Planning in Leicester

Assets of Community Value

Applications for an Asset of Community Value will be supported where the asset in question: a) Promotes services and facilities that are open and accessible to everyone b) Encourages sustainability, innovation and good quality design principles (DQP01) c) Brings local people together and is responsive to local needs d) Delivers social benefits and outcomes to achieve a positive and profound change in the community e) Facilitates economic growth f) Supports mixed and multi-purpose uses that maintain community vitality g) Supports the retention of and enhances the heritage assets of social and community value

Protection of Public Houses (Class Sui Generis)

Applications for the demolition of existing Public Houses (Sui Generis) or change of use should only be approved where the following criteria are met: a) There is no longer a need for that facility within the local area, having regard to the amount of local patronage, the quality of facilities offered and the duration and extent of marketing. Evidence of 12 months suitable marketing activity will be required or evidence that the public house is no longer financially viable through the submission of trading accounts, or other similar financial evidence, whilst the pub was operating as a full-time business; or b) There are adequate similar facilities within walking distance which offer equivalent provision; or c) The redevelopment of the building would secure an overriding public benefit.

Great Central Railway Museum

Planning permission will be granted for tourism and leisure facilities associated with the Great Central Steam Railway at Red Hill Roundabout as shown on the Policies Map. Opportunities for delivery of a new Park & Ride site will also be supported where it meets the criteria contained within Policy T04. For good quality design, proposals that provide renewable energy will be supported in accordance with policy CCFR01.

Provision of new and retention of existing Places of Worship

Planning permission will be granted for conversions to and creation of new places of worship and associated community facilities, subject to the following: a) The appropriateness of the location in terms of meeting a local need b) The impact on residential amenity (DQP06) c) The impact on highway safety and function. Schemes should encourage walking and cycling as sustainable modes of transport to Places of Worship (T01)

Changing Places Facilities

In addition to standard accessible WCs, 'Changing Places' toilet facilities should be provided in larger buildings and complexes, such as: a) Major transport termini or interchanges b) Sport, leisure and community facilities, including large hotels c) Cultural centres, such as museums, concert halls and art galleries d) Stadia and large auditoria e) Shopping centres, major supermarkets and shop-mobility centres; f) Key civic and community buildings g) Educational establishments h) Health facilities, such as hospitals, health centres and community practices

A Healthy and Active City

The city council is committed to reducing health inequalities, increasing life expectancy, improving quality of life and encouraging physical activity by: a) Assessing major developments for their health impact. This will include how the development will contribute to improving health and reduce health inequalities. Where adverse impacts are identified, the development will be expected to demonstrate how it will address or mitigate these impacts (HW02) b) Improving pedestrian and cycle access, to green and open spaces (DQP01, OSSR03 & T03) c) Improving access for all, to the city's health facilities and services; to leisure, sport and recreation facilities; and to protect and enhance where appropriate (see chapters 13 and 18) d) Promoting high levels of regular exercise through active travel by making the public realm and pedestrian and cycle routes safer and more attractive and by promoting fifteen-minute neighbourhoods (T03) e) Good design including inclusive design (DQP01, DQP03 and Chapter 16) f) Seeking to improve air quality by tree planting and other methods (T02 and DQP04) g) Encouraging opportunities for access to fresh food e.g. through the retention and provision of allotments, community gardens, orchards and innovative spaces for growing food, such as green roofs; particularly where there is demand for food growing space in the vicinity of the application site. This includ

Existing Playing Pitches

Existing playing pitches will be protected from development for other use unless it can be clearly demonstrated that: a) The site is surplus to requirements b) Equivalent or better facilities, in terms of quantity and/or quality will be provided in a suitable location c) The development is for alternative sports and recreation provision, the needs of which outweigh the loss d) The proposal is consistent with or does not conflict with the delivery of the Playing Pitch Strategy and Action Plan (2017)

Playing pitches and associated facilities

The city council will support proposals for development to provide or support playing pitches and their associated facilities provided: a) The proposal can be well accessed by walking, cycling, public transport and by those with disabilities (T03) b) The amenity of nearby residents is protected, including from the impacts of use (e.g. traffic and parking) and associated floodlighting c) The proposal is consistent or does not conflict with the delivery of the Playing Pitch Strategy and Action Plan

Built Sports Facilities

Development of new, or enhancement of existing built sports facilities will be permitted and encouraged where this contributes positively to the well-being and social cohesion of local communities, with preference being given to locations within or adjacent to an appropriate town or edge-of-town-centre sites. Built sports facilities will be acceptable outside town centres where: a) It can be demonstrated that there are no suitable premises within or adjacent to centres b) There are overriding community, amenity and environmental benefits deriving from an out of centre location c) Residential amenity is not unreasonably affected (DPQ06) d) The development is easily accessible by walking, cycling and public transport (T03)

Culture, Leisure and Tourism

Planning permission will be granted for cultural, leisure and tourism facilities where they: a) Satisfy the requirements of the sequential and impact tests (TCR01 & TCR02) b) Are accessible by and actively encourage sustainable modes of transport e.g. public transport, walking and cycling (T03); c) Do not generate significant volumes of additional traffic unless it can be demonstrated that the additional traffic can be appropriately mitigated (T01) d) Do not have an adverse effect upon residential amenity (DQP06) e) Enhance the local culture of the area Some leisure uses may need to be supported by an impact assessment in accordance with Policy TCR02.

Assets of Community Value

Applications for an Asset of Community Value will be supported where the asset in question: a) Promotes services and facilities that are open and accessible to everyone b) Encourages sustainability, innovation and good quality design principles (DQP01) c) Brings local people together and is responsive to local needs d) Delivers social benefits and outcomes to achieve a positive and profound change in the community e) Facilitates economic growth f) Supports mixed and multi-purpose uses that maintain co

Changing Places Facilities

In addition to standard accessible WCs, 'Changing Places' toilet facilities should be provided in larger buildings and complexes, such as: a) Major transport termini or interchanges b) Sport, leisure and community facilities, including large hotels c) Cultural centres, such as museums, concert halls and art galleries d) Stadia and large auditoria e) Shopping centres, major supermarkets and shop-mobility centres; f) Key civic and community buildings g) Educational establishments h) Health facilities, such as hospitals, health centres and community practices

A Healthy and Active City

The city council is committed to reducing health inequalities, increasing life expectancy, improving quality of life and encouraging physical activity by: a) Assessing major developments for their health impact. This will include how the development will contribute to improving health and reduce health inequalities. Where adverse impacts are identified, the development will be expected to demonstrate how it will address or mitigate these impacts b) Improving pedestrian and cycle access, to green and open spaces c) Improving access for all, to the city's health facilities and services; to leisure, sport and recreation facilities; and to protect and enhance where appropriate d) Promoting high levels of regular exercise through active travel by making the public realm and pedestrian and cycle routes safer and more attractive and by promoting fifteen-minute neighbourhoods e) Good design including inclusive design f) Seeking to improve air quality by tree planting and other methods g) Encouraging opportunities for access to fresh food e.g. through the retention and provision of allotments, community gardens, orchards and innovative spaces for growing food, such as green roofs; particularly where there is demand for food growing space in the vicinity of the application site. This includes the temporary use of vacant or derelict land, the use of incidental open space in housing areas, and other open spaces where this does not conflict with other policy objectives or land use priorities h) The inclusion of productive trees (including fruit trees) and plants, in landscaping proposals for new developments where appropriate

Health Impact Assessments (HIA)

a) In conjunction with policy HW01 all major development proposals will be required to demonstrate that they would have an acceptable impact on health and wellbeing. This should be demonstrated through a: • HIA where significant impacts on health and wellbeing would arise from that proposal; or • HIA Screening Report which demonstrates that the proposed development would not overall give rise to negative impacts in respect of health and wellbeing b) Where a development has significant negative or positive impacts on health and wellbeing the council may require applicants to provide for the mitigation or provision of such impacts through planning conditions and/or financial/other contributions secured via planning obligations and/or the council's Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) charging schedule

New Development Within the Character Areas

Within the character areas as identified on the policies map, any new development will be expected to meet the following requirements. Further detail will be provided within subsequent supplementary planning documents: • New buildings and extensions to existing buildings will be expected to be built to a height in line with the tall buildings policy (DQP02 'Tall Development') • Nationally and locally listed buildings, other identified heritage assets, including the protection of key views will be protected and enhanced • Non-listed buildings which have been identified as making a positive contribution to the townscape should also be retained where possible • To improve connectivity both within the character area and to surrounding areas, development should seek to create new connections which improve the streetscape and enhance the quality of existing connections for pedestrians and cyclists • New development should create active frontages which maximise natural surveillance and provide interest for passers-by. This will be of particular importance at ground floor level • New development should by its design improve the character and appearance of the character area • New development should be designed to repair the building lines of streets especially on vacant plots to prevent fragmentation within the character areas • Provide new green infrastructure which makes a significant contribution to the development's place making and adds positively to the aims and objectives of the character area

Residential Amenity

In determining planning applications, the following factors concerning the amenity of existing and future residents will be taken into account, both individually and cumulatively with the existing situation: a) Noise, light, vibrations, smell and pollution (air, water and ground) caused by the development and its use b) Any impact to the visual quality of the area c) The management of waste and potential litter problems d) Additional parking and vehicle manoeuvring e) Privacy, overshadowing, overlooking, overbearing impact and adequate natural light f) Safety and security g) Access to key facilities by walking, cycling or public transport to ensure adequate accessibility by sustainable methods

Recycling and Refuse Storage

a) Both new development and conversion schemes should have sufficient refuse storage space to allow segregated waste collection. Storage space for refuse bins and the appropriate provision of space for recycling facilities should be integral to the design of new development and, where possible, conversion schemes b) Facilities should be secure, their impact on the street scene should be minimised, and access for collection and management should be provided. Where bins can only be stored at the front of properties, provision should be made for them to be screened from the street

Shopfronts and Security

The design of new shopfronts and roller shutters will be expected to be an integral part of the design of the whole building, consistent with it in quality and treatment of materials and proportioned to respond to the lines of the façade of which it forms a part. In existing buildings, replacement shopfronts and roller shutters will normally be approved only if they: a) Maintain or improve upon the quality of the front they are to replace b) Relate well to the building they are to occupy and to the street scene in materials, form and proportion c) Are designed to be unobtrusive d) Shutter curtains provide visibility into the shop when they are in place e) Are of an appropriate material, design and finish, applied before installation

Signs and Banners Advertisement Design and Location

Consent will be given for signs and advertisements unless they: a) Do not relate well to the building on which they are fixed and to the surrounding area b) Have a harmful impact on visual amenity c) Cause unacceptable light pollution or loss of amenity through excessive glare, light spillage or sky glow d) Would have an unacceptable impact on highway safety

Advertisement Hoardings

Advertisement hoardings, including digital hoardings, will only be permitted to screen a derelict building or site, subject to the design being appropriate for the timescale of the redevelopment and subject to requirements to remove at a specified date. Advertisement hoarding signs in other circumstances, or other advertisements unrelated to the site, will not normally be permitted.

