Further Proposed Modifications to the North Hertfordshire Local Plan 2011- 2031

Ended on the 24 June 2021

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(111)FM 010

Page 6, Paragraph 1.5 and Footnote 1

Modification

More than 8 in 10 ~~(86.9%)~~ (87.6%) of North Hertfordshire's 16-64 year olds are economically active (in or seeking employment) compared to a national figure of 79% ~~77.8%~~¹¹. The unemployment rate in North Hertfordshire is ~~3.4%~~ 2.8%; this is below the East of England figure ~~(3.8%)~~ (3.6%) and below the national rate (4.2%) ~~(5.1%)~~¹². Approximately 1 in 5 ~~(13.1%)~~ (12.4%) of North Hertfordshire's 16-64 year olds are economically inactive¹³.

¹¹ Nomis ( ~~2016~~ 2020) – Official Labour Market Statistics; Employment and unemployment ~~(Apr 2015 – Mar 2016)~~ (Oct 2019 – Sept 2020)

¹² Nomis ~~(2016)~~ (2020) – Model based estimates of unemployment ~~(July 2016)~~ (Sept 2020)

¹³ Nomis ~~(2016)~~ (2020) – Official Labour Market Statistics; Employment and unemployment ~~(Apr 2015 – Mar 2016)~~ (Oct 2019 – Sept 2020)

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

FM 019

Page 12, Paragraph 2.11 and footnote 14

Modification

According to the ~~2015~~ 2019 Index of Multiple Deprivation, North Hertfordshire is relatively affluent compared to other local authority areas. The District ranks ~~271st~~ 269^th out of ~~326~~ 317 local authority areas in England (1 being the most deprived)¹⁴. None of the District's population lives in areas within the bottom 10% of Super Output Areas (SOA) nationally, i.e. in the most deprived parts of the country. North Hertfordshire does however have ~~four~~ five areas in the next two cohorts, i.e. those which are in the top 30% are seen as being most deprived, this includes one area in Hitchin and ~~three~~ four in Letchworth Garden City.

¹⁴ ~~Department for Communities and Local Government (2015) – English indices of deprivation 2015~~ Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government English indices of deprivation 2019

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(2)FM 020

Page 12-13, Paragraph 2.12 and footnote 15

Modification

On the whole the quality of life in North Hertfordshire is good. Life expectancy in North Hertfordshire is similar to the national figure; the male rate is currently ~~80.4~~ 81 years compared to ~~79.4~~ 79.8 years for England, and the female equivalent is ~~83.2~~ 84.3 years compared to ~~83.1~~ 83.7 years nationally. Life expectancy is ~~3.7~~ 4.7 years lower for men in the most deprived areas of North Hertfordshire than in the least deprived areas¹⁵.

¹⁵ Public Health England ~~(2015)~~ (2019 - 2020) – North Hertfordshire Health Profile ~~2015~~

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(1)FM 021

Page 13, Paragraph 2.14 and footnote 16

Modification

Adult and child obesity rates in North Hertfordshire are below the national and regional averages. Adult obesity rates in the District at 2020 were 58.2% of all adults compared with a national rate of 62.3% which still presents a key challenge for the District ~~19.1% v 23.0% for adults and 12.6% v 19.1% for children; however, these figures still present a key challenge for the District~~¹⁶.

¹⁶ Public Health England ~~(2015)~~ (2019 - 2020) – Obesity Profile North Hertfordshire ~~Health Profile 2015~~

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(1)FM 022

Page 13, Paragraph 2.15 and footnote 17

Modification

Like most areas North Hertfordshire did not escape the detrimental affects of the economic downturn in 2009 and many variables including unemployment and job growth figures suffered as result. Figures have only recently returned to pre-2008 levels and the local employment environment is improving and the figures are moving in the right direction. It is estimated that there are around ~~48,800~~ 54,000 jobs¹⁷ in North Hertfordshire.

¹⁷ ~~Nomis (2014)~~ Nomis Local Authority Profile 2019

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(1)FM 023

Page 13, Paragraph 2.18

Modification

The District has a working age population of ~~81,700~~ 81,600 of which ~~71,800~~ 76,700 are economically active. The majority of these are employees and work full-time but a small proportion of the population are self employed ~~(10.4%)~~ (10.5%).

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(1)FM 024

Page 13, Paragraph 2.19

Modification

In 2015 the median gross pay for full-time workers in the area (residence based) was £637.3 per week. This was considerably higher than the median earnings of those living in the East of England region (£551.0 per week) and the National Average (£529.6 per week), reflecting the high earnings associated with the proportion of the public that commute out of the District.

In 2020, the median gross pay for full time employees was £644.10 per week which compares favourably with the national average of £586.70.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(2)FM 025

Page 13, Paragraph 2.20

The North Hertfordshire ~~Corporate Plan 2017-2021recently reviewed in 2016~~ Council Plan 2021 – 2026 sets out the Council's vision and corporate objectives for the District. The council's vision set out in the ~~Corporate~~ Council Plan is:

~~'making North Hertfordshire a vibrant place to live, work and prosper'~~

"To make North Hertfordshire a district in which everyone who lives, works or visits is able to flourish."

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(1)FM 037

Page 21, Paragraph 2.60

Modification

The Corporate Plan draws together the key elements of the Council's proposals for how it will serve the District over the next few years. As well as looking at the current status of the authority, it considers the opportunities and risks facing the District, and also identifies the high level projects which will ensure the Corporate Plan is being delivered. The Council plan sets out the priorities that the Council will address over the next five years. The plan also lays out how North Hertfordshire District Council will achieve its aims for the district.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(4)FM 038

Page 21, Paragraph 2.61

Modification

~~The Corporate Plan sets the following three objectives:~~

~~To work with our partners to provide an attractive and safe environment for our residents, where diversity is welcomed and the disadvantaged are supported~~
~~To promote sustainable growth within our District to ensure economic and social opportunities exist for our communities, whilst remaining mindful of our cultural and physical heritage~~
~~To ensure that the Council delivers cost effective and necessary services to our residents that are responsive to developing need and financial constraints~~

The Council Plan sets out the following objectives:

Be a welcoming, inclusive, and efficient council;
Build thriving and resilient communities;
Respond to challenges to the environment;
Enable an enterprising and co-operative economy;
Support the delivery of good quality and affordable homes.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(98)MM 010 / FM 039

Page 32, Policy SP2

Modification

Policy SP2: Settlement Hierarchy and Spatial Distribution^x

Between 2011 and 2031, the plan make s provision for at least 13,000 new homes.

Approximately 80% ~~The majority~~ of the District's housing development and the substantial majority of new employment, retail and other development will be located within the adjusted settlement boundaries of ~~or adjoining~~ the following towns:

Baldock ( 2,198 homes)
Hitchin ( 1,842 )
Letchworth Garden City ( 1,928 )

Royston ( 1,899 )
Stevenage (including Great Ashby)³² ( 1,705 ); and
Luton³² ( 1,485 )

Approximately 13% of housing, along with supporting infrastructure and facilities will be delivered within the adjusted settlement boundaries of the following five villages for the levels of development indicated :

Barkway ( 208 )
Codicote ( 363 )
Ickleford ( 235 )

Knebworth ( 731 )
Little Wymondley ( 312 )

The remaining development will be dispersed across the District as set out below…

[Remainder of proposed Policy SP2 incorporating MM010 unchanged]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared, justified, effective and consistent with national policy following the Matter 21 to 26 hearings as supported by the statements to those sessions and documents including ED161, ED172, ED191A and ED191B

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For legal compliance (criteria b; e; g and h) in response to the Use Class Order amendments and effectiveness (criterion d) following the Matter 29 hearing as supported by the statement to that session and documents including ED176, ED203 and ED214

(1)FM 043

Page 35, Paragraph 4.19 (delete paragraph)

Modification

~~In planning, employment land usually refers to 'B-class' uses and includes:~~

~~B1(a) – offices~~
~~B1(b) – research and development~~
~~B1(c) – light industry~~
~~B2 – general industry; and~~
~~B8 – storage and distribution~~

Modification

Policy SP4: Town Centres, ~~and~~ Local Centres and Community Shops

The Council will make provision for an appropriate range of retail and service facilities across the District and are committed to protecting the vitality and viability of all centres. We will:

Promote, protect and enhance the provision of shops, financial and professional services, café or restaurants, pubs or drinking establishments or takeaways in ~~retail and service functions of~~ the following centres in our retail hierarchy:
1. The town centres of Hitchin, Letchworth Garden City, Baldock and Royston;
2. 13 existing local centres consisting of:
  - village centres at Ashwell, Codicote and Knebworth;
  - seven centres in Hitchin
  - two centres in Letchworth Garden City; and
  - the centre at Great Ashby; and
3. 2 new local centres north of Baldock and East of Luton within the strategic housing sites identified in this Plan;
Support proposals for main town centre uses in these locations where they are appropriate to the size, scale, function, catchment area, historic and architectural character of the centre;
Identify Primary Shopping Frontages within town centres where ~~A1 retail uses~~ shops^x will be expected to concentrate
To ensure the District's towns maintain their role and market share, make provision for up to 38,100 gross sq.m of additional ~~A-class~~ floorspace over the plan period comprising shops, café or restaurants, pubs or drinking establishments or takeaways, including the re-occupation of vacant floorspace, consisting of:
1. 22,500 gross sq.m comparison goods (e.g. clothes, shoes, furniture, carpets);
2. 8, 600 gross sq.m convenience (e.g. food, drink, toiletries); and
3. 7,000 gross sq.m food and beverage outlets ( e.g. restaurants, takeaways and bars).

