Tag: MPC: Heritage and Conservation

Material Planning Considerations:

Impact on historic buildings, conservation areas, and archaeological sites.

CONSTRAINTS_AND_OPPORTUNITIES_PLAN-1335979.pdf

Constraints and Opportunities Plan

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CONSTRAINTS_AND_OPPORTUNITIES_PLAN-1335979

Summary

The Constraints and Opportunities Plan visually represents various key features and considerations for the proposed development site. This plan is essential for understanding the limitations and potential enhancements for the project. Key elements marked on the map include:

  1. Site Boundary: The outer limits of the development area are clearly defined.
  2. Site Access: Points of entry and exit to the site are indicated, ensuring accessibility.
  3. Public Rights of Way (Bridleway): Existing public paths available for use, particularly for horse riding, are highlighted.
  4. Proposed 2m Footpath: New pedestrian pathways are planned to improve accessibility within the site.
  5. Existing Vehicular Route: Current roads and pathways used by vehicles within the site are marked.
  6. Existing Trees:
    • Category A and B: High and moderate-quality trees that are significant for retention are shown.
    • Category C: Low-quality trees or those with limited life expectancy are also identified.
  7. Root Protection Area for Category A and B Trees: Zones designated to protect the roots of important trees during construction.
  8. Potential Green Arrival Space: Proposed areas for green, welcoming spaces at entry points to enhance the aesthetic and ecological value.
  9. Opportunity for Single Storey Development: Identified areas suitable for the development of single-story buildings, ensuring that the scale of development is appropriate for the context.
  10. Indicative Contours: Topographical information showing the landscape’s elevation changes, helping to understand the site’s natural form.
  11. Views:
    • Views Out to Open Countryside: Areas with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
    • Partial Public Views into the Site: Locations where the public can partially see into the site.
    • Open Public Views into the Site: Spots offering full views into the site for the public.
  12. Local Green Space: Stoney Lane Strip: A designated local green area within or adjacent to the development site.
  13. Low Surface Water Flood Risk Zone: Areas identified as having minimal risk of flooding from surface water.
  14. Existing Public Foul Sewer: Locations of current sewage infrastructure, important for planning utility connections.
  15. Existing Trees and Hedgerows to be Safeguarded and Strengthened: Areas where existing vegetation is to be preserved and enhanced.
  16. Potential Ecological Buffer of Minimum 2m: Suggested buffer zones to protect ecological features, ensuring a minimum distance to mitigate environmental impact.
  17. Proposed Landscape Buffers:
    • To Local Green Space/Cawk House and Retained/Enhanced Vegetation: Buffers to integrate the development with the surrounding natural areas.
    • To Bridleway and Retained/Enhanced Vegetation: Buffers along the bridleway to protect and enhance the existing vegetation.

Key Features and Notations on the Map:

  • The map includes notations and symbols for various features, providing a clear visual guide to the development constraints and opportunities.
  • Areas with different colours and patterns indicate specific zones and features, such as green spaces, footpaths, and vehicular routes.
  • The plan incorporates existing natural features like trees and hedgerows, ensuring their protection and integration into the development.

This plan serves as a comprehensive guide for planners, developers, and stakeholders, ensuring that the development respects existing natural features and infrastructure while capitalising on opportunities to enhance the site’s environmental and social value.

Weak Points:

  1. Potential Overlook of Smaller Ecological Features:
  • The focus may primarily be on major ecological features (e.g., Category A and B trees), potentially overlooking smaller but still significant ecological components.

2. Risk of Inadequate Buffer Zones:

  • The suggested buffer zones might not be sufficient in all areas to protect sensitive ecological zones from construction impact.

3. Limited Detail on Soil and Water Management:

  • The plan might lack comprehensive details on managing soil erosion and water runoff, especially in areas marked as low surface water flood risk zones.

4. Potential Public Access Challenges:

  • While public rights of way and footpaths are indicated, there may be challenges in ensuring these are adequately accessible during all phases of development.

5. Integration of Proposed and Existing Infrastructure:

  • The plan may not fully address how new infrastructure will integrate with existing systems, particularly concerning utilities and roadways.

What aspects should be evaluated in relation to this document?

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Assess Protection Measures for Ecological Features:

  • Ensure that the protection measures for Category A and B trees, as well as other significant vegetation, are robust and comprehensive. Verify that the Root Protection Areas (RPAs) are adequate and effectively managed.

