Planning in Huntingdonshire

Local Services and Community Facilities

A proposal for a new local service or community facility within a built-up area, or the extension of an existing local service or community facility on land immediately adjoining the built up area, will be supported where it: a. is of a scale to serve local needs; b. comprises up to a maximum of 600m² net internal floorspace for a main town centre use; and c. provides for a new service or facility or it retains or enhances an existing service or facility, including through the provision of premises suitable for mixed use or multiple community functions. Where permitted development rights do not apply a proposal which involves the loss of a local service or community facility will only be supported where: d. an equivalent service or community facility will be provided in a location with an equal or better level of accessibility for the community it is intended to serve; or e. it demonstrates that there is no reasonable prospect of that service or facility being retained or restored because either: i. there is insufficient community support for its continuation; or ii. reasonable steps have been taken to effectively market the property for its current use without success. A proposal will not be supported where the proposed loss is within a Key Service Centre and it would undermine the settlement's role in provision of services.

Gypsies, Travellers and Travelling Showpeople

New traveller sites outside of the Built-Up Area will be supported in sustainable locations where they respect the scale of the nearest settled community, and will be very strictly limited in open countryside that is away from existing settlements. The Council will therefore support a proposal which contributes to the delivery of Gypsy and Traveller pitches and Travelling Showspeople plots, where it satisfies each of the following criteria: a. the location is within 1.5 miles of a primary school and 2 miles of a GP surgery; b. the character and appearance of the wider landscape is not significantly harmed; c. the location and scale of sites does not dominate the nearest settled community, when the proposal is considered collectively with other nearby traveller sites; d. the proposed boundary treatment provides a good balance between minimising the development's impact on surrounding countryside and its integration into the local community; e. there will not be a significant adverse effect on the amenity of nearby residents or the effective operation of adjoining uses; f. the site provides a high level of residential amenity for the proposed residents, for example in relation to protection from noise and provision of play facilities; g. the health and safety of occupants is not put at risk, including through unsafe access to sites, poor air quality, contamination or unacceptable flood risk; h. there is adequate space for operational needs, including the parking and turning of vehicles; i. there are appropriate management arrangements in place, where the site may have multiple owners or tenants or be used for transit purposes; and j. the site can be safely and adequately serviced by infrastructure.

Health Impact Assessment

A proposal for large scale development, defined in the 'Glossary', will be supported where it can be demonstrated that the design of the scheme has been informed by the conclusions of a rapid Health Impact Assessment. A proposal for large scale major development, defined in the 'Glossary', will be supported where it can be demonstrated that the design of the scheme has been informed by the conclusions of a full Health Impact Assessment.

Built-up Areas definition

A built-up area is considered to be a distinct group of buildings that includes 30 or more homes. Land which relates more to the group of buildings rather than to the surrounding countryside is also considered to form part of the built-up area.

Design Context

A proposal will be supported where it is demonstrated that it responds positively to its context and has drawn inspiration from the key characteristics of its surroundings, including natural, historic and built environment, to help create distinctive, high quality and well designed places. In order to achieve this a proposal will need to have applied the guidance contained in the Huntingdonshire Design Guide SPD (2017), the Huntingdonshire Landscape and Townscape Assessment SPD (2007) or successor documents and applicable conservation area character statements. A proposal should also have had regard to relevant advice or guidance that promotes high quality design, details the quality or character of the area or describes how the area should develop in the future.

Design Implementation

New development and advertisements will be expected to be well designed based upon a thorough understanding of constraints and appraisal of the site's context, delivering attractive, usable and long lasting buildings and spaces. A proposal will be supported, therefore, where it can be demonstrated that it: Response to context a. contributes positively to the area's character and identity; b. successfully integrates with adjoining buildings, the routes and spaces between buildings, topography and landscape; Streets and spaces shaped by buildings c. creates attractive and appropriately scaled built frontages to positively enhance the townscape, avoiding the introduction of incongruous and/or intrusive elements into key views and vistas; d. delivers a balanced mix of compatible buildings and uses, promoting variety, choice and economic activity; e. enables the wider area to achieve a coherent and integrated built form including considering potential future development or redevelopment of adjoining sites; Ease of getting around f. promotes accessibility and permeability for all by creating safe and welcoming places that connect with each other and are easy to move through, putting people before traffic and integrating land uses and transport; g. provides recognisable and understandable places, routes and points of reference; Well designed public spaces h. promotes a sense of place to include attractive streets, squares and other public spaces with a defined sense of enclosure, with multi-functional green spaces and corridors; i. creates development that will function well and is safe and secure to use; Sustainable design and construction methods j. makes efficient use of energy, water and other resources, such that all new homes comply with the optional building regulation for water efficiency, as set out in Approved Document G and non-residential uses meet Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM) standards (or successor or equivalent standards) 'Good' as a minimum; k. secures a distinctive environment for the development through high quality hard and soft landscaping and boundary treatments; l. ensures that public and private amenity spaces are clearly defined and are designed to be inclusive, usable, safe and enjoyable; m. successfully integrates the functional needs of the development including refuse and recycling, cycle storage and car parking so that their dominance is minimised; n. implements a cohesive design through the use of a limited palette of quality, durable materials with an attention to detail particularly where different elements and materials meet; and o. does not impede pedestrian and vehicular movements or impact on public safety.

Placemaking

A proposal for large scale development, defined in the 'Glossary', will be expected to be supported by a master planning process proportionate to the scale and complexity of the site and development proposed. Such processes should include identification of options and objective reasoning for arriving at the selected approach. Outputs from the process should include a strategy for how good design is to be achieved, including the general layout, mix and scale of all uses proposed as part of the development and the design principles that will need to be applied. The master planning process for a large scale major development, defined in the 'Glossary', will be expected to include production of a design code. A design code will also be required where it is known from the outset that the site will be developed in more than one phase or by more than one developer. Where a proposal is to be accompanied by a master plan or design code the applicant should be prepared to engage positively with independent design review at an early stage if requested to do so by the Council. Applicants will be expected to implement recommendations from the process.

Amenity

A proposal will be supported where a high standard of amenity is provided for all users and occupiers of the proposed development and maintained for users and occupiers of neighbouring land and buildings. A proposal will therefore be required to ensure: a. adequate availability of daylight and sunlight for the proposed use, minimising the effects of overshadowing and the need for artificial light; b. the physical relationships arising from the design and separation of buildings are not oppressive or overbearing, and in particular will not result in overlooking causing loss of privacy; c. that predicted adverse noise impacts, including internal and external levels, timing, duration and character, will be acceptable; d. that predicted adverse impacts from the following sources will be made acceptable: i. obtrusive light; ii. contamination; iii. air pollution; iv. water pollution; v. odour; vi. dust; and vii. overheating e. adequate and accessible waste storage is provided, avoiding adverse impacts; f. the risk and perceived risk of crime is minimised, including through applying relevant guidance from Secured by Design; g. that all homes, businesses and main town centre uses are capable of being served by super-fast broadband through the integration of appropriate measures such as open access ducting to industry standards; and h. that there would be no adverse effect on safety near a notifiable installation and no increase in the number of people that would be put at risk in the vicinity of a notifiable installation.

Park View Garage, Brampton

0.4ha of land at Park View Garage, Brampton is allocated for employment development to be comprised of light industrial use (class 'B1c'). Successful development of the site will require: a. incorporation of the protected trees into a comprehensive landscaping scheme b. An appropriately high quality design recognising this sites prominent location at a 'gateway' for Brampton c. rationalisation to a single safe access point onto the highway network

West of Railway, Brampton Road, Huntingdon

2ha of land west of the railway is allocated for business uses (class 'B1a' and/ or 'B1b'). Successful development of the site will require: a. an air quality assessment and low emissions strategy b. preservation and where possible enhancement of affected heritage assets c. appropriate noise mitigation d. design appropriate to the prominent location and being set in landscaped grounds reflecting the Views Common context and the Huntingdon Conservation Area e. a single point of access for the whole site which ensures a safe pedestrian route is retained along Brampton Road f. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

South of Bicton Industrial Estate, Kimbolton

1.3ha of land adjacent to Bicton Industrial Estate, Kimbolton is allocated for light industrial business uses (class 'B1c'). Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of satisfactory access appropriate to the nature of traffic b. provision of a tree buffer on the eastern and southern boundary to provide a screen to the surrounding countryside c. safeguarding the adjacent county wildlife site

Established Employment Areas

Areas of land and buildings that contribute to the local economy and provide on-going employment opportunities have been identified as Established Employment Areas. A proposal for business development (class 'B') will be supported on land within an Established Employment Area or on land immediately adjoining and capable of being integrated with an Established Employment Area. A proposal for a use other than business (class 'B') within an Established Employment Area will only be supported where it demonstrates that: a. it will be compatible with surrounding employment uses taking account of amenity and public safety issues; b. it will not adversely affect the role and continuing viability of the Established Employment Area as an attractive and suitable location for employment uses; c. it will not significantly reduce the range, availability and suitability of land and buildings for employment uses in the nearest Spatial Planning Area or Key Service Centre; and d. the sequential approach to site selection, as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework, has been followed if the proposal includes main town centre uses. Where any proposal for any use within an Established Employment Area has potential to impact on Portholme, the Ouse Washes, Woodwalton Fen or Orton Pits it should be demonstrated that there will be no adverse impact on the protected site.

Rural Economy

A proposal for business development in the countryside will only be supported where it fulfils the requirements of one of the following categories. New business development A proposal for business uses (class 'B') will be supported where it: a. is within a defined Established Employment Area; b. immediately adjoins and is capable of being integrated with an Established Employment Area; c. involves the reuse of land in use or last used for business uses (class 'B'); or d. involves the reuse or replacement of existing buildings as set out in policy LP 33 'Rural Buildings'. In all cases office uses (class 'B1a') will be limited to a total of 600m2 floorspace. Expansion of an existing business A proposal for the expansion of an established business within its existing operational site will be supported. A proposal for the expansion of an established industrial or rural business on land outside of its existing operational site in the open countryside will be supported where it is demonstrated that: e. opportunities to reuse existing buildings have been fully explored; and replacement or new build are only proposed where it can be demonstrated that no suitable reuse opportunities are available; f. any opportunities to make more efficient use of land within the existing site boundary are not suitable for the proposed use; g. it avoids the irreversible loss of the best and most versatile agricultural land (Grade 1 to 3a) particularly Grade 1 where possible and should use land of lower agricultural value in preference to land of higher agricultural value; and h. the scale, character and siting of the proposal will not have a detrimental impact on its immediate surroundings and the wider landscape. A rural business is one which has a legitimate reason to be located in the countryside, including but not limited to agriculture, horses, horticulture or forestry. Farm diversification A proposal for farm diversification will be supported where it is demonstrated that it is complementary and subsidiary to the ongoing agricultural operations of the farm business, and that it meets criteria e-h above.

Giffords Farm, St Ives

5.6ha of land at Giffords Farm, east of Somersham Road (B1040) is allocated for employment development to comprise any class 'B' uses except 'B1a' offices and 'B8' storage and distribution. Successful development of the site will require: a. detailed flood risk assessment and flood mitigation works as appropriate b. suitable access

Yax Pak, Yaxley

3.2ha at Yax Pak, Broadway, Yaxley is allocated for employment development to comprise business uses (class 'B1') or general industrial uses (class 'B2'). Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of a flood risk assessment and drainage strategy, to be produced in agreement with relevant bodies b. appropriate vehicle and pedestrian access

Renewable and Low Carbon Energy

A proposal for a renewable or low carbon energy generating scheme, other than wind energy, will be supported where it is demonstrated that all potential adverse impacts including cumulative impacts are or can be made acceptable. A proposal for wind energy development will only be supported where: a. it lies within the area identified as suitable for wind energy development, being the whole of the district with the exception of the Great Fen and its Landscape and Visual Setting, or within an area defined in an adopted neighbourhood plan; and b. following consultation, as set out in the Wind Turbine Development guidance note, the Council is satisfied that all potential adverse planning impacts, including cumulative impacts and those identified by affected local communities, have been fully addressed. When identifying and considering the acceptability of potential adverse planning impacts their significance and level of harm will be weighed against the public benefits of the proposal. When identifying and considering impacts on heritage assets and/ or their settings special regard will be had to the desirability of protecting and enhancing the significance of such assets. When identifying and considering landscape and visual impacts regard will be had to the Wind Energy in Development in Huntingdonshire SPD (2014) and the Huntingdonshire Landscape and Townscape Assessment SPD (2007) or successor documents. Having identified potential adverse impacts the proposal must seek to address them all firstly by seeking to avoid the impact, then to minimise the impact. The acceptability of impacts on the significance of heritage assets will be considered at this point. For all other impacts alternative enhancement and/ or compensatory measures should be assessed and included in order to make the impact acceptable. All reasonable efforts to avoid, minimise and, where appropriate, compensate will be essential for significant adverse impacts to be considered fully addressed. Sufficient evidence will need to have been provided to demonstrate that adverse impacts on designated nature conservation sites can be adequately mitigated. Where relevant this will include sufficient information to inform a Habitats Regulations Assessment. A proposal for an extension of time to the permitted period for time limited planning permissions for a renewable or low carbon energy generation installation will be required to demonstrate that the measures to address adverse planning impacts remain effective and adhere to prevailing standards. Provision will be made for the removal of apparatus and reinstatement of the site to an acceptable condition, should the scheme become redundant or at the end of the permitted period for time limited planning permissions.