38,100 gross sq.m is a district wide retail capacity but it is principally derived from the retail capacity projections for the four town centres, as indicated below:

Years	2016-2021	2021-2026	2026-2031	Totals
Baldock	300	1,600	1,400	3,300
Hitchin	3,800	3,600	3,700	11,100
Letchworth	2,400	3,300	3,500	9,200
Royston	3,200	2,000	1,900	7,100
Strategic Housing Sites	1,500	2,700	2,600	6,800
Other	200	200	200	600
Total	11,400	13,400	13,300	38,100

The three town centres of Baldock, Hitchin and Letchworth Garden City have significant overlapping markets, with spend leakage from Letchworth Garden City to Hitchin and a lack of physical space at Baldock to accommodate its projected retail capacity. To address the leakage and physical capacity across these three centres the indicative distribution and phasing of provision is as follows:

Years	2016-2021*	2021-2026	2026-2031	Totals
Baldock	0	0	0	0
Hitchin	0	3,700	3,300	7,000
Letchworth	5,350	5,500	5,000	15,850
Royston	4,350	2,200	1,800	8,350
Strategic Housing Sites	0	3,400	2,900	6,300
Other	0	300	300	600
Total	9,700	15,100	13,300	38,100

*2016 to 2021 projections includes take-up of vacant units and the implementation of commitments.

Prepare and maintain up-to-date town centre strategies to support this approach and / or adapt to change. These will be used to inform the approach to retail at the time of the early review; and
Support the retention and provision of shops outside of identified centres where they serve a local day-to-day need.

Our detailed policies set out our approach to development applications, including for changes of use. In general terms, ~~A1 retail~~ shops will be expected to concentrate within the defined primary frontages with ~~a wider variety of A-class~~related retail and service uses, that are pubs or drinking establishments permissible in secondary frontage areas.

To ensure the plan is positively prepared; factual update

(31)MM 035 / FM 057

Page 47-48, Policy SP8

Modification

Policy SP8: Housing

Over the period 2011-2031, housing growth will be supported across the District. We will:

Release sufficient land to deliver at least ~~14,000~~ 11,600 net new homes for North Hertfordshire's own needs. Of these:
1. Around ~~13,800~~ 11,500 net new homes will be provided within that part of the District falling within the Stevenage Housing Market Area (HMA); while
2. Around ~~200~~ 100 net new homes will be provided within that part of the District falling within the Luton HMA;
Provide additional land within the Luton HMA for a further 1,950 net new homes as a contribution towards the unmet needs for housing arising from Luton with approximately 1,400 of these being delivered over the Plan period to 2031;
Deliver these homes through the sites and allowances identified in this Plan that will support approximately⁴⁸:
1. ~~4,340~~ 5,100 homes from completions and permissions achieved since 2011 and other allowances;
2. 7,700 homes from six Strategic Housing Sites delivering approximately 5,560 of these by 2031:
  - BA1 - North of Baldock for 2,800 homes ( ~~2,500~~ approximately 1,400 to be delivered by 2031);
  - LG1 - North of Letchworth for 900 homes (approximately 600 by 2031);
  - NS1 - North of Stevenage in Graveley parish for 900 homes (approximately 775 by 2031);
  - HT1 - East of Hitchin for 700 homes;
  - GA2 - North-east of Great Ashby in Weston parish for 600 homes; and
  - EL1 / EL2 / EL3 - East of Luton for 2,100 homes (approximately 1,500 by 2031);
3. ~~4,860~~ 4,000 homes through local housing allocations that will provide homes on:
  - ~~newly identified sites and land within pre-existing settlement limits;~~
  - ~~sites released from the Green Belt as part of a comprehensive, District-wide review; and~~
  - ~~land identified following a review of other relevant boundaries or designations.~~
  - Further sites within the adjusted settlement boundaries of the towns;
  - Land within the adjusted settlement boundaries of five villages where more than 200 homes are expected to be built over the Plan period ; and
  - Sites identified within the defined settlement boundaries of the Category A villages.
  This includes the use of land within pre-existing settlement limits, non-strategic sites released from the Green Belt and other land identified following a review of other relevant boundaries or designations.
4. 7 4 new, permanent Gypsy and Traveller pitches
Maintain a five-year housing land supply and target the completion of 20% of new homes over the plan period on previously developed land;
Seek to provide long-term certainty by
1. Identifying Strategic Housing Sites that will continue delivery beyond the end of the Plan period in 2031;
2. Working with the Government and other relevant agencies to identify new settlement options within North Hertfordshire that can provide additional housing supply in the period after 2026; ~~and~~
3. Safeguarding land to the west of the A1(M) at Stevenage, as shown on the ~~Proposals~~ PoliciesMap~~, for up to 3,100 dwellings~~to meet longer-term development needs in the period beyond 2026 subject to a future review of this Plan; and
4. Undertaking a review of this Plan by the end of 2023.
Support a range of housing tenures, types and sizes measured against targets to provide:
1. 33% of all homes over the plan period as Affordable Housing for local needs with targets to deliver up to 40% Affordable Housing where viable;
2. A broadly even split between smaller (1- and 2-bed) and larger (3+ bed)properties subject to up-to-date-assessments of housing needs; and
3. ~~100~~ 56plots on specified Strategic Housing Sites to help pro-actively address demand for self-build development over the plan period; and
Provide up to at least 350 bed spaces in suitable, supported accommodation to meet the needs of those who cannot live in their own home.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

(7)FM 058

Page 48, Paragraph 4.86

Modification

Our evidence identifies a requirement for ~~13,800~~ 11,500 homes to be built between 2011 and 2031 to meet the needs of North Hertfordshire⁴⁹. A modest uplift has been added. This predominantly reflects the fact that, as people live for longer and live in their own homes for longer, it may be more appropriate to assume that more of their needs will be me in the normal housing stock⁵⁰.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Significant development generally comprises residential developments above 100 dwellings. Exceptionally, developments under 100 dwellings will be considered significant if there are site specific complexities and sensitivities that require a masterplan-led approach. In some circumstances a Strategic Masterplan may also be required to consider the cumulative impact of more than one site to support a co-ordinated and integrated approach to place-making and design.

Support new development where it is well designed and located and responds positively to its local context;

Require Strategic Masterplans and planning applications for Strategic Housing Sites and significant developments to (as applicable):
1. Create buildings, spaces and streets which positively reflect and respond to the local landscape, townscape and historic character;
2. Create integrated, accessible and sustainable transport systems with walking, cycling and public transport designed to be the most attractive forms of transport and effectively linking into the surrounding areas;
3. Provide a clear structure and hierarchy of pedestrian friendly streets and well-connected footpaths and cycle ways integrated with the wider built and natural environment and communities;
4. Plan for integrated and mixed-use communities with walkable locally accessible community, employment and retail facilities;
5. Positively integrate with adjacent rural and urban communities and positively contribute to their character and the way the area functions, including addressing cumulative, cross boundary planning and infrastructure matters;
6. Provide a diverse and distinctive range of flexible and adaptable house types, tenures and building forms to meet the differing needs of the population;
7. Create an accessible multi-functional green infrastructure network that provides:
  - a key structuring and functional placemaking feature supporting healthy lifestyles, sport, play and recreation, linking into the wider Green Infrastructure Network; and
  - a high quality, integrated network to support ecological connectivity, biodiversity net gain, climate adaptation and mitigation linking into the wider Ecological Network;
8. Ensure the effective use of sustainable urban drainage and sustainable water management;
9. Ensure a hierarchy of linked, high quality and attractive public spaces and public realm that is safe, attractive and supports social interaction for all age groups; and
10. Design to last with a clear stewardship, management and maintenance strategy;

x. Ensure Strategic Masterplans are informed by a technical and design evidence base and include the following for Strategic Housing Sites and where applicable for other significant development:

Site specific vision and placemaking principles
Masterplan setting out the quantum, scale, type, mix and distribution of land uses, housing and community facilities
Green Infrastructure Framework identifying the scale, distribution, type and design of green spaces, biodiversity net gain, strategic drainage, on and off-site linkages
Movement Framework setting out the key access points, strategic highways, street hierarchy and footways and cycleways (on and off site)
Urban Design Framework and design principles identifying how the site responds to local character and context and key structuring elements and layout principles (including heights and densities)
Sustainability & Energy Framework identifying site wide and building scale opportunities for low and zero carbon
Illustrative Masterplan Layout
Infrastructure Delivery, Phasing & Management Strategy

x. Confirm the scope and contents of individual Strategic Masterplans with applicants in pre-application discussions. To ensure sites are comprehensively planned and delivered planning applications should be preceded by and consistent with a Strategic Masterplan agreed by the Council. Where applications have already been submitted to the Council a Strategic Masterplan should be agreed with the Council prior to or as part of the grant of planning permission. Adherence to the Strategic Masterplan will be secured through planning conditions and/or legal agreement.

