Planning in New Forest National Park

Open space

Where there is an identified need, development should either provide for the enhancement of existing open space and amenity areas, or provide on-site open space to the minimum provision standard of 3.5 hectares of public open space per 1,000 population. Proposals that result in the loss of existing open space, sports and recreational buildings and land, including playing fields, will not be permitted unless: a) an assessment has been undertaken which has clearly shown the open space, buildings or land to be surplus to requirements; or b) the loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality in a suitable location; or c) the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the benefits of which clearly outweigh the loss of the current or former use.

Local community facilities

The Authority will support the retention of existing community facilities throughout the National Park and prevent their loss or redevelopment where they contribute to the sustainability of local communities. The Authority will support the development of essential local community facilities where the proposal is of clear and direct benefit to the local village or rural community; the scale of the proposed facility is proportionate to the local areas; and they are accessible to the local communities they will serve.

General development principles

All new development and uses of land within the New Forest National Park must uphold and promote the principles of sustainable development. New development proposals must demonstrate high quality design and construction which enhances local character and distinctiveness. This includes, but is not restricted to, ensuring: a) development is appropriate and sympathetic in terms of scale, appearance, form, siting and layout b) development respects the natural, built and historic environment, landscape character and biodiversity c) development takes opportunities to protect and enhance the setting of groups and individual trees, hedges and hedgerows and to include new planting of native trees and hedges where appropriate d) materials and boundary treatments are appropriate to the site and its setting e) development would not result in unacceptable adverse impacts on amenity in terms of additional impacts, visual intrusion, overlooking or shading f) development would not result in unacceptable adverse impacts associated with traffic or pollution (including air, soil, water, noise and light pollution). New development must also comply with required standards for: g) car parking (see Annex 2) h) open space (as set out in Policy DP10).

Extensions to non-residential buildings and uses

The limited extension of existing non-residential buildings and uses will be permitted where it: a) would not materially increase the level of impact of the activity on the site; and b) is contained within the existing site boundary.

Field shelters and stables

Permission will be granted for field shelters provided that the building is: a) sensitively sited to be unobtrusive in the landscape; b) simple in appearance and modest in scale; and c) constructed of appropriate materials. The same considerations apply to stables although these should be located close to existing buildings.

Maneges

The development of outdoor maneges will be permitted provided that: a) they do not result in any detrimental impact on the landscape and ecology of the New Forest b) they do not involve the installation of lighting. The development of indoor maneges will not be permitted other than in accordance with Policy DP49 (Re-use of buildings).

Design principles

All new development will be required to achieve the highest standards for new design: including location, layout, size, scale, details and materials of new development within the National Park, with particular regard to: a) enhancing the built and historic environment of the New Forest; b) creating a safe environment where people want to live, work and visit; c) ensuring new development is accessible where appropriate; d) ensuring all new development incorporates sound sustainable design and construction principles and good environmental practices; and e) ensuring development is contextually appropriate and does not harm key visual features, landscape setting or other valued components of the landscape, and enhances these where appropriate.

General development principles

All new development and uses of land within the New Forest National Park must uphold and promote the principles of sustainable development. New development proposals must demonstrate high quality design and construction which enhances local character and distinctiveness. This includes, but is not restricted to, ensuring: a) development is appropriate and sympathetic in terms of scale, appearance, form, siting and layout; b) development respects the natural, built and historic environment, landscape character and biodiversity; c) development takes opportunities to protect and enhance the setting of groups and individual trees, hedges and hedgerows and to include new planting of native trees and hedges where appropriate; d) materials and boundary treatments are appropriate to the site and its setting; e) development would not result in unacceptable adverse impacts on amenity in terms of additional impacts, visual intrusion, overlooking or shading; and f) development would not result in unacceptable adverse impacts associated with traffic or pollution (including air, soil, water, noise and light pollution). New development must also comply with required standards for: g) car parking (see Annex 2); h) open space (as set out in Policy DP10).

Residential character of the Defined Villages

To ensure the conservation and enhancement of the built heritage of the Defined Villages, development proposals within the villages must be informed by consideration of the character of the local area. Development densities should reflect the strong built heritage of the Defined Villages, their locally distinctive character and location within a nationally protected landscape.

Outbuildings

Domestic outbuildings will be permitted where they: a) are proportionate and clearly subservient to the dwelling they are to serve in terms of their design, scale, size, height and massing; b) are located within the residential curtilage of an existing dwelling; c) are required for purposes incidental to the use of the main dwelling; d) are not providing additional habitable accommodation; and e) will not reduce private amenity space – including parking provision – around the dwelling to an unacceptable level.

Field shelters and stables

Permission will be granted for field shelters provided that the building is: a) sensitively sited to be unobtrusive in the landscape; b) simple in appearance and modest in scale; and c) constructed of appropriate materials. The same considerations apply to stables although these should be located close to existing buildings.

Maneges

The development of outdoor maneges will be permitted provided that: a) they do not result in any detrimental impact on the landscape and ecology of the New Forest; and b) they do not involve the installation of lighting. The development of indoor maneges will not be permitted other than in accordance with Policy DP49 (Re-use of buildings).

Local distinctiveness

Built development and changes of use which would individually or cumulatively erode the Park's local character, or result in a gradual suburbanising effect within the National Park will not be permitted.

Re-use of buildings outside the Defined Villages

The re-use of buildings outside Defined Villages will be permitted provided that: a) the proposal would not result in the loss of an employment use or community facility and accord with Policy SP39; b) the proposal would not involve a residential use (other than in accordance with Policy SP19); c) the building is appropriate in scale and appearance to its location, and should be capable of conversion without significant extension or detriment to itself or its surroundings. The building must be structurally sound and capable of re-occupation without re-building; and d) in the case of agricultural or forestry buildings, the building must be genuinely redundant in its existing use and not capable of fulfilling any beneficial agricultural use.

Agricultural and forestry buildings

Permission will be granted for buildings required for agriculture or forestry purposes where: a) there is a functional need for the building and its scale is commensurate with that need and its setting in the landscape; b) the building is designed for the purposes of agriculture or forestry; c) the site is related physically and functionally to existing buildings associated with the business unless there are exceptional circumstances relating to agricultural necessity for a more isolated location; and d) they do not involve large or obtrusive structures or generate a level of activity which would have a detrimental effect on the National Park.