Hinchingbrooke Country Park Extension, Huntingdon

27.5ha of land adjacent to Hinchingbrooke Country Park is allocated for green infrastructure. Successful delivery of the site will require: a. provision of additional pedestrian paths, including a north to south route via the eastern edge of the island b. provision of interpretation boards, way-marking signs and bird watching hides c. management to improve the site's value for biodiversity d. an appropriately detailed flood risk assessment considering relevant forms of flood risk and the intended use followed by a management strategy including appropriate practices to ensure that the public is not exposed to unacceptable risk e. a new car park off Huntingdon Road

The Countryside

Development in the countryside will be restricted to the limited and specific opportunities as provided for in other policies of this plan. All development in the countryside must: a. seek to use land of lower agricultural value in preference to land of higher agricultural value: i. avoiding the irreversible loss of the best and most versatile agricultural land (Grade 1 to 3a) where possible, and ii. avoiding Grade 1 agricultural land unless there are exceptional circumstances where the benefits of the proposal significantly outweigh the loss of land; b. recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the countryside; and c. not give rise to noise, odour, obtrusive light or other impacts that would adversely affect the use and enjoyment of the countryside by others.

Surface Water

A proposal will only be supported where surface water has been considered from the outset as an integral part of the design process and: a. the proposal incorporates sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) in accordance with the Cambridgeshire Flood and Water Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) or successor documents and advice from Cambridgeshire County Council as Lead Local Flood Authority, unless demonstrated to be inappropriate; b. provisions are put in place to ensure that SuDS will be maintained; c. if the drainage system would directly or indirectly involve discharge to a watercourse that the Environment Agency are responsible for the details of the discharge have been agreed with them; d. if a road would be affected by the drainage system the details have been agreed with the relevant highway authority; e. if the drainage system would discharge water to systems controlled by the Middle Level Commissioners or an internal drainage board their standing advice or guidance has been taken into account and the details of the discharge have been agreed with them; f. if the drainage system would directly or indirectly involve discharge to the River Great Ouse the incorporation of water retaining features as part of the drainage system has been prioritised; and g. there is no adverse impact on, or unacceptable risk to, the quantity or quality of water resources or on meeting the objectives of the Water Framework Directive and the Habitats Directive. SuDS for hard-standing areas for parking of 50 or more cars, or equivalent areas will be expected to include appropriate additional treatment stages/ interceptors to ensure that any pollution risks are suitably addressed. In order to safeguard against the pollution of ground water the use of deep infiltration SuDS, such as deep borehole soakaways, will not be accepted in most circumstances. Exemptions will only be made in exceptional circumstances if the proposal is for land uses that pose a very low pollution risk and are supported by an adequate risk assessment, conceptual site model and detailed design.

Green Infrastructure

A proposal will be expected to support green infrastructure and will therefore be supported where it demonstrates that it: a. incorporates open/ green space in accordance with the Council's Developer Contributions Supplementary Planning Document (2011) (SPD), or successor documents; b. protects and where possible enhances existing green infrastructure, concentrating efforts on protecting, enhancing or creating links within, to and between green infrastructure priority areas and the Cambridgeshire Strategic Green Infrastructure Network; c. is consistent with the objectives of the Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure Strategy (2011) or successor documents; d. improves the accessibility, naturalness and connectivity of green spaces, assisting in achieving Natural England's Accessible Natural Green Space Standards (ANGSt); e. provides replacement provision where the proposal would result in harm to or loss of existing green infrastructure where the replacement provides a net benefit, judged in terms of the factors set out in the Cambridgeshire Green Infrastructure Strategy (2011); f. maintains and where appropriate enhances the rights of way network; and g. contributes to the re-naturalisation of water bodies such as rivers and lakes, where possible. Green Infrastructure Priority Areas Several Green Infrastructure Priority Areas have been identified, as indicated on 'The Key Diagram' and shown on the Policies Map. They have potential to consolidate and link important habitats and facilitate access improvements. A proposal within a priority area will be supported where the requirements for that area will be achieved. The Great Fen Within the Great Fen a proposal will only be supported where it is clearly demonstrated that it will make a positive contribution towards the implementation of the Great Fen Master Plan (2010) or successor documents. A proposal that lies outside the designated Great Fen area, but within its Landscape and Visual Setting will be expected to demonstrate consideration of the landscape and visual impacts that the proposal could have on the Great Fen, such as how the proposal might affect the aims of the Great Fen project to establish an area where the experience gained by visitors will be one of a tranquil area of countryside unaffected by urban encroachment. Great Ouse Valley A proposal within the Ouse Valley Landscape Character Area, defined in the Huntingdonshire Landscape and Townscape Assessment Supplementary Planning Document will be supported where it contributes to the landscape, wildlife, cultural and historical value of the area. A proposal at Paxton Pits will be supported where it helps to deliver the objectives of the Nature Reserve Management Plan (2017) and/ or the objectives of the Reserve Management Strategy for the planned extension to Paxton Pits Nature Reserve (2007) or successor documents. Nene Valley Within the Nene Valley Nature Improvement Area (NIA) a proposal will be supported where it can be demonstrated that it is compatible with the objectives of the NIA and where possible enables identified habitat opportunities to be realised. Grafham Water A proposal within the Grafham Water Landscape Character Area, defined in the Huntingdonshire Landscape and Townscape Assessment Supplementary Planning Document, will be supported where it enhances or creates ecological or landscape linkages between Grafham Water and woodland in the vicinity. Enhanced access will also be supported subject to compatibility with the landscape and biodiversity. A proposal will be supported where it involves the role, function and continued operation or enhancement of Grafham Water Reservoir, its Treatment Works and associated networks. Associated facilities A proposal to provide facilities associated with strategic green infrastructure in the countryside will be supported where a countryside location is justified, the use is compatible with the green infrastructure in question and adverse effects are avoided.

Biodiversity and Geodiversity

A proposal will be required to demonstrate that all potential adverse impacts on biodiversity and geodiversity have been investigated. A proposal that is likely to have an impact, either direct or indirect, on biodiversity or geodiversity will need to be accompanied by an appropriate appraisal, such as a Preliminary Ecological Appraisal, identifying all individual and cumulative potential impacts on biodiversity and geodiversity. Any further research that is identified as necessary by this appraisal will need to have been carried out and submitted with the proposal. Where a proposal has potential to affect an internationally important site an 'appropriate assessment' in accordance with the Habitats Directive will be required and sufficient information to enable such an assessment to be completed must be submitted with the proposal. All possible efforts must be taken to avoid adverse impacts. If it is demonstrated that adverse impacts are unavoidable they must be minimised as far as possible and then mitigated. Only where this process of avoidance, minimisation and then mitigation is insufficient to fully address adverse impacts will consideration be given to compensation measures. Following this process a proposal will only be supported subject to a hierarchy where: a. a site of international importance, being a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), Special Protection Area (SPA) or Ramsar site would be affected there has to be exceptional overriding reasons of human health, public safety or environmental benefit; b. a site of national importance, such as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or National Nature Reserve (NNR) would be affected there has to be exceptional circumstances where the need for, and the benefits of, the proposal significantly outweigh both the potential impacts on the features of the site that make it of national importance and any broader impacts on the national network of such sites; c. a protected species, a priority habitat or species, a site of local or regional importance, the achievement of water body good ecological potential, or the biodiversity value of the proposed development site as part of the wider network would be affected, the need for and the benefits of the proposal must clearly outweigh the assessed impacts. A proposal will not be supported if potential impacts would lead to the deterioration of water body ecological status/ potential. A proposal will ensure no net loss in biodiversity and provide a net gain where possible, through the planned retention, enhancement and creation of habitats and wildlife features, appropriate to the scale, type and location of development. Large scale development proposals should provide an audit of losses and gains in biodiversity produced according to a recognised methodology. In seeking to provide net gains for biodiversity reference should be had to the Natural Cambridgeshire publication 'Developing with Nature Toolkit' and the proposal should prioritise measures that: d. complement or enhance existing features of biodiversity value within the design and layout of development; e. provide new biodiversity features within the development; f. help reverse the decline of species; g. assist in achieving local targets for priority habitats and species including those set out in Habitat Action Plans; h. improve public access to nature; i. ensure the effective management of biodiversity or geological features; j. contribute to the provision of multi-functional green infrastructure to enhance ecological networks and the Green Infrastructure Priority Areas k. contribute towards the achievement of good ecological status in water bodies (or not compromise achievement of good ecological potential) in accordance with the Anglian River Basin Management Plan (RBMP) and accompanying catchment action plans; or l. will help species adapt to climate change.

Trees, Woodland, Hedges and Hedgerows

A proposal will be required to demonstrate that the potential for adverse impacts on trees, woodland, hedges and hedgerows has been investigated. Where investigations show that such adverse impacts are possible a statement will be required that: a. assesses all trees, woodland, hedges and hedgerows that would be affected by the proposal, describing and assessing their value; b. sets out how the details of the proposal have been decided upon in terms of their impact on the value of trees, woodland, hedges and hedgerows and how adverse impacts will be avoided as far as possible, or if unavoidable how they will be minimised as far as possible. A proposal will only be supported where it seeks to conserve and enhance any existing tree, woodland, hedge or hedgerow of value that would be affected by the proposed development. In such cases the proposal will be expected to make reference to and follow the guidance contained in the Council's A Tree Strategy for Huntingdonshire (2015) or successor documents. Loss, threat or damage to any tree, woodland, hedge or hedgerow of visual, heritage or nature conservation value will only be acceptable where: c. it is addressed firstly by seeking to avoid the impact, then to minimise the impact and finally where appropriate to include mitigation measures; or d. there are sound arboricultural reasons to support the proposal. Where impacts remain the need for, and benefits of, the development in that location must clearly outweigh the loss, threat or damage. Where loss, threat or damage cannot be fully addressed through minimisation and/or mitigation measures the proposal may be supported if alternative measures such as reinstatement of features, additional landscaping, habitat creation or tree planting will compensate for the harm and can be implemented and established before development starts. A proposal for major scale development will be required to include additional new trees to form part of landscaping for the proposal, the form of which will be determined by negotiation.

Protection of Open Space

A proposal that would lead to the whole or partial loss of an area of open space of public value will only be supported where there would be no significant adverse impact on the character of the surrounding area and: a. the loss is minimised where possible and compensatory measures are put in place that provide a net benefit to the community that is served by the space, which will be judged in terms of availability, accessibility, quality and quantity; or b. where the loss involves outdoor sport or recreational space: i. the proposal is for, or includes, development of the space for an alternative outdoor sport or recreational use of an equivalent or better quality and of equivalent or greater quantity, in a suitable location and subject to equivalent or better management arrangements, prior to the commencement of development; or ii. the loss is justified by an assessment that demonstrates that the space is clearly surplus to the requirements of the current local population and the population of planned development that would be served by the space. In order to ensure that compensatory measures provide net benefits to the community the proposal will be expected to include enhancement of any remaining open space in cases of partial loss, the enhancement of other existing spaces or new provision that would serve the same community as that being lost. New provision for the loss of sports or recreational open space should be in a form that best meets an identified existing need, as agreed with the Council. A Local Green Space may be designated in a Neighbourhood Development Plan where it accords with the criteria in the NPPF (see paragraphs 99-101). A proposal for development on a designated Local Green Space will only be supported in very special circumstances, in line with the NPPF.