Evaluate Buffer Zone Adequacy:

  • Review the proposed ecological buffer zones to determine if they provide sufficient protection for sensitive habitats and ecological corridors. Consider increasing the buffer zones if necessary to ensure environmental protection.

Review Soil and Water Management Plans:

  • Ensure the plan includes detailed strategies for managing soil erosion and water runoff, particularly in areas identified as low surface water flood risk zones. These measures are crucial to prevent environmental degradation during and after construction.

DESIGN AND APPEARANCE

Evaluate Integration of Green Spaces:

  • Assess how well the proposed green arrival spaces and landscape buffers integrate with the overall design of the development. These elements should enhance the visual appeal and provide functional green areas for residents and wildlife.

Check Compatibility of Single-Storey Development Opportunities:

  • Ensure that the areas identified for single-storey development fit within the context of the surrounding environment and community. The design should complement the existing landscape and built environment.

Consider Views and Sightlines:

  • Evaluate the impact of the development on key views, including views out to the countryside and public views into the site. The development should enhance rather than obstruct these views, maintaining a visual connection with the natural surroundings.

RESIDENTIAL AMENITY

Review Accessibility and Connectivity:

  • Assess the accessibility of the proposed footpaths, bridleways, and vehicular routes. Ensure that these routes are well-integrated into the existing infrastructure and provide safe, convenient access for all residents.

Evaluate Impact on Local Green Space Usage:

  • Consider how the development will impact the usage of local green spaces, such as the Stoney Lane Strip. Ensure that these areas remain accessible and enjoyable for the community.

Consider Impact on Resident Experience:

  • Evaluate how the proposed development will affect the overall living experience of residents, including aspects like noise, privacy, and access to nature. The development should enhance residential amenity by providing well-designed, accessible, and attractive green spaces.

Community Engagement:

  • Review Community Involvement: Consider how the community has been involved in the planning process. Ensure that there has been adequate consultation and that community feedback has been incorporated into the plan.

Health and Wellbeing:

  • Assess Impact on Public Health: Evaluate how the development will impact public health, including access to green spaces, recreational areas, and clean air. Ensure that the design promotes healthy living environments.

Additional Material Considerations

TRAFFIC AND ACCESS

Evaluate Traffic Flow and Safety:

Assess how the proposed vehicular routes and access points will impact traffic flow and safety within and around the development site. Ensure that the design minimises congestion and provides safe access for vehicles and pedestrians.

Review Public Rights of Way:

Ensure that public rights of way, such as bridleways and footpaths, are adequately maintained and integrated into the development. Consider any potential disruptions and plan for safe and accessible routes during construction.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES

Assess Utility Integration:

Evaluate how existing utilities (e.g., public foul sewers) will be integrated with new infrastructure. Ensure that the development does not overburden existing services and includes plans for any necessary upgrades.

Review Drainage and Flood Risk Management:

Examine the strategies for managing surface water drainage and flood risk, especially in areas identified as low surface water flood risk zones. Ensure that the development includes sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and other measures to mitigate flood risks.

SUSTAINABILITY

Promote Sustainable Building Practices:

Check if the plan encourages the use of sustainable building practices and materials. Evaluate how these practices contribute to reducing the environmental footprint of the development.

Evaluate Energy Efficiency Measures:

Assess the proposed development’s energy efficiency measures, such as the inclusion of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient building designs.

HERITAGE AND CONSERVATION

Assess Impact on Heritage Sites:

Evaluate if there are any nearby heritage sites or conservation areas that could be affected by the development. Ensure that the design respects and preserves the historical and cultural significance of these areas.

Disclaimer

ARCHAEOLOGY_ASSESSMENT-1335974.pdf

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ARCHAEOLOGY_ASSESSMENT-1335974

Summary

Key Points:

  • The site has archaeological potential due to its proximity to Romano-British and prehistoric remains.
  • Baseline research indicates low potential for significant archaeological remains.
  • Four Grade II listed buildings within 1km of the site, no scheduled monuments within the study area.
  • Field observations revealed no significant archaeological features.
  • Previous fieldwork in the vicinity found limited archaeological features, primarily of prehistoric and post-medieval periods.

Summary:

The archaeological assessment suggests that while there is some potential for archaeological remains, the significance is likely low. The proposed development includes measures for archaeological mitigation to assess and record any deposits found during construction.