Redevelopment of existing employment sites

The redevelopment of established employment sites for industrial, office, business and low-key storage uses will be permitted throughout the National Park where: a) there would be minimal additional effect on the visual impact of the site in the landscape, or on the amenities of nearby properties, or on traffic or other disturbances from the site; b) where feasible, the redevelopment scheme deals comprehensively with the full extent of the site; c) the replacement buildings would be appropriate to their surroundings in terms of scale, design and materials; and d) the redevelopment scheme would be contained within the existing site boundary.

Extensions to non-residential buildings and uses

The limited extension of existing non-residential buildings and uses will be permitted where it: a) would not materially increase the level of impact of the activity on the site b) is contained within the existing site boundary.

Agricultural and forestry buildings

Permission will be granted for buildings required for agriculture or forestry purposes where: a) there is a functional need for the building and its scale is commensurate with that need and its setting in the landscape b) the building is designed for the purposes of agriculture or forestry c) the site is related physically and functionally to existing buildings associated with the business unless there are exceptional circumstances relating to agricultural necessity for a more isolated location d) they do not involve large or obtrusive structures or generate a level of activity which would have a detrimental effect on the National Park.

Business and employment development

Small scale employment development will be permitted within the four Defined Villages of Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway. Outside these Defined Villages, small scale employment development that helps the well-being of local communities will be permitted through the re-use or extension of existing buildings, the redevelopment of existing business use employment sites, farm diversification schemes and through home-working. Particular encouragement will be given to businesses that help to maintain the land-based economy and cultural heritage of the National Park, or contribute to the understanding and enjoyment of the National Park's Special Qualities. Providing local communities with a variety of employment opportunities will also be supported where these do not have an adverse impact on the Special Qualities of the National Park.

Existing employment sites

Existing employment sites will be retained throughout the National Park. Within the four Defined Villages the Authority will retain existing employment sites and also consider additional uses on these sites to allow for mixed use developments where: a) there is sufficient space on the existing employment site to not only retain the same amount of existing employment floorspace, but to also accommodate a further activity on the site; b) the intensified use of the employment space means that at least the same level of employment will be retained on the site as during the previous full operational use, and additional space is created for another type of use; and c) the additional use on the site is compatible with the proposed employment use and the site's neighbours in terms of its design, amenity impacts, and in relation to any parking and traffic implications.

The land-based economy

Land-based businesses that help maintain the overall character and cultural identity of the National Park will be supported by: a) working with key organisations to ensure the future viability of commoning through: (i) enabling affordable housing for commoners that includes land suitable for holdings (as set out in Policy SP29); and (ii) maintaining the supply of land available for back-up grazing on the enclosed lands; resisting the loss of back-up grazing through development or change of use. b) supporting farming and forestry that would be beneficial to the Forest through: (i) the provision of agricultural and forestry buildings subject to Policy DP50; (ii) farm diversification where this would help to sustain the long-term agricultural operation of the land and would be: - agricultural diversification based on an extensive system of land management, or - non-agricultural diversification, through the re-use of redundant farm buildings in line with Policy SP46 or Policy DP49, and where it can be demonstrated that the new use would remain ancillary to the farming business; (iii) Helping to support markets for local produce and products.

Climate change

The Authority will support proposals to mitigate climate change and adapt to the impacts of climate change through: a) avoiding development in areas at highest risk of flooding; b) locating development so as to reduce the need to travel by car; c) sustainable design and construction of buildings including improved water and energy efficiency; d) supporting small scale renewable and low carbon energy generation; and e) enabling wildlife and habitats to adapt to climate change.

Renewable energy

Development proposals for, or incorporating, renewable energy generation, other than wind energy, will be permitted where they: a) are small-scale and provide energy for individual households or businesses, or for small local community facilities; b) are located and designed to have minimal visual impact; and c) do not have adverse impact on the landscape character, heritage assets, natural beauty, wildlife, tranquillity or other special qualities of the National Park. Planning permission for renewable energy developments likely to have an adverse effect on a designated nature conservation site (including Natura 2000 sites, Sites of Special Scientific Interest and National Nature Reserves) will not be granted.

Recreational horse keeping

Permission will be granted for recreational horse keeping provided that the proposal does not: a) have an adverse impact on the landscape or any nature conservation interests b) harmfully increase riding pressures on the Open Forest c) result in the loss of back-up grazing land.

Flood risk

Development proposals will not be permitted if they: a) would increase the risk of coastal, fluvial, or surface flooding, or coastal erosion; b) do not comply with the sequential test, and, if necessary, the exception test (as outlined in National Planning Practice Guidance), or are in high flood risk areas (as defined by the Environment Agency's Flood Zones 2 and 3 categories and the New Forest Strategic Flood Risk Assessment, 2017); or c) are not compatible with the appropriate Shoreline Management Plan and Coastal Defence Strategy. Relevant developments will require a flood risk assessment.

Coastal development

Small scale proposals for development on the coast will be permitted provided that they: a) will not have adverse impacts on coastal processes; b) are in keeping with the character of the coast; c) will not significantly prejudice landscape interest and will have regard to the importance of seaward and landward views; d) protect or enhance coastal habitats and species, including all designated nature conservation sites; and e) will not lead to the consolidation of scattered development.

Recreational horse keeping

Permission will be granted for recreational horse keeping provided that the proposal does not: a) have an adverse impact on the landscape or any nature conservation interests; b) harmfully increase riding pressures on the Open Forest; or c) result in the loss of back-up grazing land.

Safeguarding and improving water resources

Development will not be permitted if it would risk harm to the quality and yield of water resources, including abstraction sites, groundwater, rivers, streams, still and coastal waters. In addition, all new residential development within the National Park should be designed to achieve a required level of 110 litres maximum daily allowable usage per person, in line with the Government's Housing Optional Technical Standard for water efficiency. To reduce the risk that pollutants likely to be contained in surface water run-off will enter watercourses new development must either: a) implement appropriate Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS); or b) demonstrate that surface water run-off from the development will not adversely affect any designated nature conservation sites.

Tranquillity

New development should avoid, or provide mitigation measures, if the proposal will lead to noise, visual intrusion, nuisance and other unacceptable environmental impacts on the National Park and its special qualities. This should include reducing the impacts of light pollution on the 'dark skies' of the National Park and control of development to prevent artificial lighting from eroding rural darkness and tranquillity. Development proposals that seek to remove visually intrusive man-made structures from the landscape will be supported.

