Appendix B Terms of Reference 1. the Steering Group Chaired by The

Appendix B Terms of Reference

1. The Steering Group chaired by the chairman of the GS parish council is answerable to the parish council.

2. The balance of ‘socially affordable’ and ‘open market’ housing will be aligned to local needs; similarly the balance between 1/2 bedroom homes, bungalows and flats.

3. It is essential that a comprehensive two way communication plan is in place to ensure that all parishioners, who are interested, have their say in the development of the NP.

4. Regular liaison with Wiltshire Council is required to ensure that the NP is prepared consistent with good practice and latest thinking.

5. The Steering Group will provide minutes of all meetings, whether formal or informal.

6. The NP will be prepared based entirely on the information provided by parishioners, as the Steering Group will remain neutral at all times.

7. The NP will be prepared, in line with feedback from the community with the objective of producing a plan that a majority (50.1% minimum) of Parishioners voting will support at a referendum administered by Wiltshire Council.

8. Consideration will be given to the need for the safety of children and elderly people so that any new development puts safety first.

9. Meet with landowners, who have proposed development land, to discuss the comments and issues raised by parishioners to see whether mitigation is possible.

10. Establish whether parts of some of the proposed Local Green Spaces are suitable for limited development as identified by some Parishioners.

11. Consult with the community on proposals by holding meetings and by written communications before and after development proposals.

12. Prepare a draft Neighbourhood Plan with appropriate maps, plans and data from surveys and public meetings, and submit to the Parish for consultation, then to Wiltshire Council for review, then to independent examination, then to referendum.

13. Copies of the proposed NP will be available to the community by a) the GS website, b) hard copies placed in the church the pub, village school and public meetings will be held to ensure maximum participation in the referendum.

Appendix F 1 – Site selection methodology

(This appendix should be read in conjunction with F2 and F3)

1. The initial driver for selection was given by the Wiltshire Core Strategy and the Wiltshire Council Rural Housing Needs Survey in early 2014.

2. In line with the Wiltshire Core Strategy, the requirement for new houses in the village of Great Somerford was then 33 with 12 of these being affordable homes. With the additional 7 affordable homes planned for the already approved Brook Farm development, this would bring the total of 19 new affordable homes in Great Somerford.

3. The Housing Needs Survey identified 25 affordable homes in the parish, all of which are in the village of Great Somerford. This represents 8.2% of the 304 total dwellings in the parish compared to 14.7% which is the average for Wiltshire (source: Wiltshire Housing Needs Survey). By introducing 33 new homes, of which 12 will be affordable, the percentage of affordable homes rises to 37 out of 337 homes, which is 11%. However, when the additional 7 affordable homes in the already agreed Brook Farm development are considered, the percentage of affordable homes becomes 44 out of a total of 367 homes, which is 12%. Considering the village of Great Somerford alone (i.e. excluding Startley) there would be 13.6% affordable homes which is much closer to the Wiltshire average especially when the rural nature of the Parish is considered. 4. In early April 2014 a one page questionnaire, prepared by the Steering Group, was mail dropped to all houses in the parish. 105 households responded and the key feedback was:

• 95% wished to retain the existing local open green spaces within the village; seven open spaces (LGS 1-8) were identified including the children’s play area & the free gardens/allotments • 84% wanted small groups of houses within the limit of the village, 7% wanted a new estate. 3% wanted both, 3% wanted neither and the balance were left blank A copy of the questionnaire is reproduced at annex 1.1 and an analysis of the results is at annex 1.2. Assuming the local green spaces are retained (the Free Gardens site was later added to them), there were only a few other small sites within the village suitable for small developments and no landowners wished to develop the sites.

5. The first open meeting for parishioners was held on 22 April 2014, primarily to discuss the potential need for a NP in the parish of Great Somerford; 37 parishioners attended and provided feedback to the SG. At this stage no potential sites had been identified. Subsequently there were meetings at every stage of the plan’s progress - as potential developments became available and/or the number of proposed dwellings changed. The evolution of the plan’s site selection is shown in the table at the end of this appendix.

6. In the next few weeks following the meeting several landowners proposed land for development. Only two of the SHLAA holders expressed an interest. A total of eight sites were initially suggested by landowners but one landowner subsequently withdrew three sites before any details regarding house numbers were discussed. This left five potential development areas. These sites are designated NP1, NP2, NP3, NP4, and NP5. The total number of houses proposed at this stage was seventy seven.

7. A mail drop in early July invited parishioners to a second open meeting on 17 July 2014 to see a presentation on the possible sites for development and the proposed open spaces; 68 parishioners attended.

Identified demand for new houses in the parish in the period to 2026 was 33 including 12 affordable as detailed in section 7.1 above, whereas proposed houses on the five NPs totalled 77.

8. The Steering Group reviewed the feedback from parishioners and had meetings with the landowners to discuss the feedback and to agree revised plans. These discussions resulted in the house numbers being reduced on sites NP1, NP2, and NP5. At this time another landowner proposed development of two houses on his land, NP6. The six proposed developments (NP1 to NP6, inclusive) now resulted in a total of thirty four houses. (September column, in the table at the end of this appendix).

9. Two further open public meetings were held on 21 and 23 September 2014 to present the latest proposals. For these meetings the Steering Group had produced a site scoring sheet for the proposed development sites (reproduced at annex 3.1). At the meetings parishioners were also able to view a fact sheet together with a site plan for each development site and each open space. Parishioners were asked to rank each site on a scale of 1 to 10. For development sites (NPs), 10 means highly recommended for development, whilst 10 for local green spaces (LGS) means they should not be developed. 162 parishioners took part, mostly from Great Somerford, which was 48% of households in Great Somerford participating. Parishioners were asked to comment on each site and this feedback is shown as annex 4 and the site ranking is shown as annex 5.

10. From the many comments made, the SG noted that a significant number of parishioners recommended some limited development on two of the local green spaces (LGS 2 & 4). The two landowners were subsequently asked if they wished to submit proposals. Both landowners did so; site LGS 4 proposed 10 houses, but the landowner withdrew the site, as it transpired that there is a restrictive covenant on the land preventing development.

The SG then used the ranking from the September meetings, together with the many comments from parishioners, to re-examine the proposals which resulted in a new total of 45 houses, including the 10 new houses proposed for LGS2 which then became NP7. At the same time, mitigation statements were obtained from the landowners (to address issues of concern expressed primarily by parishioners) and the site scoring sheet was revised (annex 5).

11. At a meeting on 12 November 2014, Wiltshire Council advised the SG that they should use all the information they had gathered to recommend to the parishioners the sites for development. In doing so, the number of sites and houses proposed was six and 34 respectively, with twelve of the latter being affordable homes.

12. In January 2015 a voting form detailing these recommended developments (annex 6) was mail dropped to all houses in the parish inviting all members, who were on the electoral register to vote on the question “Do you agree or disagree with the recommended development?”

The total number of votes cast was 278. Of these, 64.3% agreed with the recommendation, 12.3% disagreed with the whole proposal and 21.2% disagreed with one or more of the developments; there were 6 spoilt forms.

These results were recorded and delivered by letter drop to all houses in the parish. The letter drop also included the SG’s attempt to answer a number of commonly asked questions/comments raised both on the return forms and in previous consultations/correspondence. In addition, an invitation was given to two further consultation sessions.

13. These sessions were held on 8 March and 12 March 2015, respectively. The purpose of these sessions was to address any outstanding questions or clarifications.

The SG reviewed the feedback from parishioners and had meetings with the landowners to discuss the feedback and agree revised plans. During this process a landowner proposed an additional site in Hollow Street.

14. Wiltshire Council advised the Steering Group that they should recommend to the parishioners the sites for development. The total was reduced from 45 to 33, including 12 affordable houses by:

• Excluding the two houses (NP6) in Hollow Street due to poor access and the very narrow road, • Excluding the development of ten houses (NP7) behind The Close in Top Street following feedback from parishioners.

15. In early 2015 there were Government changes in the policy concerning new developments and the proportion of affordable homes that these must contain. Our original plan was based on any development of five houses or more providing 40% affordable homes. The new policy required only developments of ten houses or more to provide 40% of affordable homes. This change was discussed with landowners and it was agreed that NP1 would add an additional two homes, giving a total of twelve with five being affordable. The landowners of sites NP2 and NP5 agreed that they would accept the original threshold for affordable housing, subject to allocation for people with local connections. The number of affordable houses on NP4,being an extension to the currently approved plans for thirty houses, including seven affordable, will be considered when an application is submitted for the whole site. On a pro-rata basis this would deliver an additional two affordable homes and is recommended by the NP. This would maintain the twelve affordable houses in the proposal “voted on” the parish (see item 12 above). This proposal is shown under the May 15 column in the table below.

2014 2015

July September January March May

NP1 Seagry Rd 23 10 10 10 12

NP2 Dauntsey Rd 13 5 7 7 7

NP3 Frog Lane 3 3 2 2 2

NP4 adj Brook Farm 8 8 8 8 8

NP5 Police House 30 6 6 6 6

NP6 Hollow Street - 2 2 - -

NP7 The Close - - 10 - -

NP8 opp The Mount *

Totals 77 34 45 33 35 of which affordable - 12 12 10 12**

* Site withdrawn by landowner

** Number includes the two additional at original Brook Farm site (as recommended by Steering Group)

16. At every point in the process any changes or new proposals were discussed at a minuted meeting of the steering group and the revisions published to the parishioners.

17. Paragraph 14 of the National Planning Policy Framework sets out a presumption in favour of sustainable development. The district has a good range of services and facilities, including a public transport network, and the Steering Group considers that the sites proposed in this NP all represent sustainable options for development.

18. As a result of further informal consultations with Wiltshire Council, site assessments have been updated to include Heritage Assets, NPPF and Local Green Spaces Policies. Broadfield Farm assessment has now been included in Appendix F3. (insert from main doc) Annex 1.2 (ref questions 1, 3, 4 and 6)

Question 1 Retain Local Green Spaces Responses Yes 99 No 3 Blank 2 Total 104

Question 3 Type of development a) New estates 7 b) Small groups within the limits of the village 88 a) & b) Both 3 Blank 3 Neither 3 Total 104

Question 4 Importance of local facilities Local pub 4.2 Village store 4.8 School 4.6 Local church 4.7 Allotments 4.3 Playground 4.5 Local buses 4.6 Village halls 4.2 Business sites 3.8

Question 6 Do you want a Neighbourhood Plan? Yes 102 No 1 Blank 1 Total 104

Number of households in the parish 330

% of households that completed the survey 31.5

00000015:22 13/09/2016 Annex 2.2 (ref question 2)

Question 2 - Open spaces to be protected Responses

Church meadow 14 Field between Manor Park and Hollow Street 9 Childrens' playground/park 6 Field opposite The Mount 6 Quack Quack area 6 River banks 5 The Glebe 5 Green spaces & fields near houses 4 Surrounding/nearby fields 3 Yes, but none specified 3 All primary school site 2 Football ground 2 Land opposite Paddock Close 2 Permissive footpaths & village walks 2 All new housing to be within village boundary 1 Free gardens 1 Jubilee Tree area 1 Retain rural character of Somerford 1 Shiptons Lane 1 Startley centre 1

43 people responded to Question 2 75 Annex 2.2 (ref question 5)

Question 5 - Any further comments? Affordable housing dispersed through village

Ensure infrastrucure is in place before any further planning approvals are granted Doctors' surgery from time to time

The new bus timetable effectively deprives people of essential services Any new housing should be within the village boundary

Accept small developments as long as they are on the outskirts of the village and not New developments means more traffic, so what about the roads? in the centre of existing housing area Why not use smaller cheaper buses? What has happened to Brook Farm development - when completed that is sufficient development Development should be a bare minimum

While open spaces are important, not all are, so infill in Hollow Street, small paddocks Great Somerford is a village, so any development must reflect this and the bottom of Frog Lane are opportunities without harming rural character Support some small developments, but the fields and open spaces must be protected Re-instate bus service and more village shops Paddock Close is a delightful development -mixed dwellings with grassy spaces Startley has no facilitie, relies on GS, so you need a car. No development in Startley as it will increase car usage Build bungalows and small houses to enable other to free up larger houses

Support local industry; Farmers' market, bee-keeping etc There are no safe pedestrian routes to local village halls & limited public transport

New tarmac on Winkins Lane and soon please Keep the green spaces in the village

Introduce smaller cheaper buses to maintain bus service Need a pavement along the Dauntsey towards the school

Improve the road surfaces in the village If there are new developments, then improve the roads

Allowing any of the vital village components to wither will lead to fundamental decline

Protect open areas between houses, riverside walks & Play area Need high speed internet & and our own village hall

Great Somerford is a village so any development should reflect this and be We have land in the village with planning permission, so do housing need survey proportonate take this into account - it should!

No new building on flood plain We need more houses small & large, modern & old design take this into account - it should!

Irrelevant, Vindictive and Libellous Comments removed by NP Steering Group 27 people responded to Question 5

000000NP Q5 Annex 3 Annex 3 LGS1 Church meadow LGS2 Hollow St behind The Close LGS5 Quack Quacks LGS6 Glebe Lane, Dauntsey Road 60 Responses 40 Responses 35 Responses 43 Responses Outstanding beauty in the village Bad access & destroy heart of village x 3 Quack Quack is special to the village Just develop front part of Glebe Why protect this? X 2 Only 3 or 4 houses acceptable Very important to local residents Bad idea to develop under power lines x 5 This area is of archeological interest Really bad access - Hollow or Top St x 5 Good shortcut avoiding traffic x 2 Good amenity for village This field was a gift to the village x 2 Not a pivotal open space Could be a potential housing site Protect most of the area - Just 1 or 2 houses Church view must be protected x 6 Large area not really seen by the public Scope for 2 houses in top right corner Good site to extend the village x 2 Meadow is most beautiful & ssymbolic feature No objection Why not put all 26 houses in the field past Shiptons Lane Need green areas or it becomes a suburb x 2 Don't rid the village of its heart The obvious place for development (5HU) There are other areas needing protection than this one Open land is valued in the village There is a covenant on the field Pleasant field with grazing sheep x 2 Please protect most - room for 1 or 2 houses Attractive & historic site - good for dog walkers x 2 We'll be out in force if this is not protected A limited contribution to open spaces - invisible x 2 Perfect infill as extension to Manor Park Fully approve Many strong comments supporting protection Could be a potential housing site The area enhances the village feel Seems a reasonable site to me Vital to protect x 3 A shame to build here but better here than other Pas x 3 Good site for village houses Would be a great shame to lose the field Please leave this as it is Seems a sensible site - a few along Hollow St. An integral part of village ambience Free gardens should also be protected x 2 Outstanding beauty in this part of the village Could see benefit of partial development Seems a good place to build Good for dog walking It would be sacriledge Very visible but good to build on Good for small scale development near to shop Keep open space near the school x 3 A shame to build on but not too visible Many supportive comments to protect it No big development please x 2 This would make good site to develop on Where do I walk my dog if developed The Northern part is suitable for development Small development near road OK Any housing would be very visible - land height Must protect footpath as heavily used

PA3 Play area, Winkins Lane LGS4 Land opposite The Mount LGS7 Old School field, West Street 52 Responses 32 Responses 43 Responses Only develop if alternative playground is provided x 6 Serves as a church car park x 7 A much used footpath Many comments supporting the need to retain as A spacious & calm area Keep as green as possible children's playground Keep as a large open space Develop south end in future x 3 Should never be built on Good site for development x 2 Essential open space in the villagex 2 This field retains a connecting space between two parts Great impact on Park Lane & Winkins Lane of the village x 2 Could consider part for housing Develop plot(s) on West Street x 7 Disastrous to build on- this is the heart of the village West St flooding needs to be addressed Beatiful part of village opposite church Clearly defines end of development First area you see when entering village Provides access from West St A lovely meadow gives unique quality of village Protect inside central area A core green area in the village A shame to build on Limited development on East side would be fine x 4 Why is this not suitable for development x 2 North side must be protected as a car park Limited infill might be OK No need to protect it all x 2 Enables a circular walk Some development but keep car park x 4 Prime dog walking area x 3 30% could be developed A much treasured area Maybe some land could be developed x 2 OK for development but protect footpath Other areas more important to protect than this one No - Road is too narrow Tarmac over for a car park Limited development acceptable as a last resort No need for more development after Brook Farm No need for more development after Brook Farm Integral to community cohesion Building here will change village character Delightful field opposite the church Good site for development (5HU) Vital open aspect of the village Deveopment would worsen traffic in Hollow/West St Area adds beauty to the village x 2 Ripe for development Name says it all - often under water Possibly some development

Appendix F2: Site assessment Note: This document is to be read in conjunction with appendices F1 and F2.

1. At the commencement of the NP process, the Steering Group (SG) had been given no indication that any landowner wished to develop a site. However, the SG was aware that five sites had previously been registered with Wiltshire Council under the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment procedure (SHLAA). These sites were:

SHLAA1117 - Park Lane

SHLAA2053 - Broadfield Farm

SHLAA3017 - Manor Farm House

SHLAA794 - Mills Farm 1 (Land behind The Close)

SHLAA795 - Mills Farm 2 (Land opposite The Mount)

At annex 1 is a map showing the location of these sites plus extracts (from the Wiltshire Council planning website) showing the details of each SHLAA.

2. Following the open meetings for parishioners in April 2014, three other landowners put forward their sites for potential development. Of the SHLAAs, the only proposal put forward was in respect of Mills Farm 1. The seven sites are shown on the map at annex 2 and are identified as follows:

NP1 Seagry Road

NP2 Dauntsey Road

NP3 Frog Lane

NP4 Brook Farm (adjacent)

NP5 Land behind Old Police House

NP6 Hollow Street

NP7 Land behind The Close (Mills Farm 1) Another site (NP8, land opposite The Mount) was withdrawn by the landowner before the start of the process of site assessment.

3. The site assessment process took account any environmental or heritage constraints and the views of the parishioners as expressed in open meetings which were held in September 2014 and March 2015. To aid the process, maps were produced which show the flood plain in the village (annex 3) and all the listed buildings (annexes 4.1 and 4.2).

It is understood that there are no sites of special scientific interest, no areas of outstanding natural beauty and no ancient woodland in the boundary of the village.

4. The results of the assessment for each of the individual sites NP1 to NP7 are shown in annexes 5-1 to 5-7.

5. In view of the constraints identified in the assessment, sites NP6 and NP7 were not included in the final proposals of the plan. Site NP5 was included after the landowner reduced to six the proposed number of dwellings.

6. As a result of further informal consultation with Wiltshire Council Broadfield Farm has been assessed in accordance with the system used for NP1 to NP7 and can be found in Appendix F3 annex 5.8. A revised score sheet which includes Broadfield Farm is shown in Appendix F3 annex 6

7. When this site assessment appendix is read in conjunction with the main body of this plan, the SG considers that the proposals will:

- provide sufficient additional dwellings (including affordable) to meet the needs of the parish for the next ten years and will be consistent with the provisions of the Wiltshire Core Strategy;

- provide protection in the village for the local green spaces identified by the parishioners;

- not impinge on or have any detrimental effect on any of the village’s buildings identified as being of historical interest; - take account of any flooding risks and, moreover, ensure that measures are put in place to improve the current position in that respect;

- ensure that increased traffic will not lead to safety concerns;

- be beneficial for the continued provision of the local amenities.

Legend ANNEX 4

The Built Environment -E::3- Conservation Areas

- Listed Bulldlngs Free Gardens ta be Maintained as Local Green Space

Areas far Future Development ...,...... :-. - he Parish of Gn1at Somerford incorporating Starlley Neighbourhood Plan Showing Llllllld Bul

51111 Market Value All'ordable NP1 7 5 NP2 4 3 NP3 2 0 NP4 6 2 NP5 4 2 Totals 23 12 GS NP Schedule of Listed Buildings To be read in conjunction with Map above

1) Barn on West side to rear of No 7 Paddock Close Great Somerford 2) Bevis Frog Lane Great Somerford 3) Brook Farm House Great Somerford 4) Church of St Peter and Paul Great Somerford 5) Four Monuments in churchyard to SW of porch of Church of St Peter and Paul Great Somerford 6) Gate Piers at entry to churchyard Great Somerford 7) Manor Farmhouse West St Great Somerford 8) Barn to West of The Mount House Great Somerford 9) Sayers Frog Lane Great Somerford 10) Stable at Brook Farm Great Somerford 11) The Close Top Street Great Somerford 12) The Mount House Park Lane Great Somerford 13) The Old Maltings Hollow Street Great Somerford 14) The Old Rectory Park Lane Great Somerford 15) The Volunteer Inn Great Somerford 16) Two Monuments in Churchyard about 2m SE of Rood Stair of Church of St Peter and Paul Great Somerford 17) Unidentified Monument in Churchyard about 2m South of SE angle of Chancel of Church of St Peter and Paul Great Somerford 18) West St Farmhouse Great Somerford 19) Westerton Farm Cottages 63 West St Great Somerford Appendix F3 Annex 6 February 2016 Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan Site Scoring

The NP SG scoring has been re-assessed in consideration of mitigating statements received from landowners NB: Heritage Impact added

Site Location Possible Market Affordable Access Flood risk Obstructions Traffic Pedestrian Size of Suitability Heritage Total Number of Value or hazards effect facilities development for village Impact Dwellings

3 Seagry Road 12 7 5 3 * 5 5 5 5 5 5 4 * 37

NP2 Dauntsey Road 7 4 3 5 3 * 5 5 5 5 5 5 38

NP3 Frog Lane 2 2 0 3 5 5 4 5 5 5 5 37

NP4 Brook Farm 8 6 2 * 5 5 5 4 4 5 5 5 38

NP5 Police House Dauntsey Rd 6 4 2 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 40

Total Houses 35 23 12

Other Sites Considered but not included in the Neighbourhood Plan

NP6 Hollow Street 2 8 3 2 5 2 3 4 5 5 3 29

NP7 Land Behind The Close 11 8 3 1 5 2 2 5 5 1 1 22 Land opposite The Mount NP8 Withdrawn by Landowner due to existing Covenant

3 Sites in West Street Withdrawn by Landowner

Further Site considered after Final Village Consultation

Broadfield Farm 40 24 16 3 5 3 4 4 1 2 2 24

NB: Asterix = See Mitigation Proposals in Appendix F Supplement Scoring note: In all cases scores are between 1 and 5, with a higher mark representing a favourable outcome

Volume 1: Final Report North Wiltshire Landscape Character Assessment

4.201 The area has limited tree cover which is

Character Area 11 restricted to shelterbelts, hedgerow trees and small clumps of woodland. The latter are Avon Valley infrequent throughout the area but are slightly more evident to the south, below and around Chippenham, reducing the effect of the urban General Description of Character fringe. Poplar windbreaks are frequent across the 4.198 This large character area is focused around whole area, breaking up views and acting as the River Avon, its tributaries, Brinkworth Brook significant landscape features. The presence of and Marston River and the surrounding low-lying watercourses through the area is marked by landscape. The Avon meanders from Malmesbury to riparian vegetation dominated by willow, the north, through Chippenham, to leave the frequently pollarded, which enhances the damp, district below Lacock Abbey in the south. low lying character of these areas. Brinkworth Brook runs from below Wootton Bassett 4.202 The water related character is further to join the River Avon in the west; and River developed by the open ditches system which is Marston runs west from Calne. The area is hemmed prominent along low lying roadsides. The in by elevated ground surrounding the area and sits watercourses themselves are attractive and below 70m AOD, and at its lowest point is 36m AOD interesting features, meandering through below Lacock. landscape. Bridges across the river and causeways across wetter areas are significant elements relating to the watercourses. Maud Heath Causeway, north east of Chippenham, is one of the most well known. It was created circa 1458 as an investment by an individual for the public good.