Assess proposals against detailed policy requirements set out in this Plan and have regard to the Design SPD; and
Adopt the Government's additional technical standards for the size of new homes, water efficiency and, in specified circumstances, accessibility.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For consistency with national policy and for effectiveness following Matter 32 hearing session

(6)FM 002

Page 52, Paragraph 4.116 (and new paragraphs thereafter)

Modification

~~The largest sites will be masterplanned in accordance with any requirements set out in Policies SP14-SP19 and the Communities section of this Plan to maximise their benefits.~~ Policy SP9 sets out the strategic design and masterplanning expectations of the Council for the Strategic Housing Sites and other significant development. The policy has to apply to a wide range of developments in terms of quantum, scale and complexity. The policy should be applied in its entirety to Strategic Housing Sites but for other significant development a tailored and case-by-case approach will be required to identify a proportionate level of masterplan and design detail to secure design quality dependant on site specific issues and the level of detail submitted with any planning application.

4.xxx Strategic Masterplans are an effective tool in securing comprehensive and timely delivery and securing design quality and positive place outcomes. Masterplans support comprehensive, integrated, well- planned and sustainable places in terms of the natural, built and historic environment. An effective masterplanning process helps to support a multi-disciplinary, integrated, inclusive and collaborative approach to securing quality design and delivery. It also assists with resolving and co-ordinating planning issues at an early stage in the process speeding up decision-making and driving forward delivery through a shared vision. This both de-risks and provides certainty.

4.xxx Strategic Masterplans will be prepared on a staged basis, initially evaluating and agreeing baseline technical, character and design analysis and assessments, then agreeing a shared vision and set of place-making objectives, exploring and testing a series of options with stakeholder input and then the agreement of a preferred option and masterplan.

4.xxx For large sites that are developed over a long time period, strategic masterplans may require review and be flexible to adapt to changing circumstances. A Strategic Masterplan is not a blueprint, it is a framework within which further planning and design instruction can emerge over time.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

As above

(1)FM 067

Page 53, Policy SP10(e)

Modification

Work with Hertfordshire County Council and education providers to ensure the planning system contributes to the provision of sufficient school places and facilitates the provision of new or expanded schools in appropriate and accessible locations . This will include monitoring of projected future demand to inform the review of this plan in relation to secondary education provision for the Stevenage area;

[remainder of policy unaffected]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared and consistent with national policy in response to the Inspector's August 2019 letter.

FM 068

Page 54, After Paragraph 4.127 (new paragraph)

Modification

Forecasting education demand that will arise from new developments over the long-term is challenging. It is difficult to predict with certainty how and when school places will be needed until developments are built and new families move in. This is a particularly complex issue in the Stevenage area where housing developments have been proposed by three local authorities (North Hertfordshire, East Hertfordshire and Stevenage) across a wide number and variety of sites contained in separate local plans. These plans set out allocations and requirements for secondary education that could meet demand well into the 2030s. However, this issue needs to be kept under review particularly as alternative sites and opportunities which supplement those identified in current Plans and / or better address the County Council's operational preferences may arise over this period. We will monitor long-term forecasts of demand with the County Council to inform the early review set out in Policy IMR2.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is positively prepared and consistent with national policy in response to the Inspector's August 2019 letter.

(5)MM 050 / FM 069

Page 56, Policy SP12

Modification

Policy SP12: Green infrastructure, landscape and biodiversity ~~and landscape~~

We will accommodate significant growth during the plan period whilst ensuring the natural environment is protected and enhanced. We will:

~~Protect, enhance and manage the green infrastructure network and seek opportunities to create new green infrastructure~~; Protect, identify, manage and where possible enhance a strategic multi-functional network of green infrastructure;

x. Consider and respect landscape character , scenic beauty and locally sensitive features, particularly in relation to the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty;

x. Protect, enhance and manage sites in accordance with the following hierarchy of designations and features :

Internationally designated sites
Nationally designated sites
Locally designated sites;
Non-designated sites that include important habitats and species

Protect, enhance and manage biodiversity networks including wildlife corridors, ancient woodlands and hedgerows, wetland and riverine habitats, Local Geological Sites, protected species, priority species and habitats, and non-designated sites of ecological value and ~~seek opportunities for~~ ensure measureable net gains for biodiversity ; and
Consider and respect landscape character and locally sensitive features, particularly in relation to the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Protect other open spaces and support provision of new and improved open space.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness & consistency with national policy and in response to the Inspector's August 2019 letter (Paragraph 14) and following the Matter 28 hearing session

(2)MM 056 / FM 070

Page 57, Policy SP13

Modification

Policy SP13: Historic environment

The Council will balance the need for growth with the proper protection and enhancement of the historic environment. When considering the impact of a proposed development on the significance of a designated heritage asset, great weight will be given to the asset's conservation and the management of its setting. We will pursue a positive strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment through:

a. Maintaining a strong presumption in favour of the retention, preservation and enhancement of heritage assets and their setting according to their significance;

Identifying sites on the national register of Heritage at Risk or on the Council's 'At Risk' ~~local risk~~ register;
Periodic reviews of Conservation Areas and other locally designated assets; and
Publication of detailed guidance.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For consistency with national policy and in response to the Inspector's August 2019 letter (Paragraph 12)

(6)MM 057 / FM 003

Page 60, After Paragraph 4.174 (new paragraph)

Modification

All strategic sites will be masterplanned pro-actively and collaboratively with the Council and key stakeholders in accordance with Policy SP9 Design and Sustainability and the individual site policy requirements. Planning applications should be preceded by and consistent with an agreed Strategic Masterplan for the site . Adherence to the Strategic Masterplan and any further masterplanning and design requirements will be secured through conditions and/or legal agreements.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness to support effective and comprehensive delivery

(4)MM 058 / FM 004

Page 61, Policy SP14

Modification

Policy SP14: Site BA1 – North of Baldock

Land to the north of Baldock, as shown on the ~~Proposals~~ Policies map, is allocated as a strategic housing site for a new neighbourhood of approximately 2,800 homes. ~~Planning permission for residential-led development will be granted where the following site-specific requirements are met:~~

~~(a)A site masterplan to be approved prior to the submission of any detailed matters.~~

A comprehensive and deliverable Strategic Masterplan for the entire allocation is to be prepared and agreed between the landowner/developer and the Council. Any planning application/s should be preceded by and consistent with an agreed Strategic Masterplan.

Where applications have already been submitted to the Council a Strategic Masterplan should be agreed prior to the or as part of the grant of planning permission.

Any application on part of the site will be assessed against its contribution to the Strategic Masterplan and must not prejudice the implementation of the site as a whole.

Development proposals should provide the following planning and master planning requirements

~~(b)~~ A new mixed use local centre /s to provide for a range of day to day local needs including ~~along with~~ additional neighbourhood-level provision ~~providing~~ of around 500 m ² (net) ~~class A1~~ convenience retail provision and 1,400 m ²(net) of of ~~other A class~~ comparison retail and food and beverage floorspace

…

[Remaining criteria re-labelled sequentially with no further changes]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For consistency with national policy and for effectiveness in supporting sustainable development, design quality and comprehensive delivery

(2)MM 061 / FM 005

Page 63, Policy SP15

Modification

Policy SP15: Site LG1 – North of Letchworth Garden City

Land to the north of Letchworth Garden City, as shown on the ~~Proposals~~ Policies map, is allocated as a strategic housing site for a new neighbourhood of approximately 900 homes. ~~Planning permission for residential-led development will be granted where the following site-specific requirements are met:~~

~~A masterplan to be approved prior to the submission of any detailed matters which also sets out:~~
1. ~~How the site will follow and implement Garden City principles~~

A comprehensive and deliverable Strategic Masterplan for the entire allocation is to be prepared and agreed between the landowner/developer and the Council. This should follow and implement Garden City principles. Any planning application/s should be preceded by and consistent with an agreed Strategic Masterplan.

Where applications have already been submitted to the Council a Strategic Masterplan should be agreed prior to the or as part of the grant of planning permission.

Any application on part of the site will be assessed against its contribution to the Strategic Masterplan and must not prejudice the implementation of the site as a whole.

Development proposals should provide the following planning and master planning requirements

a. ~~ii.~~ The most appropriate points of vehicle access considering landscape and traffic impacts

b. How comprehensive integration into the existing pedestrian and cycle public transport and road networks will be secured

c. ~~iii.~~ An appropriate education solution ~~with a presumption in favour of on site provision~~ which delivers a new 2FE primary school on site

d. ~~iv.~~ Measures required to address nearby heritage assets including the Scheduled Ancient Monument at Radwell Lodge and the Croft Lane and Norton Conservation Areas

e. The approach to trees and hedgerows around and within the site, with the presumption that trees will be retained and any hedgerow losses kept to a minimum

f. b. Neighbourhood level retail and community facilities ~~providing~~ including around 900 m ² (net) ~~of A class floorspace~~ retail and food and beverage floorspace and a GP surgery

…

[Remaining criteria re-labelled sequentially with no further changes]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For legal compliance, consistency with national policy and for effectiveness in supporting sustainable development, design quality and comprehensive delivery

(2)MM 068 / FM 006

Page 65, Policy SP16

Modification

Policy SP16: Site NS1 – North of Stevenage

Land to the north of Stevenage within Graveley parish, as shown on the ~~Proposals~~ Policies map, is allocated as a Strategic Housing Site for a new neighbourhood of approximately 900 homes. ~~Planning permission for residential-led development will be granted where the following site-specific requirements are met:~~

~~a. A masterplan to be approved prior to the submission of any detailed matters~~

A comprehensive and deliverable Strategic Masterplan for the entire allocation is to be prepared and agreed between the landowner/developer and the Council. Any planning application/s should be preceded by and consistent with an agreed Strategic Masterplan.