Nature conservation sites of international importance

All development must comply with the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations 2017 (as amended). Development which may affect the integrity of an internationally important site for nature conservation will not be permitted unless there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest for the development, and there are no alternatives. If this is the case, the Authority will require compensatory measures to ensure the overall coherence of the designated site. Development may satisfy the Conservation of Habitats and Species Regulations if sufficient and effective measures are put in place to avoid or fully mitigate any likely significant adverse effects of the proposal (either individually or in combination with other plans and projects) through its lifetime on the designated sites. A contribution to the Authority's Habitat Mitigation Scheme and/or the Solent Recreation Mitigation Partnership's Scheme will enable developers to ensure that mitigation measures are secured for the recreational impacts of their development. The type of development and situations where recreational impacts can be mitigated are described in the Authority's Habitat Mitigation Scheme and the Solent Recreation Mitigation Strategy Explanatory Note. Avoidance or mitigation may not be possible in some cases due to the impacts, scale, type, or proximity of the proposed development in relation to the designated site, and so the Authority will assess each case on its merits.

The natural environment

Proposals should protect, maintain and enhance nationally, regionally and locally important sites and features of the natural environment, including habitats and species of biodiversity importance, geological features and the water environment. Development which is likely to have an adverse effect on a Site of Special Scientific Interest (either individually or in combination with other developments) will not be permitted. Only where the benefits of the development clearly outweigh both the impacts on the special interest features of the SSSI and on the broader national network of SSSIs will an exception be considered. Development proposals which adversely affect locally designated sites, priority habitats and species populations, protected species or those identified of importance by national or local biodiversity plans will be refused unless the Authority is satisfied that: a) it has been demonstrated that suitable measures for mitigating adverse effects will be provided and maintained in order to achieve a net gain in biodiversity value; and b) there are no alternative solutions; and c) there are overriding reasons which outweigh the harm. In cases where it is not possible to fully avoid or mitigate for the loss of biodiversity interests resulting from a development, appropriate compensation will be secured for any residual losses via on or off-site compensation measures. The latter may include the provision of compensatory habitats elsewhere. In addition, opportunities to enhance ecological or geological assets and the water environment should be maximised, particularly in line with the Authority's 'Action for Biodiversity'. Applicants will be required to demonstrate the impacts of their proposal on biodiversity, and for certain types of development by submission of an Ecological Appraisal, which should outline the mitigation and enhancement measures needed to achieve a net gain in biodiversity.

Landscape character

Great weight in planning decisions will be given to conserving the landscape and scenic beauty of the National Park and to its wildlife and cultural heritage. Development proposals will be permitted if they conserve and enhance the character of the New Forest's landscapes and seascapes by demonstrating that: a) they are informed by New Forest National Park Landscape Character Assessment and are compatible with the distinct features and type of landscape in which the development is located; b) the design, layout, massing and scale of proposals conserve and enhance existing landscape and seascape character and do not detract from the natural beauty of the National Park; c) the character of largely open and undeveloped landscapes between and within settlements will not be eroded or have their setting harmed; and d) landscape schemes reinforce local landscape or seascape character. Where planting is appropriate, it is consistent with local character and native species are used.

Green infrastructure

Proposals which create, maintain and enhance green infrastructure will be supported, particularly where they: a) encourage connectivity between different habitats and designated sites; b) provide opportunities for local communities to access open space and provide for healthy recreation; and c) relieve recreational pressure on internationally important nature conservation sites. The Authority will work with other partners and adjoining authorities to develop green infrastructure, and to ensure the impacts of development both within and outside the National Park's boundary do not adversely affect the landscape character of the National Park or the internationally important nature conservation designations. However, providing new Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) in the nationally protected landscape of the National Park as mitigation for development outside the National Park is not appropriate, and will only be considered in exceptional circumstances where very significant benefits for the landscape, biodiversity and internationally designated sites of the National Park can be clearly demonstrated.

Supporting sustainable development

The National Park Authority will support sustainable development proposals that will conserve and enhance the natural beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the National Park and its special qualities; promote opportunities for their understanding and enjoyment by the public, and when doing so, will foster the social and economic well-being of local communities. Where there is an irreconcilable conflict between the statutory purposes, greater weight will be attached to the conservation and enhancement of the National Park (in line with Section 62(2) of the Environment Act 1995). Sustainable development in the National Park is considered to be that which: a) makes the National Park a high-quality place to live, work and visit – including appropriate new housing to address local needs; accessibility to local employment opportunities; improved public transport links; local infrastructure provision; and enhanced community and recreational facilities; b) has a positive impact on the ability of the natural environment to positively contribute to society through the provision of food and water, regulation of floods, prevention of soil erosion and disease outbreaks, and non-material benefits such as recreation; c) enhances the landscape of the New Forest through high quality design and responding to the local distinctiveness of the area; d) contributes positively to the built and historic environment of the New Forest; e) does not impact on the integrity of the protected habitats of the New Forest, including its coastline; f) is resilient and responsive to the impacts of climate change through improved energy efficiency and making appropriate use of small-scale renewable energy; and g) makes use of sustainable building techniques, local materials and minimises energy use and waste.

The historic and built environment

Proposals should protect, maintain or enhance nationally, regionally and locally important sites and features of the historic and built environment, including local vernacular buildings, archaeological sites and designed and historic landscapes, and, where appropriate, help secure a sustainable future for those heritage assets at risk. a) Proposals will be supported where they conserve and enhance the significance or special interest of designated or non-designated heritage assets, i.e. they: (i) do not harm the special interest, character or appearance of a conservation area, including spaces, street patterns, views, vistas, uses and trees which contribute to that special interest, character or appearance, having regard to the relevant conservation area character appraisal and management plan; and (ii) do not harm the significance, or result in the loss of a: – scheduled monument (or a non-designated asset of archaeological interest of demonstrably equivalent significance); or, – listed building, including through inappropriate siting, size, scale, height, alignment, materials, finishes (including colour and texture), design and forms; or – registered park and garden, and particularly its layout, design, character, appearance and key views within, into and out; and (iii) make a positive contribution to, or better reveal, or enhance the appreciation of, the significance or special interest of a heritage asset or its setting; and (iv) help secure the long-term conservation of a heritage asset. (b) Proposals will be resisted where they would harm the significance or special interest of a heritage asset unless any harm is outweighed by the public benefits of the proposal, proportionate to the degree of harm and significance of the asset, including securing its optimum viable use. (c) All development proposals that affect, or have the potential to affect, the significance or special interest of a designated or non-designated heritage asset, either directly or by being within its setting, will need to be accompanied by a clearly evidenced heritage impact statement proportionate to the development and the significance or special interest of the asset, setting out the impact of the development on that significance or special interest and how any harm has been avoided or minimised through careful design and mitigation. (d) Where proposals are likely to affect a site of known or potential archaeological interest, and appropriate desk-based assessment will also be required, including field evaluation where necessary.

