Ashwell Neighbourhood Plan Regulation 16 Submission

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]’

Point A: reference is made to the use of sustainable surface drainage systems (SuDS) for all development proposals.

Anglian Water support the requirement for applicants to include the provision of Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS). The use of SuDS would help to reduce the risk of surface water and sewer flooding and which have wider benefits e.g. water quality enhancement.

We also note that the policy has been amended to address comments previously made by Anglian Water. The wording of point A is consistent with that proposed by Anglian Water and is therefore supported.

Point B: reference is made to SuDs provision address the risk of flooding including fluvial (river) flooding. However the purpose of SuDs is to manage surface water run off from development proposals and not the risk of river flooding. It is therefore suggested that the the reference to fluvial flooding should be omitted or the text should re-phrased.

Point C: reference is made to Anglian Water's Surface Water Policy which is welcomed. This guidance sets out Anglian Water’s position regarding the management of surface water arising from new and redeveloped areas.

It appears that Ashwell Water Recycling Centre (formerly wastewater treatment works) which is managed by Anglian Water forms part of the proposed wildlife corridor. This is essential water recycling infrastructure which is used continuously to serve our customers within the Washbrook catchment which includes Ashwell, Ashwell End and Hinxworth.

As such we would recommend that Ashwell Water Recycling Centre should be excluded from the designated wildlife corridor.

Reference is made to development in the watercourses being subject to a 8 metre buffer zone on each side of the channel. This would appear to limit Anglian Water's ability to bring forward development which is required at Ashwell Water Recycling Centre to accommodate further growth or further drivers.