Planning in East Suffolk

Recreation and Open Space in Rushmere

Land is identified between Ipswich and Rushmere Street as shown on the Policies Map to retain settlement separation through the presence of natural and formal open green spaces, whilst also contributing to the recreational needs of the District and Ipswich Borough. Proposals will only be supported where they are for sports ground uses, or for associated uses which contribute to provision for outdoor sports and recreation and which maintain the separation of Rushmere village and Ipswich.

Land off Lower Road and Westerfield Road (Ipswich Garden Suburb Country Park)

Two parcels of land, as shown on the Policies Map, are designated as public open space. This land is intended to form part of the country park (minimum of 24.5ha total) required to be provided in association with the new Ipswich Garden Suburb, the built area of which is located within the administrative boundary of Ipswich Borough Council. The detailed scheme for the country park as it relates to East Suffolk will be expected to: a) Safeguard existing pedestrian and cycle access points and provide suitable links to the existing public rights of way network; b) Make provision for a car park to serve the country park within that parcel of land fronting Westerfield Road; c) Make suitable provision for any necessary maintenance tracks and access points; d) Provide detailed boundary treatments and be required to demonstrate that the residential amenity of dwellings which abut the boundary of the country park and the public rights of way has been safeguarded; and e) Provide net gains for biodiversity. Sensitive treatment will also need to be given to Mill Farm, which is a listed building, and its setting. An archaeological investigation may be required dependent on the nature of the groundworks involved.

Community Facilities and Assets

Proposals for new community facilities and assets will be supported if the proposal meets the needs of the local community, is of a proportionate scale, well related to the settlement which it serves and would not adversely affect existing facilities that are easily accessible and available to the local community. Proposals to change the use, or redevelop for a non-community use, a facility registered as an asset of community value, will not be permitted. Proposals to change the use, or redevelop for a different use, a community facility which is not registered as an asset of community value, will only be permitted if: a) It can be demonstrated that there is no community need for the facility and the building or the site is not needed for an alternative community use; b) It can be demonstrated that the current, or alternative community uses are not viable and marketing evidence is provided which demonstrates the premises have been marketed for a sustained period of 12 months in accordance with the Commercial Property Marketing Guidance; Or c) Development would involve the provision of an equivalent or better replacement community facility either on site or in an alternative location in the vicinity that is well integrated into the community and has equal or better accessibility than the existing facility which meets the needs of the local population.

Open Space

The Council supports the provision of open space and recreational facilities and their continued management across the plan area. Primarily to encourage active lifestyles and to increase participation in formal and informal recreation for all sectors of the community, and also to support the biodiversity, promote effective water management and to enhance the public realm. New residential development will be expected to contribute to the provision of open space and recreational facilities in order to benefit community health, well-being and green infrastructure. There will be a presumption against any development that involves the loss of open space or community sport and recreation facilities. Proposals for development that results in the loss of open spaces will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances where: a) The proposal is ancillary to the open nature of the area and will enhance local character, increase local amenity and be of greater community or wildlife benefit; b) An open space assessment demonstrates the site is surplus to requirements including its ability to be used for alternative open space uses; Or c) The loss resulting from the proposed development will be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity, quality and in a suitable location. Neighbourhood Plans may identify areas of Local Green Space and include policies relating to their protection.

Allotments

The Council will encourage the provision of new allotments in order to meet a locally identified demand. Allotments and associated infrastructure should be located in locations well related to the existing community. The loss of existing allotments to alternative uses will be resisted unless: a) Evidence shows that there is unlikely to be any future demand for the allotments; b) Other allotments exist and have the necessary capacity to meet demand; or c) Alternative provision is made on an alternative site within the settlement which ensures an increase in the overall level and standard of allotments across the plan area.

Allotments

The Council will encourage the provision of new allotments in order to meet a locally identified demand. Allotments and associated infrastructure should be located in locations well related to the existing community. The loss of existing allotments to alternative uses will be resisted unless: a) Evidence shows that there is unlikely to be any future demand for the allotments; b) Other allotments exist and have the necessary capacity to meet demand; or c) Alternative provision is made on an alternative site within the settlement which ensures an increase in the overall level and standard of allotments across the plan area.

Design Quality

The Council will support locally distinctive and high quality design that clearly demonstrates an understanding of the key features of local character and seeks to enhance these features through innovative and creative means. In so doing, permission will be granted where proposals: a) Support inclusive design environments which are legible, distinctive, accessible, comfortable, and safe, and adopt the principles of dementia friendly design; b) Demonstrate a clear understanding of the character of the built, historic and natural environment and use this understanding to complement local character and distinctiveness through robust evidence, informed sources and site specific context and analysis; c) Respond to local context and the form of surrounding buildings in relation to the following criteria: i. the overall scale and character should clearly demonstrate consideration of the component parts of the buildings and the development as a whole in relation to its surroundings; ii. the layout should fit in well with the existing neighbourhood layout and respond to the ways people and vehicles move around both internal and external to existing and proposed buildings; iii. the height and massing of developments should be well related to that of their surroundings; iv. there should be a clear relationship between buildings and spaces and the wider street scene or townscape; and v. high quality materials appropriate to the local context should be used; d) Take account of any important landscape or topographical features and retain and/or enhance existing landscaping and natural and semi-natural features on site; e) Protect the amenity of the wider environment, neighbouring uses and provide a good standard of amenity for future occupiers of the proposed development; f) Take into account the need to promote public safety and deter crime and disorder through well lit neighbourhoods and development of public spaces that are overlooked; g) Create permeable and legible developments which are easily accessed, throughout the site and connections outside the site, and used by all, regardless of age, mobility and disability; h) Provide highway layouts with well integrated car parking and landscaping which create a high quality public realm and avoid the perception of a car dominated environment. In doing so, proposals will be expected to prioritise safe and convenient pedestrian and cycle movement; i) Include hard and soft landscaping schemes to aid the integration of the development into its surroundings; j) Ensure that the layout and design incorporates adequate provision for the storage and collection of waste and recycling bins in a way which does not detract from the appearance of the development; and k) Utilise measures that support resource efficiency. All major residential development proposals will be expected to perform positively when assessed against Building for Life 12 guidelines. Developments should seek to avoid red outcomes unless there are exceptional circumstances. All Building for Life 12 assessed schemes will be reviewed once built out and compared to initial BfL12 assessments. Neighbourhood Plans can, and are encouraged to, set out design policies which respond to their own local circumstances.

Residential Amenity

When considering the impact of development on residential amenity, the Council will have regard to the following: a) Privacy/overlooking; b) Outlook; c) Access to daylight and sunlight; d) Noise and disturbance; e) The resulting physical relationship with other properties; f) Light spillage; g) Air quality and other forms of pollution; and h) Safety and security. Development will provide for adequate living conditions for future occupiers and will not cause an unacceptable loss of amenity for existing or future occupiers of development in the vicinity.

Town Centre Environments

Development will encourage people to spend more time, enjoy and participate in town centres. It will do this by: a) Supporting opportunities for social interaction; b) Ensuring safe pedestrian access to link up with and enhancing existing pavements, pedestrian spaces, routes and focal points; c) Improving access for cyclists, people with limited mobility and people with other disabilities; d) Enabling physical linkages so that pedestrians can move easily and safely between parts of the town centre; and e) Providing environmental improvements that make the most of historic environments and heritage features. The expansion of Shared Space and Dementia Friendly areas will be supported where proposals maintain active town centre frontages without compromising highway access, vehicular and pedestrian movements.

Land at Felixstowe Road

Land is identified at Felixstowe Road for a high quality business park to provide employment spaces targeted at Business and Professional Services Sectors in the form of B1 and B2 uses. Start up units and grow on space will be supported as part of the overall mix of units on the site. Access to the site will be required from Felixstowe Road. The access arrangements should demonstrate no severe impact on the A12 and the A14 and local road network. Opportunities to enhance the capacity of the Seven Hills junction and access to the Crematorium should be explored and will be supported. The development will be expected to represent a high quality of contemporary design and to achieve high standards of sustainable construction. Exceptional design will be expected to provide a high quality and well screened business destination appropriate to the site's location in the setting of the AONB and the nearby cluster of Scheduled Monuments that form part of Seven Hills barrow cemetery, in terms of scale, massing, materials and lighting. A lighting strategy will be required as part of any proposals. Significant landscaping and buffers are to be provided on the site, informed by Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment. A proportionate archaeological assessment will be required. Buildings will be expected to provide a high quality attractive environment with areas of green infrastructure. Opportunities to encourage and enable travel to the site by walking and cycling must be realised along with measures to encourage travel to the site by public transport. Opportunities to enhance and link into the existing Public Rights of Way network are encouraged. Proposals outside of B1 and B2 class uses which support the high quality business park nature of the employment area, will be permitted where integrated in premises with B1 and B2 uses or whose primary purpose is to provide a service to the businesses and employees operating in that location. A site-specific flood risk assessment will also be required as the site is over 1ha. Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available. Proposals should also provide confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity. Any planning application should be supported by evidence which assesses the quality and quantity of sand and gravel resources on site in order to determine whether the site is suitable for prior extraction.

Ransomes, Nacton Heath

30ha of land is identified at Ransomes, Nacton Heath as shown on the Policies Map for new employment provision for a mix of B1, B2 and B8 uses. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Minimising impact on landscape including the nationally designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, including through the use of appropriate mitigation measures, informed through Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment; b) Further investigation into any designated and non designated heritage assets required; c) Impact on the local and strategic highway network including provision for access to public transport, and access via foot and cycle, and provision of any mitigation measures required; d) Ensure an appropriate design, scale and massing of buildings for example through the introduction of a design code, and minimise impacts arising from lighting; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; f) Potential contamination of the site will need to be investigated and addressed where necessary; g) Integration of new uses with existing businesses within the site; h) An archaeological assessment will be required; i) A site wide surface water management strategy; j) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is required; and k) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Former airfield Debach

The former airfield at Debach as identified on the Policies Map comprises 10.89 hectares of employment land. The site is fully occupied and contains lawful uses within Use Classes B1, B2 and B8. Planning permission will be granted for new employment provision, through re-development or refurbishment of existing buildings or any other change of use proposal that would result in an increased level of activity within the site provided that: a) The use is restricted to activities falling within Use Classes B1, B2 and B8; b) Where necessary, a transport statement or transport assessment can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Highway Authority that the scale and type of traffic generated is acceptable in terms of impact on the local road network; c) Where necessary, investigation of potential contamination at the site has been undertaken prior to submission of any relevant planning application; d) Where necessary, adequate sewage treatment facilities are provided; e) If required measures have been taken to assess and manage any heritage assets on the site; f) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is provided for proposals greater than 1ha; and g) Where necessary, a drainage strategy is approved and implemented before development proceeds.

Carlton Park, Main Road, Kelsale cum Carlton

Carlton Park as identified on the Policies Map comprises some 8ha of employment land. 3ha of land remains vacant. The site contains lawful uses within Use Classes B1, B2 and B8. Proposals for development of B1, B2 and B8 uses will be permitted subject to the following criteria: a) Proposals for further development of the site should be accompanied by a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; b) An investigation into any potential contamination of the site should be undertaken prior to the submission of a planning application; c) Where appropriate, measures should be taken to assess and manage any heritage assets on the site; and d) Proposals that generate a significant amount of traffic movements from the site will be required to provide a Transport Assessment, assessing the impact of the proposal on the local highway network. In recognition that it is the largest employment site close to Saxmundham and well related to the local transport network, encouragement will be given to those uses which have a high employee to floorspace ratio. Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available.

Levington Park, Levington

Levington Park, as identified on the Policies Map, is an existing low key employment site, some 3.29ha in size. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) In order to reflect its former use, its sensitive location and poor road access, the Council will continue to resist any significant intensification of use which would have a demonstrable adverse impact on surrounding uses; b) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required; c) Project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; d) An archaeological investigation may be required depending on the nature of the groundworks; and e) Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment will be required.

Land at Silverlace Green (former airfield) Parham

Land at Silverlace Green as identified on the Policies Map comprises some 2.24 hectares of employment land. Within the site 0.98 hectares of land remains vacant. The site contains lawful uses within Use Classes B1 and B2. Planning permission will be granted for new employment provision, including re-development or refurbishment of existing buildings provided that: a) The use is restricted to activities falling within Use Classes B1 and B2; b) A transport assessment can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Highway authority that the scale of the proposed use and type of traffic generated is acceptable in terms of impact on the local road network; c) Existing screening to the site boundaries is retained and if appropriate increased to limit the visual impact of development; d) The proposals address the need to manage the relationship between new uses and the existing waste facility on the site; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; f) Adequate sewage treatment facilities are provided; g) A drainage strategy is approved and implemented before development proceeds; h) Investigation of potential contamination at the site has been undertaken prior to submission of any planning application; i) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is provided for development of 1ha or more; j) Any new building or extension to an existing building is acceptable in terms of visual impact on landscape character; k) Where appropriate, measures have been taken to assess and manage any heritage assets on the site; and l) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Former airfield Parham

The former airfield at Parham as identified on the Policies Map comprises some 5.72 hectares of employment land. 1.67ha of land remains vacant. The site contains lawful uses within Use Classes B1 and B2. Planning permission will be granted for new employment provision, including re-development or refurbishment of existing buildings provided that: a) The use is restricted to activities falling within Use Classes B1 and B2; b) A transport assessment can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Highway Authority that the scale of the proposed use and type of traffic generated is acceptable in terms of impact on the local road network; c) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; d) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is provided for proposals of 1ha or more; e) A drainage strategy is approved and implemented before development proceeds; f) Existing screening to the site boundaries is retained

Growth in the Ipswich Strategic Planning Area

The local plan area will continue to play a key role in the economic growth of the Ipswich Strategic Planning Area, whilst enhancing quality of life and protecting the high quality environments. Over the period 2018-2036, the Suffolk Coastal Local Plan will contribute to: a) The creation of at least 30,320 jobs through the provision of at least 49.8ha of employment land across the Ipswich Functional Economic Area; b) The collective delivery of at least 35,334 dwellings across the Ipswich Housing Market Area; and c) Supporting the continued role of Ipswich as County Town. The Council will work actively with the other local planning authorities in the ISPA and with Suffolk County Council to co-ordinate the delivery of development and in monitoring and reviewing evidence as necessary. Should it be determined through the plan making process that another authority within the ISPA is unable to meet its minimum housing need, the Council will, under the duty to cooperate, work collaboratively to determine whether housing development needs that cannot be met wholly within a particular plan area, could be met elsewhere. An agreement to seek to accommodate unmet housing need would trigger an immediate review of the strategic policies of this Plan.

New Employment Development

The Council will support the delivery of new employment development to provide greater choice and economic opportunities in suitably located areas across the plan area. Other uses which are functionally related to the economic activity on the site and the local area will also be supported. Proposals for new employment development falling within use classes B1, B2 and B8 outside of existing Employment Areas but within Settlement Boundaries will be supported where these do not have an unacceptable adverse impact on the surrounding land use, living conditions of local residents and local highway network. Proposals for new employment development falling within use classes B1, B2 and B8 on land outside of Settlement Boundaries will be permitted where a need for additional employment development has been demonstrated or it can be demonstrated that there is no sequentially preferable land available adjacent to existing Employment Areas, within existing Employment Areas or within Settlement Boundaries and: a) It would not have an unacceptable adverse impact on surrounding land use; and b) It avoids, or adequately mitigates, any adverse impact on the character of the surrounding area and landscape, the AONB and its setting or the natural or historic environment. In addition to the above, proposals for B1a office premises outside of town centres other than for small scale rural offices in accordance with Policies SCLP4.5, SCLP4.6 and SCLP4.7 on sites not allocated for employment use, should also be subject to a sequential test which demonstrates that there are no suitable and available sites within firstly town centres and then edge of centre sites to accommodate the proposal.

Expansion and Intensification of Employment Sites

Proposals to expand, alter or make productivity enhancements to existing employment premises will be permitted unless: a) The scale of development would cause a severe impact on the highway network; or b) There will be an unacceptable adverse effect on the environmental sustainability of the area; or c) The proposed use is not compatible with the surrounding employment uses in terms of car parking, access, noise, odour and other amenity concerns; or d) There is an unacceptable adverse effect on the living conditions of local residents and businesses relating to matters of noise, vibration, dust and light; and e) Potential adverse impacts can not be successfully mitigated. Where expansion or intensification of existing premises falling within use classes B1, B2 and B8 cannot reasonably take place within existing Employment Areas, development will be permitted on adjacent land outside of Settlement Boundaries providing it does not have an unacceptable impact on surrounding land uses.

Protection of Employment Premises

Employment premises across the plan area will be protected for their established B class uses unless: a) Marketing evidence is provided which demonstrates that the premises have been marketed for a sustained period of 12 months in accordance with the requirements set out in Appendix E; b) There would be substantial planning benefit in permitting alternative uses; and c) The proposed use is compatible with the surrounding uses in terms of car parking, access, noise, odour and other amenity concerns. Proposals for loss of employment premises to be used for residential use will only be permitted in exceptional circumstances where there is no current or long term need for the premises and the site is within the defined Settlement Boundary.

Economic Development in Rural Areas

Proposals that grow and diversify the rural economy, particularly where this will secure employment locally, enable agricultural growth and diversification and other land based rural businesses, will be supported. Proposals will be supported where: a) They accord with the vision of any relevant Neighbourhood Plan in the area; b) The scale of the enterprises accords with the Settlement Hierarchy; c) The design and construction avoids, or adequately mitigates, any adverse impact on the character of the surrounding area and landscape, the AONB and its setting or the natural or historic environment; d) Small scale agricultural diversification schemes make good use of previously developed land; and e) The proposed use is compatible with the surrounding employment uses in terms of car parking, access, noise, odour and other amenity concerns. Proposals will be expected to provide additional community, cultural or tourism benefits where opportunities exist. The delivery of new buildings, structures and infrastructure that the agricultural industry requires to grow, modernise and function efficiently will be supported.

