Appeal 3259067
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Official decision document
The decision, section by section
43 sections
Read the development description and the Inspector’s text from the official decision PDF in source order. Source headings are retained where available. Personal and contact details are removed by an automated privacy filter; this is source material, not Rules for You analysis.
Section 01
Development description
50 new dwellings together with access, landscaping and open space.
Section 02
Decision
The appeal is allowed and planning permission is granted for 50 new dwellings together with access, landscaping and open space at [site address] , [address], Bedhampton, Havant [postcode] in accordance with the terms of the application, [name]/19/00427, dated 17 April 2019, subject to the conditions in the attached Schedule.
Section 03
Procedural and Preliminary Matters
The Council’s second refusal reason concerned the absence of planning obligations entered into under a legal agreement relating to: affordable housing; S106 monitoring fee; open space; the [name]; sustainable drainage; healthcare; the [name] and [name]; permissive paths; a community worker; site access works; and improvements to the route to school.
The Council, through the giving of its oral evidence, confirmed that the completed legal agreement1 (s106) overcomes their second refusal reason in its entirety. The appellant has not objected to the justification for the planning obligations as set out by the Council in their [name] (CIL) Compliance Statement2. I have, therefore, treated those matters referred to in the Council’s second refusal reason as not being subject to any dispute between the appellant and the Council. I will consider the planning obligations secured by the s106 later in this decision.
The Bedhampton Heritage Alliance (BHA) were accorded Rule 6(6) party status and presented evidence in support of their objections to the proposals. These objections included matters in relation to the Council’s first refusal reason in 1 Dated 27 January 2021 2 Received 28 January 2021 respect of the effect of the proposal on the setting of the Old Bedhampton Conservation Area (OBCA). BHA’s objections also covered other matters that were not contested by the Council or Hampshire County Council (HCC) in its capacity as highway authority. These additional concerns related primarily to the effect of the development on the setting of listed buildings, archaeology, highway safety and efficiency, accessibility, ecology, character and appearance.
I am not restricted to considering the appeal with regards to the Council’s refusal reasons only. Considering the extent of the BHA’s and interested parties’ highway concerns, I have addressed such matters as a main issue. An ‘[name] on Transport Matters’3 (ASoTM) between the appellant and HCC was submitted during the appeal process. To address matters raised in the BHA’s proof of evidence,4 the appellant submitted an additional proof of evidence with regards to transport matters5. There were no objections to the appellant’s highway proof being accepted and I am satisfied that no parties were prejudiced by its submission.
The appellant submitted an updated written application for full costs during the inquiry. The appellant’s closing maintains the view that the Council has acted unreasonably but confirmed that any previous application for costs against the Council was to be treated as withdrawn.
The appellant submitted an amended site plan with the appeal6 and amended landscape plans7 as appeal core documents. These amended plans show amended plot boundaries and landscaping adjacent to [address] to better accommodate the alignment of the track which is subject to a current Definitive Map Modification Order application. Having regard to the ‘[name]’8, the amendments are not, however, significant and do not materially alter the nature of the planning application to the point that it would require further consultation. The Council and BHA were given the opportunity to comment on the amendments as part of the appeal process. Indeed, the Council and Appellant have suggested an agreed wording for a condition to be applied to secure final landscaping details. Consequently, I am satisfied that accepting the amended site plan and landscape plans would not prejudice the interests of interested parties and have therefore determined the appeal based on the amended details.
Section 04
[name]
The main issues are: • the effect of the proposed development on heritage assets, with particular regard to the setting of the Old Bedhampton Conservation Area; • the effect of the proposed development on the efficient and safe operation of the highway network in the vicinity of the appeal site; • whether any adverse effects of the proposal, including any conflict with the development plan when considered as a whole, would be outweighed by other material considerations. 3 CD P7 [name] on Transport Matters (signed by [name] & HCC 17 December 2020) 4 Received 05 January 2021 5 Circulated to all main parties on the 28 January 2021 6 Dwg no. 17.043.102 [name] 7 CD P15a (Dwg no. 1860-TF00-00-DR-L1002 Rev07A) and CD P15b (Dwg no. 1860-TF-00-00-DR-L1005 Rev07A) 8 Bernard Wheatcroft Ltd v SSE [JPL, 1982, P37]
Section 05
Planning Policy Context and Approach to Decision Making
Section 38(6) of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 requires that applications for planning permission must be determined in accordance with the development plan unless material considerations indicate otherwise. The development plan includes the Havant Borough Core Strategy (the HBCS), adopted in March 2011, and the Allocations Local Plan (the ALP), adopted in July 2014.
The Housing Land Supply Statement of [name] (HSoCG) between the appellant and Council states that the Council is not able to demonstrate a five year supply of deliverable housing land9. Furthermore, the [name] Test10 results for 2020 show that just 72% of the requirement was achieved, which is significantly below the expectation in the National Planning Policy Framework (the Framework). As such, it is common ground between the Council and appellant that footnote 7 of the Framework is engaged. Whether subsection i) or ii) of paragraph 11d of the Framework applies will depend on my conclusions with regards to the effect on heritage assets.
The Council’s five year housing land supply (5YHLS) position is agreed to be between approximately 3 years (appellant) and no more than 4.1 years (Council). The agreed range of shortfall in the 5YHLS is based upon the standard methodology and a 20% buffer. The Council and appellant agree the shortfall in the Council’s 5YHLS is significant and that significant weight should be attached to the housing delivery of the appeal scheme. No party submitted detailed 5YHLS position evidence to question the agreed range of shortfall in the 5YHLS and I have considered the appeal on that basis.
Both the HBCS and the ALP pre-date the current Framework. Paragraph 213 of the Framework states that due weight should be given to the relevant policies of the development plan depending on their degree of consistency with the Framework. The Council’s first refusal reason refers to [name] CS11 (Protecting and Enhancing the Special Environment and Heritage of Havant Borough) and CS16 ([name]). It also refers to ALP Policy DM20 ([name]).
HBCS Policy CS11 is a permissive policy and advises that planning permission will be granted for development that, amongst other things, protects and where appropriate enhances the borough’s statutory and non-statutory heritage designations. HBCS Policy CS16 requires all development to demonstrate that its design, amongst other things, identifies and responds positively to existing features of natural, historic or local character. These policies fail to provide for the balancing of any harm to designated heritage assets against public benefits as required by Framework paragraph 196. Nevertheless, these policies do broadly follow the advice in Framework paragraph 185 which advises plans should set out a positive strategy for the conservation and enjoyment of the historic environment, taking into account, amongst other things, the desirability of sustaining and enhancing the significance of heritage assets. As such, whilst I am not persuaded they attract full weight, they must be given significant weight. 9 For the period 01 April 2020 to 31 March 2025. 10 The 2020 [name] results were published on 19 January 2021. They show a result for Havant of 72%, which remains significantly below Framework expectations.
ALP Policy DM20 states that planning permission will be granted for development that conserves and enhances the historic assets of Havant Borough. The policy’s supporting text refers to the Council having a positive strategy for the historic environment in line with the Framework. On that basis, both the Council and appellant are satisfied that the policy attracts full weight and I see no reason to disagree.
The statement of [name] between the Council and appellant also refers to HBCS Policy CS17 and ALP Policy AL2 as relevant. HBCS Policy CS17 sets out the settlement strategy for the area administered by the Council, explaining where development proposals are considered acceptable in principle. The strategy seeks to concentrate new development within the five urban areas of Havant, Leigh Park, Waterlooville, Emsworth and [name]. The urban area boundaries are defined by ALP Policy AL2 and the associated [name]. It is agreed that the appeal site lies outside the defined urban area boundary of Havant and Bedhampton. As such, on the face of a plain reading of these policies, the proposal is in conflict with HBCS Policy CS17 and ALP Policy AL2 by virtue of its location outside of an urban area boundary. It is notable, however, that the Council’s refusal reasons do not refer to these policies and objection to the principle of residential development on the site does not form part of the Council’s case.
The appellant asserts that no weight should be given to HBCS Policy CS17 and ALP Policy AL2 because the urban area boundaries were drawn up based on an out of date housing requirement of 6300 homes between 2006 and 2026 (315 dwellings per annum), as set out in HBCS Policy CS9 (Housing). The Framework requires local housing need to be calculated using the standard method when the strategic policies are more than 5 years old11. Using the standard method, the Council’s Five Year Housing Land [name] (December 2020)12 advises the annual housing need figure for Havant is 504 dwellings per annum. This is a considerable increase over the figures in HBCS Policy CS9.
The Council accepts that the current housing objectively assessed need (OAN) cannot be accommodated within the urban area boundaries that are identified by ALP Policy AL2 and the [name]. In this context, whilst I accept that the objectives of Policies CS17 and ALP Policy AL2 are broadly consistent with the Framework in so far as they seek to primarily focus new developments within existing urban areas, I find they should be given limited weight by virtue of their reliance on the out-of-date urban area boundaries.
Section 06
Emerging Plan
The Council has been engaged in the preparation of a new Local Plan, currently known as the Pre-Submission Havant Borough Local Plan 2036 (PHBLP). The Council published the PHBLP13 for public consultation between 1 February 2019 and 18 March 2019. A further Regulation 19 version of the PHBLP with proposed changes14 (PHBLPC) recently concluded its public consultation on 17 December 2020. Whilst the emerging local plan had not been submitted for examination at the time of the inquiry, I acknowledge that submission occurred 11 Framework para 73 and footnote 37. 12 CD P17 13 Regulation 19 14 ID10 shortly after on 12 February 2021. Furthermore, I note that the Examination in Public (EiP) hearings will begin on 12 July 2021.
The emerging plan includes the Council’s proposed new housing allocations. PHBLPC Policy H20 identifies the appeal site as a proposed allocation for residential development of about 50 dwellings. During the Inquiry there were discussions regarding the weight to be given to relevant policies of the PHBLPC and, in particular, Policy H20.
Paragraph 48 of the Framework advises that the weight given to relevant policies in emerging plans is dependent on: the stage of preparation of the emerging plan; the extent of unresolved objection to individual policies; and the degree of consistency with the Framework. [name] note that extensive preparatory work has occurred, it is clear that unresolved objections remain to the PHBLPC. The emerging plan, therefore, is at a stage where there is still potential for significant modifications and, as such, I can give only limited weight to the PHBLPC in my decision-making.
