Planning in Fylde

Health and Wellbeing

The Council will integrate public health principles and planning to help reduce health inequalities by: a) Working with health care commissioners to support healthcare facilities and particularly to improve primary care and mental health care access and facilities; b) Working with the Lancashire Public Health Service and the Health and Wellbeing Board on planning and health issues, to take account of the three goals in the Lancashire Health and Wellbeing Strategy, that the Board will deliver by 2020: 1. Better health – improve healthy life expectancy, and narrow the health gap. 2. Better care – deliver measureable improvements in people's experience of health and social care services. 3. Better value – reduce the cost of health and social care. c) Where required by the priorities of Lancashire County Council and health care commissioners, identifying sites for new healthcare facilities, and with providers of other social and community infrastructure to deliver appropriate facilities in accessible locations, to meet local needs, reflecting the spatial distribution of need and the importance of accessibility and public transport provision; d) Seeking land or financial contributions, where appropriate and viable, towards new or enhanced healthcare facilities from developers where new housing results in a shortfall or worsening of provision; e) Safeguarding and encouraging the provision of allotments and garden plots within developments and small scale agriculture and farmers markets to provide access to healthy, affordable locally produced food options; f) Promoting improvements to healthy lifestyles and developing a network of cycling and pedestrian routes - linking key settlements and service centres, enabling the community to improve their health by travelling by more sustainable modes of transport - integrated into a wider multi-functional green infrastructure network; g) The reduction of health inequalities and initiatives to facilitate healthier lifestyles will be supported, where these can be delivered through the planning system. In order to help reduce health inequalities, the Council will require health impact screening to be undertaken for all major development proposals on each Strategic Site (100 or more homes) within the Strategic Locations for Development through the submission of a masterplan. A full independent Health Impact Assessment will be required if the screening demonstrates a need. The Health Impact Assessments will be assessed by Lancashire County Council, as the public health authority. The outcomes of the screening process should be reflected in the development proposal and should be a consideration in decision-making.

Community Facilities

Development proposals for new community facilities – including developments within the new local centres at Warton, Whyndyke and Whitehills identified on the Policies Map including Inset plans - which provide for the health and wellbeing, social, educational, spiritual, recreational, leisure and cultural needs of the community, should be co-located where possible, providing mixed uses and a range of services in one sustainable and accessible location. Where new facilities are required independent of new development, co-location should be considered in the most accessible community buildings available, i.e. using a hall or a public house as a venue for a post office, or a healthcare facility several days a week. Indicative sites for new primary schools are identified within the development sites at Queensway (HSS1) and Whyndyke (MUS2) and are shown on the Policies Map including Inset Plans. The Council will work with the Education Authority to identify and deliver a site for a new secondary school once a need is demonstrated within the plan period. A site for a new Church will be reserved on land at the rear of cottages on Lytham Road, in Warton – as identified on the Policies Map – for the re-location of Holy Family Church in Warton. The loss of any community facilities will be resisted unless it can be demonstrated that the facility's continued operation is no longer viable or needed, or can be relocated elsewhere in a location that is equally accessible by the community.

Protection and Provision of Indoor and Outdoor Sports Facilities

In order to provide appropriate indoor and outdoor sports facilities for the communities of Fylde, the Council will: 1. Protect existing indoor and outdoor sports facilities, unless: a) They are proven to be surplus to need, as identified in an adopted and up to date Needs Assessment; and/or b) An equivalent or better quality and quantity replacement sports facility will be created in a location well related to the functional requirements of the relocated use and its existing and future users. This would be over and above any provision made available through CIL; and/or c) The development is for an alternative indoor or outdoor sports facility the benefits of which clearly outweigh the loss of the existing sports facility; and In all cases: d) The proposal would not result in the loss of an area important for its amenity or contribution to the character of the area in general; and 2. Support new indoor and outdoor sports facilities where: a) They are readily accessible by public transport, walking and cycling; and b) The proposed facilities are of a type and scale appropriate to the size of the settlement; and c) They are listed in the action plan in the adopted Playing Pitch Strategy and / or the Built Facilities Review, subject to the criteria in this policy. 3. Make sure that major residential developments contribute, through land assembly and commuted sums, to new or improved sports facilities where development will increase demand and / or there is already a recognised shortage. Commuted sums should be obtained in accordance with an up-to-date adopted Needs Assessment Action Plan.

Achieving Good Design in Development

Design and Access Statements Where required, all development proposals should be accompanied by a Design and Access Statement that fully explains and justifies the design approach for the scheme. General Principles of good design Development will be expected to be of a high standard of design, taking account of the character and appearance of the local area, including the following requirements: a) In order to promote community cohesion and inclusivity, new development will be expected to deliver mixed uses, strong neighbourhood centres and active street frontages which bring together all those who live, work and play in the vicinity. b) Ensuring densities of new residential development reflect and wherever possible enhance the local character of the surrounding area. c) Ensuring that amenity will not be adversely affected by neighbouring uses, both existing and proposed. d) Ensuring the siting, layout, massing, scale, design, materials, architectural character, proportion, building to plot ratio and landscaping of the proposed development, relate well to the surrounding context. e) Taking account of landform, layout, building orientation, massing and landscaping to minimise energy consumption. f) Conserving and enhancing the built and historic environment. g) Applying Secured by Design principles to all new developments. h) Being sympathetic to surrounding land uses and occupiers, and avoiding demonstrable harm to the visual amenities of the local area. i) Taking the opportunity to make a positive contribution to the character and local distinctiveness of the area through high quality new design that responds to its context and using sustainable natural resources where appropriate. j) Ensuring parking areas for cars, bicycles and motorcycles are safe, accessible and sympathetic to the character of the surrounding area and that highway safety is not compromised. k) Ensuring the layout, design and landscaping of all elements of the proposal, including any internal roads, pedestrian footpaths, cycleways and open spaces, create user friendly, sustainable and inclusive connections between people and places resulting in the integration of the new development into the built and historic environment. l) Creating safe and accessible environments where crime and disorder, and the fear of crime, do not undermine quality of life or community cohesion, and there are clear and legible pedestrian and cycle routes and high quality public space, which encourages the active and continual use of public areas and which promote health and wellbeing. m) Protecting existing landscape features and natural assets as an integral part of the development; requiring multi-functional green infrastructure to be integrated into urban areas; providing enhancements to open spaces to encourage people to use them; protecting and enhancing habitats; providing open spaces and linkages to the wider ecological networks as part of the Green Infrastructure network; and enhancing the public realm. n) Making provision for the needs of specific groups in the community such as the elderly and those with disabilities, in line with the Equalities Act. o) All new housing developments should result in a high standard of amenity for occupiers. The standard of amenity for occupiers should not be compromised by inadequate space, poor layout, poor or lacking outlook or inconvenient arrangements for waste, access or cycle storage. Developments should include adequate outside amenity space for the needs of residents. New homes designed specifically to accommodate the elderly should comply with optional standard M4(3(2a)) in accordance with policy H2. p) Ensuring that the quality of approved development is not materially diminished between permission and completion. Highway Safety q) The needs of non-motorised users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, should be prioritised over other road users, through design measures. r) The development should not prejudice highway safety, pedestrian safety, and the efficient and convenient movement of all highway users (including bus passengers, cyclists, pedestrians and horse riders). The development should not reduce the number of on-site parking spaces available, unless there are other material considerations which justify the reduction. s) All development proposals will need to show that appropriate provision is made for public transport services; appropriate measures are provided to facilitate access on cycle or foot; where practicable, ensure existing pedestrian, cycle and equestrian routes are protected and extended; and the needs of specific groups in the community such as the elderly and those with disabilities are fully provided for. Climate Change t) Development proposals should consider measures to mitigate the effects of climate change by the incorporation of energy and water efficiency in new and existing buildings, 'grey' water and rainwater harvesting and storage for waste and recyclables. u) Adaptation to climate change should be achieved through the design and orientation of buildings to maximise solar gain, provide shelter from the elements and take advantage of natural light and ventilation. Existing Land Uses v) The development should not prejudice or prevent the operation of existing land uses. Public Realm w) The public realm should be designed appropriately, to reflect the quality of the area including landscaping, street furniture and materials, and developments should be appropriately managed and maintained so that they add to the character, quality and distinctiveness of the surrounding area. Public Open Space (the Green Infrastructure network) x) New public open space should be provided in a single central useable facility where possible, which is accessible, of high quality and good design, be visible, safe, using quality materials, including facilities for a range of ages and incorporating long term maintenance; unless it is agreed by the Council that provision is more appropriate off-site. Advertisements y) Advertisement designs should respect the character and architectural details of the buildings and location within which they are proposed, and their surroundings, in terms of scale, details, siting and method of illumination. Flood Risk z) Inappropriate development in Flood Risk Zones 2 and 3 will not be permitted. Waste Management aa) Local waste management facilities and neighbourhood waste management facilities for the separation, storage and collection of waste should be provided to increase the efficiency of its subsequent re-use, recycling and treatment. Sufficient space should be provided at all new homes for the storage of wheelie bins and recycling boxes.

Masterplanning the Strategic Locations for Development

Unless a Masterplan or design code has already been prepared by the Council, prospective developers of Strategic Sites (100 or more homes) within the Strategic Locations for Development named in policy DLF1 will be expected to prepare a masterplan or design code for their site in consultation with the Council. This should be carried out as part of the pre-application consultation process set out in the Statement of Community Involvement. Following approval by the Council, the masterplans will become supplementary planning documents. The masterplans should include an agreed programme of implementation in accordance with the masterplan and an approved design code. The masterplans should meet all the following criteria: a) The Strategic Locations for Development should be considered as a whole and a comprehensive approach to making every strategic site within the Strategic Locations for Development sustainable, should be taken. b) A broad balance and range of housing choice, including both market and affordable housing, in line with the Fylde Coast SHMA, 2014 should be provided, in accordance with policies H2 and H4; c) Variations in housing density with an overall minimum net density of 30 homes per hectare; d) High quality design should be included and development should be designed to encourage cohesion within the site and seek to minimise the impact on neighbouring properties; e) A wide range of local employment opportunities should be provided that offer a choice of jobs and training prospects; f) An appropriate level of retail, leisure, social, cultural, community and health facilities should be provided that meet local needs of the residents of the development, but does not undermine existing town, district or local centres or neighbouring key service centres or local service centres; g) Additional school capacity for nursery, primary and, where necessary, secondary educational needs should be provided in the short, medium and long-term; h) Appropriate highways access and a comprehensive approach to planning the highway network within and linking the sites which make up the Strategic Locations for Development; i) Access to well-designed, separate but overlooked cycleways (both on-road and off-road), walking routes and bridleways serving the local facilities and linking to services and amenities. Opportunities should be sought for the development of a network of walking, cycling and bridleway routes with access to and from adjacent settlements and the nearest town centres and schools; j) Housing, employment, retail and leisure facilities located within a maximum walking distance of 400 metres of a frequent, viable and accessible bus service; k) Secured by Design principles should apply in new developments; l) Energy efficiency measures should be incorporated into new developments; m) A design led approach to the provision of car parking spaces with the overall aim of reducing dependency on the private car; n) Measures to deliver a shift to public transport, away from car use over the plan period. Opportunities should be sought to improve access to public transport and minimise the need to travel by private car