Conversion and Replacement of Rural Buildings for Employment Use

The conversion of rural buildings to employment use will be permitted where: a) The business use is of a scale and character that is appropriate to its location in accordance with the Settlement Hierarchy; b) The proposal does not have an unacceptable impact on highway safety, local roads or the living conditions of local residents and exploits opportunities to make the location more sustainable by walking, cycling or public transport; c) The proposal would not conflict with neighbouring uses; d) The proposal is complementary to the setting of any historic or architecturally important buildings and reflects the form and character of the existing buildings; and e) The design and construction avoids, or adequately mitigates, any adverse impact on the character of the surrounding landscape, the AONB and its setting, or the natural or historic environment. The replacement of rural buildings with employment uses will be permitted where: f) The proposal is of a similar size and scale to the building that is being replaced; g) The proposal does not have an unacceptable impact on highway safety, local roads or the living conditions of local residents and exploits opportunities to make the location more sustainable by walking, cycling or public transport; h) The proposal would not conflict with neighbouring uses; i) The proposal is complementary to the setting of any historic or architecturally important buildings and reflects the form and character of the existing buildings; j) The proposal would not result in a significant adverse environmental impact; and k) The proposal enables farm, forestry and other land-based businesses to build the buildings and infrastructure they need to function efficiently.

Farm Diversification

Proposals for farm diversification schemes to support the continued viability of the farm will be supported where: a) Farming activities remain the predominate use on the site; b) The proposal is of a use and scale that relates well to the setting of the existing farm; c) The proposal does not compromise highway safety to the local road network or free flow of traffic and there is adequate off road parking; d) The proposal avoids, or adequately mitigates, any adverse impact on the character of the surrounding area and landscape, the AONB and its setting or the natural or historic environment; e) The diversification is supported by detailed information and justification that demonstrates that the proposals will contribute to the viability of the farm as a whole and its continued operation; f) The diversification retains or provides additional employment for the local community; g) The proposal supports the retention or creation of jobs associated with the farm; h) The conversion of existing farm buildings is undertaken sympathetically to the traditional character of the farm; and i) The proposal does not involve permanent residential uses. Support will be given to farm shops which provide continued employment opportunities and sell a range of produce associated with the farm and the local area. Proposals should be of a scale which is not detrimental to the existing shopping facilities provided in nearby towns and villages.

Land at Haven Exchange, Felixstowe

Employment opportunities will be encouraged on the site at Haven Exchange as shown on the Policies Map. Applications for employment uses on this site will be considered against the following: a) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; b) Existing lawful uses to be retained; c) Business Class proposals (B1 and B2) will be supported subject to them not having a detrimental impact on the residential properties adjacent (including Holiday and Caravan Parks); d) Starter units required which provide opportunities for local businesses; e) Scale of employment buildings to be in keeping with existing units; f) Uses which are complementary to the Port of Felixstowe will be supported, excluding those which have a detrimental impact on residential amenity; g) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; Air Quality assessment required; h) Consideration of the IP / HP apparatus crossing the site; and i) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Former airfield Parham

Planning permission will be granted for new employment provision, including re-development or refurbishment of existing buildings provided that: a) The use is restricted to activities falling within Use Classes B1 and B2; b) A transport assessment can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Highway Authority that the scale of the proposed use and type of traffic generated is acceptable in terms of impact on the local road network; c) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; d) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is provided for proposals of 1ha or more; e) A drainage strategy is approved and implemented before development proceeds; f) Existing screening to the site boundaries is retained and if appropriate increased to limit the visual impact of development; g) Where appropriate, measures have been taken to assess and manage any heritage assets on the site; and h) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Bentwaters Park, Rendlesham

The Council is keen to ensure that this site remains a vibrant employment site. Accordingly, the Council will permit new employment uses where they will not breach site, environmental and highway constraints identified and conditioned in the planning permission C/10/3239 approved 11/12/2015. Outside of those limits new employment uses will be permitted where they are supported by robust evidence which confirms that their individual and cumulative impacts are acceptable. In both circumstances, proposals should conform to local and national planning policy, particularly with regard to the environmental designations on and in close proximity to the site. Project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required.

Riverside Industrial Estate, Border Cot Lane, Wickham Market

The Council will continue to support proposals for re-development or intensification of B1 and B2 uses within the defined area where it can be demonstrated that schemes are acceptable in terms of impact on the local highway network, and nearby residential uses. Design will also be an issue given the sites location on the edge of the village and the fact that it is surrounded by countryside of attractive and distinctive river valley landscape character. Planning permission will be granted for new employment provision, including re-development or refurbishment of existing buildings subject to proposals demonstrating: a) Investigation of potential contamination on the site prior to the submission of a planning application; b) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment for proposals of 1ha or more; c) Adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or that capacity can be made available; d) Provision for an archaeological investigation depending on the nature of the groundworks; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; f) A transport assessment to assess the impact of the proposal on the local highways network; and g) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Port of Felixstowe

The Port of Felixstowe is identified on the Policies Map as an existing Employment Area. Land will be promoted and safeguarded for employment, activities and operations which support the retention, expansion and consolidation of the Port of Felixstowe and the jobs associated with the Port. Employment proposals which are considered to be of a strategic scale and nature, or those which generate large movements of heavy goods vehicles will be directed to sites within the Employment Area. Improving the capacity of the foul sewerage network and seeking opportunities to enhance transport links on the A14 and railway line will need to be undertaken to ensure that the Port of Felixstowe continues to operate efficiently as a major contributor to the local and national economies. Proposals which provide small scale complementary uses which serve the ancillary needs of those businesses operating within the employment area will be supported, where necessary, where they are not detrimental to the overall function of the Employment Area, Town Centre or District Centres. Applications for development of this site will need to be subject to a Habitats Regulation Assessment screening. Any development which would result in significant adverse effects on protected landscapes such as the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty which could not be appropriately mitigated will not be permitted. Future development will also require improvements to the foul sewerage network to be undertaken.

Land at Bridge Road, Felixstowe

Employment opportunities will be encouraged on the site at Bridge Road as shown on the Policies Map. Applications for employment uses on this site will be considered against the following: a) Existing lawful uses to be retained; b) Business Class proposals (B1 and B2) will be supported subject to them not having a detrimental impact on the residential properties adjacent; c) Proposals which generate a large number of traffic movements will be resisted; d) Small units to be retained – comprehensive redevelopment of the site for one use will be resisted; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; f) Landscaping of boundaries to be introduced to enhance the appearance of the site; g) Hours of operation to be limited by planning condition to resist over intensification; and h) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land at Carr Road/Langer Road, Felixstowe

Employment opportunities will be encouraged on the site at Carr Road / Langer Road as shown on the Policies Map. Applications for employment uses on this site will be considered against the following: a) Proposals for further development of the site should be accompanied by a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; b) Existing lawful uses to be retained; c) Business Class proposals (B1 and B2) will be supported subject to them not having a detrimental impact on the residential properties adjacent; d) Warehousing or storage activities will be resisted and directed towards land identified under Policy SCLP12.4 or other areas designated for Port and Logistics uses; e) Proposals which generate large numbers of heavy traffic movements will be resisted; f) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; g) Ensure that the risk of odour and other amenity impacts from Felixstowe Water Recycling Centre is not detrimental to the amenity of occupants and to ensure that new development does not give rise to unreasonable restrictions being placed on the continuous operation of Felixstowe Water Recycling Centre. Where there is a potential impact on amenity, evidence should be provided to demonstrate that there is no unacceptable impact on the occupiers of the employment land and that any mitigation can be achieved without detriment to the continuous operation of Felixstowe Water Recycling Centre; h) Hours of operation to be limited by planning condition to resist over-intensification of uses; and i) Landscaping of boundaries to be introduced to enhance the appearance of the site.

Existing Employment Areas

Existing Employment Areas are identified in Area Specific Strategy Policies in Section 12 of the Local Plan and on the Policies Map or Neighbourhood Plans. New development for employment uses which takes place during the plan period (including sites currently with consent for employment use) will be treated as existing Employment Areas for the purposes of this Policy and Policies SCLP4.2, SCLP4.3 and SCLP4.4. Within existing Employment Areas, premises currently in B1, B2 and B8 use will be protected from change of use and redevelopment to other uses. Exceptionally, quasi-retail uses (not falling within use class A1) may be permitted on the main road frontages of Employment Areas which have good access to a range of transport options. Such development should not be detrimental to the efficient and effective use of the remainder of the Employment Area. Outside of the existing Employment Areas, the redevelopment or change of use of existing employment premises will be considered under Policy SCLP4.4 Neighbourhood Plans may identify additional premises or clusters of premises outside of existing Employment Areas within use classes B1, B2 and B8 for protection from redevelopment or change of use if local evidence supports it.

Proposals for Major Energy Infrastructure Projects

In its role either as determining authority for development under the Town and Country Planning Act, or as consultee on Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, the Council will take into consideration the nature, scale, extent and potential impact of proposals for Major Energy Infrastructure Projects, including cumulative impacts throughout their lifetime, including decommissioning of existing plant and facilities. The Council will work in partnership with the scheme promoter, local communities, National Grid, Government, New Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership, service providers, public bodies and relevant local authorities to ensure significant local community benefits and an ongoing legacy of the development is achieved as part of any Major Infrastructure Projects as outlined in Table 3.6. Proposals for Major Energy Infrastructure Projects across the plan area and the need to mitigate the impacts arising from these will have regard to the following policy requirements: a) Relevant Neighbourhood Plan policies, strategies and visions; b) Appropriate packages of local community benefit to mitigate the impacts of disturbance experienced by the local community for hosting major infrastructure projects; c) Community safety and cohesion impacts; d) Requirement for a robust Environmental Impact Assessment e) Requirement for a robust Habitats Regulations Assessment; f) Requirement for a robust Heritage Impact Assessment; g) Requirement for robust assessment of the potential impacts on the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; h) Appropriate flood and erosion defences, including the effects of climate change are incorporated into the project to protect the site during the construction, operational and decommissioning stages; i) Appropriate road and highway measures are introduced (including diversion routes) for construction, operational and commercial traffic to reduce the pressure on the local communities; j) The development and associated infrastructure proposals will seek to deliver positive outcomes for the local community and surrounding environment; k) Economic and community benefits where feasible are maximised through agreement of strategies in relation to employment, education and training opportunities for the local community; l) Measures to ensure the successful decommissioning and restoration of the site through appropriate landscaping is delivered to minimise and mitigate the environmental and social harm caused during operational stages of projects;

Low Carbon and Renewable Energy

Development management policy - will be reviewed at point of next Local plan review alongside relevant evidence as appropriate

Sustainable Construction

All new developments of more than 10 dwellings should achieve higher energy efficiency standards that result in a 20% reduction in CO2 emissions below the Target CO2 Emission Rate (TER) set out in the Building Regulations. Exceptions should only apply where they are expressed in the Building Regulations or where applicants can demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Council, that it is not viable or feasible to meet the standards. All new residential development in the plan area should achieve the optional technical standard in terms of water efficiency of 110 litres/person/day. The use of locally sourced, reused and recycled materials, along with on-site renewable energy generation are encouraged in order to achieve environmental net gain in new build or conversion developments. Development proposals are also encouraged to set out measures for minimising waste arising from the construction process. All new non-residential developments of equal or greater than 1,000sqm gross floorspace are required to achieve the British Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method 'Very Good' standard or equivalent unless it can be demonstrated that it is not viable or feasible to do so. Proposals should improve the efficiency of heating, cooling and lighting of buildings by maximising daylight and passive solar gain through the orientation of buildings.

Low Carbon & Renewable Energy

The Council will support Neighbourhood Plans in identifying suitable areas for renewable and low carbon energy development, particularly where they relate to developments that are community-led. In identifying suitable areas, consideration should be given to the criteria listed below: a) They can evidence a sustainable and, ideally, local source of fuel; b) They can facilitate the necessary infrastructure and power connections required for functional purposes; and c) They are complementary to the existing environment without causing any significant adverse impacts, particularly relating to the residential amenity, landscape and visual impact, the natural beauty and special qualities of the AONB, transport, flora and fauna, noise and air quality, unless those impacts can be appropriately mitigated. The Council will support low carbon and renewable energy developments, with the exception of wind energy schemes, where they are within an area identified as suitable for renewable or low carbon energy or satisfy the above criteria. Wind energy schemes must be located in an area identified as suitable for renewable or low carbon energy in a Neighbourhood Plan. When the technology is no longer operational there is a requirement to decommission, remove the facility and complete a restoration of the site to its original condition.

Biodiversity and Geodiversity

Development will be supported where it can be demonstrated that it maintains, restores or enhances the existing green infrastructure network and positively contributes towards biodiversity and/or geodiversity through the creation of new habitats and green infrastructure and improvement to linkages between habitats, such as wildlife corridors and habitat 'stepping stones'. All development should follow a hierarchy of seeking firstly to avoid impacts, mitigate for impacts so as to make them insignificant for biodiversity, or as a last resort compensate for losses that cannot be avoided or mitigated for. Adherence to the hierarchy should be demonstrated. Proposals that will have a direct or indirect adverse impact (alone or in-combination with other plans or projects) on locally designated sites of biodiversity or geodiversity importance, including County Wildlife Sites, priority habitats and species, will not be supported unless it can be demonstrated with comprehensive evidence that the benefits of the proposal, in its particular location, outweighs the biodiversity loss. New development should provide environmental net gains in terms of both green infrastructure and biodiversity. Proposals should demonstrate how the development would contribute towards new green infrastructure opportunities or enhance the existing green infrastructure network as part of the development. New development must also secure ecological enhancements as part of its design and implementation, and should provide a biodiversity net gain that is proportionate to the scale and nature of the proposal. Where compensatory habitat is created, it should be of equal or greater size and ecological value than the area lost as a result of the development, be well located to positively contribute towards the green infrastructure network, and biodiversity and/or geodiversity and be supported with a management plan. Where there is reason to suspect the presence of protected UK or Suffolk Priority species or habitat, applications should be supported by an ecological survey and assessment of appropriate scope undertaken by a suitably qualified person. If present, the proposal must follow the mitigation hierarchy in order to be considered favourably. Any proposal that adversely affects a European site, or causes significant harm to a Site of Special Scientific Interest, will not normally be granted permission. Any development with the potential to impact on a Special Protection Area, Special Area for Conservation or Ramsar site within or outside of the plan area will need to be supported by information to inform a Habitat Regulations Assessment, in accordance with the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017, as amended (or subsequent revisions). The Recreational disturbance Avoidance and Mitigation Strategy has been prepared to provide a mechanism through which impacts from increased recreation can be avoided and mitigated via financial contributions towards the provision of strategic mitigation. Where mitigation is proposed to be provided through alternative mechanisms, applicants will need to provide evidence to demonstrate that all impacts are mitigated for, including in-combination effects. Depending on the size and location of the development, additional measures such as Suitable Alternative Natural Green Spaces (SANGS) may be required as part of development proposals. A Supplementary Planning Document will be prepared to assist with the implementation of the Recreational disturbance Avoidance and Mitigation Strategy. The Council will work with neighbouring authorities and Natural England to implement this strategy.

Visitor Management of European Sites

The Council has a duty to ensure that development proposals will not result in an increase in activity likely to have a significant effect upon sites designated as being of international importance for their nature conservation interest. Applications for new car parking provision (public or privately owned which are available for wider public use) located within 1km boundary of a designated site or new access points direct into the estuary such as slipways or jetties will need to demonstrate that they will not result in an increase in activity likely to have a significant effect upon a European site whether on their own, or in combination with other uses. Such proposals need to be subject to a project level Habitats Regulation Assessment.

Environmental Quality

Development proposals will be expected to protect the quality of the environment and to minimise and, where possible, reduce all forms of pollution and contamination. Development proposals will be considered in relation to impacts on; a) Air quality, and the impact on receptors in Air Quality Management Areas; b) Soils and the loss of agricultural land; c) Land contamination and its effects on sensitive land uses; d) Water quality and the achievement of Water Framework Directive objectives; e) Light pollution; and f) Noise pollution. Proposals should seek to secure improvements in relation to the above where possible. The cumulative effect of development, in this regard, will be considered.

Landscape Character

Proposals for development should be informed by, and sympathetic to, the special qualities and features as described in the Suffolk Coastal Landscape Character Assessment (2018), the Settlement Sensitivity Assessment (2018), or successor and updated landscape evidence. Development proposals will be expected to demonstrate their location, scale, form, design and materials will protect and enhance: a) The special qualities and features of the area; b) The visual relationship and environment around settlements and their landscape settings; c) Distinctive landscape elements including but not limited to watercourses, commons, woodland trees, hedgerows and field boundaries, and their function as ecological corridors; d) Visually sensitive skylines, seascapes, river valleys and significant views towards key landscapes and cultural features; and e) The growing network of green infrastructure supporting health, wellbeing and social interaction. Development will not be permitted where it will have a significant adverse impact on rural river valleys, historic park and gardens, coastal, estuary, heathland and other very sensitive landscapes. Proposals for development will be required to secure the preservation and appropriate restoration or enhancement of natural, historic or man made features across the plan area as identified in the Landscape Character Assessment, Settlement Sensitivity Assessment and successor landscape evidence. Development will not be permitted where it would have a significant adverse impact on the natural beauty and special qualities.

Settlement Coalescence

Development of undeveloped land and intensification of developed land between settlements will only be permitted where it does not lead to the coalescence of settlements through a reduction in openness and space or the creation of urbanising effects between settlements.

