Object

Representation ID: 56649

Received: 29/07/2013

Respondent: One Hundred Percent Properties

Agent: Barton Willmore

Welcomes the recognition in paragraph 4.5.11 that the sub-region has a particular strength in the automotive / vehicle manufacturing and advanced manufacturing and engineering sectors

The former Honiley Airfield plays a key role in delivering facilities for these uses within Warwick District.

In this respect, consider that it is key that the Council follow through on their proposal in the previous version the New Local Plan, at Policy PO8, to develop "a policy framework to support appropriate development at identified Major Developed Sites in the Green Belt which may include site specific policies for Stoneleigh Park, the University of Warwick, Coventry Airport and the Former Honiley Airfield".

A site specific policy for the former Honiley Airfield would support sub-regional objectives relating to economic development, in line with the Coventry and Warwickshire LEP Strategy 5 Year plan (2011-2016).

In addition to the clear economic benefits that could be delivered from future development at the site, attracting new investment would also result in a number of on-site environmental improvements, including re-laying the test track with a noise reducing surface and providing noise-attenuating bunds.

This would ensure future development is sympathetic to the Green Belt designation and reduce the harm to the amenity of surrounding residents.

In addition, whilst we support the Council's intention to continue to identify the former Honiley Airfield as an MDS, we consider that the development of a site specific policy should be accompanied by a review of the MDS designation.

As a minimum, the MDS should be extended so that it is, at the very least, consistent with the Fulcrum planning permission which approves the principle of development in an area of woodland currently excluded from the MDS.

It would be more appropriate, however, to extend the MDS designation to also cover the test track, conscious of the extensive areas of hardstanding associated with it, its previously developed character, and recognising that fact that it has an established pattern of continued use
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