Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party Please Contact: Linda Yarham Please email: linda.yarham@north-norfolk.gov.uk Please Direct Dial on: 01263 516019 27 October 2015 A meeting of Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party will be held in the Council Chamber at the Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer on Monday 9 November 2015 at 10.00am. At the discretion of the Chairman, a short break will be taken after the meeting has been running for approximately one and a half hours. Members of the public who wish to ask a question or speak on an agenda item are requested to arrive at least 15 minutes before the start of the meeting. It will not always be possible to accommodate requests after that time. This is to allow time for the Committee Chair to rearrange the order of items on the agenda for the convenience of members of the public. Further information on the procedure for public speaking can be obtained from Democratic Services, Tel: 01263 516010, Email: democraticservices@north-norfolk.gov.uk Anyone attending this meeting may take photographs, film or audio-record the proceedings and report on the meeting. Anyone wishing to do so must inform the Chairman. If you are a member of the public and you wish to speak on an item on the agenda, please be aware that you may be filmed or photographed. Sheila Oxtoby Chief Executive To: Mrs S Arnold, Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds, Mrs J English, Mrs A Green, Mrs P Grove-Jones, Mr P High, Mr N Pearce, Mr J Punchard, Mr R Reynolds, Mr S Shaw, Mrs V Uprichard All other Members of the Council for information. Members of the Management Team, appropriate Officers, Press and Public If you have any special requirements in order to attend this meeting, please let us know in advance If you would like any document in large print, audio, Braille, alternative format or in a different language please contact us Chief Executive: Sheila Oxtoby Corporate Directors: Nick Baker and Steve Blatch Tel 01263 513811 Fax 01263 515042 Minicom 01263 516005 Email districtcouncil@north-norfolk.gov.uk Web site northnorfolk.org AGENDA 1. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE To receive apologies for absence, if any. 2. PUBLIC QUESTIONS 3. MINUTES (attached – p.1) To approve as a correct record the Minutes of a meeting of the Working Party held on 12 October 2015. 4. ITEMS OF URGENT BUSINESS To determine any other items of business which the Chairman decides should be considered as a matter of urgency pursuant to Section 100B(4)(b) of the Local Government Act 1972. 5. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST Members are asked at this stage to declare any interests that they may have in any of the following items on the agenda. The Code of Conduct for Members requires that declarations include the nature of the interest and whether it is a disclosable pecuniary interest. 6. PLANNING POLICY UPDATE (Report – p.4) Summary: This report provides a summary of the work of the Planning Policy Team and in particular the preparation of the new Local Plan Recommendations: The report is for Information only Cabinet Member(s) Ward(s) affected All members All wards Contact Officer, telephone number and email: Mark Ashwell - Planning Policy Manager – 01263 516325 Mark.ashwell@north-norfolk.gov.uk 7. (Report – p. 7) HOUSING BILL UPDATE Summary: This report provides a summary of the Housing Bill insofar as its provisions relate to the preparation of Local Plans, Neighbourhood Planning, Starter Homes and the holding of registers of brownfield land which is suitable for development. Recommendations: The report is for Information only Cabinet Member(s) Ward(s) affected All members All wards Contact Officer, telephone number and email: Mark Ashwell- Planning Policy Manager – 01263 516325 8. REGULATION 18 CONSULTATION RESPONSES (Report – p. 10) (Appendix 1 – p. 12) Summary: This report provides a summary of the responses received in relation to the first stage of public consultation on the new local plan (Regulation 18 Consultation). Recommendations: No formal decisions are required. Members are asked to note the comments made together with the officer responses which will inform the later stages of Plan preparation. Cabinet Member(s) Ward(s) affected All members All wards Contact Officer, telephone number and email: Mark Ashwell- Planning Policy Manager – 01263 516325 9. DRAFT STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT (SCI) CONSULTATION RESPONSES Report – p. 33) (Appendix 2 – p. 35; Appendix 3 – p. 63; Appendix 4 – p. 65) Summary: This report provides a summary of the responses received to the public consultation on the draft Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) and suggests updates to the document where appropriate. Conclusions: The Draft SCI provides a clear and accessible guide on how the local planning authority will endeavour to encourage widespread involvement in the preparation of planning policy documents and in the determination of planning Applications. Recommendations: That the amendments outlined in Appendix 4 are incorporated into the SCI and that it is recommended to Cabinet for approval. Cabinet Member(s) All Members Ward(s) affected All Wards Martha Moore, Planning Policy Officer Tel: 01263 516084 Email: Martha.moore@north-norfolk.gov.uk 10. EXCLUSION OF PRESS AND PUBLIC To pass the following resolution (if necessary):“That under Section 100A(4) of the Local Government Act 1972 the press and public be excluded from the meeting for the following items of business on the grounds that they involve the likely disclosure of exempt information as defined in Part I of Schedule 12A (as amended) to the Act.” 11. TO CONSIDER ANY EXEMPT MATTERS ARISING FROM CONSIDERATION OF THE PUBLIC BUSINESS OF THE AGENDA Agenda item 12 OCTOBER 2015 Minutes of a meeting of the PLANNING POLICY & BUILT HERITAGE WORKING PARTY held in the Council Chamber, Council Offices, Holt Road, Cromer at 10.00 am when there were present: Councillors Mrs A Arnold (Chairman) R Reynolds (Vice-Chairman) Mrs A Claussen-Reynolds Mrs A Green Mrs P Grove-Jones Mrs V Uprichard P High N Pearce S Shaw Ms M Prior – observing Officers Mr M Ashwell – Planning Policy Manager 22. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE Apologies for absence were received from Councillors Mrs J English and J Punchard. 23. MINUTES The Minutes of the meeting held on 12 October 2015 were approved as a correct record and signed by the Chairman. 24. ITEMS OF URGENT BUSINESS The Chairman stated that there were no items of urgent business which she wished to bring before the Working Party. 25. DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST No interests were declared. 26. PLANNING POLICY UPDATE The Planning Policy Manager presented a summary of the work of the Planning Policy Team, with particular focus on the review of the Local Plan. The Planning Policy Manager reported that since preparation of the report, the consultation on the Regulation 18 Notice had finished and 50-60 responses had been received. All statutory consultees had responded. The results of the consultation would be reported to the next meeting. The Planning Policy Manager answered Members’ questions. Guidance would be sent to Parish & Town Councils regarding site selection; however they would be able to put forward any sites they wished to as nothing would be ruled out at this stage. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 1 9 November 2015 3 No decision had been made as to selected villages. All public landowners would be invited to put sites forward. It was open to anybody with landowning interests to put sites forward for any type of development. Landowners would also be approached if sites were identified which might be suitable. Members were welcome to invite landowners to register their interests. Sites which were currently allocated for employment could be put forward for consideration as residential sites. It had been a deliberate choice to allocate too much employment land in the current plan to give people a choice. Not all the land had been taken up. There was now a need to balance it against housing and consider whether to allocate housing on greenfield sites or on brownfield sites which had been unused for some time. Whilst former RAF bases appeared to be good sites, they were not sustainable. There was a need to consider the impact on nearby towns if large amounts of growth were allocated on such sites, such as the impact of RAF West Raynham on Fakenham or RAF Coltishall on North Walsham. If a high housing target were set then it might be necessary to consider these sites to meet demand. Contaminated land would not necessarily be excluded as it could be cleaned up. Some issues, such as major flooding, were likely to lead sites being excluded. There would be indicators of relative sustainability. Criteria would be scored to assist in the selection process, but some criteria may carry more weight than others. The process would be evidence based and not choice based. Criteria had to be objective and consideration given to the implications. It was intended to invite local Members for the towns to consider some of these issues. The SHMA did not treat annexes as separate dwellings. Each authority was at a different stage in planning. The rate of growth over the last 20 years in the three large authorities of Norwich, South Norfolk and Broadland was broadly similar. There was a question as to how future growth could be accommodated. Norwich would be unable to meet its need and it would have to be accommodated elsewhere. The Chairman stated that if no evidence of co-operation could be shown the Council’s Plan would fail. Councillor R Reynolds stated that careful consideration would need to be given to the area between Fakenham and Kings Lynn. The Working Party noted the report. 27. FIVE YEAR LAND SUPPLY - RECENT APPEAL DECISION The Planning Policy Manager outlined the recent appeal decision in respect of a planning application for up to 170 dwellings at Holt (Gladman) and its implications for the Council’s five-year land supply. Councillor R Reynolds stated that a 5.4 year land supply had been confirmed and the Council had to work well to achieve the figures. Councillor P W High thanked the Planning Policy Manager and his team for all their work, which was appreciated by all residents. The Chairman also thanked the Planning Policy Manager on behalf of the Working Party. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 2 9 November 2015 In answer to a question by Councillor Mrs P Grove-Jones, the Planning Policy Manager stated that large regional housebuilders tended to concentrate on bigger sites (over 50 dwellings) but smaller sites might be considered depending on location. It had been difficult to deliver very large allocations and it was thought that this may be due to a number of factors such as land assembly, infrastructure costs etc, which would involve a number of landowners and developers. The difficulty in delivering large sites would be considered by the Duty to Co-operate Forum. The Working Party discussed issues relating to housing targets. RESOLVED That an Addendum to the Five Year Land Supply Statement be published to draw attention to the appeal decision. The meeting closed at 11.35 am. _______________________ CHAIRMAN 9 November 2015 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 3 9 November 2015 Agenda Item No____6_______ Planning Policy Update Summary: This report provides a summary of the work of the Planning Policy Team and in particular the preparation of the new Local Plan Recommendations: The report is for Information only Cabinet Member(s) Ward(s) affected All members All wards Contact Officer, telephone number and email: Mark Ashwell- Planning Policy Manager – 01263 516325 1. Introduction 1.1 This report provides a short up-date in relation to the work of the planning policy team with a particular focus on the review of the Local Plan. 2. Regulation 18 Notification 2.1 The Regulation 18 consultation period closed on the 9 October. This asked for views on the content which should be included in the next Local Plan. A report of the representations made is included on this Agenda. 3. Statement of Community Involvement (SCI). 3.1 A similar consultation in relation to the Statement of Community Involvement also closed on the 9 October. This document explains how the Council will engage with the public and others during the preparation of the Plan and when planning applications are made. A report on the representations made appears on this Agenda. 4. Local Plan Evidence 4.1 The Strategic Housing Market Assessment, is nearing completion and will shortly be published. This document will help to determine both the quantity and type of new homes that are likely to be required in the District over the plan period. The study was jointly commission by five planning authorities and has been overseen by the Duty to Co-operate Members forum and the Strategic Planning Officer Group which includes representatives of all Norfolk Authorities. 4.2 Cabinet agreed to accept the report at its meeting on the 5 October and it is currently expected that all of the commissioning partners will jointly publish the study by the end of November. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 4 9 November 2015 5. Duty to Co-operate 5.1 The Duty to Co-operate is a legal requirement when preparing a Local Plan and is being discharged via a Members Forum supported by a Strategic Planning Officers group drawn from each of the Norfolk Authorities. The forum is preparing the Norfolk Strategic Framework which is expected to be published in around 18 months. This will consider evidence such as the joint Strategic Housing Market Assessment, commission further evidence as necessary, and seek to establish where, and in relation to which issues, a cooperative approach involving more than a single planning authority may be desirable. The Framework will establish if growth in one area will have impacts in other areas, for example, by using limited infrastructure capacity. 5.2 The Forum has recently appointed a Project Manager and Support Officer who are being hosted by Norwich City Council on behalf of the partner authorities and officer level working groups have been established to consider specific areas including housing, the economy, infrastructure and delivery. 6. Next Steps in Plan Preparation – The Call for Sites. 6.1 In the next stage of the process the team will be focusing on the identification of sites that might be suitable for future development. In the first instance this involves what is referred to as a ‘call for sites’ which entails providing the opportunity to land owners, developers, local businesses, communities and others to suggest sites for development. The initial stage is designed to establish what is called unconstrained capacity. This means that sites can be suggested in any location irrespective of current policies and other known constraints. To ensure that there is a broad selection of options the Council can independently identify sites which it thinks might be suitable. The call for sites is not limited to housing proposals and will include all other types of development. 6.2 It is planned to start this process before the end of this year or early in the new-year. Those wishing to register sites for consideration will have an initial 3 month period to do so and will need to complete a specific registration form and provide basic details of their proposal. 7. Town Council Workshops 7.1 Early in the new- year it is proposed to hold workshops with each of the larger Town and Parish Councils. These are intended to: Provide a further opportunity to explain the plan making process and timetable. Provide Town and Parish Councils with an opportunity to identify the issues which they consider should be addressed in their communities. Identify those sites or broad areas which Council’s consider may be suitable options to consider for development. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 5 9 November 2015 8. Proposed Working Party Site Visits. 8.1 It is proposed that Working Party site visits will commence in December. It is suggested that visits take place from 1pm on the date of each Working Party Meeting with the itinerary agreed at the previous meeting. Visits following the December 7th meeting will be to the sites that were allocated in the current Site Allocations Development Plan in North Walsham (HLfoods), Stalham (Church Farm), and Hoveton. 