Air Quality

A proposal will need to be accompanied by an Air Quality Assessment where: a. it is for large scale major development, defined in the 'Glossary'; b. it would potentially conflict with an Air Quality Action Plan; c. any part of the site is located within 50m of an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) or a Clean Air Zone (CAZ); d. a significant proportion of the traffic generated would go through an AQMA or a CAZ; or e. any part of the site is located within 100m of a monitoring site where the annual mean level of nitrogen dioxide exceeds 35μg/m3. An Air Quality Assessment should be proportionate to the nature and scale of the proposal and the level of concern about air quality, but should assess: f. the existing state of air quality surrounding the site; g. how the proposal could affect air quality during construction and operational phases; h. the extent to which people could be exposed to poor air quality; and i. how biodiversity could be affected by changes in air quality as a result of the proposal. A proposal will need to be accompanied by a low emissions strategy where the air quality assessment shows that the proposal would: j. have a significant adverse effect on air quality; k. have an adverse effect on the air quality factors that led to the affected AQMA being designated; l. cause a significant increase in the number of people that would be exposed to poor air quality; or m. lead to a designated nature conservation site or protected species that is sensitive to poor air quality being adversely affected by changes in air quality. The low emissions strategy will include measures that mitigate the impacts of the proposed development by contributing to the improvement of air quality and/ or the reduction of emissions relating to the designation of the affected AQMA/ CAZ, prioritising actions identified in relevant Air Quality Action Plans/ CAZ action plans or equivalent documents. In other circumstances, where identified as necessary based on a transport assessment/ statement, measures to reduce air pollution arising from traffic and traffic congestion may also be required.

Ground Contamination and Groundwater Pollution

Where ground contamination of a site and/ or adjacent land is possible, due to factors including but not limited to existing or previous uses, the risks of ground contamination, including ground water and ground gases, will need to be investigated. Where investigation shows that development could result in an unacceptable risk or a controlled waters receptor (principal or secondary aquifer) exists a risk assessment will be required. If the risk assessment shows that the risk is acceptable the proposal will be supported, subject to appropriate arrangements being put in place to ensure that work stops if unexpected contamination comes to light. If the risk assessment shows that risks will not be acceptable, then a more detailed investigation or remediation scheme will be required. Only where the more detailed investigation or remediation scheme shows that the risks can be made acceptable will the proposal be supported, subject to appropriate arrangements being put in place to ensure that work stops if unexpected contamination comes to light. Where remediation is necessary a strategy or scheme for its implementation and, where appropriate, maintenance will need to be agreed, which demonstrates that: a. the site is safe for development; b. there would be no adverse health impacts to future/ surrounding occupiers; and c. there will be no deterioration of, or minimal impact on, the environment as a result of contamination. Upon completion of the agreed remediation strategy/scheme a Verification Report will need to be submitted to demonstrate compliance with the scheme. Protection of Groundwater A proposal within a Source Protection Zone (SPZ) 1 or within 50m of a private potable groundwater source that includes any of the following development types will only be supported where adequate safeguards against possible contamination can be agreed, implemented and maintained: septic tanks, waste water treatment works, chemicals storage tanks or underground storage tanks; sustainable drainage systems with ground infiltration; oil pipelines; storm water overflows and below ground attenuation tanks; activities that involve the disposal of liquid waste to land; cemeteries and graveyards; or other types of development identified in the Environment Agency's Groundwater Protection guides, or successor documents. A proposal within a SPZ 2 or 3 or on a principal or secondary aquifer will be considered on a risk based approach with the exception of development involving sewerage, trade and storm effluent to ground or deep soakaways, which will only be supported where it can be demonstrated that these are necessary, are the only option available and adequate safeguards against possible contamination of groundwater can be agreed, implemented and maintained. A proposal in any SPZ will be expected to provide full details of the proposed construction of new buildings and construction techniques, including foundation design.

Water Related Development

A proposal for water related development will be supported where it can be demonstrated that: a. it will not overload the environmental, navigational or flood conveyance capacity of the watercourse or water body; b. adequate servicing is provided, including water supply, electricity, and disposal facilities for sewage and waste; c. it will not impede the use of leisure moorings or berths or navigation or lead to hazardous boat movements; d. the use of any publicly accessible paths or other forms of access to the water body will not be compromised or impeded; e. measures will be incorporated to maintain or enhance water quality and quantity and river morphology, with reference to the Environment Agency's Anglian river basin district River Basin Management Plan and the Water Framework Directive; f. biodiversity of the water, its margins and nearby nature conservation sites will be maintained or enhanced; g. it will not lead to any adverse impact on flood risk or flood defences or displacement of flood risk; h. it will contribute to the re-naturalisation of the water body; and i. there is adequate demand to justify the creation of new berths or moorings where they are proposed. Residential Moorings In addition to applicable criteria above a proposal for a berth or mooring for permanent sole or main residential use will be supported where: j. the boat will be moored to the bank of a watercourse or water body where that bank is within the built-up area of any settlement; or k. the proposal is for a berth in a marina, where the marina is within or immediately adjacent to the built-up area of any settlement and the use would not lead to a change in the character of the marina away from a tourist/ leisure facility.

Flood Risk

Location of development A proposal will only be supported where all forms of flood risk, including breaches of flood defences or other defence failures, have been addressed, as detailed in the National Planning Practice Guidance and with reference to the Cambridgeshire Flood and Water Supplementary Planning Document (SPD), such that: a. the sequential approach and sequential test are applied and passed, having regard to actual and residual flood risk and including consideration of the impact of climate change; b. if necessary the exception test is applied and passed; c. development has been sequentially located within the site to avoid flood risk; d. all reasonable opportunities to reduce overall flood risk have been considered and where possible taken; e. the integrity of existing flood defences is not adversely affected and any necessary flood mitigation and compensation measures have been agreed with relevant bodies and the Council; and f. the requirements relating to flood risk set out in the Cambridgeshire Flood and Water SPD have been applied. Any reliance on emergency services to make a proposal safe will not be acceptable. Safety risks will be determined with reference to the Defra guidance on flood risk safety FD2320 or successor guidance, on the basis that development should be 'safe for all' for a 1:100 annual probability flood event, for the lifetime of the development, with appropriate climate change allowances. Previously developed land in defended areas Where a proposal for redevelopment of Previously Developed Land (as defined in the 'Glossary') which benefits from flood defences is deemed appropriate following application of the sequential test and exception test it will be supported where: g. breach modelling has been completed to determine the residual risk in all instances for new vulnerable development; and h. safe access and egress can be provided with approval from the emergency planning authority that there is no additional reliance on their services as a result of the development. Managing flood water Where a proposal is considered to be acceptable within the 1% annual probability flood extent (flood zone 3), including an allowance for climate change for the lifetime of the development, the development must not result in a loss of flood storage capacity, reduced flow performance, increase the rate of flooding onset or result in an unsustainable form of flood storage requiring on-going silt removal, maintenance or renewal. Where a proposal would occupy functional flood plain (flood zone 3b), the developer must ensure that it does not impact upon the ability of the floodplain to store or convey water, and seek opportunities to provide floodplain betterment. Development will only be support where it results in no loss of floodplain performance within the undefended floodplain. Where ground levels are proposed to be raised to bring the development out of the floodplain compensatory floodplain storage within areas that currently lie outside the floodplain must be provided to ensure that the total volume and performance of floodplain storage is not reduced or vulnerability to climate change impacts increased. Site-specific flood risk assessments On a site that is at risk of flooding from any form, where there are critical drainage problems or on sites of 1 hectare or more the proposal will only be supported where a site-specific flood risk assessment has been produced, appropriate to the scale and nature of the development and risks involved, including consideration of the impact of climate change, and is agreed with relevant bodies. Such assessments will need to demonstrate that they comply with the requirements set out: i. in the Cambridgeshire Flood and Water SPD or successor documents; j. by any applicable responsible authority, including but not limited to the Environment Agency and Cambridgeshire County Council, as Lead Local Flood Authority; and k. by the Middle Level Commissioners or internal drainage boards, as may be applicable.

Rural Buildings

A proposal for the conversion of a building in the countryside that would not be dealt with through 'Prior Approval/ Notification' will be supported where it can be demonstrated that: a. the building is: i. redundant or disused; ii. of permanent and substantial construction; iii. not in such a state of dereliction or disrepair that significant reconstruction would be required; and iv. structurally capable of being converted for the proposed use; and b. the proposal: i. would lead to an enhancement of the immediate setting; and ii. any extension or alteration would not adversely affect the form, scale, massing or proportion of the building. A proposal for the replacement of a building in the countryside will be supported where criteria a, i to iii above are fulfilled and the proposal would lead to a clear and substantial enhancement of the immediate setting. A modest increase in floorspace will be supported. The position of the replacement buildings within the site should be considered comprehensively so that it is located where it would have the least possible adverse impact on the immediate surroundings, the wider landscape and the amenity of the users of existing buildings nearby.

Heritage Assets and their Settings

Great weight and importance is given to the conservation of heritage assets (see 'Glossary') and their settings. The statutory presumption of the avoidance of harm can only be outweighed if there are public benefits that are powerful enough to do so. A proposal will be required to demonstrate the potential for adverse impacts on the historic environment. Where investigations show that impacts on heritage assets or their settings, whether designated or not, are possible a heritage statement will be required, in a manner proportionate to the asset's significance, that: a. assesses all heritage assets and their settings that would be affected by the proposal, describing and assessing the significance of each asset and its setting to determine its architectural, historical or archaeological interest; b. sets out how the details of the proposal have been decided upon such that all adverse impacts are avoided as far as possible, or if unavoidable how they will be minimised as far as possible; c. details how, following avoidance and minimisation, the proposal would impact on the significance and special character of each asset; d. provides clear justification for the proposal, especially if it would harm the significance of an asset or its setting, so that the harm can be weighed against public benefits; and e. identifies ways in which the proposal could make a positive contribution to, or better reveal the significance of, affected heritage assets and their settings. Conversion, Alteration or Other Works to a Heritage Asset Additionally, where a proposal is for conversion, alteration, other works to a heritage asset or within its setting it must be demonstrated that the proposal: f. protects the significance of designated heritage assets and their settings by protecting and enhancing architectural and historic character, historical associations, landscape and townscape features and through consideration of scale, design, materials, siting, layout, mass, use, and views both from and towards the asset; g. does not harm or detract from the significance of the heritage asset, its setting and any special features that contribute to its special architectural or historic interest and the proposal conserves and enhances its special character and qualities; h. respects the historic form, fabric and special interest that contributes to the significance of the affected heritage asset; i. will conserve or enhance the quality, distinctiveness and character of the affected heritage asset; and j. contributes to securing the long-term maintenance and management of the heritage asset. The Council will consider the significance of a designated heritage asset and where there is less than substantial harm, this will be weighed against the public benefits of the proposal. Where there is deemed to be substantial harm, then the proposal would need to achieve substantial public benefits to outweigh that harm. Where a non-designated heritage asset would be affected a balanced judgement will be reached having regard to the scale of any harm and the significance of the heritage asset. Conservation Areas A proposal within, affecting the setting of, or affecting views into or out of, a conservation area should preserve, and wherever possible enhance, features that contribute positively to the area's character, appearance and setting as set out in character statements or other applicable documents. A proposal should: k. minimise negative impact on the townscape, roofscape, skyline and landscape through retention of buildings/ groups of buildings, existing street patterns, historic building lines and land form; l. retain and reinforce local distinctiveness with reference to height, scale, massing, form, materials and plot widths of the existing built environment; as well as retaining architectural details that contribute to the character and appearance of the conservation area; and m. where relevant and practical, remove features that are incompatible with or detract significantly from the conservation area. Archaeology If initial site assessment does not provide sufficient information to enable consideration of the impact of the proposal on the significance of archaeological remains, developers will be required to undertake fieldwork evaluation of a site in advance of determination of the application. Where possible and appropriate the preservation of archaeological remains in-situ should be ensured. Where this is either not possible or not desirable, as agreed with the Council, provision must be made for comprehensive recording, analysis of the results and publication. There will also be a requirement for preservation and where practical enhancement.

