was born in England border. More than a fifth of our population was England. People travel daily in both directions to work, to south Wales. There are almost 8 million born in England. People travel daily in both directions to shop, to socialise and access services and institutions. people living within 50 miles of the Wales- work, to shop, to socialise and access services and England border. More than a fifth of our institutions. [Map 16] population was born in England. People travel daily in both directions to work, to [Map 16] We visit and trade with Ireland, Europe and beyond and our shop, to socialise and access services and ports, roads and rail lines are key connections into wider We visit and trade with Ireland, Europe and beyond and our European networks. Total freight traffic at ports in Wales fell institutions. We visit and trade with Ireland, ports, roads and rail lines are key connections into wider 4.8% in 2018 to 49.2 million tonnes, its lowest level since Europe and beyond and our ports, roads and European networks. We are well connected to Europe but comparable records began in 1976. Our ports serve our rail lines are key connections into wider peripheral in a wider geographic context and will strive to different shipping needs. Milford Haven handles mainly crude European networks. We are well connected maintain and enhance these connections.Total freight oil, oil products and liquefied natural gas. Port Talbot imports to Europe but peripheral in a wider traffic at ports in Wales fell 4.8% in 2018 to 49.2 million iron ore and coal, mostly for the adjacent steelworks. geographic context and will strive to maintain tonnes, its lowest level since comparable records began in Holyhead is the main port for freight and sea passenger 1976. Our ports serve our different shipping needs. Milford transport with Ireland, with Fishguard and Pembroke and enhance these connections. Haven handles mainly crude oil, oil products and liquefied providing key passenger and freight connections between the natural gas. Port Talbot imports iron ore and coal, mostly for south of Wales and southern Ireland. the adjacent steelworks. Holyhead is the main port for freight Trips to Wales by international visitors returned above one and sea passenger transport with Ireland, with Fishguard million in recent years. International visitors comprise around and Pembroke providing key passenger and freight 10% of overnight visitors but 20% of expenditure due to their connections between the south of Wales and southern higher spending. Average spend per trip is more than double Ireland. the level of GB domestic visitors. Ireland provides the highest Trips to Wales by international visitors returned above one volume of visits to Wales, followed by Germany, USA and million in recent years. International visitors comprise around France. Expenditure from all of these markets is around 10% of overnight visitors but 20% of expenditure due to their £30‑40 million per annum. Enjoying the landscape and higher spending. Average spend per trip is more than double heritage are the primary motivations for international travellers the level of GB domestic visitors. Ireland provides the highest visiting Wales. volume of visits to Wales, followed by Germany, USA and Across Wales there were 52.5 million rail station entries/exits France. Expenditure from all of these markets is around in 2017/18, accounting for 1.8% of the UK total. The number £30‑40 million per annum. Enjoying the landscape and of train journeys made in Wales increased by 30% between heritage are the primary motivations for international 2007/08 and 2017/18. The vast majority of this increase was travellers visiting Wales. in journeys starting and/or finishing in the south east. The Across Wales there were 52.5 million rail station Wales Route, which represents 11% of the UK rail network, entries/exits in 2017/18, accounting for 1.8% of the UK total. has received just over 1% of rail enhancements in recent The number of train journeys made in Wales increased by years. 30% between 2007/08 and 2017/18. The vast majority of this increase was in journeys starting and/or finishing in the [Graphic 7] south east. The Wales Route, which represents 11% of the UK rail network, has received just over 1% of rail Text supported by: enhancements in recent years.  Map 16 - a map of transport infrastructure  Graphic 7 - a graphic showing rail journeys [Graphic 7]

Text supported by:  Map 16 - a map of transport infrastructure  Graphic 7 - a graphic showing rail journeys

Diverse regions Diverse regions

The North Wales region comprises Conwy, The North Wales region comprises Conwy, Denbighshire, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, the Isle Flintshire, Gwynedd, the Isle of Anglesey and Wrexham of Anglesey and Wrexham and is home to and is home to almost 700,000 people, of whom over almost 700,000 people, of whom over 200,000 speak Welsh. Its dramatic landscape includes low 200,000 speak Welsh. Its dramatic lying coastal plains, mountain ranges and industrialised landscape includes low lying coastal plains, former coal fields. The population is concentrated in an arc mountain ranges and industrialised former along the coast from the Menai Straits to the border with coal fields. The population is concentrated in England. The main concentration of population is in the an arc along the coast from the Menai Straits east around Wrexham- Deeside. to the border with England. The main The Mid and South West Wales region comprises concentration of population is in the east Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Neath Port Talbot, around Wrexham- Deeside. Pembrokeshire, Powys and Swansea and has a The Mid and South West Wales region population of over 900,000 people, of whom over 200,000 comprises Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, speak Welsh. This large and diverse region includes some Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, Powys of the most rural and sparsely populated parts of the UK, and Swansea and has a population of over and the urban, industrialised areas around Wales’ second 900,000 people, of whom over 200,000 city, Swansea. The region has a renowned coastal speak Welsh. This large and diverse region environment and it includes two of Wales, three national includes some of the most rural and sparsely parks. populated parts of the UK, and the urban, The South East Wales region is geographically the industrialised areas around Wales’ second smallest. It comprises Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, city, Swansea. The region has a renowned Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, coastal environment and it includes two of Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen and the Vale of Wales, three national parks. Glamorgan and is the most populous region of Wales, with The South East Wales region is over 1.5 million residents, of whom over 150,000 speak geographically the smallest. It comprises Welsh. The region includes the coastal cities of Cardiff and Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Newport and the former industrial heartlands of the South Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Wales Valleys. Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen and

the Vale of Glamorgan and is the most populous region of Wales, with over 1.5 million residents, of whom over 150,000 speak Welsh. The region includes the coastal cities of Cardiff and Newport and the former industrial heartlands of the South Wales Valleys. Wales 2020 to 2040: Challenges & Opportunities Wales 2020 to 2040: Challenges & Opportunities We face a number of challenges and opportunities and these Challenges & Opportunities We face a number of challenges and opportunities and these have shaped Future Wales. We face a number of challenges and have shaped our first NDFFuture Wales. opportunities and these have shaped our first NDF.

Climate Change Climate change Change The climate is already changing and in the most recent Climate change and the decline in The climate is already changing and in the decline in State of the UK Climate 2017 report, trends show the UK biodiversity are global challenges and the biodiversity are global challenges and most recent State of climate is continuing to warm and sea levels continue to biggest issues faced by our nation. the biggest issues faced by our nation. Addressing these is rise. In terms of the future, the latest climate projections for Addressing these is our greatest our greatest responsibility when considering the legacy we Wales come from the 2018 UK Climate Projections. State of responsibility when considering the legacy will leave for future generations and as a consequence we the art modelling is used to provide detailed projections of we will leave for future generations and as a have declared aUK Climate Emergency. In response2017 climate change up to 2100 (and to 2300 on sea level rise). report, trends show the UK climate is continuing to warm consequence we have declared a Climate The projections show an increased chance of milder, wetter and sea levels continue to rise. In terms of the challenge, winters and hotter, drier summers, rising sea levels and an Emergency. In response to the challenge, we are committed to decarbonising future, the latest increase in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather we are committed to decarbonising Wales climate projections for Wales come from the 2018 UK events. and to delivering healthy, resilient Climate Projections. State of the art modelling is used to Changes to our climate and weather patterns will have a ecosystems. The NDF, together with provide detailed projections of climate change up to 2100 significant impact on well-being on both current and future Planning Policy Wales, will ensure the (and to 2300 on sea level rise). The projections show an generations. Increasing temperatures and extreme weather planning system nationally, regionally and increased chance of milder, wetter winters and to events caused by climate change are putting pressure on delivering healthy, resilient ecosystems. The NDF, hotter, ecosystems, infrastructure, built environment and our locally focusses on delivering a drier summers, rising sea levels and an increase in the unique landscape and cultural heritage, which all contribute decarbonised and resilient Wales through frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. to social, economic and ecological resilience. the places we create, the energy we Changes to our climate and weather patterns will have a Climate change is an equality issue as it will generate and use, a circular economy, the significant impact on well-being on both current and future disproportionately affect the most vulnerable communities in houses we live in and the way we travel. generations. Increasing temperatures and extreme Wales and the wider world. This is despite the most weather events caused by climate change are putting vulnerable communities historically contributing the least to pressure on ecosystems, infrastructure, built environment the problem of climate changing emissions. Vulnerable and our unique landscape and cultural heritage, which all communities are more likely to be exposed to the risks and contribute to social, economic and ecological resilience. impacts of climate change without the ability to cope with or Climate change is an equality issue as it will recover from those impacts. disproportionately affect the most vulnerable communities It is vital that we reduce our emissions to protect our own in Wales and the wider world. This is despite the most well-being and to demonstrate our global responsibility. vulnerable communities historically contributing the least to Future Wales together with Planning Policy Wales will the problem of climate changing emissions. Vulnerable ensure the planning system focuses on delivering a communities are more likely to be exposed to the risks and decarbonised and resilient Wales through the places we impacts of climate change without the ability to cope with create, the energy we generate, the natural resources and or recover from those impacts. materials we use and how we live and travel. It is vital that we reduce our emissions to protect our own well-being and to demonstrate our global responsibility. Text supported by: Future Wales together with Planning Policy Wales, will ensure the planning system nationally, regionally and  Climate change graphics locally focussesfocuses on delivering a decarbonised and resilient Wales through the places we create, the energy we generate and , the natural resources and materials we use, a circular economy, the houses and how we live in and the way we travel.

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 Climate change graphics Covid-19 Covid-19 The Covid-19 pandemic is the biggest public health emergency in The Covid-19 pandemic is the biggest public health emergency in generations. It continues to impact all parts of the world and the generations. It continues to impact all parts of the world and the legacy of the pandemic will shape public debate and decisions for legacy of the pandemic will shape public debate and decisions for years to come. Here in Wales many families have lost loved ones years to come. Here in Wales many families have lost loved ones and the pandemic has had a dramatic effect on communities, the and the pandemic has had a dramatic effect on communities, the economy, how we live and on the environment. It has reminded us economy, how we live and on the environment. It has reminded us that the resilience of our communities and the places where we live that the resilience of our communities and the places where we live can at times be fragile. can at times be fragile. The quality and accessibility of our local areas was hugely important The quality and accessibility of our local areas was hugely for people’s health and their well-being during the toughest stages of important for people’s health and their well-being during the the pandemic. There was a collective appreciation of the value of toughest stages of the pandemic. There was a collective parks and green spaces, walking and cycling routes, local shops and appreciation of the value of parks and green spaces, walking and amenities, and the cleaner air that emerged during the lockdown. cycling routes, local shops and amenities, and the cleaner air that Among the many important challenges in the recovery period will be emerged during the lockdown. Among the many important ensuring all communities enjoy access to these fundamentally challenges in the recovery period will be ensuring all communities important things. enjoy access to these fundamentally important things. Many of the urgent actions and changes in behaviour that were Many of the urgent actions and changes in behaviour that were introduced in response to the pandemic are emerging as permanent introduced in response to the pandemic are emerging as features of life. These have implications for the planning system as permanent features of life. These have implications for the people are using places differently, travelling less and spending planning system as people are using places differently, travelling more time working from home. The planning system must respond less and spending more time working from home. The planning to these changes and contribute to a sustainable recovery, shaping system must respond to these changes and contribute to a places around a vision for healthy and resilient places. sustainable recovery, shaping places around a vision for healthy and resilient places. Low Carbon Economy Low Carbon Economy Our low carbon economy is currently estimated to consist of Our low carbon economy is currently estimated to consist 9,000 businesses, employing 13,000 people and generating of 9,000 businesses, employing 13,000 people and £2.4 billion turnover in 2016. Over the past 20 years carbon generating £2.4 billion turnover in 2016. Over the past 20 greenhouse gas emissions have fallen, whilst Gross Value years carbon greenhouse gas emissions have fallen, Added has risen. whilst Gross Value Added has risen. To increase our economic prosperity we must focus on To increase our economic prosperity we must focus on delivering the clean growth aim and preparing the Welsh delivering the clean growth aim and preparing the Welsh economy for the markets of the future and demand for low economy for the markets of the future and demand for low carbon goods and services. carbon goods and services.

Renewable Energy Renewable Energy Wales can become a world leader in renewable energy Wales can become a world leader in Wales can become a world leader in renewable energy technologies. Our wind and tidal resources, our potential for renewable energy technologies. Our wind technologies. Our wind and tidal resources, our potential solar generation, our support for both large and community and tidal resources, our potential for solar for solar generation, our support for both large and scaled projects and our commitment to ensuring the planning generation, our support for both large and community scaled projects and our commitment to ensuring system provides a strong lead for renewable energy community scaled projects and our the planning system provides a strong lead for renewable development, mean we are well placed to support the commitment to ensuring the planning system energy development, mean we are well placed to support the renewable sector, attract new investment and reduce carbon renewable sector, attract new investment and reduce carbon provides a strong lead for renewable energy emissions. emissions. development mean we are well placed to support the renewable sector, attract new investment and reduce carbon emissions. Natural Resources Natural Resources Wales has a rich variety of nature conservation sites, Wales has a rich variety of nature Wales has a rich variety of nature conservation sites, covering a diverse range of important and unique habitats conservation sites, protecting a diverse protectingcovering a diverse range of important and unique and protected species. Ecosystems underpin our well- range of important and unique habitats and habitats and protected species. Ecosystems underpin our being, health, economy, culture and identity. We depend on protected species. Ecosystems underpin our well-being, health, economy, culture and identity. We them to provide us with food, raw materials and clean water, well-being, health, economy, culture and depend on them to provide us with food, raw materials and and to regulate our climate and air quality. The need to identity. We depend on them to provide us clean water, and to regulate our climate and air quality. The reverse biodiversity decline and assist nature recovery is of need to reverse biodiversity decline and assist nature with food, raw materials and clean water, imperative importance in its own right. Environmental recovery is of imperative importance in its own right. pressures are causing global biodiversity declines at rates not and to regulate our climate and air quality. Environmental pressures are causing global biodiversity previously encountered in human history and the rate of Many of our key industries such as declines at rates not previously encountered in human history species extinctions is accelerating. agriculture, forestry, fisheries, energy, water and the rate of species extinctions is accelerating. and tourism rely on healthy, functioning Many of our key industries such as agriculture, forestry, ecosystems to prosper and to support Many of our key industries such as agriculture, forestry, fisheries, energy, water and tourism rely on healthy, communities across Wales. Ensuring the fisheries, energy, water and tourism rely on healthy, functioning ecosystems to prosper and to support functioning ecosystems to prosper and to support communities across Wales. We must align the response to resilience of our ecosystems provides an communities across Wales. We must align the response to the climate emergency with the need to address the twin opportunity to promote green growth and the climate emergency with the need to address the twin challenge for biodiversity. Ensuring the resilience of our innovation to create sustainable jobs, sustain challenge for biodiversity. Ensuring the resilience of our ecosystems will reverse biodiversity decline and provide an a more resource efficient economy and ecosystems provideswill reverse biodiversity decline and opportunity to promote green growth and innovation to maintain healthy, active, sustainable and provide an opportunity to promote green growth and create sustainable jobs, sustain a more resource efficient connected communities. innovation to create sustainable jobs, sustain a more economy and maintain healthy, active, sustainable and resource efficient economy and maintain healthy, active, connected communities. Future Wales will help support our sustainable and connected communities. Future Wales will national strategy for woodlands and trees. help support our national strategy for woodlands and trees. Aggregates underpin economic growth, providing construction Aggregates underpin economic growth, providing construction related products essential for the delivery of placemaking, related products essential for the delivery of placemaking, housing and infrastructure. When construction leads to a spike housing and infrastructure. When construction leads to a in demand, caused for instance by major infrastructure spike in demand, caused for instance by major infrastructure projects, pressures are placed on the minerals industry to projects, pressures are placed on the minerals industry to provide the necessary materials. Effective planning ensures provide the necessary materials. Effective planning that a reliable supply of minerals, which is capable of ensures that a reliable supply of minerals, which is capable simultaneously meeting demand in all regions of Wales, is of simultaneously meeting demand in all regions of Wales, is always available. This is vital for our economy and future always available. This is vital for our economy and future growth. Whilst Wales will still depend on the sustainable use growth. Whilst Wales will still depend on the sustainable use of primary mineral resources, more will need to be done to of primary mineral resources, more will need to be done to increase the use of secondary and recycled materials. The increase the use of secondary and recycled materials. The Welsh Government target to increase the proportion of Welsh Government target to increase the proportion of aggregates production in Wales from secondary and recycled aggregates production in Wales from secondary and recycled sources to at least 25% of total aggregates supply has been sources to at least 25% of total aggregates supply has been exceeded, but more will need to be done to move beyond the exceeded, but more will need to be done to move beyond the current estimate of 30% of supply deriving from such sources current estimate of 30% of supply deriving from such sources as part of progress towards a truly circular economy. as part of progress towards a truly circular economy.

Aggregates underpin economic growth, Aggregates underpin economic growth, providing construction providing construction related products related products essential for the delivery of placemaking, essential for the delivery of placemaking, housing and infrastructure. When construction leads to a housing and infrastructure. When spike in demand, caused for instance by major infrastructure construction leads to a spike in demand, projects, pressures are placed on the minerals industry to caused for instance by major infrastructure provide the necessary materials. Effective planning projects, pressures are placed on the ensures a good stock of permitted reserves is available to minerals industry to provide the necessary supplement existing productive capacity at any given time. materials. Effective planning ensures a good A reliable supply of minerals, capable of meeting demand stock of permitted reserves is available to in all regions of Wales simultaneously, is vitally important. supplement existing productive capacity at

any given time. A reliable supply of minerals, capable of meeting demand in all regions of Wales simultaneously, is vitally important. Water & Coasts Water & Coasts As our climate changes, pressure on water resources is As our climate changes, pressure on water As our climate changes, pressure on water resources is predicted to increase. The supply and management of water resources is predicted to increase. The predicted to increase. The supply and management of water will be of increasing importance. Currently, Wales can meet its supply and management of water will be of will be of increasing importance. Currently, Wales can meet water needs and we are able to transport water from source to increasing importance. Currently, Wales can its water needs and we are able to transport water from areas of demand. By identifying the locations of national and meet its water needs and we are able to source to areas of demand. The locationBy identifying the regional growth there is an opportunity to consider where we transport water from source to areas of locations of futurenational and regional growth providesthere will need water and how we can safeguard our resources in the is an opportunity to consider where we will need water and demand. The location of future growth future. Focusing development in existing built-up areas may how we can safeguard our resources in the future. reduce the likelihood of a need for significant new sources of provides an opportunity to consider where FocussingFocusing development in existing built-up areas water, but we must recognise the potential impact of all future we will need water and how we safeguard reducesmay reduce the likelihood of a need for significant development patterns and climate change on the supply and our resources in the future. Focussing new sources of water, but we must recognise the potential availability of water. development in existing built-up areas impact of all future development patterns and climate change The management of our coasts is important for all regions as reduces the likelihood of a need for on the supply and availability of water. the built-up coastal areas are where the majority of people significant new sources of water, but we The management of our coasts is important for all regions live. Shoreline Management Plans identify opportunities to in Wales. Theas the built-up coastal areas are where the build ecosystems resilience and help ensure choices on where must recognise the potential impact of majority of people live. In coastal areas Shoreline development should be are informed by erosion and current climate change on the supply and availability Management Plans identify opportunities to build ecosystems and future flood risks. of water. resilience and inform spatialhelp ensure choices in relation toon where development, taking into account should be are The management of our coasts is important informed by erosion and current and future flood risks. for all regions in Wales. The built-up coastal areas are where the majority of people live. In coastal areas Shoreline Management Plans identify opportunities to build ecosystems resilience and inform spatial choices in relation to development, taking into account erosion and current and future flood risks. A Changing Society A Changing Society Our society is ageing. We need to think about the type of Our society is ageing and we need to think Our society is ageing and we. We need to think about the homes in which we will live in the future; where they are; the about the type of houses in which we will live type of houseshomes in which we will live in the future; where social and healthcare services that will support us; and the in the future; where they are; the social and they are; the social and healthcare services that will support type of places that we as an ageing population would like to healthcare services that will support us; and us; and the type of places that we as an ageing population live in. the type of places that we as an ageing would like to live in. It is We also need to think about how we will retain and attract population would like to live in. It is also a We also a reminder that we need to think about how we young people to all parts of Wales, provide opportunities to will retain and attract young people to all parts of Wales, reminder that we need to retain and attract support children and young people and promote active young people and promote active lifestyles. provide opportunities to support children and young people lifestyles. Future Wales together with Planning Policy Wales The NDF, together with Planning Policy and promote active lifestyles. The NDF,Future Wales places a strong focus on the places we create through our Wales, places a strong focus on the places together with Planning Policy Wales, places a strong focus on planning system. Building new houses or infrastructure is not the places we create through our planning system. Building we create through our planning system. an end itself and we are determined to create places that new houses or infrastructure is not an end itself; and we are support our well-being across the whole of our lives. Building new houses or infrastructure is not determined to create places that support our well-being Future Wales has been prepared at a time when the UK is an end itself; we are determined to create across the whole of our lives. changing its relationship with Europe. Since 2016 Brexit has places that support our well-being across the The NDFFuture Wales has been prepared at a time when been central to public debate and has given rise to profound whole of our lives. the UK is changing its relationship with Europe. Since 2016 uncertainty on our future relationship with Europe and a Brexit has been central to public debate and has given rise wide-range of well-established policy frameworks which The NDF has been prepared at a time when to profound uncertainty on our future relationship with impact all aspects of our lives. the UK is changing its relationship with Europe and a wide-range of well -established policy Having left the European Union, we are especially vulnerable Europe. Since 2016 Brexit has been central frameworks, which impact all aspects of our lives. As a to potential impacts arising from future new arrangements. to public debate and has given rise to nation Both agricultural funding and regeneration programmes are profound uncertainty on our future Having left the European Union, we are especially areas of major public policy which have been shaped by vulnerable to thepotential impacts of Brexitarising from future relationship with Europe and a wide-range of European funding policies over a long time. new arrangements. Both agricultural funding and In response to this uncertainty and the forging of new well established policy frameworks, which regeneration programmes are areas of major public policy relationships, Future Wales seeks to provide a positive, impact all aspects of our lives. As a nation, which have been shaped by wider European funding policies proactive framework to give certainty and direction on where we are especially vulnerable to the impacts and funding. over a long time. Wales will grow and where we will invest. It also provides a of Brexit. Both agricultural funding and In response to this uncertainty and the NDFforging of new framework responsive to changing circumstances to ensure regeneration programmes are areas of major relationships, Future Wales seeks to provide a positive, that we are able to take decisions on future policy issues proactive framework to give certainty and direction on where public policy which have been shaped by that are still to be defined. Wales will grow and where we will invest. It also provides a wider European policies and funding. In framework responsive to changing circumstances to response the NDF seeks to provide a ensure that we are able to take decisions on future policy positive, proactive framework to give issues that are still to be defined. certainty and direction on where Wales will

grow and where we will invest. It also provides a framework responsive to changing circumstances to ensure that we are able to take decisions on future policy issues that are still to be defined. Housing Housing Good quality affordable homes are the bedrock of Good quality affordable homes are the Good quality affordable homes are the bedrock of communities and form the basis for individuals and families bedrock of communities and form the basis communities and form the basis for individuals and families to flourish in all aspects of their lives. Future Wales provides for individuals and families to flourish in all to flourish in all aspects of their lives. The NDFFuture evidence of the need for housing across Wales at both a aspects of their lives. The NDF provides Wales provides evidence of the need for housing across national and regional level. This evidence demonstrates the evidence of the need for housing across Wales at both a national and regional level. In particular, need for a focus on increasing the delivery of social and Wales at both a national and regional level. thisThis evidence demonstrates the need for a focus on affordable homes. The Welsh Government is targeting its increasing the delivery of social and affordable homes. The In particular, this evidence demonstrates the housing and planning interventions towards achieving this Welsh Government is targeting its housing and planning aim within the broader context of increasing supply and need for a focus on increasing the delivery of interventions towards achieving this aim within the broader responding to different needs, including our ageing society affordable homes. The Welsh Government is context of increasing supply and responding to different and climate change. targeting its housing and planning needs, including our ageing society and climate change. interventions towards achieving this aim

within the broader context of increasing supply and responding to different needs. Prosperity Prosperity The pace of change in technology is a challenge and The pace of change in technology is a The pace of change in technology is a challenge and opportunity for all nations. The jobs that future generations challenge and opportunity for all nations. opportunity for all nations. The jobs that future generations will do may not yet have been invented. Automation and The jobs that future generations will do may will do may not yet have been invented yet. Automation and artificial intelligence technologies will impact on all not have been invented yet. Automation and Artificial Intelligenceartificial intelligence technologies will occupations. Advancements in technologies like electric Artificial Intelligence technologies will impact impact on all occupations. Advancements in technologies vehicles, coupled with mobile applications which provide on all occupations. Advancements in like electric vehicles, coupled with mobile applications bespoke transport services, have the potential to re-shape which provide bespoke transport services, have the technologies like electric vehicles, coupled the way we travel, the vehicles we own, public transport and potential to re-shape the way we travel, the vehicles we the places we will live in. with mobile applications which provide own, public transport and the places we will live in. Our universities can play an important role both nationally bespoke transport services, have the Our universities can play an important role both nationally and regionally, leading innovation and research and potential to re-shape the way we travel, the and regionally, leading innovation and research and providing opportunities for students of all ages to grow and vehicles we own, public transport and the providing opportunities for students of all ages to grow and develop. They play a key role in their local communities, places we will live in. Work patterns have the develop. They play a key role in their local communities, attracting students from all around the world to different potential for change too, becoming more attracting students from all around the world to different parts of Wales and supporting local economies and parts of Wales and supporting local economies and flexible in terms of location and hours. The businesses. businesses. Work patterns have the potential for change too, becoming NDF and Planning Policy Wales support the Work patterns have the potential for change too, becoming more flexible in terms of location and hours. Future Wales and provision of the infrastructure required to more flexible in terms of location and hours. The NDFFuture Planning Policy Wales support the provision of the support new technologies and to ensure the Wales and Planning Policy Wales support the provision of the infrastructure required to support new technologies and to places we create in the future can support infrastructure required to support new technologies and to ensure the places we create in the future can support our our changing society. ensure the places we create in the future can support our changing society. changing society. The Welsh Government recognises and supports the important Prosperity and reducing inequality remain The Welsh Government recognises and supports the role of businesses of all sizes, from major international the priorities Welsh Government policies. important role of businesses of all sizes, from major manufacturers to micro businesses, in strengthening, Prosperity is not equal across all parts of international manufacturers to micro businesses, in diversifying and increasing the resilience of our economy. strengthening, diversifying and increasing the resilience of our Wales, and West Wales and the Valleys There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach and it is important that economy. There is no ‘one size fits all’ approach and it is positive steps are taken to support new and existing continues to be recognised within Europe as important that positive steps are taken to support new and businesses of all sizes. one of the less developed regions. Health existing businesses of all sizes. Prosperity and reducing inequality remain priorities for the varies across Wales, with our poorest Prosperity and reducing inequality remain the priorities for Welsh Government. Prosperity is not equal across all parts communities experiencing pronounced the Welsh Government policies. Prosperity is not equal of the country. Health varies across Wales with our poorest differences in health outcomes. The NDF across all parts of Wales, and West Wales and the Valleys communities experiencing pronounced differences in health provides a framework for regional planning continues to be recognised within Europe as one of the outcomes compared to more affluent areas. Future Wales less developed regions.the country. Health varies across provides a framework for regional planning to tackle to tackle regional inequalities and ensure Wales, with our poorest communities experiencing regional inequalities and ensure that the most prosperous that the most prosperous parts of Wales play pronounced differences in health outcomes. The NDF parts of Wales play a role in supporting their wider regions. a role in supporting their wider regions. It will compared to more affluent areas. Future Wales provides a It will ensure we take action to meet the needs of those ensure we take action to meet the needs of framework for regional planning to tackle regional struggling to access housing and that the places we create those struggling to access housing and that inequalities and ensure that the most prosperous parts of make us happier and healthier. the places we create make us happier and Wales play a role in supporting their wider regions. It will The Ministry of Defence is an important landowner with ensure we take action to meet the needs of those healthier. many strategic assets across Wales which provide struggling to access housing and that the places we create significant levels of employment and contribute make us happier and healthier. economically, socially and culturally to many local The Ministry of Defence is an important landowner with communities. Military assets in Wales are important to the many strategic assets across Wales which provide UK’s strategic defence systems and Future Wales seeks to significant levels of employment and contribute protect these areas for these uses and from the impacts of economically, socially and culturally to many local development which could impinge upon them. communities. Military assets in Wales are important to the UK’s strategic defence systems and Future Wales seeks to protect these areas for these uses and from the impacts of development which could impinge upon them. Travel Travel Movement across Wales is shaped by our topography and Travel across Wales is shaped by our Movement across Wales is shaped by our topography and the distance between the main built-up areas in the north topography and the distance between the the distance between the main built-up areas in the north and south. Connections between the north and south are main built-up areas in the north and south. and south. Connections between North Walesthe north and fragmented and it is not possible to travel by train without Connections between North Wales and South Walessouth are fragmented and it is not possible to leaving the country. East-west connections are better, but the South Wales are fragmented and it is not travel by train without leaving the country. East-Westwest road and rail networks can be congested. possible to travel by train without leaving the connections are better, but the road and rail networks can be Significant investment in public transport, including Metro congested. country. East-West connections are better, schemes and active travel infrastructure, including the walking Significant investment in public transport, including Metro and cycling routes being developed as a result of the Active but the road and rail networks can be schemes and active travel infrastructure, including the walking Travel Act, provide an opportunity to re-think how our places congested. Significant investment in public and cycling routes being developed as a result of the Active work. Growth should be shaped around sustainable forms of transport, including Metro schemes and Travel Act, provide an opportunity to re-think how our places transport and places that make us and the environment active travel infrastructure, including the work. Growth should be shaped around sustainable forms of healthier. The National Cycle Network is an important part of walking and cycling routes being developed transport and deliver places that make us and the our national infrastructure and its planned improvements are as a result of the Active Travel Act, provide environment healthier. The National Cycle Network is an supported. important part of our national infrastructure and its planned an opportunity to re-think how our places improvements are supported. work. Growth should be shaped around sustainable forms of transport and deliver places that make us and the environment healthier. The National Cycle Network is an important part of our national infrastructure and its planned improvements are supported. Our four regions Our four regions We have four strong, diverse and proud regions. Future Wales We have four strong, diverse and proud regions. Future supports the North, Mid Wales, the South West and the South Wales supports the North, Mid Wales, the South West and East regions in shaping their futures and proactively using the the South East regions in shaping their futures and planning system to deliver a better Wales. Many of the proactively using the planning system to deliver a better opportunities and challenges we face will be best met by co- Wales. Many of the opportunities and challenges we face will ordinated actions at the national and regional levels. Each be best met by co-ordinated actions at the national and region through co-ordinated and joined-up working and the regional levels. Each region through co-ordinated and joined- preparation of Strategic Development Plans, can plan and up working and the preparation of Strategic Development manage their futures together. Plans, can plan and manage their futures together.

The NDF will help us prepare for the future. The NDF will help us prepare for the future. The NDF The NDF Outcomes set out the Wales we Outcomes set out the Wales we wish to pass on to future wish to pass on to future generations. generations.

Section or Updated Version Draft NDF Draft NDF Section or Policy Tracked Changed Version Policy Section or Number Policy Number Chapter 3 Chapter 3 NDF Outcomes NDF Outcomes Chapter 3: Setting and achieving our ambitions

Identifying what we want to achieve is an We have a clear vision of Wales in 2040 and the steps we Chapter 3: Setting and achieving our important step in preparing a strategy for a need to take to get there. Everyone has a role to play in ambitions development plan. The NDF Outcomes are shaping a future that is sustainable, healthy, equitable and overarching ambitions based on the national fair. We have a clear vision of Wales in 2040 and the planning principles and national sustainable steps we need to take to get there. Everyone has placemaking outcomes set out in Planning a role to play in shaping a future that is Identifying what we want to achieve is an important step in Policy Wales. The 11 outcomes are sustainable, healthy, equitable and fair. preparing a strategy for a development plan. Future Wales’ collectively a statement of where we want to

Outcomes are overarching ambitions based on the national be in 20 years time. Every part of the NDF, planning principles and national sustainable placemaking from the spatial strategy to regional policies, Identifying what we want to achieve is an important outcomes set out in Planning Policy Wales. The 11 is concerned with achieving the NDF step in preparing a strategy for a development Outcomes are collectively a statement of where we want to Outcomes. Most policy areas will contribute plan. The NDFFuture Wales’ Outcomes are be in 20 years’ time. Every part of Future Wales, from the to multiple outcomes. overarching ambitions based on the national spatial strategy to regional policies, is concerned with planning principles and national sustainable achieving the Outcomes. Most policy areas will contribute Through the NDF, we will develop: placemaking outcomes set out in Planning Policy to multiple Outcomes. Wales. The 11 outcomesOutcomes are collectively A Wales where people live.... a statement of where we want to be in 20 The 11 Outcomes can be achieved over the next 20 years if the 1. and work in connected, inclusive and yearsyears’ time. Every part of the NDFFuture planning system – through Future Wales and other healthy places Wales, from the spatial strategy to regional development plans – is focused on the long-term and policies, is concerned with achieving the NDF provides quality development in the right places for the right 2. in vibrant rural places with access to Outcomes. Most policy areas will contribute to reasons. These Outcomes are inter-related and inter- homes, jobs and services multiple outcomesOutcomes. dependent, and will improve places and well-being across 3. in distinctive regions Through the NDF, we will develop: Wales. that tackle health and socio-economic We will measure the impact and effect of Future Wales inequality through A Wales where people live.... continually. After no more than five years from its publication, sustainable growth we will need to decide whether to update Future Wales. The 1. and work in connected, inclusive and healthy in places with a thriving Welsh review process for measuring the impact of Future Wales, 4. places Language assessing if it is successful and deciding whether to update it, 2. in vibrant rural places with access to homes, and work in towns and is set out below. 5. jobs and services cities which are a focus and springboard for 3. in distinctive regions that tackle sustainable growth health and socio-economic inequality through sustainable in places where prosperity, innovation 6. growth and culture are promoted 4. in places with a thriving Welsh Language 7. in places where travel is sustainable 5. and work in towns and cities which 8. in places with world-class digital are a focus and springboard for infrastructure sustainable growth 9. in places that sustainably 6. in places where prosperity, innovation and manage their natural culture are promoted resources and reduce pollution 7. in places where travel is sustainable 10. in places with biodiverse, resilient and 8. in places with world-class digital infrastructure connected ecosystems 9. in places that sustainably 11. in places which are decarbonised. manage their natural resources and reduce pollution The 11 Outcomes can be achieved over the next 20 years if the planning system – 10. in places with biodiverse, resilient and through the NDF and other development connected ecosystems plans – is focussed on the long-term and provides quality development in the right 11. in places which are decarbonised. places for the right reasons. These The 11 Outcomes can be achieved over the next 20 Outcomes are inter-related and inter- years if the planning system – through the dependent, and will improve places and NDFFuture Wales and other development plans – well-being across Wales. is focussedfocused on the long-term and provides quality development in the right places for the right reasons. These Outcomes are inter-related and inter- dependent, and will improve places and well-being across Wales.

We will measure the impact and effect of Future Wales continually. After no more than five years from its publication, we will need to decide whether to update Future Wales. The review process for measuring the impact of Future Wales, assessing if it is successful and deciding whether to update it, is set out below. The Future Wales Outcomes Outcomes The Future Wales Outcomes A Wales where people live.... A Wales where people live....

1 And work in connected, inclusive and healthy places 1 Our cities, towns and villages will be And work in connected, inclusive and healthy physically and digitally well connected, places Our cities, towns and villages will be physically and digitally offering good quality of life to their residents. well connected places, offering good quality of life to their High-quality homes meeting the needs of Our cities, towns and villages will be physically and residents. society will be well-located in relation to jobs, digitally well connected places, offering good quality High-quality homes meeting the needs of society will be well- services and accessible green and open of life to their residents. located in relation to jobs, services and accessible green and spaces. Places will meet and suit the needs High-quality homes meeting the needs of society will open spaces. Incorporating placemaking principles in all of a diverse population, with accessible be well-located in relation to jobs, services and development will ensure that places meet and suit the needs of community facilities and services. accessible green and open spaces. Places a diverse population, with accessible community facilities and willIncorporating placemaking principles in all services. development will ensure that places meet and suit the needs of a diverse population, with accessible community facilities and services. 2 In vibrant rural places with access to homes, jobs and 2 In rural areas, job opportunities and In vibrant rural places with access to homes, services community services will be supported to help jobs and services attract and retain people. A balance will be In rural areas, job opportunities and community services will be found between development and preserving In rural areas, job opportunities and community supported to help attract and retain people. the character of rural Wales, ensuring our services will be supported to help attract and retain A balance will be found between development and preserving small towns and villages have bright futures people. the character of rural Wales, ensuring our small towns and as attractive places to live and work. There A balance will be found between development and villages have bright futures as attractive places to live and will be support for the agricultural sector and preserving the character of rural Wales, ensuring our work. The rural economy will be thriving and communities will its supply chains to boost resilience through small towns and villages have bright futures as be well connected digitally and physically. There will be diversification. attractive places to live and work. The rural economy support for the agricultural sector and its supply chains to boost will be thriving and communities will be well resilience through diversification. connected digitally and physically. There will be support for the agricultural sector and its supply chains to boost resilience through diversification.

3 In distinctive regions that tackle health and socio- 3 The regional approach will recognise that In distinctive regions that tackle health and economic inequality through sustainable growth different parts of Wales work differently to socio-economic inequality through sustainable each other, with distinct underlying growth The regional approach will recognise that different parts of characteristics and challenges. The three Wales work differently to each other, with distinct underlying regions will address inequalities by building The regional approach will recognise that different characteristics and challenges. stronger links between public services, parts of Wales work differently to each other, with Inequalities in the four regions will be addressed by building communities and business. Each region distinct underlying characteristics and challenges. stronger links between public services, communities and will be encouraged to build on their The three business. Each region will be encouraged to build on their existing strengths and pursue Inequalities in the four regions will address existing strengths and pursue opportunities to achieve opportunities to achieve greater prosperity inequalitiesbe addressed by building stronger links greater prosperity and well-being. and well-being. between public services, communities and business. Each region will be encouraged to build on their existing strengths and pursue opportunities to achieve greater prosperity and well-being. 4 In places with a thriving Welsh Language 4 We aim to have a million Welsh speakers in In places with a thriving Welsh Language Wales by 2050 – an increase of almost 80% We aim to have a million Welsh speakers in Wales by 2050 – on current levels. Where Welsh is the We aim to have a million Welsh speakers in Wales an increase of almost 80% on current levels. everyday language of the community, by 2050 – an increase of almost 80% on current The language will be an embedded consideration in the spatial development will be managed to ensure levels. strategy of all development plans. Where Welsh is the there are jobs and homes to enable the The language will be an embedded consideration in everyday language of the community, development will be language to remain central to those the spatial strategy of all development plans. Where managed to ensure there are jobs and homes to enable the communities’ identities. Elsewhere education Welsh is the everyday language of the community, language to remain central to those communities’ identities. authorities will lead in developing development will be managed to ensure there are Elsewhere development will be a positive force towards infrastructure to enable the language to jobs and homes to enable the language to remain encouraging the creation of education and social infrastructure develop as a natural, thriving part of central to those communities’ identities. Elsewhere to enable the language to develop as a natural, thriving part of communities. development will be a positive force towards communities. encouraging the creation of education authorities will lead in developingand social infrastructure to enable the language to develop as a natural, thriving part of communities. 5 And work in towns and cities which are a focus and 5 Cities and large towns are magnets for jobs And work in towns and cities which are a focus springboard for sustainable growth and investment, while people are drawn to and springboard for sustainable growth live and work there for the economic and Cities and large towns will be magnets for jobs and investment, social opportunities they provide. Cities and large towns arewill be magnets for jobs while people are drawn to live and work there for the economic Development plans will enable and support and investment, while people are drawn to live and and social opportunities they provide. aspirations for large towns and cities to grow, work there for the economic and social opportunities Development plans will enable and support aspirations for founded on sustainability and urban design they provide. large towns and cities to grow, founded on sustainability and principles, active travel and investment in key Development plans will enable and support urban design principles. Investment in active travel, public built and green infrastructure to enable aspirations for large towns and cities to grow, transport, flood risk management and green infrastructure will population and economic growth whilst founded on sustainability and urban design enable population growth and economic growth while reducing reducing pollution. Areas outside the urban principles, . Investment in active travel and pollution and carbon consumption. Areas outside the urban centres will benefit directly from the strength investment in key built, public transport, flood risk centres will benefit directly from the strength of our large towns of our large towns and cities, through management and green infrastructure towill enable and cities, through improved connectivity and additional improved connectivity and additional population growth and economic growth whilstwhile investment in new homes, jobs and services. investment in new homes, jobs and reducing pollution and carbon consumption. Areas services. outside the urban centres will benefit directly from the strength of our large towns and cities, through improved connectivity and additional investment in new homes, jobs and services. 6 In places where prosperity, innovation and culture are 6 Development Plans will have a In places where prosperity, innovation and promoted forward thinking, positive attitude culture are promoted towards enabling economic Development plans will have a forward thinking, development, investment and Development Plansplans will have a positive attitude towards enabling economic innovation. Increased prosperity and forward thinking, positive attitude towards development, investment and innovation. productivity will be pursued across enabling economic development, Increased prosperity and productivity will be pursued all parts of Wales, building on investment and innovation. across all parts of Wales, building on current activity current activity and promoting a Increased prosperity and productivity will be and promoting a culture of innovation, social culture of innovation, social pursued across all parts of Wales, building partnership, entrepreneurialism and skills- partnership, entrepreneurialism and on current activity and promoting a culture of development in sustainable industries and sectors. skills-development in sustainable innovation, social partnership, The culture, heritage and environment of Wales will industries and sectors. The culture, entrepreneurialism and skills-development play a positive, modern role in the economy by heritage and environment of Wales in sustainable industries and sectors. The attracting the interest and expenditure of tourists and will play a positive, modern role in culture, heritage and environment of Wales providing a distinctive and trusted brand for Welsh the economy by attracting the will play a positive, modern role in the businesses. interest and expenditure of tourists, economy by attracting the interest and and providing a distinctive and expenditure of tourists, and providing a trusted brand for Welsh businesses. distinctive and trusted brand for Welsh businesses. 7 In places where travel is sustainable 7 All methods of travel will need to have low In places where travel is sustainable environmental impact and low emissions, All methods of travel will have low environmental impact and with ultra low emission vehicles and public All methods of travel will need to have low low emissions, with increased use of public transport and transport replacing today’s petrol and environmental impact and low emissions, with ultra-low emission vehicles replacing today’s petrol and diesel vehicles. Active travel and public increased use of public transport and ultra -low diesel vehicles. transport will be a significant part of the emission vehicles and public transport replacing Sustainable transport infrastructure will be embedded within transport mix, allied with a reduced reliance today’s petrol and diesel vehicles. Active travel and development to enable easy and convenient access from on private vehicle use, with sustainable public transport will be a significant part of the one place to another for commuting, business, tourism and transport infrastructure embedded within transport mix, allied with a reduced reliance on leisure purposes. Development will focus on active travel new developments to enable easy and private vehicle use, with sustainable and public transport, allied with a reduced reliance on private convenient access from one place to Sustainable transport infrastructure will be vehicles. another for commuting, business, tourism embedded within new developmentsdevelopment and leisure purposes. to enable easy and convenient access from one place to another for commuting, business, tourism and leisure purposes. Development will focus on active travel and public transport, allied with a reduced reliance on private vehicles. 8 In places with world-class digital infrastructure 8 Broadband provision will develop and In places with world-class digital infrastructure evolve, beginning with comprehensive Broadband provision will develop and evolve, beginning with coverage of superfast and progressing to Broadband provision will develop and evolve, comprehensive coverage of superfast and progressing to ultra-fast fibre, which will help businesses beginning with comprehensive coverage of ultra-fast fibre, which will help businesses to be more to be more productive, resilient and superfast and progressing to ultra-fast fibre, which productive, resilient and innovative and improve the way of innovative. Better digital communication will help businesses to be more productive, life for communities and individuals. will enable changes to the economy and resilient and innovative. and improve the way of life Better digital communication will enable economic and way of life, and ensure Wales can lead for communities and individuals. social progress, and ensure Wales can lead and keep pace and keep pace with the latest global Better digital communication will enable changes with the latest global technological advancements. technological advancements. to the economyeconomic and way of lifesocial progress, and ensure Wales can lead and keep pace with the latest global technological advancements. 9 In places that sustainably manage their natural 9 Wales’ natural resources, including its In places that sustainably manage their natural resources and reduce pollution minerals, coast, water, forests and resources and reduce pollution landscape, support a range of activities and Wales’ natural resources, including its minerals, soils and sectors and are assets of great value in their Wales’ natural resources, including its minerals, soils geodiversity, coast, water, forests and landscape support a own right. The environmental, social and and geodiversity, coast, water, forests and range of activities and sectors and are assets of great value in cultural value of our resources will be landscape, support a range of activities and sectors their own right. managed, maintained and enhanced, while and are assets of great value in their own right. The environmental, social and cultural value of our resources economic benefits will be utilised sustainably The environmental, social and cultural value of our will be managed, maintained and enhanced, while economic and appropriately by promoting nature- resources will be managed, maintained and benefits will be utilised sustainably and appropriately by based solutions and a circular economy. enhanced, while economic benefits will be utilised promoting nature-based solutions and a circular economy. Across Wales better resource choices will be sustainably and appropriately by promoting nature- Across Wales the risks of flooding and coastal erosion will be reflected in more sustainable places, which based solutions and a circular economy. Across effectively managed and mitigated while better resource benefit from reductions in levels of pollution, Wales the risks of flooding and coastal erosion will choices will be reflected in more sustainable places. Places and be healthier and more liveable. be effectively managed and mitigated while better will benefit from reduced pollution and be healthier and more resource choices will be reflected in more liveable. sustainable places, which. Places will benefit from reductions in levels of reduced pollution, and be healthier and more liveable. 10 In places with biodiverse, resilient and connected 10 The variety of flora and fauna found across In places with biodiverse, resilient and ecosystems Wales make Wales a special place. connected ecosystems Biodiversity underpins the functioning of The variety of flora and fauna found across Wales make Wales healthy resilient ecosystems and the multiple The variety of flora and fauna found across Wales a special place. benefits they provide. While biodiversity has make Wales a special place. Biodiversity underpins the functioning of healthy resilient declined in recent decades, we will reverse Biodiversity underpins the functioning of healthy ecosystems and the multiple benefits they provide. While these losses and enhance the resilience of resilient ecosystems and the multiple benefits they biodiversity has declined in recent decades, we will reverse ecosystems. The planning system will provide. While biodiversity has declined in recent these losses and enhance the resilience of ecosystems. The ensure wildlife is able to thrive in healthy, decades, we will reverse these losses and enhance planning system will ensure wildlife is able to thrive in healthy, diverse habitats, both in urban and rural the resilience of ecosystems. The planning system diverse habitats, both in urban and rural areas, recognising and areas, recognising and valuing the multiple will ensure wildlife is able to thrive in healthy, diverse valuing the multiple benefits to people and nature. benefits to people and nature. habitats, both in urban and rural areas, recognising and valuing the multiple benefits to people and nature. 11 In places which are decarbonised and climate-resilient 11 The challenges of climate change demand In places which are decarbonised and climate- urgent action on carbon emissions and the resilient The challenges of climate change demand urgent action planning system must help Wales lead the on carbon emissions and the planning system must help way in promoting and delivering a The challenges of climate change demand Wales lead the way in promoting and delivering a competitive, sustainable decarbonised urgent action on carbon emissions and the competitive, sustainable decarbonised society. society. Decarbonisation and renewable planning system must help Wales lead the energy commitments and targets will be Decarbonisation commitments and renewable energy way in promoting and delivering a competitive, treated as opportunities to build a more sustainable decarbonised society. targets will be treated as opportunities to build a more resilient and equitable low-carbon resilient and equitable low-carbon economy, develop economy, develop clean and efficient Decarbonisation commitments and renewable clean and efficient transport infrastructure, improve transport infrastructure, improve public energy commitments and targets will be treated public health and generate skilled jobs in new sectors. health and generate skilled jobs in new as opportunities to build a more resilient and New homes will be energy efficient and will help sectors. equitable low-carbon economy, develop clean communities adapt to the changing climate. and efficient transport infrastructure, improve public health and generate skilled jobs in new sectors. New homes will be energy efficient and will help communities adapt to the changing climate. Reviewing Future Wales Reviewing Future Wales Every five years the Welsh Government will prepare and Every five years the Welsh Government will prepare publish a review of Future Wales. The review will set out and publish a review of Future Wales. The review progress in delivering the Future Wales Outcomes and shaping will set out progress in delivering the Future Wales the Wales we wish to see by 2040. Outcomes and shaping the Wales we wish to see by The review will be based on four key sources: 2040. The review will be based on four key sources: The National Indicators The National Indicators

There are 46 National Indicators and they help to tell a story of There are 46 National Indicators and they help to tell progress against the well-being goals established in the Well- a story of progress against the well-being goals being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015. established in the Well-being of Future Generations (Wales) Act 2015.

Future Wales policy related indicators Future Wales policy related indicators

Future Wales policy related indicators cover the range of topics Future Wales policy related indicators cover the addressed by Future Wales policies. These indicators will help range of topics addressed by Future Wales policies. us understand in more detail the key trends and patterns These indicators will help us understand in more Future Wales seeks to influence. detail the key trends and patterns Future Wales seeks to influence. The Integrated Sustainability Appraisal The Integrated Sustainability Appraisal The Integrated Sustainability Appraisal is a process that has The Integrated Sustainability Appraisal is a process supported the development of Future Wales from the outset. It that has supported the development of Future Wales has its own set of objectives, indicators and baseline data. from the outset. It has its own set of objectives, Analysing these will help us think about the Future Wales indicators and baseline data. Analysing these will Outcomes and Future Wales’ effect on the Integrated help us think about the Future Wales Outcomes and Sustainability Appraisal baseline data. Future Wales’ effect on the Integrated Sustainability Appraisal baseline data. Contextual evidence and influencing factors Contextual evidence and influencing factors Contextual evidence and influencing factors will include a Contextual evidence and influencing factors will broad range of economic, cultural, environmental and social include a broad range of economic, cultural, data. We will assess national and regional statistics on issues environmental and social data. We will assess such as the economy and employment, population and the national and regional statistics on issues such as the environment. Over the first five years of Future Wales, economy and employment, population and the changes such as new Welsh Government policies, new environment. Over the first five years of Future research and publications will all provide an important context Wales, changes such as new Welsh Government to the National Indicators and Future Wales policy related policies, new research and publications will all indicators. As we approach the review stage, we will also invite provide an important context to the National people to submit evidence they think should be considered. Indicators and Future Wales policy related indicators. As we approach the review stage, we will also invite people to submit evidence they think should be considered. Collectively this information and our analysis of it will help Collectively this information and our analysis of it will determine what new or further actions are required to deliver help determine what new or further actions are the Future Wales Outcomes. The review could conclude that required to deliver the Future Wales Outcomes. The Future Wales’ direction of travel is on track and that no major review could conclude that Future Wales’ direction of action is required. It could find Future Wales to be on track in travel is on track and that no major action is some areas and less so in others. We will determine what required. It could find Future Wales to be on track in changes are required to ensure progress is made in all areas. some areas and less so in others. We will determine If there are significant changes to Welsh Government policy, if what changes are required to ensure progress is relevant new legislation is introduced or if Future Wales is made in all areas. determined not to be making progress towards its Outcomes, If there are significant changes to Welsh we will consider how Future Wales should be revised. It may Government policy, if relevant new legislation is be necessary to prepare a replacement national development introduced or if Future Wales is determined not to be framework. In this scenario, as with the preparation of Future making progress towards its Outcomes, we will Wales, public and stakeholder engagement and consultation consider how Future Wales should be revised. It will be a central feature of the process. may be necessary to prepare a replacement national Future Wales is a long term 20-year plan and the strategic development framework. In this scenario, as with the change it seeks will take time to achieve. We are confident the preparation of Future Wales, public and stakeholder Future Wales Outcomes and spatial strategy will remain the engagement and consultation will be a central right ones over the whole plan period and the review will feature of the process. primarily focus on actions necessary to maintain a focus on Future Wales is a long term 20-year plan and the achieving Future Wales’ ambitions. strategic change it seeks will take time to achieve. As set out in Chapter 1, Future Wales is one of a number of We are confident the Future Wales Outcomes and plans and strategies driving change in Wales. Not all the spatial strategy will remain the right ones over the changes we seek can be directly addressed by the planning whole plan period and the review will primarily focus system alone. Future Wales’ review will identify where the on actions necessary to maintain a focus on planning system must work with the wider public, private and achieving Future Wales’ ambitions. community interests to deliver the Outcomes. As set out in Chapter 1, Future Wales is one of a number of plans and strategies driving change in Wales. Not all the changes we seek can be directly addressed by the planning system alone. Future Wales’ review will identify where the planning system must work with the wider public, private and community interests to deliver the Outcomes. The First Review: How will we know if Future Wales has The First Review: How will we know if Future been successful? Wales has been successful? Achieving the Future Wales Outcomes will mean that places in Achieving the Future Wales Outcomes will mean that Wales will be better. The success of Future Wales will be places in Wales will be better. The success of Future determined by its delivery towards the Outcomes. Wales will be determined by its delivery towards the There is a balance to be struck in the first review between Outcomes. medium and longer term actions. For the initial phase of Future There is a balance to be struck in the first review Wales’ life there are seven key questions which help us between medium and longer term actions. For the determine its progress. These are: initial phase of Future Wales’ life there are seven key Has Future Wales: questions which help us determine its progress. 1. supported decarbonisation? These are: 2. supported full development plan coverage at all three Has Future Wales: development plan tiers? 1. supported decarbonisation? 3. supported the delivery of renewable energy? 2. supported full development plan coverage at 4. helped meet housing needs in the right places? all three development plan tiers? 5. made places healthier? 3. supported the delivery of renewable energy? 6. helped strengthen ecosystems and enhanced 4. helped meet housing needs in the right biodiversity? places? 7. supported an economy that delivers prosperity for all? 5. made places healthier? 6. helped strengthen ecosystems and enhanced biodiversity? 7. supported an economy that delivers prosperity for all?