Weak Points:

  • Limited archaeological fieldwork on-site could mean unexpected finds during construction, potentially causing delays.
  • The presence of nearby listed buildings necessitates careful consideration to avoid impact on their settings.

What aspects should be evaluated in relation to this document?

HERITAGE AND CONSERVATION

Assess Potential Archaeological Findings:

  • Evaluate the likelihood of discovering archaeological artifacts or features within the development site. This involves assessing the site’s historical significance and any previous findings in the area.

Review Protection Measures for Archaeological Sites:

  • Ensure that there are adequate measures in place to protect any potential archaeological sites during construction. This includes plans for excavation, documentation, and preservation of artifacts.

Evaluate Historical Significance:

  • Assess the historical significance of the site based on the findings of the archaeological assessment. This includes understanding the cultural and historical context of any discovered artifacts or features.

Review Conservation Strategies:

  • Ensure that there are robust strategies in place for the conservation of archaeological findings. This might include on-site preservation, relocation, or documentation and display in local museums or heritage centers.

Ensure Compliance with Heritage Laws:

  • Verify that the archaeological assessment complies with all relevant heritage and conservation laws and regulations. This includes obtaining necessary permits and adhering to guidelines for excavation and preservation.

Review Documentation and Reporting Requirements:

  • Ensure that the archaeological assessment includes thorough documentation and reporting of findings, as required by regulatory bodies. This documentation is essential for legal compliance and historical records.

DESIGN AND APPEARANCE

Evaluate Integration with Development Plans:

  • Assess how the potential for archaeological findings will be integrated into the overall development plans. Ensure that the design allows for the preservation of significant archaeological sites and features.

Consider Impact on Historical Landscape:

  • Review how the development might impact the historical landscape and visual appearance of the area. The design should respect and enhance the historical context of the site.

INFRASTRUCTURE AND SERVICES

Assess Impact on Construction and Development Schedule:

  • Consider how archaeological assessments and potential findings might affect the construction timeline and development schedule. Plans should include contingencies for delays related to archaeological work.

Review Coordination with Infrastructure Planning:

  • Ensure that the archaeological assessment is coordinated with infrastructure planning, particularly in areas where significant findings might alter the placement of utilities and services.

RESIDENTIAL AMENITY

Review Community Involvement:

  • Consider how the community has been involved in the planning process. Ensure that there has been adequate consultation and that community feedback has been incorporated into the plan.

Consider Public Interest and Involvement:

  • Evaluate how the community has been informed and involved in the archaeological assessment process. Public interest in local history can be a valuable asset in promoting community support for the project.

Review Educational and Interpretive Opportunities:

  • Assess opportunities for using archaeological findings for educational and interpretive purposes. This might include creating informational displays, tours, or integrating findings into community programs.

Disclaimer

Objection to Planning Application 27000-005 — 20240621 – 01.pdf

VIEW Objection (PDF)
Objection-to-Planning-Application-27000-005-20240621-01

VIEW Submission Confirmation (PDF)
submission-r

Summary

Environmental and Ecological Impact: This section discusses the impact on existing trees and biodiversity. It highlights concerns about protecting trees, which are crucial for climate change mitigation and maintaining visual amenity. Failure to protect these trees could lead to a deteriorating landscape and loss of biodiversity.

Archaeological Significance: This section addresses the potential for encountering Neolithic remains and recommends archaeological evaluations to protect any undiscovered assets. Preserving archaeological heritage is essential for maintaining the historical integrity of the area.

Flood Risk and Drainage: This section emphasises the need for robust drainage systems to manage increased runoff and prevent flood risk. It highlights the importance of designing drainage systems to handle extreme weather events and comply with climate change resilience standards.

Community and Social Impact: This section critiques the affordable housing provision, noting it falls short of local policy requirements. It also discusses the significant population increase from 2011 to 2024 and the lack of a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) to capture the cumulative effects on local infrastructure and services.

Public Services and Infrastructure: This section discusses the impact on local public footpaths, emphasising the need for contributions to improve their surface and maintenance to accommodate increased foot traffic from new residents.

Health and Safety: This section highlights fire safety concerns, emphasising the need for adequate access for firefighting appliances and sufficient water supplies. It also addresses the necessity of radon protection and conditions for land contamination management to ensure safety.

