ENV4 Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) - Preferred Option

Any land north of london road rawreth if developed will increase flooding risks downstream as rawreth brook is increasingly silting up .The alternative focus on rawreth sites have the advantage of draining directly into the main river crouch.

Thank you for consulting the Government Office on the Rochford District Council Local Development Framework Core Strategy Preferred Options Report.

As you are aware, we have commented in the past on earlier documents published in relation to the Rochford Core Strategy. In line with our earlier comments we consider that the document is well organised, comprehensive, set out in a systematic fashion and is easy to read and comprehend. The authority is to be commended for achieving this. We do though have some general comments and concerns as well as detailed observations that relate to many of the intended policies. These are set out in the paragraphs below.

Going forward under a revised PPS12

You will also be aware that on the 4th June this year CLG published a revised PPS12 along with revised regulations, which are now in place. The revisions are aimed mainly at streamlining the process further to help ensure that production of DPD's is able to happen as quickly as possible, whilst ensuring that public participation is effective and its results taken fully into account. As well as this, a key motivation of the revisions is to provide local planning authorities with greater freedom to determine the most appropriate way to prepare or revise DPD's. There is now more flexibility particularly in terms of consultation, where consultation on the DPD during the preparation phase of the plan is expected to be proportionate to the scale of the issues involved in the plan. On this basis, the regulations have now removed one of the formal stages of consultation - the preferred option stage. As well as this, the regulations now require that consultation and representations are made on a DPD before submission to the Secretary of State.

You should refer to the new PPS in taking forward this DPD, but essentially you will need to comply with the following principles in the PPS on:

• Participation and stakeholders (see section 4.20, 4.25 & 4.27);
• Not repeating national and regional policy (4.30);
• Being subject to a sustainability appraisal (4.39 - 4.42);
• Being justified, effective and consistent with national policy (4.36 & 4.44) and
• Being produced according to the timetable set out in the LDS to ensure that the DPD is produced in a timely and efficient manner (see section 4.53 & 4.54)

Further guidance, including examples of best practice, is provided in the Plan Making Manual, which may be accessed via the Planning Advisory Service's website: www.pas.gov.uk/planmakingmanual. Additional content will become available in further updates of the Manual.

The DPD must be prepared in accordance with the Local Development Scheme and in compliance with the Statement of Community Involvement and the Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004 as amended, be subject to a sustainability appraisal, have regard to national policy and any sustainable community strategy for the area and conform to the RSS. To be sound, the DPD should be justified (founded on a robust and credible evidence base, and be the most appropriate strategy when considered against the reasonable alternatives), effective (the document must be deliverable, flexible and be able to be monitored) and consistent with national policy.

The key consideration before drafting the final DPD, is to be satisfied that the process of testing and refining of the options and consulting with key stakeholders has been undertaken adequately and satisfactorily in an appropriate and proportionate manner in relation to the issues arising in respect of this particular DPD.

Presentation of Options

There will be an expectation when the Core Strategy is submitted for examination, that the Council is able to demonstrate that it's decisions for deciding on certain options and ruling out others has been underpinned and informed by a robust Sustainability Appraisal (SA). I am surprised that there are not many references to the SA in the main text of the Core Strategy preferred options document, especially in the context of the presentation of options. It is not explicitly evident from reading the Core Strategy document, that the findings in the SA report support the Authority's preferred options and how decisions about the spatial strategy have been reached.

At submission, the Authority will need to be able to demonstrate that the DPD's policies represent the most appropriate response in all the circumstances, having considered all the relevant alternatives, and that they are founded on a robust and credible evidence base; and that all reasonable and deliverable options have been equally presented at the Issues and Options stage, all underpinned by relevant sustainability information and other evidence. In order to meet this requirement, we firmly recommend that the subsequent documents make explicit linkages between the SA process and the decisions on chosen options and disregarded options.

Habitats Directive

As a result of the recent European Court of Justice ruling in relation to the Habitats Directive, Local Planning Authorities are now required to assess whether an Appropriate Assessment (AA), the purpose of which is to assess the impacts of a land-use plan against the conservation objectives of a European Site and to ascertain whether it would adversely affect the integrity of that site, is necessary and to carry out the AA in the preparation of a DPD or SPD where it is required.

Replacement of Local Plan Policies

It is a regulatory requirement for the Council to identify which extant saved local plan policies will be replaced/superseded by the Core Strategy upon its adoption. We would suggest that any early consultation documents should give a broad indication of the extant policy areas likely to be replaced and the submission Core Strategy document to include this information in detail, perhaps as an appendix.

Consultation Statement

We remind you that when you submit the relevant DPD, you will be required to provide a statement setting out which bodies were consulted at earlier regulated stages, how they were consulted, and a summary of the main issues raised and how these have been addressed. It is important therefore that you document clearly the consultation that you are undertaking now, and in the future, to inform this requirement.

Specific Comments on the Rochford District Council Local Development Framework Core Strategy Preferred Options Document