Manor End to Landguard

The Landguard Peninsula is a key contributor to the tourism offer in Felixstowe but is an area where visitor numbers and attractions need to be balanced with the protection of the Scheduled Monument, and maintain the favourable condition of the Site of Special Scientific Interest and Local Nature Reserve. Uses which are sympathetic to the unique landscape and Scheduled Monument will be supported where additional traffic generation is mitigated and appropriately managed through improved access and car parking arrangements to minimise the impact. Any future redevelopment of the Port in this area will need to be carefully considered with the Landguard Partnership. Redevelopment of the port land in close proximity to Landguard may provide opportunities for additional car parking provision and vehicular access arrangements to serve needs at peak times.

Cross-boundary mitigation of effects on Protected Habitats

The Council will continue to work with other authorities to address the requirements of the Recreational Avoidance and Mitigation Strategy and implementation of mitigation measures for the benefit of the European protected sites across the Ipswich Strategic Planning Area. The Council will continue to work with other authorities over the plan period to ensure that the strategy and mitigation measures are kept under review in partnership with Natural England and other stakeholders.

Coastal Change Management Area

The Coastal Change Management Area is identified on the Policies Map. Reputable and scientifically robust evidence that emerges over the lifetime of this plan which effects the delineation of the Coastal Change Management Area should be considered when applying this policy. Planning applications for all development within and 30 metres landward of the Coastal Change Management Area and within and 30 metres landward of areas where the intent of management is to Hold the Line, identified on the Policies Map must be accompanied by a Coastal Erosion Vulnerability Assessment. In areas of soft cliff located up to 60 metres landward of coastal defences where known geological information indicates that the capacity of coastal defences are likely to be adversely affected by development, a Coastal Erosion Vulnerability Assessment should be considered. In parts of the Coastal Change Management Area expected to be at risk from change within a 20 year time horizon, only temporary development directly related to the coast, for example beach huts, cafes, car parks and sites used for touring caravan and camping will be permitted. In parts of the Coastal Change Management Area expected to be at risk from change beyond a 20 year time horizon, other commercial and community uses will be permitted providing they require a coastal location and provide economic and social benefits to the local community. Proposals for new or replacement coastal defence schemes will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the works reflect the management approach for the frontage presented in the relevant Shoreline Management Plan and/or endorsed Coastal Strategy, and there will be no material adverse impact on the environment, including exacerbation of coastal squeeze. Proposals for new or replacement estuary defence schemes will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the works reflect the management approach for the frontage presented in the endorsed estuary plans/strategies, and there will be no material adverse impact on the environment, including exacerbation of coastal squeeze. Essential infrastructure, including transport infrastructure, utility infrastructure and wind turbines will only be permitted in the Coastal Change Management Area where no other sites outside of the Area are feasible and there is a management plan in place to manage the impact of coastal change including their future removal and replacement. Planning permission for all development within the Coastal Change Management Area will be time-limited according to the risk identified in the Coastal Erosion Vulnerability Assessment.

Coastal Change Rollback or Relocation

Proposals for the relocation and replacement of community facilities, commercial, agricultural and business uses affected by coastal erosion will be permitted in the countryside, provided that: a) The proposed development replaces that which is within the Coastal Change Management Area as identified on the Policies Map and is forecast to be affected by erosion within 20 years of the date of the proposal; b) The new development is located at an appropriate distance inland with regard to Policy SCLP9.3 on the Coastal Change Management Area; c) The new development is in a location that is accessible to the coastal community from which it was displaced; and d) The existing site is either cleared and made safe or put to a temporary use beneficial to the local community. Proposals for the relocation and replacement of dwellings affected by coastal erosion will be permitted in the Countryside where: e) The development replaces a permanent building which is within the Coastal Change Management Area as identified on the Policies Map and is forecasted to be affected by erosion within 20 years of the date of the proposal; f) The relocated dwelling should be in a location which exhibits a similar or improved level of sustainability with respect to access to services and facilities as the original dwelling; g) The relocated dwelling is outside of the Coastal Change Management Area as identified on the Policies Map; and h) The existing site is either cleared and made safe or put to a temporary use beneficial to the local community.

Flood Risk

The Strategic Flood Risk Assessment should be the starting point in assessing whether a proposal is at risk from flooding. Proposals for new development, or the intensification of existing development, will not be permitted in areas at high risk from flooding, i.e. Flood Zones 2 and 3, unless the applicant has satisfied the safety requirements in the Flood Risk National Planning Policy Guidance (and any successor). These include the 'sequential test'; where needed the 'exception test' and also a site specific flood risk assessment that addresses the characteristics of flooding and has tested an appropriate range of flood event scenarios (taking climate change into consideration). This should address as a minimum: finished floor levels; safe access and egress; an emergency flood plan; identification and provision of surface water exceedance routes; flood resilience/resistance measures; any increase in built or surfaced area; and any impact on flooding elsewhere, including sewer flooding. Developments should exhibit the three main principles of flood risk, in that, they should be safe, resilient and should not increase flood risk elsewhere. In this respect, single storey residential developments will not be permitted in areas of high risk of flooding within or outside Settlement Boundaries. Developments are encouraged to include natural flood management measures that complement existing flood defences if pre-existing flood defences are in place, in the interests of integrated flood management. Any new flood risk measures that result in significant depreciation of natural capital will be required to create compensatory natural capital. Neighbourhood Plans can allocate land for development, including residential development, in areas at risk of flooding providing it can be demonstrated: a) There are no alternative available sites appropriate for the proposed use within the Neighbourhood Area; b) The development provides sustainability benefits which outweigh flood risk; and c) Evidence is provided that it is possible for flood risk to be mitigated to ensure development is safe for its lifetime and the lifetime of the relevant flood defence.

Sustainable Drainage Systems

Developments should use sustainable drainage systems to drain surface water. Developments of 10 dwellings or more, or non-residential development with upwards of 1,000 sqm of floorspace or on sites of 1 hectare or more, will be required to utilise sustainable drainage systems, unless demonstrated to be inappropriate. Sustainable drainage systems should: a) Be integrated into the landscaping scheme and green infrastructure provision of the development; b) Contribute to the design quality of the scheme; and c) Deliver sufficient and appropriate water quality and aquatic biodiversity improvements, wherever possible. This should be complementary of any local designations such as Source Protection Zones. Runoff rates from new development must be restricted to greenfield runoff rates wherever possible. Where a site is previously developed, the proposed runoff rates should be restricted as close to the greenfield rates, or at the very minimum a betterment of at least 30% should be considered over the brownfield runoff rates. No surface water connections should be made to the foul system and connections to the combined or surface water system should only be made in exceptional circumstances where there are no feasible alternatives. Foul and surface water flows should also be separated.

Holistic Water Management

All development will be expected to demonstrate that water can be made available to support the development and that adequate foul water treatment and disposal already exists or can be provided in time to serve the development. Development will be phased to allow water and water recycling infrastructure to be in place where needed. All new developments will be expected to incorporate water efficiency and re-use measures to maximise the opportunities to reduce water use. This includes, but is not limited to: a) Grey water recycling; b) Rainwater harvesting; or c) Water use minimisation technologies. Infrastructure that leads to a reduction in the amount of water released to the sewer system and allows for natural infiltration into groundwater tables will be favoured in this instance.

Newbourne - Former Land Settlement Association Holdings

The Council will encourage the retention of suitable buildings in horticultural or agricultural use of those parts of the former Land Settlement Association Holdings shown on the Policies Map, not currently used or required in connection with the residential curtilages, taking account of any physical features which currently mark garden limits. New employment uses on backland plots will be supported where: a) It is demonstrated that the land and/or buildings are surplus to agricultural and horticultural requirements; b) Any new or replacement buildings are of a scale and nature appropriate to the character of the Former Land Settlement Association Holdings area; c) They do not result in physical separation of individual plots; and d) They are of a suitable design and construction for the proposed use. The erection of new or replacement dwellings, or extensions to existing dwellings or ancillary residential development will be supported where: e) Their scale and design would not harm the character of the former Land Settlement Association Holdings area; and f) In the case of new dwellings, it would represent infill development within the existing frontage and not result in backland development.

Historic Environment

The Council will work with partners, developers and the community to conserve and enhance the historic environment and to ensure that where possible development makes a positive contribution to the historic environment. The policies of the National Planning Policy Framework will be applied in respect of designated and non-designated heritage assets. All development proposals which have the potential to impact on heritage assets or their settings should be supported by a Heritage Impact Assessment and/or an Archaeological Assessment prepared by an individual with relevant expertise. Pre-application consultation with the Council is encouraged to ensure the scope and detail of a Heritage Impact Assessment or Archaeological Assessment is sufficient. The level of detail of a Heritage Impact Assessment should be proportionate to the scheme proposed and the number and significance of heritage assets affected.

Listed Buildings

Proposals to alter, extend or change the use of a listed building (including curtilage listed structures) or development affecting its setting will be supported where they: a) Demonstrate a clear understanding of the significance of the building and its setting alongside an assessment of the potential impact of the proposal on that significance; b) Do not harm the character of the building or any architectural, artistic, historic, or archaeological features that contribute towards its special interest; c) Are of an appropriate design, scale, form, height, massing and position which complement the existing building; d) Use high quality materials and methods of construction which complement the character of the building; e) Retain the historic internal layout of the building; and f) Remove existing features that detract from the building to enhance or better reveal its significance.

Conservation Areas

Development within, or which has potential to affect the setting of, Conservation Areas will be assessed against the relevant Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans and any subsequent additions or alterations. Developments should be of a particularly high standard of design and high quality of materials in order to preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the area. Proposals for development within a Conservation Area should: a) Demonstrate a clear understanding of the significance of the conservation area alongside an assessment of the potential impact of the proposal on that significance; b) Preserve or enhance the character or appearance of the conservation area; c) Be of an appropriate design, scale, form, height, massing and position; d) Retain features important to settlement form and pattern such as open spaces, plot divisions, position of dwellings, hierarchy of routes, hierarchy of buildings, and their uses, boundary treatments and gardens; and e) Use high quality materials and methods of construction which complement the character of the area. Proposals for development which affect the setting of a Conservation Area should be considered against criteria a), c) and e) above. Proposals which involve the demolition of non-listed buildings that make a positive contribution to a Conservation Area, including those identified in Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans, will be expected to demonstrate: f) The building is structurally unsound and beyond technically feasible and economically viable repair (for reasons other than deliberate damage or neglect); or g) All measures to sustain the existing use or find an alternative use/user have been exhausted. In all cases, proposals for demolition should include comprehensive and detailed plans for redevelopment of the site.

Non-Designated Heritage Assets

Proposals for the re-use of Non-Designated Heritage Assets which are buildings or structures will be supported if compatible with the elements of the fabric and setting of the building or structure which contribute to its significance. Applications, including those for a change of use, which result in harm to the significance of a Non-Designated Heritage Asset will be judged based on the balance of the scale of any harm or loss, and the significance of the heritage asset. In considering proposals which involve the loss of a non-designated heritage asset, consideration will be given to: a) Whether the asset is structurally unsound and beyond technically feasible and economically viable repair (for reasons other than deliberate damage or neglect); or b) Which measures to sustain the existing use, or find an alternative use/user, have been fully investigated. Neighbourhood Plans can identify Non-Designated Heritage Assets. However, the protection afforded to these should be no more than that provided to Non-Designated Heritage Assets protected by this policy. Buildings or structures identified as Non-Designated Heritage Assets should at least meet the Council's criteria for identifying Non-Designated Heritage Assets.

Archaeology

An archaeological assessment proportionate to the potential and significance of remains must be included with any planning application affecting areas of known or suspected archaeological importance to ensure that provision is made for the preservation of important archaeological remains. Where proposals affect archaeological sites, preference will be given to preservation in situ unless it can be shown that recording of remains, assessment, analysis report and/or deposition of the archive is more appropriate. Archaeological conditions or planning obligations will be imposed on consents as appropriate. Measures to disseminate and promote information about archaeological assets to the public will be supported.

Parks and Gardens of Historic or Landscape Interest

Within the plan area 7 parks are included in the National Register of Parks and Gardens of Special Historic Interest compiled by Historic England and have the status of Designated Heritage Assets: • Campsea Ashe Park (Grade II* Listed) • Henham Park (part in Suffolk Coastal) (Grade II Listed) • Heveningham Hall (Grade II* Listed) • Glemham Hall (Grade II Listed) • Bawdsey Manor (Grade II Listed) • Woodbridge Cemetery (Grade II Listed) • Cliff Gardens and Town Hall Garden (Felixstowe) Grade II Listed) Development proposals affecting these assets will be considered in relation to the policy on Designated Heritage Assets contained in the National Planning Policy Framework and guidance contained in Supplementary Planning Guidance SPG6 (or any subsequent Supplementary Planning Document). The following historic parklands have been identified as being of plan area wide significance, and have the status of Non-Designated Heritage Assets. A major attribute of a parkland 'of note' is its extensive coverage within the landscape: • Benhall Lodge Park, Benhall • Boulge Park, Boulge • Broke Hall Park, Nacton • Carlton Park, Kelsale • Cockfield Hall Park, Yoxford • Easton Park, Easton • Glemham House Park, Great Glemham • Glevering Hall Park, Hacheston • Grove Park, Yoxford • Grundisburgh Hall Park, Grundisburgh • Marlesford Hall Park, Marlesford • Orwell Park, Nacton • Rookery Park, Yoxford • Sibton Park, Sibton • Spa Gardens and Town Hall Gardens, Felixstowe • Staverton Park, Wantisden • Sudbourne Park, Sudbourne The delineated boundary of each of these locally listed historic parklands includes the area currently forming the visual extent of the parkland as well as any additional areas that historically formed part of the extent of the parkland and which continue to display the remnants of the former parkland. East Suffolk Council will encourage the preservation and enhancement of these parks and gardens of historic interest and their surroundings. Applications for planning permission will be permitted where the development proposal will not have a materially adverse impact on the character, features or immediate setting of the delineated park or garden and which have due regard to the additio

Neighbourhood Plans

The Council will support the production of Neighbourhood Plans in identifying appropriate, locally specific policies that are in general conformity with the strategic policies of this Local Plan. Where Neighbourhood Plans seek to plan for housing growth, they will be expected to plan for the minimum housing requirements set out below: Neighbourhood plan area | Minimum number of dwellings Aldringham cum Thorpe | Existing Local Plan allocation of 40 dwellings, plus small scale additional development and windfall Bredfield | 20 Earl Soham | 25 Easton | 20 Framlingham | 100 in addition to allocations in 'made' neighbourhood plan Great Bealings | Housing development as per countryside policies Kelsale cum Carlton | 20 Kesgrave | 20 Leiston | 100 in addition to allocations in 'made' neighbourhood plan Martlesham | 20. This is in addition to allocation Policy SCLP12.25. Melton | Existing Neighbourhood Plan allocation of 55, plus windfall Playford | Housing development as per countryside policies Rendlesham | Existing Local plan allocations of 100, plus windfall Saxmundham | Small scale additional development and windfall. This is in addition to Local Plan allocation Policy SCLP12.29 which allocates land for the South Saxmundham Garden Neighbourhood which will deliver approximately 800 dwellings. Wenhaston with Mells Hamlet | 25 Wickham Market | 70. This is in addition to Local Plan allocation Policy SCLP12.60 (in Pettistree Parish, adjoining Wickham Market) Where new Neighbourhood Plan areas are designated, minimum housing requirements will be based on a range of factors including the location of the settlement in relation to the strategy of the Local Plan, the position of the settlement in the settlement hierarchy and any known significant constraints to development. Should the housing growth identified for Neighbourhood Plans not be delivered, the Council will address this through a future Local Plan review.

Strategy for Communities surrounding Ipswich

The strategy for the communities surrounding Ipswich is to maintain the healthy and vibrant communities which provide a diverse mixture of residential and employment opportunities alongside services and facilities by maintaining and enhancing the relationship with Ipswich and other parts of the plan area. Provision of appropriate community infrastructure, education facilities and public transport will be supported where the needs are clearly demonstrated. Development will be expected to maximise its contribution to sustainable transport and promotion of modal shift in order to contribute to the delivery of new and enhanced sustainable transport measures in and around Ipswich. Residential developments will be limited to the proposal at Brightwell Lakes, land at Humber Doucy Lane to come forward alongside land in Ipswich Borough, the provision of housing in association with redevelopment of the Police Headquarters site and development within the Settlement Boundaries consisting of infill or small scale redevelopments which make the most appropriate use of previously developed land, plus small allocations or development identified through Neighbourhood Plans. Economic proposals which are well related to the strategically important employment areas will be supported where they maximise provision and support the diverse range of opportunities in the area in accordance with other policies in the Local Plan.

Land at Humber Doucy Lane

9.9ha of land to the east of Humber Doucy Lane is identified to come forward for the development of approximately 150 dwellings in conjunction with land identified in the Ipswich Local Plan. Development will only come forward as part of a masterplanned approach with land in Ipswich Borough. Development will be expected to comply with the following criteria: a) Delivery of a high quality design incorporating a mix of housing types, including affordable housing on-site; b) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required; c) Provision of 0.1ha of land for an early years setting if needed within the part of the site in East Suffolk; d) Contribution to the creation of a 'green trail' around Ipswich and provision of on-site open space; e) Provision for sufficient primary school spaces; f) Provision of a soft edge to the urban area through the provision of significant landscaping; g) Promotion of the use of sustainable modes of transport; h) An archaeological assessment will be required; i) Design, layout and landscaping of the development should be carefully designed to preserve the setting of the nearby listed buildings; and j) A project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required. Development will be accessed via Humber Doucy Lane. A Transport Assessment will be required to identify any necessary improvements to highways and junctions on Humber Doucy Lane and Tuddenham Road.

