Villages and Local Neighbourhood Centres

I wish to object and/or comment on the following Strategic Priorities in the IAO document:

SP1:1. Homes and jobs needed in the area: the IAO document talks about 'prioritising the use of previously developed land i.e brownfield first'. However, there are already 500 new houses to be built in Hullbridge on previously undeveloped land so this priority has not been adhered to in this instance.

SP2:8 IAO refers to 'support continued use and sustainability of our village and neighbourhood centres'. How can we sustain the centre of Hullbridge when it will be put under immense pressure with the advent of 500 additional properties and therefore approximately 1,000 extra vehicles? The proposed dwellings in addition to the 500 would make the village situation untenable. Indeed, it would no longer be a village but a town. We want Hullbridge to remain a village.

SP3:9 IAO talks of ensuring 'that all new homes...are supported by appropriate, timely and necessary infrastructure including transport, utilities, .....flood risk, education, health etc. Where is the infrastructure that is talked about here? Hullbridge has no planned or prior infrastructure to support new homes.

SP3:10. IAO says there will be 'meaningful improvements to the local highway network'. Where are these improvements to be found to support the village of Hullbridge?

SP3:11. IAO talks of 'reducing out-commuting' but how is this possible for a village like Hullbridge which has little or no industry meaning that most residents have to travel by car to other larger towns for work? How can we deliver realistic and meaningful travel options for our communities like Hullbridge over the next 20 years?

SP3:13 How do we address water and flood risk management especially in our river and coastal regions? There remains flood risk on Watery Lane and environs despite intervention.

SP4: 14 IAO talks of 'access to good quality social and health and well-being services' but there is only one gp surgery in Hullbridge so how will this cope with the influx of people from 500 new houses, let alone any further proposed houses? Well-being is emphasised throughout the IAO document but there is such a long wait for counselling that I have had to pay privately to attend sessions.

SP5: 19 IAO speaks of the need 'to protect, maintain and enhance our natural environment... support wildlife'. However, hedges and trees have already been cut down along the approach to Hullbridge in readiness for building houses and these fields are home to an abundance of wildlife including foxes, squirrels, birds etc Where will these wild creatures go for their habitat?

SP5 20: IAO speaks of ensuring 'Green Belt retains openness of area, protecting valued landscapes, retaining physical separation between towns and villages'. In Hullbridge, we value our openness of area and have highly valued landscapes, particularly to the SW of the village which are in danger of being destroyed by building. Any further building will result in there being no separation between village and towns, just a merging of dwellings and a destruction of individual characteristics of place. How do we protect our beautiful natural habitats and meet the five Green Belt purposes?

SP5 22: the South Essex SHMA and The Environmental Capacity Study' are 'uncertain that the district has the capacity to accommodate the level of growth ' needed i.e 240 pus homes a year to 2025 and beyond.

Other points I wish to make are:

The Core Strategy has 'recognised congestion and capacity issues' in terms of traffic and that these 'could have a detrimental affect on environment and health' in the local area. It has been found that there is a 'lack of resilience on the local highway network with large volumes of traffic queuing at key junctions and stationery vehicles along main routes'. This has a negative impact on journey times and ability of residents to not only reach their destinations in a timely manner but also to leave their village or town. The residents of Hullbridge have expressed concern about being able to exit the village and on a number of occasions there has been gridlock meaning that I have been unable to get to work at all. The traffic issues are very stressful and would only become worse with additional homes and vehicles in the area. The Essex County Council's Sustainable Modes of Travel Strategy 2016 require residential travel plans for schemes of 250 plus new houses. Where can these be found? How can traffic management be improved?

On page 121 of the IAO document, reference is made to national policy where 'planning should minimise vulnerability and provide resilience to impacts of climate change, flood risk, landscape etc The River Crouch is recognised for its wildlife and natural habitats and must retain its open rural character. The Ramsar Convention is just one directive in place to protect wildlife.
On page 131 the Essex Wildlfe Trust identify the River Crouch as 'living landscape' and it would be criminal to destroy such landscape. Land to the SW of Hullbridge is designated Coastal Protection Belt and therefore not available/ suitable for building upon. We are urged to 'protect and enhance our distinctive landscapes and plan for biodiversity', not cover them with concrete.
We are proud of our green landscape and wish to preserve it.
Pages 140 and 163 mention air quality and light pollution. How can these be managed now and in the future? Air quality is already very poor in some areas and would worsen if more houses and vehicles were introduced into an already densely populated area. This could affect health and well-being of residents, particularly the young and elderly.
Light pollution has a negative effect on ecology and wildlife, obscures vision of the stars, spoils the rural fell of the area and causes stress and anxiety.