• It might be helpful in the introductory paragraphs of your eventual Submission document to explain in slightly more detail, what has preceded the stage you have now reached (i.e. the earlier stages) in terms of the evolution of your Core Strategy, particularly in relation to the chronology and 'frontloading' (statutory consultees/stakeholders) including public engagement.
• You might like to consider whether in your Submission document you should distinguish what is in effect your 'Spatial Portrait' (i.e. term it as such) from the other information that forms the 'Characteristics, Issues and Opportunities' in the introductory section.
• On page 14 under population, I think you are suggesting that the average household size in Rochford is a function of the relatively large number of families which is a feature of the District's population structure. The way you have expressed it appears to be somewhat ambiguous to me and this section of text may therefore benefit from being expressed in a way that is simpler and provides for clarity.
• Under the section entitled 'Vision', the text referring to the latter seems to be based more upon the separate document 'Vision to Reality' that is referred to. In addition, the initial Vision Statement that is then set out as text amounts to little more than a 'Statement of Intent'. The way I feel the Vision should be expressed is in fact much like the way you have expressed it in text boxes at the start of each theme- based section that follows in the document. This is an unconventional way of handling the matter and consequently you will need to be satisfied that it is an appropriate method. Clearly though, I feel that the linkage between the section entitled 'Vision' and what is written subsequently in the initial text and later in the text boxes, is inconsistent and at present confusing (the Vision and the Objectives that follow from it, should set the scene for the Core Strategy policies and proposals, particularly in terms of time scales (which you do outline) local distinctiveness, the scale of development intended and its broad locations).
• The objectives as currently expressed are very general and not distinctive or 'spatially specific' to Rochford.
• Policy H1 - The spatial dimension to this policy is in fact provided by Policy H2 and therefore there should be a cross reference in the text of Policy H1 to provide this linkage.
• Some of the text boxes are clearly making reference in 'plain English/general terms' to the 'Evidence Base' (i.e. when not setting out the Vision) without providing a reference to the appropriate 'Evidence Base' document. Given that the 'Evidence Base' is listed in detail in the first section of the Core Strategy document, it might be helpful to devise a system of Codes, or similar, to provide for cross references from the text box statements to the appropriate 'Evidence Base' document in the earlier list (the same system could be used in respect of 'non-specific references' to the 'Evidence Base' in the main text).
• You should avoid repeating national policy within the Core Strategy. In some instances in the supporting text you actually reproduce sections of PPSs. It may be appropriate in such instances to refer to such policy in general terms (a text box is a good way of doing this) but reproduction of actual PPS text should be avoided. Where references are made in some cases within policy wording to national policy (PPSs etc.) then the policy must be re-written in the Submission document to remove such references. The Core Strategy can only interpret national policy, indicating how it is to be applied to the local area - it must not repeat it.
• Whilst the use of text boxes is to be commended in general, that on P42 contains text which is repeated in some of the main text virtually alongside it. This occurs elsewhere in the document and it should be avoided in the Submission document.
• Several policies (e.g. GB1, ED2) are expressed in terms of: 'we will seek to direct'; 'we will encourage'; 'we will ensure'; we will enhance' etc. Expressed in this way the policies amount to little more than 'statements of intent'. Such expressions beg the questions 'how?', 'when?', 'where?'; and 'what?' etc. The policies in the Core Strategy need to relate to firm actions (albeit 'criteria based' if appropriate) and if there are not clear intentions in relation to delivery, then it is not appropriate to include the policy at all. I accept that as currently written, the policies may be indicating what the 'preferred option' for the policy is, rather than expressing it currently in its final form.
• In policy ED3 other than mention being made of 'Baltic Wharf', the existing employment sites to be reviewed are not identified. In order for the policy to be 'spatially specific' the other sites should be identified.
• Other than mention being made in the supporting text that there is an identified requirement for 2 hectares of office space, there are not any allocations made in terms of quantum of floorspace, or land areas, to meet the jobs requirement for the District. Furthermore, a policy has not been developed in terms of the distinction between locational implications of different uses (i.e. B1, B2 and B8). The submission policy should provide a clearer articulation of the locational implications relative to employment use types B1, B2 and B8 including any relevant split of land requirements relative to the different uses.
• In policy ENV4 'large scale' development is not defined.
• You will need to ensure that the wording in respect of Policy ENV6 wholly accords with the PPS1 Supplement on Climate Change. At present the wording appears to suggest a greater level of restraint than that intended by national policy.
• When/what date will Code Level 3 in Policy ENV8 be introduced? What is your 'Evidence Base' (as required by virtue of the PPS1 Supplement) to justify (in terms of viability) introducing this requirement in Rochford?
• In respect of Policy ENV9, what is your 'Evidence Base' (as required by virtue of the PPS1 Supplement) to justify (in terms of viability) introducing this requirement in Rochford?
• Where is the contaminated land referred to in ENV10 to be found in the District? What are the broad locations?
• In policy RTC1 what is the amount of retail floorspace that is being directed to the stated locations?

• In policy CLT5 what are the standards that will be applied?

• In policy CLT7 what are the standards that will be applied?

• In policy CLT8 what are the standards that will be applied?

• The Key Diagram should preferably be located much earlier on in the document - it could even be located after the background section and preceding the theme based sections. It appears that some potential designations are missing e.g. AQMA's.

• It is important for a Core Strategy to set out a strategic housing trajectory, expressing the Council's broad expectations for the delivery of housing over the Core Strategy period. It is accepted that it will need to be done at a strategic level, since individual development sites have yet to be identified, but it could set out the general expectations for the broad quantum (in general terms) and sources of completions (existing commitment, unallocated urban capacity/windfall sites, brownfield allocations, Greenfield sites/urban extensions etc) over the plan's lifetime. The trajectory should preferably be in the form of a bar chart, or similar, setting out expected development rates and indications of which main locations in each year that development is likely to be forthcoming.

Conclusions

We commend you for the work carried out so far. Where any soundness issues arise, either through our consideration of the work done to date to comply with Regulation 25, or later, through our consideration of the further documents that you will publish to comply with Regulations 25 and 27, we hope that they can be resolved prior to the DPD's submission and subsequent examination.

We support this approach as it is consistent with national planning policy.

LDF Core Strategy Preferred Options

Response On Behalf Of Rayleigh Town Council

(1) Page 3.
There is a statement that the purpose of the Core Strategy is not to identify specific locations, but in stating preference for a particular area ("North of London Road" AKA Between London Road and Rawreth Lane), this document has contradicted the statement, automatically by its' wording ruling out other suitable sites identified in the "call for sites" exercise.
This statement needs to be reworded to allow other areas to be considered

In addition despite links with the A127 and A130 (or possibly because of ) this area suffers considerable road congestion for large parts of the day with London Road and Rawreth Lane at times being at a complete standstill, a situation which can only be exacerbated with the additional traffic generated by this proposal.

The Town Council question as to whether the fact that 3 schools already exit on to this road, with attended traffic problems of pick-ups and drop offs has been thought of. If more homes are built there, the army of buses taking pupils to secondary schools would increase. There is already an army of buses taking the students to Sweyne Park School, LONDON ROAD, causing an almost impossible situation for the residents of the adjacent roads, they cannot park, and the buses struggle to get in and out. Traffic hold ups are legion.

Also the A127 is already exceeding its' designed capacity with little prospect of future improvement and the A130 is very near to the limit. E-ON Call Centre exiting to LONDON ROAD means further traffic congestion at shift change times to and from Rayleigh.

Poor Transport along LONDON ROAD, for older residents visiting Southend and Basildon Hospitals. Shopping problems for all without cars, no direct bus service to
ASDA, Rawreth Lane.

These links cannot be relied upon ad infinitum.
In introducing the document to the West Area Committee recently, Cllr Hudson stated "we will only release Green Belt land after every scrap of brown field land has been used up".

This appears to be a contradiction of H2 General Locations and Phasing in that there is no reference to any brown field sites in Rayleigh and, as stated above, automatically rules out suitable alternatives.

The argument in H2 on P29 against North Rayleigh applies equally to the preferred option "North of London Road".

(2) Page 8 Priority 5
This statement is unrealistic in that it ignores the fact that public transport is poor with little prospect of improvement and walking or cycling are not viable alternatives for the not so young or fit.

(3) Page 37 H7 Gypsy and traveller accommodation
Where particular traveller sites have been identified as being undesirable, the temptation to ignore the results of legal process, to designate such sites as appropriate and not continue enforcement action simply for administrative convenience must be resisted.

This statement must be made more prescriptive.