Section or Updated version Draft NDF – Draft NDF - Section or Policy Tracked Changed Version Policy Section or Number Policy Number Chapter 4 Chapter 4. Strategic and Spatial choices: Future Wales’ Chapter 4 Strategic and Spatial Choices: the NDF Chapter 4. Strategic and Spatial Choices: the NDF spatial strategy Spatial Strategy Spatial Strategychoices: Future Wales’ spatial strategy A spatial strategy identifies and connects key national and A spatial strategy sets a structure for the type regional centres, provides a basis for long term and location of development across the plan A spatial strategy sets a structure for the typeidentifies infrastructure investment, identifies priorities for the area. It highlights the key settlements in and location of development across the plan area. It planning system and a framework for the management of which development will be focussed and the highlights theconnects key settlements in which natural resources. infrastructure, transport, actions and development will be focussednational and theregional resources required to support the strategy. centres, provides a basis for long term infrastructure, Future Wales’ spatial strategy is a guiding framework for where transport, actions investment, identifies priorities for large scale change and nationally important developments will The NDF spatial strategy is a guiding the planning system and a framework for the be focused over the next 20 years. The strategy blends the framework for where large scale change and management of natural resources. existing settlement patterns and the distribution of jobs and nationally important developments will be homes with a vision of managing change and future trends for focused over the next 20 years. The strategy Future Wales’ spatial strategy is a guiding framework for the benefit of everyone in Wales. blends the existing settlement patterns and where large scale change and nationally important the distribution of jobs and homes with a developments will be focused over the next 20 years. The The spatial strategy supports the Future Wales Outcomes. vision of managing change and future trends strategy blends the existing settlement patterns and the Decisions taken at a national level, including Welsh for the benefit of everyone in Wales. distribution of jobs and homes with a vision of managing Government investment choices, will reflect the principles of the change and future trends for the benefit of everyone in strategy and make positive contributions towards the national The spatial strategy supports the NDF Wales. placemaking objectives. Outcomes. Decisions taken at a national level, including Welsh Government The spatial strategy supports the NDFFuture Wales Our strategy is to build on existing strengths and advantages. It investment choices, will reflect the principles Outcomes. Decisions taken at a national level, including encourages sustainable and efficient patterns of development, of the strategy and make positive Welsh Government investment choices, will reflect the based on co-locating homes with jobs and vital services and the contributions towards the national principles of the strategy and make positive contributions efficient use of resources. The strategy contributes to achieving placemaking objectives. towards the national placemaking objectives. decarbonisation and biodiversity objectives and supports national ambitions for improving health. It enables the creation Our strategy is to build on existing strengths Our strategy is to build on existing strengths and to of thriving, sustainable communities and is aligned with the and to consolidate advantages. It encourages consolidate advantages. It encourages sustainable and Welsh Government’s broader goal of a million Welsh language sustainable and efficient patterns of efficient patterns of development, based on co-locating speakers by 2050. development, based on co-locating homes homes with jobs and vital services and the efficient use of with jobs and vital services and the efficient resources. ItThe strategy contributes to achieving Co-locating homes, jobs and services means focusing on cities use of resources. It contributes to achieving decarbonisation and biodiversity objectives and supports and large towns as the main development areas. Developing decarbonisation and biodiversity objectives national ambitions for improving health. It enables the our urban areas to enhance their performance will be and supports national ambitions for improving creation of thriving, sustainable communities and is challenging, but we firmly believe it is the right ambition for health. It enables the creation of thriving, aligned with the Welsh Government’s broader goal of Wales and supports the Welsh Government’s commitment to sustainable communities and is aligned with encouraging a million people to speak the Welsh social justice. Choosing to develop new towns or enabling the Welsh Government’s broader goal of language speakers by 2050. sprawling greenfield development would be to ignore the encouraging a million people to speak the untapped potential of places which already have town centres, Welsh language by 2050. Co-locating homes, jobs and services means focusing on universities and colleges, public transport infrastructure and a cities and large towns as the main development areas. good range of public services. It would also squander key Co-locating homes, jobs and services means Developing our urban areas to enhance their assets in the form of productive countryside and natural focusing on cities and large towns as the performance will be challenging, but we firmly believe it is resources. main development areas. Developing our the right ambition for Wales and supports the Welsh urban areas to enhance their performance will Government’s commitment to social justice. Choosing to The focus on growing urban areas will create concentrations of be challenging, but we firmly believe it is the develop new towns andor enabling sprawling greenfield jobs, services and amenities and a critical mass of people to right ambition for Wales and supports the development would be to ignore the untapped potential of sustain good public transport services and a range of economic Welsh Government’s commitment to social places which already have town centres, universities and activities. An urban growth focus enables more people to walk justice. Choosing to develop new towns and colleges, public transport infrastructure and a good range and cycle for everyday journeys and, with good urban design, enabling sprawling greenfield development of public services. It would also squander key assets in would be to ignore the untapped potential of the form of productive countryside and natural resources. can create positive impacts on public health, air quality and places which already have town centres, well-being. universities and colleges, public transport The focus on growing urban areas will create infrastructure and a good range of public concentrations of jobs, services and amenities and a Sustainable growth will involve achieving biodiversity and green services. It would also squander key assets in critical mass of people to sustain good public transport infrastructure enhancements in our urban areas. Effective and the form of productive countryside and natural services and a range of economic activities. An urban innovative nature-based solutions to the challenges of urban resources. growth focus enables more people to walk and cycle for form, design and density will be required in order to reap the everyday journeys and, with good urban design, can well-being rewards of living and working in exemplar, future- The focus on growing urban areas will create create positive impacts on public health, air quality and resilient settlements. concentrations of jobs, services and well-being. amenities and a critical mass of people to In all parts of Wales the strategy supports sustainable growth. sustain good public transport services and a Sustainable growth will involve setting an ambitious Any place without jobs, homes, community spaces and wildlife range of economic activities. An urban growth strategy for achieving biodiversity and green has no prospect of having a thriving and cohesive community, focus enables more people to walk and cycle infrastructure enhancementenhancements in our urban Welsh language or economy. There is such a thing as too much for everyday journeys and, with good urban areas. Effective and innovative nature-based solutions to development or the wrong type of development, whereas design, can create positive impacts on public the challenges of urban form, design and density will be sustainable development should foster a stable or growing health, air quality and well-being. required in order to reap the well-being rewards of living population to ensure a healthy natural environment and and working in exemplar, future-resilient settlements. economic and social stability. Sustainable growth will involve setting an ambitious strategy for achieving biodiversity In all parts of Wales, the strategy supports sustainable The NDF Strategic Diagram has been updated and will be and green infrastructure enhancement in our growth. Any place without jobs, homes, community included here urban areas. Effective and innovative nature- spaces and wildlife has no prospect of having a thriving based solutions to the challenges of urban and cohesive community, Welsh language or economy. form, design and density will be required in There is such a thing as too much development or the order to reap the well-being rewards of living wrong type of development, whereas sustainable and working in exemplar, future-resilient development should foster a stable or growing population settlements. to ensure a healthy natural environment and economic and social stability. In all parts of Wales, the strategy supports sustainable growth. Any place without jobs, The NDF Strategic Diagram has been updated and homes, community spaces and wildlife has no will be included here prospect of having a thriving and cohesive community, Welsh language or economy. There is such a thing as too much development or the wrong type of development, whereas sustainable development should foster a stable or growing population to ensure a healthy natural environment and economic and social stability.

Policy 1 Where Wales will grow Where Wales will grow The Welsh Government supports sustainable growth in all parts The Welsh Government supports sustainable growth in all of Wales. In three National Growth Areas there will be growth parts of Wales. In three National Growth Areas there will in employment and housing opportunities and investment in be growth in employment and housing opportunities and infrastructure. The National Growth Areas are: investment in infrastructure. The National Growth Areas  Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys are:  Swansea Bay and Llanelli  Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys  Wrexham and Deeside  Swansea Bay and Llanelli  Wrexham and Deeside The National Growth Areas are complemented by Regional Growth Areas which will grow, develop and offer a variety of The National Growth Areas are complemented by public and commercial services at regional scale. There are Regional Growth Areas which will grow, develop and offer Regional Growth Areas in three regions: a variety of public and commercial services at regional  The South West scale. There are Regional Growth Areas in three regions:  Mid Wales  The South West  The North  Mid Wales  The North Development and growth in towns and villages in rural areas should be of appropriate scale and support local aspirations Development and growth in towns and villages in rural and need areas should be of appropriate scale and support local aspirations and need PPW PPW Reference Reference 1.22 – 1.23 1.22 – 1.23 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting Population trends in Wales have historically reflected economic Supporting Growth and new development must be in the Growth and new development must be in the right place, Text fortunes, with people drawn to the areas where jobs were Text right place, undertaken in the right way and undertaken in the right way and make efficient use of our available. Over two centuries this has resulted in the make efficient use of our resources to resources to achieve the NDF Outcomes. The spatial development of three main urban clusters of cities and towns: achieve the NDF Outcomes. The spatial strategy has three components and sets out: strategy has three components and sets out: where in Wales growth should be focused; • Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys; where in Wales growth should be focused; how growth should be planned and managed • Swansea Bay and Llanelli; and how growth should be planned and managed how we should power and heat places using renewable • Wrexham and Deeside. how we should power and heat places using energy and district heat networks. renewable energy and district heat networks. Each of these urban areas is economically distinctive, Spatial Strategy: Where Wales will grow supporting a range of businesses, enterprises and Spatial Strategy: Where Wales will grow Population trends in Wales have historically reflected universities, and offering culturally rich lifestyles to residents Population trends in Wales have historically economic fortunes, with people drawn to the areas where and visitors. They are internationally and nationally reflected economic fortunes, with people jobs were available. Over two centuries this has resulted significant places and this strategy promotes their continued drawn to the areas where jobs were available. in the development of three main urban clusters of cities growth and regeneration. There are detailed policies in Over two centuries this has resulted in the and towns: Chapter 5 on each of the National Growth Areas setting out development of three main urban clusters of their role in a national and regional context. cities and towns: • Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys; Future Wales identifies a range of important Regional Swansea Bay and Llanelli; and Growth Areas which, through specific policies in Strategic Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys; • and Local Development Plans, should retain and enhance Swansea Bay and Llanelli; and • Wrexham and Deeside. the commercial and public service base that make them Wrexham and Deeside. focal points in their areas. The Regional Growth Areas are: Each of these urban areas is economically Each of these urban areas is economically distinctive, South West: distinctive, supporting a range of businesses, supporting a range of businesses, enterprises and  Carmarthen enterprises and universities, and offering universities, and offering culturally rich lifestyles to  The Pembrokeshire Haven Towns, including: culturally rich lifestyles to residents and residents and visitors. They are internationally and Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke and visitors. They are nationally significant places nationally significant places and this strategy promotes their continued growth and regeneration. As a result, Pembroke Dock and this strategy promotes their continued growth and regeneration. As a result, new new large-scale employment opportunities and housing Mid Wales: large-scale employment opportunities and growth will occur predominantly, though not exclusively,  The Teifi Valley, including Cardigan, Newcastle Emlyn, housing growth will occur predominantly, There are detailed policies in these urban areasChapter Llandysul and Lampeter though not exclusively, in these urban areas. 5 on each of the National Growth Areas setting out their role in a national and regional context.  Brecon and the Border  The Heart of Wales, including Llandrindod Wells and Outside of these areas are a mix of smaller Future Wales identifies a range of important Regional Builth Wells towns and villages and large areas of Growth Areas which, through specific policies in countryside. Many towns are traditionally  Bro Hafren, including Welshpool and Newtown Strategic and Local Development Plans, should retain market towns and have retained the function and enhance the commercial and public service base  Aberystwyth of being gathering places for people living that make them focal points in their areas. The North: and working in rural places. Along the coast Regional Growth Areas are:  Holyhead our maritime and resort towns remain popular places in which to live and visit, though there South West:  Caernarfon and Bangor is a need for regeneration in some places.  Carmarthen  Llandudno and Colwyn Bay Development in towns and villages in rural  Rhyl and Prestatyn areas will support local aspirations and need, Beyond the National and Regional Growth Areas are a mix of smaller towns and villages and large areas of countryside. complementing rather than competing with  The Pembrokeshire Haven Towns, including Many towns are traditionally market towns and have retained efforts to grow our cities and towns. Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke and the function of being gathering places for people living and Pembroke Dock working in rural places. Along the coast our maritime and resort The NDF identifies a range of important towns remain popular places in which to live and visit, though regional centres which, through specific Mid Wales: there is a need for regeneration in some places. Development policies in Strategic and Local Development  The Teifi Valley, including Cardigan, Newcastle in towns and villages in rural areas will support local aspirations Plans, should retain and enhance the Emlyn, Llandysul and Lampeter and need, complementing rather than competing with efforts to commercial and public service base that  Brecon and the Border grow our cities and towns. Policies 4 and 5 are particularly make them focal points in their areas. This  The Heart of Wales, including Llandrindod Wells relevant in these places. will apply in places like Carmarthen, the and Builth Wells Pembrokeshire Haven towns, Aberystwyth, By focusing large scale growth on the urban areas,  Bro Hafren, including Welshpool and Newtown Llandrindod Wells, Newtown, Caernarfon, development pressures can be channelled away from the  Aberystwyth countryside and productive agricultural land can be Bangor and the coastal towns from protected. Rural areas have an important function as Llandudno to Prestatyn. North: providers of food, energy and mineral resources.  Holyhead By focussing large scale growth on the urban Communities in rural areas are strongly supported; the aim areas, development pressures can be is to secure sustainable economic and housing growth which  Outside of these areasCaernarfon and Bangor channelled away from the countryside and is focused on retaining and attracting working age population  Llandudno and Colwyn Bay and maintaining and improving access to services. In areas productive agricultural land can be protected.  Rhyl and Prestatyn designated for their landscape or ecological importance, Rural areas have an important function as protection against inappropriate development remains in place. providers of food, energy and mineral Beyond the National and Regional Growth Areas are a resources. Communities in rural areas are The spatial strategy empowers local policy and decision- mix of smaller towns and villages and large areas of strongly supported; the aim is to secure countryside. Many towns are traditionally market towns makers to develop the national priorities through Strategic sustainable economic and housing growth and Local Development Plans and identify areas and issues and have retained the function of being gathering places which is focussed on retaining and attracting for people living and working in rural places. Along the of significance to their particular areas. working age population and maintaining and coast our maritime and resort towns remain popular improving access to services. In areas places in which to live and visit, though there is a need for

designated for their landscape or ecological regeneration in some places. Development in towns and Policy 1 drives the delivery of the Future Wales Outcomes importance, protection against inappropriate villages in rural areas will support local aspirations and and ensures Future Wales’ policies and the planning system development remains in place. need, complementing rather than competing with efforts in general are committed to their achievement. Key issues, to grow our cities and towns. Policies 4 and 5 are including decarbonisation, health, prosperity and the Welsh The spatial strategy empowers local policy particularly relevant in these places. language, are core elements of policy 1 and are common and decision-makers to develop the national threads underpinning all Future Wales policies. priorities through Strategic and Local The NDF identifies a range of important regional centres The remainder of Chapter 4 sets out national policies that Development Plans and identify areas and which, through specific policies in Strategic and Local are critical to the successful delivery of the spatial strategy. issues of significance to their particular areas. Development Plans, should retain and enhance the These policies address the nature of development in urban commercial and public service base that make them focal and rural areas, within the identified Growth Areas and points in their areas. This will apply in places like beyond. The policies will ensure places are well planned and Carmarthen, the Pembrokeshire Haven towns, have strategies for ensuring our needs and demands are met Aberystwyth, Llandrindod Wells, Newtown, Caernarfon, and managed in a sustainable way. How we shape places will Bangor and the coastal towns from Llandudno to determine how we respond to climate challenges and make use Prestatyn. of our resources. Sustainably planned places reduce the need to travel by car; encourage walking, cycling and public transport; embed green infrastructure; and take action to ensure By focussingfocusing large scale growth on the urban air is clean. They ensure homes and businesses are connected areas, development pressures can be channelled away to essential services such as energy, water and broadband and from the countryside and productive agricultural land provide different spaces for all our daily activities. can be protected. Rural areas have an important function as providers of food, energy and mineral resources. Communities in rural areas are strongly supported; the aim is to secure sustainable economic and housing growth which is focussedfocused on retaining and attracting working age population and maintaining and improving access to services. In areas designated for their landscape or ecological importance, protection against inappropriate development remains in place.

The spatial strategy empowers local policy and decision-makers to develop the national priorities through Strategic and Local Development Plans and identify areas and issues of significance to their particular areas.

Policy 1 drives the delivery of the Future Wales Outcomes and ensures Future Wales’ policies and the planning system in general are committed to their achievement. Key issues, including decarbonisation, health, prosperity and the Welsh language, are core elements of policy 1 and are common threads underpinning all Future Wales policies. The remainder of Chapter 4 sets out national policies that are critical to the successful delivery of the spatial strategy. These policies address the nature of development in urban and rural areas, within the identified Growth Areas and beyond. The policies will ensure places are well planned and have strategies for ensuring our needs and demands are met and managed in a sustainable way. How we shape places will determine how we respond to climate challenges and make use of our resources. Sustainably planned places reduce the need to travel by car; encourage walking, cycling and public transport; embed green infrastructure; and take action to ensure air is clean. They ensure homes and businesses are connected to essential services such as energy, water and broadband and provide different spaces for all our daily activities.

Policy 2 Shaping Urban Growth and Regeneration – Strategic Policy 1 Sustainable Urban Growth SustainableShaping Urban Growth and Regeneration Placemaking Urban growth should support towns and cities – Strategic Placemaking The growth and regeneration of towns and cities should that are compact and orientated around urban UrbanThe growth should supportand regeneration of positively contribute towards building sustainable places that centres and integrated public transport and towns and cities should positively contribute towards support active and healthy lives, with urban neighbourhoods active travel networks. Higher density and building sustainable places that support active and that are compact and walkable, organised around mixed-use mixed use development on sites with good healthy lives, with urban neighbourhoods that are centres and public transport, and integrated with green access to urban centres and public transport compact and orientatedwalkable, organised around infrastructure. hubs, including new and improved Metro urbanmixed-use centres and public transport, and stations, will be promoted and supported. Urban growth and regeneration should be based on the integrated public transport and active travel networks. following strategic placemaking principles: Higherwith green infrastructure.  Creating a rich mix of uses; Urban growth and regeneration should be based on the  Providing a variety of housing types and tenures; following strategic placemaking principles:  Building places at a walkable scale, with homes, local  Creating a rich mix of uses; facilities and public transport within walking distance of  Providing a variety of housing types and tenures; each other;  Building places at a walkable scale, with homes,  Increasing population density, with development built at local facilities and public transport within walking urban densities that can support public transport and distance of each other; local facilities;  Increasing population density and mixed use , with  Establishing a permeable network of streets, with a development on sites with good access to built at hierarchy that informs the nature of development; urban centres and densities that can support public transport hubsand local facilities;  Promoting a plot-based approach to development, which  Establishing a permeable network of streets, with a provides opportunities for the development of small plots, hierarchy that informs the nature of development; including for custom and self-builders; and  Promoting a plot-based approach to development,  Integrating green infrastructure, informed by the planning which provides opportunities for the development authority’s Green Infrastructure Assessment. of small plots, including newfor custom and improved Metro stations, willself-builders; and Planning authorities should use development plans to establish  Integrating green infrastructure, informed by the a vision for each town and city. This should be supported by a planning authority’s Green Infrastructure spatial framework that guides growth and regeneration, and Assessment. establishes a structure within which towns and cities can grow, evolve, diversify and flourish over time. Planning authorities should use development plans to establish a vision for each town and city. This should be promoted and supported by a spatial framework that guides growth and regeneration, and establishes a structure within which towns and cities can grow, evolve, diversify and flourish over time.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting Shaping urban growth and regeneration Supporting Spatial Strategy: Planning and managing Spatial Strategy: Planning and managing growth Text The growth aspirations of Future Wales are an opportunity to Text growth We want places to be healthy, prosperous, vibrant and regenerate our towns and cities and shape their extent, We want places to be healthy, prosperous, cohesive, and to support well-being. ShapingHow we structure and density. Placemaking is at the heart of the vibrant and cohesive, and to support well- shape places will determine how we respond to climate planning system in Wales and this policy establishes a strategic being. How we shape places will determine challenges and make use of our resources. It is important placemaking approach and principles to enable planning how we respond to climate challenges and that places are well planned and have strategies for authorities to shape urban growth and regeneration. make use of our resources. It is important that ensuring our needs and demands are met and managed places are well planned and have strategies in a sustainable way. Sustainably planned places reduce Before making decisions about site allocations or development for ensuring our needs and demands are met the need to travel by car; encourage walking, cycling and proposals, it is essential to have a clear picture of the evolving and managed in a sustainable way. public transport; embed green infrastructure; and take shape of places and to develop a vision or strategy for their Sustainably planned places reduce the need action future. As well as identifying the best way in which towns and to travel by car; encourage walking, cycling to ensure air is clean. They ensure homes and cities can expand, it is important to plan for existing and public transport; embed green businesses are connected to essential services such as neighbourhoods, particularly those in need of regeneration. infrastructure; and take action energy, water and broadband and provide different to ensure air is clean. They ensure homes spaces for all our daily activities. A spatial framework establishes the long term pattern of land and businesses are connected to essential use, density, movement and green infrastructure. It is a tool to services such as energy, water and Planning is fundamental to achieving liveable, successful identify the best locations for growth and regeneration and broadband and provide different spaces for all places. We set out in the preceding section those parts of provide a structure to enable change to happen over time. our daily activities. Wales which will accommodate strategic growth. This section, which applies to all parts of Wales, sets out how The visions and supporting spatial frameworks for places Planning is fundamental to achieving liveable, this growth should be planned and managed to create should inform and be supported by Strategic and Local successful places. We set out in the sustainable places. Development Plan spatial strategies, site allocations and preceding section those parts of Wales which policies. They should also form the basis for other measures to will accommodate strategic growth. This Supporting our urban areasgrowth and regeneration support implementation, such as masterplans and design section, which applies to all parts of Wales, The growth aspirations of the NDFFuture Wales are an codes. sets out how this growth should be planned opportunity to shape and grow, renew and regenerate our and managed to create sustainable places. towns and cities and towns and create sustainable, This policy is primarily focused on shaping growth and healthy places which embed green infrastructure. The regeneration within the National and Regional Growth Areas. Supporting our urban areas Welsh Government wants towns and cities that are The approach and the principles are also applicable to smaller The growth aspirations of the NDF are an compact and organised around urban centres and public towns and should be applied to reflect the local context. Further opportunity to shape and grow, renew and transport hubs. guidance on the strategic placemaking approach and principles regenerate our cities and towns and create in this policy will follow to support its implementation. sustainable, healthy places which embed Density is a key factor in shaping how places grow and green infrastructure. The Welsh Government function. Higher shape their extent, structure and density wants towns and cities that are compact and development makes efficient use of land, requires less Strategic Placemaking Principles organised around urban centres and public land to be developed and protects rural areas from loss of transport hubs. countryside. Higher densities provide the necessary Mix of uses intensity of people and activity to animate streets and Density is a key factor in shaping how places public spaces, support high streets and sustain good To create activity throughout the day and enable people to walk grow and function. Higher density public transport services. Placemaking is at the heart of and cycle, rather than being reliant on travelling by car, places development makes efficient use of land, the planning system in Wales and this policy establishes should have a rich mix of residential, commercial and requires less land to be developed and a strategic placemaking approach and principles to community uses within close proximity to each other. Urban protects rural areas from loss of countryside. enable planning authorities to shape urban growth and growth and regeneration should integrate different uses within Higher densities provide the necessary regeneration. neighbourhoods. intensity of people and activity to animate streets and public spaces, support high Successful, healthy towns and citiesBefore making Variety of Housing streets and sustain good public transport decisions about site allocations or development services. proposals, it is essential to have a clear picture of the To ensure places are socially mixed and cater for varied evolving shape of places and to develop a vision or lifestyles, they should have a mix of housing types and tenures Successful, healthy towns and cities have a strategy for their future. As well as identifying the best and space that allows for home-working. Urban growth and rich mix of residential, commercial and way in which towns and cities can expand, it is important regeneration should cater for families, couples and single community uses within close proximity to to plan for existing neighbourhoods, particularly those in people of different ages, as well as providing a mix of affordable each other. This creates activity throughout need of regeneration. and private housing. the day and enables people to walk and cycle to school, work or the shops, rather than A spatial framework establishes the long term pattern of Walkable scale being reliant on travelling by car. land use, density, movement and green infrastructure. It is a tool to identify the best locations for growth and To enable active and healthy lives, people should be able to The density and mix of uses of development regeneration and provide a structure to enable change to easily walk to local facilities and public transport. Urban growth should reflect the site and area’s wider happen over time. and regeneration should be focused within inner city areas and context, particularly the proximity to an urban around town centres, as well as around mixed use local centres centre and the public transport accessibility. The visions and supporting spatial frameworks for places and public transport. Co-working hubs offering an alternative to This variety will result in different areas should inform and be supported by Strategic and Local home-working is a relatively new, and increasingly important, having different characteristics, including Development Plan spatial strategies, site allocations and feature of the economy, and these should be located in town some lively and busy areas and some quieter policies. They should also form the basis for other and local centres. and more secluded areas, which will result in measures to support implementation, such as places that cater for varied lifestyles. masterplans and design codes. Density However, low density and mono-functional development in areas with the potential for This policy is primarily focused on shaping growth and To support the economic and social success of our towns and greater densities and a mix of uses, misses regeneration within the National and Regional Growth cities, including sustaining public transport and facilities, urban the opportunity to allow more people to live Areas. The approach and the principles are also growth and regeneration should increase the population density closer to transport hubs, jobs, services and applicable to smaller towns and should be applied to of our towns and cities. New developments in urban areas cultural destinations and fails to create more reflect the local context. Further guidance on the strategic should aim to have a density of at least 50 dwellings per sustainable places. placemaking approach and principles in this policy will hectare (net), with higher densities in more central and follow to support its implementation. accessible locations. It may be necessary to take social The Welsh Government promotes Transit Orientated Development, which involves the distancing requirements into consideration when designing Strategic Placemaking Principles above mentioned principles of compact, public and communal spaces. higher density, mixed use development Mix of uses around transport corridors and stations. The Street Network Metro projects, which are at different stages To create activity throughout the day and enable people of progress, all offer significant and timely To provide a framework for different uses and types of housing to walk and cycle, rather than being reliant on travelling opportunities to identify locations for Transit to be integrated within neighbourhoods, urban growth and by car, places should have a rich mix of residential, Orientated Developments around new and regeneration should be based on a network of streets that commercial and community uses within close proximity to existing stations. Land in close proximity and enable social distancing if necessary. The street network should each other. This creates activity throughout the day and with good access to Metro stations is an be permeable, with streets primarily connecting at both ends enables people to walk and cycle to school, work or the important and finite resource and will play a with other streets and providing links into, out of, and through shops, rather than being reliant on travelling by car.Urban key role in delivering sustainable urban places. The street network should have a hierarchy, with streets growth and regeneration should integrate different uses places. that have different characters and functions. within neighbourhoods.

Plot-based development Good planning and a commitment to The density and mix of uses of development should To create varied and interesting places, which can be excellence in urban design are required to reflect the site and area’s wider context, particularly the developed and change over time, and provide opportunities for successfully accommodate higher density proximity to an urban centre and the public transport people to design and build their own homes and workspaces, developments. High density does not accessibility. This variety will result in different areas as well as open up the housing market to small and local necessarily mean high rise and it should not having different characteristics, including some lively and builders, urban growth and regeneration should provide be achieved by squeezing standard design busy areas and some quieter and more secluded areas, opportunities for the development of small plots. A plot-based houses closer together or by reducing internal which will result in places that cater for varied lifestyles. approach to development should be promoted, including the living space. Urban solutions to the layout However, low density and mono-functional development subdivision of larger sites to be built in small plots or as a group and design of development, including in areas with the potential for greater densities and a mix of plots. compact forms of development, are capable of uses, misses the opportunity to allow more people to of integrating higher densities in a way that live closer to transport hubs, jobs, services and cultural Green infrastructure creates vibrant places, with a high quality destinations and fails to create more sustainable places. public realm and a good quality of life. Variety of Housing To enable urban areas to play their part in supporting Incorporating green infrastructure, in ecosystem resilience, the use of innovative nature-based particular, will require innovative design To ensure places are socially mixed and cater for varied solutions should form part of strategies for urban growth and solutions to deliver wider well-being benefits. lifestyles, they should have a mix of housing types and regeneration. Through Green Infrastructure Assessments, tenures and space that allows for home-working. Urban specific opportunities should be identified to ensure that green These principles are applicable to towns and growth and regeneration should cater for families, infrastructure is fully integrated. cities with good public transport links couples and single people of different ages, as well as throughout Wales. They are scalable, with the providing a mix of affordable and private housing. definition of higher density and mixed use development varying in different places. Walkable scale Further guidance will be produced to support the implementation of the policy in To enable active and healthy lives, people should be able different parts of Wales. to easily walk to local facilities and public transport. Urban

growth and regeneration should be focused within inner city areas and around town centres, as well as around mixed use local centres and public transport. Co-working hubs offering an alternative to home-working is a relatively new, and increasingly important, feature of the economy, and these should be located in town and local centres.

Density

To support the economic and social success of our towns and cities, including sustaining public transport and facilities, urban growth and regeneration should increase the population density of our towns and cities. New developments in urban areas should aim to have a density of at least 50 dwellings per hectare (net), with higher densities in more central and accessible locations. It may be necessary to take social distancing requirements into consideration when designing public and communal spaces.

Street Network

To provide a framework for different uses and types of housing to be integrated within neighbourhoods, urban growth and regeneration should be based on a network of streets that enable social distancing if necessary. The street network should be permeable, with streets primarily connecting at both ends with other streets and providing links into, out of, and through places. The street network should have a hierarchy, with streets that have different characters and functions.

Plot-based development

To create varied and interesting places, which can be developed and change over time, and provide opportunities for people to design and build their own homes and workspaces, as well as open up the housing market to small and local builders, urban growth and regeneration should provide opportunities for the development of small plots. A plot-based approach to development should be promoted, including the subdivision of larger sites to be built in small plots or as a group of plots.

Green infrastructure

To enable urban areas to play their part in supporting ecosystem resilience, the use of innovative nature-based solutions should form part of strategies for urban growth and regeneration. Through Green Infrastructure Assessments, specific opportunities should be identified to ensure that green infrastructure is fully integrated.

The Welsh Government promotes Transit Orientated Development, which involves the above mentioned principles of compact, higher density, mixed use development around transport corridors and stations. The Metro projects, which are at different stages of progress, all offer significant and timely opportunities to identify locations for Transit Orientated Developments around new and existing stations. Land in close proximity and with good access to Metro stations is an important and finite resource and will play a key role in delivering sustainable urban places.

Good planning and a commitment to excellence in urban design are required to successfully accommodate higher density developments. High density does not necessarily mean high rise and it should not be achieved by squeezing standard design houses closer together or by reducing internal living space. Urban solutions to the layout and design of development, including compact forms of development, are capable of integrating higher densities in a way that creates vibrant places, with a high quality public realm and a good quality of life. Incorporating green infrastructure, in particular, will require innovative design solutions to deliver wider well- being benefits.

These principles are applicable to towns and cities with good public transport links throughout Wales. They are scalable, with the definition of higher density and mixed use development varying in different places. Further guidance will be produced to support the implementation of the policy in different parts of Wales.

Policy 3 Supporting Urban Growth and Regeneration - Public Sector Policy 3 Public Investment, Public Buildings and Public Investment, Public Buildings and Publicly Leadership Publicly Owned Land Owned Land

The Welsh Government will play an active, enabling role to Welsh Government investments and land Supporting Urban Growth and Regeneration - Public support the delivery of urban growth and regeneration. The holdings will support the delivery of Sector Leadership Welsh Government will assemble land, invest in infrastructure sustainable places. We will work with all and prepare sites for development. We will work with local public land owners and investors to ensure The Welsh Government investments and land holdings authorities and other public sector bodies to unlock the potential that new development of a significant scale is will play an active, enabling role to support the delivery of of their land and support them to take an increased located in town and city centres which are urban growth and regeneration. The Welsh Government development role. accessible by walking, cycling and public will assemble land, invest in infrastructure and prepare The public sector must show leadership and apply placemaking transport. sites for development. We will work with local authorities principles to support growth and regeneration for the benefit of and other public sector bodies to unlock the potential of communities across Wales. The public sector’s use of land, Strategic and Local Development Plans their land and support them to take an increased developments, investments and actions must build sustainable should review publicly owned land, both development role. places that improve health and well-being. redundant and in current use, to identify The public sector must show leadership and apply potential sites for development and re- placemaking principles to support growth and Planning authorities must take a proactive role and work in development, including for mixed use and regeneration for the benefit of communities across Wales. collaboration with the Welsh Government and other public affordable housing developments that will The public sector’s use of land, developments, sector bodies to identify the best locations for growth and support the creation of sustainable places. investments and actions must build sustainable places. regeneration, and provide certainty about how they should be We will work with all public land owners and investors to developed. ensure that new development of improve health and well- being.

Planning authorities must take a significant scale is located in town and city centres which are accessible by walking, cycling and public transportproactive role and work in collaboration with the Welsh Government and other public sector bodies to identify the best locations for growth and regeneration, and provide certainty about how they should be developed.

Strategic and Local Development Plans should review publicly owned land, both redundant and in current use, to identify potential sites for development and re- development, including for mixed use and affordable housing developments that will support the creation of sustainable places. PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting Supporting urban growth and regeneration Supporting Public investment and land Public investment and land Text A strengthened public sector role in assembling land and Text Supporting urban growth and regeneration enabling development is essential to realise our growth and Investment by the public sector and the A strengthened regeneration aspirations. decisions it takes regarding its land can make Investment by the public sector role in assembling land The development industry in Wales, along with the UK as a a major contribution to shaping places. The and the decisions it takes regarding its land enabling whole, is currently dominated by a small number of large Welsh Government and the wider public development is essential to realise our growth and developers. It must respond positively to our placemaking sector must lead the way in shaping regeneration aspirations. policies, but a greater public sector role is also needed. The sustainable places. Public services and The development industry in Wales, along with the UK as public sector can enable a wider range of smaller and local facilities are central to our lives and support a whole, is currently dominated by a small number of developers to deliver growth and regeneration throughout society best when they are accessible to all. large developers. It must respond positively to our Wales, and create the homes and neighbourhoods that will placemaking policies, but a greater public sector role is build sustainable communities for this and future generations. also needed. The public sector can make a major The Welsh Government’s priority is to secure public benefits. Major public buildings and facilities serve contribution to shaping places. enable a wider range of We want to increase the delivery of social housing, open up the large populations, often well beyond the smaller and local developers to deliver growth and housing market to a wider range and size of developers and boundaries of the settlement. These include regeneration throughout Wales, and create the homes support vibrant neighbourhoods with a mix of uses and general hospitals, large government and neighbourhoods that will build sustainable affordable workspaces. The public sector must lead by example buildings, council offices, transport hubs, communities for this and future generations. and apply placemaking principles to create exemplar colleges and universities. Smaller The Welsh Government and Government’s priority is to developments. In particular, the public sector must prioritise developments which serve part of a city or secure public benefits. We want to increase the wider design quality, innovation and sustainability. Opportunities to town, including schools and GP surgeries, delivery of social housing, open up the housing market to create ecological networks, provide ecosystem services and may be more appropriate in accessible a wider range and size of developers and support vibrant green infrastructure should be maximised. Developments locations within neighbourhoods, particularly neighbourhoods with a mix of uses and affordable should be resource efficient and reflect the principles of a in or adjacent to local centres, where they can workspaces. The public sector must lead the way in circular economy. better meet the needs of communities. shaping sustainable places. Public services and facilities are central to our lives and support society best when Policy P3 applies to major trip-generating they are accessible to allby example and apply developments, such as public service placemaking principles to create exemplar developments. facilities, sport stadia, cultural venues and In particular, the public sector must prioritise design exhibition spaces which have the potential to quality, innovation and sustainability. Opportunities to drive regeneration and often rely on public create ecological networks, provide ecosystem services funding. and green infrastructure should be maximised. Developments should be resource efficient and reflect the The Well-being of Future Generations Act principles of a circular economy. means all public sector bodies in Wales have a duty to deliver the well-being goals. This will Major public buildings and facilities serve large require consideration of the wider implications populations, often well beyond the boundaries of the of decisions in relation to the sale, re-use and settlement. These include general hospitals, large development of publicly owned land. government buildings, council offices, transport hubs, colleges and universities. Smaller developments which In assessing the cost or value of the potential serve part of a city or town, including schools and GP development of publicly owned land, either by surgeries, may be more appropriate in accessible the public sector or following a sale to a locations within neighbourhoods, particularly in or private or third sector interest, all potential adjacent to local centres, where they can better meet the costs should be considered. These include needs of communities. costs to the environment, climate change targets and wider society. A development in Policy P3 applies to major trip-generating developments, an unsustainable location that results in such as public service facilities, sport stadia, cultural increased car trips, that is poorly served by venues and exhibition spaces which have the potential to public transport, that is inaccessible to the drive regeneration and often rely on public funding. least mobile or poorest members of society, that fails to make a contribution to supporting The Well-being of Future Generations Act means all vibrant town and city centres will have public sector bodies in Wales have a duty to deliver the negative impacts on both current and future well-being goals. This will require consideration of the generations. A short term capital receipt or a wider implications of decisions in relation to the sale, re- cheaper development cost is unlikely to offset use and development of publicly owned land. these longer term costs. In assessing the cost or value of the potential The Welsh Government, UK Government development of publicly owned land, either by the public departments, local authorities and other sector or following a sale to a private or third sector public landowners should undertake strategic interest, all potential costs should be considered. These reviews of their land holdings in Wales and include costs to the environment, climate change targets consider the NDF Outcomes and spatial and wider society. A development in an unsustainable strategy. Where publicly owned land could location that results in increased car trips, that is poorly support sustainable places, positive served by public transport, that is inaccessible to the least consideration should be given to the future mobile or poorest members of society, that fails to make a use of this land and whether it could, for contribution to supporting vibrant town and city centres example, support new mixed use will have negative impacts on both current and future development, including affordable housing generations. A short term capital receipt or a cheaper and new commercial activities, or transport development cost is unlikely to offset these longer term infrastructure. costs.

The Welsh Government, UK Government departments, local authorities and other public landowners should undertake strategic reviews of their land holdings in Wales and consider the NDF Outcomes and spatial strategy. Where publicly owned land could support sustainable places, positive consideration should be given to the future use of this land and whether it could, for example, support new mixed use development, including affordable housing and new commercial activities, or transport infrastructure. Policy 4 Supporting Rural Communities Policy 4 Supporting Rural Communities Supporting Rural Communities

The Welsh Government supports sustainable and vibrant rural The Welsh Government supports sustainable The Welsh Government supports sustainable and vibrant communities. rural communities and appropriate rural communities and appropriate proportionate growth proportionate growth in rural towns and in rural towns and villages.. Strategic and Local Development Plans must identify their rural villages. communities, assess their needs and set out policies that The future for rural areas are best planned at the regional support them. Policies should consider how age balanced The future for rural areas are best planned at and local level. Strategic and Local Development Plans communities can be achieved, where depopulation should be the regional and local level. Strategic and should plan positively to meet the needs of must identify reversed and consider the role of new affordable and market Local Development Plans should plan their rural communities with regard to, assess their needs housing, employment opportunities, local services and greater positively to meet the needs of rural and set out policies that support them. Policies should mobility in tackling these challenges. communities with regard to housing, consider how age balanced communities can be transport, businesses, services and achieved, where depopulation should be reversed and diversification in the agricultural sector. consider the role of new affordable and market housing, transport, businesses, employment opportunities, local services and diversification in the agricultural sector.greater mobility in tackling these challenges.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.34 – 3.36 3.34 – 3.36 5.6 5.6 Policy 5 Supporting the rural economy Supporting the rural economy The Welsh Government supports sustainable, appropriate and The Welsh Government supports sustainable, appropriate proportionate economic growth in rural towns that is planned and proportionate economic growth in rural towns that is and managed through Strategic and Local Development Plans. planned and managed through Strategic and Local Strategic and Local Development Plans must plan positively to Development Plans. meet the employment needs of rural areas including Strategic and Local Development Plans must plan employment arising from the foundational economy; the positively to meet the employment needs of rural areas agricultural and forestry sector, including proposals for including employment arising from the foundational diversification; start-ups and micro businesses. economy; the agricultural and forestry sector, including The Welsh Government also strongly supports development of proposals for diversification; start-ups and micro innovative and emerging technology businesses and sectors to businesses. help rural areas unlock their full potential, broadening the The Welsh Government also strongly supports economic base, and creating higher paid jobs. development of innovative and emerging technology businesses and sectors to help rural areas unlock their full potential, broadening the economic base, and creating higher paid jobs.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 5.6 5.6 Supporting Vibrant rural areas Supporting Supporting our rural areas Supporting ourVibrant rural areas Text 4 & 5 Large parts of Wales are rural in character with 40% of the text 4 Large parts of Wales are rural in character. Large parts of Wales are rural in character. Rural areas population living in settlements with fewer than 10,000 people. Rural areas are sparsely populated, with 40% are sparsely populated, with 40% of the population living Rural areas are diverse, with both prosperous and deprived of the population living in settlements of less in settlements of lesswith fewer than 10,000 people in communities, innovative businesses, essential resources and than 10,000 people in Wales, and they are Wales, and they are integral to the health and livelihood distinctive histories and cultures. They draw visitors from integral to the health and livelihood of our of our nation. Like our urban centres, rural. Rural areas around the world and they play a major role in meeting our nation. Like our urban centres, rural areas are are diverse, with both prosperous and deprived water, food and energy needs. diverse, with both prosperous and deprived communities, innovative businesses, essential resources The Welsh Government wants vibrant rural areas with services communities, innovative businesses, and distinctive histories and cultures. They draw visitors to meet the needs of those living there in a sustainable way. essential resources and distinctive histories to Wales from around the world and they play a major Strategic and Local Development Plans must develop policies and cultures. They draw visitors to Wales role in meeting our water, food and energy needs. They that support rural areas. Where these plans identify growth in from around the world and they play a major also include places where Welsh is the main language of rural areas, it must be appropriate and proportionate to the role in meeting our water, food and energy the community. needs of the settlement and the wider rural area they serve. needs. They also include places where Welsh Planning authorities should be confident in identifying which is the main language of the community. It is important the challenges faced by the rural economy, areas are rural, using their understanding of the issues and in particular the agricultural sector, are at the fore when geography of an area to prepare appropriate definitions. A rural It is important the challenges faced by the considering the future of The Welsh Government wants location within proximity of major urban areas experiences rural economy, in particular the agricultural vibrant rural areas and that the planning system responds different issues compared with a more isolated rural location. It sector, are at the fore when considering the to these challenges, facilitating appropriate new may not be appropriate for policies to be applied to both types future of rural areas and that the planning development and diversification. of location equally. system responds to these challenges, facilitating appropriate new development and with services to meet the needs of those living there in a Many rural towns and villages are integral to their surrounding diversification. sustainable way. Strategic and Local Development Plans areas. Thriving, resilient and sustainable rural settlements are should ensure people living must develop policies that characterised by a rich mix of housing, employment, services, Strategic and Local Development Plans support rural areas. Where these plans identify growth in and infrastructure, located in the right places to meet the needs should ensure people living in rural areas rural areas have access to jobs, services and social and future aspirations of the population. The experience of have access to jobs, services and social infrastructure of appropriate scale. They should support Covid-19 showed how important such facilities are, and how infrastructure of appropriate scale. They strong and resilient rural areas, with a positive framework they help to make rural communities resilient. should support strong and resilient rural for economic development, diversification and meeting Within settlements different uses should be situated in close areas, with a positive framework for economic local housing needs. Strategic spatial decisions must proximity to each other, reflecting the strategic placemaking development, diversification and meeting ensure the needs of the dispersed rural population are principles, to help create vibrant active places where people local housing needs. Strategic spatial met, it must be appropriate and proportionate to the can walk and cycle and are less reliant on cars. decisions must ensure the needs of the needs of the settlement and the wider rural area they Where housing, employment, key services and infrastructure dispersed rural population are met. serve. are not sufficient to accommodate current or future needs, or are not easily accessible, the resilience and sustainability of an Rural towns are integral to their surrounding RuralPlanning authorities should be confident in area may be undermined, possibly leading to economic and areas and should be supported. It is important identifying which areas are rural, using their social decline. This may manifest itself in rural depopulation, that rural communities have appropriate understanding of the issues and geography of an area to age imbalance, deprivation, inequality or social isolation. If access to wider job and economic markets, prepare appropriate definitions. A rural location within people move away to seek opportunities elsewhere, the viability and decisions on regional economic proximity of major urban areas experiences different of services and facilities can become compromised, especially development and transport infrastructure and issues compared with a more isolated rural location. It in smaller settlements with a limited customer base. Planning services should consider the needs of all may not be appropriate for policies to be applied to both authorities should recognise the challenges facing their rural parts of Wales. It is also important that rural types of location equally. communities and set out policies to help address them. They communities are able to develop stronger should consider the role that housing, employment areas and economies and support enterprise. Strong Many rural towns and villages are integral to their home-working, health and social services, places of education, rural economies support strong and resilient surrounding areas. Thriving, resilient and sustainable emergency services, shops and infrastructure can play in communities, can reduce the need to travel, rural settlements are characterised by a rich mix of tackling these challenges and in helping create more and reduce the reliance on a small number of housing, employment, services, and infrastructure, sustainable places. larger economic centres. Priority should be located in the right places to meet the needs and future Sustainable rural settlements are accessible places and well given to economic activities with strong links aspirations of the population. The experience of Covid-19 connected to the wider areas they serve. The Welsh to rural areas, including food and drink showed how important such facilities are, and how they Government strongly supports enhanced public transport and processing, energy generation, tourism and help to make rural communities resilient. active travel modes but recognises that travel by car may be the leisure, the environmental economy and Within settlements different uses should be situated in only realistic mode of travel for some, especially in remote businesses ancillary to farming, forestry and close proximity to each other, reflecting the strategic areas. The Welsh Government will support investment in public other rural economic activities. The improved placemaking principles, to help create vibrant active transport, active travel and vehicle charging networks to support provision of broadband in rural Wales places where people can walk and cycle and are less ultra-low emission vehicles. It will also support investment in the supports an increasingly diverse business reliant on cars. road network where this is necessary to maintain or improve base. Where housing, employment, key services and rural accessibility, sustainability and community well-being. infrastructure are not sufficient to accommodate current In every region planning authorities should support The Welsh Government wants rural areas to or future needs, or are not easily accessible, the improvements to connectivity, within and between rural sustain themselves and meet the needs of resilience and sustainability of an area may be settlements. those living there and it also wants the undermined, possibly leading to economic and social Strategic and Local Development Plans decline. This may manifest itself in rural depopulation, They should assess the need to improve connectivity between prepared in rural areas to develop strong, age imbalance, deprivation, inequality or social isolation. regions and be confident to align regional and local ambitious policies that support rural areas. If people move away to seek opportunities elsewhere, the development proposals with opportunities in neighbouring Where these plans identify growth in rural viability of services and facilities can become authorities. settlements, this will be supported where it is compromised, especially in smaller settlements with a Regions should work together to identify ways to develop appropriate, proportionate to the needs of the limited customer base. Planning authorities should be stronger strategic transport links between rural areas and larger settlement and the wider rural area they serve supported.recognise the challenges facing their rural towns and cities for mutual economic benefit. and where it has been planned through the communities and set out policies to help address them. evidence based, consultative development They should consider the role that housing, employment plan process. areas and home-working, health and social services, It is important that rural communities can access wider job and places of education, emergency services, shops and economic markets, and decisions on regional economic In the preparation of development plans and infrastructure can play in tackling these challenges and in development and transport infrastructure and services should in determining proposals through the helping create more sustainable places. consider the needs of all parts of Wales. Development Management process, decision Sustainable rural settlements are accessible places and makers should be confident in identifying well connected to the wider areas they serve. The Welsh It is important that rural communities develop strong economies which areas constitute ‘rural’ in the context of Government strongly supports enhanced public transport and support local enterprise. The presence of local rural this policy. A rural location within proximity of and active travel modes but recognises that travel by car business and employment opportunities can reduce the need the major urban areas experiences a different may be the only realistic mode of travel for some, for workers to travel long distances and reduce the reliance on set of issues in terms of access to housing, especially in remote areas. The Welsh Government will larger economic centres. employment, essential health, education and support investment in public transport, active travel and transport services than a rural location in vehicle charging networks to support ultra-low emission Lack of employment opportunity is a key reason behind rural central mid Wales and it may not be vehicles. It will also support investment in the road depopulation, particularly in the younger workforce; it can also appropriate for rural focussed policy to be network where this is necessary to maintain or improve contribute to deprivation and inequality. Developing local applied to both types of location equally. rural accessibility, sustainability and community well- opportunities, particularly in higher paid sectors, is important to Through an understanding of the issues and being. retain workers, broaden the skills base and help sustain geography of an area and through the In every region planning authorities should support communities. Rural areas should develop a broad economic preparation of development plans, improvements to connectivity, within and between rural base which supports a strong foundational sector, agricultural appropriate definitions can be prepared. settlements. and forestry industry, innovative and emerging technology based enterprise, start-ups and micro businesses. The The policies in this section on supporting They should assess the need to improve connectivity increasing ability to work from home and remotely from main urban centres, delivering affordable homes, between regions and be confident to align regional and offices may result in higher demand to live in rural areas and supporting communities through the use of local development proposals with opportunities in opportunities to retain the working age population. This could publicly owned land, mobile action zones and neighbouring authorities. bring positive impacts for rural enterprises and the foundational the provision of electric vehicle charging Regions should work together to identify ways to develop economy. Care and health services, food and drink, housing, infrastructure all apply to Wales’ rural areas. stronger strategic transport links between rural areas and energy, construction, tourism and retailers on the high street They should be considered as priority issues larger towns and cities for mutual economic benefit. are all examples of the foundational economy; this sector for the preparation of Strategic and Local makes up approximately 40% of jobs in Wales. Development Plans across the whole of Foundational economic activities remain the backbone of the Wales. It is important that rural communities have appropriatecan rural economy. In particular, tourism and leisure is recognised access to wider job and economic markets, and decisions as a major and growing employer and contributor to the Welsh on regional economic development and transport rural economy. Sustainable forms of tourism including infrastructure and services should consider the needs of opportunities for active, green and cultural tourism should be all parts of Wales. It is also important that rural explored. Similarly, local food and drink processing of communities are able to develop stronger economies and agricultural and horticultural products is a growing industry. support enterprise. Strong rural economies support strong Planning authorities should support new development and and resilient communities, can reduce the need to travel, opportunities to improve or develop rural supply chains and and reduce the reliance on a small number of larger distribution networks. economic centres. Priority should be given to economic activities with strong links to rural areas, including food Diversification is strongly supported to help maintain a and drink processing, energy generation, tourism and sustainable and resilient agricultural and forestry sector, leisure, the environmental economy and businesses particularly in the face of challenges presented by the UK’s exit ancillary to farming, forestry and other rural economic from the European Union. Policies and criteria to enable activities. The improved provision of broadband in rural appropriate diversification should be set out in Strategic and Wales supports an increasingly diverse business base. Local Development Plans. The Welsh Government wants rural areas to sustain Rural areas are the base for many innovative technology based themselves and meet the needs of those living there and companies and there is potential to expand this aspect of the it also wants the Strategic and Local Development Plans economy. The sector includes research and development, prepared in rural areas to develop strong, ambitious defence and security, animal health and veterinary science, bio- policies that support rural areas. Where these plans technology and agri-tech, and energy. Regional assessments of identify growth in rural settlements, this will be supported potential clustering opportunities for rural businesses gaining where it is appropriate, proportionate to the needs of the mutual benefit from close proximity should be investigated. settlement and the wider rural area they serve and where it has been planned through the evidence based, Strategic and Local Development Plans should address the consultative development plan process. need and opportunity for all types of suitable employment across rural areas, ensuring the provision of appropriate sites In the preparation of development plans and in and alignment with sustainable and planned growth strategies determining proposals through the Development for settlements, including for infrastructure, housing and Management process, decision makers should be services. confident in identifying which areas constitute ‘rural’ in the context of this policy. A rural location within proximity of Digital communications in rural Wales support an increasingly the major urban areas experiences a different set of diverse business base and will be particularly important in issues in terms of access to housing, employment, attracting innovative and technology based companies. Mobile essential health, education and transport services than a telecommunications and fixed line broadband are essential to rural location in central mid Wales and it may not be access services, enable social and economic interaction, appropriate for rural focussed policy to be applied to both enhance education, and support well-being, including types of location equally. Through an understanding of addressing issues such as social isolation and exclusion. the issues and geography of an area and through the preparation of development plans, appropriate definitions can be prepared. Planning authorities should work with digital communications providers to ensure the needs of rural areas are addressed and The policies in this section on supporting urban centres, planned for through policies in Strategic or Local Development delivering affordable homes, supporting communities Plans. through the use of publicly owned land, mobile action In sensitive landscapes and other designated areas digital zones and the provision of electric vehicle charging telecommunications infrastructure will be carefully located to infrastructure all apply to Wales’ rural areas. They should minimise visual impact. Digital communications are discussed be considered as priority issues for the preparation of in more detail in policy 13. Strategic and Local Development Plans across the whole of Wales. Rural areas play a crucial role in helping decarbonise Wales by It is important that rural communities develop strong providing suitable environments for different forms of renewable economies and support local enterprise. The presence of energy. Policies 17 and 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to local rural business and employment opportunities can renewable energy generation across Wales and its relationship reduce the need for workers to travel long distances and with rural areas. reduce the reliance on larger economic centres.

Lack of employment opportunity is a key reason behind rural depopulation, particularly in the younger workforce; it can also contribute to deprivation and inequality. Developing local opportunities, particularly in higher paid sectors, is important to retain workers, broaden the skills base and help sustain communities. Rural areas should develop a broad economic base which supports a strong foundational sector, agricultural and forestry industry, innovative and emerging technology based enterprise, start-ups and micro businesses. The increasing ability to work from home and remotely from main offices may result in higher demand to live in rural areas and opportunities to retain the working age population. This could bring positive impacts for rural enterprises and the foundational economy. Care and health services, food and drink, housing, energy, construction, tourism and retailers on the high street are all examples of the foundational economy; this sector makes up approximately 40% of jobs in Wales. Foundational economic activities remain the backbone of the rural economy. In particular, tourism and leisure is recognised as a major and growing employer and contributor to the Welsh rural economy. Sustainable forms of tourism including opportunities for active, green and cultural tourism should be explored. Similarly, local food and drink processing of agricultural and horticultural products is a growing industry. Planning authorities should support new development and opportunities to improve or develop rural supply chains and distribution networks.

Diversification is strongly supported to help maintain a sustainable and resilient agricultural and forestry sector, particularly in the face of challenges presented by the UK’s exit from the European Union. Policies and criteria to enable appropriate diversification should be set out in Strategic and Local Development Plans.

Rural areas are the base for many innovative technology based companies and there is potential to expand this aspect of the economy. The sector includes research and development, defence and security, animal health and veterinary science, bio-technology and agri-tech, and energy. Regional assessments of potential clustering opportunities for rural businesses gaining mutual benefit from close proximity should be investigated.

Strategic and Local Development Plans should address the need and opportunity for all types of suitable employment across rural areas, ensuring the provision of appropriate sites and alignment with sustainable and planned growth strategies for settlements, including for infrastructure, housing and services.

Digital communications in rural Wales support an increasingly diverse business base and will be particularly important in attracting innovative and technology based companies. Mobile telecommunications and fixed line broadband are essential to access services, enable social and economic interaction, enhance education, and support well-being, including addressing issues such as social isolation and exclusion.

Planning authorities should work with digital communications providers to ensure the needs of rural areas are addressed and planned for through policies in Strategic or Local Development Plans. In sensitive landscapes and other designated areas digital telecommunications infrastructure will be carefully located to minimise visual impact. Digital communications are discussed in more detail in policy 13.

Rural areas play a crucial role in helping decarbonise Wales by providing suitable environments for different forms of renewable energy. Policies 17 and 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to renewable energy generation across Wales and its relationship with rural areas.

