Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Development Plan

Scoping Report

July 2017

Scoping Report

LC-320 Document Control Box

Client Stratford-on-Avon District Council

Strategic Environmental Assessment of the Brailes & Winderton Report Title Neighbourhood Development Plan: Scoping Report

Status Draft

Filename LC-320 _ Brailes_Scoping_Report 3 _ 040717JE.docx

Date July 2017

Author RC & JE

Reviewed JE

Approved ND

Front cover: Cotswolds by Francisco Antunes

About this report & notes for readers

Lepus Consulting Ltd (Lepus) has prepared this report for Client comments can be sent to Lepus using the following the use of Stratford-on-Avon District Council. There are a address. number of limitations, which should be borne in mind when considering the results and conclusions of this report. No 1 Bath Street, party should alter or change this report whatsoever without Cheltenham written permission from Lepus. Gloucestershire © Lepus Consulting Ltd GL50 1YE Telephone: 01242 525222 This Scoping Report is based on the best available information, including that provided to Lepus by the Council E-mail: [email protected] and information that is publicly available. No attempt to www.lepusconsulting.com verify these secondary data sources has been made and they have assumed to be accurate as published.

This scoping report was prepared in July 2017 and is subject to and limited by the information available during this time.

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Contents

1 Introduction ...... 1 1.1 This report ...... 1 1.2 Brailes & Winderton ...... 1 1.3 Strategic Environmental Assessment ...... 4 1.4 The Neighbourhood Development Plan ...... 6

2 Presenting the Sustainability Information ...... 7 2.1 Introduction ...... 7 2.2 Policy, Plan and Programme review ...... 9 2.3 Baseline data collection ...... 9 2.4 Key sustainability issues ...... 10

3 Accessibility and Transport ...... 11 3.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 11 3.2 Baseline data ...... 12

4 Air, Soil and Water ...... 14 4.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 14 4.2 Baseline data: Air Quality ...... 15 4.3 Baseline data: Soil ...... 16 4.4 Baseline data: Water Quality ...... 17

5 Biodiversity and Geodiversity ...... 20 5.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 20 5.2 Baseline data ...... 21

6 Climate Change ...... 31 6.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 31 6.2 Baseline data ...... 33

7 Economic Factors ...... 40 7.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 40 7.2 Baseline data ...... 40

8 Housing ...... 43 8.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 43 8.2 Baseline data ...... 43

9 Health, Population and Quality of Life ...... 45 9.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 45 9.2 Baseline data ...... 47

10 Historic Environment ...... 53 10.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 53 10.2 Summary of baseline data ...... 54

11 Landscape and townscape ...... 59 11.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 59 11.2 Baseline data ...... 59

12 Material Assets ...... 62 12.1 Summary of policy and plan review ...... 62 12.2 Baseline data ...... 62

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13 SEA Framework ...... 65 13.1 The purpose of the SEA Framework ...... 65 13.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment objectives ...... 65

14 Subsequent stages to be carried out ...... 67 14.1 Introduction ...... 67 14.2 Refining options and assessing effects ...... 67 14.3 Environmental Report and Publication and Referendum ...... 68 14.4 Consultation Version of the Environmental Report ...... 69

15 Consultation on the Scoping Report ...... 70 15.1 Purpose of Consultation ...... 70 15.2 Consultation Details ...... 70

Appendix A: Full SEA Framework Appendix B: PPP Review

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Acronyms

AQMA Air Quality Management Area

BAP Biodiversity Action Plan

CAMS Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies

CPRE Campaign to Protect Rural England

DCLG Department of Communities and Local Government

DECC Department of Energy and Climate Change

DEFRA Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

DLA Disability Living Allowance

GCSE General Certificate of Secondary Education

GIS Geographic Information Services

GWMU Groundwater Management Unit

HAP Habitat Action Plans

ICT Information Communications Technology

IMD Index of Multiple Deprivation

LNR Local Nature Reserve

LSOA Lower Super Output Area

NDP Neighbourhood Development Plan

NPPF National Planning Policy Framework

ONS Office of National Statistics

PM10 Particulate Matter

PPP Policies, Plans or Programmes

PRoW Public Rights of Way

RIGS Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites

SAP Species Action Plans

SEA Strategic Environmental Assessment

SDC Stratford-on-Avon District Council

SINC Sites of Importance to Nature Conservation

SLINC Sites of Local Importance to Nature Conservation

SPZ Special Protection Zone

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SSSI Sites of Special Scientific Interest

WMU Water Management Units

WRMP Water Resource Management Zones

WRZ Water Resource Zones

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List of Figures

Figure 1.1 Neighbourhood Development Plan Area (Brailes Parish outlined in red)

Figure 1.3 Strategic Environmental Assessment process

Figure 3.1 Sustrans map showing cycle routes in the Brailes plan area

Figure 4.1 ALC map for Brailes parish area

Figure 5.1 Phase 1 Habitat Survey for Brailes (Upper and Lower)

Figure 5.2 Woodland habitats in relation to Brailes and Winderton urban area

Figure 5.3 Grassland habitats in relation to Brailes and Winderton urban area SSSIs, SSSI Impact Risk Zones and parcels of Ancient Woodland near Figure 5.4 Brailes

Figure 5.5 Bedrock geology in the Brailes and Winderton urban area

Changes in mean annual temperature in the West Midlands to 2099 as a Figure 6.1 result of a low emissions scenario

Changes in mean annual temperature in the West Midlands to 2099 as a Figure 6.2 result of a high emissions scenario

Figure 6.3 Extent of Flood Zones 2 and 3

Figure 6.4 Risk of flooding from surface water

Climate change mitigation and promotion of the low carbon economy Figure 6.5 between 2010 and 2013 in Warwickshire

Figure 9.1 Health Summary for Stratford-on-Avon

Figure 10.1 Brailes Conservation Areas

Figure 10.2 Winderton Conservation Areas

Figure 11.1 Cotswolds AONB in relation to Brailes Potential proportion of energy supplied by renewable resources by 2021 Figure 12.1 under elevated circumstances

Figure 12.2 Achieving sustainable waste management in Warwickshire

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List of Tables

Table 2.1 Sustainability themes

Table 5.1 Five main geology groups of Brailes

Temperature and precipitation changes, as a result of climate change, Table 6.1 forecast for the West Midlands

Table 6.2 End-user CO2 emissions: regional summary 2013

Table 6.3 Per capita CO2 emissions by sector: regional summary 2013

Table 7.1 Employment and unemployment rates in Stratford-on-Avon (all people)

Table 7.2 Employment by occupation (Apr 2015 - Mar 2016)

Table 9.1 Age structure of Stratford-on-Avon in relation to Warwickshire

Table 13.1 SEA Objectives

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1 Introduction

1.1 This report

1.1.1 The Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) is currently being prepared by Brailes Parish Council. A Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) is being undertaken to inform the plan making process. This Scoping Report identifies the scope and level of detail of the information necessary to inform the assessment.

1.2 Brailes & Winderton

1.2.1 Brailes is a village and a parish located approximately 22km south east of Stratford-upon-Avon. The Civil Parish of Brailes & Winderton comprises three distinct areas:

• The village of Brailes which encompasses the separate settlements of Lower Brails, Upper Brails and Grove End; • The hamlet of Winderton; and • The surrounding countryside and farmsteads.

1.2.2 Brailes parish boundary is shown in Figure 1.1. The estimated total population of Brailes parish is around 1,1501.

1 ONS, (2011) Neighbourhood Statistics. People and Society: Population and Migration. Available at: http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk/dissemination/LeadDatasetList.do?a=7&b=11121051&c=br ailes&d=16&g=6472087&i=1001x1003&m=0&r=1&s=1491317300820&enc=1&domainId=13

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1.2.3 Brailes is a village and parish in the Stratford-on-Avon District of Warwickshire. It is in a rural area of the district, located approximately 22km south east of Stratford-upon-Avon and 16km west of Banbury. It is toward the south eastern end of the Stratford-on-Avon District, and is in proximity of the borders of both Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire. The B4035 travels east to west through the village, connecting with Shipston- on-Stour to the west. This main road was the principle route around which Upper and Lower Brailes grew. The Parish boundary is defined by two, possibly earlier routes; Ditchedge Lane marking the eastern limit of the Parish, and to the north an old salt road, known as Saltway. Access to Fosse Way (A429) is approximately 6.5km to the west of the town (Figure 1.1).

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Figure 1.1 Neighbourhood Development Plan Area2 (Brailes Parish outlined in red)

2 Brailes Parish Council (2016) Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Development Plan

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1.3 Strategic Environmental Assessment

1.3.1 The basis for Strategic Environmental Assessment legislation is European Directive 2001/42/EC, which was transposed into English law by the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004, or SEA Regulations. Detailed guidance of these regulations can be found in the Government publication ‘A Practical Guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive’3 (ODPM, 2005).

1.3.2 Under the requirements of the European Union Directive 2001/42/EC (The SEA Directive) and the SEA Regulations (2004), specific types of plans, including those that set the framework for future development, must be subject to an environmental assessment. This can include Neighbourhood Development Plans (NDP), should the NDP meet one or more of the following criteria:

• The NDP allocates sites for development; • The NDP area contains sensitive natural or heritage assets that may be affected by the proposals in the plan; and/or • The NDP may have significant environmental effects that have not already been considered and dealt with through a Sustainability Appraisal of higher order plans.

1.3.3 One of the basic conditions that will be tested by the independent examiner is whether the making of the Neighbourhood Plan is compatible with European obligations.

1.3.4 The key stages of NDP preparation and their relationship with the SEA process are shown in Figure 1.2.

3 Office of the Deputy Prime Minister (ODPM) (2005) A practical guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/strategic-environmental-assessment- directive- guidance

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Figure 1.3: Strategic Environmental Assessment process4 (DCLG, 2015)

4 Department for Communities and Local Government (2015) Strategic environmental assessment and sustainability appraisal. Available online at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/strategic-environmental- assessment-and-sustainability-appraisal

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1.3.5 The scoping stage (Stage A) identifies the scope and level of detail of the information to be included in the SEA. It should set out the context, objectives and approach of the assessment; establish the baseline; and identify relevant environmental issues and objectives.

1.3.6 A formal scoping report is not required by law, but is a useful way of presenting information at the scoping stage. The scoping procedure should help ensure the SEA is proportionate and relevant to the NDP being assessed.

1.3.7 When deciding on the scope and level of detail of the information that must be included in the report, a competent body (in this case Stratford- on-Avon District Council) must contact the statutory consultation bodies; Historic England, Natural England and the Environment Agency.

1.4 The Neighbourhood Development Plan

1.4.1 The creation of neighbourhood plans started with the Government’s Localism Act, which came into effect in April 2012. The Act sets out a series of measures to shift power away from central government and towards local people. One of the Localism Act’s key components is the neighbourhood plan; a new tier in planning policy which enables local people to shape the development of the community in which they live.

1.4.2 Once finalised, an NDP is subject to consultation with Natural England, Historic England, the Environment Agency and the general public. Following the consultation window, the NDP is independently examined by an appropriately qualified and experienced person appointed by the local authority. Should the plan meet the basic conditions, the independent examiner will recommend that the plan proceed to the public referendum stage. If more than 50% vote ‘yes’ in the referendum, the NDP will be adopted.

SEA of the Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Plan July 2017 LC-320 _ Brailes_Scoping_Report 3 _ 040717JE.docx 2 Presenting the Sustainability Information

2.1 Introduction

2.1.1 The policy and plan review, the baseline data and the identification of environmental issues have been presented via a series of themes. The following themes covered by the SEA process is considered to be effective and in accordance with Annex 1(f) of the SEA Directive, as well as being pertinent to specific issues in Brailes:

• Biodiversity, flora and fauna; • Population; • Human health; • Soil; • Water; • Air; • Climatic factors; • Material assets; • Cultural heritage (including architectural and archaeological heritage); • Landscape; and • The inter-relationship between these factors.

2.1.2 The content of each theme, and the SEA topics to which they relate, are listed in Table 2.1.

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Table 2.1: Sustainability themes

Theme SEA Topic Contents Transportation infrastructure; Accessibility and Population; and Traffic flows; transport Material assets. Walking and cycling; and Accessibility. Air quality and pollution; Soil quality; Air; Watercourses; Air, soil and water Soil; and Water resources; Water. Water quality; Flooding; and Contaminated land.

Habitats; Species; Biodiversity and Biodiversity of flora Nature conservation designations; geodiversity and fauna Landscape features; and Geological features.

Greenhouse gas emissions; Climate change Climatic factors Effects of climate change; and Climate change adaptation. Economic performance; Economic factors Material assets; and Employment and earnings; and education Population. Skills and unemployment; and Access to education. House prices and affordability; Material assets; and Housing Housing quality and vacancy rates; and Population. Homelessness. Health indicators; Sport, fitness and activity levels; Recreation and amenity; Health, population Human health; and Population size and migration; and quality of life Population Population density; Age structure; Indices of Multiple Deprivation; and Crime. Historic development of the parish; Designated and non-designated sites and areas; Historic Cultural heritage Setting of cultural heritage assets; environment Historic landscape character assessment; and Archaeological assets. Landscape designations; Landscape and Visual amenity; Landscape townscape Landscape/townscape character; and Tranquillity. Renewable energy; Waste arisings and recycling rates; Material assets Material assets Minerals; and Previously developed land.

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2.2 Policy, Plan and Programme review

2.2.1 The plan may be influenced in various ways by other policies, plans or programmes (PPPs), or by external sustainability objectives such as those put forward in higher strategies or by legislation. The SEA process will take advantage of potential synergies between these PPPs and address any inconsistencies and constraints.

2.2.2 A summary of the PPP review is presented in the following chapters under each sustainability theme. The PPP summaries should be read alongside the more detailed information included in Appendix B. The review of PPPs is presented according to the SEA topics discussed in Section 2.1.

2.3 Baseline data collection

2.3.1 Chapters 3 to 12 present a review of current environmental, social and economic conditions affecting Brailes by sustainability theme. The purpose of the baseline review is to help define the key sustainability issues for the plan. This will enable the predicted effects of the plan to be effectively appraised.

2.3.2 The currency, resolution and presentation of data are crucial to an effective baseline. This is limited by the range of data available, but seeks to focus on data at the level of the Brailes plan area where possible. Information selected seeks to:

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• Inform the situation at the local level; • Be the most up to date; and • Be fit for purpose.

2.3.3 One of the purposes of consultation on the Scoping Report is to seek views on whether the data selected is appropriate. The baseline has been constructed utilising a wide range of data sources, with GIS (Geographic Information Systems) data where available. The data has been presented through tables, text and GIS mapping, and all data sources have been referenced as appropriate. Meaningful data for the purposes of comparison and to address the topics being assessed as part of the SA processes is not always available. Where data is available at a local scale it has been used to inform the scoping process. Where Brailes-specific data is not available, district-level or regional information has been used. Where this is the case, it is clearly stated.

2.4 Key sustainability issues

2.4.1 Drawing on the PPP review and the baseline data, Chapters 3 to 12 set out a series of key sustainability issues relevant for the plan. The identification of these will help the SEA process focus on the key sustainability problems and opportunities, which may be addressed through the plan.

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3.1 Summary of policy and plan review

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

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

3.1.3 Recent reports, including within the Stratford-on-Avon Core Strategy (2011), have shown that parking facilities and their availability can be used as an effective tool in influencing driving behaviour to improve congestion, the aesthetics of the area, safety and economic viability.

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3.2 Baseline data

Road network

3.2.1 A network of minor roads cross the Brailes plan area. The B4035 travels east to west through the village, connecting with Shipston-on-Stour to the west. This main road was the principle route around which Upper and Lower Brailes grew. The Parish boundary is defined by two, possibly earlier routes; Ditchedge Lane marking the eastern limit of the Parish, and to the north an old salt road, known as Saltway. Access to Fosse Way (A429) is approximately 6.5km to the west of the town. Travelling via the A429 from Brailes, Oxford is located 1 hour to the south, and Birmingham is located 1 hour to the north. Access to Birmingham would involve the use of the M40 and M42 motorways. The M42 can be accessed via the A429, approximately 13km from Brailes.

Rail Network

3.2.2 The nearest railway station to the Brailes plan area is Moreton-in-Marsh Railway Station, which is located 12km to the south west from the centre of the plan area. Moreton-in-Marsh Railway Station is operated by Great Western Railway and connects Moreton-in-Marsh with London Paddington and Worcester Foregate Street.