(4) Page 49 Land south of London Road
Once again reliance on A127 and A130 links cannot be guaranteed ad infinitum.

This general area was apparently ruled out for housing development after objections from the Highway Authority and would therefore appear to be unsuitable for commercial or industrial use.

(5) Page 38 Infrastructure required and Page 93 CLT4 Healthcare

Rather than the fashionable (with the PCT) primary care centre (Polyclinic?) located in the preferred area, a better alternative is considered to be the provision of an outreach outpatient centre associated with Southend Hospital to perform routine blood tests, x-rays and a minor injuries clinic etc. reducing the need to travel and relieving the pressure on hospital services while leaving GP provision where it is at present.

(6) Page 41 Protection of the green belt
Strongly agree the five bullet points at the head of the page

(6) Page 50 ED5 Eco enterprise centre
There is little indication as to where such a centre would be located and the statement is far too vague.

(7) Page 57 ENV4 Sustainable drainage systems

SUDS relies on the Environment Agency to maintain watercourses and ditches in a suitable manner (Which at present is sadly lacking) without this there will undoubtedly be future problems

This section needs to be far more robust

(8) Page 66 T1 Highways
Strongly support this. What safeguards can be built in to ensure that S106 agreement finance is actually used for the infrastructure improvements for which it is intended in the light of recent revelations of the loss of such monies?

(9) Page 67 T2 Public transport
Encouraging alternatives to the use of the private car must not be used as an excuse to lower standards of parking and vehicle storage
This section needs to be more prescriptive.

(10) Page 88 CLT1
In his introduction Cllr Hudson stated that approximately £1 Billion is needed to make up the shortfall in infrastructure provision. It is unrealistic to expect this to be made up by "standard charges" (around £300,000 per dwelling across the district?)

It is therefore essential to state that these plans are unsustainable without considerable government funding.

(11) Page 71 T7 Parking standards
Strongly support the application of minimum parking standards

At last the voice of reason and common sense!!

(12) Page 94 CLT5 Open spaces
This needs to be more specific and robust, in particular in forming a barrier between any new
development and the A1245, preventing further westward sprawl in future years

(13) Page 95 CLT6 Community facilities
Strongly support this statement

(14) Page 98 CLT9 Leisure facilities
It is considered that an opportunity exists to obtain developer contributions to expand
leisure facilities in the provision of a swimming pool at Rayleigh leisure Centre
Suggest that this is included in CLT9

(15) Page 103 CLT appendix 1 New healthcare centre Rayleigh
New proposed residential areas are too far away from eastern areas of Rayleigh .The location
should be as near to the town centre as possible (see also (5))

Representations on behalf of
Swan Hill Homes Limited
RESPONDENT NUMBER: 5040

1.0 Instructions and Introduction

1.1 Charles Planning Associates Limited (Chartered Town Planners) is Instructed by Swan Hill Homes Limited (Swan Hill) to prepare and submit representations on their behalf in respect of the Rochford District Local Development Framework: Core Strategy Preferred Options (October 2008) Development Plan Document.

1.2 The comments refer to the relevant sections and policy designations in the Preferred Options document, as appropriate.

1.3 The comments set out in this submission are intended to assist the District Council in taking forward its Local Development Framework. It is our intention to continue to be involved in the preparation process and we look forward to the opportunity to comment further at the Submission Version stage. Prior to the assessment of the Core Strategy Preferred Options (October 2008), Swan Hill had serious concerns regarding the way the document had been prepared. The lack of clearly defined policies meant that any policies would have only appeared in the Submission Version of the document, giving the Council no opportunity to make amendments, and limited opportunity for Consultees to see the exact policy position of the Council. It is considered that this Revised Preferred Options document has addressed this position, and enables Consultees to examine further the proposed position of the District Council, and the direction with which they are seeking to take their Core Strategy.

1.4 If you have any queries regarding the content of this submission then please do not hesitate to contact:

Peter Kneen BSc (Hons) MSc MRTPI
Planner

Charles Planning Associates Limited
1644-1645 Parkway
Solent Business Park
Whiteley, Fareham
Hampshire
PO15 7AH

Tel: 01489 580853
Fax: 01489 580913
E-mail: peter.kneen@charlesplanning.co.uk

2.0 Housing:

2.1 Swan Hill recognises the importance of seeking to concentrate new developments mainly in the existing urban areas, on previously developed land where possible, particularly in view of the Government seeking to ensure 60% of all such new developments are on previously development land (PDL).

2.2 However, given the character of the District, and the strategic housing requirement of the East of England Plan, Swan Hill supports the approach that the Council must also make provision for additional development on the edge of existing settlements on greenfield sites, particularly in the most sustainable locations. Swan Hill supports the approach that green field land on the edge of settlements that are released for development should not have a significant impact on the characteristics of the Green Belt, and that densities are in line with the objectives of PPS3 and reflect the local character of the settlement to which the extension is proposed.

Policy H1 - Distribution

2.3 Swan Hill generally supports the approach taken by the Council in this preferred option. As set out above, Swan Hill consider the Council's acknowledgment that housing requirements should be met through the allocation of land on the edge of the existing settlements is the most suitable way forward to meeting the Council's strategic housing requirement and complies with the advise in PPS3.

2.4 The need for suitable greenfield urban extensions represents the best way forward for the Council to meet its strategic housing requirement, as set out in the East of England Plan. Swan Hill supports the recognition that 70% of new residential properties will need to be on sustainable greenfield urban extensions to the existing settlements of the District.

2.5 As such, it is essential within the Core Strategy to establish general locations suitable for the expansion of settlements into the Green Belt. This should not be as site specific as determining the exact parameters of settlement expansions, but should include a general assessment around settlements where development could be accommodated without conflicting with the objectives of the Green Belt. Swan Hill considers that the Council has had regard to these implications in this version of the Core Strategy, and supports the overall distribution policy set out by the District Council.

Policy H2 - General Locations and Phasing

2.6 As set out above, Swan Hill supports the overall approach the Council has taken in this revised version of the Core Strategy, which has both recognised the need for sustainable green field urban extensions in addition to the recognition of the most suitable 'general' locations for such extensions.

2.7 Swan Hill considers that the level of provision for the Tier 1 and 2 settlements (Tier 1: Rochford/Ashingdon, Hockley/Hawkwell and Rayleigh; Tier 2: Great Wakering and Hullbridge), which represents almost 98% of the proposed urban extensions, is appropriate, particularly given that these settlements either benefit from established services and facilities or are located within good proximity to the important service centres surrounding the District, principally Shoeburyness and Southend. This approach, as also set out in the supporting text to Policy H2 would help ensure that the second and third tier settlements remain viable rural settlements, supporting their local communities.