Suffolk Police HQ, Portal Avenue, Martlesham

10.7ha of land at the Suffolk Police Headquarters Site is allocated for the development of approximately 300 dwellings, which is expected to come forward as part of a programme for the re-provision of Police facilities. Development will be expected to comply with the following criteria: a) Delivery of a high quality, high density residential scheme incorporating flats and mix of residences to meet local needs including provision of properties that would be suitable for older persons; b) Delivery of a distinctive scheme in the wider context of the Martlesham Heath hamlets and the important gaps between them; c) Provision of affordable housing on-site; d) If needed at the time of a planning application, 0.1ha of land on the site should be reserved for a new pre-school setting; e) An archaeological assessment is required; f) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is required; g) The mature woodland areas should be retained and be accessible; h) Provision of open space providing opportunities for all ages; i) Provision of allotments which are accessible to residents and the wider community; j) Provision of sports facilities with opportunities for community use; k) Proposals involving the loss of any existing open space, sports and recreational provision will need to demonstrate that such provision is surplus to requirements, that the loss would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality or that the benefits of alternative sports and recreation provision outweigh any loss; l) Significantly enhance permeability through the site and linking into adjacent pedestrian and cycle routes; m) Provision of an ancillary area of communal workspace supporting social interaction and cohesion; n) An ecological survey will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; o) Design, layout and landscaping to respect the site's close proximity to three Scheduled Monuments, and a Bowl Barrow on site; and p) Any Police operations retained in use on and/or adjacent to the site will be addressed through scheme design, layout and landscaping, to ensure that the quality of life for future and existing residents, including in the surrounding area, is not undermined by the fear of crime.

South Saxmundham Garden Neighbourhood

Approximately 67.8ha of land for a garden neighbourhood is identified to the south of Saxmundham, which includes land within the parish of Benhall, for an education led development, comprising primary school provision, community facilities, employment land and open space alongside a variety of residential development. This new development will be delivered through a masterplan approach brought forward through landowner collaboration and community engagement. Critical to the success of this masterplan will be the integration of the new garden neighbourhood with the existing community of Benhall and Saxmundham, as well as taking into account the location of the site. The masterplan should be informed by community engagement and include: a) Provision of a one form of entry primary school on a 2.2ha site to enable further expansion and early years provision; b) 0.1ha of land on the site should be reserved for a new early years setting should suitable and accessible alternative provision not be available elsewhere. Proportionate contributions will be required towards the additional early years provision; c) Community hub comprising a variety of services and facilities to be located in an accessible location; d) Project level Habitats Regulations Assessment and a significant area of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace which is designed to mitigate impacts on European protected sites; e) Provision of green infrastructure, including informal and formal open spaces, circular walks, and retention and enhancement of the natural features on the site such as trees, woodland and hedgerows to be incorporated into the layout of the development; f) Formal recreational opportunities to cater for all ages, including play space; g) Public rights of way on the site should be preserved and enhanced; h) Biodiversity networks and habitats to be preserved and enhanced, including measures to enhance biodiversity within housing areas; i) Design and layout that supports a dementia friendly environment; j) Design and development of the site which, having regard to the Council's South Saxmundham Garden Neighbourhood Heritage Impact Assessment, is sympathetic to the south entrance of Saxmundham, the Conservation Area and heritage assets, and views of the sensitive landscape and heritage setting to the east. A heritage impact assessment will be required; k) Proportionate archaeological assessment; l) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment which considers the cumulative impact on receptors off site; m) Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) to reduce the risk of surface water flooding and sewer flooding; n) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; o) Provision of new vehicular access point from the A12 supported by safe access for cyclists and pedestrians; p) Significant pedestrian and cycle accessibility throughout the site, with connections and improvements to networks beyond the site, including to the station and town centre; q) Provision of a Transport Assessment, with particular regard to the capacity of the B1121/B1119 signalised crossroads; r) Employment land to the west of the A12, to be masterplanned and delivered as part of the Garden Neighbourhood; s) Approximately 800 dwellings of a range of types, sizes and tenures including housing to meet the needs of older people, younger and vulnerable people, and provision of self-build plots, including affordable housing on site; t) Provision of appropriate police, community safety and cohesion facilities; u) Any planning application should be supported by evidence which assesses the quality and quantity of sand and gravel resources on site in order to determine whether on-site resources should be used on-site during development; and v) The area of land east of the railway is identified for the provision of open space and Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG), to be masterplanned and delivered as part of the garden neighbourhood. The retention of existing uses on land to the east of the railway would be supported where this complements the delivery of open space and SANG. The necessary off-site infrastructure requirements, including health provision and police facilities will be required through developer contributions. Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity will be required. Including, but not limited to, water recycling upgrades. Any necessary off-site transport improvements will need to be provided to the satisfaction of Suffolk County Council.

Land North-East of Street Farm, Saxmundham

2.18ha of land north-east of Street Farm, Saxmundham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for residential use for approximately 40 units. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of affordable housing; b) Main access through existing residential developments off Church Hill; c) Potential to improve east-west access across the site to provide pedestrian and cycle access to the north end of the High Street; d) A contribution towards new early years provision is required; e) Need to provide a strong planted boundary to the east of the site where it abuts the open countryside; f) Transport assessment required; g) A site-specific flood risk assessment is required; h) An archaeological assessment will be required; i) An ecological survey will be required; j) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; and k) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Strategy for Woodbridge

The strategy for Woodbridge is to balance opportunities with the acknowledged physical and environmental constraints in order to maintain and enhance its role as a market town, an employment centre and a tourist destination. Opportunities to enhance the historic environment and the riverside character area of the town will be supported where they bring economic and social benefits which do not have a significant adverse impact on the environmental designations. Allocations for residential use are identified to facilitate and guide the redevelopment of sites in the town. Additional residential development will be expected to come forward on sites within the Settlement Boundary, consisting of infill or small scale redevelopments which make the most appropriate use of previously developed land. On land between the railway and the River Deben, proposals for development will only be supported where they are for B1 business use, marine related business or leisure/tourism uses and where they are of a scale appropriate to the character of the area. The strategy, therefore is to consolidate a town that: a) Retains the special quality of the built environment including Conservation Areas and Listed Buildings and the character of the riverside and estuary and Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB; b) Retains the A12 as a firm edge to the town; c) Enhances the links between the town centre and the riverside; d) Enhances the town centre through the retention of national and independent shopping opportunities; e) Actively manages traffic and visitors to the town and surrounding areas through the use of appropriate traffic management, suitable car parking and signage; f) Promotes improvements to air quality; and g) Supports the further provision of open space and recreational facilities to meet the needs of the town over the plan period.

Land at Woodbridge Town Football Club

4.16ha of land at Woodbridge Town Football Club is allocated for housing for approximately 120 dwellings associated with the relocation of the football club. Development will only be supported as part of a proposal which would establish replacement facilities for the football club. Development on the site allocated under this policy will be expected to comply with the following criteria: a) Provision of a mix of housing including housing suitable to meet the needs of the elderly population and including affordable housing; b) Design, layout and height of buildings appropriate to the site's location adjacent to the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; c) Retention and strengthening of the existing landscaping and trees on the perimeter of the site; d) Provision of open space providing opportunities for all ages; e) An archaeological assessment will be required; f) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required; g) A project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; h) Provision of a robust package of sustainable transport measures which promote connectivity with the town; and i) Access to be provided via Fynn Road. Proposals for the relocation of the football club will be expected to comply with the following criteria: j) The football club to be replaced in a way which provides equivalent or better provision in quantitative and qualitative terms; k) The replacement facility must be fully brought into use in advance of the loss of any existing facilities to ensure continuity of provision unless exceptional circumstances are demonstrated and an appropriate alternative timescale securing the delivery of the replacement provision is proposed and agreed with the Council; l) An appropriate highways access should be provided; m) The site must be in a suitable location to meet the needs of users of the site and accessible to the community by non-car modes of transport; n) There should be no unacceptable impact on the amenity of any adjoining residential uses in terms of noise and light pollution; o) An appropriate landscape mitigation scheme should be provided if necessary; and p) The new facility should be operated to equivalent or better accessibility and management arrangements.

Land North of Conway Close and Swallow Close, Felixstowe

3.83ha of land to the north of Conway Close and Swallow Close as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for approximately 150 residential units. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Affordable housing provision to be in line with Policy SCLP5.10; b) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; c) A range of housing types (including bungalows) and tenures in keeping with surrounding area and in line with Policy SCLP5.8; d) Highway design which provides for appropriate vehicular access to the Garden Neighbourhood; e) Maximum building height of 2 storeys; f) Development will need to be high quality and sympathetic to the surrounding character of the area and Listed Building at Park Farm Cottages to the west of the site; g) On site open space and play facilities to meet needs identified in the Suffolk Coastal Leisure Strategy and to provide opportunities for all ages to be active; h) An Air Quality Assessment will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; i) An Archaeological Assessment is required; j) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; k) Green infrastructure to be complementary to the green infrastructure provided at Felixstowe Garden Neighbourhood; l) Creating links to the existing public rights of way network including upgrading Footpath 8 so as to allow cycling and to provide a circular route; m) A financial contribution towards the provision of a new primary school and new early years settings in Felixstowe; n) A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment will be required, and any mitigation provided, including a lighting strategy to conserve and enhance the Natural Beauty and Special Qualities of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; and o) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land to the East of Aldeburgh Road, Aldringham

1.66ha of land to the east of Aldeburgh Road, Aldringham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 40 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Design and layout should enhance the character of the site and surrounding landscape through high quality design, including planting schemes and boundary treatments and be sympathetic to the setting of nearby Listed Buildings, and consider the impact of external lighting on the setting of the AONB; b) Any loss of native species hedgerow will need to be replaced with additional native species hedging; c) Affordable housing to be provided on-site; d) Appropriate access arrangements regarding the provision of off road parking, and securing acceptable access sight lines; e) A biodiversity survey will be required and, if necessary, appropriate mitigation provided; f) Project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; g) An archaeological assessment will be required; h) A pedestrian crossing point will be required; i) Surface water disposal must be in accordance with the water management hierarchy; j) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; and k) A Landscape Visual Impact Assessment (LVIA) will be required in order to assess the impacts on the AONB, identify mitigation measures and inform landscaping proposals for the site.

Land South of Forge Close between Main Road and Ayden, Benhall

1.76ha of land south of Forge Close between Main Road and Ayden, Benhall, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 50 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) The development to be served by the existing access to the north of the site from Main Road, and upgrading to the access to the satisfaction of the Highways Authority; b) The design and layout of the development to provide for higher density terraced and semi detached properties in the western part of the site well integrated with the adjacent open space, and including provision of properties that would be suitable for older persons; c) Affordable housing to be provided on site; d) Provision of well integrated public open space to act as a focal point for the development and to make provision for all ages; e) Contribution towards early years provision; f) Provision of appropriate landscaping to the south western boundary of the site; g) Enhanced pedestrian permeability and cycle access will be required; h) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; i) Surface water disposal to be in accordance with the water management hierarchy; j) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; k) Contribution to enhancement of the local electricity network; and l) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land to the South of Darsham Station

7.33ha of land to the south of Darsham Station, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 120 dwellings and open space. Development will be expected to comply with the following criteria: a) Residential use to be contained within the northern half of the site alongside communal open space provision; b) A mix of housing including smaller dwellings and opportunity to explore self-build plots. The development of apartments within landscaped grounds linking towards Darsham Station would be supported; c) Provision of affordable housing on site; d) Provision of open space providing opportunities for all ages; e) Improved pedestrian and cycle connectivity with the station and Yoxford village will be required, including a crossing point to provide links to the existing footway network; f) Vehicle access from the south of the site through the southern half of the site which is to be otherwise retained as agricultural land reflecting the rural setting in proximity to Cockfield Hall Park; g) Design and layout of the development to respond to the Cockfield Hall Park historic park and garden and to be sympathetic to the setting of the Grade I Listed Cockfield Hall and the setting of Yoxford Conservation Area; h) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required and any necessary mitigation provided; i) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity and provision for treatment or that this can be provided; j) Provision of a comprehensive Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment will be required, and must inform a scheme of landscape mitigation for the site; k) Archaeological assessment will be required; and l) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity. Development of employment uses falling within Use Class B1 would also be supported as part of a mixed use scheme in the northern half of the site.

Land North of The Street, Darsham

1.11ha of land north of The Street, Darsham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 25 dwellings. Development will be expected to comply with the following criteria: a) Provision of a safe and suitable access; b) Existing hedgerows and trees on the frontage of The Street to be retained subject to provision of satisfactory access; c) Enhancements to the existing footway along part of southern boundary linking into the site; d) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity and provision for treatment or that this can be provided; f) Affordable housing to be provided on-site; g) An archaeological assessment will be required; and h) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land off Laxfield Road, Dennington

2.04ha of land off Laxfield Road, Dennington, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 35 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of terraced/semi-detached housing along the Laxfield Road frontage; b) Provision of a mix of housing including dwellings designed to meet the needs of the older population; c) Provision of affordable housing on site; d) Retention of the hedgerow along the Laxfield Road frontage, subject to the provision of suitable visibility splays. If the hedgerow is required to be removed replanting elsewhere on the site will be required; e) Provision of a footpath south to the school and a crossing point to provide links to the existing footway network; f) Provision of 0.7ha of land for school drop-off area and to enable future expansion of the school; g) If required, 0.1ha of land on the site should be reserved for a new early years setting or a contribution made towards a new early years setting off-site; h) Provision of open space on the southern part of the site; i) Suitable planting to the eastern and northern boundaries of the site to provide a 'soft' edge to the settlement where it abuts the countryside supplementing that which currently exists; j) Design and layout of the development to be sympathetic to the setting of the Conservation Area and nearby Listed Buildings; k) An archaeological investigation will be required; l) An ecological survey and any appropriate mitigation will be required; m) Provision of a site-specific flood risk assessment and any necessary mitigation; n) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; o) A bat survey to be undertaken and submitted as part of any planning application and if appropriate, inclusion of bat friendly features within the design of the new buildings; and p) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land at Brackenbury Sports Centre

1.8ha of land on the site of Brackenbury Sports Centre, as shown on the Policies Map, is allocated for development of approximately 80 dwellings. Development of this site will not come forward until new leisure facilities with equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality have been brought into operation as part of the Felixstowe Garden Neighbourhood. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) A mix of housing should be provided on the site including housing for older people and smaller starter home units; b) Design and layout which promotes a dementia friendly environment; c) Provision of affordable housing; d) Retention of, and enhancements to, walking and cycling connections through the site; e) Retention or enhancement of green spaces and play area; f) Provision of 0.1ha of land for a new early years setting if needed; g) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is required; h) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; i) Design, layout and landscaping of the development should be carefully designed to preserve the setting of the adjacent Grade II Listed Tyndale House; and j) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land to the South of Eyke CoE Primary School and East of The Street, Eyke

3.47 ha of land to the south of Eyke CoE Primary School and east of The Street, Eyke as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for a residential-led mixed use development incorporating approximately 65 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of a mix of housing including housing designed to meet the needs of older people; b) Affordable housing to be provided on site; c) Provision of 0.4ha of land to accommodate future expansion of the school; d) Provision of land to accommodate expansion of early years setting if needed; e) Provision of land to increase the area of car parking and to provide parking / drop-off area for the school if needed by the school; f) Provision of footway improvements and widening of existing car park access; g) Provision of open space providing opportunities for all ages; h) Provision of a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; i) Provision of open space on the frontage of the site adjacent to The Street, designed to promote community interaction; j) Design and layout of the site to reflect the location of the site within the AONB, including through the provision of landscaping and boundary treatment and appropriate lighting, informed through a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment; k) A project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; l) Design and layout of the development to be sympathetic to the setting of the nearby Grade II Listed Building; m) An archaeological assessment will be required; and n) Any planning application should be supported by evidence which assesses the quality and quantity of sand and gravel resources on site in order to determine whether on-site resources should be used on-site during development.

Land to the West of Chapel Road, Grundisburgh

5.16ha of land to the west of Chapel Road, Grundisburgh, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 70 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of a mix of housing including types designed to meet the needs of older people; b) Affordable housing to be provided on site; c) Provision of public open space for all ages, to act as focal point for development; d) Provision of pedestrian access and footways to support access to services and facilities in the village; e) Design and layout of the development to be sympathetic to the setting of Grundisburgh Hall Park historic park and garden; f) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; and g) An ecological survey will be required, along with any identified mitigation measures.

Land South of Ambleside, Main Road, Kelsale cum Carlton

1.86ha of land south of Ambleside, Main Road, Kelsale cum Carlton, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 30 units although a higher quantum of development may be appropriate subject to design and layout. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of affordable housing on site; b) Provision of a single vehicular access point will be required; c) Provision of a pedestrian crossing facility to link the development with the existing footway network, which may require enhancements; d) A contribution towards new early years provision if needed; e) The need to increase the surface water network capacity in accordance with the water management hierarchy; f) Provision of a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; g) An archaeological investigation will be required; h) Suitable planting to southern boundary of the site where it abuts open countryside; i) A mix of housing types and densities across the site to blend with the mix of densities on the surrounding sites; j) Surface water disposal must be in accordance with the water management hierarchy; k) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; l) The layout should where possible, look to retain some views through to open countryside beyond; and m) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land North of the Street, Kettleburgh

0.75ha of land north of The Street, Kettleburgh, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 16 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of terraced and semi-detached homes fronting The Street to follow the line of existing buildings; b) Provision of affordable housing on site; c) Provision of a contribution towards a new early years setting; d) Design, layout and landscaping to respond to the site's location in the river valley; e) Retention of hedgerows and trees bordering the site, subject to the provision of safe access and egress. Where hedgerow removal is required replanting elsewhere on the site will be required; f) Provision of a survey detailing the likely ecological impact on the biodiversity of the site and surrounding area; g) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; h) Retention and enhancement of Kettleburgh village sign in order to create a central focal point in the village; and i) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land to the rear of 31-37 Bucklesham Road, Kirton

0.44ha of land to the rear of 31-37 Bucklesham Road, Kirton, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 12 dwellings.