Overall Provision of Employment Land and Existing Employment Sites

The Local Plan provides sites for 62 ha of new employment land to be delivered during the plan period. The following sites are allocated and identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans accompanying this plan. Site Area (Ha) Appropriate Use Classes ES1 Queensway Industrial Estate, Snowden Road, St Annes 3.8 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 ES2 Dock Road, Lytham 0.9 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 ES3 Boundary Road, Lytham 0.7 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 MUS3 Mill Farm Sports Village, Fleetwood Road, Wesham (mixed use: employment and leisure) 1.1 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 and (D2) ES4 Blackpool and Fylde Industrial Estate, Whitehills 2.4 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 ES5 Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone, Squires Gate 14.5 B1(a), B1 (b), B1 (c), B2, B8 (to be determined through a masterplan for the Enterprise Zone) ES6 DWP, Brunel Way, Whitehills 4.9 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 ES7 Whitehills Business Park, Whitehills 5.6 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 MUS1 Cropper Road East, Whitehills (mixed use: housing and employment) 5.7 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 MUS2 Whyndyke Garden Village, Preston New Road, Whitehills (mixed use: housing and employment) 20.0 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 ES8 Naze Lane, Freckleton 2.4 B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2 Total 62.0 Ha Appropriate uses for each site are listed in the table above. In these locations, development proposals for alternative uses to those listed above will be resisted, unless it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council that there is no reasonable prospect of the site being used for the specified purposes, having satisfied the tests of Policy GD8. Proposals for alternative uses will also have to satisfy the requirements of other policies of the Plan, in particular Policy GD7. Existing Employment Sites Within the existing business and industrial areas, listed below, land and premises will be retained within the acceptable use classes shown in the table below, unless it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council that there is no reasonable prospect of the site being used for those purposes, having satisfied the tests of Policy GD8. Proposals for alternative uses will also have to satisfy the requirements of other policies of the Plan, in particular Policy GD7. Site Appropriate Use Classes Queensway Industrial Estate, Snowden Road, St Annes B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Blackpool Airport, Squires Gate B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Scafell Road, Snowden Road / Everest Road, St Annes B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Preston Road, Lytham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Dock Road, Lytham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Boundary Road, Lytham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Naze Lane, Freckleton B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Kirkham Trading Park, Kirkham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Progress Mill, Orders Lane, Kirkham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Marquis Street / Richard Street, Kirkham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Whitworth Street, Wesham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Westinghouse Springfield, Salwick B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 BAE Systems, Warton B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Blackpool and Fylde Industrial Estate, Whitehills B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Whitehills Park, Whitehills B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 AXA / AEGON Offices, Ballam Road, Lytham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c) Jubilee House, Lytham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c) St George's Park, Kirkham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B8 Fairfield Research Station, Greenhalgh B1(a), B1(b), B1(c) Former RAF Camp, Hillock Lane, Warton B1(a), B1(b), B1(c) Land Registry, Warton B1(a), B1(b), B1(c) Brook Mill, Station Road, Wrea Green B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Clifton Marsh Depot, Clifton B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Mill Farm, Wesham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B8 Wareing's Site, Blackpool Road, Kirkham B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B2, B8 Peel Hall Business Village, Westby B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B8 Braithwaites Yard Business Park, Warton B1(a), B1(b), B1(c), B8 Mythop Lodge, Weeton with Preese B8 Freckleton Boatyard, Freckleton B1(c), B8 Dingle Farm Rural Business Park, Newton B1(c), B8

Employment Opportunities

The availability of land in the Borough for employment opportunities is limited. Therefore, the Council seeks to retain continued employment use of current employment sites. This could include any type of employment use, including agriculture, and may not be restricted to B1, B2 and B8 land uses. Land and premises will be retained in employment uses unless it is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council that there is no reasonable prospect of the site being used for those purposes, having satisfied the tests of Policy GD8. Proposals for alternative uses will also have to satisfy the requirements of other policies of the Plan, in particular Policy GD7. The Council will take account of the following factors when assessing all development proposals for employment uses: a. The accommodation should be flexible and suitable to meet changing future employment needs, and in particular provide for the requirements of local businesses and small firms. b. The Council will seek to ensure that employment opportunities are provided and are easily accessible for local people and, where necessary, developers will be encouraged to implement relevant training programmes. In order to support economic growth and expansion, the Council endorses the roll-out of high speed broadband in line with the Lancashire Broadband Plan. The sustainable growth and expansion of all types of business is supported where this is in accordance with other policies in the Local Plan.

Lancashire Advanced Engineering and Manufacturing (AEM) Enterprise Zone at BAE Systems, Warton

a. The Lancashire Enterprise Zone at BAE Systems, Warton The Council continues to support the specialised activity at BAE Systems, Warton, in line with the company's operations. The boundary of the site, which includes both the BAE Systems Core Area and the Enterprise Zone, are identified on the Policies Map. The designation of the Lancashire Enterprise Zone at BAE Systems, Warton will help create more businesses, jobs and attract international investment, with positive benefits across the wider economic area. It will help improve the local economy and also increase the contribution to national growth. b. Local Development Orders The Council supports the delivery of the Lancashire Enterprise Zone and has produced and reviewed a Local Development Order - Part 1, to aid the delivery process. Subsequent Local Development Orders will be produced when necessary. A Masterplan has also been produced and adopted, which forms a key part of the overall delivery of the Enterprise Zone. The key purpose of the Masterplan is to establish the development and design framework for Phase 1 of the site and ensure it is in accordance with the relevant parameters within the Local Development Order.

Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone

a. The Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone The boundary of the Enterprise Zone is identified on the Policies Map. The designation of the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone will help create more businesses, jobs and attract international investment, with positive benefits across the wider economic area. Fylde Council supports the sustainable development of Blackpool Airport, including working to explore the potential to develop commercial aeronautical activity and to relocate operational buildings and facilities closer to the main runway, in the areas outside the greenbelt, unless there are overriding operational requirements that constitute very special circumstances and which justify development in the Green Belt. The Enterprise Zone will help improve the local economy and also increase the contribution to national growth through targeting the energy industry, advanced manufacturing and engineering, food and drink manufacture and the digital and creative sector. b. Enabling Development Alternative uses, such as retail and leisure, may be appropriate where it can be demonstrated that they help deliver aviation uses on this site. The scale of any alternative enabling development will be limited to that which is clearly demonstrated to be necessary to fund essential infrastructure which will not prejudice the maintenance of the primary aviation function of the site and where it can be demonstrated that a) there are no sequentially preferable locations within or on the

Demonstrating Viability

The Council will seek to retain existing commercial / industrial (B1, B2 or B8) (Policies EC1 and EC2) and leisure uses, including land / premises, together with agricultural / horticultural workers' homes (Policy H6) and the tourism use of premises in Holiday Areas (Policies EC6 and EC7) identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, unless it can be demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Council that one of the following tests has been met: a) the continued use of the site / premises for its existing use is no longer viable in terms of the building age and format and that it is not commercially viable to redevelop the land or refurbish the premises for its existing use. In these circumstances, and where appropriate, it will also need to be demonstrated that there is no realistic prospect of a mixed-use development for the existing use and a compatible use; or b) the land / premises is / are no longer suitable for the existing use when taking into account access / highway issues (including public transport), site location, business practices, infrastructure, physical constraints, environmental considerations and amenity issues. The compatibility of the existing use with adjacent uses may also be a consideration; or c) marketing of the land / property indicates that there is no demand for the land / property in its existing use. Details of the current occupation of the buildings, and where this function would be relocated, will also be required. Where the existing use is no longer considered viable by the Council and a mixed-use scheme is also not viable or appropriate, the Council will preferentially seek the following alternative uses prior to consideration of a market housing-led scheme: • For existing retail uses (A1), an alternative use that helps create or maintain the vitality of a town, district or local centre; and • For existing agricultural / horticultural workers' homes, for affordable housing, except when located in an isolated rural location.

Renewable and Low Carbon Energy Generation – excluding onshore wind turbines

Renewable and low carbon energy development potential – excluding onshore wind turbines - is significant within Fylde. Opportunities for renewable and low carbon development, including microgeneration, should be maximised, while ensuring that adverse impacts are addressed satisfactorily; including cumulative landscape and visual impacts. Proposed developments will be assessed in relation to the following criteria: a) The cumulative impact of the renewable and / or low carbon development within Fylde and across the boundary in Blackpool, Wyre and Preston; b) Singular or cumulative impacts on landscape and townscape character and value, and visual impact from a wide range of vantage points, in accordance with policy ENV1; c) Impact on local residents (including noise, odour, and reflected light); d) Compliance with policy ENV2, in particular ecological impact on mammals and birds on protected sites and on the migratory routes and functionally linked land. Project-specific Habitats Regulations Assessment of any renewable and low carbon energy developments near to the European-designated sites will be required, and these HRAs will need to demonstrate that there will be no likely significant effect on the qualifying features of these sites before they can be granted consent; e) Impacts on land resources, in particular that the development would not be sited on the best and most versatile agricultural land (grades 1, 2 and 3a), unless it is demonstrated that poorer quality land could not be used instead, and that the benefits of the development outweigh the economic and other benefits of the best and most versatile agricultural land and any other adverse impacts of the proposal. In the case of solar farms, the most compelling evidence must be provided to demonstrate the above. Impacts should also be considered on areas of deep peat which function as a carbon store; f) That the proposal for renewable and low carbon energy would not harm the significance of heritage assets and their settings unless the proposal meets the requirements of Policy ENV5; g) Community, economic and environmental benefits of the proposal; h) Impacts on aviation and defence navigation systems and communications, particularly Blackpool Airport, Warton Aerodrome and the DCSA Inskip radio communication facility. The avoidance of impacts on these strategically-important facilities should be given great weight in decision-making; i) Impacts on highway safety and capacity from movements associated with the development including construction and decommissioning; and j) Impacts on flood risk and drainage, in accordance with policies CL1 and CL2. The evidence will be required to demonstrate that any impacts can be avoided or satisfactorily mitigated but need only be proportional to the scale and type of development. However, any proposed mitigation must be in place prior to the start of development. Renewable and low carbon energy proposals within the Green Belt will need to demonstrate very special circumstances where elements of any proposed renewable energy project comprises inappropriate development. Renewable and low carbon energy proposals within Areas of Separation will be assessed in terms of its impact upon the effectiveness of the gap between the settlements in protecting the identity and distinctiveness of settlements. Applicants will not be required to justify the overall need for renewable and low carbon energy development, either in a national, regional or local context.

Decentralised Energy networks and District Heating Systems

Small scale decentralised energy schemes will be encouraged within new developments and as part of community-led initiatives. All strategic developments, of 100+ homes, will be required to explore the potential for decentralised energy supply and district heating / cooling systems. Strategic developments located where a decentralised energy supply or district heating / cooling system is proposed will be required to allow for future connectivity at a later date or phase unless it can be demonstrated by the applicant, having regard to the type of development involved and its design, that it is not feasible or viable.

Nature Conservation Sites and Ecological Networks

Section 1 (Nature Conservation Sites and Ecological networks) of this policy applies to all presently designated nature conservation sites, which are identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans and to any nature conservation sites or ecological networks that may be designated in the future by appropriate agencies. The Fylde Ecological Network, comprising the Grassland Network, the Wetland and Heath Network and the Woodland Network has been identified and mapped by LCC and Lancashire Wildlife Trust, in compliance with the Framework and is accessible on the Planning Policy website. Section 2. Priority Species Protection Planning permission will not be granted for development which would have an adverse effect on a priority species or its habitat, unless the benefits of the development outweigh the need to maintain the population of the species in situ. Should development be permitted that might have an adverse effect on a priority species or its habitat, planning conditions or agreements will be used to: a) Ensure the survival of the individual species affected; and where this cannot be achieved: b) Reduce the disturbance to a minimum; c) Provide adequate alternative habitats to enhance the viability of the local population of that species; and d) Promote the conservation, restoration and enhancement of priority habitats, ecological networks and the protection and recovery of priority species; and identify and pursue opportunities for securing measurable net gains for biodiversity.