Healthcare Infrastructure: This section includes comments from the NHS about local GP surgeries’ capacity to absorb the population increase. It stresses the need to ensure that healthcare services remain adequate to support the growing population.

Disclaimer

Material Planning Considerations: Heritage and Conservation

Heritage and Conservation considerations focus on the protection and enhancement of historic and culturally significant buildings, structures, landscapes, and areas. These considerations ensure that new developments respect and preserve the historical and architectural integrity of heritage assets while contributing to the area’s overall character and identity.

Key Components of Heritage and Conservation Considerations

Listed Buildings
  • Definition: Buildings of special architectural or historic interest protected by law. They are categorized into grades (Grade I, Grade II*, and Grade II) based on their significance.
  • Assessment: Evaluate the impact of the proposed development on the character, setting, and fabric of listed buildings. Ensure that any alterations or extensions are sympathetic to the building’s historic value.

Conservation Areas
  • Definition: Areas designated for their special architectural or historic interest, where the character and appearance are desirable to preserve or enhance.
  • Assessment: Consider the impact of the development on the character and appearance of the conservation area. Ensure that new buildings or modifications contribute positively to the area’s historic character.

Historic Parks and Gardens
  • Definition: Landscaped areas of historic interest registered for their special historic value.
  • Assessment: Evaluate the impact on the layout, design, and features of historic parks and gardens. Ensure that developments do not harm the historical integrity of these spaces.

Archaeological Sites
  • Definition: Sites of archaeological significance, including those with potential undiscovered remains.
  • Assessment: Consider the impact on known and potential archaeological sites. Ensure that appropriate archaeological investigations are carried out and that significant finds are preserved.

World Heritage Sites
  • Definition: Sites of outstanding universal value designated by UNESCO.
  • Assessment: Evaluate the impact on the setting and integrity of World Heritage Sites. Ensure that developments respect the site’s global significance.

Non-Designated Heritage Assets
  • Definition: Buildings, monuments, sites, places, areas, or landscapes identified by local planning authorities as having heritage significance but not formally designated.
  • Assessment: Consider the impact on non-designated heritage assets, ensuring that their contribution to local character and history is respected.

Historic Landscapes and Townscapes
  • Definition: Areas with historical and cultural significance, including historic urban layouts and rural landscapes.
  • Assessment: Evaluate the impact on historic landscapes and townscapes, ensuring that developments respect historical patterns and features.

How Heritage and Conservation Considerations Influence Planning Decisions

1. Heritage Impact Assessments:

  • These assessments evaluate the significance of heritage assets and the impact of proposed developments on their value. They help planners understand the potential effects and necessary mitigation measures.


2. Conservation Area Appraisals:

  • Detailed appraisals of conservation areas provide guidance on managing change within these areas, ensuring that new developments enhance or preserve their character.


3. Consultation with Heritage Bodies:

  • Input from heritage organisations, such as Historic England, local conservation officers, and archaeological societies, is crucial. Their expertise helps assess the impact on heritage assets and guide appropriate mitigation strategies.


4. Policy Compliance:

  • Developments must comply with national and local heritage conservation policies, including those outlined in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and local planning documents.


5. Balancing Development and Preservation:

  • Planning authorities must balance the need for new development with the importance of preserving heritage assets. Proposals that significantly harm heritage assets are less likely to be approved unless they provide substantial public benefits.

Importance in Planning Applications

1. Cultural and Historical Value:

  • Protecting heritage assets ensures that the cultural and historical values are preserved for future generations, maintaining a sense of identity and continuity.

2. Aesthetic and Architectural Quality:

  • Heritage and conservation considerations help maintain and enhance the aesthetic and architectural quality of an area, contributing to its overall appeal and distinctiveness.


3. Tourism and Economy:

  • Preserved heritage sites and areas can attract tourism, contributing to the local economy and supporting businesses.


4. Community Identity and Pride:

  • Heritage assets often play a significant role in community identity and pride. Preserving these assets helps maintain local character and fosters a sense of belonging among residents.


5. Sustainable Development:

  • Reusing and adapting historic buildings and structures for new uses can contribute to sustainable development by reducing the need for new construction and preserving resources.


Conclusion


By thoroughly considering heritage and conservation in planning applications, planning authorities can ensure that new developments respect and enhance the historical and cultural significance of an area. This holistic approach helps balance development needs with the preservation of heritage assets, promoting sustainable growth while protecting the unique character and identity of communities.

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