Public rights of way and cycle routes

3.2.3 Stratford-on-Avon district has an extensive Public Rights of Way (PRoW) network, including footpaths, bridleways and byways. The district network includes 3,002 footpaths, with a total length of 1,342km, and 642 bridleways, with a total length of 329 km. Within Brailes itself there is a large amount of PRoW, concentrated heavily around Lower Brailes.

3.2.4 Figure 3.1 shows the on-road and traffic-free cycle routes of the Brailes plan area.

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Figure 3.1: Sustrans map showing cycle routes in the Brailes plan area (Sustrans, 2017)

Accessibility, public transport and car ownership

3.2.5 Brailes is served by a number of local bus routes; including the 3, 3W, 3A, 7 and 5 services. Services connect Brailes with Stratford-upon-Avon, Shipston-on-Stour, Whichford and Barton-on-the-Heath. These however do not run frequently.

3.2.6 Residents within the plan area, living in the wider district, are heavily reliant on personal car use due to the disparate and predominantly rural nature of the district. Almost half of the 53,678 households in Stratford- on-Avon have two or more cars, which is among the highest levels in the UK5. Residents in Brailes favour the car to commute to work, with very few commuting by public transport6.

Box 3.1: Key Accessibility and Transport Issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP

• Reliance on personal car use is high;

• Access to sustainable transport services is poor; and

• There is a large amount of PRoW crossing through the plan area.

5 Warwickshire Local Transport Plan 2011 to 2026: http://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/Web/corporate/wccweb.nsf/Links/5D561F3BBE31F6A5802578500 05275DD/$file/Warwickshire_LTP3.pdf 6 Brailes Parish Council (2017) Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Plan

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4.1 Summary of policy and plan review

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

4.1.2 The Environment Act (1995) requires all Local Authorities to Review and Assess the air quality in their area. In areas where the air quality objectives are not anticipated to be met, Councils are required to establish Air Quality Management Areas (AQMA). Since 2000, in accordance with the air quality regulations we have been engaged in an on-going program of air quality modelling and monitoring throughout the district. A first review was undertaken in 2001 and a second review and assessment in 2004.

4.1.3 National water policies are primarily driven by the aims of the EU Water Framework Directive 2000/60/EC, as translated into national law by the Water Framework Regulations 2003. Key objectives include improving the quality of rivers and other water bodies to 'good ecological status' by 2015; considering flood risk at all stages of the plan and development process in order to reduce future damage to property and loss of life; and incorporating water efficiency measures into new developments. The Water Framework Directive also requires groundwater to reach ‘good status’ in terms of quality and quantity by 2015.

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4.1.4 National and regional strategies also have a focus on maintaining and protecting the availability of water. Severn Trent Water’s Water Resource Management Plan provides the means of enabling water to be supplied and treated in the area. Water supply and use is guided by Environment Agency’s Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies. The district is covered by the Warwickshire and Avon CAMS. Setting out how water quality can be improved, the River Basin Management Plan for the Severn river basin also has been prepared by the Environment Agency under the Water Framework Directive.

4.1.5 The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) seeks to ensure that flood risk is taken into account at all stages in the planning process to avoid inappropriate development in areas at risk of flooding, and to direct development away from areas of highest risk.

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

4.1.7 The PPPs also have a focus on protecting the quality and availability of agricultural land, through reducing soil degradation, maintaining soil

productivity, limiting compaction and range of other approaches.

4.2 Baseline data: Air Quality

4.2.1 Air quality within Straford-on-Avon is linked to emissions from road traffic and congestion. Following the implementation of the Environment Act 1995, and since the publishing of the National Air Quality Strategy in 1997, SDC have been undertaking reviews and assessments of air quality. These include assessments of the following pollutants that have been identified as posing a possible risk to human health:

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• Carbon Monoxide; • Benzene; • 1,3 – Butadiene; • Lead;

• Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2); • Sulphur Dioxide; and • Particulates.

4.2.2 Brailes is not located within a designated or planned AQMA.

4.3 Baseline data: Soil

4.3.1 As highlighted by the Soil Strategy for England7, soil is a vital natural resource, with a range of key functions. These include but are not limited to:

• Improving water quality; • Storage and cycling of water; • Storage and cycling of carbon; • Storage and cycling of nutrients; • Support of habitats and biodiversity; • Support of food, fuel and fibre production; and • Providing raw materials.

4.3.2 Stratford-on-Avon has a diverse soil resource which has developed since the last ice age 10,000 years ago. These encompass a range of soils types which reflect complex interactions between underlying geology, landform, past and existing land use and climate.

4.3.3 The value of land in agricultural terms is determined by soil quality. The Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) system grades the quality of land for agricultural purposes. These grades help inform land use decision making within the planning system. The ALC system classifies land into Grades 1 – 5, with Grade 3 subdivided into 3a and 3b. Land classified as Grade 1, 2 or 3a is considered to be land which is most versatile, productive and responsive to inputs, and which is therefore likely to deliver the greatest crop yields.

7 DEFRA (2009) Soil Strategy for England. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/safeguarding-our-soils-a-strategy-for-england

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4.3.4 Figure 4.1 illustrates Grade 2, 3 (3a or 3b) and 4 agricultural land in the Brailes plan area.

Figure 4.1: ALC map for Brailes parish area (Natural England, 2016). Land east of the plan area, shown here in white, was not surveyed.

4.4 Baseline data: Water Quality

Water resources

4.4.1 Over most of the District, Severn Trent Water (STW) is responsible for water supply, the foul drainage network and wastewater treatment. A small part of the District (the south-eastern corner) is covered by Thames Water.

4.4.2 According to the Environment Agency, water resources are under ‘moderate stress’ in the area, with some areas under ‘serious’ stress. In this context there are current and predicted supply-demand deficits within the district.

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4.4.3 Whilst the River Severn (including the River Avon) is the major source of water in the area, a number of major aquifers exist locally, including the Triassic Sherwood Sandstone Group. These sandstones are capable of supporting large abstractions and form important aquifers for water supply in these areas. Another major aquifer is in the Jurassic Great & Inferior Oolitic Limestone, which is based along the Cotswold scarp covering part of the south of the district, south of the Brailes plan area. This limestone aquifer provides an important water resource for the area and supports a number of abstractions, mainly from spring sources8.

4.4.4 Catchment Area Management Strategies (CAMS) are six year strategies developed by the Environment Agency for managing water resources at the local level. CAMS will be produced for every river catchment area in England and Wales. Straford-on-Avon is covered by the Warwickshire Avon CAMS.

4.4.5 The CAMS document contain maps and descriptions of the local Groundwater Management Units (GWMUs), groundwater and surface water, and an assessment of water availability at times of low flow, which is normally during mid to late summer. CAMS also classify each WMU into one of four categories: ‘over-abstracted’; ‘over-licensed’; ‘no water available’; or ‘water available’. The Stratford Assessment Point is listed as having water available for licensing, with abstraction available 318 days of the year.

Water Quality

4.4.6 The vulnerability of groundwater to pollution is determined by the physical, chemical and biological properties of the soil and rocks.

8 Environment Agency (2013) Warwickshire Avon abstraction licensing strategy. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/291400/LIT_2604_7a 244e.pdf

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4.4.7 Groundwater Source Protection Zones (SPZs) indicate the risk to groundwater supplies from potentially polluting activities and accidental releases of pollutants. Designed to protect individual groundwater sources, these zones show the risk of contamination from any activities that might cause pollution in the area. In this context they are used to inform pollution prevention measures in areas which are at a higher risk, and to monitor the activities of potential polluting activities nearby. There are no SPZs present across the plan area, and as such Brailes is not seen to be vulnerable to contamination.

4.4.8 Water bodies such as Hen Brook and Sutton Brook run through the plan area. However, these have not been assessed for ecological quality9.

Box 4.1: Key Air, Water and Soil Quality issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP

• New housing, employment development areas and increasing visitor numbers in the area have the potential to lead to impacts on air quality related to increased traffic flows. • ALC maps show there are areas of Grade 2 and 3 Agricultural Land within the Brailes plan area. • There are current and predicted supply-demand water deficits within the district.

9 Environment Agency (2017) Wiyby. Available at: http://maps.environment-agency.gov.uk/wiyby/

SEA of the Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Plan July 2017 LC-320 _ Brailes_Scoping_Report 3 _ 040717JE.docx 5 Biodiversity and Geodiversity

5.1 Summary of policy and plan review

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

5.1.2 The Natural Environment White Paper 10 focuses on promoting high quality natural environments, expanding multifunctional green infrastructure networks and initiating landscape scale action to support ecological networks. The White Paper specifically seeks to: protect core areas of high nature conservation value; promote corridors and ‘stepping stones’ to enable species to move between key areas; and initiate Nature Improvement Areas, where ecological functions and wildlife can be restored.

5.1.3 The White Paper is supported by the Biodiversity Strategy for England11. This seeks to halt overall biodiversity loss, support healthy, well- functioning ecosystems and establish coherent ecological networks with more and better places for nature for the benefit of wildlife and people. The Biodiversity Strategy for England also proposes introducing a new designation for Local Green Areas to enable communities to protect places that are important to them.

10 HM Government (2011) Natural England White Paper. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-natural-choice-securing-the-value-of-nature

11 DEFRA (2011) Biodiversity Strategy for England. Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/biodiversity-2020-a-strategy-for-england-s-wildlife- and-ecosystem-services

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5.1.4 The NPPF includes guidance on promoting the conservation and enhancement of the natural environment. It requires the planning system to contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures.

5.2 Baseline data

Habitats and Species

5.2.1 NPPF paragraph 117 states that “Planning policies should promote the preservation, restoration and re-creation of priority habitats, ecological networks and the recovery of priority species populations, linked to national and local targets, and identify suitable indicators for monitoring biodiversity in the plan.”

5.2.2 Stratford-on-Avon contains a diverse mosaic of habitats and species. The Stratford-on-Avon District Ecological and Geological Assessment (2010)12 advises that within Stratford-on-Avon there are local Species Action Plans (SAP) for 26 priority species which are declining or locally threatened.

5.2.3 In the settlement area of Brailes, Grass snake (Natrix natrix), black poplar (Populus nigra), smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris), badger (Meles meles), as well as bat species including brown long-eared (Plecotus auritus), common pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pipstrellus), soprano pipistrelle (Pipistrellus pygmaeus), natterers (Myotis nattereri), myotis brandt (Myotis brandtii), and common noctule (Nyctalus noctula) have all been recorded.

12 The Habitat Biodiversity Audit and Warwickshire County Council (2010) Stratford-on-Avon District Ecological and Geological Assessment. Available at: https://www.stratford.gov.uk/doc/205850/name/ED4102%20Ecological%20and%20Geological%20A ssessment%20of%20Main%20Settlements%202009%2010.pdf

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5.2.4 In the wider area, harvest mouse (Micromys minutus), barn owl (Tyot alba) and the rare star of Bethlehem (Ornithogalum pyrenacium) plant have also been recorded13.

5.2.5 The biodiversity report (2010) notes that that whilst some positive action such as enhancing and restoring the condition of some species and habitats is occurring, there are more situations where the reverse is true and overall there is a greater loss than gain.

5.2.6 Figure 5.1 illustrates findings of a Phase 1 Habitat Survey for Brailes (Upper and Lower), carried out within the Ecological and Geological Study of Local Service Villages (2012)14. The Survey (2012) ranked Brailes 34th out of 37 villages in percentage ranking for low habitat distinctiveness. However, whilst this is low in relation to the other Local Service Villages, this is still at 78.56%. There are a number of sites of semi-improved grassland in Brailes and Winderton which contribute to the high distinctiveness score (see Figure 5.1 and 5.2). Brailes and Winderton also contains a variety of woodland habitats (see Figure 5.3).

13 Stratford-on-Avon District Council (2012) Ecological and Geological Study of Local Service Villages. Brailes. Available at: https://democracy.stratford.gov.uk/documents/s18509/BraillesUpper_Lower.pdf 14 Stratford-on-Avon District Council (2012) Ecological and Geological Study of Local Service Villages. Available at: http://www.wilmcotepc.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/Ecological-and-Geological-Study- Introduction-July-2012.pdf

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Figure 5.1 Phase 1 Habitat Survey for Brailes (Upper and Lower) (Stratford-on-Avon District Council, 2012).

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Figure 5.2: Woodland habitats in relation to Brailes and Winderton urban area (MAGIC, 2017).

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Figure 5.3 Grassland habitats in relation to Brailes and Winderton urban area (MAGIC, 2017).

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Nature conservation sites and nature reserves

5.2.7 Natural England encourages local authorities to formally designate appropriate sites as ‘Local Nature Reserves’ under Section 21 of the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949. A Local Nature Reserve (LNR) designation demonstrates a commitment by the local authority to manage land for biodiversity, protect it from inappropriate development and provide opportunities for local people to study and enjoy wildlife.

5.2.8 Figure 5.4 illustrates the Statutory Nature Conservation designations in the area. The Drybank Meadow, Cherington SSSI is beyond the south western extremety of the parish, 1.5km from Upper Brailes. The parish falls within the SSSI Impact Risk Zone (IRZ) for Drybank Meadow SSSI, although the IRZ does not request that Natural England should be consulted regarding any likely risks on the SSSI as a result of development. The parish also falls within the IRZ for Whichford Wood SSSI, and as such, Natural England should be consulted on the potential impacts of the development proposed in the Brailes Neighbourhood Plan on Whichford Wood SSSI.

5.2.9 There are a number of potential Non-Statutory Nature Conservation designations throughout the plan area, including the following Local Wildlife Sites (LWS):

• Lower Brailes Meadow; • Castle Hill; • Tussy Brook Farm; • Grove End Meadows; and • Upper Brailes Meadows.

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Figure 5.4: SSSIs, SSSI Impact Risk Zones and parcels of Ancient Woodland near Brailes

Green Infrastructure

5.2.10 The Sub-Regional GI Study15 advises that there are seven sub-regionally important GI sites located in Stratford-on- Avon including five Registered Park and Gardens; Farnborough Hall, Compton Verney, Charlecote Park, Alscot Park and Ragley Hall; Burton Dassett Country Park; and lastly Bancroft Gardens / Recreation Ground.

5.2.11 In addition to the sites located within the District, there are also six additional Sub-regionally important GI sites located just outside the sub- region, but within 5km of the District including; Fawsley Hall, Wroxton Abbey, Heythrop Park, Daylesford House, Batsford Park and Rous Lench Court (all these sites are designated Registered Park and Gardens; ibid).

15 Land Use Consultants (2011) Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihill Sub-Regional Green Infrastructure Study. Available at: https://www.stratford.gov.uk/doc/205821/name/ED4133%20Sub%20Regional%20Green%20Infrastru cture%20Study%20July%202011.pdf

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5.2.12 Five areas in Brailes stand out as being valuable areas of GI16. These are The Playing Field, The Village Greens (a,b, and c), and The Allotments.

Geodiversity

5.2.13 The geodiversity of Stratford-on-Avon is an important asset for the district. Geodiversity is the collective term describing the geological variety of the Earth’s rocks, fossils, minerals, soils and landscapes together with the natural process which form and shape them. Geodiversity underpins biodiversity by providing diversity of habitat and the ecosystem, with the soil being the link between them. It also embraces the built environment by providing the basis for neighbourhood character and local distinctiveness through building stone and material.

5.2.14 Whilst the underlying bedrock geology of Stratford-on-Avon is diverse, covering four geological eras, due to the topography of the district exposures of the underlying geology are rare and are largely restricted to those found in quarries. The five main geology groups of the parish are explained in Table 5.117.

5.2.15 The bedrock geology of the Brailes & Winderton plan area is predominately Charmouth Mudstone (Figure 5.5). Upper and Lower Brailes is sited in an area of potential interest for Lower Jurassic bedrock (notably Lias Group mudstones) with considerable potential for palaeontological finds18.

5.2.16 According to the British Geological Society (BGS)19 alluvium superficial deposits are present in the local area i.e. clays, silts, sands and gravels.