East of Silver Street and South of A1, Buckden

14.8ha of land at East of Silver Street and South of A1, Buckden is allocated for residential development of approximately 270 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of suitable access and satisfactory resolution of additional traffic impacts on local roads and the A1 b. a noise assessment and appropriate mitigation from the A1 and realigned A14 c. provision of a sustainable transport network for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles, which facilitates integration with the village d. an appropriate form of development that addresses the site's relationship with the allotments and adjoining homes e. retention and reinforcement of existing boundary landscaping and new boundary landscaping to provide screening and noise buffers f. an ecological assessment and enhancement scheme for the site that also addresses its impact on the County Wildlife Site g. a programme of work designed to investigate, and if necessary protect, archaeological assets h. provision of a surface water drainage strategy detailing on-site storage, drainage routes, and drainage rates i. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated j. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised k. design that incorporates any views of important landmarks

Luck's Lane, Buckden

10.3ha of land at Luck's Lane, Buckden is allocated for residential development of approximately 165 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. a noise assessment and mitigation from the A1 b. an air quality assessment and low emissions strategy c. satisfactory resolution of additional traffic impact on local roads having regard to a transport assessment and travel plan d. provision of safe and appropriate access from Stirtloe Lane to the A1 e. provision of a sustainable transport network for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles, which facilitates integration with the adjoining residential area f. an appropriate form of development that addresses the site's relationship with Springfield and The Osiers and provides clear separation from Stirtloe g. retention and reinforcement of boundary landscaping to provide screening, noise and pollution buffers h. provision of a surface water drainage strategy detailing on-site storage, drainage routes, and drainage rates i. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated j. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Former Dairy Crest Factory, Fenstanton

3.2ha of land formerly comprising the Dairy Crest factory is allocated for development of a mix of use to comprise: 1. approximately 90 homes 2. 0.5ha for employment uses (class 'B1') 3. a village hall or other community facility 4. open space Successful development of the site will require: a. satisfactory resolution of the impact of traffic having regard to a transport assessment including impact on the A14 or until such time as the A14 upgrade scheme is implemented b. provision of noise mitigation measures in relation to the adjoining A14 c. improvement to pedestrian and cycle links d. sensitive design having regard to the Conservation Area designation over part of the site and adjoining land e. retention and reuse of the listed building f. provision of agreed land contamination remediation measures g. retention of significant trees in accordance with an arboricultural assessment h. identification of shared use car parking and open space for the various uses on the site

Cambridge Road West, Fenstanton

4.5ha of land off Cambridge Road and to the west of the A14 access road at Fenstanton is allocated for mixed use development to comprise: 1. approximately 85 homes 2. a village hall or other community facility Successful development of the site will require: a. satisfactory resolution of the impact of traffic having regard to a transport assessment including impact on the A14 or until such time as the A14 upgrade scheme is implemented b. provision of a new access into the site from Cambridge Road c. improvement to pedestrian and cycle routes to link to the existing networks d. retention of the 0.42ha remnant orchard part of the site as open space e. use of the former allotment land in the eastern part of the site for provision of a village hall f. retention of important trees as identified in tree and ecology surveys g. retention of the existing pond on the site h. provision of noise mitigation measures in relation to the adjoining A14 i. setbacks from the A14 to reduce the visual effect of development on the landscape

Cambridge Road East, Fenstanton

2.4ha of land off Cambridge Road and to the east of the A14 access road at Fenstanton is allocated for mixed use development to comprise: 1. approximately 35 homes 2. 0.2ha extension to allotment gardens Successful development of the site will require: a. satisfactory resolution of the impact of traffic having regard to a transport assessment including impact on the A14 or until such time as the A14 upgrade scheme is implemented b. provision of safe access into the site c. improvement to pedestrian and cycle routes to link to the existing networks d. extension of the allotment land e. retention of important trees as identified in tree and ecology surveys f. provision of noise mitigation measures in relation to the adjoining A14 g. setbacks from the A14 to reduce the visual effect of development on the landscape

Ermine Street, Huntingdon

85ha of land at Ermine Street, Huntingdon is allocated for mixed use development to comprise: 1. approximately 1,440 homes 2. a potential realignment route for the A141 3. approximately 1,000m2 of shop floorspace (class 'A1') 4. food and drink retail (class 'A3' to 'A5') 5. a primary school and other social and community facilities to meet needs arising from the development 6. strategic green infrastructure Successful development of the site will require: a. satisfactory resolution of any impact caused by traffic generated from the allocation on the local and strategic road networks in accordance with the requirements of relevant highway authorities b. satisfactory resolution of any impact caused by traffic generated from the allocation on the surrounding local road network having regard to a transport assessment and travel plan c. safeguarding of land to facilitate provision of a realigned A141 d. provision of a sustainable transport network for vehicles, public transport, cyclists and pedestrians incorporating safe off-road routes connecting north and south parts of the site, to Huntingdon and to the Stukeleys e. provision of strategic green infrastructure to provide a substantial buffer between the development and Green End and to link with existing and planned green infrastructure in the surrounding area f. social and community facilities appropriate to the scale of development g. phasing of development to ensure provision of infrastructure and services coincides with occupation of properties h. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated i. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised j. flood risk assessment and provision of sustainable drainage systems k. separation from the gas pipeline and electricity transmission line in accordance with National Grid requirements l. all retail elements to be complementary to the continuing vitality and viability of the town centre m. a programme of work designed to investigate, and where appropriate, protect archaeological assets n. preparation of a detailed master plan and public consultation exercise agreed with the Council that addresses: i. provision of vehicular routes to be created ii. provision of a sustainable transport network for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians incorporating links to the surrounding area including the nearby right of way iii. Integration of development with the main built up area of Huntingdon iv. design codes or conceptual appearance of development proposals v. provision of primary and early years education facilities vi. phasing of development vii. landscape design recognising vistas, long distance views, boundaries and green infrastructure networks viii. mitigation against the potential impact of noise from the A14 and A141 development proposals

Dorling Way, Brampton

12ha of land at Dorling Way, Brampton is allocated for residential development of approximately 150 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. a noise assessment and mitigation from the A1 and A14 b. an air quality assessment and low emissions strategy c. satisfactory resolution of additional traffic impact on local roads having regard to a transport assessment and travel plan d. provision of a sustainable transport network for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles, which facilitates integration with the adjoining residential area e. an appropriate form of development that addresses the site's relationship with Laws Crescent and Dorling Way f. retention and reinforcement of boundary landscaping to provide screening, noise and pollution buffers g. a programme of work designed to investigate, record and where appropriate protect, archaeological assets h. provision of a surface water drainage strategy detailing on-site storage, drainage routes, and drainage rates i. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated j. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Brampton Park

32ha of land at Brampton Park is allocated for mixed use development to comprise: 1. approximately 600 homes 2. approximately 560m² (gross) of shop floorspace (class 'A1') 3. an appropriate viable use for the grade II listed Brampton Park House 4. community facilities to meet needs arising from the development 5. accessible open space and green infrastructure links Successful development of the site will require: a. satisfactory resolution of any additional traffic impact on the surrounding road network having regard to an agreed transport assessment and travel plan b. phasing of development, including the provision of community facilities, footpaths, cycle connections, public transport, open space, and affordable housing c. provision of a sustainable transport network for vehicles, cyclists and pedestrians which facilitate integration with Annington Homes and Brampton village d. provision of access from the existing roundabout on Buckden Road and re-opening of Park Lane e. use of design codes to create distinctive character areas f. landscape design recognising vistas, boundaries, trees and green infrastructure networks, paying particular attention to the area around the northern boundary and views of the grade II listed Brampton Park House g. incorporation of sustainable drainage systems

Brampton Park Golf Club Practice Ground

3ha of land at Brampton Golf Club, Buckden Road is allocated for residential development of approximately 65 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. a detailed flood risk assessment and flood mitigation works as appropriate and surface water management strategy b. a transport assessment and travel plan c. an ecological assessment and enhancement scheme d. a tree protection and landscape scheme e. provision of pedestrian and cycle routes to integrate the site with the surrounding network f. a programme of work designed to investigate, record and where appropriate protect, archaeological assets

RGE Engineering, Godmanchester

3ha of land at RGE Engineering, the Council owned Bridge Place public car park at The Avenue and land extending under the A14 flyover to Cook's Stream, Godmanchester is allocated for a mix of uses to comprise: 1. approximately 90 homes 2. re-provision of part of the site as public car park Successful development of the site will require: a. flood risk assessment considering all forms of flood risk and climate change with development sequentially located within the site and appropriate mitigation measures incorporated as necessary b. an air quality assessment and low emissions strategy c. a contamination assessment and mitigation measures as appropriate d. provision of high quality development to reflect the site's sensitive location and relationship with several listed buildings and the Huntingdon and Godmanchester conservation areas, ensuring that heritage assets and their settings are preserved and where possible enhanced e. provision of a cycle/ foot bridge across Cook's Stream to the dismantled railway line to link in with the wider pedestrian/ cycle network should be investigated and provided if possible f. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Wigmore Farm Buildings, Godmanchester

0.7ha of land east of Silver Street, Godmanchester is allocated for residential development of approximately 13 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. flood risk assessment considering all forms of flood risk and climate with development sequentially located within the site and appropriate mitigation measures incorporated as necessary b. provision of a single access route in the northern corner to Silver Street c. upgrading of Silver Street between the site entrance and Duck End in agreement with Cambridgeshire County Council d. provision of pedestrian links to the adjacent development (Comben Drive) via open space to the south e. provision of high quality development to reflect the site's sensitive location on the rural fringe of Godmanchester f. provision of landscaping adjacent to Silver Street on the western boundary g. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated h. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Bearscroft Farm, Godmanchester

45.5ha of land at Bearscroft Farm, Godmanchester is allocated for development of a mix of uses to comprise: 1. approximately 750 homes 2. 4.4ha of land for employment uses (all class 'B' uses except 'B8') 3. a neighbourhood centre to comprise 950m2 retail floorspace (classes 'A1', 'A2', 'A3' or 'A5'), of which not more than 700m2 to be shops (class 'A1') 4. a primary school on 2.3ha of land 5. an area of at least 2ha of accessible natural green space with comprehensive links to the wider green infrastructure network 6. social and community facilities to meet needs arising from development Successful development of the site will require: a. satisfactory resolution of any impact caused by traffic generated from development on the A14 in accordance with the Highways Agency's requirements or delivery of an upgraded A14 b. satisfactory integration of development with the existing built-up area of Godmanchester c. completion of a public consultation exercise agreed with the Council d. production and implementation of a development strategy that seeks to ensure balanced delivery of industrial and commercial development with development of homes, infrastructure, services and facilities e. design codes or conceptual appearance of development proposals f. landscape design recognising vistas, boundaries and green infrastructure networks, paying particular attention to the area around the eastern boundary g. the mixture of uses to be incorporated, including social and community facilities to meet the needs arising from development h. a sustainable transport network for vehicles, cyclists, pedestrians and public transport i. flood risk assessment and provision of sustainable drainage systems j. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated k. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Former Forensic Science Laboratory, Huntingdon

2.7ha of land at the former Huntingdon Forensic Science Laboratory, Christie Drive is allocated for residential development to comprise approximately 105 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. completion of a public master planning exercise agreed with the Council b. provision of appropriate access(es) to serve development c. provision of suitable and safe pedestrian and cycle routes to the surrounding area d. provision of additional landscaping on the western boundary and separating the residential and education facilities e. flood risk assessment and provision of sustainable drainage systems f. agreement with the Council in liaison with Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Former Police HQ site, Huntingdon