9. Recommendation : This report is for information only. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 6 9 November 2015 Agenda Item No_____7______ HOUSING BILL UPDATE Summary: This report provides a summary of the Housing Bill insofar as its provisions relate to the preparation of Local Plans, Neighbourhood Planning, Starter Homes and the holding of registers of brownfield land which is suitable for development. Recommendations: The report is for Information only Cabinet Member(s) Ward(s) affected All members All wards Contact Officer, telephone number and email: Mark Ashwell- Planning Policy Manager – 01263 516325 1. Introduction 1.1 The Government's Housing Bill has been published and is currently passing through Parliament. It is likely to secure royal assent sometime early in the newyear. Many of its provisions will then require the publication of supporting Regulations to make clear the requirements of the Bill and enact various sections. It may also lead to further changes to the National Planning Policy Framework. The Bill includes a number of significant provisions relating to Local Plans, Neighbourhood Plans, and Starter/Affordable Homes as well as introducing a new requirement to maintain registers of brownfield land which is suitable for development. 1.2 This report summarises the provisions of the Bill. 2. Local Plans 2.1 The Productivity Plan published just after the Summer Budget stated that it is vital that local planning authorities use their powers to put in place local plans that set the framework for the homes and jobs local people need. The Bill includes a small number of measures which increase the powers of the secretary of state to intervene in the Local Plan process. 2.2 There is currently no statutory requirement to prepare a Local Plan. In the Bill the Secretary of State may make a direction relating to the subject matter of the documents specified in the Local Development Scheme (LDS). This essentially gives the Secretary of State the power to direct that a Local Plan is prepared and direct that it should include specific content. 2.3 The Bill also includes a new power for the Secretary of State to 'suspend' a local plan examination to consider specified matters. This will allow the examination of Plans to be delayed rather than finding them unsound. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 7 9 November 2015 2.4 The Government had stated that they will intervene if Councils fail to have an adopted plan in place by 2017. In this respect, the Bill's provisions will amend section 21 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 which will dramatically increase the scope of the Secretary of State's existing default intervention power in the local plan making process. It is expected that the Government will use these powers to step in if plans are not in place by 2017 although it seems unlikely that government would use such powers in circumstances where Authorities have made significant progress. 2.5 In a separate announcement the government has confirmed the formation of a ‘Local Plans Expert Group’ which has been tasked with recommending how the current plan making process could be streamlined. The group is currently seeking views and hopes to report early in 2016. Any significant revision to the current plan making process is likely to require new regulations which now seem unlikely before summer 2016. 3. Neighbourhood Plans 3.1 The Bill will also streamline the neighbourhood plan system by introducing powers to allow automatic decisions on designation of neighbourhood plan areas, introducing time periods for making key decisions by the LPA, and allowing the Secretary of State to intervene on the decision to send a neighbourhood plan to referendum. Collectively these measures are intended to speed up the process of preparing a Neighbourhood Plan by making sure that local authorities reach decisions within a reasonable period at the various stages of the process. 4. Starter Homes and Affordable Housing 4.1 The Bill defines starter homes as those which are made available to first time buyers, under the age of forty and at a discount of 20% on open market value subject to an upper price limit of £250,000. Existing Planning Policy Guidance already provides for Starter Homes on exception sites but the Bill confers a new legal duty on LPAs to carry out its relevant planning functions with a view to promoting the supply of Starter Homes in England. 4.2 The Secretary of State will have the power to make regulations to provide that a LPA may only grant planning permission for specified residential development if the Starter Homes requirement is met. The requirements are to be set out in regulations but could provide that a LPA may only grant planning permission for residential development above a certain size if a Section 106 agreement provides for a certain number of starter homes or contribution towards the authority's provision of these. In this respect starter homes would be treated much the same way as affordable homes. 4.3 It had been thought that starter homes would be included within the planning definition of ‘affordable’ housing thus allowing them to be provided instead of other types of affordable tenures such as social and affordable rent properties. However the Bill makes no reference to any changes to the definition of affordable housing as trailed by the Prime Minister. However it is thought likely that this change will probably be introduced through an amendment to the NPPF. This would be a very significant change as for the first time affordability would be determined by reference to the local price of homes rather than local incomes as is currently the case. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 8 9 November 2015 5. Brownfield Land and Permissions in Principle 5.1 The Bill requires local authorities to prepare, maintain and publish local registers of specified land (Brownfield Registers). It is not clear what land will qualify for inclusion on such registers but it is assumed that size, location, and existing use qualifications will be applied. The precise details are likely to be included in new regulations. Once introduced local authorities will be subject to a legal duty to maintain a register of sites which the government intends are likely to be granted a new type of automatic planning permission (see below). 5.2 Provisions are also included to give the Secretary of State the power, by a development order, to grant permission in principle to land allocated for development in a qualifying document. This provision gives the Secretary of State the power to grant an automatic planning permission (similar to outline planning permission). Initially the government intends only that land allocated in a brownfield register, development plan documents or neighbourhood plans will be capable of obtaining permission in principle. A development order would set out the type and scope of the development which is permitted. It is understood that the current intention is for the provisions to apply to minor housing development (fewer than 10 units) but could be extended to larger sites in due course. 5.3 This may mean that if land is allocated in a Local Plan and satisfies the requirements the development order will automatically grant permission in principle. The Development Management Procedure Order 2015 will be amended to set out the process for applicants and local authorities and the type and scope of development which can be approved in this way. The government will consult on the details of the application process for the technical detailed consent in due course. The technical consent (similar to a reserved matters planning application) will be required before development can commence. 5.4 As outlined above many of the Bills provisions will require enabling regulations which will provide further details. 6. Recommendation : This report is for information only. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 9 9 November 2015 Agenda Item No_____8______ REGULATION 18 CONSULTATION RESPONSES Summary: This report provides a summary of the responses received in relation to the first stage of public consultation on the new local plan (Regulation 18 Consultation). Recommendations: No formal decisions are required. Members are asked to note the comments made together with the officer responses which will inform the later stages of Plan preparation. Cabinet Member(s) Ward(s) affected All members All wards Contact Officer, telephone number and email: Mark Ashwell - Planning Policy Manager – 01263 516325 1. Introduction 1.1 This report provides a summary of responses made to the Regulation 18 consultation which seeks views on the issues which need to be addressed in the new Local Plan. 2. Regulation 18 Notification 2.1 The Town and Country (Local Planning) (England) Regulations (2012) set out the detailed legislative process for preparation and adoption of development plan documents (called “local plans” in the Regulations), including the requirements for consultation and the availability of documents throughout the whole process. 2.2 Regulation 18 of the Local Planning Regulations (2012) requires LPAs to notify specific and general consultees and all others whom the LPA considers to have an interest, on the subject areas to be considered in the new Local Plan - The notification essentially asks ‘Do you think the Council has identified the right issues to be addressed in the new Local Plan?’ 2.3 The Council published a consultation document on the 17th of August for an eight week period indicating that it proposed to prepare a new Local Plan covering the period 20162036 and that it would be considering all policy areas and making new allocations of development land to ensure that all objectively assessed development needs were met. During the consultation period the Council held a launch event for Town and Parish Council’s and officers have visited a number of Parishes over the period to provide general advice. Responders were able to use a specific response form or simply write to the Council with their views, or representations could be made using a web based consultation system. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 10 9 November 2015 2.4 In total 46 representations were made. Some Parishes have asked for a longer period of time to reply and this has been agreed. Given that the Council has indicated that it is proposing to undertake a wholesale review of the current Plan it is perhaps unsurprising that there were no representations which suggest that the Council had failed to identify significant issues which should be considered. In a few cases responders have taken the opportunity to make specific proposals either in relation to a policy approach or to promote the development of specific sites and these will be considered later in the process. 2.5 All representations received to-date are attached as Appendix 1. There is no need to respond to individual representations at this stage as the main purpose is to ensure that the Council is focussed on the main issues which should be included in the Plan. The appendix includes some brief officer comments confirming how a particular issue will be considered. 3. Recommendations 3.1 Members are asked to note the comments made together with the officer responses which will inform the later stages of Plan preparation. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 11 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response LPS 01 D Hurdle N/a Comment It is necessary for much more housing to be built to address the national housing crisis. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. We should be encouraging less car use and more sustainable methods of transport. Improvements must be secured through planning applications, for example, securing cycle paths, bus shelters etc. ACCEPTED: We will be reviewing our transport policies and considering how we can best promote sustainable transport modes. In addition we will also be reviewing developer contributions from development. The Council could consider working on a joint plan with neighbouring authorities to secure efficiencies. ACCEPTED: This has been discussed under the Duty to Cooperate. In order to promote joint working a number of evidence documents will be prepared jointly under the Duty where these affect strategic issues with cross-boundary implications. A Strategic Framework document will be prepared to address significant cross boundary issues. Explanation to residents is needed about the Government’s proposals to intervene if a Local Plan is not in place by 2017. ACCEPTED: The Council considers that this announcement affects the 15% of authorities who currently have no local plan and therefore NNDC is not affected. If this position changes it will be reflected in our Local Development Scheme (LDS). Nevertheless the Council aims to produce a new plan by 2017 Engaging with visitors is essential as they form a large part of the district’s economy. ACCEPTED: The Council recently consulted on a draft Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) which sets out how we intend to consult with all stakeholders during plan-making and on planning applications. Local tourism boards, and other tourism related groups/organisations will be consulted in accordance with the Local Planning Regulations (2012). Wording in policies such as ‘consider’ is too weak. You should seek to ‘provide’ or ‘secure’. ACCEPTED: At this stage the broad subjects to be included in the plan are being considered. When polices are developed the Council acknowledges that the wording will be critical to how that 1 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 12 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response LPS 02 P Mills N/a Comment It is important that we accommodate sustainable housing growth and help mitigate against the risks of climate change including local sea flooding. The impact of climate change on local communities should be carefully considered. policy is interpreted and implemented. ACCEPTED: The Council is likely to publish a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment to provide evidence on flood risk throughout the district. This evidence document, alongside other strategies such as the Coastline Management Plan would help inform any future policies on climate change and flood risk. Promoting local employment is important, particularly working from home. LPS 03 Historic England (Kayleigh Wood) N/a Comment Imperative to have well informed policies which adequately cover the protection and enhancement of the Historic Environment which is part of the thread of sustainable development in the NPPF. The Historic Environment forms a key role in the main aims and vision for the district and this should be taken forward to 2036. The Historic Environment should be taken forward as a topic in its own right. Specific policies should include the following (not exclusive): • Acknowledging, protecting and improving the Significance of Heritage Assets (both designated and non-designated) • Acknowledging protecting and improving the Setting of Heritage Assets (both designated and non-designated) • Known and unknown archaeology (both designated and non-designated) • Intangible elements of the Historic Environment such as Cultural Heritage, sense of place, sense of time depth, etc. • Locally significant buildings • Conservation Areas ACCEPTED: A ‘Business Growth and Investment Opportunities Study’ has been commissioned and is currently at draft stage. The document considers the needs of existing businesses, establishes land availability for expansion and growth and seeks to ascertain opportunities for investment. The potential for live/work units will be considered in policy development. ACCEPTED: The Council acknowledges the NPPF requirements with regard to the historic environment. We will consider the need for a specific policy on the Historic Environment when developing policy options. The required areas for consideration are noted and will be considered. 