2.8 Additionally, Swan Hill welcomes the recognition that the provision of development on larger sites, in these first and second tier settlements can positively contribute to infrastructure provision, particularly in areas where there is an identified need for improvements.

Policy H3 - General Locations Post 2021

2.9 Swan Hill supports the general principles of this policy, and that the Council has sought to make provision for a 15-year supply of housing land supply, from the date of adoption of the document, as set out in PPS3.

2.10 Policy H1 of the Adopted RSS, East of England Plan sets out a requirement for the remaining 5-year supply, beyond 2021 to be based on the higher amount of the annual average for the period 2001 to 2021 or 2006 to 2021, whichever is higher. Based on this assessment, the 5-year period beyond 2021 would make a minimum requirement for 1,000 dwellings. However, Swan Hill considers it is important that the Policy provision sets out that this is a minimum level, and is likely to change over the course of the Core Strategy period.

2.11 Whilst Policy H3 sets out a degree of flexibility towards the deliverability of these 'general locations', it is important that Policy H3 sets out that the potential number of units proposed on those 'general locations' are a minimum, based on the current Adopted East of England Plan. Further, the East of England Plan is currently under review, and it is likely that the strategic annual housing figure for the period beyond 2021 is likely to increase. This should be reflected in Policy H3.

Policy H4 - Affordable Housing

2.12 In general terms, Swan Hill supports the approach taken by the Council towards the provision of affordable housing for new residential developments. Additionally, the threshold is considered the most appropriate, given that most developments below 15 dwellings or 0.5ha may not be viable to support an element of affordable housing, unless being provided solely for affordable housing.

2.13 The proposed Policy sets out a degree of flexibility for those sites which, if demonstrated by the developer that a provision of 35% affordable housing would make a scheme unviable, has been included. However, it is considered that a greater degree of flexibility should be set out in the policy, in order to ensure the level of affordable homes is considered through negotiation with the Council, and that each application is assessed on a site-by-site basis.

2.14 Additionally, it is considered that many Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) may consider the 'pepper potting' of affordable dwellings throughout larger sites can have significant logistical and cost implications which could discourage RSLs from wanting to take up those units. Whilst Swan Hill acknowledges the benefits of pepper potting affordable housing units around a large development, as this would ensure less disparity between those units and the open market units, clustering affordable housing units together, whether that is in one area or in groups can significantly reduce costs and logistical management issues for many RSLs, making them more attractive to manage and rent.

Policy H5 - Dwelling Types

2.15 Swan Hill supports the policy provision of H5, and considers that the approach taken by the Council for this policy represents a suitably flexible alternative to stipulating percentages of dwelling mix, sought by some local authorities. With the exception of providing a suitable proportion of the provision of affordable units with three-bedrooms, the policy appears to represent to best option for ensuring flexibility for new housing developments, enabling developers to ensure the most up-to-date market assessments play a pivotal role in determining the appropriate level of mix, at any given time.

2.16 In respect of the reference to the Strategic Housing Market Assessment for Thames Gateway South Essex, it is important that if the Council chooses to rely on such assessments as a key factor in determining the appropriate level of mix, it is important that such an assessment is up-to date, and represent the most appropriate model for assessment the level of housing requirements.

Policy H6 - Lifetime Homes

2.17 In regard to this policy, Swan Hill objects to the Council's preferred options where all new dwellings should be provided to the Lifetime Homes Standard. Whilst it is acknowledged that the UK has an aging population, Swan Hill considers the Alternative Option set out in the Core Strategy represents the most suitable option for this type of policy provision. Seeking to provide Lifetime Homes on all sites is considered to be overly onerous for proposed developers, particularly when considering the requirement for all car parking spaces to be suitable for disabled users, which could result in more schemes becoming unviable. Therefore, the provision of a degree of Lifetime Homes should be considered through negotiations with the Council at the planning application stage, and should be determined on a case-by-case basis.

3.0 The Green Belt:

Policy GB1 - Green Belt Protection

3.1 Swan Hill generally supports the policy approach taken towards the protection of the Green Belt, where the key objectives of PPG2 can be met and maintained. It is important that Policy GB1 has regard to the need for a review of the Green Belt boundaries around the key settlements of the District, in order to achieve the required level of residential development required by the East of England Plan.

3.2 As such, and whilst a review of the Green Belt is set out in the supporting text, Swan Hill considers that Policy GB1 of the Core Strategy should be amended to address the need to review the Green Belt boundaries as a means to ensure that minor greenfield sustainable extensions to the settlements can occur without offending the overarching policy objectives of the Metropolitan Green Belt.

Policy GB2 - Rural Diversification and Recreational Uses

3.3 Swan Hill generally supports the Council's policy approach towards rural diversification and provision of recreational uses within the Green Belt.

4.0 Environmental Issues:

Policy ENV3 - Flood Risk

4.1 Swan Hill supports the preferred option approach towards dealing with settlements at risk of flooding. Whilst Great Wakering is identified as a particular area at risk of flooding, this is predominantly associated with the eastern part of the settlement, and as such should not be considered as an overriding constraint to development at other parts of the settlement. Swan Hill concurs with the Council that restricting all new development away from Great Wakering could have a significant adverse impact on the long term viability of the settlement.

4.2 Swan Hill supports the Council's collaboration with the Environment Agency in seeking to ensure Great Wakering is protected from flooding for the existing and future residents.

Policy ENV4 - Sustainable Drainage System (SUDS)

4.3 In respect of Policy ENV4, Swan Hill supports the general principle of sustainable drainage systems. However, given the difficulties in transferring the future management and operation of SUDS to water companies and local authorities, it is not considered appropriate to require the provision of SUDS as a pre-requisite to development in all cases.

4.4 As such, it is considered that the provision of SUDS should be considered on a site-by-site basis, and the level of provision should form part of the negotiations at the planning application stage of the larger developments in the District.

Policy ENV8 - Code for Sustainable Homes

4.5 The need to provide all new dwellings to the Code level 3 of the 'Code for Sustainable Homes' by 2010 is a key objective of the Government. This policy approach is supported by Swan Hill. However, Swan Hill consider the requirement to achieve Code level 6 by 2013 is unrealistic and whilst Swan Hill recognises the importance of this issue, and the desire for carbon neutral homes, producing this on all new dwellings by 2013 could have significant implications on the cost of developments, viability and deliverability. The Government target for achieving Code Level 6 for new dwellings is 2016, and as such, Swan Hill considers the Council should not seek to supersede Government policy on this matter.

5.0 Transport:

Policy T1 - Highways

5.1 Swan Hill supports the overall objectives set out in Policy T1 requiring developments to be located and designed to reduce the reliance on the private car and to meet the infrastructure needs generated by development or seek to help achieve these needs is acceptable in principle.