Protecting Existing Open Space (Part of the Green Infrastructure network)

Existing Open Space is identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans denoted by the following descriptions: • Parks and Gardens • Semi-Natural Greenspaces • Amenity Greenspace • Children's Play Areas • Local Areas and Local Equipped Areas for Play • Youth Provision • Allotments • Cemeteries/Churchyards • Football Pitches • Rugby Pitches • Cricket Pitches The areas of Existing Open Space provide a critically important part of the Green Infrastructure network within Fylde. Existing Open Space will be protected from inappropriate development, having particular regard to the multi-functional benefits of open spaces, as follows: a) Existing Open Space, including sports and playing pitches (subject to policy HW3: Protection and Provision of Indoor and Outdoor Sports Facilities), will be protected unless the requirements of paragraph 99 of the Framework are met and the findings of any published and adopted needs assessment are met. b) Existing Open Space, including sports and playing pitches (subject to policy HW3: Protection and Provision of Indoor and Outdoor Sports Facilities), will be protected unless it can be demonstrated that any proposal will not have adverse effects contrary to the landscape, biodiversity and water management requirements of the Local Plan and the requirements set out in the other criteria in this policy are met. c) Development will not be permitted on Existing Open Space which is considered essential to the setting, character, recreational benefits for residents, or visual amenities of Key Service Centres, Local Service Centres and rural settlements. d) Development will not be permitted on Existing Open Space that makes a positive contribution to the historic environment including the character, appearance and setting of conservation areas and listed buildings, unless the proposal meets the requirements of Policy ENV5. e) Development that results in the loss of land used for allotments as shown on the Policies Map including Inset Plans will only be permitted when: • Suitable, alternative provision is made that is at least equivalent in size and quality to that which will be lost; or • It can be demonstrated that there is no longer a community need for the allotments. f) Fylde's Public Rights of Way network, comprising footpaths, byways, cycleways and bridleways will be protected and opportunities to extend the network will be safeguarded from development and supported where this improves access to key Green Infrastructure assets, including areas of Green Belt, the two Areas of Separation, the Coastal Change Management Areas and the Lancaster Canal towpath.

Provision of New Open Space (Part of the Green Infrastructure network)

Amenity Open Space Within new housing developments comprising ten or more homes the provision of amenity open space with facilities for children's play (i.e. playgrounds and Multi-Use Games areas including LAPs and LEAPs), will be required to the following minimum standards: • 16m2 per 1 bedroom home • 24m2 per 2 bedroom home • 32m2 per 3 bedroom home • 40m2 per 4 bedroom home • 48m2 per 5 bedroom home Such safe green open space should be accessible, of high quality and normally be provided as a single central usable facility. Housing developments of 100 homes or more will be required to provide double the above standards. Developers should provide effective long-term future maintenance of areas of open space in accordance with this policy, through the formation of a management company. When determining an application for non-strategic sites there is a preference for an off-site contribution, in lieu of on-site provision of open space, to enhance facilities on an adjacent open space. Where the standards require the provision of open space of less than 0.2 Ha, or where it is agreed with the Council that the open space would be better provided off-site, payment of a commuted sum will be sought to help provide additional or improved open space nearby, where the benefits would serve the occupiers of new and existing developments. Commuted sums will be calculated on the basis of the value of the land that would otherwise have had to be made available and the costs of laying the land out as public open space and maintaining it for a 10 year period. Developer contributions and the Green Infrastructure network Financial contributions will be sought through the Community Infrastructure Levy to assist schemes for other safe green open space where there is an identified need, including the provision of allotments, trees and woodland. Enhancement Where there is an identified over-provision of open space in close proximity to the application site, the monies generated from the development of the site and development in close proximity to it will be used to enhance the quality of, and accessibility to, the existing open space network. Opportunities to link open spaces to create a multi-functional Green Infrastructure network will be maximised. Financial contributions will be sought through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) to assist such schemes.

Green Belt

The Green Belt within Fylde is shown on the Policies Map. Within that area national policy for development in the Green Belt will be applied.

Areas of Separation

Areas of Separation shown on the Policies Map are designated between: • Kirkham and Newton; and • Wrea Green and Kirkham. Development will be assessed in terms of its impact upon the Area(s) of Separation, including any harm to the to the effectiveness of the gap between the settlements and, in particular, the degree to which the development proposed would compromise the function of the Area(s) of Separation in protecting the identity and distinctiveness of settlements. Development will be limited to: a) that needed for purposes of agriculture, horticulture or forestry; or other uses appropriate to a rural area, including uses which would help to diversify the rural economy, of a type and scale which would not harm the effectiveness of the gap between the settlements in protecting the identity and distinctiveness of settlements; b) the re-use or rehabilitation of existing permanent and substantial buildings; c) extensions to existing dwellings and other buildings in accordance with Policy H7; d) development essentially needed for the continuation of an existing enterprise, facility or operation, of a type and scale which would not harm the effectiveness of the gap between the settlements in protecting the identity and distinctiveness of settlements; e) isolated new homes in the countryside which meet the criteria set out in Policy H6. f) minor infill development, of a scale and use that does not have a material impact on the rural character of the area and does not conflict with the provisions of policy ENV3, providing that it would not result in any harm to the effectiveness of the gap between the settlements or compromise the function of the Area(s) of Separation in protecting the identity and distinctiveness of settlements. Development that is needed for uses appropriate to a rural area situated within the Area of Separation should be sited carefully to avoid harm to the effectiveness of the gap between the settlements in protecting the identity and distinctiveness of settlements.

Development in the Countryside

Development in the Countryside, shown on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, will be permitted in the following circumstances: a) where it is needed for the purposes of meeting local business and community needs; for the purposes of agriculture, horticulture or forestry; or other uses appropriate to a rural area, including uses which would help to diversify the rural economy, including small-scale tourist accommodation, holiday caravan sites and very exceptionally, larger scale tourism development. The development must be sensitive to its surroundings, must not have an unacceptable impact on local roads and should offer opportunities to make the location more sustainable (for example by improving the scope for access on foot, by cycling or by public transport). b) the re-use or rehabilitation of existing permanent and substantial buildings; c) extensions to existing dwellings and other buildings in accordance with Policy H7; d) development essentially needed for the continuation of an existing enterprise, facility or operation, of a type and scale which would not harm the character of the surrounding countryside; e) isolated new homes in the countryside which meet the criteria set out in Policy H6; f) minor infill development; g) entry-level exception sites for first-time buyers (or those looking to rent their own home) on land not already allocated for housing which

Contaminated Land

There will be a presumption in favour of the re-development of previously developed land. Previously developed land can be subject to contamination. However, development will be encouraged on contaminated previously developed land subject to all of the following criteria being met: a) Applicants will be required to provide evidence of a satisfactory site investigation and show that any proposed remedial works are adequate to deal with any identified hazards, including the risk to human health and controlled waters from land contamination. Any remedial work should be undertaken to the satisfaction of the local authority, ahead of the commencement of development; b) Development should not have an adverse impact on the stability of surrounding areas; and c) Applicants will be required to provide details of remedial and mitigation measures to protect the high levels of biodiversity value on contaminated land and to protect conservation and heritage assets on the site.

Surface Water Run-Off and Sustainable Drainage

Discharge rates should be agreed as part of any pre-application negotiations between the relevant parties. New development must incorporate the following sequential attenuation measures: a. Store rainwater for later use; or b. The first 5mm of rainfall should infiltrate. In areas where infiltration rates are slow, e.g. soils with a high proportion of clay, then permeable surfaces may be under-drained. This will have the effect of slowed surface water run-off rates; or c. Attenuate rainwater in ponds or open features for gradual release into the watercourse; or d. Attenuate rainwater by storing in tanks or sealed water features for gradual release into a watercourse. Where compelling and detailed evidence demonstrates that the above measures are not feasible or would adversely affect viability, then the following national discharge (SuDS) hierarchy will be considered in priority order: 1. Controlled discharge of rainwater direct to a watercourse; 2. Controlled discharge of rainwater to a surface water drain; 3. Controlled discharge of rainwater to the combined sewer. Development must utilise Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDs) whenever practical; and reduce discharge to greenfield run-off rates wherever feasible. Proposals for development that will discharge surface water to a public sewer must provide compelling evidence that capacity exists in the public sewer including relevant authorisation from the appropriate infrastructure provider. Where there is no public sewer capacity the applicant must provide a detailed technical assessment of how surface drainage will be dealt with. Proposals may also need to include an independent assessment of potential solutions, the cost of which must be met by the applicant. Proposals may also be required to provide a feasibility assessment for the use of SuDs including consideration of the potential design of any scheme and ongoing maintenance arrangements. The applicant and the Council will then agree on who should adopt the scheme and be responsible for ongoing maintenance. In the majority of cases the latter will rest with the applicant. New development will be subject to appropriate conditions or a legal agreement to secure the implementation of SuDS and to secure appropriate management and maintenance measures.

Flood Alleviation, Water Quality and Water Efficiency

Planning decisions should follow the sequential, risk-based approach to the location of development, as required by the Framework. All new development is required to minimise flood risk impacts on the environment, retain water quality and water efficiency, and mitigate against the likely effects of climate change on present and future generations. This will be achieved by: a) Ensuring that development incorporates the most sustainable form of managing surface water, subject to the requirement for approval from the drainage authority. This will be expected to be investigated and confirmed as part of any planning application submission. It will be necessary to attenuate any discharge of surface water through the incorporation of sustainable drainage systems (SuDS), following the SuDS hierarchy. This would be greenfield run-off rate on greenfield sites. On previously developed land, surface water betterment will be expected. The preference will be for no surface water to discharge to the public sewer, directly or indirectly, if more sustainable alternatives are available. The priority options for the management of surface water are set out in detail in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan. b) Supporting the retrofitting of SuDS in locations that generate surface water run-off. c) Improving water efficiency standards by minimising the use of potable mains water in new development and incorporating measures to recycle and conserve water resources. d) Ensuring that new development is directed away from areas at high risk of flooding and incorporating appropriate mitigation against flooding in areas of lower risk. e) Ensuring that watercourses, which require watercourse consent are protected from encroachment and adverse impacts and that water quality is maintained and improved. f) Seeking to maximise the potential of the Green Infrastructure network within developments to reduce the risk of flooding. g) Ensuring that new development does not adversely affect the quality of surface and groundwater resources in Source Protection Zones and where possible contributes towards improving it. h) Ensuring there is no risk of pollution to controlled waters from land contamination on previously developed sites. i) Ensuring that the layout of new sea defences and coastal protection measures are of an appropriately robust design and are fit for purpose. j) Ensuring that wherever necessary land is identified to be used for wetland or flood storage through negotiation with landowners. Developer contributions will be required for the provision and maintenance of SuDS, where this is not provided as part of the development. Contributions will be made through Section 106 agreements or the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), as set out in policy INF2. Developer contributions will be required for the repair or replacement of the sea defences and coastal protection measures and the maintenance of the sand dunes system. Developer contributions will be made through the CIL. Where appropriate, the Council will permit developers to provide the necessary infrastructure themselves as part of their development proposals, rather than making financial contributions.