Agricultural and forestry workers' dwellings

Permission will be granted for an agricultural or forestry worker's dwelling provided: a) the nature of the work concerned makes it essential for one or more people engaged in the enterprise to live at, or very close to, their place of work; b) the functional need could not be fulfilled by another existing dwelling on the unit, or any other existing accommodation in the area which is suitable and available for occupation by the workers concerned; c) no other dwellings either on or closely connected to the holding/enterprise have been sold separately or in some way alienated from the holding / enterprise; d) the size of the proposed dwelling would not result in the maximum total internal habitable floor area exceeding 100 square metres; and e) where practicable and appropriate, first consideration has been given to the conversion of an existing building under Policy DP49. Where evidence of the financial soundness and future sustainability of the holding / enterprise appears inconclusive, consideration may be given to permitting a caravan or other temporary accommodation for a limited period in order to provide time for the viability of the enterprise to be proven.

Removal of agricultural occupancy conditions

An occupancy condition restricting the occupancy of a dwelling to a person solely, mainly or last working in agriculture or forestry will not be removed unless the Authority is satisfied that the long-term need for the dwelling has ceased and there is no evidence of a continuing need for housing for persons employed or last employed in the locality in those categories, or practising commoning.

Replacement dwellings

The replacement of existing dwellings will be permitted except where the existing dwelling: a) is the result of a temporary or series of temporary permissions or the result of an unauthorised use; or b) makes a positive contribution to the historic character and appearance of the locality. A replacement dwelling may be sited differently than the dwelling to be replaced, providing that there are clear environmental benefits. Caravans and mobile homes may not be replaced by permanent dwellings. In the case of small dwellings and those permitted by Policies SP19 – DP31 of this Local Plan, replacement dwellings must not result in the total internal habitable floor area exceeding 100 square metres. In the case of other dwellings outside the Defined Villages, the replacement dwelling should be of no greater floorspace than the existing dwelling. In exceptional circumstances, a larger dwelling may be permitted if it is essential to meet the genuine family needs of an occupier who works in the immediate locality. In respect of this exceptional circumstance, the maximum habitable floorspace of the replacement dwelling must not exceed 120 square metres.

Extensions to dwellings

Extensions to existing dwellings will be permitted provided that they are appropriate to the existing dwelling and its curtilage. In the case of small dwellings and new dwellings permitted by Policies SP19 to DP31 of this Local Plan, the extension must not result in a total internal habitable floorspace exceeding 100 square metres. In the case of other dwellings (not small dwellings) outside the Defined Villages the extension must not increase the floorspace of the existing dwelling by more than 30%. In exceptional circumstances a larger extension may be permitted to meet the genuine family needs of an occupier who works in the immediate locality. In respect of these exceptional circumstances, the total internal habitable floorspace of an extended dwelling must not exceed 120 square metres. Extensions will not be permitted where the existing dwelling is the result of a temporary or series of temporary permissions or the result of an unauthorised use.

New residential development in the National Park

An additional 800 dwellings will be delivered within the New Forest National Park between 2016 and 2036. To meet this, new residential development will be permitted within the National Park to maintain the vitality of local communities and support local services where the proposal involves: a) the development of sites allocated for housing in the Local Plan; b) the implementation of extant planning permissions; c) the development of land previously unallocated or unidentified (windfall development) within the Defined Villages of the National Park (Policy SP4); d) development that comes forward on appropriate rural exception sites (Policy SP28); and e) housing for New Forest Commoners (Policy SP29); Estate Workers (Policy SP30) and tied agricultural dwellings (Policy DP31).

Specialist housing for older people (Use Class C2)

Proposals which address an identified local need or requirement for specialist housing for older people will be permitted within the Defined Villages of Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway. Outside the Defined Villages, extensions to existing specialist housing for older people will be permitted providing this can be achieved in a satisfactory manner within the existing site and without having a harmful impact on the locality. A planning obligation will be secured to ensure that the occupancy of new specialist housing for older people is confined in perpetuity to a local person (and their dependents) who has a minimum period of 5 years permanent residence within parishes in the National Park.

The size of new dwellings

To ensure the dwelling stock of the New Forest as a whole is balanced, new dwellings permitted in the National Park will have a maximum total internal habitable floor area of 100 square metres. Where permission is granted for new dwellings of up to 100 square metres, a condition will be attached removing permitted development rights in respect of extensions. This policy applies to applications resulting in net new dwellings. Proposals for replacement dwellings, commoners' dwellings, Estate Workers' dwellings and agricultural / forestry workers' dwellings will be assessed against their specific policies.

Land at Whartons Lane, Ashurst

Land at Whartons Lane, Ashurst is allocated for the development of around 60 residential dwellings. Detailed proposals for the site that meet the following site-specific requirements will be permitted: a) the provision of on-site affordable housing for local people in housing need in accordance with the target of 50% affordable housing; b) all of the dwellings on the site will be limited to a maximum total internal habitable floor area of 100 square metres; c) the site must be developed in a comprehensive manner; d) measures must be put in place to protect the trees subject to Tree Preservation Orders that border the site; e) contributions will be required to enhance the adjacent Whartons Lane Recreation Ground located opposite the site; f) development proposals must provide a connection to the nearest point of adequate capacity in the sewerage network, as advised by the service provider; and g) a site-specific flood risk assessment will be required and measures put in place to address any groundwater or surface water flooding issues identified.