Policy 6 Town Centre First Policy 2 Supporting Urban Centres Supporting Urban CentresTown Centre First Significant new commercial, retail, education, health, leisure Proposals for new public service facilities of a Significant and public service facilities must be located within town and city significant scale should be located in town Proposals for new commercial, retail, education, health, centres. They should have good access by public transport to and city centres. A sequential approach must leisure and public service facilities of a significant scale and from the whole town or city and, where appropriate, the be used to assess development plan shouldmust be located inwithin town and city centres. wider region. allocations and to determine planning They should have good access by public transport to and A sequential approach must be used to inform the identification applications for developments. Only in from the whole town or city and, where appropriate, the of the best location for these developments and they should be exceptional circumstances should public wider region. identified in Strategic and Local Development Plans. service facilities of a significant scale be A sequential approach must be used to assess approved outside of town and city centres. development plan allocations and to determine planning applications forinform the identification of the best location for these developments. Only in exceptional circumstances and they should public service facilities of a significant scale be approved outside of town and city centres.identified in Strategic and Local Development Plans. PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.3 4.3 Supporting Town Centre First Supporting The principle of ‘town centres first’ is well Town Centre First Text To breathe new life into town centres, the Welsh Government Text established in planning policy in relation to To breathe new life into town centres, the Welsh has adopted a ‘Town Centre First’ approach. This puts the retail developments. However, good Government has adopted a ‘Town Centre health and vibrancy of town centres as the starting point of planning can help us re-think the future of First’ approach. This puts the health and vibrancy of town locational decision-making. It also directs facilities and services town and city centres, which are moving centres as the starting point of locational decision- to where intended users can easily walk, cycle and/or use away from their traditional retail roles. They making. It also directs facilities and services to where public transport to access them. In accordance with policy 3, remain important focal points of communities intended users can easily walk, cycle and/or use public investments by the Welsh Government will reflect these and are increasingly becoming places to live transport to access them. In accordance with policy 3, principles. and work, centres of community and cultural investments by the Welsh Government will reflect these activity, and the focus for public services principles. The principle of ‘Town Centre First’ is well established in such as health and education. planning policy in relation to retail developments. However, The principle of ‘town centres first’Town Centre First’ is good planning can help us re-think the future of town and city Public service facilities include hospitals, well established in planning policy in relation to retail centres, which are moving away from their traditional retail primary healthcare facilities, libraries, developments. However, good planning can help us re- roles. The impact of Covid-19 on the retail sector is a further universities and colleges and any public think the future of town and city centres, which are driver towards making our town centres multi-functional sector organisation building which attracts moving away from their traditional retail roles. TheyThe places. Town centres remain important focal points of significant numbers of workers and visitors. impact of Covid-19 on the retail sector is a further driver communities and are increasingly becoming places to live, Local planning authorities, both urban and towards making our town centres multi-functional places. centres of community and cultural activity, and the focus for rural, should be confident in defining what Town centres remain important focal points of public services such as health and education. They are more constitutes development of ’a significant communities and are increasingly becoming places to than the extent of designated retail areas. scale’ for their area. Appropriate definitions live and work, centres of community and cultural activity, can be produced through an understanding and the focus for public services such as health and Commercial, retail, education, health, leisure and public service of the type and scale of development an education. They are more than the extent of designated facilities should be located within town and city centres. This area can expect, the quality of the public retail areas. policy applies to developments of a significant scale, which can transport services they will rely upon and broadly be defined as where the facility will serve a town, city or with local consultation. Public Commercial, retail, education, health, leisure and region-wide catchment. It is for planning authorities to public service facilities include hospitals, primary determine whether a development is considered to be of a healthcare facilities, libraries, universities and colleges significant scale. Planning Policy Wales sets out further and any public sector organisation building which requirements under ‘Town Centre First’ for retail developments. attractsshould be located within town and city centres. This policy applies to developments of a significant Planning authorities are encouraged to take a similar approach numbers of workers and visitors. Local scale, which can for smaller developments. It is important for local facilities to be broadly be defined as where the facility will serve a town, integrated within walkable, mixed use neighbourhoods, city or region-wide catchment. It is for planning particularly in or adjacent to local centres in accordance with authorities, both urban and rural, should be confident in policy 2. defining what constitutes to determine whether a development is considered to be of ’aa significant scale’ The policy relates to new developments and does not apply to for their area. Appropriate definitions can be produced extensions to existing facilities. through an understanding of the type and scale of development an area can expect, the quality of the scale. It is important that developments serving a town, city or region- Planning Policy Wales sets out further requirements wide catchment are well served by active travel infrastructure under ‘Town Centre First’ for retail developments. and public transport. Ideally this will be utilising existing public transport facilities, but can be achieved through improvements Planning authorities are encouraged to take a similar to services or the creation of a new bus route or train station. approach for smaller developments. It is important for local facilities to be integrated within walkable, mixed use A plan-led approach is the best way to identify the location for neighbourhoods, particularly in or adjacent to local these facilities. However, in the absence of a development plan centres in accordance with policy 2. allocation, a sequential approach must be used to determine planning applications. The Welsh Government can intervene in The policy relates to new developments and does not the planning application process where a town centre first apply to extensions to existing facilities. approach is not being followed. It is important that developments serving a town, city or region-wide catchment are well served by active travel infrastructure and public transport. Ideally this will be utilising existing public transport facilities, but can be achieved through improvements to services they will rely upon and with local consultation.or the creation of a new bus route or train station.

A plan-led approach is the best way to identify the location for these facilities. However, in the absence of a development plan allocation, a sequential approach must be used to determine planning applications. The Welsh Government can intervene in the planning application process where a town centre first approach is not being followed. Policy 7 Delivering Affordable Homes Policy 5 Delivering Affordable Homes Delivering Affordable Homes The Welsh Government will increase delivery of affordable The Welsh Government will increase delivery The Welsh Government will increase delivery of homes by ensuring that funding for these homes is effectively of affordable homes by ensuring that funding affordable homes by ensuring that funding for allocated and utilised. for affordable homes is effectively allocated affordablethese homes is effectively allocated and and utilised. utilised. Through their Strategic and Local Development Plans planning Strategic and Local Development Plans authorities should develop strong evidence based policy should develop strong evidence based policy Through their Strategic and Local Development Plans frameworks to deliver affordable housing, including setting frameworks to deliver affordable housing, planning authorities should develop strong evidence development plan targets based on regional estimates of including setting development plan targets based policy frameworks to deliver affordable housing, housing need and local assessments. In response to local and based on regional estimates of housing need including setting development plan targets based on regional needs, planning authorities should identify sites for and local assessments. In response to local regional estimates of housing need and local affordable housing led developments and explore all and regional needs, they should identify sites assessments. In response to local and regional needs, opportunities to increase the supply of affordable housing. for affordable housing led developments and theyplanning authorities should identify sites for explore all opportunities to increase the affordable housing led developments and explore all supply of affordable housing. opportunities to increase the supply of affordable housing. PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.2 4.2 4.2.25 – 4.2.34 4.2.25 – 4.2.34 Supporting Delivering Homes Supporting Delivering Affordable Homes Delivering Affordable Homes Text Providing housing in Wales at levels which meet our needs is a Text Providing housing in Wales at levels which Providing housing in Wales at levels which meet our key priority for the Welsh Government. The planning system meet our needs is a priority. There is a needs is a key priority. for the Welsh Government. The must facilitate the provision of additional market and affordable complex picture of provision and the planning system must facilitate the provision of additional housing. There is a complex picture of housing need and opportunities people have vary significantly market and affordable housing. There is a complex provision with the opportunities people have varying depending on income and where they live in picture of housing need and provision andwith the significantly depending on income and where they live in Wales. Wales. opportunities people have varyvarying significantly The Welsh Government has published a range of ‘Estimates of depending on income and where they live in Wales. additional housing need (2019-based)’ over a twenty year The Welsh Government has published a period up until 2038/39 (mid-year to mid-year). The figures are range of ‘Estimates of housing need in wales’ The Welsh Government has published a range of available at a national level and for the four regions (the North / based on different demographic scenarios. ‘Estimates of additional housing need (2019-based)’in Mid Wales / the South West / the South East). Estimates of The central estimate suggests a need for an wales’ over a twenty year period up until 2038/39 (mid- housing need inform plans and strategies at a national, regional additional 114,000 homes across Wales up to year to mid-year). The figures are available at a national and local level. 2038. During the initial five years (2018/19 to level and for the four regions (the North / Mid Wales / the The national and regional estimates of need do not reflect 2022/23) it is estimated that on average South West / the South East). Estimates of housing need future policies or events and are not a Housing Requirement for 8,300 additional homes will be required inform plans and strategies at a national, regional and Wales or the regions. However, the estimates do provide part of annually, with more than half (57%) of these local level. the evidence and context on which housing policy and homes needed in South East Wales, almost a The national and regional estimates of need do not reflect requirements can be based. The estimates of market and quarter (24%) in Mid and South West Wales future policies or events and are not a Housing affordable housing need should inform the housing and 19% in North Wales. Requirement for Wales or the regions. However, the requirements set out in Strategic and Local Development Plans estimates do provide part of the evidence and context on and it is expected the housing requirements will differ from the These estimates also indicate that the which housing policy and requirements can be based on estimates of housing need. provision of affordable homes should become different demographic scenarios. The. The estimates of Over the next 20 years (2019-2039) the estimate of the a key focus for housing delivery. It is market and affordable housing need should inform the additional housing need in Wales, under the central estimate, is estimated under the central estimate that on housing requirements set out in Strategic and Local around 110,000. During the initial five years (2019/20 to average 47% of additional homes should be Development Plans and it is expected the housing 2023/24) it is estimated that on average 7,400 additional homes affordable housing (social housing or requirements will differ from the estimates of housing will be required annually, with close to two-thirds of these intermediate rent) throughout 2018/19 to need. homes needed in South East Wales, just over a fifth in South 2022/23, with the remaining 53% being Over the next 20 years (2019-2039) the estimate of the West Wales and the remaining additional homes largely in market housing. This represents an average additional housing need in Wales, under the central North Wales, with only a relatively small number needed in Mid of approximately 3,900 affordable homes and estimate suggests a need for an additional 114,000 Wales. 4,400 market homes per year over the five homes across Wales up to 2038., is around 110,000. (The sum of the regional estimates of additional housing need year period. During the initial five years (2018/192019/20 to may differ slightly from the Wales estimate.) 2022/232023/24) it is estimated that on average The housing need estimates also indicate that the provision of The scale of the housing challenge is 8,3007,400 additional homes will be required annually, affordable homes should become a key focus for housing illustrated in the Chart below, which with more than half (57%)close to two-thirds of these delivery. It is estimated over the next five years (2019/20 – demonstrates that delivery of new homes homes needed in South East Wales, almost a quarter 2023/24), under the central estimate, that on average the over the last ten years has not reached the (24%) in Mid and South West Wales and 19% in North estimated annual additional homes are split almost equally level of additional homes that it is now WalesSouth East Wales, just over a fifth in South West between affordable housing (social housing or intermediate estimated are required over the next five Wales and the remaining additional homes largely in rent) and market housing. This represents an average of years. approximately 3,500 (48%) affordable homes and 3,900 (52%) North Wales, with only a relatively small number needed market homes per year over the five year period. To address both the ‘delivery gap’ and in Mid Wales. The chart below illustrates the decline in the delivery of housing need in Wales, a shift in the delivery These(The sum of the regional estimates of additional affordable homes and indicates the change in the balance model is required by building affordable housing need may differ slightly from the Wales between market and affordable housing which is required over homes at scale and pace. The gap has estimate.) the next five years. widened since greater reliance has been The housing need estimates also indicate that the While market housing continues to play a vital and important placed on the private sector to meet this basic provision of affordable homes should become a key focus role in responding to housing need, to address the identified human need. To address this we will support for housing delivery. It is estimated over the next five housing need in Wales a shift in the delivery model is required a more balanced approach with local years (2019/20 – 2023/24), under the central estimate, by building affordable homes at scale and pace. As illustrated, authorities, registered social landlords and that on average 47% ofthe estimated annual additional the delivery of homes has decreased since greater reliance has Small and Medium sized construction and homes should beare split almost equally between been placed on the private sector to meet this basic human building enterprises encouraged to build more affordable housing (social housing or intermediate rent) need. To address this we will support a more balanced homes. The reuse of publicly owned land will throughout 2018/19 to 2022/23, with the remaining 53% approach with local authorities, registered social landlords and be important to the delivery of these homes. being and market housing. This represents an average of small and medium sized construction and building companies approximately 3,9500 (48%) affordable homes and encouraged to build more homes. The reuse of publicly owned The planning system has a long established 4,4003,900 (52%) market homes per year over the five land will be important to the delivery of these homes, especially role in the delivery of affordable housing. We year period. social housing provision (refer to policy 3). are committed to ensuring that new housing The planning system has a long established role in the delivery meets the needs of all members of society The scale of the housing challenge is illustratedchart of affordable housing. We are committed to ensuring that new especially those unable to afford to buy on below illustrates the decline in the Chart below, which housing meets the needs of all members of society especially the open market. Sustainable places are demonstrates that delivery of newaffordable homes those unable to afford to buy on the open market. Echoing the inclusive and welcoming to all; they do not overand indicates the last ten years has not reached strategic placemaking principles on page XX, sustainable exclude sections of the community or create change in the level of additional homes that it is now places are inclusive and welcoming to all; they do not exclude ghettos of the affluent and the poor. The estimated arebalance between market and affordable sections of the community or create ghettos of the affluent and Welsh Government is committed to housing which is required over the next five years. the poor. The Welsh Government is committed to increasing the increasing the delivery of affordable housing delivery of affordable housing, with a focus on social housing, in in the areas where it is needed and will use ToWhile market housing continues to play a vital and the areas where it is needed and will use its funding, land, its funding, land, planning and housing important role in responding to housing need, to address planning and housing policies to drive delivery. We recognise policies to drive delivery. We recognise that both the ‘delivery gap’ and identified housing need in that the affordability of housing is not uniform across Wales and the affordability of housing is not uniform Wales, a shift in the delivery model is required by building different responses will be needed in different parts of Wales to across Wales and different responses will be affordable homes at scale and pace. The gap has meet the needs of local communities. needed in different parts of Wales to meet the widenedAs illustrated, the delivery of homes has The Welsh Government will work with everyone involved in the needs of local communities. decreased since greater reliance has been placed on the planning and delivery of affordable housing from the public, private sector to meet this basic human need. To address private and third sectors to achieve these aims. The Welsh Government will work with this we will support a more balanced approach with local everyone involved in the planning and authorities, registered social landlords and Smallsmall The text will be supported by an updated graphic showing delivery of affordable housing, including those and Mediummedium sized construction and building historic rates of affordable housing delivery in the public, private and third sectors to enterprisescompanies encouraged to build more homes. achieve these aims. The reuse of publicly owned land will be important to the delivery of these homes., especially social housing provision (refer to policy 3).

The planning system has a long established role in the delivery of affordable housing. We are committed to ensuring that new housing meets the needs of all members of society especially those unable to afford to buy on the open market. SustainableEchoing the strategic placemaking principles on page XX, sustainable places are inclusive and welcoming to all; they do not exclude sections of the community or create ghettos of the affluent and the poor. The Welsh Government is committed to increasing the delivery of affordable housing, with a focus on social housing, in the areas where it is needed and will use its funding, land, planning and housing policies to drive delivery. We recognise that the affordability of housing is not uniform across Wales and different responses will be needed in different parts of Wales to meet the needs of local communities.

The Welsh Government will work with everyone involved in the planning and delivery of affordable housing, including those in from the public, private and third sectors to achieve these aims.

The text will be supported by an updated graphic showing historic rates of affordable housing delivery Policy 8 Flooding Flooding Flood risk management that enables and supports sustainable Flood risk management that enables and supports strategic growth and regeneration in National and Regional sustainable strategic growth and regeneration in National Growth Areas will be supported. The Welsh Government will and Regional Growth Areas will be supported. The work with Flood Risk Management Authorities and developers Welsh Government will work with Flood Risk to plan and invest in new and improved infrastructure, Management Authorities and developers to plan and promoting nature-based solutions as a priority. Opportunities invest in new and improved infrastructure, promoting for multiple social, economic and environmental benefits must nature-based solutions as a priority. Opportunities for be maximised when investing in flood risk management multiple social, economic and environmental benefits infrastructure. It must be ensured that projects do not have must be maximised when investing in flood risk adverse impacts on international and national statutory management infrastructure. It must be ensured that designated sites for nature conservation, and the features for projects do not have adverse impacts on international and which they have been designated. national statutory designated sites for nature conservation, and the features for which they have been designated.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 6.5 6.5 6.6 6.6 Supporting Sustainable development choices Sustainable development choices Text Flood risk is a constraining factor to development, especially as Flood risk is a constraining factor to development, many of our towns and cities are on the coast or located especially as many of our towns and cities are on the alongside major rivers. The likelihood of rising sea levels and coast or located alongside major rivers. The likelihood of increased rainfall caused by climate change means the risk of rising sea levels and increased rainfall caused by climate flooding is projected to increase over the lifetime of change means the risk of flooding is projected to increase development and sustainable solutions will be required. over the lifetime of development and sustainable Flooding can pose a risk to life and has the potential to cause solutions will be required. Flooding can pose a risk to life devastating impacts to livelihoods and to property. The Welsh and has the potential to cause devastating impacts to Government therefore has a robust planning policy that directs livelihoods and to property. The Welsh Government development away from areas at risk of flooding. therefore has a robust planning policy that directs Parts of the three National Growth Areas face flood risks and development away from areas at risk of flooding. contain communities located in areas susceptible to flooding Parts of the three National Growth Areas face flood risks from rivers and the sea. The ambition to grow and regenerate and contain communities located in areas susceptible to places within the National Growth Areas will require strategic flooding from rivers and the sea. The ambition to grow decisions on the location of development. It is not appropriate and regenerate places within the National Growth Areas to develop flood risk management infrastructure to enable new will require strategic decisions on the location of development on previously unused land. The Welsh development. It is not appropriate to develop flood risk Government and flood risk management authorities will focus management infrastructure to enable new development on delivering nature-based schemes and on enhancing existing on previously unused land. The Welsh Government and defences, to improve protection to developed areas. This can flood risk management authorities will focus on delivering enable opportunities for the redevelopment of brownfield land in nature-based schemes and on enhancing existing Growth Areas. The feasibility and public cost of protecting defences, to improve protection to developed areas. This people and property in the short and long terms must be fully can enable opportunities for the redevelopment of considered, with well-being placed at the centre of the decision- brownfield land in Growth Areas. The feasibility and making process. It is important that proposals do not cause public cost of protecting people and property in the short unacceptable impacts on the surrounding natural environment. and long terms must be fully considered, with well-being The identification of National and Regional Growth Areas allows placed at the centre of the decision-making process. It is the relevant authorities to take a strategic approach to selecting important that proposals do not cause unacceptable areas to develop. This will mean prioritising places that are not impacts on the surrounding natural environment. at flood risk, followed by places where flood risk can be The identification of National and Regional Growth Areas managed in an acceptable way. Investments in flood risk allows the relevant authorities to take a strategic management infrastructure when planned and developed on a approach to selecting areas to develop. This will mean strategic and catchment basis offer better value and greater prioritising places that are not at flood risk, followed by benefits. Coastal defences and nature-based solutions on high places where flood risk can be managed in an acceptable ground in particular should bring benefits to a wide area and way. Investments in flood risk management infrastructure should be planned and delivered on a multi-agency basis. when planned and developed on a strategic and The Welsh Government favours nature-based flood risk catchment basis offer better value and greater benefits. management over engineered solutions wherever possible, Coastal defences and nature-based solutions on high working in harmony with aspirations to develop green ground in particular should bring benefits to a wide area infrastructure and to provide a net benefit for biodiversity. Flood and should be planned and delivered on a multi-agency risk management authorities and other developers of flood risk basis. management infrastructure are required to maximise The Welsh Government favours nature-based flood risk opportunities to develop multiple public benefits including management over engineered solutions wherever improved public realm, active travel facilities and securing possible, working in harmony with aspirations to develop green infrastructure. green infrastructure and to provide a net benefit for biodiversity. Flood risk management authorities and Policy 8 will be supported by a map showing flood warning other developers of flood risk management infrastructure areas are required to maximise opportunities to develop multiple public benefits including improved public realm, active travel facilities and securing green infrastructure.

Policy 8 will be supported by a map showing flood warning areas

Policy 9 Resilient Ecological Networks and Green Infrastructure Policy 8 Strategic framework for biodiversity Strategic framework for biodiversity enhancement To ensure the enhancement of biodiversity, the resilience of enhancement and ecosystem resilience and ecosystem resilience ecosystems and the provision of green infrastructure, the Welsh To ensure the enhancement of biodiversity Resilient Ecological Networks and Green Government will work with key partners to: and the resilience of ecosystems, the Welsh Infrastructure Government and its key partners will identify: To ensure the enhancement of biodiversity and, the • identify areas which should be safeguarded and created resilience of ecosystems and the provision of green as ecological networks for their importance for adaptation - areas which could be safeguarded as infrastructure, the Welsh Government and itswill work to climate change, for habitat protection, restoration or ecological networks for their potential with key partners willto: creation, to protect species, or which provide key importance for adaptation to climate ecosystems services, to ensure they are not unduly change or other pressures, for habitat • identify: compromised by future development; and restoration or creation, or which • identify opportunities where existing and potential green provide key ecosystems services, to areas which couldshould be safeguarded and infrastructure could be maximised as part of placemaking, ensure they are not unduly created as ecological networks for their potential requiring the use of nature-based solutions as a key compromised by future development; importance for adaptation to climate change or other mechanism for securing sustainable growth, ecological and pressures, for habitat protection, restoration or connectivity, social equality and well-being. - opportunities where strategic green creation, to protect species, or which provide key Planning authorities should include these areas and/or infrastructure could be maximised as ecosystems services, to ensure they are not unduly opportunities in their development plan strategies and policies part of development proposals, compromised by future development; and in order to promote and safeguard the functions and requiring the use of nature based • identify opportunities where strategicexisting and opportunities they provide. solutions as a key mechanism for potential green infrastructure could be maximised as In all cases, action towards securing the maintenance and securing sustainable growth, part of development proposalsplacemaking, enhancement of biodiversity (to provide a net benefit), the ecological connectivity, social equality requiring the use of nature -based solutions as a key resilience of ecosystems and green infrastructure assets must and public well-being. mechanism for securing sustainable growth, be demonstrated as part of development proposals through innovative, nature-based approaches to site planning and the Planning authorities should include these ecological connectivity, social equality and public design of the built environment. sites in their development plan strategies and well-being. policies in order to promote and safeguard Planning authorities should include these sitesareas the functions and opportunities they provide. and/or opportunities in their development plan strategies and policies in order to promote and safeguard the In all cases, cumulative action towards functions and opportunities they provide. securing the enhancement of biodiversity and the resilience of ecosystems should be In all cases, cumulative action towards securing the demonstrated as part of development maintenance and enhancement of biodiversity and (to proposals through innovative, nature-based provide a net benefit), the resilience of ecosystems approaches to site planning and the design of shouldand green infrastructure assets must be the built environment. demonstrated as part of development proposals through innovative, nature-based approaches to site planning and the design of the built environment.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 6.2 6.2 6.4 6.4 Supporting Planning Policy Wales sets out a range of policies to maintain Supporting Supporting Strategic Green Infrastructure Supporting Strategic Green Infrastructure Text and enhance biodiversity, promote the resilience of Text The Welsh Government is committed to Planning Policy Wales sets out a range of policies to ecosystems, including the stepwise approach, and to maximise reversing the decline in biodiversity and maintain and enhance biodiversity, promote the resilience the provision of green infrastructure. The strategic focus of increasing the resilience of our ecosystems. of ecosystems, including the stepwise approach, and to Future Wales on urban growth requires an increased emphasis In collaboration with our partners, including maximise the provision of green infrastructure. The on biodiversity enhancement (net benefit) in order to ensure Natural Resources Wales and local strategic focus of Future Wales on urban growth requires that growth is sustainable. authorities, we will take strategic action to an increased emphasis on biodiversity enhancement (net In collaboration with our partners, including Natural Resources secure biodiversity enhancements, to benefit) in order to ensure that growth is sustainable. Wales and local authorities, we require strategic action to safeguard ecological networks, and to In collaboration with our partners, including Natural safeguard ecological networks and secure biodiversity maximise the use of green infrastructure and Resources Wales and local authorities, we require enhancements (net-benefit). We recognise the need to nature based solutions. Effective action is strategic action to safeguard ecological networks and maximise the use of green infrastructure and nature-based generally best undertaken at a regional or secure biodiversity enhancements (net-benefit). We solutions as part of shaping urban growth, supporting rural local level reflecting individual opportunities. recognise the need to maximise the use of green communities and responding to the twin challenges of infrastructure and nature-based solutions as part of addressing the climate emergency and reversing biodiversity Planning Policy Wales sets out a range of shaping urban growth, supporting rural communities and decline. Effective action should be undertaken at a regional or policies to maintain and enhance biodiversity responding to the twin challenges of addressing the local level reflecting individual opportunities. Cumulative action and promote the resilience of ecosystems, climate emergency and reversing biodiversity decline. to improve and develop ecological networks and green including the stepwise approach. The NDF’s Effective action should be undertaken at a regional or infrastructure will contribute towards improved national scale strategic focus on urban growth requires an local level reflecting individual opportunities. Cumulative resilience. increased emphasis on biodiversity action to improve and develop ecological networks and The Welsh Government is committed to reversing the decline in enhancement in order to ensure that the green infrastructure will contribute towards improved biodiversity and increasing the resilience of our ecosystems. approach is sustainable. national scale resilience. Resilient ecological networks are vital for nature recovery and The Welsh Government is committed to reversing the are networks of habitat in good ecological condition linking We need to expand and make connections decline in biodiversity and increasing the resilience of our protected sites and other biodiversity hotspots across the wider between our designated sites to increase the ecosystems. In collaboration with our partners, including landscape, providing maximum benefit for biodiversity and well- ability of species and ecosystems to adapt to Natural Resources Wales and local authorities, we will being. Such networks have existing, or potential for, healthy the pressures of climate change and take strategic action to secure biodiversity resilient ecosystems which provide a range of important pollution. Strategic and Local Development enhancements, to safeguard ecological networks, and to ecosystem services as well as allowing the movement of Plans should consider how designated sites maximise the use of green infrastructure and nature species across landscapes in response to climate change. They fit within the wider network of habitats, and based solutions. Effective action is generally best are diverse, of sufficient scale and extent, in good functional assess what action needs to be taken to undertaken at a regional or local level reflecting individual condition and part of connected networks, to enable species safeguard land which may be needed to opportunitiesResilient ecological networks are vital for and habitats to adapt to disturbance and change. connect or enlarge those sites in order to nature recovery and are networks of habitat in good There is a need to expand and make connections between contribute to their long-term resilience, to ecological condition linking protected sites and other designated sites to increase the ability of species and contribute to the wider resilience of ecological biodiversity hotspots across the wider landscape, ecosystems to adapt to the pressures of climate change and providing maximum benefit for biodiversity and well- pollution. While protected sites are critically important to the networks, or to protect and enhance being. Such networks have existing, or potential for, long term resilience of our ecosystems, they should not be seen ecological services. healthy resilient ecosystems which provide a range of as islands within the landscape, but should instead form the important ecosystem services as well as allowing the nodes of large-scale resilient and functional ecological networks Safeguarding is intended to ensure that areas movement of species across landscapes in response to and green infrastructure. of land that are potentially important for climate change. They are diverse, of sufficient scale and Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider how expanding or connecting ecological networks, extent, in good functional condition and part of connected designated sites fit within the wider network of habitats and adapting to climate change or other networks, to enable species and habitats to adapt to assess what action needs to be taken to safeguard land which pressures, or which provide key ecological disturbance and change. may be needed to connect or enlarge those sites. Any actions services, are not unduly compromised by should: development. Safeguarding does not Planning Policy Wales sets out a range of policies to  contribute to their long-term resilience; necessarily prohibit development, but sets out maintain and enhance biodiversity and promote the  contribute to the wider resilience of ecological networks; a requirement to consider both the long-term resilience of ecosystems, including the stepwise  protect and enhance ecosystems services; and future land needs of the habitats and species approach. The NDF’s strategic focus on urban growth  ensure the provision of green infrastructure for social, it is intended to protect and improve, and the requires an increased emphasis on biodiversity cultural and economic benefits. present and predicted future needs for enhancement in order to ensure that the approachThere particular ecosystem services and functions. is sustainable. Safeguarding will ensure that areas of land that are potentially Areas may be safeguarded for a wide variety important for expanding or connecting ecological networks, of reasons, including the need to increase the Wea need to expand and make connections between our adapting to climate change or other pressures, or which provide resilience or connectivity of certain habitat designated sites to increase the ability of species and key ecological services, are not compromised by development. types, such as species rich meadows. ecosystems to adapt to the pressures of climate change Safeguarding should in the first instance be undertaken at a and pollution. While protected sites are critically important large scale, reflecting the landscape scale approach advocated Local authorities and Natural Resources to the long term resilience of our ecosystems, they should by Welsh Government National Resources Policy. Wales should work together to ensure that not be seen as islands within the landscape, but should Safeguarding does not prohibit development, but sets out a appropriate action is taken to safeguard sites instead form the nodes of large-scale resilient and requirement to consider both the long-term land needs of the both within and beyond their administrative functional ecological networks and green infrastructure. habitats and species it is intended to protect and improve, and boundaries. Safeguarded areas should be Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider the present and predicted future needs for ecosystem services identified through the Green Infrastructure how designated sites fit within the wider network of and functions. Assessment, and set out in the development habitats, and assess what action needs to be taken to plan. safeguard land which may be needed to connect or Safeguarding enables dynamic responses and long-term enlarge those sites in order to contribute to their long- actions. This is important because it is not always possible to Strategic green infrastructure in and term resilience, to contribute to the wider resilience of be certain or prescriptive about the most sustainable approach around urban areas ecological networks, or to protect and enhance ecological to take in any given case. Safeguarding enables the planning services.. Any actions should: system to take action which can complement wider approaches Urban ecosystems play a vital role in  contribute to their long-term resilience; to promote the sustainable management of natural resources. supporting physical and mental well-being.  contribute to the wider resilience of ecological When coupled with more specific allocations for habitat creation There are significant positive links between networks; or green infrastructure, it will mean positive action to reverse mental well-being and access to green space  protect and enhance ecosystems services; and biodiversity decline, address the climate emergency and in urban areas, and we receive benefits not  ensure the provision of green infrastructure for provide wider social, cultural and economic benefits can be only by being more active, but also just social, cultural and economic benefits. achieved at all scales. through being in and near green spaces. Areas may be safeguarded for a wide variety of reasons. These Even limited open green space in dense Safeguarding is intended towill ensure that areas of land include increasing the resilience or connectivity of certain urban areas can provide benefits to large that are potentially important for expanding or connecting habitat types, such as species rich meadows, or creating numbers of people, provided that it is high ecological networks, adapting to climate change or other habitat such as woodland, or for the provision of green quality and accessible. pressures, or which provide key ecological services, are infrastructure. Overall, safeguarding areas should contribute not unduly compromised by development. Safeguarding towards the sustainability of key ecosystem services such as As the population of Wales becomes should in the first instance be undertaken at a large scale, flood water regulation, tourism and recreation, and physical and increasingly urban, the opportunity to reflecting the landscape scale approach advocated by mental well-being. As part of a green infrastructure assessment, optimise well-being benefits from ecosystems Welsh Government National Resources Policy. broad opportunities for habitat protection, restoration or creation will be greatest in these areas. Through the Safeguarding does not necessarily prohibit development, and the provision of green infrastructure may be specified as innovative use of nature-based solutions, and but sets out a requirement to consider both the long-term part of identifying areas to be safeguarded or may take the form by increasing well-integrated green future land needs of the habitats and species it is of more specific allocations. This may be achieved, for infrastructure in and around urban areas, intended to protect and improve, and the present and example, through the provision of buffer areas around protected development can restore natural features and predicted future needs for particular ecosystem services sites or stepping stones connecting habitats or through the processes into cities and landscapes, and functions. Areas may be safeguarded for a wide identification of green infrastructure in and around urban areas. maintain and enhance the strategic variety of reasons, including the need to increase the As the population of Wales becomes increasingly urban, the functioning of our natural resources and resilience or connectivity of certain habitat types, such as opportunity to optimise well-being benefits from green ecological networks, and provide locally species rich meadows. infrastructure will be greatest in and around these areas. accessible, high quality green spaces and Innovative use of nature-based solutions and integrating green corridors. Local authorities and Natural Resources Wales should infrastructure in and around urban areas can help restore work together to ensure that appropriate action is taken to natural features and processes into cities and landscapes. Strategic Green Infrastructure mapping safeguard sites both within and beyond their Providing locally accessible, high quality green spaces and administrative boundaries. Safeguarded areas should be corridors helps to maintain and enhance the strategic Natural Resources Wales have produced identified through the Green Infrastructure Assessment, functioning of our natural resources and ecological networks indicative maps to illustrate national and set out in the development plan. and address physical and mental well-being. The real-life biodiversity themes. They provide the starting importance of urban green spaces was demonstrated when point for considering enhancement as part of Strategic green infrastructure in and around urban people were restricted to taking exercise in immediately local green infrastructure assessments and a areas green spaces during the Covid-19 lockdown. means of ensuring that cumulative action is Local authorities must work together and, along with Natural taken to secure enhancement through Urban ecosystems play a vital role in supporting physical Resources Wales and stakeholders, provide green development proposals. and mental well-being. There are significant positive links infrastructure and safeguarding sites within and beyond their between mental well-being and access to green space in administrative boundaries. Safeguarded areas and any specific Area Statements will develop this approach urban areas, and we receive benefits not only by being allocations should be identified through the Green Infrastructure by identifying key challenges and more active, but also just through being in and near green Assessment and set out in the relevant development plan. opportunities to strengthen ecological spaces. Even limited open green space in dense urban Ecological networks and green infrastructure mapping networks and ecosystem services. They will areas can provide benefits to large numbers of people, Indicative maps produced by Natural Resources Wales provide a local scale evidence base and provided that it is high quality and accessible. illustrate national natural resources themes including ecological mapping of key environmental themes, and networks, biodiversity hotspots, ecosystem services and will identify areas where taking action at the Safeguarding enables dynamic responses and long-term opportunities for habitat creation. The maps provide the starting right scale can maximise benefits. Any priority actions. This is important because it is not always point for considering resilience of ecological networks for nature areas for action identified in Area Statements possible to be certain or prescriptive about the most recovery and enhancement (net benefit) as part of green are a material planning consideration, and sustainable approach to take in any given case. infrastructure assessments. They are a means to ensure that development plans should set out appropriate Safeguarding enables the planning system to take action cumulative action is taken to secure enhancement as part of policies to safeguard and connect these which can complement wider approaches to promote the proposing sustainable growth and development proposals. areas, and to protect and enhance their sustainable management of natural resources. When Area Statements develop this approach by identifying key identified key ecological functions and coupled with more specific allocations for habitat creation challenges and opportunities to strengthen ecological networks features. or green infrastructure, it will mean positive action to and ecosystem services. They provide local scale evidence and reverse biodiversity decline, address the climate mapping of key environmental themes, and identify areas Regional and local interventions can emergency and provide wider social, cultural and where action at the right scale can maximise benefits. Any collectively contribute towards increasing the economic benefits can be achieved at all scales. priority areas for action identified in Area Statements are a resilience of our national ecological networks. Areas may be safeguarded for a wide variety of reasons. material planning consideration and development plans should The Welsh Government expects Strategic These include increasing the resilience or connectivity of set out appropriate policies to safeguard and connect these and Local Development Plans to set out certain habitat types, such as species rich meadows, or areas. Plans should also protect and enhance their identified strategies that contribute to these aims creating habitat such as woodland, or for the provision of key ecological functions and features. through their Green Infrastructure green infrastructure. Overall, safeguarding areas should Regional and local interventions collectively contribute towards Assessments, and form an appropriate policy contribute towards the sustainability of key ecosystem increasing the resilience of our national ecological networks. response. services such as flood water regulation, tourism and Strategic and Local Development Plans must be informed by recreation, and physical and mental well-being. As part of Green Infrastructure Assessments and contribute to these aims Woodlands provide a wide range of benefits a green infrastructure assessment, broad opportunities through appropriate policies. for society, from abating carbon emissions for habitat protection, restoration or creation and the and reducing flood risk in sensitive locations, provision of green infrastructure may be specified as part Policy 9 will be supported by a map showing National Natural to being increasingly important as community of identifying areas to be safeguarded or may take the Resources resources, and providing places for active form of more specific allocations. This may be achieved, recreation, education and lifelong learning. for example, through the provision of buffer areas around Our woods and forests underpin many protected sites or stepping stones connecting habitats or economic activities and sectors and have a through the identification of green infrastructure in and key role to play in replacing fossil fuels, around urban areas. storing carbon and helping us to cope with As the population of Wales becomes increasingly urban, the effects of a changing climate. The ‘right the opportunity to optimise well-being benefits from tree in the right place’ plays a key role in ecosystemsgreen infrastructure will be greatest in and realising these benefits. around these areas. Through the innovativeInnovative use of nature-based solutions, and by increasing well- integratedintegrating green infrastructure in and around urban areas, development can help restore natural features and processes into cities and landscapes,. Providing locally accessible, high quality green spaces and corridors helps to maintain and enhance the strategic functioning of our natural resources and ecological networks, and and address physical and mental well- being. The real-life importance of urban green spaces was demonstrated when people were restricted to taking exercise in immediately local green spaces during the Covid-19 lockdown. Local authorities must work together and, along with Natural Resources Wales and stakeholders, provide locally accessible, high quality green spaces and corridorsgreen infrastructure and safeguarding sites within and beyond their administrative boundaries. Safeguarded areas and any specific allocations should be identified through the Green Infrastructure Assessment and set out in the relevant development plan.

Strategic Green InfrastructureEcological networks and green infrastructure mapping

Indicative maps produced by Natural Resources Wales have produced indicative maps to illustrate national biodiversity natural resources themes. They including ecological networks, biodiversity hotspots, ecosystem services and opportunities for habitat creation. The maps provide the starting point for considering resilience of ecological networks for nature recovery and enhancement (net benefit) as part of green infrastructure assessments and. They are a means of ensuringto ensure that cumulative action is taken to secure enhancement throughas part of proposing sustainable growth and development proposals.

Area Statements will develop this approach by identifying key challenges and opportunities to strengthen ecological networks and ecosystem services. They will provide a local scale evidence base and mapping of key environmental themes, and will identify areas where taking action at the right scale can maximise benefits. Any priority areas for action identified in Area Statements are a material planning consideration, and development plans should set out appropriate policies to safeguard and connect these areas, and to. Plans should also protect and enhance their identified key ecological functions and features.

Regional and local interventions can collectively contribute towards increasing the resilience of our national ecological networks. The Welsh Government expects Strategic and Local Development Plans to set out strategies that contribute to these aims through theirmust be informed by Green Infrastructure Assessments, and form an contribute to these aims through appropriate policy response.policies.

Woodlands provide a wide range of benefits for society, from abating carbon emissions and reducing flood risk in sensitive locations, to being increasingly important as community resources, and providing places for active recreation, education and lifelong learning. Our woods and forests underpin many economic activities and sectors and have a key role to play in replacing fossil fuels, storing carbon and helping us to cope with the effects of a changing climate. The ‘right tree in the right place’ plays a key role in realising these benefits.

Policy 9 will be supported by a map showing National Natural Resources

Section or Updated version Draft NDF Draft NDF - Section or Policy Tracked Changed Version Policy – Section Number or Policy Number Policy 10 International Connectivity Policy 20 Port of Holyhead International Connectivity The Welsh Government will work with port The Welsh Government identifies the following Strategic operators, local authorities and investors The Welsh Government Port of identifies the following Gateways to facilitate international connectivity: to support the development of the port and Strategic Gateways to facilitate international connectivity: facilitate new investment in order to  Cardiff Airport; ensure that its strategic gateway role is  Cardiff Airport;  Holyhead Port; maintained and enhanced. Investment to  Holyhead Port;  Haven Waterway, including the Ports of Milford Haven improve the port’s capacity to  Haven Waterway, including the Ports of Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock; and accommodate cruise ships is supported. and Pembroke Dock; and  Fishguard Port.  Fishguard Port. New development around the port should The Welsh Government will work with the operators, investors be carefully managed to ensure that future The Welsh Government will work with portthe operators, and local authorities to support Strategic Gateways and expansion and change at the port is not investors and local authorities and investors to support the maintain their international connectivity roles. constrained or compromised. development of the port and facilitate new investment in order to ensure that its strategic gateway role is maintained Strategic and Local Development Plans should support the Policy 25 Haven Waterway and enhanced. Investment Strategic Gateways and maintain Strategic Gateways by maximising the benefits they provide to The Welsh Government supports their international connectivity roles. their respective regions and Wales. New development around continued operations and future the Strategic Gateways should be carefully managed to ensure development at Haven Waterway. Strategic and Local Development Plans should support the their operation is not constrained or compromised. Strategic and Local Development Plans Strategic Gateways by maximising the benefits they provide should support its growth and seek to to improve the port’s capacity to accommodate cruise ships is maximise the benefits it provides to the supported. region and Wales. The Welsh Government will work with operators, local authorities their respective regions and Wales. New development and investors to support and facilitate around the portStrategic Gateways should be carefully appropriate new development. managed to ensure that future expansion and change at the porttheir operation is not constrained or compromised. Policy 32 Cardiff Airport The Welsh Government supports the Haven Waterway growth and development of Cardiff Airport. The Welsh Government supports continued operations and Proposals to expand the capacity of the future development at Haven Waterway. airport; to provide new and improved Strategic and Local Development Plans should support its airport facilities and passenger services; growth and seek to maximise the benefits it provides to the and to improve transport links to the region and Wales. The Welsh Government will work with airport are supported. Improvements to operators, local authorities and investors to support and accessibility are supported and should facilitate appropriate new development. prioritise a modal shift from the private car to sustainable transport modes including public transport. Development of land Cardiff Airport adjacent to Cardiff Airport which is part of The Welsh Government supports the growth and the Enterprise Zone is supported where it development of Cardiff Airport. Proposals to expand the supports the functions of the airport. New capacity of the airport; to provide new and improved airport development around the airport should be facilities and passenger services; and to improve transport carefully managed to ensure future links to the airport are supported. Improvements to expansion and change at the airport is not accessibility are supported and should prioritise a modal shift constrained. from the private car to sustainable transport modes including public transport. Development of land adjacent to Cardiff Airport which is part of the Enterprise Zone is supported where it supports the functions of the airport. New development around the airport should be carefully managed to ensure future expansion and change at the airport is not constrained. PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.1 4.1 5.3 5.3 Supporting A connected society and economy Supporting The region is served by ports at Holyhead A connected society and economy Text Text and Mostyn. The Welsh Government The new Wales Transport Strategy sets out the Welsh recognises the importance of the port at The region is servednew Wales Transport Strategy sets out Government’s vision, priorities and desired outcomes for Holyhead to Anglesey, North Wales, the Welsh Government’s vision, priorities and desired transport. It is aligned with Future Wales and supports the Wales, the wider UK and Ireland. outcomes for transport. It is aligned with Future Wales and spatial strategy which directs where new development and supports the spatial strategy which directs where new infrastructure investment will be focused. A National Transport Holyhead is a major regional asset and an development and infrastructure investment will be focused. A Delivery Plan will support the delivery of the Wales Transport important gateway to Wales and can be National Transport Delivery Plan will support the delivery of Strategy and Future Wales. the first experience people have of visiting the Wales Transport Strategy and Future Wales. Wales. It is important they have a positive Future Wales and the Wales Transport Strategy should be experience. Strategic and Local Future Wales and the Wales Transport Strategy should be used together and an integrated approach taken to their Development Plans should consider and used together and an integrated approach taken to their implementation at the regional and local levels. This is critical plan for its future development needs and implementation at the regional and local levels. This is critical to ensure new development is built in sustainable locations maximise the opportunities it provides to to ensure new development is built in sustainable locations and supported by the active travel and public transport support growth across the region. A new and supported by the active travel and public transport infrastructure and services required to enable people to live cruise terminal can provide enhanced infrastructure and services required to enable people to live active and healthy lives. Taking an integrated approach is also facilities for ships and passengers and be active and healthy lives. Taking an integrated approach is key to ensuring new development provides the critical mass of a gateway for visitors to the north of also key to ensuring new development provides the critical people needed to help fund and sustain infrastructure and Wales. Mostyn plays an important role in mass of people needed to help fund and sustain services, as well as ensuring average levels of airborne supporting the off-shore renewable energy infrastructure and services, as well as ensuring average pollution continue to be reduced. sector. levels of airborne pollution continue to be reduced.

Connecting Wales to the World The Haven Waterway has a unique Connecting Wales to the World combination of a natural harbour, long The Strategic Gateways are critical to the effective movement established industries and the potential for The Strategic Gateways are critical to the effective movement of people and cargo as part of networks or supply chains new strategic development. Development of people and cargo as part of networks or supply chains within their respective regions, Wales and the UK. They have plans should recognise this and provide a within their respective regions, Wales and the UK. They have been identified due to their international connectivity, scale and framework for managing future growth. been identified due to their international connectivity, scale the roles they play within the economy of Wales. Strategic and and the roles they play within the economy of Wales. Local Development Plans should maximise the opportunities Cardff Airport is an essential part of Wales’ Strategic and Local Development Plans should maximise the which support growth across the respective regions and strategic transport infrastructure. It is an opportunities which support growth across the respective Wales. international gateway, connecting Wales regions and Wales. to the world, and is a key driver within the The Welsh Government will support appropriate development Welsh economy. The Welsh Government will support appropriate development which can enhance international connectivity and can be Proposals to expand airport operations which can enhance international connectivity and can be accommodated within statutory climate change targets and and improve connectivity and accessibility accommodated within statutory climate change targets and carbon budgets. The Welsh Government acknowledges that are essential to the airport’s future carbon budgets. The Welsh Government acknowledges that the statutory climate change framework implies action to tackle success and its ability to compete with the statutory climate change framework implies action to all sources of greenhouse gas emissions, including other UK regional airports. tackle all sources of greenhouse gas emissions, including international travel and freight. The Welsh Government international travel and freight. The Welsh Government supports international efforts to reduce emissions from There are ambitious plans to grow Cardiff supports international efforts to reduce emissions from international aviation and shipping. The net Welsh emissions Airport’s passenger numbers from 1.6 international aviation and shipping. The net Welsh emissions account includes Wales’ share of emissions from international million passengers per annum to three account includes Wales’ share of emissions from aviation and shipping. Decisions associated with international million and beyond by 2040. Proposed international aviation and shipping. Decisions associated with aviation and shipping will therefore need to demonstrate how growth in the airport’s capacity will require international aviation and shipping will therefore need to they can be accommodated within the statutory climate new and improved airport facilities and demonstrate how they can be accommodated within the change targets and carbon budgets. passenger services. statutory climate change targets and carbon budgets.

Cardiff Airport Cardiff Airport ports at Cardiff Airport is an essential part of Wales’ strategic transport Cardiff Airport is an essential part of Wales’ strategic infrastructure. It is an international gateway connecting Wales transport infrastructure. It is an international gateway to the world and is an important driver within the Welsh connecting Wales to the world and is an important driver economy. within the Welsh economy.

Cardiff Airport is located within the Cardiff Airport and Bro Cardiff Airport is located within the Cardiff Airport and Bro Tathan Enterprise Zone which offers opportunities for Tathan Enterprise Zone which offers opportunities for investment in the site and surrounding areas. The Enterprise investment in the site and surrounding areas. The Enterprise Zone offers a wide range of development sites and business Zone offers a wide range of development sites and business accommodation, providing opportunities for the development accommodation, providing opportunities for the development of bespoke facilities or investment in existing accommodation. of bespoke facilities or investment in existing accommodation. Ports Ports Holyhead Port, Haven Waterway and Fishguard Port have been identified as Strategic Gateways due to their essential Holyhead and Mostyn. Port, Haven Waterway and Fishguard roles in the international movement of imports and exports and Port have been identified as Strategic Gateways due to their as key transport infrastructure between land and sea. They are essential roles in the international movement of imports and an essential part of the local, regional, national and exports and as key transport infrastructure between land and international economy, providing international connectivity for sea. They are an essential part of the local, regional, national Wales and the UK. They play a strategic role in transporting and international economy, providing international people and freight; provide logistical and service hubs for connectivity for Wales and the UK. They play a strategic role industry; and offer further growth opportunities for tourism and in transporting people and freight; provide logistical and recreation activity. They are active in the cruise market and service hubs for industry; and offer further growth can be the first experience people have of visiting Wales. opportunities for tourism and recreation activity. They are active in the cruise market and can be the first experience The Welsh Government recognises the importance of people have of visiting Wales. Holyhead Port to Anglesey and the region, and it is the most direct strategic link between Wales and Ireland. Holyhead Port The Welsh Government recognises the importance of the is a major national asset and an important international port at Holyhead Port to Anglesey, North Wales, Wales, the gateway for freight and passengers. The Port has deep water wider UK and the region, and it is the most direct strategic port facilities, existing accommodation and development link between Wales and Ireland. Holyhead Port is a major opportunities. The Inner Harbour, Salt Island and the Outer national asset and an important international gateway for Harbour offer marine, leisure, transport, energy (see policy freight and passengers. The Port has deep water port 24), cruise and other business opportunities with good road facilities, existing accommodation and development and rail links across the region and into England. opportunities. The Inner Harbour, Salt Island and the Outer Harbour offer marine, leisure, transport, energy (see policy The Haven Waterway, which includes the ports of Milford 24), cruise and other business opportunities with good road Haven and Pembroke Dock, is a major national asset and an and rail links across the region and into England. important international gateway for freight and passengers. The Waterway has a unique combination of a natural harbour, Holyhead is a major regional asset and an important gateway long established industries and the potential for new strategic to Wales and can be the first experience people have of development. It has one of the finest deep waterways in the visiting Wales. It is important they have a positive experience. world and represents a strategically important link from the Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider and region, Wales and the UK to Ireland and the rest of the world. plan for its future development needs and maximise the opportunities it provides to support growth across the region. The Waterway is a leading UK shipping gateway handling A new cruise terminal can provide enhanced facilities for liquid, bulk, break bulk and heavy lift cargoes. It handles a ships and passengers and be a gateway for visitors to the significant amount of the UK's oil, gas and electricity needs. A north of Wales. Mostyn plays an important role in supporting diverse high-skill supply chain has developed locally to support the off-shore renewable energy sector. the energy sector which is increasingly incorporating the renewable energy sector and, in particular, marine energy (see The HavenThe Haven Waterway, which includes the ports of policy 32). It offers diverse development opportunities, Milford Haven and Pembroke Dock, is a major national asset including light and heavy industrial, office and and an important international gateway for freight and warehousing, with good rail infrastructure, including passengers. The Waterway has a unique combination of a dedicated freight lines to waterside locations. natural harbour, long established industries and the potential for new strategic development. Development plans should Fishguard Port is an important international gateway for recognise this and provide a framework for managing future freight and passengers in the South West and provides a key growth.It has one of the finest deep waterways in the world roll-on roll-off ferry link. It has a strategically important role in and represents a strategically important link from the region, connecting the mainland of Europe, the UK and Wales with Wales and the UK to Ireland and the rest of the world. Ireland. Cardff Airport is an essential part of Wales’ strategic transport infrastructure. It is an international gateway, connecting Wales to the world, and is a key driver within the Welsh economy. Proposals to expand airport operations and improve connectivity and accessibility are essential to the airport’s future success and its ability to compete with other UK regional airports.

There are ambitious plans to grow Cardiff Airport’s passenger numbers from 1.6 million passengers per annum to three million and beyond by 2040. Proposed growth in the airport’s capacity will require new and improved airport facilities and passenger services.The Waterway is a leading UK shipping gateway handling liquid, bulk, break bulk and heavy lift cargoes. It handles a significant amount of the UK's oil, gas and electricity needs. A diverse high-skill supply chain has developed locally to support the energy sector which is increasingly incorporating the renewable energy sector and, in particular, marine energy (see policy 32). It offers diverse development opportunities, including light and heavy industrial, office and warehousing, with good rail infrastructure, including dedicated freight lines to waterside locations.

Fishguard Port is an important international gateway for freight and passengers in the South West and provides a key roll-on roll-off ferry link. It has a strategically important role in connecting the mainland of Europe, the UK and Wales with Ireland. Policy 11 National Connectivity Policy 7 Ultra Low Emission Vehicles Ultra Low Emission Vehicles

The Welsh Government will support and invest in improving The Welsh Government supports the National Connectivity national connectivity. Our priorities are to encourage longer- increasing use of ultra low emission distance trips to be made by public transport, while also vehicles. We will work with the UK The Welsh Government supports the increasing use of ultra making longer journeys possible by electric vehicles. The Government, local authorities, the energy low emission will support and invest in improving national Welsh Government will work with Transport for Wales, local sector and businesses to plan for and connectivity. Our priorities are to encourage longer-distance authorities, operators and partners to support the delivery of implement the roll out of electric vehicle trips to be made by public transport, while also making longer the following measures to improve national connectivity: charging infrastructure, including the journeys possible by electric vehicles. WeThe Welsh creation of a network of rapid charging Government will work with the UK GovernmentTransport for  Rail Network – Transform the rail network and improve points to enable longer distance travel by Wales, local authorities, operators and partners to support the quality of rail services for passengers. electric vehicles throughout Wales. the delivery of the following measures to improve national  Bus Network - invest in the development of the national connectivity: bus network, fully integrated with regional and local bus networks, to increase modal share of bus travel and  Rail Network – Transform the energy sector and improve access by bus to a wider range of trip businesses to plan for and implementrail network and destinations. improve the roll outquality of electric vehicle charging  Strategic Road Network - Invest in road improvements infrastructure, includingrail services for passengers. to reduce journey times, deliver a safer and more  Bus Network - invest in the creationdevelopment of resilient road network, and improve air and noise the national bus network, fully integrated with regional quality. Create a network of rapid-charging points to and local bus networks, to increase modal share of enable longer distance travel by electric vehicles bus travel and improve access by bus to a wider throughout Wales. range of trip destinations.  National Cycle Network – Revitalise the National Cycle  Strategic Road Network - Invest in road improvements Network to create a network of traffic-free paths to reduce journey times, deliver a safer and more connecting cities, towns and countryside across Wales. resilient road network, and improve air and noise quality. Create a network of rapid -charging points to Planning authorities should support developments associated enable longer distance travel by electric vehicles with improvements to national connectivity and, where throughout Wales. appropriate, maximise the opportunities that arise from them.  National Cycle Network – Revitalise the National Cycle Network to create a network of traffic-free paths Planning authorities must ensure that, where appropriate, new connecting cities, towns and countryside across development contributes towards the improvement and Wales. development of the National Cycle Network and key links to and from it. Planning authorities should support developments associated with improvements to national connectivity and, where appropriate, maximise the opportunities that arise from them.

Planning authorities must ensure that, where appropriate, new development contributes towards the improvement and development of the National Cycle Network and key links to and from it. PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.1 4.1 5.3 5.3 Supporting See P12 Supporting text See P12 Supporting text Text Policy 12 Regional Connectivity Regional Connectivity

The Welsh Government will support and invest in improving The Welsh Government will support and invest in improving regional connectivity. In urban areas, to support sustainable regional connectivity. In urban areas, to support sustainable growth and regeneration, our priorities are improving and growth and regeneration, our priorities are improving and integrating active travel and public transport. In rural areas our integrating active travel and public transport. In rural areas priorities are supporting the uptake of ultra-low emission our priorities are supporting the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles and diversifying and sustaining local bus services. vehicles and diversifying and sustaining local bus services.