Landscape

Development will have regard to its visual impact within its landscape context and the landscape type in which it is situated. Development will be assessed to consider whether it is appropriate to the landscape character, amenity and tranquillity within which it is situated, as identified in the Lancashire Landscape Character Assessment, December 2000 or any subsequent update. In addition: a) A landscaped buffer of appropriate depth and species will be provided for development that impacts upon land in or adjacent to the Countryside, and wherever necessary includes advanced planting, in order to limit the visual impact of development; b) Development proposals will ensure that existing landscape features will be conserved, maintained, protected and wherever possible enhanced through increased tree and shrub cover including soft edge / transitional areas of planting; c) In the event of the loss of landscape features, the impact will be minimised or, where loss is unavoidable, their like-for-like replacements will be provided. Where such features, including trees, woodlands, hedgerows and field ponds, are lost and replaced, measures will be put in place to manage these new features; d) Suitable landscape planting of native species, appropriate to its context should be incorporated within or, where appropriate, close to new development. Measures should be put in place for the management of such landscaping. Specific consideration should be given to how landscaping schemes will minimise the rate of surface water run-off; e) Details of the ongoing maintenance of all landscaping areas will be presented for approval by the Council. Coastal Change Management Areas The open and coastal character of the Coastal Change Management Areas, which are identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, will be protected. Development in the Coastal Change Management Areas will only be permitted where the development meets all of the following criteria: i. Exceptionally requires a coastal location; ii. Is appropriate and in keeping with the open character of the coastline; iii. Promotes the conservation, restoration and enhancement of the coastline, predominantly the Ribble and Alt Estuaries SPA/Ramsar. Project specific Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs) will be required for any tourism and coastal defence developments near to the Ribble and Alt Estuaries SPA/Ramsar. The HRAs will need to demonstrate that there will be no likely significant effect upon European Sites before the tourism and coastal defence developments can be granted consent. iv. Does not detract from the tourism value or facilities along the coastline; v. Does not interfere with natural coastal processes, unless the development forms part of an agreed programme of sea defence enhancement, in accordance with the Fylde Coast Shoreline Management Plan; vi. Does not impede the function of any existing sea defence structures and wherever possible enhances the coastal protection measures; and vii. Accords with the Development Strategy of this Local Plan. Where development does occur in these areas, developer contributions will be sought for the conservation, management and enhancement of important wildlife habitats and the creation of new habitats. This will include the improvement and management of Starr Hills Local Nature Reserve and the creation of new Local Nature Reserves. Contributions will be made through S106 Agreements and / or the Community Infrastructure Levy.

Biodiversity

Section 1. Nature Conservation Sites and Ecological networks a) The hierarchy of nature conservation sites The Council is committed to ensuring the protection and enhancement of Fylde's biodiversity and geological assets and interests. In order to do this, the Council will have regard to the following hierarchy of nature conservation sites when making planning decisions, according to their designation: i) International Ramsar Sites Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) Special Protection Areas (SPA) Candidate SACs or SPAs The strongest possible protection will be given to sites of international importance, predominantly the Ribble and Alt Estuaries SPA / Ramsar site. ii) National Nature Reserves (NNR) Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) Marine Conservation Zones (MCZ) iii) Local Geodiversity Sites County Biological Heritage Sites Local Nature Conservation Sites Local Nature Reserves Development that would directly or indirectly affect any sites of local importance will be permitted only where it is necessary to meet an overriding local public need or where it is in relation to the purposes of the nature conservation site. b) Development within or affecting nature conservation sites and ecological networks In addition to the provisions of National and European law, and in accordance with national planning policy, proposals for development within or affecting the above nature conservation sites must adhere to all of the following principles: i) Development that would directly or indirectly affect any sites of local importance including ancient woodland or ancient and veteran trees will be permitted only where it is necessary to meet an overriding local public need or where it is in relation to the purposes of the nature conservation, or mitigation can avoid affecting site integrity. ii) Proposals which primarily seek to enhance or conserve biodiversity will be supported in principle, subject to the consideration of other Local Plan policies; iii) Consideration should be given to the impact of development proposals on the County-wide Lancashire Ecological network and, where possible, opportunities to support the network by incorporating biodiversity in and around the development should be encouraged; iv) Where development is considered necessary, adequate mitigation measures and compensatory habitat creation will be required through planning conditions and / or obligations, in order to secure measurable net gains for biodiversity. Measures should be put in place for the ongoing management of such features. Where it has been demonstrated that significant harm cannot be avoided appropriate mitigation or, as a last resort, replacement or other compensation will be required. The location of appropriate mitigation, replacement or other compensation will be targeted, using a sequential approach, as follows: Within the development site; In the immediate locality; Within a Nature Improvement Area within the Borough; Within a Nature Improvement Area elsewhere in the Fylde Coast; and lastly, Elsewhere. Where significant harm resulting from development cannot be avoided, adequately mitigated or, as a last resort, replaced or compensated, then planning permission will be refused. v) the development of recreation will be in areas which are not sensitive to visitor pressures - the protection of biodiversity will be given higher priority than the development of recreation in sensitive areas of internationally important nature conservation sites (as identified in paragraph (1)(a)(i) above), and on all nature conservation sites and ecological networks in situations where there is conflict between the two objectives.

Conservation Areas

Proposals within or affecting the setting of any of the ten designated conservation areas in Fylde, listed below, or within any additional conservation areas designated during the lifetime of the Local Plan, should conserve or enhance those elements that make a positive contribution to their special character and appearance and setting. Proposals that better reveal the significance of these areas will also be supported. There will be a presumption in favour of the retention of buildings and / or features which make a positive contribution to the special character and appearance of a conservation area. Demolition, or other substantial loss or harm to the significance of a building or feature - including trees, landscapes, spaces (public or private open space) and artefacts – that make a positive contribution to the Conservation Area, will only be permitted where this harm is outweighed by the public benefits of the proposal. Such proposals must be accompanied by clear details of the proposal and justify the harm in line with national policy. Proposals should: a. Be appropriate to their context including setting, scale, density and physical characteristics; b. Preserve or enhance features making a positive contribution. In particular, design, massing and height of any building should closely relate to adjacent buildings and should not have an unacceptable impact on townscape and landscape; c. Not have an unacceptable impact on historic street patterns or roofscape; d. Not result in the loss of open space (the Green Infrastructure network); e. Retain individual features of interest, e.g. doorways, cobbles, trees, hedges, railings and garden walls; f. Reinforce distinctiveness of the area, reflecting the local pallet of materials and local building styles.

Historic Environment

Proposals for development should conserve, protect and, where appropriate, enhance the character, appearance, significance and historic value of Fylde's designated and undesignated heritage assets, in particular: • The classic seaside resort of St Annes with its seafront, Victorian and Edwardian architecture and pier, together with the Promenade and Ashton Gardens. • The formal resort of Lytham with the Windmill and Green, and the cultural assets based around Lowther Pavilion and Garden, Lytham Hall and its historic parkland. • The historic market town of Kirkham and • The two planned model rural settlements of Singleton and Thistleton. In addition the Council will: • Adopt and implement the Built Heritage Strategy for Fylde, together with the provision of further guidance, in the form of a web based resource for developers who propose to alter listed buildings. • Promote heritage-led regeneration including: The Heritage Parks Initiative – connecting the key historic parks and gardens of Lytham and St Annes; Visual Corridors – enhancing key routes, approaches and gateways into Lytham, St Annes and Kirkham; enhancing the commercial and resort core of St Annes to create a vibrant seaside resort; protecting and enhancing the heritage of Lytham; and revitalising the commercial core of Kirkham. • Produce Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans. • Identify opportunities to promote the district's heritage assets through tourism, culture and economic development, including Fairhaven Lake. • Seek to identify local heritage assets. • Seek opportunities for safeguarding the future of any heritage assets at risk including Lytham Hall. • Work with partners to design and manage the public realm in historic areas. • Look for opportunities for new development within the Borough's Conservation Areas and within the setting of heritage assets to enhance or better reveal their significance.

Conversions and Change of Use to Residential

When considering proposals for residential conversions, careful attention should be paid to the amenity of nearby residents, the character of the immediate area, access to the nearest services, parking provision and the promotion of good design. Residential conversions should protect existing amenity space and should not result in any of the homes relying on what was previously a front garden for all of their private amenity space.

Isolated New Homes in the Countryside

Isolated new homes in the countryside will only be permitted where: 1. The home is required to meet the essential needs of a rural worker. It should only be permitted where all of the following criteria can be met: a) there is an essential need for permanent attendance of a worker on site; b) the need cannot be met by any existing home or other accommodation at the business or in the general locality; c) the business is capable of supporting a full time worker and has a clear prospect of remaining so; d) the size of the home is appropriate to the rural worker's family size / economic need and it is located adjacent to any existing buildings. If accommodation is needed in relation to a new enterprise, then any accommodation should be of a temporary nature, such as a caravan or other temporary accommodation, it will only be approved for a maximum of three years. 2. The exceptional quality of design of the building helps to raise standards of design in the countryside. The exceptional quality of the design of the home would: a) be truly outstanding, helping to raise standards of design more generally in the countryside; b) reflect the highest standards in architecture; c) significantly enhance its setting; d) be sensitive to the defining characteristics of the local area; and e) protect the local environment. 3. Where such development would represent the optimal viable use of a heritage asset or would be appropriate enabling development to secure the future of heritage assets; 4. Where the development would re-use redundant or disused buildings and lead to enhancement in the immediate setting; or 5. Where the development would involve the subdivision of an existing residential building.

Replacements of, and Extensions to, Existing Homes in the Countryside

Proposals to replace and / or to extend an existing home in the countryside will be permitted where the following criteria are met: a. The replacement or extended home is increased in size by no more than 33% calculated in relation to the ground floor area of the original home; and b. The appearance of a replacement home respects the character of the surrounding rural area and the appearance of an extended home respects the character of the original building and the surrounding rural area.

Housing Delivery and the Allocation of Housing Land

The Council will provide for and manage the delivery of new housing by: a) Setting and applying a minimum housing requirement of 415 net homes per annum for the period 2011-2019 and a minimum housing requirement of 305 net homes per annum for the period 2019-2032. b) Keeping under review housing delivery performance on the basis of rolling 3 year completion levels as set out in accordance with the Monitoring Framework at Appendix 8. c) Ensuring there is enough deliverable land suitable for house building capable of providing a continuous 5 year supply calculated using the "Liverpool" method from the start of each annual monitoring period and in locations that are in line with the Policy DLF1 (Development Locations for Fylde) and suitable for developments that will provide the range and mix of house types necessary to meet the requirements of the Local Plan. d) The delivery of the developable sites, which are allocated for housing and mixed use from 1 April 2011 to 31 March 2032 and provided for through allowances, to provide for a minimum of 7,275 homes.