Where applications have already been submitted to the Council a Strategic Masterplan should be agreed prior to the or as part of the grant of planning permission.

Any application on part of the site will be assessed against its contribution to the Strategic Masterplan and must not prejudice the implementation of the site as a whole.

Development proposals should provide the following planning and master planning requirements

b. Integration with adjoining development in Stevenage Borough including site-wide solutions for access, sustainable travel, education, retail and other necessary medical and social infrastructure to include:

…

[Remaining criteria re-labelled sequentially with no further changes]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For consistency with national policy and for effectiveness in supporting sustainable development, design quality and comprehensive delivery

(3)MM 072 / FM 007

Page 67, Policy SP17

Modification

Policy SP17: Site HT1 – Highover Farm, Hitchin

Land to the east of Hitchin, as shown on the ~~Proposals~~ Policies map, is allocated as a strategic housing site for a new neighbourhood of approximately 700 homes. ~~Planning permission for residential-led development will be granted where the following site-specific requirements are met:~~

~~a. A site masterplan to be approved prior to the submission of any detailed matters~~

A comprehensive and deliverable Strategic Masterplan for the entire allocation is to be ~~approved~~ prepared and agreed between the landowner/developer and the Council. Any planning application/s should be preceded by and consistent with an agreed Strategic Masterplan.

Where applications have already been submitted to the Council a Strategic Masterplan should be agreed prior to the or as part of the grant of planning permission.

Any application on part of the site will be assessed against its contribution to the Strategic Masterplan and must not prejudice the implementation of the site as a whole.

Development proposals should provide the following planning and master planning requirements

b. Neighbourhood level retail facilities providing approximately 500 m ² (net) of ~~A class~~ retail and food and beverage floorspace

…

[Remaining criteria re-labelled sequentially with no further changes]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For legal compliance, consistency with national policy and for effectiveness in supporting sustainable development, design quality and comprehensive delivery

(3)MM 075 / FM 008

Page 69, Policy SP18

Modification

Policy SP18: Site GA2 – Land off Mendip, Great Ashby

Land to the north-east of Great Ashby within Weston parish, as shown on the ~~Proposals~~ Policies map is allocated as a strategic housing site for a new neighbourhood of approximately 600 homes. ~~Planning permission for residential-led development will be granted where the following site-specific requirements are met:~~

~~a. A masterplan to be approved prior to the submission of any detailed matters~~

A comprehensive and deliverable Strategic Masterplan for the entire allocation is to be prepared and agreed between the landowner/developer, and the Council.

Any planning application/s should be preceded by and consistent with an agreed Strategic Masterplan. Where applications have already been submitted to the Council a Strategic Masterplan should be agreed prior to the or as part of the grant of planning permission.

Any application on part of the site will be assessed against its contribution to the Strategic Masterplan and must not prejudice the implementation of the site as a whole.

Development proposals should provide the following planning and master planning requirements

a. b. Neighbourhood-level ~~retail~~ facilities providing approximately 500 m ² (net) of ~~A1 class~~ retail and food and beverage floorspace and other necessary medical and social infrastructure

…

[remaining criteria relabelled sequentially with no further changes

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For consistency with national policy and for effectiveness in supporting sustainable development, design quality and comprehensive delivery

(7)MM 083 / FM 009

Page 71, Policy SP19

Modification

Policy SP19: Sites EL12, EL2 & EL3 – East of Luton

Land to the east of Luton, as shown on the ~~Proposals~~ Policies map, is allocated as a Strategic Housing Site for a new neighbourhood of approximately 2,100 homes. ~~Planning permission for residential-led development will be granted where the following site-specific requirements are met:~~

~~a. A masterplan to be approved prior to the submission of any detailed matters~~

A comprehensive and deliverable Strategic Masterplan for the entire allocation is to be prepared and agreed between the landowner/developer and the Council. Any planning application/s should be preceded by and consistent with an agreed Strategic Masterplan.

Where applications have already been submitted to the Council a Strategic Masterplan should be agreed prior to the or as part of the grant of planning permission.

Any application on part of the site will be assessed against its contribution to the Strategic Masterplan and must not prejudice the implementation of the site as a whole.

Development proposals should provide the following planning and master planning requirements

a. b. A new mixed use local centre /s to provide for a range of day to day local needs including ~~with~~ additional neighbourhood-level provision ~~providing~~ of around 250 m ² (net) ~~class A1~~ convenience retail provision and 850 m ² ~~of other A class~~ of comparison retail and food and beverage floorspace and other necessary social infrastructure

…

[Remaining criteria re-labelled sequentially with no further changes]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For consistency with national policy and for effectiveness in supporting sustainable development, design quality and comprehensive delivery

MM 088 / FM 071

Page 75, Policy ETC1

Modification

Policy ETC1: Appropriate uses in Employment Areas

Within the safeguarded ~~allocated~~ Employment Areas, and the Employment Allocations (BA10 and RY9), as shown on the Policies ~~Proposals~~ Map, planning permission will be granted ~~where~~ for office, research and development, industrial processes, industrial and storage and distribution uses provided:

~~Within those parts of the Employment Areas designated for business use only, development is for Use Class B1;~~
~~Elsewhere within Employment Areas, development is for Use Classes B1, B2 or B8;~~
For allocated sites any relevant site-specific criteria are met; and
Any Use Class B8 development is easily accessible from the primary road network.

Planning permission for other uses will be granted as an exception to the above criteria provided they are:

Ancillary to the above uses;
Essential to the continued operation of an established premises;
Would bring comparable benefits to office, research and development, industrial processes, industrial and storage and distribution ~~a B-class~~ use s in the same location; or
Would make use of a site that would otherwise be likely to become or remain vacant for an extended period of time.

Conditions and legal agreements will be used to limit uses to ensure that development meets, and will continue to meet, identified employment needs

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the Plan is positively prepared, legally compliant and effective in response to the Use Class Order amendments following the Matter 29 hearing as supported by the statement to that session and documents including ED203 and ED214.

FM 072

Page 75, Paragrpah 5.1

Modification

Within the four main towns there are a number of established Employment Areas, where the majority of employment premises are located. They include ~~B1 business, B2 general industrial and B8 storage and distribution uses~~ certain E class uses (office, research and development, industrial processes), B2 (industrial) and B8 (storage and distribution) class uses. They are well-established areas and are a valuable resource to the District

Reason/Source for Further Modification

FM 073

Page 76, Paragraph 5.5

Modification

However, the Council recognises that Employment Areas are often sought-after locations for a number of other uses. It is recognised that there is a need for some flexibility to meet the needs of uses , including sui generis uses such as motor trade uses and taxi vehicle depots such as: tyre and exhaust centres, trade wholesalers, vehicle hire, plant hire, motor trade uses and taxi vehicle depots. These are often partial B uses, combining a retail element with a predominantly business, industrial or storage use, or are sui generis⁷¹ . These uses tend to cause conflict in other parts of the towns, such as town centres or residential areas as a result of impacts on residential amenity and living condition

⁷¹ 'Sui generis' is a term used to mean any use which does not fall within the use classes defined in the Use Classes Order.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness in following the Matter 29 hearing as supported by the statement to that session and documents including ED203 and ED214.

FM 074

Page 76, Paragraph 5.6

Modification

Motor vehicle premises, in particular, usually include a mixture of sales and repairs. The sale of motor vehicles tends to provide lower density of employment than normally expected in an employment area. The amount of the retail sales element on larger developments will be restricted in order to protect the availability of, and maximise the use of, employment land. In addition, in order to prevent the change of use of buildings to ~~Class A1 (~~shops ) a condition will be imposed on any relevant grant of permission removing permitted development rights. These considerations apply to the sale of all types of vehicles

Reason/Source for Further Modification

FM 075

Page 76, Paragraph 5.7

Modification

Development proposals for uses in employment areas that are not for office, research and development, industrial processes, industrial and storage and distribution uses which seek to make use of the exception criteria of this policy will be considered on their merits. When assessing such proposals, the Council will have regard to (as applicable in each instance):

employment generation on site;
impact on relevant town centres , including details of any sequential and / or impact testing;
where appropriate, the level and type of retail involved on the site;
any potential benefits to the community or surrounding businesses from the proposed use;
the proportion of the site to be used for sales and display as opposed to repairs and servicing, in the case of motor trade uses;
accessibility by non-car modes of transport; and
any evidence clearly demonstrating that:
- the land or premises is no longer required to meet future employment needs of the District;
- the land or premises is inappropriate or unfeasible for employment use, based on market conditions or amenity / living condition problems; and
- no other suitable sites outside designated employment areas are viable and available . ~~; and~~
~~details of any sequential and / or impact testing~~.