The Welsh Government will work with Transport for Wales, The Welsh Government will work with Transport for Wales, local authorities, operators and partners to deliver the following local authorities, operators and partners to deliver the measures to improve regional connectivity: following measures to improve regional connectivity:

 Active Travel – Prioritising walking and cycling for all  Active Travel – Prioritising walking and cycling for all local travel by supporting the implementation of the local travel by supporting the implementation of the Active Travel Act to create comprehensive networks of Active Travel Act to create comprehensive networks of local walking and cycling routes that connect places that local walking and cycling routes that connect places people need to get to for everyday journeys. that people need to get to for everyday journeys.  Bus - Improve the legislative framework for how local bus  Bus - Improve the legislative framework for how local services are planned and delivered and invest in the bus services are planned and delivered and invest in development of integrated regional and local bus the development of integrated regional and local bus networks to increase modal share of bus travel and networks to increase modal share of bus travel and improve access by bus to a wider range of trip improve access by bus to a wider range of trip destinations. destinations.  Metros – Develop the South East Metro, South West  Metros – Develop the South East Metro, South West Metro and North Wales Metro to create new integrated Metro and North Wales Metro to create new integrated transport systems that provide faster, more frequent and transport systems that provide faster, more frequent joined-up services using trains, buses and light rail. and joined-up services using trains, buses and light rail.  Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles – Support the roll-out of  Ultra-Low Emission Vehicles – Support the roll-out of suitable fuelling infrastructure to facilitate the adoption of suitable fuelling infrastructure to facilitate the adoption ultra-low emission vehicles, particularly in rural areas. of ultra-low emission vehicles, particularly in rural areas. Planning authorities must plan the growth and regeneration of the National and Regional Growth Areas to maximise Planning authorities must plan the growth and regeneration of opportunities arising from the investment in public transport, the National and Regional Growth Areas to maximise including identifying opportunities for higher density, mixed-use opportunities arising from the investment in public transport, and car-free development around metro stations. including identifying opportunities for higher density, mixed- use and car-free development around metro stations. Active travel must be an essential and integral component of all new developments, large and small. Planning authorities must Active travel must be an essential and integral component of integrate site allocations, new development and infrastructure all new developments, large and small. Planning authorities with active travel networks and, where appropriate, ensure new must integrate site allocations, new development and development contributes towards their expansion and infrastructure with active travel networks and, where improvement. appropriate, ensure new development contributes towards their expansion and improvement. Planning authorities must act to reduce levels of car parking in urban areas, including supporting car-free developments in Planning authorities must act to reduce levels of car parking accessible locations and developments with car parking in urban areas, including supporting car-free developments in spaces that allow them to be converted to other uses over accessible locations and developments with car parking time. Where car parking is provided for new non-residential spaces that allow them to be converted to other uses over development, planning authorities should seek a minimum of time. Where car parking is provided for new non-residential 10% of car parking spaces to have electric vehicle charging development, planning authorities should seek a minimum of points. 10% of car parking spaces to have electric vehicle charging points. PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.1 4.1 5.3 5.3 Supporting Travelling in Wales Supporting Changing Technology: Ultra Low Changing Technology: Ultra Low Emission Vehicles Text Text Emission Vehicles Sustainable places will support a reduction in Travelling in The Welsh Government’s aim is to reduce the need to travel, Sustainable places will support a reduction Wales particularly by private vehicles, and support a modal shift to in the need to travel, particularly by private walking, cycling and public transport. The sustainable transport vehicles, and a modal shift to walking, The Welsh Government’s aim is to reduce the need to travel, hierarchy in Planning Policy Wales, which prioritises active cycling and public transport. A transition particularly by private vehicles, and support a modal shift to travel and public transport, is a fundamental Welsh away from petrol and diesel vehicles to walking, cycling and public transport. The sustainable Government principle that underpins Future Wales. ultra low emission (including electric) transport hierarchy in Planning Policy Wales, which prioritises vehicles is also crucial to the achievement active travel and public transport, is a fundamental Welsh [text is supported by graphic of Sustainable Transport of the Welsh Government’s carbon Government principle that underpins Future Wales. Hierarchy] reduction targets. It is important that we plan and deliver the [text is supported by graphic of Sustainable Transport Transport in Wales is currently dominated by the car. Our infrastructure, and in particular the Hierarchy] reliance on travelling by car is limiting the opportunity for charging infrastructure, that electric physical activity and social contact to be built into people’s vehicles will rely on. We expect business Transport in Wales is currently dominated by the car. Our everyday lives and is exacerbating air and noise pollution, and industry to drive much of the roll out of reliance on travelling by car is limiting the opportunity for particularly along major routes and at busy destinations. This charging infrastructure. There is also an physical activity and social contact to be built into people’s has an adverse impact on people’s health and well-being, important role for the public sector and the everyday lives and is exacerbating air and noise pollution, contributing to life-limiting illnesses associated with physical Welsh Government will set out a strategy particularly along major routes and at busy destinations. inactivity, loneliness and isolation. This is also exacerbating for electric charging infrastructure. We will This has an adverse impact on people’s health and well- health disadvantages for certain groups such as the elderly, keep under review the pace and being, contributing to life-limiting illnesses associated with those caring for young children, children themselves, people geography of the delivery of charging physical inactivity, loneliness and isolation. This is also with disabilities and people in poverty. Road transport is a infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to exacerbating health disadvantages for certain groups such major cause of air and noise pollution and it accounts for the ensure that no parts of Wales are left as the elderly, those caring for young children, children vast majority of greenhouse gas emissions produced from the behind in this transition. Changes in themselves, people with disabilities and people in poverty. transport sector. The changes in the way people moved transport technology also offer the Road transport is a major cause of air and noise pollution around towns and cities during the Covid-19 pandemic are a opportunity to change the way in which we and it accounts for the vast majority of greenhouse gas sign of the widespread will to reduce our use of cars and to travel. The advent of driverless cars emissions produced from the transport sector. The changes allocate more space for walking and cycling. We also intend will inevitably present new challenges and in the way people moved around towns and cities during the to introduce a national default speed limit of 20mph on opportunities and could, in the future, Covid-19 pandemic are a sign of the widespread will to restricted roads by April 2023. completely transform the current concepts reduce our use of cars and to allocate more space for of private car ownership, especially within walking and cycling. We also intend to introduce a national The Welsh Government will be investing significantly to and close to our major urban areas. default speed limit of 20mph on restricted roads by April improve active travel and public transport. This needs to be 2023. combined with the implementation of policies in Planning Policy Wales which require development to be directed The Welsh Government will be investing significantly to towards sustainable locations and designed to make it improve active travel and public transport. This needs to be possible for everyone to make sustainable and healthy travel combined with the implementation of policies in Planning choices for their daily journeys. It will also require planning Policy Wales which require development to be directed authorities to refuse planning permission for car-dependent towards sustainable locations and designed to make it developments which would otherwise encourage car use and possible for everyone to make sustainable and healthy travel undermine sustainable travel. choices for their daily journeys. It will also require planning authorities to refuse planning permission for car-dependent developments which would otherwise encourage car use Developing Active Travel and undermine sustainable travel.

The Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013 seeks to bring about a substantial increase in active travel and forms a key driver in Developing Active Travel the delivery of the Welsh Government’s ambition to create sustainable places where people can walk and cycle as part of The Active Travel (Wales) Act 2013 seeks to bring about a their everyday activity. Since the Act was made, local substantial increase in active travel and forms a key driver in authorities have developed plans for active travel networks for the delivery of the Welsh Government’s ambition to create their area. The Active Travel Network Maps are a tool for local sustainable places where people can walk and cycle as part authorities to enhance their forward planning of active travel of their everyday activity. Since the Act was made, local and should be used to inform, as well as be informed by, the authorities have developed plans for active travel networks location and design of new development. Though providing for their area. The Active Travel Network Maps are a tool for mostly for short local journeys, particularly with the uptake of local authorities to enhance their forward planning of active e-bikes, local active travel networks can impact upon travel and should be used to inform, as well as be informed movement patterns and travel behaviour beyond local by, the location and design of new development. Though authority boundaries at a regional scale. providing mostly for short local journeys, particularly with the uptake of e-bikes, local active travel networks can impact The National Cycle Network is a network of signed cycle upon movement patterns and travel behaviour beyond local routes. As well as people on bikes, the routes are also used by authority boundaries at a regional scale. walkers, joggers, wheelchair users and horse riders. Sustrans has worked with partners and stakeholders, including the The National Cycle Network is a network of signed cycle Welsh Government, to develop the following shared vision for routes. As well as people on bikes, the routes are also used the National Cycling Network: by walkers, joggers, wheelchair users and horse riders. Sustrans has worked with partners and stakeholders,  A UK-wide network of traffic-free paths for everyone, including the Welsh Government, to develop the following connecting cities, towns and countryside and loved by shared vision for the National Cycling Network: the communities they serve.  A UK-wide network of traffic-free paths for everyone, There are 1,690 miles of National Cycle Network routes in connecting cities, towns and countryside and loved by Wales. 64% of the network is on-road and 36% is on traffic- the communities they serve. free paths. The network connects Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, Aberystwyth, Bangor and the north Wales coast, as well as There are 1,690 miles of National Cycle Network routes in running through all three National Parks. It passes within a Wales. 64% of the network is on-road and 36% is on traffic- mile of almost 60% of the population and connects free paths. The network connects Cardiff, Newport, Swansea, communities with workplaces and services, making safe, Aberystwyth, Bangor and the north Wales coast, as well as healthy, low-cost travel to work an option for many people. A running through all three National Parks. It passes within a comprehensive review of the entire National Cycle Network mile of almost 60% of the population and connects has been undertaken and an action plan developed. This communities with workplaces and services, making safe, defines the state of the network in Wales and outlines the healthy, low-cost travel to work an option for many people. A strategic priorities for improvements. Network development comprehensive review of the entire National Cycle Network plans set out more detailed, long-term plans for developing has been undertaken and an action plan developed. This and upgrading the network. defines the state of the network in Wales and outlines the strategic priorities for improvements. Network development Planning authorities must safeguard routes within Active plans set out more detailed, long-term plans for developing Travel Network Maps and the National Cycle Network and, and upgrading the network. wherever possible, integrate them within new developments. Planning authorities should also work together to identify Planning authorities must safeguard routes within Active existing and potential cross-boundary routes within Strategic Travel Network Maps and the National Cycle Network and, and Local Development Plans to enable longer distance wherever possible, integrate them within new developments. journeys by bike. Where routes within Active Travel Networks Planning authorities should also work together to identify and the National Cycle Network will provide part of the existing and potential cross-boundary routes within Strategic supporting infrastructure for new developments, planning and Local Development Plans to enable longer distance authorities must seek to secure their provision or improvement journeys by bike. Where routes within Active Travel Networks as part of developments through the planning process, using and the National Cycle Network will provide part of the planning obligations where necessary. supporting infrastructure for new developments, planning authorities must seek to secure their provision or Statutory Active Travel Guidance must be used to inform the improvement as part of developments through the planning design of movement networks, streets and active travel routes process, using planning obligations where necessary. within development sites and any connecting routes delivered as part of a planning permission. Statutory Active Travel Guidance must be used to inform the design of movement networks, streets and active travel Improving public transport routes within development sites and any connecting routes delivered as part of a planning permission. The Welsh Government’s ambition is to provide an integrated public transport network that is safe, reliable, punctual, Improving public transport environmentally sustainable and accessible, and that meets the needs of the travelling public. We want to see more The Welsh Government’s ambition is to provide an integrated people using public transport to get them where they need and public transport network that is safe, reliable, punctual, want to be, quickly and on time. environmentally sustainable and accessible, and that meets the needs of the travelling public. We want to see more Our rail infrastructure and services are fundamental to an people using public transport to get them where they need effective and efficient transport network and central to national and want to be, quickly and on time. connectivity across Wales and its regions. Their continued development and expansion will contribute to the ambition to Our rail infrastructure and services are fundamental to an develop a stronger, inclusive and more equitable economy and effective and efficient transport network and central to to deliver prosperity for all by connecting people, communities national connectivity across Wales and its regions. Their and businesses across Wales to jobs, services and markets. continued development and expansion will contribute to the Working with Transport for Wales, we will turn stations into ambition to develop a stronger, inclusive and more equitable vibrant community hubs, providing essential local services and economy and to deliver prosperity for all by connecting space for small business to flourish. The Welsh Government people, communities and businesses across Wales to jobs, will also improve the legislative framework in Wales for how services and markets. Working with Transport for Wales, we local bus services are planned and delivered. will turn stations into vibrant community hubs, providing essential local services and space for small business to The Welsh Government promotes transit orientated flourish. The Welsh Government will also improve the development, focusing higher density and mixed-use development around public transport stations and stops. The legislative framework in Wales for how local bus services are metro projects, which are at different stages of progress, all planned and delivered. offer significant and timely opportunities to identify locations for transit orientated developments around new and existing The Welsh Government promotes transit orientated stations. Land in close proximity and with good access development, focusing higher density and mixed-use to metro stations is an important and finite resource and will development around public transport stations and stops. The play a key role in delivering sustainable urban places. metro projects, which are at different stages of progress, all offer significant and timely opportunities to identify locations Investment in public transport will enable more people to live for transit orientated developments around new and existing without needing to own or use a car. Planning authorities stations. Land in close proximity and with good access should promote low and car-free developments in accessible to metro stations is an important and finite resource and will locations. Planning authorities should also challenge play a key role in delivering sustainable urban places. perceptions that housing needs to be built with parking on plots, which promotes car-dominated developments, and Investment Ain public transport will enable more people to promote different ways of dealing with cars that encourage a live without needing to own or use a car. Planning authorities reduction in car use and increase active travel and use of should promote low and car-free developments in accessible public transport. locations. Planning authorities should also challenge perceptions that housing needs to be built with parking on The transition to low emission vehicles plots, which promotes car-dominated developments, and promote different ways of dealing with cars that encourage a The Welsh Government will embrace the adoption of electric reduction in car use and increase active travel and use of vehicles in an inclusive manner, supported by the necessary public transport. investment in charging infrastructure. We recognise this will be a greater challenge in rural areas. We are also promoting The transition to low emission vehicles an increase in the generation of renewable energy to support the increased demand for electricity. The Welsh Government The Welsh Government will embrace the adoption of electric will increase the use of electric vehicles in public sector fleets, vehicles in an inclusive manner, supported by the necessary as well as encouraging innovative approaches to reducing investment in charging infrastructure. We recognise this will emissions in all transport sectors. be a greater challenge in rural areas. We are also promoting an increase in the generation of renewable energy to Battery electric vehicles currently offer the most immediate support the increased demand for electricity. The Welsh route to the transition away from petrol and diesel vehicles to Government will increase the use of electric vehicles in zero and ultra-low emission vehicles. It is important that we public sector fleets, as well as encouraging innovative plan and deliver the infrastructure, and in particular the approaches to reducing emissions in all transport sectors. charging infrastructure, that electric vehicles will rely on. We expect business and industry to drive much of the roll-out of Battery electric vehicles currently offer the most immediate charging infrastructure. However, there is also an important route to the transition away from petrol and diesel vehicles to role for the public sector to intervene where the market does zero and ultra -low emission (including electric) vehicles is not provide the necessary infrastructure, particularly in rural also crucial to the achievement of the Welsh Government’s areas. The Welsh Government will set out how we will carbon reduction targets. support the uptake of electric vehicles in our Electric Vehicle . It is important that we plan and deliver the infrastructure, Charging Strategy. We will also keep under review the pace and in particular the charging infrastructure, that electric and geography of the delivery of charging infrastructure and vehicles will rely on. We expect business and industry to ensure that no parts of Wales are left behind in this transition. drive much of the roll out of charging infrastructure. There is The Welsh Government is also working with energy network also an important role for the public sector and the Welsh operators to develop the electricity grid infrastructure to Government will set out a strategy for electric -out of support increased use of electric cars, as well as the charging infrastructure. We will However, there is also an electrification of the rail network. important role for the public sector to intervene where the market does not provide the necessary infrastructure, Other forms of electric and ultra-low emission vehicles are also particularly in rural areas. The Welsh Government will set being developed. The role of hydrogen fuel cell electric out how we will support the uptake of electric vehicles in our vehicles and biofuels are being considered. These Electric Vehicle Charging Strategy. We will also keep under technologies have challenges to address, such as cost review the pace and geography of the delivery of charging reduction and sustainability of fuels and the Welsh infrastructure, particularly in rural areas, to and ensure that no parts of Wales are left behind in this transition. The Government will support innovation and work with industry, Welsh Government is also working with energy network academia and the public sector to develop new opportunities. operators to develop the electricity grid infrastructure to support increased use of electric cars, as well as the New development needs to be adaptable to changing electrification of the rail network. circumstances. Changes in transport technology offer the opportunity to change the way in which we travel, with the Other forms of electric and ultra-low emission vehicles are advent of driverless cars offering the potential to transform also being developed. The role of hydrogen fuel cell electric attitudes towards private car ownership, especially within and vehicles and biofuels are being considered. These close to our major urban areas. Whilst we do not know what technologies have challenges to address, such as cost the future holds, the location and design of car parking should reduction and sustainability of fuels and the Welsh enable conversion to other uses over time. Government will support innovation and work with industry, academia and the public sector to develop new opportunities. When requiring electric vehicle charging points, planning authorities should ensure the level, location and type of New development needs to be adaptable to changing provision is appropriate to the scheme and local circumstances. Changes in transport technology also offer circumstances. the opportunity to change the way in which we travel. The, with the advent of driverless cars will inevitably present new It may be appropriate for some of the provision to be ‘passive’, challenges and opportunities and could, in the future, with the necessary underlying infrastructure provided to enable completelyoffering the potential to transform the current installation and activation in the future. Planning authorities concepts ofattitudes towards private car ownership, should take a strategic approach to electric vehicle charging in especially within and close to our major urban areas. Whilst their area and, where appropriate, develop policies in their we do not know what the future holds, the location and development plan and specific local requirements. The design of car parking should enable conversion to other uses provision of electric vehicle charging infrastructure points over time. should be planned as part of the overall design of a development. When requiring electric vehicle charging points, planning authorities should ensure the level, location and type of The Welsh Government is committed to tackling congestion on provision is appropriate to the scheme and local the strategic road network. The Welsh Government will invest circumstances. in road improvements to reduce journey times between east and west Wales, as well as between the north and south. The It may be appropriate for some of the provision to be Pinch Point Programme delivers small-scale interventions to ‘passive’, with the necessary underlying infrastructure address congestion pinch points on the main road network, provided to enable installation and activation in the future. including along the A55. The South East Wales Transport Planning authorities should take a strategic approach to Commission is advising on tackling congestion on the M4 and electric vehicle charging in their area and, where appropriate, will make recommendations to the Welsh Government on develop policies in their development plan and specific local solutions. requirements. The provision of electric vehicle charging infrastructure points should be planned as part of the overall Developing infrastructure responsibly design of a development.

Planning Policy Wales contains the planning policy framework The Welsh Government is committed to tackling congestion for addressing air quality, soundscape and noise. When on the strategic road network. The Welsh Government will proposing new transport infrastructure or new development, invest in road improvements to reduce journey times between average population exposure to air and noise pollution should east and west Wales, as well as between the north and be reduced and soundscapes improved where it is practical south. The Pinch Point Programme delivers small-scale and feasible to do so. At the very least, exposure to pollution interventions to address congestion pinch points on the main should be minimised. This will include taking into account the road network, including along the A55. The South East Wales long-term effects of current and predicted levels of air and Transport Commission is advising on tackling congestion on noise pollution on individuals, society and the environment the M4 and will make recommendations to the Welsh arising as a result of proposals for transport infrastructure or Government on solutions. development. Developing infrastructure responsibly Text will be supported by:  A map of strategic corridors & Metro developments Planning Policy Wales contains the planning policy framework for addressing air quality, soundscape and noise. When proposing new transport infrastructure or new development, average population exposure to air and noise pollution should be reduced and soundscapes improved where it is practical and feasible to do so. At the very least, exposure to pollution should be minimised. This will include taking into account the long-term effects of current and predicted levels of air and noise pollution on individuals, society and the environment arising as a result of proposals for transport infrastructure or development.

Text will be supported by:  A map of strategic corridors & Metro developments Policy 13 Supporting Digital Communications Supporting Digital Communications

The Welsh Government supports the provision of digital The Welsh Government supports the provision of digital communications infrastructure and services across Wales. communications infrastructure and services across Wales.

Planning authorities must engage with digital infrastructure Planning authorities must engage with digital infrastructure providers to identify the future needs of their area and set out providers to identify the future needs of their area and set out policies in Strategic and Local Development Plans to help policies in Strategic and Local Development Plans to help deliver this. deliver this.

New developments should include the provision of Gigabit New developments should include the provision of Gigabit capable broadband infrastructure from the outset. capable broadband infrastructure from the outset. Development Plans should include policies supporting this Development Plans should include policies supporting this requirement. requirement.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 5.2 5.2 Supporting Changing technology: digital infrastructure Changing technology: digital infrastructure Text The Welsh Government supports the roll-out of digital The Welsh Government supports the roll-out of digital communications infrastructure across Wales. Modern, reliable communications infrastructure across Wales. Modern, mobile telecommunications and fast broadband services are reliable mobile telecommunications and fast broadband essential to our everyday lives, as highlighted by the number services are essential to our everyday lives, as highlighted by of people working and learning from home during and since the number of people working and learning from home during the Covid-19 pandemic. Digital communications infrastructure and since the Covid-19 pandemic. Digital communications is crucial to the future success and economic competitiveness infrastructure is crucial to the future success and economic of Wales’ businesses and supports community and individual competitiveness of Wales’ businesses and supports needs, including access to key services and facilities. community and individual needs, including access to key services and facilities. In rural areas the provision of both mobile telecommunications and broadband infrastructure is particularly important where In rural areas the provision of both mobile topography, physical distance and sparse distribution of telecommunications and broadband infrastructure is population make the roll-out of infrastructure and access to key particularly important where topography, physical distance services and facilities difficult. Little or no coverage in some and sparse distribution of population make the roll-out of locations disadvantages businesses, communities and infrastructure and access to key services and facilities individuals, both economically and socially, and can contribute difficult. Little or no coverage in some locations to deprivation, social isolation and lack of well-being. Planning disadvantages businesses, communities and individuals, Authorities should consider the potential impact of poor both economically and socially, and can contribute to coverage on different groups and plan positively to overcome deprivation, social isolation and lack of well-being. Planning these issues, setting out policies in Strategic and Local Authorities should consider the potential impact of poor Development Plans to aid infrastructure delivery. The Welsh coverage on different groups and plan positively to overcome Government supports the provision of new and improved these issues, setting out policies in Strategic and Local digital communications infrastructure across Wales and Development Plans to aid infrastructure delivery. The Welsh recognises that infrastructure in rural areas should be carefully Government supports the provision of new and improved planned to mitigate any environmental impact on sensitive or digital communications infrastructure across Wales and designated landscapes. recognises that infrastructure in rural areas should be carefully planned to mitigate any environmental impact on The Welsh Government, planning authorities and digital sensitive or designated landscapes. communications infrastructure providers must work together to ensure both mobile telecommunications and fast broadband The Welsh Government, planning authorities and digital infrastructure and services are provided. The Welsh communications infrastructure providers must work together Government’s fast broadband roll-out improves coverage to to ensure both mobile telecommunications and fast business and domestic premises across Wales. Mobile Action broadband infrastructure and services are provided. The Zones will help create the right environment to achieve Welsh Government’s fast broadband roll-out improves increases in mobile telecommunications coverage where there coverage to business and domestic premises across Wales. is currently little or no service, predominantly in selected parts Mobile Action Zones will help create the right environment to of rural Wales. achieve increases in mobile telecommunications coverage where there is currently little or no service, predominantly in Due to the essential nature of broadband in modern society, selected parts of rural Wales. the Welsh Government supports the provision of Gigabit capable digital infrastructure into new developments. Typically Due to the essential nature of broadband in modern society, this will apply to developments where people are present, for the Welsh Government supports the provision of Gigabit example new housing, business and commercial premises, capable digital infrastructure into new developments. and public buildings. Local Development Plans should include Typically this will apply to developments where people are policies to help deliver this. present, for example new housing, business and commercial premises, and public buildings. Local Development Plans ‘Gigabit capability’ will give developers some flexibility over the should include policies to help deliver this. type of technology that is deployed; for the most part this is likely to be fibre, but could also include fixed wireless access. ‘Gigabit capability’ will give developers some flexibility over For the former this will mean that the developer will need to the type of technology that is deployed; for the most part this install underground ducting allowing the communications is likely to be fibre, but could also include fixed wireless provider to install fibre, and for fixed wireless infrastructure the access. For the former this will mean that the developer will communications provider may need to erect a mast and/or need to install underground ducting allowing the install small antennae. This helps negate the need to retro-fit communications provider to install fibre, and for fixed wireless developments in the near future to accommodate fibre or any infrastructure the communications provider may need to erect newer technologies that arise. a mast and/or install small antennae. This helps negate the need to retro-fit developments in the near future to Planning authorities must also be alert and responsive to the accommodate fibre or any newer technologies that arise. positive effects of forthcoming 5G services and Gigabit broadband and other such technologies. They should work Planning authorities must also be alert and responsive to the with infrastructure and service providers to consider the positive effects of forthcoming 5G services and Gigabit potential impacts of these technologies and the needs of broadband and other such technologies. They should work business, public services, communities and individuals. These with infrastructure and service providers to consider the issues should be addressed in planning authorities’ Strategic potential impacts of these technologies and the needs of or Local Development Plans. business, public services, communities and individuals. These issues should be addressed in planning authorities’ Strategic or Local Development Plans. Policy 14 Planning in Mobile Action Zones Policy 6 Planning in Mobile Action Zones Planning in Mobile Action Zones

The Welsh Government supports increased mobile phone In Mobile Action Zones, local planning In Mobile Action Zones, local planning authorities and coverage and the associated economic and social benefits it authorities and telecommunications telecommunications operators will work together to increase brings. operators will work together to increase mobile coverage collaboratively by identifying suitable sites mobile coverage collaboratively by and buildings for new equipment and infrastructure. The Welsh Government will identify Mobile Action Zones, identifying suitable sites and buildings for Considerable weight will be given to the need to increaseThe showing locations where there is little or no mobile new equipment and infrastructure. Welsh Government supports increased mobile phone telecommunications coverage. Considerable weight will be given to the coverage, along with its and the associated economic and need to increase mobile phone coverage, social benefits. Accordingly, it brings. The Welsh Government, planning authorities and mobile along with its associated economic telecommunications operators must work together to achieve benefits. Accordingly, there is a The Welsh Government will identify Mobile Action Zones, increases in mobile coverage within Mobile Action Zones. presumption in favour for new mobile showing locations where there is a presumption in favour for telecommunications infrastructure, new little or no mobile telecommunications coverage. provided that there are no significant adverse landscape impacts. The Welsh Government, planning authorities and mobile telecommunications infrastructure, provided that there are no significant adverse landscape impacts.operators must work together to achieve increases in mobile coverage within Mobile Action Zones. PPW PPW Reference Reference 5.2 5.2 Supporting The Welsh Government supports the need to increase mobile Supporting Changing Technology: Mobile Changing Technology: Mobile Communications Text phone coverage and to ensure all parts of Wales are Text Communications supported by the mobile telecoms infrastructure they need. Mobile phones are an essential tool in our everyday lives. In The identification of Mobile Action Zones identifying areas of Mobile phones are an essential tool in our addition to making calls, for many of us they are how we little or no coverage will highlight areas, many of which will be everyday lives. In addition to making calls, access media, e-mails, entertainment, services and rural in nature, where there is demand for new infrastructure for many of us they are how we access information. They are becoming means of payment, tools to and provide a focus for action. media, e-mails, entertainment, services make transport arrangements, order our food and shopping and information. They are becoming and keep in touch with schools, public services and Mobile Action Zones will focus on mobile ‘not-spots’ or clusters means of payment, tools to make transport employers. Good The Welsh Government supports the need of not-spots where a useable outdoor 4G coverage is arrangements, order our food and to increase mobile communicationsphone coverage is unavailable from any operator and where there is shopping and keep in touch with schools, important to economic and social well-being. demonstrable latent demand for mobile connectivity. The public services and employers. Good Zones will be created in areas demonstrating the greatest mobile communications coverage is We are committed to ensuringand to ensure all parts of latent demand for 4G mobile phone connectivity. Latent important to economic and social well- Wales are supported by the mobile telecoms infrastructure demand will be based on a number of criteria, including the being. they need. We will identify The identification of Mobile Action number of homes and businesses, transport networks and Zones, focusing on identifying areas of little or no coverage tourism sites. The scale and shape of the Zones will be based We are committed to ensuring all parts of andwill highlight areas, many of which will be rural in nature, on not-spots themselves and the location of the criteria Wales are supported by the telecoms where there is demand for new infrastructure, to and provide outlined above. infrastructure they need. We will identify a focus for our actions. We will work with mobile network Mobile Action Zones, focusing on areas of operators, infrastructure providers and local authorities to little or no coverage and where there is increase digital connectivity in the Mobile Action Zones we demand for new infrastructure, to provide identifyaction. a focus for our actions. We will work with mobile network operators, infrastructure Mobile Action Zones will focus on mobile ‘not-spots’ or providers and local authorities to increase clusters of not-spots where a useable outdoor 4G coverage is digital connectivity in the Mobile Action unavailable from any operator and where there is Zones we identify. demonstrable latent demand for mobile connectivity. The Zones will be created in areas demonstrating the greatest latent demand for 4G mobile phone connectivity. Latent demand will be based on a number of criteria, including the number of homes and businesses, transport networks and tourism sites. The scale and shape of the Zones will be based on not-spots themselves and the location of the criteria outlined above. Policy 15 National Forest Policy 9 National Forest National Forest

The Welsh Government is committed to developing a national The Welsh Government is committed to The Welsh Government is committed to developing a forest through the identification of appropriate sites and developing a national forest, and will national forest, and will identify through the identification of mechanisms. Action to safeguard proposed locations for the identify appropriate delivery sites and appropriate delivery sites and mechanisms to achieve this national forest will be supported. mechanisms to achieve this aim. Action to aim.. Action to safeguard proposed locations for the national safeguard proposed locations for the forest will be supported. national forest will be supported. PPW PPW Reference Reference 6.4 6.4 6.4.24 – 6.4.26 6.4.24 – 6.4.26 Supporting A healthier Wales: more woodland Supporting An increase in woodland cover is needed A healthier Wales: more woodland Text Text to help build the resilience of our An increase in woodland cover is needed to help build the ecosystems, to secure the delivery of our An increase in woodland cover is needed to help build the resilience of our ecosystems, to secure the delivery of our climate change and decarbonisation resilience of our ecosystems, to secure the delivery of our climate change and decarbonisation aspirations, to provide aspirations, and to ensure that the climate change and decarbonisation aspirations, to provide places for recreation and well-being and to ensure that the productive potential of Welsh woodlands is places for recreation and well-being and to ensure that the productive potential of Welsh woodlands is maintained. maintained. productive potential of Welsh woodlands is maintained.

The Welsh Government has set a target to increase woodland The Welsh Government has therefore set The Welsh Government has therefore set a target to increase cover in Wales by at least 2,000 hectares per annum from a target to increase woodland cover in woodland cover in Wales by at least 2,000 hectares per 2020. A national forest will help achieve this target and Wales by at least 2,000 hectares per annum from 2020. A national forest will help achieve this improve well-being for people and communities. annum from 2020. A national forest will target and improve well-being for people and communities. help achieve this target and improve well- The national forest will comprise of three strands: being for people and communities. The national forest will comprise of three strands:  Quality environment which comprises connected The forest will be a national asset which ecosystems, biodiversity and habitats, restoration of could provide jobs in timber, leisure,  Quality environment which comprises connected undermanaged woodland and ancient woodland; tourism and other sectors. It is likely to be ecosystems, biodiversity and habitats, restoration of  Productive woodland; and dispersed across a number of locations, undermanaged woodland and ancient woodland;  Community woodland. and could act as a catalyst for improving  Productive woodland; and land in need of regeneration. Any sites or  Community woodland. The forest will be a national asset which could provide jobs in development proposals, which require productive forestry, leisure, tourism and other sectors. Tree planning permission and forming part of The forest will be a national asset which could provide jobs in planting has a positive role to play in water and flood risk this project, should be supported where timberproductive forestry, leisure, tourism and other sectors. management and climate adaptation and mitigation. The forest appropriate. There is an opportunity for the It is likely toTree planting has a positive role to play in water or woodland sites will be dispersed across a number of national forest to be linked by green and flood risk management and climate adaptation and locations and will act as a catalyst for improving land in need infrastructure incorporating active travel mitigation. The forest or woodland sites will be dispersed of regeneration. Infrastructure or development proposals which facilities and to become an important asset across a number of locations, and couldwill act as a catalyst require planning permission and forming part of this project will for local people and tourists. for improving land in need of regeneration. Any sites be supported. Infrastructure or development proposals, which require There is an opportunity for the national forest to be linked by planning permission and forming part of this project, should green infrastructure incorporating active travel facilities and to will be supported where appropriate. . become an important asset for local people and tourists. There is an opportunity for the national forest to be linked by green infrastructure incorporating active travel facilities and to Woodlands provide a wide range of benefits for society, from become an important asset for local people and tourists. abating carbon emissions and reducing flood risk in sensitive locations, to being increasingly important as community Woodlands provide a wide range of benefits for society, from resources and providing places for active recreation, education abating carbon emissions and reducing flood risk in sensitive and lifelong learning. Our woods and forests underpin many locations, to being increasingly important as community economic activities and sectors and have a key role to play in resources and providing places for active recreation, replacing fossil fuels, storing carbon and helping us to cope education and lifelong learning. Our woods and forests with the effects of a changing climate. The ‘right tree in the underpin many economic activities and sectors and have a right place’ plays a key role in realising these benefits. The key role to play in replacing fossil fuels, storing carbon and planning system can support tree planting as part of helping us to cope with the effects of a changing climate. The development proposals and means such as section 106 ‘right tree in the right place’ plays a key role in realising these agreements may be utilised for the aim of increased tree benefits. The planning system can support tree planting as coverage across Wales. part of development proposals and means such as section 106 agreements may be utilised for the aim of increased tree Woodland expansion is an example of habitat and species coverage across Wales. creation. Reforestation should not compromise wider ecosystem resilience. Woodland expansion is an example of habitat and species creation. Reforestation should not compromise wider ecosystem resilience. Policy 16 Heat Networks Policy 14 Priority Areas for District Heat Priority Areas for District Heat Networks Networks Within Priority Areas for District Heat Networks planning Within Priority Areas for District Heat Networks, planning authorities should identify opportunities for District Heat Within Priority Areas for District Heat authorities should identify opportunities for District Heat Networks and plan positively for their implementation. Networks, planning authorities should Networks and ensure they are integrated within new and identify opportunities for District Heat existing development.plan positively for their implementation. Large scale mixed-use development should, where feasible, Networks and ensure they are integrated have a heat network with a renewable / low carbon or waste within new and existing development. heat energy source. Planning applications for such Masterplanning for District Heat Networks development should prepare an Energy Masterplan to Policy 15 Masterplanning for District Heat establish whether a heat network is the most effective energy Networks Large scale mixed used-use development should, where supply option and, for feasible projects, a plan for its feasible, have a District Heat Networkheat network with a implementation. Large scale mixed used development renewable / low carbon or waste heat energy source. should, where feasible, have a District Planning applications for such development should prepare Heat Network. Planning applications for an Energy Masterplan to establish whether a District Heat such development should prepare an Networkheat network is the most effective energy supply Energy Masterplan to establish whether a option and, for feasible projects, a plan for its implementation. District Heat Network is the most effective energy supply option and, for feasible projects, a plan for its implementation. PPW PPW Reference Reference 5.4.18 5.4.18 5.9 5.9 5.9.6 - 5.9.7 5.9.6 – 5.9.7 Supporting Power and heat for sustainable places Supporting District Heat Networks Power and heat for sustainable places Text Text Future Wales’ spatial strategy places a strong emphasis on the District Heat Networks are a method of Future Wales’ spatial strategy places a strong emphasis on need to make the best use of our resources. National and delivering heating and hot water to the need to make the best use of our resources. National Regional Growth Areas and the ambitions for enhanced multiple buildings from a central heat and Regional Growth Areas and the ambitions for enhanced transport infrastructure will require clean energy and an source and, particularly in urban areas, transport infrastructure will require clean energy and an efficient means of providing heat and power to homes and can be the most effective way to provide efficient means of providing heat and power to homes and workplaces. This section sets out the spatial implications of our low carbon heat. The Welsh Government workplaces. This section sets out the spatial implications of energy and heat needs. supports the establishment of District Heat our energy and heat needs. Networks, as part of delivering the urban District Heat Networks growth focus of the Spatial Strategy. Heat Networks

Heat Networks are a method of delivering heating and hot Our spatial priority is for the suitability and District Heat Networks are a method of delivering heating and water to multiple buildings from a central heat source and, viability of District Heat Networks to be hot water to multiple buildings from a central heat source particularly in urban areas, can be the most effective way to investigated in the towns and cities and, particularly in urban areas, can be the most effective provide low carbon heat. Waste heat (such as energy from identified as Priority Areas for District Heat way to provide low carbon heat. The Welsh Government waste plants) can be an effective, efficient fuel source. Heat Networks shown on page 42. These are supports the establishment of District Heat Networks, as part networks can vary in size from a single block of flats, two the areas in Wales considered to have the of delivering the urban growth focus of the Spatial buildings sharing a single heat source or wider areas of greatest potential for District Heat Strategy.Waste heat (such as energy from waste plants) can multiple buildings forming a District Heat Network. Networks. They have been identified on be an effective, efficient fuel source. Heat networks can vary the basis of having a sufficiently high heat in size from a single block of flats, two buildings sharing a The Welsh Government supports the establishment of District density to make them viable. They take single heat source or wider areas of multiple buildings Heat Networks as part of delivering the urban growth focus of into account settlement size, mix of uses, forming a District Heat Network. the spatial strategy. Our spatial priority is for the suitability and development potential and any existing viability of District Heat Networks to be investigated in the work being undertaken to develop District The Welsh Government supports the establishment of District towns and cities identified as Priority Areas for District Heat Heat Networks. In principle, they are Heat Networks as part of delivering the urban growth focus of Networks shown on map XXX. Although heat networks are supported wherever they are viable. the spatial strategy. Our spatial priority is for the suitability supported in principle wherever they are viable, these are the and viability of District Heat Networks to be investigated in areas considered to have the greatest potential for heat Planning authorities should explore and the towns and cities identified as Priority Areas for District networks. identify opportunities for District Heat Heat Networks shown on page 42. Thesemap XXX. Although Networks, particularly in the Priority Areas, heat networks are supported in principle wherever they are The areas have been identified on the basis of having a and, where possible, seek to develop city viable, these are the areas in Wales considered to have the sufficiently high heat density to make them viable. They take or town-wide District Heat Networks in as greatest potential for District Heat Networks. Theyheat into account settlement size, mix of uses, development many locations as possible. networks. potential and any existing work being undertaken to develop heat networks. As a minimum, proposals for large scale, The areas have been identified on the basis of having a mixed use developments of 100 dwellings sufficiently high heat density to make them viable. They take Planning authorities should explore and identify opportunities or more should consider the potential for a into account settlement size, mix of uses, development for District Heat Networks, particularly in the Priority Areas, District Heat Network. There is also potential and any existing work being undertaken to develop and seek to develop city or town-wide District Heat Networks potential for them below this threshold. District Heat Networks. In principle, they are supported in as many locations as possible. wherever they are viable.heat networks. The design of new development should As a minimum, proposals for large-scale, mixed-use maximise the opportunities to Planning authorities should explore and identify opportunities developments of 100 or more dwellings or 10,000sq m or more accommodate a District Heat Network. for District Heat Networks, particularly in the Priority Areas, of commercial floorspace should consider the potential for a Particular consideration should be given to and, where possible, seek to develop city or town-wide heat network. However there is also potential for heat the form, density, mix of uses and phasing District Heat Networks in as many locations as possible. networks below this threshold and developers and planning of development. authorities should explore these opportunities wherever As a minimum, proposals for large -scale, mixed -use possible. developments of 100 or more dwellings or more 10,000sq m or more of commercial floorspace should consider the The design of new development should maximise the potential for a District Heat Network. Thereheat network. opportunities to accommodate a heat network. Particular However there is also potential for themheat networks below consideration should be given to the form, density, mix of uses this threshold. and developers and planning authorities and phasing of development. should explore these opportunities wherever possible.

A combined map supports policies 16, 17 and 18 showing The design of new development should maximise the Heat networks and renewable energy policies opportunities to accommodate a District Heat Networkheat network. Particular consideration should be given to the form, density, mix of uses and phasing of development.

A combined map supports policies 16, 17 and 18 showing Heat networks and renewable energy policies Policy 17 Renewable and Low Carbon Energy and Associated Policy 13 Other Renewable Energy Developments Renewable and Low Carbon Energy and Associated Infrastructure Infrastructure Proposals for other large scale renewable The Welsh Government strongly supports the principle of energy generation will be determined in The Welsh Government strongly supports the principle of developing renewable and low carbon energy from all accordance with the criteria of policy P11. developing renewable and low carbon energy from all technologies and at all scales to meet our future energy needs. technologies and at all scales to meet our future energy needs. In determining planning applications for renewable and low carbon energy development, decision-makers must give In determining planning applications for renewable and low significant weight to the need to meet Wales’ international carbon energy development, decision-makers must give commitments and our target to generate 70% of consumed significant weight to the need to meet Wales’ international electricity by renewable means by 2030 in order to combat the commitments and our target to generate 70% of consumed climate emergency. electricity by renewable means by 2030 in order to combat the climate emergency. In Pre-Assessed Areas for Wind Energy the Welsh Government has already modelled the likely impact on the In Pre-Assessed Areas for Wind Energy the Welsh landscape and has found them to be capable of Government has already modelled the likely impact on the accommodating development in an acceptable way. There is a landscape and has found them to be capable of presumption in favour of large-scale wind energy development accommodating development in an acceptable way. There is (including repowering) in these areas, subject to the criteria in a presumption in favour of large-scale wind energy policy 18. development (including repowering) in these areas, subject to the criteria in policy 18. Applications for large-scale wind and solar will not be permitted in National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Applications for large-scale wind and solar will not be Beauty and all proposals should demonstrate that they will not permitted in National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural have an unacceptable adverse impact on the environment. Beauty and all proposals should demonstrate that they will not have an unacceptable adverse impact on the Proposals should describe the net benefits the scheme will environment. bring in terms of social, economic, environmental and cultural improvements to local communities. Proposals Other should describe the net benefits the scheme will bring in terms of social, economic, environmental and New strategic grid infrastructure for the transmission and cultural improvements to local communities. distribution of energy should be designed to minimise visual impact on nearby communities. The Welsh Government will New strategic grid infrastructure for the transmission and work with stakeholders, including National Grid and distribution of energy should be designed to minimise visual Distribution Network Operators, to transition to a multi-vector impact on nearby communities. The Welsh Government will grid network and reduce the barriers to the implementation of work with stakeholders, including National Grid and new grid infrastructure. Distribution Network Operators, to transition to a multi-vector grid network and reduce the barriers to the implementation of new grid infrastructure. Renewable Energy Developments

Proposals for other large scale renewable energy generation will be determined in accordance with the criteria of policy P11. PPW PPW Reference Reference 5.9 5.9 6.3.8 6.3.8 Supporting See supporting text for policy 18 – combined Supporting Renewable energy technologies other Renewable energy technologies other than wind and solar Text Text than wind and solar are supported in are supported in principle. The Welsh Government is principle. The Welsh Government is preparing an Energy Atlas to identify opportunities for all preparing an Energy Atlas to identify types of renewable projects. Proposals should ensure there opportunities for all types of renewable is no significant unacceptable detrimental impact on the projects. Proposals should ensure there is surrounding natural environment and local communities and no significant unacceptable detrimental that the development brings with it positive social, impact on the surrounding natural environmental and economic benefits. environment and local communities and that the development brings with it positive Large scale renewable energy schemes can generate direct social, environmental and economic social and economic benefit to local communities across the benefits. country. Local ownership of projects in whole or part can ensure these benefits are accrued over the long-term, Large scale renewable energy schemes generating funds to develop community facilities and help can generate direct social and economic address fuel poverty. benefit to local communities across the country. Local ownership of projects in Renewable energy projects can also provide environmental whole or part can ensure these benefits benefits, such as contributing to resilient ecological networks, are accrued over the long-term, generating restoring degraded peatlands and restoring semi-natural funds to develop community facilities and grasslands on post-agricultural land. The Welsh Government help address fuel poverty. encourages active consideration of how these benefits can be realised in all renewable energy developments. With all Renewable energy projects can also projects, provisions for access to the site for construction and provide environmental benefits, such as maintenance of the scheme should recognise and respond to contributing to resilient ecological the environment in which they are located. The careful networks, restoring degraded peatlands removal of infrastructure as soon as their use ceases and the and restoring semi-natural grasslands on appropriate after-use of the site will also ensure post-agricultural land. The Welsh environmental benefits are realised.See supporting text for Government encourages active policy 18 – combined consideration of how these benefits can be realised in all renewable energy developments. With all projects, provisions for access to the site for construction and maintenance of the scheme should recognise and respond to the environment in which they are located. The careful removal of infrastructure as soon as their use ceases and the appropriate after-use of the site will also ensure environmental benefits are realised. Policy 18 Renewable and Low Carbon Energy Developments of Policy 10 Wind and Solar Energy in Priority Areas WindRenewable and SolarLow Carbon Energy in National Significance PriorityDevelopments of National Significance The Welsh Government supports large Proposals for renewable and low carbon energy projects scale on-shore wind and solar energy Proposals for renewable and low carbon energy projects (including repowering) qualifying as Developments of National development in the identified Priority (including repowering) qualifying as Developments of Significance will be permitted subject to policy 17 and the Areas for Solar and Wind Energy. There is National Significance will be permitted subject to policy 17 following criteria: a presumption in favour of development and the following criteria: for these schemes and an associated 1. Outside of the Pre-Assessed Areas for wind acceptance of landscape change. 1. Outside of the Pre-Assessed Areas developments and everywhere for all other technologies, the proposal does not have an When determining planning applications The Welsh Government supports large scale on-shore for unacceptable adverse impact on the surrounding for large scale on-shore wind and solar wind and solar energy development in the identified Priority landscape (particularly on the setting of National Parks energy development in Priority Areas, Areas for Solar and Wind Energy. There is a presumption in and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty); significant weight will be given to the favour of development for these schemesdevelopments and 2. The proposal is designed to minimise its visual impact proposal’s contribution to reducing Wales’ everywhere for all other technologies, the proposal does not have on nearby communities and individual dwellings, and greenhouse gas emissions and meeting an associated acceptance ofunacceptable adverse impact on the cumulative impact of the proposal, with other our decarbonisation and renewable energy the surrounding landscape change. existing or proposed development, is acceptable; targets. 3. There are no adverse impacts on international and When determining planning applications for large national statutory designated sites for nature Planning applications must demonstrate scale(particularly on-shore wind and solar energy development conservation (and the features for which they have how local social, economic and in Priority Areas, significant weight will be given to the been designated), protected habitats and species; environmental benefits have been proposal’s contribution to reducing Wales’ greenhouse gas 4. The proposal includes biodiversity enhancement maximised and the following adverse emissions and meeting our decarbonisation and renewable measures to provide a net benefit for biodiversity; impacts have been minimised: energy targets. 5. There are no unacceptable adverse impacts on statutorily protected built heritage assets;  landscape and visual impacts; Planning applications must demonstrate how local social, 6. There are no unacceptable adverse impacts by way of  cumulative impacts; economic and environmental benefits have been maximised shadow flicker, noise, reflected light, air quality or  the setting of National Parks and and the following adverse impacts have been minimised: electromagnetic disturbance; Areas of Outstanding Natural 7. There are no unacceptable impacts on the operations of Beauty;  landscape and visual impacts; defence facilities and operations (including aviation and  visual dominance, shadow flicker,  cumulative impacts; radar) or the Mid Wales Low Flying Tactical Training reflected light or noise impacts; the setting of National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Area (TTA-7T);  electromagnetic disturbance to Natural Beauty;); 8. There are no unacceptable adverse impacts on the existing communications systems; 2. visual dominance, The proposal is designed to transport network through the transportation of and minimise its visual impact on nearby communities and components or source fuels during its construction  the following identified protected individual dwellings, and the cumulative impact of the and/or ongoing operation; assets: proposal, with other existing or proposed 9. The proposal includes consideration of the materials o archaeological, architectural development, is acceptable; needed or generated by the development to ensure the or historic assets; 3. There are no adverse impacts on international and sustainable use and management of resources; o nature conservation sites national statutory designated sites for nature and species; 10. There are acceptable provisions relating to the o natural resources or conservation (and the features for which they have decommissioning of the development at the end of its reserves. been designated), protected habitats and species; lifetime, including the removal of infrastructure and 4. The proposal includes biodiversity enhancement effective restoration. Suitable access to the site for construction measures to provide a net benefit for biodiversity; and maintenance purposes must be 5. There are no unacceptable adverse impacts on provided. Plans must also be in place for statutorily protected built heritage assets; the end of the development’s lifetime, 6. There are no unacceptable adverse impacts by way of including the removal of all infrastructure shadow flicker, noise, reflected light, air quality or noise as soon as their use ceases and the impacts;electromagnetic disturbance to existing appropriate after-use of the site. communications systems; and;  the following identified protected assets: Policy 11 Wind and Solar Energy Outside of o archaeological, architectural or historic assets; Priority Areas o nature conservation sites and species; o natural resources or reserves. Outside of the Priority Areas for Solar and Wind, planning applications for large scale 7. Suitable access to the site for construction and wind and solar development must maintenance purposes must be provided. Plans must demonstrate the proposal is acceptable, in also be in place for There are no unacceptable accordance with the criteria below. impacts on the operations of defence facilities and operations (including aviation and radar) or the Mid Planning applications must demonstrate Wales Low Flying Tactical Training Area (TTA-7T); how local social, economic and 8. There are no unacceptable adverse impacts on the environmental benefits have been transport network through the transportation of maximised and that there are no components or source fuels during its construction unacceptable adverse effects on, or due and/or ongoing operation; to, the following: 9. The proposal includes consideration of the materials needed or generated by the development to ensure  landscape and visual impacts; the sustainable use and management of resources;  cumulative impacts; 10. There are acceptable provisions relating to the  the setting of National Parks and decommissioning of the development at the end of the

Areas of Outstanding Natural development’sits lifetime, including the removal of all

Beauty; infrastructure as soon as their use ceases and the

 visual dominance, shadow flicker, appropriate after-use of the site.effective restoration. reflected light or noise impacts;  electromagnetic disturbance to existing communications systems; Wind and Solar Energy Outside of Priority Areas and  the following identified protected Outside of the Priority Areas for Solar and Wind, planning assets: applications for large scale wind and solar development must o archaeological, architectural demonstrate the proposal is acceptable, in accordance with or historic assets; the criteria below. o nature conservation sites and species; Planning applications must demonstrate how local social, o natural resources or economic and environmental benefits have been maximised reserves. and that there are no unacceptable adverse effects on, or Suitable access to the site for construction due to, the following: and maintenance purposes must be provided. Plans must also be in place for  landscape and visual impacts; the end of the development’s lifetime,  cumulative impacts;

including the removal of all infrastructure  the setting of National Parks and Areas of Outstanding

as soon as their use ceases and the Natural Beauty;

appropriate after-use of the site.  visual dominance, shadow flicker, reflected light or

noise impacts; Policy 12

Wind and Solar Energy in National  electromagnetic disturbance to existing Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural communications systems; and Beauty  the following identified protected assets: o archaeological, architectural or historic assets; Large scale on-shore wind and solar o nature conservation sites and species; energy development is not acceptable o natural resources or reserves. within National Parks and Areas of Suitable access to the site for construction and maintenance Outstanding Natural Beauty. purposes must be provided. Plans must also be in place for the end of the development’s lifetime, including the removal of all infrastructure as soon as their use ceases and the appropriate after-use of the site.

Wind and Solar Energy in National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Large scale on-shore wind and solar energy development is not acceptable within National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. PPW PPW Reference Reference 5.9 5.9 6.3.8 6.3.8 Supporting Renewable Energy Supporting Spatial strategy: Powering and heating Spatial strategy: Powering and heating places with renewable Text text for places with renewable energy and District energy and District Heat Networks The spatial strategy Policy 10 Heat Networks The spatial strategy provides a long term context and framework for infrastructure Wales is abundant in opportunities to generate renewable provides a long term context and investment and the protection of the environment and places energy and the Welsh Government is committed to framework for infrastructure investment a strong emphasis on the requirement to make the best use maximising this potential. Generating renewable energy is a and the protection of the environment and of our resources. Growing our towns and cities will require key part of our commitment to decarbonisation and tackling places a strong emphasis on the clean energy and an efficient means of providing heat and the causes of climate change. requirement to make the best use of our power to homes and workplaces. This section sets out the We have set the following ambitious targets for the generation resources. Growing our towns and cities spatial implications of our energy and heat needs. of renewable energy: will require clean energy and an efficient Renewable Energy means of providing heat and power to  For 70% of electricity consumption to be generated from homes and workplaces. This section sets renewable energy by 2030. Wales is abundant in opportunities to generate renewable energy out the spatial implications of our energy and the Welsh Government is committed to maximising this  For one gigawatt of renewable energy capacity to be locally and heat needs. potential. Generating renewable energy is a key part of our owned by 2030. Renewable Energy Wales is abundant in commitment to decarbonisation and tackling the causes of climate opportunities to generate renewable  For new renewable energy projects to have at least an change. We have set the following ambitious targets for the energy and the Welsh Government is element of local ownership from 2020. generation of renewable energy: committed to maximising this potential.