Density and Mix of New Residential Development

Density Developments will be expected to make efficient use of land, whilst avoiding detrimental impact on the amenity, character, appearance, distinctiveness and environmental quality of the surrounding area. It is expected that this will normally result in a minimum net residential density of 30 homes per hectare. When considering a proposal for a significantly higher density development, in addition to the above considerations, particular attention will be paid to ensuring that there is no unacceptable impact on highway safety and that sufficient car parking is provided on-site. High density development should be very carefully designed to relate well to its surroundings, be orientated towards and have principal entrances facing towards the street, and should include sufficient usable amenity space to provide for the needs of residents. Mix A broad mix of types and sizes of home, suitable for a broad range of age groups, will be required on all sites to reflect the demographics and housing requirements of the Borough as set out in the Fylde Coast Strategic Housing Market Assessment (2014). The mix required will be adjusted according to updated future Housing Needs Assessments over the plan period. All developments of 10 or more dwellings will therefore be required to include at least 50% of dwellings that are 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom homes. Developments within or in close proximity to the Tier 1 Larger Rural Settlements or Tier 2 Smaller Rural Settlements should include at least 33% 1- or 2-bedroom homes. These requirements will be adjusted in response to the findings of future Housing Needs Assessments conducted on behalf of the Council. Specialist Accommodation for the Elderly In order to meet the needs of an ageing population in Fylde, at least 20% of homes within residential developments of 20 or more homes should be designed specifically to accommodate the elderly, including compliance with optional technical standard M4(3(2a)) (wheelchair-adaptable dwellings), unless it is demonstrated that this would render the development unviable. Affordable housing requirements set out in Policy H4 may be met partly by the provision of homes designed to accommodate the elderly, where these also fall into the definition of affordable housing set out in the Framework. Developments to provide 100% specialist accommodation for the elderly, including residential care homes, will be approved providing that: • It is situated to provide easy access to regular public transport. Within larger development sites, the part of the site in closest proximity to bus stops with a regular service should be chosen for this type of accommodation; • The proposal is well-designed, avoiding unnecessary use of high fencing around the perimeter, orientated towards the street with an entrance on the street side of the building providing the shortest possible pedestrian access, including usable outside landscaped gardens with seating, and access and parking for vehicles well separated from pedestrian routes; • The development complies with the development strategy and other policies of the plan; and • Convenient access arrangements are provided for vehicles providing hospital transport. Developments will be considered by the Council to be purpose-built 100% specialist accommodation for the elderly if: • All areas used by residents will comply with optional technical standard M4(3(2a)) (wheelchair-adaptable dwellings); • A communal lounge or similar social facility for the exclusive use of all residents is included within the development; • A shared laundry service is provided for the use of all residents; • The development will be marketed with a restriction on age for residents of over 55; • A daily hot meals service is provided either through a central facility on-site or through an outside provider to residents who require it; and • An emergency alarm call service is provided for all residents. On sites where 100% specialist accommodation for the elderly is proposed as defined above, affordable housing contributions will not be sought. Development on Garden Land When considering proposals for residential development on garden land, stringent caveats will be applied relating to design, character, access, amenity and other issues deemed appropriate by the Council. Development on garden land should not result in any of the homes relying on what was previously a front garden for all of their private amenity space. Custom and Self-build Homes Proposals to include plots for custom- and self-build homes within larger housing development sites will be approved, subject to compliance with other requirements of the plan with respect to layout, density, mix and access. Developers of strategic housing sites will be encouraged to devote a proportion of the site to provide serviced plots for custom- and self-build homes. Applications to provide serviced plots for custom- and self-build homes on small sites (of fewer than 10 dwellings) will be supported where the site is located in accordance with Policy DLF1, subject to compliance with other policies of the plan. Wherever custom- and self-build homes are proposed, they should be well-designed, in accordance with Policy GD7.

Affordable Housing

All market housing schemes of 10 or more homes will be required to provide 30% affordable housing, unless robust viability testing has demonstrated that the cost of the affordable housing provision would prevent the development from being delivered. a. For residential developments within or in close proximity to the Key Service Centres and Local Service Centres (i.e. the urban areas), the provision of affordable housing will be to meet the requirements identified for borough wide needs. b. For residential developments within rural areas, the provision of affordable housing will be primarily to meet the requirements identified for the closest Tier 1 Larger Rural Settlements: i.e. Newton, Staining and Wrea Green or Tier 2 Smaller Rural Settlements: i.e. Clifton, Elswick, Singleton and Weeton. If, having regard to an agreed assessment, the level of identified local need is less than the equivalent of 30% of the homes proposed, the balance of the provision will be delivered for borough wide needs. The presumption is that affordable housing will be provided on the application site so that it contributes towards creating a mix of housing. In circumstances where the Council considers that affordable housing would be most appropriately provided off-site, for instance in relation to applications for residential park homes, the Council will require contributions for off-site provision of affordable housing equivalent in value to the provision of 43% of the number of market homes to be built on site, this being the equivalent of providing 30% affordable housing on-site. Tenure: The precise requirements for tenure of affordable homes will be negotiated on a case-by-case basis, having regard to the viability of individual sites, local need and compliance with other policies of the plan. Size and Type: Schemes of sheltered/extra care housing for social rent/affordable rent to the elderly may be provided to meet affordable housing requirements, in conjunction with a Registered Social Landlord. Such schemes should meet the requirements of 100% specialist accommodation for the elderly in policy H2. Affordable housing provided for social rent or affordable rent should be 1, 2 or 3-bedroom homes. Starter homes should normally be 1 and 2-bedroom homes. The size and type of affordable housing on an individual scheme should be determined with reference to the SHMA or subsequent housing needs assessments undertaken by or on behalf of the Council. Affordable housing should meet the requirements of the National Technical Standards and policy GD7 of this plan. Viability: The Council will take account of viability when assessing individual schemes. If a level of affordable housing lower than that set out above is proposed for a specific scheme, the Council will expect robust financially-based justification to be provided by the applicant, demonstrating that the development would be unviable with a higher level of affordable housing than proposed. The Council may seek to independently verify such information, with any costs associated with the verification met by the applicant, before approving a scheme with lower levels of affordable housing than that specified above.

Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople's Sites

The Local Plan will provide sites for 3 extra pitches for Gypsies and Travellers meeting the definition in Annex 1 of the Planning Policy for Traveller Sites 2015 in Fylde Borough up to the year 2032. The allocations are commitments which provide 5 pitches. New Gypsy and Traveller pitches will be allocated at the following sites: ➢ Thames Street, Newton (up to 3 pitches) ➢ The Stackyard, Bryning with Warton (2 pitches) Where there is a demonstrated need for pitches or plots from Gypsies, Travellers and/or Travelling Showpeople in the Borough, as defined in National Planning Policy, which is additional to the need identified by the Blackpool, Fylde and Wyre Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation Assessment Update 2016, and cannot be accommodated within the allocated sites, planning permissions for new Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople's Sites will be granted where all of the following criteria can be met: a) There is evidence of need for a new Gypsy, Traveller or Travelling Showpeople's site and the site would provide for the permanent and/or transit accommodation needs in that area or neighbouring authority area; b) The site is not in the Green Belt or in an Area of Separation; c) The site is not in Flood Risk Zones 2 or 3; d) The location and design of the site would protect local amenity and the local environment; e) The site would not be isolated and would be within or proximate to a settlement which can provide education, health, welfare and employment infrastructure. Local environmental quality with respect to noise and air quality should not have a detrimental impact on the health and wellbeing of Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople; f) There should be safe vehicular and pedestrian access to the site and adequate parking for vehicles and other equipment; g) The number of pitches and / or plots should be related to the specific size and location of the site and the size and density of the surrounding population. In a rural or semi-rural location the scale of the site should not dominate the settled community; h) The site should have the potential to allow mixed-use development, such that traditional lifestyles can be accommodated by living and working on the same site. However, the uses proposed should be compatible with adjacent land uses; i) The site should not place unacceptable pressure on existing infrastructure, such as services, schools, transport infrastructure and waste and wastewater capacity.

Lytham and St Annes Strategic Location for Development

The following strategic and non-strategic sites identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans accompanying this plan are allocated for development: Site | Homes to be completed during Plan period | Employment over Plan period | Projected commencement date HSS1 - Queensway, St Annes | 992 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2018 MUS4 – Heyhouses Lane, St Annes | 322 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2014 HSS3 – Lytham Quays, Lytham | 119 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2007/08 HS1 – Queen Mary School, Clifton Drive South, St Annes | 35 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2011 HS2 – Jubilee House, East Beach, Lytham | 20 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 HS3 – Ashton Nurseries, Mythop Road, Lytham | 12 | 0.0 Ha | 2019/20 HS4 – The Gables, 35-39 Orchard Road, St Annes | 19 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2017 HS5 – 7-8 St George's Square, St Annes | 11 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2016/17 HS7 – Petros House, St Andrew's Road North, St Annes | 35 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2017/18 HS8 – 35-37 South Promenade, St Annes | 36 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2016/17 HS9 – 23-33 Fairhaven Road, St Annes | 32 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2017/18 HS10 – 34-36 Orchard Road, Lytham St Annes | 12 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 HS11 – The Galleries, 2-4 Kingsway, Lytham | 10 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 HS12 – Fairways, Heeley Road, St Annes | 20 | 0.0 Ha | 2023/24 HS13 – Kingsway Garage, St Annes | 30 | 0.0 Ha | 2019/20 HS14 – AXA, Lytham | 65 | 0.0 Ha | 2019/20 HS15 – Land to the West, Ballam Road, Lytham | 12 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2016/17 HS16 – Clifton Drive North, St Annes | 34 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2013/14 HS17 – Hastings Point, Ballam Road, Lytham | 25 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2013/14 HS18 – Former FBC Depot, St David's Road North, St Annes | 32 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2014/15 HS19 – 1 Lord Street, St Annes | 14 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2015/16 HS20 – Former Kwik Save, St Annes | 15 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2015/16 HS58 - Westmoreland House | 25 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 HS59 - Land to east of Sefton Road | 12 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2017 HS60 - Valentine Kennels | 53 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 HS61 - Roseacre, Wildings Lane | 45 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 HS62 - Keenans Mill | 26 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2017 HS67 - St. Leonards Bridge Garage | 38 | 0.0 Ha | 2019/20 HS68 - Church Road Methodist Church | 10 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 ES1 - Queensway Industrial Estate, Snowdon Road, St Annes | 0 | 3.8 Ha | TBC ES2 – Dock Road, Lytham | 0 | 0.9 Ha | TBC ES3 – Boundary Road, Lytham | 0 | 0.7 Ha | TBC Total 2,111 homes 5.4 Ha Masterplans and approved design codes for each Strategic Site (100 or more homes) listed above (where they do not have planning permission) - within the Lytham and St Annes Strategic Location for Development should make provision for a range of land uses to include homes, employment and commercial uses, Green Infrastructure and community facilities. A programme of implementation should be agreed between the Council and the developer in accordance with the masterplans and the design codes.

The Fylde-Blackpool Periphery Strategic Location for Development

The following strategic and non-strategic sites identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans accompanying this plan are allocated for development as follows: Site | Homes to be completed during Plan period | Employment over Plan period | Projected commencement date HSS4 – Coastal Dunes, Clifton Drive North, Blackpool Airport Corridor | 429 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2015 MUS1 – Cropper Road East, Whitehills | 529 | 5.7 Ha | Commenced 2016 MUS2 – Whyndyke Garden Village, Preston New Road, Whitehills | 630 | 20.0 Ha | 2021/22 HSS5 – Cropper Road West, Whitehills | 250 | 0.0 Ha | 2023/24 HSS6 – Land at Lytham St Annes Way, Whitehills | 151 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2013/14 HS21 – Land to the rear of 11-63 Westgate Road, Squires Gate | 25 | 0.0 Ha | Commenced 2017/18 HS22 – Former Clock Garage, Preston New Road, Westby | 14 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 HS23 – Land South of Bridgeside, Squires Gate | 22 | 0.0 Ha | 2018/19 ES4 – Blackpool and Fylde Industrial Estate, Whitehills | 0 | 2.4 Ha | TBC ES5 – Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone (Zone A), Squires Gate | 0 | 14.5 Ha | TBC ES6 – ITSA, Brunel Way, Whitehills | 0 | 4.9 Ha | TBC ES7 – Whitehills Business Park, Whitehills | 0 | 5.6 Ha | TBC Total 2,050 homes 53.1 Ha Masterplans and approved design codes for each Strategic Site (100 or more homes) listed above (where they do not have planning permission) - within the Fylde-Blackpool Periphery Strategic Location for Development, which includes land along the Blackpool Airport Corridor at Squires Gate should make provision for a range of land uses to include homes, employment and commercial uses, Green Infrastructure network and community facilities. A programme of implementation should be agreed between the Council and the developer in accordance with the masterplans and the design codes.