4.203 With the exception of Chippenham, settlements are generally small, with a vernacular core, constructed of a mixture of Oolitic limestone

and local brick, with varying degrees of 20th century development. Church towers are local landmarks within the settlements and their

The River Avon immediate environs but are less significant 4.199 The topography is characterised by a features in the wider landscape. predominantly level landscape with only minor 4.204 Chippenham’s early development was linked undulations at its fringes as the land runs to higher to its importance as a Saxon administrative centre, ground. This produces a wide flat valley with areas the old core of the town sited as today within a of openness and vast skies. Towards the south the loop of the Avon. The town sat on the Bristol– surrounding topography of adjacent character London road, part of a national road system, highly areas provides more enclosure. The geology developed by the mid 14th century. However, underlying this landscape varies, from alluvium and significant expansion of the town began at the end river terrace gravel adjacent to the watercourses, of the 18th century with further development of to the dominance of Oxford and Kellaway Clays on communication links. Both the Wiltshire & the adjacent land. There are large tracts of Berkshire Canal and then the GWR London to Kellaway sand which provides pockets of free Bristol line allowed the existing cloth industry of draining high-grade agricultural land, throughout the town and surrounding area to flourish and the valley. other industries to develop. Extensive late 20th 4.200 The landscape is managed through mixed century development once more expanded the agricultural practices, with arable dominating the town, probably as a result of the town’s proximity freer draining higher-grade agricultural land, and to the M4. Large scale expansions associated with the damper land adjacent to the watercourses peripheral roads have occurred particularly to the consisting almost entirely of wet grassland, west and north west, but also to the south east. including areas of meadow which are designated The valley bottom of the Avon has generally been Sites of Special Scientific Interest. Through much avoided and forms a green corridor into and of area the integrity of the hedges and hedgerow through the town part of which is used for trees provides a sense of enclosure. Below recreational purposes. Development is particularly Chippenham, to the south, hazel hedges are prominent on the rising land to the north. evident, providing a variety to the character of the 4.205 The village of Lacock sits to the south of area. On tracts of intensively farmed arable land the area- a settlement dating from the 13th century hedges are gappy and lacking trees, and the area which gained prosperity through the wool industry. has an exposed character. This is especially The village remains largely unchanged, an eclectic prevalent on the fringes of development and mix of built styles and materials, maintained by communication corridors. The character on the the National Trust. The village, adjacent urban fringes of Chippenham, is further influenced settlement and surrounding settled landscape by the built form and roads which are particularly make this area a popular visitor destination. prominent to the south west of the town.

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4.206 There is evidence of habitation from • Damp meadow and pasture along prehistoric times, with numerous crop marks watercourses/valley floor. visible. These are more obvious north of • Intact and predominantly well managed Chippenham, along the Avon. Discoveries denoting hedgerows frequently with hedgerow trees. man’s intervention within this landscape continue • Areas of high quality arable agricultural land through Roman times, with the presence of located through out the area, on areas of settlement remains. Through both the Avon valley Kellways Sand. & Brinkworth Vale a wealth of medieval settlement • Shelterbelts of poplar act as significant existed. Many of these villages were lost through vertical elements in the horizontal landscape. the Black Death and resulting changes in • Rural and somewhat isolated feel to remoter agricultural systems. parts of character area. 4.207 The A4 and A350 are significant roads in the • Scattered settlements and dwellings. southern part of the area. The A4 east west • Strong rural sense of place, which begins to through Chippenham and the A340 runs along the break down around Chippenham and south western fringes. The only road of communication corridor. significance to the north is the M4 motorway. This • Green valley floor through Chippenham. creates a major feature, source of noise and • Broad expansive skyline, frequently unbroken barrier in the landscape as it cuts through the by development. valley. Away from the main roads traffic is very • Significance of electricity transmission lines. light, the scattering of small hamlets serviced by minor, often single-track roads, which enhance the rural character. 4.208 Two railways traverse the area. The main line London to Cardiff runs east west from Wootton Bassett through Brinkworth Brook valley and London to Exeter one runs south west through Chippenham. These are heavily vegetated with hedgerow species, reducing their effect on the landscape. The airfield at RAF Lyneham lies on high ground to the east, beyond the character area boundary. The heavy use of the airfield by cargo aircraft disturbs the inherent tranquillity of the surrounding area. Additionally, electricity Management Guidelines transmission lines form dominant structures in this 4.211 The overall objectives for the area are to flat landscape. conserve the rural character, and ensure 4.209 There is a comprehensive network of development of the urban fringe and footpath and recreation routes throughout the communication corridors does not compromise the area, although few have any direct relation to the nature of the area. watercourses. The line of the Wiltshire & Berkshire 4.212 Individual elements within the landscape Canal runs along the eastern edge of the area which make up the character should be providing a distinct feature in the landscape. maintained, conserved and when necessary replenished. This should include the retention of the ditch system which runs through the area, maintenance and replacement of hedges. 4.213 Conserve and where possible enhance the biodiversity of the watercourse, its environs and adjacent habitats.

4.214 Features of historical and archaeological interest relating to man’s use of this wet landscape and early settlement features will also require care

and protection.

4.215 Minimise the landscape and visual effects of Main characteristics the expansion of Chippenham. 4.210 The main characteristics of the area can be defined as follows: Management Strategy Actions • Low-lying river landscape, between 70m and 30m AOD on river terrace and alluvial geology 4.216 Conserve and enhance the Character Area with heavy soils, interspersed with light sands. through carrying out the following actions: • Dominant presence of water in the form of ditches, streams and river with related riparian vegetation and structures.

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Short Term minimise the effect on landscape and visual receptors. Development should be carried in • Conserve valley bottoms including wetland conjunction with the development of a strong features, open ditches, meadows and riparian landscape structure to repair urban fringe vegetation, especially willows. landscapes. • Conserve hedgerows and mature trees, including allowing new trees to emerge in 4.221 Where the traditional settlement form existing hedges, and discourage field meets the landscape in river corridors or other amalgamation. green wedges, these areas should be kept free of new development to protect the relationship • Consider where development related to Chippenham is most appropriate in terms of between built form and landscape. The valley floor landscape and visual effects. overall is a sensitive landscape with some of the most attractive landscapes of the area focussed on • Enhance the sense of place through use of the watercourses and riparian vegetation. appropriate building materials in respect of new development, extensions or other built features – especially through the use of materials used in vernacular buildings. • Conserve the alignment and features of the Wiltshire & Berkshire Canal

Long Term • Encourage the creation of public access along waterways, where consistent with nature conservation objectives.

Key Views management strategy 4.217 The area is primarily viewed from the M4, A350 and from the edges of Chippenham. Elsewhere, the large scale of the character area, views reduced by level topography and vegetation and the sparse settlement pattern make view points scarce. Watercourses are important so views from bridges over the Avon should be monitored. 4.218 Indicators for change within this area should include: • Change to watercourses. • Loss of riparian vegetation • Loss of grassland through the area particularly adjacent to watercourses. • Amalgamation of fields • Loss of mature hedgerow trees • Expansion of Chippenham • Establishment of screening around Chippenham

Landscape Sensitivity 4.219 Away from the influence of Chippenham, much of the area has an essentially rural character with small, scattered settlements and individual dwellings. The landscape is predominantly gently undulating with vegetation preventing extensive views. Only small-scale, sensitively designed development, appropriately associated with existing built form, could be successfully accommodated without adverse landscape impacts. 4.220 Around Chippenham, the original settlement in the valley bottom has expanded up the valley sides. These areas are exposed to wider views and are sensitive to further development. Care is required in further expansion of the town to

WHITE consultants 35 June 2004

Appendix F3 Annex 5.1 Seagry Road (NP1)

Site description

The site is between the Seagry Road and development on West Street to the north with housing to the east and grazing land to the west. Developable area/no. of units 0.78 ha. 12units (5 affordable) Availability/ Deliverability Promoted by the landowners who are keen to include self-build and footpath to centre.

Additional notes

Low density will allow houses to be set in landscaped plots to provide edge of

village feel and strong planting on the western boundary to strengthen existing planting will enhance the setting of the

Conservation Area, which at present is spoilt by the modern extensions to the rear of properties fronting onto West Street.

Site selection criterion Assessment Score 1 to 5 Mitigation/Notes 1 = Least Favoured 5 = Most Favoured Access Access direct on to Seagry Road 3 Condition to cover maintenance of hedge to provide necessary visibility. 30mph sign to be moved to include access. Flood Risk None 5 Capacity of pipe running from Seagry Road to main carrier south of Football Field may need upgrading. Other hazardous land uses or None known 5 obstructions Traffic Seagry Road is a classified road 5 with adequate capacity for a small development. Pedestrian facilities Link required to footpath network 5 at cross-roads. Heritage assets The Heritage Assets to be 4 Having identified the heritage assets and their considered as being potentially settings there will be minimal harm to these affected by this allocation are: and there is potential for social and economic 1.Setting of Conservation Area benefit. To ensure the settings are enhanced 2. Setting of Listed Building The a landscape scheme will be required as part Volunteer. of the application or conditional on the 3. Avenue of chestnut trees granting of permission. along drive to The Manor.

1. At present the setting of the Conservation Area on approaching the area along the Seagry Road provides the feel of approaching a built up area with development becoming visible to the north of the road and the football pitch with changing rooms to the south having passed through a wooded area.

2. The area of this site has little effect on the setting of The Volunteer, the closest listed building at present due to the distance from the building with little visibility due to planting between the listed building and the site. The allocation of this site will provide better access with footpath to the cross roads improving visibility of the asset and providing enhanced social and economic benefit.

3. The avenue of chestnut trees to the west of the site on the edge of the Conservation Area will remain as a dominant feature in the setting of the area. Size of development 0.78ha. 12 units including 5 5 Accords with early survey for small sites affordable. close to the village Suitability for the village With footpath providing access to 5 centre of village this meets the parish survey criteria. Overall conclusion and decision

Seagry Road (NP1) is to be taken forward into the draft Neighbourhood Plan for allocation of 12 dwellings including 5 affordable. Development proposals to be accompanied by a landscaping scheme; retain existing trees and maintain the rural approach to the village. DevelopmentDe proposals should address drainage requirements satisfactorily which may include upgrading capacity of main pipe in Seagry Road. that the rural approach to the village is

Appendix F3 Annex 5.2 Dauntsey Road (NP2)

Site description Situated at the eastern end of Dauntsey Road on the south side between two modern houses Dauntsey End and Stow House. At present a small grass roadside paddock opposite 1930s Council Houses and uses field gate in roadside hedge. Developable area/no. Of units 0.48 hectares 7 dwellings (of which 3 affordable)

Availability/ Deliverability Promoted by landowner's agent and land owners have confirmed they are prepared to provide 40% affordable housing (2 units). Priority for people with local connections. Additional notes -

Site selection Assessment Score 1 to 5 Mitigation/Notes criterion 1 = Least favoured 5 = Most Favoured Access Existing access with improved splays 5 would provide suitable access minimizing the need for hedge removal Flood Risk At times there has been localised 3 Maintenance of roadside ditch and resetting of culvert invert ponding in the north east corner of the level. Obligation to maintain roadside ditch thereafter. Ditch paddock caused by lack of ditch level survey done March 2015 shows good fall available to maintenance and culvert in roadside main water carrier alongside of Downfield Farm drive. ditch with incorrect invert level.

Other hazardous None known 5 Land uses or obstructions Traffic Access direct onto classified road 5 With low-density space within site to provide 2 car parking spaces per dwelling. Pedestrian Good connection to new path on north 5 facilities side of road providing link to network of paths in centre of village serving school, shop, post office, pub and churches. Heritage assets Outside of Conservation Area and well 4 On the north of Dauntsey road in this area are 1930s council away from any listed buildings. housing, pairs of semi -detached houses with bungalows on Retention of roadside hedge would each end. Adjoining the above to the east is a development of preserve the setting of the CA. This affordable housing recently completed by Guinness Trust. end of the Dauntsey Road east from the allotments was built after 1930 On the south side of Dauntsey road to the east of the site is a except for Avon Villa 1905. The plots substantial house close to the boundary with end gable facing on the north side all face the highway the road. Close to the western boundary is Stow House facing with a formal building line. Those on the road with garage and stabling behind. the south have various orientations with some set back behind others. Dauntsey Road from the allotments to the Guinness Trust development was described in the Village Design Statement as comprising ribbon development with comprehensive mixture of types and stiles including old police house, Local Authority Housing, bungalows and larger detached houses. Size of development 7 units on 0.48ha. is low density in 5 keeping with existing development on the south of the road. With this proposal there will be adequate space for two parking spaces per dwelling. Suitability for the Small development with affordable 5 village housing with good pedestrian links to village accords with survey. There was no requirement for this to be retained as a Local Green Space. Overall conclusion and decision

Dauntsey Road (NP2) is to be taken forward into the draft Neighbourhood Plan for allocation of 7 dwellings including 3 affordable. Development proposals to be accompanied by a landscaping scheme which ensures maintaining the rural approach to the village. DevelopmentDe proposals should address drainage requirements satisfactorily including upgrading and maintaining roadside ditch and culvert. that the rural approach to the village is

Appendix F3 Annex 5.3 Frog Lane (NP3)

Site description Situated southeast corner of property

previously known as The Orchards. Within the Orchards there has been development on the remainder of the area of six dwellings, five of which have access off central un-adopted roadway. Developable area/no. Of units

0.16ha. 2units Availability/ Deliverability

Owned by company who wish to sell site and accept condition to provide drain as proposed by WC drainage officer to alleviate localised flooding on Frog Lane in front of New Cottages. Additional notes This site is previously developed land having been used for storage in connection with vehicle dismantling business carried out near to entrance from Frog Lane.

Site selection criterion Assessment Score Mitigation/Notes 1 = Least favoured 5 = most favoured Access Access track and site in company 3 No highway objection to 2006 ownership application for 3 dwellings. Flood Risk None to proposed site. Concern 5 Owner has agreed scheme with WC about localised flooding on Frog for pipe to open ditch east of site to Lane near entrance alleviate localised flooding on the highway at the entrance in Frog Lane. Other hazardous land uses or obstructions Contamination on vehicle dismantling 5 Can be covered by condition. area considered at time of planning application for the Hawthorns. Traffic Existing access onto Frog Lane 4 Increase in traffic less than reduction in vehicular traffic from Brook Farm site, previously large dairy unit, when access is closed on commencement of development. (Condition all vehicular traffic from development direct onto Park Lane.) Pedestrian facilities Connection to footpath network running 5 north /south along eastern boundary. Heritage assets Within the Conservation Area, the 5 Development of this plot with two Orchards are shown on the 1809 rather than three dwellings would be in enclosure map as a separate parcel. keeping with the low density in the The southern boundary is the same as area and a condition to maintain the in the above award. Viewing the site ancient hedgerow on the southern from the disused railway to the east boundary would enhance the the area appears to be part of low- conservation area. density modern development within the boundary of the Orchards. Viewed An application in 2006 was refused as from Frog Lane and the Glebe land to the proposal was outside the the South the site also appears to be framework boundary and there was no part of the developed area. The objection on highways grounds or on adjoining properties are substantial the design of three dwellings in the detached houses in large plots, facing Conservation Area. the access road. Size of development 2 units on 0.16ha.provides low density 5 on the edge of the developed area. Suitability for the village Resolution of localised flooding in 5 Frog Lane has been sought by the Parish for many years. Overall conclusion and decision

Site NP3 (Frog Lane) is to be allocated in the draft Neighbourhood Plan for 2 dwellings. Measures should be taken to reduce flood risk at Frog Lane and the ancient hedgerow on the southern boundary of the site must be maintained.

Appendix F3 Annex 5.4 Brook Farm (NP4)

Site description The site is a small L shape extension of the permitted

development with planning permission for 30 dwellings with access from Park lane. Developable area/no. Of units

0.47 ha 8units (2 affordable) Availability/ Deliverability

Promoted by the agents for the current owners of the Brook Farm site. The site is for sale.

Additional notes

This site was included in a planning application in 2005 for whole site then withdrawn before decision made as

committee members felt it was premature, as the proposed changes to include the site within the framework boundary had not been adopted. The original report to the committee recommended permission for the whole site.

Site selection Assessment Score 1 to 5 Mitigation/Notes criterion 1 = Least favoured 5 = Most favoured Access Access as for permitted site direct to 5 Park Lane Flood Risk Flood Risk Assessment done for whole 5 Floor levels to be conditioned as on larger site at 61.0m site in 2005 approved by Environment AOD Agency. Site in Flood Zone 2.

Other hazardous Small area not developable by pylon 5 land uses or outside the site boundary. obstructions Traffic Existing access onto Park Lane 4

Pedestrian Footpath through site connecting Park Covenant to provide short connecting link outside site facilities Lane to footpath running south to 4 boundary. Dauntsey Road. Heritage assets Part proposed for 8 units not in 5 Viewed from the disused railway line and the footpath Conservation Area and is separated running south to the old police house on Dauntsey Road, from the curtilage of listed barn at the site would be seen against backdrop of permitted entrance to site by the approved development with development to the west off Frog Lane. development for 30 units which now Design, materials etc., to be in accord with the reserved has reserved matters approval. matters approval which has already assessed the site’s effect on the character and appearance of the Conservation Response to cumulative impacts on Area. heritage asset.

The setting of the heritage asset has been compromised in the past by the erection of a large dairy unit beyond the traditional farmyard. The removal of buildings and silage bunkers from the southern and eastern boundaries and replacement by residential development reflecting the local vernacular will be a positive change. (Historic England Good Practice Advice No. 3) Size of 8 units on 0.47ha.provides low density 5 Accords with early survey for small sites close to the village development on the edge of the developed area. Suitability for the Resolution of localised flooding in 5 village Frog Lane has been sought by the Parish for many years. Overall conclusion and decision

Site NP4 (Land adjacent Brook Farm) is to be allocated in the draft Neighbourhood Plan for 8 dwellings of which 2 are to be affordable. Site to be integrated into the wider Brook Farm development and landscaped appropriately. The existing footpath to the east of September Cottageetained. should be retained and drainage requirements satisfactorily addressed.

Appendix F3 Annex 5.5 Land behind Old Police House (NP5)

Site description

The site has been reduced to increase distance from overhead pylon wires. The depth of development from Dauntsey Road is similar to the school area. The site is at present low grade farm land.

Developable area/no. of units 0.29 ha / 6units (2 affordable) Availability/ Deliverability

Promoted by the owner to include bungalows to provide mix of house types within the overall Neighbourhood Plan.

Additional notes

The site was originally put forward by developer for 30 houses. The site is well located for bungalows being close to village

centre and well served by footpaths.

Site selection criterion Assessment Score 1 to 5 Mitigation/Notes 1 = Least favoured 5 = Most favoured Access Access direct to Dauntsey Road 5 Existing access has width for adoptable road with footpath. Flood Risk Outside Flood Zones 5 Other hazardous land Pylon to the north. 5 Northern boundary has been moved away uses or obstructions from pylon. Traffic Existing access on to Dauntsey Road 5

Pedestrian facilities Footpath along western boundary will connect to new path in Dauntsey 5 Road providing easy walking to shop, pub, post office and school.

Heritage assets Not in Conservation Area but adjoining on southern boundary. The 5 This development with landscaping will setting of the Conservation Area in this area comprises a mix of preserve the setting of the Conservation detached houses and bungalows on Dauntsey Road with the school Area and provide facilities for elder members development to the rear of houses on the road frontage immediately to of the community close to footpaths with open the west. views. The hedge on the Eastern boundary has not been maintained for many decades The Conservation Area was extended in this area in 2006 to include and this provides an opportunity to improve the allotments to the south of the Dauntsey Road and the only house the setting of the conservation area. noted of merit to the north of the Dauntsey Road (Avon Villa) is to the The works needed include laying of part, filling in the gaps with native British hedgerow east of the proposed allocation. species, to improve the functionality and habitat for wild life. This will provide a robust Development in this area will provide opportunity to improve the boundary to the site and the Conservation historical boundary hedge along the footpath and will have no adverse Area. The soft landscaping on the Eastern and effect on the landscape setting. (North Wiltshire Landscape Character Northern boundaries should be low hedges Assessment). This will preserve the setting of the Conservation Area. comprising mixed native species interspersed with native trees. Size of development 6 units on 0.29ha.provides low density on the edge of the developed 5 Accords with early survey for small sites close area. to the village centre

Suitability for the village Owner will consider covenant to prevent enlargement of bungalows. 5 Covenant to restrict enlargement and/or restriction to over 55 years. Overall conclusion and decision

Site NP5 (Land behind the Old Police House) is to be allocated in the draft Neighbourhood Plan for 6 dwellings including 2 affordable. Attention should be paid to landscaping to the northern, eastern and southern site boundary to improve the setting of the Conservation Area; and to the access point to ensure safety is not compromised. Connection to existing footpath network is required and drainage requirements are to be addressed satisfactorily. Appendix F3 Annex 5.6 NP 6 Hollow Street

Size of site: 0.28 hectare Dwellings: 2, both at market value Access: Hollow Street Constraints: Access/exit in a narrow road Mitigation: Insufficient to overcome constraint Parish support: Scored 6.0 out of 10 in parish scoring exercise but also a great number of written comments on concerns over access . Also, in connection with a previous planning application in Hollow Street, the Conservation Officer had raised the same concerns.

Appendix F3 Annex 5.7 NP 7 Land to Rear of The Close

Size of site: 1.28 hectare Dwellings: 10, including 4 affordable Access: Top Street Constraints: a) Location had been identified as a local green space b) Proximity to listed building – The Close. c) Topography of land would result in undue prominence of any development. Mitigation: Insufficient to overcome constraints. The site is now designated as Local Green Space (LGS) 2. See appendix G. Parish support: Site had been withdrawn before the scoring exercise

Appendix F3 Annex 5.8 Broadfield Farm

Site description This SHLAA s i t e has a developable site area of 1.35Ha (3.34 acres). The site

contains a number of agricultural buildings some with planning permission for employment uses some used for agricultural purposes in connection with

the farm lying to the south of the site. The site is situated off the Seagry Road to the south of the Free Gardens( Heritage

Asset) and west of the reclaimed gravel workings (fishing lake designated as a County Wildlife Site). To the south of the site is open agricultural land. The existing access is from the Seagry Road, which also serves five dwellings, two with agricultural occupancy conditions.

Developable area/no. of units 1.35 ha / 40 units (16 affordable) Availability/ Deliverability Promoted by the owner's agents. Additional notes The response to the final consultation indicates 40 dwellings on the whole site including the permitted employment units.

Site selection criterion Assessment Score 1 to 5 Mitigation/Notes 1= Least favoured 5 = Most favoured

Access Poor visibility to South at proposed 3 Obstructing hedge could be removed by access. Poor pedestrian access to Landowner village centre Route for pedestrians to centre of village may be problematic given off-site land constraints (width) however a substandard footway may be possible

Flood Risk Outside Flood Zones 5

Other hazardous land uses or Due to its significant scale and loss 3 This could be mitigated by a strong buffer to obstructions of all employment units it would be minimize urbanising effects of development, contrary to NPPF para. 14 and WCS noise, lighting, pollution etc. in accord with policy CP2 in terms of limited NPPF para.118 and WCS CP50. development in large villages. The strategy recognises the importance of jobs alongside housing. There would be impact on the landscape setting and the adjoining heritage asset. The number proposed (40) is out of proportion with the village consultation (small sites). Due to its nature, scale and proximity to the County Wildlife Site may have adverse effects on the CWS.