Land at Ashurst Hospital

Land at Ashurst Hospital is allocated for a mixed-use development comprising: • retained (and potentially extended) healthcare provision in the western part of the site (focused on the Snowden Building) – illustrated in blue on the map below • around 30 residential units (Use Class C2 care home or extra care use) on the remaining previously developed part of the site (i.e. on the footprint of the existing buildings and car park). Detailed proposals for the site that meet the following site-specific requirements will be permitted: a) the site must be redeveloped in a comprehensive manner and detailed proposals for residential development will need to ensure the retained healthcare uses on the site can operate efficiently b) built development will be confined to the previously developed land to ensure the existing green buffer remains to the south of the site and the New Forest's protected habitats c) the Victorian chapel will be retained as part of the redevelopment. A detailed heritage assessment and structural survey will be required to justify the loss of the former workhouse buildings d) redevelopment proposals must retain the protected trees on the site e) proposals for extra care use (that is not C2 Use) must provide on-site extra care affordable housing for local people in housing need as close to the Authority's target of 50% affordable housing as is viable. Viability will be demonstrated through an open book approach f) proposals for C2 care home use must be accompanied by a legal agreement requiring the occupancy to be limited to those with a local connection g) all of the dwellings on site will be limited to a maximum total internal floor area of 100 square metres h) development proposals must incorporate measures to mitigate potential significant urban edge impacts on adjacent protected habitats. The existing southern boundary between the site and the adjacent protected habitats should be retained and strengthened with the planting of native species. Proposals should seek to enhance both its role in buffering the designated sites and supporting species of principal importance for biodiversity. A detailed application for the site will be subject to a full appropriate assessment i) development proposals must provide a connection to the nearest point of adequate capacity in the sewerage network, as advised by the service provider.

Land south of Church Lane, Sway

Land to the south of Church Lane, Sway is allocated for the development of around 40 residential dwellings. The site will also provide 1 hectare of informal greenspace provision for the local community. Detailed proposals for the site must meet the following site-specific requirements: (a) the provision of on-site affordable housing for local people in housing need in accordance with the target of 50% affordable housing; (b) all of the dwellings on the site will be limited to a maximum total internal habitable floor area of 100 square metres; (c) the site must be developed in a comprehensive manner; (d) residential development on the site will be limited to the part of the site that lies outside the New Forest Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Area (SPA) 400 metre zone (illustrated in the red shading on the following map); (e) measures should be put in place to protect the trees that fringe the site that are protected by Tree Preservation Orders; (f) the access to the site off Church Lane must ensure adequate visibility splays and provide safe access to the school and on foot to the village centre; (g) the use of the remainder of the site (green shading) that lies within the New Forest SAC and SPA 400 metre zone for informal greenspace will be supported. Proposals should be accompanied by details of the proposed layout and long-term management arrangements for the greenspace provision; and (h) development proposals must provide a connection to the nearest point of adequate capacity in the sewerage network, as advised by the service provider.

Land adjacent to the former Fawley Power Station

As part of a comprehensive and integrated approach to regenerating the Fawley Power Station site within the New Forest District Local Plan area, the use of land adjoining the former Power Station site within the National Park to provide habitat mitigation, supporting infrastructure and community facilities (including a primary school) that cannot reasonably be achieved within the District Council area will be supported. Support is subject to an exceptionally high standard of design and layout being secured across the whole of the Power Station site with clear net positive public benefits being demonstrated in relation to the landscape and setting of the National Park; public access improvements; the provision of suitable greenspace for recreation; and habitat enhancements to ensure net gains in biodiversity. To further demonstrate these benefits, the Authority will require the submission and approval of a whole-Estate Plan to show how the proposals integrate with the wider area. Proposals for new provision of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) within the National Park must deliver significant benefits for the landscape character, biodiversity and internationally designated sites of the New Forest. Based on the scale of development proposed in the respective Local Plans, at least 30 hectares of new SANG provision must be provided. The Authority will also require details of how the SANG areas will be managed suitably in perpetuity, to be agreed with Natural England. As part of the comprehensive redevelopment of the adjacent brownfield Power Station site, adjoining land to the south of the site within the National Park is allocated for around 120 dwellings. Detailed proposals for the site must meet the following site-specific requirements: (a) the provision of on-site affordable housing for local people in housing need in accordance with the target of 50% affordable housing (b) at least 50% of the dwellings provided within the National Park must be smaller dwellings (less than 100 square metres) to meet the identified local housing need for smaller dwellings (c) proposals must be implemented as an integral and contiguous part of the redevelopment of the whole Power Station site pursuant to an approved comprehensive redevelopment master plan and an integrated transport strategy for the entire Fawley Power Station site. Housing on the land within the National Park will not be supported in isolation (d) any loss of the designated SINC must be kept to an essential minimum and compensated through the enhancement of the biodiversity value of the remaining habitat and the compensatory provision of alternative habitats of equivalent or higher value to achieve a net gain for biodiversity (e) a site-specific flood risk assessment will be required and measures put in place to address any flooding issues identified to ensure that the development will be safe for its lifetime. Prior to the submission of the outline planning application for the site, the applicant must undertake site-specific bird surveys to confirm the status of SPA/Ramsar species at the site (particularly merlin, hen harrier and Dartford warbler), to inform appropriate mitigation requirements as part of the site-specific development and masterplanning. To ensure redevelopment is bought forward in a coordinated manner and fully mitigates its impacts, the promoter will prepare a master plan and supporting technical assessments for the entire Fawley Power Station site redevelopment, for submission as part of a redevelopment planning application. Future development phases will be brought forward pursuant to the approved master plan, updated as necessary.

Affordable housing provision within the Defined Villages and on allocated sites

50% of net dwellings developed within the Defined Village boundaries of Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway and on sites allocated for residential development in the Local Plan will be provided as affordable homes to meet local needs. In practice: a) on developments of 1 – 2 net new dwellings, no affordable housing will be sought; b) on developments of between 3 – 10 net new dwellings, a target of 50% affordable housing will be sought on site. Exceptionally, at the discretion of the National Park Authority, financial contributions in lieu of on-site provision will be accepted on smaller sites; c) on development sites of 11 dwellings or more, a target of 50% affordable housing will be sought on site. The layout and design of affordable housing will be appropriately integrated into each development. Local connection criteria will be applied to affordable housing to ensure local needs are met. The tenure (social and affordable rented, intermediate, shared ownership and other) of affordable homes will be based on up-to-date evidence of local needs. A suitable mix will be determined through liaison with the local housing authority and the starting point is to seek 75% social / affordable rented tenure and 25% shared ownership / intermediate housing. The proportion and tenure mix of affordable housing sought will take into account evidence on viability.