Warton Strategic Location for Development

The following strategic and non-strategic sites identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans accompanying this plan are allocated for development: Site: HSS2 – Blackfield End Farm, Church Road, Warton 360 homes 0.0 Ha 2018/19 HSS7 – Highgate Park, Lytham Road, Warton 254 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2014 HSS12 – Land north of Freckleton Bypass Warton 350 homes 0.0 Ha 2022-23 HSS13 – Clifton House Farm, Warton 115 homes 0.0 Ha 2022-23 HS24 Riversleigh Farm, Warton 82 homes Commenced 2015/16 HS25 - Nine Acres Nursery, Harbour Lane Phase 1 75 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2012/13 HS26 - George's Garage, Warton 16 homes 0.0 Ha 2018/19 HS27 – Oaklands Caravan Park, Lytham Road, Warton 53 homes 0.0 Ha 2023/24 Masterplans and approved design codes for each specific Strategic Site (100 or more homes) listed above (where they do not have planning permission) within the Warton Strategic Location for Development will make provision for a range of land uses to include homes, employment and commercial uses, Green Infrastructure network and community facilities including a new local retail centre. A programme of implementation should be agreed between the Council and the developer in accordance with the masterplans and the design codes.

Kirkham and Wesham Strategic Location for Development

The following strategic and non-strategic sites identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans accompanying this plan are allocated for development: Site: HSS8 – The Pastures, Fleetwood Road, Wesham 264 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2015/16 HSS9 – Land North of Blackpool Road, Kirkham 588 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2015/16 HSS10 – Willowfields, Derby Road, Wesham 124 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2008 HS28 – Sunnybank Mill, Kirkham 52 homes 0.0 Ha 2019/20 HS29 – Crossacres, land between Weeton Road/Fleetwood Road, Wesham 13 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2011/12 HS30 – Pennine View, Weeton Road, Wesham 12 homes 0.0 Ha 2021/22 HS31 – Former Fylde Council Offices, Derby Road, Wesham 24 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2014/15 HS32 – West End Residential Park, Kirkham 27 homes 0.0 Ha 2018/19 HS33 – Arundel Lodge Nursing Home, 1 Station Road, Wesham 11 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2015/16 HS34 - Crossroads, Kirkham 12 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2011/12 HS35 – Henthorne Builders, Orders Lane, Kirkham 26 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2012/13 HS36 – St George's Hotel, Station Road, Kirkham 11 homes 0.0 Ha Commenced 2013/14 HS57 – Brook Farm Dowbridge 170 homes 0.0 Ha 2018/19 HS63 – Campbells Caravans 30 homes 0.0 Ha 2019/20 MUS3 – Mill Farm Sports Village, Fleetwood Road, Wesham 0 homes 1.1 Ha TBC Masterplans and approved design codes for each specific strategic site listed above (where they do not have planning permission) within the Kirkham and Wesham Strategic Location for Development should make provision for a range of land uses to include homes, employment and commercial uses, Green Infrastructure network and community facilities. A programme of implementation should be agreed between the Council and the developer in accordance with the masterplans and the design codes. Development of the strategic sites should conform to the following relevant criterion: Before any further development is granted planning permission on The Pastures, Fleetwood Road, Wesham (site HSS8) and Land north of Blackpool Road, Kirkham (site HSS9) it is advisable that site surveys are carried out to assess the extent and quality of the mineral reserves and whether, in the case of the sand and gravel deposits, there is a case for prior extraction before built development commences.

Development Sites outside the Strategic Locations for Development

The sites in the following locations outside the Strategic Locations for Development, identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans accompanying this plan, are allocated for development: Local Service Centres: HS37 – The Refuge, Ruskin Road, Freckleton 11 homes (commitment) 2018/19 HS38 – Land rear of High Meadows, Lower Lane, Freckleton 13 homes (allocation) 2021/22 HS66 – Quernmore Trading Estate Freckleton 10 homes (allocation) 2021/22 HS69 – Naze Court, Naze Lane Freckleton 12 homes (minus 10 net of demolitions) (allocation) 2019/20 ES8 – Naze Lane, Freckleton 2.4 Ha Employment over Plan period Tier 1: Larger Rural Settlements: HS51 – Newton Hall, School Lane, Newton 86 homes (allocation) 2027/28 HS52 – Cobweb Barn, Oak Lane, Newton 40 homes (allocation) 2019/20 HS70 – Land west of Woodlands Close, Newton 50 homes (commitment) 2018/19 HS39 – Land South of Chain Lane, Staining 42 homes (commitment) Commenced 2015/16 HS40 – Land at King's Close, Staining 30 homes (commitment) Commenced 2017/18 HS41 – Thornfield Caravan Park, Staining 28 homes (allocation) 2023/24 HS42 – Baines Farm, Mill Lane, Staining 11 homes (commitment) Commenced 2011/12 HS43 – Land adjacent to 18 Chain Lane, Staining 30 homes (commitment) Commenced 2012/13 HSS11 – Land off Willow Drive, Wrea Green 86 homes (commitment) 2018/19 HS44 – Land adjacent Richmond Avenue, Wrea Green 54 homes (commitment) Commenced 2014/15 HS45 – Rear of 54 Bryning Lane, Wrea Green 36 homes (commitment) 2018/19 HS46 – North View Farm, 22 Ribby Road, Wrea Green 42 homes (commitment) Commenced 2015/16 HS47 – Land North of North View Farm, Wrea Green 15 homes (allocation) 2023/24 HS48 – Former Wareings, Ribby Road, Wrea Green 13 homes (commitment) Commenced 2011/12 Tier 2: Smaller Rural Settlements: HS49 – Land North of Preston Old Road, Clifton 74 homes (allocation) 2018/19 HS50 – Land East of Rowan Close, Ash Lane, Clifton 30 homes (allocation) 2019/20 HS71 North of High Gate and East of Copp Lane, Elswick 24 homes (minded to approve) 2020/21 HS72 Land North of Mill Lane, Elswick 50 homes (commitment) 2019/20 HS73 Land North of Beech Road, Elswick 50 homes (commitment) 2018/19 HS53 – Singleton Village, Singleton 15 homes (minded to approve) 2023/24 HS54 – The Laurels and Willow House, Mythop Road, Weeton 20 homes (commitment) Commenced 2014/15 HS64 – Land West of Church Road Weeton 25 homes (commitment) 2019/20 Other locations: HS55 – The Rowans (Former Blue Anchor Inn), Fleetwood Road, Greenhalgh 17 homes (commitment) Commenced 2013/14 HS56 – Sunnydale Nurseries, Garstang Road, Little Eccleston 41 homes (allocation) Commenced 2018

Developer Contributions

Subject to viability, development will normally be expected to contribute towards the mitigation of its impact on infrastructure, services and the environment and contribute towards the requirements of the community. Contributions may be secured through a planning obligation and through the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL), at such time as the Council has prepared a Standard Charging Schedule. The types of infrastructure that developments may be required to provide contributions towards include, but are not limited to: a) Affordable housing; b) Utilities and Waste (where the provision does not fall within the utility providers legislative obligations); c) Flood risk management and coastal defences (including strategic flood defence measures and local flood risk management measures) and sustainable drainage measures (both on site and borough wide, including the retrofitting of sustainable drainage systems – SuDS; d) Transport (highway, rail and tram infrastructure, bus, and cycle / footpath / bridleway network and any associated facilities); e) Community facilities providing for the health (i.e. new or enhanced healthcare facilities) and wellbeing, social, educational (i.e. schools), spiritual, recreational, leisure and cultural needs of the community; f) The development of Whitehills, Whyndyke and Warton to become Local Service Centres, including land and buildings to accommodate new Local Centres to provide services and meet the daily retail needs of the local residents; g) Enhancing the functionality, quality, connectivity and accessibility of the Green Infrastructure network – the network of natural environmental components and green and blue spaces (such as outdoor sports facilities, open space, including Fylde's Coastal Change Management Areas stretching from Starr Hills to Savick Brook in the south and along the River Wyre in the north, Lancaster Canal, parks, allotments, play areas, enhancing and conserving biodiversity and management of environmentally sensitive areas); h) Climate change and energy initiatives; i) Public realm – the public realm needs to be designed appropriately, to reflect the character and appearance of an area, including landscaping, street furniture and materials and to ensure that it is appropriately managed and maintained so as to add to the quality and distinctiveness of the particular area. Where appropriate, the Council will permit developers to provide the necessary infrastructure themselves as part of their development proposals, rather than making financial contributions. Where a development is made unviable by the requirements of a planning obligation, the Council will have regard to appropriate evidence submitted by an applicant and consider whether any flexibility in the planning obligation is justified.

Service Accessibility and Infrastructure

Development will be required to provide essential site service and communications infrastructure and demonstrate that it will support infrastructure requirements as set out in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan. In order for Fylde to protect and create sustainable communities, proposals for development should: a) Make the most of existing infrastructure by focusing on sustainable locations with the best infrastructure capacity; b) Minimise any negative impacts on the quality of the existing infrastructure as a result of new development; c) Mitigate any environmental impacts of new infrastructure provision; d) Use sustainable natural resources where appropriate; e) Where appropriate, contribute towards improvements to existing infrastructure and provision of new infrastructure, as required to meet the needs of the development; f) Where appropriate, demonstrate how access to services will be achieved by means other than the car, and where appropriate, demonstrate how the range of local social and community services and facilities available will be suitable and accessible for the intended occupiers or user(s) of the development; and g) In considering development proposals, it may be necessary to co-ordinate the timescales for delivery of development with the timescales for the delivery of infrastructure. For large development sites, which may be constructed over a number of years and by various developers, it will be necessary to ensure a co-ordinated and holistic approach to the delivery of infrastructure, especially drainage infrastructure through the requirement for site wide strategies through masterplanning which establish principles to be adhered to during the construction process. Fylde Council will work with Lancashire County Council to ensure the delivery of a new secondary school in Fylde during the lifetime of the Local Plan. The Council will support the delivery of high-speed fibre broadband through the Lancashire Superfast Broadband project and communications technology to all parts of the Borough and will encourage and facilitate its use in line with national policy.

Warton Aerodrome

Development proposals within the safeguarded area of Warton Aerodrome, unless the applicant can demonstrate that there would not be any potential for adverse impacts on aviation operations, or on defence navigation systems and communications. Development proposals within the wider area surrounding Warton Aerodrome will be assessed for potential for adverse impacts on aviation operations, and on defence navigation systems and communications. Where such impact is identified, planning permission will be refused. Development proposals that could compromise the security of the Warton Aerodrome and wider BAE Systems site at Warton will not be permitted.