Design Principles

Development will be permitted subject to consideration of the following design principles which are outlined more fully in the National Design Guide and National Model Design Code. Context, Character and Identity a) Respond positively, informed by analysis, to the site and its local and wider context including its history and heritage, setting of heritage assets, townscape and streetscape, key views, natural and landscape features, site orientation and features to conserve and enhance b) Respond positively, informed by analysis, to an area's local character, distinctiveness and identity at all levels and scales, including typical characteristics and pattern of housing and streets to distinctive and prevailing features c) Create or contribute to a new character and identity where an existing place has limited positive qualities d) Integrate well into their surroundings, so they relate well to them and contribute positively physically, visually and socially e) Provide a clear and robust design rationale, informed by the above, for the design concept and how it has evolved into the design proposal Built Form a) Contribute positively to its context in terms of scale, height, amount, massing, urban form, layout, siting, appearance, façade design and roofscape including fenestration, detailing and materials. Development which fails to respect and improve an area will be resisted b) Create or strengthen a sense of place and make it easy for everyone to find their way around and through the pattern or arrangement of development blocks, streets, buildings and spaces to create memorable features, recognisable places and a coherent form of development c) Consider development comprehensively and in a co-ordinated way to enable the efficient and most effective use of land, to allow a sustainable amount and mix of uses to support local facilities and transport networks – across multiple sites where possible d) Where needed to respond to the context, their townscape role and the need to increase densities, well designed bespoke home types will be required Movement and Connections a) Provide, maintain or improve the network of routes for all modes of transport within and through the development site ensuring connections to the wider area, taking into account existing communities and defined future development proposals whilst recognising the need for privacy and security in new development b) Provide a clear and connected layout of different types of streets and spaces, a street hierarchy, to add to a sense of place and help people find their way around. Incorporate green infrastructure to create character, improve air quality and contribute to biodiversity. Create streets which are designed as social spaces that encourage low vehicle speeds where the pedestrians and cyclists come first rather than simply as routes for cars and vehicles to pass through c) Prioritise and encourage walking and cycling by providing routes that are safe, well connected, convenient and accessible for all including those with limited mobility d) Provide well-integrated, conveniently sited, well landscaped and safe car and cycle parking that contributes positively to place-making and the public realm. It should not dominate the development or have a detrimental impact upon the appearance of the area e) Maximise opportunities for improving and extending the existing network of public transport routes, pedestrian and cycling routes in the city Public Realm a) Create high quality public spaces that are appropriately located and connected into a network of routes, feel safe, secure and inclusive, are accessible to all and encourage social interaction b) Make the best use of existing and new landscaping, materials, lighting, public art, and street furniture. Public spaces should be versatile to accommodate people with different needs and a range of activities to ensure the spaces are well-liked and well-used c) Contribute to a vibrant and safe public realm by providing active frontages including appropriately sized, well-positioned and designed main entrances, lobbies and communal areas. Consideration will need to be given to the types of homes to maximise individual doors to streets. This is to encourage activity and engagement between buildings and spaces and natural surveillance. Developments that incorporate living spaces on the ground floor will need to be well designed to balance the need for privacy and surveillance Mix of uses a) Provide an appropriate mix of uses and facilities within a development to meet the needs of the occupants and the neighbourhood which will support everyday activities and create sustainable and walkable places b) Provide a mix of homes tenures, types and sizes to create well balanced, stable and inclusive communities Homes and buildings a) Provide well-designed homes and buildings that relate positively to the private, shared and public spaces and streets around them, contributing to social interaction and inclusion b) Provide good quality internal and external environments for their users promoting health and well-being c) Provide a clear distinction between public, communal, shared and private spaces with well-designed boundaries and thresholds that are appropriate to the context d) Use materials that are of high quality and made to last e) Provide homes and buildings with well-designed, well-positioned and well-integrated private or shared external spaces. These need to be fit for purpose, easily accessed

Tall Development

Planning permission will be granted for tall development where it meets the following design and locational criteria: a) Responds positively to context, including scale, mass, built form and proportions, composition, urban grain, streetscape, topography, public open spaces and landscape, rivers and waterways b) Tall development should be well-proportioned in terms of slenderness when viewed from all frontages with well-design component parts, in particular how it meets the sky (top) and ground (base) c) Has a positive impact on local townscape views, local heritage views, Leicester's skyline and views and vistas of city-wide significance d) Will have a positive relationship with public spaces and parks e) Any proposal is accompanied by a comprehensive assessment and analysis of considerations as identified in this policy f) Has an appropriate or no impact on the local environment including microclimate (wind), air quality, night-time appearance, light pollution, overshadowing and the lack of sunlight and daylight within the development itself, and to neighbouring buildings, streets and public realm g) Demonstrates adequate levels of privacy between adjacent properties and within the development h) Demonstrates that there are no cumulative impacts from existing, consented and proposed tall development and that the arrangement and spacing of tall development will allow the individual built forms in a cluster to be read as one entity, for example, by providing clear visual breaks where the sky is visible, avoiding a merging of built forms to create an overbearing monolithic impact of both significant scale and mass i) Will not prejudice the future development potential of adjacent sites j) Exhibits an exceptional standard of architectural quality in scale, form, massing, proportion, silhouette and facade materials and detailed surface design and articulation k) Exhibits a design that reflects or references human scaled design appropriate to the context, townscape and heritage of Leicester and local street-based qualities l) Provides uses and a design at street level that interacts with and contributes positively to its surroundings and context including providing generous, well designed public spaces around the base

Inclusive Design

New developments should be of inclusive design so that they: a) Can be used safely, easily and with dignity by all so that they are convenient and welcoming with no disabling barriers and all people can use them independently and without undue effort, separation or special treatment b) Meet the particular access needs of disabled and older people, as well as people with other 'protected characteristics' (as required by the Equality Act 2010) c) Are designed for likely future demographic trends, particularly in relation to an ageing society and the need for Leicester to be a 'dementia friendly' city

Landscape Design

Development will be expected to: a) Retain landscape features such as topography, hydrology and existing vegetation, woodlands, trees and hedgerows b) Justify and mitigate the loss of any existing landscape features c) Respect and give consideration to the protection and enhancement of irreplaceable habitats such as ancient woodlands and veteran trees d) Consider aspect and shading, and avoid creating a later pressure for removal of trees and other features e) Provide a landscaping scheme which forms part of an integrated design approach, including overall layout, access routes, lighting and street furniture f) Provide a landscaping scheme that is designed to a high quality, including to high inclusive design standards, and provide a variety of functions, such as SuDS, play space and shading g) Provide a landscape design statement to evidence commitment and concepts towards providing high quality landscape proposals h) Ensure that the maintenance and management of existing and new landscaping is provided for a minimum of the first five years, including replacing any dead or vandalised stock and demonstrate that satisfactory long-term maintenance and management is secured i) Ensure planting schemes take into consideration how the landscape will mature, seasonal changes and its relationship to biodiversity

The Railway Station

Within the area defined as the Railway Station Character Area on the adopted policies map, development will be expected to support Leicester City Council's aspirations for high quality office development within this area. This will be achieved by: • Delivering a minimum of 20,000 sqm of high-grade office space (Class E(g) (i)) • Delivery of improvements to this primary city gateway including the creation of new high quality public realm • Strengthening pedestrian connectivity from the station to the city centre, improving the infrastructure and transport hub • Allowing a mix of uses which are ancillary to support the office development, such as hotel, food and drink, and leisure where they do not detract or undermine delivery of this or other nearby character areas

St. George's Cultural Quarter

Within the area defined as 'St. George's Cultural Quarter' Character Area on the adopted policies map, development will be expected to meet the council's aim for the area for mixed use heritage character regeneration. This will be achieved by: • Providing a minimum of 20,000sqm of high grade offices (SL01) • Supporting proposals for small scale office development (Class E g (i)) • Supporting proposals for the expansion and enhancement of 'Curve' and Phoenix Cinema and proposals for other similar leisure uses • Supporting proposals for food and drink uses to increase footfall within the area (Class E (b)) • Supporting proposals for employment & creative development such as workspaces and creative start-ups units that assists in making the area a lively and creative environment, appealing to artists and creative companies • Improving the public realm including linking through the public spaces of Orton Square and St George's Churchyard

Non-Strategic Economic Development Areas

Two High Quality Economic Development employment sites are proposed at: a) Eastern part of Thurcaston Road /Hadrian Road open space (2.7ha) b) Mountain Road (2.1ha) They will provide for Light Industry (E(g)(iii)), general industry (B2) and storage and distribution (B8) uses (with ancillary offices only). The site at Thurcaston Road/ Hadrian Road open space has been identified for a potential gypsy and traveller transit site.

General Economic Development Areas

Land within the General Economic Development Areas, as identified on the Policies Map, will be retained primarily for light industry (E(g)iii), general industry (B2) and small (non-strategic) storage and distribution (B8) uses, with ancillary offices. The following other uses will be acceptable in principle where they involve the conversion of a building, which is not portal framed in construction: • Day nurseries (Class E(f)) • Places of worship (Class F1(f)) • Indoor sport, recreation and fitness (Class E (d)) • Education (Class F1(a) • Public halls or exhibition halls (Class F1(e) • Halls or meeting places for the principal use of the local community (Class F2 (c)) • Car showrooms and other sui generis uses which are commonly found in industrial estates (These would include uses such as, builder's merchant, haulage yard, MOT testing station and bus garage) • Wholesale uses (non B8) And can demonstrate that: a) Where any of the above "other uses" are considered to be a "main town centre use" they have satisfied the policy requirements of the sequential and impact tests in policies TCR01 and TCR02 b) Where the above "other use" is an E class use which does not require consideration of the sequential or impact tests, a condition may be attached to the permission that would restrict the proposed use to a particular sub-category in accordance with policy TC09

High Quality Economic Development Areas

Land within High Quality Economic Development Areas (as identified on the Policies Map) will be retained for industrial processes that do not have a detrimental effect on residential amenity, (Light industry E(g)(iii)), general industry (B2) and storage and distribution (B8) uses with ancillary offices only.

