Policy DM24 - Houseboats

We support this policy. However, due to their nature, houseboats are likely to be located in areas at high risk of flooding. In accordance with the NPPF, development in Flood Zone 3 is required to pass the Sequential Test and to be supported by a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment, of which the safety of occupants must be an important consideration. We therefore suggest that the following text is added to the 3rd paragraph of this policy, to ensure that due consideration is given to the wider setting of the moorings and how this might affect the safety of the occupants during a flood event, such as if there is safe access/egress to higher ground:
"Permanent moorings and associated infrastructure, where permitted, should not cause disturbance or pollution to the surrounding environment, and should not adversely impact on the appearance of the local area, the objectives of the Green Belt, or the commercial or leisure use of the rivers and surroundings. They should only be permitted where the Local Planning Authority is satisfied that the development has a tolerable level of safety for occupants in a flood event."