Blackpool Airport

The land designated as Green Belt within the airport, will be safeguarded from non-airport related development and the continuing operation and viability of the airport as a sub-regional facility will be supported, unless there are overriding operational requirements that constitute very special circumstances and which justify development in the Green Belt. Further development required in relation to the operation of Blackpool Airport including Centrica's heliport, or development of ancillary leisure uses, will be located in accordance with the masterplan prepared to guide development that delivers the objectives of the Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone, in the areas outside the Green Belt, which are identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, unless there are overriding operational requirements that constitute very special circumstances and which justify development in the Green Belt. The Council will support improvements to surface access (public transport) to Blackpool Airport from surrounding areas and other transport nodes. Blackpool Airport, including Centrica's heliport will be consulted on all developments within the Airport Safeguarding Zone.

Settlement Boundaries

The boundaries of settlements in Fylde are shown on the Policies Map including Inset Plans and in Neighbourhood Development Plans where these have been made. Development proposals on sites within settlement boundaries will be assessed against all relevant Local Plan policies. Development proposals outside settlement boundaries will be in accordance with Policies GD2, GD3, GD4 and/or GD5 as applicable.

Large Developed Sites in the Countryside and Green Belt

The large developed sites in the countryside are listed below and are identified on the Policies Map: • Laleham Health and Beauty Factory at Greenhalgh; • Helical Technologies Ltd at Hillock Lane, Warton; • Westinghouse Springfields in Salwick; • Naze Lane Industrial Estate at Freckleton; • Weeton Barracks Camp; • Mill Farm Sports Village, Fleetwood Road, Wesham; and • Ribby Hall Holiday Village. The complete or partial redevelopment of these large developed sites in the countryside will be permitted subject to the following criteria: a) The proposal would not result in harm to the character, appearance or nature conservation value of land in the countryside, landscape setting, historic environment in comparison with the existing development, in terms of footprint, massing and height of the buildings; b) The proposal will not require additional expenditure by public authorities in relation to infrastructure and it can safely be served by existing or proposed means of access and the local road network; c) Proposals for partial re-development are put forward in the context of a comprehensive long term plan for the site as a whole; d) Proposed re-development can be safely and adequately served by existing or proposed means of access and the local road network without adversely affecting highway safety; e) Opportunities to improve public transport connections, and pedestrian and cycle links are maximised; and f) Mixed use development is promoted on all of these sites. Her Majesty's Prison Kirkham, which is situated within the Green Belt, is also identified as a large developed site on the Policies Map. Any development of or at this site will be required to be in accordance with the provisions of Policy GD2.

Development Locations for Fylde

The Local Plan will provide sites for a minimum of 7,275 new homes and a minimum of 60.6 Ha (gross requirement) of additional employment land over the plan period to 31 March 2032. Locations for Development Strategic Locations for Development The Local Plan Development Strategy is to direct the majority of future growth to the most sustainable locations, specifically to the four Strategic Locations for Development. The four Strategic Locations are: • Lytham and St Annes; • Fylde-Blackpool Periphery; • Warton; and • Kirkham and Wesham. Development of the Strategic Sites at these Strategic Locations is key to ensuring that the Development Strategy is achieved. Non-strategic Locations for Development Other development will mainly be located in the Non-strategic Locations for Development, which comprise the Local Service Centre of Freckleton, the Tier 1 Larger Rural Settlements and the Tier 2 Smaller Rural Settlements. Broad Distribution of Development Strategic Locations Around 90% of homes to be developed in the plan period (including small sites) and 59.6 Ha of employment land will be located in the four Strategic Locations for development. Non-strategic Locations Around 10% of homes to be developed in the plan period (including small sites) and 2.4 Ha of employment land will be located in the Non-strategic Locations. Windfalls (including small committed sites) Small housing sites (amounting to between 1 and 9 homes) are not allocated; they can occur throughout the borough where compliant with the other policies of the plan. Small sites are provided for through a windfall allowance of 40 homes per annum in years 10 to 21 of the plan. The delivery of small sites that are already committed is included within the Housing Trajectory (Appendix 2): this provides for the delivery of small sites up to year 10 of the plan. Small committed sites and windfalls yet to come will provide around 11% of the housing requirement. There may also be some larger windfall sites that will also contribute to this figure. Existing Land uses Development will not be permitted which would prevent or undermine the operation of existing land uses, including hazardous installations and the ethylene pipeline and Mineral Safeguarding Areas, or prejudice airport safety at Blackpool Airport or at Warton Aerodrome. Development will contribute towards sustainable growth, the continuation and creation of sustainable communities, by their locations and accessibility and through the sustainable use of resources and construction materials.

Development in the Countryside

Development in the Countryside, shown on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, will be permitted in the following circumstances: a) where it is needed for the purposes of meeting local business and community needs; for the purposes of agriculture, horticulture or forestry; or other uses appropriate to a rural area, including uses which would help to diversify the rural economy, including small-scale tourist accommodation, holiday caravan sites and very exceptionally, larger scale tourism development. The development must be sensitive to its surroundings, must not have an unacceptable impact on local roads and should offer opportunities to make the location more sustainable (for example by improving the scope for access on foot, by cycling or by public transport). b) the re-use or rehabilitation of existing permanent and substantial buildings; c) Extensions to existing dwellings and other buildings in accordance with Policy H7; d) development essentially needed for the continuation of an existing enterprise, facility or operation, of a type and scale which would not harm the character of the surrounding countryside; e) isolated new homes in the countryside which meet the criteria set out in Policy H6; f) minor infill development; g) entry-level exception sites for first-time buyers (or those looking to rent their own home) on land not already allocated for housing which meets the criteria set out in the Framework and Policy GD7.

Promoting Mixed Use Development

Mixed use development will be encouraged, particularly on strategic sites. The mix of uses could include local retail centres, employment, commercial, leisure, community and recreational uses as well as residential. The element of mixed use development will depend on the particular site and the character of the surrounding area. Providing it does not undermine housing delivery, mixed use development will be promoted where the following apply: a. Within an area where the scale and character of uses is such that no single land use predominates. Residential, retailing, business, health, community, educational facilities, recreation, sport, open space and industrial uses may all be represented; b. Where residential and commercial uses can be integrated within the same unit, creating flexible working practices and live / work units, or opportunities for home working; or c. On Strategic Development Sites MUS1, MUS2, MUS3 and MUS4, and on other Strategic Development Sites where appropriate.

The Proposed Settlement Hierarchy

Key Service Centres (urban areas) Local Service Centres (urban areas) Tier 1 Larger Rural Settlements Tier 2 Smaller Rural Settlements Lytham (including Ansdell) St Annes Freckleton Warton Newton Staining Clifton Elswick Kirkham Wesham Wrea Green Singleton Whitehills Whyndyke Weeton Key Service Centres The towns of Lytham (including Ansdell), St Annes and Kirkham perform the role of Key Service Centres and serve the wider catchment area. The role of these towns as Key Service Centres will be maintained over the life time of the Local Plan; existing services and facilities will be enhanced; a range of housing and employment opportunities will be promoted and delivered, as well as retail and other community services, to serve the wider catchment area. Local Service Centres Local Service Centres of Freckleton and Wesham are well placed to provide for future local housing and employment needs. Over the life of the Plan period to 2032, it is anticipated that: • Development at Freckleton will be by way of infilling and rounding-off the existing settlement boundary. • Warton will have improved services including shops and community facilities when development set out in the Warton Strategic Location for Development has taken place. • Wesham will accommodate some development as part of the Kirkham and Wesham Strategic Location for Development. • The area referred to as Whitehills at the Fylde-Blackpool Periphery will have developed into a Local Service Centre when development set out in the Fylde-Blackpool Periphery Strategic Location for Development has taken place. Whyndyke Garden Village will also have developed into a Local Service Centre over the lifetime of the Local Plan Rural Settlements Tier 1: Larger Rural Settlements Newton, Staining and Wrea Green. The larger rural settlements provide small scale essential local services, as well as local opportunities for employment. They can therefore be regarded as sustainable communities, albeit with a dependency on, and sustainable transport connection to / from, the Key Service Centres, Local Service Centres and the Strategic Locations for Development, identified in Policy DLF1 for other services and facilities. Tier 2: Smaller Rural Settlements Clifton, Elswick, Singleton and Weeton. The smaller rural settlements have fewer essential services and employment opportunities and tend to have limited transport connections with the Key Service Centres, Local Service Centres and the Strategic Locations for Development, identified in Policy DLF1. Within the rural areas, development will be restricted to the Tier 1: and Tier 2: Larger and Smaller Rural Settlements, except where development is allowed by Policy GD2, GD3 or GD4 as applicable. Development will be permitted within the limits of the rural settlement boundaries where it is consistent with other policies in this Plan. Development that is appropriate to the scale and character of settlements at each level of the settlement hierarchy, will be promoted in accordance with the Development Strategy.

Tourism Accommodation

Holiday Areas High quality serviced tourism accommodation (e.g. hotels) will be encouraged in the Holiday Areas in St Annes, as defined on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, provided that proposals: a. respect the character of the area; b. do not prejudice the visual and other amenities of nearby residential properties; and c. do not adversely affect the nature conservation assets of the coastline and protected species, including the Ribble and Alt Estuaries SPA / Ramsar site. Loss of serviced tourism accommodation either to non-serviced accommodation or to other uses in these areas will be resisted. Holiday Caravans and Camping Pitches Holiday caravan pitches will be retained for holiday use. Proposals to allow residential use of existing holiday caravan pitches an

Tourism Accommodation

High quality serviced tourism accommodation (e.g. hotels) will be encouraged in the Holiday Areas in St Annes, as defined on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, provided that proposals: a. respect the character of the area; b. do not prejudice the visual and other amenities of nearby residential properties; and c. do not adversely affect the nature conservation assets of the coastline and protected species, including the Ribble and Alt Estuaries SPA / Ramsar site. Loss of serviced tourism accommodation either to non-serviced accommodation or to other uses in these areas will be resisted. Holiday caravan pitches will be retained for holiday use. Proposals to allow residential use of existing holiday caravan pitches and holiday park homes will be resisted. Conditions will be imposed on any permissions granted for additional holiday caravan pitches and holiday park homes to ensure that they are retained for holiday use. A limited increase in static and touring caravan and camping pitches will be permitted within existing site boundaries in order to enable environmental improvements.