5.8ha of land at the Former Police HQ land, Hinchingbrooke Park Road, Huntingdon is allocated for mixed use development to comprise: 1. approximately 75 dwellings 2. supported housing or care home and/or supporting health care uses 3. structural open space and landscaping including retention of the existing tree belts between the hospital and the former police playing field, facing Hinchingbrooke Park Road and between Views Common and the former police playing field. Successful development of the site will require: a. landscape design recognising the setting provided by the historic parkland of Hinchingbrooke House and by Views Common and retaining protected trees within the site b. provision of safe and appropriate road accesses, cycle paths and footpaths that link in with wider transport plans as necessary c. a travel plan to cater for sustainable travel patterns d. preservation and where appropriate enhancement of heritage assets that may be affected including the Huntingdon Conservation Area e. a programme of work to investigate, and where appropriate protect, archaeological assets, protected trees and protected species f. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Edison Bell Way, Huntingdon

3.5ha of land adjoining the southern end of Edison Bell Way, Huntingdon is allocated for residential development of approximately 345 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. completion of a public master planning exercise agreed with the Council b. preservation and where possible enhancement of heritage assets and their settings affected by development, including Huntingdon Conservation Area and the Grade II listed buildings located immediately east and south of the site c. an air quality assessment and low emissions strategy d. integration with the existing pedestrian and cycle network e. high quality architectural design having regard to the conservation area, heritage assets and neighbouring uses f. high quality landscaping and public realm creating attractive, well-functioning spaces g. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated h. a contamination preliminary risk assessment and if necessary subsequent investigation and remediation appropriate to the proposed development

Gas Depot, Mill Common, Huntingdon

0.6ha of land at the former Gas Depot, Mill Common is allocated for residential development of approximately 11 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. assessment of the ecological impact of development, complying with the Habitats Regulations as necessary b. a flood risk assessment, taking account of all forms of flood risk and climate change, demonstrating that development will be sequentially located within the site and that it will be safe c. an air quality assessment and low emissions strategy d. completion of land contamination remediation measures appropriate to residential development e. provision of a single vehicular access from the east of the site f. provision of pedestrian access from the west of the site to the public footpaths connecting to the west g. high quality development which enhances the conservation area and reflects the sensitive landscape setting of the site h. publicly accessible open space along the water frontage with natural landscaping to protect and enhance biodiversity i. retention of trees and shrubs on the south, west and northern boundaries of the site to minimise the impact of development on views to and from Port Holme SAC/ SSSI and Huntingdon Conservation Area j. separation from the high pressure gas pipeline in accordance with National Grid requirements k. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated l. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

California Road, Huntingdon

1.3ha of land at California Road is allocated for residential development of approximately 55 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. a noise assessment and consequential mitigation measures b. appropriate flood risk assessment and surface water management plan c. archaeological investigation, recording and where appropriate conservation d. provision of vehicular, cycle and pedestrian routes to integrate the site with the adjoining development to the north e. provision of open space within the site for informal use and a play area as an integral part of development f. retention and enhancement of trees and shrubs on western boundary g. provision of landscape planting on the south western boundary to provide adequate screening between Huntingdonshire Regional College and the proposed scheme h. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated i. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

West of Station Road, Kimbolton

1.3ha of land west of Station Road, Kimbolton is allocated for residential development of approximately 20 dwellings. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of appropriate safe vehicular access to Station Road in accordance with the speed of the road, minimising loss of mature hedgerows b. provision of pedestrian and cycle links to the village centre and schools c. provision of open space and screening in the south and west of the site to minimise impact on the surrounding landscape d. provision of a flood risk assessment demonstrating the proposals can be safely accommodated

North of Station Road/ Stowe Road, Kimbolton

2.5ha of land at North of Station Road/Stowe Road, Kimbolton is allocated for residential development of approximately 65 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of safe and suitable vehicular and pedestrian access b. a comprehensive soft landscaping scheme including planting along the highway frontage c. provision of a surface water drainage strategy that responds to the sloping topography of the land d. an ecological assessment and enhancement scheme

Amount of development

In Huntingdonshire in the period 2011-2036 provision will be made for: at least 20,100 new homes (both market and affordable), and approximately 14,400 additional jobs.

Strategy for Development

The development strategy for Huntingdonshire is to: • Concentrate development in locations which provide, or have the potential to provide, the most comprehensive range of services and facilities; • Direct substantial new development to two strategic expansion locations of sufficient scale to form successful, functioning new communities; • Provide opportunities for communities to achieve local development aspirations for housing, employment, commercial or community related schemes; • Support a thriving rural economy; • Protect the character of existing settlements and recognise the intrinsic character and beauty of the surrounding countryside; • Conserve and enhance the historic environment; and • Provide complementary green infrastructure enhancement and provision to balance recreational and biodiversity needs and to support climate change adaptation. Distribution of Growth Four spatial planning areas are designated reflecting their status as the district's traditional market towns and most sustainable centres. These are centred around: • Huntingdon including Brampton and Godmanchester and the strategic expansion location of Alconbury Weald • St Neots including Little Paxton and the strategic expansion location of St Neots East • St Ives • Ramsey including Bury. Approximately three quarters of the objectively assessed need for housing and the majority of employment and retail growth will be focused in the spatial planning areas. Seven key service centres are designated reflecting the concentration of services and facilities in these locations and their role in providing services to residents of other nearby communities. These are: • Buckden • Fenstanton • Kimbolton • Sawtry • Somersham • Warboys • Yaxley. All other settlements with a single built up area of 30 dwellings or more are defined as Small Settlements as set out in 'Definition of Small Settlements'. Approximately a quarter of the objectively assessed need for housing, together with a limited amount of employment growth, will be permitted on sites dispersed across the key service centres and small settlements to support the vitality of these communities and provide flexibility and diversity in the housing supply. In addition, rural exception, small and windfall sites will be permitted on sites which are in conformity with other policies of this plan providing further flexibility in the housing supply.

Homes for Rural Workers

A proposal for a home for a rural worker in the countryside will be supported where: a. it is for a worker who is or will be mainly employed for the purposes of the proper functioning of an economically viable agricultural or other land-based rural business; b. no suitable alternative accommodation is available or could be made available in the immediate vicinity or nearest settlement, taking into account the requirements of the work; c. opportunities to convert an existing building or, where this is not possible, to replace an existing building have been explored and proved to be unachievable; and d. the home is of permanent and substantial construction, unless the rural business has been established for less than three years in which case accommodation will only be supported on a temporary basis to allow time for the business to prove it is viable. Where a home for a rural worker is permitted it will be subject to a planning condition ensuring that occupation is limited to a qualifying person or the continuing residence of the surviving partner of a qualifying person and any resident dependants. A qualifying person is someone who is solely, mainly or was last working in a land-based rural business. A proposal to remove a rural business related occupancy condition will only be supported where evidence demonstrates that the home is not needed for the business to which it relates and it has been appropriately marketed at a value reflecting the occupancy condition with no reasonable offer to purchase from a qualifying person; or an assessment demonstrates that the home would not meet the needs of another qualifying person.

Affordable Housing Provision

In order to assist in meeting the identified local need for additional affordable homes, a proposal which includes housing development will be required to provide a range of affordable housing types, sizes and tenures. These should be appropriate to meet the requirements of the local community taking into account the latest evidence from the Housing Register, the Cambridge sub-region Strategic Housing Market Assessment and other local sources. The affordable housing provision may include specialist or supported housing where an identified need exists. A proposal will be supported where: a. it delivers a target of 40% affordable housing on a site where 11 homes or 1,001m2 residential floorspace (gross internal area) or more are proposed; b. it provides approximately 70% of the new affordable housing units as social or affordable rented properties with the balance made up of other affordable tenures; c. affordable housing is dispersed across the development in small clusters of dwellings; and d. it ensures that the appearance of affordable housing units is externally indistinguishable from that of open market housing. Where it can be demonstrated that the target is not viable due to specific site conditions or other material considerations affecting development of the site an alternative dwelling or tenure mix or a lower level of provision may be supported. Preference will be given to amending the tenure mix; only if this is still demonstrated not to be viable will consideration be given to reducing the affordable housing requirement. A development viability assessment may be required to support an alternative mix or level of affordable housing provision. In exceptional circumstances it may be appropriate to accept off-site provision and/or commuted payments where this would offer an equivalent or enhanced provision of affordable housing.

Housing Mix

A proposal for residential development will be supported where it provides an appropriate mix of housing sizes, types and tenures that will help achieve sustainable, inclusive and mixed communities. A proposal should set out how it responds to the evidence and guidance provided by: a. the Cambridge sub-region Strategic Housing Market Assessment; b. the Peterborough Strategic Housing Market Assessment where applicable; c. the Council's Housing Strategy and Tenancy Strategy; d. local assessments of housing need and demand; and e. other local housing and demographic studies and strategies. A proposal for wholly affordable housing will be supported where it contributes positively to the mix of tenures available in the local area. Accessible and adaptable homes A proposal that includes housing will be supported which meets the optional Building Regulation accessibility standards (or replacement standards) as set out below, unless it can be demonstrated that site-specific factors make achieving this impractical or unviable: f. ensuring 100% of new dwellings, across all tenures provided, meet Building Regulation requirement M4(2) 'accessible and adaptable dwellings' (or replacement standards); and g. within a large scale development proposal the construction standards of a proportion of new market dwellings should be further enhanced to meet Building Regulation requirement M4(3) 'wheelchair adaptable dwellings' (or replacement standards); and h. for all affordable housing an appropriate proportion meeting Building Regulation requirement M4(3) 'wheelchair adaptable dwellings' (or replacement standards) should be negotiated with the Council's Housing Strategy team. Self and custom-build homes Where appropriate, the Council will work with developers, registered providers, landowners and relevant individuals or groups to address identified local requirements for self and custom-build homes as identified in the Huntingdonshire self and custom-build register.

Specialist Housing

Self-contained specialist housing A proposal for self-contained specialist housing (class 'C3') will be supported where it will: a. be easily accessible to shops, services, community facilities, public transport and social networks appropriate to the needs of the occupiers; b. be integrated with the wider community; c. incorporate a mix of tenures including affordable homes in accordance with policy LP 24 'Affordable Housing Provision'; and d. facilitate a high quality of life for residents. Residential institutions A proposal for a new residential institution or replacement or extension of an existing one (class 'C2') will be supported where: e. it is easily accessible to shops, services, community facilities, public transport and social networks appropriate to the needs of the intended occupiers, staff and visitors; f. the design meets or exceeds the standards set by the Care Quality Commission (or successors) regarding the safety and suitability of premises; and g. in the case of existing care homes the proposal will lead to an improvement in the quality of care facilities provided.

Rural Exceptions Housing

A proposal for housing will be supported on a site well-related to a built-up area, as an exception to the requirements of relevant policies, where it can be demonstrated that: a. at least 60% (net) of the site area is for affordable housing for people with a local connection; b. the number, size, type and tenure of the affordable homes is justified by evidence that they would meet an identified need arising within the settlement or nearby small settlements (as defined in 'Small Settlements') through a local needs survey or other local needs evidence; c. the remainder of the site area is available as open market housing or plots suitable for custom or self-build homes tailored to meet locally generated need; and d. the amount of development and location of the proposal is sustainable in terms of: i. availability of services and existing infrastructure; ii. opportunities for users of the proposed development to travel by sustainable modes; and iii. effect on the character of the immediate locality and the settlement as a whole. Mechanisms, including planning conditions/ obligations, will be put in place to ensure that the affordable housing is delivered and remains affordable in perpetuity or for the appropriate period as applicable to the form of housing. To ensure that market housing and affordable housing elements are delivered concurrently a planning condition will be applied.

Small Settlements

Each Small Settlement to which this policy applies is defined above. Development Proposals within the Built-up Area A proposal that is located within a built-up area of a Small Settlement will be supported where the amount and location of development proposed is sustainable in relation to the: a. level of service and infrastructure provision within the settlement; b. opportunities for users of the proposed development to access everyday services and facilities by sustainable modes of travel including walking, cycling and public transport; c. effect on the character of the immediate locality and the settlement as a whole. Development Proposals on Land well-related to the Built-up Area A proposal for development on land well-related to the built-up area may be supported where it accords with the specific opportunities allowed for through other policies of this plan.