Planning permission for new retail, leisure and other main town centre uses^x ~~development~~ will be granted provided that ~~where~~:

the sequential test is passed;
where the town centre development is outside of the town centre, an impact assessment is ~~are~~ provided based on ~~locally set~~ the following minimum floorspace thresholds demonstrating there is no unacceptable harm to the vitality or viability of a designated town centre:
- Hitchin: 2,500 gross sq.m and above;
- Letchworth Garden City: 1,000 gross sq.m gross and above;
- Baldock, Royston and elsewhere: 500 gross sq.m and above;

within retail allocation sites, as shown on the ~~Proposals~~ Policies Map, any relevant site-specific criteria are met;
the proposal is appropriate to the area in terms of use, size, scale, function, catchment area, historic and architectural character; and
there would be no significant adverse impact upon living conditions.

The Council will use planning conditions or legal agreements to limit uses to ensure that the identified retail needs are met, and will continue to be met, through the allocated sites.

^x Main town centre uses are defined in the Local Plan Glossary [new footnote]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness following the Matter 29 hearing as supported by the statement to that session and documents including ED203 and ED214.

FM 079

Page 7, Paragraph 5.13

Modification

In assessing proposals for main town centre uses, we will adopt the 'sequential approach' as set out in Government guidance⁷⁴. Therefore, retail uses will be considered in the following order of preference:

within ~~the primary or secondary shopping frontages of~~ town centres, on allocated sites within town centres, or in local centres;

~~2. other parts of the town centres;~~

3. 2. the edge of centres; and

4. 3. out of centre, only where there are no available, suitable and viable sites which are sequentially preferable.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For consistency with national policy following the Matter 29 hearing as supported by the statement to that session and documents including ED203 and ED214.

MM 093 / FM 080

Page 7, Paragraph 5.16

Modification

Nevertheless, the first preference for the location of leisure facilities is within the defined town centre boundaries. ~~encompasses a wider area than retail as leisure uses should not be re-directed from the wider town centre areas to the primary shopping area.~~ ~~Therefore, the first preference for leisure facilities includes both the primary shopping area and wider town centre area.~~

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness following the Matter 29 hearing as supported by the statement to that session and documents including ED203 and ED214.

FM 081

Policy ETC6: Local Centres

Within Local Centres, as shown on the Policies ~~Proposals~~ Map or identified in approved masterplans for the strategic site allocations, planning permission will be granted where:

it is for a shop, financial and professional services, café or restaurant, pub or drinking establishment, takeaway or use classes F1 or F2 ~~use class A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, D1 or D2~~ at ground floor level; and

~~b. The centre would continue to provide a range of uses, with the majority of units being retained in A1 use; and~~

c. b. the centre would continue to provide a range of uses including shops to meet day-to-day needs and the vitality and viability of the centre would be maintained ~~Any change of use from class A1 would:~~

~~i. maintain the general vitality and viability of the centre; and~~

~~ii. not seriously diminish the provision of local shopping facilities.~~

Proposals for over 500 sq.m m² gross will not generally be suitable in local centres.

As above

(1)MM 100 / FM 092

Page 100, Policy ETC7

Modification

Policy ETC7: ~~Scattered~~ Local community shops and services in towns and villages

Planning permission for small-scale proposals providing new shops and services ~~will be granted within existing settlements~~ to serve the day-to-day needs of the local community ~~as an exception to the sequential approach set out in Policy ETC3(a)~~ will be granted where:

The site is within a defined settlement boundary;
In the case of Category B villages, the site is within the built core; or
In the case of Category C settlements, the proposed development meets the criteria of Policy CGB2b.

280 sqm will generally be used as a guide to determine small scale. This reflects the Use Classes Order 2020 and recognises that some such facilities will fall within Class E or other use classes

Planning permission for the loss or change of use of any shops, services or facilities outside the defined retail hierarchy will be granted where:

there is another shop, service or facility of a similar use available for customers within an 800m ~~convenient~~ walking distance; and
the proposed replacement use would complement the function and character of the area.

Policy HS7: Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople

~~Land at Pulmore Water, as shown on the Proposals Map, is allocated for the provision of 7 permanent Gypsy and Traveller pitches to meet the District's needs up to 2031.~~

The Council will protect existing and allocated lawful pitches for Gypsies and Travellers.

The following site, as shown inset into the Green Belt on the Policies Map, is allocated for the provision of permanent Gypsy and Traveller pitches to meet the District's needs up to 2031:

Policy CD6 - Land at Woodside Place, Danesbury Park Road is allocated for the provision of 4 permanent Gypsy and Traveller pitches.

This site is allocated solely for the accommodation of Gypsy and Travellers that meet the planning definition. Planning Permission will only be granted for development and occupation that meets the planning definition of Gypsy and Travellers. Other uses will not be permitted.

There is no identified need to allocate any transit or travelling showpeoples' sites.

Planning permission for accommodation for Gypsies and Travellers or Travelling Showpeople will be granted where:

it satisfies a demonstrated local need for accommodation;
the intended occupants meet the planning definition of Gypsies and Travellers, or Travelling Showpeople, as set out in government guidance or case law;
residents of the proposed site can access local services such as shops, schools, public transport and medical facilities within a reasonable distance from the site and where those facilities have capacity to meet the needs of the site's residents;
the proposed site:
1. does not conflict with any other development plan policy or national policy including flood risk, agricultural land classification, contamination and hazardous development, and has no significant adverse impact on the character and appearance of the countryside, or on features of significant biodiversity or heritage importance;
2. has no significant adverse impact on the amenity of nearby residents or adjoining land users and can be successfully screened and contained within a specified boundary;
3. has adequate and safe access from a suitable road, and adequate parking, storage, turning and servicing on site;
4. is capable of being serviced with water, electricity, sewerage and rubbish disposal; and
5. will provide a safe, inclusive and secure environment for the residents in an appropriate location to meet their needs.

Where all the above criteria are met, proposals for sites for Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople may be appropriate in the countryside as rural exception sites (in line with Policy CGB2 b) but Green Belt policies would still apply.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the plan is, justified and consistent with national policy following the Matter 25 hearing as supported by the statement to that sessions and documents including ED228

(1)MM 140 / FM 096

Page 99, Paragraph 8.41

Modification

Modification

Policy NEx: Biodiversity and geological sites

Planning permission will only be granted for development proposals that appropriately protect, enhance and manage biodiversity in accordance with the hierarchy and status of designations and features listed in policy SP12. All development should deliver measurable net gains for biodiversity and geodiversity, contribute to ecological networks and the water environment, and/or restore degraded or isolated habitats where possible.

Applicants should, having regard to the status of any affected site(s) or feature(s):

submit an ecological survey that is commensurate to the scale and location of the development and the likely impact on biodiversity, the legal protection or other status of the site;
demonstrate that adverse effects can be avoided and / or satisfactorily minimised having regard to the hierarchy of protection below:
The acceptability of approach(es) to avoidance, mitigation and compensation will be commensurate with the status of the asset(s) likely to be affected by the application; Compensation is unlikely to be an appropriate solution for proposals affecting nationally or internationally designated sites other than in the most exceptional circumstances.
1. locating on an alternative site with a less harmful impact;
2. providing adequate mitigation measures; or
3. as a last resort compensated for.

Include appropriate measures to manage construction impacts by demonstrating how existing wildlife habitats supporting protected or priority species will be retained, safeguarded and managed during construction;
Integrate appropriate buffer s of complimentary habitat for designated sites and other connective features, wildlife habitats, priority habitats and species into the ecological mitigation and design. The appropriateness of any buffers will be considered having regard to the status of the relevant habitat. 12 metres of complimentary habitat should be provided around wildlife sites (locally designated sites and above), trees and hedgerows^y. It may be necessary to exceed this distance for fragile habitats such as ancient woodland or to provide appropriate root protection for mature trees; and
provide a long-term management and monitoring plan including mitigation measures as necessary.

Local Geological Sites are ratified by the Herts & Middlesex Wildlife Trust (HMWT) and are afforded the same protection as Local Wildlife Sites.

11.xx Sites allocated in this Plan that have the potential to impact on designated biodiversity sites are required to provide an ecological survey and provide mitigation and/or off-setting measures as necessary. Where appropriate the Strategic Policies and Communities sections of this Plan provide site-specific policies relating to the impact on designated sites, for instance on Therfield Heath SSSI or Wain Woods SSSI.

11.xx Sites can contain important habitats or species even where they are not formally designated. These may be identified by the Hertfordshire Environmental Records Centre , other relevant sources (such as the Government's 'MAGIC' mapping tool) or through the survey process as being of ecological interest and should be afforded an appropriate level of protection.