Pioneer Park

a) Within Pioneer Park as identified on the Policies Map (the Innovation and Technology Park at Abbey Meadows), Class E(g)(ii) development will be allowed to encourage inward investors, knowledge based and high skill/high added value firms to provide accommodation for both start up and local high growth uses b) A mix of Use Class E(g)(i), E(g)(ii) and E (g)(iii) development will be allowed within specific Innovation growth buildings to provide grow on space for start-up and local high growth users c) Science and Technology educational uses (Class F1(a)) and associated Research Institutes (E(g)(ii)) and other uses that can demonstrate a need to be located within the park or near to the National Space Centre will also be allowed d) New development needs to focus on the canal and riverside, enhancing their bio-diversity and visual amenity providing a high-quality setting and mitigate any risk from flooding

Textile Area and Neighbourhood Employment Areas

Throughout the city and particularly around the city's textile area (surrounding the Spinney Hills area, within LE5), development that assists the city's reviving textile industry will be supported. Neighbourhood Employment Areas In the smallest lower quality neighbourhood employment areas, as identified on the Policies Map, regeneration will be encouraged, but some sites may not be suitable for housing due to existing constraints. Housing will only be acceptable where it can be clearly demonstrated that existing constraints can be mitigated, and it is not expected to result in any detrimental effect on the operation of the surrounding businesses. Light industry (Class E(g)(iii), B1c), general industry (Class B2) and/or storage and distribution (Class B8) uses will be encouraged to continue and/ or redevelop for these uses: Other uses such as: • Day nurseries (Class E(f)) • Places of worship (Class F1(f)) • Indoor sport, recreation and fitness (Class E (d)) • Education (Class F1(a)) • Public halls or exhibition halls (Class F1(e)) • Halls or meeting places for the principal use of the local community (Class F2 (c)) • Wholesale uses (non B8) Will be acceptable in principle where they involve the conversion of a building, which is not portal framed in construction and can demonstrate that: a) Where any of the above "other uses" are considered to be a "main town centre use" they must have satisfied the policy requirements of the sequential and impact tests in policies TCR01 and TCR02 b) Where the above "other use" is an E class use which does not require consideration of the sequential or impact tests, a condition may be attached to the permission that would restrict the proposed use to a particular sub-category in accordance with policy TC09

St. George's Cultural Quarter

a) Proposals will be encouraged which combine sympathetic design with a mix of uses, incorporating design studios, workspaces and residential use. Office uses are also encouraged. Proposals should meet the requirements of Policy HE01 and CHA07 b) To contribute to active street frontages, uses that fall in the E(b) use class and pubs/bars (Sui Generis) will be allowed on the parts of Halford Street and Rutland Street which fall within this area

Employment: Support Strategies

a) The city council will work with partners to ensure that Leicester has a thriving and diverse local business community that innovates, attracts investment and creates jobs in the city b) The city council requires the developers implementing planning applications for major development to provide site specific Employment and Skills Plans to enable local people to secure employment and training opportunities (see link above). Such plans and their implementation will be required through conditions or Section 106 agreements (where one is already proposed for major planning applications) c) The city council will work with partners to support businesses to relocate from the Central Development Area into appropriate property d) The city council will support local business to reduce their carbon footprint by bringing together businesses concerned with the aim of improving their environmental performance e) Where one business can use another business's waste as a resource, the co-location of these businesses that would encourage the reuse and recycling of waste would be supported

Vehicles Sales and Car Washes

Vehicle sales and car washes will only be acceptable where: a) They do not result in a significant loss of residential amenity (DQP06) b) They do not prevent future regeneration of the site and surrounding area c) Screening is adequate and well designed and should not be detrimental to the appearance of the street scene d) They do not significantly increase vehicle trips (T01) e) They do not lead to an over concentration of these uses on any main radial route f) They provide adequate drainage arrangements and measures to prevent water pollution To be able to keep the permanent need for this land under review, applications within the Central Development Area, retail and/or employment designations, should only be given limited period consent.

Strategic Site 5: Beaumont Park

Leicester City Council will work to deliver employment development, on land within Beaumont Park, identified as a strategic location, in the spatial strategy. The development will provide: Employment • 7.14 hectares of employment development within the wider 19.72 ha site • Approximately 25,000sqm of floorspace for light Industry (E(g)(iii)), general industry (B2) and storage and distribution (B8) uses (with ancillary offices only) • In addition to the general planning requirements, development will need to address, ecology, trees, land contamination, design quality and sports provision. • Gypsy and traveller transit site that could accommodate 12 caravan spaces

Sustainable Design and Construction

All development should be designed, constructed, and maintained to minimise operational energy use and carbon emissions, while also preventing overheating. It should: • Minimise energy use, manage demand, and prevent overheating during operation. This should be achieved through passive design measures including optimised site layout, building orientation, form factor, massing, daylighting and control of solar gain, minimised heat loss from the building fabric through reduced U-values and thermal bridges, and increased air tightness; followed by utilising energy efficient lighting and services, including consideration of heat recovery and demand management technologies • Further reduce carbon emissions through the use of zero and/or low emission decentralised energy, prioritising connection to district heating and cooling networks and utilising secondary heat sources • Further reduce carbon emissions by maximising opportunities to produce and use renewable energy on site, utilising storage technologies • Monitor, verify and report on energy performance All new residential development should achieve a minimum 10% and all new non-residential development should achieve a minimum 20% reduction in carbon emissions beyond the requirement of Part L of the Building Regulations 2013 through passive, fabric, and energy efficient design measures alone. Alternative targets to these will be provided once new National Regulations are adopted. Calculation methodology details and those uses which are included as exceptions will be detailed in a supplementary planning document. All new residential development will meet the Optional Standard of 'Part G'

Whole Life-Cycle Carbon Emissions

All developments shall identify and pursue opportunities to minimise whole life cycle carbon emissions. The following criteria should be considered when aiming to minimise whole life-cycle carbon: a) Operational Energy – Developments should achieve high levels of energy efficiency, use low carbon heating sources, and be powered by renewable energy generated on site where possible, to minimise operational carbon emissions b) Embodied Carbon – Developments should meet best practice targets for reducing embodied carbon. Materials should have a reduced level of embodied carbon, for example through the re-use or recycling of materials, and be designed to be disassembled and re-used or recycled (rather than demolished) in accordance with circular economy principles c) Developments above 1,000m2 or 100 dwellings must calculate whole life-cycle carbon emissions and demonstrate methodology compliance through a nationally recognised Whole Life-Cycle Carbon Emissions assessment, e.g. BS EN 15978 Sustainability of Construction Works – Assessment of Environmental Performance of Buildings – Calculation Method

Energy Statement

All major developments will be required to provide an Energy Statement as described in the supplementary planning document. All other applications can opt to either submit an Energy Statement or include a relevant section in the Design and Access Statement addressing the relevant policy areas. The Energy Statement will include details of the energy demand reduction and overheating prevention measures proposed and details of the low and zero carbon energy technologies included. Carbon emissions reduction achieved from each stage of the energy hierarchy must also be reported along with embodied carbon emissions reductions evidenced through a whole life-cycle carbon emissions assessment.

Low Carbon Heating and Cooling

To ensure that the most appropriate selection of a heating/cooling system for a development, targeting the lowest carbon emissions possible, all major developments must incorporate low or zero carbon heating in accordance with system and technology hierarchies described in Figure 3. Where it has been clearly demonstrated that connection to existing heating/cooling networks are not feasible and/or viable (e.g. due to lack of heat & hot water demand and/or lack of heat network capacity), development near (within 500m of a city council pre-identified network priority zone) existing or planned heat networks should be designed to allow for cost-effective connection at a later date by including the following features: a) Provision of centralised heating/cooling distribution in the form of a single accessible energy centre/plant room b) Suitable distribution, control systems and operating temperatures c) Safeguarded access routes for future external pipework through the site and into the energy centre/plant room d) Space within the energy centre/plant room for a future heat substation Building systems must comply with CIBSE CP1: Heat networks: Code of Practice (latest revision).

Delivering Renewable and Low Carbon Energy Projects

Proposals for new renewable and low carbon energy projects will be supported subject to the following: a) Impacts on the historic environment, local character, appearance, and landscape b) Impacts on ecology and biodiversity, including protected species and designated and non-designated wildlife sites (NE01) c) Impacts on residential amenity, including air quality, noise, traffic, recreation, and access (DQP06) d) For any proposals for wind turbine projects, consideration should be given regarding air traffic movement and safety, and impacts on electromagnetic transmissions, including radio, television, and phone signals

Managing Flood Risk and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS)

In assessing development, the following principles will be applied: a) Development shall be directed away from areas with the highest risk of flooding in accordance with the sequential and exception tests. Developments which fall into the following categories must be accompanied by a Flood Risk Assessment: • Greater than 1 hectare in Flood Zone 1 • Changes of use of less than 1 hectare in Flood Zone 1 and where it could be affected by sources of flooding other than rivers and sea • Any developments in Flood Zones 2 and 3 b) The development must be safe for its design lifetime and not increase flood risk elsewhere. This is achieved by implementing a sequential approach on site and/or by implementing flood mitigation measures to address any remaining flood risk. It should be noted that the use of temporary and demountable defences is not appropriate for new developments. Where possible the development should also reduce flood risk overall c) For all development, SuDS are expected to be used to reduce surface water runoff and deliver other benefits, such as improving water quality, providing visual amenity, contributing towards achieving biodiversity net gain and having low maintenance requirements. It shall be demonstrated that the proposed SuDS will be managed and maintained throughout the lifetime of the development d) Opportunities for the enhancement, including de-culverting of watercourses for biodiversity should be realised wherever possible, such as in parks and public open spaces e) Adequate provision for safe access (including vehicular) to watercourses and flood defence structures must be provided to allow for maintenance and emergency works to be carried out by the relevant authority f) New opportunities should be taken to provide access to a watercourse and its setting for recreational purposes Planning permission will not be granted for development in Flood Zone 3b, except where it is for water-compatible uses, or essential infrastructure, or where it is on previously developed land and it will bring an overall reduction in flood risk when compared to the existing situation. All of the following criteria must be met: • It will not lead to a net increase in development above the footprint of the existing building • It will not lead to a reduction in flood storage (through the use of flood compensation measures on a level-by-level and volume-by-volume basis) • It will not lead to an increased risk of flooding elsewhere • It will not put any future occupants of the development at risk

Protecting designated sites, legally protected and priority species, and priority habitats

For proposals affecting nationally or locally designated sites, legally protected and priority species, and priority habitats, the following will be considered: a) Development on land within or outside a Site of Special Scientific Interest, and which is likely to have an adverse effect on it (either individually or in combination with other developments) will not normally be permitted. The only exception is where the benefits of the development in the location proposed clearly outweigh both the impact on the features of the site that make it of special scientific interest, and any impacts on the broader network of Sites of Special Scientific Interest b) Development proposals on, or affecting, locally designated sites (including regionally important geological sites), will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the need for development outweighs the need to safeguard the nature conservation or geological value of the site c) Development proposals on, or affecting, sites supporting priority habitats and priority species, will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that the need for development outweighs the need to safeguard the nature conservation or geological value of the site d) Development proposals on, or affecting, sites supporting legally protected species will only be permitted where it can be demonstrated that it has suitably avoided, minimised, mitigated or compensated for the loss of that habitat and/or impact on that species. Developments that cannot demonstrate this

Biodiversity Gain

All developments will avoid biodiversity loss and enhance biodiversity where possible. In accordance with national legislation, developments are required to provide a minimum of 10% biodiversity net gain. Developments will be permitted where: a) An overall net gain in biodiversity of at least 10%, as calculated by Natural England's most recent Biodiversity Metric or successor document, and commensurate with the size and scale of development, has been demonstrated b) The design of the new development, including landscape, enhances retained habitats and provides new areas and opportunities for wildlife onsite, wherever possible and/or c) The size, location, creation, establishment, and long-term aftercare of off-site biodiversity compensation and enhancement has been agreed with the council