Ramsey Gateway (High Lode)

2.6ha of land at Ramsey Gateway (High Lode) is allocated for residential development of approximately 110 homes; this may include specialist accommodation for older people. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of suitable accesses via the existing roundabout on St Mary's Road for the western part of the site and onto Stocking Fen road for the eastern part of the site b. navigation related improvements to Ramsey Basin c. the provision of a 20m wide maintenance access strip along High Lode required by Middle Level Commissioners d. the provision of a scheme for protecting any homes from the noise from the scrap yard, should a cessation of its use and removal not form part of a development proposal for the redevelopment of this site e. the design and layout of any development proposal reflecting the site's importance in the conservation area and as a gateway to Ramsey f. separation from the high and medium pressure gas pipelines in accordance with National Grid requirements g. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated h. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised i. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system

Ramsey Gateway

1.8ha of land at Ramsey Gateway is allocated for residential development of approximately 50 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of a single new access from the roundabout on St Mary's Road b. the design and layout of any development proposal reflecting the site's importance as a gateway to Ramsey and location within the conservation area c. provision of views through from St Mary's road to Northern Mill to provide visual integration with this local landmark d. retention of trees along site boundaries to protect views to and from Ramsey Conservation Area e. separation from the high and medium pressure gas pipelines in accordance with National Grid requirements f. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised h. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system

West Station Yard and Northern Mill, Ramsey

1ha of land at Ramsey Gateway is allocated for residential development of approximately 30 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of access through the adjoining Ramsey Gateway site to the roundabout on St Mary's Road b. the design and layout of any development proposal reflecting the site's location within the conservation area c. retention of trees along site boundaries to protect views to and from Northern Mill and Ramsey Conservation Area d. retention of the existing Northern Mill building to act as a local landmark subject to viability e. separation from the high and medium pressure gas pipelines in accordance with National Grid requirements f. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised h. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system

Field Road, Ramsey

5.2ha of land at Field Road, Ramsey is allocated for residential development of approximately 90 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of a suitable new access from Field Road b. improvement to pedestrian and cycle routes to link to existing networks, having regard to the existing public right of way on the site c. retention of the woodland area to the west and north west of the site d. boundary treatments to protect and enhance the amenity of neighbouring properties and to minimise the impact of the development on the surrounding countryside e. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated f. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised g. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system

Whytefield Road, Ramsey

0.9ha of land at Whytefield Road, Ramsey is allocated for residential development of approximately 40 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of suitable access b. completion of land contamination remediation measures appropriate to residential development c. the design and layout of any development proposal reflecting the site's location within the conservation area d. provision of a substantial landscaping buffer along the boundary with the primary school to protect against overlooking between the primary school and properties e. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated f. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised g. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system

94 Great Whyte, Ramsey

0.7ha of land at 94 Great Whyte, Ramsey is allocated for residential development of approximately 35 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of suitable access from Great Whyte b. the design and layout of any development proposal to reflect the site's location within the conservation area c. provision of soft landscaping along the boundaries with adjoining residential properties d. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated e. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised f. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system

East of Valiant Square, Bury

3.6 ha of land at East of Valiant Square, Bury is allocated for residential development of approximately 90 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of a suitable means of access and satisfactory resolution of additional traffic impacts on local roads b. retention of trees and hedgerows other than where removal is necessary to obtain access c. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated d. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised e. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system

Former RAF Upwood and Upwood Hill House, Bury

25ha of land at the former RAF Upwood and Upwood Hill House is allocated for development for a mix of uses to comprise: 1. 2ha of employment land for business uses (class 'B1') 2. approximately 450 homes 3. community facilities appropriate to the scale of development Successful development of the site will require: a. completion of a master planning exercise with the Council b. production of a schedule detailing the extent of existing buildings to be cleared and whether any are to be retained to be agreed with the Council c. a form of development that enables the character of the historic RAF use to be maintained and the environment, both on-site and of the surrounding area, to be of a suitably high standard for the benefit of users and residents d. completion of land contamination investigation and remediation measures appropriate to residential development e. provision of a drainage strategy in agreement with relevant bodies f. a transport assessment and transport infrastructure improvements appropriate to the scale of development g. phasing of site preparation and development h. design codes or conceptual appearance of development proposals i. landscape design recognising vistas, boundaries and green infrastructure networks j. assessment of ecological impacts including on nearby designated sites k. a sustainable transport network for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles incorporating links to the surrounding area l. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated m. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised n. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system

Former Alconbury Airfield and Grange Farm

A total area of approximately 575ha of land east of the A1(M) at the former Alconbury Airfield and Grange Farm is allocated for a mix of uses to comprise: 1. the permitted scheme for 5,000 homes (including 400 units of supported housing some of which may be classed as residential institutions) with potential for more homes to be supported subject to capacity 2. safeguarding of land to facilitate provision of a realigned A141 3. at least 290,000m² of business floorspace (class 'B') on the designated 150ha Alconbury Enterprise Zone 4. approximately 7,000m² retail floorspace (class 'A') to be contained within defined centres to comprise approximately 4,500m² shop floorspace (class 'A1'), with a maximum of 1,500m² floorspace in any one store 5. educational and community facilities appropriate to the scale of development, to include a secondary school and at least 3 primary schools and day care/ nursery provision 6. indoor and outdoor sports facilities appropriate to the scale of development 7. supported living and residential/ nursing accommodation appropriate to the scale of the development 8. strategic green infrastructure incorporating publicly accessible natural green space and other open space appropriate to the scale of development 9. transport infrastructure improvements proportionate to the scale of development including linkages to the Cambridgeshire Busway and the identified opportunity for provision of a railway station on the East Coast Mainline Railway Successful development of the site will require: a. comprehensive master planning to be undertaken by the site developer with public engagement with the cooperation of the Council b. production and implementation of a development strategy that seeks to ensure balanced delivery of industrial and commercial development with development of homes, infrastructure, services and facilities c. integration with Huntingdon while maintaining separation from other nearby settlements d. a comprehensive approach to maintaining and enhancing character and creation of development with a distinctive sense of place that integrates development with the existing structure of the airfield and protects and enhances the significance of heritage assets and their settings e. the arrangement of different uses in a manner that minimises the need to travel and includes a transport network that promotes sustainable travel modes f. satisfactory resolution of any additional traffic impact on the surrounding road network arising from detailed transport assessment of each key phase of development g. safeguarding of land to facilitate provision of a realigned A141 h. provision of access to serve the development from the existing A141 in order to limit amount of, and ease the impact of, additional traffic on Ermine Street through The Stukeleys and to provide greater connectivity by all travel modes to and from Huntingdon i. provision of high quality pedestrian and cycle linkages into Huntingdon and surrounding villages j. all retail to be complementary to the continuing vitality and viability of Huntingdon town centre k. the location of a main centre and up to two secondary centres and the details of the mix of uses to be incorporated in these centres, including social and community facilities sufficient to meet the needs arising from the proposed development l. differentiated densities of development with higher densities around defined centres and the development of distinctive character areas m. design codes for the appearance of development proposals n. assessment of noise impacts for the site, particularly from the East Coast Mainline Railway, and appropriate acoustic treatments to address any adverse impacts o. management, retention or replacement of existing trees in accordance with a tree survey/ landscaping scheme p. enhancement and provision for habitats in accordance with an ecological strategy q. a coordinated and integrated approach to the provision of green infrastructure throughout the site, including links with and enhancement of the surrounding green infrastructure network concentrating on establishing links between the development, Huntingdon and the Great Fen r. a comprehensive approach to providing publicly accessible green and open space throughout the development s. landscaping design recognising vistas, boundaries and appropriate visual screening from the surrounding countryside t. production and implementation of a waste audit and a waste minimisation, re-use and recovery strategy u. flood risk assessment and provision of sustainable drainage systems to be provided in accordance with the approved flood risk assessment site wide water management strategy v. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated w. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

RAF Alconbury

84ha of land at RAF Alconbury is allocated for mixed use development to comprise: 1. approximately 1,680 homes 2. a primary school 3. social and community facilities to meet needs arising from the development Successful development of the site will require: a. completion of a public master planning exercise agreed with the Council b. preservation and where possible enhancement of the significance of affected heritage assets and their settings c. design codes or conceptual appearance of development proposals d. landscape design recognising vistas, long distance views, boundaries and green infrastructure networks e. satisfactory integration with the former Alconbury Airfield and Grange Farm site to the north f. provision of a sustainable transport network for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles incorporating links to the surrounding area g. satisfactory resolution of any impact caused by traffic generated from the allocation on the surrounding local road network having regard to a transport assessment and travel plan h. provision of a sustainable transport network for vehicles, public transport, cyclists and pedestrians incorporating safe off-road routes connecting with the former Alconbury Airfield and Grange Farm site to the north and to the Stukeleys i. provision of strategic green infrastructure to included ecological mitigation and enhancement measures to minimise potential impacts of development on the Stukeleys and to link with existing and planned green infrastructure in the surrounding area j. social and community facilities appropriate to the scale of development k. provision of primary and early years education facilities, in agreement with Cambridgeshire County Council l. assessment of the need for retail development and the impact on main town centre uses nearby and in Huntingdon town centre m. phasing of development to ensure provision of infrastructure and services coincides with occupation of properties n. a programme of work designed to investigate, and where appropriate protect, archaeological assets o. flood risk assessment and provision of sustainable drainage strategy p. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated q. agreement with the Council in liaison with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

St Neots East

226ha of land east of Loves Farm and at Wintringham Park, Cambridge Road, St Neots is allocated for mixed use sustainable development in accordance with the St Neots Eastern Expansion Urban Design Framework 2010 to comprise: 1. approximately 3,820 homes 2. approximately 22ha of employment land (class 'B') 3. a local centre of some 3ha containing offices (class 'B1a' uses), approximately 4,000m² of gross retail floorspace (class 'A1') including a supermarket (class 'A1') with a maximum retail floorspace of 3,000m² and other retail and food and drink uses (classes 'A2' to 'A5') and ancillary uses appropriate to the scale of development within the centre 4. a neighbourhood centre of some 0.3ha containing approximately 800m² of floorspace for retail, service, food and drink and community uses (class 'A1' to 'A5' and 'D1' and 'D2') 5. specialist accommodation for older people equivalent to at least a 120 bed space care home 6. educational and community facilities appropriate to the scale of development, including primary schools and day care/ nursery provision 7. indoor and outdoor sports facilities appropriate to the scale of development 8. transport infrastructure improvements proportionate to the scale of development 9. strategic green space and open space Successful development of the site will require: a. satisfactory resolution of the impact of additional traffic on the A428, A1 and the local highway network having regard to a transport assessment and travel plan b. comprehensive master planning to be undertaken by the site developer with public engagement with the cooperation of the Council c. provision of quality pedestrian and cycle improvements to the town centre and other key service destinations d. production and implementation of a development strategy that seeks to ensure balanced delivery of industrial and commercial development with development of homes, infrastructure, services and facilities e. the arrangement of different uses in a manner that minimises the need to travel and includes a transport network that promotes sustainable travel modes f. differentiated densities of development with higher densities around defined centres and the development of distinctive character areas g. a mix of uses to be incorporated, including social, community and sporting facilities, that meets the needs of the proposed development h. retail provision appropriate to the area which is complementary to the continued vitality and viability of St Neots town centre i. the creation of a single main centre on the south side of Cambridge Road fronting the road, with shared communal spaces and a clear sense of place j. the creation of a neighbourhood centre near to the underpass by Howitt's Lane k. the creation of a landscaped business park with frontage to the A428 l. enhancement and provision for habitats in accordance with an ecological assessment and strategy m. areas of green and open space throughout the development that link with the strategic green infrastructure network and provide for a wide range of recreational purposes and flood reduction n. a tree survey and planting scheme o. a landscaping scheme recognising and enhancing vistas, boundaries, and green infrastructure networks p. design codes for the appearance of development proposals q. assessment of noise impacts for the site, particularly from the East Coast Main Line Railway, and appropriate acoustic treatments to address any adverse impacts r. flood risk assessment and provision of sustainable drainage systems s. separation from the gas pipeline and high voltage electricity transmission line in accordance with National Grid requirements t. production and implementation of a waste audit and a waste minimisation, re-use and recovery strategy u. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated v. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