11.xx Ecological surveys will be expected to involve an objective assessment of ecological value and identify any priority habitat, protected or priority species on site with survey data and site assessment to establish the potential impact .Surveys should be consistent with BS42020 Biodiversity - Code of Practice for Planning and Development, or as superseded, and use the DEFRA Biodiversity Metric^w,or as superseded, or any statutorily prescribed alternative to assess ecological value and deliver measurable net gain .

11.xx Development proposals will be expected to maximise opportunities for net gains, or contribute to improvements in biodiversity. This methodology will ensure that appropriate mitigation or compensation is provided to meet the aims of national policy and is commensurate to the scale and location of the development and the likely impact on biodiversity, the legal protection or other status of the site.

11.xx Where off-site compensation is delivered as a last resort, the ecological networks mapping system developed by the Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust and Local Nature Partnership should be used. This provides the basis of targeted habitat creation to maximise the benefits to biodiversity of any required ecological measures.

11.xx Certain habitats (such as chalk grassland) are priority habitats for the District. Restoration, mitigation and any compensation measures should focus on these priority habitats as described in the Hertfordshire Biodiversity Action Plan.^x

11.xx Developments are required to demonstrate how existing wildlife habitats such as trees, hedgerows, woodlands and rivers (and any connective features between them) will be retained, safeguarded and managed during and after development, including the provision of buffers where required.

11.xx Where necessary, a management plan outlining mitigation and monitoring measures may be required to sensitively manage any issues arising as a result of the development on biodiversity or geodiversity assets and will be secured through planning conditions or obligations.

11.xx Net gains can be delivered through the provision of soft landscaping, including trees, shrubs and other vegetation to support wildlife habitats as identified by the Hertfordshire Biodiversity Action Plan^z. Similarly, the provision of permanent integrated features for wildlife can contribute to net gains, for instance the provision of bat and swift boxes, particularly where development borders open space.

Footnotes:

^wThe DEFRA Biodiversity Metric is a tool used to quantify the value of biodiversity at any site and can form an evidence base on required mitigation for a development, the amount of residual biodiversity impact, and if necessary, the amount of require offsite compensation. The current Biodiversity Metric is available at :http://publications.naturalengland.org.uk/publication/5850908674228224

^xHertfordshire EnvironmentalForum(2006)ABiodiversityActionPlan forHertfordshire,

http://www.hef.org.uk/nature/biodiversity_vision/index.htm

^y North Hertfordshire District Green Infrastructure Plan (2009)

^zHertfordshire Environmental Forum (2006) A Biodiversity Action Plan for Hertfordshire,http://www.hef.org.uk/nature/biodiversity_vision/index.htm

Reason/Source for Further Modification

~~Infrastructure & mitigation~~

13.9 The impact of the proposed site on heritage assets and the landscape is a key consideration. Our overall evidence base concludes that, in order to meet our housing requirements over the plan period, it will be necessary to allocate some sites which may impact upon heritage assets and landscape . Our aim will be to ensure that the overall integrity of relevant heritage assets are protected and that the development is designed to minimise impact on the landscape.

~~13.10 Currently there is no pedestrian access along Claybush Road, therefore the development should deliver a pedestrian access route into the village to enable access to services and facilities.~~

~~13.11 The footpath network in Ashwell currently extends to the junction of Bear Lane and Ashwell Street and there may be opportunities to connect from here from the north of the allocated site.~~

13.12 Additional education provision will be needed in Ashwell during the Plan period, funding will therefore be sought to ensure the local education infrastructure can accommodate the additional demand arising from the site.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness consequential to FM 102 [delete site AS1]

BALDOCK

MM 205 / FM 105

Page 137, Paragraph 13.19

Modification

8 Eight housing sites are allocated in and around Baldock. These will deliver an estimated ~~3,436~~ 3,360 new homes ( ~~3,136~~ 1,960 during the plan period to 2031). A further ~~154~~ 238 new homes have been built or granted planning permission since the start of the plan period in 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

(3)MM 207 / FM 106

Page 138, Policy BA3

Modification

Land south of Clothall Common (Clothall parish)

~~200~~ 245 homes

Deliver ~~, in combination with Site BA4,~~ a southern link road connecting ~~Wallington Road to~~ the B656 Royston Road to Wallington Road or the A507 Clothall Road within the southern bypass;
Provision of suitable vehicle, cycle and pedestrian links to ensure integration with adjoining site BA4;
Consideration of the most appropriate routes and movements for all modes between the allocation site, the existing Clothall Common estate and the wider transport network
Site layout to take account of existing wastewater infrastructure;
Appropriate solution for short- and long-term education requirements having regard to up-to-date assessments of need;
Appropriate mitigation measures for noise associated with the A505 to ~~potentially~~ include appropriate insulation and orientation of living spaces;
Maintaining or limited re-profiling of the existing bunding towards the east of the site with no housing permitted on or beyond its (revised) alignment;
Incorporate alignment of former Wallington Road and Bridleway Clothall 027 as green corridor ~~along northern perimeter of~~ through the site;
Incorporate ordinary watercourses (and any appropriate measures) within comprehensive green infrastructure and / or SUDs approach;
Address existing surface water flood risk issues, including any run-off through SUDs or other appropriate solution;
Proposals to be informed by a site-specific landscape assessment;
Heritage impact assessment (including assessment of significance) and sensitive design to ensure appropriate protection of adjacent Scheduled Ancient Monument; and
Archaeological survey to be completed prior to development.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness to address concerns raised by respondents to the Main Modifications consultation and in response to the Inspector's July Letter (Paper E)

MM 210 / FM 107

Page 140, Table After Policy BA11

Modification

Total allocated sites*	~~3,386~~ 3,360 homes
Completions and permissions	~~204~~ 238 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted 2011-2031*	~~3,290~~ 2,198 homes

* Land North of Baldock is allocated for 2,800 homes in total with ~~2,500~~ 1,400 of these anticipated to be completed by 2031. The higher number is used in the total allocated sites. The lower number is used in the total allocated, completed and permitted 2011-2031

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

BARKWAY

(6)MM 213 / FM 108

Page 143, Paragraph 13.35

Modification

Barkway is ~~identified as a Category A~~ one of five villages where a greater amount of development has been allocated . ~~in the settlement hierarchy and~~ It is the largest in population terms of three villages located in the area to the east of the A10 and to the south of Royston. Despite this, facilities are limited and so residents would presently be likely to travel to either Royston to the north or Buntingford to the south for many day to day items. A development boundary is shown on the ~~Proposals~~ Policies Map to indicate the area within which further development will be allowed. The boundary has been drawn so as to allow for Barkway's development needs during this Plan period.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Land between Cambridge Road & Royston Road

140 homes

Development should be set back from the road;
Lower density housing would be appropriate on the eastern part of the site;
Incorporation of ~~footpath~~ Bridleway Barkway 017 as a north-south green corridor through the site;
Appropriate treatment of northern boundary to maintain alignment and integrity of Bridleway Barkway 018
Explore opportunities for connecting road from Royston Road to Cambridge Road having regard to heritage considerations (below);
Sensitive integration into existing village, particularly in terms of design, building orientation and opportunities for pedestrian and cycle access;
Contribution towards travel by sustainable modes of transport between Barley and Barkway schools
Provision of local convenience shop;
Approximately 1.5 hectares of land secured as a reserve site for primary education;
Site layout designed to integrate with any future use of land identified for ~~adjoining reserve~~ school site;
Development should include extensive tree planting, maintenance of the existing boundaries and hedgerows.
Development should include measures to minimise impact on Newsells Park Stud, in terms of proximity of built development, noise and increased activity;
Sensitive design to respect setting of Cokenach Registered Park and Garden and listed buildings within Newsells estate to include:
- Reinforcing of hedgerows and landscaping along site boundaries; and
- Access arrangements designed to minimise harm to heritage assets

Reason/Source for Further Modification

As above

(80)MM 217 / FM 113

Page 144, Table after Policy BK3

Modification

Total allocated sites	173 homes
Completions and permissions	31 57 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted	~~204~~ 230 homes

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Updated housing monitoring information

(79)MM 219 / FM 114

Page 144, Paragraph 13.39

Modification

The existing first school ~~site~~ in Barkway is federated with the first school in neighbouring Barley with different year groups taught in each village. Current estimates suggest that the additional pupils likely to arise from the sites in Barkway can be accommodated in the existing schools. Contributions to support sustainable travel between the two sites should be secured from new developments. Both school sites are constrained and is are considered difficult to expand. Hertfordshire County Council hold a reserve school site in the village, lying ~~between sites BK1 and~~ within site BK3. ~~This~~ A reserve site will be retained providing the opportunity to respond to ~~the~~ any further increase in the number of ~~dwellings for the~~ pupils from the two village s.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Codicote Garden Centre, High Street

54 homes

Detailed drainage strategy identifying water infrastructure required and mechanism(s) for delivery;
Appropriate solution for expansion of Codicote Primary School to be secured to accommodate additional pupils arising from this site;
Contribution towards expansion of Codicote Primary School ;
Transport Assessment to consider the cumulative impacts of sites CD1, CD2, CD3 and CD5 on the village centre and minor roads leading to/from Codicote and secure necessary mitigation or improvement measures;
Access through site to adjoining sports field and community centre;
Preliminary Risk Assessment to identify any contamination associated with previous uses including mitigation;
Consider and mitigate against potential adverse impacts upon adjoining priority deciduous woodland habitat;
Sensitive design taking opportunities to enhance setting of Grade II* Listed Church of St Giles;
Retain and strengthen existing boundary hedgerows.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness in response to the Inspector's August 2019 letter (Paragraph 8)