Land North of Mill Close, Orford

0.86ha of land north of Mill Close, Orford, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 10 units. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) A high quality design which reflects the importance of this gateway site into the village and its setting within the AONB; b) A mix of housing that reflects local housing needs and a predominance of smaller homes and bungalows; c) A Landscape Visual Impact Appraisal is required and if necessary, appropriate mitigation should be provided; d) Ensure that views through to the castle are retained for anyone entering Orford via Sudbourne Road; e) A financial contribution will be sought towards affordable housing provision; f) Provision of direct access to the public footpath which forms the western boundary to the site; g) An archaeological investigation will be required; and h) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required; and Surface water disposal must be in accordance with the water management hierarchy.

Land adjacent to Swiss Farm, Otley

1.47ha of land at Chapel Road, Otley, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 60 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of housing that would meet the needs of older people; b) Provision of affordable housing on site; c) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; d) Provision of open space; e) Provision of pedestrian connectivity with the services to the north of Chapel Road; f) Provision of a Transport Assessment, in particular to assess impacts on the B1078 / B1079 junction; g) Provision of landscaping to the eastern border of the site to provide an appropriate edge in relation to the open countryside beyond the site; h) An ecological survey will be required, along with any identified mitigation measures; and i) Provision of a Contaminated Land Assessment. Proposals for the site will need to demonstrate that any continued uses and structures on agricultural land to the east of the site would not cause an unacceptable impact on the living conditions of the future occupiers of the site, and ensure that the new development can be integrated effectively with the neighbouring agricultural use.

Land adjacent to Farthings, Sibton Road, Peasenhall

0.41ha of land adjacent to Farthings, Sibton Road, Peasenhall, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 14 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of affordable housing on site; b) Provision of landscaping to the north eastern borders of the site to provide a 'soft' edge in relation to the rural parkland setting beyond the site; c) Design the built and natural environment to take full account of the heritage significance of the Knoll and the parkland setting of Sibton Abbey; d) Provision of pedestrian access and connectivity; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity and provision for treatment or that this can be provided; f) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; and g) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land between High Street and Chapel Lane, Pettistree (adjoining Wickham Market)

6.15ha of land between High Street and Chapel Lane, Pettistree (adjoining Wickham Market) is identified for the development of approximately 150 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) A mix of dwelling types including housing to meet the needs of older people and provision of self-build plots; b) Provision of affordable housing on site; c) Provision of 0.1ha of land for a new early years setting if needed; d) Provision of a landscape buffer of at least 10 metres depth along the southern boundary of the site, to create a 'soft' and distinctive gateway to Wickham Market; e) Provision of open space to provide for all ages; f) Provision of pedestrian connectivity with footpaths to the north on the B1438; g) Proportionate archaeological assessment will be required; h) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; i) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; j) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity; and k) Any planning application should be supported by evidence which assesses the quality and quantity of sand and gravel resources on site in order to determine whether on-site resources should be used on-site during development.

Land West of Garden Square, Rendlesham

5.05ha of land west of Garden Square, Rendlesham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for a mixed development of approximately 50 dwellings and greenspace provision. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Ensure that the risk of odour and other amenity impacts from Rendlesham Water Recycling Centre is not detrimental to the living conditions of future occupiers as set out in Policy SCLP11.2. Evidence should be provided to demonstrate that there is no unacceptable impact on the occupiers of the future dwellings, and that the continuous operation of Rendlesham Water Recycling Centre is not affected. This will require the provision of a suitable distance from the Water Recycling Centre within which new residential development is considered acceptable as advised by Anglian Water; b) Accommodate the sewers that cross the site; c) The design, layout, mix and type of housing proposed is compatible with the housing and transport objectives set out in the 'made' Rendlesham Neighbourhood Plan; d) Provision of affordable housing; e) The remaining greenspace should be used for a mix of informal open space suitable for daily dog walking, allotments or orchards in accordance with Rendlesham Neighbourhood Plan policy RNPP3; f) Provision of a substantial landscape buffer to the northern and western boundaries where it abuts open countryside; g) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is required; h) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; i) An archaeological assessment will be required; and j) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity. In addition, the air quality impacts of traffic from cumulative development at Melton crossroads and the Air Quality Management Area declared in Woodbridge will need to be investigated in the form of an Air Quality Assessment, together with a mitigation appraisal.

Land east of Redwald Road, Rendlesham

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land opposite The Sorrel Horse, The Street, Shottisham

0.42 ha of land opposite The Sorrel Horse, The Street, Shottisham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for small scale mixed use development for approximately 10 dwellings and a car park to accommodate circa 30 cars. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) The design and layout should be of high quality, responding to the site's location in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; and preserving and enhancing the character and setting of the Conservation Area, and Listed Buildings; b) Provision of smaller open market housing. A financial contribution will be sought towards affordable housing provision; c) Developers will need to undertake a Landscape Visual Impact Appraisal, and if necessary, provide appropriate mitigation including appropriate lighting; d) Provision of appropriate access arrangements regarding the access point, and securing acceptable access sight lines, including retention of the hedgerow wherever possible; e) In addition to residents parking, provision of an area for a car park to accommodate circa 30 cars. The parking area to be screened to protect residential amenity; f) Provision of pedestrian connectivity from the residential and car parking areas via Villa Hill; g) A biodiversity survey will be required and, if necessary, appropriate mitigation provided; h) An archaeological assessment will be required; i) Developers will need to provide connection to a public sewage treatment plant unless it can be demonstrated that it is not feasible or viable. A foul drainage strategy will need to be approved and implemented prior to the development connecting to the sewerage system, if it is deemed viable to do so; and j) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land off Howlett Way, Trimley St Martin

10.64ha of land at Howlett Way, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 360 dwellings with on site open space. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Primary vehicular access onto Howlett Way only; b) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; c) No vehicular access onto Church Lane; d) Continuation of and links to existing Public Rights of Way Network; e) Retain the existing hedgerows which border the site to maintain character of the area; f) Affordable housing provision to be in line with Policy SCLP5.10; g) A range of housing types and tenures provided in keeping with surrounding area, including provision of self build plots; h) Contribution towards provision of a new primary school; i) Provision of a new early years setting on 0.1ha of land; j) Development to be of a high quality and sympathetic to the character and setting of the listed churches and The Old Rectory; k) Site design and layout to take into account the water mains crossing the site; l) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; m) On site open space and play facilities to meet needs identified in the SCDC Leisure Strategy; n) Archaeological assessment required with particular consideration for the existing pillbox; o) Provision of pedestrian/cycle links; p) Air Quality assessment required; and q) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land adjacent to Reeve Lodge, High Road, Trimley St Martin

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land off Keightley Way, Tuddenham

1.54ha of land off Keightley Way, Tuddenham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 25 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of semi detached and terraced properties in the southern part of the site; b) Provision of affordable housing on site; c) Retention of existing trees and hedgerows on the boundaries of the site; d) Provision of open space and a pedestrian and cycle link between Keightley Way and the playing fields to the east of the site; and e) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided.

Land South of Lower Road, Westerfield

2.45ha of land south of Lower Road, Westerfield, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 20 dwellings and public open space provision. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) The housing is required to enable the provision of a village green type facility as a focal point for the community. When determining the viability of the scheme, the need to provide this facility will be given priority over affordable housing contributions; b) The developer is required to involve the Parish Council in the design and layout of the village green type facility and its long term maintenance; c) If the housing element extends over 1ha or more, a flood risk assessment will be required to consider impacts on receptors off site; d) An archaeological assessment will be required; e) Design of the scheme should provide for a pedestrian footway along the Lower Road frontage within the site to avoid detrimental impact on the oak trees which are the subject of a Tree Preservation Order; and f) Provision of a comprehensive landscaping scheme for the site which provides for the retention of trees and hedgerows along the site boundaries except where it is required to provide access to the site.

Land West of the B1125, Westleton

0.73ha of land to the west of the B1125, Westleton, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 20 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Development of a mix of dwellings to include dwellings to meet the needs of older people; b) Design and layout to be sympathetic to the setting of Westleton Conservation Area, the single storey context of the adjacent built environment and Westleton Common County Wildlife Site on the opposite side of the B1125; c) Provision of affordable housing on site; d) Provision of landscaping to provide a 'soft' edge to development on the southern and western boundaries; e) An ecological assessment, including assessment of impacts on Westleton Common County Wildlife Site must accompany any planning application. Alongside any mitigation measures required, development should provide for biodiversity enhancements, in line with the characteristics of Westleton Common County Wildlife Site; f) A project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; g) Provision of pedestrian connection to existing footpaths to the village; h) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; i) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; and j) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land at Cherry Lee, Darsham Road, Westleton

1.21ha of land at Cherry Lee, Darsham Road, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 15 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of affordable housing on site; b) Retention, and where necessary provision, of landscaped boundary features to create 'soft' edges to the boundaries of the site, except where removal is required for safe access and egress; c) Enhancements to pedestrian connectivity southwards along Darsham Road and bridleway works; d) Design and layout to be sympathetic to the rural countryside setting; e) Retention and enhancement of public right of way at the western site boundary; f) A project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; g) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; and h) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Mow Hill, Witnesham

1.5ha of land at Mow Hill, Witnesham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 30 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of affordable housing on site; b) Retention of the hedgerow which borders Mow Hill, except where removal is required for access; c) Provision of a pedestrian connectivity southwards on Mow Hill; d) Design and layout to be sympathetic to the setting of the nearby Grade II Listed Buildings; e) Provision of landscaping to create a 'soft' edge to the eastern and northern boundaries of the site; and f) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided.

Land at Street Farm, Witnesham (Bridge)

0.7ha of land at Street Farm, Witnesham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 20 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; b) Impact on the listed farmhouse; c) An archaeological investigation will be required; d) Provision of affordable housing on site; e) Provision of footway / pedestrian enhancements; f) Design and layout to be sympathetic to the sensitive river valley landscape character, and to have regard to former farmyard use; g) Where possible retention of existing trees along the boundaries to the site; h) Any development within the area identified as Flood Zone 3 should be avoided to ensure no impediments to flows are introduced that could increase the risk of flooding downstream; i) Provision of an ecological assessment in relation to potential impact on the River Fynn, and opportunities should be explored which would improve and enhance the riverside environment in this location under the Water Framework Directive; and j) Provision of a Contaminated Land Assessment. Proposals for the site will need to demonstrate that any continued uses and structures on agricultural land to the south of the site would not cause an unacceptable impact on the living conditions of future occupiers of the site, and ensure that the new development can be integrated effectively with the neighbouring agricultural use.

Strategy for Growth

The Council will deliver an ambitious plan for growth over the period 2018 – 2036 in the plan area by: a) Supporting and facilitating economic growth through the supply of more than the baseline requirement of 11.7ha of land for employment uses to deliver at least 6,500 jobs and to enable the key economic activities to maintain and enhance their role within the UK economy; b) Sustain and support growth in retail, commercial leisure and town centres including facilitating provision towards plan period forecasts of between 4,100 - 5,000 sqm of convenience retail floorspace and between 7,700 – 13,100 sqm of comparison retail floorspace; c) Significantly boosting the supply of housing, the mix of housing available and the provision of affordable housing, through the delivery of at least 542 new dwellings per annum (at least 9,756 over the period 2018 - 2036); d) Ensuring the provision of infrastructure needed to support growth; e) Protecting and enhancing the quality of the historic, built and natural environment across the District. The strategy for growth will seek to provide opportunities for economic growth and create and enhance sustainable and inclusive communities through: f) The delivery of new Garden Neighbourhoods at North Felixstowe and South Saxmundham; g) Utilising opportunities provided by road and rail corridors, including a focus on growth in the A12 and the A14 corridors; h) New employment allocations based around key transport corridors; i) Strategies for market towns which seek to reflect and strengthen their roles and economies; j) Appropriate growth in rural areas that will help to support and sustain existing communities.

Settlement Hierarchy

The Settlement Hierarchy enables the Council to achieve its vision for the plan area, meeting the scale of development required and enhancing the quality of the built, natural, historic, social and cultural environments whilst sustaining the vitality of communities. The development requirements for Major Centres, Market Towns, Large Villages and Small Villages will be delivered through site allocations in the Local Plan or in Neighbourhood Plans, plus through windfall development in accordance with other policies in this Local Plan. The development requirements in the Countryside will come forward through Neighbourhood Plans and windfall sites in accordance with other policies in this Local Plan. Settlement Type Communities Major Centre Felixstowe East of Ipswich - Kesgrave, Martlesham Heath, Brightwell Lakes, Purdis Farm, Rushmere St Andrew (excluding village) Market Towns Aldeburgh, Framlingham, Leiston, Saxmundham, Woodbridge Large Villages Bramfield, Earl Soham, Grundisburgh, Hollesley, Knodishall, Martlesham (village), Melton (village), Nacton, Orford, Otley, Rendlesham, Snape, Trimley St Martin, Trimley St Mary, Wickham Market, Yoxford Small Villages Alderton, Badingham, Bawdsey, Benhall, Blythburgh, Brandeston, Bredfield, Bucklesham, Campsea Ashe, Charsfield, Levington, Little Bealings, Middleton, Newbourne, Peasenhall (with part of Sibton), Pettistree, Rendham, Rushmere St. Andrew (village), Sutton Heath, Theberton, Clopton, Darsham, Dennington, Easton, Eyke, Great Glemham, Hacheston, Hasketon, Kelsale, Kettleburgh, Kirton (including part of Falkenham), Thorpeness, Tuddenham, Tunstall, Ufford, Walberswick, Waldringfield, Wenhaston, Westerfield, Westleton, Witnesham Countryside Aldringham, Blaxhall, Boulge, Boyton, Brightwell, Bromeswell, Bruisyard, Burgh, Butley, Capel St Andrew, Chediston, Chillesford, Cookley, Cransford, Cratfield, Cretingham, Culpho, Dallinghoo, Debach, Dunwich, Falkenham, Farnham, Foxhall, Friston, Gedgrave, Great Bealings, Hemley, Heveningham, Hoo, Huntingfield, Iken, Letheringham, Linstead Magna, Linstead Parva, Little Glemham, Marlesford, Melton Park, Monewden, Parham, Playford, Ramsholt, Saxtead, Shottisham, Sibton, Sizewell, Sternfield, Stratford St Andrew, Stratton Hall, Sudbourne, Sutton, Sweffling, Swilland, Thorington, Ubbeston, Walpole, Wantisden

Housing Development in Large Villages

Residential development will be permitted within defined Settlement Boundaries where it is: a) Development of a scale appropriate to the size, location and character of the village; or b) Infill development (in accordance with Policy SCLP5.7). Residential development will be permitted on Exception Sites adjacent or well related to defined Settlement Boundaries in accordance with Policy SCLP5.11.

Affordable Housing on Residential Developments

Proposals for residential development with capacity for ten units or more or sites of 0.5ha or more will be expected to make provision for 1 in 3 units to be affordable dwellings, and to be made available to meet an identified local need, including needs for affordable housing for older people. Proposals which provide a higher amount of affordable housing than that set out above will also be permitted. Of these affordable dwellings, 50% should be for affordable rent / social rent, 25% should be for shared ownership and 25% should be for discounted home ownership. Provision is expected to be made on-site, unless it can be demonstrated in exceptional circumstances that it is not feasible or practical to provide the units on site in which case it may be agreed that a commuted sum could be paid towards provision of affordable housing outside of the site. In exceptional circumstances, where the Council is satisfied that the provision of affordable housing is not viable, as demonstrated through a viability assessment the Council may agree to vary the requirement for affordable housing. The requirement for affordable housing does not apply to developments which are solely brownfield flatted schemes. In schemes with a mix of housing types the affordable housing provision will be assessed as a whole. Neighbourhood Plans may set requirements for a greater proportion of affordable housing where this is supported by evidence of need and viability assessment.

Affordable Housing on Exception Sites

Proposals for the development of affordable housing in the countryside will be permitted where: a) It is demonstrated there is an identified local need for affordable housing and this cannot be met through existing housing allocations in the Local Plan or relevant Neighbourhood Plan, or through development within the Settlement Boundary; b) The scheme is adjacent or well related to an identified Settlement Boundary or a cluster of houses in the countryside (as defined in Policy SCLP5.4); c) The scheme incorporates a range of dwelling sizes, types and tenures appropriate to the identified local need, including needs for affordable housing for older people; and d) The location, scale and design standard of a scheme will retain or enhance the character and setting of the settlement or cluster and not lead to settlement coalescence. A limited amount of market housing will be permitted as part of affordable housing development in the countryside where it is required to cross-subsidise the affordable housing. Where market housing is to be provided on site this will be subsidiary to the affordable housing element of the proposal and the amount of market housing required will need to be demonstrated through a viability assessment. The amount of market housing on the site should be no more than one third of the dwellings on the site. Where Starter Homes are proposed, these should form part of a mix of tenures on the site. Where sites for affordable housing in the countryside are brought forward with an element of market housing, both housing tenures should be built to the same design standards and contribute towards the character of the area.

Houses in Multiple Occupation

Proposals for Houses in Multiple Occupation will be supported within Settlement Boundaries where: a) There is no adverse impact on the character of the dwelling or the surrounding area; b) Provision can be made for sufficient parking and where the dwelling is, or can be made to be, accessible to public transport services and main employment and service centres on foot and by cycle; and c) Any extensions necessary are in accordance with the Council's design policies.

Residential Annexes

An annex to an existing dwelling will be supported where: a) The annex is smaller in scale and clearly ancillary to the host dwelling; b) The proposal does not involve the physical separation of the residential curtilage; c) No separate access is required; d) The annex is either an extension or is well related to the host dwelling; e) In the case of a new build annex, it is not feasible to create the annex through an extension or the conversion of an outbuilding; f) There is sufficient off-road parking; and g) There is no significant adverse effect on the landscape or visual amenity. Conditions or planning obligations will be applied to limit occupation to use as an annex and to prevent future use as a separate dwelling in accordance with national policy for planning conditions and obligations. Where an annex is proposed as an extension, it should be designed in a way which will enable it to be incorporated into the host dwelling when no longer required.