Section 07
Heritage
The appeal site relates to part of an arable field located off the southern side of [address] at the southern edge of Bedhampton. The Portsmouth to London railway line runs adjacent to the southern boundary of the site. The eastern edge of the site is defined by a mature ‘shelterbelt’ of coniferous trees. The remainder of the arable field adjoins the site to the west but is not defined by any intervening boundary treatment. Significant highway infrastructure is located in close proximity to the site, including junction 5 of the A3(M) to the west and the dual carriageway [name] (A27) to the south. The Havant Bypass separates the site from [name] to the south.
Whilst the built form of Bedhampton has expanded significantly through the 20th Century, that development has been located predominantly to the north of [address]. Development to the south of [address] is predominantly limited to the converted [address] buildings, a terrace of 3 associated farm worker cottages and a recently built dwelling ([name]). A further modern corrugated sheet metal clad building of utilitarian form is located to the west of [address].
Whilst there are no designated heritage assets within the boundary of the appeal site, the Old Bedhampton Conservation Area (OBCA) is located immediately adjacent to the site. The extent of the OBCA was recently revised by the Old Bedhampton Conservation Area Appraisal (OBCAA)15. The revised OBCA comprises 5 ‘[name] (CA)’: CA1 ‘[name]; CA2 ‘Mill and environs; CA3 ‘[name]; CA4 ‘[address]’; and CA5 ‘[address]’. [name] 3, 4 and 5 were added to the OBCA as part of the OBCAA.
The appeal site wraps around the southern and eastern boundaries of CA5 ‘[address]’. CA1 ‘[name] extends westward up to and including the bend in [address] adjacent to the north-eastern corner of the site. CA2 ‘Mill and environs’ is separated from the site by the railway line and intervening agricultural land. There is agreement between the main parties that the development would affect the setting of [name] 1 and 5. The Council 15 Agreed at Full Council (25 September 2019). and the appellant agree that the development will not affect the setting of any listed buildings. The BHA has, however, expressed concerns at the impact of the proposal on the setting of The Elms, a [name]* Listed Building located on the western side of [address]. I will deal with this matter later in my
Section 08
decision.
Any impact on the settings of the OBCA and The Elms would not necessarily detract from the significance of these designated heritage assets because that depends on the extent to which their settings contribute to their significance. Their settings are not designations in themselves. The Framework defines significance ‘as the value of the asset because of its heritage interest.’ This interest may be archaeological, architectural, artistic or historic. The setting is defined as the surroundings in which the asset is experienced, which may change as the asset and its surroundings evolve.
Section 09
Old Bedhampton Conservation Area
S72 (1) of the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 (LBA) requires special attention to be paid to the desirability of preserving or enhancing the character or appearance of the conservation area. In identifying the degree to which the appeal site contributes to the significance of the OBCA, both heritage witnesses rely on the OBCAA. The OBCAA provides a list of features16 that contribute to the special interest of the OBCA, including, amongst others: the network of early lanes and routes that survive including sections of a surviving network passing east-west through the heart of the settlement; the relatively tranquil setting afforded by the informal layout of the roads and light traffic movements; protected trees; natural springs, ponds and network of streams; [address] complex of buildings and water features, a number of which are listed; the Victorian railway bridge along [address]; a range of listed buildings that add character through their historic structure and large plots which give the historic centre a more open grain than later development.
The OBCAA describes CA1 as, ‘concentrated around the loose nucleus of residential properties, associated gardens, the main laneway that flows through the settlement including [address], [address], [address] and [address].’ The OBCAA advises that [address] was built around the turn of the 20th Century and that the buildings, now converted to residential use, retain the farmyard layout combined with cottage style fenestration to positive effect. The OBCAA also advises that the distinctly separate nature of CA5 reflects the former agricultural use of [address] and its set apart position from the historic village centre.
The OBCAA states that, ‘The immediate setting of the conservation area is an important aspect of its significance, particularly areas such as [name], lands to the south of [address] and farmlands to the south and south west of [address].’ (para 2.8). The OBCAA goes on to advise, ‘The farmlands to the south and south west of the current lanes are considered to reinforce the rural origins of the settlement. This role is evidenced by the surviving farm group to the south side of [address] and the farmland with the historic route / footpath leading to another bridge providing access to the severed area south of the railway line. The presence of the line of non-native conifers intrudes into this setting but does not remove the sense of that connection.’ (Para 4.12). 16 Page 30 OBCAA
The appellant has drawn my attention to the report17 prepared on behalf of the Friends of [name] that proposed that land to the south of [address] (including [address] and the agricultural lands) be included in the extensions to the OBCA. I note that this proposal was not taken forward in the final OBCA boundary revisions. Indeed, the OBCAA advises that these fields do not have the special architectural or historic interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance18. Whilst the fields are not of individual special interest, the OBCAA includes numerous references to the importance of the surrounding farmlands in reinforcing the rural origins of Bedhampton and, as such, they represent an important aspect of the significance of the OBCA.
The evidence suggests that there is a historic ownership and functional link between the [address], the farm workers’ cottages and the adjacent farmlands. Whilst the residential conversion of the agricultural buildings has inevitably weakened their significance in terms of function and character, the grouping retains its distinctly agricultural courtyard layout and appearance. The cohesive converted farm complex and agricultural workers’ cottages are rooted in the surrounding agricultural land. The layout of the fields remains broadly as illustrated in historic mapping dating back to 1840. Whilst residential development has occurred to the north of [address], CA5 maintains a sense of physical separation and detachment from the main part of the village. That detachment forms part of the way in which CA5 is experienced and is of importance in understanding the origins of the farm and the wider settlement.
The open farmland to the south and south west of [address] adjoining the western edge of CA1 also contributes to the significance of CA1. Given the nearby major highway infrastructure and the urban expansion of Bedhampton, the agricultural setting of the historic core of Bedhampton has been much diminished over the 20th Century. The remaining agricultural land to the south of lower road acts as a buffer to the highways infrastructure and enables the rural character and agrarian origins of Bedhampton’s historic core to be understood. Furthermore, the ongoing agricultural use of the fields aids the understanding of the farm’s historical functional relationship with its surroundings and the development of the wider settlement. As such, I find that the agricultural land of the appeal site makes a high degree of positive contribution to the ability to experience and appreciate the significance of the OBCA as derived from its setting.
In terms of relevant key views, the contribution of the appeal site to understanding the significance of the OBCA is primarily experienced from [address] and [address]. Whilst there is a mature high hedge on the boundary of the site with [address], the link between CA5 and the surrounding agricultural land is clearly perceived in views from [address] and [address], including upon leaving CA1. These views and the unfolding visual experience during travel through Bedhampton towards the site make a moderate degree of positive contribution to the ability to appreciate the OBCAA as derived from its setting.
The OBCAA includes reference to other vistas and views within its ‘[name]. Views from [address] reveal the evidence of the historic 17 BHA Appeal Statement Document - Extracts from Consultant’s Conservation Area Review 25 October 2018 18 [name] 7.8 farm buildings’ tie to the adjacent fields. Given the modern addition of [name] is to the rear of CA5, the views from [address] make a moderate positive contribution to the ability to appreciate the OBCAA as derived from its setting. Other views of the site and the OBCAA, including from the [address] Bridge, make only a limited contribution to the ability to appreciate the OBCAA given their longer distance nature and the substantial intervening planting.
[address], a historic route through the appeal site, is highlighted within the OBCAA19 as having existed in circa 1770 and as historically providing a link to the [name]. The historic map dated 179720 clearly shows [address] and [address]. Whilst both [address] and [address] have been truncated by modern highways infrastructure, they remain part of the network of early lanes and routes that survive and give significance to the OBCAA. [address] remains a clearly legible element of the historic east-west network passing through the heart of the settlement. The raised hedgerow on [address] boundary of the site is indicative of the sunken lanes found in the area. I find [address] makes a moderate degree of positive contribution to the significance of OBCA and the appreciation of that significance via its setting. [address] has been much diminished by its severance from the harbour by the A27 and its route and extent was not easily legible on my site visit. As such, I find [address] to make a low degree of positive contribution to the ability to appreciate the significance of the OBCA as derived from its setting.
The appeal proposal would introduce a modern, suburban form of development into the currently open agricultural setting of the OBCA. The plans show green buffers would be provided adjacent to the [address] boundary and to the south of [address]. The majority of the existing [address] hedgerow would be retained, and significant areas of open green space are planned at the southern and eastern edges of the site. The scheme, overall, is of a comparatively low density. These factors would help maintain an open aspect in the immediate foreground, but the new houses would be apparent behind. Much of the retained open land will not be visible from [address]. [address] and the associated cottages will, to a large extent, be surrounded by the built form of the proposal.
The development would, therefore, erode the ability to understand and appreciate the historical and functional relationship between CA5 and its immediate surroundings. The relative separation and isolation of CA5 from the core of the village would be harmed. Furthermore, t he rural buffer to the highways infrastructure would be diminished and this would be harmful to the understanding of the rural character and agrarian origins of Bedhampton’s historic core as protected by CA1. I find these effects of the development would represent a moderate degree of harm to the positive contributions of these elements to the OBCA’s setting.
The loss of open setting would be particularly apparent in views travelling along [address], including upon leaving CA1 in a westward direction, and from [address]. Whilst in spring and summer the [address] boundary hedge would provide increased levels of screening, additional openings are proposed 19 OBCAA para 2.11 20 [name] 7 in the hedgerow. The openings in the hedgerow, in combination with the decreased levels of screening during winter and autumn, would result in the development being readily perceived behind the hedge. Furthermore, [address] provides elevated views across the site and CA5 at all times of the year. These factors would result in a moderate degree of harm to the existing positive contributions of these views to the OBCA’s setting. Views from [address] and the railway bridge to the south of the site would also be detrimentally affected, although to a more limited degree given the existing residential development of [name].