Rural exception sites

Small-scale affordable housing developments may be permitted as "exceptions" on sites in or adjoining villages to meet the identified needs of local people in these areas. Proposals for exception sites should: a) meet a particular local need that cannot be accommodated in any other way; b) be subject to a planning obligation under Section 106 of the Town and Country Planning Act (1990) to ensure that the dwellings provide for low-cost housing for local needs in perpetuity; c) be capable of management by an appropriate body, for example a Registered Provider, the Authority, or a community land trust or similar accredited local organisation; and d) be located where there are appropriate local services (e.g. shops, schools and public transport). 100% of the housing on rural exception sites will be affordable.

New Forest commoners' dwellings

Exceptionally dwellings to meet the specific needs for New Forest commoners may be permitted outside an existing settlement. As with other new dwellings in the National Park, the total internal habitable floorspace of the dwelling should not exceed 100 square metres. Proposals for commoners' dwellings must fulfil the requirements of the Commoners Dwelling Scheme (CDS) and in this regard applicants must be able to demonstrate: a) an established recent history of active commoning; b) why they cannot common from their existing property; and c) that they do not have access to a property from which they can carry out their commoning. Applicants will be required to sign a legal agreement to ensure the dwelling remains in use for commoning in perpetuity. Consideration will also be given to proposals that provide rented accommodation to assist commoners on lower incomes where such accommodation is capable of management by an appropriate body such as the New Forest Trust. Proposals for rented accommodation must have common rights of pasture and include the minimum amount of grazing land as required under the CDS. The appropriate management body will also be required to sign a legal agreement to ensure the dwellings remain in use for commoning in perpetuity.

New Forest estate workers' dwellings

Development proposals - including small-scale housing through the conversion or change of use of existing buildings as the first preference, and then new build - within the larger Estates of the National Park will be supported where: a) the development proposals comply with other relevant policies in this Plan and are part of a comprehensive Estate Plan endorsed by the Authority; b) the development proposals as part of an agreed Estate Plan deliver multiple benefits in line with the purposes, duty and special qualities of the National Park; c) the housing is subject to an occupancy condition and remains available for estate workers, or last employed as estate workers, in perpetuity; and d) no other suitable dwellings on the estate have been recently sold or let to non-estate workers. For the purposes of applying this policy, small-scale housing schemes should not exceed a maximum of 3 units per site.

Gypsies, travellers and travelling showpeople

Land within the curtilage of the existing gypsy site at 'Forest View' in Landford is allocated for an additional permanent gypsy and traveller pitch (a net gain of one pitch). The site benefits from existing access and site infrastructure. Detailed development proposals for the site must meet the following site specific requirements: i. a detailed landscaping plan must be submitted setting out how the site boundaries can be enhanced. To positively enhance the site and its surroundings within the New Forest National Park, high walls and fencing will not be supported; ii. occupancy of the site will be restricted to gypsies and travellers with a local connection to the New Forest National Park; and iii. due to the proximity of the New Forest SAC, measures must be put in place to adequately mitigate the potential for the introduction of invasive species from fly tipping of garden waste. Any planning permission will include a planning condition or obligation to ensure that occupancy of the site is limited to persons as defined in Planning Policy for Traveller Sites (2015) or any subsequent policy. In addition to this allocation, further proposals for the provision of permanent and / or transit accommodation to meet an established need of gypsies, travellers and travelling showpeople will be supported within the National Park where it can be demonstrated that there is a need for the site to be located within the National Park; and: a) the impact of the site on the landscape character of the National Park is acceptable; b) occupancy of the site will be restricted to gypsies and travellers, and travelling showpeople with a local connection to the New Forest National Park; c) the site is well located on the highway network and will not result in a level of traffic generation inappropriate for the roads in the National Park; d) there are adequate on-site facilities for parking and storage; e) in the case of any permanent site, be located where there are appropriate local facilities (e.g. shops, schools and public transport); and f) the site does not detrimentally affect the amenities of surrounding occupiers.

Spatial strategy

The following villages within the New Forest National Park have defined settlement boundaries: • Ashurst • Brockenhurst • Lyndhurst • Sway The principle of development within the 'Defined Villages' settlement boundaries as defined on the Policies Map will be supported, provided that it complies with the other relevant policies and is of a scale and nature appropriate to the character and function of the settlement. In addition to these Defined Villages, land use allocations are also made in other parts of the National Park to contribute towards meeting local community needs across the New Forest. Development proposals will only be permitted outside the Defined Village boundaries and allocated development sites where: a. it is in accordance with Policy SP28 on Rural Exception Sites; or b. it is in accordance with Policy DP44 on employment sites; or c. there is an essential need for a countryside location, or d. it meets the specific locational needs for commoners, Estate Workers or agricultural dwellings; or e. it is an appropriate reuse or redevelopment of an existing building(s) in accordance with Policy DP49.

Land at the former Lyndhurst Park Hotel, Lyndhurst

Land at the former Lyndhurst Park Hotel is allocated for a mixed-use development. The site has potential for around 50 dwellings alongside the retention of the historic elements of the existing building and development could include tourism uses. Residential development on the site should secure the future conservation of the heritage assets on the site. Detailed proposals for the site that meet the following site-specific requirements will be permitted: (a) the site must be redeveloped in a comprehensive manner (b) the historic elements of the existing hotel building must be retained and could be used for a range of uses, including tourism and residential use. A detailed heritage assessment will be required to justify any proposals which harmed their retention (c) the design and scale of the redevelopment of the site must conserve or enhance the character of this part of the Lyndhurst Conservation Area (d) redevelopment proposals must retain the important trees on the site that contribute to the open verdant setting and the site's edge-of-village location (e) redevelopment proposals for the site should be accompanied by a Transport Assessment, given the proximity of the site to the designated Lyndhurst Air Quality Management Area. Adequate parking provision must be made on-site (f) proposals for C3 residential use must provide on-site affordable housing for local people in housing need as close to the Authority's target of 50% affordable housing as is viable. Viability will be demonstrated through an open book approach (g) all of the dwellings on site will be limited to a maximum total internal habitable floor area of 100 square metres (h) any proposals for C2 use (i.e. where no affordable housing for local people would be provided) must be accompanied by a legal agreement requiring the occupancy to be limited to those with a local connection (i) development proposals must ensure future access to existing water supply infrastructure for maintenance and upsizing purposes (j) development proposals must incorporate measures to mitigate potential significant urban edge impacts on adjacent protected habitats.