Traffic Increase in traffic through village 4 considerable

Pedestrian facilities Poor access to village 4 Route for pedestrians to centre of village may be problematic given off-site land constraints (width) however a substandard footway may be possible. Heritage assets The Local Character Assessment 2 This could be mitigated by a strong buffer

states ‘only small scale, sensitively zone to minimize urbanising effects of designed development appropriately development, noise, lighting, pollution etc. in associated with existing built form accord with NPPF para.118 and WCS CP50. could be successfully accommodated without adverse landscape impact’. Extension of Conservation Area to North of site (2005). This is an area of historic significance nationally as the Free Gardens appear to be the first example of what eventually became known as allotments. Important visual link with the open countryside on the south side of the settlement was also considered a reason to extend the Conservation Area. (Letter from NWDC Community and Environment Dec.2005)

Size of development 40 units including 16 affordable on 1 1.35Ha. Suitability for the village Proposed housing numbers too high. 2 Overall conclusion and decision

Land at Broadfield Farm is not to be taken forward into the draft Neighbourhood Plan due to the scale of proposed development; potential effects on The Free Gardens and the County Wildlife Site; and poor pedestrian accessibility.

Appendix H: Consultation Document

1. Consultation began early in 2014 when two questionnaires were issued to all households. One from Wiltshire Council (and common to all towns and parishes in the county) was the Rural Housing Needs Survey. This achieved a response rate of 45% which is very high. The results are at annex 1.

The second questionnaire was issued by the parish’s Neighbourhood Plan Steering Committee and achieved a 40% response rate. The questionnaire and results summary at are annexes 2.1 and 2.2.

2. An initial public meeting was held in the school hall on 22 April 2014. It was well attended and a presentation was given of the background to the national planning process, including the Wiltshire Core Strategy. Amongst other things, it was explained that the parish must be open to new development in order to maintain the viability of its public amenities. The importance of having a neighbourhood Plan was stressed as it would give the parishioners the opportunity to influence proposals for housing development.

3. A second public meeting was held on 17 July 2014 after the Steering Group had received some proposals for development. At this meeting the results of the surveys mentioned in paragraph one were presented. A map had been prepared showing the locations where landowners had expressed interest in development and also showing sites which the parishioners had indicated should be retained as open spaces. The subject of affordable housing was addressed by explaining the relevant policy of the Core Strategy.

4. After proposals for new development had become more firmly established, two further public meetings were held on 21 and 23 September 2014. At these meetings there was a table for each proposed development to show the outline plans. There were also tables for each proposed area of open space. The meetings were very well attended with over 160 parishioners (25% of the electoral roll) visiting and having the opportunity to discuss any item of concern with the members of the Steering Group. They were also able to comment on the proposed developments by way of a scoring sheet. An example of the scoring sheet is reproduced at Appendix 3.1 and a summary of the results is at annex 3.2.

5. Following these meetings, and taking into consideration the comments made there and by way of the scoring sheets, a paper was delivered to every household. This paper showed the recommendations of the Steering Group and gave every parishioner on the electoral roll an opportunity to say whether or not they agreed with the recommendations. The site recommendation paper and results summary are reproduced at annexes 4.1 and 4.2.

6. In January 2015 a voting form (annex 7) detailing these recommended developments was mail dropped to all houses in the parish inviting all members, who were on the electoral register to vote on the question “Do you agree or disagree with the recommended development?”

7. These sessions were held on 8 March and 12 March 2015, respectively. The purpose of these sessions was to address any outstanding questions or clarifications.

8. At various stages in the process, letters and e-mails from parishioners have been received. These were all replied to by the Steering Group and a summary of them is given below in tabular form. All original correspondence has been retained by the Steering Group and is available on request.

9. At all stages parishioners have been informed of the progress of the plan by way of notices in the local monthly Signpost publication, letter drops, public notices of forthcoming open meetings and results of the informal consultation exercises. There have also been regular reports of the Parish Council meetings and postings on the Great Somerford web site. Copies of all relevant notices and letter drops are contained in annex 5.

10. The NP was put out to formal consultation under Regulation 14 within the parish on 6 July with the six weeks period ending on 16 August 2015. Notice of the consultation was given by way of a mail drop to all households in the parish and a notice in Signpost magazine. Bound copies of the plan were available for inspection in the church throughout the period. The notices drew attention to the existence of the NP on the parish website.

11. There were four open sessions, each of two hours, held in the village community room. These were held on the evenings of 13 and 20 July and the mornings of 18 and 25 July 2015. Bound copies of the plan were available and members of the Steering Group were on hand to answer any questions. A total of 37 parishioners attended these sessions.

12. Consultation of all Statutory Stakeholders listed in Schedule 1 to the Regulations was started on 14 July and lasted until 25 August 2015. A group email was sent to all Statutory Stakeholders on 14th July but no responses were received. A list of the Statutory Stakeholders is provided below.

Wiltshire Council provided comments on the Neighbourhood Plan in connection with the Regulation 14 consultation which are summarised at the end of this report.

List of Statutory Authorities under Schedule 1 of the Neighbourhood Planning Regulations 2012 (as amended)

Consultation Body Contact Email/Contact

Coal Authority Rachael Bust [email protected]

Homes and Communities Agency Mischi Wilk [email protected]

Natural England Charles Routh [email protected]

Environment Agency Katherine Burt [email protected]

[email protected]

English Heritage David Stuart [email protected]

Network Rail Infrastructure Paul Harwood [email protected] Limited

Ed Halford [email protected] (Network Planning Manager) Highways Agency

Marine Management Angela Gemmill angela.gemmill @marinemanagement.org.uk Organisation

Any person to whom the electronic communications code applies

Any person who owns or controls electronic communications apparatus situated in any part of the area of the local planning authority (Wiltshire)

Primary Care Trust Martin Cleverly [email protected] (NHS England Estates Advisor)

Any person who holds a licence under section 6(1)(b) and (c) of the Electricity Act 1989

Any person who holds a licence under section 6 7(2) of the Gas Act 1986

A sewerage undertaker Stuart Ward [email protected] • Southern Water (provides (Planning Team) wastewater services to a small part of Wiltshire; east and south)

A sewerage undertaker There is no specific [email protected] contact but they • Thames Water (sewerage will then allocate a services for the north east of Wiltshire area – providing for specific officer Crickalde, Marlborough and based on that Tidworth) email.

A sewerage undertaker Latoya Carlton [email protected]

• Veolia Water Projects (provides water services to domestic and commercial customers in Tidworth and parts of Ludgershall)

A sewerage undertaker Sarah Torreti [email protected]

• Wessex Water (regional sewage providers covering an area of the south west of England which covers around 10,000 square kilometres, including most of Wiltshire, known as the Hampshire Avon catchment)

A water undertaker Anthony Fry [email protected]

• Cholderton & District Water (serves the village of Cholderton)

A water undertaker Sally-Ann Vermaak [email protected]

• Sembcorp Bournemouth Water [email protected] (supplies drinking water to a small area of south Wiltshire, mainly the population residing within Downton and Redlynch)

A water undertaker Stuart Ward [email protected]

• Southern Water (provides (Planning Team) services to a small part of Wiltshire; east and south)

A water undertaker There is no specific [email protected] contact but they • Thames Water (covers the will then allocate a north east of Wiltshire area – specific officer providing water for Crickalde, based on that Marlborough, Royal Wootton email. Bassett and Tidworth)

A water undertaker Latoya Carlton [email protected]

• Veolia Water Projects (provides water services to domestic and commercial customers in Tidworth and parts of Ludgershall)

A water undertaker Sarah Torreti [email protected]

• Wessex Water (regional water providers covering an area of the south west of England which covers around 10,000 square kilometres, including most of Wiltshire, known as the Hampshire Avon catchment)

No responses were received from any of the above.

13. All neighbouring parishes have been kept informed throughout the GSNP process by way of the Signpost Parish Magazine (see annex 5) and also the Great Somerford Web Page. No representations have been received.

14. Representations to the consultation are listed below, along with the responses of the Steering Group.

Table of correspondence resulting from Public Meetings.

(GSNP SG Replies in bold italics)

Dr Beeby 19.07.14 asking when slides from public meeting would be available. E-mail response on 19.07.14. 27.07.14 asking for further details of some chosen sites, particularly NP2. Also that he had land that might be considered. Replied and invited him to put land forward for consideration. Nothing further as he has since sold his property.

Mr Blount 18.07.14 asking if he could inform a friend who owned certain land in the village. Thanks for SG’s efforts. Replied the next day that this was in order.. General approval but wondered about Broadfield Farm.

The situation regarding Broadfield Farm was explained as per Appendix F annex 5.8. No need to amend NP.

Mrs McEwen 19.07.14 , general questions about NP process. Response sent the same day.

Mr Worthen 28.07.14, a letter signed by 15 parishioners requesting that the Old School Field be protected from development in the NP. Replied on 11.08.04 that it would be proposed though decision to be made by parish as a whole.

Mrs Jackson 11.08.14 requesting maps shown at public meeting. Supplied the same day .

Mrs Blacker 12.08.14, a request how to find out about SHLAAs. Details provided the same day.

Mrs Hawtin 21.09.14, concern expressed over perceived problem with a visitor to the public meeting taking several voting slips. Replied the following day with reassurances.

Mr & Mrs Scott 23.09.14 requesting information on aspects of the NP process and details of NP1. Telephone reply to Mrs Scott, advising her of public meeting that evening when her questions would be answered.

24.09.14 E-mail stating that she had attended the meeting but that her neighbours were unaware of it but would like their voice to be heard. Replied same day saying that neighbours could comment by e-mail.

Mrs Bowen 24.09.14, e-mail expressing concern that proposed developments would expand. Would there be a referendum? Replied following day explaining referendum and that several stages still to go.

Mr/Mrs Mansfield 29.09.14 Phone calls from Mrs Mansfield expressing concerns over aspects of the NP. Asked to put concerns in writing.

29.09.09 Requested hard copies of “all relevant maps and details” shown at September public meetings. Supplied on 30.09.14.

3.10.14 Requested copy of sheet showing photograph of NP1 shown at September meetings. Supplied same day.

6.10.14 Email comments on NP with particular reference to NP1, followed by hard copy letter next day. Replied on 8.10.14 that copies of results of September meetings were available in the local shop. Replied on 20.10.14 to expressed concerns.

21.10.14 E-mail asking for fuller response. Replied the same day that we felt we had answered all questions posed.

29.01.14 E-mail from Wiltshire Council who had been contacted by Mrs Mansfield saying that her concerns were not being taken seriously. The SG replied to Wiltshire with copies of all correspondence.

10.02.2015 email from Wilts. Council confirming clarification of the above events. Advised keeping records of still further correspondence.

Boundaries (the respondent also consulted Wiltshire Council on this topic). Open spaces local green areas) should be developed. Broadfield Farm. Definition of “landowner” and asking why some were canvassed. Whether further applications to build could still be made even if the NP is approved. Could site NP1 be enlarged later. Affordable housing.

The SG had already entered into a great deal of discussion and correspondence over boundaries and had nothing more to add to this point. Explained 95% of the parishioners wished the local green spaces to be retained. The situation regarding Broadfield Farm was explained as per Appendix F annex 5.8. Also explained that landowner has its natural meaning and that “canvassing” was only of SHLAA holders and owners of local green spaces. Pointed out that no-one could be prevented from subsequently making an application but that the existence of an approved plan can be effective when considering applications to build. No need to amend NP.

Mr/Mrs Morris E-mail on 17.09.14 asking for clarification of certain points and suggesting that some development may be beneficial on areas currently identified as protected. Also asked for clarification of settlement boundaries and stated that further development of Brook Farm was considered not suitable. Replied on 24.10.14

Mr/Mrs Barrow 22.09.14 Asked for their site ratings to be considered by e- mail as they are on holiday and asking for any plans relating to NP3. Replied same day accepting e-mailed ratings. Sketch of plans sent 6.10.14.

Mr/Dr Leslie Letter detailing concerns over NP, specifically NP1. Reply sent on 23.10.14

13.11.14 Letter with further concerns, particularly perceived inaccuracies in maps and concerns over settlement boundaries. Written response on 18.11.14. Mrs Lydiate 9.12.14 Letter raising points for clarification and saying that she would welcome chance to become involved. Replied on 17.12.14 including invitation to assist.

16.01.15 Letter commenting on proposed recommendation sheet delivered while she was on holiday. Replied in person, apologising.

Mr McEwen 3.12.14 Email in response to suggested changes to earlier proposals. Also proposed methodology for choosing sites as we now had more than required. Replied same day saying we would consider his points and suggestion. (Subsequently the SG designed a form which would allow the parishioners to indicate whether they agreed with the sites recommended by the SG). This form was sent to Mr McEwen and two other parishioners for comment (Mrs Lydiate and Mr Morris). The newly designed form was agreed and subsequently implemented.

Definition of landowner and SG’s canvassing of them. Broadfield Farm. Settlement boundary. Photographs of sites used at public meetings.

The ‘definition of a Landowner’ and the position re. Broadfield Farm was explained as in the reply to Mr and Mrs Mansfield above. Boundaries set by Wiltshire Council, current review is to tidy up where development has already taken place, further revisions may need to be considered if the NP is approved. There was no motive behind the use of the photographs and anyone who wishes to produce their own as part of representations to the NP may do so. No need to amend NP.

Gleeson 20.4.2015 No sustainability or environmental assessment. SHLAA sites ignored. No audit trail on site selection. Brownfield opportunity (Broadfield Farm) ignored. The Steering Group (SG) subsequently consulted Historic England (see Appx. F2) and is awaiting clearance. The SHLAA sites were not ignored (each landowner was approached by the Steering Group). An audit trail of site selection is at section 7 and appendix F of the document. No specific application was received in respect of Broadfield Farm but the Steering Group decided to assess the site despite the late submission, please refer to Appendix F3 annex 5.8.

Savills 13/11/2014 General approval of the proposed plan. Acceptance of incorporating NP4 into the wider Brook Farm development for the purpose of affordable housing. Pointing out some minor errors in numbering/referencing. Comment that policies should provide for development sympathetic to listed buildings and village setting.

The SG reworded section 7.7.4 to accommodate the Brook Farm affordable housing position. It amended the minor errors pointed out. It incorporated the comment about sympathetic development into each of the relevant policies.

Gray 12/07/2015 Broadfield Farm. Copse behind his house. Five-year review. Explained that clearance of the copse was of diseased trees and overgrown shrubbery. Explained the purpose of the 5-year review. The situation regarding Broadfield Farm was explained as per Appendix F annex 5.8. No need to amend NP.

Marshall 20/08/2015 Conservation area. Copse of trees. Broadfield Farm. Traffic. Replied to the effect that the SG is assured that landowner will take appropriate steps in respect of the line of trees in the conservation area. The copse of trees would not qualify as a local green area as it is not public in nature. The SG considers that having the proposed new building in five separate sites will help to minimise the effect of additional traffic. The situation regarding Broadfield Farm was explained as per Appendix F annex 5.8. No need to amend NP.

Written comments recorded on sheets at open sessions

Bacon Congratulations. Delighted to see open spaces. Thank you.

L-Palmer Very thorough, extremely well presented.

Burdell Strongly object to the number of houses proposed. Wait to see the proposals for Broadfield Farm.

Gow NP3 – planning permission refused in the past. NP2 – flood risk. NP5 – how close to overhead power lines?

Hopkins Housing not needed in village.

Piggott Well thought out plan, well done.

Best Really impressed with proposals.

Cole Broadfield Farm needs to be addressed.

McEwen Should not have put plan/consultation sheet in church.

Where appropriate these comments were discussed with the authors at the meetings.

The GSNP Steering Group considers that the correspondence and comments listed above were dealt with fairly and none, apart from Broadfield Farm, caused the SG to amend the GSNP.

The issue of Broadfield Farm has since been addressed fully in Appendix F3 Annex 5.8 of the GSNP.

Comments received from Wiltshire Council in connection with the Regulation 14 consultation

The draft Plan was shared with the Wiltshire Council nominated ‘link officer’ by email dated 1 May 2015. Comments were provided as per ‘tracked changes’ in the draft plan, and by email dated 19 May 2015. All comments in connection with the Regulation 14 consultation are summarised below. Further points were raised by the link officer post consultation but were merely part of the ongoing work to arrive at the submission version of the Plan.

Comment Response

The section on affordable housing and Change to national policy was possible number of dwellings per site quashed by the High Court in July may require changes following the 2015 so no changes were proposed. recent amendments to national policy (Note that the Court of Appeal on affordable housing provision at sites effectively reinstated national policy of less than 10 dwellings. in May 2016 and the submission version of the neighbourhood plan includes evidence as to why the threshold of 5 in conjunction with Wiltshire Core Strategy Core Policy 43 has been maintained)

Amalgamation of certain aspects of the Noted and GSNP1 revised. plan into Policy GSNP1 which simply Affordable housing threshold states the overall amount of revision as above. development and locations for growth. Policy will require re-consideration […] to incorporate the changes to national policy on affordable housing. This may affect the overall number of dwellings planned for, too.

The final chapter in the plan should Incorporated into Chapter 11, and indicate the priority projects for proposal to use CIL receipts in Community Infrastructure Levy receipts connection with a new recreation to be spent on. ground.

Site selection methodology chapter to Now provided as separate Appendix be lifted out into an appendix to reduce F1. volume of the plan.

Remove reference to Village Design Noted – agree. Statement as this was never formally published

Insert new chapter with details on local Noted – Chapter 9 includes separate green spaces sites and justification for policy but evidence supporting the allocations which could also feature as allocations has been included in separate appendix. Appendix G

Consultation chapter to be shortened Noted – agree. This consultation and details to be provided in separate report and annexes to this report appendix to reduce plan volume now contain the detail.

Appendix H Annex 2.1 Great Somerford & Startley Questionnaire

Dear Resident,

The parish council are asking you to help us decide how you would like our community to develop over the next ten years or more. So, would you please answer the following questions to help us?

1. The Free Gardens, fields and paddocks with road frontage in the centre of the village provide an open feel and set the character of the village? Please circle one Yes No

2. Are there other spaces in the village that you feel should be protected?

3. The village has the opportunity to plan for its allocation of new houses, would you prefer: a) All new houses on new estates? b) Small groups on suitable areas within the physical limits of the village?

Please circle a) or b)

4. How important are the following local facilities? Please circle one number for each 5 is Important 1 is Unimportant

A local pub 1 2 3 4 5

A village store 1 2 3 4 5

A pre & junior school 1 2 3 4 5

An active local church 1 2 3 4 5

Allotments 1 2 3 4 5

A children’s’ playground 1 2 3 4 5

A local bus service to Malmesbury and Chippenham 1 2 3 4 5

Access to local village halls (Little Somerford & Seagry) 1 2 3 4 5

A site(s) to support local employment 1 2 3 4 5

5. If you would like to make any other points, please write below:

------

6. Would you support a Neighbourhood Plan approach to enable future developments to be influenced by the community?

Please circle one Yes No

Thank you for completing this survey.

Please put this questionnaire in the box at Fourway Stores or give to: Sid Jevons, The Old Maltings or to: Mel Hourigan, Whistley House, Startley not later than Saturday 26th 2014.

Appendix H Annex 3.1

NP 1 Seagry Road Voting Slip

Please score the above Site from 1-10 :

1 = Don't approve. 10 = Fully Approve.

Your Post Code:

Your Comments:

Appendix H Annex 4.0 Parish of Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) Neighbourhood Plan

Dear Parishioner

There has already been extensive consultation on the Neighbourhood Plan (NP). Before the document itself is produced, the Steering Group is carrying out a final consultation on the proposed sites for development.

You will find with this letter a map of the village showing the proposed development sites. Those of you who attended the September consultation meetings will recall that there were also a number of areas listed as “Protected Areas” (PAs). It is important to state that this is not an official designation but one that has been used by the Steering Group in its efforts to maintain the open, green spaces which were overwhelmingly requested in the original village survey. Also, there were several comments to the effect that there might be benefit in a limited development of two of these areas. These comments were passed onto the respective landowners and one of them came forward with proposals which are included in this map (NP7 originally PA2) though the Steering Group does not recommend this site for development. Another proposal (NP8 originally PA4) was subsequently withdrawn by the landowner. Thus, the Steering Group’s recommendation now leaves all the original “Protected Areas” unchanged.

The village’s NP must be in compliance with the Wiltshire Core Strategy. To that end the total number of new dwellings to be built by 2026 is 33, of which 12 will be affordable. The definition of affordable housing in this context is housing which is sold to the Local Authority or a housing association at below market value for subsequent renting. There is also enclosed a brief summary of each of the proposals, in particular showing the number of market and affordable dwellings at the sites.

Finally, you will also find a “Site Recommendation Paper” covering all of the proposed sites and showing which ones the Steering Group recommends for development. The bulletin in the December issue of Signpost suggested that there would be an exercise of ranking the sites. However, having taken advice from Wiltshire Council, an alternative way forward is for the Parish to agree/disagree with the Steering Group’s recommendation. This recommendation is based on the need for new dwellings (including affordable housing) and on the views and comments expressed in previous consultation exercises. The paper contains a section where you may simply tick the appropriate box to indicate whether you agree or disagree with the Steering Group’s recommendation. There is also a section for any comments you may wish to make.

The next step in the process will be to prepare the draft NP taking into consideration all comments that have been made throughout this whole process. The NP will then undergo a six weeks period of consultation within the Parish. The “final” document will then go to Wiltshire Council for its consideration, following which there will be an independent examination and, finally, a referendum among all those on the electoral roll within the Parish. If approved, the NP will become part of the development plan for Wiltshire.

Completed Site Recommendation Papers may be returned to any of the steering committee members (whose addresses are shown below) or lodged at Four Ways Stores. The final date for return of the papers is 14th February 2015 . In the meantime, if you have any issues which require clarification, the steering committee members will be happy to deal with them.