16 Brailes Parish Council (2017) Rational for designating Local Green spaces in Brailes. Available at: http://www.brailesparishcouncil.co.uk/npwp/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/Rationale-for- designating-Local-Green-Spaces-Brailes-NDP-080716.pdf 17 The information provided in these sections is from Natural England, Geology of Warwickshire: http://www.naturalengland.org.uk/ourwork/conservation/geodiversity/englands/counties/area_ID37. aspx [accessed December 2013] 18 Stratford-on-Avon District Council (2012) Ecological and Geological Study of Local Service Villages. Settlement Assessment: Brailes (Upper & Lower). Available at: https://democracy.stratford.gov.uk/documents/s18509/BraillesUpper_Lower.pdf 19 British Geological Survey (2017) Geology of Britain Viewer. Available at: http://mapapps.bgs.ac.uk/geologyofbritain/home.html

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Table 5.1: Five main geology groups of Brailes

Group Characteristics

Mercia Comprising various mudstones, siltstones and sandstones formed between 228 to Mudstone 196 million years ago. The mudstones represent wind-blown dust and intermittent Group river sediments that settled in shallow salt-lakes and sun-baked mudflats, and cover much of the north and north west of the district

Penarth These rocks form a thin band between the rocks of the Mercia Mudstone Group and the Lias Group, marking the end of 'red-bed' deposition and acting as a prelude to Group the marine Lias group.

Lias Much of the south and east of the district is underlain by rocks of Jurassic age (205- 142 million years old). These were deposited as layers of mud and sand in the warm, Group tropical shallow sea which covered much of central England at this time. The oldest part of the Jurassic succession is termed the Lias and comprises clays, limestones and sands. The clays of the Lias tend to form lower-lying ground and give rise to heavy clay soils.

Middle Rocks of the Middle Jurassic are found in the far south-east of the district. A 40m band of limestone, the Marlstone Rock, represents the Middle Lias, and forms the Jurassic escarpment of Edge Hill.

Quartenery Over the last two million years the climate of Britain has varied significantly with periods of temperate climate interrupted by repeated advances and retreats of glaciers and ice sheets. Within Stratford-on-Avon evidence for the mix of glacial and warmer conditions is provided by deposits of clay, sand and gravel scattered throughout the district, representing the remnants of past landscapes and the deposits of ancient river systems. In this period significant changes have been made to the landscape; for example the River Avon was rerouted from a tributary of the River Trent to a tributary of the River Severn approximately 500,000 years ago.

Figure 5.5: Bedrock geology in the Brailes and Winderton urban area20

20 British Geological Society (2017) Available online at: bgs.ac.uk

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5.2.17 The varied geodiversity of Stratford-on-Avon district is highlighted by the presence of a number of sites designated for their geodiversity value. These include Geological SSSIs and Regionally Important Geological and Geomorphological Sites (RIGS). There are no Geological SSSIs or RIGS within Brailes.

5.2.18 Brailes Hill No. 2 is a Local Geological Site (LGS). The site is a portion of the hillside, 50m either side of a line running due west from the trigonometrical point in Highwall Spinney towards the centre of Willington village. It extends from the trigonometrical point to the stream at the foot of the hill21.

5.2.19 The site has a hillside profile reflecting the underlying Lower and Middle Jurrasic bedrock. The site qualifies as a LGS as it is a good example of lithological control of a landscape profile.

Box 5.1: Key Biodiversity and Geodiversity Issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP

• Brailes contains a habitat distinctiveness of 78.56%. • The Brailes plan area contains locally designated sites of geological importance and potential sites of biological importance. • Upper and Lower Brailes is sited in an area of potential interest for Lower Jurassic bedrock.

21 Warwickshire Geological Conservation Group (2002) Warwickshire Geological Site: 80 Brailes Hill No. 2. Available at: http://lgs.wgcg.co.uk/LoGS80.pdf

SEA of the Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Plan July 2017 LC-320 _ Brailes_Scoping_Report 3 _ 040717JE.docx 6 Climate Change

6.1 Summary of policy and plan review

6.1.1 The EU 2030 Climate and Energy Framework sets out three targets to be achieved by 2030:

• Cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by at least 40% from 1990 levels; • Have a renewable energy share of 27% (or more); and • Improve energy efficiency by 27% (or more).

6.1.2 The UK Climate Change Act 200822 sets a legally binding target of at least a 34% cut in GHG emissions by 2020 and at least an 80% cut by 2050 against a 1990 baseline. The UK Low Carbon Transition Plan23 sets out the intention for 30% of the UK’s electricity to be from renewable sources by 2020. Within the NPPF is a core planning principle relating to climate change, which aims to “support the transition to a low carbon future in a changing climate, taking full account of flood risk and coastal change, and encourage the reuse of existing resources, including the conversion of existing buildings, and encourage the use of renewable resources”.

22 UK Government (2008) Climate Change Act 2008, Available online at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2008/27/pdfs/ukpga_20080027_en.pdf 23 UK Government (2009) The UK Low Carbon Transition Plan – National strategy for climate and energy. Available online at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/228752/9780108508 394.pdf

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6.1.3 Other relevant plans, programmes and policies include, but are not limited to, the EU’s Energy Road Map 205024, UK Climate Change Risk Assessment 2017 25 , Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Preparing for a Changing Climate26 and the National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy Infrastructure (EN-3)27.

6.1.4 With regards to how local planning authorities can support the UK’s move to a low carbon future, the NPPF recommends locating new development in locations which reduce GHG emissions, actively supporting energy efficiency improvements to existing buildings and setting building requirements in line with the Government’s zero carbon buildings policy.

6.1.5 In general, climate-related PPPs focus on both mitigating the causes of climate change and adapting to the effects of climate change. Commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions have been introduced from the international level to the sub-regional level. The PPPs address policy development across all sectors and at all levels, combining both demand management (reduced energy consumption and increased efficiency of use) and supply-side measures (low carbon options including fuel mix and renewables). A number of the PPPs state specific targets to reduce emissions of greenhouse gases.

6.1.6 Climate change and energy efficiency policies and programmes to encourage sustainable development are set out by central Government. The National Building Regulations, as updated March 2015, require certain levels of sustainable construction to be met and provide guidance on additional, optional regulations for water and access. The government has outlined, through the Localism Bill the importance of sustainable development and its commitments to reducing carbon emissions and greenhouse gases.

24 EU Commission (2012) Energy Road Map 2015. Available online at: https://ec.europa.eu/energy/sites/ener/files/documents/2012_energy_roadmap_2050_en_0.pdf 25 Committee on Climate Change (2017) UK Climate Change Risk Assessment 2017. Available online at: https://www.theccc.org.uk/tackling-climate-change/preparing-for-climate-change/uk-climate-change- risk-assessment-2017/ 26 DEFRA (2011) Climate Resilient Infrastructure: Preparing for a Changing Climate. Available online: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/69269/climate- resilient-infrastructure-full.pdf 27 DECC (2011) National Policy Statement for Renewable Energy Infrastructure (EN-3). Available online at: https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/37048/1940-nps- renewable-energy-en3.pdf

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

6.2 Baseline data

Potential effects of climate change

6.2.1 Anthropogenic-induced climate change is an increasing concern for the all corners of the world, although it has different impacts in different locations. Emissions could continue to rise and future development may not be as low carbon as possible, with potential for little demand for locally generated sustainable energy. It is therefore important for all development plans, including the Brailes Neighbourhood Plan, to encourage sustainable development and construction, and support low carbon energy sources.

6.2.2 In June 2009 the outcome of research on the probable effects of climate change in the UK was released by the UK Climate Projections (UKCP09) team. UKCP09 gives climate information for the UK up to the end of this century and projections of future changes to the climate are provided, based on simulations from climate models. Projections are broken down to a regional level across the UK and are shown in probabilistic form, which illustrate the potential range of changes and the level of confidence in each prediction.

6.2.3 The UK Climate Predictions looks at temperature and precipitation up to 2080 for the UK and specific regions (in this case West Midlands). Projections for the West Midlands for the years 2020 and 2050 are listed in Table 6.1.

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Table 6.1: Temperature and precipitation changes, as a result of climate change, forecast for the West Midlands28

Year 2020 Year 2050

Mean winter Low emissions scenario: Low emissions scenario: temperature Central estimate of increase 1.2ºC Central estimate of increase 1.8ºC High emissions scenario: High emissions scenario: Central estimate of increase 1.2ºC Central estimate of increase 2.3ºC

Mean summer Low emissions scenario: Low emissions scenario: temperature Central estimate of increase 1.5ºC Central estimate of increase 2.3ºC High emissions scenario: High emissions scenario: Central estimate of increase 1.4ºC Central estimate of increase 2.9ºC

Mean winter Low emissions scenario: Low emissions scenario: precipitation Central estimate of change Central estimate of change +5% +10% High emissions scenario: High emissions scenario: Central estimate of change Central estimate of change +6% +14%

Mean summer Low emissions scenario: Low emissions scenario: precipitation Central estimate of change Central estimate of change -6% -12% High emissions scenario: High emissions scenario: Central estimate of change Central estimate of change -4% -17%

28 UK Met Office (2014) Climate projections: West Midlands. Available online at: http://ukclimateprojections.metoffice.gov.uk/21708?projections=23754 . Accessed 30.06.17

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Figure 6.1: Changes in mean annual temperature in the West Midlands to 2099 as a result of a low emissions scenario (UK Climate Projections, 2009)

Figure 6.2: Changes in mean annual temperature in the West Midlands to 2099 as a result of a high emissions scenario (UK Climate Projections, 2009)

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Flooding

6.2.4 The risk of fluvial flooding is illustrated in Figure 6.3. Land in Flood Zone 2 is considered to have a 1 in 100 to 1 in 1000 year chance of flooding. Land in Flood Zone 3 is considered to have a 1 in 100, or greater, chance of flooding (Flood Zone 3 is subdivided in to 3a and 3b).

6.2.5 Brailes is considered to have a relatively limited area at risk of fluvial flooding, which is associated with a single waterway running south from the centre of the parish down to the River Stour.

Figure 6.3: Extent of Flood Zones 2 and 3 in Brailes (Environment Agency, 2016)

6.2.6 Surface water flooding takes place when the ground, rivers and drainage systems cannot absorb heavy rainfall. Typically this type of flooding is localised and occurs quickly after heavy rain. It is often a significant issue in areas where natural drainage has been heavily modified. The Environment Agency’s flood risk mapping tool indicates that Brailes has various locations at a high risk of surface water flooding (see Figure 6.4).

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Figure 6.4: Risk of flooding from surface water (Environment Agency, 2016)

Greenhouse gas emissions

6.2.7 The requirement to improve the energy efficiency of homes stems from the legal requirements to reduce carbon dioxide (CO ) emissions set out 2 in the Climate Change Act 2008 and the government’s Carbon Plan, published in 2011. The Carbon Plan sets to reduce greenhouse gas CO 2 emissions by 29% by 2017, 35% by 2022, and 50% by 2027. For buildings this means a reduction between 24% and 39% compared to 2009 levels by 2027.

6.2.8 In 2014, 7.6 tonnes of carbon dioxide were emitted per person in Stratford. This is a 16% reduction on 2005 levels, although emissions per person remain higher in Stratford than in any other district of Warwickshire.

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6.2.9 Emissions per capita in the West Midlands are on a par with emissions per capita for the whole of England, but are greater than the emissions per capita in the South West or in Greater London (see Table 6.2). Table 6.3 suggests this may be due to the greater CO2 emissions from industrial and commercial sources in the West Midlands. According to Figure 6.5, climate change mitigation and the promotion of a low carbon economy in Warwickshire declined between 2010 and 2013.

Table 6.2: End-user CO2 emissions: regional summary 201329

Region Total emissions Per capita emissions (million tonnes CO ) (tonnes CO per capita) 2 2

G. London 41.2 4.9

West Midlands 38.0 6.7

South West 34.5 6.4

England 361.4 6.7

Table 6.3: Per capita CO2 emissions by sector: regional summary 2013 (DECC, 2015)

Industrial & Domestic Transport LULUCF commercial

Region Per capita emissions (tonnes carbon dioxide per capita)

G. London 2.2 1.8 0.9 0.0

W. Midlands 2.5 2.0 2.1 0.0

South West 2.2 2.0 2.1 0.1

England 2.8 2.0 1.9 0.0

29 DECC (2015) 2005 to 2013 UK local and regional CO2 emissions: statistical release. Available online at: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/uk-local-authority-and-regional-carbon-dioxide- emissions-national-statistics-2005-2013. Accessed 03.07.17

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Figure 6.5: Climate change mitigation and promotion of the low carbon economy between 2010 and 2013 in Warwickshire

Green Infrastructure

6.2.10 Green Infrastructure (GI) is a network of multi-functional green space, urban and rural, which is capable of delivering a wide range of environmental and quality of life benefits for local communities (NPPF, 2012). GI has many benefits including to human health, climate change adaptation and wildlife value. It can play an important role in helping urban areas adapt to climate change, by reducing airborne pollutants, providing shade and local cooling and reducing surface water runoff30. This topic is discussed further in Chapter 5.

Box 6.1: Key Climate Change issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP

• Climate change has the potential to increase the risk of fluvial and surface water flooding. • There are some parts of the plan area that are at high risk of fluvial and surface water flooding. • Changes in temperature and precipitation levels as a result of climate change are likely to have resulting impacts on invasive species, changes in farming practices and soil erosion. • The GI should be enhanced and expanded.

30 Forest Research (2010) Benefits of Green Infrastructure. Available at: http://www.forestry.gov.uk/pdf/urgp_benefits_of_green_infrastructure.pdf/$FILE/urgp_benefits_of_ green_infrastructure.pdf

SEA of the Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Plan July 2017 LC-320 _ Brailes_Scoping_Report 3 _ 040717JE.docx 7 Economic Factors

7.1 Summary of policy and plan review

7.1.1 Improvement and maintenance of high and stable levels of economic growth and employment are key aims of the strategies at UK and European levels. Other objectives include improvements to the education system to increase the skill levels of both children and adults, as well as improved productivity and innovation, particularly with regards to technology.

7.1.2 At a regional and local level, emphasis is placed on community cohesion and regeneration, building business and enterprise, developing skills and employment, supporting strategic infrastructure requirements and promoting investment.

7.2 Baseline data

Economic performance

7.2.1 There are approximately 7,730 active businesses in Stratford-on-Avon with almost half being ten or more years old (47.7%)31. The second largest age group for businesses in Stratford-on-Avon is 4 to 9 years old (23.2%)32. The smaller amount of younger businesses within Stratford-on- Avon shows that less start up enterprises are locating in the area.

Employment and earnings

7.2.2 The percentage of Stratford-on-Avon residents in employment is higher than the percentage for the West Midlands and Great Britain. The number of Stratford-on-Avon residents who are economically active is also higher than the West Midlands and Great Britain. The percentage of Stratford-on-Avon residents who are unemployed is lower than the West Midlands and Great Britain (see Table 7.1).

31 ONS (2015) Neighbourhood Statistics (census data). Available at: http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk

32 Ibid.

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Table 7.1: Employment and unemployment rates in Stratford-on-Avon (all people)33

Variable Stratford-on-Avon (%) West Midlands (%) Great Britain (%)

Economically active 83.1 75.4 77.8

In employment 79.9 71.1 74.0

Unemployed 2.4 5.5 4.8

7.2.3 Table 7.2 identifies the level of employment in Stratford-on-Avon across the core economic sectors. Levels of employment in managers, directors and senior officials, and associate professional & technical are notably higher in Stratford-on-Avon compared to the West Midlands and Great Britain.

Table 7.2: Employment by occupation (Apr 2015 - Mar 2016)34

Stratford-on- West Midlands Occupation Great Britain (%) Avon (%) (%)

Managers, directors and 13.8 9.7 10.6 senior officials

Professional occupations 19.7 17.6 20.3

Associate professional & 23.5 13.0 14.4 technical

Administrative & 10.9 10.6 10.2 secretarial

Skilled trades 9.9 11.1 10.3 occupations

Caring, leisure and Other 5.5 9.0 9.1 Service occupations

Sales and customer 5.7 7.5 7.5 service occupations

Process plant and / 8.1 6.4 machine operatives

Elementary occupations 9.2 13.1 10.7

7.2.4 As shown in Table 7.2, the occupation with the highest percentage of the workforce in Stratford-on-Avon is Associate professional & technical (23.5%) followed by Professional Occupations (19.7%).

33 Ibid. 34 NOMIS (2016) Labour Market Profile – Stratford-on-Avon https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/1946157184/printable.aspx

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7.2.5 The percentage of residents in Stratford-on-Avon claiming Job Seeker’s Allowance is 0.6%. This is lower than the percentage for Great Britain at 1.1%35.