All these concerns and more I am registering here. As a resident of Hullbridge, I am proud to live in a village and moved here to dwell in a village. I wish Hullbridge to remain a village and retain its unique character.

Response to Rochford District Council's New Local Plan Issues and Options Document
8P1.3 How do we plan for the and facilite the delivery of our need for new homes over the 20 years within the District?

6.48 The most redistrict option would be a new option of a settlement in the west of the district in the Battlesbridge/Rawreth area, thus allowing easier access to London, Chelmsford, Basildon Southend and Thurrock, because of the supherb highway network. Ifrastructure would be provided as the village was build thus reducting the pressure on existing villages. Garden villages are supported by the government therefore Option E would be the best option, although option C is supported by many resdients the effect is to urbanise existing villages.

Table six implied size of housing required 2014-2017
6.59 A need for smaller properties in particular bungalows has been identified, therefore, option a combination of E and F should be considered to ensure an mixed community. Any increase in density on new sites although allowing for less land to be developed would reduce the enjoyment for existing residents.

Highway Infrastructure
SP31 What is the realistic options P83 option B should be supported. Prioritise local highways and junctions between Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford (B1013) and support direct funds to improve local highway network. I would not support option C, this option would ecourage use of the route through winding roads that are unsuitable for further traffic movements.

P105 Education and skills
SPH.3 How do we facilitate the delivery of education skills development for the next 20 years. Would support the combination Option A&B. It is essential that land allocated for schools must not be allowed to be used for other puposes once it been set aside.

Page 109 Early years and childcare provision
9.36 What are the realistic options Page 114 would support option B.

Page 162 Advertizing and signage
DP13 How do we manage signage across the district?
11.72 What are the realistic options?
Liked A but feel it be strengthened over the last few year there has been increase on advertising boards on side of building grass verges with no reference to adjacent business and A board blocking pavements to the determent of people with poor vision disabled persons bugies and mobility scooters.

Most of the local plan first phase has been provided in the Hawkwell/Rochford parishes and this along with post 2021 phase between Oxford Road and The Drive Rochford with a further 500+ houses will provide 2000 house in the Ashingdon Road Rectory Road Hall Road area causing even greater pressure of these roads which already apparent. The main problem is lack of infrastructure.

Page 76 SP2.2 Villages and Local Neighhood Centres
What are realistic options?
I would support Option A retaining the existing core strategy policy. It is important to retain facilities and not all as shops to be turned into housing and other not retail uses. Without these facilities villages will die and lack community intergration and cohesion.

Page 67 6117 Would support D Core Strategy T2 seek to improve roads providing surface excess to London Southend Airport.

Table 10 requirement for economic land in Rochford District.
Land provided for industrial or office use should be kept as such and not allowed to be used for retail or leisure such as purdys and eldenway estates this just means we have to supply more employment land in the future.

REF: CFS061/CFS062 - Land north and south of Lambourne Hall Road, Canewdon

Point SP 1.1: (Objectively Assessed Need)
Rochford District Council must provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum under the Objectively Assessed Need. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these areas are also under pressure to supply housing. Rochford Council should ensure a supply is provided to achieve the requirement of housing and go further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints. The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

To meet the target of supplying at least 331 houses per annum additional land must be included in the local plan. For this reason option C. several small extensions to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. This site will complement an extension to the existing village, but is still bound by residential development further to the west/

Point SP2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services including shops and public houses. The site would be within 800m to these services proving easy access is available to these.

Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.' The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need for the village services in Canewdon making the village sustainable.

Given the above, option A. to retain the existing Core Strategy policy should be adopted.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?
The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.

The above land and referred to in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment should be considered. The land meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites like this from the Green Belt easier and hence the support for option B to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS060 - Land west of Little Wakering Road, Little Wakering

Point SP 1.1 (Objectively Assessed Need.) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Rochford District Council are obliged to provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum by the Objectively Assessed Need. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these areas are likewise under pressure to supply housing. Rochford Council should ensure they have a supply to meet the requirements and go further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints.' The Council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?
Additional land must be included in the local plan for future development and to meet the target of supplying at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason option C. Several small sections to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. As detailed in the site SHLAA summary the site is located close to the existing residential area and be considered a small extension to the existing area.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services including shops and public houses. The site would be within 800m to these amenities showing easy access to these.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retial uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the land would further increase demand and support the village services in Little Wakering improving the sustainability.