Steering group members:

Tony Gregson, 18 Manor Park, GS Tel: 720723

Mel Hourigan, Whistley House, Startley Tel: 720545

Sid Jevons, The Old Maltings, Hollow Street, GS Tel: 720346

John McGrath, The Mount, Park Lane, GS Tel: 721589 Annex 4.1 Neighbourhood Plan Site Selection Paper

Please enter your postcode here: Please state number of persons in your house on the electoral roll:

Site Location Total Affordable Market Val

NP1 Seagry Road 10 4 6 NP2 Dauntsey Road 7 3 4 NP3 Frog Lane 2 0 2 NP4 Adj Brook Farm development 8 3 5 NP5 Field behind Police House 6 2 4

NP6 Hollow Street 2 0 2 NP7 Behind The Close (was PA2) 8 3 5 NP8 Opposite church withdrawn by the landowner

The Steering Group recommends adopting sites NP 1 to 5 for the Neighbourhood Plan which will deliver 33 houses in total of which 12 will be affordable in accordance with the Wiltshire Council Core Strategy

I agree with the Steering group's proposal (please tick if agreed)

I disagree and my preferred sites are (please tick those preferred)

Elector 1 Elector 2 Elector 3 Elector 4 Elector 5 NP1 NP2 NP3 NP4 NP5 NP6 NP7

Comments

Appendix H Annex 4.2 Comments by those who AGREED Post code We accept rather than agree the proposal - Good luck 5EH If there is strong objection to any of the recommended site, can I see the correspondence 5EL I see no need for more large houses just social housing.100's of houses in Sutton Benger & Malmesbury so why more here? 5EL Our concern is NP1; landowner could try to grow the estate further/ A shame only 12 affordable houses are to be built 5EN Delighted that Steering Group did not recommend NP7; peripheral development protects the green spaces in the village 5EQ Keep green spaces green, especially NP7 5EQ Live in Startley - developments seem sensible close to village facilities 5HG Congratulate Steering Group. 63 new house, 130 more cars - should there be a 20mph limit? 5HJ I am a Startley resident - thank you for finding the sites for development 5HQ I would prefer NP1 to be built first 5HR Concern about NP2 flooding and more traffic speeding through 5HT continued concern about flooding re NP2, also NP5 could be a stepping stone to larger development 5HU Yes, provided infrastructure is improved - tel/broadband and flooding 5HY Winkins Lane needs traffic calming or a no - through road as cars use it to cut through - no pavements 5HY Delighted village open spaces are protected and agree rejection of NP 6 & 7 5JA We still think NP3 is a single plot - please affordable houses have gone; we can live with two houses 5JA I remain unhappy with access to Brook Farm. A good job in difficult circumstances 5JA We would prefer no development on NP7 5JB A shame Brook Farm can't count as our village will become a town 5JD Hollow street is too narrow for further development 5JD Well need protecting the character of the village - it is right to build on the edge 5JE Why is Mulberry House, Frog Lane only house in RED? MJH? 5JG I strongly resist any development on NP6 & 7 5JG No development on NP7 please 5JQ Comments by those who DISAGREED Annex 4.2 Do not agree NP1 as outside village boundary 5EH Seagry Road is too small for lorries & full of potholes 5EH SP1 (NP1?) includes ,ature woodland/wildlife. It is a village asset and in a conservation area; there is other land in SP1 5EH Form badly designes caused confusion; PA4 & NP7 good sites; Field N of NP7 and field by Pinfarthing good but not considered? 5EL The 33 houses are a fait-accompli as they meet the housing requirement. Why no proposals for Startley? NP1 is not suitable for development 5EL 2 to 4 houses OK for NP1; Not sure re investigation of area PA6 which borders Dauntsey Road & NP6 - little village impact 5EQ We cannot build any more houses without improvements to our infrastructure, mainly roads; our children are at risk 5HR Disagree with NP1; favour NP6 & 7 as more integrated into village 5HR Why are we proposing to build on our green spaces when Brook Farm hasn't been built and may not sell and uptake pf affordable houses 5HS is unkown. Why build affordable houses when there is no local work and no bus service. You said 20 to 30 new houses, so why 33 now I repeat why build more causes when Brook Farm hasn't been tested in the market. LUDICROUS No logic to NP5 deve;opment; flood risk and further joining NP5 & NP3; perhaps locatev it by NP4 5HS NP7 should be voted on by the village before deciding NP; NP6 was not least favoured that was NP5; NP5 should be cut back to reflecy 5HS the views of the village I only disagree with NP2 due to flood risk; all proposals should surveyed. NP6 & 7 shouldn't have been excluded 5HT Our concerns are with NP5 as access will need to loss of hedgerow/wi;dlife,; landowner could sell off field for further development & 5HX Storm drain/flooding issues. Not a great access either NP5 not appropriate - access would be on bridlepath; access near bend is poor; surely the covenant will not permit development 5HX Despite 30mph & school sign, the access from NP5 is dangerous near the bend 5HX I don't care about numbers of houses imposed by those outside the community. Any development should be within the development limts 5HY of the village, so NP6 & 7 should be developed - NP1 should be the last option I agree because of NP5 - not in original proposal. Why is it recommended over NP6 which had a higher score. Sorry I do want to support 5JA PC bit NP5 is the thin end of the wedge risking expansion in the future The consultation agreed infill bevelopment, yet NP propose estates outside the settlement boundary. It would be useful to connect Village 5JA design statement with NP Frog Lane is already overcrowded - too much traffic & too fast. NP5 could expand across the field 5JA We strongly desagree with NP4; 30 approved house will be a strain; we favour NP7 back on the list 5JA Sorry, no to NP3 as I can't cope with any more traffic 5JA We strongly oppose any more houses at Brook Farm or in Frog Lane, residents cynical re landowner's commitment to sort flooding 5JA Opposed toNP5as totally inappropriate, and favour NP7. Why didn't SG recommend NP6 & 7? NIMBY? 5JA The railway line should not be built on;Hollow St is a good development; NP5 should not developed - creeping development 5JB I disagree with infill, so I agree with expanding the village boundary; affordable housing is worthy. Not like NP1 but no reason? 5JD Oppose NP3 as Frog Lane is already too busy; Agree to NP4 provided traffic is not through Frog Lane 5JG H Annex 4.3

Disagree with: Postcode Location NP 1 NP 2 NP 3 NP 4 NP 5 Whole Seagry Rd Dauntsey Rd Frog Lane Brook Fm Police Hse scheme - 2 5EH West Street, West of Manor stables 6 1 3 5EJ West Street near Shiptons Lane 2 5EL Near The Volunteer pub 5 4 2 4 7 5EQ Manor Park 1 5HR Dauntsey Road by Winkins Lane 2 2 5HS Dauntsey Road N. side, West of Arthur Scott 2 2 2 6 4 5HT Dauntsey Road N. side, East of Arthur Scott 2 2 4 5HU As 5HT but South side 4 2 2 2 2 5HX As 5HS but South side 3 2 5HY Winkins Lane, mid/South 2 1 1 3 4 5HZ Winkins Lane, North 2 2 2 5JA Frog Lane 5 14 5 5JB Park Lane 2 5JD Hollow Street 2 5JE Riverside Park 1 5JG Top Street, East side 2 2 5JQ Top Street, West side 1 1 1 2

Total 19 9 19 28 29 33 Annex 5.1 SIGNPOST May 2013

6 members attended the meeting of Great Somerford (Incorporating Startley) Parish Council held on 10 th April 2013.

Walter Powell School/Pre School - Patrick Neville , School Governor gave a comprehensive report at the Annual Parish Meeting held prior to this meeting. He mentioned that the grant applied for for a replacement building for the pre-school had not been successful and the pre-school were exploring other means of raising money to provide a second hand building for the pre-school.

Planning - Consideration was given to a complaint lodged with Wiltshire Council over the decision to support the planning application at Brown Leaves when one of the two reasons given to support it was not correct - this is an ongoing issue.

Highway Matters a) Speed Indicator Device for Startley - Cllr Hourigan briefed all present that the device worked for 2 weeks. Traffic is still speeding. The unsatisfactory situation is to be brought to the attention of the Police Commissioner.

b) Speeding traffic - Dauntsey Road – Approval to implement Community Speed Watch has been given by Highways. Volunteers are needed. Please contact Cllr. Hughes on 01249 720026 or [email protected]

c) Flooding issue between Startley and Rodbourne near Heath Farm - Cllr Hourigan briefed all that he is discussions with Matt Perrott of Wiltshire Council and the situation is being monitored.

d) Flooding Frog Lane/Sign - Cllr Sturgis gave an update on this at the Annual Parish Meeting held prior to this meeting. Plans are being investigated to resolve this ongoing problem

e) Faded White Lines issue - Cllr Jevons briefed all that this is in hand with Wiltshire Council.

Community Room - A new fan heater is to be purchased together with additional cutlery.

Playarea – The recently purchased bark has now been spread.

Neighbourhood Plan - Research is continuing with a view to the parish council producing a Neighbourhood Plan

Grass Cutting - A new contractor has been appointed and has made a good start.

The next meeting is on the 15 th May which is the Annual Meeting of the Parish Council. Following this meeting there will be two vacancies on the Parish Council. If you are interested in becoming a Councillor and assisting with decisions that affect the villages of Great Somerford and Startley please contact the Clerk on 0166 824620 or email [email protected]

Prior to this meeting the Annual Parish Meeting was held with 14 members of the public present. A report of this meeting will be drafted in due course.

Annex 5.2 October 2013 SIGNPOST

There were 7 members of the Parish Council present at the meeting held on the 11 th September, + 16 members of the public.

Councillor Vacancy - We still have a Parish Councillor vacancy. Anyone interested in serving the community and having a say in matters that concern the Parish please contact the Clerk on 01666 824620 email [email protected]

Walter Powell School/Pre School - Patrick Neville, School Governor, updated members on the replacement building for the pre-school. The necessary planning applications have been made and responses are expected during October. The overall budget for the project is approximately £46,000. Many generous donations have been received and it is anticipated that these together with Government/Council grants will be very close to the required figure. The Parish Council have agreed to assist with the finances of the new building. Patrick Neville thanked all who have assisted with this project.

Cemetery Matters - Cemetery maintenance - Mrs Rivers who has been maintaining the cemetery for the past 10 years has resigned. The Parish Council wish to publically thank Mrs Rivers for all her time and efforts which have been greatly appreciated.

Proposed changes to bus services in Great Somerford - residents that attended the meeting expressed their concern over Wiltshire Council’s proposed changes to bus service 91 .The proposed changes will mean that it will be not be possible for residents of Great Somerford to travel directly to Malmesbury by bus. The Parish Council agreed to support the residents and object to this proposal and urged all residents to write individually expressing their concerns.

Planning Matters - Applications considered and supported were - 13/02151/FUL first floor extension at 1 Heath Cottage, Heath Lane, Startley

13/02581/FUL Proposed rebuilding and enlarging of existing single storey rear extension at 1 Winkins Lane, Gt. Somerford

13/03209/FUL Engineering works to form residential driveway at Startley Farm House, Startley

Highway Matters Speed Indicator Device for Startley (SID) - Sited in Seagry at present - A meeting with the Police Commissioner is scheduled for the 16 th September.

Faded White Lines issue - Cllr Jevons reported that he has walked the village with Highway personnel. It was agreed that the white lines will be repainted. Other matters will also be addressed, such as potholes and clearing blocked drains. A walk around the village with Highways is to take place every six months.

Clearing of ditches - Cllr Loader reported that some ditches were being attended to and all are being monitored. It is important to keep the ditches clear especially with the winter season approaching.

Community Room - Booking Procedures - A booking form will now need to be completed if you wish to hire the Community Room. Payment for the hire to be paid on completion of the form. Booking Clerk is Mrs I Scott of Dauntsey Road, Great Somerford.

Playarea – Research into providing new play equipment has been carried out. However it was found that play equipment examined was too expensive and the Parish Council would not be pursuing this for the time being.

Neighbourhood Plans - A Neighbourhood Plan is to be drafted. Anyone interested in lending a hand please contact the Clerk.

Notification of an event at Malmesbury Fire Station on 23 rd October 2013 between 9.30am to 4.30pm. Among other safety issues, advice on getting electric blankets tested free of charge will be offered.

Annex 5.3 SIGNPOST March 2014 There were 6 members of the Parish Council present at the meeting held on the 12 th February, + 4 members of the public.

Councillor Vacancy - Mrs Christine Butler will be officially elected onto the Parish Council at the March meeting. There is still one vacancy and anyone interested in serving the community and having a say in matters that concern the Parish, please contact the Clerk on 01666 824620 email [email protected]

Library Telephone Box - An offer from a resident to manage this to keep it tidy was accepted with thanks.

Dog Walking Great Somerford –There are permissive paths and rights of way where dogs can be walked. Walkers should keep to these paths with their dogs under close control and where farm animals are present, dogs must be kept on leads. There have been some unfortunate incidences in the past when dogs have been allowed to run freely away from the paths and, in some cases, chase farm animals. Gates have been left open allowing farm animals to escape and tennis balls have been lost in the grass and subsequently found their way into cattle food with potentially serious consequences for the health of cattle. While not frequent occurrences, such events can spoil it for all. Please respect the country code.

Proposed changes to Bus Services - New proposals have been drafted that give better connections from Great Somerford to Swindon and to Malmesbury. If agreed by Wiltshire Council the new timetables will be available nearer the introduction date of 31 st March 2014. It was noted that Boots and Lloyds Chemist provide a free prescription delivery service.

Highway Matters –A request to create a footpath from the Guinness Trust development to the Old Police House has been put forward to Wiltshire Council. - A topographical survey is to be carried out to determine feasibility and cost. The parish council has been asked to contribute £375 towards the survey - it was resolved to agree to this contribution.

Pedestrian Gate West Side, Startley . - Cllrs Butcher and Hourigan agreed to repair this if possible.

Flood warning Sign - Frog Lane - A petition signed by residents of Frog Lane was received requesting the Parish Council’s support to remove the Flood Warning sign. The Parish Council agreed to support this request.

Neighbourhood Plans (NP) - An application has been submitted to Wiltshire Council for permission to draft a NP. Official results are awaited. An Officer of Wiltshire Council has been assigned to assist with the preparation of the N P and a meeting has been arranged for the 19 th February. Volunteers are still needed to join this team.

20mph - An Invitation to submit locations for 20mph restrictions was received from Wiltshire Council’s Community Area Transport Group. A draft plan identifying possible locations is to be drawn up.

Meeting Dates for 2014. - The following dates were agreed: All meetings on Wednesdays. 12 th March, 16 th April also (Annual Parish Meeting), 14 th May Annual Meeting of the Parish Council (AGM), 11 th June, 16 th July, August - No meeting, 3 rd September, 15 th October, 12 th November, December - No meeting.

Annex 5.4 November 2013 SIGNPOST

There were 7 members of the Parish Council present at the meeting held on the 9 th October, + 6 members of the public.

Councillor Vacancy - We still have a Parish Councillor vacancy. Anyone interested in serving the community and having a say in matters that concern the village then please contact the Clerk on 01666 824620 email [email protected]

Walter Powell School/Pre School - The Parish Council have agreed to grant £5,800 towards the new Pre-school building

The Pre-school has requested the use of the Community room for three days per week during the construction of the new building. This request was granted. The school has kindly offered the use of the school hall for those groups that will affected. To compensate for this inconvenience, no Community Room hiring charge will be made by the Parish Council for those groups that move to the school hall during this period. Similarly, the Pre-school will not be charged for use of the Community Room during this period.

The Pre-school has also requested the use of electricity during the construction of the new building. This request has been granted.

Cemetery Matters - Cemetery maintenance - Applications for the maintenance contract were considered and the position is soon to be filled.

Proposed changes to bus services in Great Somerford - Cllr Loader briefed all present that he had written a letter to Wiltshire Council on behalf of the Parish Council and brought to their attention that Great Somerford was one of the largest rural communities using Malmesbury and that a regular service to Malmesbury was vital. One suggestion Cllr Loader made to Wiltshire Council was that the service frequency is reduced from every hour to every two hours. This was favoured by those present. This is an ongoing issue.

Planning Matters - There were several planning applications considered at the meeting and these will be listed with the Parish Council’s comments in the minutes in due course.

A pre-planning application for modification/replacement of an existing dwelling in Hollow Street was circulated by the Agent. These plans were noted and the Agent was thanked for bringing this to the Parish Council’s attention.

Highway Matters Speed Indicator Device for Startley - Update from Cllr Hourigan - Report on Community Speed Watch conference had been previously circulated. He also reported that the police will visit those motorists reported to be travelling in excess of 45mph.

Clearing of ditches - This is an ongoing issue

Guinness Trust Development - request for a footpath - Cllr Butcher reported that many residents are in favour of a footpath from No 7 Dauntsey Road to the Police House. Details of distances to be clarified and once done an issue sheet to be raised.

Community Room - A booking form is now in use and is working well. All hirers are to pay for their booking on completion of the form. If this causes a problem with hirers who pre-book several weeks in advance then they can complete a booking form weekly and pay each week.

Playarea – Cllrs Butcher/Coles reported that the RoSPA inspection had taken place but the report had not yet been received. New play equipment is being sourced, to be funded with S106 Agreement monies.

Neighbourhood Plan(NP) - A meeting with Tim McCombe of W C has been arranged for Friday 18 th October at 5pm in the Community Room to begin work on the NP.

Dog Fouling in the village - It has been brought to the Parish Council’s attention that once again this situation is getting serious. PLEASE PICK UP AFTER YOUR DOG this is a dangerous situation, particularly where children are concerned. Due to the seriousness of the matter it will be reported to the Environmental Health department of Wiltshire Council and a request for regular patrols is to be made.

Wiltshire Good Neighbour Scheme - Ellen Blacker the Co-ordinator was not present but sent in a report which will be included in the minutes of the meeting or can be obtained from the Parish Clerk

As ever, no matter how seemingly trivial, all calls and enquiries are always welcome. If you have any queries please telephone Ellen Blacker on 07757 922020

Important changes to local Planning

Annex 5.5 Mail Drop 1st April 2014

The government is changing the planning process. This gives us all an opportunity to say how we would like to see our parish develop over the next few years. If we don’t have our say NOW then others may decide for us.

So, we have provided you with two questionnaires:

• One from Wiltshire Council (Housing Needs Survey) that asks a range of questions (Great Somerford only)

• The other is a short survey about the facilities and open spaces that you like to see (Great Somerford and Startley)

The result of these surveys will help us develop a Neighbourhood Plan

What is a Neighbourhood plan?

A Neighbourhood plan (NP) is a new way for local communities to decide the future of the places where they live and work. Once a plan has been approved, the local planning authority has the permissive rights (power) to authorise agreed developments and also reject applications, which are not consistent with the approved plan. The NP will be consistent with the County core strategy, which will define, for example, the number of new houses to be built by 2026 in each local community.

A Neighbourhood plan will consider many aspects of local life including vital local facilities such as a village store, a local pub, community school, places of employment, church, community groups, preservation of allotments and green spaces, also identify the preferred area for new housing. Each plan will include a Sustainability Appraisal (SA) which is an assessment of the social, environmental and economic effects of the plan; this helps to ensure that decisions are made that contribute to achieving sustainable development.

The parish council will drive a neighbourhood plan for Great Somerford and Startley with appropriate community involvement harnessing the skills & expertise of locals living in the parish together with experts brought in, if such skills are required, to support the development of the plan. There will be two six week consultation periods followed by a parish referendum which requires a 50%+ approval level.

Please come to an important meeting at Walter Powell School at 7pm on Tuesday 22 April to hear about the surveys and the Neighbourhood Plan with the opportunity to ask questions.

Sid Jevons Chairman, Great Somerford parish council

Please turnover to complete the one page questionnaire . When completed please put in a box at Fourway Stores or give it to:

Sid Jevons, The Old Maltings, Great Somerford Mel Hourigan, Whistley House, Startley

Annex 5.6 SIGNPOST June 2014

There were eight members of the Parish Council present at the meeting held on the 14 th May together with Wiltshire Cllr T Sturgis and 4 members of the public.

Election of Chairman Cllr S Jevons was elected Chairman for year 2014/2015. Cllr Jevons accepted the post and signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office.

Election of Vice-Chairman Cllr H Cole was elected Vice-chairman for year 2014/2015. Cllr Cole accepted the post and signed the Declaration of Acceptance of Office.

Public Participation- It was asked if consideration could be given to a more attractive village sign for Great Somerford - Enquiries are to be made.

Concern over the bus service for Gt. Somerford to Malmesbury was raised - Suggestions are to be relayed to the Parish Council who will take matters to Wiltshire Council.

Cllr Sturgis reported that due to an incident of verbal abuse from a dog walker to members of his family while walking alongside the old railway line, this permissive path will be temporarily closed.

Highway Matters Speed Indicator Device for Startley - Cllr Hourigan reported that speeding is still a big problem in Startley - A letter to be sent to Police Sgnt Alvis bringing this to his attention and to request a meeting together with a member of the CATG

Clearing of ditches - Cllrs Loader reported that all was well except for Hollow Street – owners of the land that have blocked ditches are to be contacted.

Guinness Trust Development - request for a footpath to the Old Police House - Awaiting results of topographical survey

Pedestrian Gate West Side, Startley. - Cllr Hourigan reported that he had repaired the gate and it is awaiting inspection.

Highway issues - Cllrs Jevons reported that repairs are eight months in arrears and only dangerous repairs are being carried out. The next visit from the Highway Engineer, Matt Perrott, is 4 th June 9.30am

Frog Lane request to remove the Flood Caution sign - Cllr Cook reported that a solution had been reached

Invitation to submit locations for 20mph restrictions for CATG - A part of Dauntsey Road has been suggested - CATG are looking at an alternative solution to this problem.

Playarea – Cllrs Cole reported that quotes for repair of the fencing are being requested. Safety matting for around the new football and tennis tables is to be ordered

Neighbourhood Plans - Cllr Jevons reported that a public meeting was held on the 22 nd April and 37 people attended. Two more volunteers were recruited onto the Steering Group at this meeting. The notes of that meeting have been circulated to all those who declared an email address. Anyone else who would like a copy of the notes to contact the Parish Clerk on 01666 824620 or email: [email protected] The next steps are to continue with the drafting of the Neighbourhood Plan and to look into site selection for any future development.

Annual Parish Meeting - It was agreed that in future the April Parish Council meeting will start at 7pm with only necessary business to be conducted and the APM will follow at 8pm

Parish Council Website - A suitable website for the Parish Council is to be investigated.

Finance - The Clerk reported that the Parish Council’s accounts have been audited and were all in order.

Best Kept Village Competition - An application has been submitted for Great Somerford. We are not told when the inspection will take place and it would be appreciated if residents could make every effort to prepare the village in the best way possible. Annex 5.7 Draft for June edition of Signpost

Parish of Great Somerford(incorporating Startley) Neighbourhood Plan

The government is changing the planning process; this permits a parish to develop its own Neighbourhood Plan (NP), provided that it meets the housing needs defined in the 2026 Wiltshire Council Core Strategy and the content meets the council’s requirements. So the parish of Great Somerford, incorporating Startley, has started the process by asking all householders to complete: • A survey about local facilities, the open spaces that should be retained and the type of new housing that is preferred, • A two part survey developed by Wiltshire Council asking about housing needs and about affordable housing requirements. • An important part of an NP is the involvement of local people in the parish so that it becomes the parish’s plan. As a first step, a public meeting was held in the hall of Somerfords’Walter Powell primary school on 22 April, attended by 37 people, and hosted by Sid Jevons, chairman Great Somerford parish council. The purpose of the meeting was to explain the process, discuss the two surveys, explain next steps and importantly, field the many questions raised.

The closing date for the local survey was 27 April, so the key points coming from the survey are: • 105 people, almost a third of all households, responded, which is encouraging, • 95% wished to retain the main open spaces and surrounding fields, footpaths & river walks. 84% favoured small groups of houses rather than a large estate, 8% support a new estate and 3% wish a mix of both, • The need for bungalows and affordable housing was recognized as a priority, • The existing facilities were each rated on a 5 point scale with 5 being important; the scores were: village stores (4.8), pub (4.2), school (4.6), church (4.7), allotments (4.3), local buses (4.6), village halls (4.2), the playground (4.5) and the need for new business site(s) rated 3.8. • 98% of responses supported the development of an NP, • 44 people responded to define the key areas that they wished to have protected such as the church meadow, Quack Quack, Jubilee tree area etc.

Whilst the parish council is responsible for driving forward the Neighbourhood Plan a broad section of the community should be involved in this process. To date, a small steering group has been established involving Mel Hourigan, Tony Gregson and John McGrath and chaired by Sid Jevons. Other volunteers will support the steering group as the plan progresses and volunteers are welcomed.

It is likely that sites for 20 to 30 new homes will be required in the parish by 2026 in addition to the 30 houses already approved at Brook Farm. So one of the next steps will be to identify potential areas for future development. Whilst several people commented in the survey that further development in the parish was not appropriate, the reality is that we will only obtain approval from Wiltshire Council if they are satisfied that our NP contains housing proposals consistent with their 2026 Core Strategy – That is our collective challenge.

Sid Jevons

Annex 5.8 July 2014 Parish Council SIGNPOST

There were 9 members of the Parish Council present at the meeting held on the 11th June plus 3 members of the public .