7.2.6 According to the Official Labour Market Statistics (2016) gross weekly earnings for full time workers in Stratford-on-Avon were £572. This figure compared to £510 for the West Midlands and £540.2 in Great Britain, demonstrating that the average income in the District is higher than the regional and national average36.

Box 7.1: Key Economic and Education Issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP • There are limited opportunities for new employment land in Stratford-on-Avon. • Residents are generally well educated and work in professional occupations.

35 Ibid. 36 NOMIS (2016) Labour Market Profile – Stratford-on-Avon https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/1946157184/printable.aspx

SEA of the Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Plan July 2017 LC-320 _ Brailes_Scoping_Report 3 _ 040717JE.docx 8 Housing

8.1 Summary of policy and plan review

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

8.1.2 County-wide plans and strategies focus on the affordability of housing, the quality of housing, access to services, and meeting the housing needs of vulnerable people. The housing needs of elderly people, disabled people and gypsies, travellers and travelling show-people are also considered by relevant local policies.

8.2 Baseline data

Housing stock, house prices and affordable housing

8.2.1 The average house price in the Stratford-on-Avon District for all types of dwellings was £269,000 in Spring 2012 compared to £203,000 for Warwickshire as a whole. Average prices vary from £130,000 for a flat or maisonette (on average across the District) to £414,000 for detached properties. House prices in the District have grown just 1.7% in the District between 2006-11 (and remained static across the region). However taking account of inflation, house prices have fallen in real terms over this period37.

37 GL Hearn (2013) Strategic Housing Market Assessment Update: Stratford-on-Avon District Council. Available at: https://democracy.stratford.gov.uk/mgConvert2PDF.aspx?ID=20989

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8.2.2 The affordability of market housing is particularly challenging. Across Stratford-on-Avon District, entry-level (lower quartile) house prices are on average 4.5 times (lower quartile) household incomes. 26% of households in the District have insufficient income to be able to afford market housing, either to purchase or rent, without some form of subsidy or equity built-up in existing homes38.

8.2.3 There were 53,700 homes in the District in 2011, 13% of which being classified as affordable housing. The remaining 87% are predominantly privately owned and either owner occupied or privately rented.

8.2.4 The District’s housing offer is biased towards larger detached and semi- detached properties with around a third of properties in 2001 having four or more bedrooms; and 34% of properties in 2011 falling in Council Tax Bands E-H.

8.2.5 In 2001 the private rented sector accommodated 7.8% of households in the District. The private rented sector has however grown substantially in size over the last decade: across the West Midlands it grew by 115% between 2000-10. It is likely to have grown in Stratford-on-Avon District as well. Although statistics are not available, the evidence suggests that it may have grown less substantially than in other parts of the West Midlands region39.

Box 8.1: Key Housing Issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP

• The population of Brailes parish and Stratford-on-Avon is expected to grow in the next twenty years. This will increase pressures on housing provision. • Affordability of housing is challenging. 26% of households in the District have insufficient income to be able to afford market housing. • The private rented sector has grown substantially in size over the last decade.

38 Ibid. 39 GL Hearn (2013) Strategic Housing Market Assessment Update: Stratford-on-Avon District Council. Available at: https://democracy.stratford.gov.uk/mgConvert2PDF.aspx?ID=20989

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9.1 Summary of policy and plan review

9.1.1 PPPs on population are relatively limited, although a range of plans and policies bear secondary impacts for population matters. For example, one objective of the EU Sustainable Development Strategy40 is to tackle ‘the economic and social implications of an ageing society’. An objective of the Europe 2020 Strategy41, which aims to help the EU achieve ‘smart, sustainable and inclusive growth’, is to prioritise inclusive growth by ‘fostering a high-employment economy delivering social and territorial cohesion’.

9.1.2 The NPPF addresses the issue of the UK’s changing population whilst highlighting the important role local authorities can plan in supporting vibrant communities. A core planning principle of the NPPF is that planning should improve health, social and cultural wellbeing for all, whilst local authorities should ‘understand and take account of the health status and needs of the local population (such as for sports, recreation and places of worship)’. According to the NPPF, ‘pursuing sustainable development involves seeking positive improvements in… people’s quality of life, including… making it easier for jobs to be created… and improving the conditions in which people live, work, travel and take leisure…’.

40 EU (2006) Renewed EU Sustainable Development Strategy – Brussels, 9 June 2006. Available online at: http://register.consilium.europa.eu/doc/srv?l=EN&f=ST%2010117%202006%20INIT 41 EU (2017) Europe 2020 Strategy, available online at: http://ec.europa.eu/europe2020/index_en.htm

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9.1.3 The UK government published the Crime Disorder Act in 199842 and a Health and Social Care Act in 201243. The Equality Act 201044 sets out that people should not be disadvantaged on the basis of age; disability; gender; proposed, commenced or completed gender reassignment; race; religion or belief and sexual orientation.

9.1.4 The Warwickshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2014 – 2018 aims to allow people to enjoy a good quality life and maximise their potential45. The Health Protection Strategy 2017 – 2021 was approved by the Warwickshire Health and Wellbeing Board in March 2017 and focusses on the key areas of air quality, tuberculosis, viral hepatitis, general screening and immunisation programmes, emergency planning, infection control and excess winter deaths46.

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

9.1.6 Objectives of PPPs on quality of life regularly focus on improving social progress and social inclusion; reducing poverty; improving housing quality; preventing crime, anti-social behaviour and truancy; improving skill levels and employability; and regenerating communities.

42 UK Government (1998) Crime and Disorder Act 1998. Available online at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1998/37/contents 43 UK Government (2012) Health and Social Care Act 2012. Available online at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2012/7/contents/enacted 44 UK Government (2010) Equality Act 2010. Available online at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2010/15/contents 45 Warwickshire County Council (2014) Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2014-2018. Available online at: https://apps.warwickshire.gov.uk/api/documents/WCCC-630-353 46 Warwickshire County Council (2017) Health Protection Strategy 2017 – 2021. Available online at: http://hwb.warwickshire.gov.uk/2017/04/06/health-protection-strategy/

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

9.2 Baseline data

9.2.1 The residents of Stratford-on-Avon are generally healthy, with 48.2% of people in the district describing their health as very good (2015-16 Census). This is higher than the percentage for Warwickshire (47.4%).

9.2.2 Data on numbers of people living with physical disabilities aged 18-64 provide an indication of prevalence of disability among the population. Stratford-on-Avon has a total of 7,864 disabled residents (2012), which is predicted to rise to 8,172 by 2020. This is higher than that of Rugby (6,793) and Nuneaton & Bedworth (8,039), however is lower than the predicted level for Warwick (9,031)47.

9.2.3 In 2011/12 in Warwickshire, there were 3,169 patients on the GP disease register for dementia.48 The diagnosed number in Stratford-on-Avon District, for 2011/12, was 915. However, population prevalence data suggests that only 43% of people in Warwickshire with dementia have been formally diagnosed. This equates to over 4,000 people without a diagnosis. In line with a growing and ageing population, numbers of people with dementia are set to increase by 57%.

47 Warwickshire County Council (2013) Warwickshire Joint Strategic Needs Assessment. Available at: http://news.warwickshire.gov.uk/healthprofessionals/files/2012/08/JSNA-Annual-Update-2013- Stratford-on-Avon-District.pdf 48 Ibid.

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9.2.4 Average life expectancy in Stratford-on-Avon is 80.9 for men and 84.6 for women49 (2015). Although this is higher than averages for England, life expectancy is lower in those parts of the district which exhibit forms of deprivation. For example, in the most deprived areas of Stratford-on- Avon, on average, the predicted life expectancy for men is 3.1 years and women 6.7 years less for those living in the least deprived areas of the district50.

9.2.5 Rates of early death from heart disease, stroke and from cancer have fallen over the past 10 years and both remain below the England average. Indicators of child health are also mostly good in the district, with 14.8% (166) of children in Year 6 classified as obese, better than the average for England. Levels of teenage pregnancy and GCSE attainment are also better than the England average51.

9.2.6 The health summary in Figure 8.1 highlights the generally high levels of health in the district.

9.2.7 Indictors that are worse in Stratford-on-Avon than the rest of England include:

• Suicide rate; • Killed and seriously injured on roads; and • Excess weight in adults.

49 Public Health Outcomes Framework, Indicators. Available at: http://www.phoutcomes.info/ 50 Public Health England (2016), Stratford-on-Avon Health Profile 2016: http://fingertipsreports.phe.org.uk/health-profiles/2016/e07000221.pdf 51 Ibid.

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Figure 9.1: Health Summary for Stratford-on-Avon

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Health Facilities

9.2.8 There are no GP surgeries located in the plan area. The nearest GP surgery to Brailes is Sibford Surgery located at Burdrop, Banbury, approximately 5km from Upper Brailes. This surgery is currently accepting new patients, although its exact capacity is not known52.

9.2.9 The nearest NHS hospital is the Ellen Badger Hospital in Shipston-on- Stour, approximately 4.5km from Upper Brailes. This NHS Hospital however has limited services, focusing on patient rehabilitation to enable them to return to the community53. For further extensive NHS facilities, Horton General Hospital is located 10km to the east of Upper Brailes, and North Cotswold Hospital is located 13km to the south west.

Open Space, Sports and Recreational facilities

9.2.10 There are a range of open spaces available for public access in Stratford- on-Avon, including the following:

• Arrow Nature Reserve; • Bancroft Gardens; • Bridgetown Woodlands; • Firs Gardens; • Recreation Ground*; • Shottery Fields*; • Warwick Road Lands; and • Welcombe Hills and Clopton Park.

9.2.11 There are a number of large, publically accessible green spaces in the Plan area. The following locations are designated as Local Green Space: the village playing field in Lower Brailes; the three large village greens (The Lower Green, the War Memorial Green; and the Upper Green, known as ‘Salcracks’). GI is important for human health as it provides open recreational space, which may encourage physical exercise, and an attractive public realm, which may contribute to mental wellbeing.

52 NHS (2017) NHS Choices. Available at: http://www.nhs.uk/service-search/GP/Banbury/Results/4/- 1.34/52.063/4/1037?distance=25&ResultsOnPageValue=10&isNational=0&totalItems=316¤tPage =2

53 Ibid.

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9.2.12 In terms of recreational facilities within the plan area, there is a village playing field; a village hall, pavilion and a children’s play area.

Population and migration

9.2.13 In 2016, the population of Stratford-on-Avon district was approximately 122,30054. The largest settlement in the district is Stratford-upon-Avon, which is the district’s principal administrative and retail centre, and home to approximately 26,100 people. However 80% of the district’s population live outside of Stratford-upon-Avon, with the rest of the population split between the main rural settlements of Alcester, Henley- in-Arden, Shipston-on-Stour and Southam, the local centres and many smaller villages and hamlets. Nearly 45% of residents live in parishes with a population of less than 3,000 55. Stratford-on-Avon has a very low population density, and the district as a whole has a population density of 122 people per square kilometre hectare56, the lowest of authorities in Warwickshire.

9.2.14 Since 2001 the population of the district has grown from 111,600, an increase of 6.5% from 2001-2009. This is a higher rate of increase than the figures for the West Midlands and England during the same period, which were 2.85% and 4.8% respectively57.

Age Structure

9.2.15 The age structure of the Stratford-on-Avon population is detailed in Table 8.158. Stratford-on-Avon generally has a higher proportion of residents aged 65 and over than in Warwickshire as a whole.

54 NOMIS (2015) Labour Market Profile – Stratford-on-Avon. Available at: https://www.nomisweb.co.uk/reports/lmp/la/1946157184/report.aspx 55 SDC (December 2010): Annual Monitoring Report 2010 56 Warwickshire Observatory: Stratford-on-Avon District profile: http://www.warwickshireobservatory.org/observatory/observatorywcc.nsf/0/2354100779AB226E8025 76AB0035A2F7/$file/Stratford-on-Avon%20District%20Profile1.pdf 57 Source: Neighbourhood Statistics http://www.neighbourhood.statistics.gov.uk 58 Stratford-on-Avon District Council (2016) Annual Monitoring Report. Available at: https://www.stratford.gov.uk/doc/205794/name/SDC%20Authority%20Monitoring%20Report%202015 %2016%20Mar%202017.pdf/

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Table 9.1: Age structure of Stratford-on-Avon in relation to Warwickshire

65 and Location All ages 0-14 15-24 25-49 50-64 over

Stratford-on- 120,485 15.8% 11% 30.5% 21.8% 15.3% Avon

Warwickshire 545,474 16.7% 12% 33.6% 19.4% 12.5%

Box 9.1: Key Health Issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP

• Health levels are generally good; • There are no GP surgeries located in the Brailes & Winderton plan area; and • Overall there is considered to be good access to GI for residents in Brailes & Winderton.

SEA of the Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Plan July 2017 LC-320 _ Brailes_Scoping_Report 3 _ 040717JE.docx 10 Historic Environment

10.1 Summary of policy and plan review

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

10.1.2 Regional guidance provides information on the way in which streets and public open spaces are managed in order to reinforce local character, creating a set of general principles for the continuing maintenance and enhancement of space. The Local PPPs are in line with the regional, national and international PPPs, providing more specific guidance and information.

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10.1.3 Relevant plans, policies and programmes include the World Heritage Convention59, Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 197960, the Government’s Statement on the Historic Environment for England 2010 61 , Heritage 2020: Strategic Priorities for England’s Historic Environment 2015-20262, Strategy for the Historic Environment: Heritage Counts63 and Historic England Good Practice Advice in Planning Notes 1- 364.

10.2 Summary of baseline data

Designated features

10.2.1 Many important features and areas for the historic environment in the Brailes plan area are recognised through historic environment designations; listed buildings, which are nationally designated, and Conservation Areas (see Figure 9.1 and 9.2). Historic England is the statutory consultee for certain categories of listed building consent and all applications for scheduled monument consent. The historic environment is protected through the planning system, via conditions imposed on developers and other mechanisms.

10.2.2 Listed buildings are those that have been placed on the Statutory List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest. There are 53 listed buildings located in the Brailes plan area. There are 51 Grade II and one Grade II* listed building, the Old Rectory Farmhouse and attached Roman Catholic Chapel of Saint Peter and Saint Paul. There is one Grade I listed building, at the Church of St George.

59 United Nations (1972) World Heritage Convention, available online at: http://whc.unesco.org/en/conventiontext/ 60 UK Government (1979) Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, available online at: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1979/46 61 UK Government (2010) Statement on the historic Environment for England 2010 - Parts 1,2 and 3, available online at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-governments-statement-on-the- historic-environment-for-england 62 Heritage 2020 (2015) Strategic Priorities for England’s Historic Environment 2015-2020, available online at: http://www.theheritagealliance.org.uk/tha-website/wp-content/uploads/2014/11/Heritage- 2020-framework.pdf 63 Historic England (2016) Heritage Counts, The Historic Environment, available online at: https://content.historicengland.org.uk/content/heritage-counts/pub/2016/heritage-counts-sector- overview-2016.pdf 64 Historic England (2015) Good Practice Advice in Planning Notes 1-3, available online at: https://historicengland.org.uk/images-books/publications/

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10.2.3 A Scheduled Ancient Monument (SAM) is a nationally important archaeological site or historic feature that is given protection under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. The Brailes plan area contains a Castle Hill, a SAM located to the south of Upper Brailes.

10.2.4 Conservation areas are areas of special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance. Local authorities have the power to designate conservation areas in any area of 'special architectural or historic interest' whose character or appearance is worth protecting or enhancing. This is judged against local and regional criteria, rather than national importance (as is the case with listing). Conservation Area designations increase the local planning authority's control over demolition of buildings and over certain alterations to residential properties that would normally be classed as 'permitted development' and not require planning permission.

10.2.5 There are two conservation areas located within the Brailes plan area. These conservation areas are located in the urban area of Lower Brailes (Figure 9.1) and in the hamlet of Winderton (Figure 9.2).

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Figure 10.1: Brailes Conservation Areas (Brailes Parish Council, 2017)

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Figure 10.2: Winderton Conservation Areas (Brailes Parish Council, 2017)

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Non-designated features

10.2.6 It should be noted that not all of the district’s historic environment resource and heritage assets are subject to statutory designations; non- designated features comprise a significant aspect of heritage which is often experienced on a daily basis by many people – whether at home, work or leisure. Whilst not listed, many buildings, such as places of worship, and other features are of historic interest. Likewise, not all nationally important archaeological remains are scheduled. There may be unrecorded archaeological artefacts in the area, which have not yet been discovered.