The ability to understand and appreciate the significance of the historic routes of [address] and [address] would be diminished by the proposal’s suburban encroachment into their historically agrarian surroundings. This will result in a moderate degree of harm to the existing positive contributions of these elements of the OBCA’s setting. Paragraph 2.10 of the OBCAA advises that the non-native coniferous trees that form the eastern edge of the site are intrusive in the historic field pattern. Their replacement with a linear woodland of native species would represent a moderate degree of enhancement to the OBCA’s setting subject to an appropriate planting scheme maintaining shielding of views of the development from the railway bridge at [address].
I have had regard to the concerns of the BHA regarding the impact of increased traffic on the tranquillity of the OBCA. The development would not generate a significant amount of additional traffic. As such, I find only limited harm to the tranquillity of the OBCA would result from the proposal.
Overall, for the reasons outlined, I find that the significance of the OBCA, as derived from its setting, would be harmed. That harm would be less than substantial and at a moderate level within that spectrum. In reaching this view, I have had regard to the Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) which advises that substantial harm is ‘a high test’21.
Section 10
Effect on the setting of Listed Buildings including The Elms
S66(1) of the LBA requires that special regard shall be had to the desirability of preserving a listed building or its setting or any features of special architectural or historic interest that it possesses. The Elms, a [name]* listed building is the closest listed building to the site and is set on a prominent corner of [address]. The OBCAA advises that The Elms, whilst built in the 17th Century, is noted for its [name] features that were added as part of 18th century improvements. Its principal elevations include castellated parapets, gothic ovolo arched casement windows, stucco render and mouldings, friezes and niches. The listing includes the front gate piers with pineapples, and a 'Tudor' side gate within a vail, also capped with pineapples.
The Elms is separated from the site by modern housing along the northern side of [address]. The right-angle bend in [address] at the north-eastern corner of the site prevents, in combination with existing intervening buildings and landscaping, any intervisibility between the site and The Elms. The proposed development would not be visible directly from within the grounds of The Elms or from its approaches. I have had regard to the concerns that increased traffic passing The Elms would have detrimental impact on its setting. Given the road 21 Paragraph: 018 [name]: 18a-[phone] - Revision date: 23 07 2019 alignment in the vicinity of The Elms, traffic speeds are low. I am not persuaded, therefore, that the limited increase in traffic numbers would detrimentally affect the tranquillity of the setting of the Elms. The Elms does not have a direct functional or historic relationship with the application site. Given these factors, in combination with the separation distance to the site, the proposal would not result in a harmful effect on the setting of the Elms.
There are many other notable listed buildings within Bedhampton, including the [name] listed buildings of the Church of [name], the [address], [address], [address], [name] and [address]. These listed buildings are located in CA1 and are well detached from the site, with no apparent direct functional or historic relationship with the site. As such, there would be no harmful effect on the settings or significance of these listed buildings.
Section 11
Archaeology & Non-Designated Heritage Assets
On sites where there is potential for archaeological interest, paragraph 189 of the Framework requires the submission of a desk based assessment (DBA) and field evaluation where necessary. In this case, a DBA by [name] (dated October 2016) accompanies the proposals. The responses of the County Council’s Archaeologist dispute the conclusion of the DBA that the site is likely to have remained on the periphery of human activity from the prehistoric to the early medieval. Indeed, the County Council’s Archaeologist advises that the site lies in an area on the fringe of [name] where there has been activity from the Mesolithic period right through to the Roman period. As such, the County Council’s Archaeologist advises that it is inescapable that the site has a high archaeological potential.
I note that the BHA and interested parties are concerned that the preliminary archaeological investigation of the site has been inadequate, and that the archaeological and historical merit of [address] will be damaged by the proposal. Appendix 9 of [name] evidence is an extract from the appellant’s drainage strategy that shows an element of [address] within the rear gardens of the proposed dwellings. The County Council’s Countryside Access Team advise that the housing layout plan provides a reasonable identification of [address] based on the historical mapping. The Council’s committee report and update sheet22 indicate that initial trial trenching has taken place, including of [address]. As a result, the proposed site plan was amended to accommodate a wider retained route for [address].
The exact significance and extent of any archaeological assets on the site, including those relating to [address], cannot be fully known at the present time. [address] is not identified by the Council in their submissions as a non-designated heritage asset, the appellant’s heritage witness confirmed that it is recorded on the County Council’s Historic Environment Record as a feature of interest. Furthermore, the PPG23 advises that non-designated heritage assets may be identified as part of the decision-making process. Whilst its full extent is now much diminished, I find [address] to have a limited degree of heritage significance that merits being considered as a non-designated heritage asset of local value in my 22 Havant Borough Council Development Management Committee Report & Update - 5 March 2020 23 Paragraph: 040 [name]: 18a-040-20190723 - Revision date: 23 07 2019 decision. That significance is derived from its role as a historic route connecting [name] to [address]. The ability to understand and appreciate the significance of the historic route of [address] will be diminished by suburban encroachment into its historically agricultural setting. This would result in a moderate degree of harm to the significance of [address].
The County Council’s Archaeologist has advised that archaeology below the lane is least likely to survive as such tracks are likely to be erosive and the earliest manifestations probably removed during the continued use. As such, the evidence does not suggest it is of equivalent significance to a scheduled monument and Footnote 63 of the Framework would not apply in this case. The County Council’s Archaeologist does not object to the proposal subject to conditions securing a preliminary archaeological survey, the investigation of any archaeological remains identified, and appropriate reporting and recording of those results. I have no substantive evidence before me to suggest that such an approach would not be reasonable and proportionate.
Section 12
Heritage Conclusions
I have found that the harm to the significance of the OBCA would be less than substantial and at a moderate level within that spectrum. Given the limited significance of [address], I give limited weight to the harm to its significance. The risk of residual harm to significance from the loss of any physical remains, including of [address], is limited given the appropriate archaeological investigations proposed.
The proposals would, therefore, be contrary to [name] CS11 and CS16, and ALP Policy DM20, which taken together require, amongst other things, development to protect and respond positively to existing historic features.
I return to consider the proposals in respect of paragraphs 196 and 197 of the Framework later in my decision.
Section 13
Highways
There is agreement between the Council, Hampshire County Council (HCC) and the appellant that the scheme is acceptable in terms of its effect on the efficient operation and safety of the highway network. Nevertheless, [name], on behalf of the BHA, has raised many concerns regarding this issue. Similar concerns have also been expressed by many interested parties in their representations. In particular, there are concerns that the additional traffic generated by the proposal will increase the risk of unsafe road user conflict given the existing tight bends and absence of footways in the local area.
The appellant submitted a [name] (TS) with the application, followed by an additional [name] (TN) to address points raised in the initial consultation response of HCC. An ‘[name] on Transport Matters’ (ASoTM) between the appellant and HCC was submitted during the appeal process. The ASoTM sets out the observed existing peak hour traffic flows along [address] and [address]. [address], there were 60 2-way movements in the AM peak hour (0730h to 0830h), and 58 in the PM peak hour (1630h to 1730h). [name] on [address] in the vicinity of the proposed access recorded 85th percentile speeds of 20.6 mph eastbound and 18.2 mph westbound.
[name] of the TS includes the results of a 4-day pedestrian24 and cycle survey on the part of [address] without a pavement. That survey found, during weekdays, peak hour numbers of 2-way pedestrian movements ranging from 13 to 19 per hour (AM) and 12 to 15 per hour (PM). At the weekend, morning peak hour 2-way pedestrian movements were recorded as between 12 and 27 per hour, with the evening peak hour ranging between 21 to 22 per hour. For weekday cycle movements, the morning peak hour 2-way movements ranged between 20 to 21 per hour, with 19 to 29 per hour during the evening peak hour. During the weekend, the morning peak hour 2-way cycle movements ranged between 14 to 20 per hour, with 18 to 19 in the evening peak hour.
These survey figures indicate that [address] is currently well used by pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles. HCC advises that, given the level of these traffic movements, [address] currently operates as a ‘shared surface’ in the area where there is no pavement available. The shared use of [address] was apparent at the times of my site visits. I observed all user group types on the highway, including highway users meeting and passing each other. I did not observe pedestrians or cyclists acting in ways, such as hurrying or edging along the highway, that would indicate they perceived an undue risk on the shared surface. I appreciate that my visits provided only a snapshot of highway conditions, however, vehicle speeds at the times of my visits were such that road users passed each other in a safe and controlled manner.
The appellant’s highways evidence includes an assessment25 of a northbound car overtaking a pedestrian on the shared space as another southbound car approaches the bend to the north of the shared space. The drawing shows that the southbound vehicle approaching the tightest part of the bend has approximately 22m forward visibility to the northbound vehicle as it safely overtakes a pedestrian. This level of visibility is in line with the [name] in Manual for Streets (MfS)26 for a vehicle travelling at 18mph. Such visibility is therefore commensurate with the recorded 85th percentile speed of 18.2mph westbound.
I understand and appreciate the concerns of the BHA that some vehicles will be travelling faster than the 85th percentile speed and that other configurations of road users within the shared space are likely. Furthermore, I accept that the width of the highway varies along the length of the shared space and that incidents or near misses in the area may well go unrecorded. Nevertheless, the substantive evidence before me, including the lack of any formally recorded accidents, does not indicate that there are any inherent highway safety issues in the vicinity of the site. The length of [address] without a footpath is relatively short, straight, lacking in distinct centre lines and has the benefit of streetlamps. MfS27 advises that the absence of centre lines can lower vehicular speeds and that shared surfaces are likely to work well where, amongst other things, the volume of traffic is below 100 vehicles per hour.
The vehicular trip generation for the development has been estimated by the appellant using residential vehicle trip rates derived from the TRICS database. 24 [name] (by i-Transport), [name], Table 2.1 [name] 25 Drawing no. ITB12174-GA-009 26 Department for Transport, Manual for Streets – Table 7.1 27 Department for Transport, Manual for Streets – Paras 9.3.1, 9.3.3 Table 6.128 of the ASoTM sets out that weekday peak hour trip rates are predicted to increase by 26 two-way trips both in the morning and evening. As such, the predicted peak vehicular usage of [address] would remain below 100 vehicles per hour. I have had regard to the concerns that the increasing use of electric vehicles and home deliveries would present additional safety issues. Given the forward visibility demonstrated in the evidence, there is no substantive evidence to support these assertions. HCC advises that the current safe operation of [address] as a shared surface is unlikely to be compromised by the additional vehicular trips generated by this development. I attach significant weight to that advice.