2 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 13 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response • Registered Parks and Gardens • Opportunities regarding Heritage At Risk LPS 04 LPS 06 R Hayward E Purdy N/a N/a Comments Comment We are interested in general housing distribution and specific sites. ACCEPTED: Historic England will be notified of all policy development and appraisal of specific sites. The development of appropriate indicators for the Sustainability Appraisal is essential. ACCEPTED: We would welcome engagement with Historic England on the development of Sustainability Appraisal indicators and will consult with them as appropriate throughout the process. ACCEPTED: All proposed development sites and all policies will be assessed against sustainability criteria to ensure that development is directed to the most appropriate locations. Policy options will be considered to protect and enhance all natural habitats. Nevertheless some development in the AONB may be necessary to address identified needs. Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONBs) and other natural habitats not covered by European designations should be protected in the Plan. Landscape and farming should be considered when planning for housing. Housing should not be allowed to sprawl into the countryside in order to preserve the landscape and protect our rural economy. ACCEPTED: The types of a development which are considered acceptable in the countryside will be considered. Regarding housing, priority should be given to developing brownfield sites, active steps made towards reusing existing empty homes and other buildings through conversion. ACCEPTED: There is a clear Government drive to reuse brownfield land. The Council is preparing to publish a ‘call for sites’ towards the end of 2015. At that time sites can be put forward for consideration of their development potential. New housing development must be affordable (either for rental or buying). Mechanisms should be put in place to avoid the proliferation of second homes. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. The use of dwellings as second homes does not fall under planning control. Flexibility for change of use to enhance our market towns should be considered. ACCEPTED: Any new policy on uses within town centres will be flexible and will reflect current permitted development rights for change of use. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy Small villages need new affordable homes to avoid 3 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 14 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep LPS 07 L de Soissons N/a Comment LPS 08 Church Commissioners for England (Represented by WYG) N/a Comment Summary of representation Council response stagnation and isolation of the elderly. (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. NNDC land at Bears Road, Paston – highways objections can be overcome if a one-way restriction is used. ACCEPTED: The Council is preparing to publish a ‘call for sites’ towards the end of 2015. At that time sites can be put forward for consideration of their development potential. Need housing sites available in land as a result of the retreating coastline. A new coast road at Walcott is needed, further in land. ACCEPTED: The Council is likely to publish a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment to provide evidence on flood risk throughout the district. This evidence document, alongside other strategies such as the Coastline Management Plan would help inform any future policies on climate change, flood risk and coastal erosion. The adequacy of the highway network will be considered alongside policy development and consideration of sites for development. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. The concept of Service villages should be reconsidered. Currently identified service villages have taken on the burden of too much development. Other villages should be allowed to grow. The majority of development should go to larger towns where infrastructure exists already. Strategic matters should focus on: • The level of housing development which can be accommodated in the district (OAN) • Provision for economic development and a growing local economy • Protection of European nature conservation sites Consideration should be given to developing a ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. A ‘Business Growth and Investment Opportunities Study’ has been commissioned by NNDC and is currently at draft stage. The document considers the needs of existing businesses within the district, establishes land availability for expansion of existing businesses and seeks to ascertain opportunities for growth and investment. The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan and it is likely that a Habitat Regulations Assessment and corresponding Appropriate Assessment will be required to consider impacts of development on European nature conservation sites. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required 4 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 15 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep LPS 09 Mobile Operators Association (Represented by Mono Consultants Limited) N/a Comment LPS 10 The Theatres Trust N/a Comment LPS 11 S Dreary N/a Comment LPS 12 Broadland District Council N/a Comment LPS 13 Broads Authority N/a Comment Summary of representation Council response strategy for key transport networks and other key infrastructure projects within the district to support the allocation of strategic sites and ensure future development is sustainable and well integrated. It is important that there is a specific telecommunications policy within the Local Plan. National guidance recognises this, as does the NPF (paragraphs 42 and 43). (Outline policy included in response). The Local Plan must contain a policy to safeguard and protect existing community and cultural facilities, as well as encouraging new ones. This is advocated in the NPPF at paragraph 70. (Outline policy included in response). We need increased facilities for tourism in the district (more car parks and camp sites). to support production of the Local Plan. It is likely that a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment will be prepared under the Duty to Cooperate and a Local Infrastructure Assessment will be required. Housing should be for local people, not to relieve need in Norwich. More rented accommodation is needed in villages. Too many houses are being sold for holiday use. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. Following publication, discussions will be had with neighbouring authorities about the distribution of housing across the housing market area (HMA) and appropriate member endorsement sought. The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. The use of dwellings as holiday homes does not fall under planning control. NOTED The Council does not wish to comment at this stage but would be happy to engage in the future in accordance with the Duty to Cooperate. No comments on the Regulation 18 document but areas for consideration during policy development have been proposed. ACCEPTED: The Council acknowledges the NPPF requirement to include a telecommunications policy in the Local Plan. The enclosed proposed policy wording is welcomed and will be considered during policy development. ACCEPTED: The Council acknowledges the NPPF requirement to include a policy on community and cultural facilities in the Local Plan. The enclosed proposed policy wording is welcomed and will be considered during policy development. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Tourism Study will be considered. NOTED 5 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 16 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response LPS 14 Equality and Human Rights Commission N/a Comment ACCEPTED: An Equalities Impact Assessment will be undertaken at each stage of plan preparation as required by the Equalities duty. LPS 15 Bacton & Edingthorpe Parish Council Elaine Pugh, Clerk N/a Comment LPAs have obligations under the Public Sector Equality Duty (PSED) in the Equalities Act 2010 to consider the effects of their policies and decision on people sharing particular protected characteristics. The Parish Council is keen to promote both affordable and private development in the parish to attract young families to help protect local services and facilities. The re-use of rural buildings would be welcomed. There is poor drainage infrastructure which should be addressed. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment and/or Local Infrastructure Assessment will be considered. The introduction of CIL would be welcomed to help Parishes. The Parish has suffered with no development in recent years. The Parish is keen to promote private development (there is enough affordable housing development and more of a balance should be struck). The reuse of rural buildings should be promoted. ACCEPTED: There are currently no plans to adopt a CIL charging schedule. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. This will include looking at the re-use of existing buildings The introduction of CIL would be welcomed to help Parishes. The Parish is keen to see more affordable housing in the area and to see it used for local people. The reuse of rural buildings as dwellings is welcomed. ACCEPTED: There are currently no plans to adopt a CIL charging schedule. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. This will include looking at the re-use of existing buildings. Concerned about the widening of Back Lane as a result of current allocation ROU03. NOT ACCEPTED: The part-widening of Back Lane was agreed under the planning application for this allocated site. The introduction of CIL would be welcomed to help Parishes. ACCEPTED: There are currently no plans to adopt a CIL charging schedule. LPS 16 LPS 17 Gimmingham Parish Council Roughton Parish Council N/a N/a Comment Comment ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. This will include looking at the re-use of existing buildings 6 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 17 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response LPS 18 Southrepps Parish Council Para 1.3 Objection There is a need to ensure that with development come facilities. New development should be located in larger towns where infrastructure exists to cope with increased demand. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. It is likely that a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment will be prepared under the Duty to Cooperate and a Local Infrastructure Assessment will be required. The concept of service villages is flawed as some villages have been denied development as a result. This means that smaller villages have suffered with an “aged” population. The re-use of rural buildings should be considered. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. This will include looking at the re-use of existing buildings. The introduction of CIL would be welcomed to help Parishes. ACCEPTED: There are currently no plans to adopt a CIL charging schedule. Southrepps Parish Council Objects to being included as a service village in any new plan. ACCEPTED: The Parish Council’s objection is noted. The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. This will include looking at the re-use of existing buildings. NOTED LPS 19 Witton and Ridlington Parish Council N/a Comment LPS 20 Norfolk County Council, Community and Environmental Services N/a Comment LPS 21 Natural England N/a Comment The Parish Council has no wish to accommodate new housing within its boundary due to a lack of facilities and infrastructure. The Reg 18 document should contain an infrastructure delivery chapter outlining the policies to be included in the emerging local plan to identify what infrastructure is required and how it will be funded. Issues and opportunities for the natural environment should be addressed with particular emphasis on designated environmental assets. A strategic approach should be taken with regard to protection and enhancement of the natural environment with the aim of achieving a net gain in biodiversity. Should be based on up to date evidence. The impact of all topic areas on the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) should be ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. It is likely that a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment will be prepared under the Duty to Cooperate and a Local Infrastructure Assessment will be required. ACCEPTED: The Council is aware of the requirements of the Conservation of Habitats and Species regulations (2010) and will carry out the appropriate assessments and screening as required. We would welcome discussion with Natural England on this. Under the Duty to Cooperate evidence on infrastructure, including green infrastructure is to be prepared to facilitate plan-making. All proposed development sites and all policies will be assessed against sustainability criteria to ensure that development is directed to the most appropriate locations. The Sustainability 7 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 18 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref LPS 22 LPS 23 Respondent Breckland District Council Norfolk Coast Partnership Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep N/a Comment N/a Comment Summary of representation Council response considered. The AONB is a strategic matter omitted form para 2.2. Consideration of the AONB should also take into account the impacts of development on its setting. There are a number of environmental considerations which should be considered when allocating sites for development: AONB; Heritage Coast; Locally and regionally designated sites for geodiversity and biodiversity; Landscape character; UK BAP habitats and protected species; Sites with opportunities for biodiversity gain; Ancient woodland, and; Access to greenspace. NNDC will need to carry out a screening assessment under the Conservation of Habitats and Species regulations (2010). No comments at this time. Appraisal (SA) will include criteria to assess economic, social and environmental factors, and is likely to look at location within, or adjacent to, the AONB. Many challenges facing the district including managing and adapting to coastal change and climate change, maintaining environmental quality and balancing this with the need for housing and economic growth, and achieving truly sustainable built development. NOTED The local plan must consider the need to pursue the conservation and enhancement of the AONB and the implications of accommodating growth within it and in settlements adjacent to it. This should be reflected in the town strategies. Within the AONB economic development and employment growth ACCEPTED: All proposed development sites and all policies will be assessed against sustainability criteria to ensure that development is directed to the most appropriate locations. The Sustainability Appraisal (SA) will include criteria to assess economic, social and environmental factors, and is likely to look at location within, or adjacent to, the AONB. NOTED 8 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 19 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response should not override the requirement to protect and enhance the scenic beauty of the natural environment. How the objectively assessed need for housing and economic needs are met, specifically within the AONB, should be considered. The implications of meeting housing needs in the AONB, and national and international designated sites should be considered when determining where development should go. The replacement dwellings policy needs consideration. There may be a need for a policy covering NPPF paragraph 55 dwellings. Conservation and enhancement of the natural and historic environment should have a high profile in the new plan. Consideration of the roll-back of settlements, if necessary into the AONB, whilst maintaining the character and environmental quality should be included. LPS 24 Duchy of Cornwall N/a Comment LPS 25 Holkham Estate N/a Comment When monitoring, an assessment of whether development has contributed positively or otherwise to the new vision for the district could be included. No specific comments at this stage. The district faces many challenges including providing enough homes to meet objectively assessed need (OAN) in appropriate and sustainable locations which ensuring the area’s natural environmental qualities are protected. ACCEPTED: The Council will be considering policy options with regard to replacement dwellings. ACCEPTED: The NPPF makes clear that policies in National policy shouldn’t be repeated in local plans. The Council will consider whether any additional direction is needed in the local plan with regard to paragraph 55 dwellings. ACCEPTED: The need to address coastal erosion and resulting rollback of existing uses and communities will be considered when developing policy options. The Council acknowledges that in areas such as the AONB further consideration should be given to the potential impact on the natural and historic environment. ACCEPTED: The Council will consider appropriate monitoring indicators alongside development of policies. NOTED NOTED 9 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 20 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref LPS 26 Respondent C Hipperson Policy/ paragraph N/a Nature of rep Comment Summary of representation Council response The vision in the Core Strategy remains valid although the amount of development to be accommodated is as yet unknown. The Council should consider the role of smaller settlements and not preserve the current hierarchy in aspic. Village and hamlets can also grow where local communities see the merits of controlled local development and the plan framework should be flexible enough to achieve this. The OAN needs should reflect the market housing area (which may not be the same as the local authority boundary). Consideration of housing for estate workers should be made, potentially in isolated locations. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. Following publication, discussions will be had with neighbouring authorities about the distribution of housing across the housing market area (HMA) and appropriate member endorsement sought. The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. Approaches to development of all types of dwellings including re-use of existing buildings in rural locations and new dwellings will be considered. The programme for preparation of the Local Plan appears lengthy. Appropriate resources should be made available to ensure an up to date policy framework, especially given increasing scrutiny of land supply. It is important that enough affordable homes are made available to rent and to buy. ACCEPTED: At time of publication of the Local Development Scheme (LDS) a cautious approach was taken regarding the completion of the regulatory stages of plan-making. The Council will review this document annually and where possible will ensure that production of the new plan is expedited as swiftly as possible. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. Maintain historic buildings and sites. ACCEPTED: The Council acknowledges the NPPF requirements with regard to the historic environment. We will consider the need for a specific policy on the Historic Environment when developing policy options. Employment must support new houses. Employment seems to be focused around Fakenham and North Walsham but more is needed in places like Holt. ACCEPTED: A ‘Business Growth and Investment Opportunities Study’ has been commissioned by NNDC and is currently at draft stage. The document considers the needs of existing businesses within the district, establishes land availability for expansion of existing businesses and seeks to ascertain opportunities for growth and investment. Good public transport links are required. ACCEPTED: The adequacy of the highway network to support 10 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 21 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep LPS 27 Sport England N/a Objection LPS 28 Brown and Co N/a Comments Summary of representation The emerging Local plan should cover the protection of and provision of indoor and outdoor facilities for sport and recreation, including playing fields, artificial pitches, green courts, sports halls, swimming pools and indoor/outdoor bowls. Sports provision plays an important role in the local area, be that for local residents or for visitors to the area. The survival of many settlements is dependent upon an appropriate scale of growth. The current policies are too restrictive and have prevented a range of sites coming forward. All settlements have a role to play in bringing forward growth in an appropriate manner. Council response future levels of growth will be considered alongside policy development and consideration of sites for development. ACCEPTED: The ‘North Norfolk District Indoor Leisure Facilities Strategy’ has been commissioned by NNDC regarding the provision of indoor facilities within the district which will be used to inform the development of policy. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements The new Local Plan needs to address any shortfall in housing delivery and should be aware of the needs of the wider area through preparation of a SHMA. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. Following publication, discussions will be had with neighbouring authorities about the distribution of housing across the housing market area (HMA) and appropriate member endorsement sought. Coastal Erosion policies need reviewing. Measures need to be put in place to clearly identify how this issue is to be addressed. ACCEPTED: The Council is likely to publish a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment to provide evidence on flood risk throughout the district. This evidence document, alongside other strategies such as the Coastline Management Plan would help inform any future policies on climate change and flood risk and coastal erosion. Appropriate uses must be attracted to key selected settlements to ensure their economic vitality and viability. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Retail Study will be considered. A clear review mechanism needs to be put in place to ensure any future plan is achieving its set aims ACCEPTED: The Council will consider appropriate monitoring indicators alongside development of policies. 11 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 22 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep LPS 29 Wells-Next-The-Sea Town Council N/a Comment LPS 30 T Musker N/a Comments LPS31 Neatishead Parish Council N/a Comment Summary of representation Council response and objectives. There must be a balance struck between increased tourism and the needs of the resident population. Building new homes only for them to become second homes, holiday homes or B&Bs is of no benefit. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Tourism Study will be considered. The use of dwellings as second homes and holiday homes does not fall under planning control. Any additional allocation of dwellings beyond those in the 2021 plan will be difficult to sustain without significant improvements in infrastructure and facilities. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. It is likely that a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment will be prepared under the Duty to Cooperate and a Local Infrastructure Assessment will be required. There should be a degree of flexibility in all policies and the views of the community should be fully considered. ACCEPTED: The NPPF requires that policies are made flexible so that they can respond to changing market conditions. The Council recently consulted on a draft Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) which sets out how we intend to consult with all stakeholders during plan-making and on planning applications. ACCEPTED: The adequacy of the highway network to support future levels of growth will be considered alongside policy development and consideration of sites for development. Measures should be taken to ensure adequate and sufficient footpaths and footway systems are in place for communities. Measures should be taken to ensure that traffic and roadways are improved and amended so that they do not have a detrimental impact on communities. Measures should be taken to reinstate plans for the Cromer Bypass. Provision of affordable housing in rural areas is an area of challenge which needs addressing. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. Transparency and consistency in decision making should support implementation. ACCEPTED: The Council will publish a consultation statement at each regulatory stage of consultation in plan-making so that the representations received and the Council’s response can be clearly understood. Transport should be included in the strategic areas to be considered. ACCEPTED: The adequacy of the highway network to support future levels of growth will be considered alongside policy development and consideration of sites for development. 12 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 23 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response LPS 32 Pigeon Land Ltd (Represented by Bidwells) N/a Comment There is a need to identify a sufficient number of sustainable sites for residential development in appropriate locations, in order to meet objectively assessed need for both market and affordable housing. LPS 33 Persimmon Homes N/a Comment The amount of housing growth should be identified through a SHMA and distribution of growth should be considered in a sustainable fashion, albeit accepting that some smaller settlements need proportionate growth to sustain services. The provision of infrastructure and affordable housing needs should be considered against the viability/deliverability of housing. The announcement by Government about 200,000 starter homes will add further pressure to identify suitable housing land in the district. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. Following publication, discussions will be had with neighbouring authorities about the distribution of housing across the housing market area (HMA) and appropriate member endorsement sought. The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. Following publication, discussions will be had with neighbouring authorities about the distribution of housing across the housing market area (HMA) and appropriate member endorsement sought. The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements LPS 34 Anglian Water N/a Comment An infrastructure capacity and environmental study should support the review of the local plan to ensure opportunities and constraints are identified at the outset. This should establish the potential sustainability of a settlement. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. It is likely that a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment will be prepared under the Duty to Cooperate and a Local Infrastructure Assessment will be required. In addition, all policy options and sites will be considered against sustainability criteria, including consideration of environmental constraints. Given the lengthy process before projected adoption there should be no delays to ensure there is an upto-date policy framework, and subsequent scrutiny of the Councils land supply position. ACCEPTED: At time of publication of the Local Development Scheme (LDS) a cautious approach was taken regarding the completion of the regulatory stages of plan-making. The Council will review this document annually and where possible will ensure that production of the new plan is expedited as swiftly as possible. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required The Council may wish to consider commissioning a 13 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 24 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response Water Cycle Study to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Water Cycle Study will be considered. ACCEPTED: We will be reviewing our transport policies and considering how we can best achieve sustainable transport. In addition we will also be reviewing developer contributions from development and when/how we can secure travel plans to promote more sustainable methods of transport. NOTED LPS 35 Community Action Norfolk (CAN) N/a Comment Travel planning should be included alongside an ambition to use opportunities to design in better health, social and safety outcomes. Community cohesion is part of sustainable development. LPS 36 National Grid (Represented by Amec Foster Wheeler) Anglia Maltings (Holding) Ltd N/a Comment No comments to make at this stage. N/a Comment North Norfolk has too narrow an economic base and the range of businesses, their scale and their capacity to generate high quality employment identified in the current plan will not deliver the jobs target (4,000 jobs by 2021). The creative economy (manufacturing, design and marketing) should be explored and the needs of existing businesses to expand and deliver added value should be explored. The local plan should encourage inward investment and encourage existing businesses to expand and develop. ACCEPTED: A ‘Business Growth and Investment Opportunities Study’ has been commissioned by NNDC and is currently at draft stage. The document considers the needs of existing businesses within the district, establishes land availability for expansion of existing businesses and seeks to ascertain opportunities for growth and investment. Once published this evidence document will be used to guide policy development. Greater economic activity needs supporting in villages and settlements outside the identified principle settlements and there are omissions from the current service villages (Foulsham and Great Ryburgh in particular) which should be included given the strong employment base they provide and local services offered. ACCEPTED: The current local plan allows for employment development outside of principle settlements. The settlement hierarchy will be re-visited in development of new policies and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. Opportunities exist for the expansion of wind power generation and there are greater opportunities for solar arrays. Substantial amounts of bi-product arise from existing food manufacturing which could be converted to renewable energy (e.g. anaerobic digestion). Combined heat and power (CHP) should ACCEPTED: Consideration will be given to how we can promote renewable technologies in policy development. LPS 37 14 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 25 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response be considered. LPS 38 Thorpe Market Parish Council N/a Comment Existing settlements with local facilities should plan for limited additional housing growth, possibly in the form of mixed use development to support those existing services. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. Solutions need to be found to ensure young people stay in the district. ACCEPTED: The Council will explore the options available within the scope of plan-making. Great Ryburgh should be a service village. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. Economic focus of the local plan should be measured by achievement of the following: 1. Diversification of jobs 2. Number of companies headquartered in North Norfolk 3. Number of jobs based on intellectual property development 4. Measuring value added to agricultural production including export value. Thorpe Market Parish Council would not be opposed to limited development provide that appropriate amenities were also included. A small scale scheme would save the village from further morbidity. The existing restriction on housing could be replaced with a case-by-case review of planning applications, particularly for a small exception scheme for new affordable homes. The B1159 cost road is at risk if the coastline between Overstrand and Mundesley is not to be protected. This is of vital importance to the tourist economy. ACCEPTED: The Council will consider appropriate monitoring indicators alongside development of policies. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment will be considered. If produced, this evidence, alongside other strategies such as the Coastline Management Plan would help inform any future policies on 15 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 26 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response The local plan should consider provision of broadband and mobile phone networks. climate change, flood risk and coastal erosion and potential rollback sites. ACCEPTED: The Council acknowledges the NPPF requirement to include a telecommunications policy in the Local Plan. The local plan should devote some attention to facilities and the welfare of the elderly. LPS 39 Amstel Group Corporation (Represented by Indigo Planning) LPS 40 Blue Sky leisure (Represented by Bidwells) LPS 41 B Grieves N/a Comment Comment N/a Comment The scope and subject matter of the new Local Plan appears to be appropriate. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. This document includes evidence of the needs of the elderly. Any future policies will seek to address this need. NOTED We welcome investigations into better understanding the districts objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. Following publication, discussions will be had with neighbouring authorities about the distribution of housing across the housing market area (HMA) and appropriate member endorsement sought. We would also welcome a review of the district overall spatial strategy. Coastal erosion has not been included. This is a key issue which needs to be addressed. The rate of coastal erosion, and its impact on land uses, including tourism, means it will become ever more important over time. The Council must consider its approach to ‘roll-back’. It may be appropriate for the Council to identify alternative sites and locations for residential, commercial and tourism uses which will require relocation as a direct result of coastal erosion and coastal flooding. A ‘roll-back’ policy should be put in place. Aldborough no longer has the facilities to be a ACCEPTED: The new Local Plan will include a revised spatial strategy for the district. ACCEPTED: Reference to review of current coastal erosion policies is made in the Reg 18 document. The Council will consider the options for any future policy on roll-back or relocation of existing uses as a result of coastal flooding and erosion. Any new policy will be subject to sustainability appraisal. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy 16 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 27 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref LPS 42 Respondent Taylor Wimpey Strategic Land (Represented by Carter Jonas) Policy/ paragraph 2.1 Nature of rep Comment Summary of representation Council response service village. (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. Greater emphasis should be placed on safety of pedestrians when proposing future development. ACCEPTED: During consideration of sites the proximity of local services and access to those services will be considered. The Sustainability criteria are currently being worked up, against which all proposed development sites will be assessed. When proposing new development consideration should be given to the hamlets as well as the villages. Spreading development will achieve the same ends with a lower impact. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements Conservation areas should be sacrosanct. ACCEPTED: The types of development considered acceptable in conservation areas will be considered during policy development. Corporate stakeholders who indicate their facilities can cope with new development should be required to publish the basis on which they make their statements and give existing occupiers the chance to reciprocate. From the outset of consultation on the last local plan there seemed to be a determination to locate as much development on sites NOT favoured by local opinion. Planners must consider parish council’s views. NNDC should not be carrying forward any form of restraint in terms of development. The NPPF establishes a presumption in favour of sustainable development and NNDC should therefore challenge itself to fully meet objectively assessed need (OAN) once defined. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment and/or Local Infrastructure Assessment will be considered. ACCEPTED: The Council recently consulted on a draft Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) which sets out how we intend to consult with all stakeholders during plan-making and on planning applications. We are committed to engaging fully with our communities and will consider all representations made. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. Following publication, discussions will be had with neighbouring authorities about the distribution of housing across the housing market area (HMA) and appropriate member endorsement sought. The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. 17 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 28 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep LPS 43 Fakenham Town Council N/a Comment LPS 44 CPRE Norfolk N/a Comment Summary of representation Council response An appraisal of North Norfolk should be carried out to assess the unique qualities and aspects of the area. ACCEPTED: Work is underway to prepare a Sustainability Appraisal Scoping Report on which we will engage local communities and other stakeholders as necessary. This will inform the sustainability criteria against which all policy and site options will be assessed. Reference should be made to preparation of a SHMA. NOT ACCEPTED: The Regulation 18 document is not considered the right place to make reference to evidence documents. A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. There should be consultation with the LEP during preparation of any evidence on employment and economic development. ACCEPTED: Any evidence produced on employment and economic development will be prepared in consultation with the LEP. Under the Duty to Cooperate, NNDC should work closely with County Highways to ensure there is a cohesive development strategy. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment and/or Local Infrastructure Assessment will be considered. An update on progress of CIL adoption would be welcomed. ACCEPTED: There are currently no plans to adopt a CIL charging schedule. The LDS should set out the documents proposed to be prepared as evidence, including a timetable for their commissioning and publication. A map was provided with potential development sites identified. ACCEPTED: A timetable for evidence preparation will be included in the next publication of the Local Development Scheme (LDS). There must be a determined effort to protect and conserve the natural environment and wider countryside. We owe this to future generations and our natural environment is key to our local economy. Existing Core Strategies have stood up well. EN8 and NOTED: The Council is preparing to publish a ‘call for sites’ towards the end of 2015. At that time, Fakenham Town Council will be invited to submit these sites for consideration. NOTED NOTED 18 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 29 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response EN9. We would like to see water resource added. LPS 45 Thursford Parish Council N/a Comment There should be a clear and quantifiable assessment of housing needs, including affordable housing. The SHMA may arrive at an overly high number which will be justified as the basis for achieving affordable housing targets. 45% affordable housing target is unrealistic. AONB boundaries are being impacted by housing allocations which will become a more acute issue in this coming review. Provision of occupational buildings in the countryside should be reserved only for those who require this for their occupation. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. This document is nearing publication. Demands on infrastructure need serious consideration. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. It is likely that a Strategic Infrastructure Assessment will be prepared under the Duty to Cooperate and a Local Infrastructure Assessment will be required. Higher skilled jobs would be welcomed. Changes in shopping patterns and continuing trends for internet shopping will impact on market towns and our High Streets. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Retail Study will be considered. Any new policy on uses within town centres will be flexible and will reflect current permitted development rights for change of use. There will be major impacts as a result of transport works in the wider district (e.g. dualling of A11 and A47, and NDR) – numbers of day visitors will increase and further pressures from London for second homes. Impact of this on our road networks and natural environment needs consideration. We wish to raise concern about the need for affordable homes for local people in parishes where more than half the houses are holiday or second homes. ACCEPTED: The adequacy of the highway network will be considered alongside policy development and consideration of sites for development. The impact of wider strategic changes to the transport network will also be considered. ACCEPTED: The settlement hierarchy in the existing Core Strategy (Sept 2008) will be reviewed and appropriate consideration given to provision for growth in all settlements. The use of dwellings as second homes and holiday homes does not fall under planning control. 19 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 30 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response LPS 46 Barbara Powell N/a Comment Many challenges facing the district including; Meeting housing need Preserving the countryside Balancing the needs of the countryside against industry, tourism and infrastructure. Need to retain young people in the district Finding space for outdoor leisure activities NOTED. Before releasing new land, existing small sites should be considered so as to preserve agricultural land. ACCEPTED: There is a clear Government drive to reuse brownfield land. The Council is preparing to publish a ‘call for sites’ towards the end of 2015. At that time sites can be put forward for consideration of their development potential. A good mix of housing is needed with easy access to facilities etc. Insulation and energy solutions should be integral. ACCEPTED: A Strategic Housing Market Assessment (SHMA) is currently being prepared to establish objectively assessed need (OAN) for market and affordable housing across the district. Energy requirements for new dwellings have recently been made part of Building Regulations so all new development will have to meet certain criteria. Any development needs to protect our AONB, historic sites and wildlife. ACCEPTED: All proposed development sites and all policies will be assessed against sustainability criteria to ensure that development is directed to the most appropriate locations. The Sustainability Appraisal (SA) will include criteria to assess economic, social and environmental factors, and is likely to look at location within, or adjacent to, the AONB. Tourism is needed but we must avoid winter ‘ghost towns’. ACCEPTED: The Council is currently scoping the evidence required to support production of the Local Plan. The need for a Tourism Study will be considered. Solutions need to be found to ensure young people stay in the district. ACCEPTED: The Council will explore the options available within the scope of plan-making. Adequate parking must be integral to all new ACCEPTED: We will be reviewing our transport policies and considering how we can best promote sustainable transport 20 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 31 9 November 2015 Appendix 1 - Regulation 18 Consultation Responses (October 2015) Rep Ref Respondent Policy/ paragraph Nature of rep Summary of representation Council response development. Public transport must be addressed to encourage a move away from our current car culture. Cycle paths to link our open and green recreational areas are essential. modes. There should be on-going monitoring and there should be close scrutiny. ACCEPTED: The Council will consider appropriate monitoring indicators alongside development of policies. 21 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 32 9 November 2015 Agenda Item No_____9_______ Draft Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) Consultation Responses Summary: This report provides a summary of the responses received to the public consultation on the draft Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) and suggests updates to the document where appropriate. Conclusions: The Draft SCI provides a clear and accessible guide on how the local planning authority will endeavour to encourage widespread involvement in the preparation of planning policy documents and in the determination of planning Applications. Recommendations: That the amendments outlined in Appendix 4 are incorporated into the SCI and that it is recommended to Cabinet for approval. Cabinet Member(s) All Members Ward(s) affected All Wards Martha Moore, Planning Policy Officer Tel: 01263 516084 Email: Martha.moore@north-norfolk.gov.uk 1. Introduction 1.1 This report provides a summary of responses made to the SCI consultation, which sought views from statutory consultees, communities and other interested parties on how they should be involved during the plan-making stage and when planning applications are made. 1.2 The revised SCI is included as Appendix 2 to this report. 2. The Statement of Community Involvement 2.1 Section 18 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 (as amended) requires Local Planning Authorities (LPAs) to produce a Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) to explain how they will engage local communities and other interested parties when preparing their Local Plan, other policy documents, and when determining planning applications. 2.2 The Council’s current SCI was adopted in 2006. Due to legislative changes brought about in the main by the Localism Act 2011, the National Planning Policy Framework 2012 and the Local Plan Regulations 2012, the SCI produced in 2006 needs to be updated. This review also provides an opportunity to update our approaches to community involvement and recognises that the opportunities for community involvement have evolved since 2006 and that new methods of engagement (such as social media forums and web based consultations) can be used to help reach a wider audience. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 33 9 November 2015 2.3 The aim of the SCI is to provide a clear and accessible guide on how the local planning authority will endeavour to encourage widespread involvement in the planning process. It provides details on the minimum statutory requirements for consultation at both the plan-making stage and the planning application stage and gives details on the different consultation methods that the LPA may use. Other than where there is a statutory requirement, the SCI is deliberate in not committing the LPA to specific methods of consultation; this will enable consultation methods to be tailored to specific situations and will enable the methods used to reflect best practice and to reach specific groups. 3. Consultation on the draft Statement of Community Involvement 3.1 Although not a regulatory requirement, the Statement of Community Involvement has been subject to public consultation for a period of eight weeks from the 17th August 2015. In this time, statutory consultees, communities and other interested parties and interested bodies could make comments on the document (approximately 1,536 stakeholders were consulted). 3.2 In total 7 comments were made on the SCI draft. Most comments were generally supportive of the draft SCI. A summary of the comments received can be found in Appendix 3. 3.3 In addition, a number of changes are proposed to the document following consultation. A summary of these can be found in Appendix 4. 4. Recommendations 4.1 To recommend to Cabinet that the amendments outlined in Appendix 4 are incorporated into the SCI and that it is recommended to Cabinet for approval. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 34 9 November 2015 APPENDIX 2 North Norfolk 2016 - 2036 STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT November 2015 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 35 9 November 2015 North Norfolk District Council Planning Policy Team Telephone: 01263 516318 E-Mail: planningpolicy@north-norfolk.gov.uk Write to: Planning Policy Manager, North Norfolk District Council, Holt Road, Cromer, NR27 9EN www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/localplan All documents can be made available in Braille, audio, large print or in other languages. Please contact 01263 516318 to discuss your requirements. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 36 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement Contents 1 Introduction What is the Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)? Why are we producing a new Statement of Community Involvement? What are the main objectives of the Statement of Community Involvement? 