Archaeology

10.2.7 The Excavation Index (EI) is a guide to the archaeological excavations and interventions carried out in England since the earliest days of scientific archaeology, and an index to the location of the excavation archives and finds. The records for Brailes contain twelve events including observations and excavations65. The Brailes & Winderton plan area includes a number of archaeological finds, many of which revealing human activity from the Bronze Age to the 15th Century66.

Box 10.1: Key Historic Environment Issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP

• Development in the district may have the potential to lead to effects on historic landscapes and cause direct damage to archaeological monuments and buildings, conservation areas and / or their settings; and • Archaeological remains, both seen and unseen have the potential to be affected by new development areas.

65 Heritage Gateway (2012) NMR Excavation Index. Available at: http://www.heritagegateway.org.uk/Gateway/Results_Application.aspx?resourceID=304 66 Brailes Parish Council (2017) Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Development Plan

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11.1 Summary of policy and plan review

11.1.1 At the EU, national, regional and local levels emphasis is placed on the protection of landscape as an essential component of people’s surroundings and sense of place. The PPPs seek to increase recognition of the linkages and interplay between the different aspects and roles of landscape, including: local distinctiveness; the historic environment; natural resources; farming, forestry and food; educational, leisure and recreation opportunities; transport and infrastructure; settlements and nature conservation.

11.1.2 Policies generally advocate the provision of open space, green networks and woodland as opportunities for sport and recreation, creating healthier communities, supporting and enhancing biodiversity, reducing temperatures in built up areas in summer, reducing the impact of noise and air pollution, and limiting the risk of flooding.

11.2 Baseline data

Areas of Restraint

11.2.1 Areas of Restraint (AORs), or green wedges, originally derived in the district of Stratford from a Warwickshire County Council structure plan policy. AORs occur in some of the main settlements in the district where the Green Belt designations do not apply. According to the Stratford-on- Avon District Local Plan Review 1996 – 2011 (LPR), development would only be permitted in AORs where it would be ancillary to agriculture, it would not harm or threaten the open nature of the area or exceptional circumstances can be demonstrated. The existing AORs in the district mainly relate to river corridors near settlements. The 2011 Landscape Sensitivity Assessment considered them worthy of protection as they contribute strongly to settlement character67. No AORs are located in Brailes.

67 White Consultants (2011) Stratford-on-Avon Landscape Sensitivity Assessment, July 2011

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Landscape character

11.2.2 Warwickshire County Council’s Landscape Team considered the unique and distinctive landscapes of the county and produced several landscape maps and guidelines. The Avon character map displays Brailes as being in the Cotswold Fringe, characterised by a varied and undulating topography of small hills, pockets of pasture, small and nucleated villages as well as deserted medieval village sites 68 . The county council recommend a management strategy of conserving and enhancing the overall structure and pastoral, wooded character of the landscape.

National Character Area

11.2.3 Brailes is located in the Cotswolds National Character Area (NCA), although Upper Brailes is adjacent to the Dunsmore & Feldon NCA. The dominant pattern of the Cotswolds NCA is “of a steep scarp crowned by a high, open wold; the beginning of a long and rolling dip slope cut by a series of increasingly wooded valleys”69.

Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

11.2.4 A large proportion of Brailes is located in the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). AONBs are formally designated and protected landscapes that offer benefits to wildlife and people, and which provide a range of ecosystem services.

11.2.5 The Cotswolds AONB Management Plan 2013 – 2018 was produced by the Cotswolds Conservation Board. This Plan aims to help fully deliver the potential economic, health, biodiversity, green infrastructure, climatic and tranquil benefits of the AONB70.

68 Warwickshire County Council, available online at: https://apps.warwickshire.gov.uk/api/documents/WCCC-688-144 . Accessed 06.07.17 69 Natural England (2013) NCA Profile: 107. Cotswolds (NE420) Available online at: http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/5900626 70 Cotswolds Conservation Board (2013) Cotswolds AONB Management Plan 2013 – 2018 . Available online at: http://www.cotswoldsaonb.org.uk/management_plan/engagement.html . Accessed 30.06.17

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11.2.6 Development within Cotswolds AONB should not diminish the ability of the AONB to continue to successfully fulfil its main purposes, which are to conserve and enhance the natural beauty of the landscape, to meet the need for quiet enjoyment of the countryside and to have regard for the interested of those who live and work there.

Figure 11.1: Cotswolds AONB in relation to Brailes

Box 11.1: Key Landscape issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP

• The parish is located within Cotswolds AONB; • The Cotswolds Fringe landscape character requires the conservation and enhancement of its overall structure and pastoral, wooded character.

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12.1 Summary of policy and plan review

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

12.1.2 National level PPPs seek to the protect minerals resources and promote appropriate after uses for minerals workings. PPPs at all levels seek to promote the ‘waste hierarchy’. The waste hierarchy seeks to prioritise waste management in the following order: reduction; reuse; recycling and composting; energy recovery; and disposal. National and regional PPPs also support the use of previously developed land.

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

12.2 Baseline data

Water

12.2.1 Stratford-on-Avon District is located in the ‘Strategic Grid’ Water Resource Zone (WRZ) of Severn Trent Water (STW). A WRZ is the largest possible zone in which customers share the same risk of a resource shortfall. The Water Resource Management Plan (WRMP) for the Strategic Grid WRZ identifies a headroom surplus in water availability for the planning period up to 2040 when considering the projected growth in demand. STW have also identified a number of schemes to increase water efficiency in this WRZ.

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Energy

12.2.2 The Western Power Distribution network of over 220,000km of lines and cables provides 2.4 million people in the West Midlands with electricity.

12.2.3 Renewable energy production in Stratford-on-Avon is predominantly focussed around wind and biomass. The 2010 ‘Renewable and Low Carbon Energy Resource Assessment and Feasibility Study’ suggests that Stratford-on-Avon has a renewable energy resource potential of 31.6% - 48.2%, which is significantly more than other nearby districts (see Figure 12.1).

Figure 12.1: Potential proportion of energy supplied by renewable resources by 2021 under elevated circumstances71

Waste and minerals

12.2.4 In 2013 Warwickshire Waste Partnership updated Warwickshire’s Municipal Waste Management Strategy, which was originally adopted in 2005. The strategy provides a framework for managing waste in Warwickshire until 2020, the objectives of which are related to reducing waste, developing sustainable solutions and achieving ambitions re-use, recycling and composting targets72.

71 Camco (2010) Renewable and Low Carbon Energy Resource Assessment and Feasibility Study. 72 Warwickshire Waste Partnership (2005) Municipal Waste Management Strategy . Available online at: https://apps.warwickshire.gov.uk/api/documents/WCCC-684-63 Accessed 30.06.17

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12.2.5 The Municipal Waste Management Strategy lays out the actions and indicators behind achieving sustainable waste management in the county, as well as the role waste management can play in reducing GHG emissions (see Figure 12.2).

Figure 12.2: Achieving sustainable waste management in Warwickshire73

12.2.6 According to the British Geological Society, there are no Mineral Safeguarding Areas (MSAs) in Brailes. MSAs in Warwickshire predominantly relate to sand, gravel and cement74.

Box 12.1: Key Material Assets Issues for the Brailes & Winderton NDP • Identify and support opportunities for renewable energy provision locally without adversely impacting Cotswolds AONB; • There are no minerals safeguarding areas or minerals deposits in the Brailes & Winderton NDP area.

73 Warwickshire Waste Partnership (2005) Municipal Waste Management Strategy . Available online at: https://apps.warwickshire.gov.uk/api/documents/WCCC-684-63 Accessed 30.06.17 74 British Geological Survey (2009) All Warwickshire MSAs. Available online at: https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/msa . Accessed 06.07.17

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13.1 The purpose of the SEA Framework

13.1.1 The Brailes and Winderton Neighbourhood Development Plan will be assessed through an SEA Framework of objectives and decision-making criteria. The full SEA Framework for the NDP is presented in Appendix A.

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

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

13.2 Strategic Environmental Assessment objectives

13.2.1 The purpose of the SEA objectives is to provide a way of ensuring the proposed NDP policies consider the needs of the Brailes parish in terms of their environmental and socio-economic effects. The SEA topics identified in Annex I (f) of the SEA Directive are one of the key determinants when considering which SA Objectives should be used for the environmental criteria. Consequently, the SEA Objectives seek to reflect all subject areas to ensure the assessment process is transparent, robust and thorough. A summary is presented in Table 13.1.

13.2.2 The SEA Framework draws on the key issues and other plans and programmes of particular interest discussed earlier in this Scoping Report (see Chapters 3 to 12). It should be noted that the ordering of the SEA objectives do not infer any prioritisation.

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Table 13.1: SEA Objectives

SEA Objectives Relevance to sustainability theme

Cultural heritage: Protect, enhance and manage Historic Environment 1 sites, features and areas of archaeological, historical and heritage importance. Landscape: Protect, enhance and manage the Landscape and townscape character and appearance of the landscape and 2 townscape, maintaining and strengthening distinctiveness and its special qualities.

Biodiversity & geodiversity: Protect, enhance and Biodiversity and geodiversity 3 manage the biodiversity and geodiversity.

Flooding: Reduce the number of people at risk of Climate change 4 flooding. Climate change: Minimise the NDP area’s Climate change 5 contribution to climate change and plan for anticipated climatic conditions. Natural resources: Protect and conserve the NDP Material Assets 6 area’s natural resources.

Pollution: Minimise air, noise, soil, light and water Air, Water and Soil 7 pollution. Waste: Reduce waste generation and disposal and Material Assets 8 achieve sustainable management of waste

Transport: increase the efficiency of transport Accessibility and transport 9 networks and improve access to sustainable modes.

Accessibility: Reduce barriers for those living in Accessibility and transport 10 rural areas.

Housing: Provide environmentally sound and good Housing 11 quality housing for all. Health, safety and wellbeing: Safeguard and Health, population and quality of life 12 improve the safety, health and quality of life in the community. Economy: Develop a dynamic, diverse and Economic and Education Issues 13 knowledge based economy of high value and low impact innovation.

SEA of the Brailes & Winderton Neighbourhood Plan July 2017 LC-320 _ Brailes_Scoping_Report 3 _ 040717JE.docx 14 Subsequent stages to be carried out

14.1 Introduction

14.1.1 This chapter summarises the stages of, and approach to, the processes that will be carried out for the NDP following consultation at the scoping stage. This has been presented through the stages set out in the Planning Practice Guidance (PPG). Where appropriate, the assessment methods to be used have been included.

14.2 Refining options and assessing effects

14.2.1 The SEA Directive requires that the Environmental Report includes the following information about reasonable alternatives:

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

14.2.2 Reasonable alternatives will be assessed through the SEA process, and the assessment of alternatives will take place following consultation on the Scoping Report. This will enable options for the NDP to be explored. Whilst this report would not be a requisite of the SEA Directive, a report of this nature can help demonstrate iteration between the plan making process and the SEA, and provide a coherent story of the NDP’s evolution and choice of options.

14.2.3 The PPG provides further useful contextual information on reasonable alternatives.

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14.3 Environmental Report and Publication and Referendum

14.3.1 The environmental report is a core output of the Strategic Environmental Assessment process. An environmental report for the purpose of the SEA Directive must identify, describe and evaluate the likely significant effects on the environment of implementing the NDP75.

14.3.2 The assessment of policies and options will include:

• A description of the predicted effect; • The duration of the effect: whether the effect is long, medium or short term; • The frequency of the effect: will it be ongoing? • Whether the effect is temporary or permanent; • The geographic significance: whether the effect is of localised, regional, national or international significance; • The magnitude of effect; • The severity of significance; and • Whether mitigation is required/possible to reduce the effect.

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

• Cumulative effects arise where several developments each have insignificant effects but together have a significant effect, or where several individual effects of the plan have a combined effect. • Indirect effects are effects that are not a direct result of the plan, but occur away from the original effect or as a result of a complex pathway. • Synergistic effects interact to produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual effects.

14.3.4 Wherever possible, throughout the appraisal process, GIS will be used as an analytical tool to examine the spatial distribution of identified effects.

75 DCLG (2015) Local Plans. Available at: http://planningguidance.communities.gov.uk/blog/guidance/local-plans/

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14.4 Consultation Version of the Environmental Report

14.4.1 Once plan-makers have received and considered the Draft Environmental Report any amendments, which have been made to the NDP, will then be re-appraised. The output of the assessment at this stage in the process will be a Consultation Version of Environmental Report to accompany the release of the Consultation NDP.

14.4.2 The report will be written in a form suitable for public consultation and use by decision-makers. This version of the Environmental Report will be fully compliant with all aspects of the SEA Directive as set out in Annex 1 of the Directive. In line with the requirements of the SEA Directive, a Non-Technical Summary will be produced to accompany the finalised consultation version.

14.4.3 Following consultation on the Draft Environmental Report, any amendments that are made to the NDP will be appraised before preparing the final version of the Environmental Report to accompany the Submission version of the NDP.

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15.1 Purpose of Consultation

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

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

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

15.1.3 The statutory consultation bodies are Historic England, the Environment Agency and Natural England.

15.2 Consultation Details

15.2.1 All responses on this consultation exercise should be sent to Lepus Consulting the following email address or postal address:

- [email protected] or [email protected]

- Lepus Consulting, 1 Bath Street, Cheltenham, Glos, Gl50 1YE, 01242 525 222

15.2.2 All comments received on the Scoping Report will be carefully reviewed before progressing to the next stage of the SEA process.

Appendix A: SEA Framework

# SEA Objective Decision making criteria: Will the option… Indicators (this list is not exhaustive)

1 Cultural heritage: Protect, Q1a Will it preserve buildings of historic interest and, where Number of Listed Buildings at risk enhance and manage necessary, encourage their conservation? sites, features and areas of archaeological, historical Q1b Will it preserve or enhance archaeological sites? Number of scheduled monuments at risk of and heritage importance. damage Number of development proposals informed by archaeological provisions

Q1c Will it improve and broaden access to, understanding of Annual number of visitors to historic attractions and enjoyment of the historic environment?

Q1d Will it preserve or enhance the setting of cultural heritage Proportion of conservation areas covered by up- assets? to-date appraisals (<5 years old) and published management plans

2 Landscape: Protect, Q2a Will it safeguard and enhance the local landscape Development located in the Green Belt enhance and manage the character and distinctiveness? character and appearance Application of Landscape Character Assessments of the landscape and Q2b Will it impact on landscape tranquility such as by night or Tranquility assessments townscape, maintaining noise pollution? and strengthening distinctiveness and its Q2c Will it encourage high quality design that enhances the Proportion of development which meets Building special qualities. built and natural environment? or Life standards

3 Biodiversity & Q3a Will it lead to loss of biodiversity? Extent and condition of priority habitats geodiversity: Protect, enhance and manage the Extent of priority species biodiversity and Area and condition of national designated sites in geodiversity. appropriate management

Q3b Will it lead to habitat creation? Area of Nature Conservation designation per 1,000 people

Extent and condition of key habitats for which Biodiversity Action Plans have been established # SEA Objective Decision making criteria: Will the option… Indicators (this list is not exhaustive)

Area of new habitat creation reflecting BAP priorities

Q3c Will it maintain and enhance sites national designated for Number, area and condition of national designated their biodiversity value? sites in appropriate management

Q3d Will it maintain and enhance sites designated for the Area designated for geological interest geodiversity value?

Q3e Will it link up areas of fragmented habitat? Extent and condition of priority habitats

Q3f Will it increase awareness of biodiversity and Accessibility improvements to nature reserves geodiversity assets? Interpretation improvements, such as information boards, for nature reserves and local sites

4 Flooding: Reduce the Q4a Will it help reduce the number of people at risk of fluvial Amount of new development (ha) in Flood Zones number of people at risk flooding? 3a and 3b of flooding. Q4b Will it help reduce the number of people at risk of surface Number of properties at risk of surface water water flooding? flooding

Q4c Will it help limit the likely rise in flood risk in the NDP area Planning permissions granted contrary to advice caused by climate change? from Environment Agency on flood defense grounds

5 Climate change: Minimise Q5a Will it help reduce the NDP area’s carbon footprint? Proportion of electricity renewably sourced the NDP area’s contribution to climate Per capita GHG emissions change and plan for Emissions by source anticipated climatic conditions. Emissions by sector

Personal car ownership and usage

Q5b Will it help raise awareness of climate change mitigation? Initiatives that increase awareness of energy efficiency # SEA Objective Decision making criteria: Will the option… Indicators (this list is not exhaustive)

Q5c Will it retain existing green infrastructure and promote Amount of new greenspace created per capita the expansion of green infrastructure to help facilitate climate change adaptation?