Vibrant Town, District and Local Centres

The town, district and local centres; and primary and secondary frontages are defined on the Policies Map which includes Inset Plans and accompanies this plan. Retail Hierarchy of Centres The retail hierarchy of town, district and local centres within Fylde is as follows: 1. Town Centres • Kirkham; • Lytham; and • St Annes. 2. District Centres • Ansdell. 3. Local Centres • Freckleton; • Alexandria Drive, St Annes; • Headroomgate Road, St Annes; • St Davids Road North, St Annes; • St Albans Road, St Annes; • A local centre is proposed in Warton; • A local centre is proposed in Whitehills; and • A local centre is proposed in Whyndyke. In the town centres, as defined on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, retail and other main town centre uses, including the following uses, will be encouraged within the defined town centres: Retail (A1), Financial and Professional Services (A2), Restaurants and Cafes (A3), Drinking Establishments (A4), Hot Food Takeaways (A5), Business (B1), Hotels (C1), Non-residential Institutions (D1) and Assembly and Leisure (D2). Primary Shopping Frontage In the primary shopping frontages, as defined on Policies Map including Inset Plans, proposals for the change of use from A1, A2 and A3 uses to other uses will be required to meet the following criteria: a) The proposal retains a pedestrian-level shop front with windows and display; b) Any proposed non A1, A2 and A3 uses at pedestrian level should, wherever possible, have operational hours that include at least a part of traditional opening times (9.00am – 5.00pm). Uses that involve operational hours in the evening or night should not create unacceptable disturbance or nuisance to residents or other users of the centre and surrounding areas. Secondary Shopping Frontage In the secondary shopping frontages, as defined on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, proposals for main town centre uses will be permitted at ground and upper floor levels. Uses that involve operational hours in the evening or night should not create unacceptable disturbance to residents or other users of the centre and surrounding areas. Wood Street, St Annes Within Wood Street, St Annes redevelopment or changes of use to restaurants, cafes and drinking establishments, or extensions to such existing uses will be permitted, subject to any external works being in keeping with the character and amenities of the town centres, and impacts on neighbours being acceptable. Office Development Office development will be encouraged within or on the edge of the defined town centres and on other sites allocated for Business (B1) development. The office development should be of a suitable scale and should not have an unacceptable impact on the locality by virtue of appearance, scale, highways and residential amenity. Town Centre Management Plans The Council will produce Town Centre Management Plans which will address the function and accessibility of each town centre, including appropriate public realm schemes. Development Outside of Town Centres Proposals for retail and leisure development in 'edge of centre' or 'out-of-centre' locations will be considered in line with the Framework, bearing in mind the impacts on existing centres. When assessing proposals for retail and leisure development outside of centres, a local threshold of any development more than 750 square metres, will apply in terms of requiring a retail impact assessment. When undertaking a sequential test, or retail impact assessment, it will be necessary to have regard to likely impact upon other centres, including those outside of Fylde. Ansdell District Centre Within Ansdell District Centre a range of appropriate services that support the role and function of the District Centre, including a supermarket, food and drink, leisure uses, public and community uses and other uses complementary to local shops, will be encouraged. Local Centres The following criteria apply to a change of use and development within Local Centres: a) Planning permission will be granted provided that: • The proposal would contribute in level, quality or range towards meeting local shopping needs; and • The proposal would not adversely affect the character of the centre or the amenity of adjoining property; and • The proposal would not adversely affect the vitality and viability of other nearby existing centres or prejudice future investment in those centres. b) Premises within Local Centres will be protected and enhanced for retail use (A1). Other uses such as financial and professional services (A2) and Restaurants and Cafes (A3) may be more appropriate to maintain / enhance the vitality and viability of the Local Centre and will be permitted at ground level where: • The development does not cause undue detriment to the centre's range of facilities, thereby threatening the centre's viability and vitality; • the development does not prejudice residential amenity or highway safety. c) Other non-retail uses, including residential, will be permitted if criteria 2(a) and 2(b) above are met and if they do not result in a break (i.e. a single unit) in the shopping frontage that would threaten the centre's viability and vitality. d) Where the applicant can demonstrate that the whole building will be fully utilised for retail / commercial purposes, the provision of apartments on the upper floors will be discouraged. A Local Centre is proposed in Warton to support the Warton Strategic Location for Development; and Local Centres are also proposed at Whitehills and Whyndyke to support the Fylde–Blackpool Periphery Strategic Location for Development. Within the proposed Warton Local Centre, Whitehills Local Centre and Whyndyke Local Centre, as identified indicatively on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, a range of appropriate services that support the role and function of the Local Centres will be encouraged, subject to criteria 1 - 4 above. The Local Centres at Warton, Whitehills and Whyndyke should include pedestrian and cycling linkages and access to public transport. Loss of Community, Leisure and Cultural Facilities and Services The loss of community, health, leisure and cultural facilities and services within town, district and local centres will be resisted unless it can be demonstrated that the facility is no longer needed, or it can be established that the services provided by the facility can be provided in an alternative location or manner that is equally accessible by the community, in accordance with Policy GD8 in Chapter 7.

Leisure, Culture and Tourism Development

The Council will plan for leisure, culture and tourism by: a) Promoting St Annes as a classic seaside resort, based on its tourism heritage, the seafront, Promenade and Ashton Gardens, its Victorian architecture and Pier. b) Promoting the principles of sustainable tourism through realising the potential of the Borough's heritage assets, in particular the Promenade Gardens and Ashton Gardens, St Annes Pier, Lytham Hall and its historic parkland, Lytham Windmill and Lowther Pavilion and Gardens. c) Supporting the high quality regeneration of The Island Sea Front Area at St Annes and the protection of seaside resort facilities, to support wider tourism, culture and the local economy. d) Reconstruction and enhancement of the manmade coastal defences at The Island Sea Front Area, Fairhaven Lake and Church Scar in order to encourage coastal tourism and recreation and help maintain flood defences. e) Encouraging daytime and evening business, leisure, cultural and heritage based tourism facilities, such as hotels, restaurants, cinemas, theatres, museums, swimming pools and leisure centres within town centres in Key Service Centres and in Local Service Centres. f) Protecting tourism, cultural, heritage and leisure assets, such as golf courses and the seaside resort facilities, with a view to helping them to adapt to new challenges by the use of development briefs. g) Promoting public art and public realm works and seeking developer contribution funding where appropriate and CIL compliant. h) Promoting beach leisure activities, coastal tourism and recreational events. i) Implementing the infrastructure projects identified in the Coastal Strategy, including the delivery of tourism and recreation. j) Encouraging the provision of training in leisure, culture or tourism development. k) Project specific Habitats Regulations Assessments (HRAs) will be required for any tourism and coastal defence developments near to the Ribble and Alt Estuaries SPA/Ramsar. The HRAs will need to demonstrate that there will be no likely significant effect upon European Sites before the tourism and / or coastal defence developments can be granted consent. The Island Sea Front Area at St Annes Leisure, culture and tourism development within The Island Sea Front Area, as defined on the Policies Map including Inset Plans, will be encouraged provided that proposals: i) are appropriate for a seafront location; ii) conserve and enhance heritage assets and their setting; iii) respect and enhance the character of the area; and iv) do not prejudice the visual and other amenities of the seafront and nearby residential properties. Non leisure, culture and tourism uses will not be permitted in this Sea Front Area. Ribby Hall Holiday Village Development of additional leisure, culture and tourism uses at Ribby Hall Holiday Village will be permitted within the boundary of the Holiday Village, provided that the amenities and character of the site are preserved and enhanced. The boundary of Ribby Hall Holiday Village is identified on the Policies Map including Inset Plans. Rural Tourism The promotion and enhancement of rural tourism will be encouraged through rural diversification to create small-scale, sensitively designed visitor attractions which: 1) Take advantage of the Borough's natural environment and heritage assets, including the Lancaster Canal corridor and towpath; 2) Encourage the reuse, rehabilitation and conversion of existing permanent and substantial buildings in rural areas to support the visitor economy; 3) Promote walking, cycling and horse riding, including long distance routes and linkages to national networks and trails, improvements to the coastal path and access to the coast; 4) Contribute to Fylde's open coastline and its enjoyment by visitors; and 5) Provide opportunities to access, learn about and conserve the natural and historic environment.

Parking Standards

Car parking should, wherever possible, be provided on site so as to ensure there is no detrimental effect on highway safety. A flexible approach to the level of car parking provision will be applied, dependent on the location of the development concerned.

Strategic Highway Improvements

Land within Fylde Borough is proposed for part of the route of the Preston Western Distributor Road which will link up to a new Junction 2 on the M55, and the Cottam Link Road. Planning permission will not be granted for any development in Fylde that would prejudice the construction of these roads, which are shown on the Policies Map including Inset Plans. The delivery of the following strategic highway improvements within Fylde will be supported: a. The M55 to Heyhouses (St Annes) Link Road; b. The M55 to Fleetwood Corridor improvements and c. The A585 Skippool – Windy Harbour Improvements.

Warton Aerodrome

The Aerodrome at Warton is a key piece of strategic infrastructure. The Council places great importance on the retention and development of its aviation capabilities, particularly in relation to military aerospace and information. Development proposals within the defined safeguarded area at Warton Aerodrome will not be permitted, unless the applicant can demonstrate that there would not be any potential for adverse impacts on aviation operations, or on defence navigation systems and communications. Development proposals within the wider area surrounding Warton Aerodrome will be assessed for potential for adverse impacts on aviation operations, and on defence navigation systems and communications. Where such impact is identified, planning permission will be refused. Development proposals that could compromise the security of the Warton Aerodrome and wider BAE Systems site at Warton will not be permitted.

Enhancing Sustainable Transport Choice

In order to secure the long term viability of the Borough and to allow for the increased movement of people and goods expected, the Council will work with neighbouring authorities and transport providers to improve accessibility across the Borough, improve safety and quality of life for residents and reduce the Borough's carbon footprint. Over the Local Plan period the Council will work with the Highway Authority (LCC), Highways England, Network Rail and transport providers to: a) Improve community health and wellbeing by providing alternative means of transport such as walking and cycling. This will be achieved through protecting and enhancing the existing public rights of way network; the provision of additional footpaths, cycleways and bridleways, where appropriate; and safeguarding land for the provision of a continuous footpath, cycleway and bridleway network along Fylde's coastline; b) Reduce the environmental impact of transport through suitable mitigation and design; c) Reduce transport emissions, such as carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, by encouraging greater usage of public transport facilities; d) Reduce congestion in the Key Service Centres of Lytham, St Annes and Kirkham to promote competitiveness and enhance the tourism economy; e) Prepare and actively promote travel plans for all new developments which generate significant amounts of movement, including both employment and residential; f) Improve public transport between the Strategic Locations for Development and nearby town centres, employment areas, tourism developments and to the rural parts of the Borough. g) Implement measures to deliver a shift to public transport, away from car use over the plan period, and where appropriate, support, promote and implement innovative public transport initiatives; h) Provide a rail / bus / tram interchange on the South Fylde Line; i) Support the shift towards new technologies and fuels by promoting low carbon travel choices and encouraging the development of ultra-low carbon / electric vehicles and associated infrastructure; j) Provide a park and ride at Kirkham and Wesham Railway Station; k) Provide improved pedestrian, disabled, cycling and public transport access to and from Kirkham and Wesham Railway Station; l) Improve and upgrade the North Fylde Railway Line and the South Fylde Railway Line, including improved service frequency on the latter; and m) Integrate different modes of transport, to ensure a comprehensive and coherent sustainable transport network. All planning applications for developments that generate significant amounts of movement should be supported by a Transport Statement or Transport Assessment, prepared in accordance with the Planning Practice Guidance. Any mitigation identified in the Transport Assessment or Transport Statement that is required to make the development acceptable must be implemented in accordance with the requirements of the Highway Authority.

Enhancing Sustainable Transport Choice

In order to secure the long term viability of the Borough and to allow for the increased movement of people and goods expected, the Council will work with neighbouring authorities and transport providers to improve accessibility across the Borough, improve safety and quality of life for residents and reduce the Borough's carbon footprint. Over the Local Plan period the Council will work with the Highway Authority (LCC), Highways England, Network Rail and transport providers to: a) Improve community health and wellbeing by providing alternative means of transport such as walking and cycling. This will be achieved through protecting and enhancing the existing public rights of way network; the provision of additional footpaths, cycleways and bridleways, where appropriate; and safeguarding land for the provision of a continuous footpath, cycleway and bridleway network along Fylde's coastline; b) Reduce the environmental impact of transport through suitable mitigation and design; c) Reduce transport emissions, such as carb