Generating renewable energy is a key part • We have set the following ambitious targets for the Developments of National Significance of our commitment to decarbonisation and generation of renewable energy:

tackling the causes of climate change. We Proposals for large-scale energy development are classed as  For 70 per cent% of electricity consumption to be generated have set the following ambitious targets for ‘Developments of National Significance’ and are determined from renewable energy by 2030. the generation of renewable energy: by the Welsh Ministers. Proposals below the threshold for • For 70 per cent of electricity consumption  • For one gigawatt of renewable energy capacity to be Developments of National Significance are determined by to be generated from renewable energy by locally owned by 2030. local planning authorities. Large-scale energy developments 2030.  • For new renewable energy projects to have at least an include: • For one gigawatt of renewable energy element of local ownership byfrom 2020.  All on-shore wind generation of 10 or more megawatts. capacity to be locally owned by 2030. • For new renewable energy projects to Developments of National Significance  Other energy generation sites with generating power have at least an element of local between 10 and 350 megawatts. ownership by 2020. Proposals for large -scale energy development are classed as ‘Developments of National SignificanceSignificance’ and are determined by the Welsh Ministers. Proposals below the threshold The Welsh Government’s policies on Developments of Proposals for large scale energy for Developments of National Significance are determined by local National Significance focus on renewable and low carbon development are classed as planning authorities. Large -scale energy developments include: energy schemes as it is anticipated that these will be the most Developments of National Significance  • All on-shore wind generation overof 10 mega wattsor more common schemes coming forward for consideration in the and are determined by Welsh Ministers. megawatts. period of the first plan. Future iterations of Future Wales will Proposals below the threshold for contain additional policies for other types of Development of Developments of National Significance are  • Other renewable energy generation sites with generating National Significance where needed. determined by local planning authorities. power between 10 mega watts and 350 mega Large scale energy developments include: watts.megawatts. Policies 17 and 18 contain strategic spatial and detailed • All on-shore wind generation over 10 criteria-based policies respectively and should be considered mega watts. OurThe Welsh Government’s policies on Developments of together in the determination of applications, along with • Other renewable energy generation sites National Significance focus on renewable and low carbon detailed advice on assessing benefits and impacts in Planning with generating power between 10 mega energy schemes as it is anticipated that these will be the Policy Wales. watts and 350 mega watts. most common schemes coming forward for consideration in the period of the first plan. Future iterations of Future Wales Policy 17 recognises the wealth of current and emerging Our spatial priority is for large scale wind will contain additional policies for other types of Development renewable energy technologies that can contribute towards our and solar development to be directed of National Significance where needed. energy and decarbonisation targets. It also demonstrates the towards Priority Areas for Wind and Solar Welsh Government’s support in principle for all renewable Energy shown on page 42. Policies 17 and 18 contain strategic spatial priority is for and energy projects and technologies. There is a presumption in favour of large detailed criteria-based policies respectively and should be scale on-shore wind and solar energy considered together in the determination of applications, Policy 18 provides a decision-making framework for renewable development in these areas, an along with detailed advice on assessing benefits and impacts and low carbon energy technologies. The planning system acceptance of landscape change and a in Planning Policy Wales. sets policy and takes decisions on on-shore schemes. The focus on maximising benefits and Welsh Government is supportive of off-shore proposals and minimising impacts. Communities will be Policy 17 recognises the wealth of current and emerging sees them as an important part of our future energy mix but protected from significant cumulative renewable energy technologies that can contribute towards they do not fall within the remit of Future Wales. The on-shore impacts to avoid unacceptable situations our energy and decarbonisation targets. It also demonstrates development aspects of off-shore schemes are supported. whereby, for example, smaller settlements the Welsh Government’s support in principle for all renewable Future Wales and the Marine Plan address energy and reflect could be potentially surrounded by large energy projects and technologies. the energy hierarchy as set out in Planning Policy Wales. Both wind schemes. The Welsh Government plans recognise that there are a number of opportunities to will use its policy levers to assist in the Policy 18 provides a decision-making framework for generate renewable energy across a variety of technologies delivery of renewable energy projects in renewable and low carbon energy technologies. The planning both on-shore and off-shore which should be maximised to these areas. The development of Priority system sets policy and takes decisions on on-shore help meet the targets. Areas will assist in co-ordinating strategic schemes. The Welsh Government is supportive of off-shore action, bringing a critical mass of new proposals and sees them as an important part of our future The planning system plays a significant role in the provision of renewables developments together to energy mix but they do not fall within the remit of Future new renewable and low carbon energy. It gives effect to our build the case for new or reinforced grid Wales. The on-shore development aspects of off-shore national targets and sets the overall strategic framework and infrastructure. We will work with relevant schemes are supported. Future Wales and the Marine Plan direction within which developers can propose new energy stakeholders to help unlock the renewable address energy and reflect the energy hierarchy as set out in infrastructure projects. energy potential of these areas and the Planning Policy Wales. Both plans recognise that there are a economic, social and environmental number of opportunities to generate renewable energy The Welsh Ministers have considered alternatives to the need benefits they can bring to communities. across a variety of technologies both on-shore and off-shore for new large-scale electricity generation infrastructure, which should be maximised to help meet the targets. including building-mounted installations and energy efficiency Large scale wind and solar renewable measures. Although we believe that these measures have an energy development can be visually The planning system plays a significant role in the provision important part to play in meeting our energy, decarbonisation prominent. A strategic review of landscape of new renewable and low carbon energy. It gives effect to and climate change targets, they will not enable us to meet and visual impact identified the Priority our national targets and sets the overall strategic framework these objectives on their own. Areas for Solar and Wind Energy as the and direction within which developers can propose new most appropriate locations to energy infrastructure projects. We recognise landscapes across Wales whose intrinsic value accommodate landscape change. There should be protected from inappropriate development. Sites in is, therefore, an acceptance of landscape The Welsh Ministers have considered alternatives to the National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are change in these areas. However, the need for new large -scale electricity generation infrastructure, considered unsuitable for large-scale wind and solar. Outside design and micro siting of proposals must including building-mounted installations and energy efficiency of these areas a positive policy framework exists. minimise the landscape and visual impact, measures. Although we believe that these measures have an particularly those in close proximity to important part to play in meeting our energy, decarbonisation built-up areas. In the ‘Pre-Assessed Areas for Wind Energy’ (see Map XXX) and climate change targets, they will not enable us to meet the Welsh Government has undertaken an assessment to The Welsh Government adopts a clear these objectives on their own. identify these areas to provide certainty where, in principle, traffic light based approach to its policy on developments would be acceptable. In these areas there is a large scale wind and solar renewable We recognise landscapes across Wales whose intrinsic value presumption in favour of large-scale on-shore wind energy energy projects. should be protected from inappropriate development. Sites in development and the associated landscape change subject to National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are the criteria in policy 18. Outside of these areas a positive RED: Large scale on-shore wind and solar considered unsuitable for large-scale wind and solar policy framework still exists, subject to policy 18. energy development is not appropriate development to be directed towards Priority. Outside of these within National Parks and Areas of areas a positive policy framework exists. The Welsh Government will use its policy levers to assist in the Outstanding Natural Beauty. delivery of renewable energy projects in these areas by co- In the ‘Pre-Assessed Areas for Wind and Solar Energy ordinating strategic action to build the case for new or AMBER: Areas not within the Priority shown on page 42. reinforced grid infrastructure where necessary. We will work Areas. These will not carry explicit Welsh ThereEnergy’ (see Map XXX) the Welsh Government has with relevant stakeholders to help unlock the renewable Government support and proposals will undertaken an assessment to identify these areas to provide energy potential of these areas and the economic, social, be determined on their individual merits. certainty where, in principle, developments would be cultural and environmental benefits they can bring to acceptable. In these areas there is a presumption in favour of communities. GREEN: Priority Areas for Solar and Wind large -scale on-shore wind and solar energy development in Energy where there is a presumption in these areas, an acceptance ofand the associated landscape Large-scale renewable and low carbon energy schemes can favour of development and where the change and a focus on maximising benefits and minimising generate direct social and economic benefit to local principle of landscape change is accepted. impacts. Communities will be protected from significant communities. Developers should explore how infrastructure cumulative impacts to avoid unacceptable situations improvements associated with a development (including These technologies are viable and whereby, for example, smaller settlements could be transport infrastructure and communications systems) may be deliverable, and have the greatest ability potentially surrounded by large wind schemes. subject to the utilised by the host communities to bring additional, non- to make positive contributions to our criteria in policy 18. Outside of these areas a positive policy planning related benefits. Although not a planning renewable energy targets in the short-to- framework still exists, subject to policy 18. consideration, local ownership of projects, in whole or part, medium term: can ensure these benefits are accrued over the long-term. The Welsh Government will use its policy levers to assist in Not all of the area within the Priority Areas the delivery of renewable energy projects in these areas. The Irrespective of location or scale, the design and micro-siting of for Solar and Wind Energy is suitable for development of Priority Areas will assist in by co-ordinating proposals must seek to minimise the landscape and visual the generation of renewable energy. strategic action, bringing a critical mass of new renewables impact, particularly those in close proximity to homes and Natura 2000 sites within the Priority Areas developments together to build the case for new or reinforced tourism receptors. Both within and outside Pre-Assessed are excluded. Careful consideration will be grid infrastructure where necessary. We will work with Areas, communities should be protected from significant given to the siting of schemes, particularly relevant stakeholders to help unlock the renewable energy cumulative impacts to avoid unacceptable situations whereby, the cumulative impacts. Further guidance potential of these areas and the economic, social, cultural for example, smaller settlements could be potentially on the development of on-shore wind and and environmental benefits they can bring to communities. surrounded by large wind schemes. solar energy schemes in Priority Areas will be produced to assist in the development Large -scale wind and solar renewable and low carbon Wales has many significant active defence sites whose process. The implementation of energy schemes can generate direct social and economic operations should not be compromised by the presence of new developments within the Priority Areas will benefit to local communities. Developers should explore how renewable energy infrastructure. Much of Mid Wales is also be monitored against the Welsh infrastructure improvements associated with a development covered by a low flying tactical training area and the Government’s renewable energy targets. can be visually prominent. A strategic review of landscape cumulative impact of proposals on this strategically important and visual impact identified the Priority Areas for area of airspace must also be considered. Early consultation Outside the Priority Areas, large scale on- Solar(including transport infrastructure and Wind Energy as with the Ministry of Defence by developers is advised on these Supporting shore wind and solar energy the most appropriate locations to accommodate landscape issues. text for developments may be appropriate. change. There is, therefore, an acceptance of landscape Policy 11 Applications will be determined based on change in these areas. Howevercommunications systems) The construction of renewable and low carbon energy projects the merits of the individual proposal and may be utilised by the host communities to bring additional, should be resource efficient, sustainable and reflect the the onus is on the applicant to non-planning related benefits. Although not a planning principles of a circular economy. The availability of aggregates demonstrate that a proposal will not have consideration, local ownership of projects, in whole or part, in line with the proximity principle, should be demonstrated an unacceptable impact on its can ensure these benefits are accrued over the long-term. along with an appropriate materials balance on site. surroundings. Irrespective of location or scale, the design and micro -siting The provision of access to the site for construction and Large scale on-shore wind and solar of proposals must seek to minimise the landscape and visual maintenance of the scheme must respond to the environment energy development is not appropriate impact, particularly those in close proximity to built-up in which the renewable and low carbon energy projects are within National Parks and Areas of areas.homes and tourism receptors. Both within and outside located. The removal of infrastructure as soon as their use Supporting Outstanding Natural Beauty. Proposals Pre-Assessed Areas, communities should be protected from ceases and the appropriate after-use of the site will also text for close to the boundaries of these significant cumulative impacts to avoid unacceptable ensure environmental benefits are realised. Policy 12 designated areas must demonstrate that situations whereby, for example, smaller settlements could the development will not undermine the be potentially surrounded by large wind schemes. From a well-being perspective, the Welsh Government would objectives that underpin the purposes of wish to see as much renewable electricity generated and the designation. The Welsh Government adopts a clear traffic light based consumed as locally as possible, but new grid infrastructure for approach to its policy on large scale wind and solar the wider transmission and distribution of electricity should be renewable energy projects. designed to minimise their visual impact on nearby communities. The Welsh Government will work with RED: Large scale on-shore wind and solar energy stakeholders, including national grid and distribution network development is not appropriate within National Parks and operators, to transition to a multi-vector grid network and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. reduce the barriers to the implementation of any necessary new grid infrastructure. AMBER: Areas not within the Priority Areas. These will not carry explicit Welsh Government support and proposals will The UK’s energy system is now undergoing significant change, be determined on their individual merits. with energy generation and delivery becoming more distributed in the communities and regions where the energy is used. The GREEN: Priority Areas for Solar and Wind Energy where boundaries between systems are also becoming blurred, with there is a presumption in favour of development and where energy being converted into (and stored in) different forms to the principle of landscape change is accepted. address a range of needs. There is also a need to consider large-scale energy storage as part of the energy system to These technologies are viable and deliverable, and have the provide grid balancing. During the lifetime of Future Wales the greatest ability to make positive contributions to our energy system is likely to move to a ’multi-vector system’ renewable energy targets in the short-to-medium term: approach, which will require flexibility to fully exploit the inter- relationships and synergies between the power, heat and Not all of the area within the Priority Areas for Solar and Wind transport sectors. Energy is suitable for the generation of renewable energy. Natura 2000 sites within the Priority Areas are excluded. Further guidance on the development of on-shore wind will be Careful consideration will be given to the siting of schemes, produced to assist in the development process. The particularly the cumulative impacts. Wales has many implementation of development will be monitored against the significant active defence sites whose operations should not Welsh Government’s renewable energy targets. be compromised by the presence of new renewable energy infrastructure. Much of Mid Wales is also covered by a low The Welsh Government will use regional energy planning to flying tactical training area and the cumulative impact of identify opportunities for all types of renewable projects. proposals on this strategically important area of airspace Proposals should ensure there is no significant unacceptable must also be considered. Early consultation with the Ministry detrimental impact on the surrounding natural environment and of Defence by developers is advised on these issues. local communities and that the development brings with it positive social, environmental, cultural and economic benefits. The construction of renewable and low carbon energy projects should be resource efficient, sustainable and reflect A combined map supports policies 16, 17 and 18 showing the principles of a circular economy. The availability of Heat networks and renewable energy policies aggregates in line with the proximity principle, should be demonstrated along with an appropriate materials balance on site.

The provision of access to the site for construction and maintenance of the scheme must respond to the environment in which the renewable and low carbon energy projects are located. The removal of infrastructure as soon as their use ceases and the appropriate after-use of the site will also ensure environmental benefits are realised.

From a well-being perspective, the Welsh Government would wish to see as much renewable electricity generated and consumed as locally as possible, but new grid infrastructure for the wider transmission and distribution of electricity should be designed to minimise their visual impact on nearby communities. The Welsh Government will work with stakeholders, including national grid and distribution network operators, to transition to a multi-vector grid network and reduce the barriers to the implementation of any necessary new grid infrastructure.

The UK’s energy system is now undergoing significant change, with energy generation and delivery becoming more distributed in the communities and regions where the energy is used. The boundaries between systems are also becoming blurred, with energy being converted into (and stored in) different forms to address a range of needs. There is also a need to consider large-scale energy storage as part of the energy system to provide grid balancing. During the lifetime of Future Wales the energy system is likely to move to a ’multi-vector system’ approach, which will require flexibility to fully exploit the inter-relationships and synergies between the power, heat and transport sectors.

Further guidance on the development of on-shore wind and solar energy schemes in Priority Areas will be produced to assist in the development process. The implementation of developments within the Priority Areasdevelopment will be monitored against the Welsh Government’s renewable energy targets.

Outside the Priority Areas, large scale on-shore wind and solar energy developments may be appropriate. Applications will be determined based on the merits of the individual proposal and the onus is on the applicant to demonstrate that a proposal will not have an unacceptable impact on its surroundings.

Large scale on-shore wind and solar energy development is not appropriate within National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Proposals close to the boundaries of these designated areas must demonstrate that the development will not undermine the objectives that underpin the purposes of the designation. The Welsh Government will use regional energy planning to identify opportunities for all types of renewable projects. Proposals should ensure there is no significant unacceptable detrimental impact on the surrounding natural environment and local communities and that the development brings with it positive social, environmental, cultural and economic benefits.

A combined map supports policies 16, 17 and 18 showing Heat networks and renewable energy policies

Section or Updated Version Draft NDF Draft NDF Section or Policy Tracked Changed Version Policy Section or Number Policy Number Chapter 5 The Regions Chapter 5 The Regions The Regions

Regional planning will play an increasingly Wales’ three regions provide a focus for Welsh Wales’ threeRegional planning will play an important role in the future and is central to our Government policy and future investment. Each increasingly important role in the future and vision for a three tiered planning system. region has its own distinctive opportunities and is central to our vision for a three tiered challenges. Embracing these through more

effective regional collaboration will lead to better planning system. The planning system has an important role to play in shaping outcomes for all parts of Wales and create a regional growth, co-ordinating and managing strategic fairer distribution of wealth and opportunity. The planning system has an important role to play in development across each region and ensuring that wider than shaping regional growth, co-ordinating and managing local issues are tackled collaboratively. Wales’ four regions The planning system has an important role to strategic development across each region and ensuring provide a focus for Welsh Government policy and future play in shaping regional development by co- that wider than local issues are tackled collaboratively. investment. Each region has its own distinctive opportunities ordinating and managing development across Wales’ four regions provide a focus for Welsh and challenges. Embracing these through more effective each region and by ensuring that wider than Government policy and future investment. Each region regional collaboration will lead to better outcomes for all parts local issues are tackled collaboratively and has its own distinctive opportunities and challenges. of Wales and create a fairer distribution of wealth and strategically. Embracing these through more effective regional opportunity. collaboration will lead to better outcomes for all parts of

Strategic Development Plans are prepared at a Wales and create a fairer distribution of wealth and The preparation of Strategic Development Plans is required in regional scale. They consider strategic regional opportunity. all four regions. They should consider strategic regional issues in relation to future growth areas, issues including future growth areas, housing demand, housing demand, economic development, The planning system has an important role to play in economic development, transport and green infrastructure. transport and green infrastructure which cut shaping regional development by co-ordinating and These are issues which cut across local planning authorities across local planning authorities and require a managing development across each region and by and require a regional, co-ordinated planning response. regional, integrated planning response. ensuring that wider than local issues are tackled

collaboratively and strategically. The Development Plans Manual provides guidance on the Informal regional arrangements including preparation and revision of Strategic and Local Development commitments to work together through preparation of Strategic Development Plans are Plans. traditional Local Development Plans or prepared at a regional scale.is required in all four

approaches to regional planning that do not regions. They should consider strategic regional issues Preparation of Strategic Development Plans result in the preparation of a Strategic in relation to including future growth areas, housing

Development Plan, do not constitute the form of demand, economic development, transport and green Strategic Development Plans are required within each region regional planning required by the NDF. infrastructure . These are issues which cut across local to establish a clear strategic policy framework and provide planning authorities and require a regional, direction for decision makers. National and/or Regional The Development Plans Manual provides integratedco-ordinated planning response. Growth Areas are identified in all four regions and their guidance on the preparation and revision of growth will be planned through the preparation of Strategic Strategic Development Plans and Local Informal regional arrangements including commitments Development Plans. Development Plans. to work together through traditional Local Development Plans or approaches to regional planning that do not Strategic Policies for Regional Planning Local authorities and national parks formally working together result in the preparation of a Strategic Development is the best way for regions to meet the strategic challenges Many policy areas are best considered at the Plan, do not constitute the form of regional planning and opportunities they face and provide a strong framework regional scale and the role of a regional plan is required by the NDF. for Local Development Plans. National, regional and local to develop a clear policy framework that The Development Plans Manual provides guidance on partners in the public, private and third sectors all have a identifies these issues; develops a strategic the preparation and revision of Strategic and Local contribution to make to the creation of Strategic Development policy response; and provides direction for Development Plans. Plans. decision makers in accordance with the plan-led system. Preparation of Strategic Development Plans and Wales’ first national development framework, Future Wales, Local Development Plans. has three important roles in supporting Strategic Local authorities and national, regional and local Development Plans: partners in the public, private and third sectors  it focuses Welsh Government and key stakeholder all have a contribution to make to the Strategic Policies for Regional Planning action and investment in the four regions, identifying development of Strategic Development Plans Many policy areasDevelopment Plans are best key strategic spatial issues and providing a framework and these plans can include other policy issues considered at the regional scale and the role of a for the co-ordinated delivery of national economic, that are important at the regional scale. The regional plan isrequired within each region to housing, regeneration, environmental, flooding, preparation of Local Well-being Plans, Area developestablish a clear policy framework that identifies energy, rural and transport policies; Statements (Natural Resources Wales); these issues; develops a strategic policy  it sets out the key regional issues identified across the regional transport models and plans (Transport response;framework and providesprovide direction for preparation of Future Wales to provide a starting point for Wales); and the Welsh Government’s decision makers in accordance with the plan-led for the preparation of Strategic Development Plans; Housing Need Assessment are examples of system.. National and/or Regional Growth Areas are and work that can directly support the preparation of identified in all four regions and their growth will be Strategic Development Plans. planned through the preparation of Strategic Development Plans.  it provides a regional context for the planning system To deliver direction for their region, it is in advance of the adoption of Strategic Development important that Strategic Development Plans are Local authorities and national Plans. prepared. Local planning authorities should Local authorities and national parks formally working determine their geographical footprints. The together is the best way for regions to meet the strategic Strategic Development Plans and the Future Wales Welsh Government will work with local planning challenges and opportunities they face and provide a Outcomes authorities to support the establishment of strong framework for Local Development Plans. Strategic Development Plans. National, regional and local partners in the public, In developing the policy framework required by policy 19, all private and third sectors all have a contribution to make Strategic Development Plans must consider and respond to Alignment of Regional Development Plans to the development of Strategic Development Plans and the Future Wales Outcomes set out in Chapter 3. and Strategies these plans can include other policy issues that are important at the regional scale. The preparation of Local It is important that Strategic Development Plans Well-being Plans, Area Statements (Natural Resources They must demonstrate how the spatial framework they both shape and are shaped by other regional Wales); regional transport models and plans (Transport develop and the key choices they make will contribute to strategies, including the Welsh Government’s for Wales); and the Welsh Government’s creation of delivering the Outcomes. The examination of Strategic Regional Economic Development Plans and Development Plans against the Future Wales Outcomes will City and Growth Deals. If key outcomes are not Strategic Development Plans. Housing Need be an important part of testing the soundness of Strategic aligned or do not support one another, the Assessment are examples of work that can directly Development Plans. region’s ability to deliver will be undermined. support the preparation of Strategic Development Plans. Although different regional strategies will To deliver direction The spatial strategy and settlement hierarchy of a operate to different timeframes and may be Wales’ first national development framework, Future development plan are powerful tools in influencing where revised at different times, regional plan makers Wales, has three important roles in supporting Strategic growth is located and how much land is developed. They should explore with regional partners how Development Plans: define whether development will be concentrated in one place evidence and consultation activities can be  it focuses Welsh Government and key or dispersed across a wide area. These aspects of a plan joined. stakeholder action and investment in the four determine whether the size and character of a place remain regions, identifying key strategic spatial issues constant or are gradually changed, whether people live in NDF Review & Regional Planning and providing a framework for the co-ordinated places near or far away from places of work, and whether The Welsh Government requires progress on delivery of national economic, housing, they need a car to access day-to-day services and regional planning across Wales and as part of regeneration, environmental, flooding, energy, community facilities. These are important decisions, affecting the monitoring of the NDF, will monitor formal rural and transport policies; people’s quality of life and influencing how resilient places progress on the preparation of Strategic  it sets out the key regional issues identified are. Development Plans. across the preparation of Future Wales to provide a starting point for the preparation of Strategic It is crucial that Strategic and Local Development Plans The Three Regions Development Plans; and develop spatial strategies and settlement hierarchies that The following sections set out the NDF policies help meet the Future Wales Outcomes. Our national for each region and provide direction for the  it provides a regional context for the planning ambition to decarbonise society, to be more prosperous, to preparation of Strategic and Local Development system in advance of the adoption of Strategic grow the Welsh language and to improve health must be key Plans and decisions to be taken on planning Development Plans. considerations when developing spatial strategies and proposals. settlement hierarchies. Strategic Development Plans and the Future Wales Outcomes

Cross Border Relationships In developing the policy framework required by policy 19, all Strategic Development Plans must consider and It is essential that Strategic Development Plans are shaped respond to the Future Wales Outcomes set out in by and are responsive to the relationship between regions, Chapter 3. with English regions and the strategically important links with Ireland. No region exists in isolation. All share different They must demonstrate how the spatial framework they functional relationships and are reliant on each other in develop and the key choices they make will contribute to different ways. In taking long term strategic decisions for their delivering the Outcomes. The examination of Strategic region, it is important that Strategic Development Plans do so Development Plans against the Future Wales Outcomes based on a full understanding of their wider connections. will be an important part of testing the soundness of Strategic Development Plans. Decisions on where growth will be focused, how places will function, how people will move across regions and wider The spatial strategy and settlement hierarchy of a environmental designations must be shaped by an development plan are powerful tools in influencing understanding of cross-boundary issues. This will ensure that where growth is located and how much land is growth, services, jobs and transport infrastructure are developed. They define whether development will be planned in one region to be as accessible to people in other concentrated in one place or dispersed across a wide regions as they can be. It will also ensure that regions do not area. These aspects of a plan determine whether the unintentionally or unnecessarily compete for certain types of size and character of a place remain constant or are development. gradually changed, whether people live in places near or far away from places of work, and whether they need a One well planned sustainable strategic employment site for car to access day-to-day services and community example, accessible to a wide population across different facilities. These are important decisions, affecting regions, is better than three neighbouring regions all people’s quality of life and influencing how resilient identifying the same type of strategic site, accessible to a places are. smaller population, in less sustainable locations and with much less certainty of delivery as they compete for potential It is crucial that Strategic and Local Development Plans users. develop spatial strategies and settlement hierarchies that help meet the Future Wales Outcomes. Our Strategic and Local Development Plans should be confident national ambition to decarbonise society, to be more in seeking to align areas of need with areas of opportunity, prosperous, to grow the Welsh language and to improve including where areas of opportunity are in other regions or health must be key considerations when developing England. Focusing investment and action on improving the spatial strategies and settlement hierarchies. links between communities and economic opportunities outside the region can help support the region’s communities and the development of a stronger economy. Cross Border Relationships

Growth Deals & Regional Economic Frameworks It is essential that Strategic Development Plans are shaped by and are responsive to the relationship City region and growth deals are in place and emerging in all between regions, with English regions and the four regions. These deals bring together the UK and Welsh strategically important links with Ireland. No region Governments, local authorities and local partnerships and exists in isolation. All share different functional establish funds to support growth within each region. relationships and are reliant on each other in different ways. In taking long term strategic decisions for their The Welsh Government’s Chief Regional Officers lead across region, it is important that Strategic Development Plans a number of areas including developing and maintaining do so based on a full understanding of their wider strategic relationships with business, local authority and connections. stakeholders in each region and identifying investment opportunities. The Chief Regional Officers will develop Decisions on where growth will be focused, how places Regional Economic Frameworks with stakeholders to will function, how people will move across regions and establish key themes and priorities for their regions, providing wider environmental designations must be shaped by an greater clarity for public sector action and for businesses understanding of cross-boundary issues. This will looking to grow. ensure that growth, services, jobs and transport infrastructure are planned in one region to be as Strategic Development Plans should be informed by and accessible to people in other regions as they can be. It support growth deals and the Regional Economic will also ensure that regions do not unintentionally or Frameworks. Strategic Development Plans should take the unnecessarily compete for certain types of development. strategic locational decisions on housing, economic growth, key services and essential infrastructure that will help support One well planned sustainable strategic employment site growth deals and the Regional Economic Frameworks. for example, accessible to a wide population across different regions, is better than three neighbouring Future Wales Review regions all identifying the same type of strategic site, accessible to a smaller population, in less sustainable Future reviews of Future Wales will be informed by Strategic locations and with much less certainty of delivery as Development Plans. This is an important feature of the three they compete for potential users. tiered development planning system – the ability of higher tier plans to be influenced by the emergence and adoption of Strategic and Local Development Plans are prepared. other development plans. Local planning authorities should determine their geographical footprints. The Welsh Government will It is essential that progress is made with the preparation of work with local planning authorities to support the Strategic Development Plans. Full development plan establishment of Strategic Development Plansbe coverage at all levels is essential to the delivery of the Future confident in seeking to align areas of need with areas of Wales Outcomes. The Welsh Government will consider using opportunity, including where areas of opportunity are in its intervention powers if required to commence and drive the other regions or England. Focusing investment and preparation of Strategic Development Plans. action on improving the links between communities and economic opportunities outside the region can help The Four Regions support the region’s communities and the development of a stronger economy. The regional policies focus on four areas – they provide a framework for national growth, for regional growth, for Alignment of Regional Development Plans and managing growth and supporting growth. Strategies It is important that Strategic Development Plans both National growth policies identify where the Welsh shape and are shaped by other regional strategies, Government expects national scale growth to be focused in including the Welsh Government’s Regional Economic accordance with Future Wales’ spatial strategy. These areas Development Plans and City and Growth Deals. If key are main centres of population, activity, services and major outcomes are not aligned or do not support one another, infrastructure. In establishing these areas in Future Wales, the region’s ability to deliver will be undermined. the Welsh Government is providing a framework for co- Although different regional strategies will operate to ordinated policies, infrastructure delivery and spending by different timeframes and may be revised at different Government, local authorities and stakeholders. times, regional plan makers should explore with regional partners how evidence and consultation activities can be Regional growth policies identify places that perform joined. important functional roles within their region. They are key centres for employment, services, tourism, retail and culture. NDF Review & Regional Planning The Welsh Government will work with local authorities to The Welsh Government requires support these places, and to promote regeneration and Growth Deals & Regional Economic Frameworks growth. Strategic Development Plans should consider their role in their region both as places in their own right and as City region and growth deals are in place and emerging part of the wider regional hierarchy. in all four regions. These deals bring together the UK and Welsh Governments, local authorities and local Managing growth policies support the identification of the partnerships and establish funds to support growth location and scale of development within regions. It will be for within each region. Strategic Development Plans to establish the requirements of policy 19. These Future Wales policies provide an important The Welsh Government’s Chief Regional Officers lead regional framework in the absence of Strategic Development across a number of areas including developing and Plans, identifying key strategic spatial issues that require a maintaining strategic relationships with business, local larger than local policy response. The Welsh Government will authority and stakeholders in each region and identifying ensure decisions taken by the planning system support the investment opportunities. The Chief Regional Officers delivery of these policies. will develop Regional Economic Frameworks with stakeholders to establish key themes and priorities for Supporting growth policies focus on specific places and their regions, providing greater clarity for public sector infrastructure, and ensure decisions taken by the Welsh action and for businesses looking to grow. Government and others support the delivery of Future Wales’ spatial strategy. Strategic Development Plans should support Strategic Development Plans should be informed by and the delivery of these policies and maximise the opportunities support growth deals and the Regional Economic they provide for their regions. Frameworks. Strategic Development Plans should take the strategic locational decisions on housing, economic growth, key services and essential infrastructure that will Future Wales policies provide a framework for decisions with help support growth deals and the Regional Economic a regional dimension – both taken by the Welsh Government Frameworks. and by planning authorities. In the absence of Strategic Development Plans, Local Development Plans and the Future Wales Review development management process will need to demonstrate how Future Wales’ regional policies have been taken into Future reviews of Future Wales will be informed by account and demonstrate how they conform with Future Strategic Development Plans. This is an important Wales and Planning Policy Wales. feature of the three tiered development planning system – the ability of higher tier plans to be influenced by the A map showing the regional arrangement is included in this emergence and adoption of other development plans. section

For each region, the introductory page contains maps and It is essential that progress on regional planning across graphics showing pertinent regional data. Each region also Wales and as part of the monitoring of the NDF, will has a regional strategic diagram monitor formal progress onis made with the preparation of Strategic Development Plans. The Three Regions The following sections set out the NDF policies for each region and provide direction for Full development plan coverage at all levels is essential to the delivery of the Future Wales Outcomes. The Welsh Government will consider using its intervention powers if required to commence and drive the preparation of Strategic and Development Plans.

The Four Regions

The regional policies focus on four areas – they provide a framework for national growth, for regional growth, for managing growth and supporting growth.

National growth policies identify where the Welsh Government expects national scale growth to be focused in accordance with Future Wales’ spatial strategy. These areas are main centres of population, activity, services and major infrastructure. In establishing these areas in Future Wales, the Welsh Government is providing a framework for co-ordinated policies, infrastructure delivery and spending by Government, local authorities and stakeholders.

Regional growth policies identify places that perform important functional roles within their region. They are key centres for employment, services, tourism, retail and culture. The Welsh Government will work with local authorities to support these places, and to promote regeneration and growth. Strategic Development Plans should consider their role in their region both as places in their own right and as part of the wider regional hierarchy.

Managing growth policies support the identification of the location and scale of development within regions. It will be for Strategic Development Plans to establish the requirements of policy 19. These Future Wales policies provide an important regional framework in the absence of Strategic Development Plans, identifying key strategic spatial issues that require a larger than local policy response. The Welsh Government will ensure decisions taken by the planning system support the delivery of these policies.

Supporting growth policies focus on specific places and infrastructure, and ensure decisions taken by the Welsh Government and others support the delivery of Future Wales’ spatial strategy. Strategic Development Plans should support the delivery of these policies and maximise the opportunities they provide for their regions.

Future Wales policies provide a framework for decisions with a regional dimension – both taken by the Welsh Government and by planning authorities. In the absence of Strategic Development Plans, Local Development Plans and decisions to be taken on planning proposals.the development management process will need to demonstrate how Future Wales’ regional policies have been taken into account and demonstrate how they conform with Future Wales and Planning Policy Wales.

A map showing the regional arrangement is included in this section

For each region, the introductory page contains maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data. Each region also has a regional strategic diagram Policy 19 Strategic Policies for Regional Planning Policy 16 Strategic Policies for Regional Planning Strategic Policies for Regional Planning

Strategic Development Plans should embed placemaking as Strategic Development Plans should embed Strategic Development Plans should embed an overarching principle and should establish for the region placemaking as an overarching principle and placemaking as an overarching principle and should (and where required constituent Local Development Plans): should establish for the region (and where establish for the region (and where required constituent required constituent LDPs): LDPsLocal Development Plans): - a spatial strategy; - a settlement hierarchy; - a spatial strategy; - a spatial strategy; - the housing provision and requirement; - a settlement hierarchy; - a settlement hierarchy; - the gypsy and traveller need; - the housing provision and requirement; - the housing provision and requirement; - the employment provision; - the gypsy and traveller need; - the gypsy and traveller need; - the spatial areas for strategic housing, employment - the employment provision; - the employment provision; growth and renewable energy; - the spatial areas for strategic housing - the spatial areas for strategic housing and, - the identification of green belts, green corridors and and employment growth, renewable employment growth, and renewable energy and nationally important landscapes where required; energy and the identification of green the identification of green belts, green corridors - the location of key services, transport and connectivity belts, green corridors and nationally and nationally important landscapes; infrastructure; important landscapes; - the identification of green belts, green corridors - a framework for the sustainable management of - the location of key services, transport and nationally important landscapes where natural resources and cultural assets; and connectivity infrastructure; required; - ecological networks and opportunities for protecting or - a framework for the sustainable - the location of key services, transport and enhancing the connectivity of these networks and the management of natural resources and connectivity infrastructure; provision of green infrastructure; and cultural assets; - a framework for the sustainable management of - ecological networks and opportunities for natural resources and cultural assets; - a co-ordinated framework for minerals extraction and protecting or enhancing the connectivity - ecological networks and opportunities for the circular economy, including waste treatment and of these networks; and protecting or enhancing the connectivity of these disposal. - a co-ordinated framework for minerals networks; and and the provision of green extraction and the circular economy, infrastructure; and The Welsh Government requires the adoption of Strategic including waste treatment and disposal. - a co-ordinated framework for minerals extraction Development Plans in the North, Mid Wales, South West and and the circular economy, including waste South East regions. The Welsh Government requires Strategic treatment and disposal. Development Plans to come forward in each of the three regions to deliver the requirements of The Welsh Government requires the adoption of this policy. Strategic Development Plans to come forward in each of the threethe North, Mid Wales, South West and South East regions to deliver the requirements of this policy..

PPW PPW Reference Reference 1.24 – 1.25 1.24 – 1.25 Policy 20 National Growth Policy 17 Wrexham and Deeside National Growth

National Growth Area - Wrexham and Deeside The Welsh Government supports Wrexham and National Growth Area - Wrexham and Deeside Deeside as the primary focus for regional Wrexham and Deeside will be the main focus for growth and growth and investment. Wrexham and Wrexham and Deeside will be the main focus for investment in the North region. Deeside’s role within the North region and the growth and investment in the North region. wider cross-border areas of Cheshire West and Strategic and Local Development Plans across the region Chester and Liverpool City Region should be Strategic and Local Development Plans across the must recognise the National Growth Area as the focus for maintained and enhanced. region shouldmust recognise Wrexham and strategic economic and housing growth; essential Deesidethe National Growth Area as the focus for services and facilities; advanced manufacturing and Strategic and Local Development Plans across strategic housing and economic and housing growth; transport infrastructure. the region should recognise Wrexham and essential services and facilities; advanced Deeside as the focus for strategic housing and manufacturing; and transport and digital The Welsh Government will work with regional bodies and economic growth; essential services and infrastructure; and consider how they can support and local authorities in the region and in neighbouring regions facilities; advanced manufacturing; transport benefit from Wrexham and Deeside’s regional role.. of England to promote and enhance Wrexham and and digital infrastructure; and consider how they Deeside’s strategic role and ensure key investment can support and benefit from Wrexham and The Welsh Government will work with cross decisions support places in the National Growth Area and Deeside’s regional role. borderregional bodies and local authorities in the the wider region. region and in neighbouring regions of England to The Welsh Government will work with cross promote and enhance Wrexham and Deeside’s border authorities to promote Wrexham and strategic role and ensure key investment decisions Deeside’s strategic role and ensure key support Wrexham and Deesideplaces in the National investment decisions support Wrexham and Growth Area and the wider region. Deeside and the wider region. PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting North Supporting Overview North Text Text Overview The North Wales region comprises Conwy, Overview Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, the Isle of The North region comprises Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Anglesey, Snowdonia National Park and The North Wales region comprises Conwy, Gwynedd, Isle of Anglesey, Snowdonia National Park and Wrexham and is home to almost 700,000 Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, the Isle of Anglesey, Wrexham and is home to almost 700,000 people. Its dramatic people. Its dramatic landscape includes low Snowdonia National Park and Wrexham and is home to landscape includes low lying coastal plains, mountain ranges, lying coastal plains, mountain ranges and almost 700,000 people. Its dramatic landscape includes industrialised areas and former coal fields. industrialised coal fields. The population is low lying coastal plains, mountain ranges and concentrated in an arc along the coast from the industrialised coal fields. The population is concentrated The regional issues that planning authorities should work Menai Straits to the border with England and in an arc along the coast from the Menai Straits to the together to plan for are set out below alongside the spatial border with England and the main concentration of policy areas that the Welsh Government will focus on to the main concentration of population is in the population is in the east around Wrexham-Deeside., support the North region. east around Wrexham-Deeside. industrialised areas and former coal fields.

With 204,406 Welsh speakers across the region and with The regional issues that local planning The regional issues that local planning authorities concentrations of settlements where Welsh is the first authorities should work together to plan for, are should work together to plan for, are set out below language for many people, it is important that Strategic and set out below alongside the spatial policy areas alongside the spatial policy areas that the Welsh Local Development Plans consider the relationship between that the Welsh Government will focus on from a Government will focus on from a national perspective to strategic housing, transport and economic growth and the national perspective to support the North region. support the North region. Welsh language. Strategic and Local Development Plans should contain settlement hierarchies and growth distribution- A collaborative, holistic approach With 204,406 Welsh speakers across the region and policies that create the conditions for Welsh to thrive and with concentrations of settlements where Welsh is the remain as the community language in the many places where Across North Wales, there are a range of first language for many people, it is important that everyday life takes place in Welsh. strategic issues that need to be considered. Strategic and Local Development Plans consider the Many of these issues have national, regional relationship between strategic housing, transport and and local dimensions and will be delivered economic growth and the Welsh language. Strategic and Strategic Development Plan: A regional approach through co- ordinated action at all levels. Local Development Plans should contain settlement hierarchies and growth distribution-policies that create Across the North region there are a range of strategic issues. Housing, economic growth and connectivity the conditions for Welsh to thrive and remain as the Many of these issues have national, regional and local infrastructure should be co-ordinated and community language in the many places where dimensions and will be delivered through co-ordinated action planned on the basis of the whole region. The everyday life takes place in Welsh. at all levels. management of natural resources and flooding and the protection and enhancement of areas of Housing, economic growth, digital and transport connectivity environmental and landscape importance Strategic Development Plan: A collaborative, infrastructure should be co-ordinated and planned on the should inform strategic decisions on locations holisticregional approach basis of the whole region. The management of natural for growth and new infrastructure. resources, flooding and the protection and enhancement of Decarbonising society and responding to the Across the North Wales,region there are a range of areas of environmental and landscape importance should threats of climate change should be central to strategic issues that need to be considered. Many of inform strategic decisions on locations for growth and new all regional planning. these issues have national, regional and local infrastructure. Decarbonisation and responding to the threats dimensions and will be delivered through co- ordinated of climate change should be central to all regional planning. The region should work together to consider the action at all levels. connections with Mid & South West Wales, Clear decisions should be made on the scale and location of Cheshire West and Chester and North West Housing, economic growth, digital and transport growth through the preparation of a Strategic Development England. Promoting accessibility and inter- connectivity infrastructure should be co-ordinated and Plan, to ensure that all parts of the region are working linkages between these areas, based on an planned on the basis of the whole region. The together to achieve the region’s goals. A Strategic understanding of their roles and functions, will management of natural resources and, flooding and the Development Plan should focus on the movement of people ensure these areas operate as a cohesive protection and enhancement of areas of environmental across the region and support an integrated approach to whole, and do not compete against each other and landscape importance should inform strategic strategic land-use and transport planning. Key locational or take strategic decisions in isolation. decisions on locations for growth and new infrastructure. decisions including for employment centres, strategic housing Decarbonising societyDecarbonisation and responding growth and services should focus on the most sustainable Focus for growth to the threats of climate change should be central to all and accessible locations, address congestion, reduce car regional planning. based commuting and improve air quality. In accordance with the NDF Spatial Strategy, growth in the North region should be focussed Clear decisions should be made on the scale and The region should work together to consider the connections on the main existing built-up areas of Wrexham- location of growth through the preparation of a Strategic with Mid Wales, Ireland, Cheshire West and Chester and the Deeside. The Wrexham and Deeside area Development Plan, to ensure that all parts of the region North West of England. Promoting accessibility and inter- includes Wrexham (and Wrexham Industrial are working together to achieve the region’s goals. A linkages between these areas, based on an understanding of Estate), Broughton, Buckley, Deeside (and Strategic Development Plan should focus on the their roles and functions, will ensure these areas operate as a Deeside Industrial Park). movement of people across the region and support an cohesive whole, and do not compete against each other or integrated approach to strategic land-use and transport take strategic decisions in isolation. planning. Key locational decisions including for employment centres, strategic housing growth and Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data & services should focus on the most sustainable and Regional strategic diagram accessible locations, address congestion, reduce car based commuting and improve air quality. Policy 1 is the overarching framework for where development and growth will be focused in each region. In accordance with The region should work together to consider the Future Wales’ spatial strategy, growth in the North region connections with Mid & South West Wales, Ireland, should be focused on the main existing built-up areas of Cheshire West and Chester and the North West of Wrexham and Deeside. The National Growth Area includes England. Promoting accessibility and inter-linkages Wrexham and the Wrexham Industrial Estate, Broughton, between these areas, based on an understanding of Buckley, Deeside and the Deeside Industrial Park. their roles and functions, will ensure these areas operate as a cohesive whole, and do not compete against each The Wrexham and Deeside area is the region’s main centre other or take strategic decisions in isolation. of population, employment and services and is served by the main connectivity infrastructure. In accordance with policy 19, Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data & a Strategic Development Plan must ensure the region Regional strategic diagram manages growth in a planned and co-ordinated way to support the needs of the National and Regional Growth Areas and the wider region. Strategic decisions on the location of FocusPolicy 1 is the overarching framework for where key services and infrastructure should support existing development and growth settlements and be taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are located in the most accessible and sustainable locations, will be focused in each region. In accordance with the support actions to address inequality and deprivation, and NDF Spatial StrategyFuture Wales’ spatial strategy, improve links to adjoining regions. growth in the North region should be focussedfocused on the main existing built-up areas of Wrexham- and Policy 7 sets out the national strategic approach to delivering Deeside. The Wrexham and Deeside areaNational affordable housing and ensures the focus of funding and Growth Area includes Wrexham (and the Wrexham housing policies is on driving increased provision. Planning Industrial Estate),, Broughton, Buckley, Deeside (and the and co-ordinating the delivery of new housing to meet Deeside Industrial Park).. identified needs is an important task for the regional planning process. Under the Welsh Government central estimates The Wrexham and Deeside area is the region’s main 16,200 additional homes are needed in the region until 2039 centre of population, employment and services and is and over the initial five years (2019/20 to 2023/24) 53% of the served by the main connectivity infrastructure. In additional homes needed should be affordable homes. These accordance with policy 19, a Strategic Development estimates provide part of the evidence and context on which Plan must ensure the region manages growth in a housing requirements for Strategic Development Plans can planned and co-ordinated way to support the needs of be based and should be considered at the regional scale. the National and Regional Growth Areas and the wider Understanding and managing different development region. Strategic decisions on the location of key pressures across the region will be a key issue for Strategic services and infrastructure should support existing Development Plans. Strategic housing issues must be settlements and be taken on a regional basis, ensuring considered at the regional level and not on the basis of the they are located in the most accessible and sustainable aspirations of individual local planning authorities. locations, support actions to address inequality and deprivation, and improve links to adjoining regions.

Policy 7 sets out the national strategic approach to delivering affordable housing and ensures the focus of funding and housing policies is on driving increased provision. Planning and co-ordinating the delivery of new housing to meet identified needs is an important task for the regional planning process. Under the Welsh Government central estimates 16,200 additional homes are needed in the region until 2039 and over the initial five years (2019/20 to 2023/24) 53% of the additional homes needed should be affordable homes. These estimates provide part of the evidence and context on which housing requirements for Strategic Development Plans can be based and should be considered at the regional scale. Understanding and managing different development pressures across the region will be a key issue for Strategic Development Plans. Strategic housing issues must be considered at the regional level and not on the basis of the aspirations of individual local planning authorities. Policy 21 Regional Growth Policy 18 North Wales Coastal Settlements Regional Growth

Regional Growth Area - North Wales Coastal Settlements The Welsh Government supports the built up Regional Growth Area - North Wales Coastal coastal arc from Caernarfon to Deeside as the Settlements The Welsh Government supports sustainable growth and focus for managed growth, reflecting this area’s regeneration in regionally important towns along the important sub-regional role supporting the The Welsh Government supports sustainable growth northern Coast. Holyhead, Caernarfon, Bangor, primary growth area of Wrexham and Deeside. and regeneration in regionally important towns along Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl and Prestatyn will be a the built up coastal arc fromnorthern Coast. focus for managed growth and they have an important Strategic and Local Development Plans across Holyhead, Caernarfon to Deeside as the, Bangor, sub-regional role complementing the National Growth the region should recognise the role of this Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl and Prestatyn will be Area of Wrexham and Deeside. corridor as a focus for housing, employment a focus for managed growth, reflecting this area’s and key services. and they have an important sub-regional role Strategic and Local Development Plans should recognise the supportingcomplementing the primary growth roles of these places as a focus for housing, employment, areaNational Growth Area of Wrexham and tourism, public transport and key services within their wider Deeside. areas and support their continued function as focal points for sub-regional growth. Strategic and Local Development Plans across the region should recognise the roleroles of this corridorthese places as a focus for housing, employment, tourism, public transport and key services. within their wider areas and support their continued function as focal points for sub-regional growth.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting The majority of the North region’s population live near the Supporting The built-up corridor along the North Wales The built-up corridor alongmajority of the North Wales Text coast. The arc of large towns – and a city - from Holyhead in Text coast from Caernarfon to Deeside includes region’s population live near the coast. The arc of large the west to Deeside in the east includes Caernarfon, Bangor, Bangor, Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl and towns – and a city - from CaernarfonHolyhead in the Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl and Prestatyn. The Welsh Prestatyn. The Welsh Government expects the west to Deeside in the east includes Caernarfon, Government expects the built-up areas in this arc to continue built up areas in this arc to continue to play an Bangor, Llandudno, Colwyn Bay, Rhyl and Prestatyn. to play a central role within the region. Development in these important role within the region, providing jobs; The Welsh Government expects the built -up areas in towns will ensure they continue to provide jobs, leisure, retail leisure and retail; cultural opportunities; this arc to continue to play an importanta central role and cultural opportunities; and education, health and other education, health and services. It is important within the region, providing . Development in these public services. It is important this corridor maintains its this corridor maintains its regional role and towns will ensure they continue to provide jobs;, leisure regional functions and adopts a managed growth approach supports a managed growth approach that and, retail; and cultural opportunities; and education, that allows these multiple roles to be enhanced. Regeneration allows these roles to be enhanced. health and other public services. It is important this opportunities in this corridor are strongly supported. Regeneration opportunities in this corridor are corridor maintains its regional rolefunctions and strongly supported. Strategic and Local supportsadopts a managed growth approach that allows Policies 2, 3, 6 and 8 will ensure development in the region’s Development Plans across the region should these multiple roles to be enhanced. Regeneration towns and cities is sustainably located in areas with good recognise the role of this corridor as a focus for opportunities in this corridor are strongly supported. access to public transport where reliance on the car can be housing, employment and key services. reduced. Opportunities for publicly-owned land to be used to Policies 2, 3, 6 and 8 will ensure development in the demonstrate leadership through placemaking are strongly Flooding from rivers and sea is a major issue region’s towns and cities is sustainably located in areas supported. across the region. The potential for flooding with good access to public transport where reliance on around Wrexham and Deeside and along the the car can be reduced. Opportunities for publicly-owned Outside of the North’s main towns, policies 4 and 5 will help North Wales coast will have implications for the land to be used to demonstrate leadership through to ensure that the region’s rural areas grow in an appropriate delivery of growth in this area. Strategic placemaking are strongly supported. way, supporting rural economies and services. In accordance decisions on flood management and related with policy 4, the Welsh Government believes that the future investment must be co-ordinated with decisions Outside of the North’s main towns, policies 4 and 5 will for rural areas is best planned at the regional and local level. to direct development to growth areas. help to ensure that the region’s rural areas grow in an Strategic and Local Development Plans will plan positively for appropriate way, supporting rural economies and the rural communities in the region and consider the balance Planning and co-ordinating the delivery of new services. In accordance with policy 4, the Welsh to be struck between focusing development in the main built- housing to meet identified needs will be an Government believes that the future for rural areas is up, urban areas and the rural areas. Gaps in digital or mobile important task for the regional planning process. best planned at the regional and local level. Strategic connectivity will be addressed through policies 13 and 14 to Under the Welsh Government central estimates and Local Development Plans will plan positively for the ensure that services are improved. 19,400 additional homes are needed in the rural communities in the region and consider the region until 2038 and over the initial five years balance to be struck between focusing development in The Regional Economic Framework, prepared in partnership (2018/19 to 2022/23) 51% of the additional the main built-up, urban areas and the rural areas. Gaps with local authorities, communities, businesses and key homes needed should be affordable homes. in digital or mobile connectivity will be addressed stakeholders, will set out the priorities for future regional These estimates provide part of the evidence through policies 13 and 14 to ensure that services are economic development. The planning system, through its and context on which Housing Requirements for improved. Strategic and Local Development Plans and the decisions it Strategic Development Plans can be based. takes, has a major role to play in shaping the places that The Regional Economic Framework, prepared in support and strengthen the regional economy. partnership with local authorities, communities, businesses and key stakeholders, will set out the priorities for future regional economic development. The The Strategic Development Plan should be informed by and planning system, through its Strategic and Local facilitate the delivery of the North Wales Growth Deal and Development Plans and the decisions it takes, has a ensure support for a smart, resilient and connected region. It major role to play in shaping the places that support and will provide a framework to take the strategic locational strengthen the regional economy. decisions that will support the long-term ambitions of the

Growth Deal in relation to housing, economic growth, key services and essential infrastructure. The Strategic The Strategic Development Plan should be informed Development Plan should also consider the importance of by and facilitate the delivery of the North Wales Growth key economic sectors across the region. Deal and ensure support for a smart, resilient and connected region. It will provide a framework to take

the strategic locational decisions that will support the The Welsh Government strongly supports the development long-term ambitions of the Growth Deal in relation to of the foundational economy in the region. The foundational housing, economic growth, key services and essential economy represents those parts of the economy which are infrastructure. The Strategic Development Plan should integral to the well-being of places, communities and people also consider the importance of key economic sectors and which deliver people’s everyday needs. The Welsh across the region should recognise. Government will continue to support greater resilience for local and regional economies and support business growth and new employment opportunities. Strategic and Local The Welsh Government strongly supports the Development Plans should identify the role of the development of the foundational economy in the foundational economy, consider how the land-use planning region. The foundational economy represents those system can support it and develop appropriate policies. parts of the economy which are integral to the well- Areas of the foundational economy which the planning being of places, communities and people and which system can support include regeneration initiatives, health deliver people’s everyday needs. The Welsh and social care, social housing, tourism and steps to Government will continue to support greater resilience encourage greater community benefits from new for local and regional economies and support business development. growth and new employment opportunities. Strategic and Local Development Plans should identify the role Tourism is an important sector to the economy across the of this corridor as a focus for housing, employment and North. Opportunities to support coastal resorts and key servicesthe foundational economy, consider how attractions and new outdoor and active facilities should be the land-use planning system can support it and supported. The re-development of former industrial sites develop appropriate policies. Areas of the foundational across the North for adrenaline activities, including zip- economy which the planning system can support wires, trampolining and surfing, demonstrate the potential to include regeneration initiatives, health and social care, build on the region’s rich heritage and develop new social housing, tourism and steps to encourage greater attractions. Strategic and Local Development Plans should community benefits from new development. consider existing and potential new tourism areas, the type of visitors they attract and the infrastructure required to Tourism is an important sector to the economy across support growth. the North. Opportunities to support coastal resorts and attractions and new outdoor and active facilities should be supported. The re-development of former industrial The universities in Bangor and Wrexham are an important sites across the North for adrenaline activities, presence in the region, providing further education, including zip-wires, trampolining and surfing, undertaking research and supporting innovation, providing demonstrate the potential to build on the region’s rich employment, attracting students, and supporting the local heritage and develop new attractions. Strategic and businesses and communities around them. Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider existing and Local Development Plans should consider their role in the potential new tourism areas, the type of visitors they region and how they can play a bigger role in supporting the attract and the infrastructure required to support regional economy, innovation and their communities. growth.

The Strategic Development Plan should seek to maximise The universities in Bangor and Wrexham are an opportunities arising from investment in high value important presence in the region, providing further manufacturing sectors. The Welsh Government supports education, undertaking research and supporting developments such as the Advanced Manufacturing innovation, providing employment, attracting students, Research Institute at Broughton, a collaboration between the and supporting the local businesses and communities University of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research around them. Strategic and Local Development Plans Centre, Deeside Enterprise Zone Advisory Board, Swansea should consider their role in the region and how they can University and Coleg Cambria. This supports Airbus and play a bigger role in supporting the regional economy, other leading-edge companies and focuses on R&D in innovation and their communities. advanced manufacturing techniques and skills development for high value manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, nuclear The Strategic Development Plan should seek to and food sectors. maximise opportunities arising from investment in high value manufacturing sectors. The Welsh Government The Welsh Government wishes to see biodiversity enhanced supports developments such as the Advanced and ecosystems become more resilient across the region. Manufacturing Research Institute at Broughton, a Policies 9 and 15 set out the national strategic approach and collaboration between the University of Sheffield’s will ensure action to address the climate emergency, reverse Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, Deeside biodiversity decline and ensure the well-being of communities Enterprise Zone Advisory Board, Swansea University takes place. These policies require consideration be given to and Coleg Cambria. This supports Airbus and other the type of action necessary at regional and local levels and leading-edge companies and focuses on R&D in how this can be facilitated through Strategic and Local advanced manufacturing techniques and skills Development Plans. development for high value manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, nuclear and food sectors. Investment in creating resilient ecological networks and green infrastructure brings multiple benefits for communities and The Welsh Government wishes to see biodiversity businesses as well as nature itself. Action to improve enhanced and ecosystems become more resilient resilience is required in all areas of the region and specific across the region. Policies 9 and 15 set out the national approaches will vary depending on the nature of the location strategic approach and will ensure action to address the and the opportunities to create greater resilience. Where climate emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and there are conflicting priorities these will need to be considered ensure the well-being of communities takes place. and resolved regionally and locally. Policies 2, 3, 4 and 5 These policies require consideration be given to the type must work in a complementary way with polices 9 and 15. of action necessary at regional and local levels and how this can be facilitated through Strategic and Local In urban areas, including the National Growth Area of Development Plans. Wrexham and Deeside and in the Regional Growth Area, the enhancement (net-benefit) of biodiversity and the provision of Investment in creating resilient ecological networks and green infrastructure must both shape growth strategies and green infrastructure brings multiple benefits for be fully integrated as part of location and design solutions for communities and businesses as well as nature itself. proposed development. Policies 11 and 12 may provide Action to improve resilience is required in all areas of the opportunities to create corridors of green infrastructure and in region and specific approaches will vary depending on coastal locations, including Deeside, nature-based solutions the nature of the location and the opportunities to create must be considered as part of proposed schemes to manage greater resilience. Where there are conflicting priorities flood risk and coastal erosion. these will need to be considered and resolved regionally and locally. Policies 2, 3, 4 and 5 must work in a Based on the indicative map contained in policy 9, upland complementary way with polices 9 and 15. areas in the north and north-west, including the Snowdonia National Park, and south-east of the region contain the most In urban areas, including the National Growth Area of resilient ecological networks, but this does not mean they are Wrexham and Deeside and in the Regional Growth as resilient as they ought to be. Lowland areas are less Area, the enhancement (net-benefit) of biodiversity and resilient and tend to be subject to different forms of the provision of green infrastructure must both shape agricultural and development pressures which are often growth strategies and be fully integrated as part of coupled with coastal flooding and erosion risk along the north location and design solutions for proposed development. coast and in lower lying river valleys. Policies 11 and 12 may provide opportunities to create corridors of green infrastructure and in coastal locations, Policy 9 requires that existing networks be improved and including Deeside, nature-based solutions must be expanded. Equally, opportunities must be identified to considered as part of proposed schemes to manage safeguard and create resilient networks, and the ecosystem flood risk and coastal erosion. services on which they depend, and the multiple benefits derived from green infrastructure where currently this is not Based on the indicative map contained in policy 9, the case. This includes considering the role of protected upland areas in the north and north-west, including the landscapes and nature conservation designations. Policies 9 Snowdonia National Park, and south-east of the region and 15 work alongside policies 4 and 5 to require the contain the most resilient ecological networks, but this relationships between all forms of land use and management does not mean they are as resilient as they ought to be. be considered more fully if we are to address the climate Lowland areas are less resilient and tend to be subject emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and enable to different forms of agricultural and development communities to benefit from more sustainable forms of pressures which are often coupled with coastal flooding managing natural resources. This is especially the case in and erosion risk along the north coast and in lower lying large parts of the region’s rural areas. river valleys.