Q5d Will it encourage development of buildings prepared for Number of planning permission incorporated SUDS the impacts of climate change? Thermal efficiency of new homes

6 Natural resources: Protect Q6a Will it lead to more efficient use of land? Housing density and conserve the NDP area’s natural resources. Q6b Will it lead to reduced consumption of materials and Proportion of buildings meeting BREEAM Very resources? Good Standard or above

Q6c Will it lead to the loss of good agricultural land? Area of Grades 1, 3 and 3a agricultural land lost to development

Q6d Will it safeguard the area’s mineral resources? Area of land with potential for minerals sterilized

Q6e Will it utilize derelict, degraded and under-used land? Proportion of dwellings built on previously developed land

7 Pollution: Minimise air, Q7a Will it lead to improved water quality? Proportion of watercourses classified as good or noise, soil, light and water very good biological and/or chemical quality pollution. Change in pollution incidents

Q7b Will it lead to improved air quality? Air Quality Management Areas

Number of days when air pollution is elevated

Q7c Will it maintain and enhance soil quality? Area of contaminated land

Q7d Will it reduce diffuse pollution to air, water and soil? Change in pollution incidents

8 Waste: Reduce waste Q8a Will it provide facilities for the separation and recycling Type and capacity of waste management facilities generation and disposal of waste? Household waste and recycled or composted # SEA Objective Decision making criteria: Will the option… Indicators (this list is not exhaustive)

and achieve sustainable Q8b Will it encourage the use of recycled materials in Reuse of recycled materials in construction management of waste construction?

9 Transport: increase the Q9a Will it reduce the need to travel? Average distance travelled to work efficiency of transport networks and improve Percentage of residents within 30 minutes travel access to sustainable time to GP, hospital, schools and employment modes. Ease with which residents have access to key services

Q9b Will it encourage walking and cycling? Proportion of people walking and/or cycling

Q9c Will it reduce personal car use? Proportion of people travelling to work via car or van

Q9d Will it encourage public transport use? Proportion of people travelling to work by bus and/or train

Number of bus journeys made per annum

Number of train journeys made per annum

Q9e Will it provide adequate access to a range of sustainable Provision of walking and/or cycling routes transport methods? Distance between new development and public transport links

10 Accessibility: Reduce Q10a Will it increase provision of local services and facilities Ease with which residents have access to key barriers for those living in and reduce centralization? services rural areas. Q10b Will it improve accessibility to a range of transport Percentage of rural households within 800m of a modes to services and facilities from rural locations? frequent bus service (hourly or better)

Q10c Will it support the provision of affordable housing in rural Affordable housing completions in rural locations locations? # SEA Objective Decision making criteria: Will the option… Indicators (this list is not exhaustive)

11 Housing: Provide Q11a Will it ensure that all groups have access to affordable Affordable housing completions environmentally sound and decent housing? and good quality housing for all. Q11b Will it identify an appropriate supply of land for new Net additional dwellings for the current year housing?

Q11c Will it ensure that new development contributes to local Number of major housing applications refused on distinctiveness and character? design grounds

Accessible natural green space

Q11d Will it meet the building specification guidance in the Proportion of housing achieving a four star or Code for Sustainable Homes? above in accordance with the Code for Sustainable Homes

12 Health, safety and Q12a Will it improve access for all to health, leisure and Travel time by public transport to nearest health wellbeing: Safeguard and recreational facilities? and sports facilities improve the safety, health and quality of life in the Q12b Will it improve and enhance the district’s green Proportion of accessibly greenspaces per 1,000 community. infrastructure network? population Q12c Will it improve long term health? Life expectancy at birth

Q12d Will it encourage long term healthy lifestyles? The number of sports pitches available per 1,000 people

Q12e Does it consider the needs of the elderly? Percentage of elderly being treated intensively at home

Q12f Will it reduce crime and the fear of crime? Indices of Multiple Deprivation: Crime domain

Q12g Will it reduce deprivation in the district? Indices of Multiple Deprivation

13 Economy: Develop a Q13a Will it ensure that new employment, office, retail and Proportion of residential development within 30 dynamic, diverse and leisure developments are in locations that are accessible minutes public transport time of key services knowledge based to those who will use them by a choice of transport economy of high value modes? # SEA Objective Decision making criteria: Will the option… Indicators (this list is not exhaustive)

and low impact Q13b Will it help ensure an adequate supply of employment Area (ha) of new employment land provision innovation. land?

Q13c Will it support or encourage new business? Number of startup businesses in the environmental and social enterprise sector

Q13d Will it support the visitor economy? Visitor numbers

Appendix B: Plan, policy and programme review

Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

Biodiversity, flora and fauna

Nature and biodiversity (including soil communities) has been identified as one of four priority areas for Europe. The EC Sixth Environmental Action EAP requires specific action to counteract pressures arising notably from pollution, the introduction of non-native Programme 2002-2012 (2002) species, and potential risks from releasing genetically modified organisms.

The EU biodiversity strategy follows on from the EU Biodiversity Action Plan (2006). It aims to halt the loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services across the EU by 2020. The strategy contains six targets and 20 actions. The six targets cover: Our life insurance, our natural • Full implementation of EU nature legislation to protect biodiversity; capital: an EU biodiversity • Better protection for ecosystems, and more use of green infrastructure; strategy to 2020 (2011) • More sustainable agriculture and forestry; • Better management of fish stocks; • Tighter controls on invasive alien species; and • A bigger EU contribution to averting global biodiversity loss.

The Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity The strategy aims to stop and reverse the degradation of biological and landscape diversity values in Europe. Strategy (1995)

The aims of the Convention include the conservation of biological diversity (including a commitment to significantly UN Convention on Biological reduce the current rate of biodiversity loss), the sustainable use of its components and the fair and equitable sharing Diversity (1992) of the benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources.

Bern Convention on the Conservation of European The Convention seeks to conserve wild flora and fauna and their natural habitats, and to monitor and control Wildlife and Natural Habitats endangered and vulnerable species. (1979)

Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and of The main aim of the Habitats Directive is to promote the maintenance of biodiversity by requiring Member States to Wild Fauna and Flora 1992 take measures to maintain or restore natural habitats and wild species listed on the Annexes to the Directive at a (the Habitats Directive) favourable conservation status, introducing robust protection for those habitats and species of European Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP) importance. In applying these measures Member States are required to take account of economic, social and cultural requirements, as well as regional and local characteristics. The provisions of the Directive require Member States to introduce a range of measures, including: • Maintain or restore European protected habitats and species listed in the Annexes at a favourable conservation status as defined in Articles 1 and 2; • Contribute to a coherent European ecological network of protected sites by designating Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) for habitats listed on Annex I and for species listed on Annex II. These measures are also to be applied to Special Protection Areas (SPAs) classified under Article 4 of the Birds Directive. Together SACs and SPAs make up the Natura 2000 network (Article 3); • Ensure conservation measures are in place to appropriately manage SACs and ensure appropriate assessment of plans and projects likely to have a significant effect on the integrity of an SAC. Projects may still be permitted if there are no alternatives, and there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest. In such cases compensatory measures are necessary to ensure the overall coherence of the Natura 2000 network (Article 6); • Member States shall also endeavour to encourage the management of features of the landscape that support the Natura 2000 network (Articles 3 and 10); • Undertake surveillance of habitats and species (Article 11); • Ensure strict protection of species listed on Annex IV (Article 12 for animals and Article 13 for plants). • Report on the implementation of the Directive every six years (Article 17), including assessment of the conservation status of species and habitats listed on the Annexes to the Directive.

The Conservation of Habitats This transposes into national law the Habitats Directive and also consolidates all amendments that have been made and Species Regulations 2010 to the previous 1994 Regulations. This means that competent authorities have a general duty in the exercise of any (Habitats regulations) of their functions to have regard to the Directive.

The Act provides for public access on foot to certain types of land, amends the law relating to public rights of way, The Countryside and Rights of increases measures for the management and protection for Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and strengthens Way Act 2000 wildlife enforcement legislation, and provides for better management of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

The Act makes provision in respect of biodiversity, pesticides harmful to wildlife and the protection of birds, and in respect of invasive non-native species. It alters enforcement powers in connection with wildlife protection, and The Natural Environment and extends time limits for prosecuting certain wildlife offences. It addresses a small number of gaps and uncertainties Rural Communities Act 2006 which have been identified in relation to the law on sites of special scientific interest. And it amends the functions and constitution of National Park authorities, the functions of the Broads Authority and the law on rights of way. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

DEFRA Wildlife and Countryside Act (1981, as The principle mechanism for the legislative protection of wildlife in Great Britain. amended)

The England biodiversity strategy 2020 ties in with the EU biodiversity strategy in addition to drawing links to the concept of ecosystem services. The strategy’s vision for England is; “By 2050 our land and seas will be rich in wildlife, our biodiversity will be valued, conserved, restored, managed DEFRA. Biodiversity 2020: A sustainably and be more resilient and able to adapt to change, providing essential services and delivering benefits strategy for England’s wildlife for everyone”. and ecosystem services (2011) The Strategy’s overall mission is: “to halt overall biodiversity loss, support healthy well-functioning ecosystems and establish coherent ecological networks, with more and better places for nature for the benefit of wildlife and people”.

DoE Biodiversity: The UK Government’s strategy for protection and enhancement of biodiversity, from 1992 convention on Biodiversity Action Plan (1994) commitments. Advises on opportunities and threats for biodiversity.

TCPA: Biodiversity by Design: The development process should consider ecological potential of all areas including both greenfield and brownfield A Guide for Sustainable sites. Local authorities and developers have a responsibility to mitigate impacts of development on designated sites Communities (2004) and priority habitats and species and avoid damage to ecosystems.

The NPPF seeks to streamline the planning system and sets out the Governments planning policies and how these should be applied. At the heart of the NPPF is presumption in favour of sustainable development. The NPPF includes guidance on promoting the conservation and enhancement of the natural environment. It requires the planning system to contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by: • protecting and enhancing valued landscapes, geological conservation interests and soils; National Planning Policy • recognising the wider benefits of ecosystem services; Framework (DCLG 2012) • minimising impacts on biodiversity and providing net gains in biodiversity where possible, contributing to the Government’s commitment to halt the overall decline in biodiversity, including by establishing coherent ecological networks that are more resilient to current and future pressures; • preventing both new and existing development from contributing to or being put at unacceptable risk from, or being adversely affected by unacceptable levels of soil, air, water or noise pollution or land instability; and • remediating and mitigating despoiled, degraded, derelict, contaminated and unstable land, where appropriate. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

The guide sets out a framework which has been developed to enhance the recovery of priority habitats and species in England (published under section 41 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities (NERC) Act 2006). The Strategy seeks to: • encourage the adoption of an ecosystem approach and better embed climate change adaptation principles in conservation action; Natural England: Securing • achieve biodiversity enhancements across whole landscapes and seascapes; Biodiversity: A New • achieve our priority habitat targets through greater collective emphasis on habitat restoration and expansion; Framework for Delivering • enhance the recovery of priority species by better integrating their needs into habitat-based work where Priority Species and Habitats possible, and through targeted species recovery work where necessary; in England • support the restoration of designated sites, including by enhancing the wider countryside in which they sit; • support the conservation of marine biodiversity, inside and outside of designated sites; • establish and implement a delivery programme, with agreed accountabilities, for priority species and habitats in England; • improve the integration of national, regional and local levels of delivery; and • improve the links between relevant policy-makers and biodiversity practitioners; strengthen biodiversity partnerships by clarifying roles at England, regional and local levels.

The Making Space for Nature report, which investigated the resilience of England’s ecological network to multiple pressures, concluded that England’s wildlife sites do not comprise of a coherent and resilient ecological network. The report advocates the need for a step change in conservation of England’s wildlife sites to ensure they are able to adapt and become part of a strong and resilient network. The report summarises what needs to be done to improve England’s wildlife sites to enhance the resilience and coherence of England’s ecological network in four words; more, bigger, better, and joined. There are five key approaches which encompass these, which also take into account of the land around the ecological network: Making Space for Nature: a • Improve the quality of current sites by better habitat management. review of England’s wildlife • Increase the size of current wildlife sites. sites and ecological network • Enhance connections between, or join up, sites, either through physical corridors, or through ‘stepping stones’. (2010) • Create new sites. • Reduce the pressures on wildlife by improving the wider environment, including through buffering wildlife sites. To establish a coherent ecological network 24 wide ranging recommendations have been made which are united under five key themes: • There is a need to continue the recent progress in improving the management and condition of wildlife sites, particularly our SSSIs. We also make recommendations for how these should be designated and managed in ways that enhance their resilience to climate change. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP) • There is a need to properly plan ecological networks, including restoration areas. Restoration needs to take place throughout England. However, in some areas, both the scale of what can be delivered to enhance the network, and the ensuing benefits for wildlife and people, will be very high. These large areas should be formally recognised as Ecological Restoration Zones. • There are a large number of surviving patches of important wildlife habitat scattered across England outside of SSSIs, for example in Local Wildlife Sites. We need to take steps to improve the protection and management of these remaining wildlife habitats. ‘Protection’ will usually be best achieved through incentive-based mechanisms, but at times may require designation. • There is a need to become better at deriving multiple benefits from the ways we use and interact with our environment. There are many things that society has to do that may seem to have rather little to do with nature conservation, but could have, or even should have if we embrace more radical thinking; flood management by creating wetlands is an obvious example. We need to exploit these ‘win-win’ opportunities to the full. Being better at valuing a wider range of ecosystem services would help this process. • It will not be possible to achieve a step-change in nature conservation in England without society accepting it to be necessary, desirable, and achievable. This will require strong leadership from government and significant improvements in collaboration between local authorities, local communities, statutory agencies, the voluntary and private sectors, farmers, landowners and other land-managers and individual citizens

The England’s Trees, Woods, and Forest Strategy (2007) aims to: • provide, in England, a resource of trees, woods and forests in places where they can contribute most in terms of environmental, economic and social benefits now and for future generations • ensure that existing and newly planted trees, woods and forests are resilient to the impacts of climate change DEFRA England's Trees, and also contribute to the way in which biodiversity and natural resources adjust to a changing climate Woods and Forests Strategy • protect and enhance the environmental resources of water, soil, air, biodiversity and landscapes (both woodland (2007) and non-woodland), and the cultural and amenity values of trees and woodland • increase the contribution that trees, woods and forests make to the quality of life for those living in, working in or visiting England; and • improve the competitiveness of woodland businesses and promote the development of new or improved markets for sustainable woodland products and ecosystem services where this will deliver identify able public benefits, nationally or locally, including the reduction of carbon emissions.

Published in June 2011, the Natural Environment White paper sets out the Government’s plans to ensure the natural The Natural Choice: Securing environment is protected and fully integrated into society and economic growth. The White Paper sets out four key the Value of Nature. The aims: Natural Environment White (i) Protecting and improving our natural environment Paper. (HM Government 2011) There is a need to improve the quality of our natural environment across England, moving to a net gain in the value of nature. It aims to arrest the decline in habitats and species and the degradation of landscapes. It will protect Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP) priority habitats and safeguard vulnerable non-renewable resources for future generations. It will support natural systems to function more effectively in town, in the country and at sea. It will achieve this through joined-up action at local and national levels to create an ecological network which is resilient to changing pressures. (ii) Growing a green economy The ambition is for a green and growing economy which not only uses natural capital in a responsible and fair way but also contributes to improving it. It will properly value the stocks and flows of natural capital. Growth will be green because it is intrinsically linked to the health of the country’s natural resources. The economy will capture the value of nature. It will encourage businesses to use natural capital sustainably, protecting and improving it through their day-to-day operations and the management of their supply chains. (iii) Reconnecting people and nature The ambition is to strengthen the connections between people and nature. It wants more people to enjoy the benefits of nature by giving them freedom to connect with it. Everyone should have fair access to a good-quality natural environment. It wants to see every child in England given the opportunity to experience and learn about the natural environment. It wants to help people take more responsibility for their environment, putting local communities in control and making it easier for people to take positive action. (iv) International and EU leadership The global ambitions are: • internationally, to achieve environmentally and socially sustainable economic growth, together with food, water, climate and energy security; and • to put the EU on a path towards environmentally sustainable, low-carbon and resource-efficient growth, which is resilient to climate change, provides jobs and supports the wellbeing of citizens.