I have had regard to the wider concerns of the BHA and interested parties regarding the capacity of the local highway network and its ability to cope with the development. The appellant’s [name] advises that the development would not have a material effect on the surrounding highway network. Car parking would be provided in accordance with the Havant Borough Council Parking SPD (July 2016, revised 2019). Moreover, HCC did not object to the proposal in terms of either parking provision or the development’s impact on the local road network, including along [address] and at the [address] and [address] junction. I attach significant weight to that advice.
The proposals include footway connections through the site and onto [address]. The eastern footway connection includes an informal crossing point to the northern side of [address] to enable pedestrians to access the existing footway. The western footway connection onto [address] is opposite the pavement of [address] and provides an alternative pedestrian route to [address] via footpath 107. [name] note the concerns regarding the suitability of footpath 107 due to its limited width and lack of natural surveillance, it is hard surfaced and has several lights along its length. As such, it would provide a reasonable alternative pedestrian route for many and, therefore, positively contributes to the connectivity of the site.
Proposed highway improvements at [address], [address], [address] and Bedhampton Road29 would all improve pedestrian accessibility to facilities from the site, including local schools and green space. There is agreement between the Council, HCC and the appellant that future residents would have appropriate access to local shops, services and facilities by sustainable transport modes. Table 3.1 of the appellant’s TN shows that there is a good range of facilities and services within reasonable walking distance of the site (maximum 2km), including retail, schools, restaurants, public transport and outdoor recreation. The proposal would, therefore, provide appropriate access to facilities by a range of sustainable transport modes, including walking, cycling and public transport.
Concluding on this main issue, I find that it has been demonstrated that safe and suitable access to the site can be achieved and that the local road network has capacity to accommodate the traffic resulting from the development. The proposal is in accordance with HBCS Policy CS20 which requires development to, amongst other things, ensure the safe and efficient operation of the strategic and local road network. Moreover, in accordance with paragraph 109 of the Framework, the proposal would not have an unacceptable effect on 28 [name] Amended at the Inquiry to 7. 29 Dwg no. ITB12174-GA-007 [name] highway safety and would not have a severe residual cumulative impact on the road network. Appropriate Assessment
Section 14
[name] – [name]
The appeal site is located near to the Chichester and [name] (CLH) Special Protection Area (SPA), the [name] site and the [name]. SPAs and SACs are habitats protected as European sites under the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (the Regulations). Paragraph 176 of the Framework identifies that Ramsar sites should be given the same protection as European sites. The Regulations require that the competent authority may agree to a plan or project only after having ascertained that it will not adversely affect the integrity of European sites. This requires consideration of whether the proposal would have an effect on the qualifying features of the site, either alone or in combination with other plans and projects. Where the potential for likely significant effects cannot be excluded, an appropriate assessment of whether the plan would affect the integrity of a European site must be undertaken, having regard to the site’s conservation objectives and advice from Natural England.
CLH are large, sheltered estuarine basins comprising extensive mud and sand flats exposed at low tide. The qualifying features of the [name] are internationally important populations of birds, including, amongst others, Dark-bellied brent goose, Sandwich tern, Common tern and Little tern. The qualifying features of the [name] include, amongst others, coastal lagoons, Atlantic salt meadows and Desmoulin’s whorl snail. The CLH Ramsar site’s qualifying features includes internationally important numbers of migratory species and waterfowl assemblage.
Given the proximity of the proposal to these European sites, it is likely that future residents of the proposal would visit those areas for recreational purposes. Intensification of such activities would be likely to cause disturbance to the qualifying features of the European sites. I cannot be certain that such visits, in combination with other residential development within the district, would not have a significant effect on the internationally important interest features of the European sites.
The conservation objectives for the [name] are to ensure that the integrity of the site is maintained and restored as appropriate, and to ensure that the site contributes to the aims of the [name]. These objectives are achieved by maintaining and restoring the extent and distribution of habitats, including their structure and function, supporting processes on which the habitats rely, as well as the populations of each of the qualifying features. The conservation objectives of the [name] include ensuring that the integrity of the site is maintained or restored as appropriate, including its structure and function, supporting processes on which the habitats of qualifying species rely, as well as the populations of each of the qualifying features.
The Solent Recreation Mitigation Strategy (SRMS) identifies that housing and population growth is likely to increase the number of visitors in sensitive coastal areas, creating the potential for impacts from increased recreational disturbance of qualifying features, including birds and their habitats, unless adequately managed. The strategy requires financial contributions from developments and allocates payment to detailed and costed infrastructure and non-infrastructure projects, including the employment of coastal rangers; education initiatives; measures to encourage responsible dog-walking; codes of conduct for coastal activities; site-specific projects to better manage visitors and provide secure habitats for birds; the provision of new or enhanced greenspaces as an alternative to visiting the coast; and coordination of the above activities. Natural England advises that mitigation secured in line with the SRMS would avoid the development having an adverse effect on the integrity of the [name]. The SRMS mitigation measures would be appropriately secured by the s106 submitted by the appellant.
I find that the proposed mitigation of increased recreational pressures would be effective having regard to designated sites’ conservation objectives and, in this regard, the proposal would not adversely affect the integrity of the [name]. The development would therefore accord with ALP Policy DM24 which provides that planning permission will be granted for development that avoids or mitigates a likely significant effect on SPAs caused by recreational disturbance.
Section 15
[name] - [name]
Natural England advises that there are high levels of nitrogen and phosphorus input to the water environment of the Solent region caused by wastewater from existing housing and from agricultural sources. Proposals for additional housing inevitably have implications for wastewater and, without mitigation, would contribute to the eutrophication that reduces water quality in the Solent region. Such eutrophication would likely have a significant effect on the internationally important interest features of the [name], the [name] site, and the [name] by virtue of its effect on vegetation growth and food resources for qualifying species. For the same reasons, there would also be a likely significant effect on other nearby [name], including: the Solent and [name]; Solent and [name] / Ramsar; [name] / Ramsar; and the Solent and Isle of [name]. [name] sites form part of the wider receiving waters for the appeal site and qualifying features include, amongst others, over-wintering wildfowl and waders, and a wide range of coastal and transitional habitats supporting important plant and animal communities.
To demonstrate that the proposal would result in no net nutrient discharge into the European sites, the appellant has provided a nitrogen calculation in accordance with Natural England’s recommended methodology30. The calculation shows the development will result in a negative nitrogen budget by virtue of the cessation of intensive agriculture and the provision of public open space. Natural England raises no concerns regarding the nutrient load emitted by the proposal, provided that the proposed mitigation measures are appropriately secured. The provision of open space would be secured by the s106 submitted by the appellant. I find that the proposed mitigation would be effective in achieving net nutrient neutrality and having regard to designated sites’ conservation objectives. As such, in this regard, the proposal would not adversely affect the integrity of the European sites. 30 Advice on [name] for New Development in the [name]
Section 16
[name]
The appeal site forms part of an identified ‘secondary support area’ (H05A) for waders and [name] within the [name] and [name] (SWBGS). Whilst the site is on land that falls outside of the nearby European sites’ boundaries, it is functionally linked to the [name] and Ramsar sites by virtue of providing habitat for overwintering birds designated as qualifying species for these European sites. The proposal would result in the loss of an area of functionally linked habitat. As such, it would be likely to have a significant effect on the internationally important features of interest of the
Section 17
[name] and Ramsar sites
A methodology for calculating off-site mitigation, based on a financial contribution relating to the area of habitat lost, is set out in the SWBGS. The proposed contribution is in accordance with that methodology and would be used for measures to mitigate against the loss of the site as a secondary support habitat for [name] and [name] in accordance with the SWBGS. The BHA has raised concerns that, whilst a financial contribution towards off-site mitigation is secured by the s106, the s106 does not specify what off-site mitigation will be in place at the time development commences. The SWBGS Mitigation Guide advises, however, that where impacts on secondary support areas cannot be avoided or adequately mitigated on-site, there may be scope for a more flexible approach to off-setting the impacts to these sites, provided the continued ecological function of the network is maintained and significant enhancements additionally delivered, for example by improved long term management31.
The contribution would be payable to the Council prior to commencement of the development. I note that the PHBLPC allocates land at ‘Broadmarsh’32, close to the appeal site, for a [name] and [name]. The financial contribution from the proposal could be reasonably used to bring forward this refuge project and significantly improve the site for SPA species through improved management. The SWBGS advises that funding secured to mitigate the loss of secondary support habitat is to be used to enhance, manage and monitor the wider Solent wader and Brent goose ecological network.33
Natural England and the Council’s Ecologist advise that the secondary support area H05A has not been regularly used by SPA birds in recent years. As such, I am satisfied that the obligation is worded, in accordance with the SWBGS, to ensure appropriate mitigation is secured for the wider Solent wader and Brent goose ecological network, whether this is at ‘Broadmarsh’, or at other suitable sites that may come forward. Natural England is satisfied with this approach and I have no substantive reason to disagree. I find that the proposed mitigation would be effective having regard to designated sites’ conservation objectives and, in this regard, the proposal would not adversely affect the integrity of any [name].
Section 18
[name] – [name]
Construction noise, pollution and activity has the potential to impact on the nearby [name] and on the secondary support site (H05A) identified by 31 Paragraph 25 [name] 2018 32 Pre-Submission Local Plan Policy E25 33 Paragraph 35 [name] 2018 the SWBGS. As such, the proposal would be likely to have a significant effect on the internationally important features of interest of the [name] and [name]. Natural England is satisfied that these impacts can be appropriately mitigated by a Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). I find that the proposed mitigation would be effective having regard to designated sites’ conservation objectives and, in this regard, the proposal would not adversely affect the integrity of any [name].
Section 19
Appropriate Assessment Conclusion
For the reasons set out above, I can safely conclude that the proposed development would not, either alone or in combination with other plans or projects, adversely affect the integrity of any European sites. The proposal would accord with [name] DM23 and DM24 which taken together, amongst other things, seek to protect SPAs and sites for Brent geese and Waders.