Public Participation- Mr.Toby Sturgis spoke as a member of the public on the following: he sought the parish council’s support for a forthcoming planning application for two affordable houses and one market value house in Frog Lane - the drainage works to accompany this application is aimed to alleviate the flooding problem at Frog Lane.

Cllr Cook declared a personal interest in this and took no part in discussions and did not vote. It was resolved that the Parish Council support this proposal in principle and will review this decision when the official planning application is received.

Planning Matters - Wiltshire Council Decisions 13/05782/FUL - Demolition of bungalow, replaced with new build eco house at The Leach, Hollow St, Gt. Somerford - approved with conditions

14/03955/TCA Fell 3 ash trees to ground level at 1 The Forge, Gt. Somerford - No Objections

Applications considered - 14/04983/TCA Fell Tree surgery at The Old Maltings, Gt. Somerford - It was resolved to support this application

Cemetery Matters - The maintenance was being carried out satisfactorily and a request for the burial of ashes was permitted.

Highway Matters

Speed Indicator Device for Startley - A letter will be sent to the Police bringing to their attention the constant speeding through the village of Startley.

Guinness Trust Development - request for a footpath - Topographical survey results awaited. A consultation process is to be carried out and a letter has been delivered to those dwellings that would be affected by this proposal, asking for comments and if they approve or not. Wiltshire Council’s Highway Manager is assisting with this - The Closing date for replies is the 27 th June 2014.

Gt Somerford Signage - A more attractive sign has been requested - this to be discussed with Wiltshire Council during the next Community Day visit.

Reported Issues - a broken stile on the Seagry Road to the left of Broadfield Farm has been reported.

The pot holes in Winking Lane to be reported and the bad state of the footpath in Hollow Street.

Play Area - Quotations to be sought for the repair of the fencing - also to research and gain quotations for higher fencing to protect neighbouring properties. This to be put forward as a scheme for the remaining S106 contributions.

Safety matting is to be ordered - the Parish Council would cover the cost of this.

Smokefree Play Area - A scheme for a smoke free play area is to be investigated and considered.

Neighbourhood Plans - The results of the Housing Needs Surveys have been received and are under review.

Bus Services - No views or suggestions had been received from the public therefore nothing further to report.

Parish Council Website - It was noted that there was an active website for the village. Agendas and ratified minutes as and when available are to be sent for inclusion.

Goss Croft Hall, Seagry - Councillor Cook was appointed to represent the Parish Council on the board of Trustees of Goss Croft Hall.

Annex 5.9 Mail Drop July 2014 Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan (Incorporating Startley)

Introduction

The benefit of a Neighbourhood Plan is that the people who live in the parish have an opportunity to determine the type and location of new housing rather that property developers deciding. Two surveys were delivered to all houses in the parish in [April] and these have now been analysed and summarised below is the feedback that you have provided:

The Wiltshire Council ‘Housing Needs Survey’ confirms that there is a continuing requirement for further ‘affordable housing’ from within the village and Housing Associations indicate further demand from the surrounding community. So, we are working on the assumption that we should be planning for 20 to 30 new houses between now and 2026; there is likely to be a mix of ‘affordable housing’ and privately owned.

The local survey was very well supported by one third of all homes in the parish. Key conclusions are:

• 97% wish to retain open spaces in the parish • The questionnaire also asked for feedback on which open spaces should be protected in addition to the Free Gardens and fields & paddocks with road frontage in the centre of the village. There were 79 responses with the Top 8 being: 1. Church meadow 2. Field between Manor Park and Hollow Street (behind The Close) 3. Field opposite the church, used as a car park for church events 4. The river banks 5. Quack Quacks 6. Children’s playground and the whole Walter Powell school site 7. The Glebe 8. Green spaces and fields near to houses

• 86% preferred small groups of new houses within the limits of the village and 8% supported new estates • All existing facilities were supported in the range 3.8 to 4.8 out of 5. There was some confusion as to whether the response should be a personal preference or what the village as a whole requires • 99% supported the develop a Neighbourhood Plan

This feedback has been very helpful in giving strong guidance about where future developments should not be , so the next step is to hear from landowners with available land to understand what developments are feasible - these discussions are progressing. The challenge is to find spaces where develop is possible yet consistent with your feedback.

Following a first meeting held on 22 April, we plan to hold a second open meeting in the community room of Walter Powell primary school on [Thursday 17 July at 7pm] to outline the possible development sites and hear your views

We also propose two open days, probably in August & September, where you will have a further opportunity to see the various options, with plans and site photographs, and be able to express your likes and dislikes. Our Neighbourhood Plan, when completed, will be put to a parish referendum and must receive more than 50% support so that it can be sent to Wiltshire Council for approval.

In summary, there is a requirement for further new housing, beyond the existing Brook Farm scheme, with emphasis on ‘affordable housing’. Such development will help support the future of our pre & primary school, the village stores & pub. We must grow whilst retaining the character of the villages.

Sid Jevons

This is your Neighbourhood Plan. We need your views now. Do come along on [17 July at 7pm] Annex 5.10 August 2014 Signpost 2014

PARISH COUNCIL AND NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN UPDATES

Updates will be posted on the Great Somerford website. Links to the Parish Council and Neighbourhood Plan are

www.greatsomerford.info/parish-council/ www.greatsomerford.info/neighbourhood-plan/

Anyone wishing to add any items to the Great Somerford website should contact the administrator, Sue Walker at the following email address [email protected]

Items to be posted should be in a form that can be copied into the website without correction or modification.

Regarding the Neighbourhood Plan, following the public meeting held on July 17 th , a number of consultation events and exhibits are planned starting in August/September where villagers can view proposals and record their views and comments. Dates and times will be announced.

Sid Jevons.

Great Somerford Parish Neighbourhood Plan (Incorporating Startley)

There will be two open sessions for you to have your say about the future of your parish

At the School Hall, Walter Powell School

Do come along on:

Sunday 21 st September from 10am to 2pm

Tuesday 23 rd September from 6pm to 9pm

Annex 5.12 Signpost September 2014

GREAT SOMERFORD PARISH COUNCIL(INCORPORATING STARTLEY) The Parish Council did not meet in August but two points of interest are noted. Great Somerford entered the first round of "The Hills Group Wiltshire CPRE Best Village Competition 2014" in the category of North Wiltshire Medium Villages. Great Somerford were runners up to the winner, Biddestone. The judge's report is as follows; GREAT SOMERFORD Hedges, trees, walls, fences, banks and verges were well-kept with an excellent mix of wild and maintained. Equally, residential gardens and outbuildings were well-kept. Green areas and play area were all in very good condition with the allotments particularly good, lots of them, well-used and free, and footpaths were well signed and maintained. The school was good with lots of attractive flowers, shrubs and grass and a nice field next to it, all very neat and tidy. The War Memorial was very well-maintained (getting it’s going over even as we walked past) and the churchyard was well kept though a little strange that one must use a private drive to get to it. The pub looked very good though a little unkempt in it parking area, with one pub garden with good facilities but the (signed) other garden (at the moment?) just a grassed area. The shop was tidy with an excellent selection and the new offices (Old Manor Stables converted) looked particularly attractive. The bus shelter was excellent – neat, tidy, clean with good seating and windows to see out, the telephone kiosk book exchange (what a good use) was very neat but the notice boards held sparse and uninspiring information. There was no evidence of unwarranted advertising fly-posting or litter which is good. The map was excellently done and wonderfully clear in its presentation though there were one or two items missing (the offices to rent and we never found where you can hire a community room). We were impressed by the extent of community activity and the desire to overcome problems such as with the elderly or public transport and this is the sign of a community working together to improve its environment and the lives of its population. Keep it up. Areas to improve: 1. Notice boards 2. Map PROPOSED FOOTPATH IN DAUNTSEY ROAD The application for funding for the construction of a footpath in Dauntsey Road has been successful and finalisation of the design will occur later in the year. Interested parties will be able to put forward comments at the design stage.

Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan A public meeting was held on Thursday July 17th. in the hall of Walter Powell School with sixty eight members of the public attending. A report of the meeting together with maps and public questions can be found on the Neighbourhood Plan website http//greatsomerford.info/neighbourhood-plan Further public meetings are planned for September. Dates and venues will be announced .

Annex 5.13 SIGNPOST October 2014

All 9 members were present at the Parish Council meeting held on the 3 rd September together with one member of the public and Cllr. Sturgis.

Two members will attend an Emergency Planning meeting on the 15 th October

A Health Fair is to be held on the 10 th September 5 – 7pm at Malmesbury Secondary School

More attractive village signs are being investigated.

Planning – 7 planning applications were discussed at this meeting and comments passed to Wiltshire Council

Highway Matters – Speeding through Startley has not improved and the situation to be reported to the police.

The footpath in Dauntsey Road has been approved. Residents will have to opportunity to meet with Highways before it is constructed.

Wiltshire Highways to be requested to take action to improve the traffic speeds on narrow lanes in the village, to repaint white lines and to repair the pot holes in Winkins Lane (in the vehicle turning area)

Play Area – High Fencing around the Play area is being considered.

Neighbourhood Plan - There will be two public viewing sessions on the Sunday September 21 st 10.00am to 2.00pm and Tuesday 23 rd September 6.00pm to 9.00pm in Great Somerford School Hall when public comments can be recorded. All residents of Great Somerford and Startley will be notified of these meetings by letter drop.

Dog Fouling –The extent of dog fouling in the village and field paths has now reached a serious health risk to children and cattle. If the situation does not improve then fields may be closed to dog walkers. The Dog Warden is to be notified of the situation and asked to make frequent patrols of the areas affected. Please pick up after your dog!

Annex 5.14 November 2014 SIGNPOST November 2014

All 9 members were present at the Parish Council meeting held on the 15 th October 2014

Planning – 8 Applications were discussed and comments passed to Wiltshire Council

Highway Matters – Community Speed Watch in Startley is not proving to be a success – Speeding is again to be reported to the Police.

The Guinness Trust footpath has been given the go-ahead – Possible start time Spring 2015.

A meeting is to be arranged with Wiltshire Council’s Highway Engineer to discuss outstanding issues.

The gate on the school path has been re-positioned to make it easier for pedestrians with pushchairs/children

Play Area – High Fencing is being looked into

Neighbourhood Plan - Two public consultation periods were held in September and initial analysis of the results are published in this edition of Signpost. These results are also available in Great Somerford village shop, on the notice boards in Great Somerford and Startley and on the Great Somerford website www.greatsomerford.info/neighbourhood-plan

Finance – The Parish Council’s accounts for year ending 2014 have been successfully audited.

Dog Fouling - Dog fouling in the village has now reached a serious health risk to children and cattle. If the situation does not improve then fields may be closed to dog walkers. The Dog Warden has been notified of the situation and regular patrols are being considered.

There were a number of comments and questions raised both on the return forms and in previous consultations/correspondence which we will try to address.

• Flooding may be an issue with some sites. Any possibility of flooding will be addressed by experts at the planning stage and preventative measures instigated. • Increased traffic. The NP will highlight this and request 20mph limits in certain areas. • There is concern that if building is allowed on certain sites advantage will be taken and further, uncontrolled, building will occur. This is the point of having a NP which will give the village a level of control over what happens. • Why is there no development in Startley but its residents are allowed to have a say in building in Great Somerford? Startley is officially designated as open countryside and no development is planned there. However, Startley is in the Parish of Great Somerford and residents are officially entitled to contribute to the NP. • Why do we need any more building at all in Great Somerford considering the large scale development taking place in neighbouring villages? The now approved Wiltshire Core Strategy designates Great Somerford as a "large village", along with four other villages in the Malmesbury area, and has to share in the extra homes needed in this area of Wiltshire. • Who will be eligible for the affordable homes? The NP will specify that these will be for current residents of, those wishing return to, or those with relatives in the Parish. • Who has determined the number of affordable homes needed? The Wiltshire Housing Needs Survey conducted last year, together with advice from the Wiltshire Housing registry identified the required need between now and 2026. • Why is the Brook Farm development being increased? The original 30 houses planned in this development were already taken into account when the allocation of 33 houses in Great Somerford was decided by Wiltshire Council and so the extra 8 now proposed are the only ones which are allowed to contribute to our target.

The next stage is for the draft NP to undergo a six week period of consultation by the Parish before going to Wiltshire Council for another six week consultation. Following this there will be an independent examination before the final step, which is the Parish referendum. If greater than 50% of those voting in the referendum approve the NP, it will become part of the development plan for Wiltshire, thereby ensuring that the wishes of the majority of our Parishioners are reflected therein.

We realise that it will be impossible to satisfy everyone but we have tried to strike a balance that satisfies the requirements of the Wiltshire Core Strategy and the majority of the residents of the Parish. To this end the sites and house allocations detailed above will be incorporated into the NP and it is only on these sites and houses that the final referendum will be held.

Whether or not to have a NP will be the decision of the Parishioners. With a NP we will have a level of control over where and how much development takes place in Great Somerford. Without a NP we will have very little if any, other than the normal planning process.

I am sure that there are still unanswered questions and/or clarifications needed. To this end we will be holding two consultation sessions in the Community Room of the School on Sunday March 8th. from 10am to 12 noon and on Thursday March 12th. from 7.00 to 9.00 pm. All are welcome.

Sid Jevons (on behalf of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group) Annex 5.16 February 2015 Parish Council SignpostSIGNPOST February 2015 There were 5 members of the Parish Council present at the meeting held on the 8th January, + 5 members of the public.

Councillor Vacancy - We have two Parish Councillor vacancies Anyone interested in serving the community and having a say in matters that concern the Parish, please contact the Clerk on 01666 824620 email [email protected]

Walter Powell School/Pre School - Patrick Neville - School Governor reported that the pre-school building is now completed, although the roof felting will be replaced There is still some work to be done in the garden which the pre-school will action. The community was thanked for all their help in this project and it is hoped that this support will continue in the future. The Chairman and Treasurer of the pre-school will be leaving and were thanked for all their hard work. Could anyone interested in filling these posts, please contact the Parish Clerk [email protected]

Flooding - During public participation a resident of Dauntsey Road expressed concerns regarding raw sewerage and flooding in the vicinity of Winkins Lane/Dauntsey Road. This will be reported to Wessex Water Cllr Sturgis submitted a written report. This covered flooding at West Street and Frog Lane-where he explained the initial problems and what had been done and is still to be done. The report can be obtained from the Parish Clerk.

Dog Walking - Great Somerford –With respect to land owned by the Sturgis family,at the present time dog walkers are asked to stay on the designated paths and the permitted path from the Showground to the footbridge, with their dogs under control. Further discussions will be held with landowners to identify areas where dogs can be exercised off leads away from traffic, respecting crops, wildlife and farming activities. Unfortunately, there have been incidents of dogs chasing sheep and deer and disrupting equestrian activities which, although by a minority, should not happen.

Proposed changes to bus services in Great Somerford Ian White, Head of Service, Passenger Transport reported that tender prices have been received and the suggestions made by Cllr Loader regarding routes through Great Somerford seem to be affordable. However, it is too early to say definitely as alternative routes are being considered.

Cllr Sturgis also reported on this matter. The consultation closed in October and once evaluation is completed, recommendations will be put forward to the Cabinet Member for a Decision Report, next month. Wiltshire Council and the Health Service make funds available to Community First for grants to the local Link Scheme and if there are problems with the new timetables the Link Scheme maybe able to help, for visits to doctor's surgeries and hospitals.

Highway Matters A request for a footpath from the Guinness Trust development to the Old Police House has been raised with Wiltshire Council and all the information needed has been provided.

Flood sign Frog Lane – Concern has been expressed about the need for this sign. If the Parish Council receives a request from residents either to remove or keep the sign, it will review and pass its recommendation to Wiltshire Council.

Neighbourhood Plan - - An application has been made to Wiltshire Council to designate Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area. This is necessary prior to undertaking a Neighbourhood Plan. The closing date for comments is February 4 th .. One positive response has been received from Dauntsey Parish Council. Volunteers

are needed to undertake preparation of the Neighbourhood Plan. [email protected]

Planning Applications considered and supported were: 13/06696/FUL Replacement of existing timber boundary fencing with dry stone wall at 55 Gt. Somerford 13/05782/FUL The Leach, Hollow Street, Gt. Somerford – Demolish bungalow, replace with new build eco house - It was resolved to support this application. 13/05915/VAR Brook Farm, Gt. Somerford - Residential development (extension of time limit for implementation of planning permission 04/02024/OUT) - It was resolved to support this request.

Play Area - Quotes are being sought to provide an outdoor table tennis table and football table. Construction of a higher fence is also being considered..

Meeting Dates for 2014. - The following dates were agreed: All meetings on Wednesdays. 8th January, 12 th February, 12 th March, 16 th April also (Annual Parish Meeting), 14 th May Annual Meeting of the Parish Council (AGM), 11th June, 16 th July, August - No meeting, 3 rd September, 15 th October, 12 th November , December - No meeting.

Annex 5.17 Signpost March 2015 Great Somerford Parish (incorporating Startley) Neighbourhood Plan

Following consultation with Wiltshire Council in 2013/2014, it became clear that it would be wise to develop a Neighbourhood Plan (NP) for the Parish of Great Somerford. New homes are needed in Wiltshire and the Core Strategy identifies Great Somerford as a village where more houses are to be built. The NP is intended to give the community a say in how their village is developed over the next ten years or so; obviously without a NP the village will have much less influence on where and how much development takes place. The first public meetings about the NP were held in April and July of last year. There followed two further consultation sessions in September which between them lasted seven hours and were attended by 162 Parishioners. At these last two sessions potential development sites were outlined as were areas that the village wished to keep free of development. Parishioners were asked to record their preferences for potential development sites, together with any comments they wished to make. These preferences together with comments were recorded and analysed by the NP Steering Group (SG).

Taking the above information, together with any other comments received from Parishioners, the SG prepared a package of information which outlined their recommendation for sites to be developed and sites to be kept free of development. This package was delivered to every house in the Parish in the last two weeks of January this year and eligible Parishioners were asked to state whether they agreed or disagreed with the recommendation of the SG , by February 14 th ,

Wiltshire Council advised that the SG recommend sites for development which would provide a total of 33 houses, of which 12 would be affordable homes. These are the numbers that we have been advised by Wiltshire Council are appropriate according to the recently agreed Core Strategy.

These sites are, Seagry Road, Dauntsey Road, Frog Lane, Adjacent to Brook Farm and behind the Old Police House and preliminary results of the consultation are as follows.

• Households consulted ------326 Great Somerford 274,Startley 52

• Households responding------141 Great Somerford 135 (49.3%)

• Parishioners responding------278

• Parishioners agreeing------179 (64.4%)

• Parishioners disagreeing------93 (33.4%) 34 disagreed with the total recommendation, 59 disagreed with one or more of the sites.

• Spoilt papers------6 (2.2%)

These results show that the majority of Parishioners agree with the recommendation of the SG. This being the case, these sites and house allocations will be incorporated into the draft NP. However, there are several more stages to go through before the NP can be adopted as part of the Wiltshire Development Plan. The draft NP will undergo a six week period of consultation by the Parish before going to Wiltshire Council for another six week consultation. Following this there will be an independent examination before the final step, the Parish referendum. If greater than 50% of those voting in the referendum approve the NP, it will become part of the development plan for Wiltshire, thereby ensuring that the wishes of the majority of our Parishioners are reflected therein.

Sid Jevons, On behalf of the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group

Signpost April 2015 Annex 5.18 Great Somerford Parish Neighbourhood Plan (NP)

Two further open meetings were held in the community room of Walter Powell school on Sunday 8 th and Thursday the 12 th March. The purpose of the sessions was for the Steering Group to answer questions from parishioners; Councilor Sturgis was also available at both meetings to give expert views on some of the issues raised. 38 parishioners attended on the Sunday and 27 on the Thursday meeting.

Some of the important questions and answers are summarised below:

Q1. Would you please explain how the referendum will work? A1. After the two six week consultation periods (Parish and Wiltshire Council) and after the independent inspector has agreed the NP, Wiltshire Council will organise the referendum, which will ask ‘Do you agree the Neighbourhood Plan – Yes or No’. The decision is based on a simple majority of those voting.

Q2. If the result of the referendum is that the majority say No, then what happens? A2. The Parish would be in danger of developers seeking planning permissions where they felt best and with the number of houses that suited them; whereas if there is an approved NP the village has a far stronger say in how our village is developed. Developers are currently targeting villages, which are not developing an NP as they see these as easy targets.

Q3. There were real concerns that currently recommended sites will be developed further with increased numbers of houses. A3. If there is an approved NP, then there is no opportunity for any site to be developed beyond what is specified in the NP.

Q4. I am prepared to accept the proposed development near my home but I have concerns about the disruption and noise especially early in the morning or in the evening. What can be done? A4. At the planning stage, advise the council than you want a condition included restricting working hours to, say, 8am to 4pm Monday to Friday only.

Q5. With the Brook Farm development together with the further 33 house, there will be 63 homes and probably a hundred more cars. People speed through the village now and the problem will become intolerable, so what can the parish council do to alleviate this? A5. Firstly the parish council will ask the police to set up speed checks to deter speeding motorist, as has been done successfully in Brinkworth. Secondly, a 20mph limit will be recommended on the main approach roads into the village.

Q6. This NP runs through to 2026, so what happens after that? A6. With an approved NP the village will have 11 years of controlled development, but nobody can foresee what will happen beyond 2026.

Q7. Are the Steering Group going to specify the layout of each development and the type of design? A7. No, the NP specifies the number of houses and the number of affordable only. The NP will state that the new developments will be consistent with the character of the village. At the planning stage the community will have the opportunity to challenge the design in the normal way as one can do presently.

The next stage will be to complete the NP document and make it available for parishioners to read and comment on during a six week consultation period during April/May.

Sid Jevons. On behalf of the NP Steering Group. Annex 5.19 Signpost May 2015 Great Somerford Parish Council (Incorporating Startley)

There were seven members present at the April Parish Council meeting plus Wiltshire Councillor T Sturgis.

Highway Matters - As received Clearing of ditches is on going

Dauntsy Road- request for a footpath – Cllr Jevons reported that an extended topographical survey is awaited. This is necessary as there is need to design a new surface water system along the length of the footpath and discharge to a suitable outfall.

Play Area Alternative areas for a recreation area are being explored. Suggestions welcome – please contact Councillor Loader on 01249 720743 email: [email protected]

The fencing at the play area is to be replaced

Play equipment for younger children has been researched. Following further researched an order is soon to be placed.

Community Room A new fridge is to be purchased for the Community Room

Best Kept Village – The Parish Council will be entering this on the communities behalf. A litter picking day is to be arranged and therefore any volunteers for this would be appreciated. If interested please contact the Clerk at [email protected] or telephone 01666 824620

Neighbourhood Plan - Preparation of the Neighbourhood Plan (NP) is in the final stages and when complete will be subject to a six week consultation in the Parish. It is planned that this will take place in the next few weeks. Details of timing and where the NP can be reviewed will be announced by letter drop to all houses in the Parish. Comments from Parishioners will be noted in the next version of the NP which will then go to Wilts. Council for another six week consultation period. Following this an independent examiner will be appointed by Wilts Council to review the NP. If agreed by the examiner, a referendum, organised by Wilts.Council will be held in the Parish. Agreement by more than 50% of those Parishioners who vote is required to formally approve the NP.

Annual Parish Meeting – The meeting was held following the Council meeting. There were 7 members of the parish council present + Wiltshire Councillor Toby Sturgis and 9 members of the public.