Given the above option A. to retain the existing Core Strategy policy should be adopted.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?

The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.
The above land referred to in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment should be considered. The land meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites like this from the Green Belt and hence the support for option B. to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS085 - Land and Buildings at Rochford Hall, Rochford

Point SP 1.1: (Objectively Assessed Need) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Rochford District Council are under an obligation to provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum under the Objectively Assessed Need of. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these areas are also under pressure to supply housing. Rochford Council must guarantee they have a supply to meet this, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints. The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Additional land must be included in the local plan for future development to meet the obligation to supply at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason option C. Several small sections to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. Given this is a small site and very close to other residential development it would easily meet this target.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

In response to the above, the development of the site would be approximately 0.4 miles to Rochford Square. The development would support the use of the facilities and option A. should be retained to ensure the future security of the facilities.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?

The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.
Given the above the land referred to in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment should be considered as it meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites like this from the Green Belt and hence the support for option B to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS057 - Land north of Poynters Lane, Great Wakering

Point SP 1.1: (Objectively Assessed Need.) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Rochford District Council is under a duty from the Objectively Assessed Need to provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate to provide any of Rochford Districts Councils requirement as these authorities are similarly under pressure to supply housing. Rochford District Council should ensure they have a supply to meet the requirement, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints. The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Additional land should be included in the local plan for future development to meet the target of supplying at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason option C. Several small sections to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. As detailed in the site SHLAA summary the site is located close to the existing residential area and be considered a small extension to the existing area.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services at Great Wakering including shops and public houses. The site is within 500 metres of the services.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need for the village services in Great Wakering improving the sustainability of these services.

Given the above option A. to retain the existing Core Strategy policy should be adopted.


Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?
The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.
Given the above, the land referred to in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment should be considered. The land meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites like this from the Green Belt and hence the support for option B to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

RE: Land at Mount Bovers Lane

Point SP 1.1: (Objectively Assessed Need) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Rochford District Council must provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum in the district as required for by the Objectively Assessed Need. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these authorities are equally under pressure to supply housing. The authority should ensure they have a supply to meet the requirements, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints. The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

The above land should be included in the local plan for future residential development to meet the condition to supply at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason Option C. Several Small extensions to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. The site is located close to existing residential development so would be a suitable small extension to the residential area.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the neighbourhood centre of Hockely.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need for the services provided in Hockley thus improving the sustainability of these services.

Given the above, option A. to retain the existing Core Strategy policy should be adopted.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?
The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.
The above land should be considered for development. The land meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. The current policy should be amended to release sustainable sites like the above from the Green Belt and hence the support for option B to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS166 - Paglesham Church End

Point SP 1.1: (Objectively Assessed Need) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Rochford District Council should provide their housing in the district at the level set by the Objectively Assessed Need of between 331 to 361 houses per annum. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these authorities are also under pressure to supply housing. Neighbouring authorities may also be looking to share their requirement with Rochford Council providing the shortfall. The authority should ensure they have a supply to meet the requirements, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints. The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Additional land should be included in the local plan for future residential development to meet the target of supplying the minimum 331 houses per annum. For this reason Option C. Several Small extensions to the existing area would be the best way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. As detailed in the site SHLAA summary the site is located close to existing residential area so be considered a small extension to the existing area.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services of the public houses. The site be within 30m of one public house showing easy access.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need for the services provided in Paglesham improving the sustainability of these services.

Given the above, option A. should be adopted to retain the existing Core Strategy policy.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?

The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.
Given the above, the land in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment referred to above should be considered as it meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites like the above from the Green Belt easier and hence the support for option B to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

RE: Land to the west of Little Wakering Road and east of Cramps Farm Little Wakering

Point SP 1.1 (Objectively Assessed Need.) We have a real and identified for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Response: Rochford District Council is required to provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum set out in the Objectively Assessed Need of. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these areas are similarly under pressure to supply housing. Rochford District Council must provide this supply going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints.' The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt such as that explained above, and as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Response:

The Local Plan should incorporate additional land for development to achieve the obligation of delivering at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason option C. several small extensions to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum housing requirements in the Rochford District. The land is surrounded by residential development and so would be considered a small extension to the settlement.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our villages and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services including shops and public houses. The site is within 800m to these services presenting easy access to these.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need for the village services in Little Wakering improving the sustainability of these services.

