Issue and Options 2023

Nothing chosen

Q-D2: As per earlier comments Paragraph 124 of the NPPF sets out that planning policies should support development that makes efficient use of land. Moreover Parag raph 127 states that area-based character assessments, design guides and codes and masterplans can be used to help ensure that land is used efficiently while also creating beautiful and sustainable places. Where there is an existing or anticipated shortage of land for meeting identified housing needs, it is especially important that planning policies and decisions avoid homes being built at low densities and ensure that developments make optimal use of the potential of each site. We would suggest that there is a need to understand existing housing need in the first instance, the ability for that need to be accommodated in the plan area and the policy response needed to meet that need. The use of design codes is appropriate; however we would caution agains t an approach that relies on numerous Design Codes needing to be prepared at Part 2 as it could delay delivery. Q-D3: As above, the NPPF states that area based character assessments, design guides and codes and masterplans can be used to help achieve well-designed places which make efficient use of land. We would suggest that density ranges can be suitable in signalling what type of development the Council would expect to see in certain areas however we would caution against not providing any flexibility in the ranges to allow for specific circumstances. The aim should be to optimise sites.

No answer given

Q-T1: ‘20 minute neighbourhoods’ or the ’15 minute city’ relate to the creation of compact connected places where people can meet their everyday needs within a short walk or a cycle. The TCPA note that there are multiple benefits to this approach to development, such as improved mental and physical health, reduction in traffic and improvement in air quality, as well as helping local businesses. We would support inclusion of a policy referencing the principles of a 20 minute neighbourhood or other similar approach; however we would caution against being too prescriptive in the policy wording.

Nothing chosen

We support the intention to review Core Strategy AS.11 Large Rural Brownfield Site in Part 1 of the SWLP and would welcome engagement with Officers on the approach to be taken to Former Southam Cement Works.