Green and Blue Infrastructure

Development proposals should: a) Integrate green and blue infrastructure into the design of the scheme at the earliest stages of the development process, taking into consideration existing natural assets, and the most suitable locations and types of new provision b) Maximise the multiple functions and associated benefits of green and blue infrastructure including improving air and water quality, storing carbon, managing flood risk, providing opportunities for biodiversity net gain, facilitating urban cooling, growing food, and providing spaces for people to enjoy for leisure and recreation purposes c) Connect green and blue infrastructure across and around the site, and to the wider green and blue infrastructure network d) Agree the long-term maintenance and management of green and blue infrastructure at an early stage

Ancient Woodland, Veteran Trees, and Irreplaceable Habitats

Development should aim to protect and, if possible, enhance ancient woodland, ancient or veteran trees, and irreplaceable habitats. Development resulting in the loss of, or harm to ancient woodland, ancient or veteran trees, and irreplaceable habitats must be wholly exceptional and is only permitted when: a) The public benefit clearly outweighs the loss or harm to the habitat b) A suitable compensation strategy is agreed with the council and is in place

Waterways

Development within the waterway corridors will be permitted taking into account the following objectives: a) Realise the potential of the proximity of waterways to maximise the regeneration benefits of the site b) Reflect the character variations in the waterways, in terms of use, location and design c) Complement and enhance the architectural quality of the waterside, particularly in regard to historic assets d) Protect, maintain and enhance the nature conservation value of the waterway corridors, including delivering for the Water Framework Directive e) Protect, maintain and enhance the sustainable drainage functions of the waterway corridors f) Take opportunities to enhance the recreation and leisure roles of the waterway corridors g) Maintain, enhance, and create safe and publicly accessible routes to, along and adjacent to waterways, which are suitable for active travel (e.g. walking and cycling) for all potential users h) Improve surveillance of the waterway, including appropriate orientation, design, lighting and outlook i) Provide safe, secure and accessible mooring and boating facilities, where possible and appropriate j) Design to allow for flood management, access for maintenance, landscaping and emergency work, as required k) Not have an adverse impact on the structural integrity of the waterway l) Encourage the planting of trees along waterways to improve biodiversity and provide shading

New Waste and Existing Waste Uses

Applications for new, and extensions to existing facilities, will be assessed against the following criteria: a) There is a proven local market or quantitative need for a facility to process an identified waste stream(s) b) It will use a technology or combination of technologies, which will help increase the city's recycling and recovery rates c) The site can easily be accessed by either the strategic road network or other forms of transport such as rail (T01) d) The local area is able to accommodate the proposed waste use, or where the proposal is in an area of other waste uses, the combination of these uses will not lead to significant harm e) Any impacts on the natural and historic environment, and residential amenity can be adequately mitigated in line with policies regarding these matters within this plan (HE01, DQP06) f) The site will be adequately screened to minimise any visual impact (DQP01) g) Where waste needs to be 'stacked' or 'bundled,' these shall be no higher than the height of any site screening, or the local prevailing building heights, whichever is smaller h) Waste processing which has the potential to produce significant odours and noise (following mitigation), will only be acceptable where it is carried out in a sealed structure i) New waste development should be on brownfield land where possible Where the use is temporary, a strategy will be required defining what steps will be taken once the use has ceased, to either: j) Allow the site to be redeveloped or regenerated k) Return the site to a similar condition to what the site was like before the use commenced

End of Life Vehicle Facilities

New, or extensions to existing, end of life vehicle processing facilities will be approved where: a) There is a proven need for the facility b) It is located in an area which will not impact residential amenity, or in the case of extensions, if any impact to residential amenity can be satisfactorily mitigated (DQP06) c) Any dismantling and depollution of vehicles is carried out in a sealed unit to ensure the protection of the local and wider environment Also, the following details will be needed: d) How recovered materials will be stored including all waste liquids, removed parts for re-sale and car shells e) A scaled plan showing arrangements for capture of waste liquids f) A statement about how hazardous waste materials including but not limited to brake pads, brake fluid, oil, lead balance weights, catalytic convertors and batteries will be disposed of g) The total of waste throughput per annum

Managing Leicester's Minerals Resources

The city council will contribute to the region's supply needs, to ensure an adequate and steady supply of minerals, in a way that supports Leicester's social, environmental and economic objectives. This will be achieved by: a) Identifying specific mineral safeguarding areas, including deposits of brick clay and sand and gravel. These areas are shown on the policies map b) Where a mineral development is proposed within a mineral safeguarding area, consideration should be given to: • Whether the mineral resource is present, has already been extracted, or is of insufficient extent to be of any economic value • The potential impact of extraction on the environment, local communities and other neighbouring uses An Environmental Statement may be required. Restoration will be required to take place after extraction, to ensure the site is returned to the most appropriate and beneficial after use at the earliest opportunity. Where a non-mineral development is proposed, within a mineral safeguarding area, consideration should be given to: c) Whether there is an exceptional overriding need for the development, which outweighs the value of the mineral resource d) The potential impact of development on the environment, local communities and other neighbouring uses e) The views of the mineral planning authority on the risk of preventing minerals extraction

Provision of New Aggregate Recycling Facilities

Applications for new aggregate recycling facilities such as urban quarries and temporary facilities, designed to regrade previously developed land, will be looked upon favourably where: a) The site will make a significant contribution to secondary aggregate production in Leicester b) It meets the location criteria set out in Policy FMWN01 New Waste and Existing Waste Uses c) It is easily accessible by lorries, HGVs and other vehicles without unduly impacting amenity (T05) d) The site is adequately screened using both fencing and landscaping (DQP04) e) Any materials stored on site are not stored at a height which causes a visual obtrusion f) Methods are implemented to prevent dust and other particulate matter leaving the site in an uncontrolled manner

Green Wedges

The green wedges as shown on the future policies map will be maintained as areas that prevent the merging of built settlements, help guide where development can take place, provide a green lung into urban areas and act as a recreational resource. Development in green wedges will be permitted where: a) It does not adversely affect the predominantly open and undeveloped character of the green wedge b) The proposal relates to agriculture, horticulture, forestry, nature areas, allotments, burial grounds, low impact waste uses, outdoor sports, leisure, or recreation facilities including school playing fields, footpaths, cycleways and bridleways c) It provides a high quality of boundary and frontage treatment d) It enhances, retains or creates additional open space networks between the countryside and within the urban areas e) It enhances or retains public access to and within green wedges f) It enhances or creates additional recreational and/or biodiversity areas within the open space g) The proposal relates to a renewable energy development

Development of Open Spaces

Development of open space as shown on the policies map will be permitted if the open space is: a) Surplus to requirements in relation to its current open space typology, taking into consideration the quantity, quality, and accessibility of existing open spaces; and, in addition b) Not needed for another type of open space; or c) The loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced by equivalent or better open space provision in terms of typology, quantity, quality and accessibility; or d) The development is for alternative sports and recreational provision to that currently provided for on the open space, or ancillary development associated with the open space, the needs for which outweigh the loss of the current or former use; or e) The development enhances and/or retains public access to and within the open space; or f) The development enhances or creates additional recreational and/or biodiversity value

Open Space in New Development

a) New development proposals should meet the need for open space provision arising from the development, taking account of local quantitative, qualitative and accessibility deficiencies in existing public and privately maintained open space, sport and recreation provision b) New high quality on-site open space, to an agreed standard, will normally be required and should be publicly accessible to all. Where appropriate, in addition to or as an alternative, contributions to improve the quality of, or access to existing open space and public realm will be sought c) New open spaces should be located in accessible overlooked areas taking into account possible impacts of noise and floodlighting d) New development will be expected to be integrated across the site and connect to the wider open space network. This should be in the form of appropriate landscaping, water conveyance routes as part of a Sustainable Drainage Scheme, and tree planting that will provide connections for wildlife, water management, access via walking and cycling routes, and improved amenity e) Where development lies adjacent to the open space network the proposal should be designed and positioned to facilitate wildlife migration and good design

Old Town

Within the area defined as 'old town' character area on the adopted policies map development will be expected to strongly protect and enhance the unique historical character of this area. This will be achieved by: • Expecting all development to support the overarching aim of heritage-based regeneration • Ensuring t

Old Town

Within the area defined as 'old town' character area on the adopted policies map development will be expected to strongly protect and enhance the unique historical character of this area. This will be achieved by: • Expecting all development to support the overarching aim of heritage-based regeneration • Ensuring that new high quality residential development (Class C3) does not detract from important heritage assets within the area • Supporting proposals for the provision of small offices (Class E (g) (i)) • Supporting new retail development (Class E (a)) within the central shopping area • Supporting proposals for tourist based leisure uses which support the heritage aims and objectives of the area

New Walk

Within the area defined as 'New Walk' character area on the adopted policies map development will be expected to be conservation led development which creates a high-quality living and working environment. This will be achieved by: • Ensuring that new development protects and enhances the New Walk area and important heritage assets • Delivering small scale offices and retaining existing offices where their quality permits (Class E (g)(i)) • Allowing new education Uses (F1 (a)) • Providing residential (Class C3) and student accommodation (Sui Generis) on existing vacant plots • Promoting retail (Class E (a)) within the London Road shopping centre

The Historic Environment

The council will seek to conserve and enhance the significance of the city's heritage assets. Listed Buildings The council will support applications where the proposal would: a) Conserve or enhance the special architectural or historic interest of the listed building b) Respect the setting of the listed building c) Encourage the active use of the listed building, securing its long-term preservation d) Balance proposals against the council's aim of addressing climate change (CCFR01) Conservation Areas Within conservation areas development will be supported where it: a) Is of a size, design and scale that preserves or enhances the character and appearance of the area b) Uses building materials that are appropriate to the local context c) Respects historic street patterns and building lines d) Retains historically significant landscape elements, including trees and traditional building features e) Preserves important views within, into and out of the conservation area Within conservation areas development involving demolition will only be supported where it can be demonstrated that: i) The structure to be demolished has no intrinsic heritage value and makes no positive contribution to the special character or appearance of the area; or ii) The structure is beyond repair or incapable of a beneficial use; or iii) It can be demonstrated that the removal of the structure and its subsequent redevelopment would make a greater contribution to the special character or appearance of the area than the structure to be demolished. Where a case for demolition within a conservation area has been demonstrated and accepted by the council, permission for that demolition will not be granted until an appropriate redevelopment scheme has been approved with planning permission that links the demolition to the implementation of the approved scheme. Exceptions may be made where it is clearly demonstrated that there is a safety risk. Registered Historic Parks and Gardens The council will support development that would conserve or enhance the significance of historic parks & gardens. Development within the setting of historic parks & gardens must respect their distinct character and appearance, including important views within, into, and out of the park or garden. Local Heritage Assets (non-designated heritage assets) The city council will seek to protect heritage assets of local interest as defined within Appendix 02 as they make a positive contribution to the city's historic environment The city council will support proposals that seek the sensitive re-use of local heritage assets and encourage the integration of local heritage assets and new development, creating attractive spaces that add to the city's character and local distinctiveness. Proposals that seek the demolition (in whole or part) of a local heritage asset will only be supported where it can be demonstrated that the loss is outweighed by the wider public benefits of the proposal. Support will be given for proposals that retain and explain the historic and social values of statues, plaques, memorials, or monuments. These will need to be left in situ and a strong justification will be required for movement.