Section 20
Character and Appearance
The appellant’s Landscape and [name] Assessment34 (LVIA) advises that the site lies within the ‘Landscape Character Area (LCA) 13: [name] and comprises ‘[name]: [name]. The LVIA further advises that the HBC Landscape Character Assessment Sensitivity Report (2007) ascribes this LCA a medium sensitivity, due to, amongst other things: its open agricultural areas; long distance paths and the streams; streamside vegetation; large gardens and boundary features around historic Bedhampton; pre-1810 village areas; listed and varied buildings. I have also carefully considered the Landscape and [name] Assessment35 (LLVIA) submitted by the BHA. Whilst the LLVIA does not assess the effect of the current proposal, it does find that the appeal site forms part of a landscape with medium visual and landscape character sensitivity.
As an open area of farmland adjacent to the settlement edge, the site currently makes a positive contribution to LCA 13. The immediate effects of the proposal would be transformational, and the introduction of 50 dwellings and a new access would inevitably cause some residual landscape harm given the existing greenfield nature of the site. The low density of housing proposed, in combination with extensive areas of public open space and associated landscaping, would go some way to mitigating the landscape character harm. Whilst the planting would take many years to fully establish, the Council’s Landscape Officer does not object to the proposal subject to a landscaping condition securing an appropriate tree species mix. I attach significant weight to that advice.
The scale and design of the dwellings proposed, with a maximum of two-storey height and a mix of gable and hipped roofs would not appear out of context with the range of existing dwelling types in the local area. The proposed materials and architectural detailing of the dwellings, including timber boarding, decorative brick detailing, chimneys and arched brickwork above windows would be reflective of locally found design details. The proposed housing is arranged so that frontages would address both the internal roads and also [address]. This would provide for active frontages that overlook the 34 terra firma Consultancy Ltd LVIA – April 2019 35 [name], Design and [name] - July 2018, LLD1453-LPL-REP-001 public areas. By setting the dwellings back from [address], this enables more of the existing roadside hedge to be retained and the [name] to retain some prominence. The LVIA concludes that the overall landscape effect of the proposal would be moderate adverse after these factors are considered. I see no substantive evidence that would persuade me to disagree with these findings.
In visual terms, the main effects would be experienced by those travelling along, and residents of, [address] and [address]. Wider views of the site are largely prevented by the railway line to the south and by highways infrastructure to the west. Views from the east would be filtered by the proposed replacement of the coniferous tree belt with broadleaved and native species trees. The main visual effects are, therefore, relatively localised and the proposed built elements would be substantially softened as proposed landscaping matures. The LVIA concludes that residual visual effects would be limited to no more than moderate adverse from public viewpoints, and major adverse on a very limited number of dwellings on [address]. I see no substantive evidence that would persuade me disagree with these findings.
The Framework sets out at paragraph 170 that planning decisions should recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside, amongst other matters. The site itself is not a ‘valued’ one within the meaning of national policy36, and has no specific landscape designation. The site forms only a small proportion of the LCA 13 and substantial areas of agricultural land would be retained to the east and west of the proposed dwellings. Furthermore, I have found the sensitivity of the scheme’s design to its immediate setting to somewhat offset the harm to the character and appearance of the area arising from the loss of the open agricultural land. The pedestrian linkages to [address] and the extensive public open space would provide good permeability with the existing village and allow existing and new members of the community to easily mix. I am satisfied the proposal would provide a high quality environment for future residents and visitors. Nevertheless, residual landscape character and visual harm would remain by virtue of the erosion of Bedhampton’s rural setting.
In this way, the locally distinctive character of the landscape would be diminished contrary to HBCS Policy CS16 which requires development to respect local context, identifying and responding positively to existing features of natural, historic or local character within or close to the proposed development site. This identified harm must, therefore, weigh against the proposal in the planning balance.
Section 21
[name]
The Framework requires that decisions contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by recognising the economic benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land. HBCS Policy CS11 criterion (10) also seeks to protect the best and most versatile agricultural land. The Council advises that the development would result in the loss of 3.8 ha of Grade 1 and 2 (Best and [name]) agricultural land. I have no evidence before me regarding the agricultural quality of the site in comparison to other land in the borough. 36 Framework para 170 a)
Nevertheless, I find the loss of this relatively small area of agricultural land does represent a minor adverse impact and represents conflict with HBCS Policy CS11 criterion 10. It must, therefore, weigh against the proposal in the
Section 22
Air Quality
The Council’s Environmental Health Manager has considered the proposal in terms of both the effect of existing air quality upon the future occupants (as introduced sensitive receptors), and the emissions associated with the occupation of the proposed dwellings. Subject to the provision of sufficient green infrastructure to provide absorption and ‘sink’ services, the Environmental Health Manager does not object to the proposal. The required mitigation measures can be appropriately secured by condition and planning obligation. As such, I see no substantive reason to disagree with the Environmental Health Manager and find the proposal would not have a significant effect upon air quality.
Section 23
Ecology
The application was accompanied by an ecological assessment37 which found potential habitat for protected species was recorded on, and adjacent to the site. The assessment indicates potential for, and records of, birds, bats, reptiles and invertebrates. To mitigate any harm to protected species, an ecological strategy is proposed by the appellant. That strategy includes: creation of new habitats on the site’s open space areas; mitigation method statements for protected species during construction phases of the development; payment provisions to local offsetting and avoidance projects on the adjacent protected coastal designated wildlife sites; the creation of species rich grasslands and tree planting; and the installation of bat and bird boxes and reptile refuges. The Council’s Ecologist does not object to the proposal subject to conditions securing an appropriate ecological mitigation strategy and a Construction and Environmental Management Plan (CEMP). I see no substantive reason to disagree with the Council’s Ecologist.
I am, therefore, satisfied that, subject to conditions securing the mitigation measures outlined within the ecological assessment and an appropriate CEMP, the development would achieve a net gain in biodiversity over the existing agricultural use. In this regard, the proposal would accord with HBCS Policy CS11 criterion 2 and HBCS Policy CS16 criteria 1b), which taken together, amongst other things, seek to support habitats, wildlife and biodiversity.
Section 24
[name] and Drainage
I have had regard to interested parties’ comments highlighting that [address] has previously flooded following heavy rain and after a water main ruptured. No objections have been received from statutory consultees regarding the submitted Flood Risk Assessment and Development Drainage Strategy. The site is at low risk of flooding (Zone 1) and the drainage strategy proposes a SuDS scheme to collect, attenuate and convey the surface water runoff using swales and attenuation basins. Sewage would be connected to the mains. A 37 [name] 2019 management company would be secured by the s106, requiring details of how the SuDS would be maintained.
I see no substantive reason to disagree with the responses from statutory and technical consultees. I am, therefore, satisfied that an appropriate surface water and sewage drainage scheme could be provided, ensuring that there would be no resultant unacceptable risk of flooding or pollution to controlled waters. Details can be controlled by condition.
Section 25
Living Conditions
I note the concerns of interested parties with regards to the effect of the proposal on existing residents living conditions by virtue of overlooking, loss of privacy and over dominance. The separation distance between the development and the existing dwellings on the northern side of [address] would be sufficient to prevent any unacceptable impact in these regards. The dwellings opposite the proposed access are set back and on raised ground in comparison to [address]. These factors would significantly reduce the noise and light impacts of cars entering and exiting the proposed development. Given the limited number of vehicular movements the development would generate, I am not persuaded that unacceptable harm to existing residents would result by virtue of additional vehicular noise and lights.
The proposed dwellings adjoining [name] are separated from the common boundary by their rear gardens and a landscape buffer. The separation distance would be sufficient to prevent any unacceptable overbearing impact or loss of privacy. The proposed dwelling adjacent to the rear gardens of [name] would be a bungalow and would be set off the common boundary such that it would not be overbearing.
Construction would cause some disruption, but this would be temporary and would be mitigated by a CEMP, which can be secured by condition. I am therefore satisfied that appropriate living conditions would be maintained for existing surrounding residents.
Section 26
[name]
HBCS Policy CS9 requires between 30-40% of new dwellings on new residential schemes of 15 or more units to be provided as affordable housing. In relation to major development involving the provision of housing, paragraph 64 of the Framework states that planning policies should expect at least 10% of the homes to be available for affordable home ownership as part of the overall affordable housing contribution from the site, subject to criteria and exceptions. PHBLPC Policy H2 requires 30% of new dwellings on new residential schemes of 10 or more outside of Havant, Waterlooville and Leigh Park town centres to be affordable housing.
The appeal scheme proposes 30% affordable housing (5 shared ownership and 10 affordable rented). The s106 secures this mix and includes an affordable housing plan showing the plot locations of the affordable housing. Delivery of the affordable housing is linked to the disposal of the market dwellings to ensure progress in the availability of the affordable dwellings.
I note comments from some local residents who dispute that the proposed affordable housing is genuinely affordable. The legal agreement which accompanies the application uses a definition of affordable housing which is in line with the definition of that in the Framework. I am therefore satisfied that this would ensure that such housing would meet the Government’s criteria for affordable housing. Furthermore, I note that the Council’s Housing Manager does not object to the proposal and that there are a significant number of people on the waiting list for affordable housing38.
As such, the development would make an adequate provision of affordable homes in accordance with HBCS Policy CS9, PHBLPC Policy H2 and the Framework.
Section 27
Public Open Space
The proposal includes the provision of approximately 2ha of open space including children’s allotments, a community orchard and other landscaped areas. The s106 secures public access to these areas, their retention and management. The open space would include new and enhanced planting and landscaping, resulting in some net biodiversity gain. The proposed open space would include linkages through to [address] and would attract users from nearby existing residential development. This would result in health and well-being benefits beyond the future residents of the new development.
PHBLPC Policy E9 sets out the requirements for new residential development of 50 dwellings or more to provide public open space. Amongst other things, the policy requires: high quality on-site public open space is provided to a standard of 1.5ha per 1,000 population; and on greenfield sites, part of the requirement is provided in the form of a community food growing space to a standard of at least 0.2ha per 1000 population. The proposal generates a need of approximately 0.3ha and the overall level of open space to be provided would, therefore, be significantly in excess of that required by Policy E9. A significant proportion of the open space is for green buffers along the boundaries of the site and provides some mitigation of harm to landscape and heritage assets. As such, I find that the public open space is necessary to make the development acceptable in planning term and is compliant with Policy E9, CIL regulation 122 and the tests of Framework paragraph 56.