St Ives North Site Allocation

Land at St Ives North, lying within the parish of St Ives but extending into and within the parish of Houghton and Wyton, is allocated for a mix of uses to comprise: 1. approximately 23ha of green space 2. approximately 400 homes 3. social and community facilities to meet needs arising from the development Successful development of the site will require: a. completion of a detailed master planning exercise to be agreed with the Council b. design codes or conceptual appearance of development proposals c. phasing of development, including the provision of green space d. appropriate access via the Houghton Road/ Garner Drive junction and Knights Way e. assessment of the surrounding road network and measures to address identified inadequacies that would come about as a consequence of development of this site f. a sustainable transport network for pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles across the site to be integrated with the wider network g. a landscape scheme design recognising vistas, boundaries and the surrounding green infrastructure network, to be particularly focused on restoring the tree lined approach on the south side of the A1123 and maintaining a sense of separation between developments at Houghton Grange and The Spires h. social and community facilities appropriate to the scale of development i. sustainable drainage systems j. enhancement and provision for habitats in accordance with an ecological strategy k. production of a management plan for all areas of green space l. safeguarding and enhancing the character, appearance and setting of the conservation areas and the grade II listed Houghton Grange and the two lodges

St Ives Football Club

1.4ha of land at St Ives Football Club is allocated for development of approximately 30 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. alternative, improved provision of the recreational facility b. provision of appropriate access c. substantial landscaping on the western boundaries

College Farm, West of Newlands Industrial Estate, Somersham

1.8ha of land at College Farm, West of Newlands Industrial Estate, Somersham is allocated for residential development of approximately 55 homes. Successful development of the site will require: 1. provision of a suitable means of vehicular access 2. provision of a footway to link the site with the existing footway network to the village 3. design which provides for lesser density and/or landscaping towards the west and north of the site reflecting the transition to open countryside 4. provision of appropriate acoustic treatment to mitigate against adjacent industrial uses and the College Farm complex to the north-west 5. retention of the trees along the west boundary and the site frontage; except where removal is required for access 6. provision of a surface water drainage strategy that responds to the sloping topography of the land 7. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated 8. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Newlands, St Ives Road, Somersham

2.5ha of land at Newlands, St Ives Road, Somersham is allocated for development for mixed uses to comprise: 1. 0.8ha for supported housing (a care home comprising approximately 60 beds) 2. approximately 45 homes Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of an appropriate single access road to serve the supported housing and the majority of the residential development b. laying of a footway along the frontage linking with the existing footway network to the village c. design which provides for lesser density and/or landscaping towards the north of the site reflecting the transition to open countryside and protecting the setting of the conservation area d. high quality development acknowledging the nearby listed Somersham House and its setting e. provision of appropriate acoustic treatment to mitigate against adjoining industrial uses f. retention of the frontage hedge except where removal is required for access g. improved drainage to cater for development on the site h. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated i. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

The Pasture, Somersham

0.6ha of land at The Pasture, Somersham is allocated for approximately 15 dwellings. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of appropriate access from The Pasture b. high quality sensitive development acknowledging the adjacent conservation area designation and listed Somersham House c. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated d. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Somersham Town Football Ground

1.8ha of land at Somersham Town Football Ground is allocated for development of approximately 45 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. appropriate alternative provision of the recreational facility b. the eastern edge of development limited to the extent of the football pitch to protect the setting of the Scheduled Monument c. archaeological investigation prior to development d. improved access to the B1086 (utilising the existing access point) to serve the residential development e. sensitive design having regard to the Conservation Area designation over part of the site and adjoining land f. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that surface and waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

North of the Bank, Somersham

5.5ha of land north of the Bank, Somersham is allocated for development of approximately 120 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. design and layout which provides for low density development and landscaping towards the north and west of the site reflecting the transition to open countryside and proximity to the local nature reserve respectively b. provision of safe and appropriate access to The Bank, B1050 c. a comprehensive package of community benefits including enhancements to the local rights of way network, access to the Local Nature Reserve to the north-west and cycleway improvements d. retention of existing trees on the west and north boundaries and the two trees centrally located in the southern part of the site e. building setbacks from the bus depot to the east and reinforcing of landscaping to provide a robust screen between the development site and the bus depot f. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

St Mary's Urban Village, St Neots

0.9ha of land at St Mary's Urban Village is allocated for a mix of uses to comprise: 1. approximately 45 homes 2. 60m2 of retail floorspace (class 'A1' or 'A2') Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of vehicular access points from Brook Street and pedestrian access points from High Street and Church Walk b. provision of high quality development that enhances the character of the conservation area and safeguards and enhances the character and setting of Brook House, a grade II* listed building, 7-11 Brook Street which is a grade II listed building and the nearby St Mary's Church, a grade I listed building c. a layout which maximises the opportunities to create a sense of place afforded by views to surrounding listed buildings d. provision of an air quality assessment and low emissions strategy e. provision of a Flood Risk Assessment to be produced in agreement with relevant bodies f. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Loves Farm Reserved Site, St Neots

1ha of land east of the East Coast Main Line at Loves Farm, Cambridge Road, St Neots is allocated for residential development of approximately 40 dwellings. Successful development of the site will require: a. development in accordance with the outline approval for Loves Farm b. an access point from Dramsell Rise to serve all new development c. good urban design recognising the importance of this site to the townscape d. detailed flood risk assessment and flood mitigation works as appropriate e. protection of Fox Brook and associated vegetation f. noise assessment and design to mitigate the effects of noise from the East Coast Main Line g. avoidance of any harm to the adjoining Grade II listed milestone h. separation from the high pressure and intermediate pressure gas pipelines located adjacent to the site i. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated j. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Cromwell Road North, St Neots

2.6ha of land west of Cromwell Road is allocated for residential development to comprise approximately 80 homes. Successful redevelopment of the site will require: a. provision of appropriate vehicular access from Cromwell Road b. provision of a Flood Risk Assessment to be produced in agreement with relevant bodies c. on-site sustainable drainage d. protection of Wintringham Brook e. noise attenuation measures incorporated in the design of the site or individual buildings f. provision of a safety assessment together with a site contamination report g. retention of trees where appropriate and provision of additional open space and landscaping h. separation from the gas pipeline in accordance with National Grid requirements i. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated j. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Cromwell Road Car Park, St Neots

0.6ha of land west of Cromwell Road is allocated for residential development of approximately 20 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. improvements to the existing access opposite the Bargroves Education Centre b. noise attenuation measures incorporated in the design of the site or individual buildings c. retention of trees and provision of additional landscaping d. separation from the gas pipeline in accordance with National Grid requirements e. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated f. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

North of St James Road, Little Paxton

1.3ha of land at North of St James Road Little Paxton is allocated for residential development of approximately 35 homes. Successful development of the site will require: 1. provision of a safe and suitable means of access 2. an ecological assessment and enhancement scheme for the site that addresses its impact on Paxton Pits Nature Reserve and SSSI, including the County Wildlife Site 3. retention of the raised embankment on the northern edge of the site 4. retention of trees and hedgerows and their reinforcement to minimise the visual impact of development and provide a mature setting to development 5. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated 6. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

East of Glebe Farm, Sawtry

3.9ha of land east of Glebe Farm, Gidding Road, Sawtry is allocated for residential development of approximately 80 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of suitable access and improvements to Gidding Road b. provision of cycleway links to facilitate integration of the site into adjoining residential areas to the east, and pedestrian linkages retained c. protection and enhancement of Sawtry Brook as a landscape and nature conservation feature

South of Gidding Road, Sawtry

10.8ha of land south of Gidding Road, Sawtry is allocated for residential development of approximately 295 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of suitable access and improvements to Gidding Road b. provision of cycleway and pedestrian links to facilitate integration of the site into adjoining residential areas to the east c. a transport assessment and travel plan d. substantial landscaping on the western boundary to provide a soft edge to the village and to minimise the impact of the development in long distance views from the west e. an ecological assessment and enhancement scheme

West of Ramsey Road, Warboys

1.7ha of land West of Ramsey Road, Warboys is allocated for residential development of approximately 45 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. vehicular access being taken from Longlands Close and / or directly from Ramsey Road b. provision of landscaping on the western and northern boundaries to provide a soft edge to the village including retention and appropriate replacement of the mature trees in the boundary hedging c. provision of high quality development that is complementary to the adjacent conservation area d. retention or appropriate replacement of mature trees on the frontage to 21 Ramsey Road e. retention of trees and open space in the southern part of the site adjacent to The Paddock f. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Manor Farm Buildings, Warboys

0.6ha of land at Manor Farm buildings, Warboys is allocated for residential development of approximately 10 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of a safe vehicular access onto Church Road b. provision of high quality development which enhances the character of the conservation area and reflects the sensitive setting of the site created by the surrounding high quality listed buildings c. retention of trees and shrubs on the northern boundary of the site to protect views to and from Adam Lyons recreation field d. retention of trees in the centre of the site to protect the character of the conservation area e. provision to preserve high value heritage assets are situated immediately to the south, including the Grade II* listed Manor House and Grade I listed St Mary Magdalene's Church f. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

South of Stirling Close, Warboys

1.9ha of land at South of Stirling Close, Warboys is allocated for residential development of approximately 50 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. the provision of a suitable means of access from Stirling Close b. retention and protection of trees along the northern and western boundaries c. provision of landscaping on the southern and eastern boundaries to provide a soft edge to the village and screen the development d. a design that preserves or enhances the character and appearance of the adjacent conservation area e. a design that incorporates any important views towards the Church of Mary Magdalene to the west f. provision of open space in the north of the site to complement the existing area of open space g. an ecological assessment and enhancement scheme h. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated i. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised j. agreement with the Middle Level Commissioners that they will not object on the basis of flood risk in the Middle Level system.

South of Farrier's Way, Warboys

3.6ha of land south of Farrier's Way, Warboys is allocated for residential development of approximately 75 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. appropriate vehicular access being made from Farrier's Way b. retention of trees within the site and provision of landscaping on the southern boundary to provide a soft edge to the village and on the western boundary to maintain the character of the sports ground and provide screening c. provision of comprehensive pedestrian and cycle access through the site to Farrier's Way, to the open space area between the site and Farrier's Way, and to the adjacent sports ground d. a comprehensive master plan to ensure a holistic approach to the design of development e. provision of open space in the north west corner of the site to complement the existing area f. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated g. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Extension to West of Station Road, Warboys

3.63ha of land west of Station Road Road, Warboys is allocated for residential development of approximately 80 homes. Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of safe vehicular access via the adjacent West of Station Road site b. substantial landscaping on the western boundary to provide a soft edge to the village and to minimise the impact of the development in long distance views from the west c. provision of landscape planting to protect the residential amenity of neighbouring properties d. ecological appraisal and mitigation strategy for Great Crested Newts and other protected species e. completion of a transport assessment and provision of a network of cycleways and footpaths which facilitate integration between the Station Road area and the main part of Warboys village to promote sustainable transport modes f. provision of open space within the site for informal use as an integral part of development g. agreement with the Environment Agency and Anglian Water Services that they are satisfied that waste water flows from the proposal can be accommodated h. agreement with the Environment Agency that meeting the requirements of the Water Framework Directive would not be compromised

Askew's Lane, Yaxley

0.5ha of land at Askew's Lane, Yaxley is allocated for residential development of approximately 10 homes (net). Successful development of the site will require: a. provision of suitable vehicular access to Askew's Lane or Main Street b. the design and layout of any development proposal reflecting the site's location on the edge of a conservation area c. provision of a flood risk assessment and drainage strategy in agreement with relevant bodies d. provision of a 20m wide maintenance access strip to Yards End Dyke

Contributing to Infrastructure Delivery

Community Infrastructure Levy Applicable developments will be liable to pay the Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) or subsequent local infrastructure tax, as set out in the Huntingdonshire Community Infrastructure Levy Charging Schedule (2012) or subsequent revisions. Planning Obligations In addition to the CIL, contributions towards the provision of infrastructure, and of meeting economic, social and environmental requirements may be necessary to make a proposal acceptable in planning terms. Contributions that may be required include the following: a. Affordable housing; b. Recreation (including leisure and sports facilities); c. Green infrastructure and biodiversity enhancement/ mitigation; d. Transport; e. Community facilities; f. Education, health and social care and community safety; g. Utilities infrastructure and energy; h. Emergency and essential services; i. Environmental improvements; j. Drainage and flood prevention and protection; k. Waste recycling facilities; and l. Public art, heritage and archaeology. Such contributions will be calculated as set out in the Developer Contributions Supplementary Planning Document (2011) (SPD) or successor documents and will be sought through a planning obligation. The nature and scale of planning obligations sought will depend on the form of development and the impact it is considered to have upon the surrounding area on the basis of documentary evidence. Requirements may be provided on- or off-site as set out in the SPD. The timing of provision will be carefully considered in order to ensure that adequate infrastructure, support and facilities are in place before development is occupied or comes into use. All considerations and negotiations will be undertaken in a positive manner in order to come to the most appropriate solution and will, subject to such evidence being submitted, take viability and other material considerations including specific site conditions into account. Where particular requirements of sites allocated for development are known they are identified in the applicable allocation policy. Subdivision of allocated sites in order to avoid liability for contributions will not be accepted. Contributions will be calculated on the complete developable area and apportioned appropriately. The delivery of development may need to be phased, and review mechanisms used, to ensure necessary infrastructure is provided to meet needs. Conditions or a planning obligation may be used to secure this.