Land south of Church Lane, Sway

Land to the south of Church Lane, Sway is allocated for the development of around 40 residential dwellings. The site will also provide 1 hectare of informal greenspace provision for the local community. Detailed proposals for the site must meet the following site-specific requirements: (a) the provision of on-site affordable housing for local people in housing need in accordance with the target of 50% affordable housing (b) all of the dwellings on the site will be limited to a maximum total internal habitable floor area of 100 square metres (c) the site must be developed in a comprehensive manner (d) residential development on the site will be limited to the part of the site that lies outside the New Forest Special Area of Conservation (SAC) and Special Protection Area (SPA) 400 metre zone (illustrated in the red shading on the map below) (e) measures should be put in place to protect the trees that fringe the site that are protected by Tree Preservation Orders (f) the access to the site off Church Lane must ensure adequate visibility splays and provide safe access to the school and on foot to the village centre (g) the use of the remainder of the site (green shading) that lies within the New Forest SAC and SPA 400 metre zone for informal greenspace will be supported. Proposals should be accompanied by details of the proposed layout and long-term management arrangements for the greenspace provision (h) development proposals must provide a connection to the nearest point of adequate capacity in the sewerage network, as advised by the service provider.

Land adjacent to the former Fawley Power Station

As part of a comprehensive and integrated approach to regenerating the Fawley Power Station site within the New Forest District Local Plan area, the use of land adjoining the former Power Station site within the National Park to provide habitat mitigation, supporting infrastructure and community facilities (including a primary school) that cannot reasonably be achieved within the District Council area will be supported. Support is subject to an exceptionally high standard of design and layout being secured across the whole of the Power Station site with clear net positive public benefits being demonstrated in relation to the landscape and setting of the National Park; public access improvements; the provision of suitable greenspace for recreation; and habitat enhancements to ensure net gains in biodiversity. To further demonstrate these benefits, the Authority will require the submission and approval of a whole-Estate Plan to show how the proposals integrate with the wider area. Proposals for new provision of Suitable Alternative Natural Greenspace (SANG) within the National Park must deliver significant benefits for the landscape character, biodiversity and internationally designated sites of the New Forest. Based on the scale of development proposed in the respective Local Plans, at least 30 hectares of new SANG provision must be provided. The Authority will also require details of how the SANG areas will be managed suitably in perpetuity, to be agreed with Natural England. As part of the comprehensive redevelopment of the adjacent brownfield Power Station site, adjoining land to the south of the site within the National Park is allocated for around 120 dwellings. Detailed proposals for the site must meet the following site-specific requirements: (a) the provision of on-site affordable housing for local people in housing need in accordance with the target of 50% affordable housing; (b) at least 50% of the dwellings provided within the National Park must be smaller dwellings (less than 100 square metres) to meet the identified local housing need for smaller dwellings; (c) proposals must be implemented as an integral and contiguous part of the redevelopment of the whole Power Station site pursuant to an approved comprehensive redevelopment master plan and an integrated transport strategy for the entire Fawley Power Station site. Housing on the land within the National Park will not be supported in isolation; (d) any loss of the designated SINC must be kept to an essential minimum and compensated through the enhancement of the biodiversity value of the remaining habitat and the compensatory provision of alternative habitats of equivalent or higher value to achieve a net gain for biodiversity; and (e) a site-specific flood risk assessment will be required and measures put in place to address any flooding issues identified to ensure that the development will be safe for its lifetime. Prior to the submission of the outline planning application for the site, the applicant must undertake site-specific bird surveys to confirm the status of SPA/Ramsar species at the site (particularly merlin, hen harrier and Dartford warbler), to inform appropriate mitigation requirements as part of the site-specific development and masterplanning. To ensure redevelopment is brought forward in a coordinated manner and fully mitigates its impacts, the promoter will prepare a master plan and supporting technical assessments for the entire Fawley Power Station site redevelopment, for submission as part of a redevelopment planning application. Future development phases will be brought forward pursuant to the approved master plan, updated as necessary.

Affordable housing provision within the Defined Villages and on allocated sites

50% of net dwellings developed within the Defined Village boundaries of Ashurst, Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Sway and on sites allocated for residential development in the Local Plan will be provided as affordable homes to meet local needs. In practice: a) on developments of 1 – 2 net new dwellings, no affordable housing will be sought; b) on developments of between 3 – 10 net new dwellings, a target of 50% affordable housing will be sought on site. Exceptionally, at the discretion of the National Park Authority, financial contributions in lieu of on-site provision will be accepted on smaller sites; c) on development sites of 11 dwellings or more, a target of 50% affordable housing will be sought on site. The layout and design of affordable housing will be appropriately integrated into each development. Local connection criteria will be applied to affordable housing to ensure local needs are met. The tenure (social and affordable rented, intermediate, shared ownership and other) of affordable homes will be based on up-to-date evidence of local needs. A suitable mix will be determined through liaison with the local housing authority and the starting point is to seek 75% social / affordable rented tenure and 25% shared ownership / intermediate housing. The proportion and tenure mix of affordable housing sought will take into account evidence on viability.

Infrastructure provision and developer contributions

Development proposals shall make provision for the infrastructure and measures necessary to ensure that the development is acceptable in planning terms in the context of the New Forest National Park Local Plan. Where appropriate, financial contributions for the provision of off-site infrastructure and measures will be sought. Appropriate new and improved utility infrastructure will be permitted in order to meet the identified needs of the community. Contributions will be secured through the appropriate mechanism – including the Community Infrastructure Levy (or any future national tariff system) and Section 106 agreements – as required by national policy. In implementing this policy regard will be had to economic viability considerations at the site-specific level.