Flooding from rivers and the sea is a major issue across the Policy 9 requires that existing networks be improved and region. The Growth Areas are mainly coastal, therefore they expanded. Equally, opportunities must be identified to face increasing risk of flooding as a result of rising sea safeguard and create resilient networks, and the levels. Critical transport infrastructure providing connectivity ecosystem services on which they depend, and the within the region, to the North West of England and Ireland multiple benefits derived from green infrastructure where are vulnerable to flooding from the sea in some currently this is not the case. This includes considering places. There is extensive flood risk management the role of protected landscapes and nature infrastructure already in place in the region to protect homes conservation designations. Policies 9 and 15 work and services, but many areas remain vulnerable, including alongside policies 4 and 5 to require the relationships places near the Dee, Clwyd and Conwy rivers. The potential between all forms of land use and management be for flooding around Wrexham, Deeside, and along the north considered more fully if we are to address the climate coast will have implications for the delivery of growth in the emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and enable region. Policy 8 sets out the national strategic approach to communities to benefit from more sustainable forms of flood risk management and will ensure growth aspirations in managing natural resources. This is especially the case National and Regional Growth Areas are co-ordinated with in large parts of the region’s rural areas. strategic decisions on managing flood risk. Flooding from rivers and the sea is a major issue across It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonising society and the region. The potential for flooding around Wrexham supports the realisation of renewable energy. Policies 17 and and Deeside and The Growth Areas are mainly 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to renewable energy coastal, therefore they face increasing risk of flooding as generation across Wales. There is strong potential for wind, a result of rising sea levels. Critical transport marine and solar energy generation and Strategic and Local infrastructure providing connectivity within the region, to Development Plans should provide a framework for the North West of England and Ireland are vulnerable to generation and associated infrastructure. The Welsh flooding from the sea in some places. There is Government wishes to see energy generation, storage and extensive flood risk management infrastructure already management play a role in supporting the regional economy in place in the region to protect homes and services, but in the North. Local ownership and distribution is important for many areas remain vulnerable, including places near the ensuring communities in proximity to renewable energy Dee, Clwyd and Conwy rivers. The potential for flooding development benefit from it and that our future energy system around Wrexham, Deeside, and along the North better serves Wales. Walesnorth coast will have implications for the delivery of growth in this area. Strategic decisions on flood management and related investment must bethe region. Policy 8 sets out the national strategic approach to flood risk management and will ensure growth aspirations in National and Regional Growth Areas are co-ordinated with strategic decisions to direct development to growth areason managing flood risk.

It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonising society and supports the realisation of renewable energy. Planning and co-ordinating the delivery of new housing to meet identified needs will be an important task for the regional planning process. Under the Welsh Government central estimates 19,400 additional homes are needed in the region until 2038 and over the initial five years (2018/19 to 2022/23) 51% of the additional homes needed should be affordable homes. These estimates provide part of the evidence and context on which Housing Requirements for Strategic Development Plans can be based. Policies 17 and 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to renewable energy generation across Wales. There is strong potential for wind, marine and solar energy generation and Strategic and Local Development Plans should provide a framework for generation and associated infrastructure. The Welsh Government wishes to see energy generation, storage and management play a role in supporting the regional economy in the North. Local ownership and distribution is important for ensuring communities in proximity to renewable energy development benefit from it and that our future energy system better serves Wales. Policy 22 Managing Growth Policy 19 Green Belts in North Wales Managing Growth

Green Belts in the North The Welsh Government supports the role of Green Belts in the North Wales Strategic Development Plans identifying and The Welsh Government requires the Strategic Development establishing green belts to manage urban form The Welsh Government supportsrequires the role of Plan to identify a green belt around Wrexham and Deeside to and growth in North Wales, particularly around Strategic Development Plans identifying and manage urban form and growth. Wrexham and Deeside. establishingPlan to identify a green beltsbelt around Wrexham and Deeside to manage urban form and The Strategic Development Plan must consider the The Strategic Development Plan should growth in North Wales, particularly around Wrexham relationship of the green belts with the green belt in Cheshire consider the relationship of any new green belts and Deeside. West and Chester. Local Development Plans and with the green belt in Cheshire West and development management decisions should not permit major Chester. The Strategic Development Plan mustshould consider development in the areas shown for consideration for green the relationship of any newthe green belts with the green belts, except in very exceptional circumstances, until the belt in Cheshire West and Chester. Local Development need for green belts and their boundaries has been Plans and development management decisions should established by an adopted Strategic Development Plan. not permit major development in the areas shown for consideration for green belts, except in very exceptional circumstances, until the need for green belts and their boundaries has been established by an adopted Strategic Development Plan. PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.60 – 3.74 3.60 – 3.74 Supporting The close relationship between the North East and Cheshire Supporting Strategic decisions on the location of key The close relationship between the North East and Text West and Chester and the large green belt immediately Text services and infrastructure should support Cheshire West and Chester and the large green belt adjoining the administrative borders of Wrexham and existing built-up areas and be taken on a immediately adjoining the administrative borders of Flintshire, mean that long-term development pressures will in regional basis, ensuring they are located in Wrexham and Flintshire, mean that long-term part be directed from England to the North region. The the most accessible and sustainable locations development pressures will in part be directed from proximity to a large populous English region provides and support actions to address inequality and England to the North region. The proximity to a large opportunities that can support the North, but these deprivation and improve links to neighbouring populous English region provides opportunities that can opportunities must be managed strategically and on a areas of England. The Welsh Government support the North, but these opportunities must be regional basis. supports the use of green belts in the North managed strategically and on a regional basis. region in managing and planning urban growth. Strategic decisions on the location of development, key Planning Policy Wales sets out the policy Strategic decisions on the location of development, key services and infrastructure should support existing built-up context for them. Strategic development plans services and infrastructure should support existing built- areas and be taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are must identify a green belt that includes the area up areas and be taken on a regional basis, ensuring located in the most accessible and sustainable locations, to the north east of Wrexham. they are located in the most accessible and support actions to address inequality and deprivation and sustainable locations and, support actions to address improve links to neighbouring areas of England. Planning inequality and deprivation and improve links to Policy Wales sets out the policy context for establishing green neighbouring areas of England. The Welsh Government belts. supports the use of green belts in the North region in managing and planning urban growth. Planning Policy Wales sets out the policy context for them. Strategic development plans must identify a green belt that includes the area to the north east of Wrexham.establishing green belts. The North has extensive rural areas and well The North has extensive rural areas and well established established rural communities. The Strategic rural communities. The Strategic Development Plan for the Development Plan for the region should consider the region should consider the balance to be struck between balance to be struck between focusing development in focusing development in the main built-up, urban areas and the main built-up, urban areas and the rural areas. the rural areas. Decisions on the delivery of key services can Decisions on the delivery of key services can have a have a profound effect on people’s daily lives, particularly the profound effect on people’s daily lives, particularly the less mobile, and it is essential these decisions are taken on less mobile, and it is essential these decisions are taken the basis of a clear understanding of their impacts. As well as on the basis of a clear understanding of their impacts. schools and health facilities, access to services like banks, As well as schools and health facilities, access to post offices, libraries and shops can have a real impact on services like banks, post offices, libraries and shops can people’s daily lives in rural areas. have a real impact on people’s daily lives in rural areas.

Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider the Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider impacts of population change and ageing on their rural the impacts of population change and ageing on their communities. The societal issues that drive these changes rural communities. The societal issues that drive these are wider than the planning system and are not easy changes are wider than the planning system and are not challenges to address. The Welsh Government wishes to see easy challenges to address. The Welsh Government Local Development Plans in the region play a central role in wishes to see Local Development Plans in the region shaping how rural communities can sustain themselves. play a central role in shaping how rural communities can Local Development Plans should seek to support growth and sustain themselves. Local Development Plans should appropriate development in rural towns and villages. This seek to support growth and appropriate development in includes market and affordable housing, employment and the rural towns and villages. This includes market and provision of services. Local Development Plans should affordable housing, employment and the provision of support and co-ordinate their decisions with those of services. Local Development Plans should support and economic policy-makers, health, education and other co-ordinate their decisions with those of economic essential service providers. They should consider the needs policy-makers, health, education and other essential of all residents, including older people and people with service providers. They should consider the needs of all disabilities, and ensure that specialist housing provision is residents, including older people and people with considered and planned for. Managing the North’s disabilities, and ensure that specialist housing provision outstanding historic and natural resources is a priority for the is considered and planned for. Managing the North’s region. Outstanding places include the coast and the Llŷn outstanding historic and natural resources is a priority peninsula, Snowdonia National Park, the Clwydian Range for the region. Outstanding places include the coast and and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; and the Llŷn peninsula, Snowdonia National Park, the the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and Canal and the Castles and Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Town Walls of King Edward World Heritage Sites. Natural Beauty; and the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and They should be protected for the enjoyment of future Canal and the Castles and Town Walls of King Edward generations and help to provide economic benefits for the World Heritage Sites. They should be protected for the region’s communities. The region’s distinctive heritage should enjoyment of future generations and help to provide be preserved and enhanced by high quality development. economic benefits for the region’s communities. The The region’s concentration of population, its historic and region’s distinctive heritage should be preserved and future growth and proximity to markets in the North West of enhanced by high quality development. England mean it is a high consumer of materials and natural The region’s concentration of population, its historic and resources. It is vital the region makes the best use of material future growth and proximity to markets in the North West resources, promotes resource efficiency and is ambitious in of England mean it is a high consumer of materials and supporting innovative ways of promoting a circular economy. natural resources. It is vital the region makes the best use of material resources, promotes resource efficiency Within the region sand and gravel extracted primarily from and is ambitious in supporting innovative ways of Wrexham and Flintshire and crushed rock aggregates from promoting a circular economy. Flintshire, serve both local markets and those in North West England. Whilst similar deposits exist in North West Wales, Within the region sand and gravel extracted primarily particularly in Gwynedd, these are less well-placed to serve from Wrexham and Flintshire and crushed rock the main markets and production is therefore more limited. aggregates from Flintshire, serve both local markets and Conwy and Denbighshire play an important role providing those in North West England. Whilst similar deposits limestone for development and infrastructure projects along exist in North West Wales, particularly in Gwynedd, the north coast. The quarrying of slate aggregate is largely these are less well-placed to serve the main markets constrained by National Park and Area of Outstanding and production is therefore more limited. Conwy and Natural Beauty designations and, where extracted, it is Denbighshire play an important role providing limestone generally used locally or for high value developments further for development and infrastructure projects along the afield. north coast. The quarrying of slate aggregate is largely constrained by National Park and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty designations and, where extracted, it is generally used locally or for high value developments further afield. Policy 20 Port of Holyhead  Port of Holyhead

The Welsh Government will work with port The Welsh Government will work with port operators, operators, local authorities and investors to local authorities and investors to support the support the development of the port and development of the port and facilitate new investment in facilitate new investment in order to ensure that order to ensure that its strategic gateway role is its strategic gateway role is maintained and maintained and enhanced. Investment to improve the enhanced. Investment to improve the port’s port’s capacity to accommodate cruise ships is capacity to accommodate cruise ships is supported. supported. New development around the port should be carefully New development around the port should be managed to ensure that future expansion and change at carefully managed to ensure that future the port is not constrained or compromised. expansion and change at the port is not constrained or compromised.

Supporting Linking Text Before the Policy Linking Text Before the Policy Text Welsh language Welsh language

With over 200,000 Welsh speakers across the With over 200,000 Welsh speakers across the region region and with concentrations of settlements and with concentrations of settlements where Welsh is where Welsh is the first language for many the first language for many people, it is important that people, it is important that development plans development plans consider the relationship between consider the relationship between strategic strategic housing, transport and economic growth and housing, transport and economic growth and the Welsh language. the Welsh language. A strong economy A strong economy The Regional Economic Development Plan prepared by The Regional Economic Development Plan the Welsh Government in partnership with local prepared by the Welsh Government in authorities, communities, business and key partnership with local authorities, communities, stakeholders, will set out the priorities for future regional business and key stakeholders, will set out the economic development. The planning system, through priorities for future regional economic its Strategic and Local Development Plans and the development. The planning system, through its decisions it takes, will have a major role to play in Strategic and Local Development Plans and the shaping the places that support and strengthen the decisions it takes, will have a major role to play regional economy. in shaping the places that support and strengthen the regional economy. The Strategic Development Plan should be informed by and seek to facilitate the delivery of the North Wales The Strategic Development Plan should be Growth Deal and ensure support for a smart, resilient informed by and seek to facilitate the delivery and connected North Wales. It will provide a of the North Wales Growth Deal and ensure framework to take the strategic locational decisions support for a smart, resilient and connected that will support the long term ambitions of the Growth North Wales. It will provide a framework to Deal in relation to housing, economic growth, key take the strategic locational decisions that will services and essential infrastructure. They should also support the long term ambitions of the Growth consider the importance of key economic sectors Deal in relation to housing, economic growth, across the region. key services and essential infrastructure. They should also consider the importance of key Tourism is an important sector to the economy across economic sectors across the region. North Wales. Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider the main tourism areas, the type of Tourism is an important sector to the economy visitors they attract and the infrastructure required to across North Wales. Strategic and Local support existing areas and future growth. Development Plans should consider the main tourism areas, the type of visitors they attract Universities have an important presence in the region, and the infrastructure required to support providing further education, undertaking research and existing areas and future growth. supporting innovation, providing employment, attracting students to Bangor and Wrexham and Universities have an important presence in the supporting the local businesses and communities region, providing further education, around them. undertaking research and supporting innovation, providing employment, attracting The Strategic Development Plan should seek to students to Bangor and Wrexham and maximise opportunities arising from investment in high supporting the local businesses and value manufacturing sectors. Supported by the Welsh communities around them. Government, the Advanced Manufacturing Research Institute at Broughton, when built in 2020, will be a The Strategic Development Plan should seek collaboration between the University of Sheffield’s to maximise opportunities arising from Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, Deeside investment in high value manufacturing Enterprise Zone Advisory Board, Swansea University sectors. Supported by the Welsh Government, and Coleg Cambria. It will support Airbus and other key the Advanced Manufacturing Research high value manufacturing companies and will focus on Institute at Broughton, when built in 2020, will R&D in advanced manufacturing techniques and skills be a collaboration between the University of development, for high value manufacturing aerospace, Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research automotive, nuclear and food sectors. Centre, Deeside Enterprise Zone Advisory Board, Swansea University and Coleg The Welsh Government strongly supports resilient and Cambria. It will support Airbus and other key prosperous rural communities, as set out by Policy 4, high value manufacturing companies and will and expects to see development plans across the focus on R&D in advanced manufacturing region responding positively to the aims of this policy. techniques and skills development, for high value manufacturing aerospace, automotive, Supporting Text After the Policy nuclear and food sectors. A connected, accessible region The Welsh Government strongly supports resilient and prosperous rural communities, as The region is served by ports at Holyhead and Mostyn. set out by Policy 4, and expects to see The Welsh Government recognises the importance of development plans across the region the port at Holyhead to Anglesey, North Wales, responding positively to the aims of this policy. Wales, the wider UK and Ireland. Holyhead is a major regional asset and an important gateway to Wales and Supporting Text After the Policy can be the first experience people have of visiting Wales. It is important they have a positive experience. A connected, accessible region Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider and plan for its future development needs The region is served by ports at Holyhead and and maximise the opportunities it provides to support Mostyn. The Welsh Government recognises growth across the region. A new cruise, terminal can the importance of the port at Holyhead to provide enhanced facilities for ships and passengers Anglesey, North Wales, Wales, the wider UK and be a gateway for visitors to the north of Wales. and Ireland. Holyhead is a major regional Mostyn plays an important role in supporting the off- asset and an important gateway to Wales and shore renewable energy sector. can be the first experience people have of visiting Wales. It is important they have a positive experience. Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider and plan for its future development needs and maximise the opportunities it provides to support growth across the region. A new cruise, terminal can provide enhanced facilities for ships and passengers and be a gateway for visitors to the north of Wales. Mostyn plays an important role in supporting the off-shore renewable energy sector.

Policy 23 Supporting Growth Policy 21 Transport Links to North West England Transport Links to North West England

North Wales Metro The Welsh Government will work with local and Supporting Growth regional authorities in North Wales and North The Welsh Government supports the development of the West England to ensure transport investments, North Wales Metro North Wales Metro and will work with Transport for Wales, including in the North Wales Metro, strengthen local authorities and other partners to enable its delivery and cross-border transport links. The Welsh Government supports the development of maximise associated opportunities. the North Wales Metro and will work with Transport for Strategic and Local Development Plans should Wales, local authorities and other partners to enable its The Welsh Government will work with local and regional support improved transport links between North delivery and maximise associated opportunities. authorities in North Wales and the North West of England to Wales, Chester, Liverpool and Manchester and ensure the Metro and wider transport investments strengthen plan growth to maximise the potential The Welsh Government will work with local and regional cross-border transport connections with improved transport opportunities arising from better regional authorities in North Wales and the North West of links between the North, Chester, Liverpool and Manchester. connectivity. England to ensure the Metro and wider transport investments, including in the North Wales Metro, Strategic and Local Development Plans must support the strengthen cross-border transport links. North Wales Metro. Planning authorities should plan growth and regeneration to maximise the opportunities arising from Strategic and Local Development Plans should support better regional and cross border connectivity, including connections with improved transport links between the identifying opportunities for higher density, mixed-use and North Wales, Chester, Liverpool and Manchester and .

car-free development around new and improved metro Strategic and Local Development Plans must support stations. the North Wales Metro. Planning authorities should plan growth and regeneration to maximise the potential opportunities arising from better regional and cross border connectivity., including identifying opportunities for higher density, mixed-use and car-free development around new and improved metro stations. PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.1 4.1 5.3 5.3 Supporting Across Wales and the regions, the Welsh Government Supporting Proposals for a North Wales Metro provide an Proposals forAcross Wales and the regions, the Welsh Text wishes to see development built in sustainable locations Text opportunity to improve accessibility across the Government wishes to see development built in supported by active travel and public transport infrastructure region and are supported by the Welsh sustainable locations supported by active travel and and services to enable people to live active and healthy lives. Government. In accordance with Policy 16, public transport infrastructure and services to enable This includes ensuring levels of air and noise pollution are Strategic Development Plans must ensure that people to live active and healthy lives. This includes reduced or at least minimised. The aim is to reduce the need long term strategic decisions maximise the ensuring levels of air and noise pollution are reduced or to travel, particularly by private vehicles, and support a modal opportunities in areas that will benefit from at least minimised. The aim is to reduce the need to shift to walking, cycling and public transport. Policies 11 and improved accessibility and investment in public travel, particularly by private vehicles, and support a 12 set out the strategic approach to national and regional transport services. There are strong functional modal shift to walking, cycling and public transport. connectivity and how the Welsh Government will support and relationships between settlements and regions Policies 11 and 12 set out the strategic approach to invest in improvements to active travel and public transport. in North Wales and North West England, with national and regional connectivity and how the Welsh people travelling daily in both directions to Government will support and invest in improvements to In the North region, rail infrastructure and services are access jobs, services and facilities in active travel and public transport. fundamental to an effective and efficient transport network neighbouring regions. and are central to improving regional and national In the North region, rail infrastructure and services are connectivity. The North Wales Metro provides an opportunity Strategic and Local Development Plans should fundamental to an effective and efficient transport to improve accessibility across the region and is supported by be confident in seeking to align areas of need network and are central to improving regional and the Welsh Government. There are strong functional with areas of opportunity, including where areas national connectivity. The North Wales Metro relationships between settlements in the North and the North of opportunity are across the border and provideprovides an opportunity to improve accessibility West of England, with people travelling daily in both resulting investment and action is focussed on across the region and areis supported by the Welsh directions to access jobs, services and facilities. improving the links between Welsh communities Government. There are strong functional relationships and economic opportunities in England. between settlements in the North and the North West of The Metro will make it easier and faster to travel between the England, with people travelling daily in both directions to north coast, Wrexham, Deeside and the North West of The Welsh Government will maintain its access jobs, services and facilities. England. It will open up opportunities across the region and is commitment to tackling congestion on the A55 a vital part of the Welsh Government’s vision to develop the including through its Pinch Point Programme of The Metro will make it easier and faster to travel region’s economy and links with the Northern Powerhouse. small scale interventions aimed at addressing between the north coast, Wrexham, Deeside and the congestion pinch points on the main road North West of England. It will open up opportunities Facilitating access to the Metro by active travel will make an network. Where connectivity corridors between across the region and is a vital part of the Welsh important contribution to modal shift from car to public North Wales and England are identified, the Government’s vision to develop the region’s economy transport journeys at a regional level. Achieving this will potential for these corridors to become green and links with the Northern Powerhouse. require high quality active travel routes linking infrastructure will be explored. neighbourhoods and trip destinations with metro stations. The Facilitating access to the Metro by active travel will provision of high quality, secure cycle parking at interchanges make an important contribution to modal shift from car to will also be essential. public transport journeys at a regional level. Achieving this will require high quality active travel routes linking In accordance with policy 19, Strategic Development Plans neighbourhoods and trip destinations with metro must ensure that long-term strategic decisions maximise the stations. The provision of high quality, secure cycle opportunities in areas that will benefit from improved parking at interchanges will also be essential. accessibility and investment in public transport services. Strategic and Local Development Plans should be In accordance with Policy 16policy 19, Strategic confident in seeking to align areas of need with areas of Development Plans must ensure that long -term opportunity, including where areas of opportunity are strategic decisions maximise the opportunities in areas across the border and resulting investment and action is that will benefit from improved accessibility and focused on improving the links between Welsh investment in public transport services. There are strong communities and economic opportunities in England. functional relationships between settlements and Where connectivity corridors between the region and England regions in North Wales and North West England, with are identified, the potential for these corridors to become people travelling daily in both directions to access jobs, green infrastructure must be explored. services and facilities in neighbouring regions.

Strategic and Local Development Plans should be confident in seeking to align areas of need with areas of opportunity, including where areas of opportunity are across the border and resulting investment and action is focussedfocused on improving the links between Welsh communities and economic opportunities in England. Where connectivity corridors between the region and England are identified, the potential for these corridors to become green infrastructure must be explored.

The Welsh Government will maintain its commitment to tackling congestion on the A55 including through its Pinch Point Programme of small scale interventions aimed at addressing congestion pinch points on the main road network. Where connectivity corridors between North Wales and England are identified, the potential for these corridors to become green infrastructure will be explored. Policy 24 North West Wales and Energy Policy 22 North West Wales and Energy North West Wales and Energy

The Welsh Government supports North West Wales as a The Welsh Government supports North West location for new energy development and investment. Wales as a location for new energy The Welsh Government supports North West Wales as Proposed developments associated with the Isle of Anglesey development and investment. a location for new energy development and investment. Energy Island Programme, Wylfa Newydd and Trawsfynydd New energy-related development should Proposed developments associated with the Isle of will be supported in principle as a means to create significant support local and regional communities; provide Anglesey Energy Island Programme, Wylfa Newydd and economic benefits for the area as well as generating jobs and investment in training and skills; and Trawsfynydd will be supported in principle as a means to renewable or low carbon energy. work with universities and businesses across create significant economic benefits for the area as well the region and North West England to co- as generating renewable or low carbon energy. New energy-related development in the region should support ordinate and maximise new investment to local and regional communities; provide jobs and investment support the wider region. New energy-related development in the region should in training and skills; and work with universities and support local and regional communities; provide jobs businesses across the region and the North West of England In determining any applications for nuclear and investment in training and skills; and work with to co-ordinate and maximise new investment to support the energy generating stations in this region, universities and businesses across the region and the wider region. consideration should be given to the need for North West of England to co-ordinate and maximise new further non-renewable energy generation, their investment to support the wider region. In determining any applications for nuclear energy generating contribution towards Wales’ energy mix, their stations in this region, consideration should be given to the impacts on the natural and historic environment need for further low carbon energy generation, their and the economic benefits they would bring to In determining any applications for nuclear energy contribution towards the UK’s energy mix and security, the the region. generating stations in this region, consideration should economic benefits they would bring to the region and their be given to the need for further non-renewablelow impacts on the natural and historic environment. carbon energy generation, their contribution towards Wales’the UK’s energy mix, and security, the economic On-shore developments associated with offshore renewable benefits they would bring to the region and their impacts energy projects will be supported in principle. on the natural and historic environment and the economic benefits they would bring to the region..

On-shore developments associated with offshore renewable energy projects will be supported in principle. PPW PPW Reference Reference 5.7 5.7 6.3.10 6.3.10 Supporting A unique region Supporting A unique region A unique region Text Text The planning system has an important role in supporting Managing the North’s outstanding natural resources, which renewable and low carbon energy and ensuring the North Managing the North’s outstanding natural include the coast, two world heritage sites, a national park, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and minerals is a plays its part in decarbonising society. The region has strong resources, which include the coast, two world potential for generating wind, solar and marine energy and priority for the region and it should be ensured they can be heritage sites, a national park, Areas of enjoyed by future generations and help provide economic has the potential to play a continuing role for energy Outstanding Natural Beauty and minerals is a benefits for the region’s communities. The region’s generation from nuclear power. There is also the opportunity priority for the region and it should be ensured distinctive heritage should be preserved and enhanced across the region for the generation of hydrogen to deliver they can be enjoyed by future generations and by high quality development. energy storage capacity and a transport fuel source for the help provide economic benefits for the region’s A55 corridor, Holyhead Port and rural communities. communities. The region’s distinctive heritage should be preserved and enhanced by high The planning system has a keyan important role in The Welsh Government supports the North West Nuclear quality development. supporting renewable and low carbon energy and Arc initiative, which is a shared vision (with the UK ensuring the North plays its part in decarbonising Government, universities and the National Nuclear society. The region has strong potential for generating Laboratory) of realising the potential positive impacts the The planning system has a key role in wind, solar and tidal energymarine energy and has the nuclear sector can bring in investment, skills and training. supporting renewable energy and ensuring the potential to play a continuing role for energy generation The Anglesey ‘Energy Island’ Programme also seeks to co- North plays its part in decarbonising society. from nuclear power. There is also the opportunity ordinate action in relation to new energy developments to The region has strong potential for generating across the region for the generation of hydrogen to maximise the benefits for the area. wind, solar and tidal energy. deliver energy storage capacity and a transport fuel source for the A55 corridor, Holyhead Port and rural The potential Wylfa Newydd nuclear power station communities. development could provide significant employment, training The Welsh Government supports the North and other associated economic benefits across the whole West Nuclear Arc initiative which is a shared The Welsh Government supports the North West region if a decision is made to proceed with the scheme. vision (with the UK Government, universities Nuclear Arc initiative, which is a shared vision (with the Small or Advanced Modular (nuclear) Reactors could also and the National Nuclear Laboratory) of UK Government, universities and the National Nuclear potentially provide low carbon energy generation in the realising the potential positive impacts the Laboratory) of realising the potential positive impacts region. nuclear sector can bring to an area in terms of the nuclear sector can bring to an area in terms ofin

investment, skills and training. The Anglesey investment, skills and training. The Anglesey ‘Energy Trawsfynydd is a potential site for a Small Modular Reactor, ‘Energy Island’ Programme also seeks to co- Island’ Programme also seeks to co-ordinate action building on the existing sector-specific technical capacity and ordinate action around new energy aroundin relation to new energy developments to expertise available locally and creating a new nuclear developments to maximise the benefits for the maximise the benefits for the area. industry growth zone. area. The site is in a unique position, having previously been a The potential Wylfa Newydd nuclear power station former nuclear power station with the necessary infrastructure development could provide significant employment, and local skills in place. The site lies within the Snowdonia training and other associated economic benefits across The potential Wylfa Newydd nuclear power National Park and major development here should be subject the whole region if a decision is made to proceed with station development could provide significant to the principles in Planning Policy Wales. At the detailed the scheme. Small or Advanced Modular (nuclear) employment, training and other associated planning stage, it will be necessary to consider design and Reactors could also potentially provide low carbon economic benefits across the whole region if a impact upon the environment and landscape of the National energy generation in the region. decision is made to proceed with the scheme. Park including potential mitigation. Small Modular (nuclear) Reactors could also Trawsfynydd is currently being promoted by the Snowdonia The potential economic benefits of new nuclear potentially provide low carbon energy Enterprise Zone Advisory Board as a potential site for a developments, particularly in terms of their high-value job generation in the region. Trawsfynydd is Small Modular Reactor, building on the existing sector- creation, may provide a catalyst for regional development. currently being promoted by the Snowdonia specific technical capacity and expertise available This will need to be balanced against the long-term impact Enterprise Zone Advisory Board as a potential locally. and creating a new nuclear industry growth these large-scale developments can have on sensitive areas site for a Small Modular Reactor, building on zone. and the surrounding environment. the existing sector-specific technical capacity The site is in a unique position, having previously been a and expertise available locally. former nuclear power station with the necessary infrastructure and local skills in place. The site lies within the Snowdonia National Park and major development here should be subject to the principles in Planning The potential economic benefits of new nuclear Policy Wales. At the detailed planning stage, it will be developments, particularly in terms of their necessary to consider design and impact upon the high-value job creation may provide a catalyst environment and landscape of the National Park for regional development. However, these including potential mitigation. considerations will need to be balanced against

the long-term impact these large-scale The potential economic benefits of new nuclear developments can have on sensitive areas and developments, particularly in terms of their high-value the surrounding environment. job creation, may provide a catalyst for regional development. However, these considerationsThis will need to be balanced against the long-term impact these large- The region’s concentration of population, its scale developments can have on sensitive areas and historic and future growth and proximity to the surrounding environment. markets in North West England mean it is a high consumer of materials and natural The region’s concentration of population, its historic and resources. It is vital the region makes the best future growth and proximity to markets in North West use of material resources, promotes resource England mean it is a high consumer of materials and efficiency and is ambitious in supporting natural resources. innovative ways of promoting a circular economy. It is vital the region makes the best use of material resources, promotes resource efficiency and is ambitious in supporting innovative ways of promoting a Within the region sand and gravel extracted circular economy. primarily from Wrexham and Flintshire and crushed rock aggregates from Flintshire, serve Within the region sand and gravel extracted primarily both local markets and those in North West from Wrexham and Flintshire and crushed rock England. Whilst similar deposits exist in North aggregates from Flintshire, serve both local markets and West Wales, particularly in Gwynedd, these those in North West England. Whilst similar deposits are less well-placed to serve the main markets exist in North West Wales, particularly in Gwynedd, and production is therefore more limited. these are less well-placed to serve the main markets Conwy and Denbighshire play an important and production is therefore more limited. Conwy and role providing limestone for development and Denbighshire play an important role providing limestone infrastructure projects along the North Wales for development and infrastructure projects along the coast. The quarrying of slate aggregate is North Wales coast. The quarrying of slate aggregate is largely constrained by National Park and Area largely constrained by National Park and Area of of Outstanding Natural Beauty designations Outstanding Natural Beauty designations and, where and, where extracted, it is generally used extracted, it is generally used locally or for high value locally or for high value developments further developments further afield. afield. Policy 25 Regional Growth Areas – Mid Wales Regional Growth Areas – Mid Wales

The Welsh Government supports sustainable growth and The Welsh Government supports sustainable growth development in a series of inter-connected towns across the and development in a series of inter-connected towns region. Development in these Regional Growth Areas should across the region. Development in these Regional meet the regional housing, employment and social needs of Growth Areas should meet the regional housing, Mid Wales. The Regional Growth Areas are: employment and social needs of Mid Wales. The  The Teifi Valley, including Cardigan, Newcastle Regional Growth Areas are: Emlyn, Llandysul and Lampeter  The Teifi Valley, including Cardigan, Newcastle  Brecon and the Border Emlyn, Llandysul and Lampeter  The Heart of Wales, including Llandrindod Wells and  Brecon and the Border Builth Wells  The Heart of Wales, including Llandrindod Wells  Bro Hafren, including Welshpool and Newtown and Builth Wells  Bro Hafren, including Welshpool and Newtown  Aberystwyth  Aberystwyth The Welsh Government supports development in all parts of The Welsh Government supports development in all the region in meeting local needs. Strategic and Local parts of the region in meeting local needs. Strategic and Development Plans will determine the most appropriate Local Development Plans will determine the most locations for growth in Mid Wales and should demonstrate appropriate locations for growth in Mid Wales and how a regional approach has informed decisions on future should demonstrate how a regional approach has growth. informed decisions on future growth.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting Mid Wales Mid Wales Text Overview Overview

The Mid Wales region comprises Ceredigion, Powys and the The Mid Wales region comprises Ceredigion, Powys majority of the Brecon Beacons National Park, and is home to and the majority of the Brecon Beacons National Park, 205,000 people. It is Wales’ most rural region and includes and is home to 205,000 people. It is Wales’ most rural extensive upland areas, the Cambrian mountains, Black region and includes extensive upland areas, the Mountains, Brecon Beacons and an attractive coastline. Cambrian mountains, Black Mountains, Brecon Beacons Population is spread in towns, villages and rural areas across and an attractive coastline. Population is spread in the region. towns, villages and rural areas across the region.

The regional issues that planning authorities should work The regional issues that planning authorities should together to plan for are set out below alongside the spatial work together to plan for are set out below alongside the policy areas that the Welsh Government will focus on to spatial policy areas that the Welsh Government will support the Mid Wales region. focus on to support the Mid Wales region.

With 58,954 Welsh speakers across the region and with With 58,954 Welsh speakers across the region and with concentrations of settlements where Welsh is the first concentrations of settlements where Welsh is the first language for many people, it is important that Strategic and language for many people, it is important that Strategic Local Development Plans consider the relationship between and Local Development Plans consider the relationship strategic housing, transport and economic growth and the between strategic housing, transport and economic Welsh language. Strategic and Local Development Plans growth and the Welsh language. Strategic and Local should contain settlement hierarchies and growth distribution Development Plans should contain settlement policies that create the conditions for Welsh to thrive and hierarchies and growth distribution policies that create remain as the community language in the many places where the conditions for Welsh to thrive and remain as the everyday life takes place in Welsh. community language in the many places where everyday life takes place in Welsh. Strategic Development Plan: A regional approach Strategic Development Plan: A regional approach Across Mid Wales there are a range of strategic issues. Many of these issues have national, regional and local dimensions Across Mid Wales there are a range of strategic issues. and will be delivered through co-ordinated action at all levels. Many of these issues have national, regional and local dimensions and will be delivered through co-ordinated Housing, economic growth, digital and transport connectivity action at all levels. infrastructure should be co-ordinated and planned on the basis of the whole region. The management of natural Housing, economic growth, digital and transport resources and flooding and the protection and enhancement connectivity infrastructure should be co-ordinated and of areas of environmental and landscape importance should planned on the basis of the whole region. The inform strategic decisions on locations for growth and new management of natural resources and flooding and the infrastructure. Decarbonisation and responding to the threats protection and enhancement of areas of environmental of climate change should be central to all regional planning. and landscape importance should inform strategic decisions on locations for growth and new infrastructure. Clear decisions should be made on the scale and location of Decarbonisation and responding to the threats of climate growth through the preparation of a Strategic Development change should be central to all regional planning. Plan to ensure that all parts of the region are working together to achieve the region’s goals. A Strategic Clear decisions should be made on the scale and Development Plan should focus on the movement of people location of growth through the preparation of a Strategic across the region and support an integrated approach to Development Plan to ensure that all parts of the region strategic land-use and transport planning. Key locational are working together to achieve the region’s goals. A decisions, including for employment centres, strategic Strategic Development Plan should focus on the housing growth and services, should focus on the most movement of people across the region and support an sustainable and accessible locations and encourage greater integrated approach to strategic land-use and transport active travel and public transport use. planning. Key locational decisions, including for employment centres, strategic housing growth and The region should work together to consider the connections services, should focus on the most sustainable and with the North, South West and South East regions and the accessible locations and encourage greater active travel English Midlands. Promoting accessibility and inter-linkages and public transport use. between these areas, based on an understanding of their roles and functions, will ensure these areas operate as a The region should work together to consider the cohesive whole and do not compete against each other or connections with the North, South West and South East take strategic decisions in isolation. regions and the English Midlands. Promoting accessibility and inter-linkages between these areas, Regional Growth based on an understanding of their roles and functions, will ensure these areas operate as a cohesive whole Mid Wales is a large and predominantly rural area comprising and do not compete against each other or take strategic 39% of the land mass of Wales but only around 7% of the decisions in isolation. population. Mid Wales has a strong cultural heritage, a high proportion of Welsh speakers and is characterised by market Regional Growth towns and small settlements. Mid Wales has a wealth of outstanding natural assets from harbours and waterways to Mid Wales is a large and predominantly rural area mountains and designated landscapes, all of which contribute comprising 39% of the land mass of Wales but only to an outstanding tourism offer. The geography of the Mid around 7% of the population. Mid Wales has a strong Wales economy is a critical component in driving and cultural heritage, a high proportion of Welsh speakers supporting intra-regional growth across Wales, where natural and is characterised by market towns and small and academic assets support cutting-edge research and settlements. Mid Wales has a wealth of outstanding opportunities to create new industrial clusters. natural assets from harbours and waterways to mountains and designated landscapes, all of which There is a high degree of mobility between places, where contribute to an outstanding tourism offer. The people travel to access services, facilities and jobs outside of geography of the Mid Wales economy is a critical the place they live. Trips are typically longer than those made component in driving and supporting intra-regional in more built-up and urbanised areas and reliant on road growth across Wales, where natural and academic based travel given the absence of frequent bus and rail assets support cutting-edge research and opportunities services. to create new industrial clusters.

There is a need for a careful balance to be struck between There is a high degree of mobility between places, what individual settlements in the region can provide and where people travel to access services, facilities and what people may have to access in neighbouring places. jobs outside of the place they live. Trips are typically Decisions on the delivery of key services can have a longer than those made in more built-up and urbanised profound effect on people’s daily lives, particularly the less areas and reliant on road based travel given the mobile, and it is essential these decisions are taken on the absence of frequent bus and rail services. basis of a clear understanding of their impacts. As well as schools and health facilities, access to services like banks, There is a need for a careful balance to be struck post offices, libraries and shops has a real impact on people’s between what individual settlements in the region can daily lives in rural areas. provide and what people may have to access in neighbouring places. Decisions on the delivery of key Population change and ageing populations can impact on the services can have a profound effect on people’s daily balance of a community. The societal issues that drive these lives, particularly the less mobile, and it is essential changes are wider than the planning system and are not easy these decisions are taken on the basis of a clear challenges to address. The Welsh Government wishes to see understanding of their impacts. As well as schools and Strategic and Local Development Plans in Mid Wales play a health facilities, access to services like banks, post central role in shaping how rural communities can sustain offices, libraries and shops has a real impact on themselves. Local Development Plans should seek to support people’s daily lives in rural areas. growth and appropriate development in rural towns and villages. This includes market and affordable housing, Population change and ageing populations can impact employment and the provision of services. Local on the balance of a community. The societal issues that Development Plans should support and co-ordinate their drive these changes are wider than the planning system decisions with those of economic policy-makers, health, and are not easy challenges to address. The Welsh education and other essential service providers. They should Government wishes to see Strategic and Local consider the needs of all residents, including older people Development Plans in Mid Wales play a central role in and people with disabilities, and ensure that specialist shaping how rural communities can sustain themselves. housing provision is considered and planned for. Local Development Plans should seek to support growth and appropriate development in rural towns and villages. Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data & This includes market and affordable housing, Regional strategic diagram employment and the provision of services. Local Development Plans should support and co-ordinate their decisions with those of economic policy-makers, health, Policy 1 is the overarching framework for where development education and other essential service providers. They and growth will be focused in each region. In accordance should consider the needs of all residents, including with Future Wales’ spatial strategy, growth should be focused older people and people with disabilities, and ensure in five main areas across the region. They are focal points for that specialist housing provision is considered and the region’s social and economic activities, with a significant planned for. foundational economy. Development in these areas will ensure they continue to provide jobs; leisure, retail and Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data & cultural opportunities; and education and health services. It is Regional strategic diagram important that Strategic and Local Development Plans adopt a managed growth approach for housing, employment and Policy 1 is the overarching framework for where key services that allows these regional roles to be enhanced. development and growth will be focused in each region. In accordance with Future Wales’ spatial Bro Hafren is the area in the upper reaches of the River strategy, growth should be focused in five main areas Severn, where towns including Welshpool, Newtown and across the region. They are focal points for the region’s Llanidloes are important and vibrant centres. The area social and economic activities, with a significant supports an existing industrial cluster within the advanced foundational economy. Development in these areas will manufacturing sector, including niche areas of expertise such ensure they continue to provide jobs; leisure, retail and as automation and motion engineering which offer high value cultural opportunities; and education and health employment and productivity growth potential. services. It is important that Strategic and Local Development Plans adopt a managed growth approach The Teifi Valley in the south-western part of the region for housing, employment and key services that allows overlaps the South West region and includes the attractive these regional roles to be enhanced. market towns of Tregaron, Lampeter, Llandysul, and Cardigan. It provides connecting infrastructure that is used Bro Hafren is the area in the upper reaches of the River and relied on by the resident population and the communities Severn, where towns including Welshpool, Newtown around them. While Cardigan and Llandysul serve rural and Llanidloes are important and vibrant centres. The hinterlands beyond the region, places outside the region like area supports an existing industrial cluster within the Newcastle Emlyn similarly serve communities in Mid Wales. It advanced manufacturing sector, including niche areas of is important that the respective adjoining development plans expertise such as automation and motion engineering are aligned and recognise how services and community which offer high value employment and productivity facilities are used and are beneficial to people in each region. growth potential.

The Heart of Wales towns include Llandrindod Wells, Builth The Teifi Valley in the south-western part of the region Wells and Rhayader and are historically significant places, overlaps the South West region and includes the forming part of a network of spa towns in Mid attractive market towns of Tregaron, Lampeter, Wales. Llandrindod Wells in particular continues to attract Llandysul, and Cardigan. It provides connecting visitors and retains the architecture and charm that made it a infrastructure that is used and relied on by the resident popular destination in the Victorian era. Builth Wells and population and the communities around them. While Llanelwedd are the epicentre of the Welsh agricultural sector, Cardigan and Llandysul serve rural hinterlands beyond with the Royal Welsh Show held every July remaining a the region, places outside the region like Newcastle hugely popular and economically important event. Builth Emlyn similarly serve communities in Mid Wales. It is Wells is a strategically important location as the point at important that the respective adjoining development which two arterial north-south roads meet. plans are aligned and recognise how services and community facilities are used and are beneficial to The border towns of Knighton and Presteigne provide people in each region. important roles as local centres of employment and services with strong links to the English marches. Brecon and The Heart of Wales towns include Llandrindod Wells, Ystradgynlais have strong links to the south. Brecon is linked Builth Wells and Rhayader and are historically by the A470 to Merthyr Tydfil and the wider South East region significant places, forming part of a network of spa and also has strong local links with Hay-on Wye, Talgarth and towns in Mid Wales. Llandrindod Wells in particular Crickhowell to the east. Ystradgynlais is the link between Mid continues to attract visitors and retains the architecture Wales and the industrial Swansea and Neath Valleys. and charm that made it a popular destination in the Tourism is central to the area’s economy with visitors from Victorian era. Builth Wells and Llanelwedd are the around the world drawn to the stunning natural landscape epicentre of the Welsh agricultural sector, with the Royal which includes the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons. Welsh Show held every July remaining a hugely popular and economically important event. Builth Wells is a Aberystwyth is the largest town in the region and has a range strategically important location as the point at which two of important services, including the University and Bronglais arterial north-south roads meet. General Hospital. It remains a strategic location and centre for national institutions, including the National Library of The border towns of Knighton and Presteigne provide Wales. It is the main hub for public transport in the region and important roles as local centres of employment and a key employment and administrative centre. Aberystwyth services with strong links to the English marches. provides an important tourism, recreation and leisure location Brecon and Ystradgynlais have strong links to the south. and facilities such as the Aberystwyth Innovation and Brecon is linked by the A470 to Merthyr Tydfil and the Enterprise Campus provide opportunities to enhance the wider South East region and also has strong local links economic opportunities available in the region. To the north of with Hay-on Wye, Talgarth and Crickhowell to the east. Aberystwyth, Machynlleth is a vital link to the North region Ystradgynlais is the link between Mid Wales and the and an important centre where smaller settlements along the industrial Swansea and Neath Valleys. Tourism is Cardigan Bay coast access key services. Aberaeron to the central to the area’s economy with visitors from around south plays a similar role and is a key administrative and the world drawn to the stunning natural landscape which tourist hub. includes the Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons.

Policy 7 sets out the national strategic approach to delivering Aberystwyth is the largest town in the region and has a affordable homes and ensures the focus of funding and range of important services, including the University and housing policies is on driving increased provision. Planning Bronglais General Hospital. It remains a strategic and co-ordinating the delivery of new housing to meet location and centre for national institutions, including the identified needs is an important task for the regional planning National Library of Wales. It is the main hub for public process. Under the Welsh Government central estimates transport in the region and a key employment and 1,800 additional homes are needed in the region until 2039 administrative centre. Aberystwyth provides an and over the initial five years (2019/20 to 2023/24) 61% of the important tourism, recreation and leisure location and additional homes needed should be affordable homes. These facilities such as the Aberystwyth Innovation and estimates provide part of the evidence and context on which Enterprise Campus provide opportunities to enhance the Housing Requirements for Strategic Development Plans can economic opportunities available in the region. To the be based and should be considered at the regional scale. north of Aberystwyth, Machynlleth is a vital link to the Understanding and managing different development North region and an important centre where smaller pressures across the region will be a key issue for Strategic settlements along the Cardigan Bay coast access key Development Plans. Strategic housing issues must be services. Aberaeron to the south plays a similar role and considered at the regional level and not on the basis of the is a key administrative and tourist hub. aspirations of individual local planning authorities. Policy 7 sets out the national strategic approach to delivering affordable homes and ensures the focus of In considering future housing needs, it is clear that all aspects funding and housing policies is on driving increased of a Strategic Development Plan and individual Local provision. Planning and co-ordinating the delivery of new Development Plans will need to reflect on the low estimated housing to meet identified needs is an important task for need for housing in the region and what this means for how the regional planning process. Under the Welsh places will change, where jobs and services will be located Government central estimates 1,800 additional homes and the relationship between settlements. are needed in the region until 2039 and over the initial five years (2019/20 to 2023/24) 61% of the additional Policies 2, 3, 6 and 8 will ensure development in the region’s homes needed should be affordable homes. These towns is sustainably located in areas with good access to estimates provide part of the evidence and context on public transport where reliance on the car can be reduced. which Housing Requirements for Strategic Development Opportunities for publicly-owned land to be used to Plans can be based and should be considered at the demonstrate leadership through placemaking are strongly regional scale. Understanding and managing different supported. Strategic decisions on the location of key services development pressures across the region will be a key and infrastructure should support existing settlements and be issue for Strategic Development Plans. Strategic taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are located in the housing issues must be considered at the regional level most accessible and sustainable locations, support actions to and not on the basis of the aspirations of individual local address inequality and deprivation and improve links to planning authorities. neighbouring areas of Wales and England. In considering future housing needs, it is clear that all The region’s rural areas are supported by policies 4 and 5 aspects of a Strategic Development Plan and individual which will ensure rural communities thrive, supported by a Local Development Plans will need to reflect on the low rural economy which recognises the diverse range of activity estimated need for housing in the region and what this that contribute to rural society and life. The Welsh means for how places will change, where jobs and Government wishes to see extensive and fast broadband services will be located and the relationship between connectivity across Mid Wales. Policies 13 and 14 set out the settlements. national strategic approach and will ensure existing areas of poor coverage are the main focus for improvement. With Policies 2, 3, 6 and 8 will ensure development in the homeworking increasing as a proportion of economic activity, region’s towns is sustainably located in areas with good improved broadband will be key to enabling Mid Wales to access to public transport where reliance on the car can broaden its economic base and benefit socially and be reduced. Opportunities for publicly-owned land to be economically. In accordance with policy 4, the Welsh used to demonstrate leadership through placemaking Government believes the future for rural areas is best are strongly supported. Strategic decisions on the planned at the regional and local level. Strategic and Local location of key services and infrastructure should Development Plans will plan positively for the rural support existing settlements and be taken on a regional communities in the region and consider the balance to be basis, ensuring they are located in the most accessible struck between focusing development in the main built-up, and sustainable locations, support actions to address urban areas and the rural areas. inequality and deprivation and improve links to neighbouring areas of Wales and England. The Welsh Government wishes to see biodiversity enhanced and ecosystems become more resilient across Mid Wales. The region’s rural areas are supported by policies 4 and Policies 9 and 15 set out the national strategic approach and 5 which will ensure rural communities thrive, supported will ensure action to address the climate emergency, to by a rural economy which recognises the diverse range reverse biodiversity decline and to ensure the well-being of of activity that contribute to rural society and life. The communities takes place. These policies require Welsh Government wishes to see extensive and fast consideration be given to the type of action necessary at broadband connectivity across Mid Wales. Policies 13 regional and local levels and how this can be facilitated and 14 set out the national strategic approach and will through Strategic and Local Development Plans. ensure existing areas of poor coverage are the main focus for improvement. With homeworking increasing as Investment in creating resilient ecological networks and green a proportion of economic activity, improved broadband infrastructure will bring multiple benefits for communities and will be key to enabling Mid Wales to broaden its businesses as well as nature itself. Action to improve economic base and benefit socially and economically. In resilience is required in all areas of the region and specific accordance with policy 4, the Welsh Government approaches will vary depending on the nature of the location believes the future for rural areas is best planned at the and the opportunities to create greater resilience. Where regional and local level. Strategic and Local there are conflicting priorities these will need to be considered Development Plans will plan positively for the rural and resolved regionally and locally. Policies 2, 3, 4 and 5 communities in the region and consider the balance to must work in a complementary way with polices 9 and 15. be struck between focusing development in the main built-up, urban areas and the rural areas. In urban areas, including Regional Growth Areas, the enhancement (net-benefit) of biodiversity and the provision of The Welsh Government wishes to see biodiversity green infrastructure must both shape growth strategies and enhanced and ecosystems become more resilient be fully integrated as part of location and design solutions for across Mid Wales. Policies 9 and 15 set out the national proposed development. strategic approach and will ensure action to address the climate emergency, to reverse biodiversity decline and Based on the indicative map contained in policy 9, the most to ensure the well-being of communities takes place. resilient ecological networks are in the most southerly and These policies require consideration be given to the type northerly parts of the region and in the south west of the of action necessary at regional and local levels and how region, but this does not mean they are as resilient as they this can be facilitated through Strategic and Local ought to be. Whilst there are biodiversity hotspots, carbon Development Plans. stores, woodland and forestry in the heart of the Mid Wales region, improvement in the overall resilience of the region is Investment in creating resilient ecological networks and needed. The role of the Brecon Beacons National Park as a green infrastructure will bring multiple benefits for node for improving resilience and deriving multiple benefits communities and businesses as well as nature itself. from green infrastructure should be maximised along with Action to improve resilience is required in all areas of the designated nature conservation sites. Area Statements region and specific approaches will vary depending on indicate widespread potential for improvements in ecosystem the nature of the location and the opportunities to create services and the creation of ecological networks across the greater resilience. Where there are conflicting priorities region. these will need to be considered and resolved regionally and locally. Policies 2, 3, 4 and 5 must work in a It will be of crucial importance that habitats protection, complementary way with polices 9 and 15. restoration and creation and improved linkages between them are facilitated through Strategic and Local Development In urban areas, including Regional Growth Areas, the Plans. Policy 9 requires that networks be improved and enhancement (net-benefit) of biodiversity and the expanded upon and that opportunities must be identified to provision of green infrastructure must both shape growth safeguard and create resilient networks, and the ecosystem strategies and be fully integrated as part of location and services on which they depend, and the multiple benefits design solutions for proposed development. derived from green infrastructure where currently this is not the case. Policies 9 and 15 work alongside policy 4 and 5 to Based on the indicative map contained in policy 9, the require relationships between all forms of land use and most resilient ecological networks are in the most management be considered more fully. This is especially the southerly and northerly parts of the region and in the case in Mid Wales if we are to address the climate south west of the region, but this does not mean they emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and enable are as resilient as they ought to be. Whilst there are communities to benefit from more sustainable forms of biodiversity hotspots, carbon stores, woodland and managing natural resources. forestry in the heart of the Mid Wales region, improvement in the overall resilience of the region is Flooding is a potential risk for coastal and inland places in the needed. The role of the Brecon Beacons National Park region. Major rivers including the Teifi, Usk, Wye and Severn as a node for improving resilience and deriving multiple flow through Regional Growth Areas. They have the potential benefits from green infrastructure should be maximised to break their banks in periods of heavy rainfall and be the along with designated nature conservation sites. Area source of flooding elsewhere. Coastal locations, including Statements indicate widespread potential for Aberystwyth, have experience of storms causing coastal improvements in ecosystem services and the creation of defences to be overtopped. The potential for flooding in the ecological networks across the region. Regional Growth Areas has implications for the delivery of growth in the region. Policy 8 sets out the national strategic It will be of crucial importance that habitats protection, approach to flood risk management and will ensure growth restoration and creation and improved linkages between aspirations in Regional Growth Areas are co-ordinated with them are facilitated through Strategic and Local strategic decisions on managing flood risk. Development Plans. Policy 9 requires that networks be improved and expanded upon and that opportunities must be identified to safeguard and create resilient networks, and the ecosystem services on which they depend, and the multiple benefits derived from green infrastructure where currently this is not the case. Policies 9 and 15 work alongside policy 4 and 5 to require relationships between all forms of land use and management be considered more fully. This is especially the case in Mid Wales if we are to address the climate emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and enable communities to benefit from more sustainable forms of managing natural resources.

Flooding is a potential risk for coastal and inland places in the region. Major rivers including the Teifi, Usk, Wye and Severn flow through Regional Growth Areas. They have the potential to break their banks in periods of heavy rainfall and be the source of flooding elsewhere. Coastal locations, including Aberystwyth, have experience of storms causing coastal defences to be overtopped. The potential for flooding in the Regional Growth Areas has implications for the delivery of growth in the region. Policy 8 sets out the national strategic approach to flood risk management and will ensure growth aspirations in Regional Growth Areas are co- ordinated with strategic decisions on managing flood risk. 26 Managing Growth Managing Growth

Growing the Mid Wales Economy Growing the Mid Wales Economy The Welsh Government supports the growth and The Welsh Government supports the growth and development of existing and new economic opportunities development of existing and new economic across Mid Wales. opportunities across Mid Wales.