Archaeology

Before an application for development is approved an archaeological assessment will be required where: a) A proposal would affect known or potential archaeological remains; or b) A development is located within the Archaeological Alert Area Where an assessment indicates that there is potential for remains to exist, suitable archaeological mitigation measures will be necessary. In the case of remains that do not have the status or equivalent significance of designated assets, where it is not possible to preserve remains in situ, excavation and recording of the remains will be required. This will be secured through an archaeological 'Written Scheme of Investigation,' (WSI) which must include provision for appropriate publication and archiving of the evidence. The potential for local public engagement and dissemination should also be considered and included in the 'Written Scheme of Investigation' (WSI) where this is deemed to be appropriate. There is a presumption against any harm to scheduled monuments and to heritage assets deemed to be of equivalent significance to nationally designated heritage assets.

Mansfield Street

Within the area defined as the Mansfield Street Character area on the adopted policies map, it is expected that development will be primarily residential led regeneration that supports and maintains the ongoing provision of a mix of uses in the area. This will be achieved by: • The provision of high-quality residential development (Class C3) • Within the area of Mansfield Street that is also within the central shopping core as defined by the adopted policies map, development should be retail focused (Class E(a)) • Within the area east of Abbey Street new development should complement its existing commercial and industrial character of the area through the provision of new business uses (Class E(c) & Class E(g))

St. Margaret's

Within the area defined as the St Margaret's Character Area on the adopted policies map it is expected that development will be masterplan lead regeneration based around the creation of a new residential neighbourhood. This will be achieved by: • Delivering a balanced mix of residential types and tenures including housing where feasible (Class C3) • Allowing offices (Class E (g)i) and leisure uses where they are subordinate to residential development • Improving the connectivity with Belgrave Road /Golden Mile and east –west across the area and continuing to improve connectivity and footfall to Abbey Park from the city centre • Achieve creative reuse of underused industrial architecture and heritage assets

Wharf Street

Within the area defined as Wharf Street character area on the adopted policies map it is expected development will support the continued creation of an emerging residential neighbourhood. This will be achieved by: • Ensuring that any new development complements the already emerging residential neighbourhood including the existing mixed-use development • Ensuring the delivery of a mix of residential development (Class C3) including housing where feasible • Supporting new retail (Class E(a)) within the central shopping area and ancillary food & drink uses (Class E(b)) elsewhere within Wharf Street • Provision of new leisure and community facilities where they support the emerging new neighbourhood • To make adequate provision for new public realm infrastructure (both on site & off site) where feasible

Belgrave Gateway

Within the area defined as Belgrave Gateway character area on the adopted policies map it is expected that development will support the overall aim of managed residential regeneration, as well the continuing roles of existing education, residential and employment uses within the area. This will be achieved by: • Delivering new residential development (Class C3) • Expanding and enhancing the existing Leicester College Campus (Class F1(a)) • Supporting and enhancing the existing employment uses within the northern area of Belgrave Gateway (Class E (g)iii, B2 & B8) • Providing new hotel uses (Class C1) where it can satisfy the requirements of a sequential test • Facilitating the regeneration of the existing frontage along both sides of Belgrave Gate to improve and encourage movement through the area and in turn improve connectivity with the adjacent Belgrave Road/ Golden Mile • Enhancing this important gateway and its links to the city centre • Continuing to improve connectivity and footfall to Abbey Park from the city centre

Leicester Royal Infirmary and De Montfort University

Within the area defined as 'Leicester Royal Infirmary and De Montfort University' character area on the adopted policies map, development will be expected to support the continuing role of the existing hospital, university, and rugby stadium (Welford Road). This will be achieved by: • Supporting development directly related to the Leicester Royal Infirmary, De Montfort University, Welford Road Stadium (Leicester Tigers) and ancillary uses such as Student Accommodation (Sui Generis) and other uses where there is a proven need or guided by a defined masterplan • Enhancing the connectivity across the area and LRI campus and providing positive interfaces to the public realm integrating the LRI and DMU campus with the surrounding neighbourhoods • Retail development (Class E (a)) within the parts of the Character Area contained in the defined central shopping core

Student Development

New student development will be supported where: a) It is accessible by sustainable means from the city centre and is within reasonable walking and cycling distance of at least one of the two main university campuses (ST01) b) It lies outside and does not abut an Article 4 direction area, controlling HMO conversions c) A travel plan manages beginning/end of term traffic d) A parking management plan specifies the level of parking provision which is acceptable for all forms of vehicles including bicycles and powered two wheelers (T07) e) It includes communal facilities which are appropriate to the scale of development f) A mix of uses is encouraged on the ground floor Where necessary occupation will be limited to students in perpetuity.

Backland, Tandem and Infill development

Backland development for new dwellings will be acceptable subject to the following: a) The development potential of adjoining land is not unreasonably prejudiced b) Satisfactory access in terms of highway safety, highway function, perceived and actual safety can be provided c) Development should minimise the number and frequency of vehicle accesses off an existing highway d) Tandem development of single dwellings will not normally be acceptable e) The number of dwellings, size, design and layout shall allow for space around dwellings, existing and proposed landscaping, car parking arrangements, and take account of the relationship to, and character of, neighbouring property and the area f) Privacy, light, outlook and residential amenity shall be maintained for existing and new dwellings by careful regard to separation distances, window positions, orientation of dwellings, levels, screening and landscaping g) Development shall be designed and assessed to allow for reasonable extensions to dwellings including through permitted development. Development that does not reasonably allow for permitted development will not normally be accepted h) All backland development must be adequately drained following SuDS principles with no net increase on green field run off rates i) Development will respect the historic environment. In conservation areas, back-land development will seek to ensure that the overall character and urban grain of the area is retained. Any new development will need to be sympathetic in terms of size, scale and design to its specific location

Housing Allocations

New housing will be delivered within the Local Plan on sites as identified in Appendix 6. Housing proposals will be supported where they: a) Provide an appropriate mix of housing as identified in Policy Ho03 b) Provide affordable housing in accordance with Policy Ho04 c) Provide infrastructure required to support the proposed development in accordance with Policy DI01 d) Achieve high quality design as set out in Policy DQP01 and other design policies e) Respect the character of the area in compliance with the environmental, design and heritage policies in the Local Plan f) Address site specific issues as set out in the Site Allocations document

Housing Development on Unallocated Sites

The council will support proposals in accordance with Spatial Strategy Policy SL01 which contribute towards meeting the local development needs. Planning permission will be granted for new residential development on unallocated sites where: a) The proposals comply with relevant policies in this plan and any relevant supplementary planning documents b) The proposals will be supported by existing infrastructure or provide new infrastructure as part of the development c) The proposals are in accordance with design principles set out in Policy DQP01, other design policies in the plan and design guides/codes in order to provide a high-quality living environment and create sustainable communities d) Respect the character of the area in compliance with the environmental, design and heritage policies

Housing Mix

The Local Plan will seek to achieve a mix of house types, tenures and sizes, taking into account the evidenced needs, market conditions, viability, site specific circumstances and the housing mix as identified in Table 2 and Table 3, or in any future update of housing mix evidence. a) Proposals for residential development should seek to provide an appropriate mix and size of dwellings to meet the needs of current and future households in the city including family housing, extra care and accessible housing, having regard to the latest evidence of housing need b) Proposals for supported living including retirement homes, sheltered homes and care homes will be supported and expected to meet the technical standard for access of Building Regulations 2015 Part M4(2) or any subsequent revisions c) Proposals for wheelchair accessible dwellings will be expected to meet the technical standard for access of Building Regulations 2015 Part M4(3), or any subsequent revisions. At least 10% of affordable housing will be expected to meet the M4(3) technical standards. All homes will be expected to be accessible and adaptable standards (M4(2) technical standards)

Affordable Housing

a) The council will require 30% affordable housing of the total number of dwellings to be provided on all greenfield sites involving a major scheme (10 dwellings or more). In the south east and Ashton Green areas shown on diagram 3 the Council will require 10% affordable housing of the total number of dwellings to be provided on brownfield sites involving a high-density major scheme. The council will expect this requirement to be met. Any proposal below the percentage indicated will need to be fully justified through clear evidence set out in a viability assessment produced by the applicant. This assessment will need to demonstrate that grant funding sources have been fully explored b) The type and mix of affordable housing sought will reflect Policy Ho03 or any other subsequent housing needs evidence. Each site will be expected to provide 10% of the affordable housing requirement to fully wheelchair accessible standards c) Developers should not circumvent this policy by artificially subdividing sites and are expected to make efficient use of land. If a site comes forward as two or more separate development schemes, of which one or more falls below the appropriate threshold, the council will seek an appropriate level of affordable housing on each part to match in total the provision that would have been required on the site as a whole d) Affordable housing should be provided on site and only in exceptional circumstances will contributions to make an equivalent provision elsewhere be acceptable. Affordable housing should be available to those in housing need in perpetuity e) The council will seek to achieve 25% of the overall affordable housing target as First Homes in compliance with the national policy. Remaining 75% should be provided as social rent or affordable rent, in line with the evidence most recently published by the city council

Housing Densities

The city council will support proposals that reflect the existing character of the areas, as well as which meet the locally identified needs of the city. The following density targets will be expected to be met: • Central Development Area – minimum of 75 dwellings per hectare • Rest of the city – minimum of 35 dwellings per hectare

Self-build/Custom Build

Where sites provide for 10 or more homes consideration should be given to including either provision of serviced plots for self or custom builders, and/or the provision of custom homes by other delivery routes subject to viability considerations and site-specific circumstances.

Internal Space Standards

All proposals for new dwellings (Use Class C3) must meet the Nationally Described Space Standard (NDSS) as a minimum.

Retention of Family Housing

Planning permission will not be granted for the conversion of 2 or 3 bedroom houses into flats. Conversion of any properties with 4 or more bedrooms will be assessed on the following basis: • Outside Article 4 HMO Control Areas, proposals will be assessed on their individual merits subject to compliance with Local Plan policies • Within any Article 4 HMO Control Areas, proposals for conversion of family housing into flats will not be supported

Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)

Planning permission will be granted for houses in multiple occupation if: a) The proposal will not have an adverse impact on the character of the area and a mixed and balanced community can be maintained b) The existing proportion of HMOs and other non-family housing within the area in which the proposed development is located does not amount to a significant concentration Large HMOs In addition, for larger HMOs, conditions will be imposed on planning permissions so that the number of occupants cannot be increased without a further consent.