5.2 Swan Hill recognises the importance between providing sufficient infrastructure provision to meet the requirements of development, and that where developments have no consideration of impact on existing infrastructure, they should be considered unacceptable and contrary to National policy guidance. However, Swan Hill considers it important to emphasise that the developer's role should not be seen as a means to meet existing shortfalls in provision.

Policy T2 - Public Transport

5.3 Swan Hill supports the policy approach taken by the Council on Policy T2.

Policy T4 - Travel Plans

5.4 Swan Hill supports the policy approach taken by the Council on Policy T4.

Policy T5 - Cycling and Walking

5.5 Swan Hill supports the general approach to this policy, as Swan Hill recognises the importance of promoting the use of alternatives to the private car. However, it is important that any policy on the provision of additional off site facilities is based on a site-by-site assessment, and should be related to the impact generated by the development proposed.

5.6 As such, Swan Hill considers this policy should allow for a greater degree of flexibility on the provision and justification of off-site improvements to the cycle and pedestrian network of the District.

Policy T7 - Parking Standards

5.7 The Council has recently (January 2007) adopted SPD on the requirements for parking standards, and as such, Swan Hill supports the policy approach chosen by the Council. However, Swan Hill consider it relevant that the Council set out within the wording of the policy that they have adopted supplementary guidance, which should be applied by developers in the preparation of proposals.

6.0 Character of Place:

Policy CP1 - Design

6.1 The Town and Country Planning (General Development Procedure) Order 1995 (As Amended) makes the submission of a Design and Access Statement for most types of planning applications a Statutory requirement, and as such, the provision of a Design Brief represents a pre-requisite of all major planning applications.

6.2 Policy CP1 seeks to ensure the provision of good, high quality developments that reflect local characteristics and distinctiveness, this ideology is supported by Swan Hill.

7.0 Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism:

Policy CLT1 - Planning Obligations and Standard Charges

7.1 Swan Hill generally supports the overall approach the Council has taken in Policy CLT1. It is considered Policy CLT1 sets out a degree of flexibility to ensure that all sites are considered on a site-by-side basis, assessing the individual merits of each planning application, in order to ensure the levels of contributions applicable meet the five tests of Circular 05/05.

Policies CLT5 - Open Space;
CLT7 - Play Space;
CLT8 - Youth Facilities; and,
CLT10 - Playing Pitches

7.2 Swan Hill supports the need for new residential developments to incorporate a degree of new publicly accessible open space, children's play space, youth facilities and playing pitches, and as such, generally supports the policy approaches taken by the Council.

7.3 However, it is important that whilst the Council may seek to undertake an assessment of providing standard charges for new development, which, as set out in Policy CLT1, this should be based on thorough public consultation and consideration and sound justification. Swan Hill consider that within the provision of a standard charge, it is important that such provision allows for a degree of flexibility to ensure that each site is assessed individually and on its own merits. This is particularly important for those sites close to existing open spaces and facilities. As such, the levels of open space and recreation facilities required in the 'standard charge' should be based on an up-to-date PPG17 Open Space assessment, which should be used to form a key consideration in the levels of provision likely to be required in the standard charge system proposed.

Policy CLT6 - Community Facilities

7.4 Swan Hill supports the approach set out by the Council in policy CLT6, and in particular, that the Council has identified a need for new community facilities within Great Wakering.

8.0 Summary:

8.1 In Summary, Swan Hill considers that overall the 2008 version of the Core Strategy presents a significant improvement on the earlier document, and seeks to address the strategic housing requirements for the District up to and beyond 2021 with clarity. However, it is considered that in general terms the Core Strategy is overly prescriptive and detailed, dealing with too many issues and providing too many policies that could be and should be dealt with in other Development Plan Documents, such as the Development Control Policies DPD. Whilst some of the policies provide flexibility and allow for the individual assessment of development proposals through negotiations with the Council, Swan Hill considers that many of these can removed from the Core Strategy, to be considered later in other DPDs.

8.2 Swan Hill considers the Core Strategy could be significantly reduced in size, in order to provide a more concise, directed document, which deals with the key, overarching strategic policy requirements of the District, as required by PPS12.

Revised Core Strategy Preferred Options Consultation

Thank you for consulting Natural England on the above, in your letter received by this office by email on 5 November 2008. We refer you to previous comments made in our letter of 27 June 2007 during the initial preferred options consultation. Whilst we are generally supportive of the plan, we would like to make the following comments.

Evidence Base
Natural England is pleased to note that the Essex Landscape Character Assessment (2003) and the Local Wildlife Site Review (2007) has been included under this heading.

Vision
Natural England supports the vision because it sets out the intention to retain the essential landscape characteristics of the district and the distinctiveness of both the natural and built environment. These are aspects which are compatible with our own objectives. We also support the recognition of the District's position within Thames Gateway South Essex to promote the District as the "green part" of the sub region.

Objectives
Whilst Natural England generally supports the objectives we would liked to have seen specific reference to "landscape" within the fourth bullet point. We also consider that there should be a stronger reference to climate change within the objectives, linked particularly to the transport objective (6th bullet point) by referring to the need to reduce carbon emissions. An additional objective should also be included on the issue of renewable energy and climate change, for example "to promote renewable energy and address the causes and potential impacts of climate change"

The Green Belt

GB2 Rural Diversification and Recreational Uses - Preferred Option
Natural England supports the Council's preferred option on this issue. We have recently assessed the case for a review of green belt policy where the role of the green belt is reconsidered. The value of the green belt should be judged on its contribution to quality of life, nature conservation, landscape protection, flood mitigation and the impact of a changing climate. Linked with this is a desire to improve the environmental quality of existing green belt. We would therefore support rural diversification within the green belt such as green tourism and outdoor recreation, provided these activities are linked with environmental enhancements and an increase in biodiversity.



Economic Development

ED1 London Southend Airport - Preferred Option
Natural England reiterate our previous comments on the London Southend Airport, that is we are concerned with the impact of the growth in the airport on air quality and on the disturbance of Natura 2000 sites. We also would actively encourage enhanced North South links including greenways, as envisaged in the Thames Gateway South Essex Greengrid

Environmental issues

Crouch and Roach Estuary Management Plan (Page 52, 4th paragraph)
In this paragraph a list of stakeholders is given who are working with Rochford District Council on the above plan. Natural England should also be actively involved in this project and listed accordingly.

All references to 'English Nature' should be changed to read 'Natural England', e.g. page 52, 1st paragraph.