Reports were given by the Chairman of the Parish Council, Wiltshire Councillor Toby Sturgis, P C Mike Trip of Wiltshire Police, Ellen Blacker of Wiltshire Good Neighbours, Walter Powell School and Pre-School, Mrs Cole on Wilts Rural Arts and Mrs Hopkins on a small group providing social events. Copies of reports can be obtained from the Clerk on [email protected]

Great Somerford Parish (incorporating Startley) Neighbourhood Plan

Six weeks statutory community consultation

Annex 5.20

The six-week consultation starts on Monday 6th July. A copy of the plan will be available in the church and on the Great Somerford website (www.greatsomerford.info) from 6 th July onwards. Also members of the Steering Group will be available in the community room at the Walter Powell School to answer any questions you may have on the following dates:

• Monday 13 th July 7pm to 9pm • Saturday 18 th July 10am to noon • Monday 20th July 7pm to 9pm • Saturday 25 th July 10am to noon

Hard copies of the plan will be available in the community room on the above dates or you should contact a member of the steering group (contact details below).

The six-week consultation period ends on Sunday 16th August. This will be followed by a six-week consultation by Wiltshire Council, an independent examiner will then review the plan and finally a village referendum will be held.

I am sorry that the completion of the Neighbourhood Plan has been delayed for several months, caused by an issue beyond our control. The Department of Communities and Local Government issued new Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) in March raising the threshold for affordable housing contributions to 10. The Wiltshire policy, adopted Jan.2015 was that any new development of five or more houses required 40% to be affordable; this has now been relaxed to 10 or more houses. However, having reviewed the Wiltshire Council Housing Needs Survey and following discussions with Wiltshire Council staff, it was agreed that there would be a future demand for an additional 12 affordable houses in the village. So the NP steering group agreed with the landowners of NP2 (Dauntsey Road) & 5(Behind Old Police House) that they would offer their sites with the original criterion of 5 or more houses requiring 40% affordable. In addition, the steering group recommends that on site NP4 (adj.existing Brook Farm site) percentage of affordable houses should be the same as the original planning permission. This would provide a further 2 affordable dwellings.

It is important that I explain the position regarding Broadfield Farm as Gleeson Strategic Land wrote to the NP steering group on 22 nd April requesting a meeting. They were asked for further details of their development proposals; to date nothing has been received. In mid 2014, a member of the steering group approached one of the owners of Broadfield Farm as the land concerned had already been registered with North Wilts District Council as having potential for development (SHLAA). No proposals have ever been submitted by the owner. Wiltshire Council Core Strategy emphasises the importance of encouraging and enhancing local employment to maintain the sustainability of the village and immediate communities. The NP can only be considered as sound if it is in conformity with the Core Strategy. The NP steering group has always been prepared to talk with landowners and, as explained above, the landowner has not approached the steering group. The steering group considered additional sites after the initial consultation and any proposals for Broadfield Farm should now be considered when the neighborhood plan is reviewed in five years time to avoid any further delays in the statutory consultation.

The steering group has agreed with landowners the following sites for development:

NP1 Seagry Road 12 dwellings, including 5 affordable

NP2 Dauntsey Road * 7 dwellings including 3 affordable

NP3 Frog Lane 2 dwellings, subject to flood mitigation for Frog Lane.

NP4 adj Brook Farm 8 dwellings, 2 affordable as set out above.

NP5 Behind Police house* 6 dwellings, including 2 affordable

*The landowners of these sites have agreed to the original number of affordable dwellings subject to priority for people with local connections.

I would encourage you to review the plan and I would appreciate you giving your feedback to members of the steering group, so that they can consider making any modifications before sending the plan to Wiltshire Council .

Sid Jevons (on behalf on the NP steering group)

30 June 2015

Contact details:

Sid Jevons [email protected] 01249 720346

John McGrath [email protected] 01249 721589

Mel Hourigan [email protected] 01249 720545 (office hours) or 01249 721239 (evenings & weekends)

Tony Gregson [email protected] 01249 721720

Annex 5.21 Signpost July 2015 Great Somerford Parish Neighbourhood Plan

In the May edition of Signpost we reported that the Neighbourhood Plan (NP) was in the final stages of preparation and it was anticipated that the six week Parish consultation would “take place in the next few weeks” However, there have been recent Government changes in the rules concerning new developments and the proportion of affordable homes that these must contain. When we started the NP any development of five or more houses needed to have 40% of the homes to be affordable. This is the premise on which we based the NP. In the new Government policy it is only when ten houses are built that 40% of the homes must be affordable. This new policy has caused a significant delay in the NP while we sought advice from Wiltshire Council and has also lead to a modification in the numbers of houses now proposed.

To comply with the new policy we are proposing the following

Total Affordable

NP1 (Seagry Road) 12 5

NP2 (Dauntsey Road) 7 3

NP3 (Frog Lane) 2 0

NP4 (Brook Farm) 8 *

NP5 (Police House) 6 2

Total 35 10

In the previous proposal the total number of houses was 33 with 12 being affordable homes. NP1 now has two additional houses, one of which is an affordable home.

*The number of affordable houses on NP4, being an extension to the currently approved plans for 30 houses including 7 affordable, will be considered when an application is submitted for the whole site. On a pro-rata basis this would deliver an additional 2 affordable houses. This would maintain the 12 affordable houses in the original consultations.

The landowners of sites NP2 and NP5 have indicated that they accept the original threshold for affordable housing, subject to allocation for people with local connections.

We believe that these new proposals should meet the requirements of the recent Government policy and we will be incorporating them into the NP and hope to complete this for the six week Parish consultation later this month.

Our apologies for the delay which was caused by circumstances beyond our control.

If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me.

Sid Jevons.

On behalf of the NP Steering Group.

Great Somerford

Parish Housing Needs Survey

Survey Report

May 2014

Wiltshire Council County Hall, Bythesea Road, Trowbridge BA14 8JN

Contents Page

Parish summary 3

Introduction 3

Aim 4

Survey distribution and methodology 4

Key findings 5

Part 1 – People living in parish 5

Part 2 – Housing need 9

Affordability 11

Summary 12

Recommendations 13

1. Parish Summary

The Parish of Great Somerford is in Malmesbury Community Area in the north of the local authority area of Wiltshire.

 There is a population of 737 according to the 2011 Census, comprised of 304 households.1  The Parish of Great Somerford includes the villages of Great Somerford and Startley.  The two villages are approximately one mile apart, separated, in the main, by open farm land and are of a similar nature with open spaces being a prominent feature.  Great Somerford has a primary and pre-school which are used by both villages as are the Great Somerford general store/post office and public house.  Great Somerford, which is the larger of the two villages, is bordered on the northern side by the River Avon and enjoys a number of pleasant walking areas and pathways.  The church in Great Somerford dates back to mediaeval times and the allotments are possibly the oldest in the country at two hundred years old.  The majority of Great Somerford is in a designated Conservation Area.  Dwellings range in size and age with a relatively large number of listed buildings.  There are a range of activities and clubs in the villages which share both the primary school facilities and the adjoining Parish Council owned community room. There is not a village hall in the Parish but both villages have access to the Community Hall in the neighbouring village of Seagry.  There is a limited bus service to the neighbouring towns of Malmesbury and Chippenham. The Parish Council is working with the community in an attempt to improve transport to and from both villages and surrounding towns.  Members of the Parish Council are working with the community in the production of a Neighbourhood Plan following the introduction of the Localism Act.

2. Introduction

In early 2014, Wiltshire Council’s Development Officers discussed carrying out a rural housing needs survey with Great Somerford Parish Council, to establish if there was a proven need for affordable housing in the parish for local people, and potentially to use the findings of the survey to inform the Neighbourhood Plan.

Such surveys assist officers in identifying those areas with the greatest housing problems so that scarce financial resources can be put to best use.

Experience has shown that these surveys need to be carried out at regular intervals if the results are to remain relevant in identifying trends.

 The Principal Development Officers are employed by Wiltshire Council’s new housing team to assist in the delivery of new affordable housing.

1 http://www.nomisweb.co.uk/ 2011 Census, table ks101ew (usual resident population) and 2011 Census, table qs405ew (tenure – households).

 The Principal Development Officers work closely with rural communities, housing associations, local authorities and landowners to meet the affordable housing needs of rural communities.  The survey is funded by members of the Wiltshire Rural Investment Partnership (WRIP).2  ‘The Wiltshire Rural Investment Partnership brings together representatives from the economic development, regeneration, spatial planning, new housing and housing strategy teams of Wiltshire Council together with Registered Provider [housing association] partners and the Homes and Communities Agency to enable and promote the sustainable delivery of new build housing in the rural communities of Wiltshire.’3

3. Aim

The aim of carrying out the survey is to investigate the need for affordable housing among local people (or those who have a need to live in the parish or the locality) of Great Somerford.

 ‘Housing need’ can be defined as the need for an individual or household to obtain housing which is suitable to their circumstances.  It implies that there are problems or limitations with the household’s current housing arrangements and that the household is unable to afford or to access suitable accommodation in the private sector.  Such problems may be concerned with housing costs, size, location, layout, state of repair, or security of tenure either immediately or in the future.

4. Survey Distribution and Methodology

In order to carry out the housing needs survey, questionnaires were delivered to Great Somerford Parish Council for distribution to the parishioners at the beginning of February 2014.

To encourage a good response, households were given a pre-paid envelope in which to return the completed survey.

Residents were asked to return the completed surveys in the pre-paid envelopes by 2nd May 2014 and the deadline was subsequently extended to 15th May to allow for some late deliveries in the Startley area of the parish. The forms were recorded and analysed by the Housing

2 The members of WRIP that contribute to the survey funding are Wiltshire Council and seven registered providers of social housing (housing associations) - Aster, GreenSquare, Guinness, Jephson Housing, Raglan Housing, Selwood Housing and Wiltshire Rural Housing Association. 3 Para 1.1, ‘Purpose’, Terms of Reference for the Wiltshire Rural Investment Partnership. Full WRIP membership: Wiltshire Council, Aster, Wiltshire Rural Housing Association, Raglan Housing Association, GreenSquare, Guinness, Jephson Housing Association, Selwood Housing, the Homes and Communities Agency, and the Wiltshire Community Land Trust.

Strategy department at Wiltshire Council. The council applies the data protection policy to responses, ensuring that all survey responses remain anonymous.

 A total of 344 questionnaires were distributed to the parish.  Everyone was asked to complete the first section of the form.  If a household considered itself in need, or likely to be in need, of affordable housing within the next five years, it was invited to complete the rest of the survey.  There was an excellent response rate of 44.8% with 154 replies received.  The received data refer only to themselves (i.e. to the survey respondents) and should not be taken as indicative of the population of Great Somerford parish.  One response was made online.

5. Key Findings

This report is divided into two parts. The first section looks at existing households in the parish in order to provide a description of the current housing in Great Somerford. This section also describes the levels of new affordable housing, if any, which would be supported by residents of the parish.

The second section examines the households who have declared a need for new housing in Great Somerford. The section begins by describing the overall need for both market and affordable housing in the parish. A financial assessment is then made in order to determine the numbers of households who have a current need for new affordable housing. The results of this financial assessment are summarised in the ‘Recommendations’ of the report (Section 8).

Part One – Households currently living in the parish

The first question asked on the survey was whether the respondent’s home in Great Somerford was their main home. All those who replied declared that it was.

The 2011 Census data for Great Somerford indicates that 85.5% of households in the parish were owner-occupying, 8.2% were renting from social landlords, 5.6% were privately renting, 0.3% were living in shared ownership (part owned, part rented) homes, and 0.3% of households were living rent free.4

The chart below shows the tenure of respondents to the survey. The majority (91.6%) of respondents were owner-occupiers, while 4.5% of respondents were living in socially rented properties and 3.9% were renting from a private landlord or letting agency. These results indicate a bias in the survey responses toward owner-occupiers and the rest of this section should be read with this in mind.

4 http://www.nomisweb.co.uk/ 2011 Census, table qs405ew (tenure – households).

The chart below indicates the length of time that respondents have lived in Great Somerford parish. Most of the people who responded to the survey have lived in the parish for more than ten years, which is appropriate for the high levels of owner occupation among survey respondents.

Great Somerford parish has a much higher proportion of homes with four or more bedrooms than is average in Wiltshire. The 2011 Census recorded 53.6% of homes in Great Somerford as having four or more bedrooms, compared to 26.4% across Wiltshire as a whole.5 Among the survey respondents, 55.6% lived in homes with four or more bedrooms, while 37.9% lived in three bedroom homes, 6.5% in two bedroom homes and no respondents lived in homes with one bedroom.

5 http://www.nomisweb.co.uk/ 2011 census, table QS411EW - Number of bedrooms.

The 2011 Census describes 25.2% of the population of Great Somerford parish as aged 65+ (18.2% in Wiltshire), while 35.2% of the survey respondents’ household members were aged 65+:

As shown in the chart above, however, there were also significant numbers of households responding to the survey with members aged 25-64 and with children aged under 16. This indicates a spread of different household types among the survey respondents, from older person households with fewer members, to many younger households with children.

The distance travelled to work is often a good measure of the sustainability of local development, as more people working locally can indicate an ongoing need for local housing. The table below shows how far people in the respondents’ households travelled to work:

Persons in Distance to work Up to 2 household 2 - 10 miles 10 - 50 miles 50 miles + Total miles Person 1 14 27 29 14 84 Person 2 14 17 16 4 51 Person 3 0 4 3 0 7 Person 4 0 1 0 0 1 Person 5 0 0 0 0 0 Total 28 49 48 18 143

These results describe a mixed level of sustainability for new housing development in Great Somerford parish, as measured by the survey respondents’ access to employment. 53.8% of the respondents’ working household members usually travel less than ten miles to their place of work, while 46.2% travel more, suggesting a potential lack of more local sources of employment.

Respondents were also asked whether anyone currently living in their household would need separate accommodation in the parish now or in the near future, to which 4.8% of respondents (seven households) answered ‘yes’. This indicates a low sustained need for housing in the parish.

Respondents were then asked whether they were in support of new homes being built in the parish and, if so, how many new homes they would support. The majority of respondents (87.2%) were in support of some new housing in Great Somerford parish, with 33.3% of respondents supporting the development of between eleven and twenty new homes. 12.8% of respondents were opposed to any new housing in Great Somerford parish:

Respondents were asked what types of housing development, if any, they would support. 70.7% of the survey’s respondents supported the development of affordable starter homes for young people, with 49.3% of respondents also supporting the development of older persons’ accommodation and 48.6% new family accommodation for rent. 43.6% endorsed the development of new shared ownership homes and 32.9% new accommodation for residents with disabilities. 17% of respondents were opposed to the development of any of these types of home:

Part two – Households requiring accommodation in the parish

This part of the report looks initially at all the responses to section two of the survey in order to give a broad picture of the need for both market and affordable housing in the parish. A financial assessment is then made in order to describe in more detail the need for specifically affordable housing.

Nine respondents replied to this section of the survey, indicating their need for housing in Great Somerford. All declared a local connection to Great Somerford, either currently living in the parish or having family members currently living there.

The respondents requiring accommodation in the parish were asked what tenure they sought. The expressed need was for all types of tenure, with open-market ownership the most desired. Households could indicate more than one response:

Respondents to this section were also asked what type of housing they required, with the largest majority seeking semi-detached properties. Full responses are given in the chart below (more than one answer could be given):

In terms of size, the respondents expressed a need for properties with one to three bedrooms. No need was declared for properties with four or more bedrooms:

The respondents were then asked if there was a lack of suitable existing housing in Great Somerford parish to meet their needs, to which all answered ‘yes.’

In order to assess the need for affordable housing in Great Somerford parish, it is necessary to consider the equity, income and savings levels of respondents. Please note that in order to preserve the confidentiality of respondents, only a short summary of the financial assessment is presented below.

Gross household income levels showed some variety with two households declaring more than £40,000pa and one household declaring a very low gross income of less than £6,500pa. Five of the eight households that completed the financial questions declared that they had savings, of amounts varying from less than £2,500 to over £100,000. Only one household reported having positive equity in an existing property.

Comparing income, savings and equity levels with affordability in Great Somerford suggests that two of the nine households would not require public assistance in order to achieve their required housing. An additional household provided insufficient data on their questionnaire to properly assess their eligibility for affordable housing, and as such is precluded from the analysis. The remaining six households would be considered ‘in housing need’ as defined in Section 3 of this report. These households inform the recommendations of this survey for new affordable housing in Great Somerford, presented in Section 8.

Of the six households meeting the criteria for affordable housing, three were headed by people aged 65+ and three by people aged 25-44. One household included children aged under 16.

6. Affordability

In order to investigate affordability, further research has been carried out on house prices in the area.

It is possible to estimate the average property prices in the Great Somerford area:6

Bedrooms Dec 2013 – Feb 2014 1 £122,200 2 £161,900 3 £219,100 4 £333,000 5+ £487,800

Example calculation for a mortgage

Typically, a household making a single application can obtain a mortgage of 3.5 times their annual income, or 3x annual income for joint applications. Households would generally expect to need a deposit of around 15% of the total price.

If an average two-bedroom property sold in Great Somerford costs £161,900 then a household may require £24,285 as a deposit. Annual household income would have to be at least £39,319 for a single applicant or £45,872 for joint applicants. The Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings indicates that the gross annual median income of employed persons in the North Wiltshire area in 2011 was only £20,149:7

 It would be unlikely that a household would be able to purchase a property in this parish without a large deposit, some equity in an existing property or a substantial income.

 First time buyers would generally struggle to meet the criteria necessary for obtaining their own home.

 In some cases intermediate housing (shared ownership or low cost market housing) would be a suitable option, whilst in other instances affordable rented accommodation would be appropriate.

6 House price estimates from the Mouseprice local area guide to the SN15 postcode area, http://www.mouseprice.com/area- guide/average-values/SN15 . Please note that the SN15 postcode covers a wider area than Great Somerford parish and that there may be significant internal variation in house prices. 7 Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, 2011, Table 8.7a, Office of National Statistics, http://www.ons.gov.uk . Note that while the mortgage calculation refers to household income, i.e. to the combined income of all persons in the home, the ASHE figure refers to individual income.

7. Summary

This survey’s recommendations (see Section 8 below) concentrate on those households who are unable to afford accommodation on the open market.

The following indicates the minimum need over the next three years for new affordable housing, based on the responses to the survey. Please note that this report provides a description of the affordable housing need only of those who responded to the survey, and as such may underestimate the total affordable housing need in the parish.

 In December 2013, there were eleven households on the Wiltshire Council Housing Register seeking affordable accommodation in Great Somerford parish: one of these households is also described in Section 8 of this report as in need of affordable housing. The remaining households on the Register are seeking properties with between one and four bedrooms, and any full assessment of housing need in the parish must take account of the Register.8

 The 2011 Census describes 25 social homes in the parish. These properties represent 8.2% of the total housing in Great Somerford, which is lower than the Wiltshire affordable housing average of 14.7%.9

 Social housing in Great Somerford had a zero re-let rate in 2013; during the year, no social homes were let in the parish.10

 The low levels and turnover of the social stock in Great Somerford suggest that none of the households responding to section two of this survey and in need of affordable accommodation could meet its needs through accessing the existing social housing of the parish.

 While this survey’s recommendations describe the need for affordable housing (see Section 8 below), it should be noted that the two households assessed in the financial section as ineligible for affordable housing also described a lack of suitable accommodation in Great Somerford. These households possesses the financial capacity to purchase open-market accommodation and their description of a lack of suitable accommodation in Great Somerford suggests a potential need for an open- market or mixed tenure development in the area.

8 Wiltshire Council, Housing Strategy, live tables. 9 Table QS405EW, 2011 Census: Tenure – Households, local authorities in England and Wales. 10 Homes4Wiltshire choice-based lettings records. This figure excludes transfers carried out by individual social landlords within their own stock.

8. Recommendations

This survey’s recommendations concentrate on households unable to afford accommodation on the open market.

The following indicates the minimum need over the next three years for new affordable housing development in the parish, based on the responses to the survey.

This survey is only a quarter of the evidence required to fully assess housing need in the parish. Wiltshire Council’s Housing Register, the Strategic Housing Market Assessment, and the advice of allocation staff who manage the Register must also be taken into account in fully determining local housing need.

Subsidised rented housing 11

 2x two bedroom homes

Shared / Low cost home ownership

 1x one bedroom home

 1x two bedroom home

 1x three bedroom home

Sheltered housing for older people

 1x two bedroom subsidised rented home (providing help with personal care, warden)

11 Please note that recommendations for numbers of bedrooms in subsidised rented properties are where possible made in line with the ‘family size’ criteria implemented as part of the Housing Benefit changes by the 2012 Welfare Reform Act.

13 Wiltshire Council

Strategic Environmental Assessment – Screening Determination for the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan

August 2016 Contents Page 1. Introduction 3

2. Legislative requirements 3

3. The Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan 6

4. SEA Screening assessment 10

5. SEA Screening decision 12

6. Appendix A Request for consultation responses on screening determination from statutory consultation bodies 15 7. Appendix B Consultation responses from statutory consultation bodies 19

2 1. Introduction

1.1 This document provides a screening determination of the need to carry out a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan.

1 2 1.2 Wiltshire Council, as the ‘Responsible Authority’ under the SEA Regulations , is responsible for undertaking this screening process of the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan. It will determine if the plan is likely to have significant environmental effects, and hence whether SEA is required.

1.3 This process has been carried out in accordance with the requirements of European Directive 2001/42/EC3, often known as the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive, which has been transposed into English law by the SEA Regulations.

2. Legislative requirements

2.1 The Localism Act 2011 requires neighbourhood plans to comply with EU legislation. The screening procedure outlined in this report meets the requirements of the SEA Directive and Regulations, as introduced in Section 1 of this document.

2.2 Regulation 5 of the SEA Regulations requires an environmental assessment of plans which:

1. are prepared for agriculture, forestry, fisheries, energy, industry, transport, waste management, water management, telecommunications, tourism, town and country planning or land use (Regulation 5, para. (2)(a), and which set the framework for future development consent of projects listed in Annex I or II to Council Directive 85/337/EEC (EIA Directive) on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment (Regulation 5, para. (2)(b)

2. in view of the likely effect on sites, have been determined to require an assessment pursuant to Article 6 or 7 of the Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC) (Regulation 5, para. (3)

4 3. set the framework for future development consent of projects (Regulation 5, para. (4)(b)

4. are determined to be likely to have significant environmental effects as determined under regulation 9(1) (Regulation 5, para. (4)(c)

An environmental assessment need not be carried out for: 5 a) plans which determine the use of a small area at local level (Regulation 5, para. (6)(a); or

1 The organisation which adopts the neighbourhood plan (this is described in Wiltshire Council’s guide Neighbourhood planning – a guide for Wiltshire’s parish and town councils (June 2012) as ‘makes the plan’). 2 The Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 3 European Directive 2001/42/EC “on the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment” 4 European Commission guidance states that plans and programmes which set the framework for future development consent of projects would normally contain ‘criteria or conditions which guide the way a consenting authority decides an application for development consent’. Development consent is defined in the EIA Directive as “the decision of the competent authority or authorities which entitled the developer to proceed with the project” (Article 1(2) of the EIA Directive). 5 European Commission guidance suggests that plans which determine the use of small areas at local level might include “a building plan which, for a particular, limited area, outlines details of how buildings must be constructed, determining, for example, their height, width or design”

3 6 b) plans which are a minor modification to a plan or programme (Regulation 5, para. (6)(b) unless it has been determined under regulation 9(1) that the plan is likely to have significant environmental effects.