Section 28
Planning Obligations
Broad local concern is raised about the infrastructure capacity of Bedhampton to cope with the existing development levels and the proposed additional 50 units. [name] note that Bedhampton is set to expand, there is no justification to withhold consent based on this specific point. Healthcare and highways contributions are incorporated into the s106. Furthermore, the County Council advises that the educational demands arising from the development can be met in local schools. There is no substantive evidence to support claims that, with the proposed planning obligations, there would be an undue strain on local services including highways, education and healthcare.
A signed and dated s106 was submitted prior to the Inquiry. The s106 would secure the provision of: 30% affordable housing; site access works; s106 monitoring fee; open space including an orchard, children’s allotments, associated infrastructure and management plan to ensure that the open space is managed for nutrient neutrality; SUDS bond and permissive paths. The s106 38 Registered on [name]. also secures financial contributions towards the [name], healthcare, the [name] and [name]; a community worker; and improvements to the route to school. The Council has set out the relevant planning policy support/justification related to these obligations.
I have considered the s106 in light of Regulation 122 of the Community Infrastructure Levy Regulations 2010 (as amended), Paragraph 56 of the Framework and the PPG regarding the use of planning obligations. Having done so, I am satisfied that the obligations would be required by, and accord with, the policies set out in the Council’s and the appellant’s submissions in this regard. Overall, I am satisfied that the obligations are directly related to the proposed development, fairly and reasonably related to it and necessary to make it acceptable in planning terms.
Section 29
Other issues
[name] appreciate the concern raised regarding the issue of the impact of the proposal on existing local property values, I have no substantive evidence to suggest that local property prices would be adversely affected. Furthermore, it is a well-founded principle that the planning system does not exist to protect private interests such as value of land or property or private views. I appreciate the desire to protect the OBCA in order to maintain tourism, however, I have no substantive evidence before me to suggest that tourism would be adversely impacted by the development.
I have considered the BHA’s assertions that the proposal would result in parcels of space left over after the development that would be less viable and vulnerable to future development. I have also had regard to concerns relating to light pollution from the scheme. However, I have no substantive evidence before me in these regards. Each application and appeal must be determined on its individual merits, and generalised concerns such as these do not justify withholding permission in this case.
I have had regard to the concerns that the development would harm the viability of The Elms. Given the distance between the site and The Elms, and my conclusions on highways impact, I am not persuaded that the development would have a detrimental impact on the occupancy levels of either the reception room or residences at The Elms.
I have also considered concerns with regards to the need for the replacement of the tree shelter belt to be appropriately managed. The replacement shelter belt planting forms part of the open space that would be supervised by a management company. The s106 requires submission of proposals for the management plan within 6 months of commencement of the development. A condition has also been agreed by the appellant and Council that requires a strategy and planting program for the replacement of the tree shelter belt to be approved by the Council prior to above ground development commencing. Subject to these controls, I find that any short term harm in this regard to heritage assets, and to the character and appearance of the area, could be appropriately minimised. Furthermore, any effects from the construction period would be short-term and could be mitigated by careful construction management also secured by condition.
There is no firm evidence to suggest that the proposal would create an unsafe environment for children by virtue of access to the railway bridge or that the proposed water features would result in insect borne diseases. [name] am aware that an amended planning application on the site has been submitted to and refused by the Council, I have reached my own conclusions on the appeal proposal based on the evidence before me. OVERALL CONCLUSIONS AND PLANNING BALANCE
Section 30
Assessment Against the Development Plan as a Whole
I have found that the proposal conflicts with the most relevant policies within the development plan, as set out in the SoCG, namely [name] CS11, CS16 and CS17, and [name] AL2 and DM20.
The proposal would be on greenfield land outside the urban area boundary for Bedhampton and, in this respect, delivery of homes on the site would not accord with the spatial strategy within the development plan. However, I have afforded very limited weight to the conflict with both HBCS Policy CS17 and ALP Policy AL2. This is due to their reliance on urban area boundaries predicated on out-dated levels of housing need.
I give great weight to the conflict of the proposal with [name] CS11 and CS16, and ALP Policy DM20, primarily by virtue of the proposal’s harmful effect on the setting and significance of the OBCA, but also due to the moderate harm to the limited significance of [address]. The proposal would fail to protect and respond positively to existing historic features as required by these development plan policies.
The landscape is of local value and there would be harm arising both to landscape character and to visual amenity. The proposal would provide additional landscape planting and the replacement of the harmful coniferous shelter belt with native broadleaf trees would represent enhancement. The landscape character and visual impact of the proposal would be significant in the short-term. Longer term impacts would be somewhat mitigated as landscaping matures. Nevertheless, residual landscape character and visual harm would remain by virtue of the erosion of Bedhampton’s rural setting. These harms would be visually contained and localised. As such, I give only limited weight to these harms and the conflict with HBCS Policy CS16 which requires development to demonstrate that it integrates with existing local landscape features. I also afford limited weight to the harm that would result from the loss of a relatively small area of BMV agricultural land and the conflict with HBCS Policy CS11 criterion (10).
The development would provide 30% affordable homes in an area with a significant waiting list for such homes. As such, I give significant weight to the delivery of affordable homes in accordance with HBCS Policy CS9 criterion (2).
It would also provide net bio-diversity gains through habitat creation on a site which is currently predominantly open arable land. I give moderate weight to the development’s promotion of wildlife and biodiversity in accordance with HBCS Policy CS16 criterion (1b).
Furthermore, the proposal would not offend other development plan policies, including relating to air quality, designated [name], accessibility, transport and highways safety.
Overall, however, I find that the harm to heritage assets and the resulting policy conflicts, in combination with the other lesser policy harms identified, are such that the proposal cannot be regarded to accord with the development plan when taken as a whole.
I now turn to consider whether there are material considerations that would determine that my decision should be made otherwise than in accordance with
Section 31
The Heritage Balance
Paragraph 196 of the Framework requires that the less than substantial harm to the OBCA be weighed against the public benefits of the scheme. [name] have identified that the less than substantial harm is at a moderate level within that spectrum, I attribute great weight39 and importance to the conservation of designated heritage assets, understanding that heritage assets are an irreplaceable resource. As such, I give great weight to the harm to the setting and significance of the OBCA.
Section 32
Public Benefits
The PPG40 advises that, ‘public benefits may follow from many developments and could be anything that delivers economic, social or environmental objectives as described in the National Planning Policy Framework’.
Amongst the benefits of the proposals would be the provision of a significant number of homes in a borough where there is not a 5 year supply of deliverable housing sites by a considerable margin. Wherever the actual deliverable housing land supply figure may lie within the agreed range, even a most favourable position of 4.1 years, which includes provision of homes on the appeal site, is still notably deficient.
Whilst there is uncertainty regarding allocations in the emerging plan, it is clear that the Council will not be able to significantly boost its supply of homes and meet its housing needs without the development of currently unallocated countryside sites beyond existing development boundaries. Whilst the requirement to achieve nutrient neutrality has previously been a significant constraint to housing delivery and a strategic mitigation strategy in this regard has now been adopted, there is no clear evidence that a 5YHLS will be achieved imminently. Indeed, the Council’s current proposed housing strategy includes housing delivery on the appeal site. The Housing Delivery Test results for 2020 are significantly below the expectation in the Framework and the borough’s housing needs continue not to be met. The proposal would help to rectify this situation more quickly than waiting for the emerging local plan to allocate sites across the borough.
The Framework41 is clear that the Government’s objective is to significantly boost the supply of homes to meet peoples’ housing needs. The scheme would provide 35 units of much-needed market housing and 15 units of affordable housing in an area where there is a significant waiting list for affordable housing. The Council and appellant agree that the delivery of the proposed housing, in an area where housing delivery requirements are not being met, is 39 Framework paragraph 193 40 Paragraph: 020 [name]: 18a-[phone] - Revision date: 23 07 2019 41 Framework Paragraph 59 a material consideration of substantial weight. The proposal would provide a high quality environment for future residents and good access to local services and facilities. As such, I give substantial weight to the provision of both the affordable and market housing on the site.
The proposed development would include significant areas of public open space, including the provision of children’s allotments, a community orchard, the removal of the harmful coniferous shelter belt and provision of other landscaped areas. This approximate 2 hectares of open space would make appropriate provision for prospective residents and would, given the linkages through to [address], also attract users from the wider community. The open space would, therefore, promote health and well-being within the wider community in accordance with Framework paragraph 91. I afford moderate weight to the benefits derived from the public open space.
The site is of limited ecological value and proposed enhancements to biodiversity include introducing species rich grassland, native hedgerow, new trees and water features. Bird and bat boxes would also be provided. The cessation of intensive agriculture and the provision of public open space will also benefit the habitats of the nearby European sites. The proposed ecological enhancements go beyond just mitigation for the effects of the development. As such, I find the net biodiversity gain resulting from the proposal is supported by Framework paragraph 170(d) and afford this benefit moderate weight.
The development would result in supporting direct and indirect jobs during construction, with additional contributions to the economy generally through the activity and spending of future occupiers. Although the economic benefits may be ones that would result from any residential development, they are nonetheless important and are ones to which I attach moderate weight.
I acknowledge that the development includes a significant number of electric vehicle charging points and water efficiency will be secured by condition. I give some weight to these measures given their support within paragraph 148 of the Framework which requires the planning system to support the transition to a low carbon future.
Section 33
Heritage Balance Conclusion
Overall, I find that the delivery of the proposed housing would yield significant social, economic and environmental benefits. Furthermore, I find that the public benefits would be of sufficient importance to outweigh the harm that would arise to the significance of the OBCA.
Section 34
The Tilted Balance
By virtue of the agreed absence of a 5YHLS and the Council’s most recent [name] result, the tilted balance under paragraph 11 d) of the Framework is engaged and the policies most important for determining the application are thereby deemed to be out-of-date. In view of my conclusions on the heritage balance, and taking account of my findings concerning the Appropriate Assessment under the Habitats Regulations, the relevant approach is to consider the balance in accordance with paragraph 11d)ii). This means granting permission unless any adverse impacts of doing so would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits, when assessed against the policies in the Framework taken as a whole.