MM 226 / FM 122

Page 153, Policy CD3 (1^st and 2^nd bullets)

Modification

Land north of The Close

48 homes

Appropriate solution for expansion of Codicote Primary School to be secured to accommodate additional pupils arising from this site;
Contribution towards expansion of Codicote Primary School ;
Transport Assessment to consider the cumulative impacts of sites CD1, CD2, CD3 and CD5 on the village centre and minor roads leading to/from Codicote and secure necessary mitigation or improvement measures;
Detailed drainage strategy identifying water infrastructure required and mechanism(s) for delivery;
Address existing surface water flood risk issues through SUDs or other appropriate solution;
Sensitive incorporation of Footpaths Codicote 007 and 008 as ~~perimeter~~ features ~~around~~ withinthe site ~~and~~ providinga connection from the High Street to the wider countryside;
Heritage impact assessment (including assessment of significance) and sensitive design to ensure appropriate approach to nearby Grade II* listed The Bury.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness in response to the Inspector's August 2019 letter (Paragraph 8)

(2)MM 227 / FM 123

Page 153, Policy CD5 (1^st and 2^nd bullets)

Modification

Land south of Heath Lane

140 homes

Land ~~broadly~~ to the east of the current alignment of footpath Codicote 014 to be reserved and secured for education use to enable ~~for~~ expansion of the existing school to accommodate additional pupils arising from the allocated sites;
Transport Assessment to consider the cumulative impacts of sites CD1, CD2, CD3 and CD5 on the village centre and minor roads leading to/from Codicote and secure necessary mitigation or improvement measures;
Detailed drainage strategy identifying water infrastructure required and mechanism(s) for delivery;
Preliminary Risk Assessment to identify any contamination associated with previous uses including mitigation;
Consider and mitigate against potential adverse impacts upon nearby features of biodiversity interest including:
- Codicote Lodge Icehouse & surrounds Local Wildlife Site;
- Heath Plantation Local Wildlife Site;
- Meadow NW of First Spring Local Wildlife Site; and
- Priority deciduous woodland habitat adjoining the site;
Sensitive incorporation of existing rights of way, including footpaths Codicote 014, 015 & 016 as green corridors through the site connecting the existing village to the wider countryside;
Proposals to be informed by a site-specific landscape assessment, particularly ensuring development at the south-west of the site does not encroach beyond acceptable limits into longer views across the Mimram Valley;
Lower density of development to southern edge of site to respect local character; and
Sensitive treatment of Heath Lane frontage to minimise impact upon nearby Listed Buildings.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness in response to the Inspector's August 2019 letter (Paragraph 8)

MM 228 / FM 124

Page 154, Table after Policy CD5

Modification

Total allocated sites	315 homes
Completions and permissions	49 97 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted	~~364~~ 412 homes

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

(1)MM 229 / FM 125

Page 154, Paragraph 13.78

Modification

A site ~~adjoining the existing Gypsy and Traveller site~~ at Danesbury Park Road ~~Pulmore Water~~ has been identified for four ~~six~~ additional Gypsy and Traveller pitches to meet identified needs.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the Plan is justified and consistent with national policy consequential to FM095 [Policy HS7]

MM 230 / FM 126

Page 154, Policy CD4 (delete)

Modification

Ref	Site	Pitch estimate
~~CLASS2CD4~~	~~Land at~~ ~~Pulmore~~ ~~Water, St Albans Road~~	6

Reason/Source for Further Modification

As above

GRAVELEY AND NORTH OF STEVENAGE

MM 236 / FM 127

Page 155, Table after Policy GR1

Modification

Completions and permissions	8 10 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted 2011-2031*	~~916~~ 793 homes

* Land North of Stevenage is allocated for 900 homes in total with 775 of these anticipated to be completed by 2031. The higher number is used in the total allocated sites. The lower number is used in the total allocated, completed and permitted 2011-2031

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

HEXTON

MM 246 / FM 128

Page 159, Paragraph 13.111

Modification

There are no sites allocated for residential development in Hexton. Planning permission has been granted for ~~one~~ four new homes since 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

HITCHIN

(4)MM 248 / FM 129

Page 162, Paragraph 13.126

Modification

Seven sites are allocated in and around Hitchin for an estimated ~~1,009~~ 971 new homes. The significant majority of these will be built at our Strategic Housing Site at Highover Farm. A further ~~638~~ 871 homes have been built or granted planning permission in Hitchin since 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

MM 254 / FM 130

Page 163, Table after Policy HT10

Modification

Total allocated sites	~~1,009~~ 971 homes
Completions and permissions	~~638~~ 871 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted	~~1,647~~ 1,842 homes

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

(2)MM 262 / FM 131

Page 165, Policy HT11

Modification

Churchgate and its surrounding area

Mixed-use

Redevelopment to provide ~~approximately~~ 4,000 ~~m² of~~ gross sq.m of additional ~~main~~ shop, café, restaurant, pub, drinking establishment or takeaway town centre uses ~~floorspace~~ at ground floor level, subject to an up-to date assessment of retail capacity and supply.

[remainder of policy unaffected]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For legal compliance in response to the Use Class Order changes following the Matter 29 hearing as supported by the statement to that session and documents including ED203 and ED214

(2)MM 263 / FM 132

Page 165, Policy HT12

Modification

Paynes Park

Mixed-use

Redevelopment to provide approximately ~~4,000m² of~~ 3,000 gross sq.m of additional ~~main~~ shop, café, restaurant, pub, drinking establishment or takeaway town centre uses floorspace at ground floor level, subject to an up-to date assessment of retail capacity and supply.

[remainder of policy unaffected]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

As above

HOLWELL

MM 265 / FM 133

Page 169, Paragraph 13.151

Modification

There are no sites allocated for residential development in Holwell. 10 30 homes have been built or granted planning permission since 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

Positively prepared; Factual update

MM 271 / FM 137

Page 170, Table after Policy IC3

Modification

Completions and permissions	10 36 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted	~~209~~ 235 homes

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

KELSHALL

~~New development, particularly on site KB4 to the east of Knebworth, provides the opportunity to look at alternate approaches.~~ Making smaller-scale secondary provision ~~, possibly as an 'all-through school'¹⁴⁴~~ may be an appropriate solution which meets future needs, benefits existing residents and provides a more sustainable approach.

¹⁴⁴ ~~All-through schools make provision for all children from age 4 to 18. See Policy SP10.~~

Reason/Source for Further Modification

The Council considers this further change to be non-material but is included here as amends a previous MM in response to Inspector's August 2019 letter (Paragraph 7)

MM 289 / FM 148

Page 178, Table after Policy KB4

Modification

Completions and permissions	65 175 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted	~~663~~ 759 homes

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

LETCHWORTH GARDEN CITY

MM 305 / FM 152

Page 185, Table after Policy LG10

Modification

Total allocated sites	~~1,523~~ 1,485 homes
Completions and permissions	~~594~~ 693 homes
Broad location – Letchworth Garden City town centre	50 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted 2011-2031*	~~2,167~~ 1,928 homes

* Land North of Letchworth is allocated for 900 homes in total with 600 of these anticipated to be completed by 2031. The higher number is used in the total allocated sites. The lower number is used in the total allocated, completed and permitted 2011-2031.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

(1)MM 310 / FM 153

Page 186, Policy LG19

Modification

The Wynd, Openshaw Way

Mixed-use

Redevelopment to provide ~~approximately~~ 4,500 of gross sq.m of additional ~~main~~ shop, café or restaurant, pub or drinking establishment or takeaway town centre uses ~~floorspace~~ at ground floor level, subject to an up-to date assessment of retail capacity and supply.

[remainder of policy unaffected]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For legal compliance in response to the Use Class Order changes following the Matter 29 hearing as supported by the statement to that session and documents including ED203 and ED214

(1)MM 311 / FM 154

Page 186, Policy LG20

Modification

Gernon Road

Mixed-use

Redevelopment to provide ~~approximately~~ 1,000 of gross sq.m of additional ~~main~~ shop, café or restaurant, pub or drinking establishment or takeaway town centre uses ~~floorspace~~ at ground floor level, subject to an up-to date assessment of retail capacity and supply.

[remainder of policy unaffected]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

As above

MM 312 / FM 155

Page 187, Policy LG21

Modification

Arena Parade

Mixed-use

Redevelopment to provide ~~approximately~~ 5,000 of gross sq.m of additional ~~main~~ shop, café or restaurant, pub or drinking establishment or takeaway town centre uses ~~floorspace~~ at ground floor level, subject to an up-to date assessment of retail capacity and supply.

[remainder of policy unaffected]

Reason/Source for Further Modification

As above

LILLEY

MM 317 / FM 156

Page 189, Paragraph 13.236

Modification

No sites are allocated in Lilley for residential development. ~~One new home has~~ Nine new homes have been built or granted planning permission since 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

LOWER STONDON

13.245 The nearest school within Hertfordshire is Ickleford Primary. Our approach to education here is set out in the Ickleford section of this chapter. However, development of this site will tie in to the urban area of Lower Stondon and parents may express a preference for their children to go to school within the village.