ENV1 Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Landscape and Habitats - Preferred Option
Natural England supports the overall aims of the preferred option and we are pleased to note that the wording now includes "maintain, restore and enhance" rather than just protect. However we consider that the policy does not fully cover all aspects of the natural environment but concentrates on the protection and enhancement of designated sites. We therefore suggest that the policy is expanded to include the following points:

i. Wildlife Networks- Natural England would like the policy wording to encourage an approach to conservation management which is focussed not solely on individual site protection but which seeks to rebuild the fabric of the landscape in which individual sites sit. Actions such as reducing habitat fragmentation and creating green corridors for wildlife can help to achieve this. PPS9 states specifically at paragraph 12 that "Local authorities should aim to maintain networks by avoiding or repairing the fragmentation and isolation of natural habitats through policies in plans." This policy could link to a wider policy on Green Infrastructure. We would therefore suggest that the following point is added to the policy wording: "The Council will ensure the protection and enhancement of a network of local wildlife sites and wildlife corridors, links and stepping stones between areas of natural green space to avoid fragmentation of habitats".

ii. Designing in Wildlife - We would recommend the inclusion of designing in biodiversity measures within this policy. By incorporating ecologically sensitive design and features for biodiversity early on within a development scheme, significant improvements for biodiversity can be achieved, along with easier integration with wider environmental, design and planning aspects. For example designing for biodiversity can include the retention of sensitive or valuable habitats present, or enhancements for protected species that may be present, whilst integrating other development design requirements such as drainage and engineering. By addressing ecological aspects early on, design aspects such as site layout can be tailored to provide enhancements and improvements for biodiversity that may not be possible later on within the design process. Measures to encourage biodiversity can include green roofs, planting and landscaping using native species, setting up bird and bat boxes and sustainable urban drainage systems. We would suggest that the following point is added to the policy wording: "The Council will ensure development seeks to produce a net gain in biodiversity by designing in wildlife, and ensuring any unavoidable impacts are appropriately mitigated for."

iii. BAP Targets - We would suggest that this policy is linked to the Essex Biodiversity Strategy (1999) which has established targets to boost priority habitats and targets. The policy should therefore include the additional wording: "The Council will promote wildlife enhancements which will contribute to the habitat and species restoration targets set out in the Essex Biodiversity Strategy."

iv. Landscape Character - In addition this policy, although it mentions "natural landscape" in the title does not fully cover the protection and enhancement of landscape character and quality. The Landscape Character Assessment of Essex (2002) should be specifically mentioned in the policy wording. LCAs are a tool to understand the intrinsic character of the landscape and direct appropriate sustainable development and should be used as part of the evidence base to underpin planning and management decisions in the preparation of the LDF. We therefore suggest the insertion of wording which seeks to achieve the following: "The landscape character and local distinctiveness of the District will be protected, conserved and where possible enhanced. Proposals for development will take into account the local distinctiveness and sensitivity to change of distinctive landscape character types. These landscape character types are described in the Essex Landscape Character Assessment"

ENV2 Coastal Protection Belt - Preferred Option
Whilst Natural England generally supports the aims of the preferred option and agrees with the overall approach of protecting the open character of the undeveloped coast and its important wildlife sites, we suggest that this policy should give explicit recognition to the implications of climate change and sea level rise, and the need for necessary adaptation. The current draft appears to defend a 'static' situation. We also draw your attention to policy SS9 of the East of England Plan, which states that LDDs should (inter alia):
• protect important coastal environmental assets, if practicable and sustainable without causing adverse impacts elsewhere. If it is not practicable to protect sites and habitats in situ, including sites of European or international importance for wildlife, shoreline management plans and development plans should include proposals for their long-term replacement and the recording of any lost historic assets;
investigate and pursue opportunities for the creation of new coastal habitats, such as salt marsh and mudflat, in areas identified for managed realignment. New development should not be permitted in such areas.

ENV4 Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDS) - Preferred Option
Natural England agrees that Sustainable Urban Drainage Systems (SUDs) should be encouraged within new developments as part of sustainable design. SUDS can be used to provide open space and wildlife habitats around areas of vegetation, water channels and storage ponds which are positive steps to increasing biodiversity.

ENV6 Large Scale Renewable Energy Projects - Preferred Option
Natural England agrees that large scale projects should only be considered where there is no significant adverse affect on the landscape or wildlife. We would also recommend that when considering locations for renewable energy installations that the Essex Landscape Character Assessment should be referred to. This will help to ensure that installations are located in places which will cause minimum impact on the surrounding landscape.

Notwithstanding the above, and the current policy wording to protect site integrity, we highlight to the Council the supplement to PPS1: Planning and Climate Change, which requires that: "19. In developing their core strategy and supporting local development documents, planning authorities should provide a framework that promotes and encourages renewable and low carbon energy generation. Policies should be designed to promote and not restrict renewable and low-carbon energy and supporting infrastructure."
And
"20. In particular, planning authorities should:.......
ensure any local approach to protecting landscape and townscape is consistent with PPS22 and does not preclude the supply of any type of renewable energy other than in the most exceptional circumstances"
Natural England therefore comments that an appropriate balance needs to be struck between site protection and the promotion of renewable and low-carbon energy generation projects. We also suggest that a fuller criteria-based policy is included in the Development Control Policies DPD.

ENV7 Small Scale Renewable Energy projects - Preferred Option
We are supportive of small scale energy projects as part of sustainable design and construction.


ENV8 Code for Sustainable Homes - Preferred Option
Natural England supports the preferred option as it is compatible with our own promotion of sustainable design and construction including energy efficiency in homes. We would draw the Council's attention to our project "A New Vernacular for the Countryside" which addresses broad sustainable design and construction principles for the countryside.

Transport

T5 Cycling and Walking - Preferred Option
Natural England supports the preferred option. Footpaths and cycleways should be provided as part of new development layouts which will contribute to sustainable transport and also provide informal recreation opportunities to help improve the health and well-being of residents.

T6 Greenways - Preferred Option
Natural England is supportive of the Thames Gateway Green Grid Strategy and would see the provision of greenways as a contribution to a wider network of green infrastructure. We therefore welcome this commitment to the implementation

Character of Place

CP1 Design - Preferred Option
Natural England supports this preferred option and acknowledges the importance of setting high standards of design in all new development. We would like to ensure that development is "good enough to approve", accessible to all, locally distinctive and makes a positive contribution to the character of the area, utilising the opportunities presented by the location. In particular we are glad to note that Village Design Statements have been included in the policy wording as this is an initiative which Natural England actively promotes.

In our previous comments on this issue we also made the point that opportunities should be sought to promote accessible greenspace provision that meets local requirements and provides functional links for people and wildlife. We recommended that the authority should consider the use of policies to promote the delivery and long-term management and maintenance of greenspace and green linkages.

Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism

CLT1 Planning Obligations and Standard Charges - Preferred Option
Natural England would suggest that countryside recreation projects including the management and maintenance of greenspace, wildlife sites and environmental improvements should be included in the list of activities that planning obligations and charges could contribute to.