2.3 The diagram7 below shows the SEA Directive’s requirements and its application to neighbourhood plans:

1. Is the plan subject to preparation and/or adoption by a national, regional or local authority OR prepared by an No to both criteria authority for adoption through a legislative procedure by Parliament or Government? (SEA Directive Art. 2(a))

Yes to either criterion No 2. Is the plan required by legislative, regulatory or administrative provisions? (SEA Directive Art. 2(a))

Yes 4. Will the plan, in view 3. Is theNo plan to prepared for agriculture, forestry, fisheries, No to of its likely effect on eitherenergy, industry, transport, waste management, water either sites, require an criterionmanagement, telecommunications, tourism, town and criterion assessment under country planning or land use, AND does it set a framework Article 6 or 7 of the for future development consent of projects in Annexes I Habitats Directive? and II to the EIA Directive? (SEA Directive Art. 3.2(a)) (SEA Directive Art. 3.2(b)) Yes No

Yes to both criteria 6. Does the plan set the framework for 5. Does the PP determine the use of small areas at local No level, OR is it a minor modification of a PP subject to Art. future development 3.2? (SEA Directive Art. 3.3) consent of projects (not No to both criteria No to just projects in either either criterion Annexescriterion to the EIA Directive)? (SEA Directive Art. 3.4) No to both criteria

Yes 7. Is the PP’s sole purpose to serve national defence or civil emergency, OR is it a financial or budget PP, OR is it 8. Is it likely to have a co-financed by structural funds or EAGGF programmes Yes No significant effect on 2000 to 2006/7? (SEA Directive Art. 3.8, 3.9) the environment? (SEA Directive Art. 3.5)* No to all criteria Yes to any DIRECTIVE REQUIRES SEA OF THE DIRECTIVE DOES NOT REQUIRE SEA OF NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN

6 ‘Minor modifications’ should be considered in the context of the plan or programme which is being modified and of the likelihood of their having significant environmental effects. A modification may be of such small order that it is unlikely to have significant environmental effects. 7 Taken from A Practical Guide to the Strategic Environmental Assessment Directive ODPM, 2005)

* Plans falling in this category (No.8) will be screened by Wiltshire Council to determine if they are likely to have significant environmental effects. This determination will be made on a case by case basis for neighbourhood plans coming forward in Wiltshire.

NB This diagram is intended as a guide to the criteria for application of the Directive to neighbourhood plans. It has no legal status.

3. The Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan Background

3.1 The parish of Great Somerford and Startley is currently preparing a neighbourhood plan under the provisions of the Localism Act 2011.

3.2 The Parish includes the villages of Great Somerford and Startley. The two villages are approximately one mile apart and are separated, in the main by open farm land. They are of similar nature, with open spaces being a prominent feature. Great Somerford has a primary school and pre-school which are used by both villages as are the local general store/post office and public house. In addition the school in Great Somerford, together with the adjoining Community Room, is used for social activities.

3.3 The vision for the plan area is that the parish will broaden its population to sustain the public amenities by being accessible through a range of available housing and open areas that will allow recreation and social interaction. All this will still be within an environment which does not disturb the rural nature of the parish.

3.4 The emerging Neighbourhood Plan seeks to:

(i) provide additional housing which will be a mix of affordable and open-market dwellings. All such housing to be within easy walking distance from the centre of the village and to be low-density in order to provide adequate garden and vehicle spaces; and

(ii) To protect identified open spaces by ensuring that no development takes place there and to clarify the settlement boundaries.

3.5 The plan recommends a total of 35 houses be provided, of which 12 would be affordable. Five site allocations to deliver the housing have been identified These are located on:

(i) Seagry Road

(ii) Dauntsey Road

(iii) Frog Lane

(iv) Adjacent Brook Farm

(v) Behind Old Police Station

In addition seven sites are identified as areas of open space to be protected from future development.

A copy of the draft plan is attached to this document.

Steering Group

3.4 In 2013, the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group was set up to prepare the plan and is led by the parish council. The Group includes a cross section of community representatives that meet regularly to develop the draft plan.

3.5 Planning officers from Wiltshire Council act as ‘link officers’ in providing support and advice.

Neighbourhood area designation

3.6 The designation of the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area was approved on 15 April 2014.

3.7 Wiltshire Council publicised the Great Somerford Neighbourhood Area application for consultation over a period of 6 weeks and 3 days from 9am Monday 9 December to 5pm Tuesday 4 February 2014. One representation was received in support of the application.

3.8 The proposed Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Areas is coherent, consistent and appropriate in planning terms.

3.9 The Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area application and designation documents are available to view online at http://www.wiltshire.gov.uk/planninganddevelopment/planningpolicy/neighbourhoodplanning/neig hbourhoodareadesignations.htm

4. SEA Screening assessment

4.1 Wiltshire Council, as the ‘Responsible Authority’, considers that the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan falls within the scope of the SEA Regulations on the basis that it is a plan that:

a) is subject to preparation or adoption by an authority at national, regional or local level (Regulation 2); b) is prepared for town and country planning or land use and it is a plan that sets the framework for future development consent of projects generally (Regulation 5, para. 4); and c) will apply to a wider area other than a small area at local level and is not a minor modification to an existing plan or programme (Regulation 5, para. 6).

4.2 A determination under Regulation 9 is therefore required as to whether the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan is likely to have significant effects on the environment.

4.3 The screening requirements set out in Regulation 9 and Schedule 1 of the SEA Regulations includes two sets of characteristics for determining the likely significance of effects on the environment. These relate to i) the characteristics of the Great Somerford and Startley neighbourhood plan and ii) the characteristics of the effects and of the area likely to be affected by the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan. In making a determination, Wiltshire Council will take into account the criteria specified in Schedule I of the Regulations as follows:

1. The characteristics of the plans and programmes, having regard in particular to: (a) the degree to which the plan or programme sets a framework for projects and other activities, either with regard to the location, nature, size and operating conditions or by allocating resources;

(b) the degree to which the plan or programme influences other plans and programmes including those in a hierarchy; (c) the relevance of the plan or programme for the integration of environmental considerations in particular with a view to promoting sustainable development; (d) environmental problems relevant to the plan or programme; and (e) the relevance of the plan or programme for the implementation of Community legislation on the environment (for example, plans and programmes linked to waste management or water protection).

2. Characteristics of the effects and of the area likely to be affected, having regard, in particular, to:

(a) the probability, duration, frequency and reversibility of the effects; (b) the cumulative nature of the effects; (c) the transboundary nature of the effects; (d) the risks to human health or the environment (for example, due to accidents); (e) the magnitude and spatial extent of the effects (geographical area and size of the population likely to be affected); (f) the value and vulnerability of the area likely to be affected due to—

(i) special natural characteristics or cultural heritage; (ii) exceeded environmental quality standards or limit values; or (iii) intensive land-use; and

(g) the effects on areas or landscapes which have a recognised national, Community or international protection status.

The screening assessment of the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan is set out below:

Criteria (Schedule 1 SEA Regs.) Significant Justification and evidence environmental effects likely? 1. The characteristics of plans , having regard, in particular, to: (a) the degree to which the plan sets a No The neighbourhood plan identifies sustainable sites to provide additional affordable housing and framework for projects and other market housing. Together the sites will deliver at least 35 houses. The plan also proposes to amend activities, either with regard to the the existing settlement boundaries. This is in accordance with Core Policies 1 and 2 of the Core location, nature, size and operating Strategy which has been subject to SEA. conditions or by allocating resources

(b) the degree to which the plan No The neighbourhood plan is produced by the local community to influence development at the local influences other plans and programmes level. It does not influence Strategic plans higher up in the hierarchy. including those in a hierarchy (c) the relevance of the plan for the No The neighbourhood plan is a land-use plan that promotes sustainable development. The plan integration of environmental identifies areas of open space to be protected from future development. Great Somerford has a considerations in particular with a view to conservation area and a number of listed buildings. The housing site allocations policies and the promoting sustainable development plan’s evidence base adequately justify that the allocations would not result in likely significant effects on heritage assets. Where required, mitigation measures are identified. Wiltshire Council’s Conservation Officer is satisfied that the site assessments and site allocations policies appropriately address heritage matters.

(d) environmental problems relevant to No There are two county wildlife sites located south of Great Somerford, one county wildlife site the plan located south west of Startley and the River Avon borders the plan area to the north. However, the plan is not promoting development over and above that contained in the Wiltshire Core Strategy, which has been subject to SEA and HRA. The neighbourhood plan proposes to allocate sites to deliver about 35 houses. The sites are located in Great Somerford, which is designated as a large village in the Wiltshire Core Strategy core policies 2 and 13. The sites are either within or adjacent to the settlement boundary. The amount of development proposed, the location and type of development is in conformity with the Core Strategy and it is not considered likely there will be significant environmental problems. Great Somerford has a conservation area and a number of listed buildings. The housing site allocations policies and the plan’s evidence base adequately justify that the allocations would not result in likely significant effects on heritage assets. Where required, mitigation measures are identified. Wiltshire Council’s Conservation Officer is satisfied that the site assessments and site allocations policies appropriately address heritage matters.

(e) the relevance of the plan for the No The neighbourhood plan is not relevant as a plan for implementing community legislation. implementation of Community legislation on the environment (for example, plans and programmes linked to waste management or water protection). 2. Characteristics of the effects and of the area likely to be affected, having regard, in particular, to: (a) the probability, duration, frequency No Any environmental effects are not considered to be significant judging by the proposals in the and reversibility of the effects neighbourhood plan. Any effects of the limited amount of development proposed is likely to be localised and short-term and related to the construction stage. Through detailed work on the site allocations, the Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group has given consideration to the potential for significant effects on heritage assets but the assessments have not resulted in evidence that the proposed allocations would have such effects. Wiltshire Council’s Conservation Officer is satisfied that the site assessments and site allocations policies appropriately address heritage matters.

(b) the cumulative nature of the effects No No cumulative effects considered to be significant. (c) the transboundary nature of the effects No transboundary effects with other EU countries considered to be significant.

(d) the risks to human health or the No No environmental effects considered likely to risk human health or the environment. environment (for example, due to accidents) (e) the magnitude and spatial extent of the No The neighbourhood plan covers a parish which includes the villages of Great Somerford and Startley. effects (geographical area and size of the The two villages are approximately one mile apart and are separated, in the main by open farm land. population likely to be affected); They have a population of approximately 737 residents (ONS census 2011). Significant effects due to the geographic size of the area and population size are not considered likely.

(f) the value and vulnerability of the area No There are two county wildlife sites located south of Great Somerford, one county wildlife site likely to be affected due to— located south west of Startley and the River Avon borders the plan area to the north. The majority (i) special natural characteristics or of the village of Great Somerford is designated as a conservation area and there are a high cultural heritage; number of listed buildings. However, development proposed that is in conformity with the Core (ii) exceeded environmental quality Strategy, in particular Core Policies 50 and 58, is not considered likely to significantly affect these standards or limit values; or environmental assets. The neighbourhood plan will also contain policy to protect, conserve and (iii) intensive land-use; where possible enhance the conservation area and County Wildlife Sites and is therefore not considered likely to significantly affect these important heritage and environmental assets. Great Somerford has a conservation area and a number of listed buildings. The housing site allocations policies and the plan’s evidence base adequately justify that the allocations would not result in significant effects on heritage assets. Where required, mitigation measures are identified to maintain the setting of heritage assets. Wiltshire Council’s Conservation Officer is satisfied that the site assessments and site allocations policies appropriately address heritage matters.

(g) the effects on areas or landscapes No There aren’t any national or international landscape/biodiversity designations within and on the edge of which have a recognised national, the plan area. There are four county wildlife sites in the plan area. The majority of Great Somerford is a Community or international protection conservation area and there are a number of listed buildings in the village. Development which is in status. conformity with the Core Strategy, in particular Core Policies 50 and 58, is not considered likely to significantly affect these important heritage and environmental assets. The plan’s evidence has paid particular attention to the site allocation’s effects on heritage assets. The assessments concluded that there would be no significant effects but where appropriate, additional measures are proposed in the site allocations policies to preserve the setting of heritage assets. Wiltshire Council’s Conservation Officer is satisfied that the site assessments and site allocations policies appropriately address heritage matters.

5. SEA Screening decision

5.1 Regulation 9 of the SEA Regulations requires that the responsible authority shall determine whether or not a plan is likely to have significant environmental effects. The responsible authority shall —

(a) take into account the criteria specified in Schedule 1 to these Regulations; and (b) consult the consultation bodies.

5.2 Where the responsible authority determines that the plan is unlikely to have significant environmental effects (and, accordingly, does not require an environmental assessment), it shall prepare a statement of its reasons for the determination.

5.3 Wiltshire Council considers that the proposed Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan is unlikely to have significant environmental effects and accordingly does not require a Strategic Environmental Assessment. This decision is made for the following key reasons:

1. The neighbourhood plan proposals are considered to be in general conformity with the emerging Wiltshire Core Strategy which has been subject to SEA and HRA assessments. The Core Strategy was adopted on 20th January 2015.

2. The neighbourhood plan is not proposing additional development over and above that described in the emerging Core Strategy. In the settlement strategy outlined in Core Policy 1 Great Somerford is identified as a large village whilst Startley is a small settlement not identified in the settlement strategy. Great Somerford has a settlement boundary. Startley is located outside the settlement boundary. The Core Strategy states that development at Large Villages will be limited to that needed to help meet the housing needs of settlements and to improve employment opportunities, services and facilities. There is a general presumption against development outside the defined limits of development, although the strategy will allow carefully managed development in specific cases such as when brought forward through a neighbourhood plan.

3. The neighbourhood plan area includes several county wildlife sites and a conservation area, all of which will restrict the location of new development. The neighbourhood plan will include policy to protect and enhance these valuable environmental and heritage assets with the allocation of development sites only to be located in sustainable locations. The plan’s evidence has paid particular attention to the site allocation’s effects on heritage assets. The assessments concluded that there would be no significant effects but where appropriate, additional measures are referenced in the site allocations policies to preserve the setting of heritage assets.

5.4 This screening decision has been sent to Natural England, the Environment Agency and Historic England for their opinions and their responses will be attached to this report as an appendix.

6. Statutory consultee response to screening decision

6.1 Natural England, Environment Agency and English Heritage, as statutory consultation bodies under Regulation 9 of the SEA Regulations, were consulted on this SEA screening determination between 8 July 2016 and 5 August 2016. All three bodies agreed with the screening determination of Wiltshire Council that the Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan is unlikely to have significant environmental effects and accordingly does not require a Strategic Environmental Assessment..

6.2 Wiltshire Council’s request for comments on this screening determination from the three statutory consultation bodies is presented in Appendix A. The responses received from the three consultation bodies, agreeing with the screening determination, is presented in Appendix B.

14 Appendix A – Request for consultation response on screening determination from statutory consultation bodies

15 Totz, Henning

From: Totz, Henning Sent: 08 July 2016 18:28 To: '[email protected]' Cc: Way, David Subject: Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan - SEA Screening Decision Consultation Attachments: Annexes_5.1_5.8_Site_Profiles_combined.pdf; Appendix F3 Annex 2 Proposed Development Sites.pdf; Great Somerford NP SEA Screening Consultation July 2016.docx; GSNP-Version 24.2 for SEA consultation.docx; GSNP-Version 24.2 for SEA consultation.docx; RE: Draft Great Somerford NP

Importance: High

Dear Michael

We are advising the Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) Neighbourhood Plan steering group on their neighbourhood plan and we have produced a revised SEA screening decision. Wiltshire Council, as ‘responsible authority’ under the SEA Regulations, must issue a statement of its reasons for the determination and consult the designated consultation bodies.

We are undertaking this consultation as the steering group undertook additional work on the plan’s evidence in regards to heritage matters, following Historic England’s comments on the previous SEA Screening consultation. To this end, I attach the latest version of the draft plan and the new evidence on heritage matters. You previously confirmed that from your agency’s perspective no SEA is required (email dated 5 August 2015).

I also attach the SEA screening decision. The plan seeks to protect and enhance its environmental, built and cultural heritage whilst proposing limited development in accordance with relevant policies of the Wiltshire Core Strategy. The screening decision gives our reasons for the plan not requiring an SEA. The plan would be unlikely to have significant environmental effects. It is in general conformity with the Wiltshire Core Strategy which has been subject to a Strategic Environmental Assessment. The Council’s Conservation Officer has confirmed that she is satisfied with the revised version of the plan, including the additional information (see attached email dated 7 July 2016).

Should you have any additional comments on the plan and the additional evidence, please could you provide a response with any comments by 5 August 2016?

Many thanks in advance.

Regards

Henning Totz Senior Planning Officer Economic Development and Planning Wiltshire Council | County Hall | Trowbridge | Wiltshire | BA14 8JN email: [email protected] Telephone: 01225 718461

1 Totz, Henning

From: Totz, Henning Sent: 08 July 2016 18:21 To: 'Stuart, David' Cc: Way, David Subject: Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan - SEA Screening Decision Consultation Attachments: Annexes_5.1_5.8_Site_Profiles_combined.pdf; Appendix F3 Annex 2 Proposed Development Sites.pdf; Appendix F3 Annex 4.pdf; Great Somerford NP SEA Screening Consultation July 2016.docx; RE: Draft Great Somerford NP; GSNP-Version 24.2 for SEA consultation.docx

Importance: High

Dear David

We are advising the Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group on their neighbourhood plan and we have produced a revised SEA screening decision. Wiltshire Council, as ‘responsible authority’ under the SEA Regulations, must issue a statement of its reasons for the determination and consult the designated consultation bodies. Our opinion is that an SEA is not required because the plan would be unlikely to have significant environmental effects. It is in general conformity with the Wiltshire Core Strategy which has been subject to a Strategic Environmental Assessment. The neighbourhood plan seeks to protect and enhance its environmental, built and cultural heritage whilst proposing limited development in accordance with relevant policies of the Wiltshire Core Strategy.

We are undertaking this consultation as the steering group undertook additional work on the plan’s evidence in regards to heritage matters, following your comments on the previous SEA Screening consultation (email dated 26 May 2015). To this end I attach the latest version of the draft plan and key appendices with the revised housing site assessments. The Council’s Conservation Officer has confirmed that she is satisfied with the revised version of the plan, including the additional evidence (see attached email dated 7 July 2016).

Please also see the screening statement attached which gives our reasons for the plan not requiring an SEA. Please could you provide a response with any comments by 5 August 2016 or before if at all possible?

Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me.

Kind regards

Henning Totz Senior Planning Officer Economic Development and Planning Wiltshire Council | County Hall | Trowbridge | Wiltshire | BA14 8JN email: [email protected] Telephone: 01225 718461

1 Totz, Henning

From: Totz, Henning Sent: 08 July 2016 18:31 To: 'Routh, Charles (NE)' Cc: Way, David Subject: Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan - SEA Screening Decision Consultation Attachments: Annexes_5.1_5.8_Site_Profiles_combined.pdf; Appendix F3 Annex 2 Proposed Development Sites.pdf; Great Somerford NP SEA Screening Consultation July 2016.docx; GSNP-Version 24.2 for SEA consultation.docx; GSNP-Version 24.2 for SEA consultation.docx; RE: Draft Great Somerford NP

Importance: High

Dear Charles

Should you have any additional comments on the plan and the additional evidence, please could you provide a response with any comments by 5 August 2016?

Many thanks in advance.

Regards

Henning Totz Senior Planning Officer Economic Development and Planning Wiltshire Council | County Hall | Trowbridge | Wiltshire | BA14 8JN email: [email protected] Telephone: 01225 718461

1 Appendix B – Consultation responses from statutory consultation bodies Mr Henning Totz Our ref: WX/2009/110257/OR- Wiltshire Council 31/IS2-L01 Planning Policy Your ref: County Hall Bythesea Road Trowbridge Date: 04 August 2016 Wiltshire BA14 8JD

Dear Mr Totz

SEA – GREAT SOMERFORD NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN

Thank you for re-consulting us on the above SEA screening decision for the Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan.

We have no further comments to add to those given in our letter of 05 August 2015.

We note your decision that the Plan does not require a SEA and would continue to concur with this decision.

Yours sincerely

Ms Ellie Challans Sustainable Places - Planning Advisor

Direct dial 02030 259311 E-mail [email protected]

Environment Agency Rivers House, Sunrise Business Park, Higher Shaftesbury Road,, Blandford, Dorset, DT11 8ST. Customer services line: 03708 506 506 www.gov.uk/environment-agency End Totz, Henning

From: Stuart, David Sent: 08 August 2016 13:10 To: Totz, Henning Subject: RE: Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan - SEA Screening Decision Consultation

Follow Up Flag: Follow up Flag Status: Flagged

Hi Henning

Yes, sorry not to have got back to you before now.

The additional evidence prepared to rationalise the site allocations is very impressive. It identifies the key heritage assets and the nature of their significance to help inform both the suitability of sites for allocation, the number of units each can accommodate, and necessary design/mitigation measures.

We are reassured too by the involvement of your conservation officer and their approval of the eventual outcomes. The input of appropriate professional heritage advice is hugely beneficial to the exercise – to ensure that assessments are being carried out to an appropriate and proportionate methodology, thereby avoiding unnecessary effort and expenditure of resources.

I can therefore confirm that we are now happy with the view that an SEA will not be required. It can be noted too that the exercises undertaken also demonstrate the Plan’s conformity with national and local (heritage) planning policy.

Kind regards

David

David Stuart | Historic Places Adviser South West Direct Line: 0117 975 0680 | Mobile: 0797 924 0316

Historic England | 29 Queen Square | Bristol | BS1 4ND

We have launched four new, paid-for Enhanced Advisory Services, providing enhancements to our existing free planning and listing services. For more information on the new Enhanced Advisory Services as well as our free services go to our website: HistoricEngland.org.uk/EAS

From: Totz, Henning [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 08 August 2016 09:58 To: Stuart, David Subject: FW: Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan - SEA Screening Decision Consultation Importance: High

Dear David

I was wondering if you had any comments on the SEA Screening Decision I sent you on the 8th July?

Kind regards Henning

1 Henning Totz Senior Planning Officer Economic Development and Planning Wiltshire Council | County Hall | Trowbridge | Wiltshire | BA14 8JN email: [email protected] Telephone: 01225 718461

From: Totz, Henning Sent: 08 July 2016 18:21 To: 'Stuart, David' Cc: Way, David Subject: Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan - SEA Screening Decision Consultation Importance: High

Dear David

Should you require any further information please do not hesitate to contact me.

Kind regards

Henning Totz Senior Planning Officer Economic Development and Planning Wiltshire Council | County Hall | Trowbridge | Wiltshire | BA14 8JN email: [email protected] Telephone: 01225 718461

------

This email originates from Wiltshire Council and any files transmitted with it may contain confidential information and may be subject to Copyright or Intellectual Property rights. It is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the sender and delete the email from your inbox. Any disclosure, reproduction, dissemination, modification and distribution of the contents of the email is strictly prohibited. Email content may be monitored by Wiltshire Council to ensure compliance with its policies and procedures. No contract is intended by this 2 email, and any personal opinions expressed in this message are those of the sender and should not be taken as representing views of Wiltshire Council. Please note Wiltshire Council utilises anti-virus scanning software but does not warrant that any e-mail or attachments are free from viruses or other defects and accepts no liability for any losses resulting from infected e-mail transmissions. Receipt of this e-mail does not imply consent to use or provide this e-mail address to any third party for any purpose. Wiltshire Council will not request the disclosure of personal financial information by means of e-mail any such request should be confirmed in writing by contacting Wiltshire Council.

3 Totz, Henning

From: Routh, Charles (NE) Sent: 11 July 2016 09:21 To: Totz, Henning Subject: RE: Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan - SEA Screening Decision Consultation

Dear Henning,

We have no additional comments.

Regards,

Charles Routh Lead Advisor, Planning & Licencing, Somerset, Avon and Wiltshire Area Team. 07990 773630

From: Totz, Henning [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: 08 July 2016 18:31 To: Routh, Charles (NE) Cc: Way, David Subject: Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan - SEA Screening Decision Consultation Importance: High

Dear Charles

Should you have any additional comments on the plan and the additional evidence, please could you provide a response with any comments by 5 August 2016?