13.246 On this and all other relevant matters it will be necessary to consider how the proposed development interacts with land and facilities in the administrative area of Central Bedfordshire Council.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness consequential to FM 158 [deletion of LS1]

NEWNHAM

FM 160

Page 192, Paragraph 13.252

Modification

No sites are allocated in Newnham for residential development. No Three new homes have been built or granted planning permission since 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

OFFLEY

MM 323 / FM 161

Page 194, Paragraph 13.262

Modification

No sites are allocated in Offley. Since 2011, 73 84 new homes have been built or granted planning permission in the Offley ward of the parish.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

PIRTON

MM 326 / FM 162

Page 195, Paragraph 13.267

Modification

No sites are allocated in Pirton by this Plan. ~~Around 94~~ 139 homes have been built or granted planning permission since 2011¹⁴⁷.

~~Ensure appropriate residential amenity having regard to adjoining employment uses~~
~~Design and layout to take account of foul pumping station within proximity to the site ensuring a buffer of 15m from the boundary of proposed occupied buildings;~~
~~Address potential surface water flood risk through SUDs or other appropriate solution;~~
~~Site layout designed to take account of existing wastewater infrastructure;~~
~~Phasing of development to link with Sewage Treatment Works improvements;~~
~~Preliminary Risk Assessment to identify any contamination associated with previous uses including mitigation;~~
~~Sensitive design and / or lower density housing where the site affects the setting of the Grade II Listed 21 Mill Road.~~

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness – development has commenced or been completed -as supported by document ED191B

MM 342 / FM 171

Page 202, Table after Policy RY11

Modification

Total allocated sites	~~1,049~~ 478 homes
Completions and permissions	~~663~~ 1,421 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted	~~1,712~~ 1,899 homes

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

FM 172

Paragraph 13.297 (delete)

Modification

The potential impacts of site RY1 on the SSSI and heritage assets and Therfield Heath is one of the key consideration. Our overall evidence base concludes that, in order to meet our housing requirements over the plan period, it will be necessary to allocate some sites which may impact upon heritage assets and landscape . Our aim will be to ensure that the overall integrity of relevant heritage assets are protected and that the development is designed to minimise impact on the landscape.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

FM 177

Table after Policy SI2

Modification

Completions and permissions	34 55 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted	86 107 homes

ST PAULS WALDEN

FM 178

Page 209, Paragraph 13.326

Modification

~~One~~ No site s is are allocated for residential development in St Paul's Walden ~~at Whitwell for an estimated 41 new homes. A further nine~~ 54 homes have been built or granted planning permission since 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

MM 356 / FM 179

Page 209, Policy SP2 (delete)

Modification

~~Land between Horn Hill and Bendish Lane, Whitwell~~	~~41 homes~~
~~Detailed drainage strategy identifying water infrastructure required and mechanism(s) for delivery.~~ ~~Address existing surface water flood risk issues through SUDs or other appropriate solution;~~ ~~Integration of~~ ~~Byway Open to All Traffic St Paul's Walden 036~~ ~~as a green corridor through the site and boundary feature~~ ; ~~Sensitive design approach, particularly towards north-east of site to minimise impacts on adjoining Conservation Area.~~
~~Total allocated sites~~	~~41 homes~~
~~Completions and permissions~~	~~9 homes~~
~~Total allocated, completed and permitted~~	~~50 homes~~

Reason/Source for Further Modification

For effectiveness – development has commenced or been completed -as supported by document ED191B

THERFIELD

MM 358 / FM 180

Page 210, Paragraph 13.331

Modification

One site is allocated in Therfield for an estimated 12 new homes. 10 24 further homes have been either built or granted planning permission since 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

MM 360 / FM 181

Page 210, Table after Policy TH1

Modification

Total allocated sites	12 homes
Completions and permissions	10 24 homes
Total allocated, completed and permitted	22 36 homes

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

WALLINGTON

FM 182

Paragraph 13.336

Modification

There are no sites allocated for residential development in Wallington. ~~One~~ Two new homes ~~has~~ have been built or granted planning permission since 2011.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

Positively prepared; Factual update

WYMONDLEY

In order to identify and update annually a supply of specific deliverable sites sufficient to provide five years worth of housing, we will:

Deliver the total housing requirement of 13,000 net dwellings over the plan period on a stepped basis. The Council's five year housing land supply will be measured against housing requirement targets of:
- 350 dwellings per annum for the plan period from 2011 to 31 March 2020;
- 500 dwellings per annum for the plan period from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2024; and
- 1,120 dwellings per annum for the remainder of the plan period from 1 April 2024 to 2031;
Add any shortfall in housing delivery since the plan's start date, spread evenly over the remaining plan period, to the calculation of the requirement;
Ensure that the supply of specific, deliverable sites includes a buffer (moved forward from later in the plan period) in line with national planning policy; and
Monitor housing completions and permissions on an ongoing basis to ensure the housing trajectory is based upon robust and up-to-date information and assumptions.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

(4)MM 373 / FM 188

Page 222, After proposed new Policy IMR1 (new paragraphs)

Modification

Figure 6 over-page shows the anticipated housing trajectory. This will be kept up-to-date in future monitoring reports. This programme of delivery will allow the plan to demonstrate a five-year land supply at the point of adoption and, subsequently, on an on-going basis.

In order to achieve this, the plan uses a stepped approach to the housing requirement. For the period to 1 April 2020, a housing requirement of 350 dwellings per annum is applied recognising that the quantum of development delivered from the start of the plan period in 2011 to this date is fixed. This increases to 500 dwellings per year between 2020 and 2024 before rising to a requirement for 1,120 dwellings per annum over the remaining years of the plan period.

This approach is linked to development strategy set out in this plan. A significant proportion of future new homes will be delivered upon new strategic sites. Delivery of these sites requires their release from the Green Belt which is achieved through this plan. However, this means that in the first half of the plan period from 2011 to 2021, reliance has been placed upon sites permitted under the previous policy regime and extant planning permissions.

In the second half of the plan period from 2021, the Local Housing Allocations released from the Green Belt will be critical to maintaining the delivery profile and a rolling five-year land supply. I t is anticipated that the Strategic Housing Sites will become the main component of new housing supply in the latter years of the plan . The stepped approach to housing delivery over the plan period allows a better match with actual and anticipated delivery.

The same circumstances support a measured approach to meeting the shortfalls in housing delivery that have occurred since 2011. To this end the plan does not seek to meet the full extent of any backlog of delivery within the first five years (known as the Sedgefield approach) but rather seeks to meet this backlog over the remainder of the plan period (the Liverpool approach).

In addition to the measures above, national policy requires a buffer, moved forward from later in the plan period, to be applied to the calculation of the five year supply ^x. This buffer should be a minimum of 5% but, where there has been a record of persistent under delivery of housing, this should be increased to 20%.

In the period from the start of the plan period on 1^st April 2011 to 31st March 2020 the delivery of housing completions in the District were well below the 650 dwelling s per annum that would be necessary if the requirement were to be met evenly over the whole plan period , averaging 313 dwellings per annum. This necessitates the application of a 20% buffer at the point of the plan's adoption.

The buffer requirement will be added to both the housing requirement and any backlog in delivery to be met over the five year period under assessment.

These approaches are set out in Policy IMR1 and will be the basis of the housing land supply calculations that are produced for monitoring purposes over the plan period. The delivery of sites will be monitored and will inform the plan review set out in Policy IMR2.

^X Paragraph 47 of the NPPF

Reason/Source for Further Modification

As above

(2)MM 374 / FM 189

Page 223, Figure 6 (replace with housing trajectory as shown in ED191B)

Modification

Housing Trajectory Graph

Reason/Source for Further Modification

As above

(19)FM 190

Page 222, Before Paragraph 14.30

Modification

Policy IMR2: Local plan early review

The Council will undertake a whole plan review of the Local Plan 2011-2031 by the end of 2023 at the latest. This will determine whether this Plan needs to be updated either in whole or in part. All policies will be reviewed but with particular regard paid to the following matters that were specifically identified during the preparation and examination of this plan:

Housing requirements for the District and wider housing market areas;
Housing delivery having regard to the progress and implementation of the Strategic Housing Sites and Local Housing Allocations identified in this plan and the rates of development being achieved measured against the stepped approach and housing trajectory set out in this plan;
The safeguarded land to the West of Stevenage;
The outcomes of the process(es) to comprehensively explore new settlement options in the District;
Gypsy and Traveller provision
The identification of needs for retail, leisure, office and other main town centre uses;
Options for long-term secondary education provision in the Stevenage area; and
Broad alignment with the statutory five-year time limit for reviews of the East Hertfordshire and Stevenage local plans (required by November 2023 and May 2024 respectively) to allow co-ordinated consideration of the above matters.

Reason/Source for Further Modification

To ensure the Plan is positively prepared and effective following the Matter 22 hearings and as supported by documents including ED176, ED178 and ED191B