The UK National Ecosystem Assessment is the first analysis of the UK’s natural environment and the benefits it provides to society and economic prosperity. The assessment leads on from the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (2005) and analyses services provided by ecosystem set against eight broad habitat types. The ecosystem services provided by these habitat types have been assessed to find their overall condition. The assessment sought to answer ten key questions: UK National Ecosystem 1) What are the status and trends of the UK’s ecosystems and the services they provide to society? Assessment (2011) 2) What are the drivers causing changes in the UK’s ecosystems and their services? 3) How do ecosystem services affect human well-being, who and where are the beneficiaries, and how does this affect how they are valued and managed? 4) Which vital UK provisioning services are not provided by UK ecosystems? Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP) 5) What is the current public understanding of ecosystem services and the benefits they provide? 6) Why should we incorporate the economic values of ecosystem services into decision-making? 7) How might ecosystems and their services change in the UK under plausible future scenarios? 8) What are the economic implications of different plausible futures? 9) How can we secure and improve the continued delivery of ecosystem services? 10) How have we advanced our understanding of the influence of ecosystem services on human well-being and what are the knowledge constraints on more informed decision making?

The Duty is set out in Section 40 of the Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act (NERC) 2006, and states DEFRA Guidance for Local that: “Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper Authorities on Implementing exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity”. Particular areas of focus include: Policy, Biodiversity Duty (2007) Strategy and Procurement; Management of Public Land and Buildings; Planning, Infrastructure and Development; and Education, Advice and Awareness.

CABE Making Contracts Work for Wildlife: How to Advises on how to make the most of the potential for biodiversity in urban parks and it shows how the commitment Encourage Biodiversity in of individuals and employers can make the difference between failure and inspiring success. Urban Parks (2006)

Forestry and Woodlands This document outlines what woods can do for the region and what the region must do for its woods in order to Framework Steering Group protect and enhance them. (2004) Seeing the Wood for the Trees: A forestry and The framework aims to realise the vision of “woods making an increasing contribution to the sustainable woodlands framework for development of the South East region, in both rural and urban areas” by inspiring and informing those involved in South East England planning and development as well as those involved in forest management. There are 52 biodiversity action plans for Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull, the latest being completed between 2002 and 2005 and updated between 2012 and 2015 to make them more achievable and measurable. The area of Warwickshire, Coventry and Solihull has been categorized into 6 broad habitat types, each of which is then sub-divided Warwickshire, Coventry and into a total of 25 Habitat Action Plans. In addition are 27 Species Action Plans. The total 52 Action Plans are Solihull Local Biodiversity Action Plan (2015) orchestrated by the Local Biodiversity Action Partnership (LBAP). The Action Plans set achievable and measurable targets for the conservation and enhancement of habitats and species, and ensures that development and management takes account of wildlife and biodiversity. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

Population and human health

The NPPF seeks to streamline the planning system and sets out the Governments planning policies and how these should be applied. At the heart of the NPPF is presumption in favour of sustainable development. The NPPF includes guidance on promoting healthy communities. The NPPF requires local planning authorities to aim to achieve places which promote: • opportunities for meetings between members of the community who might not otherwise come into contact with each other, including through mixed-use developments, strong neighbourhood centres and active street frontages which bring together those who work, live and play in the vicinity; • safe and accessible environments where crime and disorder, and the fear of crime, do not undermine quality of life or community cohesion; and • safe and accessible developments, containing clear and legible pedestrian routes, and high quality public space, National Planning Policy which encourage the active and continual use of public areas. Framework (DCLG, 2012) In order to deliver the social, recreational and cultural facilities and services the community needs, planning policies and decisions should: • plan positively for the provision and use of shared space, community facilities (such as local shops, meeting places, sports venues, cultural buildings, public houses and places of worship) and other local services to enhance the sustainability of communities and residential environments; • guard against the unnecessary loss of valued facilities and services, particularly where this would reduce the community’s ability to meet its day-to-day needs; • ensure that established shops, facilities and services are able to develop and modernise in a way that is sustainable, and retained for the benefit of the community; and • ensure an integrated approach to considering the location of housing, economic uses and community facilities and services.

An Act to establish and make provision about a National Health Service Commissioning Board and clinical commissioning groups and to make other provision about the National Health Service in England; to make provision Health and Social Care Act about public health in the United Kingdom; to make provision about regulating health and adult social care services; 2012 to make provision about public involvement in health and social care matters, scrutiny of health matters by local authorities and co-operation between local authorities and commissioners of health care services; to make provision about regulating health and social care workers; to establish and make provision about a National Institute for Health Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP) and Care Excellence; to establish and make provision about a Health and Social Care Information Centre and to make other provision about information relating to health or social care matters; to abolish certain public bodies involved in health or social care; to make other provision about health care; and for connected purposes.

Forestry Commission: Trees Provides detailed examples of how the Woodland Sector (trees, woodlands and green spaces) can significantly and Woodlands - Nature's contribute to people’s health, well-being (physical, psychological and social) and quality of life. Increasing levels of Health Service (2005) physical activity is a particular priority.

Countryside Agency: The Countryside in and Around A vision for the landscape of urban/rural fringe environments and how to better manage these areas and make Towns – A vision for improvements. Key functions for the environment include: a bridge to the country; a gateway to the town; a health connecting town and country centre; a classroom; a recycling and renewable energy centre; a productive landscape; a cultural legacy; a place for in the pursuit of sustainable sustainable living; an engine for regeneration; and a nature reserve. development (2005)

English Nature: Accessible Aims to help Local Authorities develop policies which acknowledge, protect and enhance the contribution natural Natural Green Space spaces make to local sustainability. Three aspects of natural space in cities and towns are discussed: their Standards in Towns and Cities: biodiversity; their ability to cope with urban pollution; ensuring natural spaces are accessible to everyone. The A Review and Toolkit for their report aims to show how size and distance criteria can be used to identify the natural spaces which contribute most Implementation (2003) to local sustainability.

This Strategy identifies key priorities for an enlarged Europe. This includes health, social inclusion and fighting global poverty. It aims to achieve better policy integration in addressing these challenges, and to ensure that Europe looks beyond its boundaries in making informed decisions about sustainability. The Sustainable EU Sustainable Development Development Strategy was review in 2009 and “underlined that in recent years the EU has mainstreamed sustainable Strategy (2006) development into a broad range of its policies. In particular, the EU has taken the lead in the fight against climate change and the promotion of a low-carbon economy. At the same time, unsustainable trends persist in many areas and the efforts need to be intensified”. Sustainable development is a key focus of the EU and the strategy continues to be monitored and reviewed.

UN The Aarhus Convention Links environmental rights and human rights. It establishes that sustainable development can be achieved only (1998) through the involvement of all stakeholders and links government accountability and environmental protection.

Social Exclusion Unit: The primary aims are to prevent social exclusion, and reintegrate people who have become excluded. Improvement Preventing Social Exclusion is required in the areas of truancy, rough sleeping, teenage pregnancy, youth at risk and deprived neighbourhoods. (2001) Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

The Housing Green Paper outlines plans for delivering homes; new ways of identifying and using land for DCLG Homes for the future: development; more social housing- ensuring that a decent home at an affordable price is for the many; building more affordable, more homes more quickly; more affordable homes; and greener homes - with high environmental standards and flagship sustainable (2007) developments leading the way.

ODPM & Home Office: Safer Practical guide to designs and layouts that may help with crime prevention and community safety, including well- Places: The Planning System defined routes, places structured so that different uses do not cause conflict, places designed to include natural and Crime Prevention (2004) surveillance and places designed with management and maintenance in mind.

Sets out an action plan to improve the life chances of those who suffer, or may suffer in the future, from Cabinet Office: Reaching Out: disadvantage. Guiding principles for action include: better identification and earlier intervention; systematically An Action Plan on Social identifying ‘what works’; promoting multi-agency working; personalisation, rights and responsibilities; and supporting Exclusion (2006) achievement and managing underperformance.

The Warwickshire Health and Wellbeing Strategy sets the framework for supporting the county’s residents’ health and wellbeing. Measures include increasing resident’s level of physical activity and encouraging healthier eating. The Warwickshire Health and priorities of the strategy are: Wellbeing Strategy 2014 - 2018 • Promote independence; • Community resilience; and • Integration and working together.

Soil, water and air

Aims to improve air quality throughout Europe by controlling the level of certain pollutants and monitoring their concentrations. In particular, the Directive aims to establish levels for different air pollutants; draw up common EC Air Quality Directive (1996) methods for assessing air quality; methods to improve air quality; and make sure that information on air quality is easily accessible to Member States and the public.

DEFRA: The Air Quality Strategy for England, The Strategy provides specific UK targets for reducing air pollution and sets out local authority responsibilities for Scotland, Wales, and Northern achieving most of these. It states that land use planning has a key role to play in contributing to these targets. Ireland (2007). Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

The Soil Strategy for England outlines the Government’s approach to safeguarding our soils for the long term. It provides a vision to guide future policy development across a range of areas and sets out the practical steps that are needed to take to prevent further degradation of our soils, enhance, restore and ensure their resilience, and improve understanding of the threats to soil and best practice in responding to them. Key objectives of the strategy include: DEFRA: Safeguarding our Soils: A Strategy for England • Better protection for agricultural soils; (2009) • Protecting and enhancing stores of soil carbon; • Building the resilience of soils to a changing climate; • Preventing soil pollution; • Effective soil protection during construction and development; and • Dealing with our legacy of contaminated land.

This document establishes a legal framework for dealing with contaminated land in England. This document provides guidelines for how local authorities should implement the regime, including how they should go about DEFRA (2012) Environmental deciding whether land is contaminated land in the legal sense of the term. Key aims are as follows: Protection Act 1990: Part 2A. Contaminated Land Statutory • To identify and remove unacceptable risks to human health and the environment. Guidance • To seek to ensure that contaminated land is made suitable for its current use. • To ensure that the burdens faced by individuals, companies and society as a whole are proportionate, manageable and compatible with the principles of sustainable development.

Soils Lead Coordination This document sets out the Soils Lead Coordination Network’s vision for soil conservation. The “desired outcomes” Network: Soils and the Natural of the vision are as follows: Heritage: a Vision by the Soils • Maintaining the diversity and biodiversity of UK soils; LCN for the Protection of the • Controlling and when appropriate reversing loss of soil carbon and water-holding capacity; UK Soil Resource and • Reducing accelerated soil erosion and sediment transport into watercourses; and Sustainable Use of Soils • Ensuring appropriate status of soils in mitigation and remediation scenarios to control the impact of climate (2007) change.

This provides an overarching strategy, including a requirement for EU Member States to ensure that they achieve Water Framework Directive ‘good ecological status’ by 2015. River Basin Management Plans were defined as the key means of achieving this. 2000/60/EC They contain the main issues for the water environment and the actions we all need to take to deal with them.

HM Government Strategy for Encourages the construction industry to adopt a more sustainable approach towards development; identifies eleven Sustainable Construction Themes for targeting Action, which includes conserving water resources. (2008) Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

Requires all inland and coastal waters to reach “good status” by 2015. It mandates that: DEFRA The Water • development must not cause a deterioration in status of a waterbody; and Environment (Water • development must not prevent future attainment of ‘good status’, hence it is not acceptable to allow an impact Framework Directive) to occur just because other impacts are causing the status of a water body to already be less than good. (England and Wales) Regulations (2003) This is being done by establishing a river basin district structure within which demanding environmental objectives are being set, including ecological targets for surface waters.

Environment Agency: Building Guidance on addressing key environmental issues through the development process (focusing mainly on the issues a Better Environment: A Guide dealt with by the Agency), including managing flood risk, surface water management, use of water resources, for Developers (2006) preventing pollution.

The NPPF states that plans should prevent development from contributing to, or being put at risk of, air or water pollution. Plans should consider the presence of Air Quality Management Areas and cumulative impacts on air National Planning Policy quality from individual sites in local areas. Framework (DCLG, 2012) The NPPF states that planning should protect and enhance soils, particularly those recognized as best and most versatile agricultural land (Grades 1, 2 and 3a).

River Basin Management Plans are prepared under the Water Framework Directive in order to identify the pressures facing the water environment and identify actions to address these pressures. Within The Thames River Basin District, Slough lies within both the Thames (Maidenhead to Sunbury) catchment and the Colne catchment. Key actions for the Colne catchment include: • Improving flows in the River Misbourne; DEFRA (2009) Water for Life • Promoting soil and nutrient management plans to local farmers; and and Livelihoods: River Basin • Assess improvements to fish passage on the River Colne at Denham Country Park. Management Plan, Thames River Basin District Key actions for the Thames (Maidenhead to Sunbury) catchment include: • Investigate improvements to sewage treatment works; • Assess the impact of abstraction on the ecology, recreation and navigation of the Lower Thames; and Carry out further monitoring and investigation to allow targeting of additional measures to improve the status of this catchment.

Environment Agency (2013) Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS) set out how water resources are to be managed, particularly Worcestershire Middle Severn in terms of water abstraction and guide decisions regarding granting abstraction licenses. There is water available Abstraction Licensing for licensing in the Worcestershire Middle Severn catchment. Strategy Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

Environment Agency (2013) Catchment Abstraction Management Strategies (CAMS) set out how water resources are to be managed, particularly Tame, Anker and Mease in terms of water abstraction and guide decisions regarding granting abstraction licenses. There is water available Catchment Abstraction for licensing in the Tame, Anker and Mease catchment. Licensing Strategy

Severn Trent Water provides water supply and sewerage services across the NDP area. The key aims and objectives of the Water Resources Management Plan are: • Reduce waste by driving leakage down; Severn Trent Water (2014) • Reduce the demand for water, by working in partnership with our customers to help them become more water Final Water Resources efficient; Management Plan • Improve our ability to deploy existing resources flexibly and efficiently; • Use water trading to make more efficient use of our resources and improve resilience; • Develop new sources of water when required, with a focus on expanding our existing sources first; and • Use proactive catchment management measures to protect our sustainable sources of drinking water supply from pollution risks.

Climatic factors

UN Framework Convention on Sets an overall framework for intergovernmental efforts to tackle the challenge posed by climate change. Climate Change (1992)

IPCC Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Commits member nations to reduce their emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, or engage in Convention on Climate emissions trading if they maintain or increase emissions of these gases. Change (1997)

Climate change has been identified as one of four priority areas for Europe. The EAP's main objective is a reduction EC Sixth Environmental Action in emissions of greenhouse gases without a reduction in levels of growth and prosperity, as well as adaptation and Programme 2002-2012 (2002) preparation for the effects of climate change.

This Strategy identifies key priorities for an enlarged Europe. This includes health, social inclusion and fighting EU Sustainable Development global poverty. It aims to achieve better policy integration in addressing these challenges, and to ensure that Strategy (2006) Europe looks beyond its boundaries in making informed decisions about sustainability. The Sustainable Development Strategy was review in 2009 and “underlined that in recent years the EU has mainstreamed sustainable development into a broad range of its policies. In particular, the EU has taken the lead in the fight against climate Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP) change and the promotion of a low-carbon economy. At the same time, unsustainable trends persist in many areas and the efforts need to be intensified”. Sustainable development is a key focus of the EU and the strategy continues to be monitored and reviewed.

The 2008 Climate Change Act seeks to manage and respond to climate change in the UK, by: • Setting ambitious, legally binding targets; • Taking powers to help meet those targets; UK Climate Change Act 2008 • Strengthening the institutional framework; (2008) • Enhancing the UK’s ability to adapt to the impact of climate change; and • Establishing clear and regular accountability to the UK Parliament and to the devolved legislatures. Significantly, the Act sets a legally binding target of at least an 80 per cent cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and at least a 34 per cent cut by 2020. These targets are against a 1990 baseline.

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

The UK Low Carbon Transition Plan sets out how the UK will meet the Climate Change Act’s legally binding target of 34 per cent cut in emissions on 1990 levels by 2020. It also seeks to deliver emissions cuts of 18% on 2008 levels. The main aims of the Transition Plan include the following: The UK Low Carbon Transition Plan (2009) • Producing 30% of energy from renewables by 2020; • Improving the energy efficiency of existing housing; • Increasing the number of people in ‘green jobs’; and • Supporting the use and development of clean technologies.