3 3 3 4 2 The Council's role as Local Planning Authority The Local Plan explained Planning Policy Team Development Management & Major Projects Teams The role of Councillors in the planning system 5 5 7 7 8 3 How to get involved Plan Making How we will get members of the public involved in Plan-making Neighbourhood Planning Planning Applications 9 9 12 13 15 Appendices 1 Consultation Bodies Specific Consultation Bodies General Consultation Bodies 18 18 19 2 Duty to Cooperate Stakeholders Duty to Cooperate Stakeholders 21 21 3 Material Planning Considerations What are material planning considerations? 23 23 4 Further Advice Contact details and further resources 25 25 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 37 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement Contents Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 38 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement Introduction 1 1 Introduction What is the Statement of Community Involvement (SCI)? The Statement of Community Involvement (SCI) lets you know how you can get involved in planning. The planning process enables involvement at both the plan-making stage and when decisions on planning applications are being made. 1.1 The purpose of this document is to ensure that communities and other interested parties understand how they can participate in the planning process. 1.2 The planning system manages the use and development of land and buildings and as the Local Planning Authority, North Norfolk District Council (NNDC) is responsible for ensuring that the right development takes place in the right areas of the district. As planning helps to shape the places where people live and work, it is important that communities and other interested parties have the chance to get involved, especially when there are difficult planning decisions to be made. We want to give everyone the opportunity to get involved from an early stage in the process and we want to make engagement as easy and as meaningful as possible. 1.3 The opportunity to get involved in the planning process arises at two main points: Plan-making - sets out the vision for growth in North Norfolk and acts as a guide for future development. Planning application decisions - the process for considering development proposals for individual sites or buildings. 1.4 NNDC places great importance on effective community involvement and this SCI gives details on the different ways NNDC may do this, at both the plan-making stage and at the planning application stage. Why are we producing a new Statement of Community Involvement? This SCI takes account of legislative changes brought about by: The Localism Act (2011) The National Planning Policy Framework (2012) 1.5 NNDC aims to put the interests of local communities at the heart of everything it does and believes in local decisions and local actions for the benefit of local communities. The Council’s Corporate Plan outlines our shared vision, values and priority areas on which we intend to concentrate our efforts: jobs and the local economy, housing and infrastructure, coast and countryside, health and well-being and delivery and service excellence. Communities and businesses have an important part to play in helping to deliver this vision by getting involved in the planning process at both the local plan-making stage and at the planning application stage. 1.6 The opportunity to get involved will be open to all who want to be involved, regardless of age, Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 39 9 November 2015 3 4 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 1 Introduction disability, gender, race, religion or belief, sexual orientation, social deprivation or social background. We will also endeavour to ensure that consultations reach those ‘hard-to-engage’ groups. 1.7 The SCI is one of the documents that current planning legislation (Section 18, Planning and (1) Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 as amended) requires Local Planning Authorities to produce. There have been a lot of changes in planning legislation since adoption of our first SCI in 2006 and this review is therefore vital to ensure that we are doing all we can reasonably do to encourage involvement in the planning process. The revised SCI takes account of recent legislative changes, introduced in the main by the Localism Act (2011) and the National Planning Policy Framework (2012). 1.8 As a minimum, planning consultations will comply with legislative requirements. What are the main objectives of the Statement of Community Involvement? 1.9 The SCI will aim to meet a number of objectives to ensure that involvement in the planning process is as easy and as meaningful as possible. 1.10 It is the intention of North Norfolk District Council that the SCI will: Improve involvement To make sure everyone knows why we are asking for involvement and when and how they can get involved. Enable joint working To try and link with existing groups and partnerships. To be flexible To make sure the ways we involve people are working, and to change them where necessary. To inform To make our information clear so people can make informed choices when replying to our consultations. To make it easy for you to get involved To make sure any public exercises are appropriate and accessible, whilst also making sure they are cost effective. To let you know what decisions have been made and why It is not always possible to make planning decisions that everyone agrees with and sometimes difficult decisions have to be made. The plan-making process includes the production of a Consultation Statement, which outlines how the main issues raised by members of the public and other interested have been addressed. We are happy to discuss decisions on individual planning applications with interested parties. 1 40 9 November 2015 Section 18, Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2004/5/section/18 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party Draft Statement of Community Involvement The Council's role as Local Planning Authority 2 2 The Council's role as Local Planning Authority The Local Plan explained The Council is developing a new Local Plan to replace the current 'Local Development Framework'. The new Local Plan will be used to help assess planning and listed building applications. 2.1 Over the next few years, NNDC will be developing a Local Plan to replace the current Local Development Framework (LDF). The current system of local plans was largely put into place by the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, reforms set out in the Localism Act 2011 and the National Planning Policy Framework 2012. Two changes of particular significance are The Duty to Cooperate and Neighbourhood Planning, introduced through the 2011 Localism Act. 2.2 The Localism Act recognises that there are some wider strategic planning issues (such as housing, jobs, transport and water) where 'Duty to Cooperate Stakeholders' bodies (Appendix 2) may be able to work together to help deliver joined-up development. NNDC is part of the Norfolk Duty to Cooperate Member Forum, which has made a commitment to consider the need for joint or coordinated working on particular topics or evidence. 2.3 'Neighbourhood Planning' is a Government initiative to empower communities to take a more proactive role in planning for their local area. It allows local areas to come together to establish general planning policies for development and the use of land in their neighbourhood, which then becomes part of the Local Plan (pages 13-14). 2.4 The Local Plan that NNDC produces will set out the priorities and policies for delivering sustainable development in the district until 2036. It will consider aspects such as housing, the economy, community facilities and infrastructure, as well as how we will safeguard the environment, adapt to climate change and secure good design. 2.5 Whilst the priorities and policies in the Local Plan will be specific to North Norfolk, they will also need to be consistent with overriding planning policies produced by the Government, on aspects such as achieving sustainable development, meeting the challenge of climate change, flooding and coastal change and requiring good design. 2.6 Once the Local Plan has been adopted, it will be used to help Planning Officers consider individual planning applications. Figure 1, on the following page, shows the relationship of the Local Plan to other planning documents. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 41 9 November 2015 5 Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party Sustainability Appraisal Assessment of relevant environmental, economic and social impacts of the Local Plan. 42 Evidence base Background studies on issues such as housing need. Planning Applications Planning applications will be considered against the policies contained with the Local Plan, any adopted Neighbourhood Plans and the NPPF and using guidance contained in any SPDs, unless there are sufficient material considerations to indicate otherwise. Statement of Community Involvement Provides details on who, how and when we will consult at the planmaking and Planning Applications stages. NNDC Local Plan Sets out how the NPPF will be applied to North Norfolk. This will include information on what sort of development will be allowed where in the District. Includes Policy Maps, which indicate which particular policies/allocations and constraints apply where and site allocations Community-led Planning (also known as a Parish Plan) is a community project to improve local services and facilities. Annual Monitoring Report Produced to assess the extent to which policy objectives are being achieved. Neighbourhood Planning Allows local areas to come together to establish general planning policies for development and use of land in their neighbourhood. Local Development Orders (LDOs) & Article 4 Directions An LDO grants to permit specific development to proceed in a specific area without requiring planning permission. An Article 4 direction allows the withdrawal of specific Permitted Development Rights in a specific area. Figure 1 The relationship of the Local Plan to other documents Habitats Regulation Assessment Required if it is considered likely that the Local Plan would have significant effects on European habitats or species. Supplementary Planning Documents (SPD) Provides further details on how Local Plan policies should be applied. May include a design guide, a landscape character assessment, a development brief, a masterplan or design codes. National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) Sets out the Government’s planning policies for England. It provides the basis for Local Planning Authorities when preparing their Local Plans and for communities preparing Neighbourhood Plans. The National Planning Practice Guidance (NPPG) supports the NPPF. 6 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 2 The Council's role as Local Planning Authority 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement The Council's role as Local Planning Authority 2 Planning Policy Team This team produces the Local Plan and will be asking you for your comments at various stages of the process. During preparation of the plan we will send out newsletters to keep you updated. If you would like to receive these updates, please email us: planningpolicy@north-norfolk.gov.uk 2.7 The Planning Policy team is responsible for producing a Local Plan in order to guide development and promote growth in the District and for providing guidance on policy interpretation. 2.8 The team is currently starting the process of producing a new Local Plan. As part of this process, we will update the evidence base where necessary to inform any future planning policies and documents. Throughout the process, we will consult with relevant consultees, the general public and other organisations and consider any representations made. The resulting draft Local Plan will be examined by an independent Planning Inspector in order to determine (2) whether it is ‘sound’ and can be adopted. Development Management & Major Projects Teams These teams assess and determine all planning applications. For the majority of applications, you will have the opportunity to let us know what you think of a particular proposal. (3) 2.9 The Development Management team and Major Projects team are responsible for assessing and determining the majority of applications under the authority delegated to the Head of Planning, providing informal advice on development proposals, preparing Development Briefs for land allocated for development and making recommendations to Development Committee on certain applications. As part of the process, the teams consult relevant statutory consultees and members of the public. 2.10 The Council also has a Conservation, Design and Landscape Team, who provide advice on listed buildings, conservation areas, design, trees (including Tree Preservation Orders (TPO’s) and protected species. Applications are determined in accordance with adopted policies in (4) the Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plans, unless Material Planning Considerations indicate otherwise. 2 3 4 As defined in Para. 182 National Planning Policy Framework https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/national-planning-policy-framework--2 Major development is defined in Part 1 of The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure (England) Order 2015) - http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/595/part/1/made. The Major Projects team’s workload may vary from this list. 'Material considerations' are defined in Appendix 3 of this document. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 43 9 November 2015 7 8 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 2 The Council's role as Local Planning Authority The role of Councillors in the planning system Elected Councillors have an important role to play in the planning process, by acting as community representatives and decision makers. Details of which Councillor is representing each local area (5) can be found on the NNDC website . 2.11 5 Every village and town within the District has at least one elected Councillor representing them. Elected Councillors have an important role to play in the planning process, by acting as community representatives and decision-makers. Crucially, Councillors can act as a link between communities and Planning Officers. It is important to remember however, that views should also be shared directly with the Planning Department so we can register you as an interested party and let you know what future opportunities there may be for you to get involved. 44 See 'Find My Local Councillor' http://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/council/3657.asp Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement How to get involved 3 3 How to get involved Plan Making The new Local Plan will set out the vision on how the North Norfolk district will develop until 2036. Throughout the process of developing the plan, interested parties will have the opportunity to have their say and influence the emerging plan. 3.1 Once adopted, Planning Officers will use the policies contained in the new Local Plan along with guidance in supporting documents (know as Supplementary Planning Documents (SPDs)) to make recommendations on whether planning applications should be approved or refused. 3.2 The adopted Plan will be the result of consultation with a wide range of stakeholders including elected Members, statutory consultees, the general public and other interested groups. The extent to which you get involved is up to you; you may wish to attend public events that we arrange or you may just wish to email us giving your opinion on a particular issue. The Local Plan will set out how the vision for North Norfolk will develop until 2036, so it is important that you share your views with us. Details on different methods we will use to consult you are outlined in Figure 4 on page 12 Figure 6 'The Planning Application Process'. 3.3 Town and Parish Councils are key partners in the process. They will be formally consulted at certain stages and are responsible for representing your community. With the introduction of Neighbourhood Planning, the role of Town and Parish Councils has become even more important. 3.4 It is not only members of the public and Town and Parish Councils who will be asked to get involved in the plan-making process. 'Specific Consultation Bodies' such as Historic England and Natural England will be consulted at various stages, as will 'General Consultation Bodies' such as voluntary or community groups representing groups in the local area. These groups can be vital in helping to gather the views of those people who may be difficult to reach using typical consultation methods. 