I give great weight to the harm to the significance of the OBCA as set out above. In the case of non-designated heritage assets, paragraph 197 of the Framework makes clear that a balanced judgement should be made, having regard to the scale of any harm and the significance of the asset. As such, given the limited significance of [address], I give limited weight to the harm to its significance.
Framework paragraph 170(b) requires planning decisions to recognise the intrinsic character of the countryside and the economic benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land. Given a relatively small area of BMV agricultural land would be lost and the landscape harm would be localised, I attach limited weight to these harms.
Weighing against these negative impacts are the public benefits listed above in the heritage balance. In particular, the delivery of housing to address the supply shortfall, even taking the most favourable position of 4.1 years supply, is a benefit of substantial weight.
Overall, the adverse impacts of granting planning permission in this instance would not significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits when assessed against the policies in the Framework taken as a whole.
Section 35
Final Planning Balance
I have found the proposal conflicts with the development plan as a whole. However, whilst I recognise the importance of the plan-led system42, it is necessary to consider whether there are material considerations of sufficient weight or importance to indicate that the decision should be made other than in accordance with the development plan.
I acknowledge the strength of local opposition to the proposal and have given significant consideration to the many concerns raised.
I also acknowledge that the principle of developing the site with the quantum of development proposed is currently supported by the emerging plan. Nevertheless, given the potential for modifications to Policy H20, I afford that policy’s support for the development only limited weight.
There is, however, substantial policy support for the proposal within the Framework given the economic, social and environmental benefits of the proposal as variously set out above. The presumption in favour of sustainable development, as set out at paragraph 11d)ii) of the Framework, provides very substantial weight in favour of the proposal.
As such, overall, I find that the conflict with the development plan as a whole is outweighed by other material considerations. 42 Framework Paragraph 15
Section 36
Conditions
I have considered the conditions agreed between the Council and the appellant against the requirements of the PPG and the Framework. Where necessary, I have amended the set of conditions for clarity, to ensure compliance with national policy and guidance, and in light of the discussions at the inquiry. The conditions I have included from the recommended list have been subject to some alterations to improve clarity and ensure consistency with the Framework and PPG. The numbers in brackets relate to the conditions in the schedule.
In addition to the standard timescale condition (1), I have imposed a condition specifying the relevant plans and documents as this provides certainty (2).
A number of the detailed plans suggested to be included in condition 2 reflect a superseded site plan and do not, therefore, provide complete detail in relation to the amended site plan. I have therefore omitted those plans from condition 2 and have secured submission of the relevant detail through other conditions where necessary. The omitted plans are: • [name]: 5992: P92 [name] • [name]: 5992: P05 [name] • [name]: 5992: P03 [name] • [name]: 5992: P02 [name]
In the interests of heritage, character and appearance, it is necessary to attach conditions in relation to: landscaping (4, 10, 16); materials to be used externally on the buildings (11); removal of permitted development rights (23) and finished floor levels (14). I have considered the removal of permitted development rights for the dwellings on plots 26 to 41 but do not find that there is clear justification to do so given their separation from the OBCAA.
In the interests of ecology, a condition ensuring appropriate protection of biodiversity and habitats is necessary (3). Conditions 3 and 4 are pre-commencement conditions as ecology and tree protection measures will need to be agreed before works begin to prevent the development resulting in harm in these regards.
In the interests of living conditions, ecology, highways safety and efficiency, a condition requiring a Construction and Environmental Management Plan Statement is necessary to appropriately address potential pollution and other environmental effects (5). It is necessary that details are approved prior to the commencement of development as the arrangements must be put in place at the outset of the development commencing to avoid harm.
It is necessary to include a condition to address potential issues of contaminated land (17) to ensure the development can be safely occupied. A condition requiring details of noise attenuation measures (18) is necessary to ensure the satisfactory living conditions of future residents.
In order to prevent increased risks of flooding and pollution, and in the interests of the principles of sustainable drainage, conditions are necessary to ensure the appropriate surface water drainage of the site (6, 7). These conditions are pre-commencement due to the environmental risk of inappropriate surface water run-off.
In the interests of highway safety and accessibility, conditions are necessary to ensure visibility splays (19), surfacing (20), car parking (21), delivery of permissive paths (13), appropriate kerbing and vehicle tracking (15).
In the interests of water efficiency and sustainable transport, conditions are necessary to secure water efficiency measures (12) and to secure provision of electric charging points (22).
In the interest of protecting and recording archaeology, conditions are necessary to secure archaeological surveying and recording (8, 9). These details need to be agreed before works begin to prevent the development resulting in harm in this regard.
Section 37
Conclusion
For the reasons above, the appeal is allowed subject to the conditions in the attached Schedule.
Section 38
[name]
The development must be begun not later than three years beginning with the date of this permission.
Section 39
Details and Drawings
The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the following approved plans and details unless otherwise required by the conditions below: • [name]: 17.043.100 Site Location Plan [name] • [name]: 17.043.101 [name] • [name]: 17.043.102 [name] – Proposed Site Layout • [name]: 17.043.200 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.201 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.202 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.204 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.[address] [name] • [name]: 17.043.[address] [name] • [name]: 17.043.[address] AFF [name] • [name]: 17.043.206 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.207 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.208 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.209 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.210 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.211 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.212 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.213 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.214 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.215 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.216 [name] 5 Bay [name] • [name]: 17.043.218 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.219 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.220 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.221 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.222 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.223 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.225 [name] [name] • [name]: 17.043.[address] Scenes 1 of 2 [name] • [name]: 17.043.[address] Scenes 2 of 2 [name] • [name]: - EV Charging Point Plan [name] • [name]: 5992: P11 [name] • [name]: 5992: P01 [name] • [name]: 5992: 601 [name] • [name]: 5992: P91 [name] • [name]: 5992: P90 [name] • [name]: 5992: P93 [name] • [name]: 5992: P60 [name] • [name]: 5992: P20 [name] • [name]: 5992: P10 Road and [name] • [name]: 1860-TF-00-00-DR-L- 1002 Rev 07A Sheet 1 of 5 – Amended Plan • [name]: 1860-TF-00-00-DR-L- 1003 Sheet 2 of 5 • [name]: 1860-TF-00-00-DR-L- 1004 Sheet 3 of 5 • [name]: 1860-TF-00-00-DR-L- 1005 Rev 07A Sheet 4 of 5 – Amended Plan • Terrafirma Planting Schedule Drawing No: 1860-TF-00-00-DR-L- 1006 Sheet 5 of 5 • Tree Survey Drawing No: BJH 01/02 Sheets 1 – 3 • Tree Protection Plans Drawing No: BJH/03/04 Sheets 1 – 4
Section 40
Pre-commencement
Prior to the commencement of development, a site-wide ecological mitigation strategy shall be submitted for approval to the Local Planning Authority. This strategy shall be in accordance with the outline ecological mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures detailed within the Ecological Assessment (Aluco, April 2019) and shall be in accordance with any submitted landscape, drainage and lighting strategies. All ecological mitigation, compensation and enhancement measures shall be implemented in accordance with the agreed details and an agreed timetable and shall be maintained for the lifetime of the development in a condition suited to their intended function.
Prior to the commencement of development, the approved tree protective measures, including fencing and ground protection, in accordance with the submitted [name] ([name], ref: BJH.1010.June19) and Tree Protection Plan (dwg no. BJH 03/04, Sheets 1 to 4) shall be installed and maintained throughout the duration of the construction period. No arboricultural works shall be carried out other than those specified and in accordance with the submitted Tree Survey. Within the fenced area(s), there shall be no excavations, storage of materials or machinery, parking of vehicles or fires.
No development shall take place until a site-specific Construction Environmental Management Plan (CEMP) has been submitted to, and approved in writing by, the Planning Authority. The CEMP shall be informed by the identified ecological receptors detailed within the Ecological Assessment (Aluco, April 2019) and must demonstrate the adoption and use of the best practicable means to reduce the effects of noise, vibration, dust and site lighting. The approved CEMP shall be adhered to throughout the construction period. The CEMP shall include, but not be limited to, details of the: a) Programme for carrying out of the works; b) Procedures for maintaining good public relations including complaint management, public consultation and liaison; c) Measures to minimise the noise (including vibration) generated by the construction process; d) Construction traffic routes and their management and control; e) Arrangements for deliveries associated with all construction works; f) Loading and unloading of plant and materials; g) Storage of plant and materials used in constructing the development; h) Location of temporary site buildings, compounds, construction material, and plant storage areas; i) Access and egress for plant and machinery; j) Protection of pedestrian routes during construction; k) Delivery and construction working hours; l) Procedures for emergency deviation of the agreed working hours; m) Control measures for dust and other air-borne pollutants; n) Details of any floodlighting, including location, height, type and direction of light sources and intensity of illumination; o) Parking and turning of vehicles of site operatives and visitors; p) Erection and maintenance of security hoarding, including decorative displays and facilities for public viewing, where appropriate; q) Measures to prevent mud being deposited on the highway; r) Provision for addressing any abnormal wear and tear to the highway; s) A scheme for recycling/disposing of waste resulting from the construction works.
The development hereby permitted shall not be commenced until a surface water drainage scheme has first been submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved scheme and an agreed timetable and retained thereafter.
The development hereby permitted shall not be commenced until a scheme for water quality monitoring of site surface water drainage discharging to boreholes has been submitted to, and approved in writing by, the local planning authority. The approved monitoring scheme shall be carried out in accordance with the agreed details.
The development hereby permitted shall not be commenced until an [name] of Investigation has been submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The scheme shall include: a) the programme and methodology of site investigation and recording b) the programme for post investigation assessment; c) the provision to be made for analysis of the site investigation and recording; d) the provision to be made for publication and dissemination of the analysis and records of the site investigation e) the provision to be made for archive deposition of the analysis and records of the site investigation f) the nomination of a competent person or persons/organization to undertake the works set out within the [name] of Investigation. No development shall take place other than in accordance with the [name] of Investigation approved under this condition.