Option A. to retain the existing Core Strategy policy should be adopted.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district, and the wider South Essex area?

Response: The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.

The five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas
2. to prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another
3. to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment
4. to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns, and
5. to assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

The Councils approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are:

1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identifies of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of development green tourism in the District.

The above land should be included in the local plan for residential development given the above points and requirements and one and two. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites including this land from the Green Belt and hence the support for option B. to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS121 - Land north of A127 Rayleigh

Point SP 1.1 (Objectively Assessed Need.) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Response:

Rochford District Council must provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum in the district as required for by the Objectively Assessed Need. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these authorities are similarly under pressure to supply housing. The authority should ensure they have a supply to meet the requirements, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints.' The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3. How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Response:

The above land should be included in the local plan for future residential development to meet the condition to supply at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason option C. Several small extensions to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. As detailed in the site SHLAA summary the site is located close to the existing residential area and be considered a small extension to the existing area.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the neighbourhood centre of Rayleigh.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need for services provided in Rayleigh thus improving the sustainability of these services.

Given the above option A. to retain the existing Core Strategy policy should be adopted.

Point SP 5.1. How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district, and the wider South Essex area?

Response:

The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to guarantee development is always sustainable.

The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. to prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. to assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

The Councils approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence.
3. Ensure existing lawful business in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regarding to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.

The above land referred to in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment should be considered for development. The land meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. The current policy should be amended to release sustainable sites like the above from the Green Belt and hence the support for option B. to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS122 - Land north of Paglesham Road

Point SP 1.1 (Objectively Assessed Need.) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Response:

Rochford District Council has to provide from 331 to 361 houses per annum by the Objectively Assessed Need of. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these areas are also under pressure to supply housing. The authority should meet their requirements and go beyond the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints.' The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Response:

To meet the requirement of 331 homes per annum additional land is required. For this reason option C. Several Small extensions to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. As detailed in the site SHLAA summary the site is located close to the existing residential area and be considered a suitable small extension to the existing area.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the facilities of the public house close to the site.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

Given the above option A. to Retain the existing Core Strategy policy should be undertaken.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district, and the wider South Essex area?

Response:

The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always Sustainable.

The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. to prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. to assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

The Councils approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence.
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.

The above land referred to the Strategic Housing Land Assessment should be considered, as it meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. there should also be an amendment to the current policy to release this site from the Green Belt and hence the support for option B. to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

RE: Land south of Pooles Lane, Hullbridge

Point SP 1.1 (Objectively Assessed Need.) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Response:

Rochford District Council should provide the housing in the district as required by the Objectively Assessed Need of between 331 to 361 houses per annum. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these areas are also under pressure to supply housing. Neighbouring Authorities may also be relying on Rochford to meet their deficit in supply. Rochford District Council should ensure they have a supply to meet their minimum requirements, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints.' To achieve this the Council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below to meet the demands.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Response:

Additional from that land already in the SHLAA the above land should be included in the local plan for future development to meet the target of supplying at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason option C. (Several Small extensions to the existing area) would be one good way to achieve the annual housing requirement in the Rochford District. This site would be considered a small extension to the existing residential area and help meet Rochford Councils requirements.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services including shops and public houses. The site would be within 800m to these services showing easy access to these.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need for the village services in Hullbridge improving the sustainability of these services.

Given the above option A. should be adopted to retain the existing Core Strategy policy.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?

Response:

The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as repeated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always Sustainable.

The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas
2. to prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another
3. to assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment
4. to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns, and
5. to assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land

The Councils approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regarding to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.

The above land should be considered, as it meets the requirements for new housing set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites along with the above from the Green Belt easier and hence the support for option B. to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS075 - Land at Canewdon Hall Farm, Canewdon

Point SP 1.1: (Objectively Assessed Need) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Rochford District Council must provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum in the district as required for by the Objectively Assessed Need. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these authorities are equally under pressure to supply housing. The authority should ensure they have a supply to meet the requirements, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints. The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Response:

Additional land should be included in the local plan for future development to meet the target of supplying no less than 331 houses per annum. For this reason Option C. Several Small extensions to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the annual house obligation in the Rochford District. As detailed in the site SHLAA summary the site is located close to the existing residential area and should be considered a suitable small extension to the existing area.