Holiday parks and campsites

New campsites and extensions to existing holiday parks, caravan or camping sites will only be permitted to enable the removal of pitches from sensitive areas by the relocation to a less sensitive area, providing: a) there would be overall environmental benefits; b) there would be no increase in the overall site area or site capacity; and c) the area where pitches or other facilities are removed from would be fully restored to an appropriate New Forest landscape, and any existing use rights are relinquished.

Re-use of buildings outside the Defined Villages

The re-use of buildings outside Defined Villages will be permitted provided that: a) the proposal would not result in the loss of an employment use or community facility and accord with Policy SP39 b) the proposal would not involve a residential use (other than in accordance with Policy SP19) c) the building is appropriate in scale and appearance to its location, and should be capable of conversion without significant extension or detriment to itself or its surroundings. The building must be structurally sound and capable of re-occupation without re-building d) in the case of agricultural or forestry buildings, the building must be genuinely redundant in its existing use and not capable of fulfilling any beneficial agricultural use.

Major development in the National Park

In the context of the New Forest National Park, major development is defined as development which has the potential to have a significant impact on the National Park and its special qualities due to its scale, character and nature. Planning permission will only be granted for major development within the New Forest National Park in exceptional circumstances and where it can be demonstrated to be in the public interest. Consideration of such applications should include an assessment of: a) the need for the development, including in terms of any national considerations, and the impact of permitted it, or refusing it, upon the local economy; b) the cost of, and scope for, developing outside the New Forest National Park, or meeting the need for it in some other way; c) any detrimental effect on the environment, the landscape and recreational opportunities and the extent to which that could be moderated; d) any detrimental impact on the special qualities of the New Forest National Park and whether they can be mitigated; and e) the cumulative impact of the development when viewed with other proposals.

Major development in the National Park

In the context of the New Forest National Park, major development is defined as development which has the potential to have a significant impact on the National Park and its special qualities due to its scale, character and nature. Planning permission will only be granted for major development withi

Change of use from retail in the Defined Villages

To support the role of the Defined Villages in meeting some of the retail needs of communities within the National Park, the change of use of ground floor premises from retail to other uses within the defined local shopping frontages (as defined on the Policies Map) will only be permitted where it will not result in the proportion of retails units in the shopping frontages of Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst being reduced to less than 50%; and in the frontages of Ashurst and Sway to less than 40%.

Retail development outside the Defined Villages

Outside the Defined Villages, small-scale convenience shops within rural settlements that serve local needs, and farm shops that are part of a farm diversification will be permitted, together with small-scale extensions of existing shops. Any development should not extend into the open countryside or have impacts on adjoining land uses. The potential effects of farm shops on other shops in neighbouring villages will be assessed.

Holiday parks and campsites

New campsites and extensions to existing holiday parks, caravan or camping sites will only be permitted to enable the removal of pitches from sensitive areas by the relocation to a less sensitive area, providing: a) there would be overall environmental benefits b) there would be no increase in the overall site area or site capacity c) the area where pitches or other facilities are removed from would be fully restored to an appropriate New Forest landscape, and any existing use rights are relinquished.

Change of use from retail in the Defined Villages

To support the role of the Defined Villages in meeting some of the retail needs of communities within the National Park, the change of use of ground floor premises from retail to other uses within the defined local shopping frontages (as defined on the Policies Map) will only be permitted where it will not result in the proportion of retails units in the shopping frontages of Lyndhurst and Brockenhurst being reduced to less than 50%; and in the frontages of Ashurst and Sway to less than 40%.

Retail development outside the Defined Villages

Outside the Defined Villages, small-scale convenience shops within rural settlements that serve local needs, and farm shops that are part of a farm diversification will be permitted, together with small-scale extensions of existing shops. Any development should not extend into the open countryside or have impacts on adjoining land uses. The potential effects of farm shops on other shops in neighbouring villages will be assessed.

Sustainable tourism development

Sustainable tourism development will be supported where it provides opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the National Park in a way that either enhances, or does not damage the Special Qualities. This will be facilitated by: a) supporting small-scale development of visitor facilities and accommodation using new or existing buildings in the four Defined Villages. Outside these villages visitor facilities will be supported through the re-use or extension of existing buildings in line with Policy DP45 and Policy DP49, and visitor accommodation will be considered as part of a farm diversification scheme as outlined in Policy SP48 b) retaining existing serviced visitor accommodation where it contributes to the sustainability of local communities c) supporting opportunities to relieve visitor pressures where this would assist the conservation or enhancement of internationally or nationally designated nature conservation sites. Extensions to existing tourism developments will be considered in accordance with Policies DP45 and DP47.

Sustainable tourism development

Sustainable tourism development will be supported where it provides opportunities for the understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the National Park in a way that either enhances, or does not damage the Special Qualities. This will be facilitated by: a) supporting small-scale development of visitor facilities and accommodation using new or existing buildings in the four Defined Villages. Outside these villages visitor facilities will be supported through the re-use or extension of existing buildings in line with Policy DP45 and Policy DP49, and visitor accommodation will be considered as part of a farm diversification scheme as outlined in Policy SP48; b) retaining existing serviced visitor accommodation where it contributes to the sustainability of local communities; and c) supporting opportunities to relieve visitor pressures where this would assist the conservation or enhancement of internationally or nationally designated nature conservation sites. Extensions to existing tourism developments will be considered in accordance with Policies DP45 and DP47. Development of visitor facilities within the existing site of the major visitor attractions at Paultons Park and Beaulieu Motor Museum will be supported if the four criteria in Policy DP44 can be satisfied.

Transport infrastructure

Further development of the strategic transport network will only be supported where: a) it is an integral part of a longer-term strategy to address traffic congestion on the A31; or b) alternative solutions including potential traffic demand management measures have been explored and are not feasible or appropriate.

Access

The Authority will promote safer access and more sustainable forms of transport to and within the National Park for access to services and amenities and for enjoyment, health and well-being, where appropriate by supporting: a) local transport initiatives such as the New Forest Tour; b) community transport initiatives such as the Lymington to Brockenhurst Community Rail Partnership; c) improvements to make existing paths, tracks and roads safer and more user-friendly; d) opportunities for the creation of a more joined-up network of routes for non-motorised transport; e) appropriate improvements to public transport facilities; and f) the safeguarding of disused railway lines and roads from development that would compromise their future reuse as sustainable transport routes.