Section 41
Above ground/slab level
No above ground development shall take place until a further detailed Scheme of Soft and [address] has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. These details shall include: i) Written specifications (including cultivation and other operations associated with plant and grass establishment; ii) Planting methods, tree pits & guying methods; iii) schedules of plants, noting species, planting sizes and proposed numbers/densities where appropriate; iv) Retained areas of grassland cover, scrub, hedgerow, trees and woodland; v) Manner and treatment of watercourses, ditches and banks; vi) Details of all hard-surfaces, such as paths, internal access roads, seating areas and parking spaces, including their finished level, appearance, depth and permeability; vii) Means of enclosure, in particular boundary walls and planting around properties and including their frontages, including any retaining structures; viii) The type of street lighting including calculations, contour illumination plans and means to reduce light pollution; ix) A timetable for implementation of the soft and hard landscaping works. The scheme of Soft and [address] shall be implemented in accordance with the approved timetable. Any plant which dies, becomes diseased or is removed within the first five years of planting, shall be replaced in the next planting season with another of similar type and size.
Notwithstanding any description of materials in the application, no above ground construction works shall take place until samples and a full specification of the materials to be used externally on the buildings have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. Such details shall include the type, colour and texture of the materials. Development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details / samples.
No development above slab level shall occur until a water efficiency calculation which demonstrates that no more than 110 litres of water per person per day shall be consumed within the development has been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. All measures necessary to meet the agreed water efficiency calculation must be installed before first occupation of each dwelling and the measures retained thereafter.
No above ground development shall take place until the following details have been submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority: (a) a specification of the type of construction for the permissive path(s), including all relevant horizontal cross sections and longitudinal sections showing the existing and proposed levels together with details of the method of disposing surface water; (b) a programme for making up the permissive path. The works shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details and an agreed timetable.
No above ground development shall take place until full details of the finished levels, above ordnance datum, of the ground floor(s) of the proposed building(s), in relation to existing ground levels have been submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved levels.
No development above slab level shall occur until details of the internal access roads and parking areas, including the kerb strategy and car tracking details, have been submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The internal access road(s) shall thereafter be constructed in accordance with the approved details and an agreed timetable and shall be managed and maintained as approved for the lifetime of the development.
No above ground development shall take place until a strategy and planting program for the replacement of the tree shelter belt (as shown on dwg no. 17.043.102 [name]) has been submitted and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The strategy shall set out the program and timing for the phased removal of the conifer belt and provide details of the replacement planting including species, size, and planting density. The planting shall be carried out in full accordance with the approved details. Any plant which dies, becomes diseased or is removed within the first five years of planting, shall be replaced in the next planting season with another of similar type and size.
Section 42
Pre-occupancy
The development hereby permitted shall be carried out in accordance with the recommended [address] and [name] outlined in sections 11.2 & 13.0 of the Geo-Environmental Services Ltd. [name] (Ref GE16507-GAR-NOV17 v1.0, dated 08/11/2017). Prior to the occupation of any part of the permitted development subject to remediation, a verification report by a suitably qualified contaminated land practitioner shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the local planning authority. The verification report must; a) demonstrate the adequate segregation of made soils deemed inappropriate for use in private garden areas, and either the appropriate 'off-site disposal' or 'within-development placement' of this material to ensure that no unacceptable exposures arise, and; b) document any assessments &/or remedial actions required to be taken in accordance with the [name], or if no actions were required; provide a positive declaration that no relevant discoveries of previously undocumented 'suspected contaminated' soils were made.
The development shall be carried out in accordance with the specification measures outlined in Parts 5.7 - 5.10 of the submitted Noise and Vibration Impact Assessment ([name]: R6954-1 Rev 1, dated 28th March 2019). The sound attenuation works shall be completed for each dwelling before it is occupied and shall be retained thereafter.
Prior to first occupation of the dwellings hereby approved, the visibility splays shown for the vehicular access and two pedestrian accesses onto [address] shown on Dwg no.5992-601-C (General Highway Arrangements) shall be provided so that any obstruction within the splays between 0.6m and 3m above the level of the carriageway shall be removed. These splays shall be maintained in such condition thereafter.
Prior to first occupation of the dwellings hereby approved, the first 16m of the vehicular access onto the site, measured from the nearside edge of the carriageway of the adjacent highway, shall be surfaced in a non-migratory material and shall be maintained in such condition thereafter.
The car parking, servicing and other vehicular access arrangements shown on the approved plans to serve each individual dwelling hereby permitted shall be made fully available for use prior to that dwelling being first occupied and shall be retained thereafter for those purposes.
Prior to the first occupation of the dwellings hereby approved, full details of the [name] points shall be submitted to and approved in writing by the Local Planning Authority. The development shall be carried out in accordance with the approved details.
Section 43
Conditions relating to post occupancy
Notwithstanding the provisions of the Town and Country Planning General Permitted Development Order 2015 (as amended), no development permitted by Part 1, [name], B, C and E of the 2015 Order (as amended) shall be carried out within the curtilage of Plots 7, 10, 11, and 22 to 25 inclusive without the prior written approval of the Local Planning Authority. [name]: [name] of [name], instructed by [name] called: [name] Director, Terence O’Rourke Ltd [name] (Hons) [name], Luken Beck MDP Ltd MRTPI [name] [name], i-Transport LLP FOR THE LOCAL PLANNING AUTHORITY: [name] of [name], instructed by Havant Borough Council He called: [name] Senior Heritage Consultant, Node Urban Design Ltd [name], [name] in [name] of Planning and Building and Regional Planning, [name] in Control, Capita, Breckland Council Town Planning, MRTPI FOR BEDHAMPTON HERITAGE ALLIANCE: [name], BA(Hons) DMS(Dist) Bedhampton Heritage Alliance FRTPI(rtd) [name](Hons) Physics; Trustee of the Manor Trust Charity Chartered Engineer CEng (IET) [name]: [name] [name] INQUIRY ID01 Opening submissions on behalf of the appellant ID01A Appendix 1 – Chronology of [name] ID01B Appendix 2 - R. v. Hammersmith and Fulham London Borough Council, ex p. People Before Profit Ltd. [name], [name], May 12, 13, 14 and 20, 1981 ID01C Appendix 3 - Monkhill Ltd v Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government and another, [2019] EWHC 1993 (Admin), [name], 2019 July 9; 24 ID01D Appendix 4 – Monkhill Ltd v SSHCLG [2021] [name] 74, 28 January 2021 ID02 Opening submissions on behalf of the Havant Borough Council ID03 Opening submissions on behalf of Bedhampton Heritage Alliance ID04 HBC Housing Delivery Action Plan (January 2021) ID05 Gladman Developments Ltd v Secretary of State for Housing, Communities; and Corby Borough Council; and Uttlesford District Council, [2021] [name] 104, 03 January 2021 ID06 Policy H20 (Land south of [address]) – Pre-Submission Havant Borough Local Plan with Changes. ID07 Closing submissions of Bedhampton Heritage Alliance ID08 Revised list of plans and documents ID09 Bedhampton Heritage Alliance E-mail correspondence regarding the amended landscape plans. ID10 Havant Borough Local Plan Pre-Submission Version with Changes ID11 Closing submissions on behalf of Havant Borough Council ID12 Closing submissions on behalf of the appellant ID13 List of conditions [name]:
Natural England Habitat Regulations Appropriate Assessment Comments – received 22 February 2021
BHA Additional Habitats Regulations Comments – received 25 February 2021
Appellant Additional Habitats Regulations Comments – received 25 February 2021
Planning inspector and document dates
The official casework attribution is grouped under a one-way keyed hash and shown only by its local identifier. Decision-letter dates and page references are extracted by fixed first-page rules and checked against that authoritative record.
Appeal Decision
- Extracted inspector · page 1
- Inspector attribution ID 165No official casework-database value to compare
- Extracted decision date · page 1
- 13 July 2021Matches the official casework database
- Extracted site visit dates
- 15 January 2021 (page 1), 16 February 2021 (page 1)
Reference and authority
Official identifiers and the planning authority recorded against this case.
- Case reference
- 3259067
- Application reference
- APP/19/00427
- Lead case reference
- Not recorded
- Planning authority
- Havant Borough Council
- Planning authority code
- E07000090
Casework details
The casework, procedure, development and linking details supplied by the official record.
- Casework type
- Planning Appeal
- Procedure
- Inquiry
- Development type
- Major dwellings
- Appeal type reason
- 1. Refused planning permission
- Appeal reason
- Refusal
- Type detail
- Planning Appeals - Full
- Jurisdiction
- Transferred
- Link status
- Not Linked
Site and development
Published appeal-site measurements and planning designations, without the withheld precise location fields.
- Site area
- 3.85 hectares
- Floor space
- Not recorded
- Number of residences
- 50
- Site in Green Belt
- No
- Agricultural holding
- Yes
- Affects setting of a listed building
- Not recorded
- Historic building grant made
- Not recorded
- Relates to a conservation area
- Not recorded
- Flooding is an issue
- Not recorded
- Site within an AONB
- Not recorded
- Site within an SSSI
- Not recorded
Decision and dates
The published outcome and every imported case date.
- Official decision
- Allowed
- Decision category
- Allowed
- Received date
- 8 September 2020
- Valid date
- 8 September 2020
- Start date
- 14 October 2020
- Planning authority decision date
- 26 March 2020
- Appeal decision date
- 13 July 2021
Case administration
Published recovery, call-in, costs and enforcement information for this case.
- Redetermined
- No
- Bespoke
- No
- Date recovered
- Not recorded
- Date not recovered or derecovered
- Not recorded
- Call-in date
- Not recorded
- Costs applied for
- Not recorded
- Enforcement grounds count
- Not recorded
- Enforcement grounds
- Not recorded
Source and catalogue history
When this record appeared in the rolling official release and when the catalogue stored it.
- Source
- Planning Inspectorate casework database
- Source data system
- Horizon
- Dataset status
- Current release
- Catalogue record ID
- 585
- First seen
- 20 August 2026 at 14:24
- Last seen
- 20 August 2026 at 16:25
- Removed from release
- Not recorded
- Record created
- 20 August 2026 at 14:24
- Record updated
- 20 August 2026 at 16:25