Extensions to Residential Curtilages

Extensions to residential curtilages will be permitted where: a) The resulting size of the curtilage reflects the scale and location of the dwelling; b) They do not result in the removal of an existing hedgerow of native species unless replaced by a similar hedgerow; c) They do not have a harmful impact on the historic environment, landscape or character of the area, including as a result of developments ancillary to the residential use; and d) The proposed boundary feature of the extended curtilage is of a form which reflects its location and the character of the area. In granting planning consent for the extension of residential curtilages, the Council will consider the removal of Permitted Development rights.

Residential Moorings, Jetties and Slipways

Proposals for new residential moorings, jetties and slipways, and proposals for alterations to and/or replacement of existing residential moorings, jetties and slipways, will only be supported where: a) They are within an area of existing houseboats identified in the Local Plan, as shown on the Policies Map, and do not result in an expansion of the overall area within which houseboats are located; b) They will not cause harm to the integrity of European sites or Ramsar sites either on their own or in combination with other uses; c) They will not result in harm to the visual amenity and/or tranquillity of the estuary; and d) An adequate means of sewage disposal is provided to the satisfaction of the relevant wastewater provider. Neighbourhood Plans may include local policies relating to residential moorings.

Residential Caravans and Mobile Homes

As a residential use, the principal of development of permanent residential caravans and mobile homes will be considered under the relevant policies for housing. Proposals for residential caravan and mobile home sites will be supported where: a) They are designed and sited in a way which does not result in a harmful impact on the landscape or on the character of a settlement; b) Amenity space is provided on site; c) They are located outside of Flood Zone 2 and Flood Zone 3; and d) Safe access and space for vehicle manoeuvring can be achieved within the site.

Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople

The Council will support the provision of permanent sites for Gypsies and Travellers and Travelling Showpeople, to meet the needs identified through the 2017 Accommodation Needs Assessment as set out below: a) Provision of 5 new pitches to meet the needs for permanent accommodation for Gypsies and Travellers; b) Provision of 2 plots to meet the needs for Travelling Showpeople. The Council will work with other Councils across Suffolk to deliver identified needs for short stay stopping sites, including the delivery of one short stay stopping site within East Suffolk. Sites for Gypsies and Travellers and Travelling Showpeople will be permitted where: c) The proposed occupants meet the definition of 'Gypsies and Travellers' or 'Travelling showpeople' as set out in 'Planning Policy for Traveller Sites' (2015) (or subsequent revisions); d) The site is within, adjacent to or well related to a Major Centre, Town, Large Village or Small Village. Where the requirement for a site is linked to the education or health needs of the occupants the site must be well related to locations where these services are provided; e) The site is capable of being provided with mains water and adequate sewage/waste disposal provision (including the storage of waste prior to disposal); f) The site is acceptable in terms of highway safety; g) The site is designed so as to minimise visual impact on the surrounding area and landscape character, and does not dominate the nearest settled community; h) The site is not located in flood zone 2 or flood zone 3; i) Any industrial, retail, commercial, or commercial storage activities to take place on the site must be ancillary to the primary use of the site for residential purposes and must not harm the amenity of occupants of the site or surrounding areas; j) The scale and range of uses proposed within the site are acceptable in terms of their impact on any existing neighbouring uses; and k) Where it is intended that a site should be self managed by the occupants, the capacity of the site should not normally exceed 8 pitches. The Council will work with relevant parties with the aim of reducing the number of unauthorised permanent pitches. Where proposals would contribute towards reducing the number of unauthorised pitches, this will be a factor in decision taking. Where the proposal is for a Travelling Showpersons site (or extension to an existing site) sufficient space for storage of vehicles and equipment will be provided. Neighbourhood Plans may allocate sites for Gypsy and Traveller use.

Housing Development in Small Villages

Residential development will be permitted within defined Settlement Boundaries where it is: a) A small group of dwellings of a scale appropriate to the size, location and character of the village; or b) Infill development (in accordance with Policy SCLP5.7). Residential development will be permitted on Exception Sites adjacent or well related to defined Settlement Boundaries in accordance with Policy SCLP5.11.

Housing Development in the Countryside

Outside of the defined Settlement Boundaries, new residential development will be limited to: a) Affordable housing to meet identified local needs on exception sites adjacent to, or well related to, Settlement Boundaries or clusters of housing in the countryside (in accordance with Policy SCLP5.11 and Policy SCLP5.4); b) Limited development within existing clusters (in accordance with Policy SCLP5.4); c) Replacement dwellings on a one to one basis where these are no more visually intrusive in the countryside than the building to be replaced; d) Subdivision of an existing larger dwelling; e) Conversion of an existing building (in accordance with Policy SCLP5.5); f) Rural workers dwellings, where there is an essential need for a rural worker to live permanently at or near their place of work (in accordance with Policy SCLP5.6); g) Other residential development consistent with policy on residential development in the countryside contained in the National Planning Policy Framework.

Housing in Clusters in the Countryside

Proposals for new dwellings within 'clusters' in the countryside will be supported where: a) The proposal is for up to three dwellings within a cluster of five or more dwellings; Or The proposal is for up to five dwellings within a cluster of at least ten existing dwellings which is well related to a Major Centre, Town, Large Village or Small Village; And b) The development consists of infilling within a continuous built up frontage, is in a clearly identifiable gap within an existing cluster, or is otherwise located adjacent to existing development on two sides; c) The development does not represent an extension of the built up area into the surrounding countryside beyond the existing extent of the built up area surrounding, or adjacent to, the site; and d) It would not cause undue harm to the character and appearance of the cluster or, result in any harmful visual intrusion into the surrounding landscape. Where more than three dwellings are proposed under criterion b) above, applicants must be able to demonstrate that meaningful and effective community engagement has taken place in the development of the scheme and that the mix of dwellings proposed would meet locally identified needs. Particular care will be exercised in sensitive locations such as within or in the setting of Conservation Areas and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Consideration will also need to be given to the features of Landscape Character Areas in accordance with Policy SCLP10.4. The cumulative impact of proposals will be a consideration in relation to the criteria above. A 'cluster' in the context of this policy: • Consists of a continuous line of existing dwellings or a close group of existing dwellings adjacent to an existing highway; and • Contains 5 or more dwellings.

Conversions of Buildings in the Countryside for Housing

The conversion of buildings in the countryside for residential use will be permitted where: a) The building is redundant; b) The building provides a positive contribution to the landscape; c) The conversion does not require significant alteration; d) The design maintains or enhances the structure, form and character of the rural building; e) The design of the conversion, including any necessary works to the curtilage, does not have a harmful effect on the character of the landscape; f) Any impacts on the natural environment are adequately mitigated for; g) The conversion enhances the immediate setting of the area; and h) The site is served by an appropriate existing access.

Rural Workers Dwellings

Proposals for permanent dwellings in the countryside for rural workers will only be permitted where: a) There is a clearly established existing functional need for a worker to be accommodated; b) The need could not be fulfilled by another existing dwelling or accommodation in the area which is suitable and available for the occupied workers or, could be converted to do so; c) The need relates to a full time worker, or one who is primarily employed in the rural sector, and does not relate to a part time requirement; d) The unit and the rural activity concerned has been established for at least three years, has been profitable for at least one of them, is financially sound and has a clear prospect of remaining so; and e) The proposed dwelling is sensitively designed, landscaped and located to fit in with its surroundings and of a scale that reflects its functional role to support the agricultural activity. Where a rural dwelling is permitted, the occupancy will be restricted by condition to ensure that it is occupied by a person, or persons, currently or last employed in local rural employment. Applications for the removal of an occupancy condition related to rural workers will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that: f) There is no longer a need for accommodation on the holding/business and in the local area; g) The property has been marketed to ensure proper coverage within the relevant sector for at least one year at a price which reflects the existence of the occupancy condition; and h) The dwelling has been made available to a minimum of three Registered Providers operating locally on terms that would prioritise its occupation by a rural worker as an affordable dwelling, and that option has been refused.

Infill and Garden Development

Proposals for infill development or residential development within existing gardens will be supported where: a) The scale, design and materials would not result in harm to the street scene or character of the area; b) The proposal is well related in scale and design to adjacent properties, including the design of curtilage areas, parking and access, and incorporates landscaping where appropriate to mitigate any potential impacts or to enhance the appearance of the site; c) There would not be significant harm to residential amenity of occupants of either the existing or proposed dwellings; d) Existing and proposed dwellings have sufficient curtilage space; and e) The proposals are otherwise in accordance with the housing policies of the Local Plan.

Housing Mix

Proposals for new housing development will be expected to deliver the housing needed for different groups in the community as identified in the Strategic Housing Market Assessment, or latest equivalent assessment. New development should provide a mix of housing tenures, types and sizes appropriate to the site size, characteristics and location, reflecting where feasible the identified need, particularly focusing on smaller dwellings (1 and 2 bedrooms). To contribute towards meeting the significant needs for housing for older people, proposals for ten or more dwellings should demonstrate how the development will contribute to meeting the needs of older people. On proposals of 10 or more non-specialist dwellings at least 50% of the dwellings will need to meet the requirements for accessible and adaptable dwellings under Part M4(2) of the Building Regulations. All specialist dwellings will be expected to meet the requirements for accessible and adaptable dwellings under Part M4(2) of the Building Regulations. Only in exceptional circumstances would a lower percentage of M4(2) dwellings be permitted. In such circumstances applicants would need to demonstrate that provision is either unfeasible or unviable and that the development incorporates alternative measures to enhance accessibility and adaptability where possible. Sheltered and extra-care housing will be supported where the scheme incorporates a mix of tenures and sizes to meet an identified need. Neighbourhood Plans may set out an approach to housing type and mix specific to the local area where this is supported by evidence.

Self Build and Custom Build Housing

Proposals for self build or custom build plots, or proposals that make a proportion of serviced dwelling plots available for sale to self builders or custom builders, will be supported where in compliance with all other relevant policies of this Local Plan. Developments of 100 or more dwellings will be expected to provide a minimum of 5% self or custom build properties on site through the provision of serviced plots. Once completed and available for development, the serviced plots should be marketed for a period of not less than 12 months, in accordance with the principles set out in Appendix E. If, following this period, any of the serviced plots remain unsold; they may be built out by the developer. Proposals for 5 or more self build or custom build dwellings in a single site location should be developed in accordance with a set of design principles to be submitted with planning applications and agreed by the local planning authority.

Strategy for Aldeburgh

The strategy for Aldeburgh is set within the physical and natural constraints of the town and the need to retain a balanced and cohesive community. The strategy will seek to ensure that: a) The historic character of the town is retained, protected and enhanced; b) Services and facilities support the local residents and those in surrounding rural communities; c) New residential development is targeted at meeting the needs of the local community through provision to meet the needs of the ageing population and enabling local residents to stay within the area; d) The sensitive environment surrounding the town is not detrimentally impacted; e) Its role as a tourist centre and resort, offering a range of accommodation is maintained; and f) The flood risk is minimised and coastal defences are effectively managed. The Garrett Era Area defined on the Policies Map has a unique and distinctive townscape character which is important to retain. Proposals to substantially enlarge existing properties or sub-divide existing plots will not be supported where they would: g) Materially adversely affect the character of the area; h) Materially adversely affect the setting of the existing buildings; i) Result in the serious loss of existing trees; or j) Prejudice replanting schemes of suitable species once existing trees die or are removed.

Land rear of Rose Hill, Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh

3ha of land to the rear of Rose Hill, Saxmundham Road, Aldeburgh, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for a mixed development comprising a care home and open market housing for approximately 10 units. Applications for development of this site will need to be subject to a Habitat Regulations Assessment screening. Any development which would result in significant adverse effects upon the nearby European site, which could not be appropriately mitigated, will not be permitted. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) A financial contribution will be sought towards affordable housing provision; b) An archaeological assessment will be required at an early stage in the design process; c) Provision of a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; d) No development should exceed two storeys in height; e) Careful consideration being given to the scale and massing of new building to ensure that it does not appear out of character with surrounding development when viewed from the estuary; f) The provision of an external lighting scheme given the sensitivity of the site on the edge of Aldeburgh and its elevated position when viewed from the estuary; g) A comprehensive landscaping scheme for the whole development; h) A Landscape Visual Impact Appraisal and if necessary, provision of appropriate mitigation; i) A bat survey to be undertaken and submitted as part of any planning application and if appropriate, inclusion of bat friendly features within the design of the new buildings; j) A project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; and k) Access to the site should be via the existing access track which follows the western boundary of the site. New access and junction arrangements should be designed to meet the needs of residents, the adjacent golf club and to the satisfaction of Suffolk County Council.

North Felixstowe Garden Neighbourhood

Approximately 143ha of land is identified for a Garden Neighbourhood to the north of Felixstowe and Trimley St Mary, as shown on the Policies Map, for a comprehensive leisure led development comprising leisure, green infrastructure, community facilities and employment land alongside residential development comprising a mix of housing types, sizes and tenures in a design which creates a dementia friendly environment. This new development will be delivered through a masterplan approach brought forward through landowner collaboration and community engagement. Critical to the success of this development will be the integration of the new Garden Neighbourhood with the existing community of Felixstowe and surrounding area, as well as taking into account the location of the site adjacent to the Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB and its setting. The Masterplan should be informed by community engagement and include: a) A new leisure centre in a location which is easily accessible for the existing community; b) Provision of 630 primary school spaces and early years provision; c) Protection of the Grove Woodland and Eastward Ho recreational areas along with appropriate green infrastructure provision to provide accessible natural green space and retention and enhancement of the natural features on the site such as trees, woodland and hedgerows to be incorporated into the layout of the development; d) Appropriate open space provision for both informal and formal recreational opportunities through retained space, re-provision, enhancement or new provision; e) Public rights of way on the site should be preserved and enhanced, and opportunities sought to maintain and provide access to the countryside; f) Project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required, and requirements for Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace to be provided; g) Biodiversity networks and habitats to be preserved and enhanced, including measures to enhance biodiversity within housing areas; h) Measures to sustain, and where possible enhance or better reveal the significance of heritage assets and their settings, having regard to the conclusions of the Council's North Felixstowe Garden Neighbourhood Heritage Impact Assessment; i) Proportionate archaeological assessment; j) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; k) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; l) Community Hub comprising a variety of services and facilities to be created in accessible locations; m) A network of pedestrian, cycling and vehicular routes that provide connectivity and movement across the Garden Neighbourhood and with adjacent areas whilst protecting and enhancing local Quiet Lanes; n) Provision of new vehicular access points off Candlet Road and/or improvements to existing accesses supported by further access for pedestrian and cycle traffic in other locations; o) Design and layout that supports inclusive use and a dementia friendly environment; p) Consideration of the existing water mains and sewers in Anglian Water's ownership which influence the design of the Garden Neighbourhood following the principles of Holistic Water Management; q) Employment land for high quality non-port related small business units; r) Retirement dwellings comprising care home extra care / sheltered dwellings; s) Up to 2,000 dwellings (including 560 with outline planning permission, as shown on the Policies Map), providing a mix of dwelling types, sizes and tenures including housing to meet the specialised housing needs of older, younger and vulnerable people and self-build plots, and provision of affordable housing; t) Assessment of the impacts of Garden Neighbourhood proposals on the Natural Beauty and Special Qualities of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; and u) Any planning application should be supported by evidence which assesses the quality and quantity of sand and gravel resources on site in order to determine whether the site is suitable for prior extraction. The necessary off-site infrastructure requirements, including health provision and police facilities will be required through developer contributions. Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity will be required, including, but not limited to, water recycling upgrades. Any necessary off-site transport improvements will need to be provided to the satisfaction of Suffolk County Council and where appropriate Highways England, informed by a Transport Assessment.

Former Council Offices, Melton Hill

1.33ha of land at the Former Council Offices, Melton Hill, is allocated for a residential-led mixed use development of approximately 100 dwellings. Development will be expected to be of an exemplar, high quality design, and comply with the following criteria: a) Provision of a mix of units including a predominance of flatted dwellings, including affordable housing on-site; b) Design, layout and height of buildings to be appropriate to the site's location in proximity to heritage assets and the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; c) Provision of a high standard of sustainable design; d) Provision of open space providing opportunities for all ages; e) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required; f) Project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; g) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; h) Measures to promote non-car modes of travel; and i) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity. The provision of small scale community and A3 uses will be supported where they do not have a significant impact on the town centre.