The Welsh Government will work with local authorities, The Welsh Government will work with local authorities, communities, stakeholders and businesses to ensure that its communities, stakeholders and businesses to ensure investments and policies support a strong regional economy. that its investments and policies support a strong regional economy. Strategic and Local Development Plans must develop policies that support agricultural and land based traditional rural Strategic and Local Development Plans must develop enterprises; and provide a flexible framework to support the policies that support agricultural and land based development of new, innovative and emerging technologies traditional rural enterprises; and provide a flexible and sectors. framework to support the development of new, innovative and emerging technologies and sectors.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.34 – 3.36 3.34 – 3.36 5.4 5.4 5.5 5.5 5.6 5.6 Supporting The Welsh Government wishes to see a strong and resilient The Welsh Government wishes to see a strong and Text economy and sustainable, rural communities across Mid resilient economy and sustainable, rural communities Wales. Policy 5 sets out the national strategic approach to across Mid Wales. Policy 5 sets out the national supporting rural economies. The economy of Mid Wales will strategic approach to supporting rural economies. The be based on both traditional rural enterprises and modern, economy of Mid Wales will be based on both traditional forward looking, innovative businesses. The region’s wealth rural enterprises and modern, forward looking, of outstanding natural assets, existing research capability and innovative businesses. The region’s wealth of the growth potential of existing industrial clusters within the outstanding natural assets, existing research capability advanced manufacturing sector can support growth. With its and the growth potential of existing industrial clusters strong communities, outstanding landscapes, high quality of within the advanced manufacturing sector can support life and diverse range of places, Mid Wales is an attractive growth. With its strong communities, outstanding region and can be the location of choice for dynamic and landscapes, high quality of life and diverse range of technologically advanced businesses while continuing to places, Mid Wales is an attractive region and can be the support its traditional rural sectors. location of choice for dynamic and technologically advanced businesses while continuing to support its The Regional Economic Framework, prepared in partnership traditional rural sectors. with local authorities, communities, businesses and key stakeholders, will set out the priorities for future regional The Regional Economic Framework, prepared in economic development. The planning system, through its partnership with local authorities, communities, Strategic and Local Development Plans and the decisions it businesses and key stakeholders, will set out the takes, has a major role to play in shaping the places that priorities for future regional economic development. The support and strengthen the regional economy. planning system, through its Strategic and Local Development Plans and the decisions it takes, has a A strengthened regional approach to planning should be major role to play in shaping the places that support and informed by and seek to facilitate the delivery of the Mid strengthen the regional economy. Wales Growth Deal. A Strategic Development Plan should provide a framework to take the strategic locational decisions A strengthened regional approach to planning should be that will support the long-term ambitions of the Growth Deal in informed by and seek to facilitate the delivery of the Mid relation to housing, economic growth, key services and Wales Growth Deal. A Strategic Development Plan essential infrastructure. It should also consider how traditional should provide a framework to take the strategic and new economic sectors can be supported across Mid locational decisions that will support the long-term Wales and be open to exploring the role of both existing and ambitions of the Growth Deal in relation to housing, new types of employment areas. A Strategic Development economic growth, key services and essential Plan should consider the potential for the expansion and infrastructure. It should also consider how traditional and growth of key regional sectors, including defence and new economic sectors can be supported across Mid security, animal health and veterinary science, bio-technology Wales and be open to exploring the role of both existing and agri-tech. An understanding of the types of sites and and new types of employment areas. A Strategic infrastructure these sectors will require in the future is Development Plan should consider the potential for the important and should harness the potential of key regional expansion and growth of key regional sectors, including assets such as the Aberystwyth Innovation and Enterprise defence and security, animal health and veterinary Campus. science, bio-technology and agri-tech. An understanding of the types of sites and infrastructure these sectors will The Welsh Government strongly supports the development of require in the future is important and should harness the the foundational economy in the region. The foundational potential of key regional assets such as the Aberystwyth economy represents those parts of the economy which are Innovation and Enterprise Campus. integral to the well-being of places, communities and people and which deliver people’s everyday needs. The Welsh The Welsh Government strongly supports the Government will continue to support greater resilience for development of the foundational economy in the region. local and regional economies and support business growth The foundational economy represents those parts of the and new employment opportunities. Strategic and Local economy which are integral to the well-being of places, Development Plans should identify the role of the communities and people and which deliver people’s foundational economy, consider how the land-use planning everyday needs. The Welsh Government will continue to system can support it and develop appropriate policies. Areas support greater resilience for local and regional of the foundational economy which the planning system can economies and support business growth and new support include regeneration initiatives, health and social employment opportunities. Strategic and Local care, social housing, tourism and steps to encourage greater Development Plans should identify the role of the community benefits from new development. foundational economy, consider how the land-use planning system can support it and develop appropriate Tourism is an important sector to the Mid Wales economy. policies. Areas of the foundational economy which the Opportunities for active, green and cultural tourism should be planning system can support include regeneration explored. The rich landscape, cultural heritage and marine initiatives, health and social care, social housing, fauna, the Coastal Way along the length of Cardigan Bay, the tourism and steps to encourage greater community inland Cambrian Way and the Wales Coast Path provide the benefits from new development. potential to develop tourism facilities inland and at the coast. Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider the Tourism is an important sector to the Mid Wales main existing and potential new tourism areas, the type of economy. Opportunities for active, green and cultural visitors they attract and the infrastructure required to support tourism should be explored. The rich landscape, cultural growth. heritage and marine fauna, the Coastal Way along the length of Cardigan Bay, the inland Cambrian Way and The universities in Aberystwyth and Lampeter are an the Wales Coast Path provide the potential to develop important presence in Mid Wales, providing further education, tourism facilities inland and at the coast. Strategic and undertaking research and supporting innovation, providing Local Development Plans should consider the main employment, attracting students and supporting the local existing and potential new tourism areas, the type of businesses and communities around them. Strategic and visitors they attract and the infrastructure required to Local Development Plans should consider their role in the support growth. region and how they can play a bigger role in supporting the regional economy, innovation and their communities. The universities in Aberystwyth and Lampeter are an important presence in Mid Wales, providing further It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonisation of society education, undertaking research and supporting and supports the realisation of renewable energy. Policies 17 innovation, providing employment, attracting students and 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to renewable energy and supporting the local businesses and communities generation across Wales. There is significant potential for around them. Strategic and Local Development Plans wind, marine and solar energy generation in Mid Wales and should consider their role in the region and how they can Strategic and Local Development Plans should provide a play a bigger role in supporting the regional economy, framework for generation and associated infrastructure. All innovation and their communities. renewable energy generation proposals should seek to maximise the economic, environmental and social benefits to It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonisation of the communities of Mid Wales. The Welsh Government society and supports the realisation of renewable wishes to see energy generation, storage and management energy. Policies 17 and 18 set out Future Wales’ play a role in supporting the Mid Wales economy in particular, approach to renewable energy generation across Wales. including local employment opportunities. Local ownership There is significant potential for wind, marine and solar and distribution is important to ensuring communities in energy generation in Mid Wales and Strategic and Local proximity to renewable energy development benefit from it Development Plans should provide a framework for and that our future energy system better serves Wales. generation and associated infrastructure. All renewable energy generation proposals should seek to maximise Ceredigion and Powys form part of the South Wales area for the economic, environmental and social benefits to the minerals planning. In Powys a number of sandstone and communities of Mid Wales. The Welsh Government igneous rock quarries supply High Specification Aggregate wishes to see energy generation, storage and material to England, particularly to adjoining parts of the West management play a role in supporting the Mid Wales Midlands. The availability of marine aggregates and the economy in particular, including local employment infrastructure to support the extraction and movement of opportunities. Local ownership and distribution is these aggregates is important and the region will continue to important to ensuring communities in proximity to play a key role in meeting national and regional needs. renewable energy development benefit from it and that our future energy system better serves Wales.

Ceredigion and Powys form part of the South Wales area for minerals planning. In Powys a number of sandstone and igneous rock quarries supply High Specification Aggregate material to England, particularly to adjoining parts of the West Midlands. The availability of marine aggregates and the infrastructure to support the extraction and movement of these aggregates is important and the region will continue to play a key role in meeting national and regional needs.

Policy 27 Supporting Growth Supporting Growth

Movement in Mid Wales Movement in Mid Wales

The Welsh Government will work with local and regional The Welsh Government will work with local and regional authorities to ensure transport investments improve authorities to ensure transport investments improve accessibility across Mid Wales and strengthen cross-border accessibility across Mid Wales and strengthen cross- transport links. border transport links.

Strategic and Local Development Plans should support Strategic and Local Development Plans should support improved transport links within the region and with other improved transport links within the region and with other regions and England. Planning authorities should plan growth regions and England. Planning authorities should plan and regeneration to maximise the potential opportunities growth and regeneration to maximise the potential arising from better regional connectivity. opportunities arising from better regional connectivity.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.1 4.1 5.3 5.3 Supporting Across Wales and the regions, the Welsh Government Across Wales and the regions, the Welsh Government Text wishes to see development built in sustainable locations that wishes to see development built in sustainable locations are supported by the active travel and public transport that are supported by the active travel and public infrastructure and services needed to enable people to live transport infrastructure and services needed to enable active and healthy lives. This includes ensuring average people to live active and healthy lives. This includes levels of air and noise pollution are reduced or at least ensuring average levels of air and noise pollution are minimised. The overall aim is to reduce the need to travel, reduced or at least minimised. The overall aim is to particularly by private vehicles, and support a modal shift to reduce the need to travel, particularly by private walking, cycling and public transport. Policies 11 and 12 set vehicles, and support a modal shift to walking, cycling out the strategic approach to national and regional and public transport. Policies 11 and 12 set out the connectivity and how the Welsh Government will support and strategic approach to national and regional connectivity invest in improvements to active travel and public transport. and how the Welsh Government will support and invest In rural areas, such as Mid Wales, our priorities are also in improvements to active travel and public transport. In aimed at supporting the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles rural areas, such as Mid Wales, our priorities are also and diversifying and sustaining local bus services. aimed at supporting the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles and diversifying and sustaining local bus Mid Wales is the largest region and adjoins all other three services. Welsh regions. It shares a long border with England and is accessible to a wider English region that includes Hereford, Mid Wales is the largest region and adjoins all other Shrewsbury, Telford and Birmingham. The Welsh three Welsh regions. It shares a long border with Government recognises that travel by road and car is central England and is accessible to a wider English region that to regional movement across Mid Wales. Alongside its includes Hereford, Shrewsbury, Telford and investment to support increased use of public transport Birmingham. The Welsh Government recognises that (including rail) and active travel, we will continue to invest in travel by road and car is central to regional movement the region’s road network and, in accordance with Policy 12, across Mid Wales. Alongside its investment to support support the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles. Where new increased use of public transport (including rail) and transport corridors are created by improvements to the road active travel, we will continue to invest in the region’s network, the potential for these corridors to incorporate green road network and, in accordance with Policy 12, support infrastructure must be explored. the uptake of ultra-low emission vehicles. Where new transport corridors are created by improvements to the West-east connections are important. Cross-border working road network, the potential for these corridors to is supported, such as the joint freight strategy and route incorporate green infrastructure must be explored. improvements to the A483 and A458. In addition to maximising the growth of the Mid Wales economy, Strategic West-east connections are important. Cross-border and Local Development Plans should be confident in seeking working is supported, such as the joint freight strategy to align areas of need with areas of opportunity, including and route improvements to the A483 and A458. In where areas of opportunity are in other regions and England. addition to maximising the growth of the Mid Wales Focusing investment and action on improving the links economy, Strategic and Local Development Plans between Welsh communities and economic opportunities should be confident in seeking to align areas of need outside the region can help support the region’s communities with areas of opportunity, including where areas of and the development of a stronger economy. opportunity are in other regions and England. Focusing investment and action on improving the links between Welsh communities and economic opportunities outside the region can help support the region’s communities and the development of a stronger economy.

Section or Updated Version Draft NDF Draft NDF Section or Policy Tracked Changed Version Policy Section or Number Policy Number Policy 28 National Growth Area - Swansea Bay and Llanelli Policy 23 Swansea Bay and Llanelli National Growth Area - Swansea Bay and Llanelli Swansea Bay and Llanelli will be the main focus for Swansea Bay and Llanelli will be the main Swansea Bay and Llanelli will be the main focus for growth and investment in the South West region. focus for regional scale growth and regional scale growth and investment in the South West Strategic and Local Development Plans should investment. region. recognise the National Growth Area as the focus for Regional and local development plans RegionalStrategic and local development plansLocal strategic economic and housing growth; essential should recognise Swansea Bay and Llanelli Development Plans should recognise Swansea Bay and services and facilities; advanced manufacturing; as the focus for strategic growth; essential Llanellithe National Growth Area as the focus for strategic transport and digital infrastructure. services and facilities; transport and digital economic and housing growth; essential services and The Welsh Government will work with regional bodies infrastructure; and consider how they can facilities; advanced manufacturing; transport and digital and local authorities to promote and enhance Swansea support and benefit from their strategic infrastructure; and consider how they can support and Bay and Llanelli’s strategic role and ensure key regional role. benefit from their strategic regional role.. investment decisions support places in the National The Welsh Government will promote The Welsh Government will promotework with regional Growth Area and the wider region. Swansea Bay and Llanelli’s strategic role bodies and local authorities to promote and enhance and ensure key investment decisions Swansea Bay and Llanelli’s strategic role and ensure key support it and the wider region. investment decisions support itplaces in the National Growth Area and the wider region. PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting South West Supporting Overview Overview Text Text The Mid and South West Wales region The Mid and South West Wales Overview comprises Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, The South West region comprises Carmarthenshire, Neath Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, Powys, Overview Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, Swansea and Pembrokeshire Swansea and the Brecon Beacons and The South West region comprises Carmarthenshire, Coast National Park and has a population of over 900,000 Pembrokeshire Coast National Parks and Ceredigion, Neath Port Talbot, Pembrokeshire, Powys, people. This large and diverse region includes extensive has a population of over 900,000 people. Swansea and the Brecon Beacons and Pembrokeshire Coast rural areas and urbanised, industrialised built-up areas This large and diverse region includes some National ParksPark and has a population of over 900,000 around Wales’ second city, Swansea. of the most rural and sparsely populated people. This large and diverse region includes some of the The regional issues planning authorities should work parts of the UK and the urbanised, mostextensive rural and sparsely populated parts of the UK together to plan for are set out below, alongside the spatial industrialised built up areas around Wales’ and the areas and urbanised, industrialised built -up areas policy areas the Welsh Government will focus on to support second city, Swansea. The population is around Wales’ second city, Swansea. The population is the South West region. concentrated in the south around Swansea concentrated in the south around Swansea Bay and Llanelli, Bay and Llanelli, with a secondary cluster of with a secondary cluster of towns around the Milford Haven With 147,864 Welsh speakers across the region and with towns around the Milford Haven waterway waterway and across the region’s larger towns which include concentrations of settlements where Welsh is the first and across the region’s larger towns which Aberystwyth, Carmarthen, Llandrindod Wells and Newtown. language for many people, it is important that Strategic and include Aberystwyth, Carmarthen, The regional issues that local planning authorities should work Local Development Plans consider the relationship between Llandrindod Wells and Newtown. together to plan for are set out below, alongside the spatial strategic housing, transport and economic growth and the The regional issues that local planning policy areas the Welsh Government will focus on from a Welsh language. Strategic and Local Development Plans authorities should work together to plan for national perspective to support the Mid and South West should contain settlement hierarchies and growth are set out below, alongside the spatial region. distribution policies that create the conditions for Welsh to policy areas the Welsh Government will thrive and remain as the community language in the many focus on from a national perspective to A collaborative, holisticWith 147,864 Welsh speakers across places where everyday life takes place in Welsh. support the Mid and South West region. the region and with concentrations of settlements where Welsh is the first language for many people, it is important Strategic Development Plan: A regional approach A collaborative, holistic approach that Strategic and Local Development Plans consider the Across the South West region there are a range of strategic Across Mid and South West Wales, a range relationship between strategic housing, transport and issues. Many of these issues have national, regional and of strategic issues need to be considered. economic growth and the Welsh language. Strategic and local dimensions and will be delivered through co-ordinated Many of these issues have national, regional Local Development Plans should contain settlement action at all levels. and local dimensions and will be delivered hierarchies and growth distribution policies that create the Housing, economic growth, digital and transport connectivity through co-ordinated action at all levels. conditions for Welsh to thrive and remain as the community infrastructure should be co-ordinated and planned on the basis of the whole region. The management of natural Housing, economic growth and connectivity language in the many places where everyday life takes place resources, flooding and the protection and enhancement of infrastructure should be co-ordinated and in Welsh. areas of environmental and landscape importance should planned across the whole region. inform strategic decisions on locations for growth and new The management of natural resources and Strategic Development Plan: A regional approach infrastructure. Decarbonising society and responding to the flooding and the protection and Across Mid andthe South West Wales,region there are a threats of climate change should be central to all regional enhancement of areas of environmental and range of strategic issues need to be considered. Many of planning. landscape importance should inform these issues have national, regional and local dimensions and Clear decisions should be made on the scale and location of strategic decisions on locations for growth will be delivered through co-ordinated action at all levels. growth through the preparation of a Strategic Development and new infrastructure. Decarbonising Housing, economic growth , digital and transport connectivity Plan to ensure that all parts of the region are working society and responding to the threats of infrastructure should be co-ordinated and planned acrosson together to achieve the region’s goals. A Strategic climate change should be central to all the basis of the whole region. The management of natural Development Plan should focus on the movement of people regional planning. resources and, flooding and the protection and enhancement across the region and support an integrated approach to The size and diversity of this region, which of areas of environmental and landscape importance should strategic land-use and transport planning. Key locational includes Wales’ second city, two national inform strategic decisions on locations for growth and new decisions, including for employment centres, strategic parks and some of the most rural areas of infrastructure. Decarbonising society and responding to the housing growth and services should focus on the most the UK, means that the region does not have threats of climate change should be central to all regional sustainable and accessible locations, address congestion, the degree of interconnectedness of other planning. reduce car-based commuting and improve air quality. regions. From a high level national The size and diversity of this region, which includes Wales’ The region should consider its connections with the Mid perspective, there are two broad spatial second city, two national parks and some of the most rural Wales and South East regions and Ireland. Promoting subregions – the built up areas around areas of the UK, means that the region does not have the accessibility and inter-linkages between Welsh regions, Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, southern degree of interconnectedness of other regions. From a high based on an understanding of their roles and functions, will Carmarthenshire and the Haven towns, and level national perspective, there are two broad spatial ensure these areas operate as a cohesive whole and do not the dispersed settlements in a wider rural subregions – the built up areas around Swansea, Neath Port compete against each other or take strategic decisions in hinterland across north Pembrokeshire, Talbot, southern Carmarthenshire and the Haven towns, and isolation. Ceredigion, Powys and northern the dispersed settlements in a wider rural hinterland across Carmarthenshire. north Pembrokeshire, Ceredigion, Powys and northern Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data & Carmarthenshire. Regional strategic diagram There will be common strategic issues for Clear decisions should be made on the scale and location of the region and issues which are specific to growth through the preparation of a Strategic Development sub-regions. It will be for local planning Plan to ensure that all parts of the region are working together National Growth authorities to determine how regional to achieve the region’s goals. A Strategic Development Plan planning should be undertaken across the should focus on the movement of people across the region Policy 1 is the overarching framework for where region. It may be that a combination of a and support an integrated approach to strategic land-use and development and growth will be focused in each Strategic Development Plan and one or transport planning. Key locational decisions, including for region. Future Wales’ spatial strategy identifies that growth more Joint Local Development Plans are employment centres, strategic housing growth and services in the South West region should be focused in the Swansea required. The Welsh Government will should focus on the most sustainable and accessible Bay and Llanelli area. The area comprising Neath, Port support approaches that define and focus on locations, address congestion, reduce car-based commuting Talbot, the City of Swansea and Llanelli will be the primary sub-regions, rather than a single full region, and improve air quality. growth area for the region. This area is the main existing where it is demonstrated this is appropriate. The region should consider its connections centre of population, employment and services and is Focus for growth There will be common strategic issues for the region and served by the main connectivity infrastructure. In accordance with the NDF Spatial issues which are specific to sub-regions. It will be for local In accordance with Policy 19, the preparation of a Strategic Strategy, growth in the Mid and South West planning authorities to determine how regional planning Development Plan must ensure the region manages growth Region should primarily be focussed in the should be undertaken across the region. It may be that in a planned and co-ordinated way, to support the needs of Swansea Bay and Llanelli area and in a a combination of a Strategic Development Plan and one or the National and Regional Growth Areas and the wider secondary role, the Haven Towns, more Joint Local Development Plans are required. The Welsh region. Strategic decisions on the location of key services Carmarthen, Llandrindod Wells, Newtown Government will support approaches that define and focus on and infrastructure should support existing settlements and and Aberystwyth. sub-regions, rather than a single full region, where it is be taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are located in demonstrated this is appropriate. the most accessible and sustainable locations, support Focus for growth actions to address inequality and deprivation and improve In accordance with the NDF Spatial Strategy, growth in the links to adjoining regions. Joint The Welsh Government supports the Mid Wales and South East regions and Ireland. Promoting Policy 7 sets out the national strategic approach to supporting Swansea Bay and Llanelli area (comprising accessibility and inter-linkages between Welsh regions, based delivering affordable housing and ensures the focus of text for Neath, Port Talbot, the City of Swansea and on an understanding of their roles and functions, will ensure funding and housing policies is on driving increased Policy 23 Llanelli) as the primary growth area for the these areas operate as a cohesive whole and do not compete provision. Planning and co-ordinating the delivery of new region. This area is the main existing centre against each other or take strategic decisions in isolation. of population, employment and services housing to meet identified needs is an important task for the and Policy and is served by the main connectivity Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data & regional planning process. Under the Welsh Government 24 infrastructure. The area can accommodate Regional strategic diagram central estimates 25,600 additional homes are needed in the new growth in a planned and co-ordinated region until 2039 and over the initial five years (2019/20 to way, to support the needs of the wider 2023/24) 44% of the additional homes needed should be surrounding region. National Growth affordable homes. These estimates provide part of the The Welsh Government supports the role of evidence and context on which Housing Requirements for Policy 1 is the overarching framework for where development the regional centres of Carmarthen, Strategic Development Plans can be based and should be and growth will be focused in each region. Future Wales’ Llandrindod Wells, Newtown, Aberystwyth considered at the regional scale. Understanding and and the four Haven Towns (Milford Haven, spatial strategy identifies that growth in the South West managing different development pressures across the Haverfordwest, Pembroke and Pembroke Regionregion should primarily be focussedfocused in the region will be a key issue for Strategic Development Plans. Dock). These places play important sub- Swansea Bay and Llanelli area and in a secondary role, Strategic housing issues must be considered at the regional regional roles, providing jobs; leisure and the Haven Towns, Carmarthen, Llandrindod Wells, Newtown level and not on the basis of the individual local planning retail; education and health services; and and . The Aberystwyth. authorities. connectivity infrastructure that is used and relied on by both their own populations and communities around them. It is important The Welsh Government supports the Swansea Bay and that these settlements maintain their Llanelli area (comprising Neath, Port Talbot, the City of regional role and support a managed Swansea and Llanelli) as will be the primary growth area for growth approach that allows their roles to the region. This area is the main existing centre of population, be enhanced. employment and services and is served by the main connectivity infrastructure. The area can accommodate new Planning and co-ordinating the delivery of growth in a planned and co-ordinated way, to support the new housing to meet identified needs will be needs of the wider surrounding region. an important task for the regional planning process. Under the Welsh Government The Welsh Government supports the role of the regional central estimates 23,400 additional homes centres of Carmarthen, Llandrindod Wells, Newtown, are needed in the region until 2038 and Aberystwyth and the four Haven Towns (Milford Haven, over the initial five years (2018/19 to Haverfordwest, Pembroke and Pembroke Dock). These 2022/23) 44% of the additional homes places play important sub-regional roles, providing jobs; needed should be affordable homes. leisure and retail; education and health services; and These estimates provide part of the connectivity infrastructure that is used and relied on by both evidence and context on which Housing their own populations and communities around them. It is Requirements for Strategic Development important that these settlements maintain their regional role Plans can be based and should be and support a managed growth approach that allows their considered at the regional scale. roles to be enhanced. In accordance with Policy 19, the preparation of a Strategic Strategic decisions on the location of key Development Plan must ensure the region manages growth in services and infrastructure should support a planned and co-ordinated way, to support the needs of the existing communities and be taken on a National and Regional Growth Areas and the wider region. regional basis, ensuring they are located in Strategic decisions on the location of key services and the most accessible and sustainable infrastructure should support existing settlements and be locations and support actions to address taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are located in the inequality and deprivation. In the east of the most accessible and sustainable locations, support actions to region, links to the English Midlands provide address inequality and deprivation and improve links to an opportunity to build upon existing adjoining regions. functional relationships, particularly in Policy 7 sets out the national strategic approach to delivering relation to housing, employment markets affordable housing and ensures the focus of funding and and public services. Joint planning and housing policies is on driving increased provision. Planning infrastructure delivery is supported where it and co-ordinating the delivery of new housing to meet contributes to the well-being of the region’s identified needs will beis an important task for the regional communities. Strategic and Local Development Plans should be confident in planning process. Under the Welsh Government central seeking to align estimates 23,40025,600 additional homes are needed in the areas of need with areas of opportunity, region until 20382039 and over the initial five years including where areas of opportunity are (2018/192019/20 to 2022/23) 442023/24) 44% of the across the border and resulting investment additional homes needed should be affordable homes. These estimates provide part of the evidence and context on which and action is focussed on improving the links Housing Requirements for Strategic Development Plans can between Welsh communities and economic be based and should be considered at the regional scale. opportunities in England. Understanding and managing different development pressures across the region will be a key issue for Strategic Development Plans. Strategic housing issues must be considered at the regional level and not on the basis of the individual local planning authorities. Strategic decisions on the location of key services and infrastructure should support existing communities and be taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are located in the most accessible and sustainable locations and support actions to address inequality and deprivation. In the east of the region, links to the English Midlands provide an opportunity to build upon existing functional relationships, particularly in relation to housing, employment markets and public services. Joint planning and infrastructure delivery is supported where it contributes to the well-being of the region’s communities. Strategic and Local Development Plans should be confident in seeking to align areas of need with areas of opportunity, including where areas of opportunity are across the border and resulting investment and action is focussed on improving the links between Welsh communities and economic opportunities in England. Policy 29 Regional Growth Policy 24 Regional Centres Regional CentresGrowth The towns of Carmarthen, Llandrindod The towns of Regional Growth Areas – Carmarthen and the Haven Wells, Newtown, Aberystwyth and the four Regional Growth Areas – Carmarthen, Llandrindod Wells, Towns Haven Towns will be the focus for managed Newtown, Aberystwyth and the four Haven Towns The Welsh Government supports sustainable growth and growth, reflecting their important sub- The Welsh Government supports sustainable growth and regeneration in Carmarthen and the Pembrokeshire Haven regional functions. regeneration in Carmarthen and the Pembrokeshire Haven Towns (Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke and Regional and local development plans Towns (Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Pembroke and Pembroke Dock). These areas will be a focus for managed should recognise the roles of these Pembroke Dock). These areas will be thea focus for growth, reflecting their important sub-regional functions settlements as being a focus for housing, managed growth, reflecting their important sub-regional and strong links to the National Growth Area of Swansea employment and key services within their functions and strong links to the National Growth Area of Bay and Llanelli. wider areas and consider how they continue Swansea Bay and Llanelli. Strategic and Local Development Plans should recognise as a focal point for sub-regional growth. RegionalStrategic and local development plansLocal the roles of these places as a focus for housing, Development Plans should recognise the roles of these employment, tourism, public transport and key services settlementsplaces as being a focus for housing, within their wider areas and support their continued employment, tourism, public transport and key services function as focal points for sub-regional growth. within their wider areas and consider how they continue as a support their continued function as focal pointpoints for sub-regional growth. PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting Joint Welsh language Welsh language Text Carmarthen and the four Pembrokeshire Haven Towns supporting (Milford Haven, Haverfordwest, Pembroke and Pembroke text for With strong Welsh speaking heartlands in With strong Welsh speaking heartlands in the region, it is Dock) have important sub-regional roles. Development in Policy 23 the region, it is important that Strategic and important that Strategic and Local Development Plans these towns will ensure they continue to provide jobs, and Policy Local Development Plans consider the consider the relationship between strategic housing, transport leisure, retail and cultural opportunities, education and 24 relationship between strategic housing, and economic growth and the Welsh language. health services and connectivity infrastructure that is used transport and economic growth and the and relied on by both their own populations and Welsh language. A strong rural Wales communities around them. It is important that these

settlements maintain their regional role and Strategic and Carmarthen and the four Pembrokeshire Haven Towns Local Development Plans adopt a managed growth A strong rural Wales (Milford Haven, Haverfordwest, Pembroke and Pembroke approach that allows their roles to be enhanced. Dock) have important sub-regional roles. Development in The Welsh Government strongly supports these towns will ensure they continue to provide jobs, leisure,

resilient and prosperous rural communities, retail and cultural opportunities, education and health services Development in Swansea Bay and Llanelli will support our as set out in Policy P4, and expects to see and connectivity infrastructure that is used and relied on by national growth strategy and this will be complemented by development plans across the region both their own populations and communities around them. additional growth in the Carmarthen and the Pembrokeshire responding positively to the aims of this It is important that these settlements maintain their regional Haven towns by policy 1. The sustainable growth of these policy. role and Strategic and Local Development Plans adopt a places will be supported by policies 2, 3, 6 and 8 which will managed growth approach that allows their roles to be ensure development is located in a sustainable, accessible Regional plans should provide a strong and enhanced. way which ensures good places are created to support positive framework to support rural communities where public land will be used to demonstrate communities across the Mid and South West best practice. Development in Swansea Bay and Llanelli will support our region. They should consider how jobs, Outside of the South West’s towns and villages, policies 4 national growth strategy and this will be complemented by services and homes can be provided within and 5 will help to ensure that rural areas in the South West additional growth in the Carmarthen and the Pembrokeshire rural communities, so that rural settlements grow in an appropriate way, supporting rural economies and Haven towns by policy 1. The sustainable growth of these are able to sustain themselves and grow. services. In accordance with policy 4, the Welsh places will be supported by policies 2, 3, 6 and 8 which will Regional plans should also consider how Government believes the future for rural areas is best ensure development is located in a sustainable, accessible people will access the jobs and services they planned at the regional and local level. Strategic and Local way which ensures good places are created to support rely on outside their community. Accessibility Development Plans will plan positively for the rural communities where public land will be used to demonstrate and inter-linkages between settlements, communities in the region and consider the balance to be best practice. based on an understanding of their roles and struck between focusing development in the main built-up, Outside of the South West’s towns and villages, policies 4 and functions, is an important component of urban areas and the rural areas. Gaps in digital or mobile 5 will help to ensure that rural areas in the South West grow in strategic planning connectivity will be addressed through policies 13 and 14 to an appropriate way, supporting rural economies and services. and key locational decisions should be fully ensure that services are improved. In accordance with policy 4, the Welsh Government believes informed by the needs of rural communities The South West supports a large and diverse tourism the future for rural areas is best planned at the regional and and how they will access jobs and services. industry and the sector is important to the region’s economy. local level. Strategic and Local Development Plans will plan

Opportunities to develop the visitor economy, to promote the positively for the rural communities in the region and consider The Growing Mid Wales Partnership have world-class coastal areas and beaches and major leisure the balance to be struck between focusing development in the set out an important framework for action to attractions should be explored. The national parks are a main built-up, urban areas and the rural areas. Gaps in digital grow productivity, innovation and jobs across major asset for the region, attracting visitors from around the or mobile connectivity will be addressed through policies 13 Mid Wales and are making the case for a world. Strategic and Local Development Plans should and 14 to ensure that services are improved. regional growth deal. Regional plans will consider the main existing and potential new tourism areas, The South West supports a large and diverse tourism industry have a key role to play in facilitating the the type of visitors they attract and the infrastructure and the sector is important to the region’s economy. infrastructure that will support economic required to support growth. They should provide a positive Opportunities to develop the visitor economy, to promote the growth and co-ordinating it with the delivery framework to enable growth and ensure that communities world-class coastal areas and beaches and major leisure of new homes and services. across all parts of the region are able to benefit from their attractions should be explored. The national parks are a major landscapes, natural and historic environment, heritage asset for the region, attracting visitors from around the world. A strong city region assets and visitor attractions to support and grow their Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider the economies. It is important the region’s distinctive heritage is main existing and potential new tourism areas, the type of The Regional Economic Development Plan preserved and enhanced by high quality development. visitors they attract and the infrastructure required to support prepared by the Welsh Government in The universities in Swansea and Carmarthen are an growth. They should provide a positive framework to enable partnership with local authorities, important presence in the region, providing further growth and ensure that communities across all parts of the communities, business and key education, undertaking research and supporting innovation, region are able to benefit from their landscapes, natural and stakeholders, will set out the priorities for creating employment, attracting students and supporting the historic environment, heritage assets and visitor attractions to future regional economic development. The local businesses and communities around them. Strategic support and grow their economies. It is important the region’s planning system, through Strategic and and Local Development Plans should consider their role in distinctive heritage is preserved and enhanced by high quality Local Development Plans and the decisions the region and how they can play a bigger role in supporting development. it takes, will have a major role to play in the regional economy, innovation and their communities. The universities in Swansea and Carmarthen are an important shaping the places that support and The Regional Economic Framework, prepared in partnership presence in the region, providing further education, strengthen the regional economy. with local authorities, communities, businesses and key undertaking research and supporting innovation, creating stakeholders, will set out the priorities for future regional employment, attracting students and supporting the local The Strategic Development Plan should be economic development. The planning system, through its businesses and communities around them. Strategic and informed by the Swansea Bay City Region Strategic and Local Development Plans and the decisions it Local Development Plans should consider their role in the City Deal and Economic Regeneration takes, has a major role to play in shaping the places that region and how they can play a bigger role in supporting the Strategy. They should ensure that key support and strengthen the regional economy. The Strategic regional economy, innovation and their communities. Development Plan should be informed by the Swansea Bay locational decisions on housing and City Region City Deal and Economic Regeneration Strategy employment sites, key services and The Welsh Government strongly supports resilient and and should ensure that key locational decisions on housing essential infrastructure are planned to prosperous rural communities, as set out in Policy P4, and and employment sites, key services and essential support and benefit from the investment and expects to see development plans across the region infrastructure are planned to support and benefit from the projects across the region; and consider the responding positively to the aims of this policy. investment and projects across the region. role of the universities in supporting growth The Welsh Government strongly supports the development and innovation. Regional plans should provide a strong and positive of the foundational economy in the region. The foundational framework to support rural communities across the Mid and economy represents those parts of the economy which are The region is served by ports at Milford South West region. They should consider how jobs, services integral to the well-being of places, communities and people Haven, Port Talbot, Swansea and Fishguard and homes can be provided within rural communities, so that and which deliver people’s everyday needs. The Welsh and plays an important role supporting the rural settlements are able to sustain themselves and grow. Government will continue to support greater resilience for maritime sector and the national economy. Regional plans should also consider how people will access local and regional economies and support business growth They are important national infrastructure the jobs and services they rely on outside their community. and new employment opportunities. Strategic and Local and supporting their future role locally, Accessibility and inter-linkages between settlements, based Development Plans should identify the role of the regionally and nationally is a key on an understanding of their roles and functions, is an foundational economy, consider how the land-use planning consideration. important component of strategic planning system can support it and develop appropriate policies. and key locational decisions should be fully informed by the Areas of the foundational economy which the planning needs of rural communities and how they will access jobs and system can support include regeneration initiatives, health services. and social care, social housing, tourism and steps to encourage greater community benefits from new The Growing Mid Wales Partnership have set out an development. important framework for action to grow productivity, innovation The Welsh Government wishes to see biodiversity and jobs across Mid Wales and are making the case for a enhanced and ecosystems become more resilient across regional growth deal. Regional plans will have a key role to the South West. Policies 9 and 15 set out the national play in facilitating the infrastructure that will support economic strategic approach and will ensure that action to address the growth and co-ordinating it with the delivery of new homes climate emergency, to reverse biodiversity decline and to and services. ensure the well-being of communities takes place. These policies require consideration be given to the type of action A strong city region necessary at regional and local levels and how this can be facilitated through Strategic and Local Development Plans. The Regional Economic Development PlanFramework, Investment in creating resilient ecological networks and prepared by the Welsh Government in partnership with local green infrastructure will bring multiple benefits for authorities, communities, businessbusinesses and key communities and businesses as well as nature itself. Action stakeholders, will set out the priorities for future regional to improve resilience is required in all areas of the region economic development. The planning system, through its and specific approaches will vary depending on the nature Strategic and Local Development Plans and the decisions it of the location and the opportunities to create greater takes, will havehas a major role to play in shaping the places resilience. Where there are conflicting priorities these will that support and strengthen the regional economy. need to be considered and resolved regionally and locally. Policies 2, 3, 4 and 5 must work in a complementary way The Strategic Development Plan should be informed by the with polices 9 and 15. Swansea Bay City Region City Deal and Economic In urban areas, including the National Growth Area of Regeneration Strategy. They and should ensure that key Swansea Bay and Llanelli and in Regional Growth Areas, locational decisions on housing and employment sites, key the enhancement (net-benefit) of biodiversity and the services and essential infrastructure are planned to support provision of green infrastructure must both shape growth and benefit from the investment and projects across the strategies and be fully integrated as part of location and region; and consider the role of the universities in supporting design solutions for proposed development. Policies 11 and growth and innovation.. 12 provide opportunities to create corridors of green infrastructure and in the Llanelli area potential opportunities The Welsh Government strongly supports the development of for woodland habitat improvement and creation should be the foundational economy in the region. The foundational explored. economy represents those parts of the economy which are Based on the indicative map contained in policy 9, the most integral to the well-being of places, communities and people resilient ecological networks are in the eastern part of the and which deliver people’s everyday needs. The Welsh region and in the south west of the region, but this does not Government will continue to support greater resilience for mean they are as resilient as they ought to be. There are local and regional economies and support business growth large areas which appear as resilience ‘gaps’ in the and new employment opportunities. Strategic and Local indicative map across Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, Development Plans should identify the role of the foundational including the coastline; however Area Statements indicate economy, consider how the land-use planning system can widespread potential for improvements of ecosystems support it and develop appropriate policies. Areas of the services and the creation of ecological networks across the foundational economy which the planning system can support whole region. include regeneration initiatives, health and social care, social It will be of crucial importance that linkages between east housing, tourism and steps to encourage greater community and west, north and south and along the coast are benefits from new development. strengthened in the region through Strategic and Local The Welsh Government wishes to see biodiversity enhanced Development Plans. Policy 9 requires that existing networks and ecosystems become more resilient across the South be improved and expanded upon and that opportunities West. Policies 9 and 15 set out the national strategic must be identified to safeguard and create resilient approach and will ensure that action to address the climate networks, and the ecosystem services on which they emergency, to reverse biodiversity decline and to ensure the depend, and the multiple benefits derived from green well-being of communities takes place. These policies require infrastructure where currently this is not the case. This consideration be given to the type of action necessary at includes considering the role of protected landscapes and regional and local levels and how this can be facilitated nature conservation designations. Policies 9 and 15 work through Strategic and Local Development Plans. alongside policy 4 and 5 to require that the relationships Investment in creating resilient ecological networks and green between all forms of land use and management should be infrastructure will bring multiple benefits for communities and considered more fully, and this is especially the case in the businesses as well as nature itself. Action to improve large rural parts of the South West, if we are to address the resilience is required in all areas of the region and specific climate emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and enable approaches will vary depending on the nature of the location communities to benefit from more sustainable forms of and the opportunities to create greater resilience. Where there managing natural resources. are conflicting priorities these will need to be considered and The region experiences flooding from rivers and the sea, resolved regionally and locally. Policies 2, 3, 4 and 5 must although places in the National and Regional Growth Areas work in a complementary way with polices 9 and 15. are generally resilient, due to their strategic location and the In urban areas, including the National Growth Area of effectiveness of existing flood risk management Swansea Bay and Llanelli and in Regional Growth Areas, the infrastructure. Large rivers across the region, including the enhancement (net-benefit) of biodiversity and the provision of Cleddau, Tywi, Tawe and Neath have extensive functional green infrastructure must both shape growth strategies and flood plains that ensure the risk to centres of population is be fully integrated as part of location and design solutions for well managed. The Swansea Bay and Llanelli National proposed development. Policies 11 and 12 provide Growth Area is a coastal area and though there are coastal opportunities to create corridors of green infrastructure and in defences in place, many areas remain vulnerable to the Llanelli area potential opportunities for woodland habitat overtopping and coastal flooding. The potential for flooding improvement and creation should be explored. in the National and Regional Growth Areas has implications Based on the indicative map contained in policy 9, the most for the delivery of growth in the region. Policy 8 sets out the resilient ecological networks are in the eastern part of the national strategic approach to flood risk management and region and in the south west of the region, but this does not will ensure growth aspirations in the National and Regional mean they are as resilient as they ought to be. There are Growth Areas are co-ordinated with strategic decisions on large areas which appear as resilience ‘gaps’ in the indicative managing flood risk. map across Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire, including It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonisation and the coastline; however Area Statements indicate widespread supports the realisation of renewable energy. Policies 17 potential for improvements of ecosystems services and the and 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to renewable energy creation of ecological networks across the whole region. generation across Wales. There is strong potential for wind, It will be of crucial importance that linkages between east and marine and solar energy generation and Strategic and Local west, north and south and along the coast are strengthened in Development Plans should provide a framework for the region through Strategic and Local Development Plans. generation and associated infrastructure. The Welsh Policy 9 requires that existing networks be improved and Government wishes to see energy generation, storage and expanded upon and that opportunities must be identified to management play a role in supporting the South West safeguard and create resilient networks, and the ecosystem economy. Local ownership and distribution is important to services on which they depend, and the multiple benefits ensuring communities in proximity to renewable energy derived from green infrastructure where currently this is not development benefit from it and that our future energy the case. This includes considering the role of protected system better serves Wales. landscapes and nature conservation designations. Policies 9 and 15 work alongside policy 4 and 5 to require that the relationships between all forms of land use and management should be considered more fully, and this is especially the case in the large rural parts of the South West, if we are to address the climate emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and enable communities to benefit from more sustainable forms of managing natural resources. The region experiences flooding from rivers and the sea, although places in the National and Regional Growth Areas are generally resilient, due to their strategic location and the effectiveness of existing flood risk management infrastructure. Large rivers across the region, including the Cleddau, Tywi, Tawe and Neath have extensive functional flood plains that ensure the risk to centres of population is well managed. The Swansea Bay and Llanelli National Growth Area is a coastal area and though there are coastal defences in place, many areas remain vulnerable to overtopping and coastal flooding. The potential for flooding in the National and Regional Growth Areas has implications for the delivery of growth in the region. Policy 8 sets out the national strategic approach to flood risk management and will ensure growth aspirations in the National and Regional Growth Areas are co- ordinated with strategic decisions on managing flood risk. It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonisation and supports the realisation of renewable energy. Policies 17 and 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to renewable energy generation across Wales. There is strong potential for wind, marine and solar energy generation and Strategic and Local Development Plans should provide a framework for generation and associated infrastructure. The Welsh Government wishes to see energy generation, storage and management play a role in supporting the South West economy. Local ownership and distribution is important to ensuring communities in proximity to renewable energy development benefit from it and that our future energy system better serves Wales. The region is served by ports at Milford Haven, Port Talbot, Swansea and Fishguard and plays an important role supporting the maritime sector and the national economy. They are important national infrastructure and supporting their future role locally, regionally and nationally is a key consideration. Policy 30 Managing Growth Managing Growth

Green Belts in the South West Green Belts in the South West The Welsh Government supports the use of Strategic The Welsh Government supports the use of Strategic Development Plans to identify and establish green belts to Development Plans to identify and establish green belts to manage urban form and growth in the South West, manage urban form and growth in the South West, particularly particularly around Swansea Bay and Llanelli. around Swansea Bay and Llanelli.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.60 – 3.74 3.60 – 3.74 Supporting Strategic decisions on the location of development, key Strategic decisions on the location of development, key Text services and infrastructure should support the region and be services and infrastructure should support the region and be taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are located in the taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are located in the most accessible and sustainable locations. most accessible and sustainable locations. The Welsh Government is supportive of the region should The Welsh Government is supportive of the region should the the Strategic Development Plan determine that a green belt Strategic Development Plan determine that a green belt is is required to manage growth, particularly the national required to manage growth, particularly the national growth growth required by Future Wales’ spatial strategy around required by Future Wales’ spatial strategy around Swansea Swansea Bay and Llanelli. Planning Policy Wales sets the Bay and Llanelli. Planning Policy Wales sets the context for context for establishing green belts. establishing green belts. The South West has extensive rural areas and well The South West has extensive rural areas and well established rural communities. The Strategic Development established rural communities. The Strategic Development Plan for the region should consider the balance to be struck Plan for the region should consider the balance to be struck between focusing development in the main urban areas and between focusing development in the main urban areas and the rural areas. Decisions on the delivery of key services the rural areas. Decisions on the delivery of key services can can have a profound effect on people’s daily lives, have a profound effect on people’s daily lives, particularly the particularly the less mobile, and it is essential these less mobile, and it is essential these decisions are taken on decisions are taken on the basis of a clear understanding of the basis of a clear understanding of their impacts. As well as their impacts. As well as schools and health facilities access schools and health facilities access to services like banks, to services like banks, post offices, libraries and shops can post offices, libraries and shops can have a real impact on have a real impact on people’s daily lives in rural areas. people’s daily lives in rural areas. Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider the Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider the impacts of population change on their rural communities. impacts of population change on their rural communities. The The societal issues that drive these changes are wider than societal issues that drive these changes are wider than the the planning system and are not easy challenges to planning system and are not easy challenges to address. The address. The Welsh Government wishes to see Local Welsh Government wishes to see Local Development Plans Development Plans in the South West play a central role in in the South West play a central role in shaping how rural shaping how rural communities sustain themselves. Local communities sustain themselves. Local Development Plans Development Plans should seek to support growth and should seek to support growth and appropriate development appropriate development in rural towns and villages. This in rural towns and villages. This includes affordable and includes affordable and market housing, employment and market housing, employment and the provision of services. the provision of services. Local Development Plans should Local Development Plans should support and co-ordinate support and co-ordinate their decisions with those of their decisions with those of economic policy-makers, health, economic policy-makers, health, education and other education and other essential service providers. They should essential service providers. They should consider the needs consider the needs of all residents, including older people and of all residents, including older people and people with people with disabilities, and ensure that specialist housing disabilities, and ensure that specialist housing provision is provision is considered and planned for. considered and planned for. Managing the South West’s outstanding natural resources, Managing the South West’s outstanding natural resources, which include the coast, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, which include the coast, Pembrokeshire Coast National the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, minerals, Park, the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, agricultural land, water and a high quality landscape, is a minerals, agricultural land, water and a high quality priority for the region and it should be ensured they can be landscape, is a priority for the region and it should be enjoyed by future generations and help provide economic ensured they can be enjoyed by future generations and help benefits for the region’s communities. The region’s distinctive provide economic benefits for the region’s communities. The heritage should be preserved and enhanced by high quality region’s distinctive heritage should be preserved and development. enhanced by high quality development. The region’s minerals and aggregates play an important role The region’s minerals and aggregates play an important role in supporting development across Wales and England. There in supporting development across Wales and England. are active quarries in the region, primarily within There are active quarries in the region, primarily within Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Ceredigion, Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Ceredigion, supplying sand and gravel mainly for local markets. supplying sand and gravel mainly for local markets.

Policy 31 Supporting Growth Policy 26 Swansea Bay Metro Swansea BaySupporting Growth

South West Metro South West Metro The Welsh Government supports the development of the The Welsh Government supports the The Welsh Government supports the development of the South West Metro and will work with Transport for Wales, development of the Swansea Bay Metro and Swansea BaySouth West Metro and will work with local authorities and other partners to enable its delivery and will work with agencies to enable its delivery. agenciesTransport for Wales, local authorities and other maximise associated opportunities. Strategic and Local Development Plans partners to enable its delivery and maximise associated Strategic and Local Development Plans should support the should support the scheme and plan growth opportunities. South West Metro. Planning authorities should plan growth to maximise the potential opportunities Strategic and Local Development Plans should support the and regeneration to maximise the potential opportunities arising from better regional connectivity. scheme and South West Metro. Planning authorities should arising from better regional connectivity, including identifying plan growth and regeneration to maximise the potential opportunities for higher density, mixed-use and car-free opportunities arising from better regional connectivity., development around new and improved metro stations. including identifying opportunities for higher density, mixed- use and car-free development around new and improved metro stations.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.1 4.1 5.3 5.3 Supporting Across Wales and the regions, the Welsh Government Supporting The Strategic Development Plan should The Strategic Development Plan should seek to improve Text wishes to see development built in sustainable locations Text seek to improve connectivity across the connectivity across the region and should consider long term supported by active travel and public transport infrastructure region and should consider long term proposals such as the Swansea Metro scheme, which can and services to enable people to live active and healthy proposals such as the Swansea Metro provide a basis for better integrating land-use and transport lives. This includes ensuring levels of air and noise pollution scheme, which can provide a basis for planning. TheAcross Wales and the regions, the Welsh are reduced or at least minimised. The overall aim is to better integrating land-use and transport Government wishes to see development built in sustainable reduce the need to travel, particularly by private vehicles, planning. The Metro provides an locations supported by active travel and public transport and support a modal shift to walking, cycling and public opportunity to improve accessibility across infrastructure and services to enable people to live active and transport. Policies 11 and 12 set out the strategic approach the region and is supported by the Welsh healthy lives. This includes ensuring levels of air and noise to national and regional connectivity and how the Welsh Government. In accordance with Policy pollution are reduced or at least minimised. The overall aim is Government will support and invest in improvements to 16, development plans must ensure that to reduce the need to travel, particularly by private vehicles, active travel and public transport. long term strategic decisions maximise and support a modal shift to walking, cycling and public In the South West region, the rail infrastructure and services the opportunities in areas that will benefit transport. Policies 11 and 12 set out the strategic approach to are fundamental to an effective and efficient transport from improved accessibility and national and regional connectivity and how the Welsh network and central to improving regional and national investment in public transport services. Government will support and invest in improvements to active connectivity. The South West Metro provides an opportunity Where new transport corridors are travel and public transport. to improve accessibility across the region and is supported created by the Metro scheme, the In the South West region, the rail infrastructure and services by the Welsh Government. There are strong functional potential for these corridors to incorporate are fundamental to an effective and efficient transport network relationships between settlements within the region and with green infrastructure must be explored. and central to improving regional and national connectivity. neighbouring regions, with people travelling daily to access The Welsh Government will maintain its The South West Metro provides an opportunity to improve jobs, services and facilities. The South West Metro will commitment to tackling congestion on the accessibility across the region and is supported by the Welsh M4 and trunk road network including provide better connectivity within the South West and look to Government. In accordance with Policy 16, development through its Pinch Point Programme of improve connections across south Wales into England. plans must ensure that long There are strong functional small scale interventions aimed at Facilitating access to the Metro by active travel will make an relationships between settlements within the region and with addressing congestion pinch points on important contribution to modal shift from car to public neighbouring regions, with people travelling daily to access the main road network. transport journeys at a regional level. Achieving this will jobs, services and facilities. The South West Metro will

require high quality active travel routes linking provide better connectivity within the South West and look to A resource rich region neighbourhoods and trip destinations with metro stations. improve connections across south Wales into England. The provision of high quality, secure cycle parking at Mid and South West Wales has Facilitating access to the Metro by active travel will make an interchanges will also be essential. outstanding natural resources, which important contribution to modal shift from car to public include the coast, two national parks, an transport journeys at a regional level. Achieving this will The Strategic Development Plan should seek to improve Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, require high quality active travel routes linking connectivity across the region and should consider long- minerals, agricultural land, water and a high neighbourhoods and trip destinations with metro stations. The quality landscape. Development plans term proposals such as the South West Metro scheme provision of high quality, secure cycle parking at interchanges should provide a framework for their which can provide a basis for better integrating land-use and will also be essential. management and enhancement, enabling transport planning. In accordance with policy 12, Strategic them to be enjoyed by future generations and Local Development Plans must ensure that long-term The Strategic Development Plan should seek to improve and to provide economic benefits for the strategic decisions maximise the opportunities in areas that connectivity across the region and should consider long-term will benefit from improved accessibility and investment in region’s communities. proposals such as the South West Metro scheme which can public transport services. Where new transport corridors are provide a basis for better integrating land-use and transport created by the Metro scheme, the potential for these It is vital the region plays its role in planning. In accordance with policy 12, Strategic and Local corridors to incorporate green infrastructure must be decarbonising society and supports the Development Plans must ensure that long-term strategic explored. realisation of renewable energy. There is decisions maximise the opportunities in areas that will benefit strong potential for wind, tidal and solar from improved accessibility and investment in public transport energy generation and development plans services. Where new transport corridors are created by the should provide a framework for generation Metro scheme, the potential for these corridors to incorporate and associated infrastructure. green infrastructure must be explored. The Welsh The region’s minerals and aggregates play Government will maintain its commitment to tackling an important role in supporting congestion on the M4 and trunk road network including development across Wales and England. through its Pinch Point Programme of small scale There are active quarries in the region, interventions aimed at addressing congestion pinch points on primarily within Pembrokeshire Coast the main road network. National Park and Ceredigion, supplying sand and gravel mainly for local markets. A resource rich region Powys is an important focus for sandstone Mid and South West Wales has outstanding natural and igneous rock extraction and fulfils resources, which include the coast, two national parks, an demand both in and outside of Wales. Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, minerals, agricultural land, water and a high quality landscape. Development A diverse region plans should provide a framework for their management The Mid and South West region supports a and enhancement, enabling them to be enjoyed by future large and diverse tourism industry. generations and to provide economic benefits for the Development plans and decisions on region’s communities. planning applications should provide a positive framework to support growth and It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonising society and ensure that communities across all parts of supports the realisation of renewable energy. There is strong the region are able to benefit from their potential for wind, tidal and solar energy generation and landscapes, natural and historic development plans should provide a framework for generation environment, heritage assets and visitor and associated infrastructure. attractions to support and grow their The region’s minerals and aggregates play an important economies. It is important the region’s role in supporting development across Wales and England. distinctive heritage is preserved and There are active quarries in the region, primarily within enhanced by high quality development. Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and Ceredigion, supplying sand and gravel mainly for local markets. Powys is an important focus for sandstone and igneous rock extraction and fulfils demand both in and outside of Wales.