Point SP 2.2. How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services including shops and public houses. The site would be within 575m to these services showing easy access to these.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would increase the demand and support the need for the village services in Canewdon improving the sustainability.

Given the above option A. should be adopted to retain the existing Core Strategy policy.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?
The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.

Given the above the land referred to in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment should be considered. The land meets the requirements for new housing set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release this sustainable site from the Green Belt, hence the support for option B to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS058 - Land South of Anchor Lane, Canewdon

Point SP 1.1: (Objectively Assessed Need) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Rochford District Council should provide between 331 to 361 houses per annum in the district as required for by the Objectively Assessed Need. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate to assisting in providing this. Neighbouring authorities are also under pressure with similar constraints to supply housing at themselves may rely on neighbouring authorities to meet their underperformance. Rochford District Council should ensure they achieve the minimum requirements, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints. The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Additional land should be included in the local plan for future development to meet the target of supplying at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason Option C. Several Small extensions to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. As detailed in the site SHLAA summary the site is located close to existing residential area and be considered a small extension to the existing area to make use of the services Canewdon already benefits from.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services including shops and public houses. The site would be within 650m to these services showing easy access to these.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need for the village services in Canewdon improving the sustainability of these services, as set out in the SHLAA suitability summary.

Given the above option A. should be adopted to retain the existing Core Strategy policy.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?
The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.

Given the above the land referred to in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment should be considered in the local plan. The land meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites like this from the Green Belt easier and hence the support for option B to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.

REF: CFS090 - Land south of Paglesham Road, Paglesham East End

Point SP 1.1: (Objectively Assessed Need) We have a real and identified need for affordable homes in the district and an ageing population, so how do we sustainably meet our need for market and affordable homes, and homes for older people and adults with disabilities over the next 20 years?

Rochford District Council should provide the housing in the district as required for by the Objectively Assessed Need of between 331 to 361 houses per annum. Rochford Council should not rely on neighbouring authorities Duty to Cooperate as these areas are also under pressure to supply housing. The authority should ensure they have a supply to meet this, going further than the proposed option A. 'Seek to provide as much of the district's housing need within our area, as far as possible, given environmental and other constraints. The council must consider releasing more land from the Green Belt, as detailed in the response to Point SP 5.1 below.

Point SP 1.3: How do we plan to facilitate the delivery of our need for new homes over the next 20 years within the district?

Response:

Additional land should be included in the local plan for future development and to meet the target of supplying at least 331 houses per annum. For this reason option C. Several Small extensions to the existing area would be one good way to achieve the minimum of 331 houses per annum in the Rochford District. As detailed in the site SHLAA summary the site is located close to the existing residential area and be considered a suiable small extension to the existing area.

Point SP 2.2: How do we continue to support local facilities in our village and neighbourhood centres?

The development would support the village services including public houses. The site would be within 10m to these services showing easy access to these.

'Core Strategy policy RTC3 seeks to protect retail uses within residential areas and will only permit the loss of such retail uses where it has been clearly demonstrated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposed alternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.'

The development of the site would further increase the demand and support the need of the village services in Paglesham improving the sustainability of these services.

Given the above option A. should be adopted to retain the existing Core Strategy policy.

Point SP 5.1: How do we balance protection of the district's Green Belt that the meets the five Green Belt purposes, against the need to deliver new homes and jobs across the district and the wider South Essex area?
The principle of the Green Belt is to keep a sense of openness between built up areas. The development of the Green Belt should only happen in exceptional circumstances, but as reiterated by Government publications the plan-led system should review the existing Green Belt boundary to ensure development is always sustainable.
The Five purposes of the Green Belt are:
1. To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
2. To prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another;
3. To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;
4. To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and
5. To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.
The Council's approach to the Green Belt is set out in the Core Strategy adopted in December 2011. The four objectives of the Core Strategy for the Green Belt are;
1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District's Green Belt.
2. Ensure the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District's housing and employment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in sustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevent coalescence
3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to function and contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.
4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.

Given the above the land in in the Strategic Housing Land Assessment referred to above should be considered, as it meets the requirements for new housing as set out in points one and two above. There should also be an amendment to the current policy to release sustainable sites like this from the Green Belt easier and hence the support for option B to amend the current Green Belt policy in the Core Strategy.