3.5 We will always consider your views when moving to the next stage of developing the Local Plan. It should be recognised, however, that difficult planning decisions will have to be made and we will be unable to produce a plan that fully meets everybody’s expectations. Ultimately, NNDC as the Local Planning Authority will need to make key planning decisions and will need to be accountable for those decisions. 3.6 The processes that will be followed when producing a new local plan, any resulting SPDs and for any neighbourhood plans are outlined in the tables on pages 10, 11 and 14. From time to time, Government legislation and regulations on what LPAs are required to do as part of these processes changes. If this happens, the process tables in this document will be updated and an amended document published. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 45 9 November 2015 9 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 3 How to get involved 3.7 The process that the Planning Policy team will follow when producing the new Local Plan, Supplementary Planning Documents, or when supporting the development of Neighbourhood Plans, is outlined in the following tables: Local Plan Making Process stage What is involved? Development of evidence base • • • Carrying out of background research to inform Local Plan; Engagement with Duty to Cooperate partners; Identification of relevant environmental, economic and social objectives to inform the Sustainability Appraisal. Stage 2 • • Consideration of points raised in Stage 1; Invitation to stakeholder and members of the public to comment on what a Local Plan of that particular subject ought to contain. Minimum of 6 weeks. Testing of emerging options through Sustainability Appraisal. Stage 1 Public participation in deciding content of the Local Plan (Regulation 18 of Local Plan Regulations 2012) • Sustainability Appraisal and Habitats Regulations Assessment 10 Stage 3 Preparation of the draft Local Plan • • • Stage 4 Publication of draft Local Plan • The draft Local Plan is made available for stakeholders and members of the public to comment. Minimum of 6 weeks consultation (may involve more than one consultation period). • Formal consideration of points raised in Stage 4. • Local Plan submitted for examination to the Secretary of State. • An independent planning inspector is appointed by the Secretary of State to examine the Local Plan. The examination could follow a number of different forms depending on the issue or evidence being considered. The examination may include a formal hearing. • If the Inspector finds the Local Plan sound, then NNDC can adopt the plan and produce an Adoption Statement. (Regulation 19 of Local Plan Regulations 2012) Stage 5 Formal consideration of representations Consideration of points raised in Stage 2; Formation of draft policies and supporting documents (to include the Sustainability Appraisal and Habitat Regulations Assessment if necessary); The Council may undertake consultation with stakeholders and members of the public on different issues and options. Stage 6 Submission of draft Local Plan (Regulation 22 of Local Plan Regulations 2012) Stage 7 Examination of the submitted plan (Regulations 23 and 24 of Local Plan Regulations 2012) Stage 8 Adoption (Regulations 25 and 26 of Local Plan Regulations 2012 and Section 23 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004) Figure 2 The Local Plan making process Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 46 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement How to get involved 3 SPD Process stage Stage 1 Development of evidence base What is involved? • Collection of the information needed and identification of issues needed for the preparation of the SPD; • Engagement with relevant stakeholders to decide on the contents and level of details to be contained in the SPD. Where necessary, this may involve preliminary consultations prior to the publication of a draft SPD. Stage 2 Drafting of the SPD (Regulation 12 of Local Plan Regulations 2012) • Drafting of SPD; • Consultation with stakeholders and members of the public. Minimum of 4 weeks consultation. Stage 3 Preparation of the SPD • Formal consideration of points raised in Stage 2. Stage 4 Adoption of SPD by full Council (Regulation 14 of Local Plan Regulations 2012) • If full Council adopt the plan, then NNDC can adopt the SPD and produce an Adoption Statement. Figure 3 The Supplementary Planning Document process Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 47 9 November 2015 11 12 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 3 How to get involved How we will get members of the public involved in Plan-making 3.8 As Figure 4 below indicates, we will use a range of consultation methods to try and ensure that we engage a wide audience as part of any plan-making process. The consultation method chosen will depend on the type of document being consulted upon at the time. NNDC will continue to develop its understanding of which consultation methods work best and the most effective way of reaching those groups considered to be hard-to-engage (such as people whose first language is not English, young people and gypsies, travellers and travelling show people). Consultation events will take place in easily accessible public places at appropriate times. The Planning Policy section on the NNDC website is kept up to date with the latest news. You will be able to respond to consultations through the website. We may use posters to alert you to consultation events, or site notices to let you know if an area near you is being considered as an allocated site for development. Where considered appropriate, we will arrange exhibitions in public places during consultation periods. At events, we will provide feedback questionnaires. Public exhibitions Site notices and posters NNDC Website We may arrange workshops to get feedback on specific issues. In particular, workshops can be used as a way of getting feedback from hard‐to‐reach groups. Workshops How will we get members of the public involved? Social Media Public meetings Newsletters News releases We will endeavor to keep our Facebook and Twitter pages up to date with plan‐ making news. We will issue news releases to inform local media when we reach key stages. We may also use news releases to advise of upcoming consultation events. We may hold public meetings to discuss specific plan‐making issues. At events, we will provide feedback questionnaires. Throughout the plan‐ making process, we will send out newsletters either electronically or by post. To add your details to the list, please email us on planning.policy@north‐ norfolk.gov.uk or call us on 01263 516318. Figure 4 How will we get members of the public involved in Plan-making? Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 48 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement How to get involved 3 Neighbourhood Planning Neighbourhood Planning is another way you can get involved in shaping your community. You (6) can find out more about getting involved in Neighbourhood Planning by visiting our website . 3.9 Neighbourhood Planning gives communities the opportunity to produce a vision on how they want their local area to develop and grow. Provided that the community’s vision is in line with the strategic needs and priorities of the wider local area, they will be able to choose where new development is built and what it will look like. 3.10 Neighbourhood Planning is led by a Parish or Town Council, a neighbourhood forum or a community organisation (in the case of a Community Right to Build Order). Communities can choose to set planning policies through a Neighbourhood Plan and grant planning permission through Neighbourhood Development Orders and Community Right to Build Orders for specific development. Figure 5 on the following page shows the neighbourhood planning process. 6 49 NNDC, Neighbourhood Planning - http://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/planning/10014.asp Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 9 November 2015 13 14 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 3 How to get involved Neighbourhood Planning Stage 1 Designating neighbourhood area and if appropriate neighbourhood forum Stage 2 Preparing a draft neighbourhood plan or Order Stage 3 Pre‐submission publicity and consultation What is involved? • Qualifying body (town/parish council, prospective neighbourhood forum or community organisation) submits application to NNDC to designate a neighbourhood area. • NNDC publicises and consults on the area application for a minimum of 6 weeks (or 4 weeks where the area to which the application relates is the whole of the area of a parish council and fully within area of one Local Planning Authority); • In an area without a town or parish council, a prospective neighbourhood forum submits an application to be the designated neighbourhood forum for a neighbourhood area. NNDC publicises and consults on the forum application for a minimum of 6 weeks. • NNDC decide whether to designate the neighbourhood area/neighbourhood forum. • Gathering of information and evidence; • Consultation by qualifying body with other public bodies, landowners and the development industry whose interest it considers may be affected by the draft plan or Order; • Identification and assessment of options; • Determination as to whether a plan or an Order is likely to have significant environmental effects. • Qualifying body invites public representations and consults relevant consultees. Minimum of 6 weeks consultation. • Copy of draft plan or Order to NNDC; • Where European Obligations apply, compliance with relevant publicity and consultation requirements. Stage 4 Formal consideration of representations • Qualifying body formally considers of representations made. • Preparation of consultation statement and other proposal documents. Stage 5 Neighbourhood plan or Order proposal submitted to NNDC • Providing NNDC finds that the submitted proposal complies with relevant legislation, the proposal is publicised for a minimum of 6 weeks and public representations invited and consultees referred to in the consultation statement notified; • Independent examiner appointed. Stage 6 Independent Examination Stage 7 Referendum and bringing of plan or Order brought into force • An independent examiner tests whether a draft plan or Order meets a number of conditions (as set out in paragraph 8 of Schedule 4B to the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 (as amended)). In some cases, the examiner may hold a hearing; • Independent examiner publishes report for NNDC to consider and reach own view (with the exception of community right to build orders where the report in binding); • NNDC decides whether to send the plan/Order to referendum. • NNDC publishes information statement; • Referendum polling takes place; • Depending on results and if the plan/Order is compatible with European Union (EU) obligations and does not breach Convention rights, NNDC brings the plan or Order into force. Figure 5 The Neighbourhood Planning process Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 50 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement How to get involved 3 Planning Applications 3.11 Members of the public and relevant consultees have the opportunity to make representations on development, uses or works that require planning permission or listed building consent. For the majority of applications, there will be a formal period of at least 21 days in which you can let us know whether you wish to object, support or comment on a proposal. Representations made after the 21 days formal consultation period will be accepted, providing they are made before a decision is issued. Figure 6 on the following page shows the planning application process and indicates at which stages the public can get involved. From time to time, Government legislation and regulations on what LPAs are required to do as part of these processes changes. If this happens, the process tables in this document will be updated and an amended document published. 3.12 Once applications have been received, they will generally be determined as submitted. There are occasions, however, when amendments can help to deliver better development in the wider public interest. The decision to re-advertise and re-consult on accepted amendments will depend on whether there is a significant change to the nature, character or description of the development and whether it is considered that a neighbour would be adversely affected by the change. 3.13 After a decision is made, NNDC will exercise caution in agreeing to accept further amendments to applications. However, in principle some non-material amendments may be permissible providing particular criteria are met, for example, the amendment would not materially alter the description or appearance of the approved development. 3.14 Certain development, such as minor changes to dwelling houses, is often exempt from the need to obtain planning permission. Development not requiring planning permission is described as Permitted Development and is detailed in The Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015. You can get more information on what householder development can be carried out under permitted development rights via the (7) (8) Governments Planning Portal Interactive House , Interactive Terrace , and the accompanying (9) Technical Guidance . Whilst we are unable to accept verbal representations on planning applications, there are a number of ways you can contact us to give us your views on planning applications: Email us: planning@north-norfolk.gov.uk Make an on-line comment: Via the ‘Search Planning Applications’ option at www.north-norfolk.gov.uk Write to us: Planning Department, NNDC, Holt Road, Cromer, NR27 9EN You can track the progress of individual planning applications on the NNDC website Search (10) for a planning application or by speaking to the Case Officer or a member of the Planning Technical team (telephone 01263 516150) 7 8 9 10 Interactive House - http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/house Interactive Terrace - http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/permission/terrace Technical Guidance - http://www.planningportal.gov.uk/uploads/100806_PDforhouseholders_TechnicalGuidance.pdf Search for a planning application - https://planning.northnorfolk.org/online-applications Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 51 9 November 2015 15 16 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 3 How to get involved Preapplication Applicants are encouraged to use our Preapplication Advice Service (11) Submission guidance can also be found on our Planning Application Requirements page (12). Also see Do you need planning permission page (13) and Major pre-application consultation page (14). We expect developers for major development to support applications with statements explaining what community consultation has been done, the outcome of consultations and any amendments made to the scheme as a result. Community consultation is mandatory for wind turbine applications involving 2 or more turbines or any turbines with a hub height of 15m or more. Application Most valid applications are subject to a minimum of 21 days consultation in accordance with The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure (England) Order 2015) (15). For further information on consultees please see the National Planning Practice Guidance (16). Local Councillors are notified when there is an application in their ward. - Plans and details available to view at Council offices; - Published online- Search & Comment on an Application; (19) - Yellow site notice/s erected on or near site; - Letters to adjoining neighbours; - Plans and details sent to Parish/Town Council; - Statutory consultees invited to comment; - Press advert in the local newspaper. For further information see statutory publicity requirements (16) Participation Representations can be sent to the Council during the 21 days public consultation period. Representations made after the 21 days can only be considered until a decision is made. Have your say on Planning Applications and Tree Preservation Orders (17) Officer Report The case officer considers the application and prepares a report and recommendation. Decision The majority of decisions on planning applications are made under the authority