Land at Woodbridge Town Football Club

4.16ha of land at Woodbridge Town Football Club is allocated for housing for approximately 120 dwellings associated with the relocation of the football club. Development will only be supported as part of a proposal which would establish replacement facilities for the football club. Development on the site allocated under this policy will be expected to comply with the following criteria: a) Provision of a mix of housing including housing suitable to meet the needs of the elderly population and including affordable housing;

Land to the East of Aldeburgh Road, Aldringham

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land south of Forge Close between Main Road and Ayden, Benhall

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land to the South East of Levington Lane, Bucklesham

1.4ha of land to the south east of Levington Lane, Bucklesham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 30 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Design and layout to reflect the linear nature of Levington Lane, with semi detached or terraced properties provided on the frontage with Levington Lane; b) Affordable housing to be provided on site; c) Retention of trees and hedgerows along the frontage with Levington Lane where possible; d) Landscaping and boundary treatments appropriate to the rural character of the area surrounding the site to the east and south; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; f) Provision of a footpath to connect the site with the footpaths to the north of the site, and widening of Levington Lane along western boundary of site where necessary; and g) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land to the South of Station Road, Campsea Ashe

0.34ha of land to the south of Station Road, Campsea Ashe, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 12 dwellings. Development will be expected to comply with the following criteria: a) Design and layout of the development to reflect the site's location close to Listed Buildings, and the rural character of the location; b) Existing hedgerows and trees to be retained wherever possible; c) Retention of the pond in the eastern part of the site; d) Provision of appropriate boundary treatment to the southern border of the site reflecting the character of the local landscape; e) Provision of affordable housing on site; f) Provision of a biodiversity survey, and appropriate mitigation where required; g) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; h) Surface water disposal to be in accordance with the water management hierarchy; and i) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land behind 15 St Peters Close, Charsfield

0.87 ha of land behind St Peters Close, Charsfield, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 20 dwellings. Development will be expected to comply with the following criteria: a) Design, layout and landscaping of the development to be carefully designed to reflect the site's location close to the Grade I St Peter's Church; b) Provision of a mix of housing including smaller properties and bungalows and provision of affordable housing on site; c) A contribution towards new early years provision in Wickham Market ward; d) Retention of hedgerows and trees along the boundaries of the site; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity and provision for treatment or that this can be provided; f) Provision of a pedestrian link to the recreation ground to the east; g) An ecological survey will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; and h) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land to the South of Darsham Station

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land north of The Street, Darsham

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land off Laxfield Road, Dennington

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land to the south of Eyke CoE Primary School and East of The Street, Eyke

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land to the West of Chapel Road, Grundisburgh

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land south of Ambleside, Main Road, Kelsale cum Carlton

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land north of the Street, Kettleburgh

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land to the rear of 31-37 Bucklesham Road, Kirton

0.44ha of land to the rear of 31-37 Bucklesham Road, Kirton, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 12 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of a mix of housing, including affordable housing on site; b) Provision of a pedestrian crossing point; c) Contribution to provision of primary school places; d) Retention of trees and hedgerows on boundaries of the site wherever possible; e) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity and provision for treatment or that this can be provided; f) Surface water disposal to be in accordance with the water management hierarchy; and g) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land at School Road, Knodishall

0.65ha of land at School Road, Knodishall, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 16 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of affordable housing on site; b) Provision of a flood risk assessment and any necessary mitigation; c) Retention of the hedgerow along the School Road frontage, subject to the provision of suitable visibility splays. If the hedgerow is required to be removed replanting elsewhere on site will be required; d) Provision of a survey detailing the likely impacts on any ecological receptors which may be present on or around the site, with particular regard to the impact on Knodishall Common County Wildlife Site; and e) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land at Bridge Road, Levington

0.75ha of land adjacent Levington Park, Bridge Road, Levington, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 20 dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Provision of affordable housing provision on site; b) Retention of existing hedgerows and trees on the boundaries of the site; c) Design and layout of the development to respond to the site's location close to the AONB; d) A project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required; and e) Provision of pedestrian connectivity to the footpath on Bridge Road.

Land north of Mill Close, Orford

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land adjacent to Swiss Farm, Otley

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land adjacent to Farthings, Sibton Road, Peasenhall

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land at Sea Road, Felixstowe

0.58ha of land at Sea Road, Felixstowe as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for a mixed use development of commercial / tourism uses and approximately 40 residential dwellings. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) Mixed use development site; b) Sea Road frontage of the site to be retained for commercial / tourism related activities which are in keeping with the surrounding resort activities; c) Affordable housing provision to be in line with Policy SCLP5.10; d) Flood mitigation measures required including no residential accommodation on ground floor and ensuring a means of escape internally to a higher level, informed by a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; e) A financial contribution towards the provision of new early years settings in Felixstowe; f) Reduce nearby flood risk by attenuation of water on-site (if infiltration is not feasible); g) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; h) Consideration needs to be given to relocation of the market; and i) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Land between High Street and Chapel Lane, Pettistree (adjoining Wickham Market)

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land west of Garden Square, Rendlesham

Determination of planning applications on the site.

Land East of Redwald Road, Rendlesham

4.3ha of land to the east of Redwald Road, Rendlesham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for the development of approximately 50 units. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) The design, layout, mix and type of housing proposed is compatible with the housing and transport objectives set out in the 'made' Rendlesham Neighbourhood Plan; b) Provision of affordable housing; c) Provision of footways to site frontage along Redwald Road, with a pedestrian crossing point; d) Provision towards meeting identified local need for allotments, orchards and growing spaces; e) Explore the potential to provide a public house or similar licenced venue, on site as part of the development, in line with priorities identified in the Rendlesham Neighbourhood Plan; f) Provision of a biodiversity survey and, if necessary, provide appropriate mitigation; g) A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment will be required, with regard to impact on the setting of the AONB; h) Trees bordering the B1069 should be retained: i) An archaeological assessment will be required; j) The development will need to demonstrate there is adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or that capacity can be made available; k) Provision of a site-specific Flood Risk Assessment; l) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; m) As required, to increase the capacity of the surface water network in accordance with the water management hierarchy; and n) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity. In addition, the air quality impacts of traffic from cumulative development at Melton crossroads and the Air Quality Management Area declared in Woodbridge will need to be investigated in the form of an Air Quality Assessment, together with a mitigation appraisal.

Land opposite The Sorrel Horse, The Street, Shottisham

0.42 ha of land opposite The Sorrel Horse, The Street, Shottisham, as shown on the Policies Map, is identified for small scale mixed use development for approximately 10 dwellings and a car park to accommodate circa 30 cars. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) The design and layout should be of high quality, responding to the site's location in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; and preserving and enhancing the character and setting of the Conservation Area, and Listed Buildings; b) Provision of smaller open market housing. A financial contribution will be sought towards affordable housing provision; c) Developers will need to undertake a Landscape Visual Impact Appraisal, and if necessary, provide appropriate mitigation including appropriate lighting; d) Provision of appropriate access arrangements regarding the access point, and securing acceptable access sight lines, including retention of the hedgerow wherever possible; e) In addition to residents parking, provision of an area for a car park

Land adjacent to Reeve Lodge, High Road, Trimley St Martin

8.59ha of land adjacent to Reeve Lodge, High Road, Trimley St Martin is identified for the development of approximately 150 dwellings, a primary school and open space. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) A mix of housing should be provided on the site including housing for older people and the provision of self-build plots; b) Provision of affordable housing on site; c) Provision of 2.2ha of land for a primary school and early years provision; d) Provision of open space for people of all ages; e) Provision of appropriate landscaping and boundary treatments to provide a 'soft' western edge to the development and to minimise impacts on the AONB, provision of open space and landscaping so as to prevent the coalescence of the Trimley Villages; f) Provision of a Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment to inform the landscape strategy for the site; g) An ecological survey will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; h) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment will be required, and any necessary mitigation provided; i) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate provision for treatment at the Water Recycling Centre or that this can be provided; j) Provision of pedestrian/cycle links through the site, including connectivity into the surrounding countryside; k) Proportionate archaeological assessment will be required; l) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity; and m) Any planning application should be supported by evidence which assesses the quality and quantity of sand and gravel resources on site in order to determine whether on-site resources should be used on-site during development.

Housing for Older People

Housing development over the plan period will contribute to the significant need for accommodation for older people and that all housing development of ten or more dwellings should demonstrate how it will contribute to meeting the needs of older people.

Brightwell Lakes

Land at Brightwell Lakes (to the south and east of Adastral Park) is a masterplanned consented site for 2000 homes (DC/17/1435/OUT) approved in April 2018. The site will deliver a substantial number of homes in the area to the east of Ipswich over the next 15 years. This site is led by its infrastructure needs, delivered under the section 106 agreement and conditions of the planning permission, these include: a) Provision of strategic open space in the form of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) including extensive play and trim trail facilities and a wide range of walking, cycling and recreational routes. This is designed and planned to meet the mitigation measures outlined in the 2011 Core Strategy Appropriate Assessment and Habitats Regulations Assessment carried out within the outline planning permission. This includes contributions to enhanced wardening and monitoring of visitor impacts upon designated European nature conservation sites; b) Provision of a new all-through school, to meet identified pre-school, primary and secondary needs; c) Outdoor recreational sport space and facilities including changing facility and shared use with the school; d) Community Centre including Library and community policing provision; e) On-site recycling facilities; f) Allotments and a community orchard; g) Public art provision; h) High speed broadband; i) Provision of strategic drainage to manage surface water drainage within the site; j) Health centre or provision of improved health facilities in the area; k) Measures to mitigate impact on the local road network, including improvements to the A12 junction between its junction with the A1214 and Seven Hills Interchange; to the A1214 and the Foxhall Road corridor; l) Improved public transport provision including links to Ipswich town centre and a direct service to Ipswich Train Station; m) Improvements to the public rights of way network on and off site, including pedestrian and cycle links; n) Adequate electricity supply; o) Improvements to the water supply network; p) Upgrades to the waste water treatment (foul sewerage) network; and q) Provision of a Heritage Park to preserve the significance of the Scheduled Monument bowl barrow and non-designated heritage assets along with protection of other Scheduled Monuments on and surrounding the site.

Strategic Infrastructure Priorities

The Council will work with partners such as the other local planning authorities in the ISPA, Suffolk County Council, Clinical Commissioning Groups, Suffolk Constabulary, utilities companies, Highways England and Network Rail in supporting and enabling the delivery of key strategic infrastructure, and in particular the timely delivery of: a) A12 improvements; b) A14 improvements; c) Sustainable transport measures in Ipswich; d) Improved walking and cycle routes; e) Increased capacity on railway lines for freight and passenger traffic; f) Appropriate education provision to meet needs resulting from growth; g) Appropriate health and leisure provision to meet needs resulting from growth; h) Appropriate police, community safety and cohesion provision to meet needs resulting from growth; i) Provision of green infrastructure and Suitable Alternatives Natural Greenspace; j) Improvements to water supply, foul sewerage and sewage treatment capacity; and k) Provision of appropriate digital telecommunications to provide mobile, broadband and radio signal for residents and businesses. The Council will work with Suffolk County Council and with the other Local Planning Authorities in the Ipswich Strategic Planning Area to support, through a package of funding sources, a range of new and enhanced sustainable transport measures in and around Ipswich.

Digital Infrastructure

Development management policy - will be reviewed at point of next Local plan review alongside relevant evidence as appropriate

Infrastructure Provision

The Council will work with partners including, Suffolk County Council, Parish and Town Councils, Suffolk Constabulary, Highways England, Environment Agency, Anglian Water, Essex and Suffolk Water, UK Power Networks and the Ipswich and East Suffolk Clinical Commissioning Group to ensure that the growth over the plan period is supported by necessary infrastructure in a timely manner. Developers must consider the infrastructure requirements needed to support and service the proposed development. All development will be expected to contribute as necessary towards infrastructure provision to meet the needs generated. Off-site infrastructure will generally be funded by the Community Infrastructure Levy. On-site infrastructure will generally be secured and funded through section 106 planning obligations. Development will be expected to contribute to the delivery and enhancement of infrastructure which encourages active lifestyles and healthy communities, through on site provision where appropriate to the scale and nature of development and through CIL contributions. Open space should be provided on new residential development sites to contribute to the provision of open space and recreational facilities to meet identified needs, in accordance with Policy SCLP8.2. In locations where there is inadequate capacity within local catchment schools development should contribute to the expansion or other measures to increase places available at the school. Where new primary schools are provided these should be in locations which are well located in relation to the catchments they will serve, and which maximise opportunities for walking and cycling to school. Development adjacent to existing schools should not compromise the ability of schools to expand to an appropriate size in the future. Development will be expected to follow the principles of Holistic Water Management as set out in Policy SCLP9.7 and will not be permitted where it would have a significant effect on the capacity of existing water infrastructure. Specifically, developers should provide evidence to ensure there is capacity in the water recycling centre and the wastewater network in time to serve the development. Where there is insufficient capacity in the water recycling centre, Anglian Water will review the requirements for investment and development will need to be phased, where necessary, in order to allow time for improvement works to take place, if required. The improvements shall ensure there is no breach of environmental legislations particularly in relation to the Water Framework Directive and Habitats Regulations Directive or subsequent replacements. Development should not be permitted where the electricity supply network cannot accommodate it. Particular regard should be had to large scale employment sites, which are regarded as particularly energy intensive development. The Council will work with UK Power Networks to ensure that development proposed in this Local Plan does not conflict with the electricity supply network. The Council will work with the digital infrastructure industry to maximise access to super-fast broadband, wireless hotspots and improved mobile signals for all residents and businesses. All new developments must provide the most viable high-speed broadband connection. Infrastructure relating to new developments should be designed so as not to impede or obstruct connection to antennae or masts in the local vicinity. Early engagement with the relevant digital infrastructure provider should be undertaken to avoid such a scenario. To support the provision of waste management infrastructure, where the size of the development allows for it 'bring sites' should be included in the design and layout of developments to encourage recycling measures and to reduce the demand on Household Waste Recycling Centres.

Digital Infrastructure

Proposals to improve the provision of digital infrastructure across the plan area will be supported, provided: a) The siting and external appearance of all equipment does not have a significant detrimental impact on the surrounding area and is sympathetically located while respecting the operational needs of the digital infrastructure network; b) Equipment installed on buildings is sited and designed to minimise the impact on the external appearance of the building; and c) Applications are supported by evidence which demonstrates early engagement with relevant digital infrastructure providers and the need for the equipment to be located within that area.

Strategy for Felixstowe

The strategy will seek to ensure that: a) Employment opportunities are maintained to support the operations of the Port of Felixstowe and a wider range of employment types including tourism and technology related enterprises and sites are provided across the town; b) Services and facilities support the needs of local residents, visitors and those in surrounding communities; c) Areas of deprivation are supported through positive interventions; d) Dementia friendly environments are created throughout the town; e) The town centre and district centres maintain vibrant and successful shopping, retail and commercial leisure opportunities; f) Links between the town centre and the sea front are enhanced including the completion of Shared Space on Hamilton Road; g) The resort continues to flourish and opportunities for regeneration and additional tourist attractions are brought forward; h) Opportunities for sustainable forms of transport will be enhanced, and the cumulative impact of new developments will not create severe impacts on the existing transport network; i) Car parking provision is maintained and enhanced through redevelopment opportunities to serve residents, visitors and tourists; j) The rich built heritage is maintained and measures are introduced to enhance the two Conservation Areas in the town; k) The protected habitats and designated landscapes are protected from inappropriate development and access to the countryside is enhanced; l) The risk of flooding and coastal erosion is carefully overseen through partnership working, mitigation and management; m) Residential opportunities are provided to meet the needs in particular of younger people entering the housing market and those of an ageing population and changing demographic over the plan period; and n) Open spaces are preserved, enhanced or otherwise re-provided to ensure that all residents have easy access to informal recreational green space.

Strategy for Saxmundham

Saxmundham will be enhanced as a market town, employment and service centre, serving a key role in meeting the needs of its residents, surrounding rural communities and visitors, recognising the opportunities related to the connections offered by the rail and A12 transport corridors. The strategy for Saxmundham is to: a) Enhance the vitality and vibrancy of the town centre, including through protecting and enhancing the historic core of the town and the railway station; b) Utilise opportunities related to the presence of the railway and the proximity to the A12; c) Diversify and expand employment opportunities; d) Enhance pedestrian and cycle connectivity around and beyond the town, particularly to the town centre and the railway station; e) Promote quality of life including through enhancements to networks of green infrastructure; f) Increase the provision of housing and affordable housing, and providing greater choice in the mix of housing available; g) Provide for a safe and inclusive community; and h) Protect and enhance the natural environment. The creation of the South Saxmundham Garden Neighbourhood will provide new opportunities for housing, employment and community facilities, focused around the principles of an inclusive community and integration with Saxmundham and the surrounding countryside through enhancing green infrastructure networks.

Strategy for the Rural Areas

The strategy for the rural areas is to support and enhance the vitality of rural communities and enhance the visitor experience whilst protecting and enhancing landscapes, and the natural, built and historic environment. The strategy for rural areas seeks to deliver: a) Opportunities for employment development alongside the protection of existing employment uses; b) Improvements to connectivity and accessibility, including through continued improvements to high speed broadband and mobile phone coverage; c) The provision of new housing which contributes to providing a mix of housing choice in rural areas and helps to sustain rural communities, including through allocations in or well related to Large Villages and Small Villages; d) Enhancements to the visitor experience; e) Protection and enhancement of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, whilst also recognising the value of locally important landscapes; f) Protection of designated habitats, priority habitats and protected species, including managing the effects of increased visitor pressure on the European protected sites, and seeking to provide enhancements for biodiversity; and g) Conservation and enhancement of heritage assets.

Settlement Boundaries

Settlement Boundaries are defined on the Policies Map and apply to Major Centres, Market Towns, Large Villages and Small Villages. Land which is outside of Settlement Boundaries and which isn't allocated for development in the Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plans is defined as Countryside. New development within defined settlement boundaries will be acceptable in principle, subject to consideration of other relevant policies of the development plan. New residential, employment and town centre development will not be permitted in the Countryside except where specific policies in this Local Plan or Neighbourhood Plans indicate otherwise. Proposals for new residential development outside of the Settlement Boundaries and outside of land which is allocated for development will be carefully managed in accordance with national planning policy guidance and the strategy for the Countryside. Neighbourhood Plans can make minor adjustments to Settlement Boundaries and allocate additional land for residential, employment and town centre development providing that the adjustments and allocations do not undermine the overall strategy and distribution as set out in this Local Plan.

