POLICY ASH1

We note that the policy as drafted includes a requirement for utilities development including that proposed by Anglian Water which is located outside of the settlement boundary to demonstrate that alternative sites have been considered as part of a site selection process.

As stated in our previous representations it is unclear on what basis Anglian Water would be required to demonstrate the consideration of alternative sites particularly as there is existing wastewater infrastructure located outside of the settlement boundary. This is no such requirement for development relating to utilities in national policy or in the emerging Local Plan to demonstrate that there is no alternative site available.

We therefore consider the Neighbourhood Plan should be amended to state that the principle of development which is proposed by Anglian Water as an infrastructure provider within the designated countryside is supported subject to other development plan policies.

It is therefore proposed that the final sentence of Policy ASH1 be amended as follows: ‘(iii). it relates to necessary utilities infrastructure [and where no reasonable alternative location is available.] [text to be deleted]’

See Attached