delegated to the Head of Planning. A small number of applications are called in and decided by the Council’s Development Committee. Decision Notice issued The decision notice is sent to the applicant /agent and published on-line. Those who have made representations on the application are notified of the decision. Appeal An applicant may choose to appeal a refused planning application or appeal against nondetermination of a planning application. More information can be found on the Council’s planning appeals page (18). Only representations that contain valid material planning considerations can be taken into account. For examples of material and nonmaterial considerations see Appendix 3. If the application is considered at Committee, there is an opportunity for members of the public and other interested bodies to speak. Have your say on Planning Applications and Tree Preservation Orders (17) Figure 6 The Planning Application Process (11) (12) (13) (14) (15) (16) (17) (18) (19) 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 Pre-application advice service - http://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/planning/19650.asp Planning Application Requirements - http://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/planning/19912.asp Do you need Planning Permission - http://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/planning/19637.asp Major Development pre-application consultations - http://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/planning/19988.asp Schedule 4 of The Town and Country Planning (Development Management Procedure (England) Order 2015) http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2015/595/schedule/4/made Statutory publicity requirements for planning and heritage applications (Planning Practice Guidance) http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance/consultation-and-pre-decision-matters Have your say on Planning Applications and Tree Preservation Orders http://www.northnorfolk.org/files/Have_your_say_leaflet_website_version.pdf Planning Appeals - http://www.northnorfolk.org/planning/19965.asp Search & comment on an application - http://www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/planning/19804.asp Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 52 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement Appendices Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 53 9 November 2015 17 18 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 1 Consultation Bodies 1 Consultation Bodies Specific Consultation Bodies 1.1 Government regulations require that the following specific consultation bodies must be consulted when the Local Planning Authority considers that they may have an interest in the subject of the Local Plan / other planning documents: Town and Parish Councils within and adjoining the North Norfolk administrative boundaries Adjoining Local Authorities: Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, Breckland Council, Broads Authority, Broadland District Council and Great Yarmouth Borough Council Norfolk County Council The Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission for England (Historic England) Natural England The Environment Agency Lead Local Flood Authority (Norfolk County Council) Relevant sewage undertaker Relevant water undertaker Clinical Commissioning Groups in the East of England Region (CCGs) (or successor health care bodies) Norfolk Constabulary Police and Crime Commissioner for Norfolk Relevant electronic communication companies Relevant electricity companies Relevant gas companies The Homes and Communities Agency The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) Network Rail The Secretary of State for Transport The Gardens Trust Sport England The Ministry of Defence The Marine Management Organisation The Coal Authority It should be noted that this list is not exhaustive and may change overtime as legislation and regulations are updated. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 54 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement Consultation Bodies 1 General Consultation Bodies 1.2 Government regulations require that the following general consultation bodies must be consulted when the Local Planning Authority considers it appropriate. Bodies which represent the following in the District: Different racial, ethnic or national groups Different religious groups Disabled persons Persons carrying on business Community groups Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople Older or younger people Health The environment The coast The economy Education The historic environment Tourism Regeneration Transport Sport and recreation Voluntary bodies some or all of whose activities benefit any part of the District Bodies which provide Public services in the District Local Enterprise Partnerships Interested individuals It should be noted that this list is not exhaustive and may change overtime as legislation and regulations are updated. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 55 9 November 2015 19 20 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 1 Consultation Bodies Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 56 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement Duty to Cooperate Stakeholders 2 2 Duty to Cooperate Stakeholders Duty to Cooperate Stakeholders 2.1 Part 2, Regulation 4 of the Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2012, identifies Duty to Cooperate stakeholders. The below are those bodies identified as stakeholders: The Environment Agency The Historic Buildings and Monuments Commission for England (Historic England) Natural England The Civil Aviation Authority The Homes and Communities Agency Relevant Clinical Commissioning Groups in the East of England Region (CCGs) (or successor health care bodies) The Office of Rail Regulation Integrated Transport Authorities County Council Highways The Marine Management Organisation New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) Wild Anglia Local Nature Partnership (LNP) Norfolk Local Planning Authorities: Broadland District Council, Breckland District Council, Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk, Broads Authority, Great Yarmouth Borough Council, Norwich City Council, South Norfolk Council, and Norfolk County Council (Norfolk Duty to Co-operate Member Forum). It should be noted that this list is not exhaustive and may change overtime as legislation and regulations are updated. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 57 9 November 2015 21 22 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 2 Duty to Cooperate Stakeholders Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 58 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement Material Planning Considerations 3 3 Material Planning Considerations What are material planning considerations? 3.1 The following list gives some typical examples of material and non-material planning considerations. Only material planning considerations can be taken into account when reaching a decision. Material Planning Considerations National and Local Policy Planning history and previous appeal decisions Case Law Design, appearance, layout and density Impact on visual or residential amenity including potential loss of light or overshadowing, loss of privacy, noise disturbance, smell or nuisance, overbearing impact; Impact on trees, listed buildings, conservation areas, public right(s) of way, highway safety and traffic Non-material Planning Considerations Land/boundary disputes, including rights of access Construction noise Effect on property values Loss of view Restrictive covenants Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 59 9 November 2015 23 24 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 3 Material Planning Considerations Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 60 9 November 2015 Draft Statement of Community Involvement Further Advice 4 4 Further Advice Contact details and further resources North Norfolk District Council Advice www.north-norfolk.gov.uk/planning Planning Duty Officer planning@north-norfolk.gov.uk 01263 516158 Development Management Team planning@north-norfolk.gov.uk 01263 516150 Major Projects Team planning@north-norfolk.gov.uk 01263 516150 Planning Policy Team planningpolicy@north-norfolk.gov.uk 01263 516318 Conservation, Design & Landscape Team conservationanddesign@north-norfolk.gov.uk trees@north-norfolk.gov.uk 01263 516165 External Advice Planning Aid The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) service 'Planning Aid' offers professional planning advice and support to individuals and communities who cannot afford to pay professional fees. They help to provide the tools and knowledge to help engage people in local planning. www.rtpi.org.uk/planning-aid advice@planningaid.rtpi.org.uk 0330 123 9244 Planning Aid Direct This useful resource offers an online knowledge base and step by step answers to frequently asked questions about planning. http://www.rtpi.org.uk/planning-aid/planning-aid-direct Planning Portal The Planning Portal in the online planning resource for England and Wales. www.planningportal.gov.uk GOV.UK Provides information on all Government services. www.gov.uk In particular, information can be found at http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/policy (National Planning Policy Framework) and http://planningguidance.planningportal.gov.uk/blog/guidance (Planning Practice Guidance). Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 61 9 November 2015 25 26 Draft Statement of Community Involvement 4 Further Advice Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 62 9 November 2015 Appendix 3 - Consultation responses summary Rep. Ref. SCI 01 Respondent Historic England Kayleigh Wood Policy / paragraph Para. 1.5 Para. 3.4 Appendix 1.2 Nature of Rep. Comment Summary of representation SCI 02 N/A Comment SCI 03 Neatishead Parish Council Gareth Pritchard Natural England Carla Jackson, Consultations Team N/A Comment SCI 04 Brian Grieves N/A Comment SCI 05 SCI 06 Breckland District Council James Mann, Planning Policy Officer Anglian Water Sue Bull, Welcomes general aims and approach to the draft SCI. At para. 1.5 the term ‘built heritage’ should be changed to ‘historic environment’. At para. 3.4 welcomes acknowledgement of Historic England as a statutory consultee. Would welcome consultation at an informal level in addition to legislative requirements where relevant. Would be helpful to receive hard copies of consultation letters. Para 1.2 welcomes and supports inclusion of the ‘historic environment’ as a topic to cover General Consultation Bodies. The process provides a structured means of early consultation and response from all interested parties. Supportive of principle of meaningful and early engagement of the general community, community organisations and statutory bodies in local planning matters. No specific comments on this consultation. Display of yellow planning application for development notices is not sufficiently prominent. Should be displayed on the public highway at the entrance to the access / road to the site not just attached to the property boundary fence at the end of a Loke or cul-de-sac where few will see it. Consider impacts of proposals on Conservation Areas, proposals should be non-intrusive. N/A Comment Would like to remain a statutory consultee but have no comment to make at present time. N/A Comment Welcomes consultation on Local Plan documents and relevant planning applications. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 63 Council response Accepted, however, paragraph 1.5 refers to the Council’s Corporate Plan, which outlines our shared vision, values and priority areas on which we intend to concentrate our efforts. Since the draft SCI has been out to consultation, a new Corporate Plan has been approved by full Council and the reference to ‘built heritage’ no longer exists. Noted. Noted. Noted: Concern passed onto the Development Manager and the Major Developments Manager. Accepted: Any new Local Plan will need to consider development impact on the historic environment, which includes Conservation Areas. Noted Noted 9 November 2015 Planning Liaison Manager SCI 07 Anglia Maltings (Holdings) Ltd David Thompson, Chief Executive N/A Objection Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party Keen to work with and support NNDC in growth ambitions. keen to respond to all Local Plan document consultations and all major (10+) planning applications and other applications where there may be concerns or issues relating to water supply and/or drainage. Does not support the general aims and approach of the SCI. Purpose of the SCI is to develop a good NNDC Local Plan and to have this endorsed by the community generally. The Local Plan is the focus. The SCI does not connect with the general purposes of the Local Plan or the NNDC Economic Development Strategy for two reasons: o Does not reference the 10 key objectives and therefore does not focus on addressing these, and; o ‘Community’ is implicitly Parish and Town Council led; it omits other stakeholders; employees, employers, investors, enterpreneurs, shop-keepers. Thus the SCI does not invite, explicitly, economic participation. o SCI is a general ‘hand-book’ on consultation but omits the context in which previous policy was developed, and how it should be amended and developed further. It is published in a vacuum. 64 Not accepted: The SCI document is not considered the right place to make reference to objectives in evidence documents. New evidence produced as part of the evidence base to inform the new Local Plan will be in the public domain once published. The purpose of the SCI is to ensure that communities and other interested parties understand how they can participate in the planning process and covers participation at both the plan-making and the planning application stage. Whilst it is not realistic for the SCI to specifically mention every possible stakeholder, it aims to make it clear that the Council wants ‘to give everyone the opportunity to get involved from an early stage in the process and we want to make engagement as easy and as meaningful as possible’ (para. 1.2). Further, Appendix 1.2 makes it clear that the LPA will consult general consultation bodies where considered appropriate and the list includes bodies representing persons carrying on business and the economy, LEPs and interested individuals. 9 November 2015 Appendix 4 – Summary of changes to the SCI Paragraph or page number Suggested Change Reason for Change Page 3, para. 1.5 Change to the referenced Council’s Corporate Plan vision, values and priority areas on which we intend to concentrate our efforts to: jobs and the local economy, housing and infrastructure, coast and countryside, health and well-being and delivery and service excellence. Since the draft SCI has been out to consultation, a new Corporate Plan has been approved by full Council and the reference to ‘built heritage’ no longer exists. Page 9, new paragraph after 3.5 Addition of new paragraph: To enable the SCI to be updated should planning legislation and regulations on consultation change. Page 10, table 2 Amendment to Stage 3 text, bullet point 3: 3.6 The processes that will be followed when producing a new local plan, any resulting SPDs and for any neighbourhood plans are outlined in the tables on pages 10, 11 and 14. From time to time, Government legislation and regulations on what LPAs are required to do as part of these processes changes. If this happens, the process tables in this document will be updated and an amended document published. The Council may undertake consultation with stakeholders and members of the public on different issues and options. Page 15, para. 3.11 Addition to para. 3.11: From time to time, Government legislation and regulations on what LPAs are required to do as part of these processes changes. If this happens, the process tables in this document will be updated and an amended document published. Page 18, para. 1.1 Change of name of The Garden History Society to The Gardens Trust. Planning Policy & Built Heritage Working Party 65 To enable flexibility on consultation should planning legislation and regulations on consultation change. To enable the SCI to be updated should planning legislation and regulations on consultation change. The Garden History Society has now merged with the Association of Gardens Trusts to form The Gardens Trust, which is now the statutory consultee. 9 November 2015