Hostels

Planning permission will be granted for new hostels and extensions to hostels provided that: a) This would not result in a concentration of such uses to the detriment of the character of the area, depending on the range of housing available, and there would be no unacceptable impact on the amenity of neighbouring residential properties b) Special consideration is given to the construction and internal arrangement of the premises to minimise potential noise disturbance to and from adjacent properties c) Adequate accommodation, including garden and amenity space is provided to meet the needs of the residents d) A suitable management plan is included as part of the proposal

Gypsy, Traveller and Travelling Showpeople

Proposals for new gypsy, traveller and travelling showpeople sites will be supported where they meet the following criteria: a) The site should provide a safe environment for intended occupants and adequate on-site facilities should be provided for parking and vehicle manoeuvring, storage, play and amenity space b) Sites should be provided with an appropriate level of essential services including access to drinking water, refuse collection and sewage disposal c) There should be safe and convenient pedestrian and vehicular access to the site d) There should be convenient access to schools, shops and other local facilities, preferably by walking, cycling or by public transport e) Appropriate landscaping should be used to maintain visual amenity and provide privacy for occupiers f) There should be no significant detrimental impact upon the amenity of nearby residents, businesses or the local environment (DQP06)

Walnut Street

Within the area defined as Walnut Street on the adopted policies map, development will be expected to be residential in nature. This will be achieved by: • Delivering new residential development (Class C3) • Improving connectivity between the city centre, LCFC regeneration area, the LRI and DMU character areas

Strategic Site 1: Former Western Park Golf Course

Leicester City Council will work in partnership with developers and partners to deliver former Western Park Golf Course, identified as a strategic development location in the spatial strategy and as shown on the Policies Map. The development will provide: Housing • 412 homes, 30% of which will be expected to be affordable in accordance with Policy Ho04 • Homes of a range of tenures, types, and sizes, in accordance with Policy Ho03 • High quality design, in accordance with Policy DQP01 and other design policies in this plan • Self-build / custom build plots in accordance with Policy Ho06 • Gypsy and Traveller pitches (7 permanent pitches) in accordance with Policy Ho12 Employment • 11.24 ha of employment land for Class E (g)iii , B2 and B8 uses • Household Waste Recycling Centre, around 1.5 ha Open Space • 3.48 ha of public open space • Measures to achieve Biodiversity net gain Delivery • Leicester City Council as landowner will work jointly with the promoters, development partners and Blaby District Council to ensure the timely delivery of the site and establish the mechanisms for securing the infrastructure needed to enable the development of this site; • Delivery of the site must be based on a master plan with an associated delivery and a phasing plan.

Strategic Site 2: Land to the east of Ashton Green

Leicester City Council will work in partnership with developers and partners to deliver land to the east of Ashton Green identified as a strategic development location in the spatial strategy and as shown on the Policies Map. The development will provide: Northern Zone Housing • 670 homes, 30% of which will be expected to be affordable in accordance with Policy Ho04 • Homes of a range of tenures, types, and sizes in accordance with Policy Ho03 • High quality design in accordance with Policy DQP01 and other design policies in this plan • Self-build / custom build plots in accordance with Policy Ho06 Facilities and services • A secondary school with about 1,200 students capacity and any associated infrastructure Open Space • Around 4.94 ha of open space • Measures to achieve Biodiversity Net gain Southern Zone Employment • Although this site is 4.55 ha gross, most of this will needed to provide the green infrastructure. 2.4 ha will be built out as employment land for Class E) g)iii, B2 and B8 uses Delivery • Leicester City Council as landowner will work jointly with the promoters and development partners to ensure the timely delivery of the site, establishing the mechanisms for securing the infrastructure needed to enable the development of this site • Delivery of the site must be based on a master plan with an associated delivery and a phasing plan

Strategic Site 3: Land north of the A46 Bypass

Leicester City Council will work in partnership with developers and partners to deliver land to the north of A46 Leicester Western Bypass, identified as a strategic development location in the spatial strategy and as shown on the Policies Map. The development will provide: Housing • 420 homes in total have been identified at this location. 30% of which will be expected to be affordable in accordance with Policy Ho04 • Homes of a range of tenures, types, and sizes in accordance with Policy Ho03 • High quality design in accordance with Policy DQP01 and other design policies • Self-build/custom build plots in accordance with Policy Ho06 • Retention of the on-site pond Open Space • To be defined in combination with environmental and biodiversity enhancements through the masterplanning process Delivery • Leicester City Council as landowner will work jointly with the promoters and development partners to ensure the timely delivery of the site and establish the mechanisms for securing the infrastructure needed to enable the development of this site • Delivery of the site must be based on a master plan with an associated delivery and a phasing plan

Strategic Site 4: Land west of Anstey Lane

Leicester City Council will work in partnership with developers and partners to deliver land west of Anstey Lane identified as a strategic development location in the spatial strategy and as shown on the Policies Map. The development will provide: Housing • 336 homes across three parcels, 30% of which will be expected to be affordable in accordance with Policy Ho04 • Homes of a range of tenures, types, and sizes in accordance with Policy Ho03 • High quality design in accordance with Policy DQP01 and other design policies in this plan • Self-build / custom build plots in accordance with Policy Ho06 Facilities and services • Cross boundary co-operation between key stakeholders will be needed around education provision on this site. Open Space • To be defined in combination with environmental and biodiversity enhancements through the master planning process Delivery • Leicester City Council as landowner will work jointly with the promoters and development partners to ensure the timely delivery of the site establishing the mechanisms for securing the infrastructure needed to enable the development of this site, including transport and access in an integrated and comprehensive manner, with emerging sites in Blaby and Charnwood • Delivery of the site must be based on a master plan with an associated delivery and a phasing plan

Developer Contributions and Infrastructure

Development will provide or contribute towards the provision of measures to directly mitigate its impact. Contributions and the delivery of necessary infrastructure will be secured by planning condition and/or planning obligation. The council will seek planning contributions to ensure the infrastructure necessary to support the Local Plan is delivered in accordance with the current Section 106 and CIL Regulations (as amended) and to secure site specific planning obligations, for the delivery of essential infrastructure to support development. Infrastructure necessary to support new development will be provided and be available when first needed, to serve the development's occupants and users and/or to mitigate otherwise adverse material impacts. To achieve this, the delivery of development may need to be phased, to reflect the delivery of infrastructure. Any consideration of viability, including in decision making, will be in accordance with the guidance. The council will seek a fee to be used for the monitoring of developer contributions.

Electronic Communications

Broadband All new residential development of 10 dwellings or more, or non-residential development with additional floorspace of 1,000m2 or more, or a site area of 1 hectare or more, will be expected to include the provision of full fibre gigabit capable network infrastructure Fibre to the Premises (FTTP) to enable broadband services for all occupiers. On residential sites below 10 dwellings, or non-residential development with additional floorspace of less than 1,000m2, or a site under 1 hectare, in area, FTTP should still be installed where the costs are no more than copper line broadband infrastructure. Mobile Communications Infrastructure and Masts Planning permission will be granted for mobile telecommunications development where it can be demonstrated that: a) The proposal does not cause significant and irremediable interference with other electrical equipment, air traffic services or instrumentation that is operated in the national interest b) The site is part of a network that keeps the number of sites to a minimum consistent with the needs of consumers, the efficient operation of the network and providing reasonable capacity for future expansion c) The proposed development is acceptable in terms of visual amenity and the outlook of neighbouring properties having taken into account all practicable options and alternative sites, including the possibilities of mast-sharing and erecting aerials on an existing building, site, mast or other structure d) Highway safety can be protected and street clutter minimalised e) The installation and operation of the infrastructure would not harm the health or vigour of existing trees. f) Applications for an addition to an existing mast or base station are accompanied by a statement that self-certifies that the cumulative exposure, when operational, will not exceed guidelines set by the International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection (ICNIRP)

Central Development and Management Strategy

The Central Development Area (CDA) will be the focus of major housing development, employment, and physical regeneration to provide the impetus for economic, environmental, and social investment and provide benefits for existing and future residents. Within the CDA development proposals will be expected to take into account other relevant policies within this plan including those related to tall development (policy DQP02) and any Supplementary Planning Document the council may choose to produce, post adoption of this plan. New development within the CDA must be comprehensive, well co-ordinated and complement and build on delivery programmes and any additional planning documents. All new development within the character areas will be expected to follow the principles of townscape character management (See Diagrams 6 & 7 & Table 7). Article 4 directions will be used where appropriate to protect specific uses which are required for the vitality and viability of the CDA. New development in the Central Development Area will be required to: • Create well balanced communities by providing a range of high-quality homes and employment opportunities to meet the needs of Leicester and support its goals of prosperity and economic growth • Create high quality residential neighbourhoods which have access to a range of facilities • Create high quality, well designed, safe, urban environments that provide mixed use buildings and spaces which are based on the principles of townscape character • Provide improved opportunities for leisure and cultural activity • Promote continued investment in the major sports stadia and associated facilities including other relevant secondary uses such as hotels • Promote continued investment in university related projects including university masterplans • Improve opportunities for walking, cycling and public transport • Improve accessibility to jobs, homes, services, and connectivity between areas including the riverside and water corridors • Protect and enhance designated and other heritage assets and where the city council considers appropriate encourage the use of heritage-led regeneration • Protect existing habitats and enhance or create new areas for wildlife • Be comprehensive and co-ordinated, complementing and building on delivery programmes and supplementary planning documents

Abbey Meadows and Pioneer Park

Within the area shown as Abbey Meadows on the policies map all new development will be expected to support the creation of new and existing communities within Abbey Meadows and the wider area. This will be achieved by: • Development being primarily residential (class C3) • Provision of additional community uses (Class E(e & f)) Class F1(b,c,d,e,f) and Class F2(b&c) and Education (Class F1(a)) where there is a proven need Within the area shown as Pioneer Park on the adopted policies map, proposals which support the delivery of a science and innovation park will be acceptable. This will be achieved by supporting proposals for: • Development and technology-based business and innovation centre building (Class E(g ii)) • Associated Education Uses (Class F1(a)) • Associated Research Institute (No Use Class) • Other non-residential community uses (Class E (e & f)) Class F1(b, c, d, e, f)

Waterside

Within the area defined as Waterside on the adopted policies map development will be expected to meet the council's aims of creating a thriving urban neighbourhood around the River Soar. This will be achieved by: • Delivering high quality residential development, which include houses where feasible (Class C3) • Promoting new office development where there is a defined need (Class E (g)(i)) • Delivering associated community (F1 use class) and Education (Class F1(a) uses)

University of Leicester

Within the area defined as 'University of Leicester' on the adopted policies map, development will be expected to enhance and support the role of the university as an important higher educational facility. This will be achieved by: • Supporting the continued development of the university (Use F1(a)) and its masterplan • Allowing new student accommodation where there is a proven need (in line with policy Ho8 'student development') • Allowing other non-residential community uses (Class E(e & f)) Class F1(b,c,d,e,f)

Leicester City Football Club (LCFC)

Within the area defined as 'Leicester City Football club' on the adopted policies map, development will be expected support the continued development of the football stadium and associated facilities. This will be achieved by: • Supporting the expansion and enhancement to the King Power (LCFC) Stadium • Supporting proposals for ancillary development such as hotels and other developments which are normally found at and around sporting stadia • Delivery of residential use (class C3) where it does not undermine the proposals for the expansion and enhancement of the stadium

Planning Enforcement

The council will investigate and act, on reported breaches of planning control in accordance with Planning Enforcement Policy and Procedure. Cases will be prioritised and investigations will be carried out proportionately according to the planning harm caused and the resources available. Where appropriate, the council will seek to resolve issues through negotiation. However, if informal negotiations fail to resolve the identified breach of planning control and where it is considered appropriate and expedient to do so, formal action will be taken. The council's Planning Enforcement Policy and Procedure is published on the council website and will be updated periodically as required.