A diverse region The Mid and South West region supports a large and diverse tourism industry. Development plans and decisions on planning applications should provide a positive framework to support growth and ensure that communities across all parts of the region are able to benefit from their landscapes, natural and historic environment, heritage assets and visitor attractions to support and grow their economies. It is important the region’s distinctive heritage is preserved and enhanced by high quality development. Policy 32 Haven Waterway and Energy Policy 25 Haven Waterway Haven Waterway and Energy The Welsh Government supports operations at Haven The Welsh Government supports continued The Welsh Government supports continued operations and Waterway, and recognises its location for potential new operations and future development at Haven future development at Haven Waterway., and recognises its renewable and low carbon energy-related development, Waterway. location for potential new renewable and low carbon energy- innovation and investment. Strategic and Local Development Plans related development, innovation and investment. should support its growth and seek to Strategic and Local Development PlansNew energy-related maximise the benefits it provides to the development should support its growth and seeklocal and New energy-related development should support local and region and Wales. The Welsh Government regional communities and provide jobs and investment in regional communities and provide jobs and investment in will work with operators, local authorities and training and skills. training and skills. investors to support and facilitate In determining any applications for energy proposals, In determining any applications for energy proposals, appropriate new development. consideration should be given to maximise the contribution it consideration should be given to the contribution it will make will make to decarbonising energy supplies, the impacts on to decarbonising energy supplies, the impacts on the the landscape, seascapes, natural and historic environment landscape, seascapes, natural and historic environment and and the economic benefits it providesthey would bring to the the economic benefits they would bring to the region. region and Wales. The Welsh Government will work. On-shore developments associated with off-shore On-shore developments associated with operators, local renewable energy projects will be supported in principle. authorities and investors to support and facilitate appropriate new development.off-shore renewable energy projects will be supported in principle. PPW PPW Reference Reference 5.7 5.7 6.3.10 6.3.10 Supporting The Haven Waterway has a unique combination of a natural Supporting The Haven Waterway has a unique The Haven Waterway has a unique combination of a natural Text harbour, deep water access, long established industries and Text combination of a natural harbour, long harbour, deep water access, long established industries and the potential for new strategic development, including established industries and the potential for the potential for new strategic development., including renewable and low carbon energy. Strategic and Local new strategic development. Development renewable and low carbon energy. Strategic and Local Development Plans should recognise this and provide a plans should recognise this and provide a Development plansPlans should recognise this and provide a framework for managing future growth. framework for managing future growth. framework for managing future growth. The Haven Waterway is critically important to the future The Haven Waterway is critically important to the future energy security of the UK. There are a number of long energy security of the UK. There are a number of long established energy installations in the Haven and the established energy installations in the Haven and the potential potential for new strategic energy development, including for new strategic energy development, including innovative innovative decarbonisation and marine energy projects. decarbonisation and marine energy projects. Some Some developments will be located in the marine developments will be located in the marine environment, and environment, and the role of Future Wales and other the role of Future Wales and other development plans is to development plans is to enable appropriate on-shore enable appropriate on-shore development to support such development to support such schemes. schemes. The region is served by ports at Milford Haven, Port Talbot, The region is served by ports at Milford Haven, Port Talbot, Swansea and Fishguard and plays an important role Swansea and Fishguard and plays an important role supporting the maritime sector and the national economy. supporting the maritime sector and the national economy. These ports are important national infrastructure and supporting their future role locally, regionally and nationally These ports are important national infrastructure and is a key consideration. supporting their future role locally, regionally and nationally is a key consideration. Policy 33 National Growth Area - Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys Policy 27 Cardiff Cardiff Cardiff will retain and extend its role as the National Growth Area - Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys will be the main focus primary national centre for culture, sport, for growth and investment in the South East region. leisure, media, the night time economy and Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys will be the main focus for Strategic and Local Development Plans should recognise finance. growth and investment in the South East region. the National Growth Area as the focus for strategic The Welsh Government supports regional Strategic and Local Development Plans should recognise economic and housing growth; essential services and development which addresses the the National Growth Area as the focus for strategic facilities; advanced manufacturing; transport and digital opportunities and challenges arising from economic and housing growth; essential services and infrastructure. Cardiff’s geographic location and its facilities; advanced manufacturing; transport and digital The Welsh Government will work with regional bodies functions as a Capital City. infrastructure. and local authorities in the region and in neighbouring The Welsh Government supports Cardiff’s The Welsh Government will work with regional bodies and regions of England to promote and enhance Cardiff, status as an internationally competitive city local authorities in the region and in neighbouring regions Newport and the Valleys’ strategic role and ensure key and a core city on the UK stage. of England to promote and enhance Cardiff, Newport and investment decisions support places in the National the Valleys’ strategic role and ensure key investment Growth Area and the wider region. Policy 28 Newport decisions support places in the National Growth Area and The Welsh Government supports Cardiff’s status as an The Welsh Government supports Newport the wider region. internationally competitive city and a core city on the UK as the focus for regional growth and stage. Cardiff will retain and extend its role as the investment and wants to see the City play an The Welsh Government supports Cardiff’s status as an primary national centre for culture, sport, leisure, media, increased strategic role in the region. The internationally competitive city and a core city on the UK the night time economy and finance. strategic emphasis should be focussed on stage. Cardiff will retain and extend its role as the primary achieving growth in the city. national centre for culture, sport, leisure, media, the night The Welsh Government supports an increased strategic Strategic and Local Development Plans time economy and finance. role for Newport as a focus for sustainable, long-term across the region should recognise Newport growth and investment. The Welsh Government will work as a focus for strategic housing and The Welsh Government supports regional development with authorities within the region and in England to economic growth; essential services and which addresses the opportunities and challenges arising promote Newport’s strategic role and ensure key facilities; transport and digital infrastructure; from Cardiff’s geographic location and its functions as a investment decisions in Wales and England support and consider how they can support and Capital City. Newport. benefit from Newport’s increased strategic The Welsh Government supports Cardiff’s status as an regional role. Development in the wider internationally competitive city and a core city on the UK The Welsh Government supports co-ordinated region should be carefully managed to stage. regeneration and investment in the Valleys area to support Newport’s growth and to provide a improve well-being, increase prosperity and address focus for regional planning. Newport social inequalities. The Welsh Government will work with The Welsh Government will work with The Welsh Government supports Newport as the focus for regional bodies, local authorities, businesses, the third authorities within the region and in England regional growth and investment and wants to see the City play sector, agencies and stakeholders to support investment, to promote Newport’s strategic role and an increased strategic role in the region. The strategic including in the manufacturing sector, and to ensure a ensure key investment decisions in Wales emphasis should be focussed on achieving growth in the regional approach is taken to addressing socio-economic and England support Newport and the wider city.for issues in the Valleys. region. Strategic and Local Development Plans across the region should recognise Newport as a focus for strategic housing The Welsh Government supports development in the Policy 29 The Heads of the Valleys and economic growth; essential services and facilities; wider region which addresses the opportunities and The Welsh Government supports co- transport and digital infrastructure; and consider how they can challenges arising from the region’s geographic location ordinated regeneration and investment in the support and benefit from Newport’s increased strategic and its functions as a Capital Region. Heads of the Valleys area to increase regional role. Development in the wider region should be prosperity and address social inequalities. carefully managed to support Newport’s growth and to provide The Welsh Government will work with local a focus for regional planning. authorities, businesses, the third sector, sustainable, long-term growth and investment. The Welsh agencies and stakeholders to support Government will work with authorities within the region and investment, including in the manufacturing in England to promote Newport’s strategic role and ensure sector, and to ensure a regional approach is key investment decisions in Wales and England support taken to addressing issues in the Heads of Newport and the wider region. the Valleys area. Strategic and Local Development Plans The Heads of the Valleys across the full region must identify how they The Welsh Government supports co-ordinated can support, both directly and through a regeneration and investment in the Heads of the Valleys joined-up regional approach, the Heads of area to improve well-being, increase prosperity and the Valleys area to deliver greater prosperity, address social inequalities. The Welsh Government will support regeneration and improve well- work with regional bodies, local authorities, businesses, the being. third sector, agencies and stakeholders to support investment, including in the manufacturing sector, and to ensure a regional approach is taken to addressing socio- economic issues in the Heads of the Valleys area. Strategic and Local Development Plans across the full region must identify how they can support, both directly and through a joined-up regional approach, the Heads of the Valleys area to deliver greater prosperity, support regeneration and improve well-being. The Welsh Government supports development in the wider region which addresses the opportunities and challenges arising from the region’s geographic location and its functions as a Capital Region. PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.37 – 3.44 3.37 – 3.44 Supporting South East Supporting Overview South East Text Overview Text The South East Wales region comprises Overview The South East region comprises Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, The South East Wales region comprises Blaenau Gwent, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Newport, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Monmouthshire, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen and the Vale of Glamorgan Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen and Newport, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen and the Vale of and is the most populous region of Wales, with over 1.5 the Vale of Glamorgan and is the most Glamorgan and is the most populous region of Wales, with million residents. It is a large city region on a European and populous region of Wales, with over 1.5 over 1.5 million residents. It is a majorlarge city region on a UK scale. The region is the smallest of the three regions by million residents. It is a major city region on European and UK scale. The region is the smallest area and includes the coastal cities of Cardiff and Newport a UK scale. The region is the smallest geographically of the three regions by area and includes the and the former industrial heartlands of the south Wales geographically of the three regions and coastal cities of Cardiff and Newport and the former industrial valleys. includes the coastal cities of Cardiff and heartlands of the Southsouth Wales Valleysvalleys. The regional issues planning authorities should work Newport and the former industrial heartlands together to plan for are set out below alongside the spatial of the South Wales Valleys. The regional issues that local planning authorities should work policy areas that the Welsh Government will focus on to together to plan for are set out below alongside the spatial support the South East region. The regional issues that local planning policy areas that the Welsh Government will focus on from a With 150,792 Welsh speakers across the region, it is authorities should work together to plan for national perspective to support the South East region. important that Strategic and Local Development Plans are set out below alongside the spatial policy consider the relationship between strategic housing, areas that the Welsh Government will focus With 150,792 Welsh speakers across the region, it is transport and economic growth and the Welsh language. on from a national perspective to support the important that Strategic and Local Development Plans Strategic and Local Development Plans should contain South East region. consider the relationship between strategic housing, transport settlement hierarchies and growth distribution policies that and economic growth and the Welsh language. Strategic and create the conditions for Welsh to thrive across the region A collaborative, holistic approach Local Development Plans should contain settlement and encourage the development of communities where hierarchies and growth distribution policies that create the Welsh can be the everyday language. Across South East Wales, there are a range conditions for Welsh to thrive across the region and of strategic issues that need to be encourage the development of communities where Welsh can Strategic Development Plan: A regional approach considered. Many of these issues have be the everyday language. Across the South East there are a range of strategic issues. national, regional and local dimensions and Many of these issues have national, regional and local will be delivered through co-ordinated action Strategic Development Plan: A collaborative, dimensions and will be delivered through co-ordinated at all levels. holisticregional approach action at all levels. Housing, economic growth, digital and transport connectivity Housing, economic growth and connectivity Across the South East Wales, there are a range of strategic infrastructure should be co-ordinated and planned on the infrastructure should be co-ordinated and issues that need to be considered. Many of these issues have basis of the whole region. The management of natural planned on the basis of the whole region. national, regional and local dimensions and will be delivered resources, flooding and the protection and enhancement of The management of natural resources, through co-ordinated action at all levels. areas of environmental and landscape importance should flooding and the protection and inform strategic decisions on locations for growth and new enhancement of areas of environmental and Housing, economic growth, digital and transport connectivity infrastructure. Decarbonisation and responding to the landscape importance should inform infrastructure should be co-ordinated and planned on the threats of climate change should be central to all regional strategic decisions on locations for growth basis of the whole region. The management of natural planning. and new infrastructure. Decarbonising resources, flooding and the protection and enhancement of Clear decisions should be made on the scale and location of society and responding to the threats of areas of environmental and landscape importance should growth through the preparation of a Strategic Development climate change should be central to all inform strategic decisions on locations for growth and new Plan to ensure that all parts of the region are working regional planning. infrastructure. Decarbonising societyDecarbonisation and together to achieve the region’s goals. A Strategic responding to the threats of climate change should be central Development Plan should focus on the movement of people Clear decisions should be made on the scale to all regional planning. across the region and support an integrated approach to and location of growth through the strategic land-use and transport planning. Key locational preparation of a Strategic Development Plan Clear decisions should be made on the scale and location of decisions, including for employment centres, strategic to ensure that all parts of the region are growth through the preparation of a Strategic Development housing growth and services, should focus on the most working together to achieve the region’s Plan to ensure that all parts of the region are working together sustainable and accessible locations, address congestion, goals. A Strategic Development Plan should to achieve the region’s goals. A Strategic Development Plan reduce car-based commuting and improve air quality. focus on the movement of people across the should focus on the movement of people across the region The region should consider its connections with the Mid region and support an integrated approach and support an integrated approach to strategic land-use and Wales and South West regions and the West of England to strategic land-use and transport planning. transport planning. Key locational decisions, including for region. Promoting accessibility and inter-linkages between Key locational decisions including for employment centres, strategic housing growth and services, these areas, based on an understanding of their roles and employment centres, strategic housing should focus on the most sustainable and accessible functions, will ensure these areas operate as a cohesive growth and services should focus on the locations and seek to, address congestion, reduce car -based whole and do not compete against each other or take most sustainable and accessible locations commuting and improve air quality. strategic decisions in isolation. and seek to address congestion, reduce car based commuting and improve air quality. Focus for growth National Growth The region should consider its connections with the Mid Focus for growth Wales and South West regions and the West of England In accordance with Future Wales’ spatial strategy, growth in In accordance with the NDF Spatial region. Promoting accessibility and inter-linkages between the South East region should primarily be focused in Strategy, growth in the South East Region these areas, based on an understanding of their roles and Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys. Policy 1 is the should primarily be focussed in Cardiff, functions, will ensure these areas operate as a cohesive overarching framework for where development and growth Newport and the Valleys. whole and do not compete against each other or take will be focused in each region. strategic decisions in isolation. Cardiff will remain the primary settlement in the region, its Cardiff will remain the primary settlement in future strategic growth shaped by its strong housing and the region, its future strategic growth shaped National Growth employment markets and it will retain its capital city role, by its strong housing and employment accommodating higher level functions and attractions. markets and it will retain its capital city role, In accordance with the NDF Spatial StrategyFuture Wales’ Strategic and Local Development Plans will need to accommodating higher level functions and spatial strategy, growth in the South East Regionregion consider the interdependence of Cardiff and the wider attractions. Strategic and Local Development should primarily be focussedfocused in Cardiff, Newport and region. Cardiff relies on people from across the full region Plans will need to consider the the Valleys. Policy 1 is the overarching framework for where and ensuring communities around the Capital are vibrant, interdependence of Cardiff and the wider development and growth will be focused in each region. prosperous and connected helps to maximise the strength of region. Cardiff relies on people from across the region. the full region and ensuring communities Cardiff will remain the primary settlement in the region, its Cardiff has experienced a period of growth in population and around the Capital are vibrant, prosperous future strategic growth shaped by its strong housing and employment. It is a compact city which is defined by and connected helps to support Cardiff. employment markets and it will retain its capital city role, Caerphilly and Garth mountains to the north, the Bristol accommodating higher level functions and attractions. Channel to the south and the first statutory green belt in Cardiff is currently experiencing a period of Strategic and Local Development Plans will need to consider Wales to the east. Cardiff must generate and support growth in population and employment, but the interdependence of Cardiff and the wider region. Cardiff regional growth throughout the South East while enhancing the city cannot continue to expand relies on people from across the full region and ensuring its status as a vibrant capital city of Wales. indefinitely without major consequences for communities around the Capital are vibrant, prosperous and Regional transport infrastructure reflects the significance of the environment. connected helps to support Cardiffmaximise the strength of Cardiff and has consolidated its role as the main focal point It is a compact city nearing its physical limits, the region. of the region. The potential to reach central Cardiff quickly which include Caerphilly and Garth and conveniently using the Metro generates opportunities mountains to the north and the Bristol Cardiff is currently experiencinghas experienced a period of for development in settlements outside the city. The cultural Channel to the south. Cardiff must generate growth in population and employment, but the city cannot and economic strength of Cardiff must generate region-wide and support regional growth throughout the continue to expand indefinitely without major consequences prosperity and well-being. south east while enhancing its status as a for the environment. The Welsh Government is determined to see vibrant capital city of Wales. . It is a compact city nearing its physical limits, which development and growth in Newport, allowing the city to includeis defined by Caerphilly and Garth mountains to the fulfil its potential as a second focal point for the region. The Strategic Development Plan will need to north and, the Bristol Channel to the south. and the first Highly skilled employment opportunities in the transport consider the interdependence between statutory green belt in Wales to the east. Cardiff must and digital communications sectors should be catalysts for Cardiff and the wider region. Regional generate and support regional growth throughout the south further economic investments. The Metro will improve the transport infrastructure reflects the eastSouth East while enhancing its status as a vibrant capital city’s public transport system, especially within the city and significance of Cardiff and has consolidated city of Wales. to surrounding towns. It benefits from established road and its role as the main focal point of the region. rail links with Cardiff, Bristol and London. The potential to reach central Cardiff quickly The Strategic Development Plan will need to consider the Growth at Newport will help manage the development and conveniently using the Metro generates interdependence between Cardiff and the wider region. pressures in the region by providing a strategic growth focus opportunities for development in settlements Regional transport infrastructure reflects the significance of for the eastern part of the area. Strategic growth should be outside the city. The cultural and economic Cardiff and has consolidated its role as the main focal point of focused in and immediately adjoining Newport itself, to strength of Cardiff must generate region- the region. The potential to reach central Cardiff quickly and support brownfield regeneration. wide prosperity and well-being. conveniently using the Metro generates opportunities for Flooding from rivers and the sea is a major issue across the development in settlements outside the city. The cultural and region. Cardiff and Newport are estuarine cities while major Supporting The Welsh Government is determined to see economic strength of Cardiff must generate region-wide rivers flow through all the south Wales Valleys, meaning text for development and growth in Newport, prosperity and well-being. many communities are at risk of flooding. Large parts of the Policy 28 allowing the city to fulfil its potential as a region’s key rail and road infrastructure are on valley floors second focal point for the region. It has The Welsh Government is determined to see development or coastal locations and reliant on effective flood risk significant brownfield development and growth in Newport, allowing the city to fulfil its potential management to remain operational at all times. Places in opportunities to provide new housing and as a second focal point for the region. It has significant the region benefit from strong coastal defences, including employment areas. There are emerging brownfield development opportunities to provide new housing the Cardiff Bay Barrage and the Gwent levels sea wall, but highly skilled employment opportunities in and employment areas. There are emerging highlyHighly sea levels are expected to rise more on the south coast than the transport and digital communications skilled employment opportunities in the transport and digital any other part of Wales over the next thirty years. The sectors which should be catalysts for further communications sectors which should be catalysts for potential for flooding in the National Growth Area has economic investments. further economic investments. implications for the delivery of growth in the region. Policy 8 sets out the national strategic approach to flood risk The Metro will improve the city’s public The Metro will improve the city’s public transport system, management and will ensure growth aspirations in National transport system, especially within the city especially within the city and to surrounding towns. It benefits Growth Areas are co-ordinated with strategic decisions on and to surrounding towns. It benefits from from established road and rail links with Cardiff, Bristol and managing flood risk. established road and rail links with Cardiff, London. The Valleys area, covering large parts of Bridgend, Bristol and London. Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Blaenau Growth at Newport will help manage the development Gwent and Torfaen, is a priority area for the Welsh Growth at Newport will help manage the pressures in Cardiff and providethe region by providing a Government and should be a priority for the Strategic development pressures in Cardiff and strategic growth focus for the eastern part of the regionarea. Development Plan. The area has one of the most distinctive provide a strategic focus for the eastern part Strategic growth should be focussedfocused in and urban settlement patterns in the UK; it has seen significant of the region. Strategic growth should be immediately adjoining Newport itself, to support brownfield investment in the A465, benefitted from EU funding focussed in and immediately adjoining regeneration. programmes and in the future it will be better connected as a Newport itself, to support brownfield The South East region includes some of the most distinctive result of the South Wales Metro. It has the potential to build regeneration. landscapes in the country. Few areas in the UK have been as on its tourism offer and proximity to the Brecon Beacons The South East region includes some of the shaped by their natural resources as the South Wales National Park. National, regional and local strategies must most distinctive landscapes in the country. Valleys, which in turn drove the growth of the coastal be co-ordinated and focus on those interventions that can Few areas in the UK have been as shaped communities. The legacy of 20th Century industrial decline address the structural economic and social issues that by their natural resources as the South remains a major issue. impact upon communities’ prosperity and well-being. Wales Valleys, which in turn drove the Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys are identified in policy 1 as growth of the coastal communities. The The commitment to addressing these challenges has been a National Growth Area where development will be directed. legacy of 20th Century industrial decline strong and the work of local authorities, the third sector and This will be supported by policies 2, 3, 6 and 8 which will remains a major issue. businesses has delivered investment and supported large- ensure that development is sustainably located with easy scale regeneration initiatives. Strategic and Local access to public transport and other public services. Towns The commitment to addressing these Development Plans should focus on how further regeneration and cities must grow in a sustainable way and in a way challenges has been strong and the work of can be achieved; how sustainably located brownfield sites can which promotes placemaking. They should consider the local authorities, the third sector and be brought back into use; and how communities can access needs of all residents, including older people and people businesses has delivered investment and the homes, jobs and services they need. It is important to with disabilities, and ensure that specialist housing provision supported large-scale regeneration preserve and enhance the region’s cultural heritage with high is considered and planned for. Public sector land will be initiatives. Strategic and Local Development quality development. used effectively to demonstrate exemplar forms of Plans should focus on how further development and placemaking. regeneration can be achieved; how The Heads of the Flooding from rivers and the sea is a major The rural areas of the South East, whilst lying in relatively sustainably located brownfield sites can be issue across the region. Cardiff and Newport are estuarine close proximity to major towns and cities, will be supported brought back into use; and how communities cities while major rivers flow through all the south Wales by policies 4 and 5 in order for these communities to be can access the homes, jobs and services Valleys, meaning many communities are at risk of sustained for the long term. Digital and mobile connectivity they need. It is important to preserve and flooding. Large parts of the region’s key rail and road will be crucial to the economic success of the South East enhance the region’s cultural heritage with infrastructure are on valley floors or coastal locations and and policies 13 and 14 help to ensure that suitable high quality development. reliant on effective flood risk management to remain infrastructure is in place to support this. operational at all times. Places in the region benefit from Policy 7 sets out the national strategic approach to strong coastal defences, including the Cardiff Bay Barrage delivering affordable housing and ensures the focus of Supporting The Heads of the Valleys area, covering the and the Gwent levels sea wall, but sea levels are expected to funding and housing policies is on driving increased text for northern parts of Rhondda Cynon Taf, rise more on the south coast than any other part of Wales provision. Planning and co-ordinating the delivery of new Policy 29 Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Blaenau Gwent over the next thirty years. The potential for flooding in the housing to meet identified needs is an important task for the and Torfaen, is a priority area for the Welsh National Growth Area has implications for the delivery of regional planning process. Under the Welsh Government Government and should be a priority for the growth in the region. Policy 8 sets out the national strategic central estimates 66,400 additional homes are needed in the Strategic Development Plan. The area, like approach to flood risk management and will ensure growth region until 2039 and over the initial five years (2019/20 to the Valleys more generally, has one of the aspirations in National Growth Areas are co-ordinated with 2023/24) 48% of the additional homes needed should be most distinctive urban settlement patterns in strategic decisions on managing flood risk. affordable homes. These estimates provide part of the the UK; has seen significant investment in The Valleys area, covering the northernlarge parts of evidence and context on which Housing Requirements for the A465, from EU funding programmes and Bridgend, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Merthyr Tydfil, Caerphilly, Strategic Development Plans can be based and should be in the future through the South Wales Metro. Blaenau Gwent and Torfaen, is a priority area for the Welsh considered at the regional scale. Understanding and It has the potential to build on its tourism Government and should be a priority for the Strategic managing different development pressures across the offer and proximity to the Brecon Beacons Development Plan. The area, like the Valleys more generally, region will be a key issue for Strategic Development Plans. National Park. National, regional and local has one of the most distinctive urban settlement patterns in Strategic housing issues must be considered at the regional strategies, plans and investment must be co- the UK; it has seen significant investment in the A465, level and not on the basis of the aspirations of individual ordinated and focus on those interventions benefitted from EU funding programmes and in the future local planning authorities. that can address the structural economic throughit will be better connected as a result of the South The Welsh Government wishes to see biodiversity and social issues that impact upon Wales Metro. It has the potential to build on its tourism offer enhanced and ecosystems become more resilient across communities’ prosperity and well-being. and proximity to the Brecon Beacons National Park. National, the South East. Policies 9 and 15 set out the national regional and local strategies, plans and investment must be strategic approach and will ensure that action to address the Planning and co-ordinating the delivery of co-ordinated and focus on those interventions that can climate emergency, to reverse biodiversity decline and to new housing to meet identified needs will be address the structural economic and social issues that impact ensure the well-being of communities takes place. These an important task for the regional planning upon communities’ prosperity and well-being. policies require consideration be given to the type of action process. Under the Welsh Government necessary at regional and local levels and how this can be central estimates 71,200 additional homes Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys are identified in policy 1 as a facilitated through Strategic and Local Development Plans. are needed in the region until 2038 and over National Growth Area where development will be directed. Investment in creating resilient ecological networks and the initial five years (2018/19 to 2022/23) This will be supported by policies 2, 3, 6 and 8 which will green infrastructure will bring multiple benefits for 48% of the additional homes needed should ensure that development is sustainably located with easy communities and businesses as well as nature itself. Action be affordable homes. access to public transport and other public services. Towns to improve resilience is required in all areas. The emphasis and cities must grow in a sustainable way and in a way which in this region will be on the relationship between policies 9 These estimates provide part of the promotes placemaking. They should consider the needs of all and 15 and policies 2 and 6 which will shape urban growth, evidence and context on which Housing residents, including older people and people with disabilities, and policies 11 and 12 which focus on connectivity. The Requirements for Strategic Development and ensure that specialist housing provision is considered and pattern of settlements and the nature of the ecological Plans can be based and should be planned for. Public sector land will be used effectively to networks which already exist, the pressures they and land is considered at the regional scale. It is vital demonstrate exemplar forms of development and being subjected to and the opportunities which exist to that housing is considered at the regional placemaking. create greater resilience will be factors in determining level and not on the basis of the aspirations The rural areas of the South East, whilst lying in relatively specific approaches. Where there are conflicting priorities of individual local planning authorities. close proximity to major towns and cities, will be supported by these will need to be considered and resolved regionally and Understanding and managing different policies 4 and 5 in order for these communities to be locally. development pressures across the region sustained for the long term. Digital and mobile connectivity will The universities in Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd are an will be a key issue and Strategic be crucial to the economic success of the South East and important presence in the region, providing further Development Plans will need to consider policies 13 and 14 help to ensure that suitable infrastructure is education, undertaking research and supporting innovation, housing need across the full region. in place to support this. providing employment, attracting students and supporting Policy 7 sets out the national strategic approach to delivering the local businesses and communities around them. affordable housing and ensures the focus of funding and Strategic and Local Development Plans should consider Welsh language housing policies is on driving increased provision. Planning their role in the region and how they can play a bigger role in There are more than 150,000 Welsh and co-ordinating the delivery of new housing to meet supporting the regional economy, innovation and their speakers across the region and the number identified needs will beis an important task for the regional communities. is growing. It is important that development planning process. Under the Welsh Government central The South East region accounts for 51% of the total plans consider the relationship between estimates 71,20066,400 additional homes are needed in the economic output of the Welsh economy. The Regional strategic housing, transport and economic region until 20382039 and over the initial five years Economic Framework to be prepared by the Welsh growth and the Welsh language. (2018/192019/20 to 2022/23) 482023/24) 48% of the Government in partnership with local authorities, additional homes needed should be affordable homes. communities, business and key stakeholders, will set out the An integrated, connected region priorities for future regional economic development. The The South East region has traditionally had These estimates provide part of the evidence and context on planning system, through Strategic and Local Development a high degree of integration, with the which Housing Requirements for Strategic Development Plans and the decisions it takes, will have a major role to relationship between the cities, the Valleys Plans can be based and should be considered at the regional play in shaping the places that support and strengthen the and adjoining rural areas shaping the roles scale. It is vital that housing isUnderstanding and managing regional economy. The Cardiff Capital Region City Deal and functions of settlements in the region. different development pressures across the region will be a has made progress in developing and strengthening a The opportunity to build on these key issue for Strategic Development Plans. Strategic housing regional approach. The Strategic Development Plan should relationships and re-establish them where issues must be considered at the regional level and not on the be informed by the Cardiff City Region Deal and should they have weakened, will allow issues that basis of the aspirations of individual local planning authorities. ensure that key locational decisions on housing and are difficult to address at the local level, to Understanding and managing different development employment sites, key services and essential infrastructure be considered collectively at the regional pressures across the region will be a key issue and Strategic level. are planned to support and benefit from the investment and Development Plans will need to consider housing need across projects across the region. A Strategic Development Plan will need to the full region. consider where people live, work, shop and The Welsh Government wishes to see biodiversity enhanced The Strategic Development Plan should seek to spend their leisure time now and in the and ecosystems become more resilient across the South maximise opportunities arising from investment in the future and the location of the key health, East. Policies 9 and 15 set out the national strategic approach compound semiconductor sector. Compound education and social infrastructure they rely and will ensure that action to address the climate emergency, semiconductor technology lies at the heart of the next on. It should consider how the energy the to reverse biodiversity decline and to ensure the well-being of industrial revolution and is a technology growing rapidly region requires will be generated and communities takes place. These policies require consideration in Wales. The technology underpins a range of products transported; how waste will be managed; be given to the type of action necessary at regional and local including smartphones, Wi-Fi, satellite communication and the digital infrastructure required to levels and how this can be facilitated through Strategic and systems, robotics and efficient LEDs. In Wales, industry, support the region’s communities. By Local Development Plans. academia and Governments are working to develop a world-class compound semiconductor cluster. By focussing on improving accessibility and Investment in creating resilient ecological networks and green developing these capabilities in the region, Wales has identifying the most sustainable locations, a infrastructure will bring multiple benefits for communities and established the core elements for a compound strategic development plan should make businesses as well as nature itself. Action to improve semiconductor ecosystem that will help bridge early clear choices on strategic locations and resilience is required in all areas. The emphasis in this region stage research, applied industrial research and plan for the region as a cohesive whole. will be on the relationship between policies 9 and 15 and innovation through to high volume manufacturing and policies 2 and 6 which will shape urban growth, and policies its supporting supply chain. 11 and 12 which focus on connectivity. The pattern of settlements and the nature of the ecological networks which Prosperity is not uniform across the region. Strategic already exist, the pressures they and land is being subjected and Local Development Plans should consider how to and the opportunities which exist to create greater prosperity can be spread across the region, how resilience will be factors in determining specific approaches. local economies can be strengthened and how growth Where there are conflicting priorities these will need to be in the strongest economic areas can benefit the whole considered and resolved regionally and locally. region. They should consider social, health and The universities in Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd are an environmental inequalities and ensure that strategic important presence in the region, providing further education, land-use choices contribute to tackling these issues. undertaking research and supporting innovation, providing Improving accessibility and the movement of people employment, attracting students and supporting the local and goods is a key strategic priority and can support businesses and communities around them. Strategic and actions to address economic, social, cultural and Local Development Plans should consider their role in the environmental inequality. region and how they can play a bigger role in supporting the The Welsh Government strongly supports the regional economy, innovation and their communities. development of the foundational economy in the region. The South East region accounts for 51% of the total The foundational economy represents those parts of economic output of the Welsh economy. The Regional the economy which are integral to the well-being of Economic Framework to be prepared by the Welsh places, communities and people and which deliver Government in partnership with local authorities, people’s everyday needs. The Welsh Government will communities, business and key stakeholders, will set out the continue to support greater resilience for local and priorities for future regional economic development. The regional economies and support business growth and planning system, through Strategic and Local Development new employment opportunities. Strategic and Local Plans and the decisions it takes, will have a major role to play Development Plans should identify the role of the in shaping the places that support and strengthen the regional foundational economy, consider how the land-use economy. The Cardiff Capital Region City Deal has made planning system can support it and develop appropriate progress in developing and strengthening a regional policies. Areas of the foundational economy which the approach. The Strategic Development Plan should be planning system can support include regeneration informed by the Cardiff City Region Deal and should ensure initiatives, health and social care, social housing, that key locational decisions on housing and employment tourism and steps to encourage greater community sites, key services and essential infrastructure are planned to benefits from new development. support and benefit from the investment and projects across the region. In urban areas, including the National Growth Area of Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys, the enhancement The Strategic Development Plan should seek to maximise (net-benefit) of biodiversity and the provision of green opportunities arising from investment in the compound infrastructure must both shape growth strategies and semiconductor sector. Compound semiconductor be fully integrated as part of location and design technology lies at the heart of the next industrial revolution solutions for proposed development. and is a technology growing rapidly in Wales. The technology underpins a range of products including smartphones, Wi-Fi, satellite communication systems, Based on the indicative map contained in policy 9, robotics and efficient LEDs. In Wales, industry, academia upland areas in the southern and northern ridges of the and Governments are working to develop a world-class valleys appear to broadly contain the most resilient compound semiconductor cluster. By developing these ecological networks, but this does not mean they are as capabilities in the region, Wales has established the resilient as they ought to be. The valleys themselves core elements for a compound semiconductor and the areas along the south coast and in the east of ecosystem that will help bridge early stage research, the region tend to be less resilient in terms of ecological applied industrial research and innovation through to networks, reflecting the forms of agricultural and high volume manufacturing and its supporting supply development pressures faced. The challenge is to chain. identify ways to achieve integrated and innovative Prosperity is not uniform across the region. Strategic and nature-based solutions which will cumulatively improve Local Development Plans should consider how prosperity ecological resilience and green infrastructure across can be spread across the region, how local economies can the region. be strengthened and how growth in the strongest economic Policy 9 requires that existing networks be improved areas can benefit the whole region. They should consider and expanded upon. Equally, opportunities must be social, health and environmental inequalities and ensure that identified to safeguard and create resilient networks, strategic land-use choices contribute to tackling these issues. and the ecosystem services on which they depend, and Improving accessibility and the movement of people and the multiple benefits derived from green infrastructure goods is a key strategic priority and can where currently this is not the case. This includes considering the role of protected landscapes and Welsh language nature conservation designations. As well as in the There are more than 150,000 Welsh speakers across the most urban areas and the valleys, policies 9 and 15 region and the number is growing. It is important that work alongside policies 4 and 5 to require that the development plans consider the relationship between relationships between all forms of land use and strategic housing, transport and economic growth and the management should be considered more fully in the Welsh language. rural parts of the South East region if we are to address the climate emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and An integrated, connected region enable communities to benefit from more sustainable The South East region has traditionally had a high degree of forms of managing natural resources. integration, with the relationship between the cities, the Valleys and adjoining rural areas shaping the roles and It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonisation and functions of settlements in the region. The opportunity to build supports the realisation of renewable energy. Policies on these relationships and re-establish them where they have 17 and 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to renewable energy generation across Wales. There is strong weakened, will allow issues that are difficult to address at the potential for wind, marine and solar energy generation local level, to be considered collectively at the regional level. and Strategic and Local Development Plans should provide a framework for generation and associated A Strategic Development Plan will need to consider where infrastructure. The Welsh Government wishes to see people live, work, shop and spend their leisure time now and energy generation, storage and management play a in the future and the location of the key health, education role in supporting the South East economy. Local and social infrastructure they rely on. It should consider how ownership and distribution is important for ensuring the energy the region requires will be generated and communities in proximity to renewable energy transported; how waste will be managed; and the digital development benefit from it and that our future energy infrastructure required to support the region’s communities. system better serves Wales. By focussing on improving accessibility and identifying the most sustainable locations, a strategic development plan should make clear choices on strategic locations and plan Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data & for the region as a cohesive whole. Regional strategic diagram support actions to address economic, social, cultural and environmental inequality.

The Welsh Government strongly supports the development of the foundational economy in the region. The foundational economy represents those parts of the economy which are integral to the well-being of places, communities and people and which deliver people’s everyday needs. The Welsh Government will continue to support greater resilience for local and regional economies and support business growth and new employment opportunities. Strategic and Local Development Plans should identify the role of the foundational economy, consider how the land-use planning system can support it and develop appropriate policies. Areas of the foundational economy which the planning system can support include regeneration initiatives, health and social care, social housing, tourism and steps to encourage greater community benefits from new development. In urban areas, including the National Growth Area of Cardiff, Newport and the Valleys, the enhancement (net- benefit) of biodiversity and the provision of green infrastructure must both shape growth strategies and be fully integrated as part of location and design solutions for proposed development. Based on the indicative map contained in policy 9, upland areas in the southern and northern ridges of the valleys appear to broadly contain the most resilient ecological networks, but this does not mean they are as resilient as they ought to be. The valleys themselves and the areas along the south coast and in the east of the region tend to be less resilient in terms of ecological networks, reflecting the forms of agricultural and development pressures faced. The challenge is to identify ways to achieve integrated and innovative nature-based solutions which will cumulatively improve ecological resilience and green infrastructure across the region. Policy 9 requires that existing networks be improved and expanded upon. Equally, opportunities must be identified to safeguard and create resilient networks, and the ecosystem services on which they depend, and the multiple benefits derived from green infrastructure where currently this is not the case. This includes considering the role of protected landscapes and nature conservation designations. As well as in the most urban areas and the valleys, policies 9 and 15 work alongside policies 4 and 5 to require that the relationships between all forms of land use and management should be considered more fully in the rural parts of the South East region if we are to address the climate emergency, reverse biodiversity decline and enable communities to benefit from more sustainable forms of managing natural resources. It is vital the region plays its role in decarbonisation and supports the realisation of renewable energy. Policies 17 and 18 set out Future Wales’ approach to renewable energy generation across Wales. There is strong potential for wind, marine and solar energy generation and Strategic and Local Development Plans should provide a framework for generation and associated infrastructure. The Welsh Government wishes to see energy generation, storage and management play a role in supporting the South East economy. Local ownership and distribution is important for ensuring communities in proximity to renewable energy development benefit from it and that our future energy system better serves Wales.

Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data & Regional strategic diagram Policy 34 Managing Growth Policy 30 Green Belts in South East Wales Managing Growth The Welsh Government requires the Green Belts in the South East identification of green belts through a Green Belts in the South East Wales Strategic Development Plan to manage The Welsh Government requires the Strategic Development urban form and growth in South East Wales, The Welsh Government requires the identification of green Plan to identify a green belt to the north of Cardiff, Newport particularly around Newport and the eastern belts through a Strategic Development Plan to manage urban and the eastern part of the region to manage urban form part of the region. form and growth in South East Wales, particularly and growth. Regional plans should consider the aroundidentify a green belt to the north of Cardiff, Newport The Strategic Development Plan must consider the relationship of any new green belts with the and the eastern part of the region to manage urban form and relationship of the green belts with the green belt in the green belt around Bristol. growth. West of England. Local Development Plans and Regional plans should consider the relationship of any new development management decisions should not permit green belts with the green belt around Bristol.The Strategic major development in the areas shown for consideration for Development Plan must consider the relationship of the green green belts, except in very exceptional circumstances, until belts with the green belt in the West of England. Local the need for green belts and their boundaries has been Development Plans and development management decisions established by an adopted Strategic Development Plan. should not permit major development in the areas shown for consideration for green belts, except in very exceptional circumstances, until the need for green belts and their boundaries has been established by an adopted Strategic Development Plan. PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.60 – 3.74 3.60 – 3.74 Supporting The close relationship between the South East and the West Supporting Strategic decisions on the location of The close relationship between the South East and the West Text of England and the presence of a large green belt around Text development, key services and infrastructure of England and the presence of a large green belt around Bristol means that long-term development pressures will in should support the region’s cities and Bristol means that long-term development pressures will in part be directed from England to the South East region. The Valleys communities and be taken on a part be directed from England to the South East region. The proximity to a large populous English region provides regional basis, ensuring they are located in proximity to a large populous English region provides opportunities that can support the South East, but these the most accessible and sustainable opportunities that can support the South East, but these opportunities must be managed strategically and on a locations within the context of the whole opportunities must be managed strategically and on a regional basis. region. The Welsh Government supports the regional basis. Strategic decisions on the location of development, key use of green belts in the South East region Strategic decisions on the location of development, key services and infrastructure should support existing built-up in managing and planning urban growth. services and infrastructure should support the region’s cities areas and be taken on a regional basis, ensuring they are Planning Policy Wales sets out the policy and Valleys communities existing built-up areas and be taken located in the most accessible and sustainable locations, context for them. The Strategic Development on a regional basis, ensuring they are located in the most support actions to address inequality and deprivation and Plan must identify a green belt that accessible and sustainable locations within the context of the improve links to neighbouring areas of England. Planning includes the area to the north of the M4 from whole region. The Welsh Government supports the use of Policy Wales sets the context for establishing green belts. the Severn Crossings to North Cardiff. green belts in the South East region in managing and planning urban growth. Planning Policy Wales sets out the A growing, equitable region policy context for them. The Strategic Development Plan must The South East region accounts for 51% of identify a green belt that includes the area to the north of the the total economic output of the Welsh M4 from the Severn Crossings to North Cardiff. economy and accounts for over 55% of additional housing need in Wales during the A growing, equitable region next few years, with estimates suggesting The South East region accounts for 51% of the total economic this proportion will increase in the future. The output of the Welsh economy and accounts for over 55% of Regional Economic Development Plan additional housing need in Wales during the next few years, prepared by the Welsh Government in with estimates suggesting this proportion will increase in the partnership with local authorities, future. The Regional Economic Development Plan prepared communities, business and key stakeholders by the Welsh Government in partnership with local authorities, will set out the priorities for future regional communities, business and key stakeholders will set out the economic development. The planning priorities for future regional economic development. The system, through Strategic and Local planning system, through Strategic and Local Development Development Plans and the decisions it Plans and the decisions it takes, will have a major role to play takes, will have a major role to play in in shaping the places that support and strengthen the regional shaping the places that support and economy. strengthen the regional economy.

The Strategic Development Plan should ,The Strategic Development Plan should seek to maximise seek to maximise opportunities arising from opportunities arising from investment in the compound investment in the compound semiconductor semiconductor sector. Compound semiconductor technology lies at the heart of the next industrial revolution sector. Compound semiconductor and is a technology growing rapidly in Wales. The technology lies at the heart of the next technology underpins a range of products including industrial revolution and is a technology smartphones, Wi-Fi, satellite communication systems, growing rapidly in Wales. The technology robotics and efficient LEDs. In Wales, industry, academia underpins a range of products including and Governments are working to develop a world class smartphones, Wi-Fi, satellite communication compound semiconductor cluster. By developing these systems, robotics and efficient LEDs. In capabilities in the region, Wales has established the Wales, industry, academia and core elements for a compound semiconductor Governments are working to develop a world ecosystem that will help bridge early stage research, class compound semiconductor cluster. By applied industrial research and innovation through to developing these capabilities in the region, high volume manufacturing and its supporting supply Wales has established the core elements for chain. a compound semiconductor ecosystem that will help bridge early stage research, applied Prosperity is not uniform across the region. The Cardiff industrial research and innovation through to Capital Region City Deal has made progress in developing high volume manufacturing and its and strengthening a regional approach. Strategic and Local supporting supply chain. Development Plans should consider how prosperity can be spread across the region, how local economies can be Prosperity is not uniform across the region. strengthened and how growth in the strongest economic The Cardiff Capital Region City Deal has areas can benefit the whole region. They should consider made progress in developing and social, health and environmental inequalities and ensure that strengthening a regional approach. Strategic strategic land-use choices contribute to tackling these issues. and Local Development Plans should Improving accessibility and the movement of people and consider how prosperity can be spread goods is a key strategic priority and can support actions to across the region, how local economies can address economic, social, cultural and environmental be strengthened and how growth in the inequality. and deprivation and improve links to neighbouring strongest economic areas can benefit the areas of England. Planning Policy Wales sets the context for whole region. They should consider social, establishing green belts. health and environmental inequalities and ensure that strategic land-use choices contribute to tackling these issues. Improving accessibility and the movement of people and goods is a key strategic priority and can support actions to address economic, social, cultural and environmental inequality. Policy 35 Supporting Growth Policy 33 Valleys Regional Park Supporting Growth The Welsh Government supports the Valleys Regional Park establishment of the Valleys Regional Park. Valleys Regional Park The Welsh Government supports the establishment of the Strategic and Local Development Plans The Welsh Government supports the establishment of the Valleys Regional Park. should embed its principles into their Valleys Regional Park. Strategic and Local Development Plans should embed its planning frameworks. The Welsh Strategic and Local Development Plans should embed its principles into their planning frameworks. The Welsh Government will work with local authorities, principles into their planning frameworks. The Welsh Government will work with local authorities, the third sector the third sector and key partners to support Government will work with local authorities, the third sector and key partners to support the Valleys Regional Park and the Valleys Regional Park and maximise and key partners to support the Valleys Regional Park and maximise opportunities for new development. opportunities for new development. maximise opportunities for new development.

PPW PPW Reference Reference 3.20 3.20 3.42 3.42 3.52 3.52 5.5.1 5.5.1 Supporting The Welsh Government, communities and partners have Supporting The region is served by ports at Newport, The Welsh Government, communities and partners have Text developed a positive framework through ‘Our Valleys, Our Text Cardiff and Barry. Each plays an important developed a positive framework through ‘Our Valleys, Our Future’ to drive change and regeneration. The Valleys economic role and collectively they are key Future’ to drive change and regeneration. The Valleys Regional Park seeks to maximise the social, economic and infrastructure within the region. Development Regional Park seeks to maximise the social, economic and environmental potential of the Valleys’ natural and cultural plans should consider the role of the ports environmental potential of the Valleys’ natural and cultural heritage assets and it is important the planning system locally, regionally and nationally and heritage assets and it is important the planning system supports its delivery. establish frameworks to support their supports its delivery. operation and potential expansion. The The South East has many outstanding historic and natural Welsh Government will maintain its The South East has many outstanding historic and natural resources which are an important part of the local fabric and commitment to tackling congestion on the resources which are an important part of the local fabric and help to tell the story of its distinctive and unique M4 and trunk road network including through help to tell the story of its distinctive and unique communities. communities. Outstanding places include its Blue Flag its Pinch Point Programme of small scale Outstanding places include its Blue Flag Award beaches Award beaches along the southern coast, Blaenavon interventions aimed at addressing along the southern coast, Blaenavon Industrial Landscape Industrial Landscape World Heritage Site and Scheduled congestion pinch points on the main road World Heritage Site and Scheduled Monuments such as the Monuments such as the Caerleon Roman Fortress and network. Caerleon Roman Fortress and Baths and numerous castles Baths and numerous castles located across the region. located across the region. They should be protected for the They should be protected for the enjoyment of future Rivers and valleys enjoyment of future generations and help to provide economic generations and help to provide economic benefits for the The Welsh Government, communities and benefits for the region’s communities. The region’s distinctive region’s communities. The region’s distinctive heritage partners have developed a positive heritage should be preserved and enhanced by high quality should be preserved and enhanced by high quality framework through ‘Our Valleys, Our Future’ development. development. to drive change and regeneration. The Valleys Regional Park seeks to maximise The region is served by ports at Newport, Cardiff and Barry. The region is served by ports at Newport, Cardiff and Barry. the social, economic, cultural and Each plays an important economic role and collectively they Each plays an important economic role and collectively they environmental potential of the Valleys’ are key infrastructure within the region. Strategic and Local are key infrastructure within the region. Strategic and Local natural and cultural heritage assets and it is Development plans should consider the role of the ports Development plans should consider the role of the ports important that the planning system supports locally, regionally and nationally and establish frameworks to locally, regionally and nationally and establish frameworks to its delivery. support their operation and potential expansion. The Welsh support their operation and potential expansion. Government will maintain its commitment to tackling The region’s concentration of population and its historic and The region’s concentration of population and congestion on the M4 and trunk road network including future growth mean it is a high consumer of materials and its historic and future growth mean that it is a through its Pinch Point Programme of small scale natural resources. It is vital the region makes the best use of high consumer of materials and natural interventions aimed at addressing congestion pinch points on material resources, promotes resource efficiency and is resources. It is vital the region makes the the main road network. ambitious in supporting innovative ways of promoting a best use of material resources, promotes circular economy. The region is heavily dependent upon resource efficiency and is ambitious in Rivers and valleys marine aggregates from the Bristol Channel and the Severn supporting innovative ways of promoting a The Welsh Government, communities and partners have Estuary and minerals from this area serve both Welsh and circular economy. The region is heavily developed a positive framework through ‘Our Valleys, Our English markets. dependent upon marine aggregates from the Future’ to drive change and regeneration. The Valleys Bristol Channel and the Severn Estuary and Regional Park seeks to maximise the social, economic, minerals from this area serves both Welsh cultural and environmental potential of the Valleys’ natural and English markets. and cultural heritage assets and it is important that the planning system supports its delivery.

The region’s concentration of population and its historic and future growth mean that it is a high consumer of materials and natural resources. It is vital the region makes the best use of material resources, promotes resource efficiency and is ambitious in supporting innovative ways of promoting a circular economy. The region is heavily dependent upon marine aggregates from the Bristol Channel and the Severn Estuary and minerals from this area servesserve both Welsh and English markets. Policy 36 South East Metro Policy 31 Growth in sustainable transit orientated Growth in sustainable transit orientated settlements The Welsh Government supports the development of the settlements Development and growth in the region should be focussed in South East Metro and will work with Transport for Wales, Development and growth in the region places with good active travel and public transport local authorities and other partners to enable its delivery and should be focussed in places with good connectivity. Land in close proximity to existing and maximise associated opportunities. active travel and public transport committed new mainline railway and Metro stations should be Strategic and Local Development Plans must support the connectivity. Land in close proximity to the focus for development. South East Metro. Planning authorities should plan growth existing and committed new mainline railway South East Metro and regeneration to maximise the opportunities arising from and Metro stations should be the focus for The Welsh Government supports the development of the better regional connectivity, including identifying development. South East Metro and will work with Transport for Wales, local opportunities for higher density, mixed-use and car-free Strategic and Local Development Plans authorities and other partners to enable its delivery and development around new and improved metro stations. should plan growth to maximise the potential maximise associated opportunities. opportunities arising from better regional Strategic and Local Development Plans must support the connectivity. The Welsh Government South East Metro. Planning authorities should plan growth supports the development of the South and regeneration to maximise the potential opportunities Wales Metro and will work with agencies to arising from better regional connectivity. The Welsh enable its delivery. Government supports the development of the South Wales Metro and will work with agencies to enable its delivery., including identifying opportunities for higher density, mixed- use and car-free development around new and improved metro stations. PPW PPW Reference Reference 4.1 4.1 5.3 5.3 Supporting Across Wales and the regions, the Welsh Government Supporting The relatively high population density in The relatively high population density in South East Wales Text wishes to see development built in sustainable locations that Text South East Wales means the region is well- means the region is well-suited to Transit Orientated are supported by the active travel and public transport suited to Transit Orientated Development, as Development, as set out in Policy 1. The quality, variety and infrastructure and services needed to enable people to live set out in Policy 1. The quality, variety and frequency of transport services will vary across the region and active and healthy lives. This includes ensuring average frequency of transport services will vary should be taken into account by local planning authorities in levels of air and noise pollution are reduced or at least across the region and should be taken into the preparation of the regional settlement strategy, in minimised. The overall aim is to reduce the need to travel, account by local planning authorities in the accordance with Policy 16. particularly by private vehicles, and support a modal shift to preparation of the regional settlement walking, cycling and public transport. Policies 11 and 12 set strategy, in accordance with Policy 16. The South WalesAcross Wales and the regions, the Welsh out the strategic approach to national and regional Government wishes to see development built in sustainable connectivity and how the Welsh Government will support The South Wales Metro scheme provides a locations that are supported by the active travel and public and invest in improvements to active travel and public major strategic opportunity to improve rail, transport infrastructure and services needed to enable people transport. The South East Wales Transport Commission is bus, cycling and walking infrastructure to live active and healthy lives. This includes ensuring advising on tackling congestion on the M4 and will make across the region and provide a focus for average levels of air and noise pollution are reduced or at recommendations to the Welsh Government on solutions. investment, regeneration and associated least minimised. The overall aim is to reduce the need to The Commission’s emerging conclusions were published in development. Development plans must travel, particularly by private vehicles, and support a modal July 2020. ensure that long term strategic decisions shift to walking, cycling and public transport. Policies 11 and maximise opportunities in areas that will 12 set out the strategic approach to national and regional In the South East region, the rail infrastructure and services benefit from improved accessibility and connectivity and how the Welsh Government will support and are fundamental to an effective and efficient transport investment in public transport, including from invest in improvements to active travel and public transport. network and central to improving regional and national the Metro. The South East Wales Transport Commission is advising on connectivity. The South East Metro scheme provides a tackling congestion on the M4 and will make major strategic opportunity to improve rail, bus, cycling and The Metro reflects the importance of Cardiff recommendations to the Welsh Government on solutions. The walking infrastructure across the region and provide a to the region but also provides potential and Commission’s emerging conclusions were published in July focus for investment, regeneration and associated opportunity for other parts of the region to 2020. development. The high population concentration combined function as key centres. Merthyr Tydfil, with a dense rail network in the South East means the Pontypridd, Caerphilly and Bridgend will be In the South East region, the rail infrastructure and services region is well-suited to transit orientated development, as strategically important locations on the South are fundamental to an effective and efficient transport promoted by policy 12. The quality, variety and frequency Wales Metro system. Regeneration and network and central to improving regional and national of transport services will vary across the region and should sustainable, inclusive economic growth in connectivity. The South East Metro scheme provides a major be taken into account by planning authorities in the these towns will help deliver the ambitions of strategic opportunity to improve rail, bus, cycling and walking preparation of the regional spatial strategy. In accordance the Our Valleys, Our Future project. Where infrastructure across the region and provide a focus for with policy 19 Strategic and Local Development Plans must new transport corridors are created by the investment, regeneration and associated development. ensure that long-term strategic decisions maximise Metro scheme, the potential for these Development plans must ensure that long The high opportunities in areas that will benefit from improved corridors to incorporate green infrastructure population concentration combined with a dense rail network accessibility and investment in public transport, including must be explored. in the South East means the region is well-suited to transit from the Metro. orientated development, as promoted by policy 12. The quality, variety and frequency of transport services will vary Facilitating access to the Metro by active travel will make across the region and should be taken into account by an important contribution to modal shift from car to public planning authorities in the preparation of the regional spatial transport journeys at a regional level. Achieving this will strategy. In accordance with policy 19 Strategic and Local require high quality active travel routes linking Development Plans must ensure that long-term strategic neighbourhoods and trip destinations with metro stations. decisions maximise opportunities in areas that will benefit The provision of high quality, secure cycle parking at from improved accessibility and investment in public interchanges will also be essential. Expanding the on-street transport, including from the Metro. cycle hire system developed in Cardiff across the wider region could also help grow public transport patronage. Facilitating access to the Metro by active travel will make an Integrating the Metro with the South Wales mainline railway important contribution to modal shift from car to public at key locations can also help reduce traffic volumes on the transport journeys at a regional level. Achieving this will M4, including commuters to and from the South East to require high quality active travel routes linking places such as Swansea Bay and Bristol. neighbourhoods and trip destinations with metro stations. The provision of high quality, secure cycle parking at The Metro reflects the importance of Cardiff to the region, interchanges will also be essential. Expanding the on-street but also provides potential and opportunity for other parts of cycle hire system developed in Cardiff across the wider the region to function as key centres. Merthyr Tydfil, region could also help grow public transport patronage. Pontypridd, Caerphilly and Bridgend will be strategically Integrating the Metro with the South Wales mainline railway important locations on the South East Metro system. at key locations can also help reduce traffic volumes on the Regeneration and sustainable, inclusive economic growth in M4, including commuters to and from the South East to these towns will help deliver the ambitions of the Our places such as Swansea Bay and Bristol. Valleys, Our Future project. Where new transport corridors are created by the Metro scheme, the potential for these The Metro reflects the importance of Cardiff to the region, but corridors to incorporate green infrastructure must be also provides potential and opportunity for other parts of the explored. region to function as key centres. Merthyr Tydfil, Pontypridd, Caerphilly and Bridgend will be strategically important locations on the South WalesEast Metro system. Regeneration and sustainable, inclusive economic growth in these towns will help deliver the ambitions of the Our Valleys, Our Future project. Where new transport corridors are created by the Metro scheme, the potential for these corridors to incorporate green infrastructure must be explored. Update to Table illustrating relationship between policies Update to Table illustrating relationship between policies and and NDF Outcomes. NDF Outcomes.

Inside Cover

Updated Map of Wales

Chapter 1

Figure A

Model of influence diagram

Figure B illustrates how different tiers of the development plan cumulatively address issues contained in Planning Policy Wales

Sequence diagram

Chapter 2

Map 1 – Population map

Graphic 1 - Chart showing population distribution by age and gender

Map 2 - Map showing percentage of adults reporting they are in good or very good general health by local authority area

Map 3 - Map of Rural Urban Classifications

Map 4 – Map showing Welsh speakers

Map 5 - Map showing relative ecological connectivity;

Map 6 - Map showing wind speeds

Map 7 - Map of national mineral resources

Map 8 - Map of best quality agricultural land

Map 9 - Map of large raised reservoirs

Map 10 - Map showing nature conservation designations

Map 11 - Map showing landscape and nature conservation designations

Map 12 – Map showing heritage and coast

Map 13 - Welsh index of multiple deprivation map

Graphic 2 - Graphic showing GVA per head

Graphic 3 - Graphic showing change in workplace employment by sector

Graphic 4 - Graphic showing business survival rates

Graphic 5 - Graphic showing workplace employment levels on a regional basis

Map 14 – Map showing commuting patterns

Graphic 6 – Graphic showing commuting patterns

Map 15 - Map of broadband availability

Map 16 - Map of transport infrastructure

Graphic 7 - Graphic showing rail journeys

Climate Change graphic (1 of 3)

Climate Change graphic (2 of 3)

Climate Change graphic (3 of 3)

Chapter 4

The updated NDF Strategic Diagram

Graphic showing historic rate of affordable housing delivery

Map showing flood warning areas

Map showing National Natural Resources

Graphic - Sustainable Transport Hierarchy

Map of Strategic Corridors & Metro developments

A combined map supports policies 16, 17 and 18 – heat networks and renewable energy

Chapter 5

Map of NDF Regions

North Map – North

Graphic

Regional Strategic Diagram

Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data

Graphic – population distribution by age and gender

Map - Population

Map – Nature conservation designations

Map - Landscape and nature conservation designations

Graphic – Commuting patterns

Map – Commuting patterns

Mid Wales Map - Mid Wales

Graphic

Regional Strategic Diagram

Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data Graphic – population distribution by age and gender

Map - Population

Map – Nature conservation designations

Map – Landscape and nature conservation designations

Graphic – commuting patterns

Map – commuting patterns

South West Map – South West

Graphic

Regional Strategic Diagram

Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data Graphic – population distribution by age and gender

Map - Population

Map – Nature conservation designations

Map – Landscape and nature conservation designations

Graphic – Commuting patterns

Map – Commuting patterns

South East Map – South East

Graphic

Regional Strategic Diagram

Maps and graphics showing pertinent regional data Graphic – population distribution by age and gender

Map - Population

Map – Nature conservation designations

Map – Landscape and nature conservation designations

Graphic – Commuting patterns

Map – Commuting patterns

Appendix

Update to Table illustrating relationship between policies and NDF Outcomes.