Waste Water Management

Sewer Network A proposal for major scale development that would: a. require a new connection to the sewer network; b. involve significant increases to flows entering the sewer network; or c. involve development of a site identified by the Huntingdonshire Stage 2 Detailed Water Cycle Study or updated, successor or equivalent documents, to have potentially limited sewer network capacity (Amber or Red assessment); will only be supported where a sustainable foul/ used water strategy has been prepared and agreed with Anglian Water as the sewerage undertaker to establish whether any upgrades are necessary so that flows from the proposal can be accommodated. If upgrades are necessary the proposal will need to include an agreed plan for delivery, including phasing of development as necessary. Water Treatment Capacity A proposal for any scale of development will be supported if: d. Anglian Water Services do not raise concerns relating to the ability of waste water infrastructure to accommodate waste water flows from the proposal; e. the Environment Agency and Natural England or another responsible authority do not raise concerns that the requirements of the Water Framework Directive and the Habitats Directive could be compromised; and f. the Middle Level Commissioners or other internal drainage board do not object on the basis of flood risk in the system they manage, as may be applicable. To achieve these requirements for proposals that would involve waste water flows to Waste water Treatment Works (WwTW) with constrained capacity, as currently identified in the Huntingdonshire Stage 2 Detailed Water Cycle Study, interim treatment measures are likely to be required until an acceptable permanent solution is put in place. Where temporary measures are not available or would be insufficient it may be necessary for development to be phased. If acceptable permanent solutions are not possible proposals will not be supported.

Huntingdon Racecourse

72ha of land at Huntingdon Racecourse is allocated for mixed use development to comprise: 1. continued use of the site for the racecourse, equine support facilities and Huntingdon Rugby Football Club 2. complementary conference and events facilities, outdoor recreational and leisure facilities. Successful delivery of this development will require: a. a suitably detailed flood risk assessment, considering all forms of flood risk and climate change and a drainage strategy to be produced in agreement with the Council in liaison with relevant bodies b. a development strategy that seeks to sequentially locate development and relocate existing uses to lower flood risk parts of the site wherever possible in order to reduce overall exposure to flood risk c. a proportionate transport assessment and travel plan will be required in relation to the proposed development and taking into account the cumulative impact of any preceding or future development d. an ecological assessment to ensure protection of the Brampton racecourse SSSI e. a programme of work designed to investigate, and where appropriate to protect, archaeological assets

Spatial Planning Areas

Each Spatial Planning Area to which this policy applies is defined above. Development Proposals on Unallocated Sites A proposal for development on a site which is additional to those allocated in this plan will be supported where it fulfils the following requirements and is in accordance with other policies: Residential Development A proposal for housing development (class 'C3') or for a residential institution use (class 'C2') will be supported where it is appropriately located within a built-up area of an identified Spatial Planning Area settlement. Business Development A proposal for business development (class 'B') will be supported where it is appropriately located within a built-up area of an identified Spatial Planning Area settlement. An appropriate location will include an Established Employment Area defined in policy LP 18 'Established Employment Areas'; a town centre defined in policy LP 21 'Town Centre Vitality and Viability' or the Alconbury Enterprise Zone. Main Town Centre Uses A proposal for a main town centre use, as defined in the 'Glossary', will be supported where it is appropriately located within a built-up area of an identified Spatial Planning Area settlement. An appropriate location will be determined through the application of the sequential approach as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework. Outside a defined town centre a proposal including more than 600m² of net internal retail floorspace will need to be accompanied by a proportionate and locally appropriate impact assessment as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework. A proposal will not be supported where it is likely to have a significant adverse impact. Other uses A proposal for a non-residential institutional use (class 'D1') or an assembly and leisure facility (class 'D2') other than those defined as a main town centre use will be supported where it is appropriately located within the built-up area of an identified Spatial Planning Area settlement. Mixed use development A proposal which includes a mix of uses will be supported where each use accords with the applicable requirements detailed above. Relationship of settlements within a Spatial Planning Area A proposal will be supported where it will not undermine the role of the primary settlement within the Spatial Planning Area or adversely affect the relationship between the settlements of the Spatial Planning Area whether this is through its scale or other impacts.

Key Service Centres

Each Key Service Centre to which this policy applies is defined above. Development Proposals within the Built-up Area A proposal for development on a site which is additional to those allocated in this plan will be supported where it is located within a built-up area of a Key Service Centre. Development Proposals on Land well-related to the Built-up Area A proposal for development on land well-related to the built-up area may be supported where it accords with the specific opportunities allowed for through other policies of this plan.

Presumption in favour of sustainable development

When considering development proposals the Council will take a positive approach that reflects the presumption in favour of sustainable development. It will seek to work with applicants, in particular through the pre-application process, to find solutions which secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in Huntingdonshire.

Town Centre Vitality and Viability

Town centre hierarchy boundaries Each town centre, primary shopping area and primary shopping frontage to which this policy applies is defined on the policies map. Primary shopping frontages A proposal for a shop (class 'A1'), restaurant/ café (class 'A3') or drinking establishment (class 'A4') will be supported within a primary shopping frontage to encourage uses which support the vitality and viability of the location whilst maintaining its essential retail nature. A proposal for any other main town centre use at ground floor level may be supported where it will: a. make a positive contribution to vitality and viability by enhancing the existing quality, diversity and distribution of retail, leisure, entertainment, arts, heritage, cultural facilities, community facilities or tourist attractions; and b. continue to provide an active frontage where there is an existing shopfront. A proposal for any non-main town centre use will not be supported at ground floor level within a primary shopping frontage. Primary shopping areas Within a primary shopping area but beyond the primary shopping frontage a proposal for a new retail use (class 'A1-A5') will be supported at ground floor level where it reflects the role, function and distinctive qualities of the centre. A proposal for any other town centre use at ground floor level may be supported where it will make a positive contribution to vitality and viability by enhancing the existing quality, diversity and distribution of retail, leisure, entertainment, arts, heritage, cultural facilities, community facilities or tourist attractions. Retail uses outside a defined primary shopping area A proposal for a retail use involving over 600m2 net internal floorspace outside of a primary shopping area will be supported where it is in accordance with the sequential approach from town centre to edge of centre and then out of centre as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework. A proportionate impact assessment will be required in accordance with policy LP 7 'Spatial Planning Areas'. Town centres The town centres of Huntingdon, St Neots, St Ives and Ramsey will be supported as sustainable locations for shopping, working, service and leisure uses which attract a wide range of people throughout the day and evening to strengthen the centre's role as a vibrant, accessible focus for meeting local needs. Beyond the primary shopping frontage and primary shopping area a development proposal for a main town centre use will be supported where the scale and type of development reflects the centre's size, role and character. The Council will use urban design frameworks and development briefs as appropriate to inform development within town centres to support their ongoing vitality and viability. Other main town centre uses outside a defined town centre A proposal for a main town centre use involving over 600m2 net internal floorspace outside of a town centre will be supported where it is in accordance with the sequential approach giving preference to town centres, then edge of centre and then out of centre as set out in the National Planning Policy Framework. A proportionate impact assessment will be required in accordance with policy LP 7 'Spatial Planning Areas'. Markets Markets add diversity and interest to the town centres of Huntingdon, St Neots, St Ives and Ramsey and contribute to their vitality and viability. A proposal which provides an additional market or enhances the role of an existing market in its respective town centre economy will be supported.

Tourism and Recreation

A proposal for a new or expanded tourism, sport or leisure use in the countryside will be supported where it can be demonstrated that: a. it is well-related to a defined settlement unless there are robust operational or sustainability reasons why it needs to be located elsewhere; b. it does not cause harm to, and where appropriate, enhances the ecological, landscape and heritage significance of the proposed location; c. the impact of the scale, character and location of the development on both its immediate surroundings and the wider landscape are minimised as far as possible; d. adequate servicing can be provided, including water supply, electricity and for sewage and waste disposal; and e. it will not have an adverse impact on any internationally or nationally designated wildlife site through increased visitor pressure. Where tourist accommodation is approved appropriate planning conditions will be used to prevent occupation as a person's permanent sole or main residential use. A proposal for tourist accommodation, including touring caravan and camping sites, should be supported by a robust business plan demonstrating that it is viable in the long term.

Sustainable Travel

New development will be expected to contribute to an enhanced transport network that supports an increasing proportion of journeys being undertaken by sustainable travel modes, defined in the 'Glossary'. A proposal will therefore be supported where it is demonstrated that: a. opportunities are maximised for the use of sustainable travel modes; b. its likely transport impacts have been assessed, and appropriate mitigation measures will be delivered, in accordance with National Planning Practice Guidance; c. safe physical access from the public highway can be achieved, including the rights of way network where appropriate d. any potential impacts on the strategic road network have been addressed in line with Department for Transport Circular 02/2013 and advice from early engagement with Highways England; and e. there are no severe residual cumulative impacts. Where a proposal would affect an existing public right of way or other formal non-motorised users' route, this route should be protected or enhanced within the proposed development. Where this is not possible it should be diverted to a safe, clear and convenient alternative route. The stopping up of paths/ routes will only be acceptable where all opportunities to provide a safe, clear and convenient alternative have been investigated and proved to be unsuitable. All routes will be provided to an adoptable standard and all pedestrian and cycle routes will be formalised as rights of way unless otherwise agreed with the Council and the Highways Authority.

Parking Provision and Vehicle Movement

A proposal will be supported where it incorporates appropriate space for vehicle movements, facilitates accessibility for service and emergency vehicles and incorporates adequate parking for vehicles and cycles. These should all comply with design and security guidance set out in the Huntingdonshire Design Guide SPD (2017) or successor documents. A clear justification for the space for vehicle movements and level of vehicle and cycle parking proposed will need to be provided taking account of: a. highway safety and access to and from the site; b. servicing requirements; c. the accessibility of the development to a wide range of services and facilities by public transport, cycling and walking; d. the needs of potential occupiers, users and visitors, now and in the future; e. the amenity of existing and future occupiers and users of the development and nearby property; and f. opportunities for shared provision, where locations and patterns of use allow this. Minimum levels of car parking for disabled people as set out in national guidance will be required. A proposal that includes residential development will be expected to provide at least one clearly identified secure cycle space per bedroom for all dwellings (C3 Use Class), unless it can be demonstrated that this is unachievable. A proposal that includes new main town centre uses of 600m² or more net internal floorspace will be expected to provide and identify the location of at least one cycle space for every 25m² of net internal floorspace or part thereof, or otherwise demonstrate why a different level of provision is appropriate. A proposal for a new non-residential building over 2,500m² of net internal floorspace should provide dedicated changing and showering facilities for cyclists.