Location of Development

Development will be located in accordance with the spatial strategy outlined below and as shown on Diagram 2 Growth in Leicester. Housing The Government's standard methodology identifies the amount of new housing that should take place in Leicester by 2036. An overall housing need of 39,424 homes across the plan period has been identified for Leicester. The city council will work with districts within the Housing Market Area (HMA) and with partners in the public, private and voluntary sectors, to ensure the delivery of housing as part of sustainable mixed communities. Leicester City Council will work towards a target of providing 20,730 dwellings over the plan period from 2020-36 (1,296 dwellings annually) to contribute towards identified need within the city. Residential development will take place in the following locations in the city: • 6,286 homes in the Central Development Area (CDA) • 1,838 Homes in the following strategic sites ◦ Former Western Park Golf Course ◦ Land East of Ashton Green ◦ Land north of the A46 bypass ◦ Land west of Anstey Lane • The remaining 1,230 homes will be built on smaller non-strategic sites elsewhere in the city (see Appendix 6) • The city council will continue to work with authorities within the Housing Market Area(HMA) to agree the spatial distribution of housing need that cannot be met in the city. About 18,694 homes from our identified housing need will be accommodated in the neighbouring districts as part of their targets through their local plans Employment Evidence in the 2020 Economic Development Needs Assessment (EDNA) 2021 identifies the amount of new employment development that is needed in Leicester by 2036 as being: • 46,000 sqm offices • 67ha land for light / general industry and small scale storage and distribution use • Additional land for Strategic distribution uses (over 9000 sqm in size) will not be provided within the city's boundary High Quality Economic Development Areas Recognising the priority of residential development, to minimise unmet housing need, only around 44ha of land is proposed for allocation within the city's boundaries, including new employment development (light industry (E(g)iii), general industry (B2) and small scale storage and distribution (B8) uses) in the following three strategic employment sites - former Western Park Golf Course, east of Ashton Green and Beaumont Leys Park and other local sites (See Table 8 in Chapter 12). The remaining unmet employment need will be redistributed as agreed in the Leicester and Leicestershire Housing and Employment need Statement of Common Ground (June 2022). New Office Development Land will be allocated for new offices at two sites: • The station car park and former Campbell Street sorting office for major office development providing a minimum of 20,000 sqm of new offices • Land around Phoenix Square (between Burton Street, St George's Way, Southampton Street and Morledge Street) being mixed-use office led development, with some residential use, providing a minimum of 20,000 sqm office floorspace and a maximum of 200 residential units (Use Class E(g)i/C3)

Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

a) When considering development proposals, we will apply the presumption in favour of sustainable development contained in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) b) The city will work pro-actively with applicants to find solutions so that appropriate proposals can be approved wherever possible to secure development that improves the economic, social and environmental conditions in Leicester c) Planning applications that accord with policies in the local plan will be approved unless material considerations dictate otherwise d) Where there are no policies relevant to the application, or relevant policies are out of date at the time of making the decision, then the council will grant permission unless material considerations indicate otherwise, taking into account whether: • Any adverse impacts of granting permission would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits when assessed against the policies in the NPPF taken as a whole; or • Specific policies in the NPPF indicate that development should be restricted

Hierarchy of Town Centres

The council will support the following hierarchy of town centres in Leicester: City Centre To ensure that Leicester City centre continues to be a sub-regional centre the majority of main town centre uses will be directed to it. (TCR03) The central shopping core will be the focus for new retail development. (TCR04). Town Centre - Beaumont Leys This centre is the location for town centre uses to serve the northwest sector of the city and Leicester Urban Area, including Ashton Green (TCR05). District Centres Belgrave Road/ Melton Road, Evington Road and Narborough Road. District centres provide a range of facilities and are accessible by public transport. (TCR05) Local Centres The local centres in Leicester are listed in Appendix 03. New local centres will be provided in Ashton Green and the Waterside. Local centres provide convenience shopping and other local services close to where people live. (TCR05) The council will apply the sequential test to main town centre uses outside of the areas listed above to support Leicester's network of centres. Town centre uses should be located in designated centres in the first instance. Only if suitable sites cannot be found within designated centres will the council consider edge-of-centre sites, or if no edge-of-centre sites locations are available, out-of-centre locations. Preference will be given to edge-of-centre and out-of-centre sites that are accessible and well connected to the town centre. For instance, the site would be expected to be closely linked to the defined shopping centre in terms of proximity, continuity of function and ease of access by all modes of transport but particularly by foot. The preferred location for new city centre retail development is the central shopping core (primary shopping area). The rest of the city centre will be treated as an edge-of-centre location for new city centre retail development. New development should be consistent in scale with the size and character of the centre and its role in the hierarchy.

Supporting Sustainable Town Centres – Impact Assessments

Proposals for retail and leisure uses outside a defined centre (in edge-of-centre or out-of-centre locations) will require an impact assessment where: • The proposal provides a gross floorspace in excess of 500sqm • The proposal is located within 800 metres of either: ◦ A district centre and is in excess of 300sqm gross floorspace or ◦ A local centre and is in excess of 200sqm gross floorspace This policy also applies to mezzanine floorspace and the variation of restrictive conditions.

City Centre

The council will promote the growth of the city centre as a sub-regional shopping, leisure, historic, tourist and cultural destination as the most accessible and sustainable location for main town centre uses and in recognition of its central role in the city's economy and wider regeneration by adopting the following strategy. Shopping Maintaining a compact and accessible retail centre by: • Safeguarding the central shopping core as the focus for city centre retail development; (TCR01 & TCR04) • Maintaining and enhancing the market at the heart of the retail centre;and • Ensuring that any new retail development that is not located within the central shopping core is well integrated and closely linked with the streets of the central shopping core in terms of proximity, continuity of function and ease of access (TCR01). Leisure and cultural facilities Supporting new leisure and cultural facilities, particularly where they are well connected to the central shopping core, to support the diversification of the city centre's offer as a visitor attraction. Family orientated leisure development and cultural facilities will be particularly welcomed. Hotels Complementary uses including new high-quality hotels, conference and banqueting venues will also be supported. Heritage Enriching the retail, leisure and tourism experience by conserving and enhancing the historic environment by encouraging the re-use and improvement of designated and other heritage assets and through the use of heritage-led regeneration within historic and cultural areas in the city centre. Offices Developing an economically prosperous centre through the location of both major and small offices and accommodation for creative industries. (See Chapter 12: Employment and Chapter 9: CDA, policies CHA01, CHA07 and ORA02). Housing Supporting residential development, whether by conversion of redundant buildings or new build, where acceptable living environments can be maintained or created (except in the Railway Station Area - see CDA 03). This includes the need for the developer to provide suitable mitigation measures (before development commences) where the operation of an existing business or community facility in its vicinity could have significant adverse effect on the new development. Education and Health Schools and health uses will be supported in the city centre and other enabling facilities, which make city centre living a more attractive proposal. Transport Making the city centre the focus of public transport initiatives including: • Supporting the implementation of Transforming Cities proposals • Supporting the redevelopment of, and improving, bus interchange facilities • Contributing towards the bus improvement strategy and future rapid mass transit proposals • Continuing our partnership work with the rail industry to improve the interchange at the railway station, particularly with infrastructure, information and through ticketing for bus to rail interchange • Reducing the separation of the bus stations and railway from the city centre Connectivity Building on the work of the Connecting Leicester programme, to create a hierarchy and network of pedestrian and cycle routes and good quality civic spaces, to reconnect disparate and disconnected parts of the centre. This is to link together key historic and cultural assets, facilities and venues and where appropriate reduce the severance effect of the inner ring road. Safe, accessible and inclusive All new development should make a positive contribution to improving the vitality of the city centre and should aim to improve the overall mix of uses, with particular regard to policies in the Central Development Area chapter. It is expected that new development will contribute to creating inclusive places that everyone can use easily and safely no matter their level of ability. (DQP03) Feeling safe is particularly important at night. Therefore, the city council will seek to: • Make the city centre more attractive to pedestrians, cyclists and public transport passengers and achieve high standards of access to and within the city centre for disabled and older people • Encourage uses that make key night time pedestrian routes as safe and well used as possible • Have regard to crime and disorder issues through the regulation of pubs, bars and night clubs Public Toilets The council will expect major schemes with large numbers of visitors to provide public toilets (DQP11).

Central Shopping Core (Primary Shopping Area)

New retail development -and other supporting uses such as Class E(c) Class E(b), pubs (SG), hot food takeaways (SG) will continue to be focussed within the central shopping core (primary shopping area) in accordance with Policy TCR01. Other main town centre uses (e.g. leisure/entertainment, tourism, healthcare, cultural facilities) can support the main retail function of the central shopping core and add to the vitality and viability of the centre. These uses will be supported where they are suitably located and would not unduly detract from the essential shopping function of the central shopping core. (TCR 01) In assessing proposals for non-retail uses within the central shopping core consideration will be given to: a) The location and prominence of a unit b) The levels of activity or footfall that the proposed use would generate; c) Whether a shop front is retained (DQP08) d) Whether the proposal would retain or enhance an active ground floor use and street frontage e) Any special contribution that the proposal would make to the vitality and viability of the central shopping core f) The length of time that a unit may have been vacant for g) The availability and suitability of alternative vacant units h) Whether the use is suitable in scale and size for the character of the area i) The quality of the design j) Whether the proposal would enhance the heritage value of a building or area Development which secures the use of upper floors, (including residential development) will be supported where: • The proposed development or uses would not have a harmful impact on the amenity of local residents due to noise, odour, disturbance or the light pollution (DQP06); and • In the case of residential uses a satisfactory living environment can be achieved. On streets where there is lots of activity, residential or business uses (office, industry, and storage) will not be appropriate at ground floor level except to provide entrances to these uses on upper floors as required. Evening and night-time activities Planning permission for uses associated with night-time and evening activity (e.g. night clubs, bars, pubs, hot food takeaways, some community uses etc.) will be expected to address anticipated impacts on residential uses or on the operation of other businesses in respect of noise, light, vibrations, smell etc. through the installation of appropriate mitigation measures before the new use commences to reduce these impacts to an acceptable level.

