Local Plan Main Modifications Consultation
Policy 47: Design Principles
| Local Plan page number | Policy or paragraph Local Plan | Proposed Change | Justification |
|---|---|---|---|
| 144 | Policy 47: Criterion 1(i) | Be based on a sound understanding of site constraints and [added] the [removed] context, integrating into the surroundings and responding to natural and historic features, local history, culture and heritage. | Effective |
| 144 | Policy 47 |
Development proposals will be expected to satisfy requirements of [removed] meet the specific policy requirements regarding design set out in made Neighbourhood Plans and to satisfy the requirements of [added] any adopted local design guide or design code where relevant to the proposal. |
Effective |
| 145 | Policy 47: Supporting text |
Embedding opportunities for wildlife and nature in the design of new development proposals is a key priority. Designing nature into schemes from the outset will contribute to delivering high-quality environments and supporting opportunities for climate change mitigation and resilience. Such measures could provide opportunities to support existing wildlife networks and corridors. [added] The use of wildlife design features such as swift bricks, bat boxes and hedgehog highways will be encouraged in design proposals. [added] |
Effective |
| 145 | Policy 47: Supporting text | Development proposals should be designed to ensure users have access to adequate internal and external space. National Described Space Standards (NDSS) deals with internal space within new dwellings. Regard should be had to these space standards, where possible. Policy 20: Technical Design Standards for New Homes should also inform the size of new residential dwellings. [added] | Effective |
What to consider when making a representation
What are the tests of soundness and legal compliance?
The purpose of the examination is to consider whether the local plan complies with relevant legal requirements for producing local plans, including the duty to cooperate, and meets the national tests of ‘soundness’ for local plans set out in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
Therefore, representations submitted at this stage must only be made on these grounds and, where relevant, be supported with evidence to demonstrate why these tests have not been met.
Legal compliance
To be legally compliant the plan has to be prepared in accordance with the duty to cooperate and legal and procedural requirements, including the 2011 Localism Act and Town and County Planning (Local Planning) (England) Regulations 2012 (as amended).
Soundness
The inspector conducting the examination in public has to be satisfied that the local plan is ‘sound’; namely that it is:
• Positively prepared – the plan should be prepared based on a strategy which seeks to meet objectively assessed development and infrastructure requirements, including unmet requirements from neighbouring authorities where it is reasonable to do so and consistent with achieving sustainable development.
• Justified – the plan should be the most appropriate strategy, when considered against the reasonable alternatives, based on proportionate evidence.
• Effective – the plan should be deliverable over its period and based on effective joint working on cross-boundary strategic priorities, and
• Consistent with national policy – the plan should enable the delivery of sustainable development in accordance with the policies in the NPPF.