Many thanks in advance.

Regards

Henning Totz Senior Planning Officer Economic Development and Planning Wiltshire Council | County Hall | Trowbridge | Wiltshire | BA14 8JN email: [email protected] Telephone: 01225 718461

1 ------

This email originates from Wiltshire Council and any files transmitted with it may contain confidential information and may be subject to Copyright or Intellectual Property rights. It is intended solely for the use of the individual or entity to whom they are addressed. If you have received this email in error please notify the sender and delete the email from your inbox. Any disclosure, reproduction, dissemination, modification and distribution of the contents of the email is strictly prohibited. Email content may be monitored by Wiltshire Council to ensure compliance with its policies and procedures. No contract is intended by this email, and any personal opinions expressed in this message are those of the sender and should not be taken as representing views of Wiltshire Council. Please note Wiltshire Council utilises anti-virus scanning software but does not warrant that any e-mail or attachments are free from viruses or other defects and accepts no liability for any losses resulting from infected e-mail transmissions. Receipt of this e-mail does not imply consent to use or provide this e-mail address to any third party for any purpose. Wiltshire Council will not request the disclosure of personal financial information by means of e-mail any such request should be confirmed in writing by contacting Wiltshire Council.

This email and any attachments is intended for the named recipient only. If you have received it in error you have no authority to use, disclose, store or copy any of its contents and you should destroy it and inform the sender. Whilst this email and associated attachments will have been checked for known viruses whilst within the Natural England systems, we can accept no responsibility once it has left our systems. Communications on Natural England systems may be monitored and/or recorded to secure the effective operation of the system and for other lawful purposes.

29th September, 2015 Economic Development and Planning County Hall Bythesea Road Trowbridge Wiltshire BA14 8JN

Re: Habitats Regulations Screening Assessment of Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan

The Council has recently reviewed the latest draft of the emerging Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan for potential impacts upon the network of European protected sites known as Natura 2000. The attached ‘Habitats Regulations Assessment’ (HRA) is made on behalf of Wiltshire Council competent authority for the plan, and is in accordance with relevant statutory requirements and best practice.

The plan is not in a particularly sensitive area, relative to the Natura 2000 network of protected sites, and that the plan allocates relatively small areas of residential development, well within the projections of the Wiltshire Core Strategy for the area; therefore the HRA has concluded that your draft plan would have no likely significant effects upon any European designations. Please note that HRA is an iterative process and future iterations of the plan should also be screened if the policies change significantly.

I note that the group intend to designate a number of Local Green Spaces (LGSs) within the village which would effectively be protected from development. Based on previous experience of other attempts to designate areas as LGSs, I would urge the group to gather evidence to clearly demonstrate how each of these spaces meets the specific criteria set out in NPPF77, otherwise it is likely that an examiner may recommend removal / amendment of this policy.

Yours sincerely,

Jon Taylor Landscape and Design Manager

Direct line: 01225 718276 Email: [email protected] GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISSION VERSION SEPTEMBER 2016

Great Somerford (incorporating Startley)

Neighbourhood Plan (GSNP)

2016-2026

Appendix L Basic Conditions Statement

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016 Contents

1. Introduction ...... 1

1.1 Plan Period ...... 1

1.2 Excluded Development.…………………………………………………………………………………………..1

1.3 Neighbourhood Area …………………………………………………………………….……………………….1

2. The Basic Conditions ..……………………………………………………………………………………………..2

3. Compliance……………….……………………………………………………………………………………..……..2

3.1 National Policy………………………………………………………………………………………………………..2

3.2 The NPPF Twelve Core Planning Principles……………………………………………………….…….3

3.3 Contribution to achieving sustainable development……………………………………………….6

3.4 General Conformity with the strategic policies of the development plan………………..7

3.5 Core strategic objectives…………………………………………………………………………………………7

3.6 EU Regulations and obligations (SEA)……………………………………………………………………..8

4. Conclusion………………………………………………………………………………….………..9

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISSION VERSION SEPTEMBER 2016

1. Introduction

The Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) Neighbourhood Plan (GSNP) has been prepared in accordance with the statutory regulations required by paragraph 8 of schedule 48 to the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. It has been prepared by Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) Parish Council as the Qualifying Body as defined by the Localism Act 2011. The detailed preparation and submission of this document to Wiltshire Council has been delegated to the Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group (GSNP)

1.1 Plan Period

The period of the plan is 10 years from 2016 to 2026.

1.2 Excluded Development

The GSNP does not deal with county matters (mineral extraction and waste development), nationally significant infrastructure or any other matters set out in Sections 61K of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990.

1.3 Neighbourhood Area

The GSNP applies to the Parish of Great Somerford (incorporating Startley). The Parish Council of Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) received approval from Wiltshire Council in April 2014 for their application for a Neighbourhood Area Designation under the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. The proposed area covers the whole of the locality bounded by the Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) Parish Boundary. Wiltshire Council agreed the designated area on 15th April 2014 in accordance with Section 61G of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as amended for the purposes of Neighbourhood Planning. The Great Somerford (incorporating Startley) Parish Council confirms that the GSNP relates only to that parish and no other Neighbourhood Area and is the only Neighbourhood Development Plan (NDP) in the designated area. No other NDP exists nor is in development for part or all of the designated area.

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016

2. The Basic Conditions

Part 5, paragraph 15 of the Regulations sets out the requirements for the qualifying body submitting a neighbourhood plan to the local planning authority and it must include the following:

(a) A map or statement, which identifies the area to which the proposed neighbourhood plan relates.

(b) A consultation document.

(d) A statement explaining how the proposed neighbourhood development plan meets the requirements of paragraph 8 of schedule 48 to the 1990 Act.

The statement at (d) above is required to meet what are known as the Basic Conditions. The Basic Conditions are:

(i) A draft NDP must have appropriate regard to national policies and advice contained in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

(ii) The Draft NDP must contribute to the achievement of sustainable development.

(iii) The draft NDP must be in general conformity with the strategic policies contained in the development plan for the area of the local planning authority, i.e. Wiltshire Council.

(iv) The draft NDP must meet the relevant EU regulations.

(v) Prescribed conditions are met in relation to the NDP and prescribed matters have been complied with, in connection with the proposal for the plan (EIA and Habitat Regulations).

3. Compliance

3.1 National Policy

The GSNP must have appropriate regard to National Policy. The Government’s planning policy for England refers to Neighbourhood Plans in the NPPF sections 183- 185. It seeks to achieve the right balance between sustainability and growth. The aim is to ensure that new development will enhance existing communities at the same time as creating a lasting legacy.

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016

3.2 NPPF Twelve Core Principles

This section demonstrates that the GSNP has regard for the twelve core principles in the NPPF (paragraph 14).

The twelve principles appear in italics followed by a short paragraph on compliance.

1. Be genuinely plan-led, empowering local people to shape their surroundings, with local and neighbourhood plans setting out a positive vision for the future of the area. Plans should be kept up-to-date and be based on joint working and co- operation to address larger than local issues. They should provide a practical framework within which decisions on planning applications can be made with a high degree of predictability and efficiency.

The GSNP was created in response to the requirements of the Localism Act 2011. A Steering Group was formed in early 2014 to develop a Neighbourhood Development Plan (see section 2 of the main document). After much local public consultation areas suitable for development offered to the Steering Group by the respective landowners were included in the plan. The main aim of the GSNP was to provide the required number of market value and affordable homes with minimum effect on the appearance of the village of Great Somerford and to encourage young families to stay in the village so helping the school, shop and pub. The areas that the parishioners wished to retain as Local Green Spaces were also included. Plans showing these areas and their location within the Parish were produced along with the required documents.

2. Not simply be about scrutiny but instead be a creative exercise in finding ways to enhance and improve the places in which people live their lives.

With the support of the Parish Council as the Qualifying Body, the Steering Group has provided opportunities for the whole community to express views as to how development should progress. This included consultation with parishioners and councillors. (see the Consultation Statement at Appendix H). Their views have been used to formulate the plan to assist future decision makers and developers.

3. Proactively drive and support sustainable economic development to deliver homes, business and industrial units, infrastructure and thriving local places that the country needs. Every effort should be made to identify and then meet the housing, business and other development needs of the area and respond positively to wider opportunities for growth. Plans should take account of market signals such as land prices and housing affordability and set out a clear strategy for

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016

allocating sufficient land that is suitable for development in the area, taking account of the needs of the residential and business communities.

Great Somerford is designated a Large Village within the adopted Wiltshire Core Strategy (Core Policy 7) whereas Startley is designated as Countryside only. Great Somerford has in the past, offered opportunities for housing and small office and industrial development. The GSNP seeks to provide development appropriate to the needs of the community by providing sustainable dwelling numbers to enhance the economic, social and physical well being of the parishioners.

The major concern surrounding development is that the community obtains the right quantity of open market and affordable housing. A detailed housing survey (see Appendix I) confirmed that some affordable housing is required and the GSNP requires that any development will include sufficient affordable housing to meet the local needs.

Government policy expressed through ministerial statement and recent changes to the National Planning Policy Guidance (NPPG) states that the threshold for affordable housing is now 10 or more per site instead of the original 5 or more. This means that only one of the GSNP development sites qualifies for affordable housing. The GSNP has evolved using the 5 or more rule to obtain the number of affordable homes required by the Wiltshire Council Housing Needs Survey. The GSNP therefore, wish to retain the 5 or more rule and evidence for this requirement is to be found in the GSNP.

4. Always seek to secure high quality design and a good standard of amenity for all existing and future occupants of land and buildings.

The village of Great Somerford contains a varied mixture of architectural styles, listed buildings, green and open spaces, a play area and football ground. The major part of the village is a designated Conservation Area. The GSNP clearly states that the historic and rural nature of the village should not be adversely affected by new development and that any development must be in keeping with the existing style of the village.

5. Take account of the different roles and character of different areas, promoting the vitality of our main urban areas, protecting the Green Belts around them, recognizing the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside and supporting thriving rural communities within it.

The main appeal of Great Somerford is its rural setting. In order that the GSNP can accommodate the development required by the Localism Act 2011, the plan proposes that the existing Limits of Development be re-positioned in certain 4

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016

areas, without significantly affecting the overall profile. (see section 6 of the main document). The GSNP requires that new development must include adequate vegetation screening to maintain the rural aspect of the village (see the proposals for each identified site at section 8 of the main document).

6. Support the transition to a low carbon future in a changing climate, taking full account of flood risk and coastal change, to encourage the reuse of existing resources including conversion of existing buildings and encourage the use of renewable resources (for example, by the development of renewable energy).

The GSNP deals with the few flooding problems in the area by ensuring that future developers take into account possible effects of flooding including the effects of climate change.

7. Contribute to conserving and enhancing the natural environment and reducing pollution. Allocation of land for development should prefer land of lesser environmental value, where consistent with other policies in this Framework.

The proposed development sites are on a mixture of poor agricultural quality and brown field land. The Limits of Development set out in the adopted Wiltshire Core Strategy are proposed by the GSNP to be amended to accommodate these sites.

8. Encourage the effective use of land by reusing land that has been previously developed (brownfield land), provided that it is not of high environmental value.

The GSNP has one proposed development site (NP3) that can be considered brown field land (see section 8.10 of the main document).

9. Promote mixed use developments and encourage multiple benefits from the use of land in urban and rural areas, recognizing that some open land can perform many functions (such as for wildlife, recreation, flood risk mitigation, carbon storage or food production.

Several Local Green spaces have been proposed by the GSNP to preserve the rural aspect of the village and maintain provision for recreation and wildlife (see section 5.5 and section 9 of the main document). The proposed development sites are either too small or not suitable for mixed development. However there are already office and several home based businesses in the parish.

10. Conserve heritage assets in a manner appropriate to their significance so that they may be enjoyed for their contribution to the quality of life of this and future generations.

As previously stated the GSNP has been designed to preserve all aspects of the

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016

village, including its listed and historic buildings and their surrounds. One proposal for development was rejected because their proximity to listed buildings (Appendix F1 para 14). Key community facilities have been identified and will be protected under the Assets of Community Value (England) Regulations 2012 (see section 5.3).

11. Actively manage patterns of growth to make the fullest possible use of public transport, walking and cycling and focus significant development in locations that are or can be made sustainable.

The proposed development sites are all within reasonable walking distance of the local bus service. The capacity of the road network and its condition is a concern and further development of the village over and above the GSNP proposals is considered inadvisable. See section 8.1 where provision is made for review of transport and access to individual sites. Great Somerford has many footpaths, all of which will be retained and maintained.

12. Take account of and support local strategies to improve health, social and cultural wellbeing for all, and deliver sufficient community and cultural facilities and services to meet local needs.

The local primary school, village hall and pub provide education and social events. The village holds an annual fete and show and the Dauntsey Horse Trials attract many entries and spectators from near and far. The Church is well supported.

3.3 Contribution to achieving sustainable development.

The NPPF states a presumption of sustainable development; this means positive growth that contributes to the economic, environmental and social progress for this and future generations. The GSNP has been drawn up to encourage young families to either live and work from or return to the village or return to the village. This will be achieved by providing affordable housing and In turn this will ensure the survival of the school, village shop and the pub. The market value housing will ensure further custom for the village facilities (see section 7 of the main document). Although the GSNP does not require a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) (Wiltshire Council SEA Screening Determination August 2016) the GSNP Steering Group has selected the most suitable sites for development based on the evidence provided to the group. Also the sites deemed unsuitable for development have been excluded on the evidence provided to the group.

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016 3.4 General conformity with the strategic policies of the development plan.

GSNP is consistent with the Wiltshire Core Strategy (CS) and aims to help deliver its objectives (see section 7 of the main document).

3.5 Core strategic objectives.

A series of strategic objectives have been developed to deliver the vision for Wiltshire.

The objectives are:

1. Delivering a thriving economy.

2. Addressing climate change.

3. Providing everyone with access to a decent, affordable home

4. Helping to build resilient communities.

5. Protecting and enhancing the natural, historic and built environment.

6. Ensuring that adequate infrastructure is in place to support our communities.

3.5.1 Delivering a thriving economy.

• By providing a mix of market value and affordable homes to support the school, shop, pub and church (see sections 7 and 8 of the main document).

3.5.2 Addressing climate change.

• West Street flooding is no longer a threat as WC has improved drainage. Frog Lane flooding will be alleviated by the developer of NP3 Frog Lane. (Sections 4 and 8 in the main document)

3.5.3 Providing everyone with the opportunity to reside in a decent affordable home.

• By securing sufficient sites to positively meet housing requirements as indicated by the Housing Needs Survey (see Section 7).

3.5.4 Helping to build resilient communities.

• By providing the facility for affordable homes for the young families of the village the GSNP will ensure that the village amenities and therefore the community will prosper (see Policy GSNP2 at section 7). 7

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016 3.5.5 Protecting and enhancing the natural, historic and built environment.

• The GSNP ensures that the outward appearance of Great Somerford remains unaltered and the listed and historic buildings together with their environs remain untouched (see sections 6.6, 7.9, 8.1 and section 9 of the main document).

3.5.6 Ensuring that adequate infrastructure is in place to support our communities.

• Relevant comment and provision for infrastructure is at sections 5 and 7 of the main document. The GSNP also supports the appropriate use of the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) and section 106 agreements to provide or improve the village’s infrastructure and identify local priorities (see section 11.4).

3.6 The strategy for the surrounding area.

• The GSNP Steering Group considers that the effect of the GSNP on the adjoining parishes will be negligible, given the local geography.

3.7 EU Regulations and obligations

Wiltshire Council has confirmed that the GSNP does not require a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). It has also been confirmed that no Habitat Regulations Assessment (HRA) is required.

4. Conclusion

The Basic Conditions as set out in Paragraph 8(2) of Schedule 48 to the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 are considered to have been met by the GSNP and all the policies therein. The Great Somerford Neighbourhood Plan therefore complies with Paragraph 8 (1a) of Schedule 48 to the Act.

GREAT SOMERFORD (INCORPORATING STARTLEY) NEIGHBOURHOOD PLAN 2016 – 2026 SUBMISION VERSION AUGUST 2016

NOTIFICATION OF DECISION REGARDING THE APPLICATION FOR DESIGNATION OF GREAT SOMERFORD AND STARTLEY NEIGHBOURHOOD AREA UNDER SECTION 61G OF THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT 1990 AS AMENDED

APPLICANT:

Great Somerford Parish Council

APPLICATION:

Application for the Designation of Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area

Pursuant to the Wiltshire Council constitution and in particular Paragraph 4(a) of Part 3B the Associate Director for Economic Development and Planning within whose remit Spatial Planning falls is authorised to consider the area designation applications for Neighbourhood Plans and if appropriate approve applications.

DECISION:

The Designation of Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area is approved in accordance with section 61G of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as amended for the purposes of Neighbourhood Planning. The reasons for this decision are set out in the accompanying ‘Neighbourhood Area Designation Application Report’.

Signed:

Alistair Cunningham Associate Director Economic Development and Planning

Dated: 15.04.14

WILTSHIRE COUNCIL

NEIGHBOURHOOD AREA DESIGNATION APPLICATION REPORT – OFFICERS DECISION ACTING UNDER DELEGATED POWERS

Date of application 15.11.2013 Date of decision 15.04.2014 Name of proposed Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area designation Community Area Malmesbury Community Area

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Pursuant to the Wiltshire Council constitution and in particular Paragraph 4(a) of Part 3B the Associate Director for Economic Development and Planning within whose remit Spatial Planning falls is authorised to consider the area designation applications for Neighbourhood Plans and if appropriate approve applications.

2. BACKGROUND

2.1 The power to designate a Neighbourhood Area is exercisable under section 61G of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Under Regulation 5(1) of The Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulations 2012 (which came into force on 6 April 2012) an area application has to include a map which identifies the area to which the application relates, a statement explaining why this area is considered appropriate to be designated as a neighbourhood area and a statement that the body making the application is a relevant body for the purposes of section 61G(2) of the 1990 Act.

2.2 Great Somerford Parish Council forms the ‘relevant body’ (for the purposes of section 61G (2) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990) and submitted an application for the designation of Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area. The application is for the whole area of Great Somerford Parish to be designated as a Neighbourhood Area for the purposes of Neighbourhood Planning and so satisfies section 61G(3) of the Act. The submission of the application complied with the regulations.

2.3 The Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Plan Steering Group has been set up to prepare the plan and is led by the Parish Council. The Group includes a cross section of community representatives that meet regularly to develop the draft plan.

3. PROCEDURE

3.1 Under section 61H of the 1990 Act whenever a local planning authority exercises powers under section 61G to designate an area as a neighbourhood area, consideration must be given to whether the authority should designate the area concerned as a business area. The designation of the specified area can only occur if the authority considers that the area is wholly or predominately business in nature [Section 61H (3)].

3.2 If the application for the Designation of this Neighbourhood Area is approved, then Regulation 7(1) of the Neighbourhood Planning (General) Regulation 2012 requires the designation to be publicised. If the application is refused, reasons must be given under 61G(9) of the 1990 Act and Regulation 7(2) of the Regulations requires the decision to be publicised.

4. CONSIDERATION AS TO WHETHER OR NOT TO DESIGNATE

4.1 In determining the application for the designation as a Neighbourhood Area regard must be had to the desirability of designating the whole area.

4.2 The issue is whether or not the specified area is an ‘appropriate area to be designated as a Neighbourhood Area’.

4.3 The fact that the designation of the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area would allow a Neighbourhood Plan to be prepared does not form part of the determination of this application.

5. REASONING FOR DESIGNATION

5.1 The proposed area for designation includes the whole parish area and is considered appropriate.

5.2 The Parish of Great Somerford includes the villages of Great Somerford and Startley which are similar in nature and share local facilities such as the primary school, public house and post office. The parish place particular importance on their rural setting and therefore it is appropriate to plan for the whole parish area and not just the built up areas of the villages of Great Somerford and Startley. The Plan will potentially allocate sites in sustainable locations in the Parish to support the housing requirement as set out in the Wiltshire Core Strategy, review the settlement boundary of Great Somerford to protect the highly valued allotments and ensure the vitality of the local services through modest housing development.

5.3 The specified area falls completely within the Council’s area.

5.4 The application for designation as a Neighbourhood Area was publicised for a period of 6 weeks and 2 days from 9am Monday 9th December until 5pm Tuesday 4th February 2014.

5.5 One response was submitted in support of the area designation during the consultation period (See Appendix 1).

5.6 The proposed Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Areas is coherent, consistent and appropriate in planning terms.

6. CONCLUSION

6.1 The reasoning above and the results of the consultation lend support to the designation. It is considered that the specified area of Great Somerford Parish is an ‘appropriate area’ upon which to base a subsequent Neighbourhood Plan.

6.2 All responses received during the consultation have been taken into account.

6.3 The specified area is not wholly or predominantly business in nature and so it is inappropriate to designate it as a business area.

6.4 It is also considered that it is not desirable that only part of such parish areas be designated as this could lead to fragmented approach within those areas.

6.5 The specified area without modification should be designated as a Neighbourhood Area for the reasons set out in the application.

6.6 A copy of this report will be sent to the constituent qualifying body, Great Somerford Parish Council.

7. DECISION

7.1 The Designation of the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area is made in accordance with section 61G of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 as amended for the purposes of Neighbourhood Planning.

Alistair Cunningham Associate Director Economic Development and Planning

Dated: 15.04.14

Appendix 1: Responses submitted to Wiltshire Council during the consultation on the application for designation of Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area

Respondent Comments

Mr Vivian Vines, I refer to your Email of the 2 December 2013 advising my Council that Great Somerford Dauntsey Parish Parish Council had submitted an application for the designation of a Neighbourhood Area and Council inviting comments.

My Council considered your letter and the application details at their meeting held last evening and asked me to inform you that they wish to raise no objections.

The Council sees this as the start of the process of local communities getting even more involved in determining their futures and wish the Parish Council and their Neighbourhood Planning Team well in their endeavours.

Dauntsey Parish Council last evening formally Adopted the Update of the Dauntsey Parish Plan (2007-2012) following our community volunteer group's recommendations that take it forward as an action plan from 2013 to 2018 and although not the same as a Neighbourhood Area Plan is used by the Parish Council as a working document in their decision making. Perhaps one day Dauntsey will use this as their own starting point when considering a Neighbourhood Area but at this time I think the view is to see how others progress before taking the step.

The Parish Council trusts that their observations will be taken into consideration when the Great Somerford Parish Council's application is determined.

DECISION REGARDING THE APPLICATION FOR DESIGNATION OF GREAT SOMERFORD AND STARTLEY NEIGHBOURHOOD AREA UNDER SECTION 61(G) OF THE TOWN AND COUNTRY PLANNING ACT (AS AMENDED)

1. I have no private interests to declare in respect of this matter which would prevent me from determining this application.

2. I hereby exercise power under section 61G of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended) (“the Act”) and all other powers delegated to me to designate the area identified on the map below as the Great Somerford and Startley Neighbourhood Area for the purposes of section 61G (1) of the Act) as I am satisfied that the area is an appropriate area to be designated as a neighbourhood area. I do not designate it as a business area for the purposes of section 61H (1) of the Act as it is not wholly or predominately business in nature.

a) Name of neighbourhood area: Great Somerford and Startley

b) Map of neighbourhood area:

c) Relevant body: Great Somerford Parish Council form the ‘relevant body’ (for the purposes of 61G(2) of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990)

3. I have made this decision in line with the information set out in the ‘Neighbourhood Area Designation Application Report’.

Signed:

Alistair Cunningham Associate Director Economic Development and Planning

Decision published: 15.04.14