The NPPF seeks to streamline the planning system and sets out the Governments planning policies and how these should be applied. At the heart of the NPPF is presumption in favour of sustainable development. National Planning Policy The NPPF includes guidance on climate change, flooding, and coastal change. Plans should take account of climate Framework (DCLG, 2012) change over the longer term, including factors such as flood risk, coastal change, water supply and changes to biodiversity and landscape. New development should be planned to avoid increased vulnerability to the range of impacts arising from climate change. When new development is brought forward in areas which are vulnerable, care Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP) should be taken to ensure that risks can be managed through suitable adaptation measures, including through the planning of green infrastructure. To support the move to a low carbon future, local planning authorities should: • plan for new development in locations and ways which reduce greenhouse gas emissions; • actively support energy efficiency improvements to existing buildings; and • when setting any local requirement for a building’s sustainability, do so in a way consistent with the Government’s zero carbon buildings policy and adopt nationally described standards. Local Plans should apply a sequential, risk-based approach to the location of development to avoid where possible flood risk to people and property and manage any residual risk, taking account of the impacts of climate change, by: • applying the Sequential Test; • if necessary, applying the Exception Test; • safeguarding land from development that is required for current and future flood management; • using opportunities offered by new development to reduce the causes and impacts of flooding; and • where climate change is expected to increase flood risk so that some existing development may not be sustainable in the long-term, seeking opportunities to facilitate the relocation of development, including housing, to more sustainable locations. Local planning authorities should reduce risk from coastal change by avoiding inappropriate development in vulnerable areas or adding to the impacts of physical changes to the coast. They should identify as a Coastal Change Management Area any area likely to be affected by physical changes to the coast, and: • be clear as to what development will be appropriate in such areas and in what circumstances; and • make provision for development and infrastructure that needs to be relocated away from Coastal Change Management Areas.

DfT An Evidence Base Review of Public Attitudes to Climate Summary report of the findings of an evidence base review investigating the research base on public attitudes Change and Transport towards climate change and transport behaviour. Behaviour (2006)

Carbon Trust: The Climate This report summarises the nature of the climate change issue. It explains the fundamental science and the Change Challenge: Scientific accumulating evidence that climate change is real and needs to be addressed. It also explains the future potential Evidence and Implications impacts, including the outstanding uncertainties. (2005) Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

Energy Saving Trust: Renewable Energy Sources Provides information about the integration of renewable energy sources into new and existing dwellings in urban for Homes in Urban environments. It covers the basic principles, benefits, limitations, costs and suitability of various technologies. Environments (2005)

Environment Agency, Adapting to Climate Change: The document contains a checklist and guidance for new developments to adapt to climate change. The main A Checklist for Development actions are summarised in a checklist. (2005)

Seeks to “localise” responsibility for flood risk, particularly from ordinary watercourses. Key policies within the act include: • providing the Environment Agency with an overview of all flood and coastal erosion risk management and unitary and county councils to lead in managing the risk of all local floods; • encouraging the uptake of sustainable drainage systems and providing for unitary and county councils to adopt SUDS for new developments and redevelopments;

Floods & Water Management • introduce an improved risk based approach to reservoir safety; Act (2010) • widen the list of uses of water that water companies can control during periods of water shortage; • enabling water and sewerage companies to operate concessionary schemes for community groups on surface water drainage charges; • amending the Water Industry Act 1991 to provide a named customer and clarify who is responsible for paying the water bill; and • make it easier for water and sewerage companies to develop and implement social tariffs where companies consider there is a good cause to do so.

Material Assets

Natural resources and waste (in particular recycling) has been identified as one of four priority areas for Europe. The EC Sixth Environmental Action EAP requires member states to achieve 22% of electricity production from renewable energies by 2010; to Programme 2002-2012 (2002) significantly reduce the volumes of waste generated and the quantity going to disposal; and to give preference to waste recovery and especially to recycling. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

Objective is the protection of human health and the environment against harmful effects caused by the collection, EC Waste Framework transport, treatment, storage and tipping of waste. Particular focus is placed on the re-use of recovered materials as Directive (1975, updated raw materials; restricting the production of waste; promoting clean technologies; and the drawing up of waste 2006) management plans.

Aims to prevent or reduce as far as possible negative effects on the environment, in particular the pollution of EC Landfill Directive (1999) surface water, groundwater, soil and air, and on the global environment, including the greenhouse effect, as well as any resulting risk to human health, from the landfilling of waste, during the whole lifecycle of the landfill.

Cabinet Office: Waste Not, Want Not, A Strategy for A study into how England’s current waste management practices could be improved to reduce the current, and tackling the waste problem growing, waste problem. (2002)

DEFRA Waste and Emissions Sets out legislative provisions for waste (including waste sent to landfill, waste management in England and Wales, Trading Act (2003) and recycling plans), and about penalties for non-compliance with schemes for the trading of emissions quotas.

Aims are to reduce waste by making products with fewer natural resources; break the link between economic DEFRA Waste Strategy for growth and waste growth; re-use products or recycle their materials; and recover energy from other wastes where England (2007) possible. Notes that for a small amount of residual material, landfill will be necessary.

Sets out Government’s long term energy policy, including requirements for cleaner, smarter energy; improved energy efficiency; reduced carbon emissions; and reliable, competitive and affordable supplies. The White Paper sets out the UK’s international and domestic energy strategy, in the shape of four policy goals: DECC Energy White Paper: aiming to cut CO emissions by some 60% by about 2050, with real progress by 2020; Meeting the Energy Challenge 1) 2 (2007) 2) maintaining the reliability of energy supplies; 3) promoting competitive markets in the UK and beyond; and 4) ensuring every home is heated adequately and affordably.

Aims include increasing the use of renewable energy; cutting the UK’s carbon emissions; maintaining the reliability of DECC Sustainable Energy Act the UK’s energy supplies; promoting competitive energy markets in the UK; and reducing the number of people (2010) living in fuel poverty. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

DTI Micro Generation Strategy Acknowledges that local authorities can be pro-active in promoting small-scale, local renewable energy generation (2006) schemes through “sensible use of planning policies”.

This Strategy identifies key priorities for an enlarged Europe. This includes health, social inclusion and fighting global poverty. It aims to achieve better policy integration in addressing these challenges, and to ensure that Europe looks beyond its boundaries in making informed decisions about sustainability. The sustainable EU Sustainable Development Development Strategy was review in 2009 and “underlined that in recent years the EU has mainstreamed sustainable Strategy (2006) development into a broad range of its policies. In particular, the EU has taken the lead in the fight against climate change and the promotion of a low-carbon economy. At the same time, unsustainable trends persist in many areas and the efforts need to be intensified”. Sustainable development is a key focus of the EU and the strategy continues to be monitored and reviewed.

EU Transport White Paper. Roadmap to a Single The white paper sets out a European vision for a competitive and sustainable transport system for the EU. The white European Transport Area – paper sets out an aim to achieve a 60% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions from the European transport system Towards a competitive and whilst growing transport systems and supporting mobility. The White paper sets out ten strategic goals. resource efficient transport system (2011)

The NPPF seeks to streamline the planning system and sets out the Governments planning policies and how these should be applied. At the heart of the NPPF is presumption in favour of sustainable development. The NPPF includes guidance on promoting sustainable transport. The NPPF requires development plans to seek to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and congestion, reduce the and to travel, and exploit opportunities for the sustainable movement of people and good. Developments should be located and designed where practical to: National Planning Policy Framework (DCLG, 2012) • accommodate the efficient delivery of goods and supplies; • give priority to pedestrian and cycle movements, and have access to high quality public transport facilities; • create safe and secure layouts which minimise conflicts between traffic and cyclists or pedestrians, avoiding street clutter and where appropriate establishing home zones; and • incorporate facilities for charging plug-in and other ultra-low emission vehicles; and consider the needs of people with disabilities by all modes of transport. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

Department for Transport: Transport White Paper: The Sets out factors that will shape transport in the UK over the next thirty years. Also sets out how the Government will Future of Transport – A respond to the increasing demand for travel, while minimising the negative impact on people and the environment. Network for 2030 (2004)

Outlines five national goals for transport, focusing on the challenge of delivering strong economic growth while at the same time reducing greenhouse gas emissions. It outlines the key components of national infrastructure, discusses the difficulties of planning over the long term in the context of uncertain future demand and describes the substantial investments we are making to tackle congestion and crowding on transport networks. The National Goals for Transport are as follows: Department for Transport: Goal 1: To reduce transport’s emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, with the desired outcome of Towards a Sustainable tackling climate change. Transport System: Supporting Economic Growth in a Low Goal 2: To support economic competitiveness and growth, by delivering reliable and efficient transport networks. Carbon World (November Goal 3: To promote greater equality of opportunity for all citizens, with the desired outcome of achieving a fairer 2008) society. Goal 4: To contribute to better safety, security and health and longer life expectancy by reducing the risk of death, injury or illness arising from transport, and by promoting travel modes that are beneficial to health. Goal 5: To improve quality of life for transport users and non-transport users, and to promote a healthy natural environment.

Department for Transport: The Sets out a blueprint for a new streamlined structure for Britain's Railway. The proposals aim to provide a single point Future of Rail White Paper of accountability for the network's performance, allow closer working between track and train and provide for (2004) greater devolution of decision-making.

Department for Transport: An Evidence Base Review of Summary report of the findings of an evidence base review investigating the research base on public attitudes Public Attitudes to Climate towards climate change and transport behaviour. Change and Transport Behaviour (2006) Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

Department for Transport: The National Cycling Strategy aims to increase cycle use for all types of journey. The Review focuses on the National Cycling Strategy and mechanisms established for the delivery of cycling and the effect these have had on increasing cycling rates. Review (1996, reviewed 2005)

This document will fully replace the 2003 Air Transport White Paper as Government’s policy on aviation, alongside any decisions Government makes following the recommendations of the independent Airports Commission. Key aims of this document includes: • To ensure that the UK’s air links continue to make it one of the best connected countries in the world. This Secretary of State for includes increasing our links to emerging markets so that the UK can compete successfully for economic growth Transport (2013) Aviation opportunities. Policy Framework • To ensure that the aviation sector makes a significant and cost-effective contribution towards reducing global emissions. • To limit and where possible reduce the number of people in the UK significantly affected by aircraft noise. • To encourage the aviation industry and local stakeholders to strengthen and streamline the way in which they work together.

This document seeks to clarify the underlying principles and aims in existing policy documents, legislation and guidance that relate to noise. The key aims of this document are as follows: DEFRA (2010) Noise Policy Statement for England (NPSE) • Avoid significant adverse impacts on health and quality of life; • Mitigate and minimise adverse impacts on health and quality of life; and • Where possible, contribute to the improvement of health and quality of life.

Environment Agency: Water for people and the Looks at the steps needed, in the face of climate change, to manage water resources to the 2040s and beyond, with environment: A Strategy for the overall aim of improving the environment while allowing enough water for human uses. England and Wales (2009)

This Strategy identifies key priorities for an enlarged Europe. This includes health, social inclusion and fighting global poverty. It aims to achieve better policy integration in addressing these challenges, and to ensure that Europe looks beyond its boundaries in making informed decisions about sustainability. The sustainable EU Sustainable Development Development Strategy was review in 2009 and “underlined that in recent years the EU has mainstreamed sustainable Strategy (2006) development into a broad range of its policies. In particular, the EU has taken the lead in the fight against climate change and the promotion of a low-carbon economy. At the same time, unsustainable trends persist in many areas and the efforts need to be intensified”. Sustainable development is a key focus of the EU and the strategy continues to be monitored and reviewed. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

“Themes for Action" include: re-use existing built assets; design for minimum waste; aim for lean construction; DTI Draft Strategy for minimise energy in construction; minimise energy in building use; avoid polluting the environment; preserve and Sustainable Construction enhance bio-diversity; conserve water resources; respect people and their local environment; and set targets (2006) (benchmarks & performance indicators).

The Warwickshire LTP3 came into effect on 1st April 2011. It provides a strategy of how Warwickshire’s transport network will be maintained and improved upon over the next fifteen years. The LTP aims to influence Warwickshire Local Transport Warwickshire’s economy by improving the reliability of journey times, improving connectivity, supporting the Plan 2011 - 2026 delivery of housing and growth, influencing the reputation of the County as an outstanding place for business to locate and enhancing resilience.

Historic Environment

Aims for signatories to protect their architectural heritage by means of identifying monuments, buildings and sites to Council of Europe: Convention be protected; preventing the disfigurement, dilapidation or demolition of protected properties; providing financial on the Protection of the support by the public authorities for maintaining and restoring the architectural heritage on its territory; and Architectural Heritage of supporting scientific research for identifying and analysing the harmful effects of pollution and for defining ways and Europe (1985) means to reduce or eradicate these effects.

Council of Europe: The Convention on the Protection The convention defines archaeological heritage and identifies measures for its protection. Aims include integrated of Archaeological Heritage conservation of the archaeological heritage and financing of archaeological research and conservation. (Revised) (Valetta Convention) (1992) DCMS Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act An act to consolidate and amend the law retain to ancient monuments, to make provision of matters of (1979) archaeological or historic interest, and to provide grants by secretary of state to the Architectural Heritage fund.

The NPPF seeks to streamline the planning system and sets out the Governments planning policies and how these should be applied. At the heart of the NPPF is presumption in favour of sustainable development. National Planning Policy Framework (DCLG, 2012) The NPPF includes guidance on conserving and enhancing the historic environment. It seeks to ensure local authorities plan recognise heritage assets as an irreplaceable resource and conserve them in a manner that reflects their significance. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP) Local planning authorities should take into account: • the desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets and putting them to viable uses consistent with their conservation; • the wider social, cultural, economic and environmental benefits that conservation of the historic environment can bring; and • the desirability of new development making a positive contribution to local character and distinctiveness; and opportunities to draw on the contribution made by the historic environment to the character of a place.

Planning (Listed Buildings and An act to consolidate certain enactments relating to special controls in respect of buildings and areas of special Conservation Areas) Act architectural or historic interest with amendments to give effect to recommendations to give effect to (1990) recommendations of the Law Commissions.

The purpose of this circular, which applies only to England, is to provide updated policy guidance on the level of Circular on the Protection of protection and management required for World Heritage Sites. World Heritage Sites, CLG 07/2009 2 The circular explains the national context and the Government’s objectives for the protection of World Heritage Sites, the principles which underpin those objectives, and the actions necessary to achieve them.

Office of the Deputy Prime Amends the Building act, and others, with regard to sustainable construction practices and conservation of historic minister (ODPM) Secure and buildings. Also states the general nature of security provisions which should be in place at the construction stage Sustainable Buildings Act and beyond. (2004)

Historic England: Historic These three notes provide information on good practice to assist local authorities, planning and other consultants, Environment Good Practice owners, applicants and other interested parties in implementing historic environment policy in the National Planning Adice in Planning Note 1, 2 Policy Framework (NPPF) and the related guidance given in the National Planning Practice Guide (PPG). and 3 (2015)

Landscape

Council of Europe: European Aims to promote the protection, management and planning (including active design and creation of Europe's Landscape Convention (2006) landscapes, both rural and urban, and to foster European co-operation on landscape issues. Plan, policy and/or Main objectives and environmental / socio-economic requirements of PPP programme (PPP)

English Heritage and CABE: Provides advice and guidance on good practice in relation to tall buildings in the planning process and to highlight Guidance on Tall Buildings other related issues, which need to be taken into account, i.e. where tall buildings would and would not be (2007) appropriate.

The NPPF sates that development could seek to promote or reinforce local distinctiveness; both aesthetic National Planning Policy considerations and connections between people and places should be considered. The NPPF also promotes the Framework (DCLG, 2012) protection and enhancements of valued landscapes, giving greatest weight to National Parks and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Habitat Regulations Assessments

Sustainability Appraisals

Strategic Environmental Assessments

Landscape Character Assessments

Landscape and Visual Impact Assessments

Green Belt Reviews

Expert Witness

Ecological Impact Assessments

Habitat and Ecology Surveys

1 Bath Street Cheltenham GL50 1YE

T: 01242 525222

E: [email protected]

www.lepusconsulting.com

CHELTENHAM

Lepus Consulting t: 01242 525222 1 Bath Street w: www.lepusconsulting.com Cheltenham e: [email protected] Gloucestershire GL50 1YE