Spa Pavilion to Manor End

The Council will support and promote high intensity tourist uses in this area, with a high proportion of these to be located along the Sea Road frontage. The area has, in part, a rich Edwardian and Victorian character and any proposals will need to maintain the active commercial frontage and be of a high quality design which respects the town's heritage. Proposals which actively encourage new resort experiences will be welcomed. Resort related uses will be supported on the Sea Road frontage. Proposals should consider the whole site for resort related uses to provide a vibrant mix of activities. Where this is not possible or unviable there may be opportunities for residential units on upper floor or at the rear of sites. Additional beach huts in this area will be limited to locations which complement the existing resort uses and do not fill the important gaps between huts. The Leisure Centre and the Pier head are the focal point of tourism related activities in Felixstowe. Proposals which seek to redevelop and support this central location will be supported to ensure that the resort offers a range of high quality attractions for visitors and residents, as set out in Policy SCLP12.16. Between the Pier and the Spa Pavilion, activities which promote cultural attractions including cafes, restaurants and shops on the ground floor will be supported where they make a positive contribution to the significance of the two Conservation Areas, and respect the Registered Gardens and the Victorian and Edwardian architectural heritage of the resort. Proposals which provide a link between the resort and the town centre will also be supported.

Felixstowe Leisure Centre

Land currently occupied by Felixstowe Leisure Centre, car parking and event space as identified on the Policies Map is allocated for modern and imaginative resort, tourist and visitor uses which support both the day time and night time economy in Felixstowe. Development of this site will not come forward until new leisure facilities with equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality have been brought into operation as part of the Felixstowe Garden Neighbourhood. Development will be expected to accord with the following criteria: a) A mix of uses which promote unique, modern and imaginative tourist, resort and visitor opportunities; b) Uses which do not adversely impact the town centre; c) Improved public realm and accessibility; d) Design and layout which complements the prominent seafront location and makes a positive contribution to the significance of the Conservation Area; e) A site-specific Flood Risk Assessment is required; f) Evidence is required to demonstrate there is adequate Water Recycling Centre capacity or that capacity can be made available; g) No reduction in car parking spaces; h) Supports both the day time and night time economy; and i) Confirmation of adequate capacity in the foul sewerage network or action to upgrade to create the required capacity.

Tourism Accommodation in Felixstowe

Holiday accommodation will be encouraged and supported across Felixstowe where proposals will have a positive impact on the local economy and respect the character of the surrounding street scene. Proposals will normally be expected in sea front locations but may also be welcomed across Felixstowe where they are of a high design standard and do not have a detrimental impact on residential amenity. Existing caravan parks and holiday village uses will be retained. Proposals for permanent tourist accommodation or facilities in the form of permanent buildings (or upgrading of existing facilities) will be supported but only where they meet the following criteria: a) They do not have a detrimental impact on highway and access arrangements; b) They are of a scale and size in keeping with the existing caravan parks or holiday villages; c) There are no material adverse impacts on the environment or residential amenity; and d) They include flood mitigation measures. A project level Habitats Regulations Assessment will be required.

Retail and Commercial Leisure in Martlesham

Retail and leisure development will enable Martlesham to thrive and support community interaction and inclusivity. Out of centre retail and commercial leisure uses at Martlesham will only be permitted where: a) There are no sites that are suitable or available to accommodate the nature and scale of the proposal in or on the edge of a centre in the Retail Hierarchy; and b) The principal type of retail provision would not have a significant adverse impact on centres in the retail hierarchy including, but not limited to, the Square in Martlesham Heath, Woodbridge, Felixstowe and the regional town centre of Ipswich. Where development is considered acceptable in terms of the town centre sequential and impact tests proposals, it should make a positive contribution towards improving: i. Safe non-car circulation and pedestrian / highway conflicts; ii. The physical and visual integration of out of centre retail and commercial leisure; iii. Green infrastructure supporting healthy lifestyles and social interaction; iv. Accessibility for persons with physical or mental disabilities including dementia friendly environments; and v. Accessible local services. The change of use of existing office, industrial and storage floorspace (use classes B1, B2 and B8) to retail or commercial leisure uses will be resisted. Such changes of use will only be permitted if the site is surplus to requirements for B1, B2 and B8 uses, as satisfactorily demonstrated by marketing in accordance with Appendix E.

District and Local Centres and Local Shops

District Centres are defined on the Local Plan Policies Map. District Centres provide shops and some other local services to meet the needs of residents in the local area. Local shopping opportunities and facilities within District Centres will be supported and safeguarded where possible. Proposals which seek to increase the shopping opportunities and facilities within District Centres will be supported where they complement the existing role of these areas and do not have a detrimental impact on the town centres across the plan area or on neighbouring residential amenity. Proposals for the redevelopment/change of use of existing retail units should give particular consideration to retaining and/or restoring historic shopfronts in accordance with other policies in the Local Plan. Local Centres will provide a small range of shops and other local services which help meet the needs of residents. Local shopping opportunities and facilities within Local Centres will be supported and safeguarded where possible. Where appropriate, proposals for the redevelopment/change of use of existing retail units should give particular consideration to retaining and/or restoring historic shopfronts in accordance with other policies in the Local Plan. Individual and groups of local shops, services and community facilities located outside of the designated centres will be protected where they are important to meet day-to-day needs of local communities.

New Retail and Commercial Leisure Development

Priority will be given to concentrating retail and commercial leisure development within Town Centres in the Retail Hierarchy and the neighbouring regional town centre of Ipswich. The retail hierarchy is: Level 1 – Town Centre – Felixstowe (resort town), Level 2 – Town Centres – Aldeburgh, Framlingham, Leiston, Saxmundham, Woodbridge (market towns), Level 3 – District Centres, Level 4 – Local Centres. Retail and commercial leisure (falling within Use Classes A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, C1 and D2) will be permitted within Town Centre boundaries as defined on the Policies Maps. This will reinforce and reflect compact town centres in the plan area. Retail and commercial leisure development will be permitted on edge of centre sites, only where there are no suitable or available sites within a Town Centre. For retail developments, edge of centre is defined as within 300 metres of the Primary Shopping Area, as defined on the Policies Maps. For commercial leisure, edge of centre sites should be within 300 metres of the Town Centre. Retail and commercial leisure development will only be permitted on out of centre sites where there are no suitable or available sites within a Town Centre or edge of centre location. Retail and commercial leisure development will only be permitted on out of centre sites where: a) The location is accessible by public transport and is accessible to pedestrians and cyclists; b) The site is well connected to a Town Centre, or links can be improved; and c) The site will not impact upon other neighbouring uses, in terms of traffic, parking and amenity issues. Proposals for retail or commercial leisure uses outside of Town Centres will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that there will be no significant adverse impact on centres in the retail hierarchy and the neighbouring regional town centre of Ipswich. This will be determined through an impact assessment which will be required for proposals greater in size than the thresholds set out below: Settlement Centre Floor Space Impact Threshold (gross) Level 1 (Felixstowe) 750sqm Level 2 (Woodbridge) 750sqm Level 2 (Aldeburgh, Framlingham, Leiston, Saxmundham) 350sqm The impact assessment will need to consider potential impact on all relevant centres (including those outside of the plan area) depending on the location, scale and nature of the proposal. The minimum gross floor space impact threshold to demonstrate impact on Ipswich Town Centre is 750sqm. The scope and nature of an impact assessment will be determined at the time of a planning application. Proposals that would have a significant adverse impact on the vitality and viability of Town Centres will be refused.

Development in Town Centres

Town Centres will improve and develop incrementally and organically to reflect their distinct historic character and functions having regard to their position in the retail hierarchy and relationships with other shopping and leisure destinations. Town Centres will develop in ways that support healthy lifestyles, social interaction, overnight stays, culture and the arts. Residential development targeted at the provision of smaller homes and specialist housing on appropriate sites within town centres will be supported where it does not undermine the main town centre use. Within the Primary Shopping Areas as identified on the Policies Maps, the primarily retail function of these areas will be safeguarded. Non-A1 uses on the ground floor will be supported where they will help to sustain A1 uses and enhance the retail offer. New retail uses (A1) will be directed to the Primary Shopping Frontage in the first instance. The majority of primary frontages will be in retail use at ground floor level. Proposals that reduce the high proportion of A1 uses and/or result in concentrations of non A1 use will be resisted. The Secondary Shopping frontage, as defined on the Policies Map, will provide a mixture of town centre uses whilst retaining a proportion of A1 uses at ground floor level to ensure a balance and blend of shops and services is maintained. Outside of the Primary and Secondary frontages the Council will take a flexible approach to future uses and redevelopment opportunities within the Town Centre which sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of the town. Proposals for the redevelopment/change of use of existing units should give particular consideration to retaining and/or restoring historic shopfronts.

Tourism

The Council will seek to manage tourism across the plan area in a way that protects the features that make the area attractive to visitors, and supports local facilities where the local road network has the capacity to accommodate the traffic generated from proposals. Proposals which improve the visitor experience and support opportunities for year round tourism will be supported where increased tourism uses can be accommodated. Proposals for tourist related development will be determined by the area's capacity for further growth in the following locations: a) The resorts of Felixstowe and Aldeburgh; b) Market towns of Woodbridge, Framlingham, Saxmundham and Leiston; c) The Heritage Coast environment which is of national significance; d) The Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; and e) Rural areas across the rest of the District. Applicants will be expected to undertake biodiversity and habitat assessments to ensure that any development of tourism related facilities does not conflict with environmental policies. Where appropriate the Council will support the introduction of local management solutions to address any issues caused by tourism.

Tourism Destinations

The Council will support proposals for tourism development that contribute to the broad appeal, accessibility and year round nature of destinations across the plan area. Tourism proposals should be of the highest standard of design and seek to protect and enhance the special character and interest of the destinations and the distinctiveness of the area with particular regard to sensitive landscapes and heritage assets. Where necessary, applications for new destinations or the redevelopment or extension/intensification of destinations will need to be subject to screening under the Habitats Regulations. Any destinations which would result in significant adverse effects on European sites which could not be appropriately mitigated will not be permitted. A Landscape and Visual Impact Assessment will also be required where the destination is in an area of landscape sensitivity in accordance with the Landscape policies.

Tourism Development within the AONB and Heritage Coast

Applicants are encouraged to engage with local communities and the Suffolk Coast and Heaths AONB Management Unit in evolving development proposals, with the aim of delivering development that takes an active role in the management of the local area. Tourism development in the AONB, or its setting and Heritage Coast will be supported where it: a) Enhances the long term sustainability of the area; b) Is of a scale and extent that does not have a significant adverse impact on the primary purpose of the AONB designation; c) Is well related to existing settlements and / or supporting facilities; d) Avoids, prevents or mitigates for adverse impacts on the natural environment; e) Supports the conservation and enhancement of the natural beauty and special qualities of the AONB and its setting; f) Is of the highest design standards and where appropriate reuses existing buildings; g) Promotes innovative, contemporary design in appropriate locations; h) Minimises light pollution from artificial light sources and ensures the retention of dark skies; i) Avoids locations sensitive to the exposed nature of the AONB and Heritage Coast; and j) Demonstrates sustainable aspects of the development during construction and throughout the life of the development. Renewable energy provision is strongly encouraged.

Tourism Development outside of the AONB

Tourism development outside of the AONB will be supported where it: a) Enhances the long term sustainability of the area; b) Is well related to existing settlements; c) Avoids, prevents or mitigates adverse impacts on the natural environment and on local landscape character; d) Is of a scale that reflects the surrounding area; e) Is of the highest design standards; f) Minimises light pollution from artificial light sources and ensures the retention of dark skies; and g) Demonstrates sustainable aspects of the development during construction and throughout the life of the development. Renewable energy provision is strongly encouraged.

New Tourist Accommodation

Proposals for new tourist accommodation will be acceptable where: a) The demand or need for tourist accommodation is clearly demonstrated; b) They are of a high standard of design; c) They are of a scale appropriate to the nature of the site and its setting; d) They do not have a material adverse impact on the AONB or its setting, Heritage Coast or estuaries; e) Covered cycle storage, proportionate to the size of the site is provided on site; f) The road network is able to accommodate the volume of traffic generated without having a significant adverse impact on the free flow of traffic and highway safety; g) Ancillary facilities to support the tourist uses are provided on the site where required; and h) Flood adaptation and mitigation measures are included where required. Tourist accommodation comprising permanent buildings will only be permitted: • Within the Settlement Boundaries; • Through the conversion of buildings of permanent structure where they lie outside the Settlement Boundary; • On medium and large scale sites where commercial, recreational or entertainment facilities are provided on site; or • Where such development forms part of a comprehensive masterplan which supports wider landscape and ecological gain. New tourist accommodation will be restricted by means of planning conditions or obligations in accordance with national policy for planning conditions and obligations which permit holiday use only, restricted to a continuous period of 56 days by one person or persons within one calendar year, plus require a register of all lettings, to be made available at all times.

Existing Tourist Accommodation

Existing tourist accommodation will be protected. Change of use will only be considered in exceptional circumstances where it can be fully and satisfactorily demonstrated that there is no current or future demand for the tourist accommodation. Marketing evidence must be provided which demonstrates the premises has been marketed for a sustained period of a minimum of 12 months in accordance with the requirements set out in the Commercial Property Marketing information as seen in Appendix E.

Felixstowe Ferry and Golf Course

Felixstowe Ferry is to be protected to ensure that the unique traditional character continues to contribute to the overall tourism offer. Any future development proposals need to be sympathetic to the traditional low key activities in the area. Views and interactions between the existing buildings, landscape and water need to be retained to maintain the overall setting of Felixstowe Ferry as a small fishing and boat building community. Proposals for new access points to the river or houseboats within existing houseboat areas as shown on the Policies Map will only be supported where they do not have a detrimental effect on the Special Protection Area. The openness of the Golf Course is to be protected as this area provides uninterrupted views of the AONB and the sea. Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club is recognised as an important leisure, community and tourism facility and proposals which significantly improve the club house facilities in order to safeguard the long term future of the golf club will be welcomed where they retain the openness of the golf course. Public access along the sea wall is to be retained within the area to ensure that sustainable links and connections are provided to maintain the unique character of the community and reduce the dominance of the car.

Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club to Cobbolds Point

The area from Felixstowe Ferry Golf Club House to Cobbolds Point is characterised by the open green cliff top and undeveloped nature of the seafront with car parking opportunities. Traditional beach huts and gardens provide a tranquil and unique character which is to be retained. Proposals which retain the undeveloped non-commercial character of this area will be supported. New development will only be acceptable in exceptional circumstances where it contributes or is essential to supporting existing tourist activities. Beach huts will be concentrated in this location and where possible kept below the level of the cliff to avoid obstruction of the sea view from Cliff Road. They will also need to be kept clear from the promenade where appropriate, to avoid unnecessary blockages.

Cobbolds Point to Spa Pavilion

Proposals which offer tourist and commercial activities on the ground floor and maintain an active frontage will be supported, provided they do not have a detrimental impact on residential uses or the wider tourism offer. The Spa Gardens provide a major attraction which is enjoyed by residents and visitors. These areas will be maintained as formal gardens and open space. No further beach huts or kiosks will be located in this area except in exceptional circumstances, such as providing significant economic benefits to the resort.

Spa Pavilion to Manor End

The Council will support and promote high intensity tourist uses in this area, wit

Sustainable Transport

Development proposals should be designed from the outset to incorporate measures that will encourage people to travel using non-car modes to access home, school, employment, services and facilities. Development will be supported where: a) Any significant impacts on the highways network are mitigated; b) It is proportionate in scale to the existing transport network; c) All available opportunities to enable and support travel on foot, by cycle or public transport have been considered and taken; d) It is located close to, and provides safe pedestrian and cycle access to services and facilities; e) It is well integrated into and enhances the existing cycle network including the safe design and layout of new cycle routes and provision of covered, secure cycle parking; f) It is well integrated into, protects and enhances the existing pedestrian routes and the public rights of way network; g) It reduces conflict between users of the transport network including pedestrians, cyclists, users of mobility vehicles and drivers and does not reduce road safety; and h) The cumulative impact of new development will not create severe impacts on the existing transport network. Development will be expected to contribute to the delivery of local sustainable transport strategies for managing the cumulative impacts of growth. Opportunities to improve provision of or access to public transport, in rural and urban areas will be supported. Proposals for new development that would have significant transport implications should be accompanied by a Travel Plan. A Travel Plan will be required for proposals for: i) New large scale employment sites; j) Residential development of 80 or more dwellings; and k) A development that when considered cumulatively with other developments, is likely to have a severe impact on the local community or road network. In consultation with the Highway Authority, the scale, location and nature of development will be considered in determining how the transport impacts of development should be assessed. As indicative thresholds a Transport Statement will be required for development of 50 -80 dwellings and a Transport Assessment and Travel Plan will be required for developments of over 80 dwellings. Non residential development will be considered on a case by case basis dependent on the volume of movements anticipated with the use proposed.

Parking Proposals and Standards

The Council will work with partners to ensure that vehicle parking provision is protected and managed to support the economy and sustainable communities. The level of parking provision required will depend on the location, type and intensity of use. Proposals that minimise congestion, encourage sustainable transport modes and reduce conflict between road users across the plan area will be supported. Proposals involving vehicle parking will be supported where they take opportunities to make efficient use of land and they include: a) The provision of safe, secure, and convenient off-street parking of an appropriate size and quantity including addressing the need for parking or secure storage for cars, cycles and motorcycles, and where relevant, coaches and lorries; b) Opportunities to reduce the recognised problem of anti-social parking or potential problems that may arise which impacts the quality of life or vitality of an area for residents and visitors; c) Appropriate provision for vehicle charging points and ancillary infrastructure associated with the increased use of low emission vehicles; and d) The incorporation of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), permeable surfacing materials and means of protecting water quality in drainage schemes should be ensured. Where proposals involve public transport improvements or re-developments, the Council will encourage the provision of Park & Ride facilities, if appropriate. Proposals will be expected to have regard to the parking standards contained in the Suffolk Guidance for Parking (including subsequent revisions), excluding the elements of the Guidance related to 'Residential Parking Design', unless other local planning considerations indicate otherwise. Proposals should also accord with both the East Suffolk Area Parking Plan and the Suffolk Parking Management Strategy, or Neighbourhood Plans for the area where applicable.