Town Centre Uses in Town/ District and Local Shopping Centres

Main town centre uses including amusement arcades, launderettes, betting shops, hot food takeaways, saunas and massage parlours, car showrooms, minicab offices, and pay day loan shops, outside the central shopping core will be focused in the shopping centres shown on the Policies Map. Proposals for such development and for extensions to shops within these centres will be considered against the following criteria: a) Do not prejudice the use of upper floors for residential use b) How the scale and design is sympathetic to the size and character of the centre and its role in the hierarchy c) The impact of traffic generated by the development and the arrangements for parking, loading, unloading, servicing and their impact on pedestrian and highway safety d) The diversity of uses on offer and the effect on the retail function of the shopping centre e) The proposal will maintain and enhance the vitality and viability and character of the shopping area Proposals for hot food takeaways and pubs will be assessed in accordance with policy TCR06. Proposals elsewhere will be resisted other than those which accord with Policies TCR01 and TCR02.

Development for Food and Drink Purposes

Hot food takeaway and food & drink facilities (Sui generis), will continue to be supported in centres to meet demand and to add vitality and diversity. However, this will be subject to considerations of residential amenity, the effect on the vitality and viability of the centre and the cumulative impact of these uses. In assessing proposals for hot food takeaway and drink uses account will be taken of the number, distribution and proximity of other hot food takeaway and drink uses, including those with unimplemented planning permission and the impact on the vitality and viability of the centre. Proposals for the change use of premises within centres for food, hot food takeaway and drink purposes will be permitted except where: a) The development either individually or cumulatively with other hot food takeaway and drink use (including unimplemented planning permission) would be likely to prove significantly detrimental to the amenities of the occupiers of nearby residential properties, to visual amenity, and to parking and traffic issues which cannot reasonably be controlled by condition b) a ventilation flue is required but is it considered that it would not be effective for purpose, it would cause problems of noise or fumes for the occupiers of nearby properties and; or would be detrimental to visual amenity c) A shop front is not retained d) It would prejudice the use of upper floors for residential use either at the application site and/ or adjacent properties Where new hot food takeaways are acceptable the following measures may be necessary to reduce the litter associated with the proposed hot food takeaway: a) The provision and maintenance of a litter bin outside the premises at all times when the business is open b) One or more litter bins within the surrounding areas as appropriate to meet likely need c) Commitment to undertake litter picking both within the immediate vicinity of the premises and where necessary further away d) Provision of advisory signage Where appropriate these measures will be secured by condition.

Neighbourhood Parades

Within neighbourhood parades the following uses will be supported: • Commercial, business and service uses (Class E) • Community facilities Proposals for other uses will be permitted provided that the use would not result in the neighbourhood parade being unable to meet the day to day needs of the local community and it can be demonstrated that: a) The proposal will retain an active ground floor use and frontage and provide a direct service or sales to visiting members of the public b) The development or use(s) will not be detrimental to the amenity of local residents (either individually or cumulatively) due to noise, odour or disturbance or light pollution or highway safety c) Where planning permission is necessary, changes of use at ground floor to residential will be permitted to the rear or on upper floors and a satisfactory living environment can be achieved (DQO06 and H07)

Main Town Centre Development Outside of Defined Centres

Where proposals for new shopping development and other main town centre uses, including betting offices, pay day loan shops, hot food takeaways and laundrettes, have satisfied the requirements of the sequential test (policy TCR01) and suitable sites and premises are not available in appropriate shopping centres or edge of centre locations (and if necessary, an impact assessment (policy TCR02) has been undertaken) then the council will consider more favourably if the following apply: a) The proposed development is easily accessible by foot, cycle and by public transport b) Significant disturbance is unlikely to be caused to nearby residential areas (the change of use of mid terrace houses will not be acceptable) and c) The traffic generated by the development will not have a significant detrimental impact on pedestrian and highway safety

Planning Conditions: Main Town Centre Development and Class E Uses Outside of a Defined Centre

a) If the sale of comparison goods from out-of-centre retail development, including supermarkets and superstores would adversely affect the viability of a shopping centre as a whole, the range of goods sold and/or the mix of convenience (includes food and drink) and comparison goods (includes clothing, shoes, furniture and household appliances) will be limited by condition b) Conditions may also be necessary to prevent the development being subdivided into smaller units and to prevent the future addition of mezzanine floors c) A condition may also be necessary to restrict a Class E use to a particular sub-category if that use does not require consideration of either the sequential or impact tests

Sustainable Transport Network

The council will continue to work closely with partners, to deliver shared plans that proactively support development of a sustainable transport network for the city, as indicated in the Leicester Transport Plan. Development will be supported in suitable locations, where it promotes sustainable transport by ensuring: a) Walking, cycling, bus and rail are prioritised, and development is fully integrated with relevant networks and new infrastructure being developed for these transport modes b) Transport interchanges and hubs are easily accessible to new residents and employees c) Developments are designed to encourage walking, cycling and public transport use, and to discourage unnecessary car use d) Micromobility options, car, e-bike and bike sharing arrangements will be encouraged e) Proactive measures are put in place, to help address climate change and deliver improved air quality, through low emission transport solutions f) The safety of all highway users, is a primary consideration g) The design of new highway infrastructure, fully takes into account accessibility for all potential users, including those with limited mobility and the elderly h) Opportunities to support healthy living are promoted i) The streetscape and public realm design, creates high quality places j) Opportunities for transport technologies, that support sustainable transport objectives are promoted

Climate Change and Air Quality

By the end of the plan period, it will be expected that implementation of the council's transport plans and policies will: a) Deliver against the council's climate change targets and commitments (to be established, following the climate emergency consultation) b) Ensure air quality in Leicester will progressively improve, below UK nitrogen dioxide targets towards the 2021 WHO targets, and delivers against emerging fine particle PM2.5 commitments. Major development proposals will be expected to take account of future supplementary planning document on air quality This will be achieved by: c) Prioritising sustainable modes of transport, including cycling, walking and public transport d) Increasing the uptake of low emission vehicles, by requiring new development to make provision for zero emission vehicle e) Requiring all major developments located close or within the Air Quality Management Areas (AQMA), through an air quality impact assessment: • To demonstrate that there is not an unacceptably detrimental effect on air quality and • Meet the requirements of the council's Air Quality Action Plan and any future supplementary planning guidance

Accessibility and Development

New development will be permitted, where it takes into account the need for accessibility by all potential users and in particular how it can support delivery of the council's sustainable transport objectives. This will be achieved by ensuring that: a) People are able to make responsible transport choices, by having suitable and affordable alternative options to the car easily available; and b) By having local services within 15 minutes by walking or cycling Pedestrians and People with Limited Mobility c) The needs of pedestrians, the elderly, people with disabilities and those with limited mobility, have been properly considered and incorporated in any scheme design and layout d) All new and improved routes are high quality, convenient, safe and well connected with the existing routes and streets e) Support is provided for active travel behaviour initiatives, as appropriate f) Support developments that provide a '15-minute neighbourhood', aiming for all local services to be available by walking or cycling within 15 minutes, with cleaner air and a safer local environment Cycling g) All new and improved routes are high quality, convenient, safe and well connected with the existing/proposed cycle route network and streets h) Adequate cycle parking is provided, including secure cycling parking and bike share infrastructure as appropriate i) New or improved cycle routes are designed to avoid conflict with pedestrians, motorists and other road users Buses j) New bus routes/priority measures and connections with the existing bus network, are provided and are well integrated into new development schemes as appropriate and ensuring that the Leicester Enhanced Bus Partnership Plan is taken into account k) New development is designed and located, so that occupiers are within close walking distance (400m) to existing or proposed frequent bus l) Support is provided for active travel behaviour initiatives as appropriate m) Bus hubs are well integrated, with walking and cycling networks and appropriate cycle parking provision is made Rail n) Development in the Rail Station area is well connected by walking, cycling, and bus infrastructure, including appropriate secure cycle parking provision o) Development does not prejudice the implementation of future rail infrastructure, at Knighton Junction, Syston Junction and Wigston Junction

Park and Ride

Proposals for new Park and Ride sites and extensions to existing Park and Rides will be supported where they satisfy other relevant policies in the Local Plan. New development should where relevant, support and provide for integration with existing and proposed park and ride sites and routes.

Freight

To meet the needs of commercial vehicles, including HGVs and Vans are met and that adequate provision can be provided for the freight need of Leicester, the following will be required: a) Ensuring that non-residential development provides parking spaces, loading and unloading facilities and manoeuvring space within the site, for all necessary commercial vehicles b) Encouraging the efficient and sustainable movement of freight, including last mile opportunities and by alternative methods, beyond traditional road-based transport where possible c) Opportunities to maximise the use of existing waterways within Leicester, through the provision of water taxis and water freight connection should be explored where feasible, by working with the canals and rivers trust. d) Providing opportunities for sustainable freight movement where possible on rail, by working with Network Rail and other agencies in considering potential low-key freight uses

Highways Infrastructure

The council will require the transport impact of development to be mitigated, through the following provisions and highways infrastructure list, as identified in the Infrastructure List in Appendix 4. a) The prioritisation of sustainable transport infrastructure supporting relevant walking, cycling, bus and rail improvement b) Improvement of highways infrastructure, to deliver safe and efficient schemes, including road and junction improvements and related traffic management measures; delivery of relevant safety schemes and 20mph zones; and urban traffic management systems and smart signalisation where appropriate c) Appropriate parking provision as set out in the council's standards d) Travel plans including behaviour management provisions

Car Parking

a) All new developments, including changes of use, which generate a demand for car parking, will be required to make provision to meet such demand, (either on site or offsite) including for those with disabilities, appropriate to the scale and nature of the development, having regard to road safety considerations and any parking standards set out in supplementary documents, local and national guidance. b) Car parking should be considered as an integral part of the overall design of the scheme. Development proposals should consider the following key principles in the design, to address car parking issues: • Ensure car parking is usable, safe and secure • Avoid car parking dominating the street-scene • Use discreet and innovative solutions, to deliver a suitable mix of car parking • Ensure it does not impede cycling infrastructure c) For residential developments: • Meet any defined parking standards, as set out in guidance, unless there is a strong reason that this cannot be met • Designated parking locations must be convenient for residents • Communal parking areas must be safe and attractive, use appropriate materials, lighting and landscaping features and include sufficient levels of overlooking, be small enough to retain a courtyard feel, and incorporate convenient pedestrian linkages to properties • Streets should be wide enough to accommodate the likely levels and positions of on-street parking • Dwellings with on-plot parking should provide an external charging point, sufficient to enable over-night charging for electric vehicles. For developments with communal parking areas, such as apartments, a proportion of the un-allocated parking spaces should have the capacity to easily retrofit a recharge point for communal use • Car free housing developments will be positively considered in suitable locations, such as the city centre and close to transport interchanges d) All development proposals should ensure that emergency and refuse vehicles are not impeded by car parking e) Within commercial, industrial and non-residential developments, adequate provision should be made for parking, servicing and loading, without having an impact on the operational effectiveness of development and safe movement of people, vehicles and goods. Car parking spaces should also have the capacity to easily retrofit a recharge point for communal use