CLT5 Opens Space - Preferred Option
Whilst Natural England supports the preferred option we consider that it should be expanded in greater detail. We would like the point emphasised that all development should incorporate sufficient new green space in accordance with Natural England's Natural Green Space Standards of achieving natural greenspace within 300m of every home.

The policy should also emphasise how open spaces and green areas could be improved and enhanced and linked to a wider network of open spaces, footpaths, amenity areas, river corridors i.e. Green Infrastructure. Wherever possible opportunities should be taken to improve the biodiversity and amenity value of these areas by suitable planting with native species or improved management regimes. It may also be possible to introduce footpaths or cycleways through these areas which would increase the provision of informal recreation and contribute to sustainable transport measures.

CT11 Tourism - Preferred Option
Natural England supports the preferred option particularly the proviso that green tourism projects should not adversely impact on character of place or biodiversity. We would reiterate our previous comments that it should be mentioned in the policy wording that this approach is consistent with the objectives of the Thames Gateway South Essex Greengrid. We would also make the point that the conversion of rural buildings could involve damage to protected species such as barn owls and this should be mentioned in the explanatory text.

Upper Roach Valley and Wallasea Island

URV1 Upper Roach Valley - Preferred Option
As we said in our previous comments Natural England supports the Council's preferred option for the enhancement and protection of the Upper Roach Valley including the Country Park. This provides an opportunity to link this area with the wider green infrastructure network and improve access to the countryside from surrounding areas. We suggest however that the policy is reworded to refer to 'appropriate management', as 'minimum of interference' as presently set out may not in fact 'permit certain flora and fauna to flourish.'

URV2 Wallasea Island - Preferred Option
Natural England supports the Council's preferred option as it supports the Wallasea Wild Coast Project which will create a variety of wildlife habitats and enhance the biodiversity of the area. We suggest however that the policy is reworded from 'no adverse impacts' to 'provided any adverse ecological impacts are avoided, mitigated, or compensated for.'

Habitat Regulations Assessment

As discussed in our responses to the previous Core Strategy Preferred Options and Strategic Environmental Assessment, dated 27 and 13 June 2007, we remind the Council that the Core Strategy will require assessment against the Habitats Regulations. I provide an extract below from our 27 June 2007 letter:

"Where a plan may affect a European site, the European Court of Justice ruling (October 2005), has concluded Article 6(3) of the Habitats Directive provides that any plan or project not directly connected with or necessary to the management of a European site but likely to have a significant effect thereon, either individually or in combination with other plans or projects, must be subject to appropriate assessment of its implications for the site in view of the site's conservation objectives. In practice, the SEA should aim to be sufficiently detailed in its assessment to address the requirements of The Habitats Directive 92/43/EEC of 21 May 1992.

The Assessment will require an initial screening of all policies alone and in combination with other plans and projects. This aims to establish whether any policies should be regarded as likely to cause/have a significant effect on the interest features of the European Sites, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects. Options should then be considered to establish whether amendments to individual policies, suite of policies or supporting text could effectively address concerns to 'not likely significant effect'.

Those policies that are still regarded as likely to have a significant effect will then require an appropriate assessment in accordance with Regulation 48 of the Habitat Regulations. National Government direction encourages local planning authorities to develop local development documents that clearly demonstrate that they avoid an adverse affect on the integrity of the Natura 2000 sites, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects.

Furthermore, consistent with the cross-border working that is necessary in delivering strategic solutions we recommend you gain a brief appreciation of the assessment from the developing Habitat Regulations Assessment for Southend on Sea Borough Council's Core Strategy (see Topic Papers for Examination in Public www.southend.gov.uk ).

Our initial assessment indicates that the particular elements of the strategic direction could be likely to have a significant effect, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects and these are listed below:

i) Overall growth targets, alone and in combination with relevant Regional growth area targets, will lead to increased population and subsequent increased recreational pressure on Natura 2000 sites.

ii) The aspirations for significant growth in airport movements at Southend Airport, which may result in increased air quality and/or disturbance impacts on Natura 2000 sites.

iii) Development in, or immediately adjacent to, intertidal or coastal areas that either requires land-take through encroachment or exacerbates the effects of coastal squeeze."

I trust these comments are of assistance to you and please do not hesitate to contact me if you wish to discuss any of the above further.

Executive summary

RW Land & Planning Ltd welcome the opportunity to submit representations on
behalf of J F Spencer & Son Ltd in response to the Core Strategy Preferred Options, published by Rochford District Council in October 2008.
This submission is split into two parts:

1. Core Strategy Representations
It is felt that the "Core Strategy Preferred Options" does not provide a balanced or
justified distribution of the housing numbers throughout the district and that key
sustainability principles have been disregarded when identifying the preferred housing allocations.

Accordingly, it is considered that Hockley, as a first tier settlement within the district should be allocated a larger proportion of the housing numbers in the area already identified on the Key Diagram as being suitable for housing growth (West Hockley).

2. Site Suitability Appraisal - Land and property at Folly Chase, Hockley

A suitability appraisal of land off Folly Chase, Hockley including the residential plot
known as Thistledown, demonstrates its suitability as a deliverable location for housing in line with the Core Strategy principles. The sites location, within walking distance of Hockley town centre and the available facilities, services and public transport links locally and regionally identify this site as being able to meet sustainability principles and should be considered
appropriate for development.

A Masterplan illustrates one of the many ways this site can be developed for housing and provide a deliverable opportunity to provide social housing within a sustainable location, reducing the reliance on the private car.
Appendix 1 - Site Suitability Matrix
Appendix 2 - Site Photographs

1. Core Strategy Representations
Sustainable Community Strategy - Page 6
We welcome the importance the Council place on the close links between the Sustainable Community Strategy and the Core Strategy including ensuring accessibility to services.
Housing Issues and Options - Page 16
We welcome the acceptance by the Council that infilling alone will not be able to provide the housing numbers necessary and that this would have an adverse effect on the character of the towns.

Whilst we acknowledge that the release of greenfield sites for development present
an opportunity to provide new infrastructure, it is surely more sustainable to concentrate additional housing on greenfield sites which benefit from existing infrastructure and nearby services. This would then enable Planning Obligations to improve services and facilities rather than having to focus on providing basic
infrastructure.

Transport Issues and Options - Page 18
It is acknowledged within the Core Strategy that car dependency within the district
is higher away from the main three settlements of Rayleigh, Hockley/Hawkwell and
Rochford/Ashingdon, primarily due to the rail links within these three towns.

This principle of sustainable development therefore dictates, unless there is a justifiable reason, that the majority of the housing proposed should be within or adjacent to the main three settlements.

Settlements Issues and Options - Page 20
We welcome the four tiers of settlements and the Council's acknowledgment that Hockley is classed as a Tier One settlement containing a "local town centre catering for local need".
We also agree that the Second tier Settlements of Hullbridge and Great Wakering have a "more limited range of services access to public transport is relatively poor".

H1 Distribution - Preferred Option
We acknowledge that brownfield sites should take priority over the development of
Greenfield sites. However, with a rising housing market over recent years, many of the sites identified in the Urban Capacity Study still remain undeveloped it could be argued that if the sites were suitable for development they would have come forward by now. The Council must therefore demonstrate that there is evidence to
suggest that the remaining sites are genuinely available and deliverable within the specified phased timescale.

If they are not deemed to be available, the housing must be allocated on greenfield sites associated with a Tier One settlement.

H2 General Locations and Phasing - Preferred Option

It is welcomed that the Core Strategy accepts that greenfield development will be necessary in order to achieve the required housing numbers.
As set out in the H2 chart and Key diagram, the reliance of Tier Two and Three settlements (Hullbridge, Great Wakering and Canewdon) to provide 860 houses pre 2021 is unsustainable, unjustified and contrary to sustainable planning
guidance at national, regional and local level.

It is acknowledged by the Core Strategy that the Tier Two and Three Settlements only having limited services and poor public transport links and despite this, over 34% of the greenfield housing allocations have been located here without justification.

We acknowledge that development in Tier Two and Three Settlements is necessary to ensure that village communities continue to grow. However, there has been no justification provided that warrants such a large percentage of the overall housing numbers being allocated to these lower tier settlements.

The distribution of the greenfield housing allocations as it stands is contrary to PPS3 which provides clear local level guidance for Core Strategies when deciding on housing locations:
"...at the local level, Local Development Documents should set out a strategy for
the planned location of new housing which contributes to the achievement of
sustainable development." Part of which is "...the contribution to be made to cutting carbon emissions from focusing new development in locations with good public transport accessibility and/or by means other than the private car..."
Even with significant public transport improvements, residents will have to travel a
substantial distance to Rayleigh, Hockley/Hawkwell or Rochford/Ashingdon in order to catch a train and go beyond the local area. This level of development in the lower tier locations are promoting a significant increase in carbon emissions, contrary to PPS3, even if the residents travel by public transport, which the Core Strategy accepts is not the current situation, with high car dependency.

Despite being a Tier One Settlement with an active and diverse town centre and good public transport including a train station, Hockley has only been allocated 50 houses (2% of the total greenfield allocation within the district). This goes against the Core Strategy vision of concentrating development on Upper Tier settlements which have the services and facilities to accommodate additional development.
In light of this unsustainable and unsound approach to housing distribution, Policy H2 General Locations and Phasing - Preferred Option and the Key diagram should be amended to reduce the proposed housing numbers associated with Tier Two and Three settlements and redistribute the surplus to Tier One Settlements and Hockley in particular which has received an unnecessarily low number of houses
despite existing services and facilities to accommodate additional development.

It is proposed in the analysis set out in Appendix 1 that Land at Folly Chase, West Hockley is suitable and capable of accommodating circa 200 houses. Policy H2 should be amended to reflect this.

We welcome a flexible approach to the release of land in order to maintain a five year land supply is supported and necessary. It is imperative, however that in assessing the release of land, the landowners willingness to sell or develop the site is taken into account.

We welcome the identification of West Hockley as being a suitable location for development pre-2015.

H2 Alternative Options
We welcome the comments regarding North East Hockley and agree that the location would place undue pressure on the highway network and that it is unviable for development.

H3 General Locations - Post 2021
The continued reliance on lower tier settlements post 2021 is again unjustified and
unsustainable with 340 homes proposed. These locations, even following improvements to the infrastructure will not provide genuine alternatives to the private car due to the length of journeys required to get to services, facilities and employment.

H4 Affordable Housing
The 35% level proposed must be based on sound qualitative evidence with the flexibility to be reduced if there are site specific circumstances that warrant it.

We do not accept the desire by the Core Strategy to "pepper pot" social housing
throughout developments, it causes difficulty for Housing Associations to manage their properties effectively and efficiently. This should be amended to allow for clusters of social housing units in say, groups of 15-20.

H5 Dwelling Types
Whilst we acknowledge that PPS3 suggests that local level planning documents should assist in developing a suitable mix of houses on sites, PPS3 para 23 also states that developers should "...bring forward proposals that reflect demand and the profile of households requiring market housing...". It is therefore imperative
that H5 makes reference to the influence of market demands and does not solely
rely on the advice of the Strategic Housing Team as the policy currently intimates.

H6 Lifetime Homes
We welcome the fact that the pursuit of 100% Lifetime Homes from 2010 will be viability tested.
H Appendix 1

We welcome the associated infrastructure required in relation to development at
West Hockley.

As part of the development of Land off Folly Chase, Hockley, further community benefits beyond those listed could be included, such as a new community woodland and play space.
Proposed development at the lower tier settlements (Hullbridge, Great Wakering
and Canewdon) are reliant on significant public transport improvements which sequentially is contrary to sustainability principles of focusing development in areas of good public transport, with the ability to improve further.

ENV3 Flood Risk
We welcome the proposal to pursue development in areas which fall into Flood
Zone 1 and the use of the sequential test in PPS25.

ENV4 Sustainable Urban Drainage
SUDS is not always the best environmental option for dealing with drainage. We welcome the viability test intended to identify those sites where SUDS is not appropriate.

ENV8 Renewable Energy
We recognise the Core Strategies desire to adhere to the Code for Sustainable Homes star rating, however, there remains a doubt as to whether Code Level 6 is realistically achievable within the current timescales. There will always be the potential for National Policies to alter the rating system and timescales. There is a
requirement for the Core Strategy to remain flexible and be in parity with The Code for Sustainable Homes, or its successor. Moving away from the Code should it alter, would alienate the Districts development sites from developers and reduce the likelihood of them being built within the Core Strategy phasing timescales.

We welcome the decision to not pursue the 10% renewable "Merton Rule" as piecemeal renewable energy production is not an efficient approach to its production.

T1 Highways
We welcome the objective to locate and design housing developments that reduce the reliance on the private car.

T2 Public Transport
We welcome the objective developments must be well related to public transport, or accessible by means other than the private car.

RTC1 Retail
We welcome the designation of Hockley as a district centre and that retail developments will be focussed towards it along with Rayleigh and Rochford.

RTC5 Hockley Town Centre
We welcome the proposals contained within this policy for the improvement of facilities, services and town centre living within Hockley Town centre.

CLT1 Planning Obligations and Standard Charges
We welcome the continued use of Planning Obligations to secure reasonable on and off site improvements as set out in Circular 05/2005.
Standard charges must take into account the level of impact the future residents are likely to have on the strategic infrastructure and be negotiated on a site by site basis.

[more details including photographs